Electronic device

The present invention comprises: a first region, having a display area for outputting images, for receiving touch input or acquiring fingerprint data by means of a touch entered on the display area; a touchscreen comprising a second region for receiving touch input; and a control unit for switching the first region from a touch receiving mode, which receives touch input, to a fingerprint sensing mode when a touch input is entered in the first region, wherein the touchscreen is provided with a touch sensor layer for receiving touch input at a first sense resolution in the touch receiving mode, and the control unit which, in the fingerprint sensing mode, switches the first region from the first sense resolution to a second sense resolution, which is higher than the former, so as to acquire fingerprint data, and maintains the second region at the first sense resolution so that the former receives touch input.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is the National Stage filing under 35 U.S.C. 371 of International Application No. PCT/KR2016/015438, filed on Dec. 28, 2016, the contents of which are all hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a mobile terminal and a method for controlling the same.

BACKGROUND ART

Terminals may be divided into mobile/portable terminals and stationary terminals according to mobility. Also, the mobile terminals may be classified into handheld types and vehicle mount types according to whether or not a user can directly carry.

The terminal has various functions according to development of technologies. For example, a mobile terminal can be allowed to capture still images or moving images, play music or video files, play games, receive broadcast and the like, so as to be implemented as an integrated multimedia player. Efforts are ongoing to support and increase the functionality of terminals. Such efforts include software improvements, as well as changes and improvements in the structural components.

In recent years, biometric user authentication technologies have been developed. In particular, a fingerprint sensing device, which uses fingerprint data having unique biometric information of an individual as a user authentication method, has been applied to a mobile terminal. However, in a mobile terminal employing a fingerprint sensor, an additional sensing layer is required. In this case, a touch input on a fingerprint sensing area is not detected.

DISCLOSURE

Technical Problem

Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is to provide an electronic device capable of detecting a fingerprint on one area of a touch screen.

Technical Solution

In order to achieve the aspect and other advantages of the present invention, there is provided an electronic device including a touch screen having a display area for displaying an image, a first area receiving a touch input and acquiring fingerprint information based on a touch applied to the display area, and a second area for receiving a touch input, and a controller configured to switch a first area's mode from a touch receiving mode for receiving the touch input to a fingerprint sensing mode. The touch screen may be provided with a touch sensing module for receiving a touch input at a first resolution in the touch receiving mode. The controller may change the first sensing resolution of the first area to a higher second sensing resolution so as to acquire the fingerprint information in the touch receiving mode, and maintain the sensing resolution of the second area at the first sensing resolution so as to receive the touch input in the fingerprint sensing mode.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the touch sensing module may include a plurality of electrode lines arranged at predetermined intervals so as to detect a touch at the second resolution. The touch sensing module may be electrically connected to one of a first circuit board or a second circuit board according to whether the mode is the fingerprint sensing mode or the touch receiving mode, and include a plurality of sensing (electrode) line sections and a plurality of dummy (electrode) line sections alternately arranged with each other. Each of the plurality of sensing line sections and dummy line sections may have a preset number of electrode lines grouped to have a low sensing resolution, thereby detecting a touch input.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a switch unit connected to the electrode lines of the touch sensing module may be further provided so as to change the sensing resolution of the second area. The switch unit may include a first switch and a second switch for connecting the plurality of sensing line sections to a first circuit board and a second circuit board, respectively, and a fourth switch connected to each of the plurality of dummy line sections. The controller may selectively connect or disconnect the first and second switches in the touch receiving mode and the fingerprint sensing mode so as to control the plurality of electrode lines to have a first sensing resolution and a second sensing resolution by grouping and ungrouping them.

Advantageous Effects

According to the present invention, a sensing resolution of a touch sensing module for detecting a touch input on a touch screen is changed to detect a fingerprint, thereby requiring no additional fingerprint sensor. Thus, a failure in detecting a touch input on a fingerprint sensing area by an additional sensor can be prevented.

In addition, since a specific area is switched to a touch receiving mode or a fingerprint sensing mode, fingerprint sensing and touch screen display can be enabled by the specific area in a screen lock state. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a user authentication function from being activated or a touch screen from being turned on due to an unintended or accidental touch.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Description will now be given in detail according to exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of brief description with reference to the drawings, the same or equivalent components may be provided with the same or similar reference numbers, and description thereof will not be repeated. In general, a suffix such as “module” and “unit” may be used to refer to elements or components. Use of such a suffix herein is merely intended to facilitate description of the specification, and the suffix itself is not intended to give any special meaning or function. In describing the present disclosure, if a detailed explanation for a related known function or construction is considered to unnecessarily divert the gist of the present disclosure, such explanation has been omitted but would be understood by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand the technical idea of the present disclosure and it should be understood that the idea of the present disclosure is not limited by the accompanying drawings. The idea of the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes besides the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1Ais a block diagram of a mobile terminal100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The mobile terminal100may be shown having components such as a wireless communication unit110, an input unit120, a sensing unit140, an output unit150, an interface unit160, a memory170, a controller (control unit)180, and a power supply unit190.FIG. 1shows the mobile terminal100having various components, but it may be understood that implementing all of the illustrated components is not a requirement. Greater or fewer components may alternatively be implemented.

In more detail, the wireless communication unit110may typically include one or more modules which permit communications such as wireless communications between the mobile terminal100and a wireless communication system, communications between the mobile terminal100and another mobile terminal, or communications between the mobile terminal100and an external server. Further, the wireless communication unit110may typically include one or more modules which connect the mobile terminal100to one or more networks.

The wireless communication unit110may include one or more of a broadcast receiving module111, a mobile communication module112, a wireless Internet module113, a short-range communication module114, and a location information module115.

The input unit120may include a camera121or an image input unit for obtaining images or video, a microphone122, which is one type of audio input device for inputting an audio signal, and a user input unit123(for example, a touch key, a mechanical key, and the like) for allowing a user to input information. Data (for example, audio, video, image, and the like) may be obtained by the input unit120and may be analyzed and processed according to user commands.

The output unit150may typically be configured to output various types of information, such as audio, video, tactile output, and the like. The output unit150may be shown having at least one of a display unit151, an audio output module152, a haptic module153, and an optical output module154. The display unit151may have an inter-layered structure or an integrated structure with a touch sensor in order to implement a touch screen. The touch screen may function as the user input unit123which provides an input interface between the mobile terminal100and the user and simultaneously provide an output interface between the mobile terminal100and a user.

Also, the controller180may control at least some of the components illustrated inFIG. 1A, to execute an application program that have been stored in the memory170. In addition, the controller180may control at least two of those components included in the mobile terminal100to activate the application program.

The power supply unit190may be configured to receive external power or provide internal power in order to supply appropriate power required for operating elements and components included in the wearable device100, under the control of the controller180. The power supply unit190may include a battery, and the battery may be configured as an embedded battery or a detachable battery.

At least part of the components may cooperatively operate to implement an operation, a control or a control method of the mobile terminal100according to various embodiments disclosed herein. Also, the operation, the control or the control method of the mobile terminal100may be implemented on electronic device by an activation of at least one application program stored in the memory170.

Hereinafter, description will be given in more detail of the aforementioned components with reference toFIG. 1, prior to describing various embodiments implemented through the mobile terminal100.

First, regarding the wireless communication unit110, the broadcast receiving module111is typically configured to receive a broadcast signal and/or broadcast associated information from an external broadcast managing entity via a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel, a terrestrial channel, or both. In some embodiments, two or more broadcast receiving modules111may be utilized to facilitate simultaneous reception of two or more broadcast channels, or to support switching among broadcast channels.

The wireless signal may include various types of data depending on a voice call signal, a video call signal, or a text/multimedia message transmission/reception.

The wireless Internet module113refers to a module for wireless Internet access. This module may be internally or externally coupled to the mobile terminal100. The wireless Internet module113may transmit and/or receive wireless signals via communication networks according to wireless Internet technologies.

Examples of such wireless Internet access include Wireless LAN (WLAN), Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-advanced (LTE-A) and the like. The wireless Internet module113may transmit/receive data according to one or more of such wireless Internet technologies, and other Internet technologies as well.

The location information module115is generally configured to detect, calculate, derive or otherwise identify a position (or current position) of the mobile terminal100. As an example, the location information module115includes a Global Position System (GPS) module, a Wi-Fi module, or both. For example, when the mobile terminal100uses a GPS module, a position of the mobile terminal100may be acquired using a signal sent from a GPS satellite. As another example, when the mobile terminal100uses the Wi-Fi module, a position of the mobile terminal100may be acquired based on information related to a wireless access point (AP) which transmits or receives a wireless signal to or from the Wi-Fi module. If desired, the location information module115may alternatively or additionally perform a function of any of the other modules of the wireless communication unit110to obtain data related to the position of the mobile terminal100. The location information module115is a module used for acquiring the position (or the current position) of the mobile terminal100, and may not be limited to a module for directly calculating or acquiring the position of the electronic device.

Next, the input unit120is for inputting image information (or signal), audio information (or signal), data, or information input from a user. For inputting image information, the mobile terminal100may be provided with a plurality of cameras121. Such cameras121may process image frames of still pictures or video obtained by image sensors in a video or image capture mode. The processed image frames can be displayed on the display unit151or stored in memory170. Meanwhile, the cameras121provided in the mobile terminal100may be arranged in a matrix configuration to permit a plurality of image information having various angles or focal points to be input to the mobile terminal100. Also, the cameras121may be located in a stereoscopic arrangement to acquire left and right images for implementing a stereoscopic image.

The microphone122processes an external audio signal into electric audio (sound) data. The processed audio data can be processed in various manners according to a function being executed in the mobile terminal100. If desired, the microphone122may include assorted noise removing algorithms to remove unwanted noise generated in the course of receiving the external audio signal.

The sensing unit140is generally configured to sense one or more of internal information of the mobile terminal100, surrounding environment information of the mobile terminal100, user information, or the like, and generates a corresponding sensing signal. The controller180generally cooperates with the sending unit140to control operations of the mobile terminal100or execute data processing, a function or an operation associated with an application program installed in the mobile terminal based on the sensing signal. The sensing unit140may be implemented using any of a variety of sensors, some of which will now be described in more detail.

The proximity sensor141refers to a sensor to sense presence or absence of an object approaching a surface, or an object located near a surface, by using an electromagnetic field, infrared rays, or the like without a mechanical contact. The proximity sensor141may be arranged at an inner region of the mobile terminal100covered by the touch screen, or near the touch screen.

A touch sensor senses a touch (or a touch input) applied to the touch screen (or the display unit151) using any of a variety of touch methods. Examples of such touch methods include a resistive type, a capacitive type, an infrared type, and a magnetic field type, among others.

The touch sensor and the proximity sensor may be implemented individually, or in combination, to sense various types of touches. Such touches include a short (or tap) touch, a long touch, a multi-touch, a drag touch, a flick touch, a pinch-in touch, a pinch-out touch, a swipe touch, a hovering touch, and the like.

The camera121, which has been depicted as a component of the input unit120, typically includes at least one a camera sensor (CCD, CMOS etc.), a photo sensor (or image sensors), and a laser sensor.

Implementing the camera121with a laser sensor may allow detection of a touch of a physical object with respect to a 3D stereoscopic image. The photo sensor may be laminated on, or overlapped with, the display device. The photo sensor may be configured to scan movement of the object in vicinity of the touch screen. In more detail, the photo sensor may include photo diodes and transistors (TRs) at rows and columns to scan content received at the photo sensor using an electrical signal which changes according to the quantity of applied light. Namely, the photo sensor may calculate the coordinates of the physical object according to variation of light to thus obtain location information of the physical object.

Also, the display unit151may be implemented as a stereoscopic display unit for displaying stereoscopic images.

The audio output module152may receive audio data from the wireless communication unit110or output audio data stored in the memory170during modes such as a signal reception mode, a call mode, a record mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcast reception mode, and the like. The audio output module152can provide audible output related to a particular function (e.g., a call signal reception sound, a message reception sound, etc.) performed by the mobile terminal100. The audio output module152may also be implemented as a receiver, a speaker, a buzzer, or the like.

An optical output module154may output a signal for indicating an event generation using light of a light source of the mobile terminal100. Examples of events generated in the mobile terminal100may include message reception, call signal reception, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule notice, an email reception, information reception through an application, and the like.

A signal output by the optical output module154may be implemented in such a manner that the mobile terminal100emits monochromatic light or light with a plurality of colors to a front or rear surface. The signal output may be terminated as the mobile terminal100senses that a user has checked the generated event, for example.

The memory170may include one or more types of storage mediums including a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a solid state disk (SSD) type, a silicon disk drive (SDD) type, a multimedia card micro type, a card-type memory (e.g., SD or DX memory, etc.), a Random Access Memory (RAM), a Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), a Programmable Read-Only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, and the like. The mobile terminal100may also be operated in relation to a network storage device that performs the storage function of the memory170over a network, such as the Internet.

The power supply unit190receives external power or provides internal power and supply the appropriate power required for operating respective elements and components included in the wearable device100under the control of the controller180. The power supply unit190may include a battery, which is typically rechargeable or be detachably coupled to the terminal body for charging.

Hereinafter, description will be given of a structure of the mobile terminal100according to the one embodiment of the present invention illustrated inFIG. 1Aor a terminal having those components, with reference toFIG. 10.

Referring toFIGS. 1B and 10, the disclosed mobile terminal100includes a bar-like terminal body. However, the mobile terminal100may alternatively be implemented in any of a variety of different configurations. Examples of such configurations include watch type, clip-type, glasses-type, or a folder-type, flip-type, slide-type, swing-type, and swivel-type in which two and more bodies are combined with each other in a relatively movable manner, and combinations thereof. Discussion herein will often relate to a particular type of mobile terminal. However, such teachings with regard to a particular type of mobile terminal will generally be applied to other types of mobile terminals as well.

Here, considering the mobile terminal100as at least one assembly, the terminal body may be understood as a conception referring to the assembly.

The mobile terminal100will generally include a case (for example, frame, housing, cover, and the like) forming the appearance of the terminal. In this embodiment, the case is formed using a front case101and a rear case102. Various electronic components are interposed into a space formed between the front case101and the rear case102. At least one middle case may be additionally positioned between the front case101and the rear case102.

As illustrated, when the rear cover103is coupled to the rear case102, a side surface of the rear case102may partially be exposed. In some cases, upon the coupling, the rear case102may also be completely shielded by the rear cover103. Meanwhile, the rear cover103may include an opening for externally exposing a camera121bor an audio output module152b.

As an alternative to the example in which the plurality of cases form an inner space for accommodating components, the mobile terminal100may be configured such that one case forms the inner space. In this case, a mobile terminal100having a uni-body is formed in such a manner that synthetic resin or metal extends from a side surface to a rear surface.

The mobile terminal100may include a display unit151, first and second audio output module152aand152b, a proximity sensor141, an illumination sensor142, an optical output module154, first and second cameras121aand121b, first and second manipulation units123aand123b, a microphone122, an interface unit160, and the like.

Hereinafter, as illustrated inFIGS. 1B and 10, description will be given of the exemplary mobile terminal100in which the front surface of the terminal body is shown having the display unit151, the first audio output module152a, the proximity sensor141, the illumination sensor142, the optical output module154, the first camera121a, and the first manipulation unit123a, the side surface of the terminal body is shown having the second manipulation unit123b, the microphone122, and the interface unit160, and the rear surface of the terminal body is shown having the second audio output module152band the second camera121b.

However, those components may not be limited to the arrangement. Some components may be omitted or rearranged or located on different surfaces. For example, the first manipulation unit123amay be located on another surface of the terminal body, and the second audio output module152bmay be located on the side surface of the terminal body other than the rear surface of the terminal body.

The display module151may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-LCD (TFT LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display, a three-dimensional (3D) display and an e-ink display.

The display unit151may be implemented using two display devices, according to the configuration type thereof. For instance, a plurality of the display units151may be arranged on one side, either spaced apart from each other, or these devices may be integrated, or these devices may be arranged on different surfaces.

The display unit151may include a touch sensor that senses a touch with respect to the display unit151so as to receive a control command in a touch manner. Accordingly, when a touch is applied to the display unit151, the touch sensor may sense the touch, and a controller180may generate a control command corresponding to the touch. Contents input in the touch manner may be characters, numbers, instructions in various modes, or a menu item that can be designated.

On the other hand, the touch sensor may be configured in a form of a film having a touch pattern and disposed between a window and a display (not illustrated) on a rear surface of the window, or may be a metal wire directly patterned on the rear surface of the window. Alternatively, the touch sensor may be formed integrally with the display. For example, the touch sensor may be disposed on a substrate of the display, or may be provided inside the display.

In this way, the display unit151may form a touch screen together with the touch sensor, and in this case, the touch screen may function as the user input unit (123, seeFIG. 1A). In some cases, the touch screen may replace at least some of functions of a first manipulation unit123a. Hereinafter, for the sake of explanation, the display unit (display module) for outputting the image and the touch sensor are collectively referred to as a touch screen151.

The first audio output module152amay be implemented as a receiver for transmitting a call sound to a user's ear and the second audio output module152bmay be implemented as a loud speaker for outputting various alarm sounds or multimedia reproduction request sounds.

The window151aof the display unit151may include a sound hole for emitting sounds generated from the first audio output module152a. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the sounds may be released along an assembly gap between the structural bodies (for example, a gap between the window151aand the front case101). In this case, a hole independently formed to output audio sounds may not be seen or may otherwise be hidden in terms of appearance, thereby further simplifying the appearance of the mobile terminal100.

The optical output module154may be configured to output light for indicating an event generation. Examples of such events may include a message reception, a call signal reception, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule alarm, an email reception, information reception through an application, and the like. When a user has checked a generated event, the controller180may control the optical output module154to stop the light output.

The first and second manipulation units123aand123bare examples of the user input unit123, which may be manipulated by a user to provide input to the mobile terminal100. The first and second manipulation units123aand123bmay also be commonly referred to as a manipulating portion. The first and second manipulation units123aand123bmay employ any method if it is a tactile manner allowing the user to perform manipulation with a tactile feeling such as touch, push, scroll or the like. The first and second manipulation units123aand123bmay also be manipulated through a proximity touch, a hovering touch, and the like, without a user's tactile feeling.

The drawings are illustrated on the basis that the first manipulation unit123ais a touch key, but the present disclosure may not be necessarily limited to this. For example, the first manipulation unit123amay be configured with a mechanical key, or a combination of a touch key and a push key.

The content received by the first and second manipulation units123aand123bmay be set in various ways. For example, the first manipulation unit123amay be used by the user to input a command such as menu, home key, cancel, search, or the like, and the second manipulation unit123bmay be used by the user to input a command, such as controlling a volume level being output from the first or second audio output module152aor152b, switching into a touch recognition mode of the display unit151, or the like.

On the other hand, as another example of the user input unit123, a rear input unit (not shown) may be disposed on the rear surface of the terminal body. The rear input unit may be manipulated by a user to input a command for controlling an operation of the mobile terminal100. The content input may be set in various ways. For example, the rear input unit may be used by the user to input a command, such as power on/off, start, end, scroll or the like, controlling a volume level being output from the first or second audio output module152aor152b, switching into a touch recognition mode of the display unit151, or the like. The rear input unit may be implemented into a form allowing a touch input, a push input or a combination thereof.

The rear input unit may be disposed to overlap the display unit151of the front surface in a thickness direction of the terminal body. As one example, the rear input unit may be disposed on an upper end portion of the rear surface of the terminal body such that a user can easily manipulate it using a forefinger when the user grabs the terminal body with one hand. However, the present disclosure may not be limited to this, and the position of the rear input unit may be changeable.

When the rear input unit is disposed on the rear surface of the terminal body, a new user interface may be implemented using the rear input unit. Also, the aforementioned touch screen or the rear input unit may substitute for at least part of functions of the first manipulation unit123alocated on the front surface of the terminal body. Accordingly, when the first manipulation unit123ais not disposed on the front surface of the terminal body, the display unit151may be implemented to have a larger screen.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal100may include a finger scan sensor which scans a user's fingerprint. The controller may use fingerprint information sensed by the finger scan sensor as an authentication means. The finger scan sensor may be installed in the display unit151or the user input unit123.

The microphone122may be configured to receive the user's voice, other sounds, and the like. The microphone122may be provided at a plurality of places, and configured to receive stereo sounds.

The second camera121bmay be further mounted to the rear surface of the terminal body. The second camera121bmay have an image capturing direction, which is substantially opposite to the direction of the first camera unit121a.

The second camera121bmay include a plurality of lenses arranged along at least one line. The plurality of lenses may be arranged in a matrix form. The cameras may be referred to as an ‘array camera.’ When the second camera121bis implemented as the array camera, images may be captured in various manners using the plurality of lenses and images with better qualities may be obtained.

The flash124may be disposed adjacent to the second camera121b. When an image of a subject is captured with the camera121b, the flash124may illuminate the subject.

The second audio output module152bmay further be disposed on the terminal body. The second audio output module152bmay implement stereophonic sound functions in conjunction with the first audio output module152a, and may be also used for implementing a speaker phone mode for call communication.

At least one antenna for wireless communication may be disposed on the terminal body. The antenna may be embedded in the terminal body or formed in the case. For example, an antenna which configures a part of the broadcast receiving module111(seeFIG. 1A) may be retractable into the terminal body. Alternatively, an antenna may be formed in a form of film to be attached onto an inner surface of the rear cover103or a case including a conductive material may serve as an antenna.

The terminal body is provided with a power supply unit190(seeFIG. 1A) for supplying power to the mobile terminal100. The power supply unit190may include a batter191which is mounted in the terminal body or detachably coupled to an outside of the terminal body.

The battery191may receive power via a power cable connected to the interface unit160. Also, the battery191may be (re)chargeable in a wireless manner using a wireless charger. The wireless charging may be implemented by magnetic induction or electromagnetic resonance.

On the other hand, the drawing illustrates that the rear cover103is coupled to the rear case102for shielding the battery191, so as to prevent separation of the battery191and protect the battery191from an external impact or foreign materials. When the battery191is detachable from the terminal body, the rear case103may be detachably coupled to the rear case102.

An accessory for protecting an appearance or assisting or extending the functions of the mobile terminal100may further be provided on the mobile terminal100. As one example of the accessory, a cover or pouch for covering or accommodating at least one surface of the mobile terminal100may be provided. The cover or pouch may cooperate with the display unit151to extend the function of the mobile terminal100. Another example of the accessory may be a touch pen for assisting or extending a touch input onto a touch screen.

An antenna according to the present invention includes an antenna pattern110′ formed in one area of the mobile terminal body100. The antenna pattern110′ has a predetermined length to transmit and receive a radio signal in a predetermined frequency range. For example, the antenna pattern110′ according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention may be formed at a lower end portion of the mobile terminal body100. However, a placement position of the antenna pattern110′ is not limited thereto. For example, the antenna pattern110′ may be formed on one area of the rear cover103, or on an inner frame that forms an inner structure of the mobile terminal body100.

FIGS. 2A to 2Fare conceptual views illustrating a structure of a display module and a touch sensor according to various embodiments of the present invention.

A touch screen151according toFIG. 2Aincludes a cover glass151a, a display module151b, and a touch sensing module310. The touch sensing module310is formed on the display module151b, and the cover glass151ais formed on the touch sensing module310. An adhesive layer (OCA)151a′ is formed between the display module151band the touch sensing module310, and between the cover glass151aand the touch sensing module310, respectively.

The touch sensing module310is formed on both surfaces of a glass substrate301, and includes first and second sensing layers311,312which include a plurality of electrode lines intersecting with each other. The first and second sensing layers311,312are formed with a Tx layer and an Rx layer, respectively.

The first and second sensing layers311,312are insulated by the glass substrate301. Capacitance is changed by a finger making contact with the cover glass151a, and a touch input is sensed through changes in the capacitance.

In a touch screen151according toFIG. 2B, the display module151bis coupled below the cover glass151aby the adhesive layer151a′. The display module151bincludes a backplane glass having a backlight, a liquid crystal layer, and a color filter layer. The touch sensing module310is formed on the backplane glass.

The first sensing layer311is formed on the backplane glass, and an insulator layer302is formed in contact with the first sensing layer311. The second sensing layer312is formed on the insulator layer302and the backplane glass so as not to be in contact with the first sensing layer311. Accordingly, the first and second sensing layers311,312may be formed on the backplane glass in an insulted state from each other by the insulator layer302.

Referring toFIG. 2C, the first and second sensing layers311,312are formed in contact with the cover glass151a. For example, the first sensing layer311is formed in an inner surface of the cover glass151a, and the insulator layer302is formed in contact with the first sensing layer311. The second sensing layer312is formed on the insulator layer302and the cover glass151aso as not to be in contact with the first sensing layer311.

The display module151bis mounted below the cover glass151aformed integrally with the touch sensing module310.

According to these embodiments, the first and second sensing layers, which need to be insulated from each other, are formed on one glass substrate (window or backplane glass), thereby reducing a thickness of a touch screen.

Referring toFIG. 2D, an insulator layer303, a first sensing layer311, and a second sensing layers312constituting a touch sensing module310may be disposed between each component of a display module320.

The display module320includes a TFT electrode layer322formed on one surface of a TFT glass321, a color filter layer324formed on one surface of a color filter glass325, a liquid crystal layer323disposed between the color filter layer324and the TFT electrode layer322, and a polarizer327disposed on the color filter glass325. The polarizer327is attached by a transparent adhesive layer (OCA)151a′.

The TFT electrode layer322is formed on the TFT glass321, and the color filter layer324is formed on the color filter glass325. The liquid crystal layer323is disposed between the color filter layer323and the TFT electrode layer322.

The second sensing layer312is formed on the color filter glass325, and an insulator layer303is disposed on the second sensing layer312. The first sensing layer311is formed on the insulator layer303.

A coating layer326is formed on the first sensing layer311and a polarizer327attached to a cover (window) glass151ais formed on the coating layer326.

In other words, since the first and second sensing layers311,312are formed on the color filter glass325, which is used for a base substrate among the components of the display module151b, no additional configuration is required, thereby reducing a thickness of a display module.

Referring toFIG. 2E, the display module320includes the TFT electrode layer322formed on one surface of the TFT glass321, a color filter layer324formed on one surface of the color filter glass325, the liquid crystal layer323disposed between the color filter layer324and the TFT electrode layer322, and the polarizer327disposed on the color filter glass325. The polarizer327is attached by the transparent adhesive layer151a′.

The first sensing layer311is formed on the color filter glass325, and the coating layer326is formed on one surface on which the first sensing layer311is formed. The second sensing layer312is formed on the TFT glass321.

Referring toFIG. 2F, the second sensing layer312is formed on the TFT glass321, but the first sensing layer311is formed on one surface on which the polarizer327of the cover glass151ais formed.

In other words, according to the embodiments, the first and second sensing layers included in the touch sensing module (or touch sensor layer)310may be disposed at different areas of the display module and the cover glass.

Hereinafter, a method for controlling the touch sensing module310having the first and second sensing layers will be described.

FIGS. 3A to 3Care conceptual views illustrating a control method for changing a sensing resolution of a touch sensing module.

Referring toFIG. 3A, the touch sensing module310includes a first sensing layer311having first electrode lines Rx extending in a first direction, and a second sensing layer312having second electrode lines Tx extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The first and second electrode lines extend in a direction intersecting with each other, and are insulated from each other. The first and second sensing layers311,312include a plurality of first and second electrode lines. The plurality of first and second electrode lines is arranged at predetermined intervals so that a touch is sensed at the second sensing resolution.

The touch sensing module310may be divided into a first area A1and a second area A2. The first area (region) may receive a touch input by a finger making contact with the cover glass151a, or obtain fingerprint information of the finger. However, as for the second area (region) of the touch sensing module310, receiving the touch input is available, but obtaining the fingerprint information is unavailable.

The first sensing layer311includes a first sensing (electrode) line section311aand a first dummy (electrode) line section311b, and the second sensing layer312includes a second sensing (electrode) line section312aand a second dummy (electrode) line section312b. Each of the first and second sensing line sections311a,312a, and each of the first and second dummy line sections311b,312binclude a predetermined number of electrode lines, and each of the electrode lines is substantially the same.

A plurality of electrode lines included in each of the first and second sensing line sections311a,312ain the second area A2is electrically connected to each other to form one single sensing line. The plurality of first and second sensing line sections311a,312ais electrically connected to a circuit board, and the plurality of first and second dummy line sections311b,312bis not electrically connected to a circuit board. That is, a touch input is not detected by the first and second dummy line sections311b,312b.

Accordingly, the second area A2detects the touch input at the first sensing resolution by the first and second sensing line sections311a,312a. In the first and second dummy line sections311b,312b, no current flows and changes in capacitance are not detected, thereby detecting a touch input is unavailable. Therefore, fingerprint information is not detected by the second area A2.

Meanwhile, in the first area A1, the first and second sensing line sections311a,312a, and the first and second dummy line sections311b,312bare arranged to intersect with each other. Electrode lines311′ of the first and second sensing line sections311a,312a, and electrode lines312′ of the first and second dummy line sections311b,312bdisposed in the first area A1are selectively connected to a circuit board to sense a touch input or a fingerprint at the first sensing resolution or the second sensing resolution.

A driving method for detecting a touch or obtaining fingerprint information will be described with reference toFIGS. 3B and 3C. In order for this, a plurality of electrode lines included in the first and second sensing line sections311a,312a, and the first and second dummy line sections311b,312bare selectively connected to a circuit board.

FIG. 3Bis a conceptual view illustrating a driving state of a plurality of sensing electrode lines for receiving a touch input.

Referring toFIG. 3B, a switch unit410is connected to the touch sensing module310, so that electrode lines included in the first area A1of the touch sensing module310are selectively connected to first and second circuit boards181a,181b. Each of the first and second sensing line sections311a,312aincluded in the second area A2is electrically connected to the second circuit board181bfor sensing the touch sensor as one single sensing line. The first and second dummy line sections311b,312bincluded only in the second area A2are not electrically connected to the circuit board.

The second sensing line section312aof the second area A2in contact with (or adjacent to) the first area A1is disconnected from the second sensing line section312aof the first area A1, and is electrically connected to the second sensing line section312aof the second area A2. A plurality of electrode lines of the second sensing line section312aof the second area A2, which is in a disconnected state from the first area A1, is electrically connected by a connecting electrode line312c. A plurality of electrode lines of the second sensing line section312aconnected by the connecting electrode line312cmay be connected to the second circuit board181bas one single sensing line.

A plurality of electrode lines of the first and second sensing line sections311a,312aincluded in the first area A1is connected to a first switch411and a second switch412, respectively. One of the first and second switches411,412is selectively connected or disconnected. Each of the plurality of electrode lines is connected to the first circuit board181aor the second circuit board181bby the first switch411or the second switch412. The second sensing line section312aof the second area A2adjacent to the first area A1is connected to a fourth switch414so as to connect the second sensing line section312ato the second circuit board181b.

The fourth switch414connects the second sensing line section312ato the second circuit board181bin a touch receiving mode in which the touch input is detected at the first sensing resolution.

In the touch receiving mode, the controller controls to connect each of the plurality of first and second electrode lines included in the first and second sensing line sections311a,312ato the second circuit board181bby the first switch411. The plurality of electrode lines of the first and second sensing line sections311a,312aconnected to the first switch411is grouped into one sensing line so as to be electrically connected to the second circuit board181b. Part of the second sensing line section312aincluded in the first area A1may be connected to part of the second sensing line section312aincluded in the second area A2to form one single sensing line. For example, a plurality of electrode lines connected by the first switch411in the first area A1is connected to electrode lines connected by the fourth switch414in the second area A2so as to be connected to the second circuit board181bas one sensing line.

In this case, the second switch412is disconnected in the touch receiving mode. Accordingly, in order to receive a touch input, a plurality of sensing lines including a plurality of first and second electrode lines is arranged at intervals corresponding to an area in which the dummy line sections311band312bare formed. The plurality of sensing lines of the first and second sensing line sections312a,312bmay sense the touch input at the first sensing resolution based on the intervals generated by the dummy line sections311b,312b.

A driving state of the touch sensing module when acquiring fingerprint information at the second sensing resolution higher than the first sensing resolution will be described with reference toFIG. 3B.

Each of the plurality of electrode lines included in the first area A1is a respective sensing line, and is connected to the first circuit board181a. That is, each of the plurality of first and second electrode lines included in the first and second sensing line sections311a,312ais directly connected to the first circuit board181aby the second switch412. In this case, the first switch411is disconnected.

A plurality of first and second electrode lines included in the first and second dummy line sections311b,312bis connected to a third switch413. Each of the first and second electrode lines is connected to the first circuit board181aby the third switch in the fingerprint sensing mode. In the touch receiving mode, the third switch413disconnects connection of the first and second electrode lines.

Meanwhile, the controller may form a sensing line for sensing the touch input at the first sensing resolution by grouping a plurality of electrode lines included in the second area A2by the first switch411.

Referring back toFIG. 3A, a third area A3including first electrode lines passing through the first area A1may be formed. In the fingerprint sensing mode, the controller may connect the first switch411to the second electrode line (312′) while obtaining fingerprint information in the first area A1at the second sensing resolution. In this case, however, the controller ignores a touch input applied to the third area A3.

Alternatively, the controller180may control the rest of the electrode lines except the first and second electrode lines included in the first area A1to be disconnected.

According to this embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of electrode lines arranged to have a second sensing resolution is grouped so as to sense a touch input at a first sensing resolution, and fingerprint information can be obtained by a plurality of electrode lines arranged in a specific area (first area) at the second sensing resolution.

Accordingly, an additional fingerprint sensor layer is unnecessary since a touch input and fingerprint information can be obtained through one touch sensing (sensor) layer including a plurality of electrode lines.

FIG. 4Ais a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention, andFIGS. 4B to 4Dare conceptual views illustrating a control method according to various embodiments of the present invention.

Referring toFIGS. 4A and 4B, in a screen lock state of the mobile terminal, a touch input on the first area A1is detected at the first sensing resolution (S21). The controller180changes a sensing resolution of the first area A1to the second sensing resolution based on the touch input (S22).

In the lock state, the touch screen151may be deactivated, or an ‘Always On’ image may be displayed on one area of the touch screen. In the lock state, the touch sensing module is in the touch receiving mode. Meanwhile, in the lock state, the touch screen151may display an indicator502indicating the first area A1together with the image501.

While the first area A1senses the touch input, the second area A2is blocked from receiving a touch input. That is, referring back toFIG. 3C, the controller180control first and second electrode lines which are located in the second area A2but are not located in the first area A1, so as not to detect a touch input.

The controller180controls the touch screen151to display a lock screen511(seeFIG. 6B) based on a specific type of touch input detected by the first area A1. The specific type of touch input may correspond to a long touch applied for a specific period of time.

When the touch input is received by the first area A1, the controller180changes the sensing resolution of the touch sensing module to the second sensing resolution so as to be switched to the fingerprint sensing mode, and controls the touch sensing module so that fingerprint information of a finger making contact with the first area A1is acquired (S23). In this case, the second area A2may receive a touch input.

The controller180controls the touch sensing module to acquire the fingerprint information of the finger making contact with the first area A1, and performs a user authentication procedure using the acquired fingerprint information (S24). While the fingerprint information is being obtained, a touch input is not detected by the second area A2.

When the authentication procedure is successfully completed based on the fingerprint information, the controller180unlocks the screen lock state. When unlocked, the lock screen511is changed to preset screen information512(S25).

When unlocked, the controller180switches the mode of both the first and second areas A1, A2to the touch receiving mode so that a touch input is detected at the first sensing resolution.

Meanwhile, the controller180controls the touch screen151to display the lock screen511when a knock input is applied to the first area A1. In this case, when a specific touch input is detected in the first area A1together with the knock input, the fingerprint sensing mode may be activated.

According to this embodiment, unintended screen unlocking can be prevented since the fingerprint sensing mode is activated initially when a touch input on a specific area defined on the touch screen is applied, and then the screen lock state is unlocked by acquiring fingerprint information.

FIG. 4Cis a conceptual view illustrating a control method of a mobile terminal according to another embodiment of the present invention.

In the embodiment, the controller180controls the touch screen151to display a lock screen511when a first touch input is applied to the first area A1, and controls the touch sensing module to obtain fingerprint information when a second touch input is applied to the first area A1. When the lock screen511is displayed, a user may enter his/her authentication information (e.g. password, pin code) other than fingerprint information to unlock.

The second touch input may correspond to pressure of a touch input in which pressure is sensed unlike the first touch input. In this case, the touch screen151may display screen information512displayed after completing the authentication instead of the lock screen511.

FIG. 4Dis a conceptual view illustrating a feature of switching to a fingerprint sensing mode based on a touch input, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIG. 4D, in the screen lock state, the touch screen151may be deactivated, or may display an image501and/or an indicator indicating the first area A1on a specific area of the touch screen. The controller180activates the touch receiving mode of the touch sensing module. Accordingly, fingerprint information may also not be obtained in the first area A1.

The controller180controls to obtain fingerprint information in the first area A1based on a touch input on the touch screen151, and to receive a touch input in the second area A2.

When a touch is applied to the first area A1, the controller180acquires fingerprint information, and performs a user authentication procedure. When the obtained fingerprint information matches with prestored fingerprint data, the lock state is unlocked. When unlocked, the touch screen151displays first screen information512. The first screen information512may correspond to a home screen page, etc.

Meanwhile, when a touch input is detected in the second area A2after the touch input is applied to the first area A1, the controller controls to display a lock screen511corresponding to a lock state. The controller180may perform the user authentication procedure through a password or the like entered while the lock screen511is being displayed.

The controller controls the first area A1so as to acquire fingerprint information while the lock screen511is being displayed. When the fingerprint information is obtained by the first area A1, the controller180may proceed with the user authentication procedure using this fingerprint information.

According to these embodiments, fingerprint information is obtained by a specific area on the touch screen to unlock. When a touch is applied to the specific area or a specific type of touch input is received on the touch screen, the specific area is switched to the fingerprint sensing mode so as to acquire fingerprint information. As a result, obtaining fingerprint information and performing user authentication caused by an unintended or accidental touch can be prevented.

FIG. 5is a conceptual view illustrating a control method for unlocking a screen lock state based on a touch input applied to a specific area including a first area, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIG. 5, in the lock state, the touch screen151may be an Always On Display (AOD) image501. The image501may include time information, guide information and the like to unlock.

According to the embodiment of the present invention, in the lock state, the touch screen151includes a guide image of ‘Swipe to ready’ for unlocking. The guide image is displayed adjacent to the first area A1.

The controller180controls the touch sensing module of the touch screen151to maintain the touch receiving mode in the lock state while the image501is being displayed. When the controller180receives a touch input in a continuous manner from at least one area including the first area A1, the controller180switches the touch receiving mode of the first area A1to the fingerprint sensing mode, which allows the first area A1to obtain fingerprint information.

Here, the continuous touch input may correspond to dragging, a swipe, or the like moving from the second area A2to the first area A1.

The controller180controls the first area A1to acquire fingerprint information based on the specific type of touch input, and controls the remaining area so as not to receive a touch input. Thus, a touch input may not be applied to the second area A2for a specific period of time. However, when the specific period of time t passes, the controller180switches the touch screen151to the touch receiving mode so that the first and second areas A1, A2receive a touch input.

Meanwhile, the controller180acquires fingerprint information of a finger making contact with the first area A1. A user authentication procedure is performed using the fingerprint information, and the screen lock state is unlocked when the authentication is successfully completed. When unlocked, the touch screen151displays first screen information512.

A continuous touch input moving in one direction is illustrated as an example in the drawing, but the continuous touch input is not limited to this. It may be a touch pattern over first and second areas A1, A2.

According to this embodiment of the present invention, the user authentication procedure is performed only when a touch input is applied to an area including first and second areas A1, A2. Thus, performing the user authentication due to an unintended or accidental touch can be prevented.

FIGS. 6A and 6Billustrate a control method for unlocking a screen lock state, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIGS. 6A and 6B, in the lock state, the touch screen151may be an Always On Display (AOD) image501. While the image501is being displayed, the touch screen151is in the touch receiving mode.

However, when a touch input (long touch input) on the first area A1for a specific period of time is detected, the controller180controls the touch screen151, so that the first area A1obtains fingerprint information. Accordingly, the controller180switches the touch receiving mode to the fingerprint sensing mode while a finger is in contact with the touch screen, and acquires the fingerprint information to perform a user authentication procedure.

When the authentication procedure is performed, first screen information512is displayed on the touch screen151. In this case, the controller180switches the mode to the touch receiving mode so as to receive a touch input from both the first and second areas A1, A2.

Accordingly, a user may enter fingerprint information while applying a specific type of touch input on a specific area of the touch screen151. Thus, the lock state can be easily unlocked without complicated steps for entry and a step for activating the fingerprint sensing mode.

Referring toFIG. 6B, when a continuous touch input on one area of the touch screen151including the first area A1is detected, the controller180controls the touch screen to display a lock screen511. The lock screen511may include an input image or an input window for entering user authentication information such as a password or the like to perform the user authentication procedure.

In other words, a user may enter fingerprint information or different kinds of authentication information by applying another touch input to the first area A1.

FIGS. 7A and 7Bare conceptual views illustrating a control method for displaying screen lock information using fingerprint information.

Referring toFIG. 7A, the touch screen151displays first screen information512. The first screen information512includes at least one content for receiving a touch input to execute a function. The at least one content may be displayed on the first and second areas A1, A2. The controller180activates the touch receiving mode to receive a touch input on the content displayed on the first and second areas A1, A2. In this case, the first area A1receives a touch input to generate a specific control command instead of acquiring fingerprint information.

However, the controller180switches the touch receiving mode of the first area A1to the fingerprint sensing mode when a specific type of touch input is applied to the first area A1. For example, the specific type of touch input is a continuous touch input (drag or swipe) across the first area A1, which is distinguished from the type of touch input applied to the content displayed on the first area A1.

The controller180activates the fingerprint sensing mode of the first area A1for a specific period of time (few seconds) when the continuous touch input passing the first area A1is applied. The controller180controls the touch screen151so that the second area A2receives a touch input even when the first area A1is switched to the fingerprint sensing mode.

In this case, the touch screen151may display screen information512′ by changing brightness and color of the first screen information512. In addition, an indicator for indicating the first area A1may be displayed. Meanwhile, when a touch input is applied to the second area A2of the touch screen151, the controller151restores the changed screen information512′ to the screen information512, and activates the fingerprint mode of the first area A1. The changed screen information512′ may include information of a time for which the fingerprint sensing mode of the first area A1is maintained.

The controller180acquires fingerprint information of a finger making contact with the first area A1for a specific period of time, and performs a user authentication procedure using the obtained fingerprint information. When the user authentication is successfully completed, the controller180controls the touch screen151to display additional information513.

The additional information513may include locked contents required to enter a password for execution and/or activation. The additional information513may be displayed as a window overlapping on the changed screen information512′, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The window may be displayed on the second area A2.

For example, when the first screen information511corresponds to a home screen page layout including a plurality of icons, the controller180may change the layout so that the touch screen151displays screen information including additional contents. The additional contents may correspond to contents related to the detected fingerprint information.

When the user authentication is successfully completed or the user authentication is failed, the controller180switches the fingerprint sensing mode of the first area A1to the touch receiving mode again so as to receive a touch input on the additional information513.

According to this embodiment of the present invention, the user authentication is proceeded through fingerprint information acquired by the first area A1while the first screen information is being displayed. Accordingly, the locked contents related to the first screen information can be displayed.

In description of this exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an additional icon is displayed on the home screen page, but the contents may correspond to information related to the currently displayed screen information or personal information set by the user.

Referring toFIG. 7B, the touch screen151displays second screen information514including a plurality of images. The touch screen151displays an enlarged selected image515based on a touch input on one of the plurality of images. While the second screen information514and/or the selected image515is or are being displayed on the touch screen151, the controller180activates the touch receiving mode so that the first and second areas A1, A2receive a touch input.

While the selected image515is being displayed, the controller180outputs another image or executes a function related to the image based on a touch input applied to the first and second areas A1, A2.

However, when a specific type of touch input moving across the first area A1is applied while the selected image515is being displayed, the controller180switches the touch receiving mode of the first area A1to the fingerprint detection mode.

The touch sensing module of the touch screen151acquires fingerprint information of a finger making contact with the first area A1while the image515is being displayed. In this case, the second area A2is controlled so as not to receive a touch input. When a user authentication procedure is performed based on the fingerprint information acquired by the first area A1, the touch screen151displays hidden information515a.

Here, the hidden information515ais not displayed until before the authentication procedure is completed. In addition, the hidden information515ais related to the image515and the acquired fingerprint information. The hidden information515ais stored in the memory170together with the image515. The hidden information515ais displayed on the image515.

While the image515is being displayed together with the hidden information515a, the controller180switches the fingerprint sensing mode of the first area A1to the touch receiving mode. Accordingly, a user may perform a specific function related to the hidden information515aand the image515by applying a touch input to the first and second areas A1, A2of the touch screen151.

FIG. 8is a conceptual view illustrating a method for controlling a specific function based on a touch input detected by a first area at a first sensing resolution, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIG. 8, the touch screen151displays third screen information515. While the third screen information515is being displayed, the controller180activates the touch receiving mode and controls the third screen information515based on a touch input sensed. For example, the third screen information515may be changed by a scroll control command generated based on a touch input applied to the third screen information515.

The controller180switches the touch receiving mode of the first area A1to the fingerprint sensing mode based on a continuous touch input moving across the first area A1. When it is switched to the fingerprint detection mode, the first area A1may detect a touch input at the second sensing resolution, which is higher than the first sensing resolution.

Accordingly, when a continuous touch is applied to the first area A1, the first area A1may sense a moving touch input at the second sensing resolution. The controller180may generate a specific control command while a touch input is sensed in the first area A1. For example, while a touch input is detected in the first area A1, a scroll bar may be generated to change the third screen information515. The touch input applied to the first area A1corresponds to a stationary touch input, and the third screen information515may be scrolled at a specific speed.

Alternatively, the controller180generates a control command based on a touch input including fine or delicate movement on the first area A1. For example, a control command for changing the third screen information515may be generated.

The controller180switches the fingerprint sensing mode back to the touch receiving mode when a touch is not applied within a predetermined time after the fingerprint sensing mode of the first area A1is activated. Accordingly, it is switched to the touch receiving mode again when a touch is not applied to the first area A1for the predetermined time.

According to this embodiment of the present embodiment, a user can generate a specific control command based on a touch applied to the first area A1in the fingerprint sensing mode.

FIG. 9is a conceptual view illustrating a control method for preventing a parasitic effect when only part of a plurality of electrode lines detects changes in capacitance.

The first sensing line includes Tx electrode lines, and the second sensing line includes Rx electrode lines. The rest of the Tx electrode lines, which are not overlapping with the first area A1, are deactivated while fingerprint information is detected by the first area A1.

In this embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of capacitors connected to the Tx electrode lines and the Rx electrode lines are included. The controller180applies a bias voltage (Vbias) to a capacitor connected to the deactivated Tx electrode line.

When the same bias voltage is applied to the capacitor connecting the Tx electrode line to the Rx electrode line, the amount of electric charge becomes equal, thereby removing capacitance. Accordingly, a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) generated when only part of a plurality of electrode lines is driven can be reduced.

The present invention can be implemented as computer-readable codes in a program-recorded medium. The computer-readable medium may include all types of recording devices each storing data readable by a computer system. Examples of such computer-readable media may include hard disk drive (HDD), solid state disk (SSD), silicon disk drive (SDD), ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage element and the like. Also, the computer-readable medium may also be implemented as a format of carrier wave (e.g., transmission via an Internet). The computer may include the controller180of the terminal. Therefore, it should also be understood that the above-described embodiments are not limited by any of the details of the foregoing description, unless otherwise specified, but rather should be construed broadly within its scope as defined in the appended claims, Therefore, all changes and modifications that fall within the metes and bounds of the claims, or equivalents of such metes and bounds are therefore intended to be embraced by the appended claims.

INDUSTRIAL AVAILABILITY

Embodiments of the present invention provide an electric device employing a touch sensing module for sensing a touch input that can acquire fingerprint information. Therefore, these embodiments may be applied to various relevant industrial fields.