Display device and driving chip of display panel

Abstract

The invention provides a display device and a driving chip of a display panel. The display device comprises the display panel and the driving chip. The driving chip comprises a first comparator and a second comparator; the driving chip is used for dividing the output channels corresponding to the at least two data lines into a first channel with positive polarity and a second channel with negative polarity; a first comparator for comparing the first voltage with a first reference voltage to output a first level; the second comparator is used for comparing the second voltage with a second reference voltage and outputting a second level; and the driving chip is also used for continuously monitoring the first level and the second level so as to detect whether a short circuit between the data lines occurs in the display panel or not. The data line is divided into the positive and negative polarity channels through the driving chip, the comparator is used for comparing the channel voltage with the reference voltage, the level change is monitored to detect the short circuit, an amplifier and a complex switch assembly do not need to be additionally arranged, the circuit structure is simplified, and the manufacturing cost is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of display technology, specifically to a display device and a driver chip for a display panel. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technologies, display devices typically use current detection to determine data line short circuits. Solutions require adding an amplifier in the vertical blanking region to power the panel, increasing the driver chip's circuit area and necessitating numerous switches to select different channels. This design not only increases chip manufacturing costs but also complicates the circuit structure. Especially when adapting to different inversion modes, additional switch configuration adjustments are required, impacting system reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a driver chip for a display device and a display panel to solve the technical problem in the prior art where display devices typically use current detection to determine short circuits in data lines, and add an amplifier in the vertical blanking interval to power the panel, resulting in an increased circuit area of ​​the driver chip and the need to configure a large number of switches to select different channels. This application divides the data lines into positive and negative polarity channels through the driver chip, and uses a comparator to compare the channel voltage with a reference voltage, monitoring level changes to detect short circuits. It does not require additional amplifiers and complex switching components, and has the advantages of simplifying the circuit structure and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0004] This application provides a display device, including:

[0005] The display panel includes at least two data cables;

[0006] The driver chip is electrically connected to the pixel array of the display panel via at least two data lines to output data signals to the pixels in the pixel array via each of the data lines; the driver chip includes a first comparator and a second comparator.

[0007] The driver chip is used to divide the output channels corresponding to the at least two data lines into a first channel with positive polarity and a second channel with negative polarity.

[0008] The first comparator is used to compare a first voltage of the first channel with a first reference voltage to output a first level; the first reference voltage is less than the first operating voltage corresponding to the first channel.

[0009] The second comparator is used to compare the second voltage of the second channel with the second reference voltage and output a second level; the second reference voltage is greater than the second operating voltage corresponding to the second channel.

[0010] The driver chip is also used to continuously monitor the first level and the second level to detect whether a short circuit occurs between data lines in the display panel.

[0011] This application embodiment also provides a driver chip for a display panel. The driver chip is electrically connected to the pixel array of the display panel through at least two data lines of the display panel, so as to output data signals to the pixels in the pixel array through each of the data lines; the driver chip includes a first comparator and a second comparator.

[0012] The driver chip is used to divide the output channels corresponding to the at least two data lines into a first channel with positive polarity and a second channel with negative polarity.

[0013] The first comparator is used to compare a first voltage of the first channel with a first reference voltage to output a first level; the first reference voltage is less than the first operating voltage corresponding to the first channel.

[0014] The second comparator is used to compare the second voltage of the second channel with the second reference voltage and output a second level; the second reference voltage is greater than the second operating voltage corresponding to the second channel.

[0015] The driver chip is also used to continuously monitor the first level and the second level to detect whether a short circuit occurs between data lines in the display panel.

[0016] In summary, the display device and display panel driver chip provided in this application divide the data lines into positive and negative polarity channels through the driver chip, and use a comparator to compare the channel voltage with the reference voltage, continuously monitor level changes to detect short circuits, without the need to add additional amplifiers and complex switching components, simplifying the circuit structure and reducing manufacturing costs. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is one of the schematic diagrams of a display device provided for an embodiment of this application.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a second schematic diagram of a display device provided for an embodiment of this application.

[0020] Figure 3A schematic diagram of the working scenario of the display device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first reference voltage and the second reference voltage in an embodiment of this application.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing that there is no short-circuit voltage in the display panel in an embodiment of this application.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the voltage corresponding to a short circuit in the display panel in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0025] In the description of this application, the terms "first," "second," and similar words do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different technical features. The terms "multiple" and similar words indicate two or more unless otherwise expressly defined. Embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0026] This application provides a display device, which includes, but is not limited to, the following embodiments and combinations thereof.

[0027] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, Figure 1 One of the schematic diagrams of a display device provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 2This is a second schematic diagram of a display device provided in an embodiment of this application. The display device may include a display panel, a timing controller, a source drive circuit, and a power management chip. The display panel may include a pixel array, a gate drive circuit (GOA circuit), and a light-emitting controller. The display panel provided in this embodiment may be, for example, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display panel; of course, the display panel may also be a Mini-LED display panel or a Micro-LED display panel. The display panel may also include a substrate, data lines for transmitting data signals DATA, scan lines for transmitting scan signals SCAN, power lines for transmitting the voltage VDD at the positive terminal of the power line or the voltage VSS at the negative terminal of the power line, light-emitting control signal lines for transmitting light-emitting control signals EM, a pixel array, an encapsulation layer, a polarizer, a color filter, etc.

[0028] The substrate can be, for example, a glass substrate, a flexible substrate (e.g., a polyimide substrate), etc. The pixel array is composed of multiple pixel units arranged in rows and columns, forming multiple pixel rows arranged along the row direction and multiple pixel columns arranged along the column direction. Each pixel row and each pixel column includes multiple pixel units, and each pixel unit includes multiple sub-pixels. Each sub-pixel includes a light-emitting device and pixel circuitry. For ease of description, pixel rows and pixel columns may be referred to as "rows" and "columns" thereafter. Taking an OLED display panel as an example, the pixel unit may include an organic light-emitting device and a pixel driving circuit. The pixel driving circuit may include a driving transistor used to control the brightness of the corresponding organic light-emitting device in the display panel. In actual pixel units, the driving transistor may include, but is not limited to, low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) and thin-film transistors (TFTs) of metal-oxide-semiconductor semiconductors. The TFT may employ a dual-gate structure, with the organic light-emitting device electrically connected to the first or second electrode of the TFT. Organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) can include an emissive layer, an electron transport layer, a hole transport layer, a cathode, and an anode. Different organic materials can emit light of different wavelengths, enabling full-color displays. The encapsulation layer includes a multi-layer structure alternating between organic and inorganic materials. The gate driver on array (GOA) circuit is mainly used for scanning and driving pixel rows. For example, the GOA circuit can include cascaded gate driver units, where each stage of the gate driver unit controls one or more pixel rows, enabling the selection of pixel units. In some embodiments, the GOA can employ single-sided or double-sided driving for multiple pixel rows. Single-sided driving can involve arranging gate driver units on only one side (such as the left or right side) and scanning and driving multiple pixel rows line by line through cascading. Double-sided driving can involve arranging driver units on both the left and right sides of the multiple pixel row, scanning and driving multiple pixel rows line by line through the coordinated operation of both sides. The source driver circuit is used to provide data signals to the pixel units. The timing controller is used to receive externally input image data and synchronization signals, and generate the signals required by the gate driver circuit and the source driver circuit. The power management chip is used to provide the required operating voltage to various parts of the display panel. It should be noted that... Figure 2 This is an illustrative diagram, and the component connections shown are only used to explain the functional logic of the display panel, and are not intended to limit the actual physical structure.

[0029] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1As shown, the display device 100 includes a display panel 101 and a driver chip 102. The display panel 101 includes at least two data lines. The driver chip 102 is electrically connected to the pixel array of the display panel 101 via the at least two data lines to output data signals to the pixels in the pixel array through each data line. The driver chip 102 includes a first comparator and a second comparator. The driver chip 102 is used to divide the output channels corresponding to the at least two data lines into a positive first channel and a negative second channel. The first comparator is used to compare a first voltage of the first channel with a first reference voltage to output a first level; the first reference voltage is less than the first operating voltage corresponding to the first channel. The second comparator is used to compare a second voltage with a second reference voltage to output a second level; the second reference voltage is greater than the second operating voltage corresponding to the second channel. The driver chip 102 is also used to continuously monitor the first and second levels to detect whether a short circuit occurs between the data lines within the display panel.

[0030] The display panel 101 includes at least two data lines that can be conductive lines for transmitting data signals. These lines can be implemented using metal wires or transparent conductive materials and are used to transmit drive signals to the pixel units. The first and second comparators can be voltage comparison circuit modules, implemented using operational amplifiers to build a differential input structure, and are used to generate high and low level signal outputs. The positive polarity first channel and the negative polarity second channel can be signal transmission paths with opposite voltage polarities, which can be configured through an inversion mode, for example, by alternately assigning polarity to adjacent data lines in a horizontal single-point inversion mode. The first channel corresponds to either an odd or even row of the pixel array; the second channel corresponds to either an odd or even row of the pixel array. If the first channel corresponds to an odd row of the pixel array, the second channel corresponds to an even row. If the first channel corresponds to an even row of the pixel array, the second channel corresponds to an odd row.

[0031] The first operating voltage and the second operating voltage are the voltages required for the first channel and the second channel to operate normally, respectively, or they can be rated voltages preset based on the voltages required for normal operation.

[0032] Specifically, the driver chip 102 divides the output channel into positive and negative groups within the vertical blanking interval. The first comparator continuously compares the actual voltage of the positive channel with a preset reference value lower than the normal operating voltage. When the voltage of the positive channel drops abnormally due to a short circuit, the comparator output level changes. Similarly, the second comparator monitors whether the voltage of the negative channel rises abnormally. When a short circuit occurs between the positive and negative channels, the combined output levels of the two comparators will exhibit a specific abnormal pattern. The driver chip 102 can determine the occurrence of a short circuit by continuously acquiring this state through its logic circuit. In practical applications, the driver chip 102 can be referred to as Driver IC. The first reference voltage can be denoted as VRef1. The second reference voltage can be denoted as VRef2.

[0033] As an example, such as Figure 1 As shown, assume that position 11 is the location of a short circuit between data lines within the display panel. The first channel with positive polarity can be an odd-numbered channel, and the second channel with negative polarity can be an even-numbered channel. Two comparators inside the driver chip 102 compare the voltage levels at the two input terminals to determine if a short circuit has occurred between data lines within the display panel. Specifically, for odd-numbered channels: when the voltage of an odd-numbered channel is higher than the reference voltage, the comparator outputs a low level; when the voltage of an odd-numbered channel is lower than the reference voltage, it outputs a high level. For even-numbered channels: when the voltage of an even-numbered channel is higher than the reference voltage, the comparator outputs a low level; when the voltage of an even-numbered channel is higher than the reference voltage, it outputs a low level. When a short circuit exists in the panel, the odd and even channels will neutralize each other's charges, causing changes in both the odd and even channel voltages. By judging the changes in the comparator output levels, it is possible to identify whether a short circuit exists in the display panel, thus preventing fires caused by short circuits, with almost no increase in cost.

[0034] This application directly utilizes a voltage comparator to monitor the voltage status of existing data lines. By using polarity grouping and reference voltage settings, no additional amplification module is needed, effectively reducing the number of circuit components. Simultaneously, the multi-channel selection switch structure is eliminated, simplifying the internal wiring complexity of the driver chip. Thus, this application can accurately detect short-circuit faults in data lines through voltage comparison without adding additional amplifiers and complex switching networks. This solution directly utilizes the existing comparator module of the driver chip, significantly reducing circuit modification costs while avoiding signal interference problems caused by switch selection, thereby improving the reliability of the detection system.

[0035] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the driver chip 102 is also used to configure the inversion mode to a horizontal single-point inversion mode in the vertical blanking interval, so as to divide the output channels corresponding to at least two data lines into a first channel with positive polarity and a second channel with negative polarity.

[0036] The vertical blanking interval is the time interval between the completion of one frame scan and the start of the next frame scan on the display panel. During this period, the data lines are in a non-data transmission state. This interval can be defined by the synchronization signal output by the timing controller. The horizontal single-point inversion mode allows adjacent data lines to alternately use driving voltages of opposite polarities during each line scan. This can be achieved by the polarity control module inside the driver chip, which allocates the polarity of the output channels. The vertical blanking interval can be denoted as Vertical Blanking; the inversion mode can be denoted as Inversion mode; and the horizontal single-point inversion mode can be denoted as H1DOT Inversion.

[0037] Specifically, within the vertical blanking interval, the driver chip adjusts the configuration parameters of the polarity control module to uniformly switch the data line output channels, which might otherwise use other inversion modes, to a horizontal single-point inversion mode. In this mode, the output channels corresponding to adjacent data lines are forcibly assigned to opposite polarities; for example, the first data line corresponds to a positive polarity channel, the second data line corresponds to a negative polarity channel, and so on, alternating in sequence. Thus, the step of previously requiring an additional switch to select different polarity channels is simplified; channel classification can be completed using only the polarity control function built into the driver chip.

[0038] As an example, the first channel can be an odd-numbered channel, which can be denoted as the Odd channel; the second channel can be an even-numbered channel, which can be denoted as the Even channel; the driver chip 102 can be a chip based on the CSPI protocol. When the CSPI protocol IC is in Vertical Blanking, it first fixes the Inversion mode to H1DOT Inversion, so that the Odd channel and Even channel can be divided into positive and negative polarities.

[0039] This application directly utilizes the existing inversion mode configuration function of the driver chip to achieve channel classification by adjusting the polarity allocation rules, without adding any additional circuit components. Thus, this application can complete data line polarity classification using existing functions without increasing the driver chip area or circuit complexity, thereby reducing the hardware cost required for short circuit detection and avoiding signal delay and interference problems caused by adding switches.

[0040] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the driver chip 102 also includes a digital-to-analog converter (DAC), which is connected to at least two data lines and is used to convert the digital signal of the output channel into an analog voltage signal of a set target grayscale.

[0041] The digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is a circuit module that converts digital signals into analog voltage signals. Specifically, it can be implemented using a resistor ladder network in conjunction with a switch array, generating the corresponding voltage amplitude by receiving digitally encoded signals. The target grayscale can be the voltage value corresponding to the brightness level that pixels in the display panel need to present. This can be mapped using preset gamma curve parameters, with different grayscale levels corresponding to different voltage amplitudes.

[0042] Specifically, during the operation of the driver chip, the digital-to-analog converter (DAC) receives digital signals from the image processing unit and generates precise analog voltage signals based on the voltage parameters corresponding to the target grayscale. This analog voltage signal is transmitted to the pixel array via data lines, controlling the charging state of each pixel to achieve a predetermined brightness. The DAC is directly integrated within the driver chip, eliminating the need for external conversion modules, and achieves multi-level voltage output through a built-in resistor network and switch control.

[0043] This application directly performs signal conversion through a built-in digital-to-analog converter, eliminating the need for external amplifiers and complex switching selection circuits. Existing technologies require independent power supply modules and multiple switching devices for current detection; this solution only needs to utilize the existing digital-to-analog conversion function of the driver chip to achieve signal processing. Thus, this application effectively reduces the complexity of the driver chip's peripheral circuitry and avoids the increase in chip area caused by adding a current detection module. The direct connection between the digital-to-analog converter and the data line simplifies the signal transmission path, reduces the risk of noise interference introduced by multi-stage circuits, and saves the additional costs associated with discrete components.

[0044] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the driver chip 102 also includes a buffer assembly 1021 and a first switch assembly 1022; the first switch assembly 1022 includes at least two first switches; the buffer assembly 1021 includes at least two buffers; each first switch is connected between one of the data lines and one of the buffers; the buffers are connected to the digital-to-analog converter.

[0045] Based on this, the driver chip 102 is also used to disconnect each first switch after the analog voltage signal of the target grayscale has stabilized, so as to disconnect the connection between the buffer and the data line; and to drive each first channel to short-circuit and each second channel to short-circuit, so as to obtain the first voltage of the first channel and the second voltage of the second channel.

[0046] The buffer component can be a circuit module used to stabilize signal transmission. Specifically, it can be implemented using an operational amplifier or a voltage follower. Its function is to provide impedance matching between the digital-to-analog converter and the data line to avoid signal attenuation.

[0047] The first switching component 1022 can be a component that controls the connection state between the data line and the buffer. Specifically, it can be implemented using a MOSFET or a relay. Its function is to cut off the physical connection between the buffer and the data line during the detection phase to eliminate external interference.

[0048] After the analog voltage signal of the target gray level stabilizes, the first switch can be turned off. This can be achieved by controlling the switch to close it after the analog voltage output by the digital-to-analog converter reaches the set value. Specifically, the disconnection action can be triggered by a timing controller or voltage monitoring circuit to ensure that the data line is in an independent state during the detection phase.

[0049] Shorting each channel can be achieved by connecting data lines of the same polarity to the same node inside the driver chip. This can be done through internal metal wiring or a controllable switch. The purpose is to create an equivalent voltage through the short circuit, which facilitates the comparator in determining the short circuit.

[0050] Specifically, after the digital-to-analog converter converts the digital signal corresponding to the target grayscale into an analog voltage, the buffer transmits the voltage signal to the data lines. When the voltage stabilizes, the first switch is opened, isolating the data lines from the buffer. At this time, data lines of the same polarity are short-circuited inside the driver chip, forming a first voltage and a second voltage. Since a short-circuited data line will cause abnormal voltage, the difference between these two voltages and a reference value can be monitored by a comparator to determine whether a short circuit exists. For example, if a short circuit occurs between adjacent data lines, the voltage of the positive polarity channel may deviate from the expected value due to current injection into the negative polarity channel, thereby triggering an abnormal output level from the comparator.

[0051] As an example, the analog voltage signal of the target gray level can be set via a register during Vertical Blanking, setting the output voltage of all output channels to a certain gray level. For example, in the Blanking range, the output voltage can be set to gray level L127.

[0052] This application directly acquires the voltage signal by disconnecting the switch and shorting the channel, eliminating the need for an amplifier and reducing circuit area. Furthermore, existing technologies require switching different switch selection channels based on the inversion mode, while this solution simplifies the switch control logic by consistently shorting the same polarity channel. Thus, this application can quickly cut off external interference after the analog voltage signal of the target grayscale stabilizes, directly extracting the voltage signal for short-circuit detection by shorting the channel, avoiding the use of complex current detection circuits and reducing the manufacturing cost and design complexity of the driver chip. Simultaneously, this solution does not rely on a specific inversion mode, enhancing the versatility and reliability of the detection process.

[0053] In one embodiment, the first comparator includes a negative input terminal, a positive input terminal, and an output terminal; the negative input terminal is connected to a first voltage; the positive input terminal is connected to a first reference voltage; the output terminal is connected to a first level; the first reference voltage is the reference voltage corresponding to the target grayscale of the first channel.

[0054] The first comparator is also used to output a low level when the first voltage is greater than the first reference voltage, and to output a high level when the first voltage is less than the first reference voltage.

[0055] The negative input terminal can be an interface for connecting to the first voltage, which can be implemented using a metal wire or a conductive film, and is used to receive the real-time voltage signal from the positive channel.

[0056] The positive input terminal can be an interface for connecting the first reference voltage VRef1. Specifically, it can be implemented using a resistor voltage divider circuit or a programmable voltage source to set the reference voltage value corresponding to the target gray level.

[0057] The output terminal can be an interface for generating the first level, which can be implemented using transistor switches or logic gate circuits, and is used to output high and low level signals based on the voltage comparison result.

[0058] The first reference voltage can be a reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level of the positive polarity channel. Specifically, it can be generated by a digital-to-analog converter or a voltage regulation module and is used as a threshold for judging voltage anomalies.

[0059] Specifically, during the operation of the display device, the first voltage of the positive channel is transmitted in real time to the negative input terminal of the first comparator, while the first reference voltage corresponding to the target grayscale is input to the positive input terminal. When the first voltage rises abnormally due to a short circuit in the data line, if it exceeds the first reference voltage, the first comparator outputs a low-level signal; if the first voltage drops abnormally due to a line break or other fault, and it falls below the first reference voltage, the first comparator outputs a high-level signal. By continuously monitoring the first level state at the output terminal, it is possible to directly determine whether there is a short circuit or open circuit fault in the positive channel.

[0060] As an example, the first channel can be an odd-numbered channel. When the voltage of the odd-numbered channel is higher than the reference voltage, the comparator outputs a low level; when the voltage of the odd-numbered channel is lower than the reference voltage, it outputs a high level. For example, for an odd-numbered channel (positive polarity, L127+ voltage is 12V): the reference voltage is set to 10V, which is slightly lower than 12V.

[0061] This application achieves short-circuit detection by directly comparing the voltage signal with a preset reference value, eliminating the need for an additional amplifier. It utilizes only the comparator within the existing driver chip, significantly simplifying the circuit structure. Thus, this application can quickly identify data line short-circuit faults through a voltage comparison mechanism without increasing hardware costs, while avoiding the control complexity issues caused by an increase in the number of switching components, effectively reducing the manufacturing cost and design difficulty of the driver chip.

[0062] In one embodiment, the driver chip 102 further includes a second switch assembly 1023; the second switch assembly 1023 includes at least one second switch; each second switch is used to connect to a reference voltage corresponding to different gray levels;

[0063] The driver chip 102 is also used to drive the second switch, which is connected to the reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level, to be in the on state, so as to transmit the reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level output by the first channel to the positive input terminal of the first comparator.

[0064] The second switching component 1023 can be a circuit module composed of multiple switches, specifically implemented using transistors or relays, used to switch between reference voltages corresponding to different gray levels. The second switch can be an independent control unit within the second switching component, specifically implemented using a field-effect transistor, used to turn on or off the transmission path of a specific reference voltage. The reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level can be a reference voltage value matching the pixel brightness level in the currently displayed image on the display panel, specifically generated by a digital-to-analog converter, used for comparison with the actual voltage on the data line in a comparator.

[0065] Specifically, when a short circuit is detected in the data line, the driver chip first determines the target grayscale based on the current display screen, and then selects the reference voltage corresponding to that grayscale. The second switch connected to this reference voltage in the second switching assembly is turned on, while the other second switches remain off, allowing the reference voltage corresponding to the target grayscale to be transmitted to the positive input terminal of the first comparator. At this time, the first comparator compares the actual voltage of the data line with the target reference voltage. If the data line voltage deviates abnormally from the reference voltage, a short circuit risk is determined.

[0066] As an example, for odd-numbered channels (positive polarity, L127+ voltage is 12V): set the reference voltage to 10V. For example, if a short circuit occurs and causes the voltage to equalize to 8V, then the odd-numbered channel voltage will be lower than the reference voltage (8V<10V), triggering short circuit detection.

[0067] This application directly selects the reference voltage corresponding to the target grayscale using a second switching component, eliminating the need for an additional selection switch to match the inversion mode, thus reducing the number of switches and wiring area. In this way, the application achieves dynamic switching of the reference voltage, ensuring that the comparator always performs voltage comparison based on an accurate reference of the current displayed grayscale, avoiding the misjudgment problem caused by a fixed reference voltage in traditional solutions. Simultaneously, by reusing the second switching component to replace the original complex selection circuit, the manufacturing cost and layout complexity of the driver chip are reduced.

[0068] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown; the second comparator includes a negative input terminal, a positive input terminal, and an output terminal; the negative input terminal is connected to a second voltage; the positive input terminal is connected to a second reference voltage; the output terminal is connected to a second level; the second reference voltage is the reference voltage corresponding to the target grayscale of the second channel;

[0069] The second comparator is also used to output a high level when the second voltage is less than the second reference voltage, and to output a low level when the first voltage of the first channel is greater than the second reference voltage.

[0070] The second comparator can be an operational amplifier used to compare the voltage signal of the second channel with a preset reference value. Specifically, it can be implemented using a differential amplifier or an operational amplifier integrated circuit. Its input terminal is connected to the data line channel, and its output terminal generates high and low level signals.

[0071] The second reference voltage Vref2 can be a reference voltage that matches the theoretical voltage value expected to be output by the second channel at the target grayscale. Specifically, it can be generated by a digital-to-analog converter or a programmable voltage source. This voltage value is set to be higher than the maximum voltage range when the second channel is operating normally.

[0072] High and low levels can represent the logic states of the comparator output, which can be achieved by dividing the voltage thresholds. For example, a high level corresponds to 3.3V and a low level corresponds to 0V, which is used to characterize the voltage comparison result.

[0073] Specifically, during the detection phase, the voltage of the second channel is short-circuited to form a second voltage, which is input to the negative input terminal of the second comparator. The second reference voltage is transmitted to the positive input terminal of the comparator by turning on the third switch corresponding to the grayscale. When the second channel is not short-circuited, the second voltage should be within the normal operating voltage range. At this time, the second voltage is lower than the second reference voltage, and the comparator outputs a high level. If a short circuit occurs between adjacent data lines, an abnormal connection is formed between the positive first channel and the negative second channel, causing the second voltage to rise abnormally and exceed the second reference voltage. At this time, the comparator outputs a low level. By continuously monitoring the state changes of the second level, it can be determined whether a short circuit has occurred in the second channel.

[0074] As an example, the second channel can be an even-numbered channel. When the voltage of the even-numbered channel is higher than the reference voltage, the comparator outputs a low level. For example, for an even-numbered channel (negative polarity, L127 voltage is 4V): the reference voltage is set to 6V, which is slightly higher than 4V.

[0075] This application directly utilizes a comparator to perform logical judgment on the voltage signal, eliminating the need for an additional current detection circuit. This reduces the number of amplifiers and switching components, thereby lowering chip area and circuit complexity. As a result, this application can directly identify short-circuit faults on the data line through voltage comparison, avoiding the additional hardware overhead of current detection. This solution utilizes existing digital-to-analog converters and switching components in the vertical blanking interval to achieve voltage sampling and comparison, without changing the inversion mode of the driver chip or adding new detection circuitry, thus achieving short-circuit detection functionality at a lower cost.

[0076] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown; the driver chip 102 also includes a third switch assembly 1024; the third switch assembly 1024 includes at least one third switch; each third switch corresponds to a reference voltage corresponding to a different gray level;

[0077] The driver chip 102 is also used to drive the third switch, which is connected to the reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level, to be in the on state, so as to transmit the reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level output by the second channel to the positive input terminal of the second comparator.

[0078] The third switching component 1024 can be a circuit module for selecting reference voltages corresponding to different gray levels. Specifically, it can be implemented using a MOSFET array or a relay array, selecting the reference voltage path corresponding to a specific gray level through a control signal. The third switch can be an independent control unit constituting the switching component, specifically employing a single-pole multi-throw switch structure to achieve multi-path selection. The reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level can be a pre-set reference voltage value matching the display brightness level, specifically calibrated using an analog signal output from a digital-to-analog converter. The positive input terminal of the second comparator can be the non-inverting input terminal of an operational amplifier, specifically employing a differential amplifier structure to implement the voltage comparison function.

[0079] Specifically, after disconnecting the buffer from the data line in the vertical blanking interval, the second channel is short-circuited to form a uniform voltage node. At this time, the third switching component selects the corresponding reference voltage according to the target grayscale. For example, when the target grayscale is level 127, the third switch corresponding to that grayscale is turned on, so that the preset 6V reference voltage is transmitted to the positive input terminal of the second comparator. The second comparator compares the actual 8V voltage formed by shorting the second channel with the input 6V reference voltage in real time. When it detects that the actual voltage is higher than the reference voltage, it outputs a high-level signal, indicating that there is a short circuit in an adjacent data line causing an abnormal voltage drop.

[0080] As an example, for even-numbered channels (negative polarity, L127 voltage is 4V): the reference voltage is set to 6V. For instance, if a short circuit occurs causing the voltage to equalize to 8V, the even-numbered channel voltage will be higher than the reference voltage (8V>6V), thus triggering short circuit detection.

[0081] This application directly reuses the second comparator built into the driver chip as the detection unit, and achieves precise matching of the reference voltage through a third switching component. Existing technologies require a separate selection switch for each detection channel, while this solution reduces the number of switches to single-channel control by shorting the second channel to form a unified detection node. Thus, this application effectively solves the problem of increased chip area caused by adding current detection circuits in existing technologies. By reusing existing comparator modules and optimizing the switching structure, it reduces circuit complexity while maintaining short-circuit detection accuracy. The use of a third switching component to select the reference voltage avoids the design flaw of traditional solutions requiring multiple sets of detection circuits for different inversion modes, improving the versatility and reliability of the driver chip.

[0082] In one embodiment, the driver chip 102 is further configured to receive a configuration instruction and configure a first reference voltage and a second reference voltage based on the configuration instruction.

[0083] The configuration command can be an externally input or an internally preset command signal used to dynamically adjust the set value of the reference voltage. Specifically, it can be implemented by register writing or level triggering, so that the reference voltage can be flexibly configured according to actual needs.

[0084] The first reference voltage can be a reference voltage used for comparison with the first channel voltage. Specifically, it can be implemented using a voltage divider circuit or a programmable voltage source. Its value is less than the operating voltage corresponding to the first channel and is used to trigger a change in the comparator output level when short-circuited.

[0085] The second reference voltage can be a reference voltage used for comparison with the second channel voltage. Specifically, it can be implemented using a voltage divider circuit or a programmable voltage source. Its value is greater than the operating voltage corresponding to the second channel and is used to trigger a change in the comparator output level when short-circuited.

[0086] Specifically, during operation, the driver chip receives configuration instructions and sets the first and second reference voltages accordingly. For example, in the vertical blanking interval, the driver chip configures the inversion mode to a horizontal single-point inversion mode. In this mode, the first channel corresponds to a positive voltage, and the second channel corresponds to a negative voltage. The first reference voltage is set to a value lower than the lower limit of the normal operating voltage range for the positive channel, and the second reference voltage is set to a value higher than the upper limit of the normal operating voltage range for the negative channel. When a short circuit occurs between the data lines, the voltage of the positive channel may be pulled down below the first reference voltage, or the voltage of the negative channel may be pulled up above the second reference voltage. At this time, the level state of the comparator output flips, and the driver chip determines the short circuit fault by continuously monitoring the level change.

[0087] As an example, the first reference voltage can be 8.06V for VG0+, 10.3V for VG32+, 10.6V for VG64+, 10.9V for VG96+, 12V for VG127+, ..., 15.07V for VG255+; the second reference voltage can be 6.75V for VG0-, 4.8V for VG32-, 4.5V for VG64-, 4.17V for VG96-, 4V for VG127-, ..., 0.23V for VG255-.

[0088] This application dynamically configures the reference voltage via instructions, eliminating the need for a dedicated voltage generation circuit and avoiding detection failures caused by changes in the inversion mode. Thus, this application solves the problems of high cost and poor adaptability caused by fixed reference voltages and complex detection circuits in existing technologies. It enables flexible adjustment of the detection threshold via software instructions, simplifies the hardware structure, and improves compatibility with different display modes.

[0089] In one embodiment, the driver chip 102 is further configured to drive at least two output channels corresponding to the data lines to disconnect when a short circuit is determined to occur between the two data lines, so that the output channels are in a high impedance state.

[0090] The output channel disconnection can be achieved by severing the electrical connection between the data line and the driver chip through a control switch assembly. Specifically, a MOSFET or transistor can be used as the switching element, and the data line will no longer receive drive signals by disconnecting the switch. The high impedance state can make the disconnected output channel exhibit extremely high resistance characteristics. Specifically, the parasitic capacitance and resistance in the circuit will naturally form a high impedance state after the switch is disconnected, thereby avoiding the continued generation of current or voltage interference at the short circuit point.

[0091] Specifically, when the driver chip detects through the comparator that the first voltage of the first channel is lower than the first reference voltage or the voltage of the second channel is higher than the second reference voltage, it can determine that there is a short circuit between adjacent data lines. At this time, the driver chip immediately controls the switching component connected to the short-circuited data line to disconnect, for example, closing the first switch between the buffer and the data line, so that the connection between the output channel and the driver circuit is physically cut off. Since the two ends of the channel are in a floating state after the switch is opened, the parasitic capacitance cannot maintain an effective potential difference, and the channel impedance rises rapidly to the megaohm level, thereby blocking the short-circuit current and preventing damage to the internal components of the panel due to overcurrent.

[0092] As an example, when the comparator detects an abnormal voltage, such as odd-channel voltage below 10V or even-channel voltage above 6V, a protection mechanism is immediately triggered. This includes immediately cutting off the output buffers of all channels, placing all output channels in a high-impedance state, and efficiently disconnecting the electrical connection between the driver IC and the panel. Other protective measures may also be triggered; these measures work together to prevent the short circuit from worsening in the shortest possible time, effectively preventing serious consequences such as fires.

[0093] This application directly utilizes the comparator and switching components built into the driver chip to immediately disconnect the channel connection upon detecting a short circuit, eliminating the need for an additional independent detection circuit. Furthermore, the high impedance state can be quickly achieved using existing switching components, significantly simplifying the circuit structure. Thus, this application can quickly isolate data lines with short-circuit faults, preventing abnormal current from causing permanent damage to the display panel and driver chip. Simultaneously, by reusing the original switching components of the driver chip to achieve high impedance control, it effectively reduces circuit complexity and manufacturing costs.

[0094] As an example, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of the display device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first reference voltage and the second reference voltage in an embodiment of this application. Two comparators are added internally to the driver chip 102. By comparing the voltage levels at the two input terminals of the comparators, it is determined whether there is a short circuit in the channel within the IC. Specifically, this determination can be made through the following steps.

[0095] The first step is for the CSPI protocol IC to fix the Inversion mode to H1DOTInversion during Vertical Blanking, which allows the Odd channel and Even channel to be classified as positive and negative.

[0096] The second step is to set the output voltage of all output channels to a certain gray level through register settings during Vertical Blanking, and set the output voltage to gray level L127 in the Blanking range.

[0097] The third step is to wait for the IC to stably output the L127 grayscale voltage in the Blanking interval, then disconnect all channel output buffers, connect the Odd channel and Even channel together, and set the input reference voltage of the comparator to the grayscale voltage between L0 and L127.

[0098] Fourthly, in the Blanking interval, voltage comparisons are performed on the odd-numbered and even-numbered channels within the panel. For odd-numbered channels: when the voltage of an odd-numbered channel is higher than the reference voltage, the comparator outputs a low level; when the voltage of an odd-numbered channel is lower than the reference voltage, it outputs a high level. For even-numbered channels: when the voltage of an even-numbered channel is higher than the reference voltage, the comparator outputs a low level; when the voltage of an even-numbered channel is higher than the reference voltage, it outputs a low level. When a short circuit exists in the panel, the odd-numbered and even-numbered channels will neutralize each other's charges, and both the odd-numbered and even-numbered channel voltages will change. Generally, for a given panel display setting, H1DOT Inversion, when the odd-numbered channel L127+ voltage is 12V, the comparator reference voltage is a voltage between L0+ and L127+, which is lower than 12V; when the even-numbered channel L127- voltage is 4V, the comparator reference voltage is a voltage between L0- and L127-, which is higher than 4V.

[0099] The fifth step involves analyzing changes in the comparator output level to identify any short circuits within the driver IC. Upon detecting a short circuit, all channel outputs are disconnected, placing the driver in a Hi-Z state to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards caused by the short circuit. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing that there is no short-circuit voltage in the display panel in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the voltage corresponding to a short circuit in the display panel in an embodiment of this application. When there is no short circuit in the internal circuitry of the panel, the waveform stabilizes at a certain voltage level; when there is a short circuit in the panel, the two adjacent channels (positive and negative channels) neutralize the charge, and the voltage drifts towards the center level. Therefore, the voltage change can be accurately identified by the comparator, thereby determining whether there is a short circuit in the panel.

[0100] This application also provides a driver chip for a display panel. For details of the driver chip, please refer to the specific description of the driver chip in the relevant embodiments of the aforementioned display device, which will not be repeated here.

[0101] The display device and display panel driver chip provided in the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the technical solutions and core ideas of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that, include: The display panel includes at least two data cables; The driver chip is electrically connected to the pixel array of the display panel via at least two data lines to output data signals to the pixels in the pixel array via each of the data lines; the driver chip includes a first comparator and a second comparator. The driver chip is used to divide the output channels corresponding to the at least two data lines into a first channel with positive polarity and a second channel with negative polarity. The first comparator is used to compare the first voltage of the first channel with a first reference voltage to output a first level; The first reference voltage is less than the first operating voltage corresponding to the first channel; The second comparator is used to compare the second voltage of the second channel with the second reference voltage and output a second level. The second reference voltage is greater than the second operating voltage corresponding to the second channel; The driver chip is also used to continuously monitor the first level and the second level to detect whether a short circuit occurs between data lines in the display panel.

2. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driver chip is also configured to set the inversion mode to a horizontal single-point inversion mode in the vertical blanking interval, so as to divide the output channels corresponding to the at least two data lines into a first channel of positive polarity and a second channel of negative polarity.

3. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driver chip also includes a digital-to-analog converter, which is connected to the at least two data lines; The digital-to-analog converter is used to convert the digital signal of the output channel into an analog voltage signal with a set target grayscale.

4. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The driver chip further includes a buffer assembly and a first switch assembly; the first switch assembly includes at least two first switches; the buffer assembly includes at least two buffers; each first switch is connected between one of the data lines and one of the buffers; the buffers are connected to the digital-to-analog converter. The driver chip is also used to disconnect each of the first switches after the analog voltage signal of the target grayscale has stabilized, so as to disconnect the connection between the buffer and the data line. And drive each of the first channels to short-circuit and each of the second channels to short-circuit, so as to obtain the first voltage of the first channel and the second voltage of the second channel.

5. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first comparator includes a negative input terminal, a positive input terminal, and an output terminal; the negative input terminal is connected to the first voltage; the positive input terminal is connected to the first reference voltage; the output terminal is connected to the first level; the first reference voltage is the reference voltage corresponding to the target grayscale of the first channel; The first comparator is further configured to output a low level when the first voltage is greater than the first reference voltage, and to output a high level when the first voltage is less than the first reference voltage.

6. The display device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The driver chip further includes a second switching assembly; the second switching assembly includes at least one second switch; each second switch is used to connect to a reference voltage corresponding to different gray levels; The driving chip is also used to drive a second switch connected to the reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level to be in the on state, so as to transmit the reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level output by the first channel to the positive input terminal of the first comparator.

7. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second comparator includes a negative input terminal, a positive input terminal, and an output terminal; the negative input terminal is connected to a second voltage of the second channel; the positive input terminal is connected to a second reference voltage; the output terminal is connected to a second level; the second reference voltage is the reference voltage corresponding to the target grayscale of the second channel; The second comparator is further configured to output the second level as high when the second voltage of the second channel is less than the second reference voltage, and to output the second level as low when the first voltage of the first channel is greater than the second reference voltage.

8. The display device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The driver chip further includes a third switching component; the third switching component includes at least one third switch; each third switch corresponds to a reference voltage for a different gray level; The driving chip is also used to drive the third switch connected to the reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level to be in the on state, so as to transmit the reference voltage corresponding to the target gray level output by the second channel to the positive input terminal of the second comparator.

9. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driver chip is also configured to receive configuration instructions and configure the first reference voltage and the second reference voltage based on the configuration instructions.

10. The display device according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The driver chip is also used to drive the output channel corresponding to the at least two data lines to disconnect when a short circuit is determined to occur between the two data lines, so that the output channel is in a high impedance state.

11. A driver chip for a display panel, characterized in that, The driver chip is electrically connected to the pixel array of the display panel through at least two data lines of the display panel, so as to output data signals to the pixels in the pixel array through each of the data lines; the driver chip includes a first comparator and a second comparator; The driver chip is used to divide the output channels corresponding to the at least two data lines into a first channel with positive polarity and a second channel with negative polarity. The first comparator is used to compare the first voltage of the first channel with a first reference voltage to output a first level; The first reference voltage is less than the first operating voltage corresponding to the first channel; The second comparator is used to compare the second voltage of the second channel with the second reference voltage and output a second level. The second reference voltage is greater than the second operating voltage corresponding to the second channel; The driver chip is also used to continuously monitor the first level and the second level to detect whether a short circuit occurs between data lines in the display panel.

12. The driver chip according to claim 11, characterized in that, The driver chip is also configured to set the inversion mode to a horizontal single-point inversion mode in the vertical blanking interval, so as to divide the output channels corresponding to the at least two data lines into a first channel of positive polarity and a second channel of negative polarity.

13. The driver chip according to claim 11, characterized in that, The driver chip is also configured to receive configuration instructions and configure the first reference voltage and the second reference voltage based on the configuration instructions.

14. The driver chip according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The driver chip is also used to drive the output channel corresponding to the at least two data lines to disconnect when a short circuit is determined to occur between the two data lines, so that the output channel is in a high impedance state.

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