Patent ID: 12193165

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference the accompanied drawings.

Note that the disclosure is merely an example and suitable changes which may be easily derived by a person skilled in the art while the gist of invention is maintained are included in the scope of the present invention as a matter of course. In addition, while the width, thickness, shape, etc. of respective parts may be schematically illustrated in the drawings as compared with the embodiments for clarity in the description, they are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention.

In the specification and the drawings, the same components as those having been already mentioned in already-mentioned drawings are denoted by the same reference symbols and detailed descriptions thereof may be appropriately omitted.

In addition, in some drawings used in the embodiments, hatching is omitted so as to make a difference among the structures.

Moreover, in the embodiments described below, when a range is shown as A to B, that range means A or more and B or less unless specifically mentioned.

First Embodiment

First, an example in which a display device provided with a touch panel as an input device is applied to an in-cell liquid crystal display device with a touch sensing function will be described as the first embodiment. Note that the input device is at least an input device for detecting electrostatic capacitance which changes in accordance with a capacitance of a substance approaching or contacting the electrode in the specification of the present application. Here, modes for detecting the electrostatic capacitance includes not only a mutual capacitance type for detecting the electrostatic capacitance between two electrodes but also a self capacitance type for detecting the capacitance of one electrode. Also, the liquid crystal display device with the touch sensing function is a liquid crystal display device having a sensing electrode for touch sensing provided on either a first substrate or a second substrate on which a display unit is formed. Further, the first embodiment describes the in-cell liquid crystal display device with the touch sensing function having such feature that a common electrode is provided so as to be functioned as a driving electrode of the display unit and so as to be operated as a driving electrode of the input device.

<Overall Configuration>

First, the overall configuration of the display device according to the present first embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.1.FIG.1is a block diagram illustrating one configuration example of a display device according to the first embodiment.

A display device1includes a display device10with a touch sensing function, a control unit11, a gate driver12, a source driver13, a driving electrode driver14, and a touch sensing unit40.

The display device10with a touch sensing function includes a liquid crystal display device20and a touch sensing device30.

In the present example, the liquid crystal display device20is a display device using liquid crystal display elements as display elements. The touch sensing device30is a touch sensing device of electrostatic capacitance type, that is, an electrostatic capacitive touch sensing device. Therefore, the display device1is a display device including an input device with a touch sensing function. Further, the display device10with a touch sensing function is a display device in which the liquid crystal display device20and the touch sensing device30are integrated, and is a display device incorporating a touch sensing function, namely, an in-cell display device with a touch sensing function.

Further, the display device10with a touch sensing function may be a display device in which the touch sensing device30is attached on the liquid crystal display device20. Further, as the liquid crystal display device20, it is also possible to use such as an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display device instead of the display device using the liquid crystal display element.

The liquid crystal display device20performs display by sequentially scanning each horizontal line in the display region in accordance with scanning signals Vscan supplied from the gate driver12. The touch sensing device30operates in accordance with a principle of electrostatic capacitive touch sensing and outputs sensing signals Vdet as will be described later.

The control unit11is a circuit which respectively supplies control signals to the gate driver12, the source driver13, the driving electrode driver14and the touch sensing unit40based on video signals Vdisp supplied from outside for controlling them so that they are operated in synchronization with each other.

The gate driver12has a function of sequentially selecting one horizontal line, which is an object of display driving of the display device10with a touch sensing function, based on control signals supplied from the control unit11.

The source driver13is a circuit which supplies pixel signals Vpix to sub-pixels SPix included in the display device10with a touch sensing function (seeFIG.10to be described later) based on control signals of image signals Vsig supplied from the control unit11.

The driving electrode driver14is a circuit which supplies driving signals Vcom to common electrodes COML included in the display device10with a touch sensing function (seeFIG.7orFIG.8to be described later) based on control signals supplied from the control unit11.

The touch sensing unit40is a circuit which senses presence/absence of touches of a finger or an input tool such as a touch pen to the touch sensing device30, namely, a state of contact or approach to be described later based on control signals supplied from the control unit11and sensing signals Vdet supplied from the touch sensing device30of the display device10with a touch sensing function. Also, the touch sensing unit40is a circuit which obtains coordinates of touches, namely, input positions in the touch sensing region in the case where the touches are present. The touch sensing unit40includes a touch sensing signal amplifying unit42, an A/D (Analog/Digital) converting unit43, a signal processing unit44, a coordinate extracting unit45and a sensing timing control unit46.

The touch sensing signal amplifying unit42amplifies sensing signals Vdet supplied from the touch sensing device30. The touch sensing signal amplifying unit42may be provided with a low pass analog filter which removes high frequency components, namely, noise components included in the sensing signals Vdet and extracts and respectively outputs touch components.

<Principle of Electrostatic Capacitive Touch Sensing>

Next, the principle of touch sensing in the display device1according to the present first embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.1toFIG.6.FIG.2is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state in which no finger contacts or approaches a touch sensing device.FIG.3is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an equivalent circuit in a state in which no finger contacts or approaches the touch sensing device.FIG.4is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state in which a finger has contacted or approached the touch sensing device.FIG.5is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an equivalent circuit in a state in which a finger has contacted or approached the touch sensing device.FIG.6is a diagram illustrating one example of waveforms of a driving signal and a sensing signal.

As illustrated inFIG.2, in the electrostatic capacitive touch sensing, an input device referred to as a touch panel or a touch sensor includes a driving electrode E1and a sensing electrode E2which are disposed to be opposed to each other with a dielectric body D interposed therebetween. A capacitive element C1is formed by the driving electrode E1and the sensing electrode E2. As illustrated inFIG.3, one end of the capacitive element C1is connected to an AC signal source S which is a driving signal source, and the other end of the capacitive elements C1is connected to a voltage sensor DET which is the touch sensing unit. The voltage sensor DET is, for example, an integrating circuit included in the touch sensing signal amplifying unit42illustrated inFIG.1.

When an AC rectangular wave Sg having a frequency in the range of, for example, several kHz to several hundreds kHz is applied from the AC signal source S to the one end of the capacitive element C1, namely, the driving electrode E1, a sensing signal Vdet which is an output waveform is generated via the voltage sensor DET connected to the other end of the capacitive element C1, namely, the sensing electrodes E2. Note that the AC rectangular wave Sg corresponds to, for example, the driving signal Vcom illustrated inFIG.6.

In the state in which no finger contacts or approaches, namely, in the non-contact state illustrated inFIG.2, current I0corresponding to the capacitance value of the capacitive element C1flows in accordance with charge and discharge of the capacitive element C1as illustrated inFIG.3. The voltage sensor DET converts the fluctuation in the current I0in accordance with the AC rectangular wave Sg into the fluctuation in voltage. The voltage fluctuation is represented as the waveform V0indicated by a solid line inFIG.6.

On the other hand, in a state in which a finger contacts or approaches, namely, in the contact state illustrated inFIG.4, the capacitive element is affected by the electrostatic capacitance, and the capacitive element C2is added in series to the capacitive element C1. In this state, with the charge/discharge to the capacitive elements C1and C2, when viewed in the equivalent circuit illustrated inFIG.5, current I1flows through the capacitive element C1′. Here, the capacitive element C1′ is sum of the capacitive element C1and the capacitive element C2. The voltage sensor DET converts the fluctuation in the current I1in accordance with the AC rectangular wave Sg into the fluctuation in voltage. This voltage fluctuation is represented as the waveform V1indicated by a broken line inFIG.6. In this case, the amplitude of the waveform V1is smaller than that of the above-described waveform V0. Accordingly, the absolute value |ΔV| of the voltage difference between the waveform V0and waveform V1is varied in accordance with influences of an object such as a finger which approaches from outside. Note that, in order to accurately sense the absolute value |ΔV| of the voltage difference between the waveform V0and the waveform V1, it is preferable that a period Reset during which charge and discharge of the capacitor are reset in accordance with a frequency of the AC rectangular wave Sg by the switching in the circuit is provided in the operation of the voltage sensor DET.

In the example illustrated inFIG.1, the touch sensing device30performs touch sensing for each sensing block corresponding to one or a plurality of common electrodes COML in accordance with the driving signal Vcom supplied from the driving electrode driver14. More specifically, the touch sensing device30outputs the sensing signal Vdet via the voltage sensor DET illustrated inFIG.3orFIG.5for each sensing block corresponding to each of the one or a plurality of common electrodes COML, and supplies the output sensing signal Vdet to the A/D converting unit43of the touch sensing unit40.

The A/D converting unit43is a circuit which samples each analog signal output from the touch sensing signal amplifying unit42at a timing in synchronization with the driving signal Vcom, thereby converting it into a digital signal.

The signal processing unit44is provided with a digital filter which reduces frequency components other than the frequency at which the driving signal Vcom is sampled, namely, noise components included in the output signal of the A/D converting unit43. The signal processing unit44is a logic circuit which senses presence/absence of touches to the touch sensing device30based on the output signal of the A/D converting unit43. The signal processing unit44performs the process of extracting only differential voltage caused by the finger. The differential voltage caused by the finger is the absolute value |ΔV| of the difference between the waveform V0and waveform V1mentioned above. It is also possible that the signal processing unit44performs calculations of averaging absolute values |ΔV| per each sensing block to obtain the average value of the absolute values |ΔV|. By this means, the signal processing unit44can reduce the influences of noise. The signal processing unit44compares the sensed differential voltage caused by the finger with a predetermined threshold voltage, and when the voltage is equal to or higher than the threshold voltage, it is determined to be the contact state of an externally approaching object which approaches from outside, and when the voltage is lower than the threshold voltage, it is determined to be the non-contact state of an externally approaching object. In this manner, touch sensing is performed by the touch sensing unit40.

The coordinate extracting unit45is a logic circuit which obtains the coordinates of the position at which the touch has been sensed by the signal processing unit44, namely, the input position on the touch panel. The sensing timing control unit46controls the A/D converting unit43, the signal processing unit44and the coordinate extracting unit45so that they are operated in synchronization with each other. The coordinate extracting unit45outputs the touch panel coordinates as a signal output Vout.

<Module>

FIG.7andFIG.8are plan views illustrating one example of a module having the display device according to the first embodiment mounted therein. In the example illustrated inFIG.7, the above-described driving electrode driver14is formed on a first substrate21.

As illustrated inFIG.7, the display device1includes the display device10with a touch sensing function, the driving electrode driver14, a COG (chip on glass)19A and the first substrate21.

The display device10with a touch sensing function includes a plurality of common electrodes COML and a plurality of sensing electrodes TDL. Here, two directions which mutually intersect, preferably orthogonally, with each other within an upper surface serving as a main surface of the first substrate21are defined to be an X axis direction and a Y axis direction. At this time, the plurality of common electrodes COML respectively extend in the X axis direction and are arrayed in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view. Further, the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL respectively extend in the Y axis direction and are arrayed in the X axis direction when see in a plan view. In other words, the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL intersect the plurality of common electrodes COML when seen in a plan view.

As will be described later with reference toFIG.9andFIG.10, each of the plurality of common electrodes COML is provided so as to overlap the plurality of sub-pixels SPix arrayed in the X axis direction when seen in a plan view. More specifically, one common electrode COML is provided as a common electrode for the plurality of sub-pixels SPix.

Note that the expression “when seen in a plan view” in the present specification indicates the case in which components are seen from a direction perpendicular to the upper surface serving as the main surface of the first substrate21or a second substrate31included in an opposing substrate3described later.

In the example illustrated inFIG.7, the display device10with a touch sensing function has a rectangular shape with two sides which respectively extend in the X axis direction and are opposed to each other and two sides which respectively extend in the Y axis direction and are opposed to each other when seen in a plan view. A wiring substrate WS1is provided on one side of the display device10with a touch sensing function in the Y axis direction. The sensing electrode TDL is connected to the touch sensing unit40mounted on outside of this module via the wiring substrate WS1. As the wiring substrate WS1, a flexible print board can be used while described later by usingFIGS.12and13. Also, a connection structure between the sensing electrode TDL and the wiring substrate WS1will be described later by usingFIGS.12and13.

The driving electrode driver14is formed on the first substrate21. The COG19A is a chip mounted on the first substrate21and incorporates respective circuits necessary for display operations such as the control unit11, the gate driver12and the source driver13illustrated inFIG.1.

Note that various substrates such as a transparent glass substrate or a film made of a resin can be used as the first substrate21.

On the other hand, the display device1may incorporate the driving electrode driver14in the COG. An example in which the driving electrode driver14is incorporated in the COG is illustrated inFIG.8. In the example illustrated inFIG.8, the display device1includes a COG19B in its module. In the COG19B illustrated inFIG.8, the driving electrode driver14is incorporated in addition to the above-described respective circuits necessary for the display operations.

Note that, as illustrated inFIG.7andFIG.8, a planar shape of the second substrate31can be substantially the same as that of the first substrate21.

<Display Device with Touch Sensing Function>

Next, a configuration example of the display device10with a touch sensing function will be described in details.FIG.9is a cross-sectional view illustrating the display device with a touch sensing function in the display device according to the first embodiment.FIG.10is a circuit diagram illustrating the display device with a touch sensing function in the display device according to the first embodiment.

The display device10with a touch sensing function includes a pixel substrate2, an opposing substrate3and a liquid crystal layer6. The opposing substrate3is disposed so that an upper surface serving as a main surface of the pixel substrate2and a lower surface serving as a main surface of the opposing substrate3oppose each other. The liquid crystal layer6is provided between the pixel substrate2and the opposing substrate3.

The pixel substrate2includes the first substrate21. As illustrated inFIG.10, in the display region Ad, a plurality of scanning lines GCL, a plurality of signal lines SGL and a plurality of TFT elements Tr which are thin film transistors (TFT) are formed on the first substrate21. Note that, inFIG.9, the illustration of the scanning lines GCL, the signal lines SGL and the TFT elements Tr is omitted.

As illustrated inFIG.10, the plurality of scanning lines GCL respectively extend in the X axis direction and are arrayed in the Y axis direction in the display region Ad. The plurality of signal lines SGL respectively extend in the Y axis direction and are arrayed in the X axis direction in the display region Ad. Accordingly, each of the plurality of signal lines SGL intersects the plurality of scanning lines GCL when seen in a plan view. In this manner, sub-pixels SPix are arranged at intersections between the plurality of scanning lines GCL and the plurality of signal lines SGL which intersect each other when seen in a plan view, and a single pixel Pix is formed by a plurality of sub-pixels SPix having different colors. More specifically, on the first substrate21, the sub-pixels SPix are arrayed in a matrix form in the X axis direction and the Y axis direction in the display region Ad. In other words, the sub-pixels SPix are arrayed in a matrix form in the X axis direction and the Y axis direction in the display region Ad on a front surface side of the first substrate21.

The TFT element Tr is formed at an intersecting portion at which each of the plurality of scanning lines GCL and each of the plurality of signal lines SGL intersect each other when seen in a plan view. Accordingly, in the display region Ad, the plurality of TFT elements Tr are formed on the first substrate21, and the plurality of TFT elements Tr are arrayed in a matrix form in the X axis direction and the Y axis direction. More specifically, each of the plurality of sub-pixels SPix is provided with the TFT element Tr. Also, each of the plurality of sub-pixels SPix is provided with a liquid crystal element LC in addition to the TFT element Tr.

The TFT element Tr is made up of, for example, a thin film transistor such as a n-channel MOS (metal oxide semiconductor). The gate electrode of the TFT element Tr is connected to the scanning lines GCL. One of the source electrode and the drain electrode of the TFT element Tr is connected to the signal line SGL. The other one of the source electrode and the drain electrode of the TFT element Tr is connected to one end of the liquid crystal element LC. One end of the liquid crystal element LC is connected to the source electrode or the drain electrode of the TFT element Tr, and the other end thereof is connected to the common electrode COML.

As illustrated inFIG.9, the pixel substrate2includes the plurality of common electrodes COML, an insulating film24, and a plurality of pixel electrodes22. The plurality of common electrodes COML are provided on the first substrate21in the display region Ad (seeFIG.7orFIG.8) on the front surface side of the first substrate21. The insulating film24is formed on the first substrate21with the inclusion of the front surfaces of each of the plurality of common electrodes COML. In the display region Ad, a plurality of pixel electrodes22are formed on the insulating film24. Accordingly, the insulating film24electrically insulates the common electrodes COML and the pixel electrodes22.

As illustrated inFIG.10, each of the plurality of pixel electrodes22is formed within each of the plurality of sub-pixels SPix arrayed in a matrix form in the X axis direction and the Y axis direction in the display region Ad on the front surface side of the first substrate21. Accordingly, the plurality of pixel electrodes22are arrayed in a matrix form in the X axis direction and the Y axis direction.

In the example illustrated inFIG.9, each of the plurality of common electrodes COML is formed between the first substrate21and the pixel electrodes22. Also, as schematically illustrated inFIG.10, each of the plurality of common electrodes COML is provided so as to overlap the plurality of pixel electrodes22when seen in a plan view. Then, by applying voltage between each of the plurality of pixel electrodes22and each of the plurality of common electrodes COML so that voltage is applied to the liquid crystal element LC provided in each of the plurality of sub-pixels SPix, an image is displayed in the display region Ad.

In this manner, when the display device10with a touch sensing function includes the liquid crystal display device20, a display control unit which controls image display is formed of the liquid crystal element LC, the plurality of pixel electrodes22, the common electrodes COML, the plurality of scanning lines GCL, and the plurality of signal lines SGL. The display control unit is provided between the pixel substrate2and the opposing substrate3. Note that the display device10with a touch sensing function may include a display device as various display devices such as an organic EL display device in place of the liquid crystal display device20as a liquid crystal display device.

Note that each of the plurality of common electrodes COML may be formed on an opposite side of the first substrate21across the pixel electrodes22. Also, in the example illustrated inFIG.9, the arrangement of the common electrodes COML and the pixel electrodes22is an arrangement in which they are overlap as one example in a transverse electric field mode. However, the arrangement of the common electrodes COML and the pixel electrodes22may be an arrangement in which the common electrodes COML and the pixel electrodes22do not overlap when seen in a plan view. Alternatively, the arrangement of the common electrodes COML and the pixel electrodes22may be an arrangement in a TN (Twisted Nematic) mode or VA (Vertical Alignment) mode serving as a vertical electric field mode.

The liquid crystal layer6is provided to modulate light passing therethrough in accordance with the state of the electric field, and a liquid crystal layer adapted to a transverse electric field mode such as the above-described mode is used. More specifically, a liquid crystal display device of transverse electric field mode as the liquid crystal display device20. Alternatively, as described above, a liquid crystal display device of vertical electric field mode such as the TN mode or the VA mode may be used. Note that an alignment film may be provided between the liquid crystal layer6and the pixel substrate2and between the liquid crystal layer6and the opposing substrate3illustrated inFIG.9, respectively.

As illustrated inFIG.10, the plurality of sub-pixels SPix arrayed in the X axis direction, that is, the plurality of sub-pixels SPix which belong to the same row of the liquid crystal display device20are connected to each other by the scanning line GCL. The scanning lines GCL are connected to the gate driver12(seeFIG.1) and scanning signals Vscan (seeFIG.1) are supplied thereto from the gate driver12. Also, the plurality of sub-pixels SPix arrayed in the Y axis direction, that is, the plurality of sub-pixels SPix which belong to the same column of the liquid crystal display device20are connected to each other by the signal line SGL. The signal lines SGL are connected to the source driver13(seeFIG.1) and pixel signals Vpix (seeFIG.1) are supplied thereto from the source driver13. Further, the plurality of sub-pixels SPix arrayed in the X axis direction, that is, the plurality of sub-pixels SPix which belong to the same row of the liquid crystal display device20are connected to each other by the common electrode COML.

The common electrodes COML are connected to the driving electrode driver14(seeFIG.1) and driving signals Vcom (seeFIG.1) are supplied thereto from the driving electrode driver14. In other words, in the example illustrated inFIG.10, the plurality of sub-pixels SPix which belong to the same row share one common electrode COML. The plurality of common electrodes COML respectively extend in the X axis direction and are arrayed in the Y axis direction in the display region Ad. As described above, since the plurality of scanning lines GCL respectively extend in the X axis direction and are arrayed in the Y axis direction in the display region Ad, the direction in which each of the plurality of common electrodes COML extends is parallel to the direction in which each of the plurality of scanning lines GCL extends. However, the direction in which each of the plurality of common electrodes COML extends is not limited, and for example, the direction in which each of the plurality of common electrodes COML extends may be a direction which is parallel to the direction in which each of the plurality of signal lines SGL extends.

The gate driver12illustrated inFIG.1sequentially selects one row, namely, one horizontal line from among the sub-pixels SPix which are arrayed in a matrix form in the liquid crystal display device20as an object of display driving by applying the scanning signals Vscan to the gate electrode of the TFT element Tr of each of the sub-pixels SPix via the scanning lines GCL illustrated inFIG.10. The source driver13illustrated inFIG.1supplies the pixel signals Vpix to each of the plurality of sub-pixels SPix which constitute one horizontal line sequentially selected by the gate driver12via the signal lines SGL illustrated inFIG.10. Then, displays in accordance with the supplied pixel signals Vpix are made at the plurality of sub-pixels SPix constituting one horizontal line.

The driving electrode driver14illustrated inFIG.1applies driving signals Vcom to drive the common electrodes COML for each of the sensing blocks corresponding to one or a plurality of common electrodes COML.

In the liquid crystal display device20, the gate driver12is driven so as to sequentially scan the scanning lines GCL on time division basis, thereby sequentially selecting the sub-pixels SPix for each horizontal line. Also, in the liquid crystal display device20, the source driver13supplies pixel signals Vpix to the sub-pixels SPix which belong to one horizontal line, so that displays are made for each horizontal line. In performing the display operation, the driving electrode driver14applies driving signals Vcom to a sensing block including the common electrodes COML corresponding to the one horizontal line.

The common electrodes COML of the display device1according to the present first embodiment operate as driving electrodes of the liquid crystal display device20and also operate as driving electrodes of the touch sensing device30.FIG.11is a perspective view illustrating one configuration example of the driving electrodes and the sensing electrodes of the display device according to the present first embodiment.

The touch sensing device30includes a plurality of common electrodes COML provided on the pixel substrate2and a plurality of sensing electrodes TDL provided on the opposing substrate3. The plurality of sensing electrodes TDL respectively extend in the direction which intersects the direction in which each of the plurality of common electrodes COML extends when seen in a plan view. In other words, the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL are provided at intervals so as to respectively overlap the plurality of common electrodes COML when seen in a plan view. Also, each of the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL opposes the common electrodes COML in a direction which is perpendicular to the front surface of the first substrate21included in the pixel substrate2. Each of the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL is respectively connected to the touch sensing signal amplifying unit42(seeFIG.1) of the touch sensing unit40. Electrostatic capacitance is generated at intersecting portions between each of the plurality of common electrodes COML and each of the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL seen in a plan view. Thus, input positions are sensed based on the electrostatic capacitance between each of the plurality of common electrodes COML and each of the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL. More specifically, by the electrode substrate as the second substrate31(seeFIG.9) on which the sensing electrode TDL is formed and the common electrodes COML, a sensing unit for sensing the input position, that is, an input device is formed.

Note that the electrode substrate in the first embodiment is not limited to the case of the usage as the opposing substrate3, and, for example, a single input device can be formed as described later by usingFIG.38.

With the configuration described above, when performing the touch sensing operation in the touch sensing device30, one sensing block corresponding to one or a plurality of common electrodes COML in a scanning direction Scan is sequentially selected by the driving electrode driver14. Then, in the selected sensing block, driving signals Vcom for measuring the electrostatic capacitance between the common electrodes COML and the sensing electrodes TDL are input to the common electrodes COML, and sensing signals Vdet for sensing input positions are output from the sensing electrodes TDL. In this manner, the touch sensing device30is configured so as to perform the touch sensing for each sensing block. More specifically, one sensing block corresponds to the driving electrode E1of the above-described principle of touch sensing, and the sensing electrode TDL corresponds to the sensing electrode E2.

Note that a range of the sensing block in the display operation and a range of the sensing block in the touch sensing operation may be common with or different from each other.

As illustrated inFIG.11, the plurality of common electrodes COML and the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL which intersect each other when seen in a plan view form an electrostatic capacitive touch sensor having a matrix arrangement. Accordingly, by scanning the entire touch sensing surface of the touch sensing device30, positions which have been contacted or approached by a finger or the like can be sensed.

As illustrated inFIG.9, the opposing substrate3includes a second substrate31, a color filter32, sensing electrodes TDL and a protective film33. The second substrate31has an upper surface serving as a main surface and a lower surface serving as a main surface opposed to the upper surface. The color filter32is formed on the lower surface serving as one main surface of the second substrate31. The sensing electrodes TDL are the sensing electrodes of the touch sensing device30, and are formed on the upper surface serving as the other main surface of the second substrate31. The protective film33is formed on the upper surface of the second substrate31so as to cover the sensing electrodes TDL. Note that shapes of the sensing electrode TDL as an electrode and the protective film33will be described later.

For example, color filters colored in three colors of red (R), green (G) and blue (B) are arrayed in the X axis direction as the color filter32. In this manner, as illustrated in FIG. a plurality of sub-pixels SPix corresponding to each of color regions32R,32G and32B of the three colors of R, G and B are formed, and one pixel Pix is formed by one set of the plurality of sub-pixels SPix each corresponding to the color regions32R,32G and32B. The pixels Pix are arrayed in a matrix form in the direction in which the scanning lines GCL extend (X axis direction) and the direction in which the signal lines SGL extend (Y axis direction). Further, the region in which the pixels Pix are arrayed in a matrix form is the above-described display region Ad. Note that a dummy region where the pixels Pis are arranged in a matrix form may be provided in periphery of the display region Ad.

The combination of colors of the color filter32may be another combination including a plurality of colors other than R, G and B. It is also possible to provide no color filter32. Alternatively, one pixel Pix may include a sub-pixel SPix which is not provided with the color filter32, that is, a white-colored sub-pixel SPix. Further, a color filter may be provided to the pixel substrate2by use of a COA (Color filter On Array) technique.

Note that, as illustrated inFIG.9, a polarizing plate25may be provided on the opposite side of the opposing substrate3with the pixel substrate2interposed therebetween. In addition, a polarizing plate34may be provided on the opposite side of the pixel substrate2with the opposing substrate3interposed therebetween.

<Configuration of Electrode Substrate>

Next, a configuration of the electrode substrate will be described with reference toFIGS.12to15. Note that, in the description of the first embodiment, an electrode substrate used as an opposing substrate to which sensing electrodes are formed in a display device with an input device is taken as an example.

FIG.12is a plan view illustrating the electrode substrate according to the first embodiment.FIGS.13and14are cross-sectional views illustrating an electrode substrate according to the first embodiment.FIG.15is a perspective view illustrating an electrode substrate according to the first embodiment.FIG.13is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A ofFIG.12, andFIG.14is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B ofFIG.12. Note that, inFIG.12, a perspective state in which the wiring substrate WS1and the anisotropic conductive film CF1are eliminated is illustrated and the outer peripheries of the wiring substrate WS1and the anisotropic conductive film CF1are represented by a dashed-two dotted line. In addition, inFIG.15, the illustration of the wiring substrate WS1is omitted. Further,FIG.15illustrates the similar example of the first modification example of a concave/convex pattern UE1described later by usingFIG.19.

The electrode substrate ES as the opposing substrate3includes the second substrate31, the sensing electrode TDL, the protective film33, and a concave/convex pattern UE1.

Note that, in the present specification, the “concave/convex pattern” means a pattern formed of concave portions, a pattern formed of convex portions, or a pattern formed of concave portions and convex portions.

The second substrate31includes a region (first region) AR1, a region (second region) AR2, and a region (third region) AR3as regions on an upper surface serving as a main surface of the second substrate31. Hereinafter, two directions which mutually intersect, preferably orthogonally, with each other within the upper surface serving as a main surface of the second substrate31are defined to be an X axis direction and a Y axis direction. Here, the regions AR1, AR2, and AR3are sequentially arranged in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view.

Note that, as described above, the expression “when seen in a plan view” in the present specification indicates the case in which components are seen from a direction perpendicular to the upper surface serving as the main surface of the first substrate21(seeFIG.9) or the upper surface serving as the main surface of the second substrate31.

Also, various substrates such as a transparent glass substrate or a film made of a resin can be used as the second substrate31.

The sensing electrode TDL is continuously formed on the second substrate31from the region AR1on the upper surface of the second substrate31via the region AR2on the upper surface of the second substrate31over the region AR3on the upper surface of the second substrate31. Preferably, the sensing electrode TDL extends in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view.

A portion of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR1is taken as a portion PR1. The portion PR1is a main body portion MP1of the sensing electrode TDL. Also, a portion of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2is taken as a portion PR2. Furthermore, a portion of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR3is taken as a portion PR3. The portion PR3is an electrode terminal ET1electrically connected to the wiring substrate WS1. In other words, the portion PR3is an electrode pad electrically connected to the wiring substrate WS1. The sensing electrode TDL is formed of a conductive film.

Preferably, the sensing electrode TDL is formed of a single-layer or a multi-layer film of a conductive film having a metal layer or an alloy layer made of one or more metals selected from a group including aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), chrome (Cr) and tungsten (W). In this manner, conductivity of the sensing electrode TDL can be improved and thus the sensing sensitivity or sensing speed of the sensing electrode TDL can be improved.

Note that the first embodiment shows an example in which the portion PR2is included in the electrode terminal ET1as a portion of the electrode ET1on a main body portion MP1side. However, the portion PR2may be included in the main body portion MP1as a portion of the main body portion MP1on an electrode terminal ET1side.

Also, while the plan shape of the electrode terminal ET1is a rectangular shape in the example illustrated inFIG.12, the plan shape of the electrode terminal ET1may be various shapes such as a circular shape.

The sensing electrode TDL may include a plurality of conductive lines arrayed in the X axis direction in the region AR1. Here, each of the plurality of conductive lines may have a zigzag shape extending in the Y axis direction as a whole while being alternately bent in opposite directions when seen in a plan view. Alternatively, the sensing electrode TDL may have a mesh shape formed of the plurality of conductive lines when seen in a plan view.

The opposing substrate3has a plurality of sensing electrodes TDL. The plurality of sensing electrodes TDL are arrayed in, for example, the X axis direction.

The protective film33is formed so as to cover the sensing electrodes TDL in the regions AR1and AR2. The protective film33protects the sensing electrodes TDL formed of the conductive film by preventing moisture in the air, an acid organic substance, or the like from contacting the sensing electrodes TDL so that the sensing electrodes TDL are not corroded. As the protective film33, for example, a resin film formed of ultraviolet (UV) setting resin, thermosetting resin, or both of them each made of acryl resin, epoxy resin, polyimide resin, or else may be used. Note that the protective film33has also a function of flattening the upper surface of the second substrate31in which the sensing electrodes TDL are formed.

The concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on a surface of the portion PR2or in a portion of the region AR2positioned in periphery of the sensing electrode TDL on the second substrate31. In other words, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed in the sensing electrode TDL or the second substrate31.

In addition, an end portion of the protective film33on the region AR3side terminates on the concave/convex pattern UE1. In other words, an end portion EP1of the protective film33on the region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1.

As described above, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes, for example, concave portions or convex portions. More specifically, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes step portions made up of a high-level portion and a low-level portion. When applying the coating liquid for forming a protective film33onto the regions AR1and AR2, the coating liquid easily spreads along the step portion, but it is difficult for the coating liquid to spread in the direction intersecting the step portion. Therefore, by adjusting the shape of the concave/convex pattern UE1, a length of the step portion can be adjusted, so that the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be accurately adjusted. More specifically, the concave/convex pattern UE1is a position adjustment pattern for adjusting the position of the end portion EP1of the protective film33.

As illustrated inFIG.14, a thickness TH1of the protective film33can be made thicker than a thickness TH2of the sensing electrode TDL. For example, the thickness TH2of the sensing electrode TDL can be 10 nm to 2000 nm, and the thickness TH1of the protective film33can be 500 nm to 10000 nm. Also, when the thickness TH1of the protective film33, that is, the thickness of the coating liquid for forming a protective film, is twice as large as the thickness TH2of the sensing electrode TDL or larger, an effect of highly accurately adjusting the position of the end portion the coating liquid applied on the region AR2is enhanced by the provision of the concave/convex pattern UE1.

Note that, in the example illustrated inFIG.12, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the second substrate31in a portion of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL. Also, the protective film33is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2. In other words, the end portion EP1of the protective film33on the region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2.

Here, it is assumed that the X axis direction and the Y axis direction are orthogonal to each other and the portion PR1has a width WD1in the X axis direction, the portion PR2has a width WD2in the X axis direction, and the portion PR3has a width WD3in the X axis direction. Here, preferably, the width WD2of the portion PR2in the X axis direction is larger than the width WD1of the portion PR1in the X axis direction. With this, the portion PR2has a shoulder portion SH1and, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR1from spreading toward the region AR2by the shoulder portion SH1. Consequently, the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted.

Note thatFIG.12illustrates an example in which the width WD2of the portion PR2in the X axis direction is larger than the width WD1of the portion PR1in the X axis direction, andFIG.15illustrates an example in which the width WD2of the portion PR2in the X axis direction is equal to the width WD1of the portion PR1in the X axis direction. Also,FIG.12illustrates an example in which the width WD3the portion PR3in the X axis direction is equal to the width WD2of the portion PR2in the X axis direction, andFIG.15illustrates an example in which the width the portion PR3in the X axis direction is equal to the width of the portion PR2in the X axis direction.

For example, in the case illustrated inFIG.12, that is, when the width WD2is larger than the width WD1and is equal to the width WD3, the widths WD2and WD3are, for example, 50 μm to 1000 μm each. Also, for example, in the case illustrated inFIG.12, a space DS1between two electrode terminals ET1adjacent to each other is, for example, 50 μm to 1000 μm. With the space DS1within such a range, it is possible to prevent or suppress the two electrode terminals ET1adjacent to each other from being short-circuited by an anisotropic conductive film CF1described later.

Also, the electrode substrate ES serving as the opposing substrate3may have the anisotropic conductive film (ACF) CF1and a wiring substrate WS1. The anisotropic conductive film CF1is disposed in the regions AR2and AR3so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL. The wiring substrate WS1is disposed on the anisotropic conductive film CF1. As the wiring substrate WS1, for example, a flexible printed wiring board also referred to as flexible printed circuits (FPC) can be used. Hereinafter, an example of using FPC as the wiring substrate WS1is described.

On a lower surface of the wiring substrate WS1serving as a main surface thereof, a plurality of electrode terminals ET2are formed. That is, the wiring substrate WS1includes the plurality of electrode terminals ET2formed on the lower surface serving as the main surface of the wiring substrate WS1. The plurality of electrode terminals ET2are disposed so as to correspond to each of the electrode terminals ET1of the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL, respectively. The wiring substrate WS1is disposed on the anisotropic conductive film CF1so that the plurality of electrode terminals ET2are opposed to the electrode terminals ET1, respectively, which are portions of the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL formed in the region AR3, via the anisotropic conductive film CF1.

The anisotropic conductive film CF1is a film formed by shaping a mixture of thermosetting resin with conductive fine metal particles into a film. With the anisotropic conductive film CF1interposed between the electrode terminals ET1of the sensing electrode TDL and the electrode terminals ET2of the wiring substrate WS1, the wiring substrate WS1is pressed onto the second substrate31by, for example, a heat treatment. With this, the metal particles in the anisotropic conductive film CF1contact each other in a thickness direction of the anisotropic conductive film CF1to form a conductive path in the thickness direction of the anisotropic conductive film CF1. The electrode terminals ET1and the electrode terminals ET2opposed to each other are electrically connected to each other via the anisotropic conductive film CF1.

Preferably, an end portion EP2of the anisotropic conductive film CF1on the region AR1side overrides the protective film33to be terminated on the protective film33. In other words, the end portion EP2of the anisotropic conductive film CF1on the region AR1side is positioned on the protective film33.

With this, any portion of the portion PR2is covered with either one of the protective film33and the anisotropic conductive film CF1, and moisture in the air can be prevented from contacting any portion of the portion PR2. Therefore, the sensing electrode TDL formed of a conductive film can be reliably protected from corrosion.

<Concave/Convex Pattern>

FIG.16is a plan view illustrating the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.16, in the first embodiment, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a projecting portion PJ1. The projecting portion PJ1is formed so as to project and extend from a side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2toward the X axis direction, when seen in a plan view. Therefore, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the side surface of the portion PR2and the protective film33is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2as illustrated inFIG.12andFIG.13. In other words, the end portion EP1of the protective film33on the region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2. Note that the projecting portion PJ1is also a convex portion formed on the second substrate31.

In this manner, the projecting portion PJ1serving as a step portion can increase the length of the outer periphery of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2, and the projecting portion PJ1serving as a side wall of the step portion can increase the area of the side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2. That is, the length of the step portion can be increased. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted.

Preferably, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ1. The plurality of projecting portions PJ1are formed so as to extend in the X axis direction as projecting from the side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction, when seen in a plan view. With this, it is possible to easily prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side. Consequently, the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be easily highly accurately adjusted.

Also, in the first embodiment, sensing electrodes TDL1and TDL2are provided as two sensing electrodes TDL each extending in the Y axis direction and adjacent to each other in the X axis direction when seen in a plan view. As illustrated inFIG.12andFIG.13, in the regions AR1and AR2, the protective film33is formed so as to cover the two sensing electrodes TDL and also cover a portion of the second substrate31positioned between the two sensing electrodes TDL.

A concave/convex pattern UE111serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1provided so as to correspond to the sensing electrode TDL1includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ111serving as the projecting portion PJ1, and a concave/convex pattern UE112serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1provided so as to correspond to the sensing electrode TDL1includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ112serving as the projecting portion PJ1. The plurality of projecting portions PJ111each project and extend in the X axis direction from a side surface opposite to a sensing electrode TDL2side of a portion PR21serving as the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL1formed in the region AR2to a side opposite to the sensing electrode TDL2side, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction. The plurality of projecting portions PJ112each project and extend in the X axis direction from a side surface of the portion PR21on the sensing electrode TDL2side to the sensing electrode TDL2side, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction.

Also, a concave/convex pattern UE121serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1provided so as to correspond to the sensing electrode TDL2includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ121serving as the projecting portion PJ1, and a concave/convex pattern UE122serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1provided so as to correspond to the sensing electrode TDL2includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ122serving as the projecting portion PJ1. The plurality of projecting portions PJ121each project and extend in the X axis direction from a side surface on a sensing electrode TDL1side of a portion PR22serving as the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL2formed in the region AR2, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction. The plurality of projecting portions PJ122each project and extend in the X axis direction from a side surface opposite to a sensing electrode TDL1side of the portion PR22toward a side opposite to the sensing electrode TDL1side, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction. Note that the plurality of projecting portions PJ112and the plurality of projecting portions PJ121may be disposed in a staggered configuration in the Y axis direction as similar to an example described later by usingFIG.19.

As illustrated inFIG.16, when the projecting portions PJ112and the projecting portions PJ121are provided, a minimum distance between two sensing electrodes TDL1and TDL2adjacent to each other is equal to a minimum distance DS2between the projecting portions PJ112and the projecting portions PJ121in the X axis direction. In this case, preferably, the minimum distance DS2between the projecting portions PJ112and the projecting portions PJ121in the X axis direction is larger than an average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13). With this, it is possible to prevent or suppress the projecting portions PJ112and the projecting portions PJ121from being short-circuited by the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13).

More preferably, the minimum distance DS2between the projecting portions PJ112and the projecting portions PJ121in the X axis direction is three times as large as the average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1or larger (seeFIG.12andFIG.13). Alternatively, when the average particle diameter of the conductive particles is, for example, smaller than 5000 nm, the minimum distance DS2between the projecting portions PJ112and the projecting portions PJ121in the X axis direction is preferably, for example, 15000 nm to 50000 nm. With this, it is possible to easily prevent or suppress the projecting portions PJ112and the projecting portions PJ121from being short-circuited by the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13).

Note that, for example, when the plurality of projecting portions PJ112are provided but the plurality of projecting portions PJ121are not provided, the minimum distance between two sensing electrodes TDL1and TDL2adjacent to each other is equal to a minimum distance between a side surface of the sensing electrode TDL2on a sensing electrode TDL1side and the projecting portions PJ112in the X axis direction. Also in this case, preferably, a minimum distance between the side surface of the sensing electrode TDL2on the sensing electrode TDL1side and the projecting portions PJ112in the X axis direction is larger than the average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13). Furthermore, more preferably, the minimum distance between the side surface of the sensing electrode TDL2on the sensing electrode TDL1side and the projecting portions PJ112in the X axis direction is three times as large as the average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13) or larger.

In this manner, the adjacent sensing electrodes TDL1and TDL2are preferably disposed so as to have a similar minimum distance between any portions thereof in not only the X axis direction and the Y axis direction but also any direction.

Note that, as similar to the description by usingFIG.12, the width WD2of the portion PR2in the X axis direction is larger than the width WD1of the portion PR1in the X axis direction. With this, the shoulder portion SH1can prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR1from spreading toward the region AR2.

FIG.17andFIG.18are cross-sectional views illustrating other examples of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment.FIG.17andFIG.18are cross-sectional views when seen from a direction in which the projecting portion PJ1extends. Also, illustration of the protective film33is omitted inFIG.17andFIG.18.

As illustrated inFIG.17andFIG.18, the projecting portion PJ1as a convex portion includes a side surface portion SS1positioned, for example, on one side (left side inFIG.17) in the Y axis direction orthogonal to the X axis direction when seen in a plan view, and an upper end portion HE1of the side surface portion SS1is positioned closer to the one side (left side inFIG.17) than a lower end portion LE1of the side surface portion SS1in the Y axis direction. Also, the projecting portion PJ1includes a side surface portion SS2positioned, for example, on the other side (right side inFIG.17) in the Y axis direction orthogonal to the X axis direction when seen in a plan view, and an upper end portion HE2of the side surface portion SS2is positioned closer to the other side (right side inFIG.17) than a lower end portion LE2of the side surface portion SS2in the Y axis direction.

In the example illustrated inFIG.17, the projecting portion PJ1includes a lower layer portion LL1formed on the second substrate31and an upper layer portion HL1formed on the lower layer portion LL1. A side surface portion LS1of the lower layer portion LL1on one side (left side inFIG.17) in the Y axis direction is retreated in the Y axis direction to a side opposite to the one side (left side inFIG.17) further than a side surface portion HS1of the upper layer portion HL1on one side (left side inFIG.17) in the Y axis direction. Also, a side surface portion LS2of the lower layer portion LL1on the other side (right side inFIG.17) in the Y axis direction is retreated in the Y axis direction to a side opposite to the other side (right side inFIG.17) further than a side surface portion HS2of the upper layer portion HL1on the other side (right side inFIG.17) in the Y axis direction. With this, the upper end portion HE1of the side surface portion SS1is positioned closer to one side (left side inFIG.17) than the lower end portion LE1of the side surface portion SS1in the Y axis direction, and the upper end portion HE2of the side surface portion SS2is positioned closer to the other side (right side inFIG.17) than the lower end portion LE2of the side surface portion SS2in the Y axis direction.

Also, in the example illustrated inFIG.18, a cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the direction in which the projecting portion PJ1extends is an inverted trapezoidal shape. That is, in a cross section perpendicular to the direction in which the projecting portion PJ1extends, either one or both of the side surfaces of the projecting portion PJ1are tilted so that the width of the projecting portion PJ1is decreased from the upper surface of the projecting portion PJ1toward the lower surface of the projecting portion PJ1.

The projecting portion PJ1as the convex portion has such a cross-sectional shape, so that the effect of stopping the coating liquid on the upper side of the step portion ST1described later by usingFIG.31is enhanced. Consequently, the position of the end portion of the coating liquid can be further highly accurately adjusted.

In the example illustrated inFIG.17, after the lower layer portion LL1and the upper layer portion HL1are laminated so that, for example, the etching speed of the lower layer portion LL1with respect to an etchant is higher than the etching speed of the upper layer portion HL1with respect to that etchant, etching is performed by using that etchant. With this, the projecting portion PJ1can be formed so that the upper end portion HE1of the side surface portion SS1is positioned closer to one side (left side inFIG.17) than the lower end portion LE1of the side surface portion SS1in the Y axis direction and is positioned closer to the other side (right side inFIG.17) than the lower end portion LE2of the side surface portion SS2in the Y axis direction (the same goes for each of the following modification examples).

Alternatively, a portion of the side surface of the projecting portion PJ1other than the upper end portion may partially have a constricted portion (the same goes for each of the following modification examples).

First Modification Example of Concave/Convex Pattern

FIG.19is a plan view illustrating a first modification example of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.19, in the first modification example, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a projecting portion PJ2. The projecting portion PJ2is formed so as to project and extend from a side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2toward the X axis direction, when seen in a plan view. Therefore, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the side surface of the portion PR2and the protective film33is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2as illustrated inFIG.12,FIG.13, andFIG.15. In other words, the end portion EP1of the protective film33on a region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2. Note that the projecting portion PJ2is also a convex portion formed on the second substrate31.

In this manner, the projecting portion PJ2serving as a step portion can increase the length of the outer periphery of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2, and the projecting portion PJ2serving as a side wall of the step portion can increase the area of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2. That is, the length of the step portion can be increased. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted.

Preferably, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ2. The plurality of projecting portions PJ2are formed so as to extend in the X axis direction as projecting from the side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2, when seen in a plan view, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction. With this, it is possible to easily prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side. Consequently, the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted with ease.

Also, in the first modification example, sensing electrodes TDL1and TDL2are provided as two sensing electrodes TDL each extending in the X axis direction and adjacent to each other in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view. As illustrated inFIG.12,FIG.13, andFIG.15, the protective film33is formed so as to cover the two sensing electrodes TDL and also cover a portion of the second substrate31positioned between the two sensing electrodes TDL in the regions AR1and AR2.

The concave/convex pattern UE111serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1provided so as to correspond to the sensing electrode TDL1includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ211serving as the projecting portion PJ2, and the concave/convex pattern UE112serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1provided so as to correspond to the sensing electrode TDL1includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ212serving as the projecting portion PJ2. The plurality of projecting portions PJ211each project and extend in the X axis direction from a side surface opposite to a sensing electrode TDL2side of the portion PR21serving as the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL1formed in the region AR2to a side opposite to the sensing electrode TDL2side, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction. The plurality of projecting portions PJ212each project and extend in the X axis direction from a side surface of the portion PR21on the sensing electrode TDL2side to the sensing electrode TDL2side, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction.

Also, the concave/convex pattern UE121serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1provided so as to correspond to the sensing electrode TDL2includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ221serving as the projecting portion PJ2, and the concave/convex pattern UE122serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1provided so as to correspond to the sensing electrode TDL2includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ222serving as the projecting portion PJ2. The plurality of projecting portions PJ221each project and extend in the X axis direction from a side surface on a sensing electrode TDL1side of a portion PR22serving as the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL2formed in the region AR2, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction. The plurality of projecting portions PJ222each project and extend in the X axis direction from a side surface of the portion PR22opposite to a sensing electrode TDL1side toward a side opposite to the sensing electrode TDL1side, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction.

In the first modification example, as illustrated inFIG.19, an end portion EG12of the projecting portion PJ212on the sensing electrode TDL2side is disposed closer to a sensing electrode TDL2side than an end portion EG21of the projecting portion PJ221on a sensing electrode TDL1side in the X axis direction. Also, each of the plurality of projecting portions PJ212and the each of the plurality of projecting portions PJ221are alternately disposed along the Y axis direction. Therefore, the plurality of projecting portions PJ212and the plurality of projecting portions PJ221are disposed in a staggered configuration in the Y axis direction.

With this, when the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on a portion of the second substrate31positioned between two sensing electrodes TDL adjacent to each other in the region AR2spreads toward the region AR3side, the number of intersecting step portions is increased. With this, it is possible to easily prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side. Consequently, the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted with ease.

As illustrated inFIG.19, when the projecting portions PJ212and the projecting portions PJ221are provided, a minimum distance between two sensing electrodes TDL1and TDL2adjacent to each other is equal to a minimum distance DS3between the projecting portions PJ212and the projecting portions PJ221in the Y axis direction. In this case, preferably, the minimum distance DS3between the projecting portions PJ212and the projecting portions PJ221in the Y axis direction is larger than the average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13). With this, it is possible to prevent or suppress the projecting portions PJ212and the projecting portions PJ221from being short-circuited by the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13).

More preferably, the minimum distance DS3between the projecting portions PJ212and the projecting portions PJ221in the Y axis direction is three times as large as the average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1or larger (seeFIG.12andFIG.13). Alternatively, when the average particle diameter of the conductive particles is, for example, smaller than 5000 nm, the minimum distance DS3between the projecting portions PJ212and the projecting portions PJ221in the Y axis direction is preferably, for example, 15000 nm to 50000 nm. With this, it is possible to easily prevent or suppress the projecting portions PJ212and the projecting portions PJ221from being short-circuited by the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13).

Note that, for example, when the plurality of projecting portions PJ212are provided but the plurality of projecting portions PJ221are not provided, the minimum distance between two sensing electrodes TDL1and TDL2adjacent to each other is equal to a minimum distance between a side surface of the sensing electrode TDL2on a sensing electrode TDL1side and the projecting portions PJ212in the X axis direction. Also in this case, preferably, a minimum distance between the side surface of the sensing electrode TDL2on the sensing electrode TDL1side and the projecting portions PJ212in the X axis direction is larger than the average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13). Furthermore, more preferably, the minimum distance between the side surface of the sensing electrode TDL2on the sensing electrode TDL1side and the projecting portions PJ212in the X axis direction is three times as large as the average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1or larger (seeFIG.12andFIG.13).

In this manner, the adjacent sensing electrodes TDL1and TDL2are preferably disposed so as to have a similar minimum distance between any portions thereof in not only the X axis direction and the Y axis direction but also any direction.

In the first modification example, the end portion EG12of the projecting portion PJ212on the sensing electrode TDL2side is disposed in the X axis direction closer to the sensing electrode TDL2side than the end portion EG21of the projecting PJ221on the sensing electrode TDL1side. Consequently, the effect of preventing or suppressing the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side is enhanced more than the first embodiment (seeFIG.16) in which the end portion EG12of the projecting portion PJ112on the sensing electrode TDL2side is disposed in the X axis direction closer to the sensing electrode TDL1side than the end portion EG21of the projecting portion PJ121on the sensing electrode TDL1side.

Note that, also in the first modification example, as similar to the first embodiment described by usingFIG.12, the width WD2of the portion PR2in the X axis direction is larger than the width WD1of the portion PR1in the X axis direction. With this, the shoulder portion SH1can prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR1from spreading toward the region AR2(the same goes for each of the following modification examples, although illustration of the widths WD1and WD2is omitted).

Second Modification Example of Concave/Convex Pattern

FIG.20is a plan view of a second modification example of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.20, in the second modification example, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a projecting portion PJ3formed so as to project from a side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2, when seen in a plan view. Therefore, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the side surface of the portion PR2and the protective film33is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2as illustrated inFIG.12,FIG.13, andFIG.15. In other words, the end portion EP1of the protective film33on a region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2. Note that the projecting portion PJ3is also a convex portion formed on the first substrate21.

In this manner, the projecting portion PJ3serving as a step portion can increase the length of the outer periphery of the portion PR2, and the area of the side surface of the projecting portion PJ3serving as a step portion can increase the area of the side surface of the portion PR2. That is, the length of the step portion can be increased. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted.

Preferably, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ3. The plurality of projecting portions PJ3are formed so as to project from the side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction, when seen in a plan view. With this, it is possible to easily prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side. Consequently, the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted with ease.

In the second modification example, a concave/convex pattern UE11serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ31serving as the projecting portion PJ3, and a concave/convex pattern UE12serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of projecting portions PJ32serving as the projecting portion PJ3. The plurality of projecting portions PJ31may each extend in the X axis direction as a whole, as being alternately bent in opposite directions to each other, when seen in a plan view. Alternatively, the plurality of projecting portions PJ31may each be bent once in the middle. Also, the plurality of projecting portions PJ32may extend in a direction intersecting both of the X axis direction and the Y axis direction, when seen in a plan view.

Third Modification Example of Concave/Convex Pattern

FIG.21is a plan view of a third modification example of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.21, in the third modification example, the concave/convex pattern UE11serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of concave portions CC1. The plurality of concave portions CC1are formed on a side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2when seen in a plan view. The plurality of concave portions CC1are arrayed in the Y axis direction.

Also, in the third modification example, the concave/convex pattern UE12serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of convex portions CV1. The plurality of convex portions CV1are formed on a side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view.

In this manner, the concave portions CC1as a step portion can increase the length of the outer periphery of the portion PR2, and the area of the side surfaces of the concave portions CC1as a step portion can increase the area of the side surface of the portion PR2. That is, the length of the step portion can be increased. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be easily highly accurately adjusted.

Fourth Modification Example of Concave/Convex Pattern

FIG.22is a plan view of a fourth modification example of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.22, in the fourth modification example, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a notch portion NC1. The notch portion NC1is formed by the cut from the side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2when seen in a plan view. Therefore, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the side surface and the upper surface of the portion PR2and the protective film33is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2as illustrated inFIG.12,FIG.13, andFIG.15. In other words, the end portion EP1of the protective film33on the region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2. Note that the notch portion NC1is also a concave portion formed in the upper surface of the sensing electrode TDL. Also, the notch portion NC1is a concave portion formed from the side surface of the sensing electrode TDL toward the center axis in the extending direction of the sensing electrode TDL.

In this manner, the notch portion NC1serving as a step portion can increase the length of the outer periphery of the portion PR2, and the area of the side surface of the notch portion NC1serving as a step portion can increase the area of the side surface of the portion PR2. That is, the length of the step portion can be increased. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted.

Preferably, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of notch portions NC1. The plurality of notch portions NC1are formed by the cut from the side surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2, and are arrayed in the Y axis direction, when seen in a plan view. With this, the length of the outer periphery of the portion PR2serving as a step portion can be further increased. Consequently, it is possible to easily prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be easily highly accurately adjusted.

Note that, in the fourth modification example, a concave/convex pattern UE11serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of notch portions NC11serving as the notch portion NC1, and a concave/convex pattern UE12serving as the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of notch portions NC12serving as the notch portion NC1. Each of the plurality of notch portions NC11may extend in a direction intersecting both of the X axis direction and the Y axis direction, when seen in a plan view. Also, each of the plurality of notch portions NC12may each extend in the X axis direction as a whole as being alternately bent in opposite directions to each other when seen in a plan view. Alternatively, each of the plurality of notch portions NC12may be bent once in the middle.

Fifth Modification Example and Sixth Modification Example of Concave/Convex Pattern

FIG.23is a plan view illustrating a fifth modification example of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment.FIG.24is a plan view illustrating a sixth modification example of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment. Note thatFIG.23illustrates the end portion of the protective film33represented by a dashed-two dotted line.

As illustrated inFIG.23andFIG.24, in the fifth modification example and the sixth modification example, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a concave portion CC2. The concave portion CC2is formed on the upper surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2. Therefore, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the upper surface of the portion PR2and the protective film33is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1as illustrated inFIG.23. In other words, the end portion EP1of the protective film33on the region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1.

In this manner, the concave portion CC2can increase the length of the step portion included in the concave/convex pattern UE1. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted.

Note that a concave portion reaching a middle point in the thickness direction of the portion PR2may be formed as the concave portion CC2, and a concave portion penetrating through the portion PR2to reach the surface of the second substrate31may be formed.

Preferably, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of concave portions CC2. The plurality of concave portions CC2are each formed on the upper surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction formed in the region AR2. Also, the plurality of concave portions CC2are disposed in a staggered configuration in the X axis direction. In other words, the plurality of concave portions CC2form concave portion groups CCG2arrayed in the X axis direction, and the plurality of these concave portion groups CCG2are arrayed in a direction intersecting both of the X axis direction and the Y axis direction. That is, the plurality of concave portion groups CCG2are arrayed between two concave portion groups CCG2adjacent to each other in the Y axis direction so that the positions of the concave portions CC2in the X axis direction are different from each other.

With this, the coating liquid spreading toward a region AR3side in the Y axis direction through a portion of the upper surface of the portion PR2between two concave portions CC2adjacent to each other in the X axis direction included in the concave portion group CCG2is stopped by a concave portion CC2included in a concave portion group CCG2positioned closer to the region AR3side than the concave portion group CCG2in the Y axis direction. Consequently, it is possible to easily prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be easily highly accurately adjusted. Also, as compared with the case in which the plurality of concave portions CC2each continuously extend in the X axis direction, a current tends to flow in the Y axis direction through the portion between two concave portions CC2adjacent to each other in the X axis direction.

Note that, as illustrated inFIG.23, in the fifth modification example, the plurality of concave portions CC2each have a rectangular shape when seen in a plan view. On the other hand, as illustrated inFIG.24, in the sixth modification example, the plurality of concave portions CC2each have a circular shape when seen in a plan view. However, the length of the portion of the step portion included in the concave/convex pattern UE1extending in the X axis direction is larger in the fifth modification example illustrated inFIG.23than the sixth modification example illustrated inFIG.24. The length of the portion of the step portion included in the concave/convex pattern UE1extending in the X axis direction is preferably large in view of preventing or suppressing the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, that is, in the Y axis direction. Therefore, the effect of preventing or suppressing the coating liquid applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side is larger in the fifth modification example illustrated inFIG.23than the sixth modification example illustrated inFIG.24.

Note that the shape of each of the plurality of concave portions CC2when seen in a plan view may be a circular shape and may be any of various shapes such as an oval shape or a polygonal shape.

Also, as illustrated as the concave portion CC21in a part ofFIG.23, the plurality of concave portions CC2may only each continuously extend in the X axis direction and be arrayed in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view. However, the effect of enhancing the performance of the electrode substrate is larger in view of the fact that the current tends to flow along the Y axis direction when the plurality of concave portions CC2are disposed in the X axis direction in a staggered configuration.

Seventh Modification Example of Concave/Convex Pattern

FIG.25is a plan view illustrating a seventh modification example of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.25, in the seventh modification example, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a concave portion CC3and a concave portion CC4. The concave portion CC3and the concave portion CC4are formed on the upper surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2. Therefore, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the upper surface of the portion PR2and the protective film33is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1as illustrated inFIG.23. In other words, the end portion EP1of the protective film33on a region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1.

Note that, as the concave portion CC3and the concave portion CC4, a concave portion reaching a middle point in the thickness direction of the portion PR2may be formed, and a concave portion penetrating through the portion PR2to reach the surface of the second substrate31may be formed.

The concave portion CC3includes an extending portion CC31and a plurality of extending portions CC32. The extending portion CC31is a concave portion formed on the upper surface of the portion PR2on one side (left side inFIG.25) in the X axis direction and extending in the Y axis direction. The plurality of extending portions CC32are concave portions each extending in the X axis direction and arrayed in the Y axis direction. The plurality of extending portions CC32are disposed on the other side (right side inFIG.25) of the extending portion CC31in the X axis direction, and an end portion of each of the plurality of extending portions CC32on one side (left side inFIG.25) in the X axis direction is connected to the extending portion CC31.

The concave portion CC4includes an extending portion CC41and a plurality of extending portions CC42. The extending portion CC41is a concave portion formed on the upper surface of the portion PR2on the other side (right side inFIG.25) in the X axis direction and extending in the Y axis direction. The plurality of extending portions CC42are concave portions each extending in the X axis direction and arrayed in the Y axis direction. The plurality of extending portions CC42are disposed on one side (left side inFIG.25) of the extending portion CC41in the X axis direction, and an end portion of each of the plurality of extending portions CC42on the other side (right side inFIG.25) in the X axis direction is connected to the extending portion CC41.

The extending portions CC32and the extending portions CC42are alternately disposed along the Y axis direction. Also, an end portion EG3of each of the extending portions CC32on the other side (right side inFIG.25) in the X axis direction is disposed closer to the other side (right side inFIG.25) in the X axis direction than an end portion EG4of each of the extending portions CC42on one side (left side inFIG.25) in the X axis direction.

The plurality of extending portions CC32and the plurality of extending portions CC42can increase the length of the step portion included in the concave/convex pattern UE1. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side.

On the other hand, the extending portions CC31and CC41can prevent or suppress the coating liquid applied onto a portion of the second substrate31positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL in the region AR2from overriding the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL.

As illustrated inFIG.25, note that the extending portions CC31and CC41may be formed from the region AR2over the region AR3. That is, the extending portions CC31and CC41may be formed from the upper surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2over the upper surface of the portion PR3of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR3.

Eighth Modification Example of Concave/Convex Pattern

FIG.26is a plan view illustrating an eighth modification example of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment. Note thatFIG.26illustrates the end portion of the protective film33represented by a dashed-two dotted line.

In the example illustrated inFIG.26, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a convex portion CV2. The convex portion CV2is a portion of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view, and is formed on the second substrate31away from the sensing electrode TDL. In other words, the convex portion CV2is a portion of the region AR2positioned between two sensing electrodes TDL adjacent to each other, and is formed on the second substrate31away from both of these two sensing electrodes TDL. Therefore, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the second substrate31in a portion of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL. As illustrated inFIG.26, the protective film33is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2. In other words, the end EP1of the protective film33on a region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1and on the portion PR2.

In this manner, the convex portion CV2can increase the length of the step portion included in the concave/convex pattern UE1. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted.

Preferably, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of convex portions CV2. Each of the plurality of convex portions CV2is a portion of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view, and is formed on the second substrate31away from the sensing electrode TDL. Also, the plurality of concave portions CV2are disposed in a staggered configuration in the X axis direction. In other words, the plurality of convex portions CV2form convex portion groups CVG2arrayed in the X axis direction when seen in a plan view, and the plurality of convex portion groups CVG2are arrayed in a direction intersecting both of the X axis direction and the Y axis direction. That is, the plurality of convex portion groups CVG2are arrayed between two convex portion groups CVG2adjacent to each other in the Y axis direction so that the positions of the convex portions CV2in the X axis direction are different from each other.

With this, the coating liquid spreading toward a region AR3side in the Y axis direction through a portion of the upper surface of the second substrate31included in the convex portion group CVG2and between two convex portions CV2adjacent to each other in the X axis direction is stopped by a convex portion CV2included in the convex portion group CVG2positioned closer to the region AR3side than the convex portion group CVG2in the Y axis direction. Consequently, it is possible to easily prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be easily highly accurately adjusted. Also, two sensing electrodes TDL adjacent to each other are more difficult to be short-circuited via the convex portion CV2than those in the case in which the plurality of convex portions CV2each continuously extend in the X axis direction.

Preferably, in order to prevent two sensing electrodes TDL adjacent to each other from being short-circuited, the convex portion CV2is made of such a low-conductive material that a current does not flow through the convex portion CV2. Alternatively, in order to prevent two sensing electrodes TDL adjacent to each other from being short-circuited, preferably, a minimum distance between the convex portions CV2or a minimum distance between the sensing electrode TDL and the convex portion CV2is three times as large as the average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1or larger (seeFIG.12andFIG.13).

As illustrated as a convex portion CV21in a part ofFIG.26, note that the plurality of convex portions CV2may only each continuously extend in the X axis direction and be arrayed in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view. However, the effect of enhancing the performance of the electrode substrate is large in view of the fact that two sensing electrodes TDL adjacent to each other are difficult to be short-circuited when the plurality of convex portions CV2are disposed in the X axis direction in a staggered configuration.

Also, a plurality of types of various concave/convex patterns of the first embodiment and the first modification example to the eighth modification example described above can be used in combination. With this, the effects caused by the various combined concave/convex patterns overlap with each other, and therefore, it is possible to further easily prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side.

Ninth Modification Example of Concave/Convex Pattern

FIG.27is a plan view illustrating a ninth modification example of the concave/convex pattern in the electrode substrate of the first embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.27, also in the ninth modification example, the concave/convex pattern UE1includes a plurality of convex portions CV3as similar to the eighth modification example illustrated inFIG.26. The plurality of convex portions CV3are portions of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL extending in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view, and are formed on the second substrate31away from the sensing electrode TDL.

On the other hand, in the ninth modification example illustrated inFIG.27, the plurality of convex portions CV3each extend in the Y axis direction and are arrayed in the X axis direction when seen in a plan view as different from the eighth modification example illustrated inFIG.26.

The coating liquid for forming a protective film includes the one having extremely low fluidity. In such a case, there is a risk that the coating liquid applied onto the second substrate31so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL in the regions AR1and AR2does not spread to a desired position in the Y axis direction so that the end portion of the protective film33is positioned closer to the region AR1side than the desired position in the Y axis direction in the region AR2. Consequently, in the region AR2, there is a risk that a portion of the sensing electrode TDL more than necessary is exposed from the protective film33.

On the other hand, in the ninth modification example illustrated inFIG.27, the concave/convex pattern UE1formed of a plurality of convex portions CV3each extending in the Y axis direction and arrayed in the X axis direction is formed in the region AR2between two sensing electrodes TDL adjacent to each other in the X axis direction. With this, the fluidity of the coating liquid in the Y axis direction can be increased more than that in the case without the formation of the concave/convex pattern UE1. Consequently, the coating liquid applied onto the second substrate31so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL in the regions AR1and AR2is easy to spread to the desired position in the Y axis direction, and therefore, the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be highly accurately adjusted.

Preferably, in order to prevent the two adjacent sensing electrodes TDL from being short-circuited, the convex portion CV3is formed of such a low-conductive material that a current does not flow through the convex portion CV3. Alternatively, in order to prevent the two adjacent sensing electrodes TDL from being short-circuited, preferably, a minimum distance between the convex portions CV3or a minimum distance between the sensing electrode TDL and the convex portion CV3is three times as large as the average particle diameter of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive film CF1(seeFIG.12andFIG.13) or larger.

As illustrated as the convex portions CV31in a part ofFIG.27, note that the plurality of convex portions CV3may not be continuously formed in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view, and may be divided into, for example, two along the Y axis direction.

Also, inFIG.16,FIG.19,FIG.20,FIG.22,FIG.23, andFIG.25toFIG.27, the case of the concave/convex pattern UE1having the rectangular shape when seen in a plan view has been exemplarily described. However, in the first embodiment and each modification example of the first embodiment described by usingFIG.16,FIG.19,FIG.20,FIG.22,FIG.23, andFIG.25toFIG.27, the concave/convex pattern UE1may have some or all of sides curved.

<Method for Manufacturing Electrode Substrate>

Next, a method for manufacturing an electrode substrate is described with reference toFIG.28toFIG.32.

FIG.28,FIG.29,FIG.31, andFIG.32are cross-sectional views in a manufacturing process of the electrode substrate according to the first embodiment.FIG.30is a perspective view in the manufacturing process of the electrode substrate according to the first embodiment. InFIG.31andFIG.32, the periphery of a step portion included in the concave/convex pattern is illustrated so as to be enlarged.

First, as illustrated inFIG.28A, the second substrate31is prepared. The second substrate31has regions AR1, AR2, and AR3serving as regions on an upper surface as a main surface of the second substrate31. The regions AR1, AR2, and AR3are sequentially disposed in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view.

Note that various substrates such as a transparent glass substrate or a film made of, for example, resin can be used as the second substrate31as described above.

Next, as illustrated inFIGS.28B and29G, the sensing electrode TDL is formed. In this step of forming the sensing electrode TDL, first, a conductive film CF2is deposited on the second substrate31as illustrated inFIG.28B. In this step of depositing the conductive film CF2, for example, a conductive film formed of a metal film can be deposited by sputtering or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Preferably, as the conductive film CF2, a conductive film including a metal layer or an alloy layer made of one or more metals selected from a group including aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), chrome (Cr), and tungsten (W) can be deposited, the conductive film being formed of a single- or multi-layered film.

Note that, after performing the step of forming a conductive film and before performing a patterning step described later, in order to make wettability of the coating liquid to be applied by the ink jet method or the electric field jet method uniform, a surface processing can be performed to the substrate on which the conductive film has been formed. As such a surface processing, a surface processing by UV light, a surface processing by atmospheric pressure (AP) plasma, or a surface processing by hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDS) can be performed.

Next, the conductive film CF2is patterned. In the step of patterning this conductive film CF2, the conductive film CF2can be patterned by using, for example, photolithography and etching techniques. Note that the following is the explanation for the exemplary case of the formation of the concave/convex pattern UE1including the concave portions CC2of the sixth modification example of the first embodiment illustrated inFIG.24, the case being in the formation of the concave/convex pattern UE1including the concave portions CC2by using the same step as the step of forming the sensing electrode TDL. Also, the following is the explanation for the exemplary case in which the concave portions CC2penetrate through the conductive film CF2to reach the surface of the second substrate31.

Specifically, firstly, as illustrated inFIG.28C, a resist film RF1is applied onto the conductive film CF2. Next, as illustrated inFIG.28D, the resist film RF1is patterned and exposed by exposure light EL1by using a photomask having a light-shielding pattern SP1formed in a region where, for example, the sensing electrode TDL is to be formed other than the region where the concave portions CC2are to be formed. Note thatFIG.28Dillustrates only the light-shielding pattern SP1of the photomask.

Next, as illustrated inFIG.29E, the patterned and exposed resist film RF1is developed so as to form a resist pattern RP1formed of the resist film RF1left in the region where the sensing electrode TDL is to be formed other than the region where the concave portions CC2are to be formed. Next, as illustrated inFIG.29F, the conductive film CF2is etched by using the resist pattern RP1as an etching mask. Then, as illustrated inFIG.29G, for example, ashing is performed, so that the resist pattern RP1is removed. With this, the sensing electrode TDL formed of the conductive film CF2and the concave portions CC2provided in the upper surface of the sensing electrode TDL are formed.

The sensing electrode TDL is continuously formed on the second substrate31from the region AR1of the upper surface of the second substrate31via the region AR2of the upper surface of the second substrate31over the region AR3of the upper surface of the second substrate31. Preferably, the sensing electrode TDL extends in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view.

A portion of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR1is regarded as a portion PR1. The portion PR1is the main body portion MP1of the sensing electrode TDL (seeFIG.12). Also, a portion of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2is regarded as a portion PR2. On the upper surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2, the concave portions CC2are formed. Furthermore, a portion of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR3is regarded as a portion PR3. The portion PR3is the electrode terminal ET1electrically connected to the wiring substrate (seeFIG.12). Note that the portion PR2is also included in a part of the electrode terminal ET1in the example illustrated inFIG.29G.

Also, in the example illustrated inFIG.28BtoFIG.29G, the concave/convex pattern UE1including the concave portions CC2illustrated inFIG.24is formed by the same step as the step of forming the sensing electrode TDL. Alternatively, in place of the concave/convex pattern illustrated inFIG.24, the concave/convex pattern UE1illustrated in any ofFIG.16,FIG.19toFIG.23, andFIG.25toFIG.27can be formed. In this step of forming the concave/convex pattern UE1, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2, or the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the second substrate31in a portion of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL. In other words, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the sensing electrode TDL or the second substrate31in the region AR2.

Here, as the concave/convex pattern UE1, a concave/convex pattern UE1formed of a conductive film formed on the same layer as the conductive film CV2included in the sensing electrode TDL is formed. Also, by forming the concave/convex pattern UE1in the same step as the step of forming the sensing electrode TDL, the number of manufacturing processes can be reduced. Note that the concave/convex pattern UE1illustrated in any ofFIG.16andFIG.19toFIG.27can also be formed by patterning the conductive film CF2by performing not the same step as the step of forming the sensing electrode TDL but a step similar to the step of forming the sensing electrode TDL.

Furthermore, as the example illustrated inFIG.28BtoFIG.29G, the formation of the concave/convex pattern UE1formed of the conductive film on the same layer as the conductive film included in the sensing electrode TDL as the concave/convex pattern UE1is exemplified. However, a concave/convex pattern UE1formed of a film of a type different from that of the conductive film included in the sensing electrode TDL can be formed.

Next, as illustrated inFIG.29H, the protective film33is formed. In this step of forming the protective film33, coating liquid for forming a protective film is first applied. In this step of applying the coating liquid, the coating liquid is applied by a coating method. Preferably, the coating liquid is applied by a printing method of partially applying the coating liquid containing a solvent. In other words, the protective film33is formed by a printing mode of partially applying a solution. That is, as a method of forming the protective film33, any of printing methods of partially forming a film with a solvent can be applied in general. As such a printing method, various printing methods such as an ink jet method, an electric field jet method, screen printing, flexographic printing, offset printing, or gravure printing can be used. Also, the following is the explanation for the exemplary case of the application of the coating liquid for forming a protective film by the ink jet method or the electric field jet method.

As the protective film33, for example, a resin film formed of a UV setting resin or a thermosetting resin made of acryl resin, epoxy resin, polyimide resin, or others can be formed. Therefore, as the coating liquid for forming a protective film, coating liquid containing the above-described UV setting resin or thermosetting resin can be used.

When the coating liquid is applied by the ink jet method or the electric field jet method, as illustrated inFIG.30, the coating liquid52is discharged from a nozzle provided to a nozzle head51as the nozzle head51provided so as to be relatively removable with respect to the second substrate31is relatively moved with respect to the second substrate31. With this, the coating liquid52is applied in the regions AR1and AR2so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL.

Also, as illustrated inFIG.30, the coating liquid52is discharged simultaneously from the plurality of nozzles by using the nozzle head51having a plurality of nozzles arrayed in a certain direction, so that time required for the step of applying the coating liquid52can be reduced.

That is, after the coating liquid52is applied onto the second substrate31by use of the ink jet method or the electric field jet method so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL to form the coating film53, the formed coating film53is cured, so that a protective film with a desired pattern can be formed without increasing the number of manufacturing processes.

In addition, when the coating liquid is applied by using a printing method such as the ink jet method or the electric field jet method, it is not necessary to prepare a photomask for forming the pattern formed of the coating film that is formed by applying the coating liquid by using photolithography and etching, and thus a desired pattern can be formed each time. Further, when the coating liquid is applied by using the printing method such as the ink jet method or the electric field jet method, the coating liquid can be efficiently used, and thus the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Moreover, when the printing method such as the ink jet method or the electric field jet method is used, the film can be deposited under the atmospheric pressure and it is not necessary to use the deposition apparatus provided with a vacuum chamber, and thus the deposition apparatus can be downsized.

In the first embodiment, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2or the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the second substrate31in a portion of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL. In other words, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the sensing electrode TDL or the second substrate31in the region AR2. With this, the length of the step portion formed in the region AR2can be increased. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid for forming a protective film applied on the region AR2from spreading toward the region AR3side, and the position of the end portion of the coating liquid applied on the region AR2can be easily highly accurately adjusted.

The case in which a step portion ST1included in the concave/convex pattern UE1and formed of a high-level portion HP1and a low-level portion LP1formed of, for example, a projecting portion PJ1extends in a direction DR2intersecting a direction DR1in which the coating liquid52spreads as illustrated inFIG.31is assumed. In such a case, a coating liquid52spreading in the direction DR1on the high-level portion HP1stops at, for example, the peripheral edge of the high-level portion HP1, that is, on the upper surface of the step portion ST1and does not spread up to the low-level portion LP1. Thus, it is possible to prevent or suppress the coating liquid52from spreading further in the direction DR1beyond the step portion ST1.

More specifically, in the step of applying the coating liquid52, the coating liquid52is applied so that the applied coating liquid52is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1. In other words, in the step of applying the coating liquid52, the coating liquid52on the region AR3side is applied so that an end portion of the applied coating liquid52is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1.

Here, the case of the cross-sectional shape of the projecting portion PJ1as a convex portion included in the concave/convex pattern UE1as described by usingFIG.17andFIG.18is considered. That is, the case with such a cross-sectional shape having the upper end portion RE1of the side surface portion SS1positioned closer to one side than the lower end portion LE1of the side surface portion SS1in the Y axis direction and having the upper end portion HE2of the side surface portion SS2positioned closer to the other side than the lower end portion LE2of the side surface portion SS2in the Y axis direction is considered.FIG.32illustrates a case having, for example, an inverted trapezoidal cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the direction DR2in which the projecting portion PJ1extends. Such a case enhances an effect of stopping the coating liquid52spreading on the high level portion HP1in the direction DR1at an upper side of the step portion ST1. Consequently, the position of the end portion of the coating liquid52can be further highly accurately adjusted.

When the projecting portion PJ1with such a cross-sectional shape is formed, note that the conductive film CF2having the lower layer portion LL1(seeFIG.17) and the upper layer portion HL1(seeFIG.17) is formed in the step of forming the conductive film CF2described by usingFIG.28B. Here, as described by usingFIG.17, the lower layer portion LL1and the upper layer portion HL1are laminated so that, for example, the etching speed of the lower layer portion LL1with respect to an etchant is higher than the etching speed of the upper layer portion HL1with respect to that etchant. Then, in the step of etching the conductive film CF2described by usingFIG.29F, etching is performed by using that etchant. With this, the projecting portion PJ1can be formed so that the upper end portion HE1of the side surface portion S S1is positioned closer to one side (left side inFIG.17) than the lower end portion LE1of the side surface portion SS1in the Y axis direction and the upper end portion HE2of the side surface portion SS2is positioned closer to the other side (right side inFIG.17) than the lower end portion LE2of the side surface portion SS2in the Y axis direction.

Next, the protective film33is formed by curing the coating film53formed of the applied coating liquid52. When the coating liquid containing the UV setting resin is used as the coating liquid52, the formed coating film53is irradiated with light formed of UV, that is, UV light, so that the coating film53is cured. Alternatively, when the coating liquid containing the thermosetting resin is used as the coating liquid52, the formed coating film53is thermally treated, so that the coating film53is cured. With this, as illustrated inFIG.29H, the protective film33formed of the cured coating film53is formed.

Here, as described above, when the applied coating liquid52is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1, that is, the formed coating film53is terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1, the protective film33formed of the cured coating film53is also terminated on the concave/convex pattern UE1. In other words, when an end portion of the coating film53on the region AR3side is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1, the end portion EP1of the protective film33on the region AR3side is also positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1.

Next, the wiring substrate WS1(seeFIG.13) is electrically connected. In this step of electrically connecting the wiring substrate WS1, the wiring substrate WS1is disposed on the second substrate31via the anisotropic conductive film (ACF) CF1(seeFIG.13). On the lower surface of the wiring substrate WS1as a main surface thereof, a plurality of electrode terminals ET2(seeFIG.13) are formed. The plurality of electrode terminals ET2(seeFIG.13) are disposed so as to correspond to the electrode terminals ET1of the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL, respectively. As described above, a flexible printed wiring board also referred to as flexible printed circuit (FPC) can be used as the wiring substrate WS1.

The anisotropic conductive film CF1is disposed in the regions AR2and AR3so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL. Also, the wiring substrate WS1is disposed on the second substrate31via the anisotropic conductive film CF1so that the plurality of electrode terminals ET2are opposed to the electrode terminals ET1via the anisotropic conductive film CF1, respectively.

The anisotropic conductive film CF1is a film formed by shaping a mixture of a thermosetting resin with conductive fine metal particles into a film. In a state in which the anisotropic conductive film CF1is interposed between the electrode terminals ET1of the sensing electrode TDL and the electrode terminals ET2of the wiring substrate WS1, the wiring substrate WS1is pressed onto the second substrate31by, for example, a heat treatment. With this, the metal particles in the anisotropic conductive film CF1contact each other in a thickness direction of the anisotropic conductive film CF1to form a conductive path in the thickness direction of the anisotropic conductive film CF1. The electrode terminals ET1and the electrode terminals ET2opposed to each other are electrically connected to each other via the anisotropic conductive film CF1.

<Regarding Position Adjustment of End Portion of Protective Film>

Next, position adjustment of the end portion of the protective film is described while comparing with position adjustment of the end portion of the protective film in a comparative example.

FIG.33is a plan view illustrating an electrode substrate according to the comparative example.FIG.34is a perspective view illustrating the electrode substrate of the comparative example.FIG.35is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the shape of the coating liquid on a glass substrate.FIG.36is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the shape of the coating liquid on the periphery of a sensing electrode formed on the glass substrate.

In the comparative example, an electrode substrate ES100serving as an opposing substrate103includes the second substrate31, the sensing electrode TDL, and the protective film33. Also, the second substrate31has regions AR1, AR2, and AR3serving as regions on an upper surface as a main surface of the second substrate31. The areas AR1, AR2, and AR3are sequentially disposed in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view.

Also in the comparative example, the sensing electrode TDL is sequentially formed on the second substrate31from the region AR1of the upper surface of the second substrate31via the region AR2of the upper surface of the second substrate31over the region AR3of the upper surface of the second substrate31. Alternatively, the sensing electrode TDL extends in the Y axis direction when seen in a plan view.

Also in the comparative example, a portion of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR1is regarded as a portion PR1. The portion PR1is a main body MP1of the sensing electrode TDL. Also, a portion of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2is regarded as a portion PR2. Furthermore, a portion of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR3is regarded as a portion PR3. The portion PR3and the portion PR2are the electrode terminal ET1electrically connected to the electrode terminal ET2formed on the wiring substrate WS1.

The protective film33is formed so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL in the regions AR1and AR2. Also in the comparative example, the protective film33is formed on the second substrate31by applying the coating liquid by the ink jet method or the electric field jet method.

On the other hand, in the comparative example, the concave/convex pattern is not formed on the surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2. Also, the concave/convex pattern is not formed on the second substrate31in a portion of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL, either.

However, when the coating liquid is applied onto the second substrate31by the ink jet method or the electric field jet method, it is difficult to highly accurately adjust the position of the end portion of the coating liquid spreading on the second substrate31.

For example, in the case in which the coating liquid is applied by the ink jet method or the electric field jet method onto a surface of the second substrate31and the surface of the second substrate31is lyophilic to the coating liquid to some extent, the coating liquid applied to the surface of the second substrate31easily spreads and thus it is difficult to highly accurately adjust the position of the end portion of the coating liquid. The spreadability of the coating liquid applied on the second substrate31is varied depending on the surface tension acting on the coating liquid.

For example, the interfacial tension exists as the force acting on an interface between the liquid phase and the gas phase or between the liquid phase and the solid phase. For example, the reason why a droplet dropped onto a surface of a flat substrate remains in a hemisphere state is that water molecules in the droplet are pulled inside by the van der Waals' force to each other and interfacial tension acts so as to reduce the surface area of the droplet. In addition, when the interfacial tension acting so as to reduce the surface area as an interface is acting on a liquid, this interfacial tension is referred to also as surface tension of the liquid.

The larger the van der Waals's force of liquid is, the larger such surface tension of liquid is. Thus, the more the atomic weight or molecular weight of the materials contained in the liquid, the larger the surface tension is. Therefore, surface tension of the coating liquid applied on the second substrate31is varied depending on the type of the coating liquid.

On the other hand, the spreadability of the coating liquid applied on the second substrate31is varied depending on the shape of the surface of the second substrate31other than the type of the coating liquid.

For example, surface tension is uniformly applied from the periphery of the coating liquid52to the coating liquid52applied onto a portion of the second substrate31away from the sensing electrode TDL as illustrated in the cross-sectional view ofFIG.35. Therefore, the coating liquid52is relatively difficult to spread. On the other hand, surface tension is applied only from one side of the coating liquid52to the coating liquid52applied onto a portion of the second substrate31positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL and in contact with the side surface of the sensing electrode TDL, as illustrated in the cross-sectional view ofFIG.36. Therefore, the coating liquid52is easy to spread along the side surface of the sensing electrode TDL.

In this manner, when the coating liquid52is easy to spread along the side surface of the sensing electrode TDL, the coating liquid52is easy to spread also on a portion of the upper surface of the sensing electrode TDL closer to the side surface.

Consequently, the protective film33formed by curing the coating film formed of the applied coating liquid52is not terminated on the portion PR2, and is formed from the portion PR1via the portion PR2over the portion PR3.

That is, in the comparative example, the position of the end portion of the coating liquid52applied on the region AR2cannot be highly accurately adjusted. Consequently, it is difficult to highly accurately adjust the position of the end portion EP1of the protective film33formed by curing the coating film formed of the applied coating liquid52. Therefore, there is a risk that the end portion EP1of the formed protective film33exceeds a desired position or does not reach the desired position. That is, there is a risk that an area of a portion of the electrode terminal ET1of the sensing electrode TDL exposed from the protective film33varies among the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL.

Also in the comparative example, as similar to the first embodiment, the portion PR3of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR3is electrically connected to the electrode terminal ET2formed on the wiring substrate WS1via the anisotropic conductive film CF1. That is, a portion of the electrode terminal ET1of the sensing electrode TDL exposed from the protective film33is electrically connected to the wiring substrate WS1.

Therefore, as described above, when the area of the portion of the electrode terminal ET1of the sensing electrode TDL exposed from the protective film33varies among the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL, connection resistance between the sensing electrode TDL and the wiring substrate WS1varies among the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL, and therefore, there is a risk of decrease in the performance as the electrode substrate.

For example, when the end portion EP1of the protective film33exceeds the desired position, the protective film33is formed on the portion PR3of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR3, and the area of the portion of the electrode terminal ET1of the sensing electrode TDL exposed from the protective film33is decreased. In this case, connection resistance between the sensing electrode TDL and the wiring substrate WS1is increased, and therefore, there is a risk of decrease in the performance as the electrode substrate.

On the other hand, when the coating liquid is difficult to flow depending on the type of the coating liquid, there is a risk that the end portion EP1of the protective film33does not reach the desired position of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2. In this case, the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2is partially exposed from both of the wiring substrate WS1and the protective film33, and therefore, for example, moisture in the air enters the exposed portion of the sensing electrode TDL, and therefore, there is a risk of corrosion of the sensing electrode TDL.

In the techniques described in the Patent Documents 1 to 3, a lyophilic region and a repellant region need to be formed on a surface of a substrate in order to adjust spreading of the applied coating liquid, so that the number of steps of the manufacturing process may be increased due to the addition of steps of forming the lyophilic region and the repellant region. In addition, since it is not easy to form the lyophilic region and the repellant region on the surface of the electrode formed on the substrate, the spreading of the coating liquid applied to the surface of the electrode formed on the substrate cannot be highly accurately adjusted.

In the technique described in the Patent Document 4, since a film to be quickly dried is applied like a frame as a stopper and a film which is dried slowly but good at leveling effect is then applied, the number of steps of the manufacturing process may be increased. In addition, since the material of the coating liquid is limited in order to obtain a desired drying rate, it cannot be widely used in practical manufacturing processes.

Note that it is difficult to adjust the position of an end portion of the applied coating liquid also in various electrode substrates on which a protective film is formed so as to partially cover the electrodes formed on a substrate by applying the coating liquid by the ink jet method or the electric field jet method with the inclusion of the first substrate21in which the common electrode COML.

Main Features and Effects of Present Embodiment

On the other hand, in the first embodiment, the electrode substrate ES includes the concave/convex pattern UE1. The concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2, or is formed on the second substrate31in the portion of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL. That is, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the sensing electrode TDL or the second substrate31in the region AR2. Also, the end portion EP1of the protective film33on the region AR3side formed so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1.

With this, when the protective film33is formed so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL, the position of the end portion EP1of the protective film33can be highly accurately adjusted. Therefore, it is possible to prevent or suppress the variation of the area of the portion of the electrode terminal ET1of the sensing electrode TDL exposed from the protective film33among the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress the variation of the connection resistance between the sensing electrode TDL and the wiring substrate WS1among the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL, so that the performance as the electrode substrate can be improved. In addition, the performance of the display device including such an electrode substrate can be improved.

For example, it is possible to prevent or suppress the protective film33from being formed on the portion PR3of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR3, and it is possible to prevent or suppress the area of the portion of the electrode terminal ET1of sensing electrode TDL exposed from the protective film33from being decreased. Consequently, it is possible to prevent or suppress connection resistance between the sensing electrode TDL and the electrode terminal ET2from being increased, so that the performance as the electrode substrate can be improved.

On the other hand, even if the coating liquid is difficult to flow, by the formation of the concave/convex pattern UE1, the protective film33can be formed so that the position of the end portion EP1of the protective film33reaches the desired position of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2. Therefore, it is possible to prevent or suppress the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2from being partially exposed from both of the wiring substrate WS1and the protective film33, so that it is possible to prevent or suppress the sensing electrode TDL from corroding due to the entrance of, for example, the moisture in the air into the sensing electrode TDL of the exposed portion.

Also, in the first embodiment, it is not necessary to form a lyophilic region and a repellant region on the surface of the second substrate31in order to adjust spreading of the applied coating liquid. Thus, it is not necessary to perform a step of forming a lyophilic region and a repellant region and the number of steps of the manufacturing process can be reduced.

Further, in the first embodiment, since it is not necessary to apply a film to be quickly dried like a frame as a stopper and then apply a film which is slowly dried but good at leveling, the number of steps of the manufacturing process can be reduced. Also, the material of the coating liquid for obtaining a desired drying rate is not limited, and it can be widely used in practical manufacturing processes.

Note that, in the first embodiment, an electrode substrate used as the opposing substrate3in which the sensing electrode TDL is formed in a display device with an input device has been exemplified as the electrode substrate ES. However, the electrode substrate ES according to the first embodiment can be applied to various electrode substrates on which a protective film is formed so as to partially cover the electrodes formed on the substrate by applying the coating liquid by the printing method such as the ink jet method or the electric field jet method with the inclusion of the first substrate21in which the common electrode COML (same goes for the following respective embodiments).

Second Embodiment

In the first embodiment, an example in which a display device provided with a touch panel as an input device is applied to an in-cell liquid crystal display device with a touch sensing function in which a common electrode COML of the display device serves also as a driving electrode of the input device has been described. Meanwhile, in the second embodiment, an example in which a display device provided with a touch panel as an input device is applied to an in-cell liquid crystal display device with a touch sensing function in which a common electrode COML of the display device and a driving electrode of the input device are separately formed will be described.

Note that the display device of the second embodiment can be applied to an in-cell display device in which an input device is integrally provided for various display devices such as an organic EL display device as well as a liquid crystal display device.

<Display Device with Touch-Sensing Function>

FIG.37is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display device with a touch sensing function in the display device of the second embodiment.

In the display device according to the second embodiment, respective components other than the cross-sectional structure of the opposing substrate3, for example, the shape and arrangement of the concave/convex pattern UE1(seeFIG.12) in a plan view are similar to the respective components of the display device of the first embodiment other than the cross-sectional structure of the opposing substrate3. Therefore, the descriptions thereof will be omitted. Accordingly, parts which differ from those described in the first embodiment with reference toFIG.9andFIG.10will be mainly described with reference toFIG.37.

The display device10with a touch sensing function includes the pixel substrate2, the opposing substrate3and the liquid crystal layer6. The opposing substrate3is disposed so that an upper surface serving as a main surface of the pixel substrate2and a lower surface serving as a main surface of the opposing substrate3are opposed to each other. The liquid crystal layer6is provided between the pixel substrate2and the opposing substrate3.

In the second embodiment, the pixel substrate2includes common electrodes COML1. The common electrodes COML1operate as driving electrodes of the liquid crystal display device20(seeFIG.1), but do not operate as driving electrodes of the touch sensing device (seeFIG.1). Accordingly, unlike the first embodiment, a plurality of common electrodes need not to be provided as the common electrodes COML1, and it is also possible to provide one common electrode obtained by, for example, coupling and integrating the common electrodes COML of the first embodiment.

Since parts of the pixel substrate2and the liquid crystal layer6of the display device of the second embodiment other than the common electrodes COML1are similar to respective parts of the pixel substrate2and the liquid crystal layer6of the display device of the first embodiment, the descriptions thereof will be omitted. Also, the circuit diagram corresponding to the plurality of pixels of the display device of the second embodiment is similar to the circuit diagram corresponding to the plurality of pixels of the display device of the first embodiment illustrated inFIG.10except for the point that the common electrodes COML1are provided instead of the common electrodes COML. Therefore, the descriptions of the parts of the display device of the second embodiment which are similar to the parts described with reference toFIG.10in the first embodiment will be omitted.

In the second embodiment, the opposing substrate3includes a second substrate31, a color filter32, a driving electrode DRVL, an insulating film35, a sensing electrode TDL, and a protective film33. The second substrate31has an upper surface serving as a main surface and a lower surface serving as a main surface opposed to the upper surface. The color filter32is formed on the lower surface of the second substrate31serving as one main surface. The driving electrode DRVL is a driving electrode of a touch sensing device30and is formed on the upper surface of the second substrate31serving as the other main surface. The insulating film35is formed on the upper surface of the second substrate31so as to cover the driving electrode DRVL. The sensing electrode TDL is the sensing electrode of the touch sensing device30, and is formed on the insulating film35. More specifically, the sensing electrode TDL is formed on the upper surface of the second substrate31serving as the other main surface via the driving electrode DRVL and the insulating film35. The protective film33is formed on the insulating film35so as to cover the sensing electrodes TDL.

The sensing electrode TDL and the concave/convex pattern UE1(seeFIG.12) in the second embodiment can be the same as those described in the first embodiment except for the point that the sensing electrode TDL and the concave/convex pattern UE1are formed on the insulating film35. In addition, the protective film33in the second embodiment can be the same as that in the first embodiment except for the point that the protective film33is formed on the insulating film35.

In the second embodiment, the common electrodes COML1operate as driving electrodes of the liquid crystal display device20, but do not operate as driving electrodes of the touch sensing device30. The driving electrodes DRVL operate as driving electrodes of the touch sensing device30, but do not operate as driving electrodes of the liquid crystal display device20. Therefore, it is possible to independently perform the display operations by the common electrodes COML1and the touch sensing operations by the driving electrodes DRVL in parallel to each other.

Note that the concave/convex pattern may be formed on the surface of a portion of the electrode terminal of the driving electrode DRVL on a main body portion side of the driving electrode DRVL. Alternatively, the concave/convex pattern may be formed on the second substrate31in a portion of the electrode terminal of the driving electrode DRVL positioned on the periphery of the portion on the main body portion side of the driving electrode DRVL. Here, the end portion of the insulating film35serving as a protective film is positioned on the concave/convex pattern. In this manner, by the provision of the concave/convex pattern, the position of the end portion of the insulating film35can be highly accurately adjusted when the insulating film35is formed.

Main Features and Effects of Present Embodiment

Also in the second embodiment, as similar to the first embodiment, the electrode substrate ES has the concave/convex pattern UE1. The concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the surface of the portion PR2of the sensing electrode TDL formed in the region AR2or is formed on the second substrate31in a portion of the region AR2positioned on the periphery of the sensing electrode TDL. That is, the concave/convex pattern UE1is formed on the sensing electrode TDL or the second substrate31in the region AR2. Also, in the regions AR1and AR2the end portion EP1of the protective film33on the region AR3side formed so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL is positioned on the concave/convex pattern UE1.

With this, such effects that, as similar to those of the first embodiment, the position of the end portion EP1of the protective film33can be highly accurately adjusted when the protective film33is formed so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL, and the variation of the connection resistance between the sensing electrode TDL and the electrode terminal ET2among the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL can be prevented or suppressed can be obtained. Also, as similar to the first embodiment, the performance of a display device including such an electrode substrate can be improved.

Further, in the second embodiment, the common electrode COML1of the display device and the driving electrode DRVL of the input device are separately formed. Consequently, since it is not necessary to separate the display period in which display operations are performed by the common electrodes COML1and the touch sensing period in which touch sensing operations are performed by the driving electrodes DRVL, the detection performance of touch sensing can be improved, for example, the sensing speed of touch sensing can be apparently improved.

In the first and second embodiments, an example in which a display device provided with a touch panel as an input device is applied to an in-cell liquid crystal display device with a touch sensing function has been described. However, the display device provided with a touch panel as an input device may be applied to an on-cell liquid crystal display device with a touch sensing function. The on-cell liquid crystal display device with a touch sensing function indicates a liquid crystal display device with a touch sensing function in which neither the driving electrodes nor the sensing electrodes included in the touch panel are incorporated in the liquid crystal display device.

<Input Device>

FIG.38is a cross-sectional view illustrating an input device as a first modification example of the second embodiment. In the example illustrated inFIG.38, the input device has a structure substantially similar to that of the second substrate31and a portion positioned upper than the second substrate31in the display device with a touch sensing function illustrated inFIG.37.

As illustrated inFIG.38, the input device as the first modification example of the second embodiment includes a second substrate31, a driving electrode DRVL, an insulating film35, a sensing electrode TDL, and a protective film33. Also inFIG.38, in place of the polarizing plate34illustrated inFIG.37, a third substrate34aformed of a cover glass is provided. Furthermore, although omitted inFIG.38, the sensing electrode TDL is connected to, for example, the touch sensing unit40illustrated inFIG.1. Therefore, the input device as the first modification example of the second embodiment includes the second substrate31, the driving electrode DRVL, the sensing electrode TDL, and the sensing circuit as, for example, a touch sensing unit40illustrated inFIG.1, the protective film33, and the third substrate34a.

Also in this input device, when the protective film33is formed so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL, the position of the end portion EP1of the protective film33can be highly accurately adjusted, and therefore, effects similar to the effects included in the display device of the second embodiment can be provided.

<Self-Capacitance-Type Touch Sensing Function>

In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the first modification example of the second embodiment, the explanation has been made for the example in which a mutual-capacitance-type touch panel provided with a common electrode operating as a driving electrode and a sensing electrode is applied as the touch panel. However, a self-capacitance-type touch panel provided with only a sensing electrode can be applied as the touch panel.

FIG.39andFIG.40are explanatory diagrams illustrating an electrical connection state of a self-capacitance-type sensing electrode.

In a self-capacitance-type touch panel, as illustrated inFIG.39, when the sensing electrode TDL with a capacitance Cx is disconnected from a sensing circuit SC1with a capacitance Cr1and is electrically connected to a power supply Vdd, a charge quantity Q1is accumulated in the sensing electrode TDL with the capacitance Cx. Next, as illustrated inFIG.40, when the sensing electrode TDL with the capacitance Cx is disconnected from the power supply Vdd and is electrically connected to the sensing circuit SC1with the capacitance Cr1, a charge quantity Q2flowing to the sensing circuit SC1is sensed.

Here, when a finger makes contact with or approach the sensing electrode TDL, a capacitance by the finger changes the capacitance Cx of the sensing electrode TDL. When the sensing electrode TDL is connected to the sensing circuit SC1, the charge quantity Q2flowing out to the sensing circuit SC1is also changed. Therefore, by measuring the flowing-out charge quantity Q2by the sensing circuit SC1to sense a change of the capacitance Cx of the sensing electrode TDL, it can be determined whether a finger makes contact with or approach the sensing electrode TDL.

When the input device described by usingFIG.38is an input device provided with a self-capacitance-type touch sensing function, the sensing electrode TDL is provided in place of the driving electrode DRVL. When this input device provided with a self-capacitance-type touch sensing function is taken as the input device of the second modification example of the second embodiment, the input device of the second modification example of the second embodiment includes the second substrate31, the sensing electrode TDL, a sensing circuit such as the touch sensing unit40illustrated inFIG.1, the protective film33, and the third substrate34a. Also, the input device of the second modification example of the second embodiment may include a plurality of sensing electrodes TDL each extending in the X axis direction (seeFIG.7) and arrayed so as to be spaced apart from each other in the Y axis direction (seeFIG.7) and a plurality of sensing electrodes TDL each extending in the Y axis direction and arrayed so as to be spaced apart from each other in the X axis direction. In this case, by sensing a change of the capacitance Cx of each of the plurality of sensing electrodes TDL extending in each direction, the input position can be two-dimensionally sensed.

Also in this input device, when the protective film33is formed so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL, the position of the end portion EP1of the protective film33can be highly accurately adjusted, and therefore, effects similar to effects included in the display device of the second embodiment can be provided.

Third Embodiment

Next, electronic devices as application examples of the display devices described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.41toFIG.47. The display devices of each of the first embodiment and the second embodiment are applicable to electronic devices of all kinds of fields such as in-car apparatus such as HUD (Head Up Display) and a navigation system, television apparatus, digital cameras, notebook PCs, portable terminal devices such as mobile phones and video cameras. In other words, the display devices of the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be applied to electronic devices of all kinds of fields which display video signals input from outside or generated inside as images or video pictures.

<Television Apparatus>

FIG.41is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of a television apparatus as one example of an electronic device of the third embodiment. This television apparatus includes, for example, a video display screen unit513including a front panel511and a filter glass512, and the video display screen unit513is made up of the in-cell display device with a touch sensing function or the on-cell display device with a touch sensing function described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

<Digital Camera>

FIG.42is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of a digital camera as one example of an electronic device of the third embodiment. The digital camera includes, for example, a display unit522, a menu switch523and a shutter button524, and the display unit522is made up of the in-cell display device with a touch sensing function or the on-cell display device with a touch sensing function described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

<Notebook PC>

FIG.43is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of a notebook PC as one example of an electronic device of the third embodiment. The notebook PC includes, for example, a main body531, a keyboard532for input operations of characters or the like, and a display unit533for displaying images, and the display unit533is made up of the in-cell display device with a touch sensing function or the on-cell display device with a touch sensing function described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

<Video Camera>

FIG.44is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of a video camera as one example of an electronic device of the third embodiment. The video camera includes, for example, a main body portion541, a lens542for shooting objects provided on a front surface of the main body portion541, a start/stop switch543for shooting and a display unit544, and the display unit544is made up of the in-cell display device with a touch sensing function or the on-cell display device with a touch sensing function described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

<Mobile Phone>

FIG.45andFIG.46are front views illustrating an external appearance of a mobile phone as one example of an electronic device of the third embodiment.FIG.46illustrates a state in which the mobile phone illustrated inFIG.45is folded. The mobile phone is composed of, for example, an upper housing551and a lower housing552coupled by a coupling portion (hinge portion)553and includes a display554, a sub-display555, a picture light556and a camera557, and the display554or the sub-display555is made up of the display device with a touch sensing function described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

<Smartphone>

FIG.47is a front view illustrating an external appearance of a smartphone as one example of an electronic device of the third embodiment. The mobile phone includes, for example, a housing561and a touch screen562. The touch screen562is composed of, for example, a touch panel serving as an input device and a liquid crystal panel serving as a display unit, and is made up of the in-cell display device with a touch sensing function or the on-cell display device with a touch sensing function described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

The touch panel of the touch screen562is, for example, the touch sensing device30provided in the display device10with a touch sensing function of the display device1described with reference toFIG.1. When a user makes gesture operations such as a touch operation or a drag operation on the touch panel with a finger or a touch pen, the touch panel of the touch screen562senses coordinates of the positions corresponding to the gesture operations and outputs them to a control unit (not shown).

The liquid crystal panel of the touch screen562is, for example, the liquid crystal display device20provided in the display device10with a touch sensing function of the display device1described with reference toFIG.1. Further, the liquid crystal panel of the touch screen562made up of the display device1includes, for example, the driving electrode driver14of the display device1described with reference toFIG.1. The driving electrode driver14applies voltage as image signals to the pixel electrodes22(seeFIG.9) provided in each of the plurality of sub-pixels SPix (seeFIG.10) arrayed in a matrix form at respectively constant timings, thereby displaying images.

Main Features and Effects of Present Embodiment

In the third embodiment, the display devices of each of the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be used as the display devices provided in the above-described various electronic devices. Consequently, in the display devices provided in the above-described various electronic devices, the same effects as those of the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be obtained. Namely, when forming the protective film33so as to cover the sensing electrode TDL, the position of the end portion EP1of the protective film33can be highly accurately adjusted. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the performance of the above-described various electronic devices, or the number of steps of the manufacturing process of the above-described various electronic devices can be reduced.

In the foregoing, the invention made by the inventors of the present invention has been concretely described based on the embodiments. However, it is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to the foregoing embodiments and various modifications and alterations can be made within the scope of the present invention.

Further, in the foregoing embodiments, the cases of a liquid crystal display device have been illustrated as disclosure examples, but all kinds of flat-panel display devices such as an organic EL display device, other self-luminous type display devices and electronic paper display devices having electrophoresis elements may be listed as other application examples. Further, it goes without saying that the present invention is applicable to small, medium and large sized devices without any particular limitation.

In the category of the idea of the present invention, a person with ordinary skill in the art can conceive various modified examples and revised examples, and such modified examples and revised examples are also deemed to belong to the scope of the present invention.

For example, the examples obtained by appropriately making the additions, deletions or design changes of components or the additions, deletions or condition changes of processes to respective embodiments described above by a person with ordinary skill in the art also belong to the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

The present invention is effectively applied to an electrode substrate, a display device, an input device, and a method of manufacturing an electrode substrate.

It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.