A touch panel is a device that allows users to interact with a computer directly by touching the screen. Applying functions such as sensors that can detect touch actions to the display, instructions can be sent to the computer by sensing the position of the finger or stylus. Essentially, it is a device that combines the two functions of display and input.
Although we often do not notice, touch panels have been integrated into all aspects of our lives. People who like to use smart phones and other digital devices interact with screen touch panels all the time in their daily lives, as well as people who operate ATMs in banks, ticket vending machines in train stations, kiosks in convenience stores, digital photo printers in malls, information terminals in libraries, copiers, and car navigation systems.
One of the main factors driving the widespread use of touch panels is the benefits of intuitive operation. They can be input by directly touching icons and buttons, so even people who are not accustomed to using computers can understand and use them easily. By integrating the display and input into one device, the touch panel also contributes to the miniaturization and simplification of the device. Since the touch panel buttons are software rather than hardware, their interface can be easily changed.
Since the touch panel requires a wide range of functional characteristics, especially display visibility, position sensing accuracy, fast input response, durability, and installation cost, the characteristics of different methods of sensing touch input vary greatly.