Display device and method of driving a display panel using the same

Abstract

The present application relates to a display device and a method for driving a display panel. The display device includes a display panel, a drive controller and a data driver. The display panel is configured to display an image. The drive controller is configured to generate compensated image data for compensating for the reduction of brightness of an edge portion of the display panel based on input image data. The data driver is configured to output a data voltage to the display panel based on the compensated image data. The drive controller is configured to generate compensated image data by comparing the maximum value of the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the input image data to which a brightness compensation coefficient is applied with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data. The brightness compensation coefficient is configured to be determined according to the position of the sub-pixel in the display panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the inventive concept relate to a display device and more particularly, to a display device and a method of driving a display panel using the display device. Background Art

[0002] A display device such as a liquid crystal display ("LCD") device, an organic light emitting diode ("OLED") display device, a light emitting diode ("LED") display device, and an inorganic light emitting display (quantum dot display) may include a display panel and a display panel driver. The display panel includes a plurality of gate lines, a plurality of data lines, and a plurality of pixels connected to the gate lines and the data lines. The display panel driver includes a gate driver that provides a gate signal to the gate line and a data driver that provides a data voltage to the data line.

[0003] The LCD device includes a first substrate having a pixel electrode, a second substrate having a common electrode, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. An electric field is generated at the liquid crystal layer by voltages applied to the pixel electrode and the common electrode. By adjusting the intensity of the electric field, the transmittance of light passing through the liquid crystal layer can be adjusted, so that a desired image can be displayed.

[0004] OLED display devices use OLEDs to display images. OLEDs generally include an emission layer located between two electrodes (i.e., an anode electrode and a cathode electrode). Holes from the anode electrode can combine with electrons from the cathode electrode in the emission layer between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode to emit light.

[0005] Recently, a spliced ​​display device is used as a large display device by integrating a plurality of display devices for displaying ultra-high resolution images. The spliced ​​display device includes a frame disposed between the plurality of display devices. Summary of the invention

[0006] Embodiments of the inventive concept provide a display device capable of improving display quality.

[0007] Embodiments of the inventive concept provide a method of driving a display panel using the display device.

[0008] In some embodiments of a display device according to the present invention, the display device includes a display panel, a drive controller, and a data driver. The display panel is configured to display an image. The drive controller is configured to generate compensated image data for compensating for the reduction in brightness of an edge portion of the display panel based on input image data. The data driver is configured to output a data voltage to the display panel based on the compensated image data. The drive controller is configured to generate the compensated image data by comparing the maximum value of the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the input image data to which the brightness compensation coefficient is applied and the maximum grayscale value of the input image data. The brightness compensation coefficient is configured to be determined according to the position of the sub-pixel in the display panel.

[0009] In some embodiments, the driving controller can be configured to: determine a first brightness compensation coefficient for a first outermost area of ​​the display panel; apply the first brightness compensation coefficient to the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the first outermost area; determine a first maximum value, which is the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the first outermost area to which the first brightness compensation coefficient is applied; and compare the first maximum value with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data.

[0010] In some embodiments, when the first maximum value is greater than a maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller may be configured to determine the first compensation ratio as (the maximum grayscale value of the input image data) / (the first maximum value).

[0011] In some embodiments, when the first maximum value is equal to or less than a maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller may be configured to determine the first compensation ratio to be 1.

[0012] In some embodiments, the driving controller may be configured to multiply the first brightness compensation coefficient and the first compensation ratio by the sub-pixel grayscale value of the first outermost area to generate compensated image data.

[0013] In some embodiments, the driving controller may be configured to: determine a second brightness compensation coefficient for a second outermost area of ​​the display panel; apply the second brightness compensation coefficient to the grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels in the second outermost area; determine a second maximum value, which is a maximum value among the grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels in the second outermost area to which the second brightness compensation coefficient is applied; and compare the second maximum value with a maximum grayscale value of the input image data. The second outermost area of ​​the display panel may be adjacent to the first outermost area of ​​the display panel and may be closer to the center of the display panel than the first outermost area.

[0014] In some embodiments, when the second maximum value is greater than a maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller may be configured to determine the second compensation ratio as (the maximum grayscale value of the input image data) / (the second maximum value).

[0015] In some embodiments, when the second maximum value is equal to or less than a maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller may be configured to determine the second compensation ratio to be 1.

[0016] In some embodiments, the driving controller may be configured to multiply the second brightness compensation coefficient and the second compensation ratio by the sub-pixel grayscale value of the second outermost area to generate compensated image data.

[0017] In some embodiments, the drive controller may be configured to determine a second brightness compensation coefficient for a second outermost area of ​​the display panel. The second outermost area of ​​the display panel may be adjacent to the first outermost area of ​​the display panel and may be closer to the center of the display panel than the first outermost area. The drive controller may be configured to determine the second compensation ratio by multiplying ((second brightness compensation coefficient) / (first brightness compensation coefficient)) by the first compensation ratio.

[0018] In some embodiments, the driving controller may be configured to multiply the second brightness compensation coefficient and the second compensation ratio by the sub-pixel grayscale value of the second outermost area to generate compensated image data.

[0019] In some embodiments, when the first maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller can be configured to determine the first compensated grayscale difference as the difference between the maximum grayscale value and a first previous maximum value, which is the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the first outermost area to which the first brightness compensation coefficient is not applied.

[0020] In some embodiments, when the first maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller may be configured to add the first compensated grayscale difference to the sub-pixel grayscale value of the first outermost region to generate compensated image data.

[0021] In some embodiments, when the first maximum value is equal to or less than a maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller may be configured to generate compensated image data using grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels of the first outermost region to which a first brightness compensation coefficient is applied.

[0022] In some embodiments, the driving controller may be configured to: determine a second brightness compensation coefficient for a second outermost area of ​​the display panel; apply the second brightness compensation coefficient to the grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels in the second outermost area; determine a second maximum value, which is a maximum value among the grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels in the second outermost area to which the second brightness compensation coefficient is applied; and compare the second maximum value with a maximum grayscale value of the input image data. The second outermost area of ​​the display panel may be adjacent to the first outermost area of ​​the display panel and may be closer to the center of the display panel than the first outermost area.

[0023] In some embodiments, when the second maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller can be configured to determine the second compensated grayscale difference as the difference between the maximum grayscale value and a second previous maximum value, wherein the second previous maximum value is the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the second outermost area to which the second brightness compensation coefficient is not applied.

[0024] In some embodiments, when the second maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller may be configured to add the second compensated grayscale difference to the sub-pixel grayscale value of the second outermost region to generate compensated image data.

[0025] In some embodiments, when the second maximum value is equal to or less than a maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller may be configured to generate compensated image data using grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels of the second outermost region to which a second brightness compensation coefficient is applied.

[0026] In some embodiments, the drive controller may be configured to determine a second brightness compensation coefficient for a second outermost area of ​​the display panel. The second outermost area of ​​the display panel may be adjacent to the first outermost area of ​​the display panel and may be closer to the center of the display panel than the first outermost area. The drive controller may be configured to determine the second compensated grayscale difference by multiplying ((second brightness compensation coefficient) / (first brightness compensation coefficient)) by the first compensated grayscale difference.

[0027] In some embodiments, the driving controller may be configured to add the second compensated grayscale difference to the sub-pixel grayscale value of the second outermost region to generate compensated image data.

[0028] In some embodiments of a method for driving a display panel according to the inventive concept, the method includes: determining a brightness compensation coefficient for compensating for a reduction in brightness of an edge portion of a display panel; comparing a maximum value among grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels of input image data to which the brightness compensation coefficient is applied with a maximum grayscale value of the input image data; generating compensated image data based on a result of comparing the maximum value among grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels of input image data to which the brightness compensation coefficient is applied with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data; and outputting a data voltage to the display panel based on the compensated image data. The brightness compensation coefficient is configured to be determined according to a position of a sub-pixel in the display panel.

[0029] According to the display device and the method of driving the display panel, image data of the edge portion of the display panel is compensated based on an actual brightness reduction ratio of the edge portion of the display panel, so that the brightness reduction of the edge portion of the display panel can be compensated.

[0030] Furthermore, when the brightness reduction of the edge portion of the display panel is compensated, the compensation ratio and the compensated gray difference are determined using the maximum value among the gray values ​​of the sub-pixels so that the color may not be changed too much.

[0031] When the brightness is compensated, the border width perceived by the user may be reduced, and the color may not change too much, so that the display quality of the display panel may be enhanced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The above and other features and advantages of the present inventive concept will become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments of the present inventive concept with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0033] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0034] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a spliced ​​display formed using a plurality of display devices according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0035] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 Figure of part A of ;

[0036] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 Conceptual image of the display panel;

[0037] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 1 The block diagram of the drive controller;

[0038] Figure 6 It is shown by Figure 5 A flowchart of a method for compensating a first outermost area of ​​a display panel by operating an image compensator;

[0039] Figure 7 It is shown by Figure 5 A graph of the compensation ratio used by the image compensator;

[0040] Fig. 8A is a conceptual diagram showing input image data;

[0041] Figure 8B is a conceptual diagram showing input image data compensated using a brightness compensation coefficient;

[0042] Figure 8C is a conceptual diagram showing compensated image data compensated using a brightness compensation coefficient and a compensation ratio;

[0043] Fig. 9 It is shown by Figure 5 A flowchart of a method for compensating a second outermost area of ​​a display panel by operating an image compensator;

[0044] Fig.10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of compensating a second outermost area of ​​a display panel operated by an image compensator of a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0045] Fig.11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of compensating a first outermost area of ​​a display panel operated by an image compensator of a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0046] Fig. 12A is a conceptual diagram showing input image data;

[0047] Fig. 12B is a conceptual diagram showing input image data to which a brightness compensation coefficient is applied;

[0048] Fig. 12C is a conceptual diagram showing compensated image data to which a compensation grayscale difference is applied;

[0049] Fig.13 It is shown by Figure 5 A flowchart of a method for compensating a second outermost area of ​​a display panel by operating an image compensator of the embodiment of the present invention; and

[0050] Fig.14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of compensating a second outermost area of ​​a display panel operated by an image compensator of a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The inventive concept will be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, however, the inventive concept can be implemented in various different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments shown herein. On the contrary, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and the aspects and features of the inventive concept will be fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. Therefore, processes, elements and techniques that are unnecessary for a person of ordinary skill in the art to fully understand the aspects and features of the inventive concept may not be described. Unless otherwise stated, in all drawings and written descriptions, the same reference numerals represent the same elements, and therefore, descriptions thereof may not be repeated.

[0052] In the accompanying drawings, for the sake of clarity, the relative sizes of elements, layers and regions can be exaggerated and / or simplified. For the convenience of explanation, spatial relative terms such as "below", "below", "lower", "below", "above", "upper", etc. can be used in this article to describe the relationship between an element or feature as shown in the figure and another (some) element or feature. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientation shown in the figure, the spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or in operation. For example, if the device in the figure is turned over, the element described as "below" or "below" or "below" of other elements or features will be oriented to be "above" other elements or features. Therefore, the exemplary terms "below" and "below" can include two orientations of above and below. The device can be oriented separately (for example, rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used in this article should be interpreted accordingly.

[0053] It should be understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or part from another element, component, region, layer or part. Therefore, the first element, first component, first region, first layer or first part described below may be referred to as the second element, second component, second region, second layer or second part without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0054] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be one or more intervening elements or layers. In addition, it should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or there may be one or more intervening elements or layers.

[0055] The term used herein is for the purpose of describing a particular embodiment, and is not intended to limit the inventive concept. As used herein, the singular "a" and "an" are intended to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes" and "including" specify the existence of stated features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items. When a statement such as "at least one of" is located after an element list, the statement modifies the elements of the entire list, rather than the single element in the modification list.

[0056] As used herein, the terms "substantially", "approximately" and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, and are intended to allow for the inherent variations in measurements or calculations that will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art. In addition, when describing embodiments of the inventive concept, the use of "may" refers to "one or more embodiments of the inventive concept". As used herein, the terms "use", "using" and "used" may be considered synonymous with the terms "utilize", "utilizing" and "utilized", respectively. In addition, the term "exemplary" is intended to mean an example or illustration.

[0057] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the inventive concept belongs. It should also be understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and / or the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless explicitly defined as such in this article.

[0058] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0059] Reference Figure 1 , the display device may include a display panel 100 and a display panel driver. The display panel driver may include a driving controller 200, a gate driver 300, a gamma reference voltage generator 400, and a data driver 500.

[0060] The display panel 100 may include a display area displaying an image and a peripheral area disposed adjacent to the display area.

[0061] The display panel 100 may include a plurality of gate lines GL, a plurality of data lines DL, and a plurality of pixels electrically connected to the gate lines GL and the data lines DL. The gate lines GL extend in a first direction D1, and the data lines DL extend in a second direction D2 crossing the first direction D1.

[0062] Each of the pixels may include a plurality of sub-pixels. In some embodiments, each of the pixels may include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel. In some embodiments, the pixels disposed in the edge portion of the screen may include a white sub-pixel. Alternatively, each of the pixels may include a magenta sub-pixel, a yellow sub-pixel, and a cyan sub-pixel. Although in embodiments, the pixels are primarily shown as including a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel, the inventive concept may not be limited to the colors of the sub-pixels shown.

[0063] The drive controller 200 may receive input image data IMG and an input control signal CONT from an external device (e.g., a graphics controller (not shown)). The input image data IMG may be substantially the same as the input image signal. The input image data IMG may include red image data, green image data, and blue image data. Each of the red image data, the green image data, and the blue image data may have a predetermined grayscale value, for example, between 0 and 255. The grayscale value of the input image data IMG may be expressed as (R, G, B). Alternatively, the input image data IMG may include white image data. Alternatively, the input image data IMG may include magenta image data, yellow image data, and cyan image data. The input control signal CONT may include a data enable signal and a main clock signal. The input control signal CONT may also include a vertical synchronization signal and a horizontal synchronization signal.

[0064] The driving controller 200 generates a first control signal CONT1 , a second control signal CONT2 , a third control signal CONT3 , and a data signal DATA based on input image data IMG and an input control signal CONT.

[0065] The driving controller 200 generates a first control signal CONT1 for controlling the operation of the gate driver 300 based on the input control signal CONT, and outputs the first control signal CONT1 to the gate driver 300. The first control signal CONT1 may include a vertical start signal and a gate clock signal.

[0066] The driving controller 200 generates a second control signal CONT2 for controlling the operation of the data driver 500 based on the input control signal CONT, and outputs the second control signal CONT2 to the data driver 500. The second control signal CONT2 may include a horizontal start signal and a load signal.

[0067] The driving controller 200 generates a data signal DATA based on the input image data IMG. The driving controller 200 outputs the data signal DATA to the data driver 500. The data signal DATA may be image data substantially the same as the input image data IMG, or the data signal DATA may be compensated image data generated by compensating the input image data IMG. For example, the driving controller 200 may selectively perform image quality compensation, stain compensation, adaptive color correction ("ACC"), and / or dynamic capacitance compensation ("DCC") on the input image data IMG to generate the data signal DATA.

[0068] For example, the driving controller 200 may compensate the input image data IMG so as to compensate for the brightness reduction in the edge portion of the screen. In this case, the driving controller 200 generates the data signal DATA based on the compensated input image data IMG.

[0069] Will refer to Figures 5 to 9 Compensation of input image data IMG is described in detail.

[0070] The driving controller 200 generates a third control signal CONT3 for controlling the operation of the gamma reference voltage generator 400 based on the input control signal CONT, and outputs the third control signal CONT3 to the gamma reference voltage generator 400 .

[0071] The gate driver 300 generates a gate signal for driving the gate line GL in response to the first control signal CONT1 received from the driving controller 200. The gate driver 300 outputs the gate signal to the gate line GL.

[0072] The gamma reference voltage generator 400 generates a gamma reference voltage VGREF in response to the third control signal CONT3 received from the driving controller 200. The gamma reference voltage generator 400 outputs the gamma reference voltage VGREF to the data driver 500. The level of the gamma reference voltage VGREF corresponds to the grayscale of a plurality of pixel data included in the data signal DATA.

[0073] In some embodiments, the gamma reference voltage generator 400 may be provided in the driving controller 200 , or may be provided in the data driver 500 .

[0074] The data driver 500 receives the second control signal CONT2 and the data signal DATA from the driving controller 200 and receives the gamma reference voltage VGREF from the gamma reference voltage generator 400. The data driver 500 converts the data signal DATA into an analog data voltage based on the gamma reference voltage VGREF and outputs the data voltage to the data line DL.

[0075] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating a tiled display formed using a plurality of display devices according to an embodiment of the inventive concept. A tiled display is a large display device in which a plurality of display devices are integrated into one large nearly seamless display in order to display ultra-high resolution images.

[0076] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to an embodiment, the display device may be one of the display devices included in the spliced ​​display. In this case, the display panel 100 included in the display device according to the embodiment may correspond to one of the plurality of partial screens included in the spliced ​​display. That is, the display panel 100 may be one of the partial display panels 100a of the spliced ​​display.

[0077] The border BZ may be disposed between the partial display panels 100a of the spliced ​​display. The user may perceive the entire screen of the spliced ​​display as a single display device. Therefore, the image quality of the spliced ​​display may be enhanced by reducing the width of the border BZ.

[0078] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 Figure 1.

[0079] Reference Figures 1 to 3 , the portion of the display panel 100a may include a plurality of pixels P. The pixel P may include a plurality of sub-pixels. For example, the pixel P may include a red sub-pixel R, a green sub-pixel G, and a blue sub-pixel B.

[0080] Other display panels included in the tiled display can be Figure 3 The portions of the display panel 100a are substantially the same.

[0081] The bezel BZ may be a space between parts of the display panel 100a. The pixels P are not disposed in the bezel BZ. That is, an image may not be displayed through the bezel BZ.

[0082] The border width BZW is the shortest distance between sub-pixels disposed in adjacent portions of the display panel 100a. After the spliced ​​display is manufactured, the border width BZW may not be changed.

[0083] The perceived border width P_BZW is the width of the border BZ perceived by the user. As the edge portion of the portion of the display panel 100a of the spliced ​​display becomes darker, the perceived border width P_BZW may increase. In most cases, the perceived border width P_BZW is wider than the border width BZW. The display quality of the spliced ​​display may be enhanced by reducing the perceived border width P_BZW. After the spliced ​​display is manufactured, the perceived border width P_BZW may change according to the nature of the image displayed on the portion of the display panel 100a.

[0084] In other embodiments, although not shown, the display device according to the embodiments may be a single display rather than a part of a tiled display.

[0085] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 A conceptual diagram of a display panel 100 is shown in FIG. Figure 5 It is shown Figure 1 1 is a block diagram of a driving controller 200 . Figure 6 It is shown by Figure 5 Flow chart of a method of compensating the first outermost area OM1 of the display panel 100 by operating the image compensator 220 . Figure 7 It is shown by Figure 5 A graph of compensation ratios used by the image compensator 220. Fig. 8A : is a conceptual diagram showing input image data IMG. Figure 8B is a conceptual diagram showing input image data IMG compensated using a brightness compensation coefficient. Figure 8C is a conceptual diagram showing compensated image data IMG2 compensated using a brightness compensation coefficient and a compensation ratio.

[0086] Reference Figures 1 to 8C , the driving controller 200 may generate the compensation image data IMG2 compensating for the brightness reduction of the edge portion of the display panel 100 based on the input image data IMG to reduce the perceived border width P_BZW of the display panel 100 .

[0087] The display panel 100 may include a first outermost region OM1 and a second outermost region OM2 adjacent to the first outermost region OM1 and closer to the center of the display panel 100 than the first outermost region OM1 .

[0088] The brightness of the first outermost area OM1 and the second outermost area OM2 of the display panel 100 perceived by the user may decrease. The decrease in brightness of the first outermost area OM1 may be greater than the decrease in brightness of the second outermost area OM2.

[0089] The first outermost area OM1 may have a first predetermined width from the outermost edge line of the display panel 100. For example, the first outermost area OM1 may include a plurality of pixel rows or a plurality of pixel columns from the outermost edge line of the display panel 100. The width of the first outermost area OM1 may be determined according to the characteristics of the display panel 100 and may be set by a manufacturer or a user.

[0090] The second outermost area OM2 may have a second predetermined width from the inner boundary of the first outermost area OM1 of the display panel 100. For example, the second outermost area OM2 may include a plurality of pixel rows or a plurality of pixel columns from the inner boundary of the first outermost area OM1 of the display panel 100. The width of the second outermost area OM2 may be determined according to the characteristics of the display panel 100 and may be set by a manufacturer or a user.

[0091] Compensation of the input image data IMG may be performed on a plurality of edge regions MA, MB, MC, and MD. For example, compensation of the input image data IMG may be performed on a first edge region MA, a second edge region MB, a third edge region MC, and a fourth edge region MD. The drive controller 200 may compensate the first outermost region OM1 and the second outermost region OM2 using an average value of the compensation values ​​of the edge regions MA, MB, MC, and MD. Alternatively, the drive controller 200 may compensate the first outermost region OM1 and the second outermost region OM2 using the worst case (maximum compensation value) of the compensation values ​​of the edge regions MA, MB, MC, and MD. Alternatively, the drive controller 200 may compensate the corresponding edge regions MA, MB, MC, and MD using the corresponding compensation values ​​of the edge regions MA, MB, MC, and MD.

[0092] The driving controller 200 may include an image compensator 220 and a signal generator 240 .

[0093] The image compensator 220 generates compensated image data IMG2 that compensates for the reduced brightness of the edge portion of the display panel 100 based on the input image data IMG. The image compensator 220 may compare the maximum grayscale value of the input image data IMG to which the brightness compensation coefficient is applied with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data IMG to generate the compensated image data IMG2. The brightness compensation coefficient may be determined according to the position of the sub-pixel in the display panel 100.

[0094] The image compensator 220 may simultaneously or selectively perform brightness compensation, adaptive color correction (ACC), dynamic capacitance compensation (DCC), etc. of the edge portion of the display panel 100. In this embodiment, the operation of brightness compensation of the edge portion of the display panel 100 is mainly explained below.

[0095] The signal generator 240 receives an input control signal CONT. The signal generator 240 generates a first control signal CONT1 for controlling a driving timing of the gate driver 300 and a second control signal CONT2 for controlling a driving timing of the data driver 500 based on the input control signal CONT. The signal generator 240 generates a third control signal CONT3 for controlling a driving timing of the gamma reference voltage generator 400 based on the input control signal CONT.

[0096] The signal generator 240 outputs the first control signal CONT1 to the gate driver 300. The signal generator 240 outputs the second control signal CONT2 to the data driver 500. The signal generator 240 outputs the third control signal CONT3 to the gamma reference voltage generator 400.

[0097] The image compensator 220 may determine a first brightness compensation coefficient X1 of the first outermost area OM1 of the display panel 100 (step S110). The first brightness compensation coefficient X1 may represent a compensation gain for compensating for a reduction in perceived brightness of the first outermost area OM1.

[0098] The first brightness compensation coefficient X1 may be determined based on the perceived brightness of the first outermost area OM1. For example, when the perceived brightness of the first outermost area OM1 decreases to half of the target brightness, the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 may be about 2 to compensate for the decrease in the perceived brightness of the first outermost area OM1. In the present embodiment, the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 may be based not on actual brightness but on grayscale values. Therefore, when the perceived brightness of the first outermost area OM1 decreases to half of the target brightness, the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 may be a grayscale compensation gain to double the brightness of the first outermost area OM1.

[0099] The image compensator 220 may apply the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 to the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(eg, R, G, and B) of the first outermost area OM1 (step S120). The sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the first outermost area OM1 to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied may be represented as X1·R, X1·G, and X1·B.

[0100] The image compensator 220 may determine a first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) which is the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​X1·R, X1·G, and X1·B of the first outermost area OM1 to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied (step S130).

[0101] The image compensator 220 may compare the first maximum value with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data IMG (step S140). When the input image data IMG is 8 bits, the input image data IMG may have a grayscale value between 1 and 256. The maximum grayscale value of the input image data IMG may be 256. Typically, an 8-bit grayscale value is represented by 0 to 255. In the present embodiment, for ease of explanation, an 8-bit grayscale value is represented by 1 to 256. For example, when the input image data IMG is 10 bits, the input image data IMG may have a grayscale value between 1 and 1024, and the maximum grayscale value of the input image data IMG may be 1024. In the present embodiment, for example, for ease of explanation, the input image data IMG may be 8 bits.

[0102] For example, when the first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) is greater than the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256), the image compensator 220 may determine the first compensation ratio Y1 as (maximum grayscale value) / (first maximum value) (step S150). When the first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) is greater than the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256), at least one of the product of the first subpixel grayscale value (e.g., R) and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 (e.g., X1·R), the product of the second subpixel grayscale value (e.g., G) and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 (e.g., X1·G), and the product of the third subpixel grayscale value (e.g., B) and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 (e.g., X1·B) may exceed the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256). In addition, when the first maximum value (MAX (X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) is greater than the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256), this means that at least one of the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B) exceeds the maximum displayable grayscale value (e.g., 256). In this case, the first compensation ratio Y1 less than 1 can be multiplied by all of the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B), so that all of the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B) can be reduced to be equal to or less than the maximum displayable grayscale value (e.g., 256).

[0103] The first compensation ratio Y1 according to the first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) can be expressed as: Figure 7 Graphics. Figure 7 The pattern of may be stored in the form of a lookup table in the driving controller 200. Therefore, the driving controller 200 may generate the compensated image data IMG2 through a simple operation of the first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)).

[0104] For example, when the first maximum value (MAX (X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) is equal to or less than the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256), the image compensator 220 may determine the first compensation ratio Y1 to be 1 (step S160). When the first maximum value (MAX (X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) is equal to or less than the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256), the product of the first sub-pixel grayscale value (e.g., R) and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 (e.g., X1·R), the product of the second sub-pixel grayscale value (e.g., G) and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 (e.g., X1·G), and the product of the third sub-pixel grayscale value (e.g., B) and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 (e.g., X1·B) may not exceed the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256). Therefore, in this case, the first compensation ratio Y1 is set to 1, so that the compensated image data IMG2 can be generated using the product of the first sub-pixel grayscale value (e.g., R) and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 (e.g., X1·R), the product of the second sub-pixel grayscale value (e.g., G) and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 (e.g., X1·G), and the product of the third sub-pixel grayscale value (e.g., B) and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 (e.g., X1·B).

[0105] The image compensator 220 can generate compensated image data IMG2 by multiplying the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(R, G, B) of the first outermost area OM1 by the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 and the first compensation ratio Y1. The same first compensation ratio Y1 is applied to sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(R, G, B) of different colors in the same pixel, so that when compensating the brightness of the input image data IMG, the color of the input image data IMG may not be changed.

[0106] exist Fig. 8A , when the pixel includes the first subpixel, the second subpixel, and the third subpixel, the first subpixel grayscale value R in the input image data IMG of the pixel of the first outermost area OM1 may be 200, the second subpixel grayscale value G in the input image data IMG of the pixel of the first outermost area OM1 may be 100, and the third subpixel grayscale value B in the input image data IMG of the pixel of the first outermost area OM1 may be 50. In the case where the perceived grayscale value of the pixel of the first outermost area OM1 is reduced to half of the target brightness, the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 may be 2.

[0107] exist Figure 8B , the first subpixel grayscale value X1·R to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied may be 400, the second subpixel grayscale value X1·G to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied may be 200, and the third subpixel grayscale value X1·B to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied may be 100.

[0108] Herein, a first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) as a maximum value among sub-pixel grayscale values ​​X1·R, X1·G, and X1·B to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied in the first outermost area OM1 may be 400(X1·R).

[0109] The first maximum value X1·R (400) is greater than the maximum grayscale value (256), so that the first compensation ratio Y1 may be determined as 256 / 400.

[0110] exist Figure 8C , the first compensation ratio Y1 (256 / 400) is multiplied by the first sub-pixel grayscale value X1·R(400) to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied, the second sub-pixel grayscale value X1·G(200) to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied, and the third sub-pixel grayscale value X1·B(100) to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied, so that the first sub-pixel grayscale value X1·R·Y1 of the compensated image data IMG2, the second sub-pixel grayscale value X1·G·Y1 of the compensated image data IMG2, and the third sub-pixel grayscale value X1·B·Y1 of the compensated image data IMG2 can be 256, 128, and 64, respectively.

[0111] In another example, when the first subpixel grayscale value R in the input image data IMG of the pixels of the first outermost area OM1 is 100, the second subpixel grayscale value G in the input image data IMG of the pixels of the first outermost area OM1 is 50, the third subpixel grayscale value B in the input image data IMG of the pixels of the first outermost area OM1 is 25, and the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is 2, the first subpixel grayscale value X1·R to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied can be 200, the second subpixel grayscale value X1·G to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied can be 100, and the third subpixel grayscale value X1·B to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied can be 50.

[0112] Herein, a first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) as a maximum value among sub-pixel grayscale values ​​X1·R, X1·G, and X1·B to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied in the first outermost area OM1 may be 200(X1·R).

[0113] The first maximum value X1·R(200) is smaller than the maximum grayscale value (256), so that the first compensation ratio Y1 can be determined as 1.

[0114] When the first compensation ratio Y1(1) is multiplied by the first subpixel grayscale value X1·R to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied, the second subpixel grayscale value X1·G to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied, and the third subpixel grayscale value X1·B to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied, respectively, the first subpixel grayscale value X1·R·Y1 of the compensated image data IMG2, the second subpixel grayscale value X1·G·Y1 of the compensated image data IMG2, and the third subpixel grayscale value X1·B·Y1 of the compensated image data IMG2 can be 200, 100, and 50, respectively.

[0115] Fig. 9 It is shown by Figure 5 Flow chart of a method of compensating the second outermost area OM2 of the display panel 100 by operating the image compensator 220 .

[0116] In the present embodiment, the brightness reduction of the second outermost area OM2 may be compensated using the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the pixels in the second outermost area OM2 in the same manner as compensating for the brightness reduction of the first outermost area OM1.

[0117] The image compensator 220 may determine a second brightness compensation coefficient X2 for the second outermost area OM2 of the display panel 100 (step S210). The second brightness compensation coefficient X2 may represent a compensation gain for compensating for the brightness reduction of the second outermost area OM2. The second brightness compensation coefficient X2 for compensating for the brightness reduction of the second outermost area OM2 may be smaller than the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 for compensating for the brightness reduction of the first outermost area OM1.

[0118] For example, when the brightness of the second outermost area OM2 decreases to three quarters of the target brightness, the second brightness compensation coefficient X2 may be a grayscale compensation gain (1.333) that increases the brightness of the second outermost area OM2 by about 33.3%.

[0119] The image compensator 220 may apply the second brightness compensation coefficient X2 to the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(eg, R, G, and B) of the second outermost area OM2 (step S220). The sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the second outermost area OM2 to which the second brightness compensation coefficient X2 is applied may be represented as X2·R, X2·G, and X2·B.

[0120] The image compensator 220 may determine a second maximum value (MAX(X2·R, X2·G, X2·B)) which is the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​X2·R, X2·G and X2·B of the second outermost area OM2 to which the second brightness compensation coefficient X2 is applied (step S230).

[0121] The image compensator 220 may compare the second maximum value with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data IMG (step S240).

[0122] For example, when the second maximum value (MAX(X2·R, X2·G, X2·B)) is greater than the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256), the image compensator 220 may determine the second compensation ratio Y2 as (maximum grayscale value) / (second maximum value) (step S250).

[0123] For example, when the second maximum value (MAX(X2·R, X2·G, X2·B)) is equal to or less than the maximum grayscale value (eg, 256), the image compensator 220 may determine the second compensation ratio Y2 to be 1 (step S260).

[0124] The image compensator 220 can generate compensated image data IMG2 by multiplying the second brightness compensation coefficient X2 and the second compensation ratio Y2 by the sub-pixel grayscale value (R, G, B) of the second outermost area OM2. The same second compensation ratio Y2 is multiplied by the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(R, G, B) of different colors in the same pixel, so that when compensating the brightness of the input image data IMG, the color of the input image data IMG may not be changed.

[0125] According to the present embodiment, image data of the edge portion of the display panel 100 is compensated based on an actual perceived brightness reduction ratio of the edge portion of the display panel 100 , so that the perceived brightness reduction of the edge portion of the display panel 100 can be compensated.

[0126] Furthermore, when the perceived brightness reduction of the edge portion of the display panel 100 is compensated, the compensation ratios Y1 and Y2 are determined using the maximum value among the grayscale values ​​of the sub-pixels so that the color may not be changed.

[0127] When the brightness is compensated, the border width perceived by the user may be reduced and the color may not be changed, so that the display quality of the display panel 100 may be enhanced.

[0128] Fig.10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of compensating the second outermost area OM2 of the display panel 100 operated by the image compensator 220 of the display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0129] The display device and the method of driving the display panel according to the present embodiment are similar to those of the reference Figures 1 to 9 The display device and the method of driving the display panel of the previous embodiment described are substantially the same except for the method of compensating the input image data of the second outermost area. Therefore, the same reference numerals will be used to represent the same as those in Figures 1 to 9 The present invention relates to parts that are the same as or similar to those described in the previous embodiments, and any repeated explanation regarding the above elements will be omitted.

[0130] Reference Figure 1 To Figure 8 and Fig.10 , the image compensator 220 may determine a second brightness compensation coefficient X2 for the second outermost area OM2 of the display panel 100 (step S310). The second brightness compensation coefficient X2 may represent a compensation gain for compensating for the brightness reduction of the second outermost area OM2. The second brightness compensation coefficient X2 for compensating for the brightness reduction of the second outermost area OM2 may be smaller than the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 for compensating for the brightness reduction of the first outermost area OM1.

[0131] The image compensator 220 may determine the second compensation ratio Y2 by multiplying ((second brightness compensation coefficient X2) / (first brightness compensation coefficient X1)) by the first compensation ratio Y1 (step S320). When the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is 2 and the second brightness compensation coefficient X2 is 1.333, the second compensation ratio Y2 may be determined by multiplying 0.667 by the first compensation ratio Y1.

[0132] In this embodiment, the second compensation ratio Y2 is determined based on the ratio between the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 and the second brightness compensation coefficient X2 instead of the sub-pixel grayscale value of the second outermost area OM2, so that the second compensation ratio Y2 can be determined more simply.

[0133] According to the present embodiment, image data of the edge portion of the display panel 100 is compensated based on an actual perceived brightness reduction ratio of the edge portion of the display panel 100 , so that the perceived brightness reduction of the edge portion of the display panel 100 can be compensated.

[0134] Furthermore, when the perceived brightness reduction of the edge portion of the display panel 100 is compensated, the compensation ratios Y1 and Y2 are determined using the maximum value among the grayscale values ​​of the sub-pixels so that the color may not be changed.

[0135] When the brightness is compensated, the border width perceived by the user may be reduced and the color may not be changed, so that the display quality of the display panel 100 may be enhanced.

[0136] Fig.11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of compensating the first outermost area OM1 of the display panel 100 performed by the image compensator 220 of the display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept. Fig. 12A : is a conceptual diagram showing input image data IMG. Fig. 12B is a conceptual diagram showing input image data IMG to which a brightness compensation coefficient is applied. Fig. 12C 2 is a conceptual diagram showing compensated image data IMG2 to which a compensation grayscale difference is applied. Fig.13 It is shown by Figure 5Flow chart of a method of compensating the second outermost area OM2 of the display panel 100 by operating the image compensator 220 .

[0137] The display device and the method of driving the display panel according to the present embodiment are similar to those of the reference Figures 1 to 9 The display device and the method of driving the display panel of the previously described embodiment are substantially the same except for the method of compensating the input image data of the first outermost region. Therefore, the same reference numerals will be used to represent the same Figures 1 to 9 The present invention relates to parts that are the same as or similar to those described in the previous embodiments, and any repeated explanation regarding the above elements will be omitted.

[0138] Reference Figures 1 to 5 as well as Figures 11 to 13 , the driving controller 200 may generate the compensation image data IMG2 compensating for the brightness reduction of the edge portion of the display panel 100 based on the input image data IMG to reduce the perceived border width P_BZW of the display panel 100 .

[0139] The display panel 100 may include a first outermost region OM1 and a second outermost region OM2 adjacent to the first outermost region OM1 and closer to the center of the display panel 100 than the first outermost region OM1 .

[0140] The driving controller 200 may include an image compensator 220 and a signal generator 240 .

[0141] The image compensator 220 generates compensated image data IMG2 that compensates for the reduced brightness of the edge portion of the display panel 100 based on the input image data IMG. The image compensator 220 may compare the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the input image data IMG to which the brightness compensation coefficient is applied with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data IMG to generate the compensated image data IMG2. The brightness compensation coefficient may be determined according to the position of the sub-pixel in the display panel 100.

[0142] The image compensator 220 may determine a first brightness compensation coefficient X1 of the first outermost area OM1 of the display panel 100 (step S410 ).

[0143] The image compensator 220 may apply the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 to the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(eg, R, G, and B) of the first outermost area OM1 (step S420). The sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the first outermost area OM1 to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied may be represented as X1·R, X1·G, and X1·B.

[0144] The image compensator 220 may determine a first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) which is the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​X1·R, X1·G, and X1·B of the first outermost area OM1 to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied (step S430).

[0145] The image compensator 220 may compare the first maximum value with a maximum grayscale value of the input image data IMG (step S440).

[0146] For example, when the first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) is greater than the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256), the image compensator 220 may determine the first compensated grayscale difference DI1 as the difference between the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256) and the first previous maximum value (MAX(R, G, B)), which is the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the first outermost area OM1 to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is not applied (step S450).

[0147] When the first maximum value (MAX (X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) is greater than the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256), the image compensator 220 may generate compensated image data IMG2 by adding the first compensated grayscale difference DI1 to the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(R, G, B) of the first outermost area OM1. The same first compensated grayscale difference DI1 is added to the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(R, G, B) having different colors in the pixel, so that when compensating the brightness of the input image data IMG, the color of the input image data IMG may not change too much.

[0148] exist Fig. 12A , when the pixel includes the first subpixel, the second subpixel, and the third subpixel, the first subpixel grayscale value R in the input image data IMG of the pixel of the first outermost area OM1 may be 200, the second subpixel grayscale value G in the input image data IMG of the pixel of the first outermost area OM1 may be 100, and the third subpixel grayscale value B in the input image data IMG of the pixel of the first outermost area OM1 may be 50. In the case where the perceived grayscale value of the pixel of the first outermost area OM1 is reduced to half of the target brightness, the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 may be 2.

[0149] exist Fig. 12B , the first subpixel grayscale value X1·R to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied may be 400, the second subpixel grayscale value X1·G to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied may be 200, and the third subpixel grayscale value X1·B to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied may be 100.

[0150] In this article, the first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) can be 400(X1·R), and the first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) is the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​X1·R, X1·G and X1·B of the first outermost area OM1 applying the first brightness compensation coefficient X1.

[0151] The first maximum value X1·R(400) is greater than the maximum grayscale value (256), so that the first compensated grayscale difference DI1 can be determined as 256-200=56.

[0152] exist Fig. 12C , the first compensated grayscale difference DI1 (56) is added to the first sub-pixel grayscale value R (200), the second sub-pixel grayscale value G (100) and the third sub-pixel grayscale value B (50), respectively, so that the first sub-pixel grayscale value R+DI1 of the compensated image data IMG2, the second sub-pixel grayscale value G+DI1 of the compensated image data IMG2 and the third sub-pixel grayscale value B+DI1 of the compensated image data IMG2 can be 256, 156 and 106, respectively.

[0153] When the first maximum value (MAX(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B)) is equal to or less than the maximum grayscale value (e.g., 256), the image compensator 220 can generate compensated image data IMG2 using the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​(X1·R, X1·G, X1·B) of the first outermost area OM1 to which the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is applied.

[0154] In this embodiment, if Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 5 , the second compensated gray difference DI2 may be determined using the sub-pixel gray values ​​of the second outermost area OM2 in the same manner as the first compensated gray difference DI1 (steps S510 , S520 , S530 , S540 , and S550 ).

[0155] According to the present embodiment, image data of the edge portion of the display panel 100 is compensated based on an actual perceived brightness reduction ratio of the edge portion of the display panel 100 , so that a reduction in perceived brightness of the edge portion of the display panel 100 can be compensated.

[0156] Furthermore, when compensating for a decrease in perceived brightness of an edge portion of the display panel 100 , the compensated gray differences DI1 and DI2 are determined using a maximum value among gray values ​​of the sub-pixels so that the color may not change too much.

[0157] When the perceived brightness is compensated, the border width perceived by the user may be reduced and the color may not be changed too much, so that the display quality of the display panel 100 may be enhanced.

[0158] Fig.14is a flowchart illustrating a method of compensating the second outermost area OM2 of the display panel 100 operated by the image compensator 220 of the display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0159] The display device and the method of driving the display panel according to the present embodiment are similar to those of the reference Figures 11 to 13 The display device and the method of driving the display panel of the previously described embodiment are substantially the same except for the method of compensating the input image data of the second outermost region. Therefore, the same reference numerals will be used to represent the same Figures 11 to 13 The same or similar parts as those described in the previous embodiments are described herein, and any repeated explanation regarding the above elements will be omitted.

[0160] Reference Figures 1 to 5 , Figures 11 to 12C as well as Fig.14 , the image compensator 220 may determine a second brightness compensation coefficient X2 for the second outermost area OM2 of the display panel 100 (step S610). The second brightness compensation coefficient X2 may represent a compensation gain for compensating for the brightness reduction of the second outermost area OM2. The second brightness compensation coefficient X2 for compensating for the brightness reduction of the second outermost area OM2 may be smaller than the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 for compensating for the brightness reduction of the first outermost area OM1.

[0161] The image compensator 220 may determine the second compensated gray difference DI2 by multiplying ((second brightness compensation coefficient X2) / (first brightness compensation coefficient X1)) by the first compensated gray difference DI1 (step S620). When the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 is 2 and the second brightness compensation coefficient X2 is 1.333, the second compensated gray difference DI2 may be determined by multiplying 0.667 by the first compensated gray difference DI1.

[0162] In this embodiment, the second compensated gray difference DI2 is determined not based on the sub-pixel gray value of the second outermost area OM2 but based on the ratio between the first brightness compensation coefficient X1 and the second brightness compensation coefficient X2, so that the second compensated gray difference DI2 can be determined more simply.

[0163] According to the present embodiment, image data of the edge portion of the display panel 100 is compensated based on an actual luminance reduction ratio of the edge portion of the display panel 100 , so that luminance reduction of the edge portion of the display panel 100 can be compensated.

[0164] Furthermore, when compensating for a decrease in perceived brightness of an edge portion of the display panel 100 , the compensated gray differences DI1 and DI2 are determined using a maximum value among gray values ​​of the sub-pixels so that the color may not change too much.

[0165] When the brightness is compensated, the border width perceived by the user may be reduced, and the color may not be changed too much, so that the display quality of the display panel 100 may be enhanced.

[0166] The inventive concept can be applied to a display device and various devices and systems including the display device. The inventive concept can be applied to various electronic devices, such as cellular phones, smart phones, PDAs, PMPs, digital cameras, camcorders, PCs, server computers, workstations, laptop computers, digital TVs, set-top boxes, music players, portable game consoles, navigation systems, smart cards, printers, etc.

[0167] The above is an explanation of the inventive concept and should not be interpreted as a limitation of the inventive concept. Although several embodiments of the inventive concept have been described, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications may be made to the embodiments without substantially departing from the novel teachings and beneficial effects of the inventive concept. Therefore, all these modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the inventive concept as defined in the claims. In the claims, the term of the device plus function is intended to cover the structure described herein as performing the described function, and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing is an example of the inventive concept and should not be interpreted as being limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications to the disclosed embodiments and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. The inventive concept is defined by the appended claims, and the equivalents of the claims are included in the inventive concept.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: a display panel configured to display an image; a driving controller configured to generate compensation image data for compensating for a reduction in brightness of an edge portion of the display panel based on input image data; as well as a data driver configured to output a data voltage to the display panel based on the compensated image data, wherein the driving controller is configured to generate the compensated image data by comparing the maximum value of the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the input image data to which the brightness compensation coefficient is applied with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, and The brightness compensation coefficient is configured to be determined according to the position of the sub-pixel in the display panel. wherein the driving controller is configured to: determine a first brightness compensation coefficient for a first outermost area of ​​the display panel; apply the first brightness compensation coefficient to the grayscale value of a sub-pixel in the first outermost area; determine a first maximum value, the first maximum value being the maximum value among the grayscale values ​​of the sub-pixels in the first outermost area to which the first brightness compensation coefficient is applied; and compare the first maximum value with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, and When the first maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to determine a first compensation ratio as (the maximum grayscale value of the input image data) / (the first maximum value).

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: When the first maximum value is equal to or less than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to determine the first compensation ratio to 1.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The driving controller is configured to multiply the first brightness compensation coefficient and the first compensation ratio by the sub-pixel grayscale value of the first outermost area to generate the compensated image data.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: The drive controller is configured as follows: determining a second brightness compensation coefficient for a second outermost area of ​​the display panel; applying the second brightness compensation coefficient to the grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels in the second outermost area; determining a second maximum value, the second maximum value being a maximum value among the grayscale values ​​of the sub-pixels in the second outermost area to which the second brightness compensation coefficient is applied; and comparing the second maximum value with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, and The second outermost area of ​​the display panel is adjacent to the first outermost area of ​​the display panel and is closer to the center of the display panel than the first outermost area.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: When the second maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to determine a second compensation ratio as (the maximum grayscale value of the input image data) / (the second maximum value).

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: When the second maximum value is equal to or less than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to determine the second compensation ratio to 1.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The driving controller is configured to multiply the second brightness compensation coefficient and the second compensation ratio by the sub-pixel grayscale value of the second outermost area to generate the compensated image data.

8. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: The driving controller is configured to determine a second brightness compensation coefficient for a second outermost area of ​​the display panel, wherein the second outermost area of ​​the display panel is adjacent to the first outermost area of ​​the display panel and is closer to the center of the display panel than the first outermost area; and The driving controller is configured to determine the second compensation ratio by multiplying ((the second brightness compensation coefficient) / (the first brightness compensation coefficient)) by the first compensation ratio.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein: The driving controller is configured to multiply the second brightness compensation coefficient and the second compensation ratio by the sub-pixel grayscale value of the second outermost area to generate the compensated image data.

10. A display device comprising: a display panel configured to display an image; a driving controller configured to generate compensation image data for compensating for a reduction in brightness of an edge portion of the display panel based on input image data; as well as a data driver configured to output a data voltage to the display panel based on the compensated image data, wherein the driving controller is configured to generate the compensated image data by comparing the maximum value of the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the input image data to which the brightness compensation coefficient is applied with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, and The brightness compensation coefficient is configured to be determined according to the position of the sub-pixel in the display panel. wherein the driving controller is configured to: determine a first brightness compensation coefficient for a first outermost area of ​​the display panel; apply the first brightness compensation coefficient to the grayscale value of a sub-pixel in the first outermost area; determine a first maximum value, the first maximum value being the maximum value among the grayscale values ​​of the sub-pixels in the first outermost area to which the first brightness compensation coefficient is applied; and compare the first maximum value with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, and Wherein, when the first maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to determine a first compensated grayscale difference as a difference between the maximum grayscale value and a first previous maximum value, wherein the first previous maximum value is the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the first outermost area without applying the first brightness compensation coefficient.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: When the first maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to add the first compensated grayscale difference to the sub-pixel grayscale value of the first outermost area to generate the compensated image data.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: When the first maximum value is equal to or less than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to generate the compensated image data using the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the first outermost area to which the first brightness compensation coefficient is applied.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein: The driving controller is configured to: determine a second brightness compensation coefficient for a second outermost area of ​​the display panel; apply the second brightness compensation coefficient to the grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels in the second outermost area; determine a second maximum value, the second maximum value being the maximum value among the grayscale values ​​of the sub-pixels in the second outermost area to which the second brightness compensation coefficient is applied; and compare the second maximum value with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, The second outermost area of ​​the display panel is adjacent to the first outermost area of ​​the display panel and is closer to the center of the display panel than the first outermost area.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: When the second maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to determine a second compensated grayscale difference as a difference between the maximum grayscale value and a second previous maximum value, wherein the second previous maximum value is a maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the second outermost area without applying the second brightness compensation coefficient.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: When the second maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to add the second compensated grayscale difference to the sub-pixel grayscale value of the second outermost area to generate the compensated image data.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: When the second maximum value is equal to or less than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to generate the compensated image data using the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the second outermost area to which the second brightness compensation coefficient is applied.

17. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The driving controller is configured to determine a second brightness compensation coefficient for a second outermost area of ​​the display panel, wherein the second outermost area of ​​the display panel is adjacent to the first outermost area of ​​the display panel and is closer to the center of the display panel than the first outermost area; and The driving controller is configured to determine a second compensated grayscale difference by multiplying ((the second brightness compensation coefficient) / (the first brightness compensation coefficient)) by the first compensated grayscale difference.

18. The display device according to claim 17, wherein: The driving controller is configured to add the second compensated grayscale difference to the sub-pixel grayscale value of the second outermost area to generate the compensated image data.

19. A method for driving a display panel, the method comprising: determining a brightness compensation coefficient for compensating for a reduction in brightness of an edge portion of the display panel; Comparing the maximum value of the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the input image data to which the brightness compensation coefficient is applied with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data; generating compensated image data based on a result of comparing the maximum value among the sub-pixel grayscale values ​​of the input image data to which the brightness compensation coefficient is applied with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data; as well as outputting a data voltage to the display panel based on the compensated image data, The brightness compensation coefficient is configured to be determined according to the position of the sub-pixel in the display panel. wherein the driving controller is configured to: determine a first brightness compensation coefficient for a first outermost area of ​​the display panel; apply the first brightness compensation coefficient to the grayscale values ​​of sub-pixels in the first outermost area; determine a first maximum value, the first maximum value being the maximum value among the grayscale values ​​of the sub-pixels in the first outermost area to which the first brightness compensation coefficient is applied; and compare the first maximum value with the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, and When the first maximum value is greater than the maximum grayscale value of the input image data, the driving controller is configured to determine a first compensation ratio as (the maximum grayscale value of the input image data) / (the first maximum value).

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