Touch panel
Abstract
Problem to be solved.To apply an input device or an input / output device capable of improving detection accuracy. Provided is an input device or an input / output device capable of increasing the detection sensitivity. Realize a display device or input / output device with improved visibility.
Solution.A plurality of conductive layers arranged in a matrix are arranged so that a straight line portion of the contour thereof is parallel to a direction along the contour of a display area of a display unit, and two conductive layers adjacent to each other. The straight portions of the above are arranged so as to face each other. Further, among the plurality of conductive layers arranged in a matrix, a plurality of conductive layers arranged in a line diagonally with respect to the contour of the display portion are electrically connected. Alternatively, a plurality of conductive layers arranged in a zigzag direction along the contour of the display unit are electrically connected. [Selection diagram] Fig. 2

Term
Projected expiry 25 November 2035.
- Priority
- Filed
- Published
- Today
- Projected expiry
11 claims: 6 independent, 5 dependent
- 1第1乃至第4の導電層と、表示部と、を有するタッチパネルであって、 前記表示部は、その輪郭が第1の方向に平行な部分と、前記第1の方向と交差する第2の方向に平行な部分と、を有し、 前記表示部は、複数の表示素子を有し、 前記複数の表示素子は、前記第1の方向及び前記第2の方向に周期的に配列し、 前記第1乃至第4の導電層と、前記表示部とは、互いに重なる部分を有し、 前記第1の導電層と前記第2の導電層とは、前記第1の方向に並べて配置され、 前記第3の導電層と前記第4の導電層とは、前記第1の方向に並べて配置され、 前記第1の導電層と前記第3の導電層とは、前記第2の方向に並べて配置され、 前記第2の導電層と前記第4の導電層とは、前記第2の方向に並べて配置され、 前記第1の導電層と前記第4の導電層とは、第1の接続部により電気的に接続され、 前記第2の導電層と前記第3の導電層とは、第2の接続部により電気的に接続され、 前記第1の接続部と前記第2の接続部とは、互いに交差する部分を有する、 タッチパネル。
- 2請求項1において、 前記第1乃至第4の導電層は、平面視における輪郭の一部に、前記第1の方向に平行な直線部分である第1の部分と、前記第2の方向に平行な直線部分である第2の部分と、をそれぞれ有し、 前記第1の導電層の前記第2の部分と、前記第2の導電層の前記第2の部分とは、対向して設けられ、 前記第1の導電層の前記第1の部分と、前記第3の導電層の前記第1の部分とは、対向して設けられ、 前記第2の導電層の前記第1の部分と、前記第4の導電層の前記第1の部分とは、対向して設けられている、 タッチパネル。
- 3請求項1または請求項2において、 第5の導電層を有し、 前記第5の導電層は、前記第4の導電層を挟んで前記第1の導電層とは反対側に位置し、 前記第4の導電層と、前記第5の導電層とは、第3の接続部により電気的に接続された、 タッチパネル。
- 4請求項1または請求項2において、 第5の導電層を有し、 前記第5の導電層は、前記第3の導電層を挟んで前記第1の導電層とは反対側に位置し、 前記第4の導電層と、前記第5の導電層とは、第3の接続部により電気的に接続された、 タッチパネル。
- 5請求項1乃至請求項4のいずれか一において、 前記第1乃至第4の導電層は、それぞれ前記第1の方向及び前記第2の方向に平行な格子状の形状をそれぞれ有し、 前記格子の開口と、前記表示素子とは、互いに重ねて配置される、 タッチパネル。
- 6請求項1乃至請求項5のいずれか一において、 第1の基板と、第2の基板と、を有し、 前記第1乃至第4の導電層、及び前記表示素子は、前記第1の基板と前記第2の基板との間に位置する、 タッチパネル。
- 7請求項1乃至請求項6のいずれか一において、 前記第1の接続部及び前記第2の接続部のいずれか一方と、前記第1乃至第4の導電層とは、同一面上に形成された、 タッチパネル。
- 8請求項1乃至請求項6のいずれか一において、 前記第1の導電層、前記第4の導電層、及び前記第1の接続部は、第1の面上に形成され、 前記第2の導電層、前記第3の導電層、及び前記第2の接続部は、第2の面上に形成された、 タッチパネル。
- 9請求項1乃至請求項8のいずれか一において、 前記第1の導電層と前記第2の導電層との距離、及び前記第1の導電層と前記第3の導電層との距離が、1μm以上10mm以下である、 タッチパネル。
- 10請求項1乃至請求項9のいずれか一に記載のタッチパネルと、FPCと、を有する、 タッチパネルモジュール。
- 11請求項1乃至請求項9のいずれか一に記載のタッチパネル、または請求項10に記載のタッチパネルモジュールと、 アンテナ、ボタン、電池、スピーカ、マイクロフォン、またはレンズの少なくとも一を有する、 電子機器。
Independent claims11
419 paragraphs, as filed
0001One aspect of the present invention relates to an input device. One aspect of the present invention relates to a display device. One aspect of the present invention relates to an input / output device. In particular, one aspect of the present invention relates to a touch panel.
0002One aspect of the present invention is not limited to the above technical fields. The technical fields of one aspect of the present invention disclosed in the present specification and the like include semiconductor devices, display devices, light emitting devices, power storage devices, storage devices, electronic devices, lighting devices, input devices, input / output devices, and methods for driving them. , Or their manufacturing method, can be mentioned as an example.
0003In recent years, a display device equipped with an input device such as a touch sensor has been put into practical use as a position input means. A display device equipped with a touch sensor is called a touch panel, a touch screen, or the like (hereinafter, this is also simply referred to as a "touch panel"). For example, as a mobile information terminal provided with a touch panel, there are a smartphone, a tablet terminal, and the like.
0004In addition, as a display device, a liquid crystal display device having a liquid crystal element, a light emitting device having a light emitting element such as an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) element or a light emitting diode (LED: Light Emitting Diode), an electrophoresis method, etc. Examples include electronic paper that displays by.
0005For example, the basic configuration of an organic EL device is such that a layer containing a luminescent organic compound is sandwiched between a pair of electrodes. By applying a voltage to this device, light emission can be obtained from a luminescent organic compound. Since the display device to which such an organic EL element is applied does not require a light source such as a backlight, which is required for a liquid crystal display device or the like, a thin, lightweight, high-contrast, and low-power consumption display device can be realized. .. For example, an example of a display device using an organic EL element is described in Patent Document 1.
0006Further, the touch panel is provided with a pressure-sensitive sensor array or a capacitance type sensor array so as to overlap the display panel, for example, and when the substrate of the sensor array is touched with a fingertip or a pen for input (also called a stylus). , Detects the touched position.
0007Patent Document 2 discloses a configuration of a touch panel provided with a touch sensor on the display screen of the electroluminescence display device.
<p num="0008"><patcit num="1"><text>Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2002-324673</text></patcit><patcit num="2"><text>Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2000-172444</text></patcit></p>
<p num="0009"> In order to acquire the position information of the touch sensor or the object to be detected touching the touch panel more accurately, it is required to increase the sensitivity of the touch sensor.</p><p num="0010"> One aspect of the present invention is to provide an input device or an input / output device capable of improving detection accuracy. Another issue is to provide an input device or an input / output device capable of increasing the detection sensitivity. Alternatively, one of the issues is to realize a display device or an input / output device with improved visibility.</p><p num="0011"> The description of these issues does not prevent the existence of other issues. It should be noted that one aspect of the present invention does not need to solve all of these problems. Issues other than these can be extracted from the description of the description, drawings, claims, and the like.</p>
<p num="0012"> One aspect of the present invention is a touch panel having first to fourth conductive layers and a display unit. The display unit has a portion whose contour is parallel to the first direction and a portion whose contour intersects the first direction and is parallel to the second direction. Further, the display unit has a plurality of display elements. The plurality of display elements are periodically arranged in the first direction and the second direction. The first to fourth conductive layers and the display portion have portions that overlap each other. Here, the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are arranged side by side in the first direction, and the third conductive layer and the fourth conductive layer are arranged side by side in the first direction. Further, the first conductive layer and the third conductive layer are arranged side by side in the second direction, and the second conductive layer and the fourth conductive layer are arranged side by side in the second direction. Further, the first conductive layer and the fourth conductive layer are electrically connected by the first connecting portion, and the second conductive layer and the third conductive layer are electrically connected by the second connecting portion. It is connected. Further, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion have a portion that intersects with each other.</p><p num="0013"> Further, in the above, the first to fourth conductive layers are a first portion which is a straight portion parallel to the first direction and a straight portion parallel to the second direction in a part of the contour in a plan view. It is preferable to have a second portion, which is, respectively. Further, the second portion of the first conductive layer and the second portion of the second conductive layer are provided so as to face each other, and the first portion of the first conductive layer and the third conductive layer It is preferable that the first portion is provided so as to face each other, and the first portion of the second conductive layer and the first portion of the fourth conductive layer are provided so as to face each other.</p><p num="0014"> Further, in the above, it is preferable to have a fifth conductive layer located on the side opposite to the first conductive layer with the fourth conductive layer interposed therebetween. Alternatively, it is preferable to have a fifth conductive layer located on the opposite side of the third conductive layer from the first conductive layer. At this time, it is preferable that the fourth conductive layer and the fifth conductive layer are electrically connected by the third connecting portion.</p><p num="0015"> Further, in the above, it is preferable that the first to fourth conductive layers have a grid-like shape parallel to the first direction and the second direction, respectively. At this time, it is preferable that the aperture of the lattice and the display element are arranged so as to overlap each other.</p><p num="0016"> Further, in the above, the first substrate and the second substrate are provided, and the first to fourth conductive layers and the display element are located between the first substrate and the second substrate. It is preferable to do so.</p><p num="0017"> Further, in the above, it is preferable that either one of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion and the first to fourth conductive layers are formed on the same surface. Alternatively, the first conductive layer, the fourth conductive layer, and the first connecting portion are formed on the first surface, and the second conductive layer, the third conductive layer, and the second connecting portion are formed. Is preferably formed on the second surface.</p><p num="0018"> Further, in the above, it is preferable that the distance between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and the distance between the first conductive layer and the third conductive layer are 1 μm or more and 10 mm or less.</p><p num="0019"> Further, another aspect of the present invention is a touch panel module having the above-mentioned touch panel and FPC. Another aspect of the present invention is an electronic device having the touch panel or touch panel module and at least one of an antenna, a button, a battery, a speaker, a microphone, or a lens.</p>
<p num="0020"> According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide an input device or an input / output device capable of improving the detection accuracy. Alternatively, an input device or an input / output device capable of increasing the detection sensitivity can be provided. Alternatively, an input / output device with improved visibility can be realized. Alternatively, a new input device or input / output device can be provided.</p><p num="0021"> The description of these effects does not preclude the existence of other effects. It should be noted that one aspect of the present invention does not necessarily have to have all of these effects. Effects other than these can be extracted from the description of the specification, drawings, claims, and the like.</p>
0022<figref num="1">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="2">A configuration example of an input device according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="3">A configuration example of an input device according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="4">A configuration example of an input device according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="5">A configuration example of an input device according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="6">A configuration example of an input device according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="7">A configuration example of an input device according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="8">A configuration example of an input device according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="9">A configuration example of an input device according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="10">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="11">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="12">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="13">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="14">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="15">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="16">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="17">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="18">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="19">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="20">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="21">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="22">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="23">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="24">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="25">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="26">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="27">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="28">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="29">A configuration example of a touch panel according to an embodiment.</figref><figref num="30">The figure explaining the structure of the film forming apparatus which concerns on embodiment.</figref><figref num="31">A block diagram and a timing chart of the touch sensor according to the embodiment.</figref><figref num="32">The circuit diagram of the touch sensor which concerns on embodiment.</figref><figref num="33">The figure explaining the pixel including the touch sensor which concerns on embodiment.</figref><figref num="34">The figure explaining the operation of the touch sensor and the pixel which concerns on embodiment.</figref><figref num="35">The figure which shows an example of the electronic device and the lighting device which concerns on embodiment.</figref><figref num="36">The figure which shows an example of the electronic device which concerns on embodiment.</figref><figref num="37">The figure which shows an example of the electronic device which concerns on embodiment.</figref><figref num="38">The figure which shows an example of the electronic device which concerns on embodiment.</figref>
0023The embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following description, and it is easily understood by those skilled in the art that the form and details of the present invention can be variously changed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not construed as being limited to the description of the embodiments shown below.
0024In the configuration of the invention described below, the same reference numerals are commonly used between different drawings for the same parts or parts having similar functions, and the repeated description thereof will be omitted. Further, when referring to the same function, the hatch pattern may be the same and no particular sign may be added.
0025It should be noted that in each of the figures described herein, the size, layer thickness, or region of each configuration may be exaggerated for clarity. Therefore, it is not necessarily limited to that scale.
0026The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" in the present specification and the like are added to avoid confusion of the components, and are not limited numerically.
0027A transistor is a kind of semiconductor element, and can realize amplification of current and voltage, switching operation for controlling conduction or non-conduction, and the like. Transistors in the present specification include IGFETs (Insulated Gate Field Effect Transistors) and thin film transistors (TFTs).
0028(Embodiment 1) In the present embodiment, a configuration example of an input device (touch sensor) according to an aspect of the present invention and a configuration example of an input / output device (touch panel) including an input device and a display device (display panel) according to the present invention. , Will be described with reference to the drawings.
0029In the present specification and the like, the touch panel has a function of displaying (outputting) an image or the like on the display surface and a function as a touch sensor for detecting that a detected object such as a finger or a stylus touches or approaches the display surface. And have. Therefore, the touch panel is one aspect of the input / output device.
0030Further, in the present specification and the like, the display panel has a function of displaying an image or the like on a display surface, and is an aspect of an output device. Further, in the present specification and the like, the touch sensor has a function of detecting an object to be detected, and is an aspect of an input device. Therefore, a configuration having a display panel (output device) and a touch sensor (input device) can also be called a touch panel.
0031Further, in the present specification and the like, a touch panel board having a connector such as FPC (Flexible Print Circuit) or TCP (Tape Carrier Package) attached, or a board using an IC (Chip On Glass) method or the like (IC). An integrated circuit) may be referred to as a touch panel module or simply a touch panel.
0032Similarly, a display panel board on which the above connectors, ICs, etc. are mounted may be referred to as a display panel module or simply a display panel. Further, a touch sensor board on which the above connector, IC, or the like is mounted may be referred to as a touch sensor module or simply a touch sensor.
0033A capacitive touch sensor applicable to one aspect of the present invention includes a pair of conductive layers. A capacitance is formed between the pair of conductive layers. When the object to be detected is close to the pair of conductive layers, the magnitude of the capacitance between the pair of conductive layers changes, so that detection can be performed. Position information can be obtained by arranging the capacitances formed by such a pair of conductive layers in a matrix.
0034As the capacitance method, there are a surface type capacitance method, a projection type capacitance method and the like. The projected capacitance method includes a self-capacitance method and a mutual capacitance method. It is preferable to use the mutual capacitance method because simultaneous multipoint detection becomes easy.
0035The pair of conductive layers possessed by one aspect of the present invention has a linear portion as a part of the contour in a plan view. Further, the two conductive layers are arranged so as to face each other so that their straight portions are parallel to each other. With such a configuration, the capacitance formed between the two conductive layers can be increased. In addition, in the portion where the two conductive layers face each other, the density of the electric lines of force generated when a potential difference is applied between the two conductive layers is uniformly distributed, so that the detection sensitivity differs depending on the location. Can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to realize a touch sensor with improved detection accuracy.
0036The touch panel of one aspect of the present invention includes a touch sensor and a display panel (display device) for displaying an image. The touch sensor is provided so as to be overlapped on the display surface side of the display panel.
0037Further, in one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of conductive layers arranged in a matrix can be applied as the pair of conductive layers. It is preferable that the plurality of conductive layers are arranged so that the straight line portion of the contour thereof is parallel to the direction along the contour of the display area of the display unit. With such a configuration, the end portion (contour) of the conductive layer can be arranged so as not to diagonally cross the display element provided in the pixel of the display portion. As a result, the scattering of light from the pixels at the end of the conductive layer is suppressed, so that the visibility is improved.
0038Here, among the plurality of conductive layers, it is preferable to have the following configuration when focusing on four conductive layers, two in the vertical direction and two in the horizontal direction. That is, the two adjacent conductive layers are arranged so that their linear portions face each other. Further, it is preferable that the two conductive layers located diagonally are electrically connected by the connecting portion, and the two connecting portions intersect with each other. By doing so, when focusing on one conductive layer, a large capacity can be formed between this and four adjacent conductive layers. Therefore, the detection accuracy can be further improved.
0039Of the plurality of conductive layers arranged in a matrix, it is preferable that the plurality of conductive layers arranged in a line diagonally with respect to the contour of the display portion are electrically connected. Alternatively, it is preferable that a plurality of conductive layers arranged in a zigzag direction along the contour of the display unit are electrically connected.
0040Further, it is preferable to provide the display element of the display panel so that the pair of conductive layers constituting the touch sensor do not overlap with each other. In particular, it is preferable that the pair of conductive layers constituting the touch sensor have a grid-like upper surface shape, and the openings of the grid and the display element are arranged so as to overlap each other. By doing so, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the brightness of the image displayed by the touch panel and realize a touch panel with improved visibility. Further, since the loss of brightness can be reduced, the power consumption can be reduced.
0041More specifically, for example, the following configuration can be used.
0042[Configuration example 1] Hereinafter, a configuration example of an input device, an output device, and an input / output device according to one aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
0043[Touch panel configuration example] FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view of the touch panel 100 according to one aspect of the present invention. Further, FIG. 1 (B) is a schematic perspective view of FIG. 1 (A) developed. Here, only typical components are shown for clarification. Further, in FIG. 1 (B), only the outline of some components (board 30, board 71, etc.) is clearly shown by a broken line.
0044The touch panel 100 has an input device 10 and a display panel 70, which are overlapped with each other.
0045As the input device 10, for example, a capacitive touch sensor can be applied. Here, a case where a projection type capacitance type touch sensor is applied will be described.
0046Not limited to this, various sensors capable of detecting the proximity or contact of the object to be detected such as a finger or a stylus can be applied to the input device 10.
0047The specific configuration of the input device 10 will be described later.
0048The display panel 70 has a substrate 71 and a substrate 72 provided so as to face each other. A display unit 81, a drive circuit 82, wiring 83, and the like are provided on the substrate 71. Further, the substrate 71 is provided with an FPC 73 that is electrically connected to the wiring 83. Moreover, here, an example in which IC74 is provided on FPC73 is shown.
0049The display unit 81 is an area in which an image is displayed, and has a plurality of pixels. FIG. 1B shows an enlarged schematic view of a part of the display unit 81. The pixel has at least one display element 60. Further, the pixel preferably includes a transistor and a display element 60. As the display element 60, a light emitting element such as an organic EL element, a liquid crystal element, or the like can be typically used.
0050As the drive circuit 82, a circuit for driving the pixels included in the display unit 81, such as a scanning line drive circuit or a signal line drive circuit, can be applied. Here, a case where a scanning line drive circuit is applied as the drive circuit 82 will be described.
0051The wiring 83 has a function of transmitting signals and electric power to the display unit 81 and the drive circuit 82. The signal or electric power is input to the wiring 83 from the outside or the IC 74 via the FPC 73.
0052The display unit 81 has a plurality of scanning lines (also referred to as gate lines) (not shown) that are electrically connected to the drive circuit 82. The scanning line is a wiring that electrically connects to the gate of one transistor of the pixel. The drive circuit 82 can sequentially supply each scanning line with a signal for selecting a plurality of pixels electrically connected to one scanning line.
0053The display unit 81 preferably has two or more straight lines on its contour. FIGS. 1 (A) and 1 (B) show a case where the outline of the display unit 81 has a rectangular shape. Here, in the contour of the display unit 81, the direction parallel to one of the two adjacent sides (two straight lines forming one corner) is defined as the X direction, and the direction parallel to the other is defined as the Y direction. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the long side direction of the contour of the display unit 81 is shown as the X direction, and the short side direction is shown as the Y direction. The X and Y directions are the directions in which the plurality of pixels of the display unit 81 or the plurality of display elements 60 are periodically arranged, or the wiring (scanning line, signal line, or capacitance line) electrically connected to the pixels. It can be rephrased as a direction parallel to the stretching direction of. Further, the X direction and the Y direction may be parallel to the straight line portion of the contour of the substrate 71 or the substrate 72.
0054When the outline of the display unit 81 is rectangular, the X direction and the Y direction are orthogonal to each other, but they do not necessarily have to be orthogonal to each other, and the angle formed by these may be less than 90. For example, the angle between the X direction and the Y direction may be 30 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less, preferably 45 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less, and more preferably 60 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less. Here, in the present specification and the like, when the angle formed by two straight lines is shown, it is shown by the angle on the acute angle side. That is, when the angle formed by the X and Y directions is α [degree] (α is 0 or more and 90 or less), both the case where the internal angle is α [degree] and the case where the internal angle is 180-α [degree] Including.
0055Further, when the outline of the display unit 81 is a triangle or a polygon of a pentagon or more, the directions parallel to any two adjacent sides of the outline of the display unit 81 can be the X direction and the Y direction, respectively. If the contour of the display unit 81 has a curved line and does not have two adjacent straight lines, the X and Y directions are the arrangement direction of the pixels and display elements, or the wiring that electrically connects to the pixels. It can be replaced in a direction parallel to the stretching direction, the stretching direction of the straight portion of the substrate 71 or the contour of the substrate 72, and the like.
0056Figures 1 (A) and 1 (B) show an example in which an IC 74 mounted by the COF (Chip On Film) method is provided on the FPC 73. As the IC 74, an IC that functions as, for example, a scanning line drive circuit or a signal line drive circuit can be applied. When the display panel 70 is provided with a circuit that functions as a scanning line drive circuit and a signal line drive circuit, or if a circuit that functions as a scanning line drive circuit or a signal line drive circuit is provided externally, the display panel 70 is driven via the FPC 73. In the case of inputting a signal to be used, the IC 74 may not be provided. Further, the IC 74 may be directly mounted on the substrate 71 by a COG (Chip On Glass) method or the like.
0057[Input device configuration example 1] FIG. 2A shows a schematic top view of the input device 10. Further, in FIG. 2 (A), the outline of the display unit 81 is shown by a broken line. Further, in FIG. 2 (A), the X direction and the Y direction are shown.
0058The input device 10 has a plurality of electrodes 31, a plurality of electrodes 32, and a plurality of wirings 42 on the substrate 30. Further, the substrate 30 is provided with an FPC 50 that is electrically connected to each of the plurality of wirings 42. In addition, FIG. 2 (A) shows an example in which the IC51 is provided in the FPC50.
0059The electrodes 31 and 32 are arranged in a matrix in the X and Y directions. Further, the electrodes 31 and 32 are alternately arranged in the X direction and the Y direction.
0060A plurality of electrodes 31 arranged diagonally with respect to the X direction and the Y direction (that is, directions intersecting both the X direction and the Y direction) are electrically connected by a connection portion 33 described later. Further, a plurality of electrodes 31 connected via a plurality of connecting portions 33 form a row 11, and the plurality of rows 11 are arranged in parallel. Further, the plurality of electrodes 32 arranged diagonally with respect to the X direction and the Y direction are electrically connected by a connecting portion 34, which will be described later. Further, a plurality of electrodes 32 connected via a plurality of connecting portions 34 form a row 12, and the plurality of rows 12 are arranged in parallel. Here, as shown in FIG. 2A, the row 11 including the electrode 31 and the row 12 including the electrode 32 intersect each other. The portion where the row 11 and the row 12 intersect is referred to as the intersection 90.
0061Each of the plurality of columns 11 and the plurality of columns 12 is electrically connected to the FPC 50 via the wiring 42. In the case of the projection type capacitance method, a drive signal is supplied to one of the columns 11 and 12, and by detecting the current flowing through the other, the position information of the object to be detected that is in contact with or is close to the input device 10 is acquired. it can. An example of a drive method applicable to the input device 10 will be described later.
0062Further, the stretching direction of the row 11 and the stretching direction of the row 12 intersect the X direction and the Y direction, respectively. When the X direction and the Y direction are orthogonal to each other, the angle formed by the extending direction of the row 11 and the X direction is preferably 40 degrees or more and 50 degrees or less, typically 45 degrees. Similarly, the angle formed by the stretching direction and the X direction of the row 12 is preferably 40 degrees or more and 50 degrees or less, typically 45 degrees. The angle formed by the stretching direction of the row 11 and the stretching direction of the row 12 is preferably 85 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less, typically 90 degrees.
0063Here, the number of electrodes 31 included in column 11 may not always match in each column 11. Similarly, the number of electrodes 32 contained in row 12 may not always match in each row 12. In the configuration shown in FIG. 2 (A), an example is shown in which a row 11 including six electrodes 31, a row 11 containing four electrodes 31, and a row 11 containing two electrodes 31 are mixed. Further, in FIG. 2A, a row 12 including 6 electrodes 32, a row 12 including 4 electrodes 32, and a row 12 including 2 electrodes 32 are mixed.
0064Depending on the number of electrodes 31 and 32, the time constants (RC) of columns 11 and 12 take different values, which may cause differences in the amplitude and width of the output signal. Therefore, it is preferable to drive the input device 10 so as to correct this difference in time constant. For example, the IC 51 may have a function of performing the correction. Alternatively, in order to correct this difference in time constant, the capacitance and resistance of appropriate values may be connected to columns 11, columns 12, or wiring electrically connected to these.
0065FIG. 2 (B) is an enlarged schematic view of the region P in FIG. 2 (A). Here, a region including two electrodes 31 (electrodes 31a and 31b) adjacent to the intersection 90 and two electrodes 32 (electrodes 32a and 32b) is shown. In the following, when the matters common to the electrode 31a and the electrode 31b will be described, they will be referred to as the electrode 31 without distinction. Similarly, the electrode 32a and the electrode 32b will be described as the electrode 32.
0066The electrode 31a and the electrode 31b are electrically connected by a connecting portion 33. Further, the electrode 32a and the electrode 32b are electrically connected by a connecting portion 34. Further, the connecting portion 33 and the connecting portion 34 have a portion overlapping each other at the intersection 90. An insulating layer is provided between the connecting portion 33 and the connecting portion 34 so as not to be electrically short-circuited.
0067The contours of the electrodes 31 and 32 in a plan view have a rectangular pattern. The contours of rows 11 and 12 in a plan view have a shape in which the rectangular patterns (that is, electrodes 31 and 32) are connected via a connecting portion 33 or a connecting portion 34 in a direction in which the rectangular patterns (that is, electrodes 31 and 32) intersect in the X and Y directions. Have. At this time, as shown in FIG. 2B, it is preferable that one rectangular pattern is square because the pitch at which the electrodes 31 are arranged and the pitch at which the electrodes 32 are arranged can be made equal intervals. As a result, the detection points can be arranged in a matrix at equal intervals in the detection area of the input device 10, and the detection accuracy of the position information of the object to be detected can be improved.
0068FIG. 2B shows a case where the electrode 31a, the connecting portion 33, and the electrode 31b are integrally formed in the row 11. Similarly, in row 12, the electrode 32a, the connecting portion 34, and the electrode 32b are integrally formed. At this time, at least a part of the row 11 including the portion constituting the intersection 90 can be referred to as a connecting portion 33, and at least a part of the row 12 including the portion constituting the intersection 90 can be referred to as a connecting portion 34. In FIG. 2B, the virtual boundary separating the electrode 31 and the connection portion 33 is shown by a broken line for ease of explanation. Similarly, for the electrode 32 and the connection portion 34, the virtual boundary separating them is shown by a broken line.
0069The electrode 31 has a linear portion 21 as a part of its contour. Further, the electrode 32 has a straight portion 22 as a part of its contour. The electrode 31 and the electrode 32 are arranged so that the straight line portion 21 and the straight line portion 22 face each other in parallel. With such a configuration, the distance between the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 becomes constant, and the length of the portion where these two electrodes face each other can be increased. Further, in the portion where the two electrodes face each other, the electric lines of force generated when a potential difference is applied between the two electrodes are uniformly distributed in density, so that it is possible to suppress the difference in detection sensitivity depending on the location. .. Therefore, it is possible to realize a touch sensor with improved detection accuracy.
0070The straight line portion 21 included in the electrode 31 and the straight line portion 22 included in the electrode 32 are preferably parallel to the X direction or the Y direction. For example, the angle formed by the stretching direction of the straight portion 21 and the X direction or the Y direction, and the angle formed by the stretching direction of the straight portion 22 and the X direction or the Y direction are 0 degrees or more and 10 degrees or less, preferably 0 degrees or more and 5 It can be less than or equal to 0 degrees, typically 0 degrees.
0071Also, let D be the distance between the electrode 31 and the electrode 32. As the interval D is smaller, the capacitance between the two electrodes can be increased, so that the detection sensitivity can be improved. The size of the interval D may be, for example, greater than 0 and 10 mm or less, preferably 1 μm or more and 5 mm or less, more preferably 3 μm or more and 1 mm or less, and more preferably 5 μm or more and 500 μm or less. Alternatively, it is preferable that the pitch is an integral multiple of the pitch when the pixels or sub-pixels of the display unit 81 are arranged, or the pitch when the display elements 60 are arranged.
0072As shown in FIG. 3, the bridge electrode 35 may be applied to the connection portion 33. The bridge electrode 35 electrically connects the island-shaped electrode 31a and the electrode 31b. Further, the bridge electrode 35 intersects a part of the connecting portion 34. By doing so, the electrode 31a, the electrode 31b, the electrode 32a, the electrode 32b, and the connecting portion 34 can be formed on the same surface, and the distance between the electrodes can be reduced, so that the detection accuracy can be further improved. Although the bridge electrode 35 is applied to the connection portion 33 here, it may be applied to the connection portion 34. Further, the vertical relationship between the bridge electrode 35 and the connecting portion 34 is not particularly limited, and either of them may be located on the substrate 30 side.
0073[Input device configuration example 2] Hereinafter, a configuration example of an input device whose electrode connection method is different from that of the above configuration example 1 will be described. The description may be omitted for the parts that overlap with the above.
0074FIG. 4 (A) shows a schematic top view of the input device 10 described below, and FIG. 4 (B) shows an enlarged schematic view of the region Q in FIG. 4 (A).
0075As shown in FIG. 4 (A), the input device 10 has columns 13 and 14. Row 13 has a plurality of electrodes 31 arranged in a zigzag along the X direction. Row 14 has a plurality of electrodes 32 arranged in a zigzag along the Y direction. An intersection 90 is formed at the intersection of rows 13 and 14.
0076In FIG. 4B, three electrodes 31 (electrodes 31a, electrodes 31b, electrodes 31c) forming one row 13 and three electrodes 32 (electrodes 32a, electrodes 32b, electrodes 32c) forming one row 14 are shown. ), And its peripheral parts.
0077The electrode 31c is located on the side opposite to the electrode 31a when viewed from the electrode 32a. That is, the electrode 32a is positioned so as to be sandwiched between the electrode 31a and the electrode 31c. The electrode 31a and the electrode 31b are electrically connected via the connecting portion 33. Similarly, the electrode 31b and the electrode 31c are electrically connected via the connecting portion 33.
0078Further, the electrode 32c is located on the side opposite to the electrode 32a when viewed from the electrode 31b. That is, the electrode 31b is located so as to be sandwiched between the electrode 32a and the electrode 32c. The electrode 32a and the electrode 32b are electrically connected via the connection portion 34. Similarly, the electrode 32b and the electrode 32c are electrically connected via the connection portion 34.
0079The connecting portion 33 located between the electrodes 31a and 31b and the connecting portion 34 located between the electrodes 32a and 32b intersect each other to form an intersecting portion 90. On the other hand, the connecting portion 33 located between the electrodes 31b and 31c and the connecting portion 34 located between the electrodes 32b and 32c do not form the intersection 90, respectively.
0080With such a configuration, the number of electrodes 31 of each of the plurality of rows 13 can be equalized. Similarly, the number of electrodes 32 of each of the plurality of columns 14 can be equalized. Therefore, it is not necessary to correct the difference in the time constant described above or to add a configuration for correcting the difference in the time constant, so that the driving method and the configuration can be simplified.
0081Here, the case where the electrode 31a, the electrode 31b, the electrode 31c, and the connecting portion 33 are integrated, and the electrode 32a, the electrode 32b, the electrode 32c, and the connecting portion 34 are integrated is shown. The bridge electrode 35 may be applied to the connection portion 33 or the connection portion 34.
0082Here, the width of the row 13 in the Y direction is the width of two rows in which the electrodes 31 and 32 are alternately arranged in the X direction. Similarly, the width of the row 14 in the X direction is the width of two rows in which the electrodes 31 and 32 are alternately arranged in the Y direction. For example, FIG. 4A shows a case where 10 electrodes 31 and 32 electrodes are alternately arranged in the X direction and 6 in the Y direction, and 3 rows 13 and 5 rows 14 are formed. There is. By reducing the size, spacing, or pitch of the electrodes 31 and 32, the number of rows 13 and 14 can be increased and the number of detection points can be increased, so that the detection accuracy of the position information of the object to be detected can be improved.
0083Here, as shown in FIG. 5 (A), in the four electrodes adjacent to the intersection 90, the distance D1 between the electrodes 31 and 32 is larger than the distance D2 between the electrodes 31 and 32 in the other parts. It may be made smaller. By doing so, the capacity between the rows 13 and 14 intersecting at the intersection 90 can be increased, and the capacity between the adjacent rows 13 and 14 can be reduced, so that the detection accuracy can be further improved.
0084At this time, as shown in FIG. 5B, the dummy electrode 39 may be arranged so as to fill the gap in which the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 are not provided. With such a configuration, there is a difference in optical characteristics (transmittance, reflectance, degree of light scattering, etc.) between the portion having the electrode 31 or the electrode 32 and the portion not present. Can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from visually recognizing the region where the electrodes 31 and 32 do not exist. The dummy electrode 39 is preferably electrically insulated from the electrode 31 and the electrode 32. In particular, it is preferable that the dummy electrode 39 is electrically floated without supplying a specific potential because the decrease in detection sensitivity due to the provision of the dummy electrode 39 can be suppressed.
0085[Sensor electrode configuration example] Hereinafter, a configuration example of an electrode that can be used for the electrode 31, electrode 32, and the like will be described. Here, the electrode to which the connection method shown in the configuration example 1 of the input device is applied will be described, but it can also be applied to the contents shown in the configuration example 2 of the input device by changing the connection method.
0086When the input device 10 is superposed on the display surface of the display panel 70 to form the touch panel 100, it is preferable to use a conductive material having translucency for the electrodes 31 and 32. Further, when a translucent conductive material is used for the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 and the light from the display panel 70 is taken out through the electrode 31 or the electrode 32, the same is used between the electrode 31 and the electrode 32. It is preferable to arrange the conductive film containing the conductive material as a dummy pattern (dummy electrode). In this way, by filling a part of the gap between the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 with a dummy pattern, the variation in light transmittance can be reduced. As a result, the uneven brightness of the light transmitted through the input device 10 can be reduced.
0087As the conductive material having translucency, a conductive oxide such as indium oxide, indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc oxide, and zinc oxide added with gallium can be used. A membrane containing graphene can also be used. The graphene-containing film can be formed by reducing, for example, a film-like graphene oxide-containing film. Examples of the method of reduction include a method of applying heat.
0088Alternatively, a metal or alloy thin enough to have translucency can be used. For example, a metal such as gold, silver, platinum, aluminum, magnesium, nickel, tungsten, chromium, molybdenum, iron, cobalt, copper, palladium, tin, zinc, indium, tantalum, or titanium, or an alloy containing the metal is used. be able to. Alternatively, a nitride of the metal or alloy (for example, titanium nitride) may be used. Alternatively, a semiconductor such as silicon or germanium to which conductivity is imparted by doping with impurities may be used. Further, among the conductive films containing the above-mentioned materials, a laminated film in which two or more are laminated may be used.
0089Further, as the electrode 31 and the electrode 32, a conductive film processed to be thin so as not to be visually recognized by the user may be used. For example, by processing such a conductive film into a lattice shape (mesh shape), high conductivity and high visibility of the display device can be obtained. At this time, the conductive film preferably has a portion having a width of 30 nm or more and 100 μm or less, preferably 50 nm or more and 50 μm or less, and more preferably 50 nm or more and 20 μm or less. In particular, a conductive film having a pattern width of 10 μm or less is preferable because it is extremely difficult for the user to visually recognize it.
0090As an example, FIGS. 6 (A) to 6 (D) show an enlarged schematic view of a part of the electrode 31 or the electrode 32. FIG. 6A shows an example when the lattice-shaped conductive film 61 is used. At this time, it is preferable to arrange the conductive film 61 so as not to overlap with the display element 60 included in the display panel 70 because the light from the display panel 70 is not blocked. In that case, it is preferable that the orientation of the grid is the same as the arrangement of the display elements 60, and the pitch of the grid is an integral multiple of the pitch of the arrangement of the display elements 60.
0091Further, FIG. 6B shows an example of a lattice-shaped conductive film 62 processed so as to form a triangular opening. With such a configuration, the resistance can be made lower than that shown in FIG. 7 (A).
0092Further, as shown in FIG. 6C, the conductive film 63 having a pattern shape having no periodicity may be used. With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of moire when it is overlapped with the display unit of the display panel 70.
0093Further, conductive nanowires may be used for the electrode 31 and the electrode 32. FIG. 6 (D) shows an example when nanowire 64 is used. By dispersing the adjacent nanowires 64 at an appropriate density so that they come into contact with each other, a two-dimensional network can be formed and the nanowires can function as a highly translucent conductive film. For example, nanowires having an average diameter of 1 nm or more and 100 nm or less, preferably 5 nm or more and 50 nm or less, and more preferably 5 nm or more and 25 nm or less can be used. As the nanowire 64, Ag nanowires, metal nanowires such as Cu nanowires and Al nanowires, carbon nanotubes, and the like can be used. For example, in the case of Ag nanowires, a light transmittance of 89% or more and a sheet resistance value of 40Ω / or more and 100Ω / or less can be realized.
0094FIG. 7A shows an example in which the square electrode patterns of the electrodes 31 and 32 shown in FIG. 2B have a grid-like upper surface shape. Further, in order to make the shape of each electrode easy to understand, FIG. 7 (B) shows a diagram in which the electrode 32 is shown by a broken line, and FIG. 7 (C) shows a diagram in which the electrode 31 is shown by a broken line.
0095It is preferable to set the integral multiple of the grid pitch of the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 to be equal to the distance D between the electrode 31 and the electrode 32. Further, it is preferable that the directions of the lattices of the electrodes 31 and 32 are parallel to the X direction and the Y direction.
0096FIG. 7 (A) and the like show an example in which the openings of the lattices of the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 are square, but the present invention is not limited to this, and is not limited to this, and is rectangular, polygonal, circular, elliptical, or rounded. It can also have various shapes such as a square shape.
0097Further, it is preferable that the openings of the electrodes 31 and 32 and the display element 60 of the display panel 70 are arranged so as to overlap each other. Further, it is preferable that the connecting portion 33 and the connecting portion 34 are similarly provided with openings. By doing so, the light from the display element 60 is not blocked by the electrodes 31 and 32, and the light extraction efficiency can be improved. As a result, an input / output device having high visibility and low power consumption can be realized.
0098At this time, the electrodes 31 and 32 are overlapped with the wiring (signal line, scanning line, capacitance line, etc.) of the display panel 70, the insulating layer (also referred to as partition wall) provided between the display elements 60, the transistor, the capacitance element, and the like. It is preferable to provide. By arranging the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 so as to overlap with such an element, a highly sensitive touch panel can be realized without sacrificing the aperture ratio.
0099FIG. 8A shows an example when the bridge electrode 35 is applied. In order to make the shape of each electrode easy to understand, FIG. 8 (B) shows a diagram showing the bridge electrode 35 with a broken line, and FIG. 8 (C) shows a diagram showing the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 with a broken line. Shown. Further, the vertical relationship between the bridge electrode 35 and the electrodes 31 and 32 is not particularly limited, and either of them may be arranged on the substrate 30 side.
0100Further, as the electrode 31 and the electrode 32, a pattern that forms only the contour in a plan view may be used. FIG. 9A shows a case where the inside of the square electrode pattern of the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 shown in FIG. 2B is hollowed out so that only the contour portion is left. At this time, if the widths of the electrodes 31 and 32 are so narrow that they cannot be visually recognized by the user, light-shielding materials such as the above-mentioned metal or alloy may be used as the electrodes 31 and 32. Further, FIG. 9B shows an example in which a bridge electrode 35 for connecting adjacent electrodes 31 (or electrodes 32) is provided.
0101The above is the description of the shape of the sensor electrode.
0102[Pixel configuration example] Hereinafter, a configuration example of pixels of the display panel 70 included in the touch panel 100 according to one aspect of the present invention will be described.
0103As described above, the display unit 81 of the display panel 70 is provided with a plurality of pixels. Further, the pixel has one or more display elements 60. When the display panel 70 for displaying a full-color image is used, for example, it is preferable to have a configuration in which a display element 60 having three colors of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) is provided in one pixel. Further, it is preferable that one pixel has a display element 60 of yellow (Y) or white (W) in addition to the above three colors because color reproducibility can be improved and power consumption can be reduced. Here, a configuration having one display element 60 and a pixel circuit corresponding thereto may be referred to as a sub-pixel. The sub-pixel may have, for example, a display element 60, a transistor, and a capacitance. When the pixel has three display elements 60, the pixel can be configured to include three sub-pixels.
0104When the input device 10 is arranged so as to be overlapped with the display panel 70, it is preferable that the electrodes 31 and 32 of the input device 10 are arranged so as to be located between the display elements 60. By doing so, since the light from the display element 60 is not blocked by the electrodes 31 and 32, the decrease in the brightness of the display panel 70 when the input device 10 is provided can be substantially eliminated or extremely reduced. .. Therefore, it is possible to realize a touch panel having high visibility and reduced power consumption. Further, since the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 do not overlap with the display element 60, it is not necessary to use a translucent conductive material having a relatively high resistance for the electrode 31 and the electrode 32. Therefore, it is possible to use a metal or alloy material having low resistance for the electrode 31 and the electrode 32, and the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 can be formed extremely thin to the extent that they cannot be visually recognized with the naked eye. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the electrodes 31 and 32 from being visually recognized due to reflection of light, and thus a touch panel with higher visibility can be realized.
0105Hereinafter, the positional relationship between the display element 60 included in the display panel 70 and the electrodes 31 and 32 included in the input device 10 will be described.
0106FIG. 10 shows an enlarged view of the display unit 81 when viewed from the display surface side of the touch panel 100 shown in FIG. 1 (A) and the input device 10 in a state of being overlapped with each other. Here, the case where the pixel 40 of the display panel 70 has four display elements 60 (display element 60R, display element 60G, display element 60B, display element 60Y) exhibiting different colors is shown. In the following, when the matters common to the four types of display elements will be described, they will be referred to as the display element 60.
0107FIG. 10 shows the positional relationship between the electrode 31 and each display element 60. Although the electrode 31 is shown as an example here, the same applies to the electrode 32 (or the bridge electrode 35).
0108It is assumed that the display element 60R is a display element exhibiting red color, the display element 60G is a display element exhibiting green color, the display element 60B is a display element exhibiting blue color, and the display element 60Y is a display element exhibiting yellow color.
0109The plurality of pixels 40 are periodically arranged in the X direction and the Y direction. Further, two types of display elements 60 corresponding to two different colors are arranged alternately in the X direction or the Y direction.
0110Further, FIG. 10 shows a case where the electrode 31 has a lattice shape having straight portions parallel to the X direction and the Y direction.
0111It is preferable that one display element 60 has a portion whose contour is parallel to the linear portion of the electrode 31. With such a shape, it is possible to eliminate a gap when arranging the display elements 60 and increase the aperture ratio. In FIG. 10, the display element 60 has a quadrangular shape with rounded corners, but the shape is not limited to this, and may be a square, a rectangle, a polygon, an ellipse, a circle, or a polygon with rounded corners.
0112FIG. 10 shows a configuration in which one pixel 40 (that is, four display elements 60) is included in one of the openings of the electrode 31, but the electrode 31 is not limited to this and is between adjacent display elements 60. It can take various forms processed to be placed in.
0113FIG. 11A shows a case where one display element 60 is included in the opening of the lattice of the electrode 31. FIG. 11B shows a case where a plurality of pixels 40 are included in the opening of the lattice included in the electrode 31. FIG. 11C shows a case where the electrode 31 has a striped shape. FIG. 11 (D) shows a case where the lattices of the electrodes 31 have different pitches of the lattices in the two orthogonal directions and the openings are rectangular. FIGS. 11 (E) and 11 (F) show a case where the electrode 31 has a zigzag shape.
0114Further, in each of FIGS. 10 and 11, an example in which a display element 60 of four colors is provided in one pixel 40 is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a display element of three colors or five or more colors is provided. It may be configured.
0115FIG. 12A shows an example in which one pixel 40 has three display elements 60. In FIG. 12A, display elements 60 of the same color are arranged side by side along the Y direction to form a stripe arrangement. By arranging the display elements 60 of the same color in one direction in this way, it becomes easier to align with the lower layer when making different light emitting elements of different colors or when forming a color filter. Therefore, it is preferable.
0116In FIG. 12A, the display element 60 has a linear portion whose contour is along the direction of the grid of the electrode 31 (that is, the X direction or the Y direction) and has a rectangular shape with rounded corners. An example is shown.
0117FIG. 12A shows a case where one display element 60 is included in the opening of the lattice of the electrode 31. FIG. 12B shows a case where the lattice opening of the electrode 31 is arranged so that one pixel 40 is included. FIG. 12C shows a case where the lattice openings of the electrodes 31 are arranged so that a plurality of pixels 40 are included. FIG. 12 (D) shows a case where the lattices of the electrodes 31 have different pitches of the lattices in the two orthogonal directions and the openings are rectangular. FIGS. 12 (E) and 12 (F) show a case where the electrodes 31 have a stripe shape parallel to the X direction or the Y direction, respectively.
0118In each of FIGS. 10 to 12, reference numerals such as R, G, B, and Y are attached to the plurality of display elements 60 for ease of explanation, but this arrangement method is an example and is displayed. The arrangement method of the element 60 is not limited. R, G, B and Y are interchangeable. Further, W corresponding to the white display element may be arranged instead of any of R, G, B, and Y.
0119Further, although the case where the electrode 31 or the like has a lattice shape and the electrode 31 or the like and the display element 60 are arranged so as not to overlap with each other has been described here, the present invention is not limited to this. When a translucent material or a material thinned so as not to be visually recognized is used as the electrode 31 as described above and the display element 60 and the electrode 31 or the like are provided in an overlapping manner, the electrode 31 has a lattice shape. It may be configured without.
0120The above is the description of the pixel.
0121[Cross-section configuration example] Hereinafter, an example of the cross-sectional configuration of the touch panel 100 will be described with reference to the drawings.
0122[Cross-section configuration example 1] FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the touch panel 100. FIG. 13 shows a cross section of each of the region including the FPC 73, the region including the drive circuit 82, the region including the display unit 81, and the region including the FPC 50 in FIGS. 1A and 1B.
0123The substrate 71 and the substrate 72 are bonded to each other by an adhesive layer 151. Further, the substrate 72 and the substrate 30 are bonded to each other by the adhesive layer 152. Here, the configuration including the substrate 71, the substrate 72, and the components sandwiched between them corresponds to the display panel 70. Further, the substrate 30 and the configuration including the components provided on the substrate 30 correspond to the input device 10.
0124<Display panel 70> A transistor 201, a transistor 202, a transistor 203, a display element 60, a capacitance element 205, a connection portion 206, a wiring 207, and the like are provided between the substrate 71 and the substrate 72.
0125An insulating layer 211, an insulating layer 212, an insulating layer 213, an insulating layer 214, an insulating layer 215, a spacer 216, and the like are provided on the substrate 71. A part of the insulating layer 211 functions as a gate insulating layer of each transistor, and a part of the insulating layer 211 functions as a dielectric of the capacitive element 205. The insulating layer 212, the insulating layer 213, and the insulating layer 214 are provided so as to cover each transistor, the capacitive element 205, and the like. The insulating layer 214 has a function as a flattening layer. Although the case where the insulating layer covering the transistor or the like has three layers of the insulating layer 212, the insulating layer 213, and the insulating layer 214 is shown here, the case is not limited to this, and four or more layers may be used. It may be a single layer or two layers. Further, the insulating layer 214 that functions as a flattening layer may not be provided if it is unnecessary.
0126A display element 60 is provided on the insulating layer 214. Here, an example is shown in which a top emission type (top emission type) light emitting element (organic EL element) is applied as the display element 60. The display element 60 emits light toward the second electrode 223. The aperture ratio of the display unit 81 can be increased by arranging the transistor 202, the transistor 203, the capacitance element 205, the wiring, and the like so as to overlap with the light emitting region of the display element 60.
0127The display element 60 has an EL layer 222 between the first electrode 221 and the second electrode 223. Further, an optical adjustment layer 224 is provided between the first electrode 221 and the EL layer 222. The insulating layer 215 is provided so as to cover the ends of the first electrode 221 and the optical adjustment layer 224.
0128In FIG. 13, a cross section for one pixel is shown as an example of the display unit 81. Here, the case where the pixel has a transistor 202 for current control, a transistor 203 for switching control, and a capacitance element 205 is shown. One electrode of the source or drain of the transistor 202 and one electrode of the capacitive element 205 are electrically connected to the first electrode 221 through openings provided in the insulating layer 212, the insulating layer 213, and the insulating layer 214. There is.
0129Further, FIG. 13 shows a configuration in which the transistor 201 is provided as an example of the drive circuit 82.
0130FIG. 13 shows an example in which a configuration in which a semiconductor layer on which a channel is formed is sandwiched between two gate electrodes is applied to a transistor 201 and a transistor 202. Such a transistor can increase the field effect mobility as compared with other transistors, and can increase the on-current. As a result, a circuit capable of high-speed operation can be manufactured. Furthermore, the occupied area of the circuit can be reduced. By applying a transistor having a large on-current, even if the number of wirings increases when the display panel is enlarged or has a high definition, the signal delay in each wiring can be reduced and the variation in the brightness of the display can be reduced.
0131The transistors provided in the drive circuit 82 and the display unit 81 may be transistors having the same structure, or transistors having different structures may be used in combination.
0132It is preferable that at least one of the insulating layer 212 and the insulating layer 213 covering each transistor is made of a material in which impurities such as hydrogen are difficult to diffuse. That is, the insulating layer 212 or the insulating layer 213 can function as a barrier film. With such a configuration, it is possible to effectively suppress the diffusion of impurities from the outside to the transistor, and it is possible to realize a highly reliable touch panel.
0133The spacer 216 is provided on the insulating layer 215 and has a function of adjusting the distance between the substrate 71 and the substrate 72. FIG. 13 shows a case where there is a gap between the spacer 216 and the light shielding layer 232, but these may be in contact with each other. Further, although the configuration in which the spacer 216 is provided on the substrate 71 side is shown here, it may be provided on the substrate 72 side (for example, the substrate 71 side rather than the light shielding layer 232). Alternatively, a granular spacer may be used instead of the spacer 216. As the granular spacer, a material such as silica can be used, but it is preferable to use a material having elasticity such as an organic resin or rubber. At this time, the granular spacer may have a shape that is crushed in the vertical direction.
0134A colored layer 231, a light-shielding layer 232, and the like are provided on the substrate 71 side of the substrate 72. The light-shielding layer 232 has an opening, and the opening is arranged so as to overlap the display area of the display element 60. The colored layer 231 is provided so as to overlap with the display element 60.
0135Examples of the material that can be used as the light-shielding layer 232 include carbon black, metal oxides, and composite oxides containing solid solutions of a plurality of metal oxides. Further, as the light-shielding layer 232, a laminated film of a film containing the material of the colored layer 231 can also be used. For example, a material containing an acrylic resin is used for the colored layer 231, and a film containing a material used for a colored layer that transmits light of a certain color and a film containing a material used for a colored layer that transmits light of another color are laminated. Structures can be used. By using the same material for the colored layer 231 and the light-shielding layer 232, it is preferable because the device can be shared and the process can be simplified.
0136For example, examples of the material that can be used for the colored layer 231 include a metal material, a resin material, a resin material containing a pigment or a dye, and the like.
0137Further, an insulating layer that functions as an overcoat may be provided so as to cover the colored layer 231 and the light shielding layer 232.
0138A connection portion 206 is provided in a region near the end portion of the substrate 71. The connection portion 206 is electrically connected to the FPC 73 via the connection layer 209. In the configuration shown in FIG. 13, a part of the wiring 207 electrically connected to the drive circuit 82 and a conductive layer formed by processing the same conductive film as the first electrode 221 are laminated to form a connecting portion. An example of configuring 206 is shown. By laminating two or more conductive layers to form the connecting portion 206 in this way, not only the electrical resistance can be reduced, but also the mechanical strength of the connecting portion 206 can be increased.
0139Further, in FIG. 13, as an example, a wiring formed by processing the same conductive film as the gate electrode of the transistor and a wiring formed by processing the same conductive film as the source electrode and the drain electrode of the transistor intersect. The cross-sectional structure of the intersection 86 is shown.
0140Here, the case where the scanning line 87 formed by processing the same conductive film as the gate electrode of the transistor is provided at the intersection 86 is shown. The scanning line 87 may be a wiring formed by processing the same conductive film as the source electrode and the drain electrode of the transistor, or another conductive film may be used.
0141<Input device 10> Electrodes 31 and electrodes 32 are provided on the substrate 72 side of the substrate 30. Here, an example in the case of having the bridge electrode 35 is shown. As shown at the intersection 86 in FIG. 13, the electrode 31 and the electrode 32 are formed on the same plane. Further, a bridge electrode 35 is provided on the insulating layer 161 that covers the electrodes 31 and 32. The bridge electrode 35 is electrically connected to two electrodes 31 provided so as to sandwich the electrode 32 through an opening provided in the insulating layer 161.
0142Further, in the configuration shown in FIG. 13, an example is shown in which the electrodes 31 are arranged so as not to overlap with the display element 60. That is, the electrode 31 is arranged so that the opening of the electrode 31 and the display element 60 overlap. At this time, it is preferable that the electrode 31 is arranged so as not to overlap with the colored layer 231. Further, it is preferable that the electrode 31 is arranged so as to overlap the light-shielding layer 232. Although an example of the electrode 31 is shown here, it is preferable that the electrode 32 and the bridge electrode 35 are also arranged so as not to overlap with the display element 60 or the like.
0143In FIG. 13, the electrode 31 is provided so as to be overlapped with the insulating layer 212, the insulating layer 213, the insulating layer 214, the insulating layer 215, the spacer 216, and the like. Further, it may be provided so as to be overlapped with a part of the gate electrode, the semiconductor layer, the gate insulating layer, the source electrode or the drain electrode constituting the transistor 202. Further, the EL layer 222 and the second electrode 223, which are not involved in light emission, are also provided so as to overlap with each other. Further, the first electrode 221 and the optical adjustment layer 224 may be provided so as to overlap with a portion not involved in light emission. Further, it may be provided so as to be overlapped with a layer constituting the transistor 203, a layer constituting the capacitive element 205, and the like.
0144A connecting portion 106 is provided in a region near the end portion of the substrate 30. The connection unit 106 is electrically connected to the FPC 50 via the connection layer 109. In the configuration shown in FIG. 13, an example is shown in which a part of the wiring 42 and a conductive layer obtained by processing the same conductive film as the bridge electrode 35 are laminated to form the connection portion 106. ..
0145As the connecting layer 109 and the connecting layer 209, an anisotropic conductive film (ACF: Anisotropic Conductive Film), an anisotropic conductive paste (ACP: Anisotropic Conductive Paste), or the like can be used.
0146Here, the substrate 30 can also be used as a substrate that the object to be detected such as a finger or a stylus directly touches. In that case, it is preferable to provide a protective layer (ceramic coat or the like) on the substrate 30. As the protective layer, an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, yttrium oxide, or yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) can be used. Further, tempered glass may be used for the substrate 30. As the tempered glass, one that has been physically or chemically treated by an ion exchange method, an air-cooled tempering method, or the like and has a compressive stress applied to its surface can be used. By providing the touch sensor on one surface of the tempered glass and providing the opposite surface on the outermost surface of the electronic device, for example, as the touch surface, the thickness of the entire device can be reduced.
0147<About each component> Hereinafter, each component shown above will be described.
0148A material having a flat surface can be used for the substrate of the touch panel. A material that transmits the light is used for the substrate on the side that extracts the light from the display element. For example, materials such as glass, quartz, ceramics, sapphire, and organic resins can be used.
0149By using a thin substrate, the touch panel can be made lighter and thinner. Further, a flexible touch panel can be realized by using a substrate having a thickness sufficient to have flexibility.
0150As the glass, for example, non-alkali glass, barium borosilicate glass, aluminoborosilicate glass and the like can be used.
0151Examples of the material having flexibility and transparency to visible light include glass having a thickness sufficient to have flexibility, polyester resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), and polyacrylonitrile resin. , Polymethyl methacrylate resin, Polymethyl methacrylate resin, Polycarbonate (PC) resin, Polyether sulfone (PES) resin, Polyamide resin, Cycloolefin resin, Polystyrene resin, Polyamiimide resin, Polyvinyl chloride resin, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) resin And so on. In particular, it is preferable to use a material having a low coefficient of thermal expansion, for example, a coefficient of thermal expansion of 30 × 10.<sup>-6</sup>Polyamide-imide resin, polyimide resin, PET and the like having / K or less can be preferably used. It is also possible to use a substrate in which glass fibers are impregnated with an organic resin, or a substrate in which an inorganic filler is mixed with an organic resin to reduce the coefficient of thermal expansion. Further, glass thin enough to have flexibility may be used. Since the substrate using such a material is light in weight, the touch panel using the substrate can also be made lightweight.
0152When a fiber body is contained in the above material, a high-strength fiber of an organic compound or an inorganic compound is used as the fiber body. The high-strength fiber specifically refers to a fiber having a high tensile elasticity or young ratio, and typical examples thereof include polyvinyl alcohol-based fiber, polyester-based fiber, polyamide-based fiber, polyethylene-based fiber, and aramid-based fiber. Polyparaphenylene benzobisoxazole fiber, glass fiber, or carbon fiber can be mentioned. Examples of the glass fiber include glass fibers using E glass, S glass, D glass, Q glass and the like. These may be used in the state of a woven fabric or a non-woven fabric, and a structure obtained by impregnating the fiber body with a resin and curing the resin may be used as a flexible substrate. It is preferable to use a structure made of a fibrous body and a resin as the flexible substrate because the reliability against breakage due to bending or local pressing is improved.
0153Alternatively, glass, metal, or the like thin enough to have flexibility can be used for the substrate. Alternatively, a composite material in which glass and a resin material are bonded may be used.
0154Further, since the substrate on the side that does not emit light does not have to have translucency, a metal substrate, a ceramic substrate, a semiconductor substrate, or the like can be used in addition to the substrates listed above. Since the metal substrate has high thermal conductivity and can easily conduct heat to the entire substrate, it is possible to suppress a local temperature rise of the touch panel, which is preferable. In order to obtain flexibility and bendability, the thickness of the metal substrate is preferably 10 μm or more and 200 μm or less, and more preferably 20 μm or more and 50 μm or less.
0155The material constituting the metal substrate is not particularly limited, and for example, a metal such as aluminum, copper, or nickel, or an alloy such as an aluminum alloy or stainless steel can be preferably used.
0156Further, a substrate that has been subjected to an insulating treatment by oxidizing the surface of the metal substrate or forming an insulating film on the surface may be used. For example, an insulating film may be formed by a coating method such as a spin coating method or a dip method, an electrodeposition method, a vapor deposition method, a sputtering method, or the like, or the insulating film may be left in an oxygen atmosphere or heated, or may be anodized. An oxide film may be formed on the surface of the substrate by such means.
0157A hard coat layer (for example, a silicon nitride layer) that protects the surface of the touch panel from scratches, a layer of a material that can disperse pressure (for example, an aramid resin layer, etc.), etc. are laminated on a flexible substrate. May be. Further, in order to suppress a decrease in the life of the display element due to moisture or the like, an insulating layer having low water permeability may be laminated on the flexible substrate. For example, an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride, silicon oxide nitride, aluminum oxide, or aluminum nitride can be used.
0158The substrate can also be used by stacking a plurality of layers. In particular, when the structure has a glass layer, the barrier property against water and oxygen can be improved, and a highly reliable touch panel can be obtained.
0159For example, a substrate in which a glass layer, an adhesive layer, and an organic resin layer are laminated from the side close to the display element can be used. The thickness of the glass layer is 20 μm or more and 200 μm or less, preferably 25 μm or more and 100 μm or less. A glass layer having such a thickness can simultaneously realize high barrier property against water and oxygen and flexibility. The thickness of the organic resin layer is 10 μm or more and 200 μm or less, preferably 20 μm or more and 50 μm or less. By providing such an organic resin layer, it is possible to suppress cracks and cracks in the glass layer and improve the mechanical strength. By applying such a composite material of a glass material and an organic resin to a substrate, an extremely reliable and flexible touch panel can be obtained.
0160The transistor has a conductive layer that functions as a gate electrode, a semiconductor layer, a conductive layer that functions as a source electrode, a conductive layer that functions as a drain electrode, and an insulating layer that functions as a gate insulating layer. FIG. 13 shows a case where a transistor having a bottom gate structure is applied.
0161The transistor structure of the touch panel according to one aspect of the present invention is not particularly limited. For example, it may be a staggered transistor or an inverted staggered transistor. Further, either a top gate type or bottom gate type transistor structure may be used. The semiconductor material used for the transistor is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include oxide semiconductors, silicon, germanium, and organic semiconductors.
0162The crystallinity of the semiconductor material used for the transistor is also not particularly limited, and is either an amorphous semiconductor or a semiconductor having crystallinity (microcrystalline semiconductor, polycrystalline semiconductor, single crystal semiconductor, or semiconductor having a partially crystalline region). May be used. It is preferable to use a semiconductor having crystallinity because deterioration of transistor characteristics can be suppressed.
0163Further, as the semiconductor material used for the transistor, for example, an element of Group 14 or a compound semiconductor or an oxide semiconductor can be used for the semiconductor layer. Typically, a semiconductor containing silicon, a semiconductor containing gallium arsenide, an oxide semiconductor containing indium, or the like can be applied.
0164In particular, it is preferable to apply an oxide semiconductor having a bandgap larger than that of silicon. It is preferable to use a semiconductor material having a wider bandgap and a smaller carrier density than silicon because the current in the off state of the transistor can be reduced.
0165It is preferable to use an oxide semiconductor having a low carrier density by reducing impurities and oxygen deficiency. Specifically, 8x10<sup>11</sup>/cm<sup>3</sup>Less than, preferably 1x10<sup>11</sup>/cm<sup>3</sup>Less than, more preferably 1x10<sup>10</sup>/cm<sup>3</sup>Less than 1x10<sup>-9</sup>/cm<sup>3</sup>An oxide semiconductor having a carrier density of the above can be obtained. Such oxide semiconductors are referred to as high-purity intrinsic or substantially high-purity intrinsic oxide semiconductors. Such oxide semiconductors have a low impurity concentration and a low defect level density. That is, it can be said that it is an oxide semiconductor having stable characteristics.
0166For example, it is preferable that the oxide semiconductor contains at least indium (In) or zinc (Zn). More preferably, it contains an oxide represented by an In-M-Zn-based oxide (M is a metal such as Al, Ti, Ga, Ge, Y, Zr, Sn, La, Ce or Hf).
0167In particular, the semiconductor layer has a plurality of crystal portions, in which the c-axis is oriented substantially perpendicular to the surface to be formed of the semiconductor layer or the upper surface of the semiconductor layer, and grains are formed between adjacent crystal portions. It is preferable to use an oxide semiconductor film in which no boundary is observed.
0168Since such an oxide semiconductor does not have grain boundaries, it is possible to prevent cracks from being generated in the oxide semiconductor film due to stress when the display panel is curved. Therefore, such an oxide semiconductor can be suitably used for a touch panel or the like which has flexibility and is used by being curved.
0169Further, by using an oxide semiconductor having such crystallinity as the semiconductor layer, fluctuations in electrical characteristics are suppressed, and a highly reliable transistor can be realized.
0170Further, a transistor using an oxide semiconductor having a bandgap larger than that of silicon can retain the electric charge accumulated in the capacitance connected in series with the transistor for a long period of time due to its low off-current. By applying such a transistor to a pixel, it is possible to stop the drive circuit while maintaining the gradation of the image displayed in each display area. As a result, it is possible to realize a display device with extremely reduced power consumption.
0171Alternatively, it is preferable to use silicon as the semiconductor in which the channel of the transistor is formed. Amorphous silicon may be used as the silicon, but it is particularly preferable to use silicon having crystallinity. For example, it is preferable to use microcrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, single crystal silicon, or the like. In particular, polycrystalline silicon can be formed at a lower temperature than single crystal silicon, and has higher field effect mobility and higher reliability than amorphous silicon. By applying such a polycrystalline semiconductor to a pixel, the aperture ratio of the pixel can be improved. Further, even when the pixels are provided with extremely high definition, the scanning line drive circuit and the signal line drive circuit can be formed on the same substrate as the pixels, and the number of components constituting the electronic device can be reduced.
0172Materials that can be used for conductive layers such as transistor gates, sources and drains, as well as various wiring and electrodes that make up touch panels include aluminum, titanium, chromium, nickel, copper, yttrium, zirconium, molybdenum, silver, and tantalum. , Or a metal such as tungsten, or an alloy containing this as a main component. Further, a film containing these materials can be used as a single layer or as a laminated structure. For example, a single-layer structure of an aluminum film containing silicon, a two-layer structure in which an aluminum film is laminated on a titanium film, a two-layer structure in which an aluminum film is laminated on a tungsten film, and a copper film on a copper-magnesium-aluminum alloy film. Two-layer structure for laminating, two-layer structure for laminating copper film on titanium film, two-layer structure for laminating copper film on tungsten film, titanium film or titanium nitride film, and aluminum film or copper film on top of it A three-layer structure, a molybdenum film or a molybdenum nitride film, on which a titanium film or a titanium nitride film is formed, and an aluminum film or a copper film on which an aluminum film or a copper film is laminated, and then a molybdenum film or There is a three-layer structure that forms a molybdenum nitride film. A transparent conductive material containing indium oxide, tin oxide or zinc oxide may be used. Further, it is preferable to use copper containing manganese because the controllability of the shape by etching is improved.
0173Further, as a translucent material that can be used for various wirings and conductive layers such as electrodes constituting the touch panel, indium oxide, indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc oxide, and zinc oxide to which gallium is added are used. Such as conductive oxides or graphenes can be used. Alternatively, a metal material such as gold, silver, platinum, aluminum, magnesium, nickel, tungsten, chromium, molybdenum, iron, cobalt, copper, palladium, tin, zinc, indium, tantalum, or titanium, or an alloy containing the metal material. Materials can be used. Alternatively, a nitride of the metal material (for example, titanium nitride) or the like may be used. When a metal material or an alloy material (or a nitride thereof) is used, it may be made thin enough to have translucency. Further, the laminated film of the above material can be used as the conductive layer. For example, it is preferable to use a laminated film of an alloy of silver and magnesium and an indium tin oxide because the conductivity can be enhanced.
0174Examples of the insulating material that can be used for each insulating layer, overcoat, spacer, etc. include resins such as acrylic and epoxy, resins having a siloxane bond, silicon oxide, silicon oxide nitride, silicon nitride oxide, silicon nitride, and the like. Inorganic insulating materials such as aluminum oxide can also be used.
0175Further, the light emitting element is preferably provided between a pair of insulating films having low water permeability. As a result, it is possible to prevent impurities such as water from entering the light emitting element, and it is possible to suppress a decrease in the reliability of the device.
0176Examples of the insulating film having low water permeability include a film containing nitrogen and silicon such as a silicon nitride film and a silicon nitride film, and a film containing nitrogen and aluminum such as an aluminum nitride film. Further, a silicon oxide film, a silicon nitride film, an aluminum oxide film and the like may be used.
0177For example, the amount of water vapor permeated by an insulating film with low water permeability is 1 x 10.<sup>-5</sup>[g / (m<sup>2</sup> Day)] Below, preferably 1 × 10<sup>-6</sup>[g / (m<sup>2</sup> Day)] Below, more preferably 1 × 10<sup>-7</sup>[g / (m<sup>2</sup> Day)] Below, more preferably 1 × 10<sup>-8</sup>[g / (m<sup>2</sup> Day)]
0178As each adhesive layer, various curable adhesives such as a photocurable adhesive such as an ultraviolet curable type, a reaction curable type adhesive, a thermosetting type adhesive, and an anaerobic type adhesive can be used. Examples of these adhesives include epoxy resin, acrylic resin, silicone resin, phenol resin, polyimide resin, imide resin, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) resin, PVB (polyvinyl butyral) resin, EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) resin and the like. In particular, a material having low moisture permeability such as epoxy resin is preferable. Further, a two-component mixed type resin may be used. Moreover, you may use an adhesive sheet or the like.
0179Further, the resin may contain a desiccant. For example, a substance that adsorbs water by chemisorption, such as an oxide of an alkaline earth metal (calcium oxide, barium oxide, etc.), can be used. Alternatively, a substance that adsorbs water by physical adsorption, such as zeolite or silica gel, may be used. When a desiccant is contained, impurities such as moisture can be suppressed from entering the functional element, and the reliability of the display panel is improved, which is preferable.
0180Further, by mixing the resin with a filler having a high refractive index or a light scattering member, the light extraction efficiency from the light emitting element can be improved. For example, titanium oxide, barium oxide, zeolite, zirconium and the like can be used.
0181As the light emitting element, an element capable of self-luminous light can be used, and an element whose brightness is controlled by a current or a voltage is included in the category. For example, a light emitting diode (LED), an organic EL element, an inorganic EL element, or the like can be used.
0182The light emitting element may be any of a top emission type, a bottom emission type, and a dual emission type. A conductive film that transmits visible light is used for the electrode on the side that extracts light. Further, it is preferable to use a conductive film that reflects visible light for the electrode on the side that does not take out light.
0183The EL layer has at least a light emitting layer. The EL layer is a layer other than the light emitting layer, which is a substance having a high hole injecting property, a substance having a high hole transporting property, a hole blocking material, a substance having a high electron transporting property, a substance having a high electron injecting property, or a bipolar substance. It may further have a layer containing a substance (a substance having high electron transport property and hole transport property) and the like.
0184Either a low molecular weight compound or a high molecular weight compound can be used for the EL layer, and an inorganic compound may be contained. The layers constituting the EL layer can be formed by a vapor deposition method (including a vacuum vapor deposition method), a transfer method, a printing method, an inkjet method, a coating method, or the like.
0185When a voltage higher than the threshold voltage of the light emitting element is applied between the cathode and the anode, holes are injected into the EL layer from the anode side and electrons are injected from the cathode side. The injected electrons and holes are recombined in the EL layer, and the luminescent substance contained in the EL layer emits light.
0186When a white light emitting element is applied as the light emitting element, it is preferable that the EL layer contains two or more kinds of light emitting substances. For example, white light emission can be obtained by selecting a light emitting substance so that the light emission of each of two or more light emitting substances has a complementary color relationship. For example, a luminescent substance that emits light such as R (red), G (green), B (blue), Y (yellow), O (orange), or spectral components of two or more colors of R, G, and B, respectively. It is preferable that two or more of the luminescent substances exhibiting luminescence containing the above are contained. Further, it is preferable to apply a light emitting element having two or more peaks in the spectrum of light emitted from the light emitting element within the wavelength range of the visible light region (for example, 350 nm to 750 nm). Further, the emission spectrum of the material having a peak in the yellow wavelength region is preferably a material having a spectral component also in the green and red wavelength regions.
0187More preferably, the EL layer has a structure in which a light emitting layer containing a light emitting material that emits one color and a light emitting layer containing a light emitting material that emits another color are laminated. For example, a plurality of light emitting layers in the EL layer may be laminated so as to be in contact with each other, or may be laminated via a region that does not contain any light emitting material. For example, a region is provided between the fluorescent light emitting layer and the phosphorescent light emitting layer, which contains the same material as the fluorescent light emitting layer or the phosphorescent light emitting layer (for example, a host material or an assist material) and does not contain any light emitting material. May be good. This facilitates the fabrication of the light emitting element and reduces the drive voltage.
0188Further, the light emitting element may be a single element having one EL layer, or may be a tandem element in which a plurality of EL layers are laminated via a charge generation layer.
0189The conductive film that transmits visible light can be formed by using, for example, indium oxide, indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc oxide, zinc oxide added with gallium, or the like. Further, metal materials such as gold, silver, platinum, magnesium, nickel, tungsten, chromium, molybdenum, iron, cobalt, copper, palladium, or titanium, alloys containing these metal materials, or nitrides of these metal materials (for example, Titanium nitride) or the like can also be used by forming it thin enough to have translucency. Further, the laminated film of the above material can be used as the conductive layer. For example, it is preferable to use a laminated film of an alloy of silver and magnesium and ITO because the conductivity can be enhanced. Moreover, graphene or the like may be used.
0190As the conductive film that reflects visible light, for example, a metal material such as aluminum, gold, platinum, silver, nickel, tungsten, chromium, molybdenum, iron, cobalt, copper, or palladium, or an alloy containing these metal materials should be used. Can be done. Further, lanthanum, neodymium, germanium or the like may be added to the above metal materials or alloys. Further, an alloy containing titanium, nickel, or neodymium and aluminum (aluminum alloy) may be used. Further, an alloy containing copper, palladium, magnesium and silver may be used. Alloys containing silver and copper are preferred because of their high heat resistance. Further, by laminating the metal film or the metal oxide film in contact with the aluminum film or the aluminum alloy film, oxidation can be suppressed. Examples of materials for such metal films and metal oxide films include titanium and titanium oxide. Further, the conductive film that transmits visible light and the film made of a metal material may be laminated. For example, a laminated film of silver and indium tin oxide, a laminated film of an alloy of silver and magnesium and indium tin oxide, and the like can be used.
0191The electrodes may be formed by a vapor deposition method or a sputtering method, respectively. In addition, it can be formed by using a ejection method such as an inkjet method, a printing method such as a screen printing method, or a plating method.
0192The above is a description of each component.
0193Hereinafter, an example having a configuration different from that of the cross-sectional configuration example 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, the description of the parts that overlap with the above will be omitted, and the differences will be described.
0194[Cross-section configuration example 2] FIG. 14 shows an example of a cross-sectional configuration of the touch panel 100 having a partially different configuration from that of FIG.
0195In FIG. 14, a conductive layer that functions as a second gate of the transistor 201 and the transistor 202 is provided between the insulating layer 213 and the insulating layer 214. Such a configuration is preferable because the voltage applied to the second gate can be reduced as compared with the configuration shown in FIG.
0196Further, the display element 60 shown in FIG. 14 shows an example when it is formed by a separate painting method. Specifically, an EL layer 222 that emits a different color is formed for each pixel of a different color. Further, outside the light emitting region of the display element 60, the end portion of the EL layer 222 has an region covered with the second electrode 223. The EL layer 222 can be formed by, for example, a vapor deposition method using a metal mask, a printing method, an inkjet method, or the like.
0197Further, FIG. 14 shows an example in which the optical adjustment layer 224 and the coloring layer 231 illustrated in FIG. 13 are not provided.
0198Further, FIG. 14 shows an example in which the protective film 217 is provided so as to cover the second electrode 223. The protective film 217 has a function as a barrier film so that impurities such as water do not diffuse into the display element 60. Further, although not shown here, if the protective film 217 is provided so as to cover the end portion of the EL layer 222 or the end portion of the second electrode 223, it is possible to more effectively suppress the intrusion of moisture into the display element 60.
0199As the protective film 217, an organic insulating material or an inorganic insulating material can be used. It is preferable to use an inorganic insulating material because a film having a high barrier property can be formed thinly. When an inorganic insulating material is used for the protective film 217, for example, silicon nitride, silicon nitride, aluminum oxide, aluminum nitride, aluminum nitride, aluminum nitride, hafnium oxide and the like are preferably used. In particular, aluminum oxide is preferable because it has excellent barrier properties. Further, as a film forming method of the protective film 217, a sputtering method, a vapor deposition method, a CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) method, an ALD (Atomic Layer Deposition) method and the like can be used. In particular, the ALD method is preferable because it can suppress damage to the display element 60 during film formation. Although the thermal ALD method can be used as the ALD method, the PEALD (Plasma Enhanced ALD) method is more preferable because the film can be formed at a low temperature of about room temperature.
0200The configuration of the transistor, the configuration of the display element 60, the configuration of the protective film 217, and the like illustrated here can be replaced with the configurations of the transistor, the display element, and the like in each cross-sectional configuration illustrated in FIG. 13 and below.
0201[Cross-section configuration example 3] The touch panel shown in FIG. 15 has a substrate 111 and a substrate 112. The substrate 111 and the substrate 72 are adhered by the adhesive layer 152, and the substrate 111 and the substrate 112 are adhered by the adhesive layer 153.
0202The electrodes 32, wiring 42, etc. are formed on the substrate 111. Further, the electrode 31 and wiring (not shown) electrically connected to the electrode 31 are formed on the substrate 112. In FIG. 15, the FPC 50 is provided on the substrate 111, but the FPC is similarly connected to the substrate 112 in an area (not shown).
0203As described above, when two substrates are used as the configuration of the input device 10, it is preferable to use substrates equal to or thinner than the substrate 71 and the substrate 72 for the substrate 111 and the substrate 112. In particular, it is preferable to use the above-mentioned flexible material as the substrate 111 and the substrate 112. By doing so, the thickness of the touch panel 100 can be reduced.
0204Further, as shown in FIG. 15, the protective substrate 130 may be provided on the substrate 112 via the adhesive layer 154. The surface of the protective substrate 130 opposite to the substrate 112 functions as a touch surface. As the material of the protective substrate 130, the description of the substrate 30 can be incorporated.
0205[Cross-section configuration example 4] The touch panel shown in FIG. 16 has a substrate 113. The substrate 113 and the substrate 72 are bonded by an adhesive layer 152.
0206An electrode 32, a wiring 42, and the like are provided on one surface of the substrate 113. Further, on the other surface of the substrate 113, an electrode 31 and a wiring 41 electrically connected to the electrode 31 are provided. That is, the electrodes and wiring constituting the touch sensor have a configuration provided on the front and back surfaces of the substrate 113.
0207Further, in FIG. 16, the FPC 50a and the connection layer 109a are provided at the connection portion 106a where a part of the wiring 42 is exposed, and the FPC 50b and the connection layer 109b are provided at the connection portion 106b where a part of the wiring 41 is exposed. An example is shown. The connecting portion 106a and the connecting portion 106b may overlap each other in a plan view, or may be arranged so as not to overlap each other.
0208[Cross-section configuration example 5] In the touch panel shown in FIG. 17, electrodes and the like constituting the touch sensor are provided on the surface of the substrate 72 opposite to the substrate 71 side. Specifically, a bridge electrode 35 is provided on the substrate 72, an insulating layer 161 that covers a part of the bridge electrode 35, and an electrode 31, an electrode 32, a wiring 42, and the like are provided on the insulating layer 161.
0209Further, as shown in FIG. 17, the protective substrate 130 and the substrate 72 may be bonded by the adhesive layer 152.
0210With such a configuration, the board can be shared between the input device 10 and the display panel 70, so that the thickness of the touch panel can be made extremely thin.
0211[Cross-section configuration example 6] FIG. 18 shows an example in which the configuration of the touch sensor illustrated in FIG. 17 and the configuration of the touch panel in which the light emitting element to which the painting method illustrated in FIG. 14 is applied is used for the display element 60 are combined. ing. Further, FIG. 18 shows an example in the case where the light shielding layer 232 is not provided.
0212[Cross-section configuration example 7] In the touch panel shown in FIG. 19, electrodes and the like constituting the touch sensor are provided on the surface of the substrate 72 on the substrate 71 side. Specifically, an electrode 31, an electrode 32, a wiring 42, and the like are provided on the substrate 72, an insulating layer 161 that covers them, and a bridge electrode 35 and the like are provided on the insulating layer 161.
0213Further, an insulating layer 233 is provided so as to cover the electrodes and the like constituting the touch sensor. Further, a colored layer 231 and a light-shielding layer 232 are provided on the insulating layer 233.
0214With such a configuration, the board can be shared between the input device 10 and the display panel 70, and one side of the board 72 can be used as a touch surface, so that the thickness of the touch panel 100 can be further reduced.
0215[Cross-section configuration example 8] FIG. 20 shows a modified example of the touch panel shown in FIG.
0216The touch panel shown in FIG. 20 has a laminated structure of a substrate 91, an adhesive layer 92, a substrate 93, and an insulating layer 94 instead of the substrate 71. Further, instead of the substrate 72, it has a laminated structure of a substrate 191, an adhesive layer 192, a substrate 193, and an insulating layer 194.
0217For the insulating layer 94 and the insulating layer 194, materials such as water and hydrogen that do not easily diffuse impurities can be used. With such a configuration, even if moisture-permeable materials are used for the substrate 91, the substrate 93, the substrate 191 and the substrate 193, impurities are diffused from the outside to the display element 60 and each transistor. It can be effectively suppressed and a highly reliable touch panel can be realized.
0218For the substrate 93 and the substrate 193, a material such as a flexible resin can be used. It is preferable to use a flexible film or the like for the substrate 91 and the substrate 191. By using a flexible material for these substrates, a bendable touch panel can be realized.
0219[Cross-section configuration example 9] The touch panel shown in FIG. 21 is provided with a light-shielding layer 232 between the electrodes and the like constituting the touch sensor and the substrate 72. Specifically, a light-shielding layer 232 is provided on the substrate 72, and an insulating layer 234 is provided so as to cover the light-shielding layer 232. An electrode 31, an electrode 32, and a wiring 42 are provided on the insulating layer 234, an insulating layer 161 covering them, and a bridge electrode 35 and the like are provided on the insulating layer 161. Further, an insulating layer 233 is provided on the bridge electrode 35 and the insulating layer 161 and a colored layer 231 is provided on the insulating layer 233.
0220The insulating layer 233 and the insulating layer 234 have a function as a flattening film. The insulating layer 233 and the insulating layer 234 may not be provided if unnecessary.
0221With such a configuration, the light-shielding layer 232 provided on the viewing side of the electrodes and the like constituting the touch sensor can prevent reflection of external light on the electrodes and the like, and the electrodes and the like are visually recognized. Can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to realize a touch panel that is not only thin but also has improved visibility.
0222[Cross-section configuration example 10] FIG. 22 shows a modified example of the touch panel shown in FIG.
0223The touch panel shown in FIG. 22 has a laminated structure of a substrate 91, an adhesive layer 92, and an insulating layer 94 instead of the substrate 71. Further, instead of the substrate 72, it has a laminated structure of a substrate 191, an adhesive layer 192, and an insulating layer 194.
0224By using a flexible material for the substrate 91 and the substrate 191, a bendable touch panel can be realized.
0225[Cross-section configuration example 11] FIG. 23 is an example of a cross-sectional configuration of a touch panel when a liquid crystal display device is applied as the display panel 70. In the touch panel shown in FIG. 23, a liquid crystal element is applied as the display element 208. Further, the touch panel has a polarizing plate 131, a polarizing plate 132, and a backlight 133.
0226Here, an example is shown in which a liquid crystal element to which the FFS (Fringe Field Switching) mode is applied is applied as the display element 208. The display element 208 includes an electrode 251, an electrode 252, and a liquid crystal 253. The electrode 251 is provided on the electrode 252 via an insulating layer 254, and has a comb-like shape or a shape in which a slit is provided.
0227Further, an overcoat 255 is provided so as to cover the coloring layer 231 and the light shielding layer 232. The overcoat 255 has a function of suppressing the diffusion of pigments and the like contained in the coloring layer 231 and the light-shielding layer 232 to the liquid crystal 253.
0228Further, in the overcoat 255, the insulating layer 254, the electrode 251 and the like, an alignment film for controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal 253 may be provided on the surface in contact with the liquid crystal 253.
0229In FIG. 23, the polarizing plate 131 is adhered to the substrate 71 by the adhesive layer 157. Further, the backlight 133 is adhered to the polarizing plate 131 by the adhesive layer 158. Further, the polarizing plate 132 is located between the substrate 72 and the substrate 30. The polarizing plate 132 is adhered to the substrate 72 by the adhesive layer 155, and is adhered to the substrate 30 (specifically, a part of the insulating layer 161 on the substrate 30) by the adhesive layer 156.
0230In the above, the liquid crystal element to which the FFS mode is applied is shown, but in addition to this, VA (Vertical Alignment) mode, TN (Twisted Nematic) mode, IPS (In-Plane-Switching) mode, ASM (Axially Symmetric aligned Micro) -cell) mode, OCB (Optically Compensated Birefringence) mode, FLC (Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal) mode, AFLC (AntiFerroelectric Liquid Crystal) mode, etc. can be used.
0231Further, as the liquid crystal, a thermotropic liquid crystal, a low molecular weight liquid crystal, a polymer liquid crystal, a strong dielectric liquid crystal, an anti-strong dielectric liquid crystal, a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), or the like can be used. Further, it is preferable to use a liquid crystal showing a blue phase because an alignment film is not required and a wide viewing angle can be obtained.
0232[Cross-section configuration example 12] FIG. 24 is an example of a cross-sectional configuration of a touch panel when a liquid crystal display device is applied as the display panel 70. In the touch panel shown in FIG. 24, the polarizing plate 132 is arranged on the visual side of the electrodes and the like constituting the touch sensor. Specifically, the substrate 114 on which the electrodes 31 and 32 are formed is adhered to the substrate 72 by the adhesive layer 152, and the polarizing plate 132 is adhered to the substrate 114 by the adhesive layer 155. Further, on the visual side of the polarizing plate 132, a protective substrate 130 bonded to the polarizing plate 132 by an adhesive layer 156 is provided.
0233It is preferable to use a flexible film or the like for the substrate 114 because the thickness of the touch panel can be reduced.
0234[Cross-section configuration example 13] FIG. 25 is an example of a cross-sectional configuration of a touch panel when a liquid crystal display device is applied as a display panel. The touch panel shown in FIG. 25 shows an example in which electrodes and the like constituting the touch sensor are formed on the surface of the substrate 72 on the substrate 71 side. Specifically, an electrode 31, an electrode 32, a wiring 42, and the like are provided on the substrate 72, an insulating layer 161 that covers them, and a bridge electrode 35 and the like are provided on the insulating layer 161. Further, an insulating layer 233 is provided so as to cover the electrodes and the like constituting the touch sensor. Further, a colored layer 231 and a light-shielding layer 232 are provided on the insulating layer 233.
0235Further, the polarizing plate 132 is adhered to the surface on the opposite side of the substrate 72 by the adhesive layer 155. Further, the protective substrate 130 is adhered to the polarizing plate 132 by the adhesive layer 156.
0236With such a configuration, the substrate can be shared between the input device and the display panel, and one surface of the substrate 72 can be used as a touch surface, so that the thickness of the touch panel can be further reduced.
0237[Cross-section configuration example 14] FIG. 26 is an example of a cross-sectional configuration of a touch panel when a liquid crystal display device is applied as a display panel. The touch panel shown in FIG. 26 shows an example in which electrodes and the like constituting a touch sensor are provided on a surface of the substrate 72 opposite to the surface on the substrate 71 side. Specifically, on the surface of the substrate 72 opposite to the surface on which the colored layer 231 and the like are provided, the bridge electrode 35, the insulating layer 161 covering a part of the bridge electrode 35, and the insulating layer 161. An electrode 31, an electrode 32, a wiring 42, and the like are provided. Further, the polarizing plate 132 is attached on the substrate 72 by the adhesive layer 152, and the protective substrate 130 is attached on the polarizing plate 132 by the adhesive layer 156.
0238[Modification example] Hereinafter, a configuration example of the touch panel to which the protective film is applied and the reliability is improved will be described.
0239The protective film can be provided so as to cover the exposed portion of the touch panel. For example, it can be provided so as to cover the surface and side surfaces of a pair of substrates, an adhesive layer, an insulating layer, and other exposed side surfaces.
0240As the protective film, it is preferable to use a material that does not easily allow moisture to permeate. For example, oxides, nitrides, fluorides, sulfides, ternary compounds, metals or polymers can be used.
0241For example, aluminum oxide, hafnium oxide, hafnium silicate, lanthanum oxide, silicon oxide, strontium titanate, tantalum oxide, titanium oxide, zinc oxide, niobium oxide, zirconium oxide, tin oxide, yttrium oxide, cerium oxide, scandium oxide, erbium oxide. , Vanadium oxide, indium oxide and the like can be used.
0242For example, a material containing aluminum nitride, hafnium nitride, silicon nitride, tantalum nitride, titanium nitride, niobium nitride, molybdenum nitride, zirconium nitride, gallium nitride and the like can be used.
0243For example, nitrides containing titanium and aluminum, oxides containing titanium and aluminum, oxides containing aluminum and zinc, sulfides containing manganese and zinc, sulfides containing cerium and strontium, oxides containing erbium and aluminum, Materials containing oxides containing iturium and zirconium can be used.
0244For example, it is preferable to use a material that can be formed by the atomic layer deposition (ALD) method for the protective film. A dense protective film with reduced defects such as cracks and pinholes, or with a uniform thickness can be formed using atomic layer deposition. In addition, damage to the processed member when forming the protective film can be reduced.
0245For example, by forming a protective film using the ALD method, it is possible to form a protective film having a uniform thickness and few defects on the surface having a complicated uneven shape and the upper surface, side surface and back surface of the touch panel.
0246By applying such a protective film to the touch panel, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of impurities such as moisture into the touch panel from the outside. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of the impurities to the display elements (organic EL elements, liquid crystal elements, etc.) constituting the touch panel, the transistors, the wiring, the electrodes, and the like. As a result, a touch panel having extremely high reliability can be realized.
0247Below, an example of the cross-sectional configuration of the touch panel to which such a protective film is applied is shown.
0248[Cross-section configuration example 15] FIG. 27 is a schematic cross-sectional view when the protective film 260 is applied to the touch panel illustrated in FIG. 20.
0249The protective film 260 is provided so as to cover the exposed portion of the touch panel. Specifically, the substrate 191, the adhesive layer 192, the substrate 193, the insulating layer 194, the insulating layer 161, the insulating layer 233, the adhesive layer 151, the insulating layer 215, the insulating layer 214, the insulating layer 213, the insulating layer 212, and the insulating layer 211. , The insulating layer 94, the substrate 93, the adhesive layer 92, the substrate 91, etc. are provided so as to cover a part or all of the exposed surfaces.
0250Further, as shown in FIG. 27, it is preferable that the opening of the protective film 260 is provided in the portion of the connecting portion 206 that overlaps with the connecting layer 209. Similarly, it is preferable that the opening of the protective film 260 is provided in the portion of the connecting portion 106 that overlaps with the connecting layer 109. By doing so, the electrical connection between the FPC 73 and the connection portion 206 and the FPC 50 and the connection portion 106 can be facilitated.
0251That is, it is preferable that the protective film 260 is provided so as to cover the area other than the connection portion (terminal portion) to which the FPC or the like is electrically connected, because the diffusion of impurities from the outside can be effectively suppressed.
0252When forming a portion such as the connecting portion 206 or the connecting portion 106 in which the protective film 260 is not provided, the protective film 260 may be formed on the entire surface and then a part thereof may be physically peeled off. Alternatively, a portion where the protective film 260 is not formed may be formed by masking before the protective film 260 is formed.
0253[Cross-section configuration example 16] FIG. 28 is a schematic cross-sectional view when the protective film 260 is applied to the touch panel illustrated in FIG. 22.
0254The protective film 260 is provided so as to cover the exposed portion of the touch panel. Specifically, the substrate 191, the adhesive layer 192, the insulating layer 194, the insulating layer 234, the insulating layer 161, the insulating layer 233, the adhesive layer 151, the insulating layer 213, the insulating layer 212, the insulating layer 211, the insulating layer 94, and the adhesive layer. It is provided so as to cover a part or all of the exposed surface such as 92 and the substrate 91.
0255[Cross-section configuration example 17] FIG. 29 shows a schematic cross-sectional view when the protective film 260 is applied to the touch panel illustrated in FIG. 23.
0256In the configuration shown in FIG. 29, a protective film 260 is provided so as to cover the display panel 70 to which the display element 208, which is a liquid crystal element, is applied. Specifically, a part or all of the exposed surfaces such as the substrate 72, the overcoat 255, the adhesive layer 151, the insulating layer 254, the insulating layer 214, the insulating layer 213, the insulating layer 212, the insulating layer 211, and the substrate 71 are covered. It is provided by covering it.
0257The adhesive layer 155 and the adhesive layer 157 are provided in contact with the protective film 260.
0258In this modified example, three cross-sectional configuration examples are shown, but the protective film 260 can be applied to the touch panel shown in any of the cross-sectional configuration examples illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 26.
0259The above is the description of the cross-sectional configuration example.
0260[Example of manufacturing method] Here, a method for producing a flexible touch panel will be described.
0261Here, for convenience, a configuration including pixels and circuits, a configuration including optical members such as color filters, a configuration including electrodes and wiring constituting a touch sensor, and the like are referred to as element layers. The element layer may include, for example, a display element, and may include elements such as wiring, pixels, and transistors used in circuits, which are electrically connected to the display element, in addition to the display element.
0262Further, here, a support having an insulating surface on which an element layer is formed (for example, the substrate 91 or the substrate 191 in FIG. 22) is referred to as a substrate.
0263As a method of forming the element layer on the substrate having a flexible insulating surface, there are a method of forming the element layer directly on the substrate and a method of forming the element layer on the rigid supporting base material and then forming the element layer. There is a method of peeling off the support substrate and the element layer and transferring the element layer to the substrate.
0264When the material constituting the substrate has heat resistance to the heat applied to the element layer forming process, it is preferable to form the element layer directly on the substrate because the process is simplified. At this time, it is preferable to form the element layer in a state where the substrate is fixed to the supporting base material because the transfer within the apparatus and between the apparatus becomes easy.
0265Further, when the method of transferring the element layer to the substrate after forming the element layer on the supporting base material is used, first, the release layer and the insulating layer are laminated on the supporting base material, and the element layer is formed on the insulating layer. Subsequently, the support base material and the element layer are peeled off and transferred to the substrate. At this time, a material that causes peeling at the interface between the support base material and the release layer, the interface between the release layer and the insulating layer, or the release layer may be selected.
0266For example, a layer containing a refractory metal material such as tungsten and a layer containing an oxide of the metal material are laminated and used as a release layer, and silicon nitride, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, etc. are used as an insulating layer on the release layer. It is preferable to use a plurality of laminated layers. It is preferable to use a refractory metal material because it increases the degree of freedom in the process of forming the device layer.
0267The peeling may be performed by applying a mechanical force, etching the peeling layer, dropping a liquid onto a part of the peeling interface, and allowing the liquid to permeate the entire peeling interface. Alternatively, the peeling may be performed by applying heat to the peeling interface by utilizing the difference in thermal expansion.
0268Further, if peeling is possible at the interface between the supporting base material and the insulating layer, the peeling layer may not be provided. For example, glass is used as a supporting base material, an organic resin such as polyimide is used as an insulating layer, and a part of the organic resin is locally heated using laser light or the like to form a starting point of peeling, and the glass and glass are formed. Peeling may be performed at the interface of the insulating layer. Alternatively, a metal layer is provided between the supporting base material and the insulating layer made of an organic resin, and an electric current is passed through the metal layer to heat the metal layer, thereby peeling at the interface between the metal layer and the insulating layer. May be good. Alternatively, a layer of a material (metal, semiconductor, insulator, etc.) that absorbs light is provided between the supporting base material and the insulating layer made of an organic resin, and the layer is locally irradiated with light such as laser light. The starting point of peeling may be formed by heating. In the method shown here, the insulating layer made of an organic resin can be used as a substrate.
0269For example, in the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 22, a first release layer and an insulating layer 94 are formed in this order on the first supporting base material, and then a structure above the first release layer is formed. Separately from this, a second release layer and an insulating layer 194 are formed in this order on the second supporting base material, and then a structure above the second release layer is formed. Subsequently, the first supporting base material and the second supporting base material are bonded to each other by the adhesive layer 151. Then, the second supporting base material and the second peeling layer are removed by peeling at the interface between the second peeling layer and the insulating layer 194, and the insulating layer 194 and the substrate 191 are bonded together by the adhesive layer 192. Further, the first supporting base material and the first peeling layer are removed by peeling at the interface between the first peeling layer and the insulating layer 94, and the insulating layer 94 and the substrate 91 are bonded to each other by the adhesive layer 92. Either side may be peeled off or bonded first.
0270The above is the description of the method for producing a flexible touch panel.
0271Although an example in which a light emitting element or a liquid crystal element is used as the display element is shown here, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to this.
0272For example, a display device using a display element such as a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical System) element or an electron emitting element can be used. Examples of the display element using MEMS include a shutter type MEMS display element and an optical interference type MEMS display element. Carbon nanotubes may be used as the electron emitting device. Moreover, you may use electronic paper. As the electronic paper, an element to which a microcapsule method, an electrophoresis method, an electrowetting method, an electron powder fluid (registered trademark) method or the like is applied can be used.
0273[Structure example of film forming apparatus] Hereinafter, an apparatus capable of forming a thin film constituting the touch panel according to one aspect of the present invention will be described. The apparatus exemplified below can be particularly suitably used for film formation of the protective film 217, the protective film 260, the insulating layer 212, the insulating layer 213, the insulating layer 94, the insulating layer 194 and the like.
0274[Structure example of film forming apparatus ALD] FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a film forming apparatus ALD.
0275The film forming apparatus ALD described in the present embodiment includes a film forming chamber 310 and a control unit 312 connected to the film forming chamber 310 (see FIG. 30).
0276The control unit 312 includes a control device (not shown) for supplying a control signal, a flow rate controller 312a, a flow rate controller 312b, and a flow rate controller 312c to which the control signal is supplied. For example, a high speed valve can be used in the flow controller. Specifically, the flow rate can be precisely controlled by using an ALD valve or the like. It also has a flow controller and a heating mechanism 312h that controls the temperature of the piping.
0277The flow rate controller 312a has a function of supplying the control signal and the first raw material and the inert gas, and supplying the first raw material or the inert gas based on the control signal.
0278The flow rate controller 312b has a function of supplying the control signal and the second raw material and the inert gas, and supplying the second raw material or the inert gas based on the control signal.
0279The flow rate controller 312c has a function of being supplied with a control signal and connecting to the exhaust device 315 based on the control signal.
0280Raw material supply department The raw material supply unit 311a has a function of supplying the first raw material and is connected to the flow rate controller 312a.
0281The raw material supply unit 311b has a function of supplying a second raw material and is connected to the flow rate controller 312b.
0282A vaporizer, a heating means, or the like can be used for the raw material supply unit. As a result, a gaseous raw material can be produced from a solid raw material or a liquid raw material.
0283The raw material supply unit is not limited to two, and may have three or more raw material supply units. Further, the flow rate control unit may be arranged according to the number of raw material supply units.
0284Raw materials Various substances can be used as the first raw material.
0285For example, a volatile organometallic compound, a metal alkoxide, or the like can be used as the first raw material.
0286Various substances that react with the first raw material can be used as the second raw material. For example, a substance that contributes to an oxidation reaction, a substance that contributes to a reduction reaction, a substance that contributes to an addition reaction, a substance that contributes to a decomposition reaction, a substance that contributes to a hydrolysis reaction, or the like can be used as a second raw material.
0287Moreover, radicals and the like can be used. For example, a raw material can be supplied to a plasma source and plasma or the like can be used. Specifically, oxygen radicals, nitrogen radicals and the like can be used.
0288By the way, as the second raw material used in combination with the first raw material, a raw material that reacts with the first raw material at a temperature close to room temperature is preferable. For example, a raw material having a reaction temperature of room temperature or higher and 200 ° C or lower, preferably 50 ° C or higher and 150 ° C or lower is preferable.
0289Exhaust device The exhaust device 315 has a function of exhausting and is connected to the flow rate controller 312c. A trap for capturing the discharged raw material may be provided between the discharge port 314 and the flow rate controller 312c. At this time, it is preferable to use a detoxification equipment to detoxify the exhaust gas.
0290Control unit The control device supplies a control signal for controlling the flow rate controller, a control signal for controlling the heating mechanism, and the like. For example, in the first step, the first raw material is supplied to the surface of the processing member 300. Then, in the second step, a second raw material that reacts with the first raw material is supplied. As a result, the first raw material reacts with the second raw material, and the reaction product can be deposited on the surface of the processing member 300.
0291The amount of reaction product deposited on the surface of the machined member 300 can be controlled by repeating the first step and the second step.
0292The amount of the first raw material supplied to the processed member 300 is limited by the amount that the surface of the processed member 300 can adsorb. For example, by selecting the conditions under which the monolayer of the first raw material is formed on the surface of the processed member 300 and reacting the formed monolayer of the first raw material with the second raw material, it is extremely uniform. A layer containing the reaction products of the first raw material and the second raw material can be formed.
0293As a result, various materials can be formed on the surface of the processed member 300 having a complicated structure on the surface. For example, a film having a thickness of 3 nm or more and 200 nm or less can be formed on the processed member 300.
0294For example, when a small hole called a pinhole or a small crack called a microcrack is formed on the surface of the processed member 300, the film is formed by wrapping around the inside of the pinhole or the microcrack. Can be filled.
0295The film forming apparatus ALD has a feature that the step coverage (step coverage) of the film to be formed is extremely high. Further, even when the surface shape of the processed member 300 has a complicated uneven shape, it has a feature that a homogeneous film can be formed on the surface thereof.
0296Further, the surplus first raw material or the second raw material is discharged from the film forming chamber 310 by using the exhaust device 315. For example, the exhaust may be performed while introducing an inert gas such as argon or nitrogen.
0297Film formation room The film forming chamber 310 includes an introduction port 313 to which the first raw material, the second raw material and the inert gas are supplied, and an discharge port 314 for discharging the first raw material, the second raw material and the inert gas. ..
0298The film forming chamber 310 opens and closes a support portion 316 having a function of supporting a single or a plurality of processed members 300, a heating mechanism 317 having a function of heating the processed members, and an area for carrying in and out the processed member 300. It has a functional door 318 and.
0299For example, a resistance heater, an infrared lamp, or the like can be used for the heating mechanism 317.
0300The heating mechanism 317 has a function of heating to, for example, 80 ° C or higher, 100 ° C or higher, or 150 ° C or higher.
0301The heating mechanism 317 heats the processing member 300 so that the temperature is, for example, room temperature or higher and 200 ° C. or lower, preferably 50 ° C. or higher and 150 ° C. or lower.
0302Further, the film forming chamber 310 has a pressure regulator and a pressure detector.
0303Support part The support portion 316 supports one or more machined members 300. Thereby, for example, an insulating film can be formed on one or more processed members 300 for each treatment.
0304As the processed member 300, in addition to the substrate, a touch panel, a display device, an input device, a touch panel to which a module such as an FPC is connected, or the like can be applied.
0305[Example of membrane] A film that can be produced by using the film forming apparatus ALD described in this embodiment will be described.
0306For example, a film containing an oxide, a nitride, a fluoride, a sulfide, a ternary compound, a metal or a polymer can be formed.
0307For example, aluminum oxide, hafnium oxide, aluminum silicate, hafnium silicate, lanthanum oxide, silicon oxide, strontium titanate, tantalum oxide, titanium oxide, zinc oxide, niobium oxide, zirconium oxide, tin oxide, yttrium oxide, cerium oxide, scandium oxide. , A material containing erbium oxide, vanadium oxide, indium oxide and the like can be formed.
0308For example, a material containing aluminum nitride, hafnium nitride, silicon nitride, tantalum nitride, titanium nitride, niobium nitride, molybdenum nitride, zirconium nitride, gallium nitride and the like can be formed.
0309For example, a material containing copper, platinum, ruthenium, tungsten, iridium, palladium, iron, cobalt, nickel and the like can be formed.
0310For example, a material containing zinc sulfide, strontium sulfide, calcium sulfide, lead sulfide, calcium fluoride, strontium fluoride, zinc fluoride and the like can be formed.
0311For example, nitrides containing titanium and aluminum, oxides containing titanium and aluminum, oxides containing aluminum and zinc, sulfides containing manganese and zinc, sulfides containing cerium and strontium, oxides containing erbium and aluminum, A material containing an oxide containing yttrium and zirconium can be formed.
0312Membrane containing aluminum oxide For example, a gas obtained by vaporizing a raw material containing an aluminum precursor compound can be used as the first raw material. Specifically, trimethylaluminum (TMA, chemical formula is Al (CH)<sub>3</sub>)<sub>3</sub>) Or tris (dimethylamide) aluminum, triisobutylaluminum, aluminum tris (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptane dinate) and the like can be used.
0313Water vapor (chemical formula is H<sub>2</sub>O) can be used as a second raw material.
0314A film containing aluminum oxide can be formed from the above-mentioned first raw material and the second raw material by using the film forming apparatus ALD.
0315Membrane containing hafnium oxide For example, a gas obtained by vaporizing a raw material containing a hafnium precursor compound can be used as the first raw material. Specifically, tetrakis (dimethylamide) hafnium (TDMAH, chemical formula is Hf [N (CH)<sub>3</sub>)<sub>2</sub>]<sub>4</sub>) Or a raw material containing a hafnium amide such as tetrakis (ethylmethylamide) hafnium can be used.
0316Ozone can be used as a second raw material.
0317A film containing hafnium oxide can be formed from the above-mentioned first raw material and the second raw material by using the film forming apparatus ALD.
0318Membrane containing tungsten For example, WF<sub>6</sub>Gas can be used as the first raw material.
0319B<sub>2</sub>H<sub>6</sub>Gas or SiH<sub>4</sub>Gas or the like can be used as the second raw material.
0320A film containing tungsten can be formed from the above-mentioned first raw material and the second raw material by using the film forming apparatus ALD.
0321This embodiment can be carried out in combination with at least a part thereof as appropriate with other embodiments described in the present specification.
0322(Embodiment 2) In the present embodiment, an example of a method of driving the input device or the input / output device of one aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
0323[Example of sensor detection method] FIG. 31 (A) is a block diagram showing a configuration of a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. FIG. 31 (A) shows the pulse voltage output circuit 601 and the current detection circuit 602. In FIG. 31 (A), the electrode 621 to which the pulse voltage is applied and the electrode 622 to detect the change in the current are shown as six wires each of X1-X6 and Y1-Y6, respectively. Further, FIG. 31 (A) illustrates the capacitance 603 formed by the superposition of the electrode 621 and the electrode 622. The functions of the electrode 621 and the electrode 622 may be interchanged with each other.
0324The pulse voltage output circuit 601 is a circuit for applying a pulse voltage to the wirings of X1-X6 in order. When a pulse voltage is applied to one of the wirings X1-X6, an electric field is generated in the electrodes 621 and 622 forming the capacitance 603. The proximity or contact of the object to be detected can be detected by utilizing the fact that the electric field generated between the electrodes causes a change in the capacity of the capacity 603 due to shielding or the like.
0325The current detection circuit 602 is a circuit for detecting a change in current in the wiring of Y1-Y6 due to a change in capacity in capacity 603. In the wiring of Y1-Y6, there is no change in the current value detected when there is no contact or proximity of the object to be detected, but the current value changes when the capacitance decreases due to the proximity or contact of the object to be detected. Detect decreasing changes. The current may be detected by using an integrator circuit or the like.
0326Next, FIG. 31 (B) shows a timing chart of input / output waveforms in the mutual capacitance type touch sensor shown in FIG. 31 (A). In FIG. 31 (B), it is assumed that the detected object is detected in each matrix in one frame period. Further, FIG. 31 (B) shows two cases, a case where the detected object is not detected (non-touch) and a case where the detected object is detected (touch). The Y1-Y6 wiring shows a waveform with a voltage value corresponding to the detected current value.
0327Pulse voltage is applied to the wiring of X1-X6 in order, and the waveform of the wiring of Y1-Y6 changes according to the pulse voltage. When there is no proximity or contact of the object to be detected, the waveform of Y1-Y6 changes uniformly according to the change of the voltage of the wiring of X1-X6. On the other hand, since the current value decreases at the location where the object to be detected is close or in contact with the object to be detected, the corresponding voltage value waveform also changes.
0328By detecting the change in capacitance in this way, the proximity or contact of the object to be detected can be detected.
0329Further, it is preferable that the pulse voltage output circuit 601 and the current detection circuit 602 are mounted on the touch panel in the form of an integrated IC or mounted on the substrate in the housing of the electronic device. In addition, when using a flexible touch panel, the parasitic capacitance may increase at the bent part and the influence of noise may increase. Therefore, an IC to which a driving method that is not easily affected by noise is applied is used. It is preferable to use it. For example, it is preferable to use an IC to which a driving method for increasing the signal-noise ratio (S / N ratio) is applied.
0330Further, although FIG. 31 (A) shows the configuration of a passive matrix type touch sensor in which only the capacitance 603 is provided at the intersection of the wirings as the touch sensor, an active matrix type touch sensor having a transistor and a capacitance may be used. .. FIG. 32 shows an example of one sensor circuit included in the active matrix type touch sensor.
0331The sensor circuit has a capacitance 603, a transistor 611, a transistor 612, and a transistor 613. Transistor 613 is given a signal G2 to the gate, voltage VRES is given to one of the source or drain, and the other is electrically connected to one electrode of capacitance 603 and the gate of transistor 611. One of the source and drain of the transistor 611 is electrically connected to one of the source and drain of the transistor 612, and the voltage VSS is applied to the other. A signal G1 is given to the gate of the transistor 612, and the other of the source and the drain is electrically connected to the wiring ML. A voltage VSS is applied to the other electrode of capacitance 603.
0332Subsequently, the operation of the sensor circuit will be described. First, the potential for turning on the transistor 613 is given as the signal G2, so that the potential corresponding to the voltage VRES is given to the node n to which the gate of the transistor 611 is connected. Next, the potential for turning off the transistor 613 is given as the signal G2, so that the potential of the node n is maintained.
0333Subsequently, the potential of the node n changes from VRES as the capacity of the capacity 603 changes due to the proximity or contact of the detected object such as a finger.
0334The read operation gives the signal G1 a potential to turn on the transistor 612. The current flowing through the transistor 611, that is, the current flowing through the wiring ML, changes according to the potential of the node n. By detecting this current, the proximity or contact of the object to be detected can be detected.
0335As the transistor 611, the transistor 612, and the transistor 613, it is preferable to use a transistor in which an oxide semiconductor is applied to the semiconductor layer on which the channel is formed. In particular, by applying such a transistor to the transistor 613, the potential of the node n can be maintained for a long period of time, and the frequency of the operation (refresh operation) of resupplying the VRES to the node n can be reduced.
0336[In-cell touch panel configuration example] In the above, the case where the electrodes constituting the touch sensor are formed on a substrate different from the substrate on which the display element or the like is provided has been shown, but a pair of electrodes constituting the touch sensor on the substrate on which the display element or the like is provided Either one or both of the above may be provided.
0337Hereinafter, a configuration example of a touch panel in which a touch sensor is incorporated in a display unit having a plurality of pixels will be described. Here, an example in which a liquid crystal element is applied as a display element provided on a pixel is shown.
0338FIG. 33 (A) is an equivalent circuit diagram of a part of the pixel circuit provided in the display unit of the touch panel illustrated in this configuration example.
0339One pixel has at least a transistor 3503 and a liquid crystal element 3504. Further, the wiring 3501 is electrically connected to the gate of the transistor 3503, and the wiring 3502 is electrically connected to one of the source and the drain.
0340The pixel circuit has a plurality of wires extending in the X direction (for example, wiring 3510_1 and wiring 3510_2) and a plurality of wires extending in the Y direction (for example, wiring 3511), which are provided so as to intersect each other. In the meantime, a capacity is formed.
0341Further, among the pixels provided in the pixel circuit, some of the plurality of adjacent pixels are electrically connected to one electrode of the liquid crystal element provided in each, and form one block. The block is classified into two types: an island-shaped block (for example, block 3515_1 and block 3515_2) and a line-shaped block extending in the Y direction (for example, block 3516). Although only a part of the pixel circuit is shown in FIG. 33, in reality, these two types of blocks are repeatedly arranged in the X direction and the Y direction.
0342The wiring 3510_1 (or 3510_2) extending in the X direction is electrically connected to the island-shaped block 3515_1 (or block 3515_2). Although not shown, the wiring 3510_1 extending in the X direction electrically connects a plurality of island-shaped blocks 3515_1 arranged discontinuously along the X direction via a line-shaped block. Further, the wiring 3511 extending in the Y direction is electrically connected to the line-shaped block 3516.
0343FIG. 33B is an equivalent circuit diagram showing a connection configuration of a plurality of wirings 3510 extending in the X direction and a plurality of wirings 3511 extending in the Y direction. An input voltage or common potential can be input to each of the wires 3510 extending in the X direction. In addition, a ground potential can be input to each of the wires 3511 extending in the Y direction, or the wires 3511 can be electrically connected to the detection circuit.
0344Hereinafter, the operation of the touch panel described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 34 (A) and 34 (B).
0345Here, one frame period is divided into a write period and a detection period. The writing period is a period for writing image data to the pixels, and wiring 3501 (also referred to as a gate line or a scanning line) is sequentially selected. On the other hand, the detection period is a period during which sensing is performed by the touch sensor, and the wiring 3510 extending in the X direction is sequentially selected and the input voltage is input.
0346FIG. 34 (A) is an equivalent circuit diagram during the writing period. During the writing period, a common potential is input to both the wiring 3510 extending in the X direction and the wiring 3511 extending in the Y direction.
0347FIG. 34 (B) is an equivalent circuit diagram at a certain point in the detection period. During the detection period, each of the wires 3511 extending in the Y direction is electrically connected to the detection circuit. Further, among the wiring 3510 extending in the X direction, the input voltage is input to the selected one, and the common potential is input to the other wirings.
0348The drive method illustrated here can be applied not only to the in-cell method but also to the touch panel illustrated above, and can be used in combination with the method shown in the drive method example.
0349As described above, it is preferable to independently provide the image writing period and the sensing period by the touch sensor. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the sensitivity of the touch sensor due to noise when writing pixels.
0350This embodiment can be carried out in combination with at least a part thereof as appropriate with other embodiments described in the present specification.
0351(Embodiment 3) In the present embodiment, the electronic device and the lighting device according to one aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
0352An electronic device or a lighting device can be manufactured by using the input device, the display device, or the input / output device of one aspect of the present invention. Using the input device, display device, or input / output device of one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to manufacture a highly reliable electronic device or lighting device having a curved surface. Further, using the input device, display device, or input / output device of one aspect of the present invention, a flexible and highly reliable electronic device or lighting device can be manufactured. Further, by using the input device or the input / output device of one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to manufacture an electronic device or a lighting device having improved detection sensitivity and detection accuracy of the touch sensor.
0353Examples of electronic devices include television devices (also referred to as televisions or television receivers), monitors for computers, digital cameras, digital video cameras, digital photo frames, and mobile phones (also referred to as mobile phones and mobile phone devices). ), Portable game machines, mobile information terminals, sound reproduction devices, large game machines such as pachinko machines, and the like.
0354Further, when the electronic device or lighting device of one aspect of the present invention has flexibility, it can be incorporated along the inner wall or outer wall of a house or building, or along the curved surface of the interior or exterior of an automobile.
0355Further, the electronic device of one aspect of the present invention may have a secondary battery, and it is preferable that the secondary battery can be charged by using non-contact power transmission.
0356Examples of the secondary battery include a lithium ion secondary battery such as a lithium polymer battery (lithium ion polymer battery) using a gel-like electrolyte, a lithium ion battery, a nickel hydrogen battery, a nicad battery, an organic radical battery, a lead storage battery, and an air secondary battery. Examples include rechargeable batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and silver-zinc batteries.
0357The electronic device of one aspect of the present invention may have an antenna. By receiving the signal with the antenna, the display unit can display images, information, and the like. Further, when the electronic device has a secondary battery, the antenna may be used for non-contact power transmission.
035835 (A), (B), (C1), (C2), (D), and (E) show an example of an electronic device having a curved display unit 7000. The display unit 7000 is provided with a curved display surface, and can display along the curved display surface. The display unit 7000 may have flexibility.
0359The display unit 7000 is manufactured by using the display device of one aspect of the present invention, the input / output device, or the like. According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic device having a curved display unit and having high reliability.
0360Figure 35 (A) shows an example of a mobile phone. The mobile phone 7100 has a housing 7101, a display unit 7000, an operation button 7103, an external connection port 7104, a speaker 7105, a microphone 7106, and the like.
0361The mobile phone 7100 shown in FIG. 35 (A) includes a touch sensor on the display unit 7000. All operations such as making a phone call or entering characters can be performed by touching the display unit 7000 with a finger or a stylus.
0362In addition, the power ON / OFF operation and the type of image displayed on the display unit 7000 can be switched by operating the operation button 7103. For example, the mail composition screen can be switched to the main menu screen.
0363Figure 35 (B) shows an example of a television device. In the television device 7200, the display unit 7000 is incorporated in the housing 7201. Here, the configuration in which the housing 7201 is supported by the stand 7203 is shown.
0364The operation of the television device 7200 shown in FIG. 35 (B) can be performed by the operation switch provided in the housing 7201 or the separate remote control operation machine 7211. Alternatively, the display unit 7000 may be provided with a touch sensor, and may be operated by touching the display unit 7000 with a finger or the like. The remote controller 7211 may have a display unit that displays information output from the remote controller 7211. The channel and volume can be operated by the operation keys or the touch panel provided on the remote controller 7211, and the image displayed on the display unit 7000 can be operated.
0365The television device 7200 is configured to include a receiver, a modem, and the like. The receiver can receive general television broadcasts. In addition, by connecting to a wired or wireless communication network via a modem, information communication is performed in one direction (from sender to receiver) or in two directions (between sender and receiver, or between recipients, etc.). It is also possible.
0366Figures 35 (C1), (C2), (D), and (E) show an example of a mobile information terminal. Each personal digital assistant has a housing 7301 and a display unit 7000. Further, it may have an operation button, an external connection port, a speaker, a microphone, an antenna, a battery, or the like. The display unit 7000 is provided with a touch sensor. The mobile information terminal can be operated by touching the display unit 7000 with a finger or a stylus.
0367FIG. 35 (C1) is a perspective view of the mobile information terminal 7300, and FIG. 35 (C2) is a top view of the mobile information terminal 7300. FIG. 35 (D) is a perspective view of the mobile information terminal 7310. FIG. 35 (E) is a perspective view of the mobile information terminal 7320.
0368The portable information terminal illustrated in the present embodiment has one or more functions selected from, for example, a telephone, a notebook, an information browsing device, and the like. Specifically, they can be used as smartphones. The personal digital assistant illustrated in this embodiment can execute various applications such as mobile phone, e-mail, text viewing and creation, music playback, Internet communication, and computer game.
0369The mobile information terminal 7300, the mobile information terminal 7310, and the mobile information terminal 7320 can display character and image information on a plurality of surfaces thereof. For example, as shown in FIGS. 35 (C1) and 35 (D), three operation buttons 7302 can be displayed on one surface, and information 7303 indicated by a rectangle can be displayed on the other surface. FIGS. 35 (C1) and 35 (C2) show an example in which information is displayed on the upper side of the mobile information terminal, and FIG. 35 (D) shows an example in which information is displayed on the side side of the mobile information terminal. In addition, information may be displayed on three or more sides of the mobile information terminal, and FIG. 35 (E) shows an example in which information 7304, information 7305, and information 7306 are displayed on different sides.
0370Examples of information include SNS (social networking service) notifications, displays notifying incoming calls such as e-mails and telephones, titles or senders of e-mails, date and time, time, remaining battery level, and antennas. There is reception strength and so on. Alternatively, an operation button, an icon, or the like may be displayed instead of the information at the position where the information is displayed.
0371For example, a user of the mobile information terminal 7300 can check the display (here, information 7303) with the mobile information terminal 7300 stored in the chest pocket of clothes.
0372Specifically, the telephone number or name of the caller of the incoming call is displayed at a position that can be observed from above the mobile information terminal 7300. The user can check the display and decide whether or not to receive the call without taking out the mobile information terminal 7300 from the pocket.
0373FIGS. 35 (F) to 35 (H) show an example of a lighting device having a curved light emitting portion.
0374The light emitting unit included in each of the lighting devices shown in FIGS. 35 (F) to 35 (H) is manufactured by using the display device of one aspect of the present invention, the input / output device, or the like. According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a highly reliable lighting device having a curved light emitting portion.
0375The lighting device 7400 shown in FIG. 35 (F) includes a light emitting unit 7402 having a wavy light emitting surface. Therefore, it is a highly designed lighting device.
0376The light emitting portion 7412 included in the lighting device 7410 shown in FIG. 35 (G) has a configuration in which two light emitting portions curved in a convex shape are symmetrically arranged. Therefore, it is possible to illuminate all directions around the lighting device 7410.
0377The lighting device 7420 shown in FIG. 35 (H) includes a light emitting unit 7422 curved in a concave shape. Therefore, since the light emitted from the light emitting unit 7422 is focused on the front surface of the lighting device 7420, it is suitable for illuminating a specific range brightly. In addition, such a form has the effect of making it difficult for shadows to be formed.
0378Further, each light emitting portion included in the illuminating device 7400, the illuminating device 7410, and the illuminating device 7420 may have flexibility. The light emitting portion may be fixed by a member such as a plastic member or a movable frame, and the light emitting surface of the light emitting portion may be freely curved according to the application.
0379The lighting device 7400, the lighting device 7410, and the lighting device 7420 each have a base portion 7401 having an operation switch 7403 and a light emitting unit supported by the base portion 7401.
0380Although the lighting device in which the light emitting portion is supported by the base portion is illustrated here, the housing provided with the light emitting portion can be fixed to the ceiling or used so as to be hung from the ceiling. Since the light emitting surface can be curved and used, the light emitting surface can be curved in a concave shape to illuminate a specific area brightly, or the light emitting surface can be curved in a convex shape to illuminate the entire room brightly.
038136 (A1), (A2), (B) to (I) show an example of a portable information terminal having a flexible display unit 7001.
0382The display unit 7001 is manufactured by using the display device of one aspect of the present invention, the input / output device, or the like. For example, a display device or an input / output device that can be bent with a radius of curvature of 0.01 mm or more and 150 mm or less can be applied. Further, the display unit 7001 may be provided with a touch sensor, and the mobile information terminal can be operated by touching the display unit 7001 with a finger or the like. According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic device having a flexible display unit and having high reliability.
0383FIG. 36 (A1) is a perspective view showing an example of a mobile information terminal, and FIG. 36 (A2) is a side view showing an example of a mobile information terminal. The personal digital assistant 7500 has a housing 7501, a display unit 7001, a drawer member 7502, an operation button 7503, and the like.
0384The personal digital assistant 7500 has a flexible display unit 7001 wound in a roll shape in the housing 7501.
0385In addition, the mobile information terminal 7500 can receive a video signal by the built-in control unit, and the received video can be displayed on the display unit 7001. In addition, the mobile information terminal 7500 has a built-in battery. Further, a terminal portion for connecting a connector to the housing 7501 may be provided, and a video signal or electric power may be directly supplied from the outside by wire.
0386In addition, the operation button 7503 can be used to turn the power on and off, switch the displayed image, and so on. Note that FIGS. 36 (A1), (A2), and (B) show an example in which the operation button 7503 is arranged on the side surface of the mobile information terminal 7500, but the present invention is not limited to this and is the same surface as the display surface of the mobile information terminal 7500. It may be placed on the (front side) or the back side.
0387FIG. 36B shows a mobile information terminal 7500 in a state where the display unit 7001 is pulled out by the pull-out member 7502. In this state, the image can be displayed on the display unit 7001. In addition, the display of the mobile information terminal 7500 differs between the state of FIG. 36 (A1) in which a part of the display unit 7001 is wound in a roll shape and the state of FIG. 36 (B) in which the display unit 7001 is pulled out by the drawer member 7502. It may be configured to perform. For example, in the state shown in FIG. 36 (A1), the power consumption of the mobile information terminal 7500 can be reduced by hiding the rolled portion of the display unit 7001.
0388In addition, in order to fix the display surface of the display unit 7001 so as to be flat when the display unit 7001 is pulled out, a frame for reinforcement may be provided on the side portion of the display unit 7001.
0389In addition to this configuration, a speaker may be provided in the housing to output audio by an audio signal received together with the video signal.
0390FIGS. 36 (C) to 36 (E) show an example of a foldable mobile information terminal. FIG. 36 (C) shows the unfolded state, FIG. 36 (D) shows the state in the process of changing from one of the unfolded state or the folded state to the other, and FIG. 36 (E) shows the folded state of the mobile information terminal. Shows 7600. The mobile information terminal 7600 has excellent portability in the folded state, and has excellent listability due to a wide seamless display area in the unfolded state.
0391The display 7001 is supported by three housings 7601 connected by a hinge 7602. By bending between the two housings 7601 via the hinge 7602, the mobile information terminal 7600 can be reversibly deformed from the unfolded state to the folded state.
0392FIGS. 36 (F) and 36 (G) show an example of a foldable mobile information terminal. FIG. 36 (F) shows a mobile information terminal 7650 in a state in which the display unit 7001 is folded so as to be inside, and FIG. 36 (G) shows a mobile information terminal 7650 in a state in which the display unit 7001 is folded so as to be outside. The mobile information terminal 7650 has a display unit 7001 and a non-display unit 7651. By folding the display unit 7001 so that it is inside when the mobile information terminal 7650 is not used, it is possible to prevent the display unit 7001 from becoming dirty or scratched.
0393FIG. 36 (H) shows an example of a flexible portable information terminal. The mobile information terminal 7700 has a housing 7701 and a display unit 7001. Further, it may have buttons 7703a and 7703b as input means, speakers 7704a and 7704b as audio output means, an external connection port 7705, a microphone 7706, and the like. Further, the portable information terminal 7700 can be equipped with a flexible battery 7709. The battery 7709 may be arranged so as to overlap the display unit 7001 for example.
0394The housing 7701, the display 7001, and the battery 7709 are flexible. Therefore, it is easy to bend the mobile information terminal 7700 into a desired shape and to twist the mobile information terminal 7700. For example, the personal digital assistant 7700 can be used by bending the display unit 7001 so as to be inside or outside. Alternatively, the mobile information terminal 7700 can be used in a rolled state. Since the housing 7701 and the display unit 7001 can be freely deformed in this way, the portable information terminal 7700 has an advantage that it is not easily damaged even if it is dropped or an unintended external force is applied.
0395In addition, since the portable information terminal 7700 is lightweight, it can be used by holding the upper part of the housing 7701 with a clip or the like and hanging it, or by fixing the housing 7701 to a wall surface with a magnet or the like. Can be conveniently used in.
0396FIG. 36 (I) shows an example of a wristwatch-type personal digital assistant. The mobile information terminal 7800 has a band 7801, a display unit 7001, an input / output terminal 7802, an operation button 7803, and the like. The band 7801 has a function as a housing. In addition, the mobile information terminal 7800 can be equipped with a flexible battery 7805. The battery 7805 may be arranged so as to overlap with the display unit 7001 or the band 7801, for example.
0397The band 7801, the display 7001, and the battery 7805 are flexible. Therefore, it is easy to bend the portable information terminal 7800 into a desired shape.
0398In addition to setting the time, the operation button 7803 can have various functions such as power on / off operation, wireless communication on / off operation, manner mode execution / cancellation, and power saving mode execution / cancellation. .. For example, the function of the operation button 7803 can be freely set by the operating system built into the mobile information terminal 7800.
0399You can also start the application by touching the icon 7804 displayed on the display unit 7001 with your finger or the like.
0400In addition, the personal digital assistant 7800 can execute short-range wireless communication conforming to the communication standard. For example, by communicating with a headset capable of wireless communication, it is possible to make a hands-free call.
0401Further, the mobile information terminal 7800 may have an input / output terminal 7802. When the input / output terminal 7802 is provided, data can be directly exchanged with another information terminal via the connector. It can also be charged via the input / output terminal 7802. The charging operation of the mobile information terminal illustrated in the present embodiment may be performed by non-contact power transmission without going through the input / output terminals.
0402Figure 37 (A) shows the appearance of the automobile 9700. Figure 37 (B) shows the driver's seat of the car 9700. The automobile 9700 has a body body 9701, wheels 9702, dashboard 9703, light 9704, and the like. The display device or input / output device of one aspect of the present invention can be used for a display unit of an automobile 9700 or the like. For example, the display unit 9710 to the display unit 9715 shown in FIG. 37 (B) can be provided with the display device or the input / output device of one aspect of the present invention.
0403The display unit 9710 and the display unit 9711 are display devices or input / output devices provided on the windshield of an automobile. The display device or input / output device of one aspect of the present invention is in a so-called see-through state in which the opposite side can be seen through by manufacturing the electrodes of the display device or the input / output device with a conductive material having translucency. Can be a display device or an input / output device. If it is a see-through display device or an input / output device, the visibility will not be obstructed even when driving the automobile 9700. Therefore, the display device or the input / output device of one aspect of the present invention can be installed on the windshield of the automobile 9700. When the display device or the input / output device is provided with a transistor for driving the display device or the input / output device, an organic transistor using an organic semiconductor material, a transistor using an oxide semiconductor, or the like may be used. It is preferable to use a transistor having translucency.
0404The display unit 9712 is a display device or an input / output device provided in the pillar portion. For example, the field of view blocked by the pillars can be complemented by displaying the image from the imaging means provided on the vehicle body on the display unit 9712. The display unit 9713 is a display device or an input / output device provided in the dashboard portion. For example, by projecting an image from an imaging means provided on the vehicle body on the display unit 9713, the field of view blocked by the dashboard can be complemented. That is, by projecting an image from an imaging means provided on the outside of the automobile, the blind spot can be supplemented and the safety can be enhanced. In addition, by projecting an image that complements the invisible part, safety confirmation can be performed more naturally and without discomfort.
0405In addition, FIG. 37 (C) shows the interior of an automobile in which bench seats are used for the driver's seat and the passenger seat. The display unit 9721 is a display device or an input / output device provided on the door unit. For example, by projecting an image from an imaging means provided on the vehicle body on the display unit 9721, the field of view blocked by the door can be complemented. Further, the display unit 9722 is a display device or an input / output device provided on the handle. The display unit 9723 is a display device or an input / output device provided in the central portion of the seat surface of the bench seat. A display device or an input / output device is installed on a seat surface or a backrest portion, and the display device or the input / output device is used as a seat heater using heat generated by the display device or the input / output device as a heat source. You can also do it.
0406The display unit 9714, display unit 9715, or display unit 9722 can provide various other information such as navigation information, speedometer and tachometer, mileage, refueling amount, gear status, air conditioner setting, and the like. In addition, the display items and layout displayed on the display unit can be appropriately changed according to the user's preference. The above information can also be displayed on the display unit 9710 to the display unit 9713, the display unit 9721, and the display unit 9723. Further, the display unit 9710 to the display unit 9715 and the display unit 9721 to the display unit 9723 can also be used as a lighting device. Further, the display unit 9710 to the display unit 9715 and the display unit 9721 to the display unit 9723 can also be used as a heating device.
0407The display device of one aspect of the present invention or the display unit to which the input / output device is applied may be a flat surface. In this case, the display device or the input / output device of one aspect of the present invention may have a configuration that does not have a curved surface or flexibility.
0408The portable game machine shown in FIG. 37 (D) has a housing 901, a housing 902, a display unit 903, a display unit 904, a microphone 905, a speaker 906, an operation key 907, a stylus 908, and the like.
0409The portable game machine shown in FIG. 37 (D) has two display units (display unit 903 and display unit 904). The number of display units included in the electronic device according to one aspect of the present invention is not limited to two, and may be one or three or more. When the electronic device has a plurality of display units, at least one display unit may have the display device of one aspect of the present invention or the input / output device.
0410FIG. 37 (E) is a notebook personal computer, which includes a housing 921, a display unit 922, a keyboard 923, a pointing device 924, and the like.
0411A display device or an input / output device of one aspect of the present invention can be applied to the display unit 922.
0412FIG. 38 (A) shows the appearance of the camera 8000. The camera 8000 has a housing 8001, a display unit 8002, an operation button 8003, a shutter button 8004, a joint unit 8005, and the like. A lens 8006 can be attached to the camera 8000.
0413The coupling portion 8005 has electrodes and can be connected to a strobe device or the like in addition to the finder 8100 described later.
0414Here, as the camera 8000, the lens 8006 is removed from the housing 8001 and replaced, but the lens 8006 and the housing may be integrated.
0415You can take an image by pressing the shutter button 8004. In addition, the display unit 8002 has a function as a touch panel, and it is possible to take an image by touching the display unit 8002.
0416The display device of one aspect of the present invention or the input / output device can be applied to the display unit 8002.
0417FIG. 38 (B) shows an example when the finder 8100 is attached to the camera 8000.
0418The finder 8100 has a housing 8101, a display unit 8102, a button 8103, and the like.
0419The housing 8101 has a coupling portion that engages with the coupling portion 8005 of the camera 8000, and the finder 8100 can be attached to the camera 8000. Further, the coupling portion has an electrode, and the image or the like received from the camera 8000 can be displayed on the display unit 8102 via the electrode.
0420Button 8103 has a function as a power button. Button 8103 can be used to switch the display on / off of the display unit 8102.
0421A display device or an input / output device of one aspect of the present invention can be applied to the display unit 8102.
0422In FIGS. 38 (A) and 38 (B), the camera 8000 and the finder 8100 are separate electronic devices, and these are detachable. However, one aspect of the present invention is displayed on the housing 8001 of the camera 8000. A finder having a device or an input / output device may be built in.
0423FIG. 38 (C) shows the appearance of the head-mounted display 8200.
0424The head-mounted display 8200 has a mounting unit 8201, a lens 8202, a main body 8203, a display unit 8204, a cable 8205, and the like. The mounting unit 8201 has a built-in battery 8206.
0425The cable 8205 powers the main body 8203 from the battery 8206. The main body 8203 is provided with a wireless receiver or the like, and can display video information such as received image data on the display unit 8204. In addition, the camera provided on the main body 8203 captures the movement of the user's eyeballs and eyelids, and the coordinates of the user's viewpoint are calculated based on that information, so that the user's viewpoint can be used as an input means. it can.
0426Further, the mounting portion 8201 may be provided with a plurality of electrodes at positions where it touches the user. The main body 8203 may have a function of recognizing the user's viewpoint by detecting the current flowing through the electrodes with the movement of the user's eyeball. Further, it may have a function of monitoring the pulse of the user by detecting the current flowing through the electrode. Further, the mounting unit 8201 may have various sensors such as a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, and an acceleration sensor, and may have a function of displaying the biometric information of the user on the display unit 8204. Further, the movement of the user's head may be detected and the image displayed on the display unit 8204 may be changed according to the movement.
0427A display device or an input / output device of one aspect of the present invention can be applied to the display unit 8204.
0428This embodiment can be carried out in combination with at least a part thereof as appropriate with other embodiments described in the present specification.
042910 Input device 11 columns 12 columns 13 rows 14 rows 21 Straight line part 22 Straight line part 30 board 31 electrodes 31a electrode 31b electrode 31c electrode 32 electrodes 32a electrode 32b electrode 32c electrode 33 Connection 34 Connection 35 bridge electrode 39 Dummy electrode 40 pixels 41 Wiring 42 Wiring 50 FPC 50a FPC 50b FPC 51 IC 60 Display element 60B display element 60G display element 60R display element 60Y display element 61 Conductive 62 Conductive 63 Conductive 64 nanowires 70 Display panel 71 board 72 board 73 FPC 74 IC 81 Display 82 Drive circuit 83 Wiring 86 intersection 87 scan line 90 intersection 91 board 92 Adhesive layer 93 substrate 94 Insulation layer 100 touch panel 106 Connection 106a Connection 106b Connection 109 Connection layer 109a Connection layer 109b Connection layer 111 board 112 board 113 board 114 board 130 Protective board 131 Polarizing plate 132 Polarizing plate 133 Backlight 151 Adhesive layer 152 Adhesive layer 153 Adhesive layer 154 Adhesive layer 155 Adhesive layer 156 Adhesive layer 157 Adhesive layer 158 Adhesive layer 161 Insulation layer 191 board 192 Adhesive layer 193 board 194 Insulation layer 201 transistor 202 transistor 203 transistor 205 Capacitive element 206 Connection 207 Wiring 208 Display element 209 Connection layer 211 Insulation layer 212 Insulation layer 213 Insulation layer 214 insulation layer 215 Insulation layer 216 spacer 217 Protective film 221 electrode 222 EL layer 223 Electrode 224 Optical adjustment layer 231 Colored layer 232 shading layer 233 Insulation layer 234 Insulation layer 251 electrode 252 electrode 253 LCD 254 Insulation layer 255 overcoat 260 Protective film 300 processed parts 310 Film formation room 311a Raw Material Supply Department 311b Raw material supply department 312 Control unit 312a Flow controller 312b flow controller 312c flow controller 312h heating mechanism 313 inlet 314 outlet 315 Exhaust system 316 support 317 Heating mechanism 318 door 601 pulse voltage output circuit 602 Current detection circuit 603 capacity 611 transistor 612 transistor 613 transistor 621 electrode 622 electrode 901 housing 902 housing 903 Display 904 Display 905 microphone 906 speaker 907 Operation keys 908 stylus 921 chassis 922 Display 923 keyboard 924 Pointing device 3501 wiring 3502 wiring 3503 transistor 3504 Liquid crystal element 3510 Wiring 3510_1 Wiring 3510_2 Wiring 3511 Wiring 3515_1 block 3515_2 block 3516 block 7000 Display 7001 Display 7100 mobile phone 7101 chassis 7103 Operation button 7104 External connection port 7105 speaker 7106 microphone 7200 television device 7201 chassis 7203 stand 7211 Remote control device 7300 Mobile information terminal 7301 housing 7302 Operation button 7303 Information 7304 Information 7305 information 7306 Information 7310 Mobile information terminal 7320 Mobile information terminal 7400 Lighting device 7401 base 7402 Light emitting part 7403 Operation switch 7410 Lighting device 7412 Light emitting part 7420 Lighting device 7422 Light emitting part 7500 mobile information terminal 7501 housing 7502 member 7503 Operation button 7600 Mobile information terminal 7601 housing 7602 hinge 7650 Mobile information terminal 7651 Hidden part 7700 Mobile information terminal 7701 chassis 7703a button 7703b button 7704a speaker 7704b speaker 7705 External connection port 7706 Mike 7709 battery 7800 Mobile information terminal 7801 band 7802 I / O terminal 7803 Operation button 7804 icon 7805 battery 8000 camera 8001 chassis 8002 Display 8003 Operation buttons 8004 Shutter button 8005 joint 8006 lens 8100 finder 8101 chassis 8102 Display 8103 button 8200 head mounted display 8201 mounting part 8202 lens 8203 body 8204 Display 8205 cable 8206 battery 9700 car 9701 body 9702 wheels 9703 dashboard 9704 Light 9710 Display 9711 Display 9712 Display 9713 Display 9714 Display 9715 Display 9721 Display 9722 Display 9723 Display
39 sheets
Sheet 1 Sheet 2 Sheet 3 Sheet 4 Sheet 5 Sheet 6 Sheet 7 Sheet 8 Sheet 9 Sheet 10 Sheet 11 Sheet 12 Sheet 13 Sheet 14 Sheet 15 Sheet 16 Sheet 17 Sheet 18 Sheet 19 Sheet 20 Sheet 21 Sheet 22 Sheet 23 Sheet 24 Sheet 25 Sheet 26 Sheet 27 Sheet 28 Sheet 29 Sheet 30 Sheet 31 Sheet 32 Sheet 33 Sheet 34 Sheet 35 Sheet 36 Sheet 37 Sheet 38 Sheet 39
Every citation, both ways
| Document | Relation | Office | Category | Cited during | Relevant claims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JP2018109768A | Cited by | Japan | – | Search report | – |
| US11256361B2 | Cited by | United States of America | – | Applicant | – |
| JP2022040340A | Cited by | Japan | – | Search report | – |
| JP2019107888A | Cited by | Japan | – | Search report | – |
| US11476440B2 | Cited by | United States of America | – | Applicant | – |
| JP2019107888A | Cited by | Japan | – | Search report | – |
| KR20190071772A | Cited by | Republic of Korea | – | Search report | – |
| US12669886B2 | Cited by | United States of America | – | Applicant | – |
| WO2020121762A1 | Cited by | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | – | International search | – |
| US12082437B2 | Cited by | United States of America | – | Applicant | – |
| US12353658B2 | Cited by | United States of America | – | Applicant | – |
| JP2018006749A | Cited by | Japan | – | Search report | – |
| JP2020095491A | Cited by | Japan | – | Search report | – |
| US10541281B2 | Cited by | United States of America | – | Applicant | – |
| JP2022130416A | Cited by | Japan | – | Search report | – |
| JP2016133622A | Cited by | Japan | – | Search report | – |
| US12008185B2 | Cited by | United States of America | – | Applicant | – |
| JP2023076515A | Cited by | Japan | – | Search report | – |
| WO2010029979A1 | Cites | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | Y | Search report | 4 |
| JP2010231533A | Cites | Japan | Y | Search report | 4 |
| JP2014525098A | Cites | Japan | XY | Search report | 1-3,5-7,4 |
8 members in 2 offices
Priority claims2
| Document | Office | Kind | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014243346 | Japan | – | |
| 2014243346 | Japan | A |
Members8
| Document | Office | Kind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP2016110643AThis record | Japan | A | |
| US2016179259A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| US9933872B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| JP6764226B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| JP2020198136A | Japan | A | |
| JP7130021B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| JP2022167949A | Japan | A | |
| JP2024149678A | Japan | A |
12 legal events, as the office reported them to INPADOC
Over the term
Point at a mark for the eventEvents
| Event | Code | |
|---|---|---|
| Cancellation because of no payment of annual feesLAPS | LAPS | |
| First payment of annual fees (during grant procedure)JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A61A61 | A61 | |
| Certificate of patent or registration of utility modelJAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: R150R150 | R150 | |
| Written decision to grant a patent or to grant a registration (utility model)JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A01A01 | A01 | |
| Decision of grant or rejection writtenTRDD | TRDD | |
| Request for written amendment filedJAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A523A521 | A521 | |
| Notification of reasons for refusalJAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A131A131 | A131 | |
| Request for written amendment filedJAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A523A521 | A521 | |
| Report on retrievalJAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A971007A977 | A977 | |
| Notification of reasons for refusalJAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A131A131 | A131 | |
| Request for written amendment filedJAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A523A521 | A521 | |
| Written request for application examinationJAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A621A621 | A621 |
Numbers
- Publication
- 2016110643
- Application
- 229303
Titles2
- Japanese
- タッチパネル
- English
- Touch panel
Classification
- CPC, 5
- G06F3/0412
- G06F2203/04103
- G06F2203/04112
- G06F3/0446
- G06F3/0445
- IPC, 2
- G06F3 041
- G06F3 044