Light emitting display apparatus

Abstract

The problem to be solved by one embodiment of the present specification is to provide a light-emitting display device in which, when a degradation prevention function is started by a control driver, a scaler can disable the degradation prevention function of the control driver according to the analysis result of input image data. To this end, the light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present specification includes a control driver that executes a degradation prevention function; a scaler that transmits a degradation prevention function activation request signal to the control driver and, when degradation prevention function start information is received from the control driver, transmits a degradation prevention function deactivation request signal to the control driver according to the analysis result of input image data; and a light-emitting display panel that outputs images according to the control of the control driver.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] This specification relates to a light-emitting display device. Background Technology

[0002] A light-emitting display device is installed in electronic products such as televisions, monitors, laptop computers, smartphones, tablet computers, electronic pads, wearable devices, watch phones, portable information devices, navigation systems, or vehicle control display devices, and performs the function of displaying images.

[0003] In other words, the light-emitting display device can be used as a television, as a monitor, or as various types of electronic products. The problem to be solved

[0004] When a light-emitting display is used for a long time, its performance may deteriorate due to the degradation of the light-emitting elements. To prevent this, various types of degradation prevention functions are utilized in light-emitting displays to prevent the deterioration of the light-emitting elements. For example, methods are used to gradually reduce the brightness of a still image when it is continuously displayed, or to reduce the brightness of the area where a logo is displayed. These functions are executed by the control driver of the light-emitting display.

[0005] The inventor of this specification recognized the problem that when a light-emitting display device manufactured for television is used for a monitor, it is difficult to apply the conventionally used anti-degradation functions.

[0006] In other words, since small movements such as the movement of a mouse cursor are ignored in a light-emitting display device made for television, even if a mouse cursor is moved by a user after the brightness of the light-emitting display panel has been reduced by the degradation prevention function, the brightness of the light-emitting display panel cannot be changed to normal brightness.

[0007] Accordingly, the inventor of this specification has invented a structure capable of preventing performance degradation of a light-emitting display device due to the degradation of light-emitting elements, and in particular, has invented a light-emitting display device that can be used interchangeably as a television and a monitor, and in which the degradation prevention function can be executed normally.

[0008] The problem to be solved by one embodiment of the present specification is to provide a light-emitting display device in which, when a degradation prevention function is started in a control driver, a scaler can disable the degradation prevention function of the control driver according to the analysis result of input image data. means of solving the problem

[0009] A light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present specification includes a control driver that executes a degradation prevention function, a scaler that transmits a request signal to activate the degradation prevention function to the control driver and, when degradation prevention function start information is received from the control driver, transmits a request signal to deactivate the degradation prevention function to the control driver according to the analysis result of input image data, and a light-emitting display panel that outputs images according to the control of the control driver.

[0010] Specific details according to various examples of this specification, other than the means for solving the problem mentioned above, are included in the description and drawings below. Effects of the invention

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present specification, the degradation prevention function of a control driver can be disabled even if the structure and function of the control driver in which the degradation prevention function is executed are not changed.

[0012] Therefore, a light-emitting display device equipped with a control driver designed to ignore small movements, such as the movement of a mouse cursor, can be used as a monitor.

[0013] That is, according to one embodiment of the present specification, a light-emitting display device manufactured as a television and having a degradation prevention function can also be used as a monitor and various other types of electronic devices.

[0014] In addition, according to the present specification, the brightness of the light-emitting display device may be reduced by the degradation prevention function, and accordingly, a low-power light-emitting display device may be provided. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0015] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram showing the configuration of a light-emitting display device according to the present specification. FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a pixel applied to a light-emitting display device according to the present specification. FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a control driver applied to a different light-emitting display device according to the present specification. FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a scaler applied to a light-emitting display device according to the present specification. FIG. 5 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a gate driver applied to a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification. FIG. 6 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a data driver applied to a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification. FIG. 7 is an exemplary diagram showing a driving method of a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification. FIGS. 8a to 8c are exemplary diagrams showing signals transmitted between a scaler and a control driver in a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification. FIG. 9 is an exemplary diagram showing a light-emitting display panel applied to a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0016] The advantages and features of this specification and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, this specification is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be configured in various different forms, and the embodiments of this specification are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of this specification is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention.

[0017] Shapes, sizes, ratios, angles, numbers, etc. disclosed in the drawings for explaining the embodiments of this specification are exemplary and are not limited to the depicted items. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components. Furthermore, in describing this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art could unnecessarily obscure the essence of this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Where terms such as "includes," "has," or "is made up" are used in this specification, other parts may be added unless "only" is used. Where a component is expressed in the singular, it includes cases where it is included in the plural unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0018] In interpreting the components, even if there is no separate explicit description of the error range, it is interpreted as including the error range.

[0019] In the case of a description of a positional relationship, for example, when the positional relationship between two parts is described using terms such as "on," "on the upper," "on the lower," or "next to," unless terms such as "immediately" or "directly" are used, one or more other parts may be located between the two parts.

[0020] In the case of an explanation of temporal relationships, when temporal sequence is explained using "after," "following," "next," "before," etc., cases that are not continuous may be included unless "immediately" or "directly" is used.

[0021] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc. are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another. Accordingly, the first component mentioned below may be the second component within the technical scope of this specification.

[0022] In describing the components of this specification, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used. These terms are intended only to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, sequence, or number of the components are not limited by such terms. Where it is stated that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "joined" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or joined to the other component, but that other components may also be "interposed" between each component that may be indirectly connected or joined unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0023] "At least one" should be understood to include all combinations of one or more associated components. For example, the meaning of "at least one of the first, second, and third components" may be said to include not only the first, second, or third components, but also all combinations of two or more of the first, second, and third components.

[0024] The features of each of the various embodiments of this specification may be combined or combined with one another, either partially or wholly, and may technically enable various interlocking and operation. Each embodiment may be implemented independently of one another or may be implemented together in an associated relationship.

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present specification are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. For the convenience of explanation, the scale of the components shown in the drawings may differ from the actual scale and is therefore not limited to the scale shown in the drawings.

[0026] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram showing the configuration of a light-emitting display device according to the present specification, FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a pixel applied to a light-emitting display device according to the present specification, FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a control driver applied to a light-emitting display device according to the present specification, FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a scaler applied to a light-emitting display device according to the present specification, FIG. 5 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a gate driver applied to a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification, and FIG. 6 is an exemplary diagram showing the structure of a data driver applied to a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification.

[0027] The light-emitting display device according to the present specification can be used as various electronic devices. The electronic device may be, for example, a television and a monitor.

[0028] A light-emitting display device according to the present specification comprises, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a light-emitting display panel (100) including a display area (DA) where an image is output and a non-display area (NDA) provided on the outer edge of the display area (DA); a gate driver (200) that supplies gate signals (GS) to gate lines (GL1 to GLg) provided in the display area (DA) of the light-emitting display panel (100); a data driver (300) that supplies data voltages (Vdata) to data lines (DL1 to DLd) provided in the light-emitting display panel (100); a control driver (400) that controls the operation of the gate driver (200) and the data driver (300); a scaler (600) that converts image information received through a communication network into input image data that the control driver (400) can recognize; and a power supply that supplies power to the control driver (400), the gate driver (200), the data driver (300), and the light-emitting display panel (100). It includes a supply unit (500).

[0029] First, the light-emitting display panel (100) includes a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA). The display area (DA) is equipped with gate lines (GL1 to GLg), data lines (DL1 to DLd), and pixels (P). Thus, an image is output in the display area (DA). g and d are natural numbers. The non-display area (NDA) surrounds the outer edge of the display area (DA).

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, a pixel (P) provided in a light-emitting display panel (100) may include a pixel driving circuit (PDC) comprising a switching transistor (Tsw1), a storage capacitor (Cst), a driving transistor (Tdr), and a sensing transistor (Tsw2), and a light-emitting element (ED) connected to the pixel driving circuit (PDC).

[0031] The first terminal of the driving transistor (Tdr) is connected to a first voltage supply line (PLA) to which a first voltage (EVDD) is supplied, and the second terminal of the driving transistor (Tdr) can be connected to a light-emitting element (ED).

[0032] The first terminal of the switching transistor (Tsw1) is connected to the data line (DL), the second terminal of the switching transistor (Tsw1) is connected to the gate of the driving transistor (Tdr), and the gate of the switching transistor (Tsw1) can be connected to the gate line (GL).

[0033] A data voltage (Vdata) is supplied from the data driver (300) through the data line (DL). A gate signal (GS) is supplied from the gate driver (200) through the gate line (GL). The gate signal (GS) includes a gate pulse (GP) that turns on the switching transistor (Tsw1) and a gate off signal that turns off the switching transistor (Tsw1).

[0034] A sensing transistor (Tsw2) may be provided to measure the threshold voltage or mobility of a driving transistor (Tdr) or to supply a reference voltage (Vref) to a pixel driving circuit (PDC). The first terminal of the sensing transistor (Tsw2) is connected to the second terminal of the driving transistor (Tdr) and to a light-emitting element (ED), the second terminal of the sensing transistor (Tsw2) is connected to a sensing line (SL) to which the reference voltage (Vref) is supplied, and the gate of the sensing transistor (Tsw2) may be connected to a sensing control line (SCL) to which a sensing control signal (SCS) is supplied.

[0035] The sensing line (SL) can be connected to the data driver (300) and can be connected to the power supply unit (500) through the data driver (300). That is, the reference voltage (Vref) supplied from the power supply unit (500) can be supplied to the pixels (P) through the sensing line (SL), and the data sensing signals transmitted from the pixels (P) can be processed in the data driver (300).

[0036] The light-emitting element (ED) includes a first electrode that receives a first voltage (EVDD) through a driving transistor (Tdr), a second electrode connected to a second voltage supply line (PLB) that supplies a second voltage (EVSS), and a light-emitting layer provided between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0037] The structure of the pixel (P) to which this specification applies is not limited to the structure shown in FIG. 2. Accordingly, the structure of the pixel (P) can be changed in various forms.

[0038] Next, the control driver (400) can rearrange the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) transmitted from the scaler (600) using the timing synchronization signal (TSS) transmitted from the scaler (600), and can generate driver control signals (GCS, DCS) to be supplied to the data driver (300) and the gate driver (200).

[0039] To this end, the control driver (400) comprises, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a data alignment unit (430) for rearranging input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) to generate image data (Data) and supplying the image data (Data) to the data driver (300); a control signal generation unit (420) for generating a gate control signal (GCS) and a data control signal (DCS) using a timing synchronization signal (TSS); a control unit (410) for receiving the timing synchronization signal (TSS) and input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) from the scaler (600) and transmitting them to the data alignment unit (430) and the control signal generation unit (420); and a control unit (410) for supplying the image data (Data) generated in the data alignment unit (430) and the data control signals (DCS) generated in the control signal generation unit (420) to the data driver (300) and supplying the gate control signals (GCS) generated in the control signal generation unit (420) to the gate driver (200). It may include an output section (440).

[0040] The control signal generation unit (420) may generate a power control signal supplied to the power supply unit (500).

[0041] The control driver (400) may further include a storage unit for storing various information. The storage unit may be included in the control driver (400), but may also be separated from the control driver (400) and provided independently.

[0042] In particular, the control driver (400) applicable to the present specification can perform various types of anti-deterioration functions.

[0043] For example, the control driver (400) can execute a Temporal Peak Luminance Control (TPC) function that can lower the brightness of the lights output from the light-emitting display panel when still images are output through the light-emitting display panel.

[0044] To this end, the control unit (410) of the control driver (400) analyzes the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and determines whether the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the still image is input during a preset period. Here, the still image refers to an image output from the light-emitting display panel, and in particular, refers to an image that is still, such as a figure. That is, since images are output from the light-emitting display panel by the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi), the still image can be determined by analyzing the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi).

[0045] If, as a result of analyzing the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) included in at least two frames, it is determined that the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the still images has been input, the control unit (410) can control the data alignment unit (430) to lower the luminance value of each of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi). The image data (Data) with reduced luminance values ​​is transmitted to the data driver (300), and the image data (Data) is converted into data voltages (Vdata) in the data driver (300) and supplied to the pixels (P) provided in the light-emitting display panel (100).

[0046] When the luminance value of each of the image data (Data) is reduced, the current supplied to the light-emitting elements (ED) equipped in the pixels (P) may be reduced, and accordingly, the luminance of the light output from the light-emitting elements (ED) may be reduced. Therefore, the luminance of the still images output from the light-emitting display panel (100) may be reduced.

[0047] If the currents supplied to the light-emitting elements (EDs) are reduced, and the brightness of the light output from the light-emitting elements (EDs) is reduced, the rate of degradation of the light-emitting elements (EDs) can be reduced.

[0048] Therefore, the degradation rate of light-emitting elements (EDs) can be reduced by the TPC function as described above, and accordingly, the deterioration of the quality of the light-emitting display device due to the degradation of light-emitting elements (EDs) can be prevented.

[0049] Additionally, if, as a result of analyzing the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) included in at least two frames, it is determined that the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the still images has been input for a preset period, the control unit (410) may control the power supply unit (500) to reduce the magnitude of the first voltage (EVDD) supplied to the pixels (P).

[0050] When the magnitude of the first voltage (EVDD) is reduced, the magnitude of the current supplied to the pixels (P) can be reduced overall. Consequently, the currents supplied to the light-emitting elements (EDs) are reduced, thereby reducing the brightness of the light output from the light-emitting elements (EDs), and consequently, the rate of degradation of the light-emitting elements (EDs) can be reduced.

[0051] Therefore, the degradation rate of light-emitting elements (EDs) can be reduced by the TPC function as described above, and accordingly, the deterioration of the quality of the light-emitting display device due to the degradation of light-emitting elements (EDs) can be prevented.

[0052] Additionally, the control driver (400) may execute a logo detection algorithm (LEA) function that can lower the brightness of the lights output in the area corresponding to the logo when a logo is output from the light-emitting display panel.

[0053] To this end, the control unit (410) of the control driver (400) analyzes the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) to determine whether the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the image containing the logo is being input. Here, the logo may be formed of characters or shapes, and may be a still image that does not change for a long time. The image containing the logo refers to an image output from the light-emitting display panel. That is, since images are output from the light-emitting display panel based on the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi), the image containing the logo can be determined by analyzing the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi). That is, if the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the pixels (P) corresponding to a specific area of ​​the light-emitting display panel (100) does not continuously change, the control unit (410) can determine that the logo is being displayed in the specific area.

[0054] If, as a result of analyzing the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) included in at least two frames, it is determined that input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to images containing a logo has been input, the control unit (410) can control the data alignment unit (430) to lower the brightness value of each of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the logo. The image data (Data) with reduced brightness values ​​is transmitted to the data driver (300), and the image data (Data) is converted into data voltages (Vdata) in the data driver (300) and supplied to the pixels (P) provided in the light-emitting display panel (100).

[0055] When the luminance value of each of the image data (Data) corresponding to the logo is reduced, the current supplied to the light-emitting elements (ED) equipped in the pixels (P) corresponding to the logo may be reduced, and accordingly, the luminance of the light output from the light-emitting elements (ED) corresponding to the logo may be reduced. Therefore, the luminance of the logo output from the light-emitting display panel (100) may be reduced.

[0056] If the currents supplied to the light-emitting elements (EDs) corresponding to the logo are reduced, and the brightness of the light output from the light-emitting elements (EDs) corresponding to the logo is reduced, the rate of degradation of the light-emitting elements (EDs) corresponding to the logo can be reduced. If the rate of degradation of the light-emitting elements (EDs) provided in a specific area of ​​the light-emitting display panel (100) is reduced, the overall rate of degradation of the light-emitting display device can be reduced.

[0057] Therefore, the degradation rate of light-emitting elements (EDs) can be reduced by the LEA function as described above, and accordingly, the deterioration of the quality of the light-emitting display device due to the degradation of light-emitting elements (EDs) can be prevented.

[0058] In the control driver (400), in addition to the TPC function and LEA function described above, at least one of the various types of degradation prevention functions currently in use may be executed. Furthermore, the feature of this specification does not lie in the degradation prevention function itself executed in the control driver (400) or in the structure of the control driver (400) for this purpose. Accordingly, a detailed description of each degradation prevention function and a detailed description of the structure and function of the control driver (400) for this purpose are omitted.

[0059] Next, the scaler (600) performs the function of driving the control driver (400) and the electronic device.

[0060] For example, if the electronic device is a television (TV), the scaler (600) can receive various voice information, video information and text information, etc. through a communication network, and can transmit the received video information to the control driver (400).

[0061] Additionally, if the electronic device is a monitor, the scaler (600) can receive video information through a communication network connected to a computer, and can convert the received video information into input video data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and transmit it to the control driver (400).

[0062] That is, the scaler (600) can convert the image information received through the communication network into a signal that the control driver (400) can recognize. In this case, the signal that the control driver (400) can recognize can be the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi). That is, the scaler (600) can convert the image information into input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi), and the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) can be transmitted to the control driver (400).

[0063] In particular, the scaler (600) is a control driver (400) that executes a degradation prevention function and can transmit a degradation prevention function activation request signal (ARS). When the degradation prevention function activation request signal (ARS) is received from the scaler (600), the control driver (400) executes a degradation prevention function as described above to prevent degradation of the light-emitting display device.

[0064] When the degradation prevention function is activated, the control driver (400) analyzes the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi). When the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the still images is received as described above, the control driver (400) can reduce the brightness of all pixels (P) and reduce the brightness of the pixels (P) in the area corresponding to the logo.

[0065] When the brightness of all pixels (P) or the brightness of pixels (P) corresponding to the logo decreases, the control driver (400) transmits the degradation prevention function start information (ONS) to the scaler (600).

[0066] That is, when the degradation prevention function is activated in the control driver (400) by the degradation prevention function activation request signal (ARS) received from the scaler (600), the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) is analyzed in the control driver (400). If, based on the analysis results, the brightness of all pixels (P) or the brightness of pixels (P) corresponding to the logo decreases, the control driver (400) transmits the degradation prevention function start information (ONS) to the scaler (600). The degradation prevention function start information (ONS) can be generated in the control unit (410).

[0067] When the anti-degradation function start information (ONS) is received from the control driver (400), the scaler (600) transmits an anti-degradation function disable request signal (DARS) to the control driver (400) based on the analysis results of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi).

[0068] To this end, the scaler (600) includes, as illustrated in FIG. 4, an image information receiving unit (610) that receives image information, a conversion unit (620) that converts the image information into input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi), and an analysis unit (630) that transmits a request signal (ARS) for activating the anti-degradation function to the control driver (400), and when an anti-degradation function start information (ONS) is received from the control driver (400), transmits a request signal (DARS) for deactivating the anti-degradation function to the control driver (400) according to the analysis result of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi).

[0069] The receiving unit (610) can receive video information from a communication network as described above. For example, if the electronic device is a television (TV), the scaler (600) can receive video information through a communication network, and if the electronic device is a monitor, the scaler (600) can receive video information through a communication network connected to a computer.

[0070] The conversion unit (620) converts image information into input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and can transmit the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) to the control driver (400).

[0071] The converter (620) can generate a timing synchronization signal (TSS) and transmit it to the control driver (400).

[0072] When power is supplied to the light-emitting display device and the control driver (400) is driven, the analysis unit (630) generates a request signal (ARS) to activate the degradation prevention function and transmits it to the control driver (400). Accordingly, the degradation prevention function can be executed by the control driver (400).

[0073] When the anti-degradation function start information (ONS) is received from the control driver (400), the analysis unit (630) analyzes the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi). In this case, the analysis unit (630) may analyze the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) generated by the conversion unit (620), but may also analyze the image information transmitted from the receiving unit (610). Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, a scaler (600) that analyzes the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) generated by the conversion unit (620) is described as an example of a light-emitting display device according to the present specification.

[0074] If the analysis unit (630) analyzes the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and determines that it is necessary to increase the brightness of the image reduced by the degradation prevention function to the normal brightness, it transmits a degradation prevention function deactivation request signal (DARS) to the control driver (400).

[0075] Accordingly, the control unit (410) can control at least one of the data alignment unit (430) and the control signal generation unit (420) so that the brightness of the image reduced by the degradation prevention function can be increased to the brightness of a normal state.

[0076] That is, under the control of the control unit (410), the data alignment unit (430) can generate image data (Data) having a brightness level equal to the brightness of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and transmit it to the data driver (300).

[0077] Additionally, under the control of the control unit (410), the control signal generation unit (620) can generate a power control signal that increases the magnitude of the reduced first voltage (EVDD) and supply it to the power supply unit (500).

[0078] Accordingly, the brightness of the entire light-emitting display panel or the brightness of the logo can be increased to a brightness corresponding to the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi).

[0079] After the scaler (600) transmits a request signal (DARS) to disable the degradation prevention function to the control driver (400), if a preset period has elapsed, it can transmit a request signal (ARS) to enable the degradation prevention function to the control driver (400) again.

[0080] Accordingly, the control driver (400) can again perform the deterioration prevention function.

[0081] Next, the power supply unit (500) generates various power sources and supplies the generated power sources to the control driver (400), gate driver (200), data driver (300), and light-emitting display panel (100).

[0082] In particular, the power supply unit (500) can change the magnitude of the first voltage (EVDD) according to the power control signal transmitted from the control signal generation unit (420).

[0083] In this case, the magnitude of the first voltage (EVDD) supplied to all pixels (P) may be changed, but only the magnitude of the first voltage (EVDD) supplied to a specific pixel (P) may be changed.

[0084] For example, when a still image is output, the brightness of the entire light-emitting display panel (100) is reduced, so the magnitude of the first voltage (EVDD) supplied to all pixels (P) may be changed.

[0085] Additionally, when an image with a logo is output, only the brightness of the light output from the area where the logo is displayed may be reduced, and thus only the magnitude of the first voltage (EVDD) supplied to specific pixels (P) in the area where the logo is displayed may be changed.

[0086] Next, the gate driver (200) may be directly embedded in the non-display area (NDA) using a Gate In Panel (GIP) method, or may be provided in the display area (DA) where light-emitting elements (ED) are provided, or may be provided in the chip-on-film mounted in the non-display area (NDA).

[0087] The gate driver (200) supplies gate pulses (GP1 to GPg) to the gate lines (GL1 to GLg).

[0088] When a gate pulse (GP) generated by a gate driver (200) is supplied to the gate of a switching transistor (Tsw1) provided in a pixel (P), the switching transistor (Tsw1) is turned on. When the switching transistor (Tsw1) is turned on, a data voltage (Vdata) supplied through a data line (DL) is supplied to the pixel (P).

[0089] When the gate off signal generated by the gate driver (200) is supplied to the switching transistor (Tsw1), the switching transistor (Tsw1) is turned off. When the switching transistor (Tsw1) is turned off, the data voltage (Vdata) is no longer supplied to the pixel (P).

[0090] The gate signal (GS) supplied to the gate line (GL) includes a gate pulse (GP) and a gate off signal.

[0091] To supply gate pulses (GP1 to GPg) to gate lines (GL1 to GLg), the gate driver (200) includes stages (ST1 to STg) connected to the gate lines (GL1 to GLg), as shown in FIG. 5.

[0092] Each of the stages (ST 1 to ST g) may be connected to one gate line (GL), but may also be connected to at least two gate lines (GL).

[0093] To generate gate pulses (GP1 to GPg), a gate start signal (VST) and at least one gate clock (GCLK) generated by a control signal generator (420) are transmitted to a gate driver (200). That is, the gate start signal (VST) and at least one gate clock (GCLK) are included in gate control signals (GCS).

[0094] Any one of the stages (ST 1 to ST g) can be driven by a gate start signal (VST) to output a gate pulse (GP) to the gate line (GL). The gate pulse (GP) can be generated by a gate clock (GCLK).

[0095] At least one of the signals output from the stage (ST) where the gate pulse (GP) is output can be supplied to another stage (ST) to drive the other stage (ST). Accordingly, a gate pulse can also be output from the other stage (ST).

[0096] That is, the stages (ST) are driven sequentially to sequentially supply gate pulses (GP) to the gate lines (GL).

[0097] Any one of the various types of gate drivers (200) currently in use may be applied to the light-emitting display device according to the present specification, and since the feature of the present specification does not lie in the structure and function of the gate driver (200), a detailed description of the specific structure and function of the stage (ST) is omitted.

[0098] Finally, the data driver (300) supplies data voltages (Vdata) to the data lines (DL1 to DLd).

[0099] To this end, the data driver (300) includes, as illustrated in FIG. 6, a shift register unit (310) that outputs a sampling signal, a latch unit (320) that latches image data (Data) received from a control driver (400), a digital-to-analog converter unit (330) that converts and outputs image data (Data) transmitted from the latch unit (320) into a data voltage (Vdata), and an output buffer (340) that outputs the data voltages (Vdata) transmitted from the digital-to-analog converter unit (330) to data lines (DL) according to a source output enable signal (SOE).

[0100] The shift register unit (310) outputs a sampling signal using data control signals (DCS) received from the control signal generation unit (420). For example, the data control signals (DCS) transmitted to the shift register unit (310) may include a source start pulse (SSP) and a source shift clock signal (SSC).

[0101] The latch unit (320) latches the image data (Data) received sequentially from the control driver (400) and then, according to the sampling signal, performs the function of simultaneously outputting the image data (Data) to the digital-to-analog converter (DAC) (330).

[0102] The digital-to-analog converter (330) simultaneously converts the image data (Data) transmitted from the latch unit (320) into data voltages (Vdata) and outputs them.

[0103] The output buffer (340) simultaneously outputs data voltages (Vdata) transmitted from the digital-to-analog converter (330) to the data lines (DL1 to DLd) of the display panel according to the source output enable signal (SOE) transmitted from the control signal generator (420).

[0104] To this end, the output buffer (340) may include a buffer (341) that stores a data voltage (Vdata) transmitted from a digital-to-analog converter (330), and a switch (342) that outputs the data voltage (Vdata) stored in the buffer (341) to a data line (DL) according to a source output enable signal (SOE).

[0105] That is, when the switches (342) are turned on according to a source output enable signal (SOE) supplied simultaneously to the switches (342), the data voltages (Vdata) stored in the buffers (341) can be supplied to the data lines (DL1 to DLd) through the switches (342).

[0106] The data voltages (Vdata) supplied to the data lines (DL1 to DLd) are supplied to the pixels (P) connected to the gate line (GL) supplied with the gate pulse (GP).

[0107] Since the features of this specification do not lie in the structure and function of the data driver (300), a detailed description of the specific structure and function of the data driver (300) is omitted.

[0108] FIG. 7 is an exemplary diagram showing a driving method of a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification, FIG. 8a to FIG. 8c are exemplary diagrams showing signals transmitted between a scaler and a control driver in a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification, and FIG. 9 is an exemplary diagram showing a light-emitting display panel applied to a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present specification.

[0109] Content identical or similar to that described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6 in the following description is omitted or briefly described.

[0110] First, when power is supplied to the light-emitting display device and the scaler (600) and control driver (400) are driven, the analysis unit (630) of the scaler (600) transmits a request signal (ARS) for activation of the anti-deterioration function to the control driver (400) as shown in FIG. 8a (S12).

[0111] Next, when a request signal (ARS) to activate the degradation prevention function is received, the control driver (400) activates the degradation prevention function (S14).

[0112] Activating the degradation prevention function means analyzing the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) to execute the degradation prevention function.

[0113] For example, as described above, the control unit (410) of the control driver (400) can analyze the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) to determine whether the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the still image is input during a preset period (when the TPC function is executed). In addition, the control unit (410) can analyze the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) to determine whether the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the image containing the logo is input (when the LEA function is executed).

[0114] That is, the control driver (400) can analyze input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) to execute at least one of the TPC function, LEA function and other various degradation prevention functions.

[0115] Next, when the degradation prevention function is executed and the brightness of all pixels (P) or the brightness of the pixels (P) corresponding to the logo is reduced, the control unit (410) transmits the degradation prevention function start information (ONS) to the scaler (600) as shown in FIG. 8b (S16).

[0116] That is, when the degradation prevention function is activated in the control driver (400) by the degradation prevention function activation request signal (ARS) received from the scaler (600), the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) is analyzed in the control driver (400). If, based on the analysis results, the brightness of all pixels (P) or the brightness of pixels (P) corresponding to the logo decreases, the control driver (400) transmits the degradation prevention function start information (ONS) to the scaler (600).

[0117] To elaborate, when the control driver (400) receives a request signal (ARS) to activate the anti-degradation function, it analyzes the input video signals (Ri, Gi, Bi) received from the scaler (600). If, as a result of analyzing the input video signals (Ri, Gi, Bi), it is determined that the anti-degradation function can be applied—for example, if it is determined that still images are output or images containing a logo are output—the control driver (400) reduces the brightness of the images output from the light-emitting display panel (100) or reduces the brightness of the area where the logo is displayed among the images output from the light-emitting display panel (100). After the brightness of the images is reduced, the control unit (410) transmits the anti-degradation function start information (ONS) to the analysis unit (630) of the scaler (600).

[0118] Next, when the deterioration prevention function start information (ONS) is received, the analysis unit (630) analyzes the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and determines whether there is a change in the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) (S18).

[0119] That is, when the anti-deterioration function start information (ONS) is received from the control driver (400), the analysis unit (630) analyzes the amount of image change of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and determines whether it is necessary to increase the brightness of the image reduced by the anti-deterioration function to the brightness of the normal state.

[0120] To elaborate, until the degradation prevention function start information (ONS) is transmitted to the scaler (600), the control driver (400) analyzes the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and, accordingly, determines whether to reduce the brightness of the image. Therefore, the scaler (600) does not analyze the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) in relation to the degradation prevention function.

[0121] However, when the anti-degradation function start information (ONS) is transmitted to the scaler (600), the scaler (600) analyzes the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) to determine whether it is necessary to increase the brightness of the image reduced by the anti-degradation function to a normal state brightness.

[0122] Next, if the judgment result (S18) determines that there is no need to increase the brightness of the image reduced by the degradation prevention function to the brightness of the normal state, the analysis unit (630) continuously performs the operation of judging the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi).

[0123] While the analysis unit (630) continuously performs the operation of determining input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi), the brightness of the image output from the light-emitting display panel (100) is maintained at a brightness lower than the brightness corresponding to the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) by means of a degradation prevention function.

[0124] That is, when a still image is output, if the light-emitting elements (EDs) continuously emit light with high brightness, the degradation rate of the light-emitting elements (EDs) may increase. However, in the light-emitting display device according to the present specification, when a still image is output, the brightness of the light-emitting elements (EDs) may decrease, so the degradation rate of the light-emitting elements (EDs) may decrease, and accordingly, the degradation rate of the light-emitting display device may decrease.

[0125] In addition, if light-emitting elements (EDs) provided in the area where the logo is continuously displayed continuously emit light with high brightness, the degradation rate of the light-emitting elements (EDs) provided in the area where the logo is displayed may increase, and this may have a negative effect on the light-emitting display panel (100). However, in the light-emitting display device according to the present specification, since the brightness of the light-emitting elements (EDs) provided in the image where the logo is displayed may be reduced, the degradation rate of the light-emitting elements (EDs) may be reduced, and accordingly, the degradation rate of the light-emitting display device may be reduced.

[0126] While the analysis unit (630) performs the operation of determining the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi), the control unit (410) can also analyze the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and determine whether there is a change in the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi).

[0127] That is, according to the present specification, the control unit (410) can continuously determine whether there is a change in the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) for the degradation prevention function, regardless of the analysis unit (630).

[0128] However, when the deterioration prevention function start information (ONS) is generated in the control unit (410), the control unit (410) may terminate the analysis of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) for the deterioration prevention function. However, even if the analysis of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) for the deterioration prevention function is terminated, the function of reducing the brightness of the entire light-emitting display panel (100) or the function of reducing the brightness of the area where the logo is displayed may be continuously performed.

[0129] Next, if, based on the judgment result (S18), it is determined that it is necessary to increase the brightness of the image reduced by the degradation prevention function to the brightness of the normal state, the analysis unit (630) transmits a degradation prevention function deactivation request signal (DARS) to the control driver (400) as shown in FIG. 8c (S20).

[0130] For example, if it is determined that input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to a video or a video without a logo is received as a result of judgment (S18), the analysis unit (630) can transmit a request signal (DARS) to disable the degradation prevention function to the control driver (400).

[0131] In other words, the purpose of the degradation prevention function is to reduce the brightness of a still image or an image containing a logo in order to prevent the light-emitting elements (EDs) from degrading. Therefore, when input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to a non-still image, i.e., a video, is received, or when input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to an image without a logo is received, the brightness of the image must not be reduced. Accordingly, when it is determined that input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to a video or an image without a logo is received, a degradation prevention function deactivation request signal (DARS) is transmitted to the control driver (400) to terminate the degradation prevention function.

[0132] In addition, even if a change occurs in a part of the images to be continuously output from the light-emitting display panel (100) as a result of judgment (S18), the analysis unit (630) can transmit a request signal (DARS) to disable the degradation prevention function to the control driver (400).

[0133] Here, a change in a part of the images refers to a change in a very small area of ​​the images to be output on the light-emitting display panel.

[0134] For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the size of the mouse cursor (110) is very small compared to the overall size of the light-emitting display panel (100).

[0135] That is, when the light-emitting display device is used as a monitor and connected to a computer, the mouse can be moved by the user, and accordingly, the mouse cursor (110) can be moved. Because the size of the mouse cursor (110) is small, the area or path in which the mouse cursor (110) moves is limited to a very narrow area or path.

[0136] To execute the degradation prevention function, the control unit (410) of the control driver (400) compares input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) included in at least two frames to determine changes in the image. A frame refers to the period during which one image is output.

[0137] However, the control driver (400) is intended to determine whether the image is still or video. Therefore, even if movement is detected in a very small area, such as the movement of the mouse cursor (110), the control driver (400) does not determine this movement as video. Therefore, even if movement of the mouse cursor (110) is detected after the image brightness is reduced by the anti-degradation function, the control driver (400) cannot determine that input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to video is being received. Therefore, even if the mouse cursor (110) is moved by the user after the image brightness is reduced, the image brightness remains in a reduced state. Accordingly, the user sees an image with low brightness and, consequently, feels discomfort.

[0138] To prevent such problems, the analysis unit (630) can determine that an image has changed even when a change occurs in a part of the images to be continuously output from the light-emitting display panel (100).

[0139] To this end, the amount of image change used to generate a request signal (DARS) to disable the degradation prevention function in the analysis unit (630) can be set to be smaller than the amount of image change used by the control unit (410) to terminate the degradation prevention function.

[0140] For example, the control unit (410) can determine that it is a video only when 50% or more of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to one image displayed on the entire light-emitting display panel (100) changes, that is, when the amount of image change is 50% or more, and accordingly, the brightness can be increased or decreased.

[0141] However, the analysis unit (630) can determine that the image has changed when 0.1% or more of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to one image changes, that is, when the amount of image change is 0.1% or more, and accordingly, can generate a request signal (DARS) to disable the degradation prevention function.

[0142] The amount of image change determined by the analysis unit (630) can be set in various ways by considering a mouse or a single character.

[0143] Accordingly, according to the present specification, even if a change in a part of the images to be continuously output from the light-emitting display panel (100) is a change caused by the movement of the mouse cursor (110), a request signal (DARS) to disable the degradation prevention function can be generated.

[0144] That is, according to the present specification, an image change that cannot be detected by the control driver (400) can be detected by the scaler (600), and accordingly, the degradation prevention function can be disabled.

[0145] In addition, changes in parts of the continuously output images may be changes caused by the output of characters resulting from keyboard operations.

[0146] For example, when the brightness of the image is reduced by the anti-degradation function, even if a user inputs characters using a keyboard, the range of the area where the characters are displayed is very small, so the control unit (410) determines that input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) corresponding to the still image has been input and can continuously reduce the brightness of the image.

[0147] However, the analysis unit (630) can generate a request signal (DARS) to disable the degradation prevention function even if the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) is changed by characters in a very narrow area of ​​the light-emitting display panel (100). Accordingly, the user can increase the brightness of the image using a keyboard.

[0148] In this case, the analysis unit (630) may be configured not to generate a degradation prevention function disable request signal (DARS) when a change in image occurs in a specific area that is pre-set among the entire areas of the light-emitting display panel (100). Here, the specific area may be an area that must not affect the degradation prevention function, and for example, as shown in FIG. 9, it may be an area where a clock (120) is displayed.

[0149] For example, when the light-emitting display device is used as a monitor, the computer can output a taskbar (130) at the bottom of the light-emitting display panel (100) as shown in FIG. 9, and a clock (120) that changes at regular intervals can be displayed on the taskbar (130).

[0150] The analysis unit (630) may receive information about the location of the taskbar (130) or the location of the clock (120) from the computer, or the control unit (410) may obtain information about the location where the taskbar (130) is displayed and information about the location where the clock (120) is displayed by using a method such as detecting a logo.

[0151] When the brightness of the image is reduced due to the degradation prevention function of the control driver (400), the brightness of the area where the taskbar (130) and clock (120) are located is also reduced.

[0152] In this case, as described above, the amount of image change used to generate the degradation prevention function disable request signal (DARS) in the analysis unit (630) is smaller than the amount of image change used to terminate the degradation prevention function by the control unit (410). Therefore, when the clock (120) changes in seconds or minutes, the degradation prevention function disable request signal (DARS) can be generated in the analysis unit (630).

[0153] To prevent such problems, the analysis unit (630) may be configured not to generate a degradation prevention function disable request signal (DARS) when a change in image occurs in a specific area that is pre-set among the entire areas of the light-emitting display panel (100).

[0154] As described above, a specific area that has been set may be an area where the taskbar (130) is displayed, or an area where the clock (120) is displayed.

[0155] Next, when a request signal (DARS) to disable the degradation prevention function is received from the scaler (600), the control driver (400) disables the degradation prevention function (S22).

[0156] When the degradation prevention function is disabled, the degradation prevention function is not executed, so the control driver (400) outputs images having brightness corresponding to the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) through the light-emitting display panel (100).

[0157] To this end, the control unit (410) can control at least one of the data alignment unit (430) and the control signal generation unit (420) so that the brightness of the image reduced by the degradation prevention function can be increased to the brightness of a normal state.

[0158] That is, under the control of the control unit (410), the data alignment unit (430) can generate image data (Data) having a brightness level equal to the brightness of the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi) and transmit it to the data driver (300).

[0159] Additionally, under the control of the control unit (410), the control signal generation unit (620) can generate a power control signal that increases the magnitude of the reduced first voltage (EVDD) and supply it to the power supply unit (500).

[0160] Accordingly, the brightness of the entire light-emitting display panel or the brightness of the logo can be increased to a brightness corresponding to the input image data (Ri, Gi, Bi).

[0161] In this case, as described above, when the degradation prevention function is disabled, the degradation prevention function is no longer executed in the control driver (400). That is, even if a still image is output again after the brightness of the image has increased, the brightness of the still image is not reduced.

[0162] Finally, the analysis unit (630) can transmit a request signal to disable the degradation prevention function (DARS) to the control driver (400), and after a preset period has elapsed, transmit a request signal to enable the degradation prevention function (ARS) to the control driver (400) again, as shown in FIG. 8a. Accordingly, the control driver (400) can execute the degradation prevention function again (S24).

[0163] That is, as described above, when the degradation prevention function is disabled, the degradation prevention function is no longer executed in the control driver (400), and accordingly, even if a still image is output again after the brightness of the image has increased, the brightness of the still image is not reduced.

[0164] To prevent this, in this specification, after a request signal to disable the degradation prevention function (DARS) is transmitted to the control driver (400), if a preset period has elapsed, the analysis unit (630) can transmit a request signal to enable the degradation prevention function (ARS) to the control driver (400) again.

[0165] Here, the pre-set period may be, for example, several to hundreds of frames, or several seconds.

[0166] When a request signal (ARS) to activate the anti-deterioration function is received, the control driver (400) and the scaler (600) can repeatedly perform the processes (S12 to S24) as described above.

[0167] Accordingly, the degradation prevention function can be continuously performed in the light-emitting display device, and the degradation prevention function of the control driver (400) can be controlled through the scaler (600).

[0168] That is, when the control driver (400) receives a request signal (ARS) to activate the anti-degradation function from the scaler (600) after a preset period has elapsed, it analyzes the input video signals received from the scaler (600) and, according to the result of analyzing the input video signals, can change the brightness of the images output from the light-emitting display panel (100).

[0169] As described above, in the light-emitting display device according to the present specification, only a degradation prevention function start signal (ONS) may be transmitted from the control driver (400) to the scaler (600) so that the scaler (600) controls the degradation prevention function of the control driver (400). Accordingly, when a control driver (400) manufactured for television is used for a monitor, only the configuration or program for generating and transmitting the degradation prevention function start signal (ONS) may be changed in the control driver (400).

[0170] Therefore, the control driver (400) made for television can also be used for monitor, and thus, the usage of the control driver (400) can be expanded.

[0171] In particular, in the light-emitting display device according to the present specification, instead of the control driver (400) which cannot detect small changes in images, the scaler (600) can detect small changes such as the movement of the mouse cursor (110). Therefore, even if the control driver (400), which is designed to distinguish between still images and videos or to distinguish images containing a logo, is applied to the light-emitting display device for a monitor, the degradation prevention function can be performed normally.

[0172] That is, according to the present specification, even without design changes to the control driver (400) that performs the degradation prevention function, the control driver (400) that was previously used to perform the degradation prevention function can be applied as is to the light-emitting display device for the monitor.

[0173] Accordingly, according to the present specification, the manufacturing cost of a light-emitting display device can be reduced.

[0174] Those skilled in the art to which this specification pertains will understand that this specification may be implemented in other specific forms without altering its technical concept or essential features. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. Explanation of the symbols

[0175] 100: Illuminating display panel 200: Gate driver 300: Data driver 400: Control driver

Claims

Claim 1 A light-emitting display device comprising: a control driver that executes a degradation prevention function; a scaler that transmits a request signal to activate the degradation prevention function to the control driver, and when degradation prevention function start information is received from the control driver, transmits a request signal to deactivate the degradation prevention function to the control driver according to the analysis result of input image data; and a light-emitting display panel that outputs images according to the control of the control driver. Claim 2 A light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the control driver analyzes input video signals received from the scaler when a request signal to activate the degradation prevention function is received, and if, as a result of analyzing the input video signals, it is determined that the degradation prevention function can be applied, it reduces the brightness of the images output from the light-emitting display panel or reduces the brightness of the area where a logo is displayed among the images, and then transmits the degradation prevention function start information to the scaler. Claim 3 In claim 1, the scaler transmits a request signal to disable the degradation prevention function to the control driver when it is determined that a change has occurred in a part of the images to be continuously output from the light-emitting display panel. Claim 4 In claim 3, a light-emitting display device in which a change in a portion of the images to be continuously output is a change caused by the movement of a mouse cursor. Claim 5 In claim 3, a light-emitting display device in which a change in a portion of the images to be continuously output is a change caused by the output of characters. Claim 6 A light-emitting display device in which the amount of image change used to generate the degradation prevention function disable request signal in the scaler is smaller than the amount of image change used to terminate the degradation prevention function by the control driver. Claim 7 In claim 1, the scaler is a light-emitting display device that does not generate a request signal to disable the degradation prevention function when a change in image occurs in a specific area set among the entire areas of the light-emitting display panel. Claim 8 In claim 7, the specific area is a light-emitting display device that must not affect the degradation prevention function. Claim 9 In claim 1, the scaler transmits a request signal to disable the degradation prevention function to the control driver, and then, after a preset period has elapsed, transmits a request signal to enable the degradation prevention function to the control driver. Claim 10 In claim 9, the light-emitting display device wherein the control driver analyzes input image signals received from the scaler when a request signal to activate the degradation prevention function is received after the preset period has elapsed, and changes the brightness of images output from the light-emitting display panel according to the result of analyzing the input image signals. Claim 11 A light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the scaler comprises: an image information receiving unit for receiving image information; a conversion unit for converting the image information into input image data; and an analysis unit for transmitting a request signal to activate the degradation prevention function to the control driver, and, when degradation prevention function start information is received from the control driver, transmitting a request signal to deactivate the degradation prevention function to the control driver according to the analysis result of the input image data.

Images