Display debice

Abstract

An embodiment discloses a display device comprising: a display panel including a first display area and a second display area; a sensor receiving light through the second display area; a first light source module supplying light to the first display area; and a second light source module supplying light to the second display area, wherein the second display area operates in a sensing mode in which light is incident on the sensor on a frame-by-frame basis when the sensor is operating, and in a sub-display mode for displaying an image.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The embodiment relates to a display device. Background Technology

[0002] As the information society develops, the demand for display devices to display images is increasing in various forms, and recently, various display devices such as Liquid Crystal Display Devices (LCDs), Plasma Display Panels (PDPs), and Organic Light Emitting Display Devices (OLEDs) are being utilized.

[0003] Recently, the multimedia capabilities of electronic devices, such as mobile terminals, have been improving. For instance, cameras are being built into mobile devices as standard, and camera resolutions are trending toward the level of conventional digital cameras. However, front cameras on mobile devices restrict screen design, making design difficult. Although screen designs incorporating notches or punch holes have been adopted to reduce the space occupied by the camera, the screen size remains limited due to the camera, making it difficult to implement a full-screen display.

[0004] In order to implement a full-screen display, a method is proposed to provide an imaging area in which pixels are arranged within the screen of a display panel and to place a camera and / or various sensors in the imaging area. However, since an image cannot be created in the imaging area when shooting with a camera, there is a problem in that the imaging area or the camera is visible to the outside. The problem to be solved

[0005] According to an embodiment, a display device capable of implementing a full-screen display when a camera is driven is provided.

[0006] According to an embodiment, an improved display device is provided in which the imaging area is visible when the camera is driven.

[0007] The problems intended to be solved in the embodiments are not limited thereto, and may also include objectives or effects that can be identified from the means of solving the problems or the embodiments described below. means of solving the problem

[0008] A display device according to one feature of the present invention comprises: a display panel including a first display area and a second display area; a sensor receiving light through the second display area; a first light source module supplying light to the first display area; and a second light source module supplying light to the second display area, wherein the second display area operates in a sensing mode in which light is incident on the sensor frame by frame when the sensor operates, and in a sub-display mode for displaying an image.

[0009] When the sensor is not operating, the first display area and the second display area operate in a normal mode for displaying images, and when the sensor is operating, the first display area operates in a normal mode, and the second display area can alternately operate in a sensing mode and a sub-display mode on a frame-by-frame basis.

[0010] The system further includes a data driving unit for driving a display panel; a sensor control unit for controlling a sensor; a first light source driving unit for driving a first light source module; and a second light source driving unit for driving a second light source module, wherein the data driving unit, the sensor control unit, and the second light source driving unit are synchronized to drive a second display area of ​​the display panel, a sensor, and a second light source module on a frame-by-frame basis.

[0011] The data driving unit can adjust the transmittance of the liquid crystal so that the transmittance of the second display area is maximized in the sensing mode, and adjust the transmittance of the liquid crystal so that the second display area implements an image in the display mode.

[0012] The sensor can generate a video image using light received during the sensing mode period.

[0013] The second light source module can be turned off during the sensing mode period and turned on during the sub-display mode period.

[0014] In sub-display mode, the brightness of the light emitted from the second light source module may be higher than the brightness of the light emitted from the second light source module in normal mode.

[0015] In sub-display mode, the period during which the second light source module turns on may be shorter than one frame.

[0016] When the second light source module operates in sensing mode, the first light source module operates in normal mode to output an image.

[0017] The display panel may include a first substrate, a second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate.

[0018] The display panel further includes a color filter placed on it, and the color filter placed in the second display area may include a filter area that implements an image and a light-emitting area that does not implement an image.

[0019] In the second display area, external light is introduced through the light-emitting area in sensing mode, and an image can be displayed through the filter area in sub-display mode.

[0020] The first light source module includes a light guide member disposed in a first display area, a plurality of first light sources that irradiate light onto the light guide member, an optical sheet disposed on the upper part of the light guide member, and a reflector disposed on the lower part of the light guide member, wherein the optical sheet includes a first opening hole disposed in a portion corresponding to the first display area, and the reflector may include a second opening hole disposed in a portion corresponding to the second display area.

[0021] The second light source module may include a path changing member disposed in a second display area; and a second light source disposed on one side of the path changing member.

[0022] In the second display area, the path conversion member may be placed overlapping with the light guide member.

[0023] It may include an additional light sensor, and if the light sensor's sensing result determines low light, the sensing mode period can be set longer than the sub-display mode period. Effects of the invention

[0024] According to the embodiment, by implementing an image in the imaging area when the camera is driven, the visibility of the imaging area or the camera from the outside can be improved.

[0025] According to the embodiment, light source module can be turned off in the sensing mode when the camera is operating to minimize light interference.

[0026] The various and beneficial advantages and effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above and may be more easily understood in the process of explaining specific embodiments of the present invention. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0027] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a second light source module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing color filters of a first display area and a second display area according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a light guide member according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for driving a display panel, a light source module, and a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a method of driving a display panel, a first light source module, a second light source module, and a sensor in a normal mode of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a method of driving a display panel, a second light source module, and a sensor in camera mode of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the operation of a color filter in a sensing mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the operation of a color filter in a sub-display mode according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 13 is a modified example of Fig. 10. FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a method of driving a display panel, a second light source module, and a sensor in camera mode according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a drawing showing an electronic product to which a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0028] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0029] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to some of the described embodiments but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more of the components among the embodiments may be selectively combined or substituted.

[0030] In addition, terms used in the embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted in a sense that is generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. Terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in advance, may be interpreted in consideration of their meaning in the context of the relevant technology.

[0031] Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0032] In this specification, the singular form may include the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text, and when described as "at least one of A and B and C (or more than one)," it may include one or more of all combinations that can be formed from A, B, and C.

[0033] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used to describe the components of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0034] These terms are intended merely to distinguish a component from other components and are not limited by the nature, order, sequence, etc., of the said component.

[0035] And, where it is stated that a component is 'connected', 'combined', or 'joined' to another component, this may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, combined, or joined to the other component, but also cases where it is 'connected', 'combined', or 'joined' due to another component located between the component and the other component.

[0036] Furthermore, when described as being formed or placed "above or below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or placed between the two components. Additionally, when expressed as "above or below," it may include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction relative to a single component.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 1, a display device according to an embodiment includes a display panel (100) comprising a first display area (DA1) and a second display area (DA2) for displaying an image according to input image data, a light source module (200, 300) for supplying light to the display panel (100), and a sensor (2) for receiving light. The display device includes a plurality of driving units and control units for controlling the display panel (100), the light source module (200, 300), and the sensor (2).

[0039] In the display panel (100), a plurality of gate wires (GL) and a plurality of data wires (DL) intersect to define a pixel (Px), and each pixel may include a thin film transistor and a storage capacitor (Cst).

[0040] The thin-film transistor is switched by a scan signal supplied through the gate wiring (GL), and when the thin-film transistor is turned on, it can supply image data (data voltage) supplied through the data wiring (DL) to the pixel.

[0041] The display panel (100) may include a pixel electrode that applies a data voltage to a pixel and a common electrode that applies a common voltage. The pixel electrode may be placed on a lower substrate, and the common electrode may be placed on a lower substrate or an upper substrate.

[0042] The display panel (100) may be a liquid crystal panel including a liquid crystal layer. The display panel (100) can implement an image by changing the arrangement state of the liquid crystal by an electric field between a data voltage and a common voltage, and by controlling the arrangement of the liquid crystal to control the transmittance of light supplied from a light source module. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the display panel (100) may be a display panel including an organic light-emitting element or an inorganic light-emitting element.

[0043] The display panel (100) may include a first display area (DA1) and a second display area (DA2) for displaying images. The second display area (DA2) may be defined as an area where a sensor (2) is placed at the bottom. Alternatively, the second display area (DA2) may be defined as an area where a sensor (2) placed at the bottom of the display panel (100) receives light. The second display area (DA2) may have various shapes, such as a circle, an ellipse, or a polygon. The size of the second display area (DA2) may be smaller than that of the first display area (DA1), but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0044] The first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) are each equipped with a pixel (Px) to enable a full-screen display. According to the embodiment, the first display area (DA1) operates only in a general mode for displaying images, whereas the second display area (DA2) can operate in a sub-display mode for displaying images and a sensing mode for receiving external light.

[0045] The light source module (200, 300) may include a first light source module (200) that supplies light to a first display area (DA1) and a second light source module (300) that supplies light to a second display area (DA2).

[0046] The first light source module (200) can be controlled by the first light source driving unit (50), and the second light source module (300) can be controlled by the second light source driving unit (60). The first light source module (200) and the second light source module (300) may be turned on or turned off simultaneously, or turned on or turned off at different timings.

[0047] At least one sensor (2) may be disposed in the second display area (DA2). The sensor (2) may receive light incident on the second display area (DA2). The sensor (2) may include various sensors that receive light, such as an RGB camera, an illuminance sensor, or an infrared camera.

[0048] The sensor control unit (40) can generate an image or a three-dimensional feature map using light incident on the sensor (2). For example, the sensor (2) may be an RGB camera or an infrared camera. For example, the sensor (2) may include an RGB camera and an infrared camera.

[0049] The system unit (1) can supply signals necessary for driving, such as video data and timing signals (TS), to the timing controller (10). The timing signals (TS) may include clock signals, horizontal and vertical synchronization signals, gate and data enable signals, etc.

[0050] The system unit (1) can receive a sensor driving signal (SDS) from the sensor control unit (40). The system unit (1) can transmit a shooting synchronization signal (CSS) and a control signal to the data driving unit (20), the sensor control unit (40), and the second light source driving unit (60) to generate a video image according to the sensor driving signal (SDS). Accordingly, the data driving unit (20), the sensor control unit (40), and the second light source driving unit (60) can operate in camera mode in synchronization. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Upon receiving the control signal from the system unit (1), the timing controller (10) may transmit the control signal and the shooting synchronization signal (CSS) to the data driving unit (20), the second light source driving unit (60), and the sensor control unit (40).

[0051] The timing controller (10) can generate a gate control signal for controlling the gate driving unit (30) and a data control signal for controlling the data driving unit (20) using the timing signal (TS) received from the system unit (1).

[0052] The timing controller (10) can convert the video signal received from the system unit (1) into frame-unit digital video data (R, G, B) and supply it to the data driving unit (20). The gate control signal is supplied to the gate driving unit (30), and the data control signal is supplied to the data driving unit (20).

[0053] The gate driving unit (30) generates a scan signal to drive a thin-film transistor formed in each pixel (Px) of the display panel (100) based on a gate control signal supplied from the timing controller (10). The generated scan signal is supplied sequentially to a plurality of gate wires (GL).

[0054] The data driving unit (20) can sequentially receive digital image data (R, G, B) supplied from the timing controller (10), convert it into a data voltage by referring to a reference voltage, and supply it to each pixel of the display panel (100).

[0055] The system unit (1) can supply a light source control signal to the first light source driving unit (50) and the second light source driving unit (60). The first light source driving unit (50) and the second light source driving unit (60) can supply a light source driving signal according to the light source control signal to the light sources of the first light source module (200) and the second light source module (300). The light sources of the first light source module (200) and the second light source module (300) can be turned on according to the light source driving signal to generate light.

[0056] The light source may be a light-emitting diode (LED), an exterior electrode fluorescent lamp (EEFL), a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), a laser diode, etc., but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0057] The light source control signal may include an LED enable signal and a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal. The LED enable signal may serve to control the timing of the turn-on and turn-off of the light source. For example, when the LED enable signal applied to the first light source driver (50) and the second light source driver (60) is at a high level, the light source may be turned on. When the LED enable signal applied to the first light source driver (50) and the second light source driver (60) is at a low level, the light source may be turned off. The first light source driver (50) and the second light source driver (60) may be LED drivers, but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0058] The sensor control unit (40) can process light received from the sensor (2) to generate an image or a three-dimensional feature map. When the sensor control unit (40) receives a sensor driving signal (SDS) input from the outside, it can transmit it to the system unit (1).

[0059] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a second light source module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the display device may include a case (3), a first light source module (200) disposed on the case (3), a display panel (100) disposed on the first light source module (200), and a second light source module (300) disposed below the first light source module (200).

[0061] The first light source module (200) may include a light guide member (240) disposed on a case (3), a plurality of first light sources (210) disposed on one side of the light guide member (240), a reflector (230) disposed on the lower part of the light guide member (240), and a plurality of optical sheets (250) disposed on the light guide member (240).

[0062] The light guide member (240) can convert light emitted from a plurality of light sources into a surface light source. The light guide member (240) may be defined as a light guide plate or a light guide member. Light emitted from a plurality of first light sources (210) may be incident on one side of the light guide member (240) and proceed to the other side. The light may be reflected inside the light guide member (240) and emitted toward the display panel (100). Accordingly, uniform light may be emitted toward the upper surface of the light guide member (240).

[0063] According to an embodiment, a plurality of patterns (PT) may be disposed in the area corresponding to the first display area (DA1) of the light guide member (240). Light may be emitted from the light guide member (240) by means of the plurality of patterns (PT). However, the plurality of patterns (PT) may not be formed in the area corresponding to the second display area (DA2) of the light guide member (240). Therefore, the first light source module (200) is disposed overlappingly in the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2), but the portion corresponding to the second display area (DA2) may undergo total internal reflection of light. Accordingly, the first light source module (200) may not supply light to the second display area (DA2).

[0064] A plurality of optical sheets (250) can form a uniform surface light source by concentrating or diffusing light emitted from a light guide member (240). The plurality of optical sheets (250) may include a prism sheet and / or a diffusion sheet.

[0065] A plurality of optical sheets (250) may have a first opening hole (250a) formed in a portion corresponding to the second display area (DA2). A reflector (230) may have a second opening hole (230a) formed in a portion corresponding to the second display area (DA2). Accordingly, external light incident on the second display area (DA2) may pass through the first opening hole (250a) and the second opening hole (230a) and be incident on the second light source module (300).

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the second light source module (300) may include a path changing member (320) into which external light is incident and at least one second light source (310) that supplies light to the path changing member (320). The path changing member (320) may have a triangular cross-section, but is not limited thereto. For example, the cross-section of the path changing member (320) may have a polygonal shape.

[0067] The path changing member (320) may include a reflective surface (324) that reflects external light incident on the first side (321) facing the second display area (DA2) or the light guide member (240) so that it is incident on the sensor (2). The path changing member (320) may be positioned to overlap with the light guide member (240) in the second display area (DA2).

[0068] The sensor (2) is positioned on the second side (322) to receive external light reflected by the reflective surface (324). A lens (330) for collecting incident light may be positioned on the upper part of the path conversion member (320). The lens (330) may be fixed to the case (3) by a bracket (442).

[0069] The second light source (310) may be positioned on the third side (323) of the path changing member (320). The path changing member (320) may emit light (L2) emitted from the second light source (310) to the first side (321). The path changing member (320) may include various reflection structures for emitting light (L2) supplied from the second light source (310) to the first side (321). For example, a reflection coating layer may be formed on the remaining sides so that light passes only through the first side (321), the second side (322), and the third side (323) among the plurality of sides of the path changing member (320).

[0070] The third side (323) of the path conversion member (320) may be positioned so as not to face the second side (322) and the reflective surface (324). Therefore, since the second light source (310) does not block the path of the external light incident thereon, the sensor (2) can receive sufficient light.

[0071] The display panel (100) may include a first substrate (110), a second substrate (120), and a liquid crystal layer (130) disposed between the first substrate (110) and the second substrate (120). A first polarizing plate (141) may be disposed on the lower part of the first substrate (110), and a second polarizing plate (142) may be disposed on the upper part of the second substrate (120). A color filter (150) may be disposed on the upper part of the second substrate (120).

[0072] The optical axes of the first polarizer (141) and the second polarizer (142) may be orthogonal to each other. Light passing through the first polarizer (141) may pass through the second polarizer (142) after its optical axis is changed by the liquid crystal layer (130). The liquid crystal layer (130) can rotate when an electric field is formed when voltage is applied to the pixel electrode placed on the first substrate (110) and the common electrode placed on the second substrate (120). The transmittance of light passing through the display panel (100) can be controlled according to the degree to which the liquid crystal of the liquid crystal layer (130) rotates. The configuration of the polarizer and the display panel (100) may be any known configuration of a liquid crystal display panel without limitation.

[0073] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing color filters of a first display area and a second display area according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 5, the color filter (150) may be arranged differently in the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2). In the first display area (DA1), the color filter (150) may have sub-color filters (SC1, SC2, SC3) arranged for each sub-pixel. In the second display area (DA2), the color filter (150) may have sub-color filters (SC1, SC2, SC3) arranged for some pixels and omit sub-color filters (SC1, SC2, SC3) for some pixels. The parts where the sub-color filters (SC1, SC2, SC3) are omitted may function as a light-transmitting area (TA) where light is incident or transmitted, without creating an image.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the color filter (150) may include a filter area (FA) and a light transmission area (TA) in the second display area (DA2). The filter area (FA) may be an area where sub-color filters (SC1, SC2, SC3) are placed and where light passing through the display panel (100) is color-converted to create an image. The light transmission area (TA) may be an area where sub-color filters (SC1, SC2, SC3) are not placed, so it does not create an image and allows light to pass through. According to an embodiment, the amount of incident external light through the transmission area is increased, thereby improving the performance of the sensor (2).

[0076] According to the embodiments, three light-transmitting regions (TA) may be arranged adjacently for every one filter region (FA), but the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, one filter region (FA) and one light-transmitting region (TA) may be arranged alternately, or one light-transmitting region (TA) may be arranged adjacently for every two filter regions (FA). According to the embodiments, the number of filter regions (FA) and light-transmitting regions (TA) in the second display region (DA2) may vary.

[0077] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a light guide member according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the display panel (100) can rotate the liquid crystal by forming an electric field through a pixel electrode (111) disposed on a first substrate (110) and a common electrode (121) disposed on a second substrate (120). The pixel electrode (111) can be disposed to correspond to each sub-color filter (SC1, SC2, SC3) of the color filter (150). Thus, color can be realized by adjusting the transmittance differently for each sub-pixel.

[0079] The first light source module (200) may include a plurality of first light sources (210) disposed on a first circuit board (220), a reflector (230) disposed on the lower part of a light guide member (240), and a plurality of optical sheets (250) disposed on the light guide member (240).

[0080] The second light source module (300) may include at least one second light source (310) and a path changing member (320) disposed on the second circuit board (340). In the embodiment, the second light source (310) is shown as being disposed facing the reflective surface (324) of the path changing member (320), but the second light source (310) may not be disposed facing the reflective surface (324) and may be disposed on one side of the path changing member (320).

[0081] A third opening hole (241) may be formed in the light guide member (240) in a portion corresponding to the second display area (DA2). Accordingly, light incident on the light guide member (240) from a plurality of first light sources (210) may not emit light to the second display area (DA2) during the process of traveling from one side to the other.

[0082] According to the embodiment, the light guide member (240) of the first light source module (200) may not be overlapped in the second display area (DA2). Since the light incident on the second display area (DA2) is incident directly on the light guide member (240) without passing through the path conversion member (320), the amount of light may be increased.

[0083] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method of driving a display panel, a light source module, and a sensor according to a driving mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a method of driving a display panel, a first light source module, a second light source module, and a sensor in a general mode of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 8, the display device can drive the display panel (100) into a normal mode (NM) and a camera mode (CM) depending on whether the sensor is operating (S110). When a sensor driving signal is received, it can be determined that the sensor is operating. The sensor driving signal may be a camera driving signal or an infrared sensor driving signal. When a user clicks the operation button of the sensor (2) or activates a specific event mode (e.g., Face ID), the camera driving signal or the infrared sensor driving signal may be output.

[0085] When the sensor is not operating, the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) can operate in normal mode (NM). In normal mode (NM), the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) can output an image.

[0086] When the sensor is operating, the display device can operate the second display area (DA2) in a sensing mode (SM) and a sub-display mode (SDM) on a frame-by-frame basis (S120).

[0087] Odd frames and even frames may be output repeatedly. Odd frames may be odd-numbered frames, and even frames may be even-numbered frames. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, odd frames may be even-numbered frames, and even frames may be odd-numbered frames.

[0088] According to the embodiment, it can operate in sensing mode (SM) during odd frames and in sub-display mode (SDM) during even frames. Therefore, since it outputs an image while receiving external light in camera mode (CM), the visibility of the shooting area from the outside can be improved.

[0089] In the embodiments, the mode is described as being changed for each frame, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, a frame may be time-divided into a plurality of sub-frames and the mode may be changed for each sub-frame. For example, a frame may be time-divided into a first sub-frame and a second sub-frame, and the first sub-frame may be operated in a sensing mode (SM) and the second sub-frame may be operated in a sub-display mode (SDM).

[0090] Referring to FIG. 9, when operating in normal mode (NM), the display panel (100) can control the transmittance (TRM) by applying a data voltage to the pixel electrodes of the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) so as to display an image. As the value of the Y-axis increases, the light transmittance can be increased.

[0091] The first light source module (200) and the second light source module (300) can supply light of a predetermined brightness (LM1, LM2) to the display panel (100). In normal mode (NM), the sensor (2) may not operate.

[0092] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a method of driving a display panel, a second light source module, and a sensor in camera mode of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 10, the display panel (100) can be driven so that the light transmittance (TRM1) is maximized in the sensing mode (SM). As the Y-axis value increases, the light transmittance can be increased.

[0094] A data driving unit (20) controlling a display panel (100) can apply a data voltage to the pixel electrode of a second display area (DA2) so that the light transmittance is maximized during the sensing mode (SM). Depending on the type of liquid crystal, the data voltage may be lowered or raised to increase the light transmittance.

[0095] In the sensing mode (SM), the data voltage applied to the pixel electrode of the second display area (DA2) may be the same. That is, in the sensing mode (SM), the same data voltage may be applied to the pixel of the second display area (DA2) so that the light transmittance is maximized. For example, in the sensing mode (SM), a full data voltage corresponding to the white gradation may be applied. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, in the sensing mode, a voltage higher or lower than the full data voltage may be applied to increase transmittance.

[0096] The second light source module (300) can be turned off during the sensing mode (SM) period. Therefore, light entering from the outside is not mixed with the light emitted from the second light source module (300), so noise can be minimized. The second light source driving unit (60) can apply a turn-off signal to the second light source (310) of the second light source module (300) during the odd frame period and apply a turn-on signal to the second light source (310) during the even frame period based on the shooting synchronization signal (CSS).

[0097] The sensor (2) can receive incident light and process it into an image. According to an embodiment, the sensor (2) can process the light received during the odd frame period to generate an image or a three-dimensional feature map. As the Y-axis value increases, the amount of received light (RL) can increase.

[0098] According to the embodiment, when the sensor (2) receives light in the sensing mode (SM), the light transmittance is adjusted to the maximum so that the second light source module (300) does not generate light, so sufficient light can be received without noise during the sensing period. If the amount of incident light is low, the sensor control unit can perform a separate image processing operation to compensate for this.

[0099] The following describes the Sub Display Mode (SDM).

[0100] The display panel (100) can have its light transmittance (TRM2) adjusted according to image data to output an image during the sub-display mode (SDM) period. While the light transmittance of each pixel is constant in the sensing mode, the light transmittance of each pixel in the sub-display mode (SDM) can vary depending on the image being output.

[0101] The second light source module can be turned on during the sub-display mode (SDM) period to supply light to the display panel (100). During the sub-display mode (SDM), the brightness (LM3) of the light supplied from the second light source module (300) may be twice the brightness of the light supplied during the normal mode (NM). Therefore, the average amount of light supplied during the camera mode (CM) period may be the same as the average amount of light supplied during the normal mode (NM). Thus, the same brightness as during the normal mode (NM) period can be maintained even during the camera mode (CM) period.

[0102] According to the embodiment, in sensing mode (SM), light can be received or images displayed frame by frame without continuously receiving external light. Therefore, since images are output even in sensing mode (SM), the problem of the camera being visible from the outside can be improved.

[0103] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the operation of a color filter in a sensing mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the operation of a color filter in a sub-display mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 11, a color filter (150) placed in a second display area (DA2) may include a filter area (FA) that implements an image and a light-transmitting area (TA) that transmits light. The display panel (100) can drive the light transmittance of the area corresponding to the light-transmitting area (TA) to the maximum so that external light is transmitted to the light-transmitting area (TA) of the color filter (150) when in sensing mode (SM). At this time, the filter area (FA) can be blocked so that light is not transmitted. In the color filter (150), the part marked with O is an area where light is transmitted by adjusting the data voltage, and the part marked with X is an area where light is not transmitted.

[0105] If light is incident through the filter area (FA), the color may change as it passes through the color filter, which can act as noise. Therefore, the filter area (FA) can be blocked when operating in the sensing mode (SM). However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the data driving unit (20) can control the filter area (FA) as well as the light-transmitting area (TA) of the second display area (DA2) to allow external light to pass through when in the sensing mode (SM).

[0106] Referring to FIG. 12, in sub-display mode (SDM), the display panel (100) can adjust the light transmittance of the area corresponding to the filter area (FA) to create an image. At this time, the light-transmitting area (TA) where an image cannot be created can block light. In the color filter (150), the part marked with O is the area through which light is transmitted, and the part marked with X is the area through which light is not transmitted.

[0107] However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the display panel (100) may control the brightness by controlling the light transmission area (TA) as well as the filter area (FA) of the second display area (DA2) to transmit light during the sub-display mode. According to the embodiment, during the sub-display mode (SDM) period, the filter area (FA) may display an image and the light transmission area (TA) may control the brightness.

[0108] Fig. 13 is a modified example of Fig. 10.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 13, the liquid crystal is driven by the electric field of the pixel electrode and the common electrode, and can be restored to its original position when the electric field is removed. However, even when the electric field is removed, a certain time delay may occur in restoring it to its original state.

[0110] When the even frame begins after the odd frame has ended, the liquid crystal may not be fully restored to its original position. Therefore, if light is output from the second light source module (300) simultaneously with the even frame, some of the light may pass through the display panel (100) and the desired image may not be realized.

[0111] Accordingly, in an odd frame, the second light source module (300) can be controlled to turn on after a certain time has passed since the even frame started, taking into account the delay required for the liquid crystal to return to its original position. For example, it can be turned on with a duty cycle of 90% of the total duration of the even frame. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The duration for which the second light source module (300) is turned on during the sub-display mode (SDM) period can be varied. For example, the second light source module (300) can be turned on with a duty cycle of 80% of the total duration of the even frame. At this time, in order to maintain the same total brightness, the brightness can be controlled to be higher as the turn-on time of the second light source module (300) decreases.

[0112] For example, when the second light source module (300) is turned on with a duty cycle of 90% of the entire period of an even frame, the luminance (LM4) of the light output from the second light source module (300) may be 2.2 times that of the normal mode (NM).

[0113] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a method of driving a display panel, a second light source module, and a sensor in camera mode of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an electronic product to which a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel (100) comprising a first display area (DA1) and a second display area (DA2) for displaying an image according to input image data, a light source module for supplying light to the display panel (100), and a sensor (2) for receiving light. The display device includes a plurality of driving units or control units for controlling the display panel (100), the light source module, and the sensor (2).

[0115] At least one sensor (2) may be disposed in the second display area (DA2). The sensor (2) may receive light incident on the second display area (DA2). The sensor (2) may include various sensors (2) that receive light, such as an RGB camera, an illuminance sensor, and an infrared camera. The sensor control unit (40) may generate an image or a three-dimensional feature map using the light incident on the sensor (2). For example, the sensor (2) may be an RGB camera or an infrared camera. For example, the sensor (2) may include an RGB camera and an infrared camera. According to an embodiment, an illuminance sensor (LS) may be further included.

[0116] The system unit (1) can supply video signals, timing signals (TS), and signals required for driving to the timing controller (10). The system unit (1) can output control signals and shooting synchronization signals (CSS) to the data driving unit (20), the second light source driving unit (60), and the sensor control unit (40).

[0117] The system unit (1) can receive a sensor driving signal (SDS) from the sensor control unit (40) and can control the data driving unit (20) and the second light source driving unit (60) according to the sensor driving signal (SDS). However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Upon receiving the control signal from the system unit (1), the timing controller (10) can apply a control signal and a shooting synchronization signal (CSS) to the data driving unit (20), the second light source driving unit (60), and / or the sensor control unit (40).

[0118] According to an embodiment, if low light is determined based on the sensing value of the illuminance sensor (LS), the system unit (1) or the timing controller (10) may increase the duration of the sensing mode (SM). For example, it may operate in the sensing mode (SM) during the first and second frames and in the display mode during the third frame.

[0119] When the sensing result of the illuminance sensor determines that the light is low, the system unit (1) can set the duration of the sensing mode (SM) in camera mode (CM) to be longer than the duration of the sub-display mode (SDM). For example, if the first frame (1FM), the second frame (2FM), and the third frame (3FM) are set as a single frame group, the first frame (1FM) and the second frame (2FM) can operate in the sensing mode (SM), and the third frame (3FM) can operate in the sub-display mode (SDM). Thus, by controlling the duration of sensing external light to be long, sufficient light can be secured in low light conditions. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The duration of the sensing mode can be varied in various ways depending on the illuminance. For example, four frames can be operated in the sensing mode and one frame can be operated in the sub-display mode.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 16, an illuminance sensor (LS) in the electronic device (1000) may be placed in various parts of the display device. The illuminance sensor (LS) may be placed in a monitor area adjacent to the second display area (DA2) or in a keyboard area. In addition, at least one illuminance sensor (LS) may be placed in various parts of the display device.

[0121] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings, the present invention is not necessarily limited to these embodiments and can be implemented with various modifications within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0122] Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in this invention are intended to illustrate, not limit, the technical concept of the invention, and the scope of the technical concept of the invention is not limited by these embodiments.

[0123] Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as exemplary in all respects and not limiting.

[0124] The scope of protection of the present invention shall be interpreted by the claims, and all technical ideas within an equivalent scope shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of rights of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0125] 10: Timing Controller 20: Data driver 30: Gate drive unit 40: Sensor control unit 50: First light source driving unit 60: Second light source driving unit 100: Display panel 200: 1st light source module 300: Second light source module

Claims

Claim 1 A display device comprising: a display panel including a first display area and a second display area; a sensor receiving light through the second display area; a first light source module supplying light to the first display area; and a second light source module supplying light to the second display area, wherein the second display area operates in a sensing mode in which light is incident on the sensor frame by frame when the sensor is operated, and in a sub-display mode for displaying an image. Claim 2 A display device according to claim 1, wherein when the sensor is not operating, the first display area and the second display area operate in a normal mode for displaying images, and when the sensor is operating, the first display area operates in a normal mode, and the second display area alternately operates in the sensing mode and the sub-display mode on a frame-by-frame basis. Claim 3 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising: a data driving unit for driving the display panel; a sensor control unit for controlling the sensor; a first light source driving unit for driving the first light source module; and a second light source driving unit for driving the second light source module, wherein the data driving unit, the sensor control unit, and the second light source driving unit are synchronized to drive the second display area of ​​the display panel, the sensor, and the second light source module on a frame-by-frame basis. Claim 4 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the display panel adjusts the transmittance of the liquid crystal so that the transmittance of the second display area is maximized during the sensing mode, and adjusts the transmittance of the liquid crystal so that the second display area implements an image during the sub-display mode. Claim 5 In claim 1, the sensor is a display device that generates an image using light received during the sensing mode period. Claim 6 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the second light source module is turned off during the sensing mode period and turned on during the sub-display mode period. Claim 7 A display device according to claim 6, wherein the brightness of the light emitted from the second light source module in the sub-display mode is higher than the brightness of the light emitted from the second light source module in the normal mode. Claim 8 A display device according to claim 6, wherein the period during which the second light source module is turned on in the sub-display mode is shorter than a frame period. Claim 9 A display device according to paragraph 2, wherein when the second light source module operates in a sensing mode, the first light source module operates in a normal mode to output an image. Claim 10 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the display panel comprises a first substrate, a second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. Claim 11 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising a color filter disposed on the display panel, wherein the color filter disposed in the second display area comprises a filter area that implements an image and a light-transmitting area that does not implement an image. Claim 12 In claim 11, the second display area is a display device in which external light is introduced through the light-emitting area during the sensing mode and an image is implemented through the filter area during the sub-display mode. Claim 13 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the first light source module comprises a light guide member disposed in the first display area, a plurality of first light sources that irradiate light onto the light guide member, an optical sheet disposed on the upper part of the light guide member, and a reflector disposed on the lower part of the light guide member, wherein the optical sheet comprises a first opening hole disposed in a portion corresponding to the first display area, and the reflector comprises a second opening hole disposed in a portion corresponding to the second display area. Claim 14 In paragraph 13, the display device comprises: a second light source module comprising a path conversion member disposed in the second display area; and a second light source disposed on one side of the path conversion member. Claim 15 A display device according to claim 14, wherein the path conversion member is arranged in an overlapping manner with the light guide member in the second display area. Claim 16 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising an illuminance sensor, wherein if the sensing result of the illuminance sensor is determined to be low illuminance, the sensing mode period is set longer than the sub-display mode period.

Images