A control device, method and display device of a display panel

Abstract

The application discloses a display panel control device, method and display device, comprising: a level conversion module, comprising a signal input end and a signal output end, the level conversion module is used for converting the level of the input signal provided by the signal input end and outputting through the signal output end; a signal detection module connected with the level conversion module, used for detecting the signal of the signal output end under the control of the input signal provided by the signal input end, and outputting a signal detection result; a temperature detection module, used for obtaining and outputting a temperature detection result of a display panel; a control module connected with the signal detection module and the temperature detection module, used for outputting a control signal based on the signal detection result and the temperature detection result, so as to control the display panel to take over-current protection through the control signal.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] The liquid crystal display panel adopts the GOA (Gate Drive On Array) architecture, which integrates the gate driver (Gate Drive IC) on the thin film transistor array (Array) substrate to drive the liquid crystal panel line by line.

[0003] To prevent short circuits between clock signals caused by floating dust particles in the GOA architecture LCD panel, an overcurrent protection circuit (OCP) is usually used. The purpose is to prevent excessive current from rising panel temperature after a short circuit, which could cause burns.

[0004] However, overcurrent protection can only detect the level of current in the output control signal. This detection method is relatively simple, with low accuracy and poor protection effect. Furthermore, in some cases, changes in the current of the GOA output signal without affecting normal display can falsely trigger the overcurrent protection circuit. For example, during rapid power-on, the clock output signal may generate a large current that gradually increases or decreases. Although this does not affect the LCD display, it can still falsely trigger the overcurrent protection circuit, thus affecting the protection accuracy and reducing the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned defects or deficiencies in the prior art, it is desirable to provide a control device, method and display device for a display panel that can improve the overcurrent protection effect.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a control device for a display panel, comprising:

[0007] A level conversion module includes a signal input terminal and a signal output terminal. The level conversion module is used to convert the level of the input signal provided by the signal input terminal and output it through the signal output terminal.

[0008] A signal detection module, connected to the level conversion module, is used to detect the signal at the signal output terminal under the control of the input signal provided at the signal input terminal, and output the signal detection result.

[0009] The temperature detection module is used to obtain and output the temperature detection results of the display panel;

[0010] A control module, connected to the signal detection module and the temperature detection module, is used to output a control signal based on the signal detection result and the temperature detection result, so as to control the display panel to take overcurrent protection through the control signal.

[0011] Optionally, it also includes a timing control module for generating gate drive reference signals for each pixel unit of the display panel. The timing control module is connected to the input terminal of the level conversion module, and the gate drive reference signal includes one or more of a clock signal and a frame start signal.

[0012] The output terminal of the level conversion module is connected to the gate driving circuit of the display panel. The output signal of the output terminal is a gate driving output signal, which includes one or more of a clock signal and a frame start signal.

[0013] Optionally, the gate drive reference signal includes a first drive signal and a second drive signal, and the level conversion module includes a first conversion unit and a second conversion unit. The first conversion unit is used to output the voltage of the first power supply terminal under the control of the first drive signal, and the second conversion unit is used to output the voltage of the second power supply terminal under the control of the second drive signal.

[0014] Optionally, the signal detection module includes a first detection unit and a second detection unit.

[0015] The first detection unit is used to collect the first output information on the first conversion unit under the control of the first driving signal, and output the first detection result when the first output information meets the first trigger condition and / or output the second detection result when the first trigger condition is not met;

[0016] The second detection unit is used to detect the second output information on the second conversion unit under the control of the second drive signal, and output the first detection result when the second output information satisfies the second trigger condition and / or output the second detection result when the second trigger condition is not satisfied.

[0017] Optionally, it includes at least one temperature sensor, which is disposed in the non-display area of ​​the display panel and is used to acquire temperature information of the display panel;

[0018] The temperature detection module is connected to the at least one temperature sensor and is used to output a first detection result when the temperature information meets the third trigger condition and / or output a second detection result when the third trigger condition is not met.

[0019] Optionally, it includes multiple temperature sensors, wherein,

[0020] Each of the temperature sensors is connected in series and connected to the temperature detection unit. The temperature detection module outputs the temperature detection result based on the detection result of the temperature detection unit.

[0021] Alternatively, the temperature sensors can be connected in parallel, with each temperature sensor connected to a temperature detection unit, and the temperature detection module outputs the temperature detection result based on the detection results of each temperature detection unit.

[0022] Optionally, the control module is used to output a control signal when all units receive the first detection result, so as to implement control and take protective measures, or to prohibit the output of the control signal when all units receive the second detection result, so as to prevent control and prohibit the implementation of protective measures.

[0023] Optionally, it also includes an overcurrent protection module, which is connected to the control module and is used to perform overcurrent protection based on the control signal.

[0024] Optionally, the first conversion unit includes a first transistor, the control terminal of the first transistor is connected to the timing control module, the first terminal of the first transistor is connected to the first power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the first transistor is connected to the gate drive circuit.

[0025] The second conversion unit includes a second transistor, the control terminal of the second transistor is connected to the timing control module, the first terminal of the second transistor is connected to the second power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the second transistor is connected to the gate drive circuit.

[0026] Optionally, the first detection unit includes a third transistor, a first resistor, and a first comparator. The control terminal of the third transistor is connected to the timing control module, the first terminal of the third transistor is connected to the first power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the third transistor and the first terminal of the first resistor are connected to the first input terminal of the first comparator. The second terminal of the first resistor is grounded, and the second output terminal of the first comparator is connected to a first reference signal.

[0027] The second detection unit includes a fourth transistor, a fifth transistor, a sixth transistor, a second resistor, and a second comparator. The control terminal of the fourth transistor is connected to the timing control module, the first terminal of the fourth transistor is connected to the second power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the fourth transistor is connected to the control terminal of the fifth transistor, the second terminal of the fifth transistor, and the control terminal of the sixth transistor.

[0028] The first terminal of the fifth transistor and the first terminal of the sixth transistor are connected to the third power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the sixth transistor is connected to the first input terminal of the second comparator; the second terminal of the second resistor is grounded; and the second output terminal of the second comparator is connected to the second reference signal.

[0029] Optionally, the first power supply terminal is a high-voltage terminal, the second power supply terminal is a low-voltage terminal, and the third power supply terminal is a high-voltage terminal. Optionally, the first and third transistors are the same type of PMOS and NMOS transistors, the second and fourth transistors are the other type of PMOS and NMOS transistors, and the fifth and sixth transistors are NMOS transistors.

[0030] The operating current of the first transistor is greater than that of the third transistor; the operating current of the second transistor is greater than that of the fourth transistor; and the operating current of the fifth transistor is equal to that of the sixth transistor.

[0031] Optionally, the control module includes a first control unit and a second control unit, wherein the first control unit is connected to the temperature detection module and the first detection unit, and the second control unit is connected to the temperature detection module and the second detection unit, wherein...

[0032] Both the first control unit and the second control unit are AND gate circuits to output a control signal when all units receive the first detection result; or, both the first control unit and the second control unit are OR gate circuits to disable the output of the control signal when all units receive the second detection result.

[0033] Secondly, this application provides a method for controlling a display panel, applied to a control device for a display panel as described above, the method comprising:

[0034] Detect the temperature of the display panel and obtain the temperature detection results;

[0035] Detect the circuit signals on the display panel and obtain the signal detection results;

[0036] Based on the signal detection results and the temperature detection results, a control signal is output to control the display panel to take overcurrent protection measures.

[0037] Thirdly, this application provides a display device including a control device for a display panel as described in any of the above.

[0038] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application may include the following beneficial effects:

[0039] The control device for the display panel provided in this application embodiment amplifies the GOA signal input to the display panel in the GOA circuit through a level conversion module and then inputs it to the display panel. It detects the output signal through a signal detection module and detects the temperature of the display panel through a temperature detection module. Based on the output signal detection results and temperature detection results, it performs overcurrent protection control, improves overcurrent protection and overtemperature protection, and improves the protection effect and the lifespan of the display panel. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0041] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a display panel provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a GOA architecture provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a control device for a display panel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 4 A connection diagram of another control device for a display panel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 5-8 A schematic diagram of the structure of a control device for a display panel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 9 A connection diagram of a control device for a display panel provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 10 A connection diagram of another control device for a display panel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 11 A flowchart of a display panel control method provided for an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0050] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. This application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0051] For ease of description, the driving device and driving method for the display panel provided in this embodiment will be used in applications such as... Figure 1 The following explanation uses the display panel shown as an example. See also... Figure 1 The display panel includes multiple pixel units P, multiple data lines D, and multiple gate lines G. The pixel units P are arranged in an array, the data lines D extend along the column direction, and the gate lines G extend along the row direction. The data lines D and gate lines G intersect to define the pixel units P. Each data line D connects to a column of pixel units P, and each gate line G connects to a row of pixel units P. The multiple data lines D write data voltages into the pixel units P row by row. The gate driving circuit 200 outputs a gate scan signal, which completes the row-by-row scanning of the pixel array through the gate lines; the data driving circuit 300 outputs a data signal, which is transmitted to the corresponding pixel unit through the data lines to realize image grayscale.

[0052] In the embodiments of this application, the display panel 100 can be a liquid crystal display panel 100 (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel 100 (OLED), an electronic paper display panel 100 (E-paper), etc. Here, an LCD panel is used as an example for explanation, and other types of panels are analogous.

[0053] GOA (Gate On Array) is a technology that integrates the gate driving circuit 200 onto the TFT substrate. Each GOA unit acts as a shift register, sequentially transmitting the scan signal to the next GOA unit, turning on the TFT switch line by line, and completing the data signal input of the pixel unit. In this embodiment, the GOA unit is disposed on one side of the display panel 100, and the GOA is connected to multiple gate lines G, inputting a scan voltage to the gate lines G.

[0054] The above GOA unit is as follows Figure 2 As shown, the display panel 100 can include multiple cascaded GOA units (GOA0, GOA1...GOAn). The frame start signal STVSTV provided by the waveform generation unit is input through the signal input terminal INPUT of the first-stage GOA unit GOA0, driving the GOA unit to start working. In addition, except for the first-stage GOA unit GOA0, the signal input terminal INPUT of each of the other GOA units is connected to the signal output terminal OUTPUT of its adjacent parent GOA unit. In this way, under the control of the clock signals CLK (CLK1 and CLK2), the cascaded GOA units can output gate scan signals (G0, G1...Gn) line by line through the signal output terminal OUTPUT to scan the gate lines in the display panel 100 line by line.

[0055] Optionally, this example only uses the first-level GOA unit connected to the STV signal. Of course, it can also be multiple levels connected to the STV signal, such as the first two levels, or the first three or four levels, etc. There is no limitation here. In addition, there can be one or more STV signals. For example, there are two STV signals: STV1 is the start signal for odd-numbered rows of data, and STV2 is the signal for even-numbered rows of data.

[0056] Of course, the above is merely an example of one GOA unit structure. When each GOA unit also has a reset signal input terminal RESET, except for the last GOA unit GOAn, the reset signal input terminal RESET of the remaining GOA units is connected to the signal output terminal OUTPUT of the next-level GOA unit. This invention does not limit the structure of the GOA unit, as long as it can scan the grid lines in the display panel 100 line by line under the control of the frame start signal STV and the clock signal CLK.

[0057] Current OCP technology detects the current of the GOA signal after a short circuit on the display panel, causing the level output IC or its similar functional unit to stop outputting to prevent the panel from overheating. However, considering the differences between screens and the ambient temperature, in some cases the panel temperature may exceed the preset temperature value, but the current may still be within the set range. In such cases, the level output IC or its similar functional unit will not stop outputting, and OCP will not function as intended. Alternatively, insufficient OCP setting differences may cause the current to exceed the set OCP current value, but the actual panel temperature may be within the preset temperature value, causing the IC to erroneously trigger and stop normal output.

[0058] Please see details. Figure 3 This application provides a control device for a display panel 100, comprising:

[0059] The level conversion module 10 includes a signal input terminal and a signal output terminal. The level conversion module 10 is used to convert the level of the input signal provided by the signal input terminal IN and output it through the signal output terminal OUT.

[0060] The signal detection module 20, connected to the level conversion module 10, is used to detect the signal at the signal output terminal OUT under the control of the input signal provided at the signal input terminal IN, and output the signal detection result.

[0061] Temperature detection module 30 is used to obtain and output the temperature detection results of display panel 100;

[0062] The control module 40 is connected to the signal detection module 20 and the temperature detection module 30, and is used to output a control signal based on the signal detection result and the temperature detection result, so as to control the display panel 100 to take overcurrent protection through the control signal.

[0063] In this embodiment, the level conversion module 10 amplifies the GOA signal input to the display panel 100 in the GOA circuit and then inputs it to the display panel 100. The signal detection module 20 detects the output signal, and the temperature detection module 30 detects the temperature of the display panel 100. Based on the output signal detection results and temperature detection results, overcurrent protection control is performed to improve overcurrent and overtemperature protection, thereby improving the protection effect and the lifespan of the display panel 100.

[0064] The control device described in this application further includes a timing control module 40, used to generate gate drive reference signals for each pixel unit of the display panel 100. The timing control module 40 is connected to the input terminal of the level conversion module 10, and the gate drive reference signal includes one or more of a clock signal and a frame start signal. The output terminal of the level conversion module 10 is connected to the gate drive circuit 200 of the display panel 100, and the output signal of the output terminal is a gate drive output signal, which includes one or more of a clock signal and a frame start signal.

[0065] In this embodiment, the timing control module 40 can be a timing controller (TCON) located on the circuit driver board PCBA. This timing controller generates and sends control signals such as frame start signals and clock signals. The timing control module 40 is connected to a level converter to boost the voltage of the frame start signals and clock signals sent by the timing controller. The boosted frame start signals and clock signals from the level converter drive the TFTs in the GOA architecture display panel 100.

[0066] It is understood that in this embodiment of the application, the gate drive reference signal is the clock reference signal CLK01 and the gate drive output signal is the clock signal CLK1 as an example. In actual applications, the drive signal of the input level conversion module 10 can be other GOA signals used for input GOA circuits, such as the above-mentioned CLK02, CLK03 or STV signals, etc. In specific applications, it can vary depending on the driving method of the pixel unit.

[0067] For example, the clock reference signal CLK01 input to the level conversion module 10 is a square wave signal, and the gate drive reference signal includes a first drive signal and a second drive signal. The first drive signal is a high-level voltage signal of the square wave signal, and the second drive signal is a low-level voltage signal of the square wave signal. The phases of the first drive signal and the second drive signal are reversed.

[0068] In this embodiment of the application, the level conversion module 10 includes a first conversion unit 11 and a second conversion unit 12. The first conversion unit 11 is used to output the voltage of the first power supply terminal VGH under the control of the first driving signal, and the second conversion unit 12 is used to output the voltage of the second power supply terminal VGL under the control of the second driving signal.

[0069] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the clock reference signal CLK01 includes an active level and an inactive level. An active level refers to the level used to turn on the corresponding switching element, and an inactive level refers to the level used to turn off the corresponding switching element. Active and inactive levels only represent that the signal level has two states; they do not represent that the active or inactive level has a specific value throughout the entire document. Specifically, the active level of the clock reference signal CLK01 for the first conversion unit 11 is simultaneously the inactive level for the second conversion unit 12, and vice versa. For example, the first driving signal of the clock reference signal CLK01 is the active level of the first conversion unit 11, and the second driving signal is the active level of the second conversion unit 12.

[0070] The timing reference signal is further boosted and amplified by the level conversion module 10, and the boosted signal is input to each pixel row. The appropriate module is selected based on requirements in different embodiments. In this embodiment, the clock signal CLK1 generated by the level conversion module 10 and the clock reference signal CLK01 generated by the timing control module 40 have the same duty cycle (same frequency). That is, the generated clock signal CLK and the initial clock reference signal CLK01 have the same period, differing only in the high-level voltage and low-level voltage of the clock signal CLK and the clock reference signal CLK01. Specifically, when the clock reference signal CLK01 is high, the clock signal CLK1 is also high, and when the clock reference signal CLK01 is low, the clock signal CLK1 is also low.

[0071] The voltage value of the first power supply terminal VGH is greater than the first drive signal voltage value of the gate drive reference signal, and the voltage value of the second power supply terminal VGL is greater than the second drive signal voltage value of the gate drive reference signal. It is understood that the high and low voltages of the timing control signals are set as needed to meet the high-voltage switching signal of the GOA.

[0072] For example, in this embodiment, the clock signal CLK1 of the level conversion module 10 has been amplified and can turn on the TFT when the display panel 100 is displaying normally. The voltage value of the clock signal CLK1 can reach the TFT's turn-on voltage Vgh. Typically, the clock reference signal CLK01 directly transmitted by the timing controller (TCon) to the level conversion circuit has a small voltage value, for example, 3.3V. The clock reference signal CLK01 can be amplified to reach the TFT's turn-on voltage Vgh, for example, Vgh (i.e., VCLK1) is 20V to 30V.

[0073] like Figure 4 As shown, the signal detection module 20 includes a first detection unit 13 and a second detection unit 14. The first detection unit 13 is used to collect the first output information on the first conversion unit 11 under the control of the first driving signal, and output a first detection result when the first output information meets the first trigger condition and / or output a second detection result when the first trigger condition is not met.

[0074] The second detection unit 14 is used to detect the second output information on the second conversion unit 12 under the control of the second drive signal, and output the first detection result when the second output information satisfies the second trigger condition and / or output the second detection result when the second trigger condition is not satisfied.

[0075] In this application, a signal detection module 20 is set on the level conversion module 10 to detect the connection circuit between the output terminal of the level conversion module 10 and the display panel 100, thereby determining whether there is a short circuit problem in the panel, and thus controlling the activation of the line protection function. OCP protection can be performed when a short circuit occurs, thereby protecting the entire display panel 100.

[0076] It is understood that this embodiment does not limit the setting method of the first trigger condition and the second trigger condition. The first trigger condition can be the output current or output voltage of the first conversion unit 11, and the second trigger condition can be the output current or output voltage of the second conversion unit 12.

[0077] It is worth noting that in this embodiment, the signal detection result of the signal detection unit is directly related to the signal detection threshold, which can be obtained through simulation or experimentation. Since the internal resistance of the display panel 100 varies between different models, the currents of the clock signal, gate drive signal, etc., also differ. The signal detection current can be set according to requirements, and this embodiment does not impose any special limitations on this. Furthermore, the output method of the signal detection result of the signal detection module 20 is not limited and can be determined in different embodiments based on the control signal of the control module 40 or the execution method of the overcurrent protection module 50.

[0078] In this embodiment, the temperature detection module 30 is connected to the at least one temperature sensor 101 and is used to output a first detection result when the temperature information meets a third trigger condition and / or output a second detection result when the third trigger condition is not met. The temperature detection module 30 detects the temperature of the display panel 100 and outputs a corresponding control signal based on the temperature detection result. This control signal controls the overcurrent protection module 50 to perform protection, improving the protection effect and extending the display lifespan of the display panel 100.

[0079] In this embodiment, the display panel 100 includes at least one temperature sensor 101, which is disposed in the non-display area of ​​the display panel 100 and is used to acquire temperature information of the display panel 100.

[0080] In this application, particularly regarding the narrow bezel design in the prior art, the presence of a GOA (Gate of Area) architecture at the bezel location means that adding an additional temperature sensor 101 would result in a denser arrangement of electrical components at the bezel location, leading to more noticeable heat generation. This application addresses this by providing a temperature sensing element arrangement method for the GOA area, achieving temperature sensing while maintaining a narrow bezel and avoiding heat concentration caused by dense arrangement of electrical components.

[0081] Temperature sensor 101 can be used to detect the temperature at different locations on display panel 100, and can be selected as needed in different embodiments. Furthermore, temperature sensor 101 can be one of various temperature sensors available in the prior art, such as thermocouple sensors, thermistor sensors, platinum resistance temperature sensors (RTD), integrated temperature sensors (IC), temperature-sensing transistors, etc.

[0082] It is understood that in this embodiment, the temperature detection module 30 is only used to convert the temperature signal of the display panel 100 into an electrical signal, without needing to obtain a specific temperature value. Therefore, by collecting the current of the temperature sensor at different temperatures, it is possible to reflect whether the temperature in the display panel 100 has changed. For example, TFT (Thin Film Transistor). In addition, using TFT as the temperature sensor 101 can be directly formed using the existing process of the display panel 100 without adding any additional fabrication process. The operation steps are simple, the cost is low, and the temperature detection effect is ideal. In specific applications, the temperature-sensing transistor can be set on the array substrate of the display panel 100 and formed simultaneously with the transistor in the GOA architecture. The types of transistors include, but are not limited to, amorphous silicon thin film transistors, low-temperature polycrystalline silicon thin film transistors, oxide thin film transistors, etc.; the structure can be a bottom gate structure or a top gate structure, etc.

[0083] In the various embodiments of this application, the number and placement of temperature sensors are not limited; they can be distributed at multiple points on the display panel 100 or distributed throughout the entire device. Alternatively, a temperature zoning approach can be adopted, such as near-end, middle-end, and far-end areas of the display panel 100. The temperature sensing area can be finely controlled as needed, enabling the placement of multiple temperature sensors within the same temperature zone. The average measurement value is then used as the temperature detection result for that zone, improving detection accuracy and preventing false triggering of the overcurrent protection module 50.

[0084] In specific settings, since the GOA circuit has a significant impact on the display panel temperature, the temperature sensor 101 of this application can be set between two adjacent GOA units, between the GOA circuit and the display area, or on the side of the GOA circuit away from the display area. The specific setting is determined according to the application scenario in different embodiments.

[0085] Furthermore, this application does not limit the temperature acquisition method of the temperature sensor 101. The temperature sensor 101 can be configured in parallel or in series. Similarly, for the temperature detection module 30, a single temperature detection unit 102 connected to the temperature sensor 101 can be configured to simultaneously detect the temperature at various locations; alternatively, multiple temperature detection units 102 can be configured to detect the temperature at different locations. The choice depends on the specific device or application scenario.

[0086] Optionally, such as Figure 5 As shown, the temperature sensors 101 are connected in parallel, and each temperature sensor 101 is connected to a temperature detection unit 102. The temperature detection module 30 outputs the temperature detection result based on the detection results of each temperature detection unit 102.

[0087] Optionally, such as Figure 6 As shown, each of the temperature sensors 101 is connected in series and connected to the temperature detection unit 102. The temperature detection module 30 outputs the temperature detection result based on the detection result of the temperature detection unit 102. For example... Figure 7 The diagram shows a structure in which temperature sensors 101 located on different sides of a display panel are connected in series and connected to a temperature detection unit 102. The selection of sensors in different embodiments is as needed, and this application does not limit the choice of sensors.

[0088] For example, the temperature detection area on the display panel 100 includes a near-end area, a middle-end area, and a far-end area. Each temperature detection area is equipped with three temperature sensors 101 connected in series and linked to a sampling unit. The sampling unit obtains the electrical signal representing the temperature of the temperature detection area. By using the three temperature sensors 101 to represent the temperature information of each temperature detection area, the system prevents a sudden increase in the electrical signal of any one temperature sensor 101 within its normal temperature range from causing false triggering of overcurrent protection, thus improving the temperature detection effect. The temperature detection results from the three temperature detection areas represent the temperature detection results of the display panel 100, and the results are output to the control module 40 to execute overcurrent protection.

[0089] It should be noted that the embodiments of this application do not limit the setting method of each temperature detection area. The temperature detection area can be located on the same side of the display panel or on different sides of the display panel. Figure 8 The image shows a method for setting up a temperature detection area. Two temperature sensors 101 located on different sides of the same height on the display panel are connected in parallel and then connected to the same temperature detection unit 102. Of course, in other embodiments, the two temperature sensors 101 can also be connected in series and then connected to the same temperature detection unit 102. The temperature electrical signal of the same temperature detection area is represented by the two temperature sensors 101 on different sides of the same height.

[0090] It is understood that this embodiment does not limit the setting method of the third trigger condition. The third trigger condition can be the output current or output voltage of the temperature sensor 101, etc. It is worth noting that in this embodiment, the temperature detection result of the temperature detection unit 102, which is set in series or parallel, is directly related to the temperature detection threshold. The temperature threshold can be obtained through simulation or experimentation. In addition, the output method of the temperature detection result of the temperature detection module 30 is not limited. In different embodiments, it is determined according to the control signal of the control module 40 or the execution method of the overcurrent protection module 50, etc.

[0091] Since the temperature detection module 30 and the signal detection module 20 can output different forms of detection results based on the detection information, in the embodiment of the application, the control module 40 can output different forms of control signals depending on the form of the received detection results. For example, the control module 40 can output a control signal when all units receive the first detection result to implement protective measures, or it can prohibit the output of control signals when all units receive the second detection result to prevent protective measures from being implemented.

[0092] In practical applications, the control module 40 includes a first control unit 15 and a second control unit 16. The first control unit 15 is connected to the temperature detection module 30 and the first detection unit 13, and the second control unit 16 is connected to the temperature detection module 30 and the second detection unit 14. In different embodiments, depending on the display device or the application scenario, the control module 40 may adopt different circuit connection methods.

[0093] For example, both the first control unit 15 and the second control unit 16 are AND gate circuits to output a control signal when all units receive the first detection result. In this embodiment, by setting the control module 40 as an AND gate, the control module 40 can output a control signal when all units receive the first detection result, thereby enabling the control to take protective measures.

[0094] In existing designs, the current value of the output signal of the GOA architecture exceeds the preset current value in some cases (e.g., excessive current at startup but not a short circuit), while the actual panel temperature remains within the permissible range. This can cause the existing OCP protection to activate, resulting in a false trigger. This embodiment, through AND gate control, avoids false triggering of overcurrent protection. Overcurrent protection is only triggered when both the current and temperature exceed preset values, improving overcurrent protection accuracy and preventing false triggering due to insufficient current preset settings.

[0095] For example, both the first control unit 15 and the second control unit 16 are OR gate circuits to prevent the output of control signals when all units receive the second detection result. In this embodiment, by setting the control module 40 as an OR gate, the control module 40 can prevent the output of control signals when all units receive the second detection result, thereby preventing the implementation of protective measures.

[0096] In this embodiment, the control module 40, configured by an OR gate, can trigger the overcurrent protection module 50 (OCP) to perform protection when the current or temperature exceeds a preset value, thus realizing the overcurrent protection and overtemperature protection functions of the display panel 100 and improving the protection effect of the display panel 100.

[0097] Understandably, in this application embodiment, to improve protection accuracy, the detection method when taking protection measures is not limited to temperature thresholds and current thresholds. In some embodiments, trigger time control can also be used. For example, overcurrent protection parameters include a detection current threshold and a delayed trigger time. When determining whether the output signal is abnormal, an abnormality in the input signal can only be determined when the current value of the gate drive output signal is greater than the detection current threshold and the duration is greater than the delayed trigger time. This prevents false triggering of overcurrent protection due to short-term current surges. Similarly, temperature protection parameters may include a temperature current threshold and a delayed trigger time. When determining whether the temperature signal is abnormal, an abnormality in the temperature signal can only be determined when the current value of the temperature signal is greater than the temperature current threshold and the duration is greater than the delayed trigger time.

[0098] In this embodiment of the application, the control device further includes an overcurrent protection module 50 (OCP), which is connected to the control module 40 and is used to perform overcurrent protection based on the control signal.

[0099] In one embodiment of this application, the overcurrent protection module 50 (OCP) includes a power control circuit connected to the gate drive circuit 200 on the display panel 100. The overcurrent protection module 50 (OCP) is used to cut off the power supply to the gate drive circuit 200 when it receives the control signal. The power control circuit can be located on the power IC or on the gate drive circuit 200. For example, the power control circuit includes a power control switch connected between the power IC and the gate drive circuit 200. When the control module 40 sends a control signal to the power control circuit, the power control circuit receives the control signal and controls the connection between the power IC and the gate drive circuit 200 to disconnect for overcurrent protection, thereby turning off the display operation of the display panel 100.

[0100] In one embodiment of this application, the overcurrent protection module 50 (OCP) includes a switch control circuit connected to the timing control module 40 on the display panel 100. The overcurrent protection module 50 (OCP) is used to disconnect the connection between the timing control module 40 and the level conversion module 10 when the control signal is received, that is, to stop the input terminal of the level conversion module 10 from providing the gate drive reference signal, thereby cutting off the output signal of the gate drive circuit 200GOA to perform overcurrent protection and turn off the display operation of the display panel 100.

[0101] This application provides a connection diagram of the display panel 100 control device in this embodiment, such as... Figure 9 or Figure 10 As shown. The first conversion unit 11 includes a first transistor M1, the control terminal of the first transistor M1 is connected to the timing control module 40, the first terminal of the first transistor M1 is connected to the first power supply terminal VGH, and the second terminal of the first transistor M1 is connected to the gate drive circuit 200.

[0102] The second conversion unit 12 includes a second transistor M2. The control terminal of the second transistor M2 is connected to the timing control module 40. The first terminal of the second transistor M2 is connected to the second power supply terminal VGL. The second terminal of the second transistor M2 is connected to the gate drive circuit 200.

[0103] The first detection unit 13 includes a third transistor M3, a first resistor RS1, and a first comparator T1. The control terminal of the third transistor M3 is connected to the timing control module 40. The first terminal of the third transistor M3 is connected to the first power supply terminal VGH. The second terminal of the third transistor M3 and the first terminal of the first resistor RS1 are connected to the first input terminal of the first comparator T1. The second terminal of the first resistor RS1 is grounded. The second output terminal of the first comparator T1 is connected to the first reference signal Vref1.

[0104] The second detection unit 14 includes a fourth transistor M4, a fifth transistor M5, a sixth transistor M6, a second resistor RS2, and a second comparator T2. The control terminal of the fourth transistor M4 is connected to the timing control module 40. The first terminal of the fourth transistor M4 is connected to the second power supply terminal VGL. The second terminal of the fourth transistor M4 is connected to the control terminal of the fifth transistor M5, the second terminal of the fifth transistor M5, and the control terminal of the sixth transistor M6.

[0105] The first terminal of the fifth transistor M5 and the first terminal of the sixth transistor M6 are connected to the third power supply terminal VDD. The second terminal of the sixth transistor M6 is connected to the first input terminal of the second comparator T2. The second terminal of the second resistor RS2 is grounded. The second output terminal of the second comparator T2 is connected to the second reference signal Vref2.

[0106] The temperature detection unit 102 includes a third comparator T3. The first control unit 15 includes a first OR gate F3, and the second control unit 16 includes a second OR gate F4. Alternatively, the first control unit 15 includes a first AND gate F1, and the second control unit 16 includes a second AND gate F2. The first input terminal of the third comparator T3 is connected to a third reference signal Vref3. The second input terminal of the third comparator T3 is connected to the output terminal of the temperature sensor 101. The output terminal of the third comparator T3 is connected to the first input terminal of the first OR gate F3 (first AND gate F1) and the first input terminal of the second OR gate F4 (second AND gate F2). The second input terminal of the first OR gate F3 (first AND gate F1) is connected to the output terminal of the first comparator T1. The second input terminal of the second OR gate F4 (second AND gate F2) is connected to the output terminal of the second comparator T2. The output terminals of the first OR gate F3 (first AND gate F1) and the second OR gate F4 (second AND gate F2) are connected to the overcurrent protection module 50 (OCP).

[0107] "Control terminal" specifically refers to the gate of the transistor, "first terminal" specifically refers to the source of the transistor, and "second terminal" specifically refers to the drain of the transistor. Of course, those skilled in the art should know that the "first terminal" and "second terminal" are interchangeable, that is, the "first terminal" specifically refers to the drain of the transistor, and the "second terminal" specifically refers to the source of the transistor.

[0108] Optionally, the first power supply terminal VGH is a high voltage terminal, the second power supply terminal VGL is a low voltage terminal, and the third power supply terminal VDD is a high voltage terminal. That is, in the embodiments of this application, the first power supply terminal VGH and the third power supply terminal VDD maintain, for example, a high-level input DC signal; the second power supply terminal VGL maintains, for example, a low-level input DC signal, lower than the voltage of the first power supply terminal VDD. The following embodiments are the same and will not be described again.

[0109] Furthermore, based on their semiconductor characteristics, transistors can be classified into N-type transistors and P-type transistors. When used as switching transistors, N-type switching transistors are turned on by a high-level switching control signal and turned off by a low-level switching control signal; P-type switching transistors are turned on by a low-level switching control signal and turned off by a high-level switching control signal.

[0110] In this embodiment, the first transistor M1 and the third transistor M3 are both PMOS and NMOS transistors, the second transistor M2 and the fourth transistor M4 are both PMOS and NMOS transistors, and the fifth transistor M5 and the sixth transistor M6 are both NMOS transistors. Exemplarily, the first transistor M1, the third transistor M3, the fifth transistor M5, and the sixth transistor M6 are NMOS transistors, while the second transistor M2 and the fourth transistor M4 are both PMOS transistors.

[0111] In this application, in order to sample the first conversion unit 11 and the second conversion unit 12 according to a certain ratio, the operating current of the first transistor M1 is greater than the operating current of the third transistor M3; the operating current of the second transistor M2 is greater than the operating current of the fourth transistor M4; and the operating current of the fifth transistor M5 is equal to the operating current of the sixth transistor M6.

[0112] In this embodiment, when the gate drive reference signal is high, M1 / M3 is turned on, the gate drive output signal connects to the VGH voltage, and the output is high. Simultaneously, the operating current of M3 is smaller than that of M1 and is in a fixed ratio. This is to ensure that when the output terminal is connected to VGH, a certain proportion of the current passing through M1 is sampled. For example, if the current passing through M1 is 200mA, the current passing through M3 and RS1 is 10mA. According to the resistor voltage divider principle, the input voltage of the first comparator T1 is RS1*10mA. This voltage is compared with RVEF1 of the first comparator T1. If it is higher than Vref1, OCP is triggered; if it is lower than Vref1, it is not triggered. Vref1 is the voltage or current threshold set for OCP. Optionally, the aspect ratio of the third transistor M3 is smaller than that of the first transistor M1.

[0113] When the gate drive reference signal is low, M2 / M4 is turned on, the gate drive output signal connects to the VGL voltage, and the output is low. Simultaneously, the operating current of M4 is smaller than that of M2 and is proportionally lower. This is to sample a certain proportion of the current passing through M2 when the output is connected to VGL; for example, if the current through M2 is 200mA, the current through M4 is 10mA. Since the current is negative when connected to VGL, a 5V pull-up is used to convert it to a positive current. This pull-up is connected in series with M5 and in parallel with M6+RS2, which is of the same magnitude as M5. The function of M6+RS2 is to copy the 10mA current passing through M5 and M4. According to the resistor voltage divider principle, the input voltage of the second comparator T2 is RS2*10mA. The voltage is compared to Vref2 of the second comparator T2; if it is higher than Vref2, OCP is triggered; if it is lower than Vref2, it is not triggered. Vref2 is the voltage or current threshold set for OCP. Optionally, the aspect ratio of the fourth transistor M4 is smaller than that of the second transistor M2.

[0114] like Figure 11As shown, this application provides a control method for a display panel 100, applied to a control device for the display panel 100 as described above, the method comprising:

[0115] S10. Detect the temperature of the display panel 100 and obtain the temperature detection result;

[0116] S20. Detect the circuit signal status on the display panel 100 and obtain the signal detection result;

[0117] S30. Based on the signal detection result and the temperature detection result, output a control signal to control the display panel 100 to take overcurrent protection.

[0118] During temperature detection, the second input of the third comparator T3 is connected to the voltage Utep generated by the current change of the temperature-sensing transistor on the panel, and the first input is connected to the reference voltage Vref3 of the third reference signal. When the panel temperature decreases, the current of the temperature-sensing transistor decreases, Utep increases, and when the temperature signal Utep ≥ Vref3, the third comparator T3 outputs L; when the panel temperature rises, the current of the temperature-sensing transistor increases, Utep decreases, and when the temperature signal Utep < Vref3, the third comparator T3 outputs H.

[0119] During signal detection, the voltage at the first input terminal of the first comparator T1 is compared with RVEF1 of the first comparator T1. If the voltage is higher than RVEF1, the first comparator T1 outputs H; if it is lower than RVEF1, the first comparator T1 outputs L. Similarly, the voltage at the first input terminal of the second comparator T2 is compared with RVEF1 of the second comparator T2. If the voltage is higher than RVEF1, the second comparator T2 outputs H; if it is lower than RVEF1, the second comparator T2 outputs L.

[0120] When the control module 40 uses an AND gate operation: when the output signal of the signal detection module 20 is H and the output signal of the temperature detection module 30 is L, the AND gate circuit outputs L, and the OCP does not take protection action; when the output signal of the signal detection module 20 is L and the output signal of the temperature detection module 30 is H, the AND circuit outputs L, and the OCP does not take protection action; when the output signal of the signal detection module 20 is L and the output signal of the temperature detection module 30 is L, the AND circuit outputs L, and the OCP does not take protection action; when the output signal of the signal detection module 20 is H and the output signal of the temperature detection module 30 is H, the AND circuit outputs H, the OCP takes protection action, and the level conversion module 10 stops outputting.

[0121] When the control module 40 uses an OR gate operation: when the output signal of the signal detection module 20 is H and the output signal of the temperature detection module 30 is L, the AND circuit outputs H, and the OCP takes protective action; when the output signal of the signal detection module 20 is L and the output signal of the temperature detection module 30 is H, the AND circuit outputs H, and the OCP takes protective action; when the output signal of the signal detection module 20 is L and the output signal of the temperature detection module 30 is L, the AND circuit outputs L, and the OCP does not take protective action.

[0122] Based on the same inventive concept, this application provides a display device including a control device for a display panel as described above. This display panel can be applied to any product or component with display functionality, such as OLED display devices, AMOLED display devices, mobile phones, tablets, televisions, monitors, laptops, digital photo frames, and navigators.

[0123] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention.

[0124] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0125] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Terms such as “set” appearing herein can refer to either a component being directly attached to another component or a component being attached to another component via an intermediary. A feature described in one embodiment herein may be applied, alone or in combination with other features, to another embodiment, unless that feature is not applicable in that other embodiment or is otherwise stated.

[0126] The present invention has been described through the above embodiments; however, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the present invention to the described embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that many variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of the present invention, and all such variations and modifications fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.

Claims

1. A control device for a display panel, characterized in that, include: A level conversion module includes a signal input terminal and a signal output terminal. The level conversion module is used to convert the level of the input signal provided by the signal input terminal and output it through the signal output terminal. A signal detection module, connected to the level conversion module, is used to detect the signal at the signal output terminal under the control of the input signal provided at the signal input terminal, and output the signal detection result. The temperature detection module is used to obtain and output the temperature detection results of the display panel; A control module, connected to the signal detection module and the temperature detection module, is used to output a control signal based on the signal detection result and the temperature detection result, so as to control the display panel to take overcurrent protection through the control signal; The timing control module is used to generate gate drive reference signals for each pixel unit of the display panel. The input signal is the gate drive reference signal output by the timing control module, and the gate drive reference signal includes one or more of a clock signal and a frame start signal.

2. The control device for the display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the connection between the timing control module and the input terminal of the level conversion module; The output terminal of the level conversion module is connected to the gate driving circuit of the display panel. The output signal of the output terminal is a gate driving output signal, which includes one or more of a clock signal and a frame start signal.

3. The control device for the display panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, The gate drive reference signal includes a first drive signal and a second drive signal. The level conversion module includes a first conversion unit and a second conversion unit. The first conversion unit is used to output the voltage of the first power supply terminal under the control of the first drive signal, and the second conversion unit is used to output the voltage of the second power supply terminal under the control of the second drive signal.

4. The control device for the display panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The signal detection module includes a first detection unit and a second detection unit. The first detection unit is used to collect the first output information on the first conversion unit under the control of the first driving signal, and output the first detection result when the first output information meets the first trigger condition and / or output the second detection result when the first trigger condition is not met; The second detection unit is used to detect the second output information on the second conversion unit under the control of the second drive signal, and output the first detection result when the second output information satisfies the second trigger condition and / or output the second detection result when the second trigger condition is not satisfied.

5. The control device for the display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes at least one temperature sensor, which is disposed in the non-display area of ​​the display panel and is used to acquire temperature information of the display panel; The temperature detection module is connected to the at least one temperature sensor and is used to output a first detection result when the temperature information meets the third trigger condition and / or output a second detection result when the third trigger condition is not met.

6. The control device for the display panel according to claim 5, characterized in that, Includes multiple temperature sensors, among which, Each of the temperature sensors is connected in series and connected to the temperature detection unit. The temperature detection module outputs the temperature detection result based on the detection result of the temperature detection unit. Alternatively, the temperature sensors can be connected in parallel, with each temperature sensor connected to a temperature detection unit, and the temperature detection module outputs the temperature detection result based on the detection results of each temperature detection unit.

7. The control device for the display panel according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control module is used to output a control signal when all units receive the first detection result, so as to implement protective measures; or it is used to prohibit the output of the control signal when all units receive the second detection result, so as to prohibit protective measures.

8. The control device for the display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an overcurrent protection module, which is connected to the control module and is used to perform overcurrent protection based on the control signal.

9. The control device for the display panel according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first conversion unit includes a first transistor, the control terminal of the first transistor is connected to the timing control module, the first terminal of the first transistor is connected to the first power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the first transistor is connected to the gate drive circuit. The second conversion unit includes a second transistor, the control terminal of the second transistor is connected to the timing control module, the first terminal of the second transistor is connected to the second power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the second transistor is connected to the gate drive circuit.

10. The control device for the display panel according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first detection unit includes a third transistor, a first resistor, and a first comparator. The control terminal of the third transistor is connected to the timing control module, the first terminal of the third transistor is connected to the first power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the third transistor and the first terminal of the first resistor are connected to the first input terminal of the first comparator. The second terminal of the first resistor is grounded, and the second output terminal of the first comparator is connected to a first reference signal. The second detection unit includes a fourth transistor, a fifth transistor, a sixth transistor, a second resistor, and a second comparator. The control terminal of the fourth transistor is connected to the timing control module, the first terminal of the fourth transistor is connected to the second power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the fourth transistor is connected to the control terminal of the fifth transistor, the second terminal of the fifth transistor, and the control terminal of the sixth transistor. The first terminal of the fifth transistor and the first terminal of the sixth transistor are connected to the third power supply terminal, and the second terminal of the sixth transistor is connected to the first input terminal of the second comparator; the second terminal of the second resistor is grounded; and the second output terminal of the second comparator is connected to the second reference signal.

11. The control device for the display panel according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first power supply terminal is a high voltage terminal, the second power supply terminal is a low voltage terminal, and the third power supply terminal is a high voltage terminal.

12. The control device for the display panel according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first and third transistors are the same type of PMOS and NMOS transistors, the second and fourth transistors are different types of PMOS and NMOS transistors, and the fifth and sixth transistors are NMOS transistors. The operating current of the first transistor is greater than that of the third transistor; the operating current of the second transistor is greater than that of the fourth transistor; and the operating current of the fifth transistor is equal to that of the sixth transistor.

13. The control device for the display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The control module includes a first control unit and a second control unit. The first control unit is connected to the temperature detection module and the first detection unit, and the second control unit is connected to the temperature detection module and the second detection unit. Both the first control unit and the second control unit are AND gate circuits to output a control signal when all units receive the first detection result; or, both the first control unit and the second control unit are OR gate circuits to disable the output of the control signal when all units receive the second detection result.

14. A method for controlling a display panel, characterized in that, The method, applied to a control device for a display panel as described in any one of claims 1-13, comprises: Detect the temperature of the display panel and obtain the temperature detection results; Detect the circuit signals on the display panel and obtain the signal detection results; Based on the signal detection results and the temperature detection results, a control signal is output to control the display panel to take overcurrent protection measures.

15. A display device, characterized in that, The control device includes the display panel as described in any one of claims 1-13.

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