Display device, output method, and display module

Abstract

To create a sense of unity between images and sound. [Solution] The display device of this technology is constructed by combining display modules having multiple light source substrates, and comprises a display unit that displays an image, and a screen vibration output unit that vibrates the light source substrate or display module by expanding or contracting or deforming multiple stacked piezo actuators provided on the back side of the light source substrate or the display module, thereby outputting sound from the display unit. This technology can be applied to display devices having a large screen display unit, such as an LED display, for example.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This technology relates to a display device, an output method, and a display module, and particularly to a display device, an output method, and a display module that can create a sense of unity between an image and sound.

Background Art

[0002] In a display device having a large-screen display unit such as an LED display, a speaker may be placed behind or around the display unit (such as the lower part of the screen).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In this case, when placed at the back, the sound output from the speaker is blocked by the display unit, and when placed around, the sound can be heard from outside the screen. Therefore, the viewer cannot obtain an experience of unity between the image and sound where the sources of the image and sound are felt to coincide.

[0005] This technology has been made in view of such a situation and aims to create a sense of unity between an image and sound.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first aspect of this technology is a display device configured by combining display modules having multiple light source substrates, and comprises a display unit that displays an image, and a screen excitation sound output unit that vibrates the light source substrate or the display module by expanding or contracting or deforming a plurality of stacked piezo actuators provided on the back side of the light source substrate or the display module, thereby outputting sound from the display unit.

[0007] The display module of the second aspect of this technology comprises an image display unit formed by combining multiple light source substrates, and a screen excitation sound output unit that vibrates the light source substrate by expanding or contracting or deforming multiple stacked piezo actuators provided on the back side of the light source substrate, thereby outputting sound from the image display unit.

[0008] In the first aspect of this technology, an image is displayed by a display unit configured by combining display modules having multiple light source substrates, and the light source substrates or the display modules are vibrated by expanding or contracting or deforming multiple stacked piezo actuators provided on the back side of the light source substrates or the display modules, and sound is output from the display unit.

[0009] In the second aspect of this technology, the light source substrate is vibrated by expanding or contracting or deforming a plurality of stacked piezoelectric actuators provided on the back side of the light source substrate, and sound is output from the display unit which is formed by combining the plurality of light source substrates. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This figure shows the appearance of a display device to which this technology is applied. [Figure 2] This is a front view showing an example of the display unit configuration. [Figure 3] This is a diagram showing a magnified view of one display module. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the mechanism of the first type of vibration. [Figure 5]It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a vibrator. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of a vibration method of a vibrator. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing another configuration example of a vibrator. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an example of a fixing method of a vibrator. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing a second vibration mechanism. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing a third vibration mechanism. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a vibrator. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing a fourth vibration mechanism. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing a fifth vibration mechanism. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing a sixth vibration mechanism. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing a seventh vibration mechanism. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing an eighth vibration mechanism. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing a ninth vibration mechanism. [Figure 18] It is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of a display device. [Figure 19] It is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration example of a sound output unit. [Figure 20] It is a diagram showing a first modification example of a display device. [Figure 21] It is a diagram showing an example of the frequency characteristics of the sound output from the screen vibration sound output unit and the low-range speaker. [Figure 22] It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a sound output unit when a low-range speaker is provided. [Figure 23] It is a diagram showing a second modification example of a display device. [Figure 24] It is a diagram showing a third modification example of a display device.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] The following describes the configurations for implementing this technology. The explanation will proceed in the following order. 1. Appearance of the display device 2. Display device configuration 3. Variant

[0012] <1. Appearance of the display device> • Example of the appearance of a display device Figure 1 shows the external appearance of the display device 1 to which this technology is applied. Figure 1 shows the external appearance of the display device 1 when viewed from a diagonal front angle.

[0013] In the example shown in Figure 1, the display device 1 is constructed by surrounding the display unit 11, which is an LED (Light Emitting Diode) display, with narrow frame members on all sides. The display device 1 may also be constructed using a display unit 11 that is not surrounded by frame members.

[0014] The display device 1 outputs images and sound obtained by playing video content, for example. In the display device 1, the image is displayed on the display unit 11. The sound is output from the display unit 11 itself, as shown by the arrow in Figure 1. The output of sound using the display unit 11 is achieved by vibrating the display unit 11, as will be described later.

[0015] Figure 2 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the display unit 11.

[0016] As shown by the solid lines separating the sections, the display unit 11 is constructed by arranging and combining multiple display modules 12 vertically and horizontally.

[0017] In the example shown in Figure 2, the display unit 11 is constructed by combining a total of 42 horizontally elongated rectangular display modules 12, 7 horizontally and 6 vertically. The number of display modules 12 constituting the display unit 11 can be appropriately changed according to the size of the display device 1. The display device 1 is a scalable display system constructed by combining any number of display modules 12.

[0018] Each surface of the display module 12 serves as an image display area. Rather than the same image being displayed on each image display area, as shown in Figure 2, for example, multiple image display areas are treated as a single display surface for image display.

[0019] • Example configuration of display module 12 Figure 3 is a magnified view of one display module 12.

[0020] As shown in Figure 3, the image display section 12a of the display module 12 is constructed by arranging and combining multiple LED boards 13 vertically and horizontally. The LED board 13 is a board on which tiny RGB LEDs, which serve as light source elements, are arranged at predetermined intervals across the entire front surface of the board. In the example in Figure 3, the image display section 12a is constructed by combining a total of 18 vertically elongated rectangular LED boards 13, 6 horizontally and 3 vertically. The number of LED boards 13 that make up one display module 12 can also be changed as appropriate.

[0021] • First excitation mechanism (example of exciting an LED substrate) Figure 4 shows the mechanism of the first excitation. Figure 4A shows the back side of the LED substrate 13, and Figure 4B shows the front side of the LED substrate 13.

[0022] As shown in Figure 4A, a thin plate-shaped vibrator 21 is provided on the back of the thin plate-shaped LED substrate 13. In Figure 4A, the vibrator 21 is positioned slightly to the left of the center of the LED substrate 13.

[0023] The vibrator 21 is composed of a planar stacked piezoelectric actuator, an electromagnetic actuator, and the like. The vibrator 21 vibrates in response to the audio signal, transmitting the vibration to the LED board 13. By directly vibrating the LED board 13 with the vibrator 21, sound is output with the display surface of the LED board 13 as the radiating surface, as shown in Figure 4B. This makes it possible to make the LED board 13 function as a planar speaker.

[0024] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of the vibrator 21.

[0025] The monomorph-type planar stacked piezoelectric actuator, which serves as the vibrator 21 and is directly fixed to the back of the LED substrate 13 as shown in Figure 5A, is constructed by stacking multiple ceramic layers, as shown in a magnified view of a portion of it in Figure 5B. As each ceramic layer stretches, the planar stacked piezoelectric actuator and the LED substrate 13 deform together as a single unit, with the LED substrate 13 as the fixed end, as schematically shown in Figure 6.

[0026] Figure 7 shows another example of the configuration of the vibrator 21.

[0027] The bimorph-type planar stacked piezoelectric actuator, shown in Figure 7A as the vibrator 21, is constructed by stacking multiple ceramic layers, similar to the monomorph-type planar stacked piezoelectric actuator, as shown in a magnified portion of Figure 7B. The planar stacked piezoelectric actuator is distorted as the ceramic layers shown by the solid lines expand and the ceramic layers shown by the dashed lines contract. This distortion of the planar stacked piezoelectric actuator is transmitted to the LED substrate 13.

[0028] As described above, since sound is output from the display unit 11 itself, which is composed of the LED board 13, the display device 1 can provide viewers with the experience of hearing sounds coming from people or objects depicted in the image displayed on the display unit 11. In other words, the display device 1 can create a sense of unity between the image and the sound.

[0029] Figure 8 shows an example of a method for fixing the vibrator 21. For ease of explanation, the vibrator 21 is shown in the center of the LED substrate 13 in Figure 8.

[0030] In example A of Figure 8, the vibrator 21 is fixed to the LED substrate 13 by attaching almost the entire surface of the vibrator 21 with double-sided tape or the like. The area shown by the dashed line represents the area to be attached. By fixing the entire surface of the vibrator 21, it becomes possible to strongly transmit the force generated by the vibration of the vibrator 21 to the LED substrate 13.

[0031] In example B of Figure 8, the vibrator 21 is fixed to the LED board 13 by attaching it in three places with double-sided tape or the like. Fixing it to the LED board 13 in three places makes it easier to transmit the vibrations of the vibrator 21 to the LED board 13.

[0032] • Second excitation mechanism (an example of fixing the exciter using a boss) Figure 9 shows the mechanism of the second excitation.

[0033] The second excitation mechanism involves fixing the exciter 21 using bosses. As shown in Figure 9A, the exciter 21 is fixed to the LED substrate 13 via a plurality of bosses 32. In the example in Figure 9A, six cylindrical bosses 32 are attached to the edge of the exciter 21. A gap corresponding to the height of the bosses 32 is formed between the exciter 21 and the LED substrate 13.

[0034] The vibrations from the vibrator 21 are transmitted to the LED substrate 13 via the boss 32. When the vibrator 21 vibrates the LED substrate 13 via the boss 32, sound is output with the display surface of the LED substrate 13 as the radiating surface, as shown in Figure 9B.

[0035] If mounting components such as a driver IC are provided on the back of the LED board 13, the vibrator 21 cannot be directly fixed to the back of the LED board 13. For example, the boss 32 is positioned to avoid the mounting components of the LED board 13. In the example in Figure 9, the mounting components are provided in the gap formed between the vibrator 21 and the LED board 13.

[0036] Thus, even when mounting components are provided on the back of the LED board 13, the vibrator 21 makes it possible to output sound from the display unit 11. Similar to the first vibration mechanism, since the sound is output from the display unit 11 itself, the display device 1 can provide viewers with the experience of hearing sounds coming from people or objects depicted in the image displayed on the display unit 11.

[0037] • Third excitation mechanism (example of exciting the chassis) Figure 10 shows the mechanism of the third excitation. Figure 10A shows a cross-section of the LED substrate 13, and Figure 10B shows the front side of the LED substrate 13.

[0038] The third vibration mechanism involves vibrating a chassis 33 located on the back side of the LED substrate 13. The chassis 33, which is made of a metal such as iron, is provided with a protruding fixing part for securing the LED substrate 13, as shown in Figure 10A. A gap corresponding to the height of the fixing part is formed between the chassis 33 and the LED substrate 13. Mounting components such as driver ICs are placed in the gap between the chassis 33 and the LED substrate 13.

[0039] A module frame 34 is provided on the rear side of the chassis 33 with a predetermined gap between them. The chassis 33 is attached to the vibrator 41, which is embedded in a recess formed in the module frame 34, by the magnetic force of a magnet 42. Alternatively, the vibrator 41 may be directly fixed to the rear side of the chassis 33.

[0040] The module frame 34 is a component that supports the LED board 13, the vibrator 41, and the like. The module frame 34 has recesses into which the vibrator 41 is embedded, for example, the same number as the number of LED boards 13 provided in the display module 12. An LED board 13 is attached to each vibrator 41 as described above.

[0041] The vibrator 41 is composed of a laminated piezoelectric actuator formed in a rectangular prism shape. The vibrator 41 vibrates in response to the audio signal, transmitting the vibration to the LED substrate 13. As the vibrator 41 vibrates the LED substrate 13 via the chassis 33, sound is output with the display surface of the LED substrate 13 as the radiating surface, as shown in Figure 10B.

[0042] Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of the vibrator 41.

[0043] The rectangular prism-shaped laminated piezoelectric actuator, which serves as the vibrator 41 shown in Figure 11A, is constructed by laminating multiple ceramic layers, as partially enlarged in Figure 11B. The entire laminated piezoelectric actuator elongates as each ceramic layer stretches in the thickness direction.

[0044] While the vibrator 21 (planar multilayer piezoelectric actuator) in Figure 6 vibrates the LED substrate 13 in a way that deforms it, the vibrator 41 (multilayer piezoelectric actuator) in Figure 10 vibrates the LED substrate 13 by expanding and contracting the vibrator 41 itself. Even when it is difficult to deform the LED substrate 13 due to the reinforcement of the chassis 33, the vibrator 41 can still vibrate the LED substrate 13.

[0045] In this way, by vibrating the LED board 13 via the chassis 33, sound can be output from the display unit 11.

[0046] Furthermore, since the LED board 13 (chassis 33) is attached to the module frame 34 by the magnet 42, the LED board 13 can be attached and detached. This makes maintenance of the LED board 13 easier compared to when the LED board 13 is fixed in place.

[0047] • Fourth excitation mechanism (example of exciting a display module) Figure 12 is a diagram showing the fourth excitation mechanism. Figure 12A shows a cross-section of the display module 12, and Figure 12B shows the front side of the display module 12.

[0048] The fourth excitation mechanism is a mechanism that excites the entire display module 12. As shown in Figure 12A, the display module 12 is constructed by fixing the image display unit 12a to the module frame 34 via member 12b.

[0049] A cabinet is formed by providing a back frame 51 on the rear side of the display module 12. Inside the cabinet, for example, at the center on the rear side of the module frame 34, is a vibrator 41. The vibrator 41 is attached to the back frame 51 via a spring 52 fixed to the back frame 51. The module frame 34 and the vibrator 41 do not need to be fixed together; it is possible to configure the system so that the vibrator 41 is pressed against the module frame 34 by the spring 52.

[0050] Since the module frame 34 and the vibrator 41 are not fixed together, the display module 12 can be attached and detached. This makes it easier to maintain the display module 12. Alternatively, the vibrator 41 may be directly fixed to the back side of the module frame 34.

[0051] The vibrator 41 vibrates in response to the audio signal, transmitting the vibration to the entire display module 12. As the vibrator 41 vibrates the entire display module 12, the audio is output with the image display section 12a of the display module 12 as the radiating surface, as shown in Figure 12B.

[0052] Thus, instead of vibrating the LED board 13 that constitutes the display module 12, sound can also be output from the display unit 11 by vibrating the entire display module 12.

[0053] Furthermore, even when it is difficult to provide an exciter on each LED board, it becomes possible to output sound from the display unit 11.

[0054] • Fifth excitation mechanism (an example using multiple exciters) Figure 13 shows the mechanism of the fifth excitation.

[0055] The fifth excitation mechanism is a mechanism that uses multiple exciters 41 to excite the display module 12. As an example, as shown in Figure 13A, where four locations are excited, an exciter 41-1 is provided inside the cabinet at an upper position on the rear side of the module frame 34, and an exciter 41-2 is provided at a lower position. Exciter 41-1 is attached to a spring 52-1 fixed to the back frame 51. Exciter 41-2 is attached to a spring 52-2 fixed to the back frame 51.

[0056] Similar to the configuration described with reference to Figure 12, the module frame 34 and the exciters 41-1 and 41-2 do not need to be fixed together. It is possible to configure the exciters 41-1 and 41-2 to be pressed against the module frame 34 by springs 52-1 and 52-2.

[0057] As shown in Figure 13B, vibrators 41-3 and 41-4, which have the same configuration as vibrators 41-1 and 41-2, are installed inside the cabinet.

[0058] Vibrators 41-1 to 41-4, which are installed at regular intervals, vibrate in response to the audio signal, thereby uniformly transmitting vibrations to the entire display module 12. As the vibrators 41-1 to 41-4 excite the entire display module 12, audio is output with the image display section 12a of the display module 12 as the radiating surface, as shown in Figure 13B.

[0059] In this way, by uniformly exciting the entire display module 12 with multiple vibrators, it is possible to output sound from the display unit 11 while maintaining the parallelism of the display module 12.

[0060] Furthermore, even if it is difficult to change the specifications of the LED board, it becomes possible to output sound from the display unit 11, similar to the fourth excitation mechanism.

[0061] • Sixth vibration excitation mechanism (an example of inserting the exciter from outside the cabinet) Figure 14 shows the mechanism of the sixth excitation.

[0062] The sixth vibration mechanism involves vibrating the entire display module 12 using a vibration exciter 41 inserted from outside the cabinet. As shown in Figure 14A, an opening 61 is formed in a part of the back frame 51, facing the rear side of the cabinet. The vibration exciter 41, inserted from outside the cabinet through the opening 61, is positioned by a spring 52 to press against an upper position on the rear side of the module frame 34.

[0063] The vibrator 41 is attached to a spring 52 fixed inside an external vibration box 62. When the vibrator 41 vibrates in response to an audio signal, the vibration is transmitted to the entire display module 12. As the vibrator 41 vibrates the entire display module 12, audio is output with the image display section 12a of the display module 12 as the radiating surface, as shown in Figure 14B.

[0064] In this way, by vibrating the entire display module 12 with the vibrator 41 provided in the external vibration box 62, sound can be output from the display unit 11.

[0065] If the display unit 11 is equipped with both a cabinet that outputs sound and a cabinet that does not output sound, then management costs will be incurred to manage each cabinet. In addition, when designing a new model of the display device 1, it will be necessary to design the mechanism for vibrating the display unit 11 to match the new model.

[0066] In the sixth vibration mechanism, an opening 61 is formed in the back frame 51 of the cabinet, and an external vibration box 62 (external unit) is retrofitted to enable the output of sound from the display unit 11.

[0067] Of the multiple cabinets having openings 61 in a common position, the cabinets that output sound are fitted with an external vibration box 62, while the cabinets that do not output sound are not fitted with an external vibration box 62. This makes it possible to realize a display unit 11 that outputs sound only from a predetermined cabinet, using cabinets with a common design.

[0068] Since no design changes other than forming the opening 61 are required for the cabinet, the sixth excitation mechanism is applicable to various models of the display device 1 and can be said to be a highly versatile mechanism.

[0069] • The seventh vibration excitation mechanism (an example where equipment is housed in an external vibration excitation box) Figure 15 shows the mechanism of the seventh excitation.

[0070] The seventh excitation mechanism involves installing equipment 63 inside an external excitation box 62. As shown in Figure 15A, the external excitation box 62, which is larger than the external excitation box 62 in Figure 14, contains equipment 63 that corrects the acoustic characteristics of the exciter 41. Equipment 63 consists of a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), amplifier, etc., connected to the exciter 41. Equipment 63 applies signal processing optimized for the exciter 41 to the audio signal.

[0071] In the equipment 63, the exciter 41 vibrates in response to the audio signal that has been processed, and this vibration is transmitted to the entire display module 12. As the exciter 41 vibrates the entire display module 12, audio is output with the image display section 12a of the display module 12 as the radiating surface, as shown in Figure 15B.

[0072] In the seventh excitation mechanism, signal processing is performed by equipment 63 built into the external excitation box 62, thereby improving sound quality.

[0073] Furthermore, in the seventh excitation mechanism, since the amplifier is built into the external excitation box 62, there is no need to prepare a separate amplifier. For example, in the sixth excitation mechanism (Figure 14), a separate amplifier is required to improve sound quality.

[0074] By using an amplifier for the exciter 41 built into the external vibration box 62 for signal processing, it becomes possible to improve sound quality.

[0075] • Eighth vibration excitation mechanism (an example of inserting multiple exciters from outside the cabinet) Figure 16 shows the mechanism of the eighth type of excitation.

[0076] The eighth vibration mechanism is one in which the entire display module 12 is vibrated by multiple vibrators 41 inserted from outside the cabinet. As shown in Figure 16A, an opening 61-1 facing the rear side of the cabinet is formed at the upper position of the back frame 51, and an opening 61-2 facing the rear side of the cabinet is formed at the lower position.

[0077] The exciter 41-1, inserted from outside the cabinet through opening 61-1, is positioned by a spring 52 to press against an upper position on the rear side of the module frame 34. The exciter 41-2, inserted from outside the cabinet through opening 61-2, is positioned to press against a lower position on the rear side of the module frame 34.

[0078] Vibrator 41-1 is attached to spring 52-1 which is fixed inside external vibration box 62-1, and vibrator 41-2 is attached to spring 52-2 which is fixed inside external vibration box 62-2.

[0079] Vibrators 41-1 and 41-2 vibrate in response to the audio signal, transmitting vibrations to the entire display module 12. As the vibrators 41-1 and 41-2 excite the entire display module 12, audio is output with the image display section 12a of the display module 12 as the radiating surface, as shown in Figure 16B.

[0080] In the eighth excitation mechanism, the display module 12 is excited by multiple exciters 41-1, 41-2, making it possible to increase the sound pressure compared to the sixth excitation mechanism, in which the entire display module 12 is excited by a single exciter 41. The number of exciters provided in one display module 12 can be appropriately changed according to the required sound pressure.

[0081] By having exciters 41-1 and 41-2 vibrate in a balanced manner, it becomes possible to give the sound uniform directionality.

[0082] Furthermore, the sound emitted from each adjacent display module 12 can be given a directional property that makes interference more natural. This makes it possible to improve sound quality.

[0083] • The ninth vibration excitation mechanism (an example where equipment connected to multiple vibration exciters is housed in an external vibration excitation box) Figure 17 shows the mechanism of the ninth excitation.

[0084] The ninth vibration mechanism is one in which equipment connected to multiple vibrators is installed inside an external vibration box 62. As shown in Figure 17A, vibrators 41-1 and 41-2 are attached to springs 52-1 and 52-2 fixed inside an external vibration box 62 which is larger than the external vibration box 62 in Figure 14. Inside the external vibration box 62, equipment 63 is installed between vibrators 41-1 and 41-2 to correct the acoustic characteristics of vibrators 41-1 and 41-2.

[0085] Signal processing optimized for exciters 41-1 and 41-2 is performed by equipment 63. By having equipment 63 perform signal processing, exciters 41-1 and 41-2 can be controlled in a coordinated manner.

[0086] When the display module 12 is excited by multiple vibrators, more complex control is required than when the display module 12 is excited by a single vibrator. By controlling each vibrator in coordination, it becomes possible to output high-quality sound from the display module 12 that cannot be achieved with a separately provided amplifier.

[0087] In the ninth excitation mechanism, the amplifier is built into the external excitation box 62, so there is no need to prepare a separate amplifier. For example, in the eighth excitation mechanism (Figure 16), a separate amplifier is required to improve sound quality.

[0088] By performing signal processing using amplifiers for exciters 41-1 and 41-2 built into the external vibration box 62, it becomes possible to improve sound quality.

[0089] <2. Display device configuration> Figure 18 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the display device 1.

[0090] As shown in Figure 18, the display device 1 is composed of a control unit 101, a display unit 11, and a sound output unit 102.

[0091] The control unit 101 is composed of a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), and storage devices such as a hard disk. For example, the CPU loads a program pre-stored in ROM into RAM and executes it, thereby controlling various operations such as the display of images by the display device 1.

[0092] The control unit 101 displays the image obtained from playing the content on the display unit 11 and outputs the sound to the sound output unit 102. In addition to integrated control of image display and sound output, the image display and sound output may be controlled by separate processes.

[0093] The sound output unit 102 consists of an LED board 13 on which an exciter 21 is provided, a display module 12 on which an exciter 41 is provided, and the like. The sound output unit 102 outputs sound according to the control of the control unit 101. The sound output unit 102 may be provided as an external device to the display device 1.

[0094] Figure 19 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration example of the sound output unit 102.

[0095] As shown in Figure 19, the sound output unit 102 is configured by providing a signal processing system consisting of a delay unit, a gain adjustment unit, an equalizer, and a filter, in proportion to the number of exciters. In the example in Figure 19, the sound output unit 102 is composed of delay units 121-1 to 121-3, gain adjustment units 122-1 to 122-3, equalizers 123-1 to 123-3, filters 124-1 to 124-3, and exciters 125-1 to 125-3.

[0096] Audio signals are supplied to delay units 121-1 to 121-3. Delay units 121-1 to 121-3 delay the supplied audio signals for a predetermined time, and then output them to gain adjustment units 122-1 to 122-3.

[0097] For example, the delay times of delay unit 121-1, delay unit 121-2, and delay unit 121-3 are independently controlled to achieve appropriate delay times. Delay processing in delay units 121-1 to 121-3 is performed, for example, to synchronize the timing of sound output from exciters 125-1 to 125-3. Delay processing is also performed to control interference between exciters 125-1 to 125-3 and to control the directivity of the radiated sound.

[0098] Note that when there is no need to distinguish between delay sections 121-1 to 121-3, they are collectively referred to as delay section 121. Other configurations that are provided in multiple units will also be described collectively in the same manner.

[0099] Gain adjustment units 122-1 to 122-3 perform gain adjustment on the audio signal supplied from delay units 121-1 to 121-3, and output the gain-adjusted audio signal to equalizers 123-1 to 123-3.

[0100] For example, in the gain adjustment units 122-1 to 122-3, gain adjustment is performed on the audio signal so that the sound pressure of the audio output from the display unit 11 due to vibration by the exciters 125-1 to 125-3 becomes the same sound pressure or a desired sound pressure.

[0101] Equalizers 123-1 to 123-3 apply equalization processing to the audio signal supplied from gain adjustment units 122-1 to 122-3, and output the resulting audio signal to filters 124-1 to 124-3.

[0102] For example, equalizers 123-1 to 123-3 perform equalizer processing on the audio signal so that the audio output from the display unit 11 has desired characteristics, such as a flat frequency response, due to vibrations by exciters 125-1 to 125-3.

[0103] Filters 124-1 to 124-3 filter the audio signal supplied from equalizers 123-1 to 123-3, allowing predetermined components to pass through, and output the resulting audio signal to exciters 125-1 to 125-3.

[0104] The vibrators 125-1 to 125-3 correspond to the vibrator 21 (for example, Figure 4) provided on the LED board 13 and the vibrator 41 (for example, Figure 12) provided on the display module 12. The vibrators 125-1 to 125-3 vibrate in response to the audio signals supplied from the filters 124-1 to 124-3, and by vibrating the LED board 13 and the display module 12, they cause the display unit 11 to output audio.

[0105] <3. Variant> • First variation (an example with a low-frequency speaker) Figure 20 shows a first modified example of the display device 1. Components identical to those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals. Repetitive explanations are omitted as appropriate.

[0106] The display device 1 shown in Figure 20 consists of a display unit 11, a screen vibration sound output unit 151, and low-frequency speakers 152 (152-1, 152-2).

[0107] The screen-excited sound output unit 151 is configured by providing a configuration using one of the first to ninth excitation mechanisms described above in the center of the display unit 11. The configuration using one of the first to ninth excitation mechanisms functions as the screen-excited sound output unit 151 that outputs sound from the display unit 11.

[0108] The low-frequency speaker 152 is, for example, composed of an array speaker. A speaker other than an array speaker may also be provided as the low-frequency speaker 152. The low-frequency speaker 152-1 is provided in the upper frame portion adjacent to the display unit 11, and the low-frequency speaker 152-2 is provided in the lower frame portion adjacent to the display unit 11. It is also possible to have a configuration where only either the low-frequency speaker 152-1 or the low-frequency speaker 152-2 is provided. By providing the two low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-2 above and below the display unit 11, a sense of unity can be created.

[0109] In the example shown in Figure 20, sound is output from the screen-excited sound output unit 151 and the low-frequency speaker 152. Depending on the screen-excited sound output unit 151, outputting low-frequency sound may be difficult, resulting in a degradation of sound quality. For example, high-frequency sound may be output from the screen-excited sound output unit 151, and low-frequency sound may be output from the low-frequency speaker 152.

[0110] Figure 21 shows an example of the frequency characteristics of the sound output from the screen-excitation sound output unit 151 and the low-frequency speaker 152. In Figure 21, the horizontal axis represents frequency and the vertical axis represents gain.

[0111] For example, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 21, sounds with frequencies below 2 kHz are output as low-frequency sounds from the low-frequency speaker 152. Also, as shown by the solid line in Figure 21, sounds with frequencies above 2 kHz are output as high-frequency sounds from the screen-excited sound output unit 151.

[0112] When high-frequency sounds are output from the screen-excitation sound output unit 151 located within the display unit 11, viewers perceive the sound image as being localized at a position on the display unit 11. By localizing a sound image that is clearly localized, that is, a sound image of high frequencies (high-frequency sounds) that is effective for localization, within the display unit 11, it becomes possible to create a sense of unity between the image and the sound.

[0113] On the other hand, the sound image of low-frequency sounds has less localization (lower sense of localization) compared to the sound image of high-frequency sounds. By having the low-frequency sounds output from the low-frequency speaker 152, it is possible to ensure sufficient sound pressure for the low-frequency sounds and prevent sound quality degradation.

[0114] In other words, by outputting high-frequency sounds from the screen-excitation sound output unit 151 and low-frequency sounds from the low-frequency speaker 152, it is possible to achieve high-quality sound output across the full range from low to high frequencies.

[0115] For example, in the display device 1, directional control is performed so that sound propagating with approximately the same degree of spread as the sound output from the screen vibration sound output unit 151 is output from the low-frequency speaker 152. By propagating high-frequency and low-frequency sounds with approximately the same degree of spread, the direction from which the high-frequency and low-frequency sounds are heard as perceived by the viewer can be made to match, and the generation of interference fringes can be suppressed, thereby improving sound quality.

[0116] Figure 22 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the sound output section 102 when a low-frequency speaker 152 is provided. In Figure 22, components identical to those in Figure 19 are denoted by the same reference numerals. Repetitive explanations are omitted as appropriate.

[0117] The configuration of the sound output section 102 shown in Figure 22 differs from that of the sound output section 102 in Figure 19 in that HPF (High Pass Filter) 171-1 to 171-3 are provided instead of filters 124-1 to 124-3. Furthermore, the configuration of the sound output section 102 shown in Figure 22 differs from that of the sound output section 102 in Figure 19 in that a delay section 181, gain adjustment sections 182-1, 182-2, equalizers 183-1, 183-2, LPF (Low Pass Filter) 184-1, 184-2, delay sections 185-1, 185-2, and low-frequency speakers 152-1, 152-2 are provided.

[0118] HPF171-1 to 171-3 filter the audio signal supplied from equalizers 123-1 to 123-3, allowing only high-frequency components to pass through, and output the resulting high-frequency signal to exciters 125-1 to 125-3.

[0119] In other words, HPF171-1 to 171-3 function as high-pass filters that generate high-frequency signals based on the audio signal. HPF171 may be implemented by equalizer 123.

[0120] The vibrators 125-1 to 125-3 vibrate in response to high-frequency signals supplied from HPFs 171-1 to 171-3, and by vibrating the LED board 13 and the display module 12, they cause high-frequency sound to be output from the radiating surface.

[0121] The delay unit 181 is supplied with the same audio signal as the audio signals supplied to delay units 121-1 to 121-3. The delay unit 181 delays the supplied audio signal for a predetermined time and then outputs it to gain adjustment units 182-1 and 182-2.

[0122] For example, in the delay unit 181, the audio signal is delayed so that the sound output from the display unit 11 due to the vibration of the vibrator 125 reaches the listener before the sound output from the low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-2. The delay processing in the delay unit 181 is performed for the purpose of creating a lead sound effect.

[0123] The display device 1 makes it possible to perceive the localization position of a sound image as being within the display unit 11 through the precedence effect. It is generally known that when sounds arrive from multiple directions, the listener perceives them as coming from the direction of the sound that arrived first, and this phenomenon is called the precedence effect.

[0124] In the delay unit 181, a delay process is applied to the audio signal to delay it more than the high-frequency signal, which allows the screen-excited sound output unit 151 to output sound before the low-frequency speaker 152.

[0125] This allows the viewer to perceive the sound output from the low-frequency speaker 152 as coming from the same direction as the sound output from the screen-excitation sound unit 151. In other words, the sound image of the sound can be localized to a position within the display unit 11.

[0126] Gain adjustment units 182-1 and 182-2 perform gain adjustment on the audio signal supplied from the delay unit 181, and output the gain-adjusted audio signal to equalizers 183-1 and 183-2.

[0127] For example, in the gain adjustment units 182-1 and 182-2, gain adjustment is performed on the audio signal so that the sound pressure of the audio output from the low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-2 becomes the same sound pressure or a desired sound pressure.

[0128] Equalizers 183-1 and 183-2 apply equalization processing to the audio signal supplied from gain adjustment units 182-1 and 182-2, and output the resulting audio signal to LPFs 184-1 and 184-2.

[0129] For example, in equalizers 183-1 and 183-2, equalizer processing is performed so that the sound output from the low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-2 has desired characteristics, such as a flat frequency response.

[0130] LPF184-1 and 184-2 filter the audio signal supplied from equalizers 183-1 and 183-2, allowing only the low-frequency components to pass through, and output the resulting low-frequency signal to delay units 185-1 and 185-2.

[0131] The LPF184 functions as a low-pass filter that generates a low-frequency signal based on the audio signal. The LPF184 may also be implemented by the equalizer 183.

[0132] The delay units 185-1 and 185-2 delay the low-frequency signals supplied from the LPFs 184-1 and 184-2 for a predetermined time before outputting them to the low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-2.

[0133] For example, the delay time of delay unit 185-1 and the delay time of delay unit 185-2 are controlled so that the sound output from the low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-2 reaches the listener simultaneously. The same delay processing performed in delay unit 181 may also be performed in delay unit 185.

[0134] The low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-2 output low-frequency sound based on the low-frequency signals supplied from the delay units 185-1 and 185-2.

[0135] • Second variation (example of multi-segment drive) In the first modified example shown in Figure 22, a configuration is described in which one screen-excitation sound-emitting unit 151 and two low-frequency speakers 152 are provided, but the number of screen-excitation sound-emitting units and low-frequency speakers can be changed as appropriate.

[0136] Figure 23 shows a second modified example of the display device 1.

[0137] In Figure 23, as a configuration for outputting high-frequency sound, three screen excitation sound output units 151-1 to 151-3 are arranged horizontally, as shown by the dashed lines.

[0138] The screen-excited sound output units 151-1 to 151-3 are configured in the same way as the screen-excited sound output unit 151, with each unit being provided on the left, center, and right sides of the display unit 11, respectively, using one of the first to ninth excitation mechanisms. As explained with reference to Figure 21, for example, sound with a frequency of 2 kHz or higher is output from the screen-excited sound output units 151-1 to 151-3, and sound with a frequency of 2 kHz or lower is output from the low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 151-2.

[0139] When three screen-excited sound output units are arranged, the audio for the L channel is output from screen-excited sound output unit 151-1, the audio for the C channel is output from screen-excited sound output unit 151-2, and the audio for the R channel is output from screen-excited sound output unit 151-3.

[0140] For example, the sound output from the screen-excited sound output unit 151-1 is localized to the left side of the display unit 11 from the viewer's perspective, and the sound output from the screen-excited sound output unit 151-2 is localized to the central part of the display unit 11 from the viewer's perspective. In addition, the sound output from the screen-excited sound output unit 151-3 is localized to the right side of the display unit 11 from the viewer's perspective.

[0141] Thus, in the display device 1 of Figure 23, multi-division drive is realized, in which L channel, C channel, and R channel audio are output from the screen excitation sound output units 151-1 to 151-3, respectively.

[0142] In this case, directional control is performed for each screen-excitation sound output unit 151 (for each L, C, and R channel) to match the degree of spread between the sound from the screen-excitation sound output unit 151 and the sound from the low-frequency speaker 152.

[0143] For example, among the speakers that make up the low-frequency speaker 152, which is an array speaker, the speaker located on the left mainly outputs L-channel audio, the speaker located in the center mainly outputs C-channel audio, and the speaker located on the right mainly outputs R-channel audio.

[0144] By performing this type of directional control, it is possible to match the degree of spread of high-frequency and low-frequency sounds in each channel, thereby suppressing the generation of interference fringes and reducing audio interference between channels, thereby improving sound quality.

[0145] • Third variation (an example where the sound output position shifts) Figure 24 shows a third modified example of the display device 1.

[0146] In Figure 24, low-frequency speakers 152-1 to 152-4 are provided as low-frequency speakers 152. The screen-excitation sound output unit 151 is provided over the entire display unit 11.

[0147] Low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-2 are provided in the upper and lower frame portions adjacent to the display unit 11, as in Figure 20. Low-frequency speaker 152-3 is provided in the left frame portion adjacent to the display unit 11, and low-frequency speaker 152-4 is provided in the right frame portion adjacent to the display unit 11.

[0148] In the example shown in Figure 24, high-frequency sounds are output from the screen-excitation sound output unit 151, and low-frequency sounds are output from the low-frequency speaker 152.

[0149] Images of moving objects may be displayed. In the display device 1 of Figure 24, the sound source position is moved on the display unit 11 in conjunction with the movement of the object, as indicated by the thick arrows. The movement of the sound source position is performed, for example, based on position information indicating the position of the moving sound source at each time point.

[0150] For example, suppose that at a certain time, high-frequency sound is being output from region A21 of the screen-excitation sound output unit 151 so that the sound image is localized at position P1 diagonally below and to the left of the display unit 11.

[0151] At this time, low-frequency sound is output from the low-frequency speakers 152-1 to 152-4 to localize the sound image at position P1. For example, sound is mainly output from the low-frequency speakers 152-2 and 152-3, which are located close to position P1, while low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-4 are controlled to output almost no sound.

[0152] In this state, if the object's position moves from position P1 to position P2, high-frequency sound is output from region A22 of the screen excitation sound output unit 151. As a result, the viewer perceives that the output position of the high-frequency sound has moved from position P1 to position P2.

[0153] Furthermore, low-frequency speakers 152-1 to 152-4 output low-frequency sound to localize the sound image at position P2 in accordance with the movement of the high-frequency sound output position. For example, as time progresses, sound is mainly output from low-frequency speakers 152-1 and 152-4, which are located closer to position P2, while low-frequency speakers 152-2 and 152-3 are controlled to output almost no sound.

[0154] In this way, by combining the screen-excitation sound output unit 151 with the low-frequency speakers 152-1 to 152-4, it becomes possible to localize the sound image to any position, even when the object is moving.

[0155] The location information indicating the position of the sound source may be input by the user or provided in advance as metadata for the audio signal. For example, in object audio, the metadata for each object's audio signal includes location information indicating the object's position in space.

[0156] A Deep Neural Network (DNN) that takes at least one of the content's image and audio signal as input and outputs location information may be pre-trained, and the display device 1 may be configured to generate location information using the DNN.

[0157] ·others Although the case in which the image display section 12a of the display module 12 is composed of an LED substrate 13 has been described, the image display section 12a may also be composed of a light source substrate on which light source elements other than LEDs are arranged.

[0158] In the above description, it was assumed that the display device 1 outputs sound, but the sound output by the display device 1 includes not only human voices, but also various other sounds such as music, sound effects, and background music.

[0159] Furthermore, the effects described herein are merely illustrative and not limiting, and other effects may also occur.

[0160] The embodiments of this technology are not limited to those described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of this technology.

[0161] • Examples of configuration combinations This technology can also be configured as follows:

[0162] (1) It is constructed by combining display modules having multiple light source substrates, and includes a display unit that displays images, A screen vibration output unit that vibrates the light source substrate or the display module from the rear side using an exciter and outputs sound from the display unit. A display device equipped with the following features. (2) The aforementioned vibrator is a piezoelectric actuator. The display device described in (1) above. (3) The piezoelectric actuator is a planar stacked piezoelectric actuator provided on the back side of the light source substrate. The display device described in (2) above. (4) The planar stacked piezoelectric actuator is fixed directly to the back surface of the light source substrate. The display device described in (3) above. (5) The planar stacked piezoelectric actuator is fixed via bosses provided on the back surface of the light source substrate. The display device described in (3) above. (6) The piezoelectric actuator is a laminated piezoelectric actuator provided on the back side of the light source substrate or the display module, which vibrates the light source substrate or the display module by expanding and contracting. The display device described in (2) above. (7) The light source substrate is attached to the multilayer piezoelectric actuator by a magnet. The display device described in (6) above. (8) The stacked piezo actuator is pressed against the back of the display module. The display device described in (6) above. (9) The screen vibration sound output unit has a plurality of the stacked piezo actuators The display device described in (8) above. (10) The stacked piezo actuator is inserted from outside the cabinet through an opening formed in the cabinet having the display module. The display device described in (8) above. (11) The external unit having the stacked piezoelectric actuator incorporates equipment for correcting the acoustic characteristics of the stacked piezoelectric actuator. The display device described in (10) above. (12) The screen vibration sound output unit has a plurality of the stacked piezo actuators The display device described in (10) above. (13) The external unit having multiple stacked piezoelectric actuators incorporates equipment for correcting the acoustic characteristics of the multiple stacked piezoelectric actuators. The display device described in (12) above. (14) The frame member surrounding the display unit further comprises a plurality of low-frequency speakers that output sound based on the low-frequency components of the audio signal. The aforementioned screen-excited sound output unit outputs sound based on the high-frequency components of the audio signal. The display device according to any one of (1) to (13) above. (15) The system further includes a delay unit that performs delay processing to delay the low-frequency components of the audio signal compared to the high-frequency components of the audio signal. The display device described in (14) above. (16) Multiple screen-excitation sound-producing units are provided. The display device described in (14) or (15) above. (17) The aforementioned screen-excited sound output unit outputs sound from the position of the subject shown in the image on the display unit. The display device described in (14) or (15) above. (18) A display device having a display unit configured by combining display modules having multiple light source substrates, Display the image, The light source substrate or the display module is vibrated from the rear side by a vibrator, and sound is output from the display unit. Output method. (19) An image display unit is formed by combining multiple light source substrates, The aforementioned light source substrate is vibrated from the rear side by an exciter, and the screen vibration output unit outputs sound from the image display unit. A display module equipped with the following features. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] 1 Display device, 11 Display unit, 12 Display module, 12a Image display unit, 13 LED board, 21 Vibrator, 32 Boss, 33 Chassis, 34 Module frame, 41 Vibrator, 51 Back frame, 52 Spring, 61 Opening, 62 External vibration box, 63 Equipment, 101 Control unit, 102 Sound output unit, 151 Screen vibration output sound unit, 152-1 to 152-4 Low-frequency speakers, 181 Delay unit

Claims

1. It is constructed by combining display modules having multiple light source substrates, and includes a display unit that displays images, A screen vibration sound output unit that vibrates the light source substrate or the display module by expanding or contracting or deforming a plurality of stacked piezo actuators provided on the back side of the light source substrate or the display module, thereby outputting sound from the display unit. A display device equipped with the following features.

2. The stacked piezoelectric actuator is fixed directly to the back surface of the light source substrate. The display device according to claim 1.

3. The stacked piezoelectric actuator is fixed via a boss provided on the back surface of the light source substrate. The display device according to claim 1.

4. The light source substrate is attached to the multilayer piezoelectric actuator by a magnet. The display device according to claim 1.

5. The stacked piezo actuator is pressed against the back of the display module. The display device according to claim 1.

6. The stacked piezo actuator is inserted from outside the cabinet through an opening formed in the cabinet having the display module. The display device according to claim 5.

7. The external unit having the stacked piezoelectric actuator incorporates equipment for correcting the acoustic characteristics of the stacked piezoelectric actuator. The display device according to claim 6.

8. The external unit having multiple stacked piezoelectric actuators incorporates equipment for correcting the acoustic characteristics of the multiple stacked piezoelectric actuators. The display device according to claim 6.

9. The frame member surrounding the display unit further comprises a plurality of low-frequency speakers that output sound based on the low-frequency components of the audio signal. The aforementioned screen-excited sound output unit outputs sound based on the high-frequency components of the audio signal. The display device according to claim 1.

10. The system further includes a delay unit that performs delay processing to delay the low-frequency components of the audio signal compared to the high-frequency components of the audio signal. The display device according to claim 9.

11. Multiple screen-excitation sound-producing units are provided. The display device according to claim 9.

12. The aforementioned screen-excited sound output unit outputs sound from the position of the subject shown in the image on the display unit. The display device according to claim 9.

13. A display device having a display unit configured by combining display modules having multiple light source substrates, Display the image, By expanding or contracting or deforming a plurality of laminated piezo actuators provided on the back side of the light source substrate or the display module, the light source substrate or the display module is vibrated, and sound is output from the display unit. Output method.

14. An image display unit is formed by combining multiple light source substrates, A screen vibration output unit that vibrates the light source substrate by expanding or contracting or deforming a plurality of stacked piezoelectric actuators provided on the back side of the light source substrate, and outputs sound from the image display unit. A display module equipped with the following features.

Images