Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes a display area, a panel driver, and a data processor. The display area includes a first pixel area with pixels arranged in a first arrangement of sub-pixels and a second pixel area with pixels arranged in a second arrangement of sub-pixels. The panel driver provides driving signals to the display area. The data processor converts first image data into second image data, wherein the first image data corresponds to boundary sub-pixels of a first boundary pixel located adjacent to the second pixel area within the pixels of the first pixel area, and boundary sub-pixels of a second boundary pixel located adjacent to the first boundary pixel within the pixels of the second pixel area. The data processor determines the boundary sub-pixels of the first and second boundary pixels based on a boundary type indicating the positional relationship between the first and second boundary pixels.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and all benefits derived therefrom of Korean Patent Application No. KR 10-2020-0144792, filed on November 2, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to display devices, and more specifically, to display devices having multiple pixel arrangement structures. Background Technology

[0003] The display device may use pixels (or pixel circuits) to display images. The display device may also include sensors, cameras, etc., located in a bezel (or edge portion) on the front surface of the display device (e.g., the surface where the image is displayed). For example, such a display device may use an optical sensor to identify objects and a camera to acquire images and videos.

[0004] Recently, research has been conducted on arranging cameras and other devices to overlap with pixel regions to minimize borders. In order to improve the transmittance of the pixel region under which the camera is placed, the structure of the pixels overlapping with the corresponding region can be different from the structure of pixels in other regions. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to a display device for correcting image data of boundary sub-pixels selected based on pixel arrangement for each boundary type.

[0006] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a display device including a display area, a panel driver, and a data processor. The display area includes a first pixel area with pixels arranged in a first arrangement of sub-pixels and pixels arranged in a second arrangement of sub-pixels, each having a different arrangement of sub-pixels. The panel driver provides a driving signal to the display area to display an image. The data processor converts first image data into second image data, wherein the first image data corresponds to each of the boundary sub-pixels of a first boundary pixel located adjacent to the second pixel area and the boundary sub-pixels of a second boundary pixel located adjacent to the first boundary pixel in the first pixel area. In this embodiment, the data processor determines the boundary sub-pixels of the first and second boundary pixels based on a boundary type indicating the positional relationship between the first and second boundary pixels.

[0007] According to the implementation, when the same input image data is applied to the sub-pixels, the gray level of the data signal supplied to at least one of the boundary sub-pixels selected from the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel may be lower than the gray level of the data signal supplied to the sub-pixels other than the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel.

[0008] According to an implementation, the data processor may include an arrangement information storage unit and a dimming processor. The arrangement information storage unit includes a lookup table that stores information about the position and boundary type of the first boundary pixel as pixel arrangement information. The dimming processor dims the first image data corresponding to the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the boundary sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel by dimming the first image data based on the lookup table to reduce the brightness of the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the boundary sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel.

[0009] According to an implementation, the pixel arrangement information included in the lookup table may also include information about the first arrangement structure and the second arrangement structure.

[0010] According to an implementation, the dimming processor may include a brightness ratio storage, a grayscale gain storage, a first calculator, and a second calculator. The brightness ratio storage stores multiple brightness ratios, each of which is a ratio between the brightness of a normal area for the same grayscale and the brightness of a boundary area of ​​a corresponding boundary type. The grayscale gain storage stores grayscale gains corresponding to grayscale values. The first calculator generates correction data by applying the brightness ratio corresponding to the first image data to the first image data. The second calculator generates second image data by applying the grayscale gain corresponding to the grayscale values ​​of the first image data to the correction data.

[0011] According to the implementation method, the luminance ratio memory can store the luminance ratios of various colors for sub-pixels.

[0012] According to the implementation method, the normal area may be a selected portion of the first pixel area.

[0013] According to the implementation method, each of the luminance ratio and grayscale gain can be greater than 0 and equal to or less than 1.

[0014] According to the implementation method, as the grayscale value decreases, the grayscale gain can be reduced.

[0015] According to the implementation method, when the gray level is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold gray level, the gray level gain can be 1.

[0016] According to an implementation, the pixel arrangement information included in the lookup table may further include information about a first pixel identifier corresponding to the arrangement structure of sub-pixels included in the first pixel region and a second pixel identifier corresponding to the arrangement structure of sub-pixels included in the second pixel region.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the first pixel region may include a pixel array in which first pixels including first sub-pixels and second sub-pixels and second pixels including third sub-pixels and fourth sub-pixels are alternately arranged. In this embodiment, the first sub-pixel may display light of a first color, the second and fourth sub-pixels may display light of a second color, the third sub-pixel may display light of a third color, and the first, second, and third colors of light may be different from each other.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the second pixel region may include a third pixel, which includes a fifth sub-pixel, a sixth sub-pixel, and a seventh sub-pixel that display light of different colors from each other. In this embodiment, the fifth and sixth sub-pixels may be arranged in a first direction, and the seventh sub-pixel may be located on one side of the fifth and sixth sub-pixels.

[0019] According to one implementation, the boundary type may include a first boundary type to an eighth boundary type, defined based on the facing positions of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel and the orientation in which the first boundary pixels are arranged. In this implementation, the data processor may include a lookup table storing information about the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the boundary sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel corresponding to each of the first to eighth boundary types.

[0020] According to the implementation method, the aperture ratio of the second pixel region can be greater than that of the first pixel region.

[0021] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a display device including a display area, a panel driver, and a data processor. The display area includes a first pixel area with pixels arranged in a first arrangement of sub-pixels and a second pixel area with pixels arranged in a second arrangement of sub-pixels different from the first arrangement. The panel driver provides a driving signal to the display area to display an image. The data processor converts first image data into second image data, wherein the first image data corresponds to each of the boundary sub-pixels of a first boundary pixel located adjacent to the second pixel area and the boundary sub-pixels of a second boundary pixel located adjacent to the first boundary pixel in the first pixel area. In this embodiment, when the same input image data is applied to the sub-pixels, the grayscale of the data signal supplied to at least one of the boundary sub-pixels selected from the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel is lower than the grayscale of the data signal supplied to the sub-pixels other than the boundary sub-pixels of the first and second boundary pixels.

[0022] According to an implementation, the data processor can determine the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel based on the boundary type that indicates the positional relationship between the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel.

[0023] According to an implementation, the data processor may include an arrangement information storage unit and a dimming processor. The arrangement information storage unit includes a lookup table that stores information about the position and boundary type of the first boundary pixel as pixel arrangement information. The dimming processor dims the first image data corresponding to the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the boundary sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel by dimming the first image data based on the lookup table to reduce the brightness of the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the boundary sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel.

[0024] According to an implementation, the dimming processor may include a luminance ratio storage, a grayscale gain storage, and a calculator. The luminance ratio storage stores a plurality of luminance ratios, each of which is a ratio between the average luminance of a portion of a first pixel region for the same grayscale and the average luminance of a boundary region of a corresponding boundary type. The grayscale gain storage stores grayscale gains corresponding to grayscale values. The calculator generates second image data by applying the luminance ratio and grayscale gain corresponding to the first image data to the first image data.

[0025] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a display device including a display area, a panel driver, and a data processor. The display area includes a first pixel area with pixels arranged in a first arrangement of sub-pixels and a second pixel area with pixels arranged in a second arrangement of sub-pixels different from the first arrangement. The panel driver provides driving signals to the display area to display an image. The data processor converts first image data into second image data, wherein the first image data corresponds to a first boundary sub-pixel of a first boundary pixel located adjacent to the second pixel area and a second boundary sub-pixel of a second boundary pixel located adjacent to the first boundary pixel in the pixels of the first pixel area. In this embodiment, the resolution of the second pixel area may be lower than the resolution of the first pixel area.

[0026] According to an implementation, the data processor can determine the first boundary sub-pixel of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel based on the boundary type that indicates the positional relationship between the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel.

[0027] According to the implementation method, the number of pixels per unit area in the first pixel region may be greater than the number of pixels per unit area in the second pixel region.

[0028] According to the implementation method, the distance between pixels in the first pixel region may be smaller than the distance between pixels in the second pixel region.

[0029] According to the implementation method, the shortest distance between the first boundary sub-pixel and the second boundary sub-pixel can be shorter than the distance between pixels in the second pixel region.

[0030] According to the implementation method, the shortest distance between the first boundary sub-pixel and the second boundary sub-pixel can be longer than the distance between pixels in the first pixel region.

[0031] According to an implementation, the first pixel region may include a pixel array in which first pixels including first sub-pixels and second sub-pixels and second pixels including third sub-pixels and fourth sub-pixels are alternately arranged.

[0032] According to the implementation, the first sub-pixel can display light of a first color, the second and fourth sub-pixels can display light of a second color, and the third sub-pixel can display light of a third color. The first color, the second color, and the third color can be different from each other.

[0033] According to an implementation, the second pixel region may include a third pixel, which includes a fifth sub-pixel, a sixth sub-pixel, and a seventh sub-pixel that display light of different colors from each other. The fifth and sixth sub-pixels may be arranged in a first direction, and the seventh sub-pixel may be located on one side of the fifth and sixth sub-pixels.

[0034] According to the implementation, the size of the fifth sub-pixel, the size of the sixth sub-pixel, and the size of the seventh sub-pixel may be greater than the size of the first sub-pixel, the size of the second sub-pixel, the size of the third sub-pixel, and the size of the fourth sub-pixel.

[0035] According to an implementation, pixels in adjacent rows within the second pixel region can be positioned such that they are tilted relative to each other with respect to a first direction. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A diagram illustrating an embodiment of the display area of ​​a display device.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 4 It is shown that it includes Figure 3 A block diagram illustrating an implementation of a data processor in a display device.

[0040] Figure 5A It is shown that it includes Figure 4A block diagram illustrating an implementation of a dimming processor in a data processor.

[0041] Figure 5B This is a diagram illustrating an implementation of the boundary area and boundary type of the display area.

[0042] Figure 5C It is shown that it includes Figure 5A A diagram illustrating an implementation of the brightness ratio stored in the brightness ratio memory of a dimming processor.

[0043] Figure 5D and Figure 5E It is shown that it includes Figure 5A A graph illustrating the implementation of grayscale gain stored in the grayscale gain memory of the dimming processor.

[0044] Figure 6 Is it showing stored Figure 4 A diagram illustrating an implementation of pixel arrangement information included in a lookup table in an arrangement information storage device.

[0045] Figures 7A to 7H This is a diagram illustrating an implementation of the boundary type upon which the arrangement of boundary pixels is based.

[0046] Figure 8 It is shown and stored Figure 6 A diagram illustrating the implementation of the boundary sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel corresponding to the boundary type in the lookup table.

[0047] Figure 9 Is it showing stored Figure 4 A diagram illustrating an implementation of pixel arrangement information included in a lookup table in an arrangement information storage device.

[0048] Figure 10 It is shown and stored Figure 9 A diagram illustrating an implementation of the arrangement structure of subpixels corresponding to the first pixel identifier (“ID”) in the lookup table.

[0049] Figure 11 It is shown and stored Figure 9 A diagram illustrating an implementation of the arrangement structure of the sub-pixels corresponding to the second pixel ID in the lookup table.

[0050] Figure 12A and Figure 12B This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of the shape of the boundary region between the first pixel region and the second pixel region of the display area on which image data correction is based. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The invention will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate various embodiments. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0052] It should be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on" another element, the element can be directly on the other element, or there can be an intermediary element between them. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly" on another element, there is no intermediary element.

[0053] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or part from another. Therefore, the first element, component, area, layer, or part discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, area, layer, or part without departing from the teachings herein.

[0054] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “at least one” as used herein do not indicate a limitation of quantity and are intended to include both singular and plural forms. For example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, “element” has the same meaning as “at least one element.” “At least one” should not be construed as limiting “a” or “an.” “Or” means “and / or.” As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should also be understood that the terms “comprise” and / or “comprising” or “include” and / or “including”, when used in this specification, indicate the presence of the stated features, areas, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, areas, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0055] Furthermore, relative terms such as “below” or “bottom” and “above” or “top” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another as shown in the figures. It should be understood that relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device other than those depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in a figure is flipped, an element described as being “below” the other element will subsequently be oriented “above” the other element. Thus, depending on the specific orientation of the figure, the term “below” can encompass both “below” and “above” orientations. Similarly, if a device in a figure is flipped, an element described as being “below” or “below” the other element will subsequently be oriented “above” the other element. Thus, the term “below” or “below” can encompass both “above” and “below” orientations.

[0056] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It should also be understood that terms, such as those defined in common dictionaries, shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant field and in the context of this disclosure, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly stated herein.

[0057] The embodiments described herein should not be construed as being limited to the specific shapes of the regions shown herein, but rather include deviations in shape caused, for example, by manufacturing processes. For instance, regions shown or described as flat may generally have rough and / or non-linear characteristics. Furthermore, sharp corners shown may be rounded. Therefore, the regions shown in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to show the precise shapes of the regions, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0058] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of the same elements will be omitted.

[0059] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A diagram illustrating an embodiment of the display area of ​​a display device.

[0060] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The implementation of the display device 1000 may include a display panel 10 that includes a display area 100 (also referred to as display area DA). Figure 2 The illustration shows including Figure 1 The portion of the boundary between the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2.

[0061] The display panel 10 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. In this embodiment, pixels PX1, PX2 and PX3 may be arranged in the display area DA, and various drivers for driving pixels PX1, PX2 and PX3 may be arranged in the non-display area NDA.

[0062] The display area DA may include pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3. The display area 100 may include a first pixel area PA1 and a second pixel area PA2. In one embodiment, the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 may be arranged in the first pixel area PA1, and the third pixel PX3 may be arranged in the second pixel area PA2. In one embodiment, for example, the subpixel arrangement structures of the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the third pixel PX3 may be different from each other.

[0063] In one implementation, the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 may have sub-pixel arrangements that are similar to each other. In one implementation, for example, as... Figure 2 As shown, the first pixel PX1 may include a first sub-pixel (e.g., a red (R) sub-pixel) and a second sub-pixel (e.g., a green (G) sub-pixel), and the second pixel PX2 may include a third sub-pixel (e.g., a blue (B) sub-pixel) and a fourth sub-pixel (e.g., a green (G) sub-pixel).

[0064] The first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 can be arranged alternately in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The desired color of light can be output by a combination of red light, green light and blue light output from the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 that are adjacent to each other.

[0065] In one implementation, the third pixel PX3 may include a fifth sub-pixel (e.g., a red (R) sub-pixel), a sixth sub-pixel (e.g., a green (G) sub-pixel), and a seventh sub-pixel (e.g., a blue (B) sub-pixel). In one implementation, for example, the fifth and sixth sub-pixels may be arranged in the second direction DR2, and the seventh sub-pixel may be located on one side of the fifth and sixth sub-pixels.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the size of the third pixel PX3 (e.g., the emission range of the sub-pixel) may be larger than the size of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2. In this embodiment, the size of the driving transistor included in the third pixel PX3 (e.g., the ratio between channel width and channel length, etc.) may be different from the size of the driving transistors included in the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 (e.g., the ratio between channel width and channel length, etc.).

[0067] For example, the size of the fifth sub-pixel, the size of the sixth sub-pixel, and the size of the seventh sub-pixel can be greater than the size of the first sub-pixel, the size of the second sub-pixel, the size of the third sub-pixel, and the size of the fourth sub-pixel.

[0068] In embodiments of this disclosure, the shape of the first pixel PX1, the shape of the second pixel PX2, the shape of the third pixel PX3, the arrangement of the subpixels of the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the third pixel PX3, and the size of the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the third pixel PX3 are not limited to those described above. In an alternative embodiment, for example, each of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 may include a red (R) subpixel, a green (G) subpixel, and a blue (B) subpixel, or may include a red (R) subpixel, a green (G) subpixel, a blue (B) subpixel, and a white subpixel.

[0069] In one implementation, the number (density) of first pixels PX1 and second pixels PX2 arranged per unit area can be greater than the number (density) of third pixels PX3. In one implementation, for example, where a single third pixel PX3 is arranged per unit area, two first pixels PX1 and two second pixels PX2 can be included in the same area as the unit area. Accordingly, the resolution of the second pixel region PA2 can be lower than the resolution of the first pixel region PA1, and the aperture ratio of the second pixel region PA2 can be greater than the aperture ratio of the first pixel region PA1. For example, as... Figure 2 As shown, in the second pixel region PA2, the third pixel PX3 in adjacent rows can be positioned so that they are tilted relative to each other with respect to the second direction DR2 (and the first direction DR1).

[0070] In an implementation, the distance between the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 of the first pixel region PA1 may be less than the distance between the third pixels PX3 of the second pixel region PA2.

[0071] Since the aperture ratio (and transmittance) of the second pixel region PA2 is higher than that of the first pixel region PA1, the camera, optical sensor, etc., can be arranged to overlap with the second pixel region PA2. In one embodiment, for example, components such as the camera, optical sensor, etc., can be located on the back (or lower part) of the display panel 10 while overlapping with the second pixel region PA2.

[0072] Optical sensors can include, but are not limited to, biometric sensors such as fingerprint sensors, iris recognition sensors, and artery sensors. Alternatively, photosensitive optical sensors can also include gesture sensors, motion sensors, proximity sensors, illuminance sensors, and image sensors.

[0073] Because the arrangement of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 differs from that of the third pixel PX3, when the same input grayscale is applied to them, the brightness of light emitted from the first pixel region PA1 may differ from the brightness of light emitted from the second pixel region PA2. This brightness difference can be highly perceived at the boundary between the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2, and a specific color band (hereinafter referred to as a color band or color band area (“CBA”)) may be visible or identifiable at the boundary. When emitting light with high brightness (e.g., pure white), this color band area CBA may be significantly visible in the region adjacent to the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the third pixel PX3. In particular, this color band area CBA may be greatly affected by the color interference of light emitted by the nearest neighbor sub-pixel between the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2.

[0074] In embodiments of this disclosure, the display device 1000 and the method for driving the display device 1000 can dim (i.e., correct image data) the light emitted from the sub-pixel (boundary sub-pixel) corresponding to the boundary region between the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2 according to the shape of the boundary region.

[0075] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The implementation of the display device 1000 may include a display area 100, a panel driver 200, and a data processor 300.

[0077] In embodiments, the display device 1000 may be a flat display device, a flexible display device, a bendable display device, a foldable display device, a flexible display device, or a stretchable display device. In embodiments, the display device 1000 may be applied to transparent display devices, head-mounted display devices, wearable display devices, etc. In embodiments, the display device 1000 may be applied to various electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablet PCs (“PCs”), smart panels, televisions (“TVs”), monitors, etc.

[0078] In one embodiment, the display device 1000 may be a self-emissive display device comprising a plurality of self-emissive elements. In one embodiment, for example, the display device 1000 may be an organic light-emitting display device comprising organic light-emitting elements, a display device comprising inorganic light-emitting elements, or a display device comprising light-emitting elements formed from a combination of inorganic and organic materials, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the display device 1000 may be a liquid crystal display device, a plasma display device, a quantum dot display device, etc.

[0079] Display area 100 may include scan lines SL1 to SLn and data lines DL1 to DLm, and may include pixels PX connected to scan lines SL1 to SLn and data lines DL1 to DLm (where m and n are integers greater than 1). Each of the pixels PX may include a driving transistor and a plurality of switching transistors. In an embodiment, display area 100 may include as referenced above. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2 are described. The first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 may be included in the first pixel region PA1, and the third pixel PX3 may be included in the second pixel region PA2.

[0080] The panel driver 200 can provide drive signals to the display area 100 to display an image. In an embodiment, the panel driver 200 may include a scan driver 220, a data driver 240, and a timing controller 260.

[0081] The timing controller 260 can generate a first control signal SCS and a second control signal DCS in response to a synchronization signal supplied from an external source. The first control signal SCS can be supplied to the scan driver 220, and the second control signal DCS can be supplied to the data driver 240. In one embodiment, the timing controller 260 can rearrange the input image data, including the second image data DATA2, supplied from the data processor 300, and can supply the rearranged data RGB to the data driver 240.

[0082] The scan driver 220 may receive a first control signal SCS from the timing controller 260 and may supply scan signals to scan lines SL1 to SLn based on the first control signal SCS. In one embodiment, for example, the scan driver 220 may supply scan signals sequentially to scan lines SL1 to SLn.

[0083] The scan driver 220 can be embedded in the substrate using a thin-film process. In one embodiment, the scan driver 220 may be located on opposite sides of the display area 100.

[0084] Data driver 240 receives a second control signal DCS and rearranged data RGB from timing controller 260. Data driver 240 converts the rearranged data RGB into an analog data signal. Data driver 240 supplies the data signal to data lines DL1 to DLm in response to the second control signal DCS. The data signal can be supplied to the pixel PX selected in response to the scan signal.

[0085] In an embodiment, the panel driver 200 may further include an emission driver configured to supply emission control signals to the pixel PX, and a power supply configured to generate driving voltages for the display area 100, the scan driver 220, and the data driver 240.

[0086] In the implementation method, such as Figure 3 As shown, the display device 1000 may include n scan lines SL1 to SLn and m data lines DL1 to DLm, where n and m are natural numbers other than 0, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, for example, although not shown, additional dummy scan lines and / or dummy data lines may also be arranged in the display area 100.

[0087] The data processor 300 can correct the first image data DATA1 in the input image data supplied from an external graphics source, etc., in order to obtain the second image data DATA2. In one embodiment, for example, the first image data DATA1 may be the input image data corresponding to the boundary sub-pixel of the first boundary pixel BPX1 in the first pixel region PA1, and the input image data corresponding to the boundary sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel BPX2 in the second pixel region PA2.

[0088] In this implementation, the first boundary pixel BPX1 may be a pixel included in the first pixel region PA1 that is also closest to the second pixel region PA2. The second boundary pixel BPX2 may be a pixel located in the second pixel region PA2 that is adjacent to the first boundary pixel BPX1.

[0089] In this implementation, the shortest distance between the first boundary sub-pixel of the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be shorter than the distance between the third pixels PX3 of the second pixel region PA2. Conversely, the shortest distance between the first boundary sub-pixel of the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be longer than the distance between the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 of the first pixel region PA1.

[0090] The data processor 300 can determine the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary pixel BPX2 based on the boundary type that indicates various positional relationships between the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary pixel BPX2.

[0091] In the implementation method, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the boundary type indicating the relative positional relationship between the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be represented in various forms based on the boundary shape of the second pixel region PA2. In this embodiment, adjacent sub-pixels can differ depending on the orientation in which the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary pixel BPX2 face each other.

[0092] In one implementation, for example, among all the first boundary pixels BPX1, its green (G) sub-pixel may be closest to the second boundary pixel BPX2, for example... Figure 2 The structure shown includes first second boundary pixels BPX2_1 to third second boundary pixels BPX2_3. However, in the first second boundary pixel BPX2_1, its red (R) sub-pixel and blue (B) sub-pixel are closest to the first boundary pixel BPX1, and in the second second boundary pixel BPX2_2 and the third second boundary pixel BPX2_3, their red (R) sub-pixel and green (G) sub-pixel are closest to the first boundary pixel BPX1.

[0093] When dimming is performed on the image data corresponding to a subpixel, the subpixel is referred to as a boundary subpixel. Accordingly, in the first boundary pixel BPX1, the green (G) subpixel can be identified as a boundary subpixel. In the first second boundary pixel BPX2_1, the red (R) and blue (B) subpixels can be identified as boundary subpixels. In the second second boundary pixel BPX2_2 and the third second boundary pixel BPX2_3, the red (R) and green (G) subpixels can be identified as boundary subpixels.

[0094] The grayscale of the second image data DATA2 may be lower than the grayscale of the first image data DATA1. In one embodiment, for example, when the input image data applied to each sub-pixel is the same, the grayscale of the data signal supplied to the boundary sub-pixel may be lower than the grayscale of the data signal supplied to the sub-pixels other than the boundary sub-pixels.

[0095] Accordingly, the brightness of the boundary subpixels of the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary pixel BPX2 becomes lower, and the color band visible in the boundary portion between the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2 can be effectively prevented from being recognized by the observer.

[0096] In implementations, the data processor 300 and the panel driver 200 may be as follows: Figure 3 The individual components shown are not limited to these. Alternatively, at least some of the functions of the data driver 240, timing controller 260, and data processor 300 may be integrated in the form of an integrated circuit (“IC”).

[0097] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 4 to 12B The implementation of the data processor 300 will be described in detail.

[0098] Figure 4 It is shown that it includes Figure 3 A block diagram illustrating an implementation of a data processor in a display device.

[0099] Reference Figures 1 to 4 The implementation of the data processor 300 may include an image receiver 320, an array information storage unit 340, and a dimming processor 360.

[0100] Image receiver 320 can receive input image data IDAT corresponding to a region and can supply the input image data IDAT to dimming processor 360. In one embodiment, for example, image receiver 320 can receive input image data IDAT from an image source device (e.g., a graphics processor, etc.).

[0101] The arrangement information storage 340 may include a lookup table (LUT) that stores information about the position and boundary type of the first boundary pixel BPX1 as pixel arrangement information AD. In one embodiment, the lookup table LUT may include information about the positions of the boundary pixels and the boundary sub-pixels to be subjected to brightness dimming (or grayscale dimming). In this embodiment, the dimming processor 360 may correct the image data (e.g., the first image data DATA1) in the input image data IDAT based on the pixel arrangement information AD in the lookup table LUT.

[0102] In one implementation, for example, the array information storage 340 may include a non-volatile storage device, such as an erasable programmable read-only memory (“EPROM”), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory, phase-change random access memory (“PRAM”), etc.

[0103] The dimming processor 360 can perform a dimming operation on the first image data DATA1, which corresponds to the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary pixel BPX2, in the input image data IDAT, based on the pixel arrangement information AD. The dimming processor 360 can also correct or convert the first image data DATA1 into second image data DATA2 based on the pixel arrangement information AD to reduce the brightness of the boundary sub-pixels. The dimming processor 360 can provide the output image data ODAT, including the second image data DATA2, to the timing controller 260.

[0104] In one implementation, the dimming level (e.g., brightness ratio) applied to the boundary sub-pixels can vary depending on the boundary type. In another implementation, the dimming level (e.g., brightness ratio) applied to the boundary sub-pixels can vary depending on the color of the boundary sub-pixels. See below for further details. Figure 5A The calculation of the luminance ratio is described in detail.

[0105] In one implementation, the dimming level can be adjusted based on the grayscale of the first image data DATA1. In another implementation, for example, the grayscale gain applied to the first image data DATA1 can be adjusted based on the grayscale corresponding to the boundary sub-pixels.

[0106] In the implementation, as described above, the dimming processor 360 can adjust the degree of dimming (grayscale correction) based on at least one of the boundary type, the color of the boundary sub-pixel, and the grayscale of the first image data DATA1.

[0107] Figure 5A It is shown that it includes Figure 4 A block diagram illustrating an implementation of a dimming processor in a data processor. Figure 5B This is a diagram illustrating an implementation of the boundary region and boundary type of the display area. Figure 5C It is shown that it includes Figure 5A A diagram illustrating an implementation of the brightness ratio stored in the brightness ratio memory of the dimming processor, and... Figure 5D and Figure 5E It is shown that it includes Figure 5A A graph illustrating the implementation of grayscale gain stored in the grayscale gain memory of the dimming processor.

[0108] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C and Figure 5D The implementation of the dimming processor 360 may include a luminance ratio storage 362, a grayscale gain storage 366, a first calculator 364, and a second calculator 368.

[0109] The luminance ratio memory 362 may store luminance ratios L_RATIO, each of which is a ratio between the luminance of a normal region NA for the same grayscale and the luminance of a boundary region BA for each boundary type BTP. The luminance ratio memory 362 may include non-volatile memory. In one embodiment, the luminance ratios L_RATIO may be stored in a lookup table.

[0110] The boundary region BA refers to the boundary between the first pixel region PA1 and the second pixel region PA2, and may include the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary pixel BPX2. In an implementation, the boundary region BA may have an octagonal shape, such as... Figure 5B As shown, the region can be divided into first boundary region BA1 to eighth boundary region BA8 based on the relative positional relationship between the second boundary pixel BPX2 and its adjacent first boundary pixel BPX1. In one embodiment, for example, as referred to above... Figure 2 The relative positional relationship between the first boundary pixel BPX1 and the second boundary pixel BPX2 is different from that between the first boundary region BA1 to the eighth boundary region BA8.

[0111] The first boundary region BA1 to the eighth boundary region BA8 can correspond to the first boundary type TYPE1 to the eighth boundary type TYPE8, respectively.

[0112] The normal region NA can be the portion of the display region DA excluding the boundary region BA. In one implementation, for example, the normal region NA can be a portion of the first pixel region PA1. For example, as... Figure 5B As shown, the normal region NA can correspond to the first pixel region PA1.

[0113] The brightness ratio storage 362 can store, for example, the brightness ratios L_RATIO of the first boundary type TYPE1 to the eighth boundary type TYPE8, which are predetermined by brightness detection (such as surface capture) after the manufacture of the display device 1000 and before shipment.

[0114] In this implementation, the luminance data corresponding to each sub-pixel can be calculated by capturing an image of the display area 100 emitting light at maximum grayscale (e.g., full white). Here, a Gaussian filter or similar tool can be used to more clearly distinguish the boundary region BA from the normal region NA.

[0115] The following will describe in detail the implementation of the method for storing the first luminance ratio R_RATIO, the second luminance ratio G_RATIO, and the third luminance ratio B_RATIO corresponding to the first boundary type TYPE1.

[0116] The reference brightness of the normal region NA can be calculated from brightness data obtained through capture. The reference brightness can be the average value of brightness data for a predetermined region. Depending on the sub-pixel, the reference brightness can include a red reference brightness RL, a green reference brightness GL, and a blue reference brightness BL. In one embodiment, for example, the red reference brightness RL can be the average brightness of a predetermined red (R) sub-pixel extracted from the normal region NA.

[0117] The boundary brightness of the first boundary region BA1 can be calculated from the brightness data obtained through capture. The boundary brightness can be the average value of the brightness data of a predetermined area of ​​the first boundary region BA1. Depending on the sub-pixel, the boundary brightness can include the red boundary brightness RL1', the green boundary brightness GL1', and the blue boundary brightness BL1'.

[0118] The first luminance ratio R_RATIO can be obtained by dividing the red boundary luminance RL1' by the red reference luminance RL. The second luminance ratio G_RATIO can be obtained by dividing the green boundary luminance GL1' by the green reference luminance GL. The third luminance ratio B_RATIO can be obtained by dividing the blue boundary luminance BL1' by the blue reference luminance BL. The first luminance ratio R_RATIO can be applied to the red (R) boundary sub-pixels, the second luminance ratio G_RATIO can be applied to the green (G) boundary sub-pixels, and the third luminance ratio B_RATIO can be applied to the blue (B) boundary sub-pixels.

[0119] Here, on average, the brightness of the first boundary region BA1 can be lower than that of the normal region NA. Accordingly, each of the first brightness ratio R_RATIO, the second brightness ratio G_RATIO, and the third brightness ratio B_RATIO can be greater than 0 and equal to or less than 1.

[0120] Using the method described above, a first luminance ratio R_RATIO, a second luminance ratio G_RATIO, and a third luminance ratio B_RATIO can also be set for the second boundary types TYPE2 to the eighth boundary types TYPE8. The first luminance ratio R_RATIO for each of the second boundary types TYPE2 to the eighth boundary types TYPE8 can be a value obtained by dividing the red boundary luminance (each of RL2' to RL8') by the red reference luminance RL. The second luminance ratio G_RATIO for each of the second boundary types TYPE2 to the eighth boundary types TYPE8 can be a value obtained by dividing the green boundary luminance (each of GL2' to GL8') by the green reference luminance GL. The third luminance ratio B_RATIO for each of the second boundary types TYPE2 to the eighth boundary types TYPE8 can be a value obtained by dividing the blue boundary luminance (each of BL2' to BL8') by the blue reference luminance BL.

[0121] Based on the pixel arrangement information AD, the luminance ratio L_RATIO corresponding to the boundary type BTP can be loaded from the luminance ratio storage 362.

[0122] The first calculator 364 can generate correction data DATA1' by applying a luminance ratio L_RATIO corresponding to the first image data DATA1. The first calculator 364 may include a multiplier. In one embodiment, for example, red image data may be multiplied by its corresponding first luminance ratio R_RATIO.

[0123] The grayscale gain memory 366 can store the grayscale gain G_G corresponding to all grayscale values. In an embodiment, the grayscale gain memory 366 may include non-volatile memory.

[0124] Since the aforementioned luminance ratio L_RATIO is a value calculated based on the maximum grayscale, when the grayscale is lower than the maximum grayscale, a luminance ratio L_RATIO lower than the set value can be applied to the first image data DATA1. In one embodiment, for example, when the grayscale of the first image data DATA1 is lower than the maximum grayscale, the luminance ratio L_RATIO can be reduced. Accordingly, the grayscale gain G_G can be greater than 0 and equal to or less than 1.

[0125] In the implementation method, such as Figure 5D As shown, the lower the gray level, the lower the gray level gain G_G becomes. However, in the low gray level region, when the brightness of the emitted light is low, the brightness ratio L_RATIO does not need to be further reduced. In one implementation, for example, as... Figure 5E As shown, the grayscale gain G_G for low grayscale values ​​equal to or less than a predetermined threshold grayscale GTH can be set to 1. In one embodiment, for example, the predetermined threshold grayscale GTH can be set to a grayscale value of 31.

[0126] The second calculator 368 generates second image data DATA2 by applying a grayscale gain G_G corresponding to the grayscale of the first image data DATA1 to correction data DATA1'. The second calculator 368 may include a multiplier. In one embodiment, for example, when the first image data DATA1 with a grayscale of 100 is supplied, the correction data DATA1' may be multiplied by the grayscale gain G_G corresponding to the grayscale of 100.

[0127] Accordingly, in this embodiment, the grayscale of the second image data DATA2 may be lower than that of the first image data DATA1. Accordingly, dimming may be performed on the image data corresponding to the boundary pixels BPX1 and BPX2 of the boundary region BA.

[0128] In this implementation, the dimming level (the gray level of the second image data DATA2) can be adaptively set for the same input gray level based on the boundary type BTP, the color of the boundary sub-pixel, and the gray level supplied to the boundary sub-pixel.

[0129] Figure 6 Is it showing stored Figure 4 A diagram illustrating an implementation of pixel arrangement information included in a lookup table in an arrangement information storage device, and... Figures 7A to 7H This is a diagram illustrating an implementation of the boundary type upon which the boundary pixels are arranged.

[0130] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figures 7A to 7H The arrangement information storage 340 can store the pixel arrangement information AD of the first boundary pixel BPX1 in the form of a lookup table (LUT).

[0131] In the implementation method, such as Figure 6 As shown, the pixel arrangement information AD of the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be represented using six bits. In one embodiment, for example, whether a pixel arranged at a predetermined coordinate in the display area 100 is the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be determined based on a single enable bit EN.

[0132] The eight boundary types TYPE1 to TYPE8 can be represented using a three-bit boundary type TYPE. In one implementation, for example, the first boundary type TYPE1 to the eighth boundary type TYPE8 can respectively correspond to Figures 7A to 7H The pixel arrangement structure. The corresponding boundary type can be selected based on the numerical values ​​of boundary type TYPE1 to TYPE8.

[0133] In the implementation, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be the referenced above. Figure 2 One of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 is described. Since the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 are arranged alternately in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, the boundary sub-pixel of the first boundary pixel BPX1 (hereinafter referred to as the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1) can be determined based on whether the pixel is located in an odd number of pixel columns and odd number of pixel rows. In one implementation, for example, in each of the boundary types TYPE1 to TYPE8, the boundary sub-pixel to be dimmed can be determined by determining the odd number of columns and odd number of rows.

[0134] In one implementation, when row position Y is 0, the coordinates of the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be in an odd-numbered row; however, when row position Y is 1, the coordinates of the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be in an even-numbered row. Similarly, in another implementation, when column position X is 0, the coordinates of the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be in an odd-numbered column; however, when column position X is 1, the coordinates of the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be in an even-numbered column.

[0135] like Figure 7AAs shown, in the first boundary type TYPE1, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be arranged above the second boundary pixel BPX2 and aligned in the first direction DR1. In the first boundary type TYPE1, as... Figure 7A As shown, the green (G) sub-pixels of both the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 are closest to the second boundary pixel BPX2. Accordingly, the green (G) sub-pixel can be identified as the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1, and the image data corresponding to the green (G) sub-pixel can be dimmed.

[0136] like Figure 7B As shown, in the second boundary type TYPE2, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be arranged substantially in an oblique direction from the upper side of the second boundary pixel BPX2 to the right side of the second boundary pixel BPX2. In an embodiment, the oblique arrangement of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 can be such that each of the pixels is offset by one pixel along a first direction DR1 at the coordinates of the first pixel region PA1.

[0137] Accordingly, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be either the first pixel PX1 or the second pixel PX2. In an implementation, such as... Figure 7B As shown, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be the second pixel PX2, and the blue (B) sub-pixel and green (G) sub-pixel of the second pixel PX2 that is closest to the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be determined as the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1.

[0138] In an alternative implementation, in the second boundary type TYPE2, the first boundary pixel BPX1 may be the first pixel PX1. In this implementation, the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1 may be a red (R) sub-pixel and a green (G) sub-pixel.

[0139] like Figure 7C As shown, in the third boundary type TYPE3, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be arranged to the right of the second boundary pixel BPX2 in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2 (e.g., in the vertical direction). Accordingly, the alternating arrangement of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 can be the first boundary pixel BPX1. Here, the sub-pixels adjacent to the second boundary pixel BPX2 can differ depending on the coordinates of the first boundary pixel BPX1.

[0140] In one implementation, for example, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be arranged in odd-numbered columns and rows, or in even-numbered columns and rows. In this implementation, the second pixel PX2, as the first boundary pixel BPX1, can be arranged in even-numbered columns and rows, or in odd-numbered columns and rows.

[0141] In the third boundary type TYPE3, the red (R) sub-pixel of the first pixel PX1 and the blue (B) sub-pixel of the second pixel PX2 can be identified as the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1.

[0142] like Figure 7D As shown, in the fourth boundary type TYPE4, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be arranged substantially in an oblique direction from the right side of the second boundary pixel BPX2 to the bottom side of the second boundary pixel BPX2. The oblique arrangement of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 can be such that each of the pixels is offset by one pixel along the first direction DR1 at the coordinates of the first pixel region PA1.

[0143] The first boundary pixel BPX1 can be either the first pixel PX1 or the second pixel PX2. In the implementation, as shown... Figure 7D As shown, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be the first pixel PX1. In this implementation, the sub-pixels included in each of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 can be arranged obliquely. Accordingly, the red (R) sub-pixel of the first pixel PX1 that is closest to the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be determined as the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1.

[0144] In an alternative implementation, in the fourth boundary type TYPE4, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be the second pixel PX2. In this implementation, the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1 can be the blue (B) sub-pixel.

[0145] like Figure 7E As shown, in the fifth boundary type TYPE5, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be arranged below the second boundary pixel BPX2 in the first direction DR1. Accordingly, the alternating arrangement of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 can be the first boundary pixel BPX1. In this embodiment, the sub-pixels adjacent to the second boundary pixel BPX2 corresponding to the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be different depending on the coordinates of the first boundary pixel BPX1.

[0146] Similar to the third boundary type TYPE3, in the fifth boundary type TYPE5, the red (R) sub-pixel of the first pixel PX1 and the blue (B) sub-pixel of the second pixel PX2 can be identified as the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1.

[0147] like Figure 7FAs shown, in the sixth boundary type TYPE6, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be arranged in an oblique direction from the lower side of the second boundary pixel BPX2 to the left side of the second boundary pixel BPX2. In an embodiment, the oblique arrangement of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 can be such that each of the pixels is offset by one pixel along the first direction DR1 at the coordinates of the first pixel region PA1.

[0148] Accordingly, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be an array of first pixels PX1 or an array of second pixels PX2. In an implementation, such as Figure 7F As shown, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be the second pixel PX2, and the blue (B) sub-pixel and green (G) sub-pixel of the second pixel PX2 that is closest to the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be determined as the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1.

[0149] In an alternative implementation, in the sixth boundary type TYPE6, the first boundary pixel BPX1 may be the first pixel PX1. In this implementation, the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1 may be a red (R) sub-pixel and a green (G) sub-pixel.

[0150] like Figure 7G As shown, in the seventh boundary type TYPE7, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be arranged to the left of the second boundary pixel BPX2 and aligned in the second direction DR2. In the seventh boundary type TYPE7, the green (G) sub-pixels of both the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 can be closest to the second boundary pixel BPX2. Accordingly, the green (G) sub-pixel can be identified as the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1, and the image data corresponding to the green (G) sub-pixel can be dimmed.

[0151] like Figure 7H As shown, in the eighth boundary type TYPE8, the first boundary pixel BPX1 can be arranged in an oblique direction from the left side of the second boundary pixel BPX2 to the upper side of the second boundary pixel BPX2. In this embodiment, the green (G) sub-pixel of the first pixel PX1 or the second pixel PX2 can be closest to the second boundary pixel BPX2. Accordingly, the green (G) sub-pixel can be determined as the first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1, and the image data corresponding to the green (G) sub-pixel can be dimmed.

[0152] Figure 8 It is shown and stored Figure 6 A diagram illustrating the implementation of the boundary sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel corresponding to the boundary type in the lookup table.

[0153] Reference Figures 7A to 7H and Figure 8The boundary sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel BPX2 (hereinafter referred to as the second boundary sub-pixel BSPX2) can be determined based on the boundary type, which has a different sub-pixel arrangement structure from that of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2.

[0154] In the implementation method, such as Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, in the first boundary type TYPE1 and the second boundary type TYPE2, the red (R) sub-pixel and the blue (B) sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be adjacent to the first boundary pixel BPX1. Accordingly, in the first boundary type TYPE1 and the second boundary type TYPE2, the red (R) sub-pixel and the blue (B) sub-pixel can be determined as the second boundary sub-pixel BSPX2, and the image data corresponding to the red (R) sub-pixel and the blue (B) sub-pixel can be dimmed.

[0155] In the implementation method, such as Figure 7C As shown, in the third boundary type TYPE3, the blue (B) sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be adjacent to the first boundary pixel BPX1. Accordingly, in the third boundary type TYPE3, the blue (B) sub-pixel can be identified as the second boundary sub-pixel BSPX2, and the image data corresponding to the blue (B) sub-pixel can be dimmed.

[0156] In the implementation method, such as Figure 7D and Figure 7E As shown, in the fourth boundary type TYPE4 and the fifth boundary type TYPE5, the green (G) sub-pixel and the blue (B) sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be adjacent to the first boundary pixel BPX1. Accordingly, in the fourth boundary type TYPE4 and the fifth boundary type TYPE5, the green (G) sub-pixel and the blue (B) sub-pixel can be identified as the second boundary sub-pixel BSPX2, and the image data corresponding to the green (G) sub-pixel and the blue (B) sub-pixel can be dimmed.

[0157] In the implementation method, such as Figure 7F and Figure 7H As shown, in the sixth boundary type TYPE6 and the eighth boundary type TYPE8, the red (R) sub-pixel, green (G) sub-pixel, and blue (B) sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be adjacent to the first boundary pixel BPX1. Accordingly, in the sixth boundary type TYPE6 and the eighth boundary type TYPE8, the red (R) sub-pixel, green (G) sub-pixel, and blue (B) sub-pixel can be determined as the second boundary sub-pixel BSPX2, and the image data corresponding to the red (R) sub-pixel, green (G) sub-pixel, and blue (B) sub-pixel can be dimmed.

[0158] In the implementation method, such as Figure 7G As shown, in the seventh boundary type TYPE7, the red (R) sub-pixels and green (G) sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be adjacent to the first boundary pixel BPX1. Accordingly, in the seventh boundary type TYPE7, the red (R) sub-pixels and green (G) sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel BPX2 can be determined as the second boundary sub-pixel BSPX2, and the image data corresponding to the red (R) sub-pixels and green (G) sub-pixels can be dimmed.

[0159] Depending on the above reference Figures 6 to 8 The first boundary sub-pixel BSPX1 and the second boundary sub-pixel BSPX2 of the described boundary types can be summarized as shown in Table 1 below.

[0160] [Table 1]

[0161]

[0162] In this implementation, depending on the boundary type, image data correction (dimming) can be performed on different types of sub-pixels as described above.

[0163] In embodiments of the present invention, as described above, a display device including multiple subpixel arrangement structures can further subdivide the boundary types of boundary regions between pixel regions including different subpixel arrangement structures. A first boundary subpixel BSPX1 and a second boundary subpixel BSPX2 can be determined based on the relationship between pixels of corresponding boundary types, and brightness modulation can be performed on the determined first boundary subpixel BSPX1 and second boundary subpixel BSPX2. Therefore, without changing the shape or size of the pixels corresponding to the boundary regions, image data correction for a minimum number of target subpixels can be performed based on pixel arrangement information. Accordingly, poor image quality caused by color banding or the like in the boundary regions can be improved with minimal image data correction.

[0164] Figure 9 Is it showing stored Figure 4 A diagram illustrating an implementation of pixel arrangement information included in a lookup table within an arrangement information storage device. Figure 10 It is shown and stored Figure 9 A diagram illustrating an implementation of the arrangement structure of the sub-pixels corresponding to the first pixel ID in the lookup table, and Figure 11 It is shown and stored Figure 9 A diagram illustrating an implementation of the arrangement structure of the sub-pixels corresponding to the second pixel ID in the lookup table.

[0165] exist Figures 9 to 11 In the figures, the same or similar reference numerals are used to indicate reference. Figures 6 to 8The same or similar components will be described, and any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, except for the addition of the first pixel ID PID1 and the second pixel ID PID2, Figure 9 The pixel arrangement information AD can be compared with Figure 6 The pixel arrangement information AD is basically the same or similar.

[0166] Reference Figure 4 , Figures 7A to 7H , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The arrangement information storage 340 can store the pixel arrangement information AD of the first boundary pixel BPX1 in the form of a lookup table (LUT).

[0167] In this implementation, the enable bit EN, the boundary type bit TYPE, the row bit Y, and the column bit X are referenced above. Figure 6 The same details will be described in detail, and any repeated details will be omitted.

[0168] According to an embodiment, the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the third pixel PX3 can be formed into a structure having a sub-pixel arrangement structure selected from various types. In this embodiment, the pixel arrangement information AD can indicate... Figures 7A to 7H The structures are different, and the sub-pixels that perform dimming can also be... Figures 7A to 7H The sub-pixels of the structure are different. Accordingly, pixel arrangement information AD corresponding to each sub-pixel arrangement structure and its corresponding dimming are required.

[0169] The first pixel ID PID1 enables the identification of the arrangement structure of sub-pixels included in the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2. In an implementation, as shown... Figure 10 As shown, the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 can be classified into four structures, and the first pixel ID PID1 can be represented by two bits.

[0170] In the implementation of pixels PX1a and PX2a, the sub-pixels of the first row can be arranged in the order of red (R), green (G), blue (B), and green (G), and the sub-pixels of the second row can be arranged in the order of blue (B), green (G), red (R), and green (G). The red (R) sub-pixels and blue (B) sub-pixels can be arranged on top of the green (G) sub-pixels. The first pixel ID PID1 of pixels PX1a and PX2a can be defined as "00".

[0171] In an alternative implementation of pixels PX1b and PX2b, the sub-pixels in the first row can be arranged in the order of blue (B), green (G), red (R), and green (G), and the sub-pixels in the second row can be arranged in the order of red (R), green (G), blue (B), and green (G). The red (R) and blue (B) sub-pixels can be positioned above the green (G) sub-pixels. The first pixel ID PID1 of pixels PX1b and PX2b can be defined as "01".

[0172] In another alternative implementation of pixels PX1c and PX2c, the sub-pixels of the first row can be arranged in the order of blue (B), green (G), red (R), and green (G), and the sub-pixels of the second row can be arranged in the order of red (R), green (G), blue (B), and green (G). The red (R) sub-pixels and blue (B) sub-pixels can be arranged below the green (G) sub-pixels. The first pixel ID PID1 of pixels PX1c and PX2c can be defined as "10".

[0173] In another alternative implementation of pixels PX1d and PX2d, the sub-pixels of the first row can be arranged in the order of green (G), red (R), green (G), and blue (B), and the sub-pixels of the second row can be arranged in the order of green (G), blue (B), green (G), and red (R). The red (R) sub-pixels and blue (B) sub-pixels can be arranged below the green (G) sub-pixels. The first pixel ID PID1 of pixels PX1d and PX2d can be defined as "11".

[0174] The second pixel ID PID2 enables the identification of the arrangement of sub-pixels included in the third pixel PX3. In an implementation, as... Figure 11 As shown, the third pixel PX3 can be classified into eight structures, and the second pixel ID PID2 can be represented using three bits.

[0175] In the implementation of the third pixel PX3a, the green (G) sub-pixel and the red (R) sub-pixel can be arranged sequentially in the second direction DR2, and the blue (B) sub-pixel can be arranged to the right of the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel. The second pixel ID PID2 of the third pixel PX3a can be defined as "000".

[0176] In an alternative implementation of the third pixel PX3b, the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel may be arranged sequentially in the first direction DR1, and the blue (B) sub-pixel may be arranged below the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel. The second pixel ID PID2 of the third pixel PX3b may be defined as "001".

[0177] In another alternative implementation of the third pixel PX3c, the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel may be arranged sequentially in the second direction DR2, and the blue (B) sub-pixel may be arranged to the right of the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel. The second pixel ID PID2 of the third pixel PX3c may be defined as "010".

[0178] In another alternative implementation of the third pixel PX3d, the green (G) sub-pixel and the red (R) sub-pixel may be arranged sequentially in the first direction DR1, and the blue (B) sub-pixel may be arranged below the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel. The second pixel ID PID2 of the third pixel PX3d may be defined as "011".

[0179] In another alternative implementation of the third pixel PX3e, the green (G) sub-pixel and the red (R) sub-pixel may be arranged sequentially in the second direction DR2, and the blue (B) sub-pixel may be arranged to the left of the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel. The second pixel ID PID2 of the third pixel PX3e may be defined as "100".

[0180] In another alternative embodiment of the third pixel PX3f, the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel may be arranged sequentially in the first direction DR1, and the blue (B) sub-pixel may be arranged above the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel. The second pixel ID PID2 of the third pixel PX3f may be defined as "101".

[0181] In another alternative embodiment of the third pixel PX3g, the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel may be arranged sequentially in the second direction DR2, and the blue (B) sub-pixel may be arranged to the left of the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel. The second pixel ID PID2 of the third pixel PX3g may be defined as "110".

[0182] In another alternative embodiment of the third pixel PX3h, the green (G) sub-pixel and the red (R) sub-pixel may be arranged sequentially in the first direction DR1, and the blue (B) sub-pixel may be arranged above the red (R) sub-pixel and the green (G) sub-pixel. The second pixel ID PID2 of the third pixel PX3h may be defined as "111".

[0183] In one implementation, for example, applied to Figures 7A to 7H The first pixel ID PID1 of the boundary type TYPE1 to TYPE8 can be "00" and is applied to Figures 7A to 7HThe second pixel ID PID2 of the boundary types TYPE1 to TYPE8 can be "000". In this implementation, if image data dimming as described herein is not applied, then... Figure 7A The image at the upper boundary corresponding to the first boundary type TYPE1 shown can be perceived as a light green band with a green saturation. Accordingly, the image data of the green (G) subpixels of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 corresponding to the first boundary type TYPE1 can be dimmed.

[0184] In the embodiment where the first pixel ID PID1 is "10" and the second pixel ID PID2 is "100" (or 000), the red (R) sub-pixels and blue (B) sub-pixels may converge on the upper boundary corresponding to the first boundary type TYPE1. Here, when image data dimming according to this disclosure is not applied, a pink band highlighting a color similar to magenta can be perceived as corresponding to the first boundary type TYPE1. Accordingly, the image data of the red (R) sub-pixels and blue (B) sub-pixels of the first pixel PX1c, the second pixel PX2c, and the third pixel PX3e corresponding to the first boundary type TYPE1 can be dimmed.

[0185] In this implementation, as described above, the pixel arrangement information AD may include information about the sub-pixel arrangement structure of first pixel PX1, second pixel PX2, and third pixel PX3 based on first pixel ID PID1 and second pixel ID PID2. Based on the arrangement structure according to the pixel IDs and the position of the boundary region (boundary type), a specific color may exist that has a decisive influence, and when no image correction is performed, a color band with that specific color can be perceived within the corresponding boundary.

[0186] The dimming processor 360 can correct (or dim) the image data corresponding to the boundary sub-pixels BSPX1 and BSPX2 based on the pixel arrangement information AD.

[0187] Accordingly, dimming of boundary subpixels in the boundary regions of display areas applicable to various structures can be effectively performed.

[0188] Figure 12A and Figure 12B This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of the shape of the boundary region between the first and second pixel regions of the display area on which image data correction is based.

[0189] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 12A and Figure 12B The boundary region BA may have one of various shapes according to the design of the display region 100.

[0190] In the implementation method, such as Figure 12A As shown, the boundary region BA can have a rectangular shape. Accordingly, among the above boundary types, the first boundary type TYPE1, the third boundary type TYPE3, the fifth boundary type TYPE5, and the seventh boundary type TYPE7 can be applied to image data dimming.

[0191] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 12B As shown, the boundary region BA can have a hexagonal shape. Accordingly, among the above boundary types, the first boundary type TYPE1, the second boundary type TYPE2, the fourth boundary type TYPE4, the fifth boundary type TYPE5, the sixth boundary type TYPE6, and the eighth boundary type TYPE8 can be applied to image data dimming.

[0192] In embodiments of the display device according to this disclosure, the pixel arrangement information stored in the arrangement information storage can subdivide the boundary types for the boundary regions of pixel regions including different subpixel arrangement structures, and includes information on the pixel arrangement for the corresponding boundary type. The pixel arrangement information may include information about the boundary subpixels for which dimming is to be performed.

[0193] In this implementation, the display device can perform dimming on the boundary area by grayscale correction based on a preset brightness ratio according to the boundary type and the grayscale of the input image data.

[0194] Accordingly, in this implementation, without changing the shape or size of the pixels corresponding to the boundary region or the calculations used for dimming, image data correction is performed only on the target sub-pixels (i.e., the boundary sub-pixels) based on the stored pixel arrangement information and brightness ratio information, so that the image quality degradation caused by color banding in the boundary region between different pixel arrangement structures can be improved.

[0195] This invention should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0196] Although the invention has been specifically shown and described with reference to embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: The display area includes a first pixel area and a second pixel area. The first pixel area is arranged with pixels including sub-pixels with a first arrangement structure, and the second pixel area is arranged with pixels including sub-pixels with a second arrangement structure different from the first arrangement structure. A panel driver that provides drive signals to the display area to display an image; as well as A data processor converts first image data into second image data, wherein the first image data corresponds to boundary sub-pixels of a first boundary pixel located adjacent to the second pixel region within the pixels of the first pixel region, and boundary sub-pixels of a second boundary pixel located adjacent to the first boundary pixel within the pixels of the second pixel region. The data processor determines the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the boundary sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel based on the boundary type, which indicates the positional relationship between the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel. The data processor performs dimming on the boundary region between the second boundary pixel and the first boundary pixel based on the boundary type and the grayscale of the first image data.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, When the same input image data is applied to a sub-pixel, the gray level of the data signal supplied to at least one of the boundary sub-pixels selected from the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel is lower than the gray level of the data signal supplied to sub-pixels other than the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The data processor includes: An arrangement information storage device, comprising a lookup table that stores information about the position of the first boundary pixel and the boundary type as pixel arrangement information; and A dimming processor reduces the brightness of the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel by dimming the first image data corresponding to the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel based on the lookup table.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, The pixel arrangement information included in the lookup table also includes information about the first arrangement structure and the second arrangement structure.

5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, The dimming processor includes: A brightness ratio storage device stores a plurality of brightness ratios, each of which is a ratio between the brightness of a normal region of the same gray level and the brightness of a boundary region of a corresponding boundary type. A grayscale gain storage device that stores the grayscale gain corresponding to the grayscale value; A first calculator generates correction data by applying a brightness ratio corresponding to the first image data to the first image data; and A second calculator generates the second image data by applying the grayscale gain corresponding to the grayscale of the first image data to the correction data.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The luminance ratio storage device stores the luminance ratio for various colors of the sub-pixel, and The normal region is a selected portion of the first pixel region.

7. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, Each of the brightness ratio and the grayscale gain is greater than 0 and equal to or less than 1.

8. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, As the gray level decreases, the gray level gain decreases, and Wherein, when the gray level is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold gray level, the gray level gain is 1.

9. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, The pixel arrangement information included in the lookup table also includes information about a first pixel identifier corresponding to the arrangement structure of the sub-pixels in the first pixel region and a second pixel identifier corresponding to the arrangement structure of the sub-pixels in the second pixel region.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first pixel region includes a pixel array in which first pixels comprising first sub-pixels and second sub-pixels, and second pixels comprising third sub-pixels and fourth sub-pixels, are alternately arranged. The first sub-pixel displays light of a first color, the second and fourth sub-pixels display light of a second color, and the third sub-pixel displays light of a third color. The first color of light, the second color of light, and the third color of light are different from each other. The second pixel region includes a third pixel, which includes a fifth sub-pixel, a sixth sub-pixel, and a seventh sub-pixel that display light of different colors from each other. The fifth and sixth sub-pixels are arranged in a first direction, and the seventh sub-pixel is located on one side of the fifth and sixth sub-pixels. The boundary types include a first to an eighth boundary type preset based on the facing positions of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel and the orientation in which the first boundary pixels are arranged, and The data processor includes a lookup table storing information about the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the boundary sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel corresponding to each of the first boundary type to the eighth boundary type.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The aperture ratio of the second pixel region is greater than that of the first pixel region.

12. A display device, comprising: The display area includes a first pixel area and a second pixel area. The first pixel area is arranged with pixels including sub-pixels with a first arrangement structure, and the second pixel area is arranged with pixels including sub-pixels with a second arrangement structure different from the first arrangement structure. A panel driver that provides drive signals to the display area to display an image; as well as A data processor converts first image data into second image data, wherein the first image data corresponds to each of the boundary sub-pixels of a first boundary pixel located adjacent to the second pixel region and the boundary sub-pixels of a second boundary pixel located adjacent to the first boundary pixel in the pixels of the first pixel region. Specifically, when the same input image data is applied to a sub-pixel, the grayscale of the data signal supplied to at least one of the boundary sub-pixels selected from the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel is lower than the grayscale of the data signal supplied to sub-pixels other than the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel. The data processor performs dimming on the boundary region between the second boundary pixel and the first boundary pixel based on the boundary type and the grayscale of the first image data, wherein the boundary type indicates the positional relationship between the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein, The data processor determines the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the boundary sub-pixels of the second boundary pixel based on the boundary type.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein, The data processor includes: An arrangement information storage device, comprising a lookup table that stores information about the position of the first boundary pixel and the boundary type as pixel arrangement information; and A dimming processor reduces the brightness of the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel by dimming the first image data corresponding to the boundary sub-pixels of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel based on the lookup table. The dimming processor includes: A luminance ratio storage device stores a plurality of luminance ratios, each of which is a ratio between the average luminance of a portion of the first pixel region for the same grayscale and the average luminance of a boundary region of a corresponding boundary type. Gray-level gain memory, wherein the gray-level gain memory stores the gray-level gain corresponding to the gray level; and A calculator that generates second image data by applying a brightness ratio corresponding to the first image data and the grayscale gain to the first image data.

15. A display device, comprising: The display area includes a first pixel area and a second pixel area. The first pixel area is arranged with pixels including sub-pixels with a first arrangement structure, and the second pixel area is arranged with pixels including sub-pixels with a second arrangement structure different from the first arrangement structure. A panel driver that provides drive signals to the display area to display an image; as well as A data processor converts first image data into second image data, wherein the first image data corresponds to a first boundary sub-pixel of a first boundary pixel located adjacent to the second pixel region within the pixels of the first pixel region, and a second boundary sub-pixel of a second boundary pixel located adjacent to the first boundary pixel within the pixels of the second pixel region. The resolution of the second pixel region is lower than that of the first pixel region. The data processor performs dimming on the boundary region between the second boundary pixel and the first boundary pixel based on the boundary type and the grayscale of the first image data, wherein the boundary type indicates the positional relationship between the first boundary pixel and the second boundary pixel.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The data processor determines the first boundary sub-pixel of the first boundary pixel and the second boundary sub-pixel of the second boundary pixel based on the boundary type.

17. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The number of pixels per unit area in the first pixel region is greater than the number of pixels per unit area in the second pixel region.

18. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The distance between the pixels in the first pixel region is less than the distance between the pixels in the second pixel region.

19. The display device according to claim 18, wherein, The shortest distance between the first boundary sub-pixel and the second boundary sub-pixel is shorter than the distance between the pixels in the second pixel region.

20. The display device according to claim 19, wherein, The shortest distance between the first boundary sub-pixel and the second boundary sub-pixel is longer than the distance between the pixels in the first pixel region.

21. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: The first pixel region includes a pixel array in which first pixels comprising first sub-pixels and second sub-pixels, and second pixels comprising third sub-pixels and fourth sub-pixels, are alternately arranged. The first sub-pixel displays light of a first color, the second and fourth sub-pixels display light of a second color, and the third sub-pixel displays light of a third color. The first color of light, the second color of light, and the third color of light are different from each other.

22. The display device according to claim 21, wherein: The second pixel region includes a third pixel, which includes a fifth sub-pixel, a sixth sub-pixel, and a seventh sub-pixel that display light of different colors from each other. The fifth sub-pixel and the sixth sub-pixel are arranged in a first direction, and the seventh sub-pixel is located on one side of the fifth sub-pixel and the sixth sub-pixel.

23. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The size of the fifth sub-pixel, the size of the sixth sub-pixel, and the size of the seventh sub-pixel are all greater than the size of the first sub-pixel, the size of the second sub-pixel, the size of the third sub-pixel, and the size of the fourth sub-pixel.

24. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The pixels in adjacent rows in the second pixel region are positioned so that they are tilted relative to each other with respect to the first direction.

Images