Display device

Abstract

A display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes a display circuit including pixels divided into a plurality of blocks, a power interface that outputs a block current, a current sensor that senses the block current and outputs a sensed value of the block current, and a block current controller that outputs a control voltage for controlling the block current supplied to a deteriorated block. The power interface includes a plurality of transistors each including a first electrode connected to a first power supply, a second electrode connected to a first power supply line, and a gate electrode connected to a control line.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0020310 filed on February 19, 2020, and all the benefits accruing therefrom, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The disclosure relates to a display device. BACKGROUND

[0004] With the development of information technology, the importance of a display device as a medium for connecting users and information is emphasized. Accordingly, the use of display devices such as liquid crystal display devices, organic light emitting display devices, and plasma display devices has been increasing.

[0005] A display device can include a plurality of pixels, and each of the plurality of pixels can emit light of various colors and brightnesses when a current corresponding to a gray scale flows to the pixel, thereby displaying various images. SUMMARY

[0006] Among the various images, in the case of an image in which pixels disposed in one region of the display device among the pixels emit light at a relatively high brightness and pixels disposed in another region of the display device emit light at a relatively low brightness, the above-described current can be concentrated to the pixels disposed in either one of the regions. In this case, a relatively high current flows to the pixels disposed in either one of the regions, and thus deterioration can occur in the pixels.

[0007] An object of the disclosure is to provide a display device capable of preventing deterioration or a fire phenomenon of a pixel caused by an overcurrent.

[0008] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a display device capable of sensing a block current using only a transistor without a separate sensing resistor.

[0009] Still another object of the disclosure is to provide a display device capable of reducing manufacturing costs by sensing a block current without increasing a separate sensing resistor.

[0010] The objects of the disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned objects, and other technical objects not described will be clearly understood by persons skilled in the art from the following description.

[0011] To solve the above object, a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes a display circuit including pixels divided into a plurality of blocks; a power interface that outputs a block current corresponding to the blocks to a first power line, respectively, based on a voltage of a first power source and a control voltage; a current sensor that senses the block current and outputs a sensed value of the block current; and a block current controller that calculates a block gray scale value corresponding to the blocks, respectively, based on image data, detects a deteriorated block based on the block gray scale value and the sensed value, and outputs the control voltage to a control line for controlling a block current supplied to the deteriorated block. The power interface includes a plurality of transistors each including a first electrode connected to the first power source, a second electrode connected to the first power line, and a gate electrode connected to the control line.

[0012] In an embodiment, the sensed value can be calculated based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode of a turned-on transistor and a resistance value of an equivalent resistor of the turned-on transistor.

[0013] In an embodiment, when the transistor is turned on by a reference control voltage of an on level, the resistance value can be calculated based on a potential difference of the equivalent resistor of the turned-on transistor and a reference current corresponding to a preset reference block gray scale value.

[0014] In an embodiment, a block gray scale value of the deteriorated block can be greater than any one of block gray scale values of remaining blocks among the blocks except for the deteriorated block, and a sensed value obtained from the deteriorated block can be greater than sensed values obtained from the remaining blocks.

[0015] In an embodiment, a variation amount of the block current provided to the deteriorated block can be determined based on a variation amount of a control voltage applied to a gate electrode of a transistor corresponding to the deteriorated block, and the variation amount of the control voltage can be calculated based on at least one of a first difference between the block gray scale value of the deteriorated block and any one of the block gray scale values of the remaining blocks and a second difference between the sensed value of the deteriorated block and any one of the sensed values of the remaining blocks.

[0016] In an embodiment, the any one of the block gray scale values can be a minimum block gray scale value that is the smallest among the block gray scale values of the remaining blocks, and the any one of the sensed values can be a minimum sensed value that is the smallest among the sensed values of the remaining blocks.

[0017] In an embodiment, the block gray scale value of the deteriorated block can be greater than any one of block gray scale values of remaining blocks among the blocks except for the deteriorated block, and the sensed value obtained from the deteriorated block can be greater than a preset reference sensed value.

[0018] In an embodiment, the amount of change in the block current supplied to the deterioration block can be determined based on an amount of change in a control voltage applied to a gate electrode of a transistor corresponding to the deterioration block, and the amount of change in the control voltage can be calculated based on at least one of a first difference between the block gray scale value of the deterioration block and any one of the block gray scale values of the remaining blocks and a second difference between the sensing value of the deterioration block and the reference sensing value.

[0019] In an embodiment, the block current controller can start a detection operation of the deterioration block using a case in which the sum of the block gray scale values is equal to or less than a preset reference gray scale value as a start condition.

[0020] In an embodiment, the block gray scale value can be any one of a representative value of gray scale values of respective pixels included in the block, a sum of the gray scale values of the respective pixels included in the block, and an average of the sum of the gray scale values of the respective pixels included in the block.

[0021] In an embodiment, the control voltage that controls the block current supplied to the deterioration block can be a voltage of an off level at which a transistor corresponding to the deterioration block is turned off.

[0022] In an embodiment, the power interface can further include a plurality of sensing resistors each having a first terminal connected to the first power source and a second terminal connected to the first electrode of the transistor.

[0023] In an embodiment, the sensing value can be calculated based on a potential difference between a voltage of a node connected to the first power source and the first terminal and a voltage of a node connected to the first electrode and the second terminal and a resistance value of the sensing resistor.

[0024] In an embodiment, the power interface can further include a plurality of sensing transistors each including a first electrode connected to a second power source line different from the first power source line, a second electrode connected to a second power source having a voltage lower than that of the first power source, and a gate electrode connected to the control line.

[0025] In an embodiment, the sensing transistor can receive a control signal of an off level through the control line and can be turned off in a sensing period, and a voltage applied to a node to which the second power source line and the first electrode of the sensing transistor are connected can be higher than the voltage of the first power source.

[0026] A display device according to another embodiment of the disclosure includes a display circuit including pixels divided into a plurality of blocks, a power interface that outputs a block current corresponding to the blocks to a first power line, respectively, based on a voltage of a first power source and a control voltage, a current sensor that senses the block current and outputs a sensed value of the block current, and a block current controller that calculates a block gray scale value corresponding to the blocks, respectively, based on image data, detects a deteriorated block based on the block gray scale value and the sensed value, and outputs the control voltage to a control line for controlling a block current supplied to the deteriorated block. The power interface includes a plurality of transistors each including a first electrode connected to a second power line, a second electrode connected to a second power source having a voltage lower than the voltage of the first power source, and a gate electrode connected to the control line.

[0027] In an embodiment, the sensed value can be calculated based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode of the turned-on transistor and a resistance value of the equivalent resistor of the turned-on transistor.

[0028] In an embodiment, when the transistor is turned on by a reference control voltage of an on level, the resistance value can be calculated based on a potential difference of the equivalent resistor of the turned-on transistor and a reference current corresponding to a preset reference block gray scale value.

[0029] In an embodiment, a block gray scale value of the deteriorated block can be greater than any one of block gray scale values of remaining blocks other than the deteriorated block among the blocks, and a sensed value obtained from the deteriorated block can be greater than any one of sensed values obtained from the remaining blocks.

[0030] In an embodiment, the block current controller can start a detection operation of the deteriorated block using a case in which a sum of the block gray scale values is equal to or less than a preset reference gray scale value as a start condition.

[0031] In an embodiment, the control voltage that controls the block current supplied to the deteriorated block can be a voltage of an off level at which a transistor corresponding to the deteriorated block is turned off.

[0032] In an embodiment, the power interface can further include a plurality of sensing resistors each having a first terminal connected to the first power source and a second terminal connected to the first power line.

[0033] Details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

[0034] As described above, embodiments of the disclosure provide a display device capable of preventing deterioration or fire phenomenon of pixels caused by overcurrent.

[0035] In addition, embodiments of the disclosure can provide a display device capable of sensing a block current using only transistors without a separate sensing resistor.

[0036] In addition, embodiments of the disclosure can provide a display device capable of reducing manufacturing costs by sensing a block current without increasing a separate sensing resistor.

[0037] Effects according to embodiments are not limited by what has been described above, and include various effects in the present specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0038] The above and other features of the disclosure will become more apparent by describing in further detail embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

[0039] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0040] Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment in which pixels included in a display circuit are divided into a plurality of blocks according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0041] Figure 3 and Figure 4 FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram for describing a method of driving a pixel according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0042] Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a diagram for describing an embodiment of a power interface included in the display device illustrated in FIG. 1; Figure 1

[0043] Figure 6 FIG. 5 is a diagram for describing an embodiment in which a current sensor senses a block current;

[0044] Figure 7 FIG. 6 is a diagram for describing an embodiment in which a resistance value of an equivalent resistor of a turned-on transistor is calculated;

[0045] Figure 8 FIG. 7 is a diagram for describing an embodiment in which a deteriorated block is detected;

[0046] Figure 9 FIG. 8 is a diagram for describing an embodiment in which a block current supplied to the detected deteriorated block is adjusted;

[0047] Figure 10 FIG. 9 is a diagram for describing an embodiment of a sensing resistor included in the power interface illustrated in FIG. 4; Figure 5

[0048] Figure 11 FIG. 10 is a diagram for describing another embodiment in which a current sensor senses a block current;​​

[0049] Figure 12 is a diagram for describing another embodiment of a power interface included in a display apparatus shown in Figure 1

[0050] Figure 13 is a diagram for describing an embodiment of a sensing resistor included in a power interface shown in Figure 12

[0051] Figure 14 is a diagram for describing still another embodiment of a power interface included in a display apparatus shown in Figure 1

[0052] Figure 15 is a diagram for describing an embodiment in which a power interface shown in Figure 14 is driven in a sensing period. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] The advantages and features of the present disclosure as well as the method of achieving the advantages and features of the present disclosure will become apparent by referring to the following embodiments in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments and can be implemented in various different forms. The present embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0054] When adding reference numerals to components of each drawing, the same components can have the same reference numerals as possible even though the same components are shown in different drawings. In addition, in describing the present disclosure, when it is determined that a detailed description of related well-known configurations or functions can make the gist of the present disclosure unclear, a detailed description thereof can be omitted.

[0055] ​​​In describing the components of the present disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) can be used. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another component, and the nature, orientation, order, or number of the corresponding components is not limited by its terms. In the case where a component is described as being "connected" or "coupled" to another component, the component can be directly connected or coupled to the other component. However, it will be understood that another component can be "interposed" between each component, or each component can be "connected" or "coupled" through another component. The singular form includes the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms, including "at least one." "At least one" is not construed to be limited to "one" or "a." "Or" means "and / or." As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all combinations thereof. It will also be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," or "includes" and / or "including" when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0056] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Referring to Figure 1 The display apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can include a timing controller 10, a scan driver 20, a data driver 30, a display circuit 40, a sensing circuit 50, a compensator 60, a power interface 70, a current sensor 80, and a block current controller 90, etc.

[0058] The timing controller 10 can receive various gray scale values (or gray scale data) and control signals for each image frame from an external processor (not shown). The timing controller 10 can render the gray scale values to correspond to the specifications of the display device 1. For example, the external processor can provide a red gray scale value, a green gray scale value, and a blue gray scale value for each unit point. However, when the display circuit 40 is a Pentile structure, for example, since adjacent unit points share a pixel, the pixels can not correspond one-to-one to the respective gray scale values, and thus the gray scale values need to be rendered. When the pixels correspond one-to-one to the respective gray scale values, the gray scale values can not need to be rendered. The rendered or unrendered gray scale values can be provided to the data driver 30. The timing controller 10 can provide control signals suitable for each specification to the data driver 30 and the scan driver 20 to display a frame. The timing controller 10 can provide control signals suitable for the specification to the sensing circuit 50 to command a sensing operation.

[0059] The scan driver 20 can receive a clock signal and a scan start signal, etc. from the timing controller 10, and can generate a first scan signal to be provided to the first scan lines SL11, SL21, SLi1, and SLn1 and a second scan signal to be provided to the second scan lines SL12, SL22, SLi2, and SLn2 based on the clock signal and the scan start signal, etc. Here, n can be a natural number, and i can be a natural number equal to or smaller than n.

[0060] The scan driver 20 can sequentially supply the first scan signal having a pulse of an on level to the first scan lines SL11, SL21, SLi1, and SLn1. Also, the scan driver 20 can sequentially supply the second scan signal having a pulse of an on level to the second scan lines SL12, SL22, SLi2, and SLn2. In this case, the pixels PXij are selected by a horizontal line unit, that is, all the pixels in the same row.

[0061] Although not shown, the scan driver 20 can include a first scan driver connected to the first scan lines SL11, SL21, SLi1, and SLn1 and a second scan driver connected to the second scan lines SL12, SL22, SLi2, and SLn2. Each of the first scan driver and the second scan driver can include stages configured in the form of a shift register. Each of the first scan driver and the second scan driver can generate a scan signal in a method of sequentially transferring a scan start signal in the form of a pulse of an on level to a next stage under the control of a clock signal.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the first scan signal and the second scan signal can be the same. In this case, the first scan line and the second scan line connected to each of the pixels PXij can be connected to the same node. In this case, the scan driver 20 can not be divided into the first scan driver and the second scan driver, but can be configured as a single scan driver.

[0063] The data driver 30 can generate data voltages to be supplied to the data lines DL1, DL2, DLj, and DLm using the gray scale values and control signals to be synchronized with the scan signals supplied from the scan driver 20. For example, the data driver 30 can sample the gray scale values using a clock signal and can apply data voltages corresponding to the gray scale values to the data lines DL1, DL2, DLj, and DLm in a row unit of pixels. Here, m can be a natural number, and j can be a natural number equal to or smaller than m.

[0064] The display circuit 40 can include the pixels PXij. The pixels PXij can be defined by data lines and scan lines. That is, each of the pixels PXij can be connected to a corresponding data line, scan line, and sensing line.

[0065] Each of the pixels PXij is selected when a scan signal is supplied, is charged with a voltage corresponding to a data signal, and generates light of a predetermined brightness while supplying a driving current corresponding to the charged voltage to a light emitting diode (not shown).

[0066] As described later with reference to Figure 2 The pixels PXij can be divided into a plurality of blocks.

[0067] Each of the pixels PXij can be implemented in various circuit structures. As described later with reference to Figure 3 and Figure 4 For example, each of the pixels PXij can be implemented in a structure including a first transistor, a second transistor, a third transistor, and a capacitor.

[0068] The sensing circuit 50 can receive a control signal from the timing controller 10 and can receive a sensing signal through each of the sensing lines IL1, IL2, ILk, and ILp. The sensing circuit 50 can be connected to the pixels PXij through the sensing lines IL1, IL2, ILk, and ILp. Here, p can be a natural number and can be the same as the above-described m. Also, k can be a natural number smaller than p and can be the same as the above-described j.

[0069] For example, during a sensing period, the scan driver 20 sequentially supplies a scan signal to the scan lines, the pixels PXij connected to the scan lines are selected in a horizontal line unit (i.e., all pixels in the same row), and the data driver 30 is synchronized with the scan signal to provide a sensing data signal (or a sensing data voltage) for sensing a sensing signal to the data lines DL1, DL2, DLj, and DLm. Next, a sensing current (or a sensing voltage) generated in the selected pixels PXij is generated. Here, the sensing circuit 50 can receive a sensing signal corresponding to the sensing current (or the sensing voltage) through the sensing lines IL1, IL2, ILk, and ILp.

[0070] Here, the sensing period can mean, for example, a blank period between frames or a predetermined period after the display apparatus 1 is turned off, etc. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0071] The sensing circuit 50 can sense the sensing current (or the sensing voltage) and output a sensing value for the sensing current (or the sensing voltage). Here, the sensing value (or the sensing data) can mean a sensing current value (or a sensing voltage value) for the sensing current (or the sensing voltage) as a digital value.

[0072] As disclosed in the present embodiment, the data driver 30 and the sensing circuit 50 can be separately configured. However, in another embodiment, the data driver 30 and the sensing circuit 50 can be integrally formed.

[0073] Although not shown, the sensing circuit 50 can include a sensing channel connected to the sensing lines IL1, IL2, ILk, and ILp. For example, the sensing lines IL1, IL2, ILk, and ILp and the sensing channel can correspond one-to-one.

[0074] As disclosed in the present embodiment, the data driver 30 and the sensing circuit 50 can be separately configured. However, in another embodiment, the data driver 30 and the sensing circuit 50 can be integrally formed.

[0075] The compensator 60 can calculate a compensation value for each of the pixels PXij based on the sensing value of the sensing circuit 50.

[0076] In an embodiment, for example, the compensator 60 can generate an output gray scale value by compensating an input gray scale value input from the outside using the sensing value output from the sensing circuit 50. The input gray scale value is a gray scale data input from an external processor, and can mean a gray scale data for an image frame. In addition, the output gray scale value can mean a gray scale data input to the data driver 30 after the input gray scale value is compensated by the compensator 60.

[0077] The compensator 60 can include a lookup table (not shown). The lookup table can exist in a data form or can exist in a physical form. In Figure 1 During a manufacturing process of the display apparatus 1, the lookup table can store compensation amount data corresponding to the sensed value and the variation amount of the sensed value, etc. in advance.

[0078] The power interface 70 can receive a voltage of a first power source VDD and a control voltage (not shown), and can output a block current based on the voltage of the first power source VDD and the control voltage. Here, the control voltage can be a voltage supplied from a block current controller 90 to be described later.

[0079] The block current can be a current flowing through a transistor included in the power interface 70 as described later. Here, the current flowing through the transistor can be a driving current generated in a display period, or can be a sensing current generated in a sensing period. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. When the number of blocks is equal to or greater than two, the number of block currents can also be equal to or greater than two. Although not shown, for example, when the number of blocks is two, the number of block currents can also be two.

[0080] The power interface 70 can additionally receive a voltage of a second power source VSS. In addition, the power interface 70 can output a block current based on the voltage of the first power source VDD, the voltage of the second power source VSS, and the control voltage. Here, the voltage of the second power source VSS can be less than (or lower than) the voltage of the first power source VDD. However, in a special case, such as a case in which light emission of a light emitting diode (not shown) included in the pixel PXij is prevented, the voltage of the second power source VSS can be set to be greater than (or higher than) the voltage of the first power source VDD.

[0081] The current sensor 80 can sense the block current output from the power interface 70 through a measurement line VL, and can output a sensed value corresponding to the sensed block current. Here, the sensed value can represent a digital value of the sensed block current. Here, the number of measurement lines VL can be one or more, and as described later, the plurality of measurement lines VL can be connected to two terminals (or two nodes) of a resistor provided in the power interface 70, respectively.

[0082] The current sensor 80 can measure a potential difference (i.e., a voltage difference) between two terminals (or two nodes) of a resistor provided in the power interface 70, and can sense a block current by using a resistance value of the resistor and the potential difference. For example, the current sensor 80 can calculate a sensed value corresponding to the block current by calculating a ratio of the potential difference of the resistor to the resistance value. Here, the resistor can be a sensing resistor for sensing the block current, and can represent an equivalent resistor of a transistor or the like. Here, the resistance value of the resistor can be defined in a memory in a manufacturing process, or can be actively redefined in a process of using a product. Later, a detailed description thereof will be described with reference to FIG. 2. Figure 7 A detailed description thereof will be described.

[0083] The block current controller 90 can receive image data and calculate a block gray scale value corresponding to a block. Here, the block gray scale value can be, for example, a sum of gray scale values for each pixel included in a certain block. As another example, the block gray scale value can be an average gray scale value of gray scale values for each pixel included in a certain block. As still another example, the block gray scale value can be an arbitrary representative gray scale value among gray scale values of pixels included in a certain block.

[0084] In an embodiment, for example, since the image data includes gray scale values of the pixels PXij included in the display circuit 40 in general, the block current controller 90 can calculate a sum of gray scale values of pixels included in a certain block in the image data, and can calculate a result thereof as a block gray scale value of the certain block.

[0085] When the number of blocks is plural, the block current controller 90 can receive image data and calculate a block gray scale value corresponding to a block, respectively.

[0086] In an embodiment, for example, when the number of blocks is two, the block current controller 90 can receive image data and calculate a first block gray scale value corresponding to a first block (not shown) and a second block gray scale value corresponding to a second block (not shown), respectively.

[0087] The block current controller 90 can receive sensed values corresponding to the sensed block currents, respectively, and can detect a deteriorated block based on the block gray scale values and the sensed values. Later, a detailed description thereof will be described with reference to FIG. 3. Figure 8 and Figure 9 A detailed description thereof will be described.

[0088] When the deteriorated block is detected, the block current controller 90 can output a control voltage for adjusting the block current to the control line CL. Here, the control voltage can denote a voltage for controlling the block current corresponding to the block, respectively. Here, the number of the control line CL can be one or more, and each of the plurality of control lines CL can be connected to a gate electrode of each transistor included in the power interface 70, as described later.

[0089] Controlling the block current can denote that the block current is reduced or cut off. Detailed descriptions thereof will be described later with reference to Figure 8 and Figure 9 .

[0090] As disclosed in the present embodiment, the timing controller 10 and the block current controller 90 can be configured separately. However, in another embodiment, the timing controller 10 and the block current controller 90 can be integrally formed.

[0091] Although not shown, the display apparatus 1 can further include a memory.

[0092] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the display circuit 40 included in the display apparatus 1 shown in Figure 1 will be described.

[0093] Figure 2 is a diagram showing an embodiment in which the pixels included in the display circuit 40 according to an embodiment of the disclosure are divided into a plurality of blocks.

[0094] In Figure 2 , four blocks are shown as an example for convenience of description.

[0095] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the pixels PXij included in the display circuit 40 according to an embodiment can be divided into a plurality of blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4.

[0096] The block serves to define a control unit for a plurality of pixels, is a virtual element, not a physical component. The block can be written in a memory to be defined in a manufacturing process, or can be actively redefined in a process of using a product.

[0097] In an embodiment, for example, a first pixel PX1 of the pixel PXij can be included in a first block B1, a second pixel PX2 of the pixel PXij can be included in a second block B2, a third pixel PX3 of the pixel PXij can be included in a third block B3, and a fourth pixel PX4 of the pixel PXij can be included in a fourth block B4.

[0098] As an example, the block gray scale value can be a sum of gray scale values of a plurality of pixels included in a certain block. For example, the first block gray scale value can be a sum of gray scale values of a plurality of pixels (e.g., a first pixel PX1) included in the first block B1, the second block gray scale value can be a sum of gray scale values of a plurality of pixels (e.g., a second pixel PX2) included in the second block B2, the third block gray scale value can be a sum of gray scale values of a plurality of pixels (e.g., a third pixel PX3) included in the third block B3, and the fourth block gray scale value can be a sum of gray scale values of a plurality of pixels (e.g., a fourth pixel PX4) included in the fourth block B4.

[0099] Each of the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 can include the same number of pixels, and the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 can not overlap each other. In another embodiment, the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 can include different numbers of pixels. In yet another embodiment, the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 can share at least some pixels (that is, overlap with at least some pixels).

[0100] Although not shown, a power line can be set for each of the blocks as described later.

[0101] Figure 3 and Figure 4 is a circuit diagram for describing a method of driving a pixel according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0102] Referring to Figure 3 , the pixel PXij can include transistors T1, T2, and T3, a storage capacitor Cst, and a light emitting diode LD.

[0103] In an embodiment, the transistors T1, T2, and T3 can be configured by P-type transistors. In another embodiment, the transistors T1, T2, and T3 can be configured by N-type transistors. In yet another embodiment, the transistors T1, T2, and T3 can be configured by a combination of N-type transistors and P-type transistors.

[0104] The P-type transistor refers broadly to a transistor in which the amount of current that is conducted increases when the voltage difference between the gate electrode and the source electrode increases in the negative direction. The N-type transistor refers broadly to a transistor in which the amount of current that is conducted increases when the voltage difference between the gate electrode and the source electrode increases in the positive direction. The transistor can be configured in various forms such as a thin film transistor (TFT), a field effect transistor (FET), and a bipolar junction transistor (BJT).

[0105] Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the transistors T1, T2, and T3 are shown as N-type transistors.

[0106] The first transistor T1 can control the above-described driving current based on a data voltage (or a data signal). A gate electrode of the first transistor T1 can be connected to the first node N1, a first electrode of the first transistor T1 can be connected to the first power line PL1, and a second electrode of the first transistor T1 can be connected to the second node N2. The first transistor T1 can be referred to as a driving transistor. The first power line PL1 among the power lines can be connected to the first power supply VDD, and a voltage of the first power supply VDD can be supplied to the first electrode of the first transistor T1 through the first power line PL1.

[0107] When the first scan signal having a pulse of an on level is supplied to the first scan line SLi1, the second transistor T2 can be turned on to select the pixel PXij. A gate electrode of the second transistor T2 can be connected to the first scan line SLi1, a first electrode of the second transistor T2 can be connected to the data line DLj, and a second electrode of the second transistor T2 can be connected to the first node N1. The second transistor T2 can be referred to as a scan transistor.

[0108] When the second scan signal having a pulse of an on level is supplied to the second scan line SLi2, the third transistor T3 can be turned on to supply the sensing signal to the sensing line ILk. A gate electrode of the third transistor T3 can be connected to the second scan line SLi2, a first electrode of the third transistor T3 can be connected to the second node N2, and a second electrode of the third transistor T3 can be connected to the sensing line ILk. Here, the sensing line ILk can be connected to an initialization power supply (not shown).

[0109] The storage capacitor Cst can be charged with an amount of charge corresponding to a potential difference between a voltage of the first node N1 and a voltage of the second node N2. A first electrode of the storage capacitor Cst can be connected to the first node N1, and a second electrode of the storage capacitor Cst can be connected to the second node N2.

[0110] The light emitting diode LD can emit light at a predetermined brightness. An anode of the light emitting diode LD can be connected to the second node N2, and a cathode of the light emitting diode LD can be connected to the second power line PL2. The second power line PL2 among the power lines can be connected to the second power supply VSS, and a voltage of the second power supply VSS can be supplied to the cathode of the light emitting diode LD through the second power line PL2.

[0111] In general, the voltage of the first power supply VDD can be greater than the voltage of the second power supply VSS. However, in a special case, such as a case in which emission of light including the light emitting diode LD is prevented, the voltage of the second power supply VSS can be set to be greater than the voltage of the first power supply VDD.

[0112] During the display period, the voltage of the first power source VDD can be greater than the voltage of the second power source VSS. In addition, the data voltage can be sequentially applied to the data line DLj by the horizontal period unit. The scan signal of the on level (e.g., high level) can be applied to the first scan line SLi1 in the corresponding horizontal period. In addition, the scan signal of the off level (e.g., low level) can be applied to the second scan line SLi2 in synchronization with the first scan line SLi1, or the scan signal of the off level can be continuously applied to the second scan line SLi2 during the display period.

[0113] In an embodiment, for example, when the scan signal of the on level is applied to the first scan line SLi1 and the scan signal of the off level is applied to the second scan line SLi2, the second transistor T2 can be turned on and the third transistor T3 can be turned off. Accordingly, the voltage difference between the data voltage applied to the first node N1 and the voltage corresponding to the second node N2 is written to the storage capacitor Cst of the pixel PXij.

[0114] In the pixel PXij, the drive current idpx flows through a drive path connecting the first power source VDD, the first power line PL1, the first transistor T1, the light emitting diode LD, the second power line PL2, and the second power source VSS according to the voltage difference between the gate electrode and the source electrode (e.g., the second electrode of the first transistor T1) of the first transistor T1. In addition, the emission luminance of the light emitting diode LD can be determined according to the drive current idpx.

[0115] Thereafter, when the scan signal of the off level is applied to the first scan line SLi1 and the second scan line SLi2, the second transistor T2 and the third transistor T3 can be turned off. Accordingly, the voltage difference between the gate electrode and the source electrode of the first transistor T1 can be maintained by the storage capacitor Cst regardless of the voltage change of the data line DLj, and the emission luminance of the light emitting diode LD can be maintained.

[0116] When the pixel PXij is included in a certain block, similar to the pixel PXij, drive currents can flow through the remaining pixels included in the certain block, except for the pixel PXij, respectively, the light emitting elements included in the remaining pixels also emit light, and thus an image can be displayed in a certain block unit. At this time, the sum of the drive currents flowing through the pixels included in the certain block, respectively, can approximate a block current.

[0117] Reference Figure 4In an embodiment, during the sensing period, in order to prevent light emission of the light emitting diode LD, a voltage applied to the second power line PL2 (or a cathode of the light emitting diode LD connected to the second power line PL2) can be set to be greater than a voltage of the first power VDD. In another embodiment, during the sensing period, a voltage of the second power VSS can be set to be greater than a voltage of the first power VDD. In addition, a sensing voltage (not shown) can be applied to the data line DLj. In addition, when a scan signal of an on level is applied to the first scan line SLi1 and the second scan line SLi2 in synchronization with the sensing voltage, the second transistor T2 and the third transistor T3 can be turned on. Here, an initialization voltage (not shown) can be applied to the second node N2 through the sensing line ILk before the sensing voltage is applied to the data line DLj.

[0118] When the sensing voltage is applied to the first node N1 of the pixel PXij and the first transistor T1 is turned on, a sensing current ispx flows through a sensing path connecting the first power VDD, the first power line PL1, the first transistor T1, and the third transistor T3.

[0119] When the pixel PXij is included in a certain block, as described above, in the sensing period, a sensing current can flow through the remaining pixels, except for the pixel PXij, included in the certain block, respectively. Here, a sum of the sensing currents flowing through the pixels included in the certain block, respectively, can approximate a block current.

[0120] The pixel PXij can be a sub-pixel of any one of red, green, and blue, or can be a unit pixel (or a dot) including sub-pixels of red, green, and blue. When the pixel PXij includes three different sub-pixels, an emission combination of the sub-pixels included in the pixel PXij in a certain pattern can be white.

[0121] Figure 3 And Figure 4 The pixel PXij shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 is exemplary, and Figure 3 Figure 4 Embodiments of the pixel PXij shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 can be applied to a pixel of another circuit. For example, a pixel having a more complex circuit can further receive an emission control signal, and thus can adjust an emission period.

[0122] Hereinafter, embodiments of the power interface 70 included in the display apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure will be described in detail. Hereinafter, for convenience of description, four first power lines and four second power lines corresponding to the four blocks shown in FIG. 1 will be shown. Figure 2

[0123] Figure 5 is for describing a pixel included in a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 1 ​​FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display device.

[0124] In Figure 5 , four transistors and four control lines are illustrated for ease of description.

[0125] Referring to Figure 5 , the power interface 70a according to an embodiment can include a plurality of transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4.

[0126] The first transistor M1 can control a first block current I1 (see Figure 6 ) supplied to the first block B1. A first electrode of the first transistor M1 can be connected to the first node N1, a second electrode of the first transistor M1 can be connected to the second node N2, and a gate electrode of the first transistor M1 can be connected to the control line CL1.

[0127] The second transistor M2 can control a second block current I2 (see Figure 6 ) supplied to the second block B2. A first electrode of the second transistor M2 can be connected to the first node N1, a second electrode of the second transistor M2 can be connected to the third node N3, and a gate electrode of the second transistor M2 can be connected to the control line CL2.

[0128] The third transistor M3 can control a third block current I3 (see Figure 6 ) supplied to the third block B3. A first electrode of the third transistor M3 can be connected to the first node N1, a second electrode of the third transistor M3 can be connected to the fourth node N4, and a gate electrode of the third transistor M3 can be connected to the control line CL3.

[0129] The fourth transistor M4 can control a fourth block current I4 (see Figure 6 ) supplied to the fourth block B4. A first electrode of the fourth transistor M4 can be connected to the first node N1, a second electrode of the fourth transistor M4 can be connected to the fifth node N5, and a gate electrode of the fourth transistor M4 can be connected to the control line CL4.

[0130] The first power supply VDD can be connected to the first node N1, a first power line PL11 can be connected to the second node N2, a first power line PL12 can be connected to the third node N3, a first power line PL13 can be connected to the fourth node N4, and a first power line PL14 can be connected to the fifth node N5. The first power lines PL11 to PL14 can be connected to each other outside the power interface 70a. For example, the first power lines PL11 to PL14 can be connected to each other in the display circuit 40.

[0131] Each of the plurality of second power supply lines PL21, PL22, PL23, and PL24 can be connected to the sixth node N6. In addition, the second power supply VSS can be connected to the sixth node N6. The second power supply lines PL21, PL22, PL23, and PL24 can be connected to each other outside the power interface 70a. For example, the second power supply lines PL21, PL22, PL23, and PL24 can be connected to each other in the display circuit 40. For example, the second power supply lines PL21, PL22, PL23, and PL24 can be commonly connected to a metal plate in the display circuit 40.

[0132] Figure 6 is a diagram for describing an embodiment in which a current sensor senses a block current, and Figure 7 is a diagram for describing an embodiment in which a resistance value of an equivalent resistor of a turned-on transistor is calculated.

[0133] In Figure 6 and Figure 7 , four transistors and four control lines are shown for the sake of description similarly to Figure 5

[0134] The power interface 70a according to the embodiment can output the block currents I1, I2, I3, and I4 to the first power supply lines PL11, PL12, PL13, and PL14, respectively, on the basis of the first power supply VDD and the control voltages output from the block current controller 90.

[0135] Here, a block current can mean a current flowing through a transistor included in the power interface 70a. For example, the first block current I1 can be a current flowing through the first transistor M1 that is turned on, the second block current I2 can be a current flowing through the second transistor M2 that is turned on, the third block current I3 can be a current flowing through the third transistor M3 that is turned on, and the fourth block current I4 can be a current flowing through the fourth transistor M4 that is turned on.

[0136] Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , for example, when the block current controller 90 outputs the control voltages of the turn-on level to the control lines CL1, CL2, CL3, and CL4, respectively, and the control voltages of the turn-on level are applied to the respective gate electrodes of the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4, the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 are turned on.

[0137] When the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 are turned on, the block currents I1, I2, I3, and I4 flow as described above with reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3 ​​The described flows. Here, the block currents I1, I2, I3, and I4 are supplied to the display circuit 40 through the first power supply lines PL11, PL12, PL13, and PL14, respectively. In addition, since the pixels PXij included in the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 emit light at the required luminance, the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 display the image at the gray scale corresponding to their respective block gray scale values.

[0138] Here, the block gray scale value can be any one of a representative value of the gray scale values of the respective pixels included in the block, a sum of the gray scale values of the respective pixels included in the block, and an average of the sum of the gray scale values of the respective pixels included in the block. Hereinafter, for ease of description, it is assumed that the block gray scale value is the sum of the gray scale values of the respective pixels included in the block.

[0139] Here, when the block gray scale value is large (high), the block current according to the block gray scale value can also be large. Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 6 For example, when the third block gray scale value of the third block B3 is the highest gray scale value (e.g., the white gray scale), and the first block gray scale value of the first block B1, the second block gray scale value of the second block B2, and the fourth block gray scale value of the fourth block B4 are the gray scale values between the lowest gray scale value (e.g., the black gray scale) and the highest gray scale value (e.g., the white gray scale), since the pixels (e.g., the third pixel PX3) included in the third block B3 emit light at the gray scale value corresponding to the third gray scale value which is the highest gray scale value, and the pixels (e.g., the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the fourth pixel PX4) included in the respective first block B1, the second block B2, and the fourth block B4 emit light at the gray scale values between the lowest gray scale value (e.g., the black gray scale) and the highest gray scale value (e.g., the white gray scale), the third block current I3 of the third block B3 can be the largest among the block currents I1, I2, I3, and I4.

[0140] The block currents I1, I2, I3, and I4 supplied to the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4, respectively, can flow to the second power supply VSS through the respective second power supply lines PL21, PL22, PL23, and PL24.

[0141] The current sensor 80 can sense the block currents I1, I2, I3, and I4 through the measurement lines VL1, VL2, VL3, VL4, and VL5.

[0142] In an embodiment, for example, the current sensor 80 can sense the first block current I1 generated by driving the first transistor M1 through the measurement line VL1 connected to the first node N1 and the measurement line VL2 connected to the second node N2.

[0143] In an embodiment, for example, the current sensor 80 can sense the second block current I2 generated by driving the second transistor M2 through the measurement line VL1 connected to the first node N1 and the measurement line VL3 connected to the third node N3.

[0144] In an embodiment, for example, the current sensor 80 can sense the third block current I3 generated by driving the third transistor M3 through the measurement line VL1 connected to the first node N1 and the measurement line VL4 connected to the fourth node N4.

[0145] In an embodiment, for example, the current sensor 80 can sense the fourth block current I4 generated by driving the fourth transistor M4 through the measurement line VL1 connected to the first node N1 and the measurement line VL5 connected to the fifth node N5.

[0146] The current sensor 80 can output a sensed value corresponding to each of the sensed block currents I1, I2, I3, and I4. Here, the current sensor 80 can output a current as a sensed value by measuring a potential difference between both terminals of a sensing resistor required to sense the current. Here, since the turned-on transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 can be expressed with an equivalent resistor, there is an advantage that the turned-on transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 corresponding to the equivalent resistor can be replaced with the sensing resistor. That is, the current sensor 80 can output a sensed value corresponding to a block current (any one of the block currents I1, I2, I3, and I4) based on a potential difference between a first electrode and a second electrode of a turned-on transistor (any one of the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4) and a resistance value of an equivalent resistor (any one of the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4).

[0147] In an embodiment, for example, the current sensor 80 can output a first sensed value corresponding to the first block current I1 based on a potential difference between a first electrode and a second electrode of the turned-on first transistor M1 and a resistance value of an equivalent resistor of the turned-on first transistor M1. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the above-described embodiment can be similarly applied to the second transistor M2, the third transistor M3, and the fourth transistor M4.

[0148] In an embodiment, the sensed value can be calculated as a ratio of a potential difference between a first electrode and a second electrode of a turned-on transistor to a resistance value of an equivalent resistor of the turned-on transistor according to Ohm's law.

[0149] In order for the current sensor 80 to replace the turned-on transistor with a sensing resistor to calculate a sensed value, a resistance value of an equivalent resistor for each of the turned-on transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 is required.

[0150] In an embodiment, for example, the resistance value of the equivalent resistor can be calculated based on the potential difference of the equivalent resistor measured when the reference control voltage of the on level is input to the gate electrode and the transistor is turned on, and the reference current corresponding to the preset reference block gray scale value.

[0151] Specifically, when the reference pattern is displayed on the display circuit 40, the reference block gray scale values of the respective blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 can also be calculated to display the reference pattern, and the reference current values for the pixels included in the respective blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 for the respective reference currents It1, It2, It3, and It4 to emit light at the gray scale corresponding to the reference block gray scale values can also be calculated.

[0152] When the reference voltage of the on level is supplied to the gate electrodes of the respective transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4, the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 are turned on. When the potential difference of the equivalent resistor corresponding to the respective turned-on transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 is measured, the resistance value of the equivalent resistor for the turned-on transistor can be calculated for each of the turned-on transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 using the potential difference and the reference current value. Here, the reference pattern can be, for example, a full white pattern in which all the pixels included in the display circuit 40 emit light at the highest gray scale value, and the reference block gray scale value can be the highest gray scale value (or white gray scale). Each of the reference currents It1, It2, It3, and It4 can represent a current corresponding to the sum of the currents for the plurality of pixels included in each of the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 to emit light at the highest gray scale value (e.g., white gray scale). In addition, the reference current value can represent a numerical value of the reference current. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0153] Referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 For example, when the reference pattern is a full white pattern, since all the pixels included in the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 emit light at the highest gray scale value, all the reference block gray scale values of the respective blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 can also be calculated as the highest gray scale value. Here, the reference currents It1, It2, It3, and It4 corresponding to the reference block gray scale values of the highest gray scale value can also be calculated.

[0154] When the block current controller 90 supplies the turned-on reference control voltage to the gate electrode of the transistor (e.g., the first transistor M1), the transistor (e.g., the first transistor M1) can be turned on, and the turned-on transistor (e.g., the first transistor M1) can be represented with the equivalent resistor (e.g., the first equivalent resistor Rdson1). Also, when a full white pattern is displayed on the display circuit 40 (e.g., the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4), the current sensor 80 can measure the potential difference (e.g., the first potential difference Vt1) of the equivalent resistor (e.g., the first equivalent resistor Rdson1). Next, the current sensor 80 can calculate the resistance value of the equivalent resistor (e.g., the first equivalent resistor Rdson1) as the ratio of the potential difference (e.g., the first potential difference Vt1) and the reference current (e.g., the first reference current It1) (or the reference current value) corresponding to the reference block gray scale value according to Ohm's law. The above-described example is based on the first equivalent resistor Rdson1 of the turned-on first transistor M1, but is not limited thereto. The respective resistance values of the other equivalent resistors Rdson2, Rdson3, and Rdson4 can also be similarly calculated as the ratio of the respective potential differences Vt2, Vt3, and Vt4 and the respective reference currents It2, It3, and It4.

[0155] The resistance values of the equivalent resistors Rdson1, Rdson2, Rdson3, and Rdson4 calculated as described above can be written in a memory to be defined in a manufacturing process, or can be actively redefined in a process of using a product.

[0156] According to the above-described embodiments, there is an effect that the block current can be sensed using only the transistors without a separate sensing resistor.

[0157] Also, according to the above-described embodiments, there is an effect that the manufacturing cost can be reduced by sensing the block current without adding a separate sensing resistor.

[0158] Figure 8 is a diagram for describing an embodiment in which a deteriorated block is detected.

[0159] In Figure 8 , four transistors are shown for convenience of description. Figure 5 to Figure 7

[0160] Referring to Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 ​, the block current controller 90 can output the control voltages Vc1, Vc2, Vc3, and Vc4 of the on level to the control lines CL1, CL2, CL3, and CL4, respectively. Also, when the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 are turned on by the control voltages Vc1, Vc2, Vc3, and Vc4, the block drive currents Id1, Id2, Id3, and Id4 can be supplied to the display circuit 40. Here, Figure 8 Each of the block drive currents Id1, Id2, Id3, and Id4 illustrated in FIG. 1 can represent a current corresponding to a sum of currents for a plurality of respective pixels included in each of the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 to emit light at a desired brightness.

[0161] In an embodiment, for example, when the block current controller 90 outputs the first control voltage Vc1 of the on level to the control line CL1, and the first control voltage Vc1 is supplied to the gate electrode of the first transistor M1, the first transistor M1 can be turned on, and the first block drive current Id1 approximately corresponding to a sum of drive currents of the pixels included in the first block B1 can be supplied to the first block B1.

[0162] Since the block drive currents Id1, Id2, Id3, and Id4 are respectively provided to the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4, the display circuit 40 including the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 can display an image according to image data.

[0163] When the block gray scale value of a certain block (for example, the third block B3) is greater than each of the block gray scale values of the other blocks B1, B2, and B4, the size of the block drive current (for example, the third block drive current Id3) provided to the certain block (for example, the third block B3) can be greater than any of the sizes of the block drive currents Id1, Id2, and Id4 provided to the other blocks B1, B2, and B4.

[0164] In this case, when a relatively large block drive current (for example, the third block drive current Id3) is provided to a certain block (for example, the third block B3), deterioration can occur in an area corresponding to the certain block (for example, the third block B3). As described above, the certain block in which deterioration is expected to occur can be referred to as a deteriorated block.

[0165] The block gray scale value of the deteriorated block can be greater than each of the block gray scale values of the remaining blocks other than the deteriorated block among the blocks. As an embodiment, a sensed value (for example, a block current) obtained from the deteriorated block can be greater than each of sensed values obtained from the remaining blocks. As another embodiment, the sensed value obtained from the deteriorated block can be greater than a preset reference sensed value. Here, the reference sensed value can be written in a memory through experiments, etc. during a manufacturing process. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the reference sensed value can be updated even after the manufacturing process.

[0166] As the difference between the block gray scale value of a certain block (e.g., the third block B3) and each of the block gray scale values of the other blocks B1, B2, and B4 increases, the difference between the magnitude of the block drive current (e.g., the third block drive current Id3) provided to the certain block (e.g., the third block B3) and each of the magnitudes of the block drive currents Id1, Id2, and Id4 provided to the other blocks B1, B2, and B4 can increase. Since a deterioration phenomenon caused by a current is proportional to the square of the current value, the deterioration occurring in the certain block (e.g., the third block B3) can be more concentrated.

[0167] Therefore, in order to prevent this, it is necessary to adjust the block current (e.g., the third block drive current Id3) provided to the deteriorated block (e.g., the third block B3) by controlling the control voltage (e.g., the third control voltage Vc3) applied to the gate electrode of the transistor (e.g., the third transistor M3).

[0168] When all of the block gray scale values of the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 are relatively high, and thus the difference between the magnitudes of the block drive currents Id1, Id2, Id3, and Id4 is relatively small, since the possibility of deterioration in a certain block is low, the block current controller 90 can use a case in which the sum of the block gray scale values is equal to or less than a preset reference gray scale value as a start condition to start the detection operation of the deteriorated block. Here, the preset reference gray scale value can be written in the memory through an experiment during a manufacturing process. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the preset reference gray scale value can be updated even after the manufacturing process.

[0169] For example, the block current controller 90 adds all of the first block gray scale value of the first block B1, the second block gray scale value of the second block B2, the third block gray scale value of the third block B3, and the fourth block gray scale value of the fourth block B4, and compares the sum of the block gray scale values with the reference gray scale value. When the sum of the block gray scale values is equal to or less than the reference gray scale value, the block current controller 90 can start the detection operation of the deteriorated block.

[0170] When starting the detection operation of the deteriorated block, the block current controller 90 can compare the block gray scale values of the blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4. For example, the block current controller 90 can compare the first block gray scale value of the first block B1, the second block gray scale value of the second block B2, the third block gray scale value of the third block B3, and the fourth block gray scale value of the fourth block B4.

[0171] As Figure 8As shown in FIG. 1, when the pixels included in the third block B3 emit light at the highest gray scale value, the third block gray scale value of the third block B3 can be greater than any of the block gray scale values of the other blocks B1, B2, and B4. In this case, the block current controller 90 can write information about the third block B3 to the memory.

[0172] When the information about the third block B3 is stored, the block current controller 90 receives the sensed values for the block driving currents Id1, Id2, Id3, and Id4 sensed from the current sensor 80 and compares the sensed values for the block driving currents Id1, Id2, Id3, and Id4. Also, when the sensed value for the third block driving current Id3 provided to the third block B3 is greater than any of the block driving currents Id1, Id2, and Id4 provided to the other blocks B1, B2, and B4, the block current controller 90 can detect the third block B3 as a deteriorated block.

[0173] Figure 9 is a diagram for describing an embodiment in which a block current supplied to a detected deteriorated block is adjusted.

[0174] In Figure 9 , similar to Figure 5 to Figure 8 , four transistors and four control voltages are shown for convenience of description.

[0175] Referring to Figure 8 and Figure 9 , when a deteriorated block (e.g., the third block B3) is detected, the block current controller 90 changes the control voltage applied to the gate electrode of the transistor (e.g., the third transistor M3) corresponding to the deteriorated block (e.g., the third block B3) and supplies the changed control voltage to the gate electrode of the transistor (e.g., the third transistor M3) corresponding to the deteriorated block (e.g., the third block B3). Here, the control voltage for adjusting the block current supplied to the deteriorated block can be a voltage of an off level at which the transistor corresponding to the deteriorated block is turned off. For example, the third control voltage Vc3' can be a voltage of an off level at which the third transistor M3 is turned off.

[0176] When Figure 9 the third control voltage Vc3' shown in FIG. 1 is applied to the gate electrode of the third transistor M3, the third transistor M3 can be turned off, and the block current (e.g., the third block driving current Id3) can not flow through the third transistor M3.

[0177] Although not shown, since the first power lines PL11, PL12, PL13 and PL14 and the second power lines PL21, PL22, PL23 and PL24 can be connected in the display circuit 40 respectively, some of the block current supplied to the block adjacent to the degraded block can flow through the pixels in the degraded block included in the display circuit 40, and therefore each of the pixels corresponding to the degraded block can emit light with the desired brightness.

[0178] The block current controller 90 can determine the change in the block current (e.g., the third block drive current Id3) supplied to the degraded block (e.g., the third block B3) based on the change in the control voltage applied to the gate electrode of the transistor (e.g., the third transistor M3) corresponding to the degraded block (e.g., the third block B3). At this time, with... Figure 8 The third control voltage Vc3' is different from the third control voltage Vc3', which is the voltage at which the third transistor M3 is kept in the on-state. However, the third control voltage Vc3' can be lower than... Figure 8 The voltage of the third control voltage Vc3 is shown (when the third transistor M3 is an NMOS). The change in the control voltage at this time can be the change corresponding to the difference between the third control voltage Vc3 and the third control voltage Vc3'.

[0179] Although not explicitly shown, in an embodiment, the block current controller 90 can calculate the change in control voltage based on a first difference between any one of the block grayscale values ​​of the degraded block and the remaining blocks. Here, any one of the block grayscale values ​​can be the smallest of the remaining blocks.

[0180] Specifically, for example, when Figure 8 When the block with the smallest block gray level value among blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 shown is the second block B2, the block current controller 90 calculates a first difference between the third block gray level value of the third block B3 (which is a degraded block) and the second block gray level value of the second block B2, and reflects this first difference to... Figure 8 The third control voltage Vc3 shown is used to correct the third control voltage Vc3, and the corrected third control voltage Vc3' is applied to the gate electrode of the third transistor M3. Here, (when the third transistor M3 is an NMOS) the larger the first difference, the smaller the corrected third control voltage Vc3'.

[0181] When the corrected third control voltage Vc3' is applied to the gate electrode of the third transistor M3, the modified third drive current can be provided to the third block B3. Here, (when the third transistor M3 is an NMOS), the corrected third control voltage Vc3' can be less than... Figure 8The third control voltage Vc3 is shown in the figure.

[0182] Although not explicitly shown, in another embodiment, the block current controller 90 may calculate the change in control voltage based on a second difference between the sensed value of the degraded block and any one of the sensed values ​​of the remaining blocks. Here, any one of the sensed values ​​may be the smallest of the sensed values ​​of the remaining blocks.

[0183] Specifically, for example, when Figure 8 When the block with the smallest sensed value among blocks B1, B2, B3, and B4 shown is the second block B2, the block current controller 90 calculates the sensed value of the third block B3, which is considered a degraded block (e.g., compared to...). Figure 8 The sensed value corresponding to the third block drive current Id3 shown in the figure) and the sensed value of the second block B2 (e.g., with Figure 8 The second difference (corresponding to the sensing value of the second block drive current Id2 shown in the figure) is reflected in the second difference. Figure 8 The third control voltage Vc3 shown is used to correct the third control voltage Vc3, and the corrected third control voltage Vc3' is applied to the gate electrode of the third transistor M3. Here, (when the third transistor M3 is an NMOS), the larger the second difference, the smaller the corrected third control voltage Vc3'.

[0184] In another embodiment, the block current controller 90 can calculate the change in control voltage based on a first difference between any one of the block grayscale values ​​of the degraded block and the remaining block, and a second difference between any one of the sensed values ​​of the degraded block and the remaining block.

[0185] Since the sensed value obtained from the degraded block can be greater than the preset reference sensed value, the block current controller 90 can use the second difference between the sensed value of the degraded block and the reference sensed value instead of the second difference between the sensed value of the degraded block and any one of the sensed values ​​of the remaining blocks to determine the amount of change in the control voltage.

[0186] In an embodiment, for example, when the degraded block is the third block B3, the sensed value of the third block B3 is calculated (e.g., compared with...). Figure 10 The second difference between the sensed value corresponding to the third block drive current Id3 shown in the figure and the reference sensed value is reflected in the second difference. Figure 5 The corrected third control voltage Vc3' is calculated using the third control voltage Vc3 shown in the figure, and the corrected third control voltage Vc3' is applied to the gate electrode of the third transistor M3.

[0187] The above example has been described with reference to block B3, but is not limited thereto. The above embodiments can also be applied to each of the other blocks B1, B2, and B4.

[0188] According to the above-described embodiments, there is an effect that deterioration or a fire phenomenon of a pixel caused by an overcurrent can be prevented.

[0189] In addition, there is an effect that a lifespan of the display device 1 can be improved by minimizing deterioration generated in the display circuit 40.

[0190] Instead of the resistance values of the equivalent resistors for the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4, sensing resistors for sensing a current can be used.

[0191] Figure 11 is a diagram for describing an embodiment of a sensing resistor included in a power interface shown in Figure 10 , and Figure 11 is a diagram for describing another embodiment in which a current sensor senses a block current.

[0192] In Figure 10 and Figure 11 , four sensing resistors are shown for convenience of description. In Figure 5 and Figure 10 , the same reference numerals are assigned to components identical to those shown in Figure 10 , and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0193] Referring to Figure 11 , the power interface 70a can further include a plurality of sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4.

[0194] Each of the sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4 can be a resistor for sensing a block current. A first terminal of each of the sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4 can be connected to the first power source VDD, and a second terminal of each of the sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4 can be connected to a first electrode of a corresponding transistor M1, M2, M3, and M4.

[0195] In an embodiment, for example, a first terminal of the first sensing resistor R1 can be connected to the first node N1, and a second terminal of the first sensing resistor R1 can be connected to the seventh node N7. Here, the first power source VDD can be connected to the first node N1, and the first electrode of the first transistor M1 can be connected to the seventh node N7.

[0196] For example, a first terminal of the second sensing resistor R2 can be connected to the first node N1, and a second terminal of the second sensing resistor R2 can be connected to the eighth node N8. Here, the first power source VDD can be connected to the first node N1, and the first electrode of the second transistor M2 can be connected to the eighth node N8.

[0197] For example, the first terminal of the third sensing resistor R3 can be connected to the first node N1, and the second terminal of the third sensing resistor R3 can be connected to the ninth node N9. Here, the first power source VDD can be connected to the first node N1, and the first electrode of the third transistor M3 can be connected to the ninth node N9.

[0198] For example, the first terminal of the fourth sensing resistor R4 can be connected to the first node N1, and the second terminal of the fourth sensing resistor R4 can be connected to the tenth node N10. Here, the first power source VDD can be connected to the first node N1, and the first electrode of the fourth transistor M4 can be connected to the tenth node N10.

[0199] Here, the resistance values of the respective first sensing resistor R1, second sensing resistor R2, third sensing resistor R3, and fourth sensing resistor R4 can be written in a memory in a manufacturing process, and can be the same value or different values.

[0200] Referring to Figure 12 and Figure 1 When the sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4 are included in the power interface 70a, each of the measurement lines VL1, VL2, VL3, VL4, and VL5 can be connected to both terminals of the corresponding sensing resistor R1, R2, R3, R4, the current sensor 80 can measure a potential difference between both terminals of each of the corresponding sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, R4, and can calculate a sensing value corresponding to the block current I1, I2, I3, and I4 using the potential difference and the resistance value of the corresponding sensing resistor R1, R2, R3, and R4.

[0201] That is, the sensing value can be calculated based on a potential difference between a voltage of a node (for example, the first node N1) to which the first terminal of each of the sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4 is connected and a voltage of a corresponding node (for example, the seventh node N7, the eighth node N8, the ninth node N9, and the tenth node N10) to which the second terminal of each of the sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4 is connected, and a resistance value of each of the sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4.

[0202] For example, the current sensor 80 can calculate a sensing value corresponding to the first block current I1 by measuring a potential difference of the first sensing resistor R1 via the measurement line VL1 connected to the first node N1 and the measurement line VL2 connected to the seventh node N7, and calculating a ratio of the potential difference of the first sensing resistor R1 to the resistance value according to Ohm's law.

[0203] For example, the current sensor 80 can calculate a sensing value corresponding to the second block current I2 by measuring a potential difference of the second sensing resistor R2 via the measurement line VL1 connected to the first node N1 and the measurement line VL3 connected to the eighth node N8 and calculating a ratio of the potential difference of the second sensing resistor R2 to a resistance value according to Ohm's law.

[0204] For example, the current sensor 80 can calculate a sensing value corresponding to the third block current I3 by measuring a potential difference of the third sensing resistor R3 via the measurement line VL1 connected to the first node N1 and the measurement line VL4 connected to the ninth node N9 and calculating a ratio of the potential difference of the third sensing resistor R3 to a resistance value according to Ohm's law.

[0205] For example, the current sensor 80 can calculate a sensing value corresponding to the fourth block current I4 by measuring a potential difference of the fourth sensing resistor R4 via the measurement line VL1 connected to the first node N1 and the measurement line VL5 connected to the tenth node N10 and calculating a ratio of the potential difference of the fourth sensing resistor R4 to a resistance value according to Ohm's law.

[0206] According to the above-described embodiment, resistance values of equivalent resistors for the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 are not written in the memory during the manufacturing process, and the block currents are measured by using simple sensing resistors. Accordingly, there is an effect that the amount of use of the memory can be reduced and the calculation speed can be improved.

[0207] Figure 12 is a diagram for describing another embodiment of a power interface included in a display apparatus shown in Figure 5

[0208] In Figure 12 , the same reference numerals are assigned to components identical with those shown in Figure 5 , and a detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, in Figure 12 , four blocks, four transistors, four first power supply lines, and four second power supply lines are shown for convenience of explanation, as in Figure 12

[0209] Referring to Figure 5 , a power interface 70b according to another embodiment of the disclosure can include a plurality of transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4, which are identical with the plurality of transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 of the power interface 70a shown in Figure 5 , except that positions in which the plurality of transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 are disposed are different from each other than positions in which the transistors M1, M2, M3, and M4 shown in Figure 13 Figure 12 ​​​​

[0210] The first electrode of the first transistor M1 can be connected to the second power supply line PL21, the second electrode of the first transistor M1 can be connected to the sixth node N6, and the gate electrode of the first transistor M1 can be connected to the control line CL1.

[0211] The first electrode of the second transistor M2 can be connected to the second power supply line PL22, the second electrode of the second transistor M2 can be connected to the sixth node N6, and the gate electrode of the second transistor M2 can be connected to the control line CL2.

[0212] The first electrode of the third transistor M3 can be connected to the second power supply line PL23, the second electrode of the third transistor M3 can be connected to the sixth node N6, and the gate electrode of the third transistor M3 can be connected to the control line CL3.

[0213] The first electrode of the fourth transistor M4 can be connected to the second power supply line PL24, the second electrode of the fourth transistor M4 can be connected to the sixth node N6, and the gate electrode of the fourth transistor M4 can be connected to the control line CL4.

[0214] The second power line PL21 can be connected to the eleventh node N11, the second power line PL22 can be connected to the twelfth node N12, the second power line PL23 can be connected to the thirteenth node N13, and the second power line PL24 can be connected to the fourteenth node N14.

[0215] Each of the multiple first power lines PL11, PL12, PL13, and PL14 can be connected to the first node N1. Additionally, the second power line VSS can be connected to the sixth node N6.

[0216] Figure 13 It is used to describe including Figure 12 A diagram showing an embodiment of a sensing resistor in a power interface.

[0217] Reference Figure 5 , Figure 13 The power interface 70b shown may include a connection to... Figure 10 The multiple sensing resistors R1, R2, R3 and R4 of the power interface 70a shown are the same as the multiple sensing resistors R1, R2, R3 and R4.

[0218] For example, the first sensing resistor R1 can be set between the first power line PL11 and the first power supply VDD, the first terminal of the first sensing resistor R1 can be connected to the first node N1, and the second terminal of the first sensing resistor R1 can be connected to the second node N2.

[0219] For example, the second sensing resistor R2 can be provided between the first power line PL12 and the first power supply VDD, a first terminal of the second sensing resistor R2 can be connected to the first node N1, and a second terminal of the second sensing resistor R2 can be connected to the third node N3.

[0220] For example, the third sensing resistor R3 can be provided between the first power line PL13 and the first power supply VDD, a first terminal of the third sensing resistor R3 can be connected to the first node N1, and a second terminal of the third sensing resistor R3 can be connected to the fourth node N4.

[0221] For example, the fourth sensing resistor R4 can be provided between the first power line PL14 and the first power supply VDD, a first terminal of the fourth sensing resistor R4 can be connected to the first node N1, and a second terminal of the fourth sensing resistor R4 can be connected to the fifth node N5.

[0222] Since Figure 14 the descriptions of the sensing resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4 illustrated in FIG. 1 are the same as those described above with reference to Figure 1 , the descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0223] Figure 14 is a diagram for describing still another embodiment of a power interface included in the display apparatus illustrated in Figure 10 .

[0224] Referring to Figure 13 , the power interface 70c according to still another embodiment of the disclosure can have a structure similar to that of the power interface 70a illustrated in Figure 15 , and can further include transistors M5, M6, M7, and M8.

[0225] A first electrode of the fifth transistor M5 can be connected to an eleventh node N11, a second electrode of the fifth transistor M5 can be connected to a sixth node N6, and a gate electrode of the fifth transistor M5 can be connected to a control line CL5.

[0226] A first electrode of the sixth transistor M6 can be connected to a twelfth node N12, a second electrode of the sixth transistor M6 can be connected to the sixth node N6, and a gate electrode of the sixth transistor M6 can be connected to a control line CL6.

[0227] A first electrode of the seventh transistor M7 can be connected to a thirteenth node N13, a second electrode of the seventh transistor M7 can be connected to the sixth node N6, and a gate electrode of the seventh transistor M7 can be connected to a control line CL7.

[0228] The first electrode of the eighth transistor M8 can be connected to the fourteenth node N14, the second electrode of the eighth transistor M8 can be connected to the sixth node N6, and the gate electrode of the eighth transistor M8 can be connected to the control line CL8.

[0229] As Figure 14 illustrated in FIG. 11, the second power supply line PL21 can be connected to the eleventh node N11, the second power supply line PL22 can be connected to the twelfth node N12, the second power supply line PL23 can be connected to the thirteenth node N13, and the second power supply line PL24 can be connected to the fourteenth node N14.

[0230] The transistors M5, M6, M7, and M8 can be turned on in the display period and can be turned off in the sensing period. As an embodiment, each of the transistors M5, M6, M7, and M8 can be controlled by the block current controller 90. As another embodiment, each of the transistors M5, M6, M7, and M8 can be controlled by a configuration in which the block current controller 90 and the timing controller 10 are integrated. Each of the transistors M5, M6, M7, and M8 can be referred to as a sensing transistor. Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the transistors M5, M6, M7, and M8 as the sensing transistors are driven in the sensing period will be described.

[0231] Figure 15 is an embodiment for describing an operation of the power interface illustrated in FIG. 11 in which the transistors M5, M6, M7, and M8 as the sensing transistors are driven in the sensing period. Figure 4 is an embodiment of a power interface illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0232] Referring to Figure 13 , in the sensing period, the transistors M5, M6, M7, and M8 as the sensing transistors can receive a control signal of an off level through the control line and can be turned off.

[0233] In this case, although not illustrated, as described above with reference to Figure 15 , in order to prevent light emission of the light emitting diode LD included in each of the pixels PXij, a voltage applied to the second power supply line (for example, the second power supply lines PL21, PL22, PL23, and PL24 illustrated in FIG. 11) can be higher than a voltage of the first power supply VDD. Figure 13

[0234] Referring to Figure 15 , for example, a voltage applied to the eleventh node N11 to which the first electrode of the fifth transistor M5 and the second power supply line PL21 illustrated in FIG. 11 are connected can be higher than a voltage of the first power supply VDD. Figure 13

[0235] Referring to Figure 15 , for example, a voltage applied to the twelfth node N12 to which the second electrode of the fifth transistor M5 and the second power supply line PL22 illustrated in FIG. 11 are connected can be higher than a voltage of the first power supply VDD. Figure 13 ​​The voltage of the twelfth node N12, which is the first electrode of the sixth transistor M6, shown in FIG. 12, can be higher than the voltage of the first power supply VDD.

[0236] Referring to Figure 15 For example, the voltage applied to the connection of Figure 13 The voltage of the thirteenth node N13, which is the first electrode of the seventh transistor M7, shown in FIG. 13, can be higher than the voltage of the first power supply VDD.

[0237] Referring to ​ For example, the voltage applied to the connection of ​ The voltage of the fourteenth node N14, which is the first electrode of the eighth transistor M8, shown in FIG. 14, can be higher than the voltage of the first power supply VDD.

[0238] When the transistors M5, M6, M7, and M8 are turned off, the sensing currents Is1, Is2, Is3, and Is4 do not flow to the second power supply VSS, but can be provided to the sensing circuit 50. Accordingly, the compensator 60 can calculate a compensation value.

[0239] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described with reference to the drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments can be implemented in other specific forms without changing the technical spirit and essential characteristics of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the above-described embodiments are exemplary in all aspects and are not limiting.

Claims

1. A display device, wherein, The display device includes: a display circuit including pixels divided into a plurality of blocks; a power interface that receives a plurality of control voltages through a plurality of control lines and outputs a block current corresponding to the blocks to a plurality of first power supply lines, respectively, based on a voltage of a first power supply and the plurality of control voltages; a current sensor that senses the block current and outputs a sensed value of the block current; and a block current controller that calculates a block gray scale value corresponding to the blocks, respectively, based on image data, detects a deteriorated block based on the block gray scale value and the sensed value, and outputs a control voltage for controlling a block current supplied to the deteriorated block among the plurality of control voltages to a corresponding control line among the plurality of control lines, wherein the power interface includes a plurality of transistors each including a first electrode connected to the first power supply, a second electrode connected to a corresponding one among the plurality of first power supply lines, and a gate electrode connected to a corresponding one among the plurality of control lines, wherein the sensed value is calculated based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode of a corresponding transistor among the plurality of transistors and a resistance value of an equivalent resistor of the corresponding transistor, wherein an amount of change of the block current provided to the deteriorated block is determined based on an amount of change of the control voltage applied to a gate electrode of a transistor corresponding to the deteriorated block, wherein the amount of change of the control voltage is calculated based on at least one of a first difference between a block gray scale value of the deteriorated block and any one of block gray scale values of remaining blocks among the blocks other than the deteriorated block and a second difference between a sensed value of the deteriorated block and any one of sensed values of the remaining blocks or based on at least one of the first difference between the block gray scale value of the deteriorated block and any one of the block gray scale values of the remaining blocks and a third difference between the sensed value of the deteriorated block and a preset reference sensed value.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the block gray scale value of the deteriorated block is greater than any one of the block gray scale values of the remaining blocks, and the sensed value of the deteriorated block is greater than the sensed values of the remaining blocks.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the block gray scale value of the deteriorated block is greater than any one of the block gray scale values of the remaining blocks, and the sensed value of the deteriorated block is greater than the reference sensed value.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The block current controller starts a detection operation of the deteriorated block using a case where a sum of the block gray scale values is equal to or less than a preset reference gray scale value as a start condition.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The block gray scale value is any one of a representative value of gray scale values of respective pixels included in the block, a sum of the gray scale values of the respective pixels included in the block, and an average of the sum of the gray scale values of the respective pixels included in the block.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The control voltage for controlling the block current supplied to the deteriorated block is a voltage of an off level at which a transistor corresponding to the deteriorated block is turned off.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The power interface further includes a plurality of sensing resistors each having a first terminal connected to the first power source and a second terminal connected to the first electrode of the transistor.

8. The display device of claim 7, wherein, The sensing value is calculated based on a potential difference between a voltage of a node connected to the first power source and the first terminal and a voltage of a node connected to the first electrode and the second terminal and a resistance value of the sensing resistor.

9. The display device according to claim 7, wherein The power interface further includes a plurality of sensing transistors each including a first electrode connected to a second power source line different from the first power source line, a second electrode connected to a second power source having a voltage lower than the voltage of the first power source, and a gate electrode connected to the control line.

10. The display device of claim 9, wherein, The sensing transistor receives a control signal of an off level through the control line and is turned off in a sensing period, and A voltage applied to a node to which the second power source line and the first electrode of the sensing transistor are connected is higher than the voltage of the first power source.

11. A display device, wherein, The display device includes: a display circuit including pixels divided into a plurality of blocks; a power interface receiving a plurality of control voltages through a plurality of control lines and outputting block currents corresponding to the blocks to a plurality of first power source lines, respectively, based on a voltage of a first power source and the plurality of control voltages; a current sensor sensing the block currents and outputting sensing values of the block currents; and a block current controller calculating block gray scale values corresponding to the blocks, respectively, based on image data, detecting a deteriorated block based on the block gray scale values and the sensing values, and outputting a control voltage for controlling a block current supplied to the deteriorated block among the plurality of control voltages to a corresponding control line among the plurality of control lines, wherein the power interface includes a plurality of transistors each including a first electrode connected to a corresponding one among a plurality of second power source lines, a second electrode connected to a second power source having a voltage lower than the voltage of the first power source, and a gate electrode connected to a corresponding one among the plurality of control lines, wherein the sensing value is calculated based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode of a corresponding transistor among the plurality of transistors and a resistance value of an equivalent resistor of the corresponding transistor, wherein an amount of change of the block current provided to the deteriorated block is determined based on an amount of change of a control voltage applied to a gate electrode of a transistor corresponding to the deteriorated block, wherein the amount of change of the control voltage is calculated based on at least one of a first difference between a block gray scale value of the deteriorated block and any one of block gray scale values of remaining blocks among the blocks other than the deteriorated block and a second difference between a sensing value of the deteriorated block and any one of sensing values of the remaining blocks or at least one of the first difference between the block gray scale value of the deteriorated block and any one of the block gray scale values of the remaining blocks and a third difference between the sensing value of the deteriorated block and a preset reference sensing value.

Images