JP2013175058A - Touch panel and position detection method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a thin touch panel at low costs in which position detection is executable only by a touch, and materials of touching objects do not matter.SOLUTION: The touch panel includes: a first conductive film having a plurality of separate regions formed in a long strip-like shape in one direction; a second conductive film having a plurality of separate regions formed in a long strip-like shape in the other direction which is almost orthogonal to one direction; and a third conductive film. The separate areas in the first conductive film are arrayed in the other direction, and the separate areas in the second conductive film are arrayed in one direction. A current detection part is connected to each of the divided areas in the first conductive film, and a current detection part is connected to a part of the divided areas in the second conductive film, and a potential detection part is connected to each of the divided areas in the second conductive film, and a potential detection part is connected to the third conductive film.

Description

  The present invention relates to a touch panel and a position detection method.

  A touch panel is an input device that allows direct input to the display, and is often used by installing it on the front of the display. It can be directly input based on information visually captured by the display. Are used in various applications.

  As such a touch panel, a resistance film type and a capacitance type are widely known. The resistive film type touch panel is installed so that each transparent conductive film is opposed to each other in the upper electrode substrate and the lower electrode substrate on which the transparent conductive film is formed, and each of the upper electrode substrates is applied with a force. The transparent conductive films are in contact with each other, and the position where the force is applied can be detected.

  Resistive touch panels can be broadly classified into four-wire, five-wire, and diode. In the 4-wire system, an X-axis electrode is provided on one of the upper electrode substrate and the lower electrode substrate, and a Y-axis electrode is provided on the other (for example, Patent Document 1). In the 5-wire system, both the X-axis electrode and the Y-axis electrode are provided on the lower electrode substrate, and the upper electrode substrate functions as a probe for detecting a voltage (for example, Patent Documents). 2). The diode type has a structure in which a diode is provided on the lower electrode substrate, and is provided with two electrodes for applying a voltage and four electrodes for monitoring a potential. In addition to the electrodes provided on the upper electrode substrate that functions as a probe for detecting the presence of seven electrodes, it is also called a seven-wire type (for example, Patent Document 3).

  In the capacitive method, position detection is performed by detecting a current flowing through a transparent electrode or the like of the touch panel when a finger or the like approaches the touch panel.

  In the touch panel, since the capacitive type and the resistive type have different characteristics, a touch panel having a structure in which a resistive type touch panel and a capacitive type touch panel are stacked is disclosed (for example, Patent Documents 4 and 5).

JP 2004-272722 A JP 2008-293129 A JP 2005-196280 A Utility Model Registration No. 3132106 Utility Model Registration No. 3139196 JP 2009-116849 A

  By the way, since the capacitive touch panel is a detection method based on capacitive coupling, it has a feature that the position can be detected by simply touching without touching, but the position is not detected by contact with an insulator. It cannot be detected. In addition, the resistance film type touch panel has a feature that the material of the touch panel does not matter, but the position detection includes a transparent conductive film as an upper resistance film and a transparent conductive film as a lower resistance film. Since it is performed by touching, it is necessary to press the touch panel with a predetermined force.

  On the other hand, what is described in Patent Documents 4 and 5 has a structure in which a capacitive touch panel and a resistive film type touch panel are stacked, and the capacitive touch panel and the resistive film system. The touch panel has good features.

  However, since the touch panel having such a structure has two types of touch panels laminated thereon, it has a problem that the thickness is increased and a problem that the cost is increased.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and has a characteristic of a capacitive touch panel and a good characteristic of a resistive touch panel, that is, a position can be detected and touched only by touching. The object is to provide a thin touch panel at a low cost regardless of the material of the object. It is another object of the present invention to provide a touch panel position detection method.

  The present invention provides a first conductive film having a plurality of separation regions formed in a strip shape long in one direction, and a plurality of separation regions formed in a strip shape long in the other direction substantially orthogonal to the one direction. A second conductive film and a third conductive film, wherein the isolation region in the first conductive film is arranged in the other direction, and the isolation region in the second conductive film is , Arranged in the one direction, and each of the divided regions in the first conductive film is connected to a current detection unit, and a part of the divided region in the second conductive film Is connected to a current detection unit, a potential detection unit is connected to each divided region of the second conductive film, and a potential detection unit is connected to the third conductive film. It is characterized by.

  The present invention also provides a first conductive film having a plurality of separation regions that are long and elongated in one direction, and a separation region that is long and elongated in the other direction substantially orthogonal to the one direction. A plurality of second conductive films, wherein the isolation regions in the first conductive film are arranged in the other direction, and the isolation regions in the second conductive film are in the one direction And a current detection unit is connected to a part of the divided region in the first conductive film, and a potential detection is provided in each divided region in the first conductive film. A current detection unit is connected to a part of the divided region of the second conductive film, and a potential detection unit is connected to each of the divided regions of the second conductive film. It is characterized by being.

  The present invention also provides a first conductive film having a plurality of separation regions that are long and elongated in one direction, and a separation region that is long and elongated in the other direction substantially orthogonal to the one direction. And a separation region in the first conductive film is arranged in the other direction, and the separation in the second conductive film is performed. In the method for detecting the position of the touch panel arranged in the one direction, the region is a current detection unit connected to the divided region in the first conductive film and a part of the divided region in the second conductive film. A first detection step of detecting the position of the contact position by the connected current detection unit, a potential detection unit connected to each divided region in the second conductive film, and each in the third conductive film Potential detection connected to Parts by, and having a second detection step of detecting the position of the contact position.

  The present invention also provides a first conductive film having a plurality of separation regions that are long and elongated in one direction, and a separation region that is long and elongated in the other direction substantially orthogonal to the one direction. A plurality of second conductive films, wherein the isolation regions in the first conductive film are arranged in the other direction, and the isolation regions in the second conductive film are in the one direction In the method for detecting the position of the touch panel arranged in the current detection unit, a current detection unit connected to a part of the divided region in the first conductive film and a current connected to a part of the divided region in the second conductive film A first detection step for detecting the position of the contact position by the detection unit; a potential detection unit connected to each divided region in the first conductive film; and each divided region in the second conductive film. By the connected potential detector A second detection step of detecting the position of the contact position, characterized by having a.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to detect a position simply by touching, and to provide a thin touch panel at any cost, regardless of the material of the touched object. Can be provided.

The perspective view which decomposed | disassembled the touchscreen in 1st Embodiment Structural diagram of the touch panel in the first embodiment Explanatory drawing (1) of the drive method of the touchscreen in 1st Embodiment Explanatory drawing (2) of the drive method of the touch panel in 1st Embodiment Explanatory drawing of the touch panel in 1st Embodiment Explanatory drawing (1) of the control method of the touch panel in 1st Embodiment Explanatory drawing (2) of the control method of the touch panel in 1st Embodiment Explanatory drawing (3) of the control method of the touch panel in 1st Embodiment Block diagram of touch panel control circuit Explanatory drawing of resistive film type selector Explanatory diagram of control of resistive film type selection unit Explanatory drawing of other resistive film type selector Flowchart of touch panel position detection method The perspective view which decomposed | disassembled the touchscreen in 2nd Embodiment Structural diagram of the touch panel in the second embodiment Explanatory drawing (1) of the drive method of the touchscreen in 2nd Embodiment. Explanatory drawing (2) of the drive method of the touch panel in 2nd Embodiment Explanatory drawing of the touch panel in 2nd Embodiment Explanatory drawing (1) of the control method of the touchscreen in 2nd Embodiment. Explanatory drawing (2) of the control method of the touchscreen in 2nd Embodiment Explanatory drawing (3) of the control method of the touchscreen in 2nd Embodiment

  The form for implementing this invention is demonstrated below. In addition, about the same member etc., the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

[First Embodiment]
The touch panel in the first embodiment will be described. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the touch panel in the present embodiment includes a first transparent conductive film 10, a second transparent conductive film 20, and a third transparent conductive film 30. In the present embodiment, position detection at a contact point (contact position) can be performed by a capacitance method using the first transparent conductive film 10 and the second transparent conductive film 20, and the second transparent conductive film. Position detection at the contact point (contact position) can be performed by the resistance film method using the film 20 and the third transparent conductive film 30. In the present embodiment, the first conductive film is the first transparent conductive film 10, the second conductive film is the second transparent conductive film 20, and the third conductive film is the third conductive film. The transparent conductive film 30 is assumed.

  The first transparent conductive film 10 is formed on one surface of the first transparent substrate 11, and has a plurality of strip-shaped separation regions 10a formed long in the X-axis direction. The plurality of separation regions 10a are arranged so as to be aligned in the Y-axis direction, and an electrode 12 is connected to the end of each separation region 10a. In the drawing, the reference numerals are omitted, but the electrodes 12 are formed in all the separation regions 10a.

  The second transparent conductive film 20 is formed on one surface of the second transparent substrate 21, and has a plurality of strip-shaped separation regions 20a and 20b formed long in the Y-axis direction. The separation regions 20a and 20b are alternately arranged in the X-axis direction, and electrodes 22a and 22b are connected to both ends of each separation region 20a and 20b, that is, both ends in the Y-axis direction. . In the drawing, the reference numerals are omitted, but the electrodes 22a and 22b are formed in all the separation regions 20a and 20b.

  The third transparent conductive film 30 is formed substantially on one surface of the third transparent substrate 31, and electrodes 32a and 32b are connected to both ends in the X-axis direction.

  The first transparent conductive film 10, the second transparent conductive film 20, and the third transparent conductive film 30 are metal oxides such as ITO (indium-tin oxide) and AZO (Al-doped zinc oxide), It is formed of a transparent material having conductivity. The first transparent conductive film 10, the second transparent conductive film 20, and the third transparent conductive film 30 may be formed of a material other than a metal oxide as long as it is a transparent material having conductivity. . That is, any material that has conductivity and can transmit light may be used. Specifically, it is formed of a material called an alternative material such as ITO, such as a conductive polymer, metal nanowire, or carbon nanotube. Also good.

  The 1st transparent substrate 11 and the 2nd transparent substrate 21 are transparent resin materials, such as PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), Comprising: It forms with the material which is easy to bend. The third transparent substrate 31 is formed of a transparent inorganic material such as glass or a transparent resin material such as plastic.

  In the touch panel in the present embodiment, the first transparent substrate 11 and the second transparent substrate 21 are formed with one surface of the first transparent substrate 11, that is, the first transparent conductive film 10. The surface and the other surface of the second transparent substrate 21 are joined by a transparent adhesive layer 41. Examples of the transparent adhesive layer 41 include a transparent adhesive such as an epoxy resin. The second transparent substrate 21 and the third transparent substrate 31 are frame-shaped in a state where one surface of the second transparent substrate 21 and one surface of the third transparent substrate 31 face each other. It is joined by an adhesive member 42 such as a double-sided tape. Thus, a space 43 is formed by the second transparent substrate 21 and the third transparent substrate 31, and the second transparent conductive film 20 and the third transparent conductive film 30 are opposed to each other through the space 43. Has been placed.

(Driving method)
Next, a method for driving the touch panel in this embodiment will be described. The touch panel in the present embodiment is one in which position detection by the capacitance method and position detection by the resistance film method are time-divisionally performed alternately. That is, the position detection by the resistive method is not performed during the time when the position detection by the electrostatic capacitance method is performed, and the position detection by the electrostatic capacitance method is performed during the time when the position detection by the resistive film method is performed. In other words, the position detection by the electrostatic capacity method and the position detection by the resistance film method are alternately performed.

  Based on FIG. 3, a case where position detection by a capacitive method is performed on the touch panel in the present embodiment will be described. In the position detection by the electrostatic capacity method, the position detection at the contact point is performed using the first transparent conductive film 10 and the second transparent conductive film 20. By the way, in the position detection by the capacitance method, it is preferable that the separation regions formed in the first transparent conductive film 10 and the second transparent conductive film 20 are separated from each other. In the present embodiment, since the first transparent conductive film 10 is used only in the capacitance method, the interval between the separation regions 10a in the first transparent conductive film 10 is widely formed.

  Further, since the second transparent conductive film 20 is used not only in the electrostatic capacity method but also in the resistive film method, the second transparent conductive film 20 is formed with respective isolation regions 20a and 20b. However, when performing position detection in the capacitive method, only the separation region 20a of the separation regions 20a and 20b is used. Therefore, in the 2nd transparent conductive film 20, the space | interval between the isolation | separation area | regions 20a and 20b is formed narrowly, and the space | interval between the isolation | separation areas 20a and 20b in the 2nd transparent conductive film 20 is 1st transparent conductive film. The film 10 is formed narrower than the interval between the separation regions 10a. In the touch panel in the present embodiment, when position detection is performed in the capacitive method, the separation region 20a is driven through the electrode 22a, but the separation region 20b is not driven through the electrode 22a. Furthermore, it is in an open state, that is, in a floating state without being grounded.

  As described above, in the touch panel according to the present embodiment, when the position detection is performed by the electrostatic capacitance method, the first transparent conductive film 10 and the separation region 20a in the second transparent conductive film 20 are used.

  Next, based on FIG. 4, the case where position detection by the resistive film method is performed on the touch panel in the present embodiment will be described. In position detection by the resistance film method, position detection is performed using the second transparent conductive film 20 and the third transparent conductive film 30. Specifically, position detection is performed by the same method as the 4-wire type in the resistive film type. By the way, in the position detection by the resistance film method, it is preferable that the separation regions formed in the second transparent conductive film 20 are narrowly formed. If possible, the third transparent conductive film is formed. It is preferable that it is formed on one surface without being divided into each separation region as in 30. However, since the 2nd transparent conductive film 20 is used also in an electrostatic capacitance system, it is necessary to isolate | separate into each isolation | separation area | region. For this reason, as described above, the interval between the separation regions 20a and 20b is formed to be as narrow as possible.

  In the touch panel in the present embodiment, in the case of performing position detection by the resistive film method, a potential gradient is generated in the second transparent conductive film 20 by applying a predetermined voltage to the electrodes 22a and 22b, so that the third By detecting the potential at the position in contact with the second transparent conductive film 20 by the transparent conductive film 30, the coordinates of the contact point in the Y direction are detected. In addition, a potential gradient is generated in the third transparent conductive film 30 by applying a predetermined voltage to the electrodes 32 a and 32 b, and the second transparent conductive film 20 is in contact with the third transparent conductive film 30. By detecting the potential, the coordinates of the contact point in the X direction are detected. Thereby, the position of the contact point can be detected by the resistive film method.

  As described above, in the touch panel in the present embodiment, when the position detection by the resistance film method is performed, the separation regions 20 a and 20 b in the second transparent conductive film 20 and the third transparent conductive film 30 are used. It is.

(Position detection)
In the touch panel in the present embodiment, detection of the position of the contact point will be described. In the touch panel according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5A, each divided region 10 a in the first transparent conductive film 10 is provided with an electrostatic capacitance type position detection via an electrode 12. A current detector 13 is connected. Further, as shown in FIG. 5B, each divided region 20a in the second transparent conductive film 20 includes a current detection unit 23 for performing position detection in the capacitive system via the electrode 22a, a resistor A potential detection unit 24 for performing position detection by a film system and a switch 25 for connection to the ground potential are connected, and a switch 26 for applying a power supply voltage Vcc is connected via an electrode 22b. Further, as shown in FIG. 5C, each divided region 20b in the second transparent conductive film 20 includes a potential detection unit 24 for performing position detection by a resistive film system via the electrode 22a, a ground potential. A switch 25 for connecting to the power supply voltage Vcc is connected, and a switch 26 for applying the power supply voltage Vcc is connected via the electrode 22b. Further, as shown in FIG. 5D, the third transparent conductive film 30 includes a potential detecting unit 34 for performing position detection by a resistive film system via an electrode 32a, and a switch for connecting to the ground potential. 35 is connected, and a switch 36 for applying the power supply voltage Vcc is connected via the electrode 32b.

  In the touch panel in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, when position detection is performed by a capacitance method, as shown in FIG. 6, all the switches 25, 26, 35, and 36 are opened. (Open state). In this state, the current detection unit 13 connected to each divided region 10 a of the first transparent conductive film 10 and the current detection unit 23 connected to each divided region 20 a of the second transparent conductive film 20. Thus, position detection by the electrostatic capacity method is performed.

  Further, in the touch panel according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, when the position detection by the resistance film method is performed, first, as shown in FIG. 7, the switches 25 and 26 are opened. The switches 35 and 36 are closed. In this state, a potential distribution is generated in the X-axis direction in the third transparent conductive film 30, and the potential detection unit 24 connected to each of the divided regions 20 a and 20 b of the second transparent conductive film 20. Thus, the position in the X direction is detected by the resistive film method. Next, as shown in FIG. 8, the switches 25 and 26 are closed, and the switches 35 and 36 are opened. In this state, a potential distribution is generated in the Y-axis direction in each of the divided regions 20 a and 20 b of the second transparent conductive film 20, and the potential detection unit 34 connected to the third transparent conductive film 30. Thus, position detection in the Y direction by the resistive film method is performed.

(Control method)
Next, a method for controlling the touch panel in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a control circuit for controlling the touch panel in the present embodiment. The control circuit includes an MCU (Micro Control Unit) unit 60, a capacitance method control unit 61, a capacitance method detection unit 62, a resistance film method control unit 63, a resistance film method selection unit 64, and a resistance film method detection unit 65. Etc. The MCU unit 60 is connected to a host computer (not shown) or the like via a host I / F, and controls the capacitance type control unit 61, the resistive film type control unit 63, the resistive film type selection unit 64, and the like.

  The capacitance type detection unit 62 is for performing position detection in the capacitance type, and specifically, a current detection unit connected to each divided region 10 a of the first transparent conductive film 10. 13 corresponds to the current detection unit 23 connected to each divided region 20 a of the second transparent conductive film 20. In addition, the capacitance method control unit 61 converts the measurement value detected by the capacitance method detection unit 62 into information for transmitting to the MCU unit 60.

  The resistance film type detection unit 65 is for performing position detection in the resistance film type, and specifically, a potential detection unit connected to each of the divided regions 20a and 20b of the second transparent conductive film 20. 24 corresponds to the potential detection unit 34 connected to the third transparent conductive film 30. Further, the resistance film type control unit 63 converts the measurement value detected by the resistance film type detection unit 65 into information for transmitting to the MCU unit 60. The resistance film type selection unit 64 connects or blocks the resistance film type detection unit 65 and the resistance film type control unit 63 based on a selection signal from the MCU unit 60, and is, for example, a switch or the like. .

  In the present embodiment, the resistive film type selection unit 64 is formed of a relay as shown in FIG. Specifically, the relay serving as the resistive film type selection unit 64 includes a switch 64a and a coil 64b, and a selection signal from the MCU unit 60 is input to one end of the coil 64b. . Note that the other end of the coil 64b is connected to a power source and has a potential of Vcc (H level potential).

  When the touch position is detected on the touch panel in the present embodiment, a selection signal as shown in FIG. 11 is generated in the MCU unit 60 and input to one end of the coil 64b. When the selection signal from the MCU unit 60 is at the L level, a magnetic field is generated by the current flowing through the coil 64b, and the switch 64a is connected and turned on. In this state, the resistive film type control unit 63 and the resistive film type detection unit 65 are connected via the resistive film type selection unit 64, and position detection by the resistive film type is performed.

  Next, when the selection signal from the MCU unit 60 is at the H level, since no current flows through the coil 64b, the generated magnetic field disappears, and the switch 64b is opened and turned off. In this state, the resistive film type control unit 63 and the resistive film type detection unit 65 are separated by the resistive film type selection unit 64, and the transparent conductive film and the transparent conductive film connected to the resistive film type detection unit 65 are separated. The isolation region is open. In this state, position detection is performed by a capacitance method.

  In the above description, the case where a relay is used for the resistive film type selection unit 64 has been described. However, as shown in FIG. 12, a semiconductor element such as a transistor may be used for the resistive film type selection unit 64. In this case, the selection signal is input to the base (B) of the transistor which is the resistive film type selection unit 64, and the emitter (E) and the collector (C) of the transistor which is the resistive film type selection unit 64 are detected by the resistive film type. Connected to the unit 65 and the resistance film type detection unit 65. Examples of such a semiconductor element include an FET (Field effect transistor) and the like in addition to a transistor.

(Touch panel touch position detection method)
Next, a method for detecting the touch position of the touch panel in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step 102 (S102), an H-level selection signal transmitted from the MCU unit 60 is input to the resistive film type selection unit 64 in order to perform position detection by the capacitance method.

  Next, in step 104 (S104), by inputting an H level selection signal to the resistive film type selection unit 64, the resistive film type selection unit 64 is turned off. At this time, the switches 25, 26, 35, and 36 are in an open state as shown in FIG.

  Next, in step 106 (S106), the position detection of the contact position by the capacitance method is started. At this time, the current detection unit 13 connected to each divided region 10a in the first transparent conductive film 10 and the current detection unit 23 connected to each divided region 20a in the second transparent conductive film 20 include Used.

  Next, in step 108 (S108), it is determined whether or not there is a contact detected in the capacitance method. Specifically, based on the amount of current detected by the current detectors 13 and 23, it is determined whether or not there is a contact detected in the capacitive method. If it is determined that there is contact detected in the capacitance method, the process proceeds to step 110. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no contact detected in the capacitance method, the process proceeds to step 112.

  Next, in step 110 (S110), based on the amount of current detected by the current detectors 13 and 23, the coordinate position of the contact position by the capacitance method is calculated, and the calculated coordinate position of the contact position is calculated by the host computer. Send to etc.

  Next, in step 112 (S112), the L level selection signal transmitted from the MCU unit 60 is input to the resistance film type selection unit 64 in order to perform position detection by the resistance film type.

  Next, in step 114 (S114), an L level selection signal is input to the resistive film type selection unit 64, whereby the resistive film type selection unit 64 is turned on. At this time, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, the switches 25 and 26 are opened and the switches 35 and 36 are closed as shown in FIG. generate.

  Next, in step 116 (S116), the position detection of the contact position by the resistive film method is started. At this time, the potential detection unit 24 connected to each of the divided regions 20a and 20b in the second transparent conductive film 20 is used.

  Next, in step 118 (S118), it is determined whether or not there is a contact detected in the resistive film method. Specifically, based on the potential detected by the potential detection unit 24, it is determined whether or not there is contact detected in the resistive film method. If it is determined that there is contact detected in the resistive film method, the process proceeds to step 120. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no contact detected in the resistive film method, the process proceeds to step 102.

  Next, in step 120 (S120), the coordinate position of the X coordinate of the contact position is calculated by the resistive film method based on the potential detected by the potential detection unit 24. Thereafter, by controlling the MCU unit 60 or the like, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, the switches 25 and 26 are closed and the switches 35 and 36 are opened, so that a potential gradient is generated in the Y-axis direction. The potential is detected by the potential detector 34 connected to the third transparent conductive film 30, and the coordinate position of the Y coordinate of the contact position is calculated by the resistance film method based on the detected potential. In this way, the coordinate position of the contact position by the resistive film method is calculated, and the calculated coordinate position of the contact position is transmitted to a host computer or the like.

  In the present embodiment, the step of detecting the position of the contact point by the capacitance method is described as a first detection step, and the step of detecting the position of the contact point by the resistance film method is described as a second detection step. There is a case.

  As described above, position detection can be performed on the touch panel in the present embodiment. According to this position detection method for a touch panel, position detection can be performed for any contact object, and position detection can be performed by a simple process on a touch panel that can perform position detection simply by touching.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a touch panel in the second embodiment will be described. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the touch panel in the present embodiment includes a first transparent conductive film 110 and a second transparent conductive film 120. In the present embodiment, position detection at the contact point (contact position) can be performed by the electrostatic capacitance method using the first transparent conductive film 110 and the second transparent conductive film 120, and the resistance film method. Thus, position detection at the contact point (contact position) can be performed. In the present embodiment, the first conductive film is the first transparent conductive film 110, and the second conductive film is the second transparent conductive film 120.

  The first transparent conductive film 110 is formed on one surface of the first transparent substrate 111, and has a plurality of strip-shaped separation regions 110a and 110b formed long in the X-axis direction. The separation regions 110a and 110b are alternately arranged in the Y-axis direction, and electrodes 112a and 112b are connected to both ends of each separation region 110a and 110b, that is, both ends in the X-axis direction. In the drawing, the reference numerals are omitted, but the electrodes 112a and 112b are formed in all the separation regions 110a and 110b.

  The second transparent conductive film 120 is formed on one surface of the second transparent substrate 121, and has a plurality of strip-shaped separation regions 120a and 120b formed long in the Y-axis direction. The separation regions 120a and 120b are alternately arranged in the X-axis direction, and electrodes 122a and 122b are connected to both ends of each separation region 120a and 120b, that is, both ends in the Y-axis direction. In the drawing, the reference numerals are omitted, but the electrodes 22a and 22b are formed in all the separation regions 20a and 20b.

  The 1st transparent conductive film 110 and the 2nd transparent conductive film 120 are metal oxides, such as ITO and AZO, and are formed with the transparent material which has electroconductivity. In addition, as long as the 1st transparent conductive film 110 and the 2nd transparent conductive film 120 are transparent materials which have electroconductivity, you may form with materials other than a metal oxide. That is, any material that has conductivity and can transmit light may be used. Specifically, it is formed of a material called an alternative material such as ITO, such as a conductive polymer, metal nanowire, or carbon nanotube. Also good.

  The first transparent substrate 111 is a transparent resin material such as PET, and is formed of a material that is easily bent. The second transparent substrate 121 is made of a transparent inorganic material such as glass or a transparent resin material such as plastic.

  In the touch panel in the present embodiment, the first transparent substrate 111 and the second transparent substrate 121 have one surface of the first transparent substrate 111 and one surface of the second transparent substrate 121 opposed to each other. In the state, they are joined by an adhesive member 142 such as a frame-like double-sided tape. As a result, a space 143 is formed by the first transparent substrate 111 and the second transparent substrate 121, and the first transparent conductive film 110 and the second transparent conductive film 120 are opposed to each other through the space 143. Is arranged.

(Driving method)
Next, a method for driving the touch panel in this embodiment will be described. The touch panel in the present embodiment is one in which position detection by the capacitance method and position detection by the resistance film method are time-divisionally performed alternately. That is, when the position detection by the capacitance method is performed, the position detection by the resistance film method is not performed, and when the position detection by the resistance film method is performed, the position detection by the capacitance method is not performed.

  Based on FIG. 16, a case where position detection by a capacitive method is performed on the touch panel in the present embodiment will be described. In the position detection by the capacitance method, the position detection at the contact point is performed using the first transparent conductive film 110 and the second transparent conductive film 120. By the way, in the position detection by the electrostatic capacity method, it is preferable that the separation regions in the first transparent conductive film 110 and the second transparent conductive film 120 are formed apart from each other. In the present embodiment, the first transparent conductive film 110 and the second transparent conductive film 120 are used not only in the capacitive method but also in the resistive film method. Accordingly, the separation regions 110a and 110b are formed in the first transparent conductive film 110, and the separation regions 120a and 120b are formed in the second transparent conductive film 120. In this case, only the separation region 110a is used among the separation regions 110a and 110b, and only the separation region 120a is used among the separation regions 120a and 120b. That is, in the touch panel in this embodiment, in the case of position detection in the capacitive method, the separation region 110a is driven through the electrode 112a, but the separation region 110b is not driven through the electrode 112b. Furthermore, it is in an open state, that is, in a floating state without being grounded. Similarly, the isolation region 120a is driven through the electrode 122b, but the isolation region 120b is not driven through the electrode 122b, and is not grounded. It has become.

  As described above, in the touch panel according to the present embodiment, when position detection is performed by the capacitance method, the separation region 110a in the first transparent conductive film 110 and the separation region 120a in the second transparent conductive film 120 are separated. Used.

  Next, based on FIG. 17, the case where position detection by the resistive film method is performed on the touch panel in the present embodiment will be described. In position detection by the resistance film method, position detection is performed using the first transparent conductive film 110 and the second transparent conductive film 120. Specifically, position detection is performed by the same method as the 4-wire type in the resistive film type. By the way, in the position detection by the resistance film method, it is preferable and possible that the separation regions formed in the first transparent conductive film 110 and the second transparent conductive film 120 are narrowly formed. For example, it is preferable that the surface is formed on one surface without being divided into each separation region. However, since the first transparent conductive film 110 and the second transparent conductive film 120 are also used in the electrostatic capacity method, it is necessary to separate them into respective separation regions. For this reason, as described above, the interval between the separation regions 110a and 110b and the interval between the separation regions 120a and 120b are formed to be as narrow as possible.

  In the touch panel in this embodiment, in the case of performing position detection by the resistance film method, a potential gradient is generated in the first transparent conductive film 110 by applying a predetermined voltage to the electrodes 112a and 112b, so that the second By detecting the potential at the position in contact with the first transparent conductive film 110 by the transparent conductive film 120, the coordinates of the contact point in the X direction are detected. Further, a potential gradient is generated in the second transparent conductive film 120 by applying a predetermined voltage to the electrodes 122a and 122b, and the first transparent conductive film 110 is in contact with the second transparent conductive film 120. By detecting the potential, the coordinates of the contact point in the Y direction are detected. Thereby, the position of the contact point by a resistive film system is detectable.

  As described above, in the touch panel according to the present embodiment, when the position detection by the resistance film method is performed, the separation regions 110a and 110b in the first transparent conductive film 110 and the separation regions 120a and 110b in the second transparent conductive film 120 120b is used.

(Position detection)
In the touch panel in the present embodiment, detection of the position of the contact point will be described. In the touch panel according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18A, each divided region 110a in the first transparent conductive film 110 is subjected to capacitance type position detection via an electrode 112a. A current detection unit 113, a potential detection unit 114 for performing position detection by a resistive film method, and a switch 115 for connection to the ground potential are connected, and a switch 116 for applying the power supply voltage Vcc is connected via the electrode 112b. It is connected. Further, as shown in FIG. 18B, each divided region 110b in the first transparent conductive film 110 has a potential detection unit 114 for performing position detection by a resistive film method via an electrode 112a, a ground potential. A switch 115 for connecting to the power supply voltage Vcc is connected, and a switch 116 for applying the power supply voltage Vcc is connected via the electrode 112b. Further, as shown in FIG. 18C, each divided region 120a in the second transparent conductive film 120 includes a current detection unit 123 for performing position detection in the capacitive system via the electrode 122a, a resistor A potential detection unit 124 for detecting the position by the film system and a switch 125 for connecting to the ground potential are connected, and a switch 126 for applying the power supply voltage Vcc is connected via the electrode 122b. Further, as shown in FIG. 18D, each divided region 120b in the second transparent conductive film 120 includes a potential detection unit 124 for performing position detection by a resistive film method via the electrode 122a, a ground potential. A switch 125 for connecting to the power supply voltage Vcc is connected, and a switch 126 for applying the power supply voltage Vcc is connected via the electrode 122b.

  In the touch panel in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, when position detection is performed by a capacitance method, as shown in FIG. 19, the switches 115, 116, 125, and 126 are all open. (Open state). In this state, the current detection unit 113 connected to each divided region 110a of the first transparent conductive film 110 and the current detection unit 123 connected to each divided region 120a of the second transparent conductive film 120. Thus, position detection by the electrostatic capacity method is performed.

  Further, in the touch panel in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, when position detection by the resistive film method is performed, first, the switches 115 and 116 are opened as shown in FIG. The switches 125 and 126 are closed. In this state, a potential distribution is generated in the Y-axis direction in the second transparent conductive film 30, and the potential detection unit 114 connected to each of the divided regions 110 a and 110 b of the first transparent conductive film 110. Thus, position detection in the Y direction by the resistive film method is performed. Next, as shown in FIG. 21, the switches 115 and 116 are closed, and the switches 125 and 126 are opened. In this state, a potential distribution is generated in the X-axis direction in each divided region 110a, 110b of the first transparent conductive film 110, and in each divided region 120a, 120b of the second transparent conductive film 120. The connected potential detector 124 detects the position in the X direction by a resistive film method.

  The touch panel control method in this embodiment is the same as the touch panel control method in the first embodiment, and the same control circuit as that shown in FIG. 9 is used. In the present embodiment, the capacitance type detection unit 62 includes each of the current detection unit 113 and the second transparent conductive film 120 that are connected to the respective divided regions 110a of the first transparent conductive film 110. This corresponds to the current detection unit 123 connected to the region 120a. Further, the resistance film type detection unit 65 specifically includes the potential detection unit 114 and the second transparent conductive film 120 connected to the divided regions 110a and 110b of the first transparent conductive film 110, respectively. This corresponds to the potential detection unit 124 connected to the divided regions 120a and 120b.

(Touch panel touch position detection method)
Next, a method for detecting the touch position of the touch panel in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step 102 (S102), an H-level selection signal transmitted from the MCU unit 60 is input to the resistive film type selection unit 64 in order to perform position detection by the capacitance method.

  Next, in step 104 (S104), by inputting an H level selection signal to the resistive film type selection unit 64, the resistive film type selection unit 64 is turned off. At this time, as shown in FIG. 19, the switches 115, 116, 125, and 126 are opened by the control of the MCU unit 60 and the like.

  Next, in step 106 (S106), the position detection of the contact position by the capacitance method is started. At this time, the current detection unit 113 connected to each divided region 110a in the first transparent conductive film 110 and the current detection unit 123 connected to each divided region 120a in the second transparent conductive film 120 include Used.

  Next, in step 108 (S108), it is determined whether or not there is a contact detected in the capacitance method. Specifically, based on the amount of current detected by the current detection units 113 and 123, it is determined whether or not there is a contact detected in the capacitive method. If it is determined that there is contact detected in the capacitance method, the process proceeds to step 110. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no contact detected in the capacitance method, the process proceeds to step 112.

  Next, in step 110 (S110), the coordinate position of the contact position by the capacitance method is calculated based on the amount of current detected by the current detectors 113 and 123, and the calculated position coordinate of the contact position is the host computer. Etc.

  Next, in step 112 (S112), the L level selection signal transmitted from the MCU unit 60 is input to the resistance film type selection unit 64 in order to perform position detection by the resistance film type.

  Next, in step 114 (S114), an L level selection signal is input to the resistive film type selection unit 64, whereby the resistive film type selection unit 64 is turned on. At this time, for example, as shown in FIG. 20, the switches 115 and 116 are opened and the switches 125 and 126 are closed as shown in FIG. generate.

  Next, in step 116 (S116), the position detection of the contact position by the resistive film method is started. At this time, the potential detection unit 114 connected to each of the divided regions 110a and 110b in the first transparent conductive film 110 is used.

  Next, in step 118 (S118), it is determined whether or not there is a contact detected in the resistive film method. Specifically, based on the potential detected by the potential detection unit 114, it is determined whether or not there is contact detected in the resistive film method. If it is determined that there is contact detected in the resistive film method, the process proceeds to step 120. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no contact detected in the resistive film method, the process proceeds to step 102.

  Next, in step 120 (S120), the coordinate position of the Y coordinate of the contact position is calculated by the resistive film method based on the potential detected by the potential detection unit 114. Thereafter, by controlling the MCU unit 60 or the like, for example, as shown in FIG. 21, the switches 115 and 116 are closed and the switches 125 and 126 are opened, so that a potential gradient is generated in the X-axis direction. The potential is detected by the potential detector 124 connected to each of the divided regions 120a and 120b in the second transparent conductive film 120, and the coordinate of the X coordinate of the contact position by the resistive film method based on the detected potential Calculate the position. In this way, the coordinate position of the contact position by the resistive film method is calculated, and the calculated coordinate position of the contact position is transmitted to a host computer or the like.

  In the present embodiment, the step of detecting the position of the contact point by the capacitance method is described as a first detection step, and the step of detecting the position of the contact point by the resistance film method is described as a second detection step. There is a case.

  As described above, position detection can be performed on the touch panel in the present embodiment. According to this position detection method for a touch panel, position detection can be performed for any contact object, and position detection can be performed by a simple process on a touch panel that can perform position detection simply by touching.

  The contents other than the above are the same as in the first embodiment.

  As mentioned above, although the form which concerns on implementation of this invention was demonstrated, the said content does not limit the content of invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 1st transparent conductive film 10a Isolated area | region 11 1st transparent substrate 12 Electrode 13 Current detection part 20 2nd transparent conductive film 20a Isolated area 20b Isolated area 21 2nd transparent substrate 22a Electrode 22b Electrode 23 Current detection unit 24 Potential detection unit 30 Third transparent conductive film 31 Third transparent substrate 32a Electrode 32b Electrode 34 Potential detection unit 41 Adhesive layer 42 Adhesive member 43 Space 60 MCU unit 61 Capacitance control unit 62 Static Capacitance type detection unit 63 Resistance film type control unit 64 Resistance film type selection unit 65 Resistance film type detection unit

Claims (11)

A first conductive film having a plurality of separation regions formed in a strip shape long in one direction;
A second conductive film having a plurality of separation regions formed in a long strip shape in the other direction substantially orthogonal to the one direction;
A third conductive film;
Have
The isolation regions in the first conductive film are arranged in the other direction, and the isolation regions in the second conductive film are arranged in the one direction,
A current detection unit is connected to each divided region in the first conductive film,
A current detection unit is connected to a part of the divided region in the second conductive film,
A potential detection unit is connected to each divided region in the second conductive film,
A touch panel, wherein a potential detector is connected to the third conductive film. A switch for generating a potential gradient in the other direction in each divided region in the second conductive film is connected to each divided region in the second conductive film,
The touch panel according to claim 1, wherein a switch for generating a potential gradient in the one direction in the third conductive film is connected to the third conductive film. The position detection of the contact position by the electrostatic capacitance method is performed by a part of the divided region in the first conductive film and the second conductive film,
The touch panel according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a position of a contact position is detected by a resistance film method using the second conductive film and the third conductive film. A first conductive film having a plurality of separation regions formed in a strip shape long in one direction;
A second conductive film having a plurality of separation regions formed in a long strip shape in the other direction substantially orthogonal to the one direction;
Have
The isolation regions in the first conductive film are arranged in the other direction, and the isolation regions in the second conductive film are arranged in the one direction,
A current detection unit is connected to a part of the divided region in the first conductive film,
A potential detection unit is connected to each divided region of the first conductive film,
A current detection unit is connected to a part of the divided region in the second conductive film,
A touch panel, wherein a potential detection unit is connected to each divided region of the second conductive film. A switch for generating a potential gradient in the one direction in each divided region in the first conductive film is connected to each divided region in the first conductive film,
A switch for generating a potential gradient in the other direction in each divided region of the second conductive film is connected to each divided region of the second conductive film. Item 5. The touch panel according to item 4. The position detection of the contact position by the capacitive method is performed by a part of the divided region in the first conductive film and a part of the divided region in the second conductive film,
The touch panel according to claim 4 or 5, wherein a position of a contact position is detected by a resistance film method using the first conductive film and the second conductive film. A first conductive film having a plurality of separation regions formed in a strip shape long in one direction, and a second conductive film having a plurality of separation regions formed in a strip shape long in the other direction substantially orthogonal to the one direction. A conductive film and a third conductive film, wherein the isolation region in the first conductive film is arranged in the other direction, and the isolation region in the second conductive film is the one of the ones In the touch panel position detection method arranged in the direction,
A first detection for detecting a position of a contact by a current detection unit connected to a divided region in the first conductive film and a current detection unit connected to a part of the divided region in the second conductive film. Process,
A second detection unit for detecting a contact position by a potential detection unit connected to each divided region in the second conductive film and a potential detection unit connected to each divided region in the third conductive film; A detection process;
A method for detecting a position of a touch panel, comprising:   In the first detection step, one or both of the third conductive film and the divided region of the second conductive film to which the current detection unit is not connected are in a floating state. The touch panel position detection method according to claim 7. A first conductive film having a plurality of separation regions formed in a strip shape long in one direction, and a second conductive film having a plurality of separation regions formed in a strip shape long in the other direction substantially orthogonal to the one direction. A touch panel in which the isolation regions in the first conductive film are arranged in the other direction, and the isolation regions in the second conductive film are arranged in the one direction In the position detection method of
A contact detection position is detected by a current detector connected to a part of the divided region of the first conductive film and a current detector connected to a part of the divided region of the second conductive film. 1 detection step;
A second detection unit for detecting a contact position by a potential detection unit connected to each divided region in the first conductive film and a potential detection unit connected to each divided region in the second conductive film; A detection process;
A method for detecting a position of a touch panel, comprising:   In the first detection step, the divided region of the first conductive film to which the current detection unit is not connected and the divided region of the second conductive film to which the current detection unit is not connected are in a floating state The touch panel position detection method according to claim 9, wherein   The touch panel position detection method according to claim 7, wherein the first detection step and the second detection step are alternately performed.

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