JP5191226B2 - Display device and electronic device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a display device and an electronic apparatus . In particular, the present invention includes a display panel in which a plurality of position sensor elements that receive light incident from one surface side and generate received light data are disposed in a display region in which a plurality of pixels are disposed. The present invention relates to a display device and an electronic apparatus that detect the position of a detection object that has moved to a display area on one surface side of a panel based on light reception data generated by the position sensor element.

  Display devices such as liquid crystal display devices and organic EL display devices have advantages such as thinness, light weight, and low power consumption.

  In such a display device, the liquid crystal display device includes a liquid crystal panel in which a liquid crystal layer is sealed between a pair of substrates as a display panel. The liquid crystal panel is, for example, a transmission type, and the liquid crystal panel modulates and transmits the illumination light emitted from an illumination device such as a backlight provided on the back surface of the liquid crystal panel. An image is displayed on the front surface of the liquid crystal panel by the modulated illumination light.

  This liquid crystal panel is, for example, an active matrix method, and a TFT array substrate on which a plurality of thin film transistors (TFTs) functioning as pixel switching elements are formed, and a facing surface facing the TFT array substrate. A substrate, and a liquid crystal layer provided between the TFT array substrate and the counter substrate. In this active matrix type liquid crystal panel, the pixel switching element inputs a potential to the pixel electrode, thereby changing the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer and controlling the transmittance of the light transmitted through the pixel. Is modulated.

  In the liquid crystal panel as described above, in addition to the TFT functioning as a pixel switching element, a plurality of position sensor elements including a light receiving element that receives light and obtains light reception data are incorporated in the display area. (For example, see Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).

  A liquid crystal panel having a built-in position sensor element including a light receiving element as described above is called an I / O touch panel (Integrated-Optical touch panel) because it can function as a user interface. In this type of liquid crystal panel, it is not necessary to separately install a resistive film type or capacitive type touch panel on the front surface of the liquid crystal panel. For this reason, size reduction of an apparatus is easily realizable. Furthermore, when a resistive film type or capacitive type touch panel is installed, the light transmitted through the display area by the touch panel may decrease or the light may interfere with the display image. Although the quality may deteriorate, the occurrence of this problem can be suppressed by incorporating the light receiving element in the liquid crystal panel as described above.

  In such a liquid crystal panel, for example, a built-in light receiving element receives visible light reflected by a detection object such as a user's finger or a touch pen touching the front surface of the liquid crystal panel. After that, based on the light reception data obtained by the light receiving element, the coordinate position where the detected object contacts in the display region is specified, and the operation corresponding to the specified coordinate position is performed by the liquid crystal display device itself or This is implemented in another electronic device connected to the liquid crystal display device.

  When detecting the position of the object to be detected using the light receiving element as described above, the light reception data obtained by the light receiving element may include a lot of noise due to the influence of visible light included in the external light. is there. For this reason, it may be difficult to detect the position accurately.

  In order to improve such a problem, a method for controlling an operation when an illumination device such as a backlight emits illumination light based on light reception data obtained by a light receiving element is known. Here, when light with high light intensity is received, the operation of the lighting device is controlled so that the lighting device emits illumination light with higher light intensity, while light with low light intensity is emitted. When the light is received, the operation of the illumination device is controlled so that the illumination device emits illumination light having a lower light intensity. Thereby, it is possible to improve the problem that the quality of the display image is deteriorated due to the influence of external light. Further, an increase in power consumption can be suppressed.

  In addition, when black display is performed in the display area, the light receiving element provided on the TFT array substrate blocks visible light, so that it is difficult to receive the visible light. For this reason, it may be difficult to detect the position accurately.

  For this reason, techniques using invisible light other than visible light such as infrared rays have been proposed. Here, for example, an infrared light source that emits infrared light as invisible light is provided in addition to the visible light source on the backlight provided on the back of the liquid crystal panel, and the infrared light and visible light are irradiated as illumination light. The light receiving element receives the invisible light rays such as infrared rays to obtain received light data, and detects the position of the detection object based on the obtained data (for example, Patent Document 3 and Patent Document 4). reference).

JP 2006-127212 A JP 2007-128497 A JP 2004-318819 A JP 2005-275644 A

  However, when the light receiving element of the position sensor element receives light in an environment where the light intensity is high, the light reception data value may exceed the dynamic range of the position sensor element, and the sensor output may be saturated. is there. For this reason, it may be difficult to accurately detect the position of the detected object. In particular, in an outdoor environment where light is irradiated from the sun, the intensity of light is higher than in an artificial lighting environment in the room, and the occurrence of this problem may become apparent.

  In order to cope with the outdoor environment, the position sensor element is provided with a large dynamic range to prevent the sensor output from being saturated, and can be obtained in an indoor artificial lighting environment. The resolution of the received light data is lowered, and the detection accuracy when detecting the position of the detected object may be lowered.

  Even when the light receiving element of the position sensor element receives invisible light such as infrared rays, the same problem as described above occurs. In addition, when invisible light such as infrared rays is used, a non-visible light source that emits invisible rays such as infrared rays is separately driven, resulting in a problem of increased power consumption.

  As described above, in the above, there may be a problem such as a decrease in position detection accuracy and an increase in power consumption.

Therefore, the present invention provides a display device capable of improving or erasing position detection accuracy and reducing electronic device power consumption.

In a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention , in a display region where a plurality of pixels are arranged, a plurality of position sensor elements that receive light incident from one side and generate first received light data are arranged. And a position detection unit that detects the position of the detection object moved to the display area on the one surface side of the display panel based on the first received light data generated by the position sensor element When the external light sensor element for generating a second light receiving data by receiving the external light incident from the side of one surface of the display panel, the second light receiving data generated by the external light sensor element When the intensity of the external light obtained based on the reference light is equal to or higher than a reference value, the saturation point of the first received light data with respect to the incident light intensity is increased. When the intensity of the external light is less than the reference value, the incident light intensity is Against So as to reduce the saturation point of the serial first light receiving data, and a control unit for controlling the position sensor element.
An electronic apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention includes the display device having the above configuration.

Preferably, the position sensor element includes a light receiving element and an amplification transistor, and the light incident from one side of the display panel is received by the light receiving element, and a voltage corresponding to the generated charge is amplified by the amplification element. Amplification is performed by a transistor, and the amplified voltage is output as the first light reception data.
Preferably, the control unit determines an intensity of external light incident on the external light sensor element based on the second received light data, and an incident light amount incident on the position sensor element based on the determination result To control.
Preferably, it further includes an illumination unit that emits illumination light to the other surface of the display panel,
The control unit controls an incident light amount incident on the position sensor element by changing an infrared light amount included in the illumination light emitted from the illumination unit.
Preferably , the position sensor element is configured to receive infrared light , and the external light sensor element is configured to receive infrared light .

Preferably, the position sensor element includes a first capacitor and a second capacitor having a larger capacitance than the first capacitor as a capacitor for accumulating electric charges generated by receiving the infrared light. ,
The control unit acquires the first light reception data based on the charge accumulated in the first capacitor or based on the charge accumulated in the second capacitor, The saturation point of the first received light data with respect to the incident light intensity is changed.

Preferably, the control unit compares the intensity of light obtained based on the second received light data acquired by the external light sensor element with a first reference value, and based on the result of the comparison, the incident light The position sensor element is controlled so that the saturation point of the first received light data with respect to the intensity changes, and the intensity of light obtained based on the second received light data acquired by the external light sensor element is set to at least one Compared with the second reference value, the amount of incident light is changed based on the result of the comparison.

Preferably, the position sensor element includes a semiconductor layer, a channel region formed in the semiconductor layer, a pair of source / drain regions formed in the semiconductor layer so as to sandwich the channel region, and the channel region A light-receiving element having a gate electrode formed through a gate insulating film, and an opening that transmits light incident from one surface side of the display panel at a position corresponding to the channel region The gate electrode is disposed on the other surface side of the display panel with respect to the channel region.

Preferably, the external light sensor element is provided in the display panel.
Alternatively, the external light sensor element is preferably provided in an area other than the display area in the display panel.

  Preferably, the display panel is sandwiched between a first substrate, a second substrate facing the first substrate at a distance from the first substrate, and the first substrate and the second substrate. And a liquid crystal layer in which liquid crystal molecules are aligned.

In the present invention, the position sensor element is controlled as follows based on the second received light data generated by the external light sensor element . For example, when it is determined that the intensity of the external light incident on the external light sensor element is equal to or higher than a reference value, the saturation point of the first received light data with respect to the incident light intensity is increased and the external light sensor element is input. When it is determined that the intensity of the external light to be performed is less than the reference value, the saturation point of the first received light data with respect to the incident light intensity is controlled to be small . In addition to this control, preferably, the amount of incident light incident on the position sensor element is controlled, for example, by changing the amount of infrared light included in the illumination light emitted from the illumination unit.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the display apparatus which can implement | achieve the improvement of a position detection precision or the reduction of power consumption can be provided.

  An example of an embodiment according to the present invention will be described.

(Configuration of liquid crystal display device)
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a liquid crystal display device 100 in an embodiment according to the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid crystal display device 100 according to the present embodiment includes a liquid crystal panel 200, a backlight 300, and a data processing unit 400.

  The liquid crystal panel 200 will be described.

  The liquid crystal panel 200 is an active matrix system, and includes a TFT array substrate 201, a counter substrate 202, and a liquid crystal layer 203 as shown in FIG.

  In the liquid crystal panel 200, the TFT array substrate 201 and the counter substrate 202 face each other so as to be spaced apart from each other. A liquid crystal layer 203 is provided so as to be sandwiched between the TFT array substrate 201 and the counter substrate 202.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, in the liquid crystal panel 200, the first polarizing plate 206 and the second polarizing plate 207 are installed so as to face each other on both sides of the liquid crystal panel 200. Here, the first polarizing plate 206 is disposed on the TFT array substrate 201 side, and the second polarizing plate 207 is disposed on the counter substrate 202 side.

  The liquid crystal panel 200 is, for example, a transmissive type, and as shown in FIG. 1, a backlight 300 is disposed so as to be located on the TFT array substrate 201 side. Illumination light emitted from the backlight 300 is applied to the surface opposite to the facing surface. As will be described in detail later, the liquid crystal panel 200 includes a plurality of pixels (not shown), includes a display area PA for displaying an image, and a backlight 300 installed on the back side of the liquid crystal panel 200. The emitted illumination light is received from the back via the first polarizing plate 206, and the light received from the back is modulated in the display area PA.

  Here, a plurality of image display elements (not shown) including TFTs are provided as pixel switching elements (not shown) so as to correspond to the pixels in the TFT array substrate 201, and the pixel switching elements perform switching control. Thus, the illumination light received from the back surface is modulated. Then, the modulated illumination light is emitted to the front side via the second polarizing plate 207, and an image is displayed in the display area PA.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal panel 200 is a so-called I / O touch panel, which will be described in detail later, but on the front side opposite to the back surface of the liquid crystal panel 200 on which the backlight 300 is installed. A position sensor element (not shown) including a light receiving element is formed in order to detect the position of the detected object when the detected object such as a user's finger or a touch pen comes into contact or approaches. The light receiving element that constitutes the position sensor element receives the reflected light reflected by the detection object on the front side of the liquid crystal panel 200. That is, the light receiving element that constitutes the position sensor element receives the reflected light from the counter substrate 202 side toward the TFT array substrate 201 and photoelectrically converts it to accumulate charges, and the received light data is output by the charges. The

  Further, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal panel 200 is formed such that a light receiving element that receives external light incident from the front side of the liquid crystal panel 200 constitutes an external light sensor element (not shown). For example, the outside light sensor element is formed by a phototransistor. Here, the external light sensor element receives external light from the counter substrate 202 side toward the TFT array substrate 201 side. And the light receiving element which comprises an external light sensor element accumulate | stores an electric charge by performing photoelectric conversion, and received light data is output by the electric charge.

  FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the liquid crystal panel 200 in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram showing pixels formed in the display area PA in the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 3, (a) shows the image display element 30a, and (b) shows the position sensor element 30b.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid crystal panel 200 has a display area PA and a peripheral area CA located around the display area PA.

  In the liquid crystal panel 200, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of pixels P are arranged in a matrix in the horizontal direction x and the vertical direction y in the display area PA. Here, as shown in FIG. 3, the pixel P is configured to include an image display element 30a and a position sensor element 30b.

  On the other hand, in the peripheral area CA of the liquid crystal panel 200, a display vertical drive circuit 11, a display horizontal drive circuit 12, a sensor vertical drive circuit 13, and a sensor horizontal drive circuit 14 are provided. Further, in the present embodiment, the external light sensor element GS is provided in the peripheral area CA. For example, each member is constituted by a semiconductor element formed in the same manner as the image display element 30a and the position sensor element 30b. Each part will be described sequentially.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the display vertical drive circuit 11 is provided in the peripheral area CA. As shown in FIG. 3, the display vertical drive circuit 11 is connected to a gate line G1 extending in the horizontal direction x. Here, it is connected to each of a plurality of gate lines G1 arranged in the vertical direction y. The display vertical drive circuit 11 sequentially supplies a selection pulse to each of the gate lines G1 arranged in the vertical direction y based on the supplied control signal.

  The display horizontal drive circuit 12 is provided in the peripheral area CA as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the display horizontal drive circuit 12 is connected to the first data line S1 extending in the vertical direction y. Here, it is connected to each of a plurality of first data lines S1 arranged in the horizontal direction x. Then, the display horizontal drive circuit 12 sequentially supplies video signals to the first data lines S1 arranged in the horizontal direction x based on the supplied control signal.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the sensor vertical drive circuit 13 is provided in the peripheral area CA. As shown in FIG. 3, the sensor vertical drive circuit 13 is connected to a read line Read formed so as to extend in the horizontal direction x. Here, it is connected to each of a plurality of readout lines Read aligned in the vertical direction y. The sensor vertical drive circuit 13 sequentially supplies a selection pulse to each of the read lines Read aligned in the vertical direction y based on the supplied control signal.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the sensor horizontal driving circuit 14 is provided in the peripheral area CA. As shown in FIG. 3, the sensor horizontal drive circuit 14 is connected to a second data line S2 formed so as to extend in the vertical direction y. Here, it is connected to each of a plurality of second data lines S2 arranged in the horizontal direction x. The sensor horizontal drive circuit 14 sequentially reads out the light reception data output from the position sensor element 30b from each of the second data lines S2 arranged in the horizontal direction x based on the supplied control signal. .

  As shown in FIG. 3, the image display element 30a includes a pixel switching element 31 and an auxiliary capacitance element Cs.

  In the image display element 30a, each of the pixel switching element 31 and the auxiliary capacitance element Cs includes a first data line S1 for display extending in the vertical direction y and a horizontal direction x as shown in FIG. It is provided near the intersection with the existing gate line G1.

  Here, the pixel switching element 31 is a transistor, the gate electrode is connected to the gate line G1, the source electrode is connected to the first data line S1, and the drain electrode is connected to the auxiliary capacitance element Cs and the liquid crystal layer 203. ing.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the auxiliary capacitance element Cs is a capacitor, and one electrode is connected to the auxiliary capacitance line, and the other electrode is connected to the source electrode of the pixel switching element 31. The gate line G1 is connected to the display vertical drive circuit 11, and the first data line S1 is connected to the display horizontal drive circuit 12.

  In the image display element 30a, the display vertical drive circuit 11 and the display horizontal drive circuit 12 are provided for each pixel P in the display area PA based on the control signal supplied from the control unit 401. Are driven line-sequentially to display an image.

  Specifically, a selection pulse is supplied from the display vertical drive circuit 11 to the gate line G1 to the gate of the pixel switching element 31, and the video signal is supplied from the display horizontal drive circuit 12 to the first data line S1. As a result, the pixel switching element 31 writes the video signal in the auxiliary capacitance element Cs and the liquid crystal layer 203. Thereby, image display is executed.

  The position sensor element 30 b includes a light receiving element 32, a reset transistor 33, a capacitor 34, an amplification transistor 35, and a selection transistor 36.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 3, the light receiving element 32 is, for example, a phototransistor, and the reference potential Vss is applied to the source electrode, and the drain electrode is connected to the floating diffusion FD. A voltage Vg lower than the threshold voltage is applied to the gate electrode of the phototransistor that is the light receiving element 32. The light receiving element 32 generates light by receiving light and performing photoelectric conversion, and light reception data is output by the charge.

  In the reset transistor 33, the power supply voltage Vdd is applied to the drain electrode, and the source electrode is connected to the floating diffusion FD. Then, a reset signal (Reset) is given to the gate electrode of the reset transistor 33 so that the potential of the floating diffusion FD is reset.

  The capacitor 34 has one electrode connected to the floating diffusion FD and the other electrode connected to the reference potential Vss, and the voltage of the floating diffusion changes according to the amount of charge accumulated in the capacitor 34. It is configured as follows.

  In addition, the amplification transistor 35 has a gate electrode connected to the floating diffusion FD, a drain electrode connected to the power supply voltage Vdd, and a source electrode connected to the drain electrode of the selection transistor 36, thereby forming a source follower circuit. .

  The selection transistor 36 has a drain electrode connected to the source electrode of the amplification transistor 35 and a source electrode connected to the second data line S2. When the readout signal (Read) is supplied to the gate electrode of the selection transistor 36 by the sensor vertical drive circuit 13, the selection transistor 36 is turned on, and the signal amplified by the amplification transistor 35 is supplied to the second data line. It is comprised so that it may output to S2.

  In the position sensor element 30b, first, a reset signal is supplied to the gate electrode of the reset transistor 33, whereby the reset transistor 33 is turned on, electric charges are accumulated in the capacitor 34, and the voltage of the floating diffusion FD is changed to the power supply voltage Vdd. It becomes a value according to. Thereafter, the reset transistor 33 is turned off. When the light receiving element 32, which is a phototransistor, receives light, a leak current or an off current corresponding to the light amount is generated. As a result, the electric charge accumulated in the capacitor 34 is discharged, and the voltage of the floating diffusion FD decreases. The voltage of the floating diffusion FD is amplified by the amplification transistor 35, and the readout signal is supplied from the sensor vertical drive circuit 13 to the gate of the selection transistor 36, whereby the received light data is used as the signal voltage to the second data line S2. Is read out. The signal voltage read as the light reception data has a value corresponding to the amount of light received by the light receiving element 32, and is output to the sensor horizontal drive circuit 14 via the second data line S2.

  In the present embodiment, the position sensor element 30b includes a first position sensor element 30ba in which the capacitor 34 has a first capacitance, and a second capacitance in which the capacitor 34 is larger than the first capacitance. A second position sensor element 30bb.

  FIG. 4 is a plan view schematically showing a state in which the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb are arranged in the display area PA as the position sensor element 30b in the embodiment according to the present invention. .

  As shown in FIG. 4, each of the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb is arranged in a checkered pattern in the display area PA. That is, the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb are arranged so as to be alternately arranged in the horizontal direction x and the vertical direction y, respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the external light sensor element GS is provided in the peripheral area CA other than the display area PA in the liquid crystal panel 200. The external light sensor element GS has the same configuration as that of the position sensor element 30b. For example, the external light sensor element GS includes a phototransistor as a light receiving element (not shown). .

  In the present embodiment, the external light sensor element GS is, for example, an infrared filter (not shown) that selectively transmits infrared light so as to receive more infrared light contained in external light than visible light. Is provided so as to correspond to the light receiving surface of the light receiving element, and is configured such that external light incident through the infrared filter is received by the light receiving surface and subjected to photoelectric conversion.

  The pixel P provided in the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200 will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an outline of the pixel P provided in the display area PA in the liquid crystal panel 200 in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a plan view schematically showing an outline of the pixel P provided in the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200 in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 shows a portion corresponding to the X1-X2 portion in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the liquid crystal panel 200 includes a TFT array substrate 201, a counter substrate 202, and a liquid crystal layer 203. In the liquid crystal panel 200, a TFT array substrate 201 and a counter substrate 202 are spaced apart by a spacer (not shown) and bonded together with a sealing material (not shown). Between the TFT array substrate 201 and the counter substrate 202, The liquid crystal layer 203 is provided in the interval.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the liquid crystal panel 200 includes a light transmission area TA and a light shielding area RA in the pixel P.

  In the light transmission region TA, the illumination light emitted from the backlight 300 is transmitted from the TFT array substrate 201 side to the counter substrate 202 side. Here, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the color filter layer 21 is formed in the light transmission region TA, and the illumination light emitted from the backlight 300 is colored, so that the TFT array substrate 201 is colored. The light passes from the side to the counter substrate 202 side.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the black matrix layer 21 </ b> K is formed in the light shielding region RA, and the black matrix layer 21 </ b> K converts the illumination light emitted from the backlight 300 into the color filter layer. The light is shielded around 21.

  In the light shielding area RA, a light receiving area SA is formed as shown in FIGS.

  In the light receiving area SA, the light receiving element of the position sensor element 30b is configured to receive light traveling from the counter substrate 202 side to the TFT array substrate 201 side on the surface where the TFT array substrate 201 and the counter substrate 202 face each other. 32 is formed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the liquid crystal panel 200 transmits light that passes through the openings 21 a formed in the black matrix layer 21 </ b> K in light traveling from the counter substrate 202 side to the TFT array substrate 201 side. The light receiving element 32 is formed to receive light. As shown in FIG. 5, the light receiving element 32, on the front side of the liquid crystal panel 200, reflects reflected light, which is reflected from the illumination light emitted from the backlight 300 by a detection object such as a user's finger, on the counter substrate 202. Receives light from the side.

  The TFT array substrate 201 will be described below.

  The TFT array substrate 201 is an insulating substrate that transmits light, and is made of, for example, glass. In the TFT array substrate 201, as shown in FIG. 5, a pixel switching element 31, a light receiving element 32, and a pixel electrode 62 are formed on the surface facing the counter substrate 202.

  In FIG. 5, the dot region corresponding to the red filter layer 21R in the color filter layer 21 of the pixel P is shown, but in the dot regions corresponding to the other green filter layers 21G and blue filter layers 21B, Other members excluding the light receiving element 32 are formed in the same manner as in the case of the dot region corresponding to the red filter layer 21R.

  Each part of the TFT array substrate 201 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the pixel switching element 31 is formed on the surface of the TFT array substrate 201 that faces the counter substrate 202. The pixel switching element 31 includes a gate electrode 45, a gate insulating film 46g, and a semiconductor layer 48, and is formed, for example, as a bottom gate type TFT having an LDD structure.

  Specifically, in the pixel switching element 31, the gate electrode 45 is formed using a metal material such as molybdenum, for example. The gate insulating film 46g is formed using an insulating material such as a silicon oxide film. The semiconductor layer 48 is formed using a semiconductor material such as polysilicon, for example, and a channel formation region is provided so as to correspond to the gate electrode 45, and a pair of source A drain region is provided. The source electrode 53 and the drain electrode 54 are formed by embedding a conductive material such as aluminum in an opening provided in the interlayer insulating layer 49 that covers the semiconductor layer 48 and patterning it.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the light receiving element 32 is formed on the surface of the TFT array substrate 201 facing the counter substrate 202. Here, as shown in FIG. 5, the light receiving element 32 reflects reflected light from the object to be detected, such as a finger, on the front side of the liquid crystal panel 200, and from the counter substrate 202 side to the TFT array substrate 201 side. The TFT array substrate 201 is provided so as to receive light through the liquid crystal layer 203. The light receiving element 32 is, for example, a phototransistor and includes a gate electrode 43, a gate insulating film 46s, and a semiconductor layer 47, and is formed as, for example, a bottom gate TFT. The light receiving element 32 receives light incident from the light receiving area SA and performs photoelectric conversion to generate a light reception signal.

  Specifically, in the light receiving element 32, the gate electrode 43 is formed using a metal material such as molybdenum, for example. The gate insulating film 46s is formed using an insulating material such as a silicon oxide film. The semiconductor layer 47 is formed using a semiconductor material such as polysilicon, for example. In the semiconductor layer 47, a channel formation region is formed so as to correspond to the gate electrode 43, and a pair of source / drain regions are formed so as to sandwich the channel region. A source electrode 51 and a drain electrode 52 are formed by burying aluminum in an opening provided in the interlayer insulating layer 49. Here, each part of the light receiving element 32 is formed in the same process as the pixel switching element 31.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the pixel electrode 62 is provided on the planarizing film 60 formed of an insulating material so as to cover the surface of the TFT array substrate 201 facing the counter substrate 202. Here, as shown in FIG. 5, the pixel electrode 62 is formed on the planarizing film 60 so as to correspond to the light transmission region TA, and is connected to the liquid crystal layer 203. The pixel electrode 62 is a so-called transparent electrode, and is formed using, for example, ITO. The pixel electrode 62 applies a voltage to the liquid crystal layer 203 together with the counter electrode 23 in order to modulate the light illuminated by the backlight 300. The pixel electrodes 62 are arranged in a matrix so as to correspond to each of the plurality of pixels P in the display area PA. Although not particularly illustrated, the pixel electrodes 62 of the pixel switching element 31 are arranged. The drain electrode 54 is connected.

  The counter substrate 202 is shown.

  Similar to the TFT array substrate 201, the counter substrate 202 is an insulating substrate that transmits light, and is made of, for example, glass. The counter substrate 202 faces the TFT array substrate 201 at an interval as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the color filter layer 21, the black matrix layer 21 </ b> K, the planarization film 22, and the counter electrode 23 are formed on the counter substrate 202.

  Each part of the counter substrate 202 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the color filter layer 21 is formed on the surface of the counter substrate 202 facing the TFT array substrate 201. As shown in FIG. 6, the color filter layer 21 includes a red filter layer 21R, a green filter layer 21G, and a blue filter layer 21B so as to correspond to the light transmission region TA. Here, each of the red filter layer 21R, the green filter layer 21G, and the blue filter layer 21B has a rectangular shape and is formed so as to be aligned in the horizontal direction x. The color filter layer 21 is formed using, for example, a polyimide resin containing a colorant such as a pigment or a dye. Here, the three primary colors of red, green and blue are configured as one set. The color filter layer 21 colors the illumination light emitted from the backlight 300.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the black matrix layer 21K is formed in the light shielding area RA so as to partition the plurality of pixels P in the display area PA, and shields light. Here, the black matrix layer 21 </ b> K is formed on the surface of the counter substrate 202 that faces the TFT array substrate 201. Further, the black matrix layer 21K is formed so that the opening 21a through which light passes corresponds to the light receiving area SA. That is, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the black matrix layer 21K is formed so as to correspond to a region other than the light receiving region SA in the light shielding region RA. For example, the black matrix layer 21K is formed using a black metal oxide film.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the planarization film 22 is formed on the surface of the counter substrate 202 facing the TFT array substrate 201 so as to correspond to each of the light transmission region TA and the light shielding region RA. Yes. Here, the planarizing film 22 is formed of a light transmissive insulating material. Each of the color filter layer 21 and the black matrix layer 21K is covered, and the surface side facing the TFT array substrate 201 is flattened by the counter substrate 202.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the counter electrode 23 is formed on the surface of the counter substrate 202 facing the TFT array substrate 201. Here, the counter electrode 23 is formed so as to cover the planarizing film 22. The counter electrode 23 is a so-called transparent electrode, and is formed using, for example, ITO.

  The liquid crystal layer 203 is described.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the liquid crystal layer 203 is sandwiched between the TFT array substrate 201 and the counter substrate 202 and subjected to an alignment process. For example, the liquid crystal layer 203 is sealed between the TFT array substrate 201 and the counter substrate 202 at a distance that is maintained at a predetermined distance by a spacer (not shown). The liquid crystal layer 203 is aligned by a liquid crystal alignment film (not shown) formed on the TFT array substrate 201 and the counter substrate 202. For example, the liquid crystal layer 203 is formed so that liquid crystal molecules are vertically aligned.

  The backlight 300 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the backlight 300 faces the back surface of the liquid crystal panel 200, and emits illumination light to the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200. Here, as shown in FIG. 1, the backlight 300 includes a light source 301 and a light guide plate 302 that converts light emitted from the light source 301 into diffused light by diffusing light. The entire surface of the display area PA of the panel 200 is irradiated with plane light.

  Specifically, the backlight 300 is disposed so as to be positioned on the TFT array substrate 201 side in the TFT array substrate 201 and the counter substrate 202 constituting the liquid crystal panel 200. Then, the plane light is irradiated to the surface of the TFT array substrate 201 opposite to the surface facing the counter substrate 202. That is, the backlight 300 illuminates the planar light so as to go from the TFT array substrate 201 side to the counter substrate 202 side.

  In the present embodiment, the light source 301 of the backlight 300 includes, for example, a visible light source 301a and an infrared light source 301b as shown in FIG.

  Each of the visible light source 301a and the infrared light source 301b is provided at an end of the light guide plate 302, and emits visible light and infrared light as illumination light.

  Specifically, the visible light source 301a is a white LED, is provided at one end of the light guide plate 302, and irradiates white visible light from the irradiation surface.

  The infrared light source 301b is an infrared LED, and is provided at one end of the light guide plate 302 so that the irradiation surface faces the irradiation surface of the visible light source 301a, and irradiates infrared light from the irradiation surface.

  And the white visible light irradiated from the visible light source 301a and the infrared light irradiated from the infrared light source 301b are diffused in the light guide plate 302, and irradiated to the back surface of the liquid crystal panel 200 as planar light.

  The data processing unit 400 will be described.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, the data processing unit 400 includes a control unit 401 and a position detection unit 402. The data processing unit 400 includes a computer, and is configured such that the computer operates as each unit according to a program.

  The control unit 401 of the data processing unit 400 is configured to control the operation of the liquid crystal panel 200 and the backlight 300. The control unit 401 controls the operation of the plurality of pixel switching elements 31 provided in the liquid crystal panel 200 by supplying a control signal to the liquid crystal panel 200 and displays an image on the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200. For example, line sequential driving is executed to display an image.

  In addition, the control unit 401 controls the operation of the external light sensor element GS on the liquid crystal panel 200 by supplying a control signal to the liquid crystal panel 200 and collects light reception data from the external light sensor element GS.

  In addition, the control unit 401 controls the operation of the backlight 300 by supplying a control signal to the backlight 300 and causes the backlight 300 to emit illumination light.

  In addition, the control unit 401 collects received light data by supplying the control signal to the liquid crystal panel 200 to control the operation of the position sensor element 30b provided in the liquid crystal panel 200. For example, line-sequential driving is executed to collect received light data.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 401 adjusts the illumination light emitted from the backlight 300 and adjusts the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b based on the light reception data obtained by the external light sensor element GS. Later, control is performed so as to collect light reception data from the position sensor element 30b. That is, the operation of the backlight 300 and the operation of the position sensor element 30b are controlled by feedforward control.

  Here, the control unit 401 controls the operation of the backlight 300 emitting infrared rays based on the light reception data output from the external light sensor element GS.

  For example, in the light reception data output from the external light sensor element GS, when the intensity of the received light is equal to or higher than a reference value, the backlight 300 is controlled so as to irradiate infrared light having a higher intensity. On the other hand, when the intensity of the received light is less than the reference value, the backlight 300 is controlled to irradiate infrared light having a smaller intensity.

  Further, the control unit 401 controls the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b based on the light reception data output from the external light sensor element GS. Here, when the position sensor element 30b receives incident light and outputs light reception data, the control unit 401 calculates the ratio between the amount of incident light and the light reception data value output according to the amount of incident light. adjust. In the present embodiment, the control unit 401 increases the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b when it is determined that the intensity of light incident on the external light sensor element GS is greater than or equal to the reference value, When it is determined that the intensity of light incident on the external light sensor element GS is less than the reference value, control is performed so as to reduce the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b.

  Specifically, when it is determined that the intensity of the light incident on the external light sensor element GS is equal to or higher than the reference value, the control unit 401 increases the position sensor element 30b in order to increase the dynamic range. In both the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb constituting the element 30b, the second position sensor element 30bb having a large capacitance of the capacitor 34 is selected. Then, control is performed so as to collect light reception data from the selected second position sensor element 30bb.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the intensity of the light incident on the external light sensor element GS is less than the reference value, the first position sensor 30b is configured to reduce the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b. In both the position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb, the first position sensor element 30ba having a small capacitance of the capacitor 34 is selected. Then, control is performed so as to collect light reception data from the selected first position sensor element 30ba.

  The position detection unit 402 of the data processing unit 400 is based on light reception data output from a plurality of position sensor elements 30b provided on the liquid crystal panel 200, and the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200 is covered with a finger or a touch pen. Detects the position where the detector is in contact with or close to it.

  (Operation)

  Hereinafter, in the liquid crystal display device 100 described above, an operation when a detected object such as a user's finger is in contact with or moved to the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200 will be described.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation when detecting a position where an object to be detected such as a user's finger is in contact with or moved to the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200 in the embodiment according to the present invention.

  First, as shown in FIG. 7, a reference value Jir for adjusting the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b is set (S11).

  Here, the control unit 401 sets a reference value Jir for adjusting the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b. For example, the control unit 401 obtains and sets the reference value Jir data stored in advance in the storage device from the storage device. In addition, the control unit 401 may be configured to set the reference value Jir based on operation data input to the operation device by the operator.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 7, a reference value Kir for adjusting the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the backlight 300 is set (S12).

  Here, the control unit 401 sets a reference value Kir for adjusting the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the backlight 300. For example, the control unit 401 acquires data from the storage device and sets the data of the reference value Kir previously stored in the storage device. In addition, the control unit 401 may be configured to set the reference value Kir based on operation data input to the operation device by the operator.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 7, light reception data is acquired from the external light sensor element GS (S21).

  Here, the control unit 401 controls the external light sensor element GS of the liquid crystal panel 200 to be driven by supplying a control signal to the liquid crystal panel 200. And the control part 401 acquires the light reception data from the external light sensor element GS.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 7, the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b is adjusted (S31).

  Here, the control unit 401 adjusts the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b based on the light reception data acquired from the external light sensor element GS.

  Specifically, first, the control unit 401 determines whether the intensity of light when the external light sensor element GS acquires received light data is equal to or greater than the reference value Jir or less than the reference value Jir. For example, the determination is made by comparing the received light data value with the value corresponding to the reference value Jir. Then, the control unit 401 adjusts the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b so as to correspond to the result of the determination.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the adjustment of the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b in the embodiment according to the present invention. 8A shows a case where the intensity of light incident on the external light sensor element GS is greater than or equal to the reference value Jir, and FIG. 8B shows that the intensity of light incident on the external light sensor element GS is the reference value. The case where it is less than Jir is shown. In FIG. 8, the horizontal axis indicates the intensity K of incident light, and the vertical axis indicates the light reception data value H.

  When it is determined that the intensity of light incident on the external light sensor element GS is equal to or greater than the reference value Jir, as shown in FIG. It is necessary to increase the dynamic range DR of the position sensor element 30b so that the output light reception data value does not exceed 255 which is the upper limit and is not saturated. That is, as shown in FIG. 8A, in order to obtain the lower limit value and the upper limit value of the light reception data value output by the position sensor element 30b, it is necessary to adjust so as to widen the range of the amount of light received per unit time. There is. Therefore, in this case, in both the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb constituting the position sensor element 30b, the second position sensor element 30bb having a large capacitance of the capacitor 34 is controlled. The unit 401 selects the element to be driven here.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the intensity of the light incident on the external light sensor element GS is less than the reference value Jir, as shown in FIG. In order to increase the resolution of the received light data value output from the sensor element 30b, it is necessary to reduce the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b. That is, as shown in FIG. 8B, the range of the amount of light received per unit time for obtaining the lower limit value and the upper limit value of the received light data value output by the position sensor element 30b is shown in FIG. It is necessary to adjust so that it is narrower than in the case shown in FIG. Therefore, in this case, the first position sensor element 30ba having a small capacitance of the capacitor 34 is controlled in both the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb constituting the position sensor element 30b. The unit 401 selects the element to be driven here.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 7, the intensity of infrared rays emitted from the backlight 300 is adjusted (S32).

  Here, the control unit 401 controls the operation of the backlight 300 to emit infrared rays based on the light reception data output from the external light sensor element GS.

  For example, in the light reception data output from the external light sensor element GS, when the intensity of the received light is equal to or greater than the reference value Kir, the backlight 300 irradiates infrared light having a greater intensity. The control unit 401 controls the backlight 300.

  On the other hand, in the light reception data output from the external light sensor element GS, when the intensity of the received light is less than the reference value Kir, the backlight 300 emits infrared light with a smaller intensity. The control unit 401 controls the backlight 300.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 7, light reception data is acquired from the position sensor element 30b (S41).

  Here, by supplying a control signal to the liquid crystal panel 200, the control unit 401 controls the operation of the position sensor element 30b provided in the liquid crystal panel 200, and collects light reception data from the position sensor element 30b. For example, line-sequential driving is executed to collect received light data.

  FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a state when the position sensor element 30b acquires received light data in the embodiment according to the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 9, when a detected object F such as a user's finger is brought into contact with or moved to the display area PA, reflected light H reflected by the detected object F is provided on the liquid crystal panel 200. The light receiving element 32 of the position sensor element 30b receives light.

  Here, the backlight 300 irradiates the back surface of the liquid crystal panel 200 with illumination light R including visible light VR and infrared light IR as plane light. Then, the illumination light R is applied to the detection object F via the liquid crystal panel 200 and is reflected by the detection object F. Then, the light receiving element 32 of the position sensor element 30b receives the reflected light H reflected by the detection object F.

  At this time, the visible light VR in the illumination light R is absorbed by each part of the liquid crystal panel 200, and is received by the light receiving element 32 of the position sensor element 30b in a state where the intensity thereof is lowered. On the other hand, in the illumination light R, the infrared ray IR is absorbed in each part of the liquid crystal panel 200 at a smaller ratio than the visible light VR, and therefore has a greater intensity than the visible light VR and the light receiving element of the position sensor element 30b. 32 receives light. Note that the position sensor element may receive more infrared rays than visible rays as well as the external light sensor element. For example, an infrared filter that selectively transmits infrared light is provided so as to correspond to the light receiving surface of the light receiving element, and light incident on the position sensor via the infrared filter is received by the light receiving surface. Are configured to perform photoelectric conversion.

  Then, light reception data having a signal intensity corresponding to the intensity of the received light is output from the position sensor element 30b.

  In the present embodiment, in both the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb constituting the position sensor element 30b, the control unit 401 drives the element selected in the above step to receive light reception data. To collect.

  Specifically, as described above, when it is determined that the intensity of light incident on the external light sensor element GS is equal to or greater than the reference value Jir, the capacitor is used to increase the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b. The second position sensor element 30bb having a large capacitance 34 is selected. Therefore, the control unit 401 transmits a control signal for driving the second position sensor element 30bb to the sensor vertical drive circuit 13 and the sensor horizontal drive circuit 14, and receives light reception data from each of the second position sensor elements 30bb. collect.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the intensity of light incident on the external light sensor element GS is less than the reference value Jir, the capacitance of the capacitor 34 is small in order to reduce the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b. The first position sensor element 30ba is selected. Therefore, the control unit 401 transmits a control signal for driving the first position sensor element 30ba to the sensor vertical drive circuit 13 and the sensor horizontal drive circuit 14, and receives light reception data from each of the first position sensor elements 30ba. collect.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 7, the position of the detected object is detected (S51).

  Here, based on the light reception data output from the position sensor elements 30b provided on the liquid crystal panel 200, coordinates in which a detection object such as a user's finger or a touch pen is in contact or close in the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200. The position detection unit 402 detects the position.

  Specifically, the detected object F is displayed in the display area PA based on the position of the position sensor element 30b from which the light reception data is read and the signal intensity of the light reception data read from the position sensor element 30b. The position detection unit 402 detects the coordinate position touched at. For example, the coordinate position where the signal intensity of the received light data is larger than the reference value is detected as the coordinate position where the detection object F is in contact with the display area PA.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the external light sensor element GS receives the infrared light included in the external light incident from the front side that is the one surface side of the liquid crystal panel 200, thereby generating the light reception data. Then, the control unit 401 adjusts the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b based on the light reception data generated by the external light sensor element GS. Here, when the control unit 401 determines that the intensity of the external light incident on the external light sensor element GS is greater than or equal to the reference value Jir based on the light reception data generated by the external light sensor element GS, When the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b is increased and it is determined that the intensity of the external light incident on the external light sensor element GS is less than the reference value Jir, the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b is decreased. Then, the position sensor element 30b having the dynamic range adjusted as described above receives light including infrared rays to generate light reception data, and based on the light reception data, in the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200, the user Detects a position where a detected object such as a finger or a touch pen is in contact with or close to the object. For this reason, in this embodiment, when the position sensor element receives light in an environment where the intensity of light is large, the light reception data value exceeds the dynamic range of the position sensor element, and the sensor output may be saturated. In addition to preventing this, it is possible to ensure the resolution of the received light data obtained in an indoor artificial lighting environment. Therefore, this embodiment can improve the detection accuracy when detecting the position of the detected object.

  In the present embodiment, the backlight 300 emits illumination light from the back surface, which is the other surface of the liquid crystal panel 200. Here, the backlight 300 is configured to emit illumination light so as to include visible light and infrared light, and the control unit 401 is based on light reception data generated by the external light sensor element GS. The backlight 300 controls the operation of emitting infrared rays in the illumination light. For this reason, this embodiment can suppress an increase in power consumption.

  Therefore, this embodiment can improve the position detection accuracy and can suppress an increase in power consumption.

  In implementing the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be employed.

  For example, in the present embodiment, the case where the phototransistor is provided as the light receiving element has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a photodiode may be used as the light receiving element.

  Moreover, although this embodiment demonstrated the case where illumination light was irradiated so that invisible light rays, such as an infrared ray, may be included, it is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to the case of irradiating illumination light including only visible light without including invisible light.

  Moreover, although this embodiment demonstrated the case where illumination light was irradiated so that an infrared ray may be included as an invisible ray, it is not limited to this. For example, the illumination light may be irradiated so as to include ultraviolet light as invisible light.

  In the present embodiment, a case where a plurality of position sensor elements 30b are provided so as to correspond to a plurality of pixels P has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, one position sensor element 30b may be provided for a plurality of pixels P, and conversely, a plurality of position sensor elements 30b may be provided for one pixel P.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb having different capacitances of the capacitor 34 are arranged in a checkered pattern as the position sensor element 30b. Although the case where it arrange | positions to display area PA was demonstrated to this, it is not limited to this.

  Moreover, although the case where two types of the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb having different capacities of the capacitors 34 are arranged as the position sensor element 30b has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. Three or more types of position sensor elements 30b having different capacitances of the capacitor 34 may be provided as appropriate.

  Moreover, you may comprise so that one type of position sensor element 30b may be provided. In this case, for example, a plurality of capacitors 34 having different electrostatic capacities are provided for the one position sensor element 30b, and a switching element for selecting a plurality of capacitors 34 having different capacities is provided. The control unit 401 is configured to control the operation of the switching element. For example, two capacitors, a first capacitor having a first capacitance and a second capacitor having a second capacitance larger than the first capacitance, are provided, and the two capacitors are used as switching elements. The control unit 401 controls the switching. Here, when it is determined that the intensity of the light incident on the external light sensor element GS is equal to or higher than the reference value Jir, it is connected to the second capacitor having a large capacitance as in the above embodiment. The control unit 401 controls the switching operation of the switching elements. On the other hand, when it is determined that the intensity of light incident on the external light sensor element GS is less than the reference value Jir, the switching operation of the switching element is controlled so as to be connected to the first capacitor having a small electrostatic capacity. The unit 401 controls. By doing in this way, you may comprise so that there may exist the same effect as said embodiment.

  In the above embodiment, in the light reception data output from the external light sensor element GS, when the intensity of the received light is equal to or higher than the reference value Kir, the backlight 300 has a higher intensity infrared. On the other hand, in the received light data output from the external light sensor element GS, when the intensity of the received light is less than the reference value Kir, the backlight 300 has a lower intensity infrared ray. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, you may control so that it may become reverse. That is, when the intensity of the received light is equal to or greater than the reference value Kir, the backlight 300 emits infrared light having a lower intensity (including the backlight OFF state), while the outside light sensor element. In the light reception data output from the GS, when the intensity of the received light is less than the reference value Kir, the backlight 300 may be controlled so as to irradiate infrared rays having a higher intensity. A plurality of reference values may be provided.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the operations of both the position sensor element 30b and the backlight 300 are controlled based on the light reception data generated by the external light sensor element GS has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. . It may be configured to control either one.

  In addition to the above, various operations may be controlled based on light reception data generated by the external light sensor element GS. For example, a shutter that changes the amount of light incident on the light receiving surface of the position sensor element 30b may be provided, and the operation of the shutter may be adjusted. In this case, when the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b is reduced, the operation of the shutter is controlled so as to increase the light incident amount. On the other hand, when the dynamic range is increased, the light incident amount is decreased. Control the operation of the shutter.

  In addition, the liquid crystal display device 100 of the present embodiment can be applied as a component of various electronic devices.

  10 to 14 are diagrams showing electronic apparatuses to which the liquid crystal display device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in a television that receives and displays a television broadcast, the received image is displayed on a display screen, and the liquid crystal display device 100 can be applied as a display device to which an operator's operation command is input. it can.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11, in a digital still camera, an image such as a captured image is displayed on a display screen, and the liquid crystal display device 100 can be applied as a display device to which an operator's operation command is input.

  As shown in FIG. 12, in a notebook personal computer, the liquid crystal display device 100 can be applied as a display device that displays an operation image or the like on a display screen and receives an operation command from an operator.

  As shown in FIG. 13, in a mobile phone terminal, an operation image or the like is displayed on a display screen, and the liquid crystal display device 100 can be applied as a display device to which an operator's operation command is input.

  As shown in FIG. 14, in a video camera, an operation image or the like is displayed on a display screen, and the liquid crystal display device 100 can be applied as a display device to which an operator's operation command is input.

  In addition, the present invention can be applied to various types of liquid crystal panels such as an IPS (In-Plane-Switching) method and an FFS (Field Fringe Switching) method. Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to other display devices such as organic EL display elements and electronic paper.

  In the above embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 100 corresponds to the display device of the present invention. In the above embodiment, the liquid crystal panel 200 corresponds to the display panel of the present invention. In the above embodiment, the TFT array substrate 201 corresponds to the first substrate of the present invention. In the above embodiment, the counter substrate 202 corresponds to the second substrate of the present invention. In the above embodiment, the liquid crystal layer 203 corresponds to the liquid crystal layer of the present invention. Moreover, in said embodiment, the backlight 300 is corresponded to the illumination part of this invention. In the above embodiment, the control unit 401 corresponds to the control unit of the present invention. Moreover, in said embodiment, the position detection part 402 is corresponded to the position detection part of this invention. In the above embodiment, the position sensor element 30b corresponds to the position sensor element of the present invention. In the above embodiment, the external light sensor element GS corresponds to the external light sensor element of the present invention. In the above embodiment, the display area PA corresponds to the display area of the present invention. In the above embodiment, the pixel P corresponds to the pixel of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a liquid crystal display device 100 in an embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the liquid crystal panel 200 in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram showing pixels formed in the display area PA in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a plan view schematically showing a state in which the first position sensor element 30ba and the second position sensor element 30bb are arranged in the display area PA as the position sensor element 30b in the embodiment according to the present invention. . FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an outline of the pixel P provided in the display area PA in the liquid crystal panel 200 in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a plan view schematically showing an outline of the pixel P provided in the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200 in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation when detecting a position where an object to be detected such as a user's finger is in contact with or moved to the display area PA of the liquid crystal panel 200 in the embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the adjustment of the dynamic range of the position sensor element 30b in the embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a state when the position sensor element 30b acquires received light data in the embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an electronic apparatus to which the liquid crystal display device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an electronic apparatus to which the liquid crystal display device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an electronic apparatus to which the liquid crystal display device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an electronic apparatus to which the liquid crystal display device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an electronic apparatus to which the liquid crystal display device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied.

Explanation of symbols

100: liquid crystal display device (display device), 200: liquid crystal panel (display panel), 201: TFT array substrate (first substrate), 202: counter substrate (second substrate), 203: liquid crystal layer (liquid crystal layer), 206 : First polarizing plate, 207: second polarizing plate, 300: backlight (illumination unit), 301: light source, 302: light guide plate, 301a: visible light source, 301b: infrared light source, 400: data processing unit, 401: control unit (control unit), 402: position detection unit (position detection unit), 11: vertical driving circuit for display, 12: horizontal driving circuit for display, 13: vertical driving circuit for sensor, 14: horizontal driving for sensor Circuit, 30a: image display element, 30b: position sensor element (position sensor element), 30ba: first position sensor element, 30bb: second position sensor element, 31: pixel switching element, 32: light receiving element, 3: reset transistor, 34: capacitor, 35: amplification transistor, 36: selection transistor, GS: external light sensor element (external light sensor element), PA: display area (display area), CA: peripheral area, Cs: auxiliary capacitance Element, P: Pixel (pixel)

Claims (12)

In a display region in which a plurality of pixels are arranged, a display panel in which a plurality of position sensor elements that receive light incident from one side and generate first light reception data are arranged;
A position detector that detects the position of the detection object moved to the display area on the one surface side of the display panel based on the first light reception data generated by the position sensor element ;
An external light sensor element that receives external light incident from one side of the display panel and generates second received light data;
When the intensity of the external light obtained based on the second light reception data generated by the external light sensor element is equal to or higher than a reference value, the saturation point of the first light reception data with respect to the incident light intensity is increased. When the intensity of the external light is less than a reference value, a control unit that controls the position sensor element so as to reduce a saturation point of the first received light data with respect to incident light intensity ;
A display device. The position sensor element includes a light receiving element and an amplification transistor. Light incident from one side of the display panel is received by the light receiving element, and a voltage corresponding to the generated charge is amplified by the amplification transistor. And configured to output the amplified voltage as the first received light data.
The display device according to claim 1. The control unit determines the intensity of external light incident on the external light sensor element based on the second received light data, and controls the incident light amount incident on the position sensor element based on the determination result. ,
  The display device according to claim 1. An illumination unit that emits illumination light to the other surface of the display panel;
  The control unit controls an incident light amount incident on the position sensor element by changing an infrared light amount included in the illumination light emitted from the illumination unit.
The display device according to claim 3.   The position sensor element is configured to receive infrared light;
  The external light sensor element is configured to receive infrared light;
  The display device according to claim 4.   The position sensor element includes a first capacitor and a second capacitor having a larger capacitance than the first capacitor as a capacitor for accumulating charges generated by receiving the infrared light,
  The control unit acquires the first light reception data based on the charge accumulated in the first capacitor or based on the charge accumulated in the second capacitor, Changing a saturation point of the first received light data with respect to the incident light intensity;
The display device according to any one of claims 2 to 5. The controller is
The light intensity obtained based on the second light reception data acquired by the external light sensor element is compared with a first reference value, and based on the comparison result, the first light reception data relative to the incident light intensity is compared. Controlling the position sensor element so that the saturation point changes;
Comparing the intensity of light obtained based on the second received light data acquired by the external light sensor element with at least one second reference value, and changing the amount of incident light based on the result of the comparison;
The display device according to claim 3 or 6. The position sensor element includes a semiconductor layer, a channel region formed in the semiconductor layer, a pair of source / drain regions formed in the semiconductor layer so as to sandwich the channel region, and the channel region Including a light receiving element having a gate electrode formed through a gate insulating film,
A light-shielding film having an opening that transmits light incident from one side of the display panel at a position corresponding to the channel region;
The gate electrode is disposed on the other surface side of the display panel with respect to the channel region,
The display device according to claim 1. The external light sensor element is provided in the display panel,
The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 . The external light sensor element is provided in an area other than the display area in the display panel .
The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 . The display panel is
A first substrate;
A second substrate facing away from the first substrate;
A liquid crystal layer that is sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate and in which liquid crystal molecules are aligned,
The display device according to claim 9 or 10 . A display device,
The display device
In a display region in which a plurality of pixels are arranged, a display panel in which a plurality of position sensor elements that receive light incident from one side and generate first light reception data are arranged;
A position detector that detects the position of the detection object moved to the display area on the one surface side of the display panel based on the first light reception data generated by the position sensor element ;
And external light sensor element for generating a second light receiving data by receiving the external light incident from the side of one surface of the pre-Symbol display panel,
When the intensity of the external light obtained based on the second light reception data generated by the external light sensor element is equal to or higher than a reference value, the saturation point of the first light reception data with respect to the incident light intensity is increased. When the intensity of the external light is less than a reference value, a control unit that controls the position sensor element so as to reduce a saturation point of the first received light data with respect to incident light intensity ;
Electronic devices that have a.

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