Touch Sensor Static Electricity Discharge Path Design

The touch sensor structure is segmented into multiple functional layers: base layer, sensing electrode, first insulating layer, conductive pattern, and second insulating layer. Each layer performs a specific function - the insulating layers provide corrosion protection while the conductive pattern with openings dissipates static electricity. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high reliability without excessive overall complexity, as each component remains relatively simple in its own right.

The patent employs composite material structures, particularly the conductive pattern consisting of multiple material layers (transparent conductive oxide layer combined with metal layers such as aluminum or molybdenum). This composite approach provides both the electrical conductivity needed for touch sensing and enhanced resistance to static electricity and corrosion, achieving improved reliability through material composition rather than complex structural arrangements.

The conductive pattern is segmented with strategic openings that penetrate through the insulating layers. These openings create dedicated channels for static electricity discharge while the surrounding insulating material continues to provide corrosion protection. The segmentation allows both functions - protection and discharge - to coexist without interfering with each other.

The insulating layers have different properties at different locations: in most areas they provide complete corrosion protection, but at the opening locations they allow static electricity to pass through. This local variation in functionality - protected in most areas, permeable in specific locations - resolves the contradiction between protection and discharge capability.

The conductive pattern uses composite material layers (transparent conductive oxide combined with metal layers) that can be deposited using standard thin-film fabrication techniques. While multiple layers are involved, these are formed using established manufacturing processes such as sputtering or evaporation, which are routinely used in display and semiconductor manufacturing. The composite structure provides enhanced durability without requiring fundamentally new manufacturing capabilities.

The multilayer conductive pattern serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical conductivity for touch sensing, acts as a corrosion barrier through the metal layers, and offers static electricity dissipation pathways. This multi-functionality justifies the additional manufacturing steps, as the same structure achieves multiple protective and functional goals that would otherwise require separate components.