Display device and method for suppressing burn-in

Abstract

To provide a display device and a method for suppressing burn-in for performing burn-in suppression processing suitable for a viewing condition.SOLUTION: A display device includes: a display unit; a detection unit for detecting a situation around the display device; an analysis unit for analyzing to determine the distance from the display unit to a person and to determine whether the person is watching the display unit, on the basis of the situation; and a setting unit for setting the content of processing of suppressing burn-in of the display unit on the basis of the distance and whether the person is watching the display unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device and a burn-in suppression method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a video display device. In the video display device, the display position of the video is moved every predetermined period. Thereby, the burn-in phenomenon is suppressed. Further, the movement amount of the video display position is determined based on the distance between the viewer and the display unit. Thereby, the visual discomfort is reduced (paragraph 0017).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the video display device disclosed in Patent Document 1, even when the viewer is not actually looking at the video display device, the movement amount of the video display position is determined based on the distance between the viewer and the display unit. For this reason, the movement amount of the video display position may not be an appropriate movement amount.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure has been made in view of this problem. One aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide, for example, a display device and a burn-in suppression method capable of performing burn-in suppression processing suitable for the viewing situation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The display device according to the first aspect of the present disclosure includes a display unit, a detection unit that detects the situation around the display unit, an analysis unit that analyzes the distance from the display unit to a person and whether the person is gazing at the display unit based on the situation, and a setting unit that sets the content of a process for suppressing burn-in of the display unit based on the distance and whether the person is gazing at the display unit.

[0007] The burn-in suppression method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure includes detecting the situation around the display unit, analyzing the distance from the display unit to a person and whether the person is gazing at the display unit based on the situation, and setting the content of a process for suppressing burn-in of the display unit based on the distance and whether the person is gazing at the display unit.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0008]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or equivalent elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations are omitted.

[0010] 1 First Embodiment 1.1 Display Device FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the display device of the first embodiment.

[0011] The display device 1 of the first embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 is a television receiver. Therefore, the display device 1 receives broadcast waves, displays a video corresponding to the received broadcast waves, and outputs an audio corresponding to the received broadcast waves. The display device 1 may be a display device other than a television receiver. For example, the display device 1 may be a monitor for a personal computer (PC), an all-in-one PC monitor, a digital signage, or the like.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the display device 1 includes a detection unit 101, an analysis unit 102, a setting unit 103, a display video generation unit 104, and a display unit 105. The analysis unit 102, the setting unit 103, and the display video generation unit 104 may be constituted by an electronic circuit, or may be constituted by a microcontroller including a processor, a memory, a storage, and peripheral circuits. The processor executes a program loaded from the storage into the memory to operate the microcontroller as the analysis unit 102, the setting unit 103, and the display video generation unit 104.

[0013] The detection unit 101 detects the situation 111 around the display unit 105.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the detection unit provided in the display device according to the first embodiment.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2, the detection unit 101 includes a camera 121.

[0016] The camera 121 captures the periphery of the display unit 105 to acquire a video 131. The camera 121 captures the range where the display unit 105 can be seen. Therefore, the camera 121 can acquire the video 131 in which the person 141 who can see the display unit 105 is reflected.

[0017] The surrounding situation 111 includes the video 131.

[0018] The detection unit 101 may include a device other than the camera 121, and the surrounding situation 111 may include a surrounding situation other than the video 131. For example, the detection unit 101 may include a distance measuring sensor that detects distance, and the surrounding situation 111 may include the detected distance.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 1, based on the detected surrounding situation 111, the analysis unit 102 analyzes the distance 112 (distance L) from the display unit 105 to the person 141 and the gaze situation 113 indicating whether the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105. When the line of sight of the person 141 is directed at the display unit 105 and continues over the time when the state where the line of sight of the person 141 is directed at the display unit 105 is set, etc., the analysis unit 102 determines that the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105.

[0020] Based on the analyzed distance 112 and gaze situation 113, the setting unit 103 sets the content 114 of the process for suppressing image burn-in of the display unit 105 (hereinafter referred to as the "image burn-in suppression process").

[0021] The analysis unit 102 may analyze matters other than the distance 112 and the gaze situation 113, and the setting unit 103 may set the content 114 of the image burn-in suppression process in consideration of the analyzed matters. For example, the analysis unit 102 may analyze the movement of the person 141, and the setting unit 103 may set the content 114 of the image burn-in suppression process in consideration of the analyzed movement of the person 141.

[0022] The display video generation unit 104 performs an image burn-in suppression process according to the set content 114 of the image burn-in suppression process on the input video 115 that is input, generates a display video 116, and causes the display unit 105 to display the generated display video 116.

[0023] The display unit 105 displays the display video 116. The display unit 105 includes a liquid crystal display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, etc. The image burn-in suppression process is particularly preferably adopted when the display unit 105 includes an OLED display.

[0024] 1.2 Setting of Control Amount The content 114 of the burn-in suppression process includes a control amount. The control amount is an amount indicating the content 114 of the burn-in suppression process. The control amount has the characteristic that the effect of suppressing burn-in (hereinafter referred to as the "burn-in suppression effect") becomes stronger as the control amount increases, but the sense of discomfort felt by the person 141 viewing the display image 116 becomes stronger as the control amount increases. Specific examples of the control amount are described in the seventh and eighth embodiments.

[0025] When the setting unit 103 sets the content 114 of the burn-in suppression process based on the distance 112 and the gazing situation 113, if the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, the control amount is set based on the distance 112, and if the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, the control amount is set to the maximum amount. Thereby, when the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, the display image generation unit 104 can perform a burn-in suppression process suitable for the distance 112. Also, when the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105 and the sense of discomfort felt by the person 141 does not pose a problem, the display image generation unit 104 can perform a burn-in suppression process having the strongest burn-in suppression effect. Thereby, the display device 1 can perform a burn-in suppression process suitable for the viewing situation.

[0026] When the setting unit 103 sets the control amount based on the distance 112, the control amount is increased as the distance 112 becomes longer. Thereby, when the distance 112 is short and the sense of discomfort felt by the person 141 viewing the display image 116 is likely to pose a problem, the display image generation unit 104 prioritizes reducing the sense of discomfort over strengthening the burn-in suppression effect. Also, when the distance 112 is long and the sense of discomfort is unlikely to pose a problem, the display image generation unit 104 prioritizes strengthening the burn-in suppression effect over reducing the sense of discomfort.

[0027] 1.3 Examples of Setting the Control Amount FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the situation around the display unit provided in the display device of the reference example, the ON / OFF of the burn-in suppression process performed by the setting unit provided in the display device, and the control amount indicating the content of the burn-in suppression process set by the setting unit, in each of Use Cases 1-1 to 1-6.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 3, in Use Cases 1-1 to 1-3, the line of sight 151 of the person 141 is directed toward the display unit 105, and the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105. Also, in Use Cases 1-1 to 1-3, the distances 112 are D, 2D, and 3D, respectively. On the other hand, in Use Cases 1-4 to 1-6, the line of sight 151 of the person 141 is not directed toward the display unit 105, and the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105. Also, in Use Cases 1-4 to 1-6, the distances 112 are D, 2D, and 3D, respectively.

[0029] In the reference example, as shown in FIG. 3, in both Use Cases 1-1 to 1-3 where the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105 and Use Cases 1-4 to 1-6 where the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, the burn-in suppression process is turned ON, and the control amount is set based on the distance 112.

[0030] Therefore, in Use Cases 1-1 to 1-3 where the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, when the distances 112 are D, 2D, and 3D, the control amounts are set to "small", "medium", and "large", respectively.

[0031] Also, in Use Cases 1-4 to 1-6 where the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, similar to Use Cases 1-1 to 1-3 where the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, when the distances 112 are D, 2D, and 3D, the control amounts are set to "small", "medium", and "large", respectively. For this reason, when the discomfort felt by the person 141 does not become a problem, the control amount may be set to "small" or "medium" which is not the maximum amount, and the burn-in suppression effect may not become the strongest.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the situation around the display unit provided in the display device of the first embodiment, the ON / OFF of the burn-in suppression process performed by the setting unit provided in the display device, and the control amount indicating the content of the burn-in suppression process set by the setting unit, in each of Use Cases 1-1 to 1-6.

[0033] In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, in Use Cases 1-1 to 1-3 where the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, the burn-in suppression process is turned ON, and the control amount is set based on the distance 112. However, in Use Cases 1-4 to 1-6 where the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, the burn-in suppression process is turned ON, and regardless of the distance 112, the control amount is set to "Large", which is the maximum amount.

[0034] Therefore, in Use Cases 1-1 to 1-3 where the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, when the distances 112 are D, 2D, and 3D, the control amounts are set to "Small", "Medium", and "Large", respectively.

[0035] Also, in Use Cases 1-4 to 1-6 where the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, unlike Use Cases 1-1 to 1-3 where the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, when the distances 112 are D, 2D, and 3D, the control amount is set to "Large", which is the maximum amount. Therefore, when the discomfort felt by the person 141 does not become a problem, the control amount is set to "Large", which is the maximum amount, and the burn-in suppression effect becomes the strongest.

[0036] 1.4 Flow of the Process FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of the process performed by the display device of the first embodiment.

[0037] The display device 1 executes steps S101 to S105 shown in FIG. 5.

[0038] In step S101, camera 121 captures the periphery of display unit 105 to obtain video 131.

[0039] In step S102 following step S101, analysis unit 102 analyzes distance 112 and the fixation status 113 based on the acquired video 131.

[0040] In step S103 following step S102, setting unit 103 determines whether person 141 is looking at display unit 105 based on the analyzed fixation status 113. If setting unit 103 determines that person 141 is looking at display unit 105, it executes step S104. If setting unit 103 determines that person 141 is not looking at display unit 105, it executes step S105.

[0041] In step S104, setting unit 103 sets the control amount based on the analyzed distance 112.

[0042] In step S105, setting unit 103 sets the control amount to the maximum amount.

[0043] After step S104 or S105 is executed, step S101 is executed again. As a result, steps S101 to S105 are repeatedly executed.

[0044] By repeatedly executing steps S101 to S105, setting unit 103 changes the control amount from the control amount corresponding to distance 112 to the maximum amount in conjunction with the change from the first state where person 141 is looking at display unit 105 to the second state where person 141 is not looking at display unit 105. Also, setting unit 103 changes the control amount from the maximum amount to the control amount corresponding to distance 112 in conjunction with the change from the second state to the first state.

[0045] In addition, in conjunction with the change of the distance 112 from the first distance to the second distance, the setting unit 103 changes the control amount from the first control amount corresponding to the first distance to the second control amount corresponding to the second distance.

[0046] 2 Second Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. Regarding the points not described, the same configurations as those employed in the first embodiment are also employed in the second embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the display device according to the second embodiment.

[0048] In the second embodiment, the display device 1 executes steps S201 to S209 shown in FIG. 6.

[0049] In step S201, the setting unit 103 sets the time until it is determined that the distance 112 has changed. The setting unit 103 sets the time according to an operation or the like performed by the user. The setting unit 103 can set the time to an arbitrary time.

[0050] In step S202 following step S201, the setting unit 103 sets the time until it is determined that the fixation state 113 has changed. The setting unit 103 sets the time according to an operation or the like performed by the user. The setting unit 103 can set the time to an arbitrary time.

[0051] In steps S203 and S204 following step S202, the same processing as that performed in steps S101 and S102 shown in FIG. 4 is performed respectively.

[0052] In step S205 following step S204, the setting unit 103 applies a chattering filter to the distance 112. The applied chattering filter is configured such that, before the time set in step S201 elapses, the change in the distance 112 before the chattering filter is applied is not reflected in the distance 112 after the chattering filter is applied, and after the time elapses, the change in the distance 112 before the chattering filter is applied is reflected in the distance 112 after the chattering filter is applied.

[0053] In step S206 following step S205, the setting unit 103 applies a chattering filter to the fixation state 113. The applied chattering filter is configured such that, before the time set in step S202 elapses, the change in the fixation state 113 before the chattering filter is applied is not reflected in the fixation state 113 after the chattering filter is applied, and after the time elapses, the change in the fixation state 113 before the chattering filter is applied is reflected in the fixation state 113 after the chattering filter is applied.

[0054] In step S207 following step S206, the setting unit 103 determines whether the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105 based on the fixation state 113 after the chattering filter is applied. If the setting unit 103 determines that the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, it executes step S208. If the setting unit 103 determines that the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, it executes step S209.

[0055] In steps S208 and S209, the same processing as that performed in steps S104 and S105 shown in FIG. 5 is performed respectively.

[0056] After step S208 or S209 is executed, step S203 is executed again. As a result, steps S203 to S209 are repeatedly executed.

[0057] From step S203 to S209, when a change occurs from the first state in which the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105 to the second state in which the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, and if the second state continues for a set time, the control amount is changed from the control amount corresponding to the distance 112 to the maximum amount. Further, when a change occurs from the second state to the first state and the first state continues for a set time, the setting unit 103 changes the control amount from the maximum amount to the control amount corresponding to the distance 112. Thereby, it is possible to suppress a change in the control amount when the person 141 merely temporarily removes the line of sight 151 from the display unit 105 or when the person 141 merely temporarily directs the line of sight 151 toward the display unit 105. The process of delaying the time from the change in the gazing state 113 to the change in the control amount may be performed by a method other than applying the chattering filter to the gazing state 113.

[0058] In addition, when the distance 112 changes from the first distance to the second distance and the state where the distance 112 is the second distance continues for a set time, the setting unit 103 changes the control amount from the first control amount corresponding to the first distance to the second control amount corresponding to the second distance. Thereby, it is possible to suppress a change in the control amount when the person 141 merely temporarily approaches the display unit 105 or when the person 141 merely temporarily moves away from the display unit 105. The process of delaying the time from the change in the distance 112 to the change in the control amount may be performed by a method other than applying the chattering filter to the distance 112.

[0059] 3 Third Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the third embodiment and the second embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configuration as that employed in the second embodiment is also employed in the third embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the display device according to the third embodiment.

[0061] In the third embodiment, the display device 1 executes steps S301 to S309 shown in FIG. 7.

[0062] In steps S301 to S303, the same processes as those performed in steps S201, S203, and S204 shown in FIG. 6 are respectively performed.

[0063] In step S304 following step S303, the setting unit 103 sets the time until it is determined that the gazing state 113 has changed based on the analyzed distance 112. Thereby, the time from the change in the gazing state 113 to the change in the control amount can be set to a time suitable for the distance 112. For example, when the distance 112 is short and the person 141 viewing the display video 116 can easily notice the change in the control amount, the time from the change in the gazing state 113 to the change in the control amount can be lengthened. Also, when the distance 112 is long and the person 141 viewing the display video 116 can hardly notice the change in the control amount, the time from the change in the distance 112 to the change in the control amount can be shortened.

[0064] In steps S305 to S309 following step S304, the same processes as those performed in steps S205 to S209 shown in FIG. 6 are respectively performed.

[0065] After step S308 or S309 is executed, step S302 is executed again. Thereby, steps S302 to S309 are repeatedly executed. 4 Fourth Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the fourth embodiment and the second embodiment will be described. Regarding points not described, the same configurations as those employed in the second embodiment are also employed in the fourth embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of processes performed by the display device of the fourth embodiment.

[0067] In the fourth embodiment, the display device 1 executes steps S401 to S409 shown in FIG. 8.

[0068] In step S401, the same processing as that performed in step S201 shown in FIG. 6 is performed.

[0069] In step S402 following step S401, the setting unit 103 sets a first time and a second time until it is determined that the gaze state 113 has changed. The first time is used when a change occurs from a first state in which the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105 to a second state in which the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105. The second time is used when a change occurs from the second state to the first state. The second time can be different from the first time. The setting unit 103 sets the first time and the second time according to an operation or the like performed by the user. The setting unit 103 can set the first time and the second time to arbitrary times.

[0070] In steps S403 to S405 following step S402, the same processing as that performed in S203 to S205 shown in FIG. 6 is performed respectively.

[0071] In step S406 following step S405, the setting unit 103 applies a chattering filter to the fixation state 113. The applied chattering filter is configured such that, before the first time set in step S401 elapses, a change from the first state to the second state of the fixation state 113 before the chattering filter is applied is not reflected in the fixation state 113 after the chattering filter is applied, and after the first time elapses, the change from the first state to the second state of the fixation state 113 before the chattering filter is applied is reflected in the fixation state 113 after the chattering filter is applied. The applied chattering filter is configured such that, before the second time set in step S401 elapses, a change from the second state to the first state of the fixation state 113 before the chattering filter is applied is not reflected in the fixation state 113 after the chattering filter is applied, and after the second time elapses, the change from the second state to the first state of the fixation state 113 before the chattering filter is applied is reflected in the fixation state 113 after the chattering filter is applied.

[0072] In steps S407 to S409, processes similar to the processes performed in S207 to S209 shown in FIG. 6 are respectively performed.

[0073] After step S408 or S409 is executed, step S403 is executed again. As a result, steps S403 to S409 are repeatedly executed.

[0074] By repeatedly executing steps S403 to S409, when a change occurs from the first state where person 141 is gazing at display unit 105 to the second state where person 141 is not gazing at display unit 105, and if the second state continues for the first time period that has been set, the control amount is changed from the control amount corresponding to distance 112 to the maximum amount. Also, when a change occurs from the second state to the first state and if the first state continues for the first time period that has been set, the setting unit 103 changes the control amount from the maximum amount to the control amount corresponding to distance 112. Thereby, for example, when the discomfort felt by person 141 who starts gazing at display unit 105 and watches display video 116 becomes a problem, the time from the change in the gazing situation 113 to the change in the control amount can be lengthened. Also, when person 141 finishes gazing at display unit 105 and the discomfort felt by person 141 does not become a problem, the time from the change in the gazing situation 113 to the change in the control amount can be shortened.

[0075] 5 Fifth Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the fifth embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the first embodiment are also adopted in the fifth embodiment.

[0076] In the fifth embodiment, analysis unit 102 analyzes the distance from display unit 105 to a plurality of persons (hereinafter referred to as "distance to a plurality of persons") and whether or not the plurality of persons are gazing at display unit 105 (hereinafter referred to as "gazing situation of the plurality of persons") based on the detected surrounding situation 111.

[0077] Also, setting unit 103 sets the content 114 of the burn-in suppression process based on the analyzed distance to the plurality of persons and the gazing situation of the plurality of persons. When setting the content 114 of the burn-in suppression process based on the distance to the plurality of persons and the gazing situation of the plurality of persons, if two or more persons among the plurality of persons are gazing at display unit 105, setting unit 103 sets the content 114 of the burn-in suppression process based on the shortest distance included in the distances from display unit 105 to the two or more persons.

[0078] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the situation around the display unit provided in the display device according to the fifth embodiment, the ON / OFF of the burn-in suppression process performed by the setting unit provided in the display device, and the control amount indicating the content of the burn-in suppression process set by the setting unit, for use cases 5-1 and 5-2.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 9, in use case 5-1, the line of sight 151 of person 141 and the line of sight 152 of person 142 are directed toward the display unit 105, and persons 141 and 142 are gazing at the display unit 105. Also, in use case 5-1, the distance from the display unit 105 to person 141 and the distance from the display unit 105 to person 142 are D and 2D, respectively.

[0080] In use case 5-2, the line of sight 151 of person 141 is not directed toward the display unit 105, person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, the line of sight 152 of person 142 is directed toward the display unit 105, and person 142 is gazing at the display unit 105. Also, in use case 5-2, the distance from the display unit 105 to person 141 and the distance from the display unit 105 to person 142 are D and 2D, respectively.

[0081] In the fifth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, in use case 5-1 where persons 141 and 142 are gazing at the display unit 105, based on the shortest distance D included in the distance D from the display unit 105 to person 141 and the distance 2D from the display unit 105 to person 142, the control amount is set to "small". Thereby, the control amount can be set to a control amount suitable for person 141, who is most likely to feel discomfort among persons 141 and 142 who view the display image 116.

[0082] Also, in use case 5-2 where person 141 is not gazing at display unit 105 and person 142 is gazing at display unit 105, the control amount is set to "medium" based on the distance D from display unit 105 to person 142 who is gazing at display unit 105. Thereby, person 141 who is unlikely to feel discomfort can be excluded, and the control amount can be set to a control amount suitable for person 142 who may feel discomfort.

[0083] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the display device of the fifth embodiment.

[0084] In the fifth embodiment, display device 1 executes steps S501 to S507 shown in FIG. 10.

[0085] In steps S501 and S502, the same processing as the processing performed in steps S101 and S102 shown in FIG. 5 is performed respectively.

[0086] In step S503 following step S502, setting unit 103 determines whether there is a person gazing at display unit 105 based on the gazing states of a plurality of persons. If setting unit 103 determines that there is a person gazing at display unit 105, it executes step S504. If setting unit 103 determines that there is no person gazing at display unit 105, it executes step S507.

[0087] In step S504, setting unit 103 determines whether two or more persons are gazing at display unit 105. If setting unit 103 determines that two or more persons are gazing at display unit 105, it executes step S505. If setting unit 103 determines that only one person is gazing at display unit 105, it executes step S506.

[0088] In step S505, setting unit 103 sets the control amount based on the shortest distance included in the distances from display unit 105 to two or more persons.

[0089] In step S506, the setting unit 103 sets a control amount based on the distance from the display unit 105 to a single person who is gazing at the display unit 105.

[0090] In step S507, the setting unit 103 sets the control amount to the maximum amount.

[0091] After step S505, S506, or S507 is executed, step S501 is executed again. As a result, steps S501 to S507 are repeatedly executed.

[0092] Through steps S501 to S507, when two or more people are gazing at the display unit 105, the setting unit 103 can set the control amount to a control amount suitable for the person who is most likely to feel discomfort. Also, when only a single person is gazing at the display unit 105, the setting unit 103 can set the control amount to a control amount suitable for the only person who may feel discomfort. Further, when there is no person gazing at the display unit 105 and the discomfort felt by the person is not a problem, the setting unit 103 can set the control amount to the maximum amount to maximize the burn-in suppression effect.

[0093] 6 Sixth Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the sixth embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those employed in the first embodiment are also employed in the sixth embodiment.

[0094] In the sixth embodiment, the burn-in suppression process includes a movement process of moving the display position of the image to be displayed on the display unit 105 by a set movement distance. This movement process is also called pixel shift or the like. The movement process is repeatedly executed. Also, setting the control amount includes setting the movement distance. Setting the control amount may include setting the movement speed in addition to setting the movement distance.

[0095] When the display generation unit 104 moves an image and a non-display area of the image is generated in the display unit 105, the display generation unit 104 makes the area a black area.

[0096] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the situation around the display unit provided in the display device according to the sixth embodiment and the screen of the display unit for each of use cases 6-1 and 6-2.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 11, in use cases 6-1 and 6-2, the line of sight 151 of the person 141 is directed toward the display unit 105, and the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105. Also, in use cases 6-1 and 6-2, the distances 112 from the display unit 105 to the person 141 are D and 2D, respectively.

[0098] In the sixth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, in use case 6-1 where the distance 112 is D, the moving distance is set to "small" based on the distance D. Also, in use case 6-2 where the distance 112 is 2D, the moving distance is set to "medium" based on the distance 2D. Thereby, the higher the possibility that the person 141 viewing the display video 116 feels discomfort, the shorter the moving distance can be made to reduce the discomfort. Also, the lower the possibility that the person 141 viewing the display video 116 feels discomfort, the longer the moving distance can be made to enhance the burn-in suppression effect.

[0099] 7 Seventh Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the seventh embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those employed in the first embodiment are also employed in the seventh embodiment.

[0100] In the seventh embodiment, the burn-in suppression process includes a change process of changing the resolution of the image to be displayed on the display unit 105. Also, setting the control amount includes setting the resolution.

[0101] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the situation around the display unit provided in the display device according to the seventh embodiment and the screen of the display unit for each of use cases 7-1 and 7-2.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 12, in use cases 7-1 and 7-2, the line of sight 151 of the person 141 is directed toward the display unit 105, and the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105. Also, in use cases 7-1 and 7-2, the distances 112 from the display unit 105 to the person 141 are D and 2D, respectively.

[0103] In the seventh embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, in use case 7-1 where the distance 112 is D, the resolution is set to the first resolution based on the distance D. Also, in use case 7-2 where the distance 112 is 2D, the resolution is set to a second resolution lower than the first resolution based on the distance 2D. Thereby, the higher the possibility that the person 141 feels discomfort, the higher the resolution can be set to weaken the discomfort. Also, the lower the possibility that the person 141 feels discomfort, the lower the resolution can be set to enhance the burn-in suppression effect.

[0104] When the distance 112 is less than or equal to the threshold value, the setting unit 103 maintains the resolution and does not cause the display video generation unit 104 to perform a change process. Also, when the distance 112 is greater than the threshold value, the setting unit 103 sets the resolution based on the distance 112 and causes the display video generation unit 104 to perform a change process.

[0105] The display video generation unit 104 obtains second image data constituting the display video 116 from the first image data constituting the input video 115. When the display video generation unit 104 does not perform a change process, the first image data is directly used as the second image data. When the display video generation unit 104 performs a change process, a change process is performed on the first image data to generate second image data from the first image data. The resolution of the generated second image data is lower than the resolution of the first image data.

[0106] The first image data has the pixel values before change of a plurality of pixels. The second image data has the pixel values after change of a plurality of pixels.

[0107] When performing the change process, the display video generation unit 104 sets a plurality of pixel blocks in the first image data and the second image data. Each pixel block included in the plurality of pixel blocks belongs to two or more pixels included in the plurality of pixels.

[0108] When performing the change process, the display video generation unit 104 reduces the resolution of the image to be displayed on the display unit 105 and blurs the image by making all of the pixel values after change of two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block set in the second image data the same value. The display video generation unit 104 makes all of the pixel values after change of the two or more pixels the same pixel value as the pixel value before change of one pixel selected from two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block set in the first image data.

[0109] When performing the change process, the display video generation unit 104 changes one pixel selected every time the set time elapses. The display video generation unit 104 rotates the one pixel among two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block.

[0110] In the seventh embodiment, setting the control amount includes setting the number of two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block.

[0111] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the pixel values before change of a plurality of pixels included in the first image data input to the display video generation unit provided in the display device according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing, for each of use cases 7-11, 7-12, and 7-13, the situation around the display unit provided in the display device according to the seventh embodiment, and the pixel values after change of a plurality of pixels included in the second image data output from the display video generation unit provided in the display device.

[0112] As shown in FIG. 14, in use cases 7-11, 7-12, and 7-13, the line of sight 151 of the person 141 is directed toward the display unit 105, and the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105. Also, in use cases 7-11, 7-12, and 7-13, the distances 112 from the display unit 105 to the person 141 are D, 2D, and 3D, respectively.

[0113] In the seventh embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, in use case 7-11 where the distance 112 is D which is less than or equal to the threshold value, the first image data is directly used as the second image data. Therefore, the pixel values before change of the plurality of pixels included in the first image data are directly used as the pixel values after change of the plurality of pixels included in the second image data.

[0114] Also, in use case 7-12 where the distance 112 is 2D which is greater than the threshold value, the number of two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 is set to "4" based on the distance 2D. The four pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 are pixels arranged in a 2×2 matrix. All of the pixel values after change of the four pixels are set to the same pixel value as the pixel value "a" before change of the first pixel selected from the four pixels from time T1[s] to time T2[s], are set to the same pixel value as the pixel value "b" before change of the second pixel selected from the four pixels from time T2[s] to time T3[s], and are set to the same pixel value as the pixel value "Cn" before change of the nth pixel selected from the four pixels from time Tn[s] to time Tn+1[s].

[0115] Also, in use case 7-13 where the distance 112 is 3D and greater than the threshold value, the number of two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 is set to "9" based on the distance 3D. The nine pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 are pixels arranged in a 3-row and 3-column matrix. All of the changed pixel values of the nine pixels are set to the same pixel value as the pixel value "a" before the change of the first pixel selected from the nine pixels from time T1[s] to time T2[s], and from time T2[s] to time T3[s], they are set to the same pixel value as the pixel value "b" before the change of the second pixel selected from the nine pixels, and from time Tn[s] to time Tn+1[s], they are set to the same pixel value as the pixel value "Cn" before the change of the nth pixel selected from the nine pixels.

[0116] By using two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 as pixels arranged in a matrix, the resolution can be reduced in both the horizontal line direction and the vertical line direction.

[0117] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the situation around the display unit provided in the display device according to the first modification of the seventh embodiment and the changed pixel values of a plurality of pixels included in the second image data output from the display image generation unit provided in the display device for each of use cases 7-11, 7-12, and 7-13.

[0118] In the first modification of the seventh embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 15, in use case 7-12 where the distance 112 is a 2D greater than the threshold value, the number of two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 is set to "2" based on the distance 2D. The two pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 are pixels arranged in a column in the vertical line direction. All of the changed pixel values of the two pixels are set to the same pixel value as the pre-change pixel value "a" of the first pixel selected from the two pixels from time T1[s] to time T2[s], and from time T2[s] to time T3[s], they are set to the same pixel value as the pre-change pixel value "g" of the second pixel selected from the two pixels, and from time T3[s] to time T4[s], they are set to the same pixel value as the pre-change pixel value "a" of the first pixel selected from the two pixels.

[0119] Also, in use case 7-13 where the distance 112 is a 3D greater than the threshold value, the number of two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 is set to "3" based on the distance 3D. The three pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 are pixels arranged in a column in the vertical line direction. All of the changed pixel values of the three pixels are set to the same pixel value as the pre-change pixel value "a" of the first pixel selected from the three pixels from time T1[s] to time T2[s], from time T2 to time T3, they are set to the same pixel value as the pre-change pixel value "g" of the second pixel selected from the three pixels, and from time T3 to time T4, they are set to the same pixel value as the pre-change pixel value "m" of the third pixel selected from the three pixels.

[0120] By making two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 be pixels arranged in a column in the vertical line direction, the resolution in the vertical line direction can be lowered. Also, by regularly arranging a plurality of pixel blocks in a matrix, the pixel values of two or more pixels belonging to one horizontal line are copied to other horizontal lines.

[0121] FIG. 16 shows, for each of use cases 7-11 and 7-12, the situation around the display unit provided in the display device according to the second modification of the seventh embodiment and the changed pixel values of a plurality of pixels included in the second image data output from the display video generation unit provided in the display device.

[0122] In the second modification of the seventh embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 16, in use case 7-12 where the distance 112 is a 2D greater than the threshold value, the number of two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 is set to "2" based on the distance 2D. The two pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 are pixels arranged in a row in the horizontal line direction. All of the changed pixel values of the two pixels are set to the same pixel value as the pixel value "a" before change of the first pixel selected from the two pixels from time T1 [s] to time T2 [s], and from time T2 [s] to time T3 [s], are set to the same pixel value as the pixel value "b" before change of the second pixel selected from the two pixels, and from time T3 [s] to time T4 [s], are set to the same pixel value as the pixel value "a" before change of the first pixel selected from the two pixels.

[0123] By setting two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 as pixels arranged in a row in the horizontal line direction, the resolution in the horizontal line direction can be lowered. Further, by regularly arranging a plurality of pixel blocks in a matrix, the pixel values of two or more pixels belonging to one vertical line are copied to other vertical lines.

[0124] The copy of the pixel values between the horizontal lines in the first modification and the copy of the pixel values between the vertical lines in the second modification may be performed simultaneously.

[0125] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the display device according to the seventh embodiment.

[0126] In the seventh embodiment, the display device 1 executes steps S701 to S710 shown in FIG. 17.

[0127] In step S701, the analysis unit 102 analyzes the distance 112.

[0128] In step S702 following step S701, the setting unit 103 determines whether the analyzed distance 112 is greater than the threshold value. If the setting unit 103 determines that the distance 112 is greater than the threshold value, it executes step S703. If the setting unit 103 determines that the distance 112 is less than or equal to the threshold value, it executes step S710.

[0129] In step S703, the setting unit 103 sets the internal resolution based on the analyzed distance 112. Setting the internal resolution is performed by setting the number of two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701.

[0130] In step S704 following step S703, the display video generation unit 104 determines a representative value C1 that is the changed pixel value of two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block 701 set in the second image data. The display video generation unit 104 sets the pixel value before change of the first pixel included in the two or more pixels as the representative value C1.

[0131] In step S705 following step S704, the display video generation unit 104 determines whether the count time Tcount is shorter than the rotation time n. The count time Tcount indicates the time elapsed since the representative value was last rotated. The rotation time n indicates the time from when the representative value was last rotated until the representative value is rotated again. If the display video generation unit 104 determines that the count time Tcount is shorter than the rotation time n, it executes step S706. If the display video generation unit 104 determines that the count time Tcount is equal to or greater than the rotation time n, it executes step S707.

[0132] In step S706, the display video generation unit 104 increments the count time Tcount.

[0133] In step S707, the display video generation unit 104 switches from the representative value C1 to the representative value Cn. The display video generation unit 104 sets the pixel values before change of the n-th pixels included in two or more pixels belonging to each pixel block set in the first image data as the representative value Cn.

[0134] In step S708 following step S707, the display video generation unit 104 initializes the count time Tcount to 0.

[0135] From step S705 to S708, the display video generation unit 104 increases the count time Tcount every time time elapses until the count time Tcount reaches the rotation time n. Further, the display video generation unit 104 rotates the representative value in synchronization with the count time Tcount reaching the rotation time n, and initializes the count time Tcount to 0. Thereby, the count time Tcount indicates the time elapsed since the representative value was rotated.

[0136] In step S709 following step S706 or S708, the display video generation unit 104 changes the resolution of the image to be displayed on the display unit 105 to the internal resolution.

[0137] In step S710 following step S709, the display video generation unit 104 causes the image to be displayed on the display unit 105.

[0138] After step S710 is executed, step S701 is executed again.

[0139] 8 Eighth Embodiment Hereinafter, differences between the eighth embodiment and the sixth embodiment will be described. Regarding points not described, the same configurations as those employed in the sixth embodiment are also employed in the eighth embodiment.

[0140] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of the display device according to the eighth embodiment.

[0141] In the eighth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, the display device 1 includes a brightness detection unit 106.

[0142] The brightness detection unit 106 detects the brightness 116 of the environment in which the display device 1 is installed.

[0143] FIG. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between the brightness detected by the brightness detection unit provided in the display device of the eighth embodiment and the moving distance set by the setting unit provided in the display device.

[0144] In the eighth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19, when the detected brightness 116 is darker than the set brightness 117, the setting unit 103 sets the moving distance to the maximum moving distance regardless of the distance 112, the gazing state 113, the number of persons 141, etc. Further, when the detected brightness 116 is brighter than the set brightness 117, the moving distance is set based on the distance 112 and the gazing state 113 in the same manner as in the seventh embodiment.

[0145] Thereby, when the environment in which the display device 1 is installed is dark, the moving distance becomes long, and the area of the black region becomes wide, but the person 141 viewing the display image 116 is less likely to feel discomfort, the burn-in suppression effect can be maximized.

[0146] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the display device of the eighth embodiment.

[0147] In the eighth embodiment, the display device 1 executes steps S801 to S808 shown in FIG. 20.

[0148] In steps S801 and S802, the same processing as that performed in steps S101 and S102 shown in FIG. 5 is respectively performed.

[0149] In step S803 following step S802, the brightness detection unit 106 detects the brightness 116.

[0150] In step S804 following step S803, the setting unit 103 determines whether the detected brightness 116 is darker than the set brightness 117. If the setting unit 103 determines that the detected brightness 116 is darker than the set brightness 117, it executes step S805. If the setting unit 103 determines that the detected brightness 116 is brighter than the set brightness 117, it executes step S806.

[0151] In step S806, the setting unit 103 determines whether the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105 based on the gazing situation 113. If the setting unit 103 determines that the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, it executes step S807. If the setting unit 103 determines that the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, it executes step S808.

[0152] In step S805, the setting unit 103 sets the moving distance to the maximum moving distance.

[0153] In step S807, the setting unit 103 sets the moving distance based on the distance 112.

[0154] In step S808, the setting unit 103 sets the moving distance to the maximum moving distance.

[0155] After step S805, S807 or S808 is executed, step S801 is executed again. As a result, steps S801 to S808 are repeatedly executed.

[0156] Through steps S801 to S808, when the environment is dark and the person 141 viewing the display image 116 is less likely to feel discomfort, or when the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105 and the discomfort felt by the person 141 is not a problem, the setting unit 103 can set the moving distance to the maximum moving distance to maximize the baking suppression effect.

[0157] 9th Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the 9th embodiment and the 1st embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the 1st embodiment are also adopted in the 9th embodiment.

[0158] In the 9th embodiment, after the lapse of the set time since the display video generation unit 104 detects that the display video 116 is a still image, the display video generation unit 104 executes a burn-in suppression process of lowering the overall brightness of the screen of the display unit 105. The display video generation unit 104 determines that the display video 116 is a still image when the overall brightness of the screen, the variation between frames such as the vector of the screen, is equal to or less than a set value.

[0159] 10th Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the 10th embodiment and the 1st embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the 1st embodiment are also adopted in the 10th embodiment.

[0160] In the 10th embodiment, when the display video generation unit 104 detects that the display video 116 includes a still area where a logo or the like is displayed, the display video generation unit 104 executes a burn-in suppression process of lowering the overall brightness or the brightness of the still area of the screen of the display unit 105. The display video generation unit 104 determines that an area where text is detected, an area where the variation between frames of a vector is detected to be equal to or less than a set value, etc. are still areas.

[0161] 11th Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the 11th embodiment and the 9th embodiment or the 10th embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the 9th embodiment or the 10th embodiment are also adopted in the 11th embodiment.

[0162] In the 11th embodiment, the display video generation unit 104 determines, based on the gaze status 113, whether a person 141 exists around the display unit 105 and whether the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105. Further, while the burn-in suppression process is being executed, if the display video generation unit 104 determines that a person 141 exists around the display unit 105 and the person 141 is gazing at the display unit 105, the display video generation unit 104 ends the execution of the burn-in suppression process. On the other hand, while the burn-in suppression process is being executed, if the display video generation unit 104 determines that no person 141 exists around the display unit 105, or if it determines that a person 141 exists around the display unit 105 but the person 141 is not gazing at the display unit 105, the display video generation unit 104 continues to execute the burn-in suppression process.

[0163] 12 12th Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the 12th embodiment and the 9th or 10th embodiment will be described. Regarding points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the 9th or 10th embodiment are also adopted in the 12th embodiment.

[0164] In the 12th embodiment, the setting unit 103 sets a control amount indicating the content of the burn-in suppression process to be executed based on the distance 112.

[0165] The burn-in suppression process executed in the 9th or 10th embodiment reduces the brightness. Therefore, when the burn-in suppression process is executed, the display video 116 becomes difficult to see. For this reason, the setting unit 103 increases the control amount when the distance 112 is short, and decreases the control amount when the distance 112 is long.

[0166] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may be replaced with a configuration that is substantially the same as the configuration shown in the above-described embodiments, a configuration that exhibits the same operational effects, or a configuration that can achieve the same purpose.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0167] 1 represents a device, 101 a detection unit, 102 an analysis unit, 103 a setting unit, 104 a display image generation unit, 105 a display unit, 111 the surrounding situation, 112 the distance, 113 the gazing situation, 114 the content of the burn-in suppression process, 115 the input image, 121 a camera, 131 an image, 141 a person, 142 a person, 151 a line of sight, 152 a line of sight, 701 each pixel block.

Claims

1. A display unit, a detection unit that detects the situation around the display unit, an analysis unit that analyzes the distance from the display unit to a person and whether the person is gazing at the display unit based on the situation, a setting unit that sets the content of a process for suppressing image burn-in of the display unit based on the distance and whether the person is gazing at the display unit, and a display device including the same.

2. Setting the content based on the distance and whether the person is gazing at the display unit includes setting the amount indicating the content based on the distance when the person is gazing at the display unit, and setting the amount to a maximum amount when the person is not gazing at the display unit. The display device according to claim 1.

3. Setting the amount based on the distance includes increasing the amount as the distance increases. The display device according to claim 2.

4. The setting unit changes the content in conjunction with a change in the distance. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The setting unit sets a time, and changes the content after the time has elapsed since the distance changed. The display device according to claim 4.

6. The setting unit changes the content in conjunction with a change from one of a first state in which the person is gazing at the display unit and a second state in which the person is not gazing at the display unit to the other of the first state and the second state. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The setting unit sets a time, and changes the content after the time has elapsed since the change occurred. The display device according to claim 6.

8. The setting unit sets the time based on the distance. The display device according to claim 7.

9. Changing the content in conjunction with the occurrence of the change includes changing the content after a first time has elapsed since the change from the first state to the second state has occurred, and changing the content after a second time different from the first time has elapsed since the change from the second state to the first state has occurred. The display device according to claim 6.

10. The analysis unit analyzes the distances from the display unit to a plurality of persons and whether the plurality of persons are gazing at the display unit. When two or more persons among the plurality of persons are gazing at the display unit, the setting unit sets the content based on the shortest distance included in the distances from the display unit to the two or more persons. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

11. The analysis unit analyzes the distances from the display unit to a plurality of persons and whether or not the plurality of persons are gazing at the display unit. When the setting unit includes a first person among the plurality of persons who is gazing at the display unit and a second person who is not gazing at the display unit, the setting unit sets the content based on the distance from the display unit to the first person. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

12. The process includes a movement process of moving the display position of the image to be displayed on the display unit by the set movement distance. Setting the content includes setting the movement distance. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

13. The display device includes a brightness detection unit that detects the brightness of the environment in which the display device is installed. When the brightness is darker than the set brightness, the setting unit sets the movement distance to the maximum movement distance. When the brightness is brighter than the set brightness, the setting unit sets the movement distance based on the distance and whether or not the person is gazing at the display unit. The display device according to claim 12.

14. The process includes a change process of changing the resolution of the image to be displayed on the display unit. Setting the content includes setting the resolution. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

15. The change process includes generating second image data having changed pixel values of a plurality of pixels from first image data having pre-change pixel values of the plurality of pixels, making all of the changed pixel values of two or more pixels included in the plurality of pixels the same as the pre-change pixel value of one pixel selected from the two or more pixels, and changing the one pixel every time a set time elapses. Setting the resolution includes setting the number of the two or more pixels. The display device according to claim 14.

16. Detecting the situation around the display unit; Analyzing the distance from the display unit to a person and whether or not the person is gazing at the display unit based on the situation; Setting the content of a process for suppressing burn-in of the display unit based on the distance and whether or not the person is gazing at the display unit; A burn-in suppression method comprising the above.

Images