CN101655754A - Meshed touchscreen pattern - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention provides meshed touchscreen pattern. A conductive pattern implemented within a touchscreen (e.g., using indium tin oxide (ITO) such as may be deposited on a substrate composed of polyester or some other material) provides paths for signals traveling through the touchscreen. By monitoring these signal in accordance with some means (e.g., cross point detection, zone detection, etc.) an estimate may be made as to a location of user's interaction with the touchscreen (e.g., finger or stylus touching of the touchscreen). The conductive pattern includes a number of conductors alignedin various directions (e.g., row and column conductors) across the touchscreen, and they are separated by a dielectric layer (e.g., air, SiO2, or any other desirable dielectric layer). The conductorsinclude a great deal of interlacing and meshing as achieved by spurs, extensions, and/or protrusions (e.g., of any desired shape) extending from one conductor into an adjacent conductor within the conductive pattern.

Description

The touchscreen pattern of expansion

Technical field

The present invention relates generally to the device of the man-machine interface (MMI) that comprises that the use touch-screen is realized; And, more specifically, relate to the conductive pattern that in this kind touch-screen, adopts.

Background technology

In the demonstration field that is used for fixing with mobile device, touch screen technology is a newer technology relatively.Traditionally, with the mode of patterning arrange can sensing user touch following layer line, and this time layer line is monitored repeatedly for the signal of the coordinate that is used to indicate the touch point (iteratively).Initial system is designed to detect single touch; Yet the touch screen technology that can accurately detect the touch of a plurality of whiles is developed in new focusing on.

Be used for referring to that some prior aries of touching are by giving capable at conductor or the voltage charging that lists and the variation of discharge and measurement electric charge come work when touching more.This technology comprises all spuious (stray) electric capacity in measurement.A kind of standard ordering that is used for the line of senses touch is to use the row and column of the line of induction of the diamond-shaped area that comprises a series of end-to-end links.The row and column of arranging line, even make that described rhombus is not overlapped yet on different layers, and described row and column is arranged so that them, and only the place, point of crossing of the connecting line between diamond-shaped area is overlapping.The overlapping region of the point of crossing of connecting line is remained very little, reducing electric capacity, and therefore, reduce the capacity effect of overlapping region.The capacity effect of overlapping region may be more a lot of than other " noise " or " unavailable signal " in system.

Initial touch panel device is all less, and the quantity that therefore causes being used for the line of touch sensitive under given repetitive mode is easy to management, in described given repetitive mode, this kind line is scanned.Traditionally, cause also can appearing on the line of induction of vertical layout at the signal that produces on the horizontally disposed line of induction owing to touch the point of crossing connection that produces, perhaps vice versa.Therefore, if having 10 horizontal lines (OK) and 10 vertical curves (row), then need to scan 100 possible points and determine whether to touch.For little screen, diamond-shaped area can be done lessly, makes finger may touch the rhombus more than at every turn, to help accurately to determine touch location.

Yet along with the increase of screen size, the shaped region that is used for senses touch also is tending towards increasing size, with the increase of the quantity of avoiding or minimize the line (vertical or level) that is used to detect contact and must monitoring/scanning.For example, if four inches monitor has 20 line and 20 horizontally disposed lines of vertically arranging, then for the monitoring scheme of point of crossing, need monitor 400 possible touch locations according to repeating basis (repetitive basis) (for example, per second is 50 times).Obviously, if screen size is increased to 12 square inches area, and under the size of the arrangement of line and the shaped region situation about also remaining unchanged, the quantity of possible touch location is increased to 3600.If scan rate is per second 50 times, then for 4 " the touch-screen per second carry out 2000 analyzing spots, and for 12 " the touch-screen per second carry out 18000 analyzing spots.Therefore, the deviser has attempted to increase, and perhaps increases the increase of the size of shaped region with the coupling screen size pro rata, thereby the feasible quantity of the possible touch location of scanning that needs does not increase.

Summary of the invention

The present invention relates to the method for operating and the device that in the following brief description of some diagrammatic sketch of the detailed description of claim, invention and accompanying drawing, further describe.The present invention relates to comprise the device of touch-screen, described touch-screen is included in first conductor of arranging on the first direction and second conductor of arranging on second direction; And wherein, described first conductor can separate by dielectric substance with second conductor, and perhaps it can be a coplane; First conductor comprises the first area, and can comprise the first area more than; Second conductor comprises second area, and can comprise the second area more than.Second conductor further comprises the expansion second area with the second area coupling; And at least one second area and expansion second area are complementally aimed at the first area of at least one.Though according to this embodiment, first and second directions can be vertical mutually inherently, but the embodiment that has other, wherein, (a plurality of) first conductor is arranged on first direction, and a plurality of second conductors are arranged on the second direction different with first direction, wherein, do not have the specific requirement that is used for directed first and second directions.In other words, conductor does not need mutually vertical (though in a preferred embodiment, they can be vertical mutually).In addition, conductor does not need to be oriented on vertical and the horizontal axis.The embodiment of the novel touch screen structure of this expression with and the equivalents of interactional more level and smooth and more linear response to(for) user and touch-screen is provided, it comprises when user's interaction and moves situation when striding across touch-screen surperficial, even move the surface that strides across touch-screen on diagonal.

The expansion second area can be in the recess or opening of first area of at least one; And described recess or opening can be of similar shape and size basically with the expansion second area.

First and/or second conductor can be realized on the back side on the surface of touch-screen; Perhaps first and/or second conductor can be realized on the surface of touch-screen.

The shape of expansion second area can be a kind of in circle, rhombus, triangle, ellipse, rectangle or the square.

Described device also preferably further comprises exciting circuit, and it provides signal to first conductor; And testing circuit, it detects the signal that receives from second conductor; Based on the signal that receives, the interaction of identification user and touch-screen is corresponding to the position of the point of crossing of first conductor and second conductor.

Circuit preferably provides pumping signal to first conductor, and detects the variation in pumping signal that the interaction by user and touch-screen causes.The interaction of user and touch-screen is user's finger touch touch-screen preferably, and perhaps user's stylus (stylus) touches touch-screen.

Preferably, device further comprises the 3rd conductor, and it is arranged on first direction; And circuit, it provides pumping signal to first conductor, and detects the signal response in the 3rd conductor that the interaction by user and touch-screen causes.In concrete preferred embodiment, described device comprises touch-screen, described touch-screen is included in first conductor of arranging on the first direction and second conductor of arranging on the same level on second direction, wherein, described first conductor comprises the first area of a plurality of couplings, and described second conductor comprises the second area of a plurality of couplings; Described device further comprises the expansion second area, at least one coupling of the second area of itself and a plurality of couplings, and complementally expand in the first area of a plurality of couplings.

Preferably, the second area of a plurality of couplings and expansion second area are complementally aimed at the first area of a plurality of couplings.The first area of described a plurality of couplings can connect via trace; And the second area of a plurality of couplings can be connected via closing line with the expansion second area.

First conductor and/or second conductor are preferably realized on the back side on the surface of touch-screen; Perhaps first conductor and/or second conductor are preferably realized on the surface of touch-screen.

In addition, the shape of expansion second area a kind of in circle, rhombus, triangle, ellipse, rectangle or the square preferably.

In addition, device can comprise exciting circuit, and it provides signal to first conductor; And testing circuit, it detects the signal that receives from second conductor; Based on the signal that receives, the interaction of identification user and touch-screen is corresponding to the position of the point of crossing of first conductor and second conductor.In addition, the interaction of user and touch-screen can be user's a finger touch touch-screen, or user's stylus touches touch-screen.

Circuit can provide pumping signal to first conductor, and detects the variation in the pumping signal that the interaction by user and touch-screen causes.Device may further include the 3rd conductor of arranging in first direction; And circuit, described circuit provides pumping signal to first conductor, and detects the signal response in the 3rd conductor that the interaction by user and touch-screen causes.

In concrete preferred embodiment, device comprises that further touch-screen, described touch-screen are included in first conductor of arranging on the first direction and second conductor of arranging on second direction; And wherein, described first conductor comprises opening; And described second conductor comprises the zone that size and dimension is substantially the same with described opening, and described zone and described opening axially align.

Preferably, first conductor is crossed dielectric substance with second conductor dbus and is separated.In addition, first and/or second conductor is preferably realized on the back side of touch screen surface; Perhaps first and/or second conductor is preferably realized on touch screen surface.In addition, the shape in described zone can be a kind of in circle, rhombus, triangle, ellipse, rectangle or the square.Preferably, exciting circuit provides signal to first conductor; And testing circuit detects the signal that receives from second conductor; Based on the signal that receives, the interaction of identification user and touch-screen is corresponding to the position of the point of crossing of first conductor and second conductor.Described device may further include circuit, and it provides pumping signal to first conductor, and detects the variation in the pumping signal that the interaction by user and touch-screen causes.The interaction of user and touch-screen can be user's a finger touch touch-screen, or user's stylus touches touch-screen.

Device may further include the 3rd conductor of arranging on first direction; And circuit, described circuit provides pumping signal to first conductor, and detects the signal response in the 3rd conductor that the interaction by user and touch-screen causes.

With reference to the accompanying drawings, describing in detail below of the present invention, other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent.

Description of drawings

Figure 1A shows the embodiment of hand-held media units.

Figure 1B shows the embodiment of computing machine.

Fig. 1 C shows the embodiment of Wireless Telecom Equipment.

Fig. 1 D shows the embodiment of PDA(Personal Digital Assistant).

Fig. 1 E shows the embodiment of laptop computer.

Fig. 1 F shows have integrated touch-screen on the palmrest embodiment of laptop computer of (for example, board (tablet)).

Fig. 1 G shows the embodiment of electronics board (electronic tablet).

Fig. 2 shows the embodiment of touch-screen, therein, carries out cross point detection to give the interaction location of user and touch-screen.

Fig. 3 shows the embodiment of touch-screen, therein, carries out zone detection to give the interaction location of user and touch-screen.

Fig. 4 A shows the embodiment of adopted conductive pattern in touch-screen (tin indium oxide (ITO) that for example, can deposit) on the substrate that is made of polyester or other materials.

Fig. 4 B shows the adopted embodiment of the conductive pattern (for example, the conductive pattern as using in the bigger touch-screen that uses) of increase and decrease in proportion in touch-screen in than Fig. 4 A.

Fig. 5 A shows the embodiment as the column or row of the conductive pattern that comprises a plurality of zones that adopts in touch-screen.

Fig. 5 B shows as the row of complementally aiming at of the conductive pattern that adopts in touch-screen and the embodiment of row.

Fig. 6 shows as the row of complementally aiming at of the conductive pattern that adopts in touch-screen and another embodiment of row.

Fig. 7 shows row of aiming at as the complementation of the conductive pattern that comprises extended area that adopts and another embodiment that goes in touch-screen.

Fig. 8 A shows the embodiment as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts (or row) in touch-screen, this pattern comprises the hole portion of filling and complementally aiming at by row (perhaps row).

Fig. 8 B shows another embodiment as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts (or row) in touch-screen, this pattern comprises the hole portion of filling and complementally aiming at by row (perhaps row).

Fig. 9 shows the embodiment as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, this pattern comprises the extended area of complementally aiming at another regional hole.

Figure 10 shows the embodiment as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, this pattern comprises the extended area of complementally aiming at another regional recess.

Figure 11 shows the embodiment as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, this pattern comprises a plurality of extended areas.

Figure 12 A shows the embodiment as a plurality of row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, this pattern comprises a plurality of extended areas.

Figure 12 B shows another embodiment as a plurality of row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, this pattern comprises a plurality of extended areas.

Figure 13 A shows another embodiment as a plurality of row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, this pattern comprises a plurality of extended areas.

Figure 13 B shows another embodiment as a plurality of row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, this pattern comprises a plurality of extended areas.

Figure 14 shows the embodiment as a plurality of row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, this pattern comprises a plurality of extended areas of multiple shape.

Figure 15 A shows the embodiment of the layout of the conductive pattern in touch-screen.

Figure 15 B shows the optional embodiment of the layout of the conductive pattern in touch-screen.

Figure 16 A shows the optional embodiment of the layout of the conductive pattern in touch-screen.

Figure 16 B shows the optional embodiment of the layout of the conductive pattern in touch-screen.

Figure 17 shows pair of conductors and from the embodiment of the coherent signal response of the adjacent conductor of conductive pattern.

Figure 18 shows the optional embodiment from the signal response of the adjacent conductor of conductive pattern.

Figure 19 shows the embodiment of signal detection module.

Figure 20 A and Figure 20 B show the basic complementary overlapping and not complementary substantially overlapping embodiment of conductor in conductive pattern respectively.

Figure 21 A and Figure 21 B show the basic complementary overlapping and not complementary substantially overlapping optional embodiment of conductor in conductive pattern respectively.

Figure 22 A and Figure 22 B show the basic complementary overlapping and not complementary substantially overlapping optional embodiment of conductor in conductive pattern respectively, realize in its equal height (identical layer) in touch-screen.

Figure 23 shows the embodiment of the method that is used for definite interpolation axial location (interpolated axial position).

Embodiment

The equipment that comprises the man-machine interface (MMI) of certain form is employed in various environment.(for example there are various types of MMI, keyboard such as the such equipment of computing machine, such as self-service air pump, interactive panel/touch-screen etc. on the such various device of the self-service check terminal on airport), it allows user to provide information to equipment, perhaps recaptures information in the slave unit.Some MMI that uses touch-screen to realize becomes and becomes more and more popular, and in described touch-screen, the user uses finger or other instruments (for example, the user selects the stylus of the position on touch-screen or other to install by it) to carry out interaction with touch-screen.In the various equipment any one can comprise MMI, and at least a portion of described MMI utilizes touch-screen to realize.

Figure 1A shows the embodiment of handheld unit 101.Hand-held media units 101 is used to provide general storage, perhaps is used to provide audio content such as motion picture expert group (MPEG) audio player 3 (MP3) files or windows media structure (WMA) file, such as being used for to the such video content of the MPEG4 of user's playback file and/or may be with the storage of the information of any other type of digital format storage.In the past, the hand-held media units of this kind mainly is used in storage and plays back audio medium; Yet in fact the hand-held media units 101 of this kind also can be used and store the medium any with playback (for example, audio frequency media, video media, photograph medium, etc.).In addition, the hand-held media units 101 of this kind can also comprise such as other such functions of integrated communicaton device.

In order to allow the user to come order to be provided and to select some function to hand-held media units 101 via the touch-screen of hand-held media units 101, hand-held media units 101 comprises a touch-screen at least.Some selection on touch-screen can be undertaken by user's finger or other body parts; Alternatively, hand-held media units 101 (for example can comprise some instruments that offer the user, stylus or other instruments), the user can adopt described instrument to come order to be provided and to select some function to hand-held media units 101 via the touch-screen of hand-held media units 101.

Figure 1B shows the embodiment of computing machine 102.Computing machine 102 can be the computing machine of desktop type, or such as the such enterprise's memory device of server, its main frame is connected to such as on the such storage array of Redundant Array of Independent Disks array, storage router, border router, storage switch and/or the storage director.

The line monitor of computing machine 102 can have the ability (perhaps only the part of monitor has the ability of touch-screen) of touch-screen.Alternatively, the peripherals of computing machine 102 (for example, keyboard or other equipment) can comprise touch-screen thereon.The user can provide order or select some function to computing machine 102 via the touch-screen of computing machine 102.Some selection on touch-screen can be undertaken by user's finger or other body parts; Alternatively, computing machine 102 can comprise that some offer user's instrument (for example, stylus or other instruments), and the user adopts described instrument to come order to be provided and to select some function to computing machine 102 via the touch-screen of computing machine 102.

Fig. 1 C shows the embodiment of Wireless Telecom Equipment 103.Wireless Telecom Equipment 103 can be via such as cell phone, personal communication service (PCS), wireless universal packet service (GPRS), global system for mobile communications (GSM) and integrated digital strengthen the such wireless network of network (iDEN), and perhaps other cordless communication networks that can send and receive radio communication communicate.In addition, Wireless Telecom Equipment 103 can communicate via the internet, so that visit Email, download content, access websites and provide audio stream and/or video frequency program.In this manner, Wireless Telecom Equipment 103 can send with receipt of call, such as the such text message of Email, Short Message Service (SMS) message, paging with may comprise other data-messages such as the such annex of document, audio file, video file, image and other pictures.

Wireless Telecom Equipment 103 comprises touch-screen, some function that it allows the user of communication facilities 103 order to be provided and to select communication facilities 103 to communication facilities 103.Some selection on touch-screen can be undertaken by user's finger or other body parts; Alternatively, communication facilities 103 can comprise that some offer user's instrument (for example, stylus or other instruments), and the user adopts described instrument order to be provided or to select some function to communication facilities 103 via the touch-screen of communication facilities 103.

Fig. 1 D shows the embodiment of PDA(Personal Digital Assistant) 104.PDA 104 comprises touch-screen, some function that it allows the user of PDA 104 order to be provided and to select PDA 104 to PDA 104.Some selection on touch-screen can be undertaken by user's finger or other body parts; Alternatively, PDA 104 can comprise that some offer user's instrument (for example, stylus or other instruments), and the user adopts described instrument to come to order being provided or being selected some function by PDA 104 via the touch-screen of PDA 104.

Fig. 1 E shows the embodiment of laptop computer 105.The line monitor of laptop computer 105 can have the ability (perhaps only the part of monitor has the ability of touch-screen) of touch-screen.Alternatively, the peripherals of laptop computer 105 (for example, external keyboard or other peripherals) can comprise touch-screen thereon.The user can provide order to laptop computer 105 via the touch-screen of laptop computer 105, and selects some function.Some selection on touch-screen can be undertaken by user's finger or other body parts; Alternatively, laptop computer 105 (for example can comprise some instruments that offer the user, stylus or other instruments), the user adopts described instrument order to be provided or to select some function to laptop computer 105 via the touch-screen of laptop computer 105.

Fig. 1 F shows have integrated touch-screen on the palmrest embodiment of laptop computer 106 of (for example, board).The user can provide order to laptop computer 106 via the integrated touch screen of laptop computer 106, and selects some function.Some selection on integrated touch-screen (for example, board) can be undertaken by user's finger or other body parts; Alternatively, laptop computer 106 (for example can comprise some instruments that offer the user, stylus or other instruments), the user adopts described instrument order to be provided or to select some function to laptop computer 106 via the integrated touch-screen (for example, board) of laptop computer 106.

Fig. 1 G shows the embodiment of electronics board 107.Electronics board 107 comprises stylus, and the user can utilize this stylus to come to provide to electronics board 107 some function of order and selection electronics board 107.Electronics board 107 can also comprise integrated computing power, and memory storage etc. allow electronics board 107 to operate as computing machine or laptop computer so that go up at least in some respects.Yet electronics board 107 does not comprise integrated keyboard.Yet, it should be noted, can on electronics board 107, show virtual keyboard, and can select its button by the stylus that the user adopts.Certainly, it should be noted that the optional embodiment of this kind electronics board can not comprise stylus, and some selection on this kind electronics board can be undertaken by user's finger or other body parts.

As can be seen, various equipment can adopt touch-screen to be implemented at least a portion of MMI there.There is multiple device, can detects the interaction of user and this kind touch-screen by it.

Fig. 2 shows and carries out the embodiment 200 of cross point detection with the interactional touch-screen 201 of consumer positioning and touch-screen therein.In certain embodiments, the action face of touch-screen zone 201a covers the littler a little part of touch-screen 200.For example, on every side border or the circumference of the regional 201a of action face that may adopt at touch-screen.

A plurality of conductors form the row or the row of conductive pattern (for example, can be the tin indium oxide (ITO) that deposits on the substrate that is made of polyester or other materials) on one or more layer of touch-screen.In certain embodiments, the first of conductive pattern (for example, row) is disposed in ground floor, and the second portion of conductive pattern (for example, OK) is disposed in the second layer; In certain embodiments, first and second layers can be separated by dielectric substance.Alternatively, the conductor that row and column is directed can be disposed in the identical layer, and can use the known technology that is used for connecting the element that comprises trace (trace), via (via), closing line (bond wire) etc., with the first that guarantees conductive pattern (for example, row) the second portion (for example, OK) with conductive pattern does not directly contact.Though what describe in this embodiment and other embodiment is that row and column is vertical mutually inherently, but can there be other embodiment, wherein a plurality of first conductors are arranged on the second direction different with first direction at arrangement and a plurality of second conductor on the first direction, wherein, the orientation to first and second directions does not have concrete requirement.In other words, conductor do not need must be mutually vertical (though in a preferred embodiment they can vertically).In addition, conductor does not need to be oriented on vertical and the horizontal axis, though illustrated so directed in the embodiment that describes.

In embodiment 200, signal generator module 210 provides signal to multiplexer (MUX) 212, and it optionally will be applied to one (for example, to the row of selecting) on " N " of conductive pattern individual first conductor from the signal of signal generation module 210.MUX 212 guarantees that signal is based on each first conductor that is applied to conductive pattern by the row selection signal of row selection circuit (for example, logical circuit in one embodiment) generation in the different time (for example, to each row).

Signal detection module 220 receives the signal from MUX 222, and described signal is selectively coupled on each of second conductor (for example, listing to selection) of conductive pattern.MUX 222 guarantees signal detection module 220 sampling and detects (perhaps trying to detect) from the signal on each of " M " of conductive pattern individual second conductor (for example, the row of selection).In one embodiment, the signal that is produced in first conductor is coupled to second conductor in the position that touches, and is received by signal detection module.

In optional embodiment, user's touch has increased the electric capacity between first and second conductors at the touch location place, increased the input signal amplitude on the signal generation place conductor thus, and be subjected to the second conductor place that the user influences in the touch of touch location, (because the electric capacity that increases) has increased the amplitude output signal that is detected by signal detection module.Therefore, in this optional embodiment, directly coupling does not take place between first and second conductors.Usually, by applying signal to each row, and detect signal at each row place of touch-screen, can (for example interact user and touch-screen, shown in contact point) time, determinacy (for example, being subjected to the restriction of the approaching and/or size of space of the row and column) senses touch of the suitable degree of interactional position has taken place in utilization with touch-screen about the user.

For example, when user and touch-screen interact, with user's the corresponding conductive pattern in interaction position in produce the electric capacity that increases.The electric capacity that the device (for example, stylus) that adopts because of user or user and causing increases between row and column (for example, first and second conductors) makes the path that the electric capacity of this increase causes impedance to reduce.Because capacity reactance Zc and electric capacity are inversely proportional to (that is, because Zc=1/j ω is C, wherein, ω is to be the frequency of unit with the radian per second, and C is to be the electric capacity of unit with the farad), so along with electric capacity increases the impedance step-down because of the user in the touch of touch location.Therefore, be provided to particular row and the variation of the signal that is detected in particular column, can estimate the interaction position between user and the touch-screen by detection.

Fig. 3 shows the embodiment 300 of touch-screen 301, therein, carries out zone detection to give the interaction location of user and touch-screen.As identical with previous embodiment, in certain embodiments, the action face of touch-screen zone 301a covers the littler a little part of touch-screen 300.For example, may adopt the action face zone 301a border or the circumference on every side of touch-screen.

This embodiment 300 is at least that with previous embodiment difference signal generation/detection module 310 both had been used to provide signal to specific row, also was used to detect the variation of the signal that is provided to that particular row.Signal generation/detection module 310 and MUX 312 co-operatings applying signal, and detect that signal on each row and column of the conductive pattern that is applied to touch-screen.

When user and touch-screen take place to interact, will cause the electric capacity of increase with user's corresponding section, interaction position.The electric capacity of this increase causes the path that the impedance in user's interaction position reduces, and will cause being provided to particular row or the variation of the signal that lists.Provide signal by each row and column, and, can determine the interactional position of user and touch-screen by detecting any variation of those signals that apply continuously to the conductive pattern of touch-screen.

Therefore, be provided to the variation of the signal of particular row by detection, and also be provided to the variation of the signal of particular column by detection, the point of crossing of the row and column that is identified can provide the estimation of calculating of the interaction position of user and touch-screen.

For the cross point detection of previous embodiment and each of zone detection method, in fact applying of signal needs not be fully continuous.For example, do not need earlier to the 1st row, then to the 2nd row, apply signal like this to the 3rd row etc. then.Alternatively, signal can be applied to earlier the 1st the row, then be applied to eighth row, then to the 2nd the row etc.Even in other embodiments, can also initially apply signal, and, walk to each capable row of 2N-1 to N+1 then and apply signal then to applying signal at first to N-1 each row between capable to each N capable (wherein, N is an integer).According to the cross point detection of previous embodiment and any of zone detection method, can carry out various scanning techniques.

The conductive pattern of the prior art that as above, adopts in touch-screen is made up of the touch area of the rhombus of the separation that links together usually.Utilize the conductive pattern of prior art, the interactional linearity that strides across the zone of action of touch-screen of user and touch-screen moves can cause the nonlinear properties response that is used to detect the interactional signal of user inherently.Ideally, signal response should be level and smooth as much as possible and linear, but the conductive pattern of prior art obviously can not provide this kind level and smooth and linear response.Because typically exist bigger pitch between the conductor in the conductive pattern of prior art, thus the quantity of the different liners under contact point reduce, and provide like this with the user move or " step " that location recognition is relevant responds.This further aggravated the prior art that in the prior art touch-screen, adopts the separation argyle design intrinsic harmful effect.Utilize the design of prior art, this " step " output that is used to detect the interactional signal between user and the touch-screen be the function of rhombus touch area size.And the heterogenize that the size that the increase of pitch increases the touch area accordingly also can produce the energy between the row and column (for example, if x and y axle are considered to touch screen surface, then at the normal of touch screen surface or on the z direction of principal axis, extend), this makes and more to be difficult to be provided with touch/non-touch threshold in the touch-screen system.

The embodiment of novel touch screen structure described here and its equivalent provide the interactional more level and smooth and more linearizing response of user and touch-screen, described interaction even comprise that the interaction of working as the user moves the situation on the surface that strides across touch-screen with diagonal.In one embodiment, this kind novel touch screen uses the pattern of be meshing with each other (intermesh) of lengthening, and in described pattern, conductor is expanded or is projected in the adjacent conductor, has increased the effect of linear engagement between these conductors thus.Therefore, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 have carried out illustration to the scan method of embodiments of the invention and conductive pattern employing.

Fig. 4 A has described the embodiment 400a as the conductive pattern that adopts in the touch-screen (for example, the tin indium oxide as depositing) on the substrate that is made of polyester or other materials.In embodiment 400a, can find touch-screen conductive pattern a plurality of conductors (for example, row or column) each (for example all comprises a plurality of zones, though be rhombus in this particular example, can adopt arbitrarily required shape alternatively---such as circle, triangle, ellipse, rectangle, square, the combination of other shapes or arbitrary shape arbitrarily).Can use the conductive material identical (for example, ITO) that these zones of particular conductor are coupled to each other with constituting the zone.Alternatively, can adopt closing line, via or other devices that conductive region is linked together.

In this embodiment 400a, when scanning the width of x, the conductor (it can be in any required unit that length/distance is measured, by any required number of characterization) of three separation is shown.These particular conductor that show the conductive pattern of user's finger and touch-screen interact, and as can be seen user's finger across a plurality of conductors (that is a plurality of zones of user's a plurality of conductors of finger touch).

Fig. 4 B shows the embodiment 400b (for example, as using in than the bigger touch-screen of the touch-screen among Fig. 4 A) as the conductive pattern of the bi-directional scaling that adopts in touch-screen.Permission will have now touch screen technology use bigger touch-screen (for example, reach 12 " diagonal line or bigger touch-screen) in a kind of method be designs scale convergent-divergent with the embodiment of 400a, to cover bigger zone.In other words, except use has the conductor in bigger zone, with except coming according to the similar proportional zoom that carries out convergent-divergent in proportion by its size conductor separated to the zone of conductor, adopt with embodiment 400a in identical design.In this embodiment, when with embodiment 400a in the size of touch-screen when comparing, the size of the touch-screen in embodiment 400b is carried out proportional zoom according to coefficient N.

Generally speaking, human finger's width can be considered to be and have 5mm (for example, for for children or the very little people) scope to 12-15mm (for example, for adult or bigger people).As can be seen, when conductive region was amplified enough big amount in proportion, they can become bigger than the specific region of specific conductor.During optional position in the user touches the so big zone of conductor, the position that then in the specific region, is difficult to or can not differentiates finger reality.So, the ability of the ad-hoc location that the identification user touches the greatly out of true that becomes, and the position that touches may be calculated mistakenly and/or be missed fully.

Fig. 5 A shows the embodiment 500a as the row or column of the conductive pattern that comprises a plurality of zones that adopts in touch-screen.In this embodiment 500a, single conductor comprises zone and extended area.For example, 502 and two extended areas 501 and 503 in zone are coupled.Single I/O connects (I/O) provides signal to zone 502, and (that is component of signal that is provided directly to following zone, zone 502 shown in connections/path 510, that with this signal segmentation is three components then; Being provided to zone 503 shown in the 510b of connection/path from zone 502, and then from the zone 503 secondary signal components that provide downwards; And being provided to zone 501 shown in the 510a of connection/path, and then from zone 501 the 3rd component of signals that provide downwards) from zone 502.

By zone and extended area are provided for particular conductor, the electric current that is provided to the signal among the I/O that the top is located among the figure can be assigned to i1, i2 and i3.By after all possible paths of conductor, be shown as the summation of i1, i2 and i3 in the electric current output at bottom I/O place.Between zone and extended area some is connected to dotted line, and these dotted lines can comprise connection or can not comprise connection.

It should be noted embodiment 500a corresponding with single conductor (for example, can realize) with " OK " or " row " of the conductive pattern of touch-screen.Therefore, as can be seen, the deviser has very big elasticity and selects which zone and extended area to be employed in the particular conductor.By the path of adopting more signals to pass through, the whole impedance of this particular conductor in conductive pattern is reduced.

Fig. 5 B shows the row of complementally aiming at of the conductive pattern that adopts and the embodiment 500b of row in touch-screen.This embodiment 500b shows at first conductor of arranging on the first direction and second conductor arranged on second direction.

In addition, it should be noted, in the conductive pattern of touch-screen, first conductor of arranging on the first direction and second conductor on second direction, arranged can be coplanar (promptly, on the same level in touch-screen), perhaps they can be in the plane or the layer last (for example, separating by dielectric substance) of the separation in the touch-screen.

This embodiment describes is that group with two parallel zones is connected to form one single " OK ".As can be seen, single I/O is provided the left-hand side of being expert at, and two zones (perhaps a zone and an extended area) that exist signal to pass through.Then forward the right side of diagrammatic sketch to, the zone of conductor is joined together, and makes a plurality of paths that existence can signal be passed through.In addition, some zone (according to each design alternative) can directly not link together (for example, shown in dotted line).

Similarly, this embodiment describes is that group with two parallel zones is connected to form one single " row ".As can be seen, single I/O is provided at the top of row, and two zones (perhaps a zone and an extended area) that exist signal to pass through.Then forward the downside of diagrammatic sketch to, the zone of conductor is joined together, and makes that existence can be by a plurality of paths of signal.Again, some zone (according to each design alternative) can roundaboutly link together (for example, shown in dotted line).

Fig. 6 shows another embodiment 600 as the row and column of complementally aiming at of the conductive pattern that adopts in touch-screen.Except the number that is used the group that forms capable parallel zone was different with the number of the group that is used the parallel zone that forms row, this embodiment was similar to a great extent to previous embodiment.For example, the group in two parallel zones connected form single " row ", and the group in three parallel zones connected form single " OK ".Under situation about not departing from the scope of the present invention with spirit, the deviser can adopt the group of required arbitrarily number of areas to form single " row " or " OK ".In addition, in certain embodiments, the group in selected zone needs not be the group in adjacent, parallel zone.

Fig. 7 shows as the row of complementally aiming at of the conductive pattern that adopts in touch-screen and another embodiment 700 of row, and wherein, described conductive pattern comprises extended area.This conductive pattern can be employed in the touch-screen, to assist the detection to the touch point.Shaped region by relative low quantity with screen size is compared comes a problem of touch sensitive to be: may not detect touch, its touch location can not accurately be detected; Perhaps, if finger moves, and contact area is mobile between district and district, even the mobile smooth curve or the straight line of comprising of finger also the step pattern can occur.Therefore, Fig. 7 shows the pattern that is used for as lower conductor, and described conductor is convenient to determine more accurately touch location at the situation that does not increase line of induction quantity a plurality of shaped regions of giving a definition.As can be seen, Fig. 7 has specifically illustrated the vertical line of induction and the horizontal line of induction, and wherein each all comprises a plurality of shaped regions.

Comprise first conductor 704 and second conductor 708 in the level shown in 700 place's generality and the vertical line of induction of arranging, wherein, described first conductor 704 flatly is arranged in rows, and described second conductor 708 is arranged in row vertically.In the conductor 704 and 708 each comprises cavity and a plurality of shaped region of shaping, and wherein said a plurality of shaped regions conduct electricity.More specifically, conductor 704 comprises cavity, the cavity in the row conductor, the shaped region of column conductor and the shaped region of row conductor in the as directed column conductor.In addition, as can be seen, in first conductor and second conductor 704 and 708 embodiment that are disposed on the plane of separating, it is the overlapping of coupling that the overlapping region is shown as.

An aspect of first conductor 704 and second conductor 708 is that the shaped region of the pattern in the shaped region of the conduction of first conductor 704 and cavity and the conduction of second conductor 708 and the pattern in cavity are complementary basically.In other words, the cavity of first conductor 704 is axially aimed at the shaped region of the conduction of second conductor 708, wherein, the shaped region of the conduction of described second conductor 708 is similar on size and dimension to described cavity, to reduce the overlapping and overlapping capacity effect that causes.Similarly, the shaped region of the conduction of first conductor 704 is axially aimed at the cavity of second conductor 708, and wherein, the cavity of described second conductor 708 is formed similar size and dimension, to avoid and to reduce overlapping.Use the formed patterns of cavity and conductive region to help responding about the unlike signal that touches, it supports more accurate interpolation (interpolation) to determine touch location thus.It should be noted that these complementary patterns have overlapping wittingly a little, so that especially support electromagnetism or capacitive coupling when taking place when touching.

Use shaped region pattern shown in Figure 7 to provide and go and from being listed as to the engagement of the improvement that is listed as, and support the calculating of accurate more interpolation position, and therefore provide and the mobile corresponding more level and smooth pattern of finger from going to.The use of coarse pitch has reduced to be used for the number of the line of touch sensitive, yet, also reduce the quantity of the different liners below contact point, and reduced engagement thus.Therefore, reduce, even output has also produced the step pattern that the expression touch is moved for interpolation owing to mesh.This has also produced Z energy (for example, along the Z axle) heterogeneityization between row and column, cause being difficult to be provided with touch/non-touch threshold.Therefore, improvement as shown in Figure 7 the engagement embodiment improved the position interpolation.

Embodiment in Fig. 7 comprises the argyle design of the modification with opening and expansion, and this opening and expansion have increased under touching the engagement about the row or column of the line of induction of given number.This opening and expansion can form with Any shape (rhombus, circle etc.).In described embodiment, use rhombus to be because they produce best linearity engagement on level and vertical axis.This design is, make pattern can be used to arrange the row and column of first and second conductors 704 and 708, and make pattern can carry out interlocking (interlock) as follows, in described mode, the expansion of the row of first conductor, 704 orientations is filled the opening of the row of second conductor, 708 orientations, and on the contrary, the expansion of the row of second conductor, 708 orientations is filled the opening of the row of first conductor 704.

Because effectively the diamond liner size reduces (for example, having reduced half), so increased the interpolation precision in the engagement shown in Fig. 7.In the zone on the most possible simple argyle design that connects first and second conductors 704 and 708 of user's touch, the distribution of row and column all is 50%.This has greatly increased the homogenization about the data that move.Therefore, because the increase of shaped region quantity under finger, the step phenomenon greatly reduces, even and screen size be increased in the pattern and also can not occur " big ladder " again, the quantity of the line of induction can not increase pro rata simultaneously.

The overlapping region of simple argyle design is retained as less, and reducing stray capacitance, but the overlapping region of simple argyle design also must be enough big, with the maintenance rhombus to the resistance of rhombus for conductor conductor 704 and 708 and Yan Shixiao for example.The present embodiment of Fig. 7 has the overlapping region (four sides of central area and central area) of five electromotive forces.Desired is minimum three overlapping regions (that is, central area and two side regions), perhaps can be to use the combination (four side regions, and do not have the central area) of four overlapping regions.These combinations allow the bigger elasticity in design.For example, can use overlapping the make central area (even so do the increase that can cause resistance) littler than existing rhombus technology, wherein, described side regions allows to be used for the connection of extended conductor, and has reduced the resistance of rhombus to rhombus simultaneously.Can make the stray capacitance of this combination mate single interconnection technique.

The pattern of Fig. 7 is fragment (fractal) in essence, and mutual engagement can be designed to than the littler ratio shown in Fig. 7.This embodiment of the present invention is supposed to be used to assist the engagement from the 4mm pitch to about 24mm pitch.The pattern that bigger size may be expected to comprise or needs are different, the interlocking that this pattern allows the interlocking of more row to row and more is listed as.This kind pattern comprises aspect of the present invention, and is considered to another embodiment.Though made above description from being used to solve than the induction problem of giant-screen, identical principle can be applied to need be more high-resolution than on the small screen size, and can be relevant with less screen size.

Most of discussion about interlocking or engagement is about first conductor and structural arrangement and interaction between second directed on the second direction conductor in orientation on the first direction.First and second directions are unnecessary to be level and vertical.This example of horizontal orientation and the vertically-oriented conductor or the line of induction is the purpose of oversimplifying for accompanying drawing and relevant explanation.More generally, first and second conductors are only directed on different directions.

Interlocking or engagement can also with to similar as mentioned above mode, occur between the row of first conductor 704 and/or between the row of second conductor 708.Usually, the conductive pattern of more interlockings is in adjacent lines, adjacent column and higher interpolation resolution is provided between row and column.Yet, this of Fig. 7 kind of pattern show from by first conductor 704 horizontally being expert to the interlocking that vertically is arranged in second conductor 708 in the row, with the energy of level and smooth Z axle.Fig. 7 makes row mesh to the conductor 704 and 708 of row and column to row also by making edge homogenization more, but it is not provided at between the directed conductor of row or to be listed as the interlocking between the directed conductor.Be included in the optional embodiment of the present invention in conductor directed on the first direction directed conductor this kind interlocking each other each other and on second direction.

The patterning of Fig. 7 allows user's finger to be coupled to any row and column of giving constant pitch more equably.The argyle design of prior art only when rhombus very hour just can be effective with respect to the contact pad designed of user.Pitch for about 8mm, diamond-shaped area is excessive for typical user, even and user's finger moves with level and smooth continuous lines, or even be not vertically or flatly directed straight line (perhaps more specifically, be parallel to the line of induction) move, based on the position with respect to the contact area of the position of diamond-shaped area, output data also begins to illustrate the output of the heterogenize with step pattern.

The shaped region of first conductor of embodiments of the invention and second conductor 704 and 708 can be by increasing or reducing opening and the extension assigns to regulate.Opening in being expert at has reduced to be used for the liner area of row.In one embodiment, compare with 708 shaped region with first or second conductor 704, opening is by the ratio setting according to 50: 50.In other words, for the whole surface area of first conductor 704 or second conductor 708, about 50% area comprises conductor material, and about 50% area comprises open area or cavity, and described open area or cavity define according to the shape and the arrangement of first or second conductor.

Certainly, it should be noted, can be as required strategic point, (for example, about 70% area comprises that the area of conductor material and about 30% comprises open area or cavity to adopt different number percent alternatively; About 30% area comprises that the area of conductor material and about 70% comprises open area or cavity; Or the conductor material of selecting as the deviser is with respect to any other ratios in open area or cavity, it can general be expressed as open area or the cavity of the conductor material of X% to (100-X) %, wherein, X be the deviser select greater than 0 and less than 100 parameter).

Fig. 8 A shows the embodiment 800a as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts (perhaps capable) in touch-screen, it comprises the hole portion of complementally aiming at and passing through row (perhaps row) filling.

Fig. 8 B shows another embodiment 800b as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts (perhaps capable) in touch-screen, it comprises the hole portion of complementally aiming at and passing through row (perhaps row) filling.

Fig. 8 A and Fig. 8 B show the shape relation between conductive molded zone and cavity.In the embodiment of Fig. 8 A and Fig. 8 B, to compare with Fig. 7, the ratio in conductive molded zone and cavity changes according to the kind of shaped region.For example, about the conductive region (wherein, the cavity is defined by the shaped region that centers on) of the rhombus of Fig. 8 A cavity 804a basically greater than the rhombus cavity 804b of Fig. 8 B.On the contrary, " V " shape of Fig. 8 B cavity 808b is basically greater than " V " shape cavity 808a of Fig. 8 A.What therefore, the overlapping region of Fig. 8 A and Fig. 8 B can be than shown in Fig. 7 is wideer.Yet for some signal type and testing circuit, the effect of the capacity effect of increase (if any) can have bigger tolerance (tolerable).

Fig. 9 shows the embodiment 900 as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, it comprises the extended area of complementally aiming at another regional hole.This diagrammatic sketch shows according to an embodiment of the invention at the single conductor of first direction and second conductor on the second direction, and wherein, the extended area of second conductor is meshed with the shaped region of first conductor.Though the first and second shown conductors vertically and are flatly arranged respectively, it is respectively vertical and level that first and second directions that it should be understood that first and second conductor arrangement do not need.In addition, though shown be the direction of quadrature, first and second directions also need not be quadrature.As can be seen, first conductor comprises single row, and it comprises first area (shaped region); And second conductor comprises single row, and it comprises second area.The expansion second area is coupled to second area, and meshes or interweave (interlace) with the first area.As can be seen, the first area comprises cavity or the hole by the shape definition of conduction first area.The expansion second area is with complementary by the cavity of first area definition, and has seldom with described cavity or do not have overlapping.In the example of Fig. 9, first and second conductors can be coplanar, and perhaps they are disposed in the different planes.Among the embodiment in first and second conductors are disposed in different planes, use dielectric substance (also can use other materials) that the plane of first and second conductors is separated.

Figure 10 has described the embodiment 1000 as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, it comprises the extended area of complementally aiming at another regional recess.This diagrammatic sketch show according to an embodiment of the invention on first direction single conductor and second conductor on second direction, wherein, the extended area of second conductor is meshed with the shaped region of first conductor.Though the first and second shown conductors vertically and are flatly arranged respectively, it is respectively vertical and level that first and second directions that it should be understood that first and second conductor arrangement do not need.In addition, though shown be the direction of quadrature, first and second directions also need not be quadrature.

As can be seen, first conductor comprises single row, and it comprises first area (shaped region); And second conductor comprises single row, and it comprises second area.The expansion second area is coupled to second area, and with first area engagement or interweave.As can be seen, the first area comprises cavity or the notched region by the shape definition of the first area of conducting electricity.Expansion second area and cavity or recess complementation by first area definition, and have seldom with described cavity or recess or do not have overlapping.In the example of Fig. 9, first and second conductors can be coplanar, and perhaps they can be disposed in the different planes.Among the embodiment in first and second conductors are disposed in different planes, use dielectric substance (also can use other materials) that the plane of first and second conductors is separated.

Figure 11 shows the embodiment 1100 as the row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, it comprises a plurality of extended areas.This diagrammatic sketch shows the single conductor on first direction, and described conductor has the zone of a plurality of expansions, and its first conductor engagement can be adjacent at least one and similar arrangement is perhaps with the second conductor (not shown) engagement of arranging on second direction.Each of a plurality of extended areas in the embodiment of Figure 11 comprises the shaped region of a plurality of couplings.In Figure 11, shaped region is a diamond-shaped area.Notice and be a bit that about the pattern of single conductor shaped region can define irregular pattern or topological structure.The irregular pattern similar to Figure 11 more may be applied in the not coplanar structure of first and second conductors.Yet, may the be more convenient for copline structure of first and second conductors of other irregular patterns.

Figure 12 A and Figure 12 B show embodiment 1200a and the 1200b as a plurality of row of the conductive pattern that comprises a plurality of extended areas that adopts and row respectively in touch-screen.Particularly, Figure 12 A is to be in the alternately example of the diagrammatic sketch of the conductor of the similar arrangement of meshing relation with Figure 12 B.Figure 12 A shows with first parallel conductor 1204a and the 1208a shown in the 1200a generality.Figure 12 B shows with first parallel conductor 1204b and the 1208b shown in the 1200b generality.Little black round dot is illustrated and is used for representing shaped region, and described shaped region can have the shape of any definition, comprises aforesaid diamond-shaped area.In Figure 12 A, each has the extended area of arranging with symmetrically relative arrangement with respect to corresponding shaped region the first conductor 1204a and 1208a, and corresponding shaped region is disposed on the axis centre of the first conductor 1204a and 1208a.In addition, the extended area of the first conductor 1204a and 1208a meshes or interweaves.

In addition, Figure 12 B shows with first parallel conductor 1204b and the 1208b shown in the 1200b generality.Little black round dot is illustrated and is used for representing shaped region, and described shaped region can have the shape of any definition, comprises aforesaid diamond-shaped area.In Figure 12 B, the first conductor 1204b has the extended area of arranging with asymmetric relative arrangement with respect to the axis centre of the first conductor 1204b and 1208b with 1208b.It should be noted, because exist a shaped region, so the quantity of the shaped region of arranging along the axis centre of first conductor (not being the shaped region of expansion) is the twice of the number of the shaped region among Figure 12 A for each extension forming zone.In Figure 12 A, there are two extended areas for each shaped region.In addition, the extended area of the first conductor 1204b and 1208b meshes and interweaves.

Figure 13 A and Figure 13 B show embodiment 1300a and the 1300b as a plurality of row of the conductive pattern that comprises a plurality of extended areas that adopts and row respectively in touch-screen.These diagrammatic sketch show about the extension forming zone of the first and second axial array conductors that are meshing with each other or interweave and the alternating pattern of shaped region.Usually, Figure 13 A represents can change considerably with the pattern of explanation shaped region with respect to the extension forming zone, and explanation does not need to exist specific quantity ratios between shaped region and extension forming zone.In Figure 13 A, 2 shaped regions are corresponding with the shaped region of 4 expansions.On the contrary, be that 1 shaped region is corresponding with 2 extension forming zones shown in Figure 12 A.In Figure 12 B, 1 shaped region exists corresponding to each extension forming zone.Figure 13 B represents with explanation extension forming zone even can expand the axis centre of the adjacent conductor of crossing similar orientation (same axial).

Figure 14 shows the embodiment 1400 as a plurality of row of the conductive pattern that adopts and row in touch-screen, comprise a plurality of extended areas of multiple shape.This illustration for according to a plurality of embodiment of the present invention about the various extension forming zone maps of the first and second mutually orthogonal conductors and complementary cavity, described cavity and extension forming zone axially align.As seen, the extension forming zone can be the shape in square, rectangle, circle, ellipse or other known form.Corresponding cavity also can be the shape in square, rectangle, circle, ellipse or other known form.In one embodiment, extended area has the shape inequality with corresponding cavity.More specifically, for by the pattern shown in embodiment 1400 generality, first conductor 1404 comprises a plurality of shaped regions, and second conductor 1408 comprises a plurality of shaped regions, and the shaped region of the described a plurality of shaped regions and first conductor 1404 interweaves.For an embodiment, the shaped region of conductor 1404 or 1408 (perhaps both) may comprise the cavity 1412 that (formation) shape and extended area 1416 are different, described extended area 1416 from another conductor expansion (for example, from 2 ^NdConductor to 1 ^StThe shaped region of conductor, and vice versa).At this, cavity 1412 is foursquare, and extended area 1416 is circular.For these embodiment that the zone of extension forming therein and corresponding cavity have similar shapes, the size of each only comprises a spot of overlapping or do not comprise overlapping.Therefore, for example, the cavity is 1420 similar with extended area 1424 shapes, and complementary and do not have overlapping.Alternatively, when touch taking place, if particularly first and second conductors are disposed on the Different Plane so that when electric capacity between conductor or signal coupling, cavity 1420 and extended area 1424 can be overlapping slightly.

Figure 15 A shows the embodiment 1500a of the layout of the conductive pattern in touch-screen.As can be seen, when take place interacting with touch-screen, the top layer of first conductor (for example, being arranged as the top layer of touch-screen) can directly be touched by the user.As further visible, first and second layers of dielectric layer separate conductor (a plurality of first and second conductors respectively).Dielectric layer can be realized by any known dielectric, include, but are not limited to air, comprises SiO ₂Semiconductor material, polymer substrate material, jointing material etc.

Figure 15 B shows the optional embodiment 1500b of the layout of the conductive pattern in touch-screen.Particularly, on the top layer of conductor, arrange extra touch screen surface layer (for example, polymeric layer, protective seam etc.), made the user can not directly touch the top layer of conductor.Can use any known material to form touch screen surface, it allows the interaction of user and a plurality of as first and second conductors described here.

Figure 16 A shows the optional embodiment 1600a of the layout of the conductive pattern in touch-screen.This embodiment 1600a shows the conductor of arranging in different directions, realize on layer that it is identical in touch-screen or the height.By use via, closing line, etc., a plurality of zones of these conductors on identical layer can be linked together, directly directly do not contact to guarantee the conductor in first direction (for example, row) with conductor in second direction (for example, OK).As can be seen, when user and touch-screen took place to interact, first conductor and second conductor (for example, being arranged as the identical top layer of touch-screen) can directly be touched by the user.

Figure 16 B shows the optional embodiment 1600b of the layout of the conductive pattern in touch-screen.This embodiment 1600b also shows the conductor of arranging in different directions, realize on layer that it is identical in touch-screen or the height.In addition, by use via, closing line, etc., a plurality of zones of these conductors on identical layer can be linked together, directly directly do not contact to guarantee the conductor in first direction (for example, row) with conductor in second direction (for example, OK).Arranged that therein the top layer of touch-screen of first and second conductors or highest point realize additional touch screen surface layer (for example, polymeric layer, protective seam, etc.).Can use any known material to form touch screen surface, it allows the interaction of user and a plurality of as first and second conductors described here.

Figure 17 shows from the coherent signal response of the adjacent conductor of conductive pattern and the embodiment 1700 of pair of conductors.For exemplary purposes, according to principle described here, Figure 17 adopts conductor with zone and extended area (for example, the similar conductive pattern of embodiment of use and Fig. 7, Fig. 8 A, Fig. 8 B).Should be noted in the discussion above that in embodiment 1700 and can adopt any conductor shape, pattern etc.

In prior art systems, axial location is corresponding with the axis of contact conductor.Yet, at this, because in a plurality of conductors, use zone and extended area, so the interaction of user and touch-screen (for example, contact point) can provide the contact with the different amounts of a plurality of conductors.As shown in Figure 17, contact point shows the contact area of outstanding (spur) of conductor 1704a basically greater than the outstanding contact area of conductor 1704b.Therefore, as with the signal response of the conductor 1704a shown in the 1708a basically greater than as signal response with the conductor 1704b shown in the 1708b.As will be discussed below, signal response 1708a can compare with 1708b, to determine interpolation axial location as shown in Figure 17.

Figure 18 shows the optional embodiment 1800 from the signal response of the adjacent conductor of conductive pattern.In addition, for purposes of illustration, according to principle described here, Figure 18 adopts conductor with zone and extended area (for example, the similar conductive pattern of embodiment of use and Fig. 7, Fig. 8 A, Fig. 8 B).Should be noted in the discussion above that in embodiment 1800 and can adopt any conductor shape, pattern etc.

As can be seen, the contact point contact area that shows conductor 1804a is substantially equal to the contact area of conductor 1804b.Therefore, be substantially equal to as signal response as signal response with the conductor 1804b shown in the 1808b with the conductor 1804a shown in the 1808a.As will be discussed below, signal response 1808a can compare with 1808b, to determine interpolation axial location as shown in Figure 18.As indicated in Figure 18, the interpolation axial location is in the centre of separation place between the axial centre of conductor 1804a and 1804b.

Figure 19 shows the embodiment 1900 of signal detection module.In this embodiment 1900, signal detection module can be realized (for example, as among the Reference numeral among Fig. 2 220 or Fig. 3 310 described) by using any embodiment that previously herein discusses.Usually, the signal detection module of embodiment 1900 comprises signal comparison module 1910, position interpose module 1920 and mapping form 1930, and it is included in response signal with respect to the asynchronous a kind of mapping of axial location.Axial location is the interpolation axial location.Usually, signal comparison module 1910 is the signal response shown in Figure 17 and 18 relatively, and definite difference.For example, can with respect to the percentage of other conductors this difference be described recently with the signal response of a conductor.This difference can also be described by absolute measurement (for example, volt or ampere).

Based on determining of signal comparison module 1910, the operable position interpose module is determined the interpolation axial location of touch.This can perhaps finish by communicating to obtain the mapping result that is used for the detected difference of signal response with mapping form 1930 by the algorithm of calculating location.In one embodiment, form 1930 is specified the scope of the difference that is used for each interpolation positional value.Therefore, for example, if there are 200 interpolation positions, then each position can define 1% 1/2 scope of difference.Difference range can be specified with the numerical value of signal characteristic or device, perhaps specifies (for example, as directed number percent) according to relative mistake.

Figure 20 A and Figure 20 B show embodiment 2000a and 2000b respectively, and described embodiment 2000a and 2000b are respectively the complementally overlapping basically and complementally not overlapping basically embodiment of conductor of conductor in conductive pattern.With reference to the embodiment 2000a of figure 20A, visible first conductor and second conductor are overlapping according to the amount shown in the overlapping region.The amount that does not have overlapping areas between first and second conductors is basically greater than the overlapping region.Therefore, we can say that first and second conductors are complementary basically.If there is not overlapping region (for example, first and second conductors are ideally aimed at), then they are complementary.Usually, with the overlapping minimum that remains on, to be minimized in the capacitive coupling between first and second conductors.

Yet, with reference to the embodiment 2000b of figure 20B, will be in this amount of overlapping region much larger than the amount of the overlapping region of embodiment 2000a, and we can say that first and second conductors are not complementary basically.Usually, when the overlapping region be approximately first or second conductive region 10 or more hour, first and second conductors are complementally aimed at.Not complementary overlapping or aim at refer to overlapping greater than complementation overlapping (for example, greater than 10% overlapping).Clearly, other number percents and limit also can be used and to define not complementary overlapping and complementary overlapping restriction range (for example, be greater than or less than 5%, 3% etc.).

Figure 21 A and Figure 21 B show optional embodiment 2100a and 2100b respectively, and described embodiment 2100a and 2100b are respectively the complementally overlapping basically and complementally not overlapping basically embodiment of conductor of conductor in conductive pattern.With reference to the embodiment 2100a of figure 21A, visible first conductor and the amount of second free of conductors shown in little void area.The same little in the amount of area that has little void area between first and second conductors with the treating apparatus that is used on the layer of conductor arrangement at touch-screen.Therefore, we can say that first and second conductors are complementary basically.If there is not void area (for example, first and second conductors are ideally aimed at), then they are complementary.

Yet with reference to the embodiment 2100b of figure 21B, the size of void area is wanted relative size greater than previous embodiment, and we can say that first and second conductors are not complementary basically.In addition, usually, when the overlapping region be approximately first or second conductive region 10 or more hour, first and second conductors are complementally aimed at.Not complementary overlapping or aim at refer to overlapping greater than complementation overlapping (for example, greater than 10% overlapping).Clearly, other number percents and limit also can be used and to define not complementary overlapping and complementary overlapping restriction range (for example, be greater than or less than 5%, 3% etc.).

Figure 22 A and Figure 22 B show optional embodiment 2200a and 2200b respectively, described embodiment 2200a and 2200b are respectively the complementally overlapping basically and complementally not overlapping basically embodiment of conductor of conductor in conductive pattern, and the equal height (perhaps layer) of described conductor in touch-screen gone up and realized.Each of embodiment 2200a and embodiment 2200b all shows the conductor of realizing on identical layer in touch-screen or the height of arranging in different directions.By use via, closing line, etc., a plurality of zones of these conductors in identical layer can be linked together, directly do not contact to guarantee the conductor in first direction (for example, row) with conductor in second direction (for example, OK).

With reference to the embodiment 2200a of Figure 22, visiblely be first conductor and the amount of second free of conductors shown in little void area.The same little in the amount of area that has little void area between first and second conductors with the treating apparatus that is used on the layer of conductor arrangement at touch-screen.Therefore, we can say that first and second conductors are complementary basically.If there is not void area (for example, first and second conductors are ideally aimed at), then they are complementary.

Yet with reference to the embodiment 2200b of figure 22B, the size of void area is wanted relative size greater than previous embodiment, and we can say that first and second conductors are not complementary basically.In addition, usually, when the overlapping region be approximately first or second conductive region 10 or more hour, first and second conductors are complementally aimed at.Not complementary overlapping or aim at refer to overlapping greater than complementation overlapping (for example, greater than 10% overlapping).Clearly, other number percents and limit also can be used and to define not complementary overlapping and complementary overlapping restriction range (for example, be greater than or less than 5%, 3% etc.).

Figure 23 shows the embodiment 2300 of the method that is used for definite interpolation axial location.By signal response or first signal of the reception described in piece 2310, and, carry out this method by the signal response or the secondary signal of the reception described in piece 2320 from second conductor from first conductor.Hereinafter, this method comprises handles first and second signals or signal response, with the interaction of the identification user and first and second conductors, to determine the interpolation axial location in piece 2330.For example, can come that processing describes to this kind, make and to calculate or definite interpolation position by estimating to detect difference with respect to the mapping form with method represented among Figure 23.

The specific embodiment of here having described has illustrated the conductor that the relatively small number purpose is arranged.It should be understood that touch-screen can have the conductor of the different numbers of arranging (for example, basically more first and second conductors of big figure) on first and second directions.Some conductors only have been shown in each diagrammatic sketch in the accompanying drawing, being that the reader describes simply, and all conductors having been drawn with the ratio of amplifying support the description of being correlated with.

The industrial acceptable limit that provides in its respective range as term " basically ", " probably " as used herein is provided.The scope of the limit that this kind industry is accepted be from less than one of percentage to 20 percent, and corresponding to but be not limited to component value, integrated circuit processing variation, temperature variation, rising and fall time, thermonoise and/or other parameters.In addition, cover basically touch-screen the action face zone benchmark can be used the benchmark the same big (that is, using this kind device that adjacent conductor is arranged as far as possible close to each other) that the processing of making touch-screen and manufacturing installation are allowed.In one embodiment, use available technology recently, the hithermost situation with conductor arrangement together the time is 40 microns.

Alternatively, should be noted that the value that concrete deviser selects (for example, 90%, 95% etc.) can be corresponding to the action face zone that has covered touch-screen basically.Similarly, complementary basically overlapping and/or not complementary basically overlapping benchmark can similarly be interpreted as by the reader and be in this kind or the stricter limit.For example, basic complementary overlapping can the restriction by being used processing and the manufacturing installation of making touch-screen.Alternatively, the value selected of concrete deviser (for example, 1%, 5% etc.) can be corresponding to complementary overlapping basically.So, basically complementally not overlappingly can be and complementally overlapping different any overlapping (for example, greater than with complementally overlapping relevant value) basically basically.In addition, also can understand and be used herein to general this kind benchmark according to this kind principle.

It should be noted that a plurality of modules described here, piece, element or circuit arrangement (for example, signal generator module, signal detection module, signal generation/detection module etc.) can be single treatment facility or a plurality of treatment facilities.This kind treatment facility can be microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor, microcomputer, CPU (central processing unit), field programmable gate array, programmable logic device, state machine, logical circuit, mimic channel, digital circuit and/or come any equipment of operation signal (simulation and/or numeral) based on operational order.Operational order can be stored in the storer.Storer can be single memory devices or a plurality of memory devices.This kind memory devices can be the equipment of ROM (read-only memory), random access memory, volatile memory, nonvolatile memory, static memory, dynamic storage, flash memory and/or any storing digital information.It should be understood that, when processing module realized one or more its function via state machine, mimic channel, digital circuit and/or logical circuit, the storer utilization of storing corresponding operational order comprised the circuit of state machine, mimic channel, digital circuit and/or logical circuit and is embedded into.In this kind embodiment, the memory stores operational order, and be coupled to processing module executable operations instruction on the storer, described operational order is corresponding with function and/or at least a portion in the step in this description and/or explanation.

More than, the method step by the performance that relation of the present invention and specific function are described describes the present invention.For convenience of description, these functions are set up the border of piece and method step and carried out definition arbitrarily in proper order at this.As long as the function of appointment and relation can suitably be carried out, then optionally border and order also can be defined.Therefore, arbitrarily this type of border and the order all in requirement scope of invention and spirit.

More than, set up piece by the function of the execution that some critical function is described, describe the present invention.For convenience of description, definition has arbitrarily been carried out on the border of these functions having been set up piece.As long as some important function can suitably be carried out, then optionally the border also can be defined.Similarly, also at random defined flow chart block, so that some important function to be shown at this.For expanded application, the border of flow chart block and order also can be otherwise defined, and it still can carry out some important function.Therefore, function is set up the optional definition of piece and flow chart block with in proper order all in claimed scope and spirit of the present invention.

One skilled in the art should appreciate that, setting up piece and other illustrative, module and assembly in this function can be as described, and perhaps the processor of the assembly by separating, special IC, the suitable software of execution etc. or its any combination realize.

In addition, though, come the present invention is described in detail, the invention is not restricted to these embodiment by previous embodiment for the purpose that is aware and understand.It is apparent that for those of ordinary skills,, so within the spirit and scope of the present invention, can implement a plurality of variations and modification it because the present invention only limits by the scope of appended claim.

Claims (12)

1. device comprises:

Touch-screen, described touch-screen are included in first conductor of arranging on the first direction and second conductor of arranging on second direction; And wherein:

Described first conductor comprises at least one first area;

Described second conductor comprises at least one second area and the expansion second area that is coupled with described at least one second area; And

Described at least one second area and described expansion second area are complementally aimed at described at least one first area.

2. device according to claim 1, wherein, described first conductor is crossed dielectric substance with described second conductor dbus and is separated.

3. according to claim 1 or 2 described devices, wherein:

Described expansion second area is in the recess or opening of described at least one first area; And

Described recess or opening have substantially the same shape and size with described expansion second area.

4. according to a described device in the aforesaid claim, wherein:

Described first conductor and/or described second conductor are realized on the back side on the surface of described touch-screen; Perhaps

Described first conductor and/or described second conductor are realized on the described surface of described touch-screen.

5. according to a described device in the aforesaid claim, wherein:

The shape of described expansion second area be in circle, rhombus, triangle, ellipse, rectangle or the square one of.

6. according to a described device in the aforesaid claim, further comprise:

Exciting circuit, described exciting circuit provides signal to described first conductor;

And testing circuit, described testing circuit detects the signal that receives from described second conductor, based on the signal that is received, and identification and described first conductor and the corresponding user in point of crossing of described second conductor and the interactional position of described touch-screen.

7. device according to claim 1 further comprises:

Pumping signal is provided and detects the circuit of the variation in described pumping signal that the interaction by user and described touch-screen causes to described first conductor.

8. according to a described device in the aforesaid claim, further comprise:

The 3rd conductor of in described first direction, arranging; And

Pumping signal is provided and detects the circuit of the signal response in described the 3rd conductor that the interaction by user and described touch-screen causes to described first conductor.

9. according to a described device in the aforesaid claim, wherein, described touch-screen is included in described first conductor of arranging on the first direction and described second conductor of arranging on the same level on second direction; And wherein:

Described first conductor comprises the first area of a plurality of couplings;

Described second conductor comprises the second area of a plurality of couplings; And

Wherein, at least one in the second area of described expansion second area and described a plurality of couplings is coupled, and described expansion second area complementally expands in the first area of described a plurality of couplings.

10. device according to claim 9, wherein

The first area of described a plurality of couplings connects via trace; And

The second area of described a plurality of couplings is connected via closing line with described expansion second area.

11. according to a described device in the aforesaid claim, wherein:

Described first conductor comprises opening; And described second conductor comprises size and dimension and zone that with described opening axially aim at substantially the same with described opening.

12. according to a described device in the aforesaid claim, wherein:

The interaction of described user and described touch-screen be described user finger touch described touch-screen, or user's stylus has touched described touch-screen.

Images