U.S. patent application number 14/900961 was filed with the patent office on 2016-08-11 for touch panel having press detection function.
The applicant listed for this patent is NISSHA PRINTING CO., LTD.. Invention is credited to Takao HASHIMOTO, Eiji KAKUTANI, Juichi MURATA, Shuzo OKUMURA, Ryomei OMOTE, Keisuke OZAKI, Junichi SHIBATA, Yoshiko SUETOMI, Yuji WATAZU.
Application Number | 20160231849 14/900961 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52141577 |
Filed Date | 2016-08-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160231849 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
WATAZU; Yuji ; et
al. |
August 11, 2016 |
TOUCH PANEL HAVING PRESS DETECTION FUNCTION
Abstract
A piezoelectric sensor that can perform position detection and
load detection. The touch panel having press detection function can
detect the pressing load inputted to the pressing surface. An upper
electrode, an upper insert member, an intermediate electrode, a
lower insert member, and a lower electrode are arranged away from
the pressing surface in this order. Among the upper electrode, the
intermediate electrode, and the lower electrode, capacitance
detection electrodes Cx, Cy for detecting the pressing position,
and detection electrodes S for measuring the electric charge
according to the pressure when the operation is inputted to the
touch panel 1 having press detection function are included. One of
the upper insert member and the lower insert member is composed of
an insulating body, and the other is composed of a piezoelectric
body.
Inventors: |
WATAZU; Yuji; (Kyoto-shi,
Kyoto, JP) ; SUETOMI; Yoshiko; (Kyoto-shi, Kyoto,
JP) ; KAKUTANI; Eiji; (Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, JP) ;
OZAKI; Keisuke; (Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, JP) ; SHIBATA;
Junichi; (Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, JP) ; OKUMURA; Shuzo;
(Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, JP) ; OMOTE; Ryomei;
(Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, JP) ; MURATA; Juichi;
(Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, JP) ; HASHIMOTO; Takao;
(Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NISSHA PRINTING CO., LTD. |
Kyoto |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
52141577 |
Appl. No.: |
14/900961 |
Filed: |
May 22, 2014 |
PCT Filed: |
May 22, 2014 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2014/063551 |
371 Date: |
December 22, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/0445 20190501;
G06F 3/0446 20190501; G06F 3/0414 20130101; G06F 3/0416 20130101;
G06F 3/0447 20190501; G06F 3/044 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 3/041 20060101
G06F003/041; G06F 3/044 20060101 G06F003/044 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 23, 2013 |
JP |
2013-131214 |
Claims
1-15. (canceled)
16. A touch panel having press detection function for detecting a
pressing load inputted to a pressing surface, the touch panel
comprising: an upper electrode, an upper insert member, an
intermediate electrode, a lower insert member, and a lower
electrode, arranged away from the pressing surface in this order;
the upper insert member is composed of an insulating body; the
lower insert member is composed of a piezoelectric body; the upper
electrode includes first capacitance detection electrodes
configured to detect pressing position when input is applied to the
touch panel; the lower electrode includes second capacitance
detection electrodes; the intermediate electrode includes detection
electrodes for measuring the electric charge configured to detect
electric charge according to the pressing; and a both-side
electrode member and a one-side electrode member are adhered to
each other with adhesive, the both-side electrode member having the
upper insert member, the upper electrode laminated on an upper
surface of the upper insert member, and the intermediate electrode
laminated on a lower surface of the upper insert member, and the
one-side electrode member having the lower insert member, and the
lower electrode laminated on a lower surface of the lower insert
member.
17. A touch panel having press detection function for detecting a
pressing load inputted to a pressing surface, the touch panel
comprising: an upper electrode, an upper insert member, an
intermediate electrode, a lower insert member, and a lower
electrode, arranged away from the pressing surface in this order;
the upper insert member is composed of an insulating body; the
lower insert member is composed of a piezoelectric body; the upper
electrode includes first capacitance detection electrodes
configured to detect pressing position when input is applied to the
touch panel; the intermediate electrode includes second capacitance
detection electrodes that functions as a reference potential
electrode; the lower electrode includes detection electrodes for
measuring the electric charge configured to detect electric charge
according to the pressing; and a both-side electrode member and a
one-side electrode member are adhered to each other with adhesive,
the both-side electrode member having the upper insert member, the
upper electrode laminated on an upper surface of the upper insert
member, and the intermediate electrode laminated on a lower surface
of the upper insert member, and the one-side electrode member
having the lower insert member and the lower electrode laminated on
a lower surface of the lower insert member.
18. A touch panel having press detection function for detecting a
pressing load inputted to a pressing surface, the touch panel
comprising: an upper electrode, an upper insert member, an
intermediate electrode, a lower insert member, and a lower
electrode, arranged away from the pressing surface in this order;
the upper insert member is composed of a piezoelectric body; the
lower insert member is composed of an insulating body; the upper
electrode includes first capacitance detection electrodes
configured to detect pressing position when input is applied to the
touch panel; the lower electrode includes second capacitance
detection electrodes; the intermediate electrode includes detection
electrodes for measuring the electric charge configured to detect
electric charge according to the pressing; and a one-side electrode
member and a both-side electrode member are adhered to each other
with adhesive, the one-side electrode member having the upper
insert member and the upper electrode laminated on an upper surface
of the upper insert member, and the both-side electrode member
having the lower insert member, the intermediate electrode
laminated on an upper surface of the lower insert member, and the
lower electrode laminated on a lower surface of the lower insert
member.
19. An electronic device comprising a touch panel having press
detection function according to claim 16, and a display member
provided under the touch panel, wherein the touch panel having
press detection function is transparent.
20. An electronic device comprising a touch panel having press
detection function according to claim 17, and a display member
provided under the touch panel, wherein the touch panel having
press detection function is transparent.
21. An electronic device comprising a touch panel having press
detection function according to claim 18, and a display member
provided under the touch panel, wherein the touch panel having
press detection function is transparent.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to touch panels having press
detection function.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Conventionally, note PCs having a touch pad have been known.
Such note PCs are provided with UI having good usability, i.e.,
when moving a cursor, it is possible to freely operate the cursor
on the display by just tracing the operation surface of the note PC
with a finger.
[0003] Furthermore, recently, electronic devices having a touch
panel such as cellar phones, smart phones, and game machines have
been popular. Such electronic devices have a structure of a
transparent touch panel provided on a display panel such as LCD, so
that it is possible to perform the operation by just touching
buttons displayed on the display panel with a finger or a stylus.
Furthermore, it is possible to input characters and draw diagrams
with a handwriting input. Accordingly, the previously mentioned
electronic devices employs UI with which the intuitive input is
possible.
[0004] However, according to the touch panel, it is impossible to
detect the applied load. Accordingly, it is impossible to detect
letter description such as brush writing or pushing action, which
means that it is insufficient as UI.
[0005] On the other hand, piezoelectric sensors have been known
which can detect the applied load. For example, according to Patent
Document 1, a transparent piezoelectric sensor is disclosed which
includes a transparent pressure sensitive layer and a transparent
conductive layer.
[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication
2004-125571
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0007] However, since the piezoelectric sensor in Patent Document 1
is made of a plurality of transparent pressure sensitive layers,
position detection can be achieved to a certain degree, but the
accuracy of position detection was bad. Although it is possible to
improve the accuracy of position detection by reducing an area of
the transparent pressure sensitive layer and increase the number in
Patent Document 1, it is difficult to detect a lot of sensor
signals, i.e., it is actually impossible.
[0008] The present invention was conceived to solve the previously
mentioned problems, and it is an object of the present invention to
provide a touch panel having press detection function that can
precisely detect position and pressure.
Solution to Problem
[0009] In order to achieve the previously mentioned object, the
present invention is configured as below.
[0010] The touch panel having press detection function according to
the present invention is one that can detect the pressing load
inputted to a pressing surface.
[0011] The touch panel includes an upper electrode, an upper insert
member, an intermediate electrode, a lower insert member, and a
lower electrode, arranged away from the pressing surface in this
order.
[0012] Among the upper electrode, the intermediate electrode, and
the lower electrode, capacitance detection electrodes configured to
detect pressing position when input is applied to the touch panel,
and detection electrodes for measuring the electric charge
configured to detect electric charge according to the pressing are
included.
[0013] One of the upper insert member and the lower insert member
may be composed of an insulating body, and the other may be
composed of a piezoelectric body.
[0014] According to one of the aspects, the intermediate electrode
may include the detection electrodes for measuring the electric
charge.
[0015] According to one of the aspects, the upper electrode may
include the capacitance detection electrodes.
[0016] According to one of the aspects, the upper electrode may
include the capacitance detection electrodes, and the lower
electrode may be a reference potential electrode that is fixed to a
constant electrical potential.
[0017] According to one of the aspects, the upper electrode may
include first capacitance detection electrodes,
[0018] the intermediate electrode may include second capacitance
detection electrodes,
[0019] the lower electrode may include a reference potential
electrode that is fixed to a constant electrical potential.
[0020] According to one of the aspects, the upper insert member may
be composed of an insulating body, the lower insert member may be
composed of a piezoelectric body, the upper electrode may include
first capacitance detection electrodes, and the lower electrode may
include second capacitance detection electrodes.
[0021] According to one of the aspects, the upper insert member may
be composed of a piezoelectric body, the lower insert member may be
composed of an insulating body, and the upper electrode or the
intermediate electrode may include the electrodes for measuring the
electric charge.
[0022] According to one of the aspects, the upper insert member may
be composed of an insulating member, and the lower insert member
may be composed of a piezoelectric body, at least one of the upper
electrode and the intermediate electrode may include capacitance
detection electrodes, and the lower electrode may include the
electrodes for measuring the electric charge.
[0023] According to one of the aspects, the upper insert member may
be an insulating body, the lower insert member may be composed of a
piezoelectric body, at least one of the upper electrode and the
intermediate electrode may include the capacitance detection
electrodes, the intermediate electrode may include a reference
potential electrode that is fixed to a constant electrical
potential, and the lower electrode may include the electrodes for
measuring the electric charge.
[0024] According to one of the aspects, an adhesive layer may be
disposed between the intermediate electrode and the lower insert
member.
[0025] According to one of the aspects, an adhesive layer may be
disposed between the upper insert member and the intermediate
electrode.
[0026] According to one of the aspects, an adhesive layer may be
disposed in the following spaces:
[0027] (1) a space defined between the upper electrode and the
upper insert member;
[0028] (2) a space defined between the upper insert member and the
intermediate electrode; and
[0029] (3) a space defined between the lower insert member and the
lower electrode.
[0030] According to one of the aspects, a support member may be
disposed on an upper surface of the upper electrode.
[0031] According to one of the aspects, the support member may be a
protect member.
[0032] According to one of the aspects, a display member may be
provided below the touch panel, and the touch panel may be
transparent.
Advantageous Effects of Invention
[0033] In the touch panel having press detection function according
to the present invention, when the pressure is applied to the touch
panel, it is possible to precisely detect the position and
pressure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0034] FIG. 1 is a cross section of the touch panel having press
detection function.
[0035] FIG. 2 is a cross section of the touch panel having press
detection function.
[0036] FIG. 3 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel
having press detection function.
[0037] FIG. 4 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel
having press detection function.
[0038] FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel
having press detection function.
[0039] FIG. 6 is a plane view of the upper electrode.
[0040] FIG. 7 is a cross section of the upper electrode.
[0041] FIG. 8 is a view showing examples of the configuration of
the touch panel having press detection function.
[0042] FIG. 9 is a cross section of the touch panel having press
detection function.
[0043] FIG. 10 is a view showing examples of the configuration of
the touch panel having press detection function.
[0044] FIG. 11 is a cross section of the touch panel having press
detection function.
[0045] FIG. 12 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel
having press detection function.
[0046] FIG. 13 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel
having press detection function.
[0047] FIG. 14 is a view showing examples of the configuration of
the touch panel having press detection function.
[0048] FIG. 15 is a cross section of the touch panel having press
detection function.
[0049] FIG. 16 is a cross section of the touch panel having press
detection function.
[0050] FIG. 17 is a cross section of the touch panel having press
detection function.
[0051] FIG. 18 is a cross section of the touch panel having press
detection function.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0052] Embodiments according to the present invention will be
described below in detail with reference to figures. The
dimensions, materials, shapes and relative positions of parts or
portions described in the embodiments of the present invention are
merely described as examples, and do not limit the scope of the
present invention unless otherwise specified.
1. First Embodiment
(1) The Entire Structure of the Touch Panel Having Press Detection
Function
[0053] Referring to FIG. 1, the touch panel having press detection
function according to the first embodiment of the present invention
will be described. FIG. 1 is a cross section of the touch panel
having press detection function.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 1, a touch panel 1 includes an upper
electrode 10, an intermediate electrode 20, a lower electrode 30,
an upper insert member 40, and a lower insert member 50.
[0055] The previously mentioned members are disposed, from the
pressing surface of the touch panel 1 in the order of: the upper
electrode 10, the upper insert member 40, the intermediate
electrode 20, the lower insert member 50, and the lower electrode
30.
[0056] Hereinbelow, the configuration of the touch panel 1 having
press detection function will be described in detail.
(2) Electrodes
[0057] The electrodes constituting the touch panel 1 are the upper
electrode 10, the intermediate electrode 20, and the lower
electrode 30. The upper electrode 10, the intermediate electrode
20, and the lower electrode 30 may be either capacitance detection
electrodes, detection electrodes for measuring the electric charge,
a reference potential electrode, or a combination thereof.
[0058] The capacitance detection electrodes detect pressing
position based on change in capacitance generated between the
capacitance detection electrodes when the pressing means M makes
contact with the touch panel 1 and applies the pressure to the
touch panel 1.
[0059] The electrodes for measuring the electric charge detect
electric charge generated when the pressure is applied to the touch
panel 1. The reference potential electrode has a constant
potential. The pressing means M represents fingers or stylus pens
that applies the pressure to the touch panel 1.
[0060] The upper electrode 10, the intermediate electrode 20, and
the lower electrode 30 can be made of conductive materials. The
conductive material may include transparent conductive oxide such
as Indium-Tin-Oxide (ITO) and Tin-Zinc-Oxide (TZO), or conductive
polymer such as Polyethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT). In this case,
the electrodes can be formed with vapor deposition or screen
printing, for example.
[0061] The conductive material may include conductive metals such
as copper and silver. In this case, the electrodes can be formed
with vapor deposition, or metal paste such as copper paste and
silver paste.
[0062] Furthermore, the conductive material may include a binder
and conductive materials, such as carbon nanotube, metal grain, and
metal nanofiber, disbursed therein.
(3) Insert Member
[0063] The insert member constituting the touch panel 1 are the
upper insert member 40 and the lower insert member 50. The upper
insert member 40 and the lower insert member 50 are composed of a
piezoelectric body or an insulating body. Specifically, if the
upper insert member 40 is composed of the piezoelectric body, the
lower insert member 50 is composed of the insulating body. If the
upper insert member 40 is composed of the insulating body, the
lower insert member 50 is composed of the piezoelectric body.
(4) Piezoelectric Body
[0064] Material of the piezoelectric layer may include inorganic
piezoelectric materials or organic piezoelectric materials.
[0065] The inorganic piezoelectric material is barium titanate,
lead titanate, lead (Pb) zirconate titanate, potassium niobate,
lithium niobate, and lithium tantalate, for example.
[0066] The organic piezoelectric materials may include fluoride
compound or its copolymer, and polymer material including
chirality. The fluoride compound or its copolymer may be
polyvinylidene fluoride, vinylidene fluoride-tetrafluoroethylene
copolymer, or vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene copolymer, for
example. The polymer material having chirality may be PLAA or PDLA,
for example.
(5) Insulating Body
[0067] Materials of the insulating body may include organic
materials, inorganic materials, and organic-inorganic hybrid
materials. The organic materials may include acryl, Polycarbonate,
polyethylene-telephthalate, and cycloolefin polymer, for example.
The inorganic materials may include glass plates, for example. The
organic-inorganic hybrid materials may include material having
resin in which glass fiber is mixed.
(6) Effects
[0068] The touch panel 1 having press detection function of the
present invention may include the capacitance detection electrodes,
the electrodes for measuring the electric charge, and the
piezoelectric body. Accordingly, when the pressure is applied to
the touch panel 1, it is possible to detect the pressing position
using the capacitance detection electrodes, and detect electric
charge generated by the pressure using the electrodes for measuring
the electric charge. As a result, it is possible to detect the
pressing position and pressing load applied to the touch panel
1.
2. Second Embodiment
[0069] (1) Entire Structure of the Touch Panel Having Press
Detection Function
[0070] Referring to FIG. 2, the touch panel 1 having press
detection function according to the second embodiment of the
present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a cross section of
the touch panel having press detection function. Since the basic
structure of the touch panel 1 in the second embodiment is the same
as that of the first embodiment, characteristic aspects of the
second embodiment will be described below.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 2, the touch panel 1 of the second
embodiment includes the following characteristic aspect: the
intermediate electrode 20 includes electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge. Since the touch panel 1 is configured as described
above, the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge are
interposed between the upper electrode 10 and the lower electrode
30. Accordingly, the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge
are protected by the upper electrode 10 and the lower electrode 30
from noise around the touch panel 1 (electromagnetic noise or
static electricity, especially the electromagnetic noise or static
electricity from the input means).
[0072] As a result, when the pressing means M applies the pressure
to the touch panel 1, it is possible to precisely measure the
pressing load. Examples for the touch panel having press detection
function according to the second embodiment will be described
below.
(2) Example 1
[0073] FIG. 3 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel 1
having press detection function according to Example 1. As shown in
FIG. 3, the touch panel of Example 1 includes an upper electrode
10, an intermediate electrode 20, a lower electrode 30, an upper
insert member 40, and a lower insert member 50.
[0074] The upper electrode 10 includes strip-shaped capacitance
detection electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis direction. The
intermediate electrode 20 includes capacitance detection electrodes
Cy arranged in Y-axis direction. Since the upper electrode 10
includes the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the
intermediate electrode 20 includes the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy, when the pressure is applied to the touch panel 1,
change in capacitance at intersection points defined between the
capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy is measured, so that the input position can be
detected.
[0075] The intermediate electrode 20 also includes the strip-shaped
electrodes S for measuring the electric charge, which are arranged
between the capacitance detection electrodes Cy (i.e., portions
where the capacitance detection electrodes Cy are not arranged).
The lower electrode 30 is a planar reference potential electrode G,
and the lower insert member 50, which is arranged between the
intermediate electrode 20 and the lower electrode 30, is made of a
piezoelectric body P.
[0076] Since the piezoelectric body P is arranged between the
electrodes S for measuring the electric charge and the reference
potential electrode G as described above, the touch panel 1 can
detect electric charge generated at the piezoelectric body P with
the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge when the
pressure is applied. Accordingly, the touch panel 1 can detect the
pressing load when the pressures is applied thereto.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 3, the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge are arranged between the capacitance detection
electrodes Cx and the reference potential electrode G. Accordingly,
the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge are protected by
the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the reference potential
electrode G from noise around the touch panel 1 (electromagnetic
noise or static electricity, especially the electromagnetic noise
or static electricity from the input means). As a result, when the
pressure is applied to the touch panel 1, it is possible to
precisely measure the pressing load.
[0078] If the electric charge that is detected at the electrodes S
for measuring the electric charge is small, an amplifier may be
connected to the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge. If
the amplifier is connected to the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge, even if the previously mentioned electric charge
is small, signals of the electric charge can be detected with the
amplifier.
[0079] Furthermore, the touch panel 1 may include a protect member
made of glass or plastic on the upper electrode 10. In this case,
the capacitance detection electrodes Cx, which constitute the upper
electrode 10, may be disposed on a lower surface of the protect
member. Furthermore, a display member such as liquid crystal and
organic EL may be disposed below the lower electrode 30 of the
touch panel 1.
[0080] An example has been described in which the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis direction are arranged
as the upper electrode 10, the capacitance detection electrodes Cy
arranged in Y-axis direction are disposed as the intermediate
electrode 20. Alternatively, the capacitance detection electrodes
Cy may be disposed as the upper electrode 10, and the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx may be disposed as the intermediate
electrode 20. In this case, the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge should be located between the capacitance detection
electrodes Cx (i.e., portions where the capacitance detection
electrodes Cx are not arranged). In addition, as long as the
reference potential electrode G is disposed overlapping the
electrodes S for measuring the electric charge via the
piezoelectric body P, these electrodes may be partial or
patterned.
(3) Example 2
[0081] FIG. 4 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel
according to Example 2. As shown in FIG. 4, the touch panel 1 of
Example 2 includes an upper electrode 10, an intermediate
electrodes 20, a lower electrode 30, an upper insert member 40, and
a lower insert member 50.
[0082] The upper electrode 10 includes strip-shaped capacitance
detection electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis direction. The
intermediate electrode 20 includes capacitance detection electrodes
Cy separately arranged in Y-axis direction. The lower electrode 30
includes strip-shaped capacitance detection electrodes Cy arranged
in Y-axis direction.
[0083] The upper insert member 40 is composed of an insulating body
I, and the lower insert member 50 is composed of a piezoelectric
body P.
[0084] In the previously mentioned case, the electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge is arranged between the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes
Cy. However, even in this case, since the electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge arranged with a gap therebetween,
capacitive coupling is achieved between the capacitance detection
electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes Cy. As a
result, when the human and touch panel makes contact with each
other at intersection points defined between the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes
Cy, it is possible to measure change in capacitance generated due
to the contact and to detect the pressing position when the
pressure is applied.
[0085] In addition, in the previously mentioned case, it is
preferable that the capacitance detection electrodes Cy also
function as a reference potential electrode G Since the capacitance
detection electrodes Cy functions as the reference potential
electrode G, it becomes possible to detect electric charge
generated at the piezoelectric body P by the electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge when the pressure is applied.
Accordingly, when the pressure is applied, it is possible to detect
the pressing load.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 4, the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge are arranged between the capacitance detection
electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes Cy.
Accordingly, the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge are
protected by the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the
capacitance detection electrodes Cy from noise around the touch
panel 1 (electromagnetic noise or static electricity, especially
electromagnetic noise or static electricity from the input means).
As a result, when the pressing means M applies the pressure to the
touch panel 1, it is possible to precisely measure the pressing
load.
[0087] If the electric charge that is detected at the electrodes S
for measuring the electric charge is small, an amplifier may be
connected to the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge. If
the amplifier is connected to the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge, even if the previously mentioned electric charge
is small, signals of the previously mentioned electric charge can
be detected with the amplifier.
[0088] Furthermore, the touch panel 1 may include a protect member
made of glass or plastic on the upper electrode 10. In this case,
the capacitance detection electrodes Cx, which constitute the upper
electrode 10, may be disposed on a lower surface of the protect
member. Furthermore, a display member made of liquid crystal or
organic EL may be disposed below the lower electrode 30 of the
touch panel 1.
[0089] The capacitance detection electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis
direction are placed as the upper electrode 10, and the capacitance
detection electrodes Cy arranged in Y-axis direction and placed as
the intermediate electrode 20 in the previously mentioned case.
Alternatively, the capacitance detection electrodes Cy may be
placed as the upper electrode 10, and the capacitance detection
electrodes Cx may be placed as the intermediate electrode 20.
(4) Example 3
[0090] FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel
having press detection function according to Example 3. FIG. 6 is a
plane view of the upper electrode. As shown in FIG. 5, the touch
panel 1 having press detection function of Example 3 includes an
upper electrode 10, an intermediate electrodes 20, a lower
electrode 30, an upper insert member 40, and a lower insert member
50.
[0091] The upper electrode 10 includes strip-shaped capacitance
detection electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis direction and
strip-shaped capacitance detection electrodes Cy arranged in Y-axis
direction. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the capacitance
detection electrode Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes Cy
are placed nearly in plane. However, insulating materials 60 are
interposed at intersection points defined between the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes
Cy, so that the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the
capacitance detection electrodes Cy are electrically insulated from
each other. As previously described, since the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes Cy
are arranged as previously described, when the pressure is applied,
change in capacitance at intersection point defined between the
capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy is measured, so that the pressing position can be
detected.
[0092] As shown in FIG. 5, the intermediate electrode 20 is made of
a planar electrodes S for measuring the electric charge, and the
lower electrode 30 are made of the planar reference potential
electrode G. The lower insert member 50, which are disposed between
the intermediate electrode 20 and the lower electrode 30, is made
of the piezoelectric body P.
[0093] As previously mentioned, if the piezoelectric body P is
interposed between the electrodes S for measuring the electric
charge and the reference potential electrode G, it is possible to
detect the electric charged generated at the piezoelectric body P
with the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge when the
pressure is applied to the touch panel 1. Accordingly, it is
possible to detect the pressing amount.
[0094] In addition, as shown in FIG. 5, the electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge are disposed between the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx, the capacitance detection electrodes Cy,
and the reference potential electrode G. Accordingly, the
electrodes S for measuring the electric charge are protected by the
capacitance detection electrodes Cx, the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy, and the reference potential electrode G, from noise
around the touch panel 1 (electromagnetic noise or static
electricity, especially the electromagnetic noise or static
electricity from the input means). As a result, when the pressures
is applied to the touch panel 1, it is possible to precisely
measure the pressing load.
[0095] If the electric charge that is detected at the electrodes S
for measuring the electric charge is small, an amplifier may be
connected to the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge. If
the amplifier is connected to the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge, even if the electric charge is small, signals of
the previously mentioned electric charge can be detected with the
amplifier.
[0096] Furthermore, the touch panel 1 may include a protect member
made of glass or plastic on the upper electrode 10. In this case,
as shown in FIG. 7, the capacitance detection electrodes Cx, which
constitute the upper electrode 10, the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy, and the insulating members 60 may be disposed on a
lower surface of the protect member. Furthermore, a display member
made of liquid crystal and organic EL may be disposed below the
lower electrode 30 of the touch panel 1.
[0097] Although the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge
and the reference potential electrode G are planar in the
previously mentioned case, as long as the electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge and the reference potential electrode
G are disposed overlapping each other via the piezoelectric body P,
these electrodes can be partial or patterned.
(5) Other Examples
[0098] Other examples of the touch panel 1 having press detection
function according to the second embodiment will be shown in FIG.
8. As shown in FIG. 8, in Example A1, the upper insert member 40 is
composed of an insulating body I, and the lower insert member 50 is
composed of a piezoelectric body P. The upper electrode 10 includes
capacitance detection electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis direction
and capacitance detection electrodes Cy arranged in Y-axis
direction. The intermediate electrode 20 includes electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge, and the lower electrode 30 includes
a reference potential electrode G. Examples A2 through A11 are just
illustrated in FIG. 8.
[0099] Among the previously mentioned Examples A1 through A11, the
following matter is common: the intermediate electrode 20 includes
the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge. According to
the touch panel 1 configured as described, since the electrodes S
for measuring the electric charge is interposed between the upper
electrode 10 and the lower electrode 30, it is possible to
precisely measure the pressing load when the pressure is applied to
the touch panel 1.
[0100] Furthermore, in the previously mentioned configuration, it
is preferable that the upper electrode 10 be made of the
capacitance detection electrodes Cx or the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy. Since the upper electrode 10 is composed of the
capacitance detection electrodes Cx or the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy, when the touch panel having press detection function
is pressed, distance between the pressing means and the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx, Cy becomes shorter. As a result, change in
capacitance between the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and Cy
generated by the contact by the human and the touch panel becomes
larger, so that the accuracy of position detection is improved.
3. Third Embodiment
(1) Entire Structure of the Touch Panel having Press Detection
Function
[0101] Referring to FIG. 9, the touch panel having press detection
function according to third embodiment of the present invention
will be described. FIG. 9 is a cross section of the touch panel
having press detection function. FIG. 10 is a view showing examples
of the third embodiment. Since the basic structure of the touch
panel of the third embodiment is the same as the first embodiment,
characteristic aspects of the third embodiment will be described
below.
[0102] As shown in FIG. 9, the touch panel 1 having press detection
function of the third embodiment includes the following
characteristic aspects: the upper insert member 40 is composed of a
piezoelectric body P; the lower insert member 50 is composed of an
insulating body I; and either electrode of the upper electrode 10
or the intermediate electrode 20 is electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge. Since the touch panel 1 is configured as described
above, the piezoelectric body P is arranged in a vicinity of the
pressing means M when the pressure is applied to the touch panel 1.
As a result, since the piezoelectric body P becomes likely to
receive the pressing force from the pressing means M, detection
sensitivity to the pressure applied to the touch panel 1 is
improved.
[0103] Regarding the touch panel 1 having press detection function
according to the third embodiment, other methods of arranging the
capacitance detection electrodes Cx, the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy, the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge,
and the reference potential electrode G are shown as in examples B1
to B11 in FIG. 10.
4. Fourth Embodiment
(1) Entire Structure of the Touch Panel having Press Detection
Function
[0104] Referring to FIG. 11, the touch panel having press detection
function according to fourth embodiment of the present invention
will be described. FIG. 11 is a cross section of the touch panel
having press detection function. Since the basic structure of the
touch panel in the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the
first embodiment, characteristic aspects of the fourth embodiment
will be described below.
[0105] As shown in FIG. 11, the touch panel 1 having press
detection function according to the fourth embodiment has the
following characteristic aspects: the upper insert member 40 is
composed of an insulating body I; the lower insert member 50 is
composed of a piezoelectric body P; and the lower electrode 30 is
electrodes S for measuring the electric charge. This configuration
allows the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge of the
touch panel 1 to be disposed on the lowest surface of the touch
panel 1, and not to be disposed between the capacitance detection
electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis direction and capacitance
detection electrodes Cy arranged in Y-axis direction. Accordingly,
when the touch panel 1 is pressed with a pressing means M,
capacitive coupling generated by the capacitance detection
electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes Cy become
unlikely to be affected by noise generated at electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge. Accordingly, the touch panel 1 can
precisely measure the pressing position by the pressure when the
pressure is applied. Hereinbelow, examples of the touch panel
having press detection function according to the fourth embodiment
will be described.
(2) Example 1
[0106] FIG. 12 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel
having press detection function according to Example 1.
[0107] As shown in FIG. 12, a touch panel 1 having press detection
function of Example 1 includes an upper electrode 10, an
intermediate electrode 20, a lower electrode 30, an upper insert
member 40, and a lower insert member 50.
[0108] The upper electrode 10 includes strip-shaped capacitance
detection electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis direction and
capacitance detection electrodes Cy arranged in Y-axis direction.
In this case, as in a case shown in FIG. 6, the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes Cy
are disposed nearly in plane. However, at intersection point
portions defined between the capacitance detection electrodes Cx
and the capacitance detection electrodes Cy, insulating materials
60 are interposed, so that the capacitance detection electrodes Cx
and the capacitance detection electrodes Cy are electrically
insulated from each other. As previously described, since the
capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy are arranged as previously described, when the
pressure is applied, change in capacitance at intersection points
defined between the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the
capacitance detection electrodes Cy is measured, and the pressing
position can be precisely detected.
[0109] As shown in FIG. 12, the intermediate electrode 20 includes
a planar reference potential electrode G, the lower electrode 30
includes a planar electrodes S for measuring the electric charge,
and the lower insert member 50, which is interposed between the
intermediate electrode 20 and the lower electrode 30, includes a
piezoelectric body P.
[0110] As described above, since the piezoelectric body P is
interposed between the electrodes S for measuring the electric
charge and the reference potential electrode G, the touch panel 1
can detect electric charge generated at the piezoelectric body P
using the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge when the
pressure is applied. Accordingly, the touch panel 1 can detect the
pressing load when the pressure is applied.
[0111] If the electric charge that is detected at the electrodes S
for measuring the electric charge is small, it is better to connect
an amplifier to the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge.
If the amplifier is connected to the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge, even if the previously mentioned electric charge
is small, signals of the electric charge can be detected with the
amplifier.
[0112] As shown in FIG. 12, since the electrodes S for measuring
the electric charge are arranged separate from the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes
Cy, i.e., the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge are
not arranged between the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and
the capacitance detection electrodes Cy, capacitive coupling
generated between the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the
capacitance detection electrodes Cy is not likely to be affected by
noise generated at the electrodes S for measuring the electric
charge. Accordingly, when change in capacitance at intersection
points between the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the
capacitance detection electrodes Cy is measured, it is possible to
precisely detect the position to which the pressure is applied.
[0113] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12, since the intermediate
electrode 20 is composed of the reference potential electrode G, it
is possible to electromagnetic noise generated at the electrodes S
for measuring the electric charge of the lower electrode 30 can be
shielded by the intermediate electrode 20. As a result, the
capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy are not affected by the noise, so that the touch
panel 1 can extremely precisely detect a position to which the
pressure is applied.
[0114] The touch panel 1 in Example 1 may include a protect member
made of glass or plastic on the upper electrode 10. In this case,
the capacitance detection electrodes Cx, which constitute the upper
electrode 10, the capacitance detection electrodes Cy, and the
insulating member 60 may be disposed on a lower surface of the
protect member. Furthermore, a display member made of liquid
crystal and organic EL be disposed below the lower electrode 30 of
the touch panel 1.
[0115] In the previously mentioned case, the electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge and the reference potential electrode
G are planar, as long as the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge and the reference potential electrode G are
disposed overlapping each other via the piezoelectric body P, these
electrodes can be partial or patterned.
(3) Example 2
[0116] FIG. 13 is a perspective exploded view of the touch panel
having press detection function according to Example 2.
[0117] As shown in FIG. 13, the touch panel 1 includes an upper
electrode 10, an intermediate electrode 20, a lower electrode 30,
an upper insert member 40, and a lower insert member 50.
[0118] The upper electrode 10 includes strip-shaped capacitance
detection electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis direction. The
intermediate electrode 20 includes strip-shaped capacitance
detection electrodes Cy arranged in Y-axis direction. The lower
electrode 30 are composed of strip-shaped electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge arranged in Y-axis direction. The
upper insert member 40 is composed of an insulating body I, and the
lower insert member 50 is composed of a piezoelectric body P.
[0119] As described above, since the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge are arranged separate from the capacitance
detection electrodes Cx and the capacitance detection electrodes
Cy, i.e., the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge are
not arranged between the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and
the capacitance detection electrodes Cy, capacitive coupling
generated between the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the
capacitance detection electrodes Cy is not likely to be affected by
noise generated at the electrodes S for measuring the electric
charge. Accordingly, when change in capacitance at intersection
points between the capacitance detection electrodes Cx and the
capacitance detection electrodes Cy is measured, it is possible to
precisely detect the position to which the pressure is applied.
[0120] In addition, it is preferable that the capacitance detection
electrodes Cy also function as a reference potential electrode G
Since the capacitance detection electrodes Cy functions as the
reference potential electrode G, it becomes possible to detect
electric charge generated at the piezoelectric body P when the
pressure is applied by the electrodes S for measuring the electric
charge. Accordingly, when the pressure is applied, it is possible
to detect the pressing load.
[0121] If the electric charge that is detected at the electrodes S
for measuring the electric charge is small, it is better to connect
an amplifier to the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge.
If the amplifier is connected to the electrodes S for measuring the
electric charge, even if the previously mentioned electric charge
is small, signals of the electric charge can be detected with the
amplifier.
[0122] The touch panel 1 having press detection function may
include a protect member made of glass or plastic on the upper
electrode 10. In this case, the capacitance detection electrodes
Cx, which constitute the upper electrode 10, may be disposed
directly on a lower surface of the protect member. Furthermore, a
display member such as liquid crystal and organic EL may be
disposed below the lower electrode 30 of the touch panel 1.
[0123] The capacitance detection electrodes Cx arranged in X-axis
direction are placed as the upper electrode 10, and the capacitance
detection electrodes Cy arranged in Y-axis direction are placed as
the intermediate electrode 20 in the previously mentioned case.
Alternatively, the capacitance detection electrodes Cy may be
placed as the upper electrode 10, and the capacitance detection
electrodes Cx may be placed as the intermediate electrode 20. In
addition, the electrodes S for measuring the electric charge may be
planar.
(4) Other Examples
[0124] Other examples of the touch panel having press detection
function according to the fourth embodiment are shown in FIG. 14.
Other methods of arranging the capacitance detection electrodes Cx,
the capacitance detection electrodes Cy, the electrodes S for
measuring the electric charge, and the reference potential
electrode G, which are placed as the upper electrode 10, the
intermediate electrode 20, and the lower electrode 30 are shown in
FIG. 14.
5. Other Aspects
[0125] As shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, the touch panel 1 having
press detection function may include an adhesive layer 70 between
the upper insert member 40 and the lower insert member 50. The
adhesive layer 70 may be disposed between intermediate electrode 20
and the lower insert member 50 as shown in FIG. 15, or may be
disposed between intermediate electrode 20 and the upper insert
member 40 as shown in FIG. 16.
[0126] The touch panel 1 in FIG. 15 may be manufactured by a
both-side electrode member having electrodes laminated on an upper
surface and a lower surface of the upper insert member 40, and a
one-side electrode member having electrodes laminated on a lower
surface of the lower insert member 50 may be adhered to each other,
using adhesive.
[0127] The both-side electrode member may be formed by making a
member (DITO) in which ITO is laminated by sputtering on the upper
surface and the lower surface of the upper insert member 40, and
patterning the ITO with etching. In the previously mentioned case,
it is preferable that ITO laminated on the upper surface and the
lower surface of the upper insert member 40 be patterned
simultaneously. The reason is that if patterned simultaneously,
position accuracy of the arrangement positions of the electrodes
laminated on the upper surface and the lower surface of the upper
insert member 40 becomes more accurate.
[0128] The one-side electrode member may be formed by laminating
conductive members such as ITO on one surface of the lower insert
member 50 with sputtering, and patterning the conductive member
with etching.
[0129] Next, the touch panel 1 shown in FIG. 16 can be formed by
adhering a one-side electrode member, which is formed with
electrodes laminated on the upper surface of the upper insert
member 40, and a both-side electrode member, which is formed with
electrodes laminated on an upper surface and a lower surface of the
lower insert member 50, using adhesive. The methods of
manufacturing the one-side electrode member and the both-side
electrode member are the same as those in the previous
examples.
[0130] As shown in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, if the upper electrode 10,
the intermediate electrode 20, and the lower electrode 30 cannot be
disposed directly on the upper insert member 40 and the lower
insert member 50 in the touch panel 1, conductive sheets having an
upper electrode 10, an intermediate electrode 20, and a lower
electrode 30 laminated respectively on support members 80, 81, 82,
may be adhered to the upper insert member 40 and the lower insert
member 50 via adhesive layers 71, 72, 73.
[0131] The touch panel 1 shown in FIG. 17 may be formed by adhering
one having the conductive sheets made of the support member and an
electrode laminated thereon and adhered to the upper surface and
the lower surface of the upper insert member 40, and one having the
conductive sheet adhered to the lower surface of the lower insert
member 50. According to the previously mentioned method, since the
electrodes are not formed directly on the upper insert member 40
and the lower insert member 50, even if the upper insert member 40
and the lower insert member 50 is weak to heat, it is preferable
because the electrodes can be laminated on these insert
members.
[0132] The touch panel 1 shown in FIG. 18 may be formed by adhering
one having the previously mentioned conductive sheet adhered to the
upper surface of the upper insert member 40 and one having the
previously mentioned conductive sheets adhered to the upper surface
and the lower surface of the lower insert member 50, using
adhesive.
[0133] In the previously described examples, the support members
80, 81, 82 are basically made of a film member. Alternatively, the
support member 80 may be made of a protect member such as glass. If
the support member 80 is made of the protect member, the support
member 80 has a function as a surface protect member of the touch
panel 1 with pressure detection function, and a function as a
support member of the upper electrode 10. Accordingly, the touch
panel 1 becomes one having a high productivity, and a small
thickness.
[0134] Furthermore, a display member may be disposed below the
touch panel 1, which is made of liquid crystal or organic EL. In
this case, it is preferable that the touch panel 1 be made of a
transparent member. In addition, in the previously mentioned case,
it is preferable that an antireflection process be carried out on
the lower surface of the support member 82. The reason is that if
the antireflection process is carried out on the previously
mentioned portions, the image displayed on the display device
becomes likely to be visually recognized.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
[0135] 1: touch panel having press detection function [0136] 10:
upper electrode [0137] 20: intermediate electrode [0138] 30: lower
electrode [0139] 40: upper insert member [0140] 50: lower insert
member [0141] 60: insulating member [0142] Cx: capacitance
detection electrodes [0143] Cy: capacitance detection electrodes
[0144] G: reference potential electrode [0145] I: insulating body
[0146] M: pressing means [0147] P: piezoelectric body [0148] S:
electrodes for measuring the electric charge
* * * * *