Display device and operation method thereof

Abstract

A modular display apparatus is provided. The display device may comprise: a plurality of display modules; a timing controller for controlling the operation of the plurality of display modules; an add-on module that can be attached to the surface of the display device; a sensor module for sensing the attachment and detachment of the add-on module; and a processor. The processor may identify an attachment / detachment event of the add-on module, and perform a pre-set operation on the basis of the identification of the attachment / detachment event.

Description

Display device and method of operation thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a modular display device including a plurality of display modules and an operating method thereof.

[0002] Large display devices are being developed that connect multiple display modules. Due to their nature as being installed in various locations and accessible to multiple users, large display devices need to offer features that enable user interaction in addition to simply playing content.

[0003] One method for user interaction on large display devices involves using external cameras or infrared sensors to recognize user actions in a separate system outside the display device, and then using this information to display video. However, these methods suffer from limitations in camera or infrared sensor placement, installation environment constraints, and additional system construction costs. Therefore, we propose a new method that leverages the mechanical internal structure and image-driven characteristics of modular displays.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a display device may be provided. The display device may include a plurality of display modules. The display device may include a timing controller that controls operations of the plurality of display modules. The display device may include an accessory module attachable to a surface of the display device. The display device may include a sensor module that senses attachment or detachment of the accessory module. The display device may include a processor. The processor may identify an attachment or detachment event of the accessory module. The processor may perform a preset operation based on the identification of the attachment or detachment event.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating a display device may be provided. The method may include a step of outputting an image. The method may include a step of identifying an attachment / detachment event of an accessory module attachable to a surface of the display device. The method may include a step of performing a preset operation based on the identification of the attachment / detachment event.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an example in which a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is used.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a detailed configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 3A is a drawing for explaining a display group of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3b is a drawing for explaining a display group of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining operations for controlling display modules by a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 5A is a drawing for explaining a location where an accessory module is attached to a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5b is a drawing for explaining a location where an accessory module is attached to a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5c is a drawing for explaining the location of a sensor module included in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6A is a drawing for explaining the internal structure of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6b is a drawing for explaining an accessory module of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 6c is a drawing for explaining an additional configuration of an accessory module of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 6d is a drawing to further explain the accessory module of Figure 6c.

[0018] FIG. 6e is a drawing for explaining an operation according to accessory module information of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 7a is a drawing for explaining an operation of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output an image to a screen.

[0020] FIG. 7b is a drawing for explaining an operation of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output an image to a screen.

[0021] FIG. 8A is a drawing for explaining that a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure performs a preset operation.

[0022] FIG. 8b is a drawing for explaining that a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure performs a preset operation.

[0023] FIG. 9A is a diagram for explaining an operation of a display device providing a notification to a user according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 9b is a drawing for explaining an operation of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to provide a notification to a user.

[0025] FIG. 10A is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 10b is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] In this disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b or c” may refer to “a”, “b”, “c”, “a and b”, “a and c”, “b and c”, “all of a, b and c”, or variations thereof.

[0028] The terms used in this disclosure are selected from widely used, common terms, taking into account the functions of the disclosure. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant, in which case their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant description. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should not be defined simply as names, but rather based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the disclosure.

[0029] Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art described herein. Furthermore, terms containing ordinal numbers, such as "first" or "second," used herein may be used to describe various components, but such components should not be limited by such terms. Such terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0030] When a part of the specification is said to "include" a component, unless otherwise specifically stated, this does not exclude other components but rather implies the inclusion of other components. Furthermore, terms such as "part" and "module" used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In addition, in the drawings, parts that are not related to the description are omitted in order to clearly describe the present disclosure, and similar parts are designated with similar reference numerals throughout the specification. In addition, the reference numerals used in each drawing are only for the purpose of describing each drawing, and different reference numerals used in different drawings do not indicate different elements. The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an example in which a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is used.

[0033] A display device (100) according to one embodiment may be implemented as a product of various forms, such as a TV, a smart monitor, a tablet PC, a laptop, a digital signage, a large display, etc., including a display, but is not limited thereto.

[0034] In one embodiment, the display device (100) may be a large display installed in a large space. Multiple users (190) may receive content through the display device (100) in the space where the display device (100) is installed. For example, the display device (100) may be installed in a location such as a seminar, exhibition, sales outlet, pop-up store, or event hall.

[0035] In one embodiment, the display device (100) may include a display module (110). That is, a plurality of display modules (110) may be arranged adjacently to implement a large screen of the display device (100).

[0036] In one embodiment, an accessory module (140) may be attached to the screen of the display device (100). In addition, a product (180) (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet PC, a wearable device, etc.) may be mounted (or installed) on the accessory module (140) and displayed. When a user (190) detaches the accessory module (140) and the mounted product (180) for product experience, the display device (100) may identify the detachment event and provide various contents related to the product (180) through the display device (100).

[0037] Meanwhile, the accessory module (140) attached to the display device (100) may be implemented so as to be attached without physical damage, such as drilling a hole in the screen of the display device (100). For example, the accessory module (140) may be implemented so as to be attached using a magnet, and thus, a material that enables the use of magnetism in the display device (100) and the accessory module (140) may be included. However, the method of attaching the accessory module (140) without damaging the screen of the display device (100) is not limited to the above-described example, and other alternative methods may be used.

[0038] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a detailed configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] In one embodiment, the display device (100) may include a display module (110), a timing controller (120), a sensor module (130), an accessory module (140), a processor (150), a grid frame (210), a bracket (220), a bracket frame (230), a switching mode power supply (SMPS) (240), and an assembly bracket (250).

[0040] The display module (110) is located at the frontmost part of the display device (100) and can display an image by driving a plurality of LEDs. The display device (100) may include one or more display modules (110). The display module (110) may be mounted on a bracket (220), and the bracket (220) may be mounted on a bracket frame (230).

[0041] The display device (100) may include various circuit elements for operating the display device. For example, the display device (100) may include a timing controller (120), a processor (150), and a switch mode power supply (240). The timing controller (120) may control a driver IC included in the display module (110) to cause the display module (110) to drive a plurality of LEDs. There may be one or more timing controllers (120). The processor (150) may control the overall operations of the display device (100) and transmit image data to the timing controller (120). The switch mode power supply (240) may supply power.

[0042] In one embodiment, an accessory module (140) may be attached to the front screen of the display device (100). Additionally, a grid frame (210) may be included in the display device (100) to allow the accessory module (140) to be attached. The sensor module (130) may sense an event in which the accessory module (140) is attached to the display device (100) or is detached from the display device (100).

[0043] Meanwhile, the components constituting the aforementioned display device (100) may be assembled based on an assembly bracket (250).

[0044] The configuration and specific operations of the display device (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in more detail through the drawings and descriptions thereof described below.

[0045] FIG. 3A is a drawing for explaining a display group of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 3A, a display device (100) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of display modules. In the example of FIG. 3A, the plurality of display modules are illustrated as 42 display modules in total, 6 in width and 7 in height (6x7).

[0047] In one embodiment, the screen of the display device (100) may be divided into a plurality of display groups. Each of the display groups may be controlled by a timing processor corresponding to each display group. For example, the first area of ​​the screen of the display device (100) may be divided into display group A (310), the second area may be divided into display group B (320), the third area may be divided into display group C (330), and the fourth area may be divided into display group D (340). In this case, the first area and the second area each include 12 display modules, and the third area and the fourth area each include 9 display modules.

[0048] The display device (100) can output images using a plurality of display groups. For example, the display device (100) can provide a multi-view mode in which multiple contents are displayed by outputting independent images to display group A (310) of the first area, display group B (320) of the second area, display group C (330) of the third area, and display group D (340) of the fourth area, respectively. Alternatively, the display device (100) can provide a single-view mode in which a single content is displayed on the entire screen of the display device (100) by outputting an image representing a portion of a single content to display group A (310) of the first area, display group B (320) of the second area, display group C (330) of the third area, and display group D (340) of the fourth area, respectively.

[0049] In one embodiment, the display device (100) can create a new display group by combining one or more display groups. For example, the display device (100) can combine display group A (310) and display group B (320) to form a single display group.

[0050] FIG. 3b is a drawing for explaining a display group of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] In one embodiment, the display groups that distinguish the screen of the display device (100) may be determined when the display device (100) is manufactured.

[0052] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, display modules included in each of display group A (310) and display group B (320) may be determined. In the example of FIG. 3B, display group A (310) includes 21 display modules, and display group B (320) also includes 21 display modules. In this case, one display group may be controlled by one timing controller. The timing controller may control the driver ICs included in the display modules within the display group. In the example of FIG. 3B, since there are two display groups, the display device (100) may include two timing controllers. Accordingly, the display device (100) may provide a multi-view screen of up to two divisions. Meanwhile, when there are two display groups, the display device (100) may also provide a single-view screen by combining the display groups.

[0053] Meanwhile, referring back to FIG. 3A, the display device (100) may be determined as display group A (310), display group B (320), display group C (330), and display group D (340), and display modules included in each display group may be determined. In this case, since the display device (100) has four display groups, four timing controllers may be included in the display device (100). Accordingly, the display device (100) may provide a multi-view screen of up to four divisions. Meanwhile, when there are four display groups, the display device (100) may also provide a three-division multi-view screen, a two-division multi-view screen, or a single-view screen by combining the display groups.

[0054] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining operations for controlling display modules by a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] The processor (150) of the display device (100) transmits image data to the display groups included in the display device (100). In describing Fig. 4, an example of four display groups is described. In this case, the display device (100) includes a first timing controller (121), a second timing controller (122), a third timing controller (123), and a fourth timing controller (124).

[0056] In one embodiment, the processor (150) transmits first image data to the first timing controller (121). The first timing controller (121) may output a first image through a first display group corresponding to a first area of ​​a screen of the display device (100) based on the first image data received from the processor (150). Similarly, the processor (150) may transmit second image data to the second timing controller (122), third image data to the third timing controller (123), and fourth image data to the fourth timing controller (124). Accordingly, the second image to the fourth image may be played back in the second display group to the fourth display group, respectively.

[0057] In one embodiment, the display device (100) performs a preset operation when the attachment or detachment of an accessory module (140) that can be attached or detached to the screen of the display device (100) is identified. For example, the display device (100) may change image data transmitted to a display group. The processor (150) may receive an image signal from the memory of the display device (100) or an external device (e.g., a server, etc.) and transmit the image data to a timing controller corresponding to each display group. For example, when the processor (150) identifies that an accessory module is attached or detached to a first area corresponding to a first display group, the processor (150) may change the first image data. In this case, a preset image (e.g., a product usage guide video, a product detailed explanation video, etc.) may be played on the first display group according to the attachment or detachment event, or the image quality of the image played on the first display group may be changed.

[0058] FIG. 5A is a drawing for explaining a location where an accessory module is attached to a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 5a, examples of display groups set in the display device (100) may include a first display group (510), a second display group (520), a third display group (530), and a fourth display group (540), for a total of four.

[0060] In one embodiment, an accessory module (140) may be attached or detached to the screen of the display device (100). The positions at which the accessory module (140) can be attached to the screen of the display device (100) may be preset. Here, the preset positions may be multiple points, and the positions at which the accessory module (140) is attached among the multiple points may be changed.

[0061] In one embodiment, the attachable position of the accessory module (140) may correspond to a display group. For example, for the first display group (510), the attachable position (512) of the accessory module within the first display group may be a boundary area of ​​the display modules included in the first display group (510). Referring to FIG. 5A, exemplary points of the attachable position (512) of the accessory module within the first display group are illustrated. However, the illustrated points are merely examples, and the accessory module (140) may be attached to any point within the boundary area of ​​the display modules included in the first display group (510). When the display device (100) according to one embodiment identifies that the accessory module (140) is attached or detached to the first area corresponding to the first display group (510), the display device (100) may perform a preset operation.

[0062] Likewise, the attachment location (522) of the accessory module within the second display group, the attachment location (532) of the accessory module within the third display group, and the attachment location (542) of the accessory module within the fourth display group may be boundary areas of display modules included within each of the second display group (520), the third display group (530), and the fourth display group (540). In this case, a preset operation (e.g., image change, image quality change, etc.) is performed in the display group to which the accessory module (140) is attached. For example, when the accessory module (140) is attached to an area corresponding to the second display group (520), the preset operation is performed in the second display group (520).

[0063] Meanwhile, since the area where the accessory module (140) can be attached is the boundary area of ​​the display module, the accessory module (140) may also be attached to a boundary area that is not included in the display group (for example, the boundary area between the first display group (510) and the second display group (520)). In this case, the display device (100) may provide a notification to the user guiding the attachment of the accessory module (140) to a different location without performing a preset operation. The display device (100) providing a notification to the user is further described with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B.

[0064] Alternatively, when an accessory module (140) is attached to a boundary area between display groups, the display device (100) can combine adjacent display groups and perform a preset operation (e.g., image change, image quality change, etc.) in the combined display group. For example, when an accessory module (140) is attached to a boundary area between a first display group (510) and a second display group (520), the display device (100) can combine the first display group (510) and the second display group (520) to set them as one display group and perform a preset operation in the combined display group.

[0065] FIG. 5b is a drawing for explaining a location where an accessory module is attached to a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 5b, the display groups set in the display device (100) may be a total of two, a first display group (510) and a second display group (520), as shown.

[0067] In this case, the attachment location (512) of the accessory module within the first display group may be a boundary area of ​​the display modules included within the first display group (510). When the accessory module (140) is attached to an area within the first display group (510), a preset operation (e.g., image change, image quality change, etc.) may be performed in the first display group (510).

[0068] Additionally, the attachment location (522) of the accessory module within the second display group may be a boundary area of ​​the display modules included within the second display group (520). When the accessory module (140) is attached to an area within the second display group (520), a preset operation (e.g., image change, image quality change, etc.) may be performed in the second display group (510).

[0069] Meanwhile, since the area where the accessory module (140) can be attached is the boundary area of ​​the display module, the accessory module (140) may be attached to a boundary area that is not included in the display group (for example, the boundary area between the first display group (510) and the second display group (520)). In this case, the display device (100) may provide a notification to the user guiding the attachment of the accessory module (140) to a different location without performing a preset operation. For example, the display device (100) may guide the attachment location (512) of the accessory module within the first display group or the attachment location (522) of the accessory module within the second display group. The display device (100) providing the notification to the user is further described with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B.

[0070] Alternatively, when an accessory module (140) is attached to a boundary area between display groups, the display device (100) can combine adjacent display groups and perform a preset operation (e.g., image change, image quality change, etc.) in the combined display group. For example, when an accessory module (140) is attached to a boundary area between a first display group (510) and a second display group (520), the display device (100) can combine the first display group (510) and the second display group (510) to set them as one display group and perform a preset operation using the entire screen of the display device (100).

[0071] FIG. 5c is a drawing for explaining the location of a sensor module included in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 5C, a display device (100) according to one embodiment may include a sensor module (130) that senses an attachment / detachment event of an accessory module (140). The accessory module (140) is configured to be detachable from the screen of the display device (100), and the sensor module (130) is configured to sense the attachment / detachment of the accessory module (140). For example, when the accessory module (140) is configured to be detachable using a magnet, the sensor module (130) may be configured as a magnetic sensor that detects a change in the intensity of a magnetic field, a Hall sensor that detects a magnetic field and generates an electric signal, etc. However, the method by which the accessory module (140) is attachable to the display device (100) and the method by which the sensor module (130) senses the accessory module (140) are not limited to the example of the magnet described above.

[0073] A sensor module (130) included in a display device (100) according to one embodiment may be arranged in various ways inside the display device (100) to sense an accessory module (140) attached to the screen of the display device (100).

[0074] In one embodiment, the sensor module (130) may be arranged as in the example illustrated in the first display group (510). The sensor module (130) may be arranged at a position corresponding to the screen areas of the display modules included in the display device (100), and may identify that the accessory module (140) is attached or detached to an area corresponding to the display group. For example, the display device (100) may identify that the accessory module (140) is attached or detached to any point within the boundary area of ​​the display modules included in the first display group (510) through the arrangement of the sensor module (130) as in the example illustrated in the first display group (510).

[0075] In one embodiment, the sensor module (130) may be arranged as shown in the examples in each of the second display group (520), the third display group (530), and the fourth display group (540). The sensor module (130) may be arranged at positions corresponding to the boundary areas of the display modules included in the display device (100) to identify that the accessory module (140) is detached or attached to an area corresponding to the display group. For example, the display device (100) may identify that the accessory module (140) is detached or attached to any point within the boundary areas of the display modules included in the second display group (520) through the arrangement of the sensor module (130) as shown in the examples in each of the second display group (520), the third display group (530), and the fourth display group (540).

[0076] Meanwhile, the arrangement of the sensor module (130) in each of the first display group (510), the second display group (520), the third display group (530), and the fourth display group (540) is merely an example for convenience of explanation. The display device (100) may include one or more sensor modules (130) arranged on the back of the screen of the display device (100) in various ways to identify that an accessory module (140) is attached to the screen of the display device (100). For example, the sensor modules (130) included in the display device (100) may be arranged in a certain pattern shape, as in the example illustrated in FIG. 5c, and in another example, unlike that illustrated in FIG. 5c, may be arranged in a non-standardized shape.

[0077] FIG. 6A is a drawing for explaining the internal structure of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 6A, the display device (100) may include a plurality of display modules (110). One display module (110) may include a plurality of pixels (610). Each of the plurality of pixels (610) may be composed of RGB LED elements, but is not limited thereto. That is, one display module (110) includes a plurality of pixels (610), one or more display modules (110) may be grouped together to form a display group, and all display groups may be grouped together to form a single display to form the entire screen of the display device (100).

[0079] In one embodiment, the display device (100) may include a bracket (220) for attaching and fixing a display module (110). A display module (110) may be mounted in each compartment of the bracket (220).

[0080] In one embodiment, the display device (100) may include a grid frame (210). The grid size of the grid frame (210) may correspond to the size of the display module (110). Accordingly, lines forming the grid of the grid frame (210) may correspond to the boundaries of the display modules. The grid frame (210) may be configured to be included between the bracket (220) and the display module (110), but is not limited thereto. The grid frame may be configured of a material (e.g., metal, magnet, etc.) that enables attachment of the accessory module (140) of the display device (100), but is not limited thereto.

[0081] FIG. 6b is a drawing for explaining an accessory module of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] In one embodiment, the accessory module (140) may be composed of a first part (140-1) and a second part (140-2). The first part (140-1) of the accessory module (140) may be configured to be attachable to the surface of the display device (100), and the second part (140-2) of the accessory module (140) may be configured to be attachable or mountable to an electronic device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet PC, a wearable device, etc.).

[0083] The first part (140-1) of the accessory module (140) refers to a portion that can be attached to the surface of the display device (100). Specifically, the first part (140-1) of the accessory module (140) is attached to a grid frame (210) built into the display device (100). In one embodiment, the accessory module (140) may be configured to be detachably attached to the display device (100) using a magnet. That is, a magnet may be used to attach the first part (140-1) of the accessory module (140) to the grid frame (210). For example, the first part (140-1) and the grid frame (210) may be made of a magnetic material. Alternatively, either the first part (140-1) or the grid frame (210) may be made of a magnetic material, and the other may be made of a metallic material. Alternatively, the first part (140-1) may be made of a metallic material, and the grid frame (210) may be made of an electromagnetic material (e.g., a solenoid).

[0084] In one embodiment, a sensor module (130) for sensing the attachment of an accessory module (140) may be attached to the grid frame (210). The sensor module (130) may include, for example, a magnetic sensor that detects a change in the intensity of a magnetic field, a Hall sensor that detects a magnetic field and generates an electric signal, etc., but the types of sensors are not limited thereto.

[0085] In one embodiment, there may be a plurality of sensor modules (130). The sensor modules (130) may be configured at preset intervals or in a certain pattern so as to be capable of sensing attachment of accessory modules (140) to points on the grid frame (210). However, the locations of the sensor modules (130) illustrated in FIG. 6b are merely examples and are not intended to specify the locations of the sensor modules (130).

[0086] FIG. 6c is a drawing for explaining an additional configuration of an accessory module of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0087] In one embodiment, the accessory module (140) may further include a third part (140-3) in addition to the first part (140-1) and the second part (140-2) described above in FIG. 6B. The third part (140-3) may include at least a sensor, an MCU, and a communication module (including a communication circuit), but is not limited thereto. The sensors of the third part (140-3) may include, but are not limited to, an illuminance sensor capable of sensing external illuminance around the accessory module (140), an acceleration sensor capable of sensing movement of the accessory module (140), an IR sensor capable of sensing whether the accessory module (140) is attached / detached, etc.

[0088] When the accessory module (140) further includes a third part (140-3), data can be transmitted and received from the accessory module (140) to the display device (100), so the display device (100) can include a relatively smaller number of sensor modules (130) than when the accessory module (140) does not include a sensor module (130) or when the accessory module (140) does not include a third part (140-3).

[0089] For example, the accessory module (140) can sense that the accessory module (140) has been attached or detached from the screen of the display device (100) through a sensor included in the third part (140-3). The MCU of the accessory module (140) can transmit data indicating a detachment event of the accessory module (140) to the display device (100) using a communication module based on sensor data collected from the sensor.

[0090] Alternatively, the accessory module (140) may transmit data indicating the illumination information of the surroundings of the accessory module (140) and the movement information of the accessory module (140) to the display device (100) using the communication module through the sensor included in the third part (140-3).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the display device (100) can control the operation of the display device (100) based on sensor data received from the accessory module (140). This is further described with reference to FIGS. 6d and 6e.

[0092] Figure 6d is a drawing to further explain the accessory module of Figure 6c.

[0093] In explaining FIG. 6d, it is explained as an example that the accessory module (140) of the display device (100) further includes a third part (140-3) including a sensor, an MCU, and a communication module.

[0094] In one embodiment, the accessory module (140) including the third part (140-3) can wirelessly transmit and receive data with the display device (100). The display device (100) can receive data indicating a detachment event of the accessory module (140) from the accessory module (140) and control the operation of the display device (100).

[0095] For example, the processor (150) of the display device (100) can obtain data sensing attachment / detachment of the first accessory module (141) (also referred to as accessory module A). The display device (100) can use the processor (150) to cause preset content to be played on the first display area (601), which is a display area corresponding to the first accessory module (141). Specifically, the processor (150) can use the first timing controller corresponding to the first display area (601) to control the first display modules included in the first display area (601) so that the first content is played on the first display area (601). Alternatively, the processor (150) of the display device (100) can obtain data sensing attachment / detachment of the second accessory module (142) (also referred to as accessory module B). The display device (100) can use the processor (150) to play preset content on the second display area (602), which is a display area corresponding to the second accessory module (142).

[0096] For example, the processor (150) of the display device (100) can obtain data sensing the surrounding illuminance from the first accessory module (141) and / or the second accessory module (142). Based on the data sensing the illuminance, the display device (100) can cause preset content to be played on the screen of the display device (100).

[0097] FIG. 6e is a diagram for explaining an operation according to information obtained from an accessory module of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 6e, the 'accessory module type A' may be the first accessory module (141) described above in FIG. 6d. In this case, the first accessory module (141) is an accessory module corresponding to the first display area (601). That is, a plurality of display modules are grouped together to form a group (group 1), and a single content may be displayed on the first display area (601) by a timing controller that controls the display modules of the group.

[0099] A display device (100) according to one embodiment can perform a preset operation based on information received from an accessory module (140).

[0100] For example, if the accessory module information received from the first accessory module (141) is 'basic', this indicates a state in which the first accessory module (141) is attached to the display device (100). In this case, the display device (100) can play 'content 1-1', which is a content preset in the first display area (601). Alternatively, if the accessory module information received from the first accessory module (141) is 'screen detachment', this indicates a state in which the first accessory module (141) is detached from the display device (100). In this case, the display device (100) can play 'content 1-2', which is another content preset in the first display area (601). Alternatively, if the accessory module information received from the first accessory module (141) is 'illumination information (e.g., illuminance is higher than a preset value, etc.)', the display device (100) can play 'content 1-3', which is another preset content. In this case, the display device (100) can use a timing controller (first timing controller) for controlling the first display area (601).

[0101] Likewise, the display device (100) can display 'Content 2-1', 'Content 2-2', 'Content 2-3', etc. on the second display area (602) based on the accessory module information received from the second accessory module (142). In this case, the display device (100) can use a timing controller (second timing controller) to control the second display area (602).

[0102] FIG. 7a is a drawing for explaining an operation of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output an image to a screen.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 7A, a display device (100) according to one embodiment can identify that an accessory module is attached to a screen of the display device (100). For example, the display device (100) can identify that a first accessory module (141) is attached to a first display group (710), a second accessory module (142) is attached to a second display group (720), a third accessory module (143) is attached to a third display group (730), and a fourth accessory module (144) is attached to a fourth display group (740).

[0104] In one embodiment, the display device (100) can display a single image on the entire screen of the display device (100) based on the attachment of each of the accessory modules to each of the plurality of display groups of the display device (100). That is, the display device (100) can output a partial image of the entire screen in each of the plurality of display groups.

[0105] For example, the display device (100) can output a first partial image to a first display group (710), a second partial image to a second display group (720), a third partial image to a third display group (730), and a fourth partial image to a fourth display group (740). In this case, since the first partial image to the fourth partial image are combined to form a single image, content can be provided in a single view mode on the entire screen of the display device (100).

[0106] FIG. 7b is a drawing for explaining an operation of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output an image to a screen.

[0107] As in the example of FIG. 7a, a case in which a first accessory module (141) is attached to a first display group (710), a second accessory module (142) is attached to a second display group (720), a third accessory module (143) is attached to a third display group (730), and a fourth accessory module (144) is attached to a fourth display group (740) is described as an example.

[0108] In one embodiment, the display device (100) can display an independent image on each of the plurality of display groups of the display device (100) based on each of the accessory modules being attached to each of the plurality of display groups of the display device (100).

[0109] For example, the display device (100) can output a first image to a first display group (710), a second image to a second display group (720), a third image to a third display group (730), and a fourth image to a fourth display group (740). In this case, the first to fourth images can be the same or different images. Since the first to fourth images are images that are each played independently, content can be provided in a multi-view mode on the screen of the display device (100).

[0110] FIG. 8A is a drawing for explaining that a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure performs a preset operation.

[0111] In one embodiment, when all accessory modules are attached to the display device (100), the display device (100) may be in a standby state. For example, the display device (100) may display a standby screen that is set to be displayed when the display device (100) is not in use.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 8A, a display device (100) according to one embodiment can identify that an accessory module corresponding to one of a plurality of display groups has been detached. When a detachment event of an accessory module is identified, the display device (100) can output a preset image to the display group from which the accessory module has been detached.

[0113] For example, the display device (100) can identify that the first accessory module (141) corresponding to the first display group (810) is detached. In this case, the display device (100) can output a preset image to the first display group (810).

[0114] For a more specific example, the display device (100) may be a display device for providing display, experience, etc. of a product (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet PC, a wearable device, etc.). In this case, the product may be displayed by being placed on the first accessory module (141) attached to the display device (100). When a user detaches the first accessory module (141) on which the product is placed in order to experience the product, a preset image may be output to the first display group (810). The preset image may be, for example, a video showing how to use the product. In this case, the user may try out the product placed on the accessory module (141) while watching the product usage video displayed on the first display group (810) of the display device (100). The preset image may be, for example, a video providing a detailed product description. In this case, the user may obtain information about the product placed on the accessory module (141) while watching the product description video displayed on the first display group (810) of the display device (100). However, the preset videos mentioned above are only examples and do not limit the types of videos.

[0115] In one embodiment, the display device (100) can identify that the detached first accessory module (141) is reattached and output a partial image from each of the plurality of display groups so that one image is displayed on the entire screen of the display device (100). For example, the display device (100) can display an image representing a standby screen on the entire screen. Alternatively, the display device (100) can independently display an image representing a standby screen on each of the plurality of display groups when it identifies that the detached first accessory module (141) is reattached.

[0116] FIG. 8b is a drawing for explaining that a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure performs a preset operation.

[0117] In one embodiment, when all accessory modules are attached to the display device (100), the display device (100) may be in a standby state. For example, the display device (100) may display a standby screen that is set to be displayed when the display device (100) is not in use.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 8B, a display device (100) according to one embodiment can identify that an accessory module corresponding to one of a plurality of display groups has been detached. When a detachment event of an accessory module is identified, the display device (100) can change the image quality of the display group from which the accessory module has been detached.

[0119] For example, the display device (100) may operate in a low-quality mode in a standby state. When it is determined that the first accessory module (141) corresponding to the first display group (810) is detached, the display device (100) may exit the standby mode and change the quality of the first display group (810) to a high-quality mode.

[0120] In one embodiment, when the display device (100) identifies that the detached first accessory module (141) is reattached, it can re-enter standby mode and change the picture quality of the first display group (810) to a low-quality mode.

[0121] FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating an operation of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to provide a notification to a user.

[0122] In one embodiment, the display device (100) may provide a notification (900) to the user guiding the location where the accessory module (140) can be attached.

[0123] As described above with reference to FIGS. 5a to 5b and 6a to 6b, a position where the accessory module (140) can be attached within the screen of the display device (100) may be preset, and this may be a position corresponding to a grid frame that is positioned behind the screen of the display device (100) and corresponds to a boundary line of a plurality of display modules.

[0124] In one embodiment, when the accessory module (140) is detached from the display device (100), the display device (100) may output a notification (900) guiding the position where the accessory module (140) can be attached, for example, "Please attach the accessory module on the line displayed on the screen." In this case, the notification (900) may be displayed on the screen of the display device (100) or output in audio form.

[0125] In one embodiment, the display device (100) may display locations where the accessory module (140) can be attached on the screen of the display device (100) while outputting a notification (900). For example, the display device (100) may use pixels in the boundary areas of the display modules to display lines indicating locations where the accessory module (140) can be attached within the screen of the display device (100). Specifically, in the case of the first display module (910) of the display device (100), pixels in the lower boundary line and the right boundary line of the first display module (910) may be used.

[0126] In one embodiment, when a user of the display device (100) wishes to terminate an experience with a product (e.g., a smartphone) attached (or mounted) to the accessory module, the user may select termination of use on the product's screen. In this case, the display device (100) may receive data from the product attached to the accessory module (140) and output a notification (900) so that the user can attach the accessory module (140) to the screen of the display device (100).

[0127] FIG. 9b is a drawing for explaining an operation of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to provide a notification to a user.

[0128] In one embodiment, the display device (100) may provide a user with a notification (900) guiding the user to a location where the accessory module (140) can be attached to a display group from which the accessory module (140) has been detached.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 9B, a first accessory module (141) corresponding to a first display group (920) may be detached from the display device (100), and a second accessory module (142) corresponding to a second display group may be attached to the display device (100). In this case, the display device (100) may provide a user with a notification (900) guiding a position where the first accessory module (141) can be attached in the first display group (920).

[0130] For example, the display device (100) can output a notification (900) that guides the attachable position within the first display group (920) to which the first accessory module (141) can be attached, for example, “Please attach the accessory module on the line displayed on the screen.” In this case, the notification (900) can be displayed on the screen of the display device (100) or output in audio form. While outputting the notification (900), the display device (100) can display the attachable position within the first display group (920) of the display device (100). For example, the display device (100) can use pixels in the boundary area of ​​the display modules included in the first display group (920) to display lines indicating the attachable positions of the first accessory module (141) within the screen of the first display group (920) of the display device (100).

[0131] FIG. 10A is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 10A, a display device (100) according to one embodiment may include a display module(s) (110), a timing controller (120), a sensor module (130), an accessory module (140), and a processor (150).

[0133] The display module(s) (110) refers to one or more display modules. One display module (110) may include a plurality of pixels, and each of the plurality of pixels may be composed of RGB LED elements.

[0134] The timing controller (120) can control the driver IC included in the display module (110) to enable the display module (110) to drive multiple LEDs.

[0135] The sensor module (130) senses that the accessory module (140) is attached or detached from the display device (100). The sensor module (130) may include, for example, a magnetic sensor that detects a change in the intensity of a magnetic field, a Hall sensor that detects a magnetic field and generates an electric signal, etc., but the types of sensors are not limited thereto.

[0136] The accessory module (140) may be composed of a material that can be attached to the surface of the display device (100). In order to attach the accessory module (140) to the display device (100), the display device (100) may include a grid frame (not shown) for attaching the accessory module (140). The accessory module (140) and the grid frame may be configured to be detachable using magnets.

[0137] The processor (150) can control the overall operations of the display device (100). For example, the processor (150) can execute one or more commands stored in a memory (not shown) of the display device (100). In addition, the processor (150) can obtain image data / signals from a memory (not shown) or an external device and provide the image data to the timing controller (120). The processor (150) can be configured with at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), a MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and an NPU (Neural Processing Unit). In addition, there can be one or more processors (150). One or more processors (150) can be implemented in the form of an integrated system on a chip (SoC) including one or more electronic components. Each of the one or more processors (150) can also be implemented as separate hardware (H / W).

[0138] FIG. 10b is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] In one embodiment, when there are multiple display modules (110), one or more display modules (110) may be grouped together to form a display group.

[0140] In one embodiment, when one or more display modules (110) form a display group, one timing controller (120) is responsible for driving the display modules (110) within the display group. There may be more than one timing controller (120). That is, when the display device (100) includes multiple display groups, a timing controller (120) corresponding to each of the multiple display groups may be included. In this case, a sensor module (130) and an accessory module (140) corresponding to each display group may be included.

[0141] For example, a display device (100) may include a first display group (101). The first display group (101) includes a first timing controller (121) and displays an image in an area corresponding to the first display group (101) within a screen of the display device (100) through one or more first display module(s) (111). A first accessory module (141) may be attached / detached to a surface of the first display group (101), and an attachment / detachment event of the first accessory module (141) may be sensed by a first sensor module (131).

[0142] Similarly, a second display group, ..., an Nth display group (108) may be included in the display device (100). Here, the Nth display group (108) includes an Nth timing controller (128) and displays an image in an area corresponding to the Nth display group (108) within the screen of the display device (100) through one or more Nth display module(s) (118). An Nth accessory module (148) may be attached or detached to the surface of the Nth display group (108), and an attachment or detachment event of the Nth accessory module (148) may be sensed by the Nth sensor module (138).

[0143] The present disclosure provides a method for performing a preset operation upon attachment or detachment of an accessory module in a modular display device including a plurality of display modules, and a display device performing the operation. The technical problems to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description herein.

[0144] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a display device may be provided. The display device may include a plurality of display modules. The display device may include a timing controller that controls operations of the plurality of display modules. The display device may include an accessory module attachable to a surface of the display device. The display device may include a sensor module that senses attachment or detachment of the accessory module. The display device may include a processor. The processor may identify an attachment or detachment event of the accessory module. The processor may perform a preset operation based on the identification of the attachment or detachment event.

[0145] The above display device may be configured with a plurality of display groups that divide the screen of the display device into a plurality of areas.

[0146] Each of the plurality of display groups may include at least one display module among the plurality of display modules.

[0147] There may be multiple of the above auxiliary modules.

[0148] Each of the above plurality of auxiliary modules may correspond to each of the above plurality of display groups.

[0149] Each of the above plurality of accessory modules may generate a detachment event for each of the plurality of display groups.

[0150] There may be multiple timing controllers.

[0151] Each of the plurality of timing controllers may correspond to each of the plurality of display groups.

[0152] Each of the plurality of timing controllers may control the operation of at least one display module included in the plurality of display groups.

[0153] The display device may further include a grid frame corresponding to the boundaries of the plurality of display modules.

[0154] The display device may be configured such that at least one of the plurality of accessory modules can be attached to a position corresponding to the grid frame on the surface of the display device.

[0155] The above-mentioned accessory module may be configured to be detachably attached to the display device using a magnet.

[0156] The processor can output a partial image from each of the plurality of display groups so that one image is displayed on the entire screen of the display device, based on the attachment of each of the accessory modules to each of the plurality of display groups.

[0157] The processor can output an independent image from each of the plurality of display groups based on the attachment of each of the accessory modules to each of the plurality of display groups.

[0158] The processor can identify that an accessory module corresponding to one of the plurality of display groups is detached.

[0159] The above processor can output a preset image to a display group from which the above accessory module is detached.

[0160] The above processor can identify that the detached accessory module is being reattached.

[0161] The processor can output a partial image from each of the plurality of display groups so that one image is displayed on the entire screen of the display device.

[0162] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating a display device may be provided. The method may include a step of outputting an image. The method may include a step of identifying an attachment / detachment event of an accessory module attachable to a surface of the display device. The method may include a step of performing a preset operation based on the identification of the attachment / detachment event.

[0163] The step of outputting the image may include outputting the first image to a first display group including at least one first display module and outputting the second image to a second display group including at least one second display module.

[0164] The above attachment / detachment event may include a attachment / detachment event of a first accessory module corresponding to the first display group and a attachment / detachment event of a second accessory module corresponding to the second display group.

[0165] The step of identifying the above attachment / detachment event may include the step of identifying that both the first accessory module and the second accessory module are attached.

[0166] The step of outputting the above image may be to output a preset image based on the attachment of both the first accessory module and the second accessory module.

[0167] The step of outputting the image may be to output the first image so that a portion of one image is output to the first display group based on the attachment of both the first accessory module and the second accessory module.

[0168] The step of outputting the above image may be outputting the second image so that the remaining part of the one image is output to the second display group.

[0169] The step of outputting the image may be to output the first image so that a portion of one image is output to the first display group based on the attachment of both the first accessory module and the second accessory module.

[0170] The step of outputting the above image may be outputting the second image so that the remaining part of the one image is output to the second display group.

[0171] The step of outputting the image may be to output the first image signal and the second image so that different images are output to each of the first display group and the second display group based on the attachment of both the first accessory module and the second accessory module.

[0172] The step of identifying the above detachment event may include the step of identifying that the first accessory module is detached.

[0173] The step of outputting the above image may be outputting the first image so that the image preset in the first display group is output.

[0174] The step of identifying the detachment event may include the step of identifying that the first accessory module is being reattached.

[0175] The step of outputting the image may be to output the first image so that a part of the image is output to the first display group, and to output the second image so that the remaining part of the image is output to the second display group.

[0176] Meanwhile, embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer, and include both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media may typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as program modules.

[0177] Additionally, a computer-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0178] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0179] The above description of the present disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that modifications to other specific forms can be made without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, components described as being single may be implemented in a distributed manner, and similarly, components described as being distributed may be implemented in a combined manner.

[0180] The scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims described below rather than the detailed description above, and all changes or modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalent concepts should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In the display device, Multiple display modules; A timing controller that controls the operation of the plurality of display modules; An add-on module attachable to the surface of the display device; A sensor module for sensing attachment / detachment of the above accessory module; and Contains a processor, The above processor, Identify the attachment / detachment event of the above accessory module, A display device that performs a preset action based on the identification of the above detachment event.

2. In paragraph 1, The above display device, A display device, wherein the screen of the display device is composed of a plurality of display groups that divide the screen into a plurality of areas, and each of the plurality of display groups includes at least one display module among the plurality of display modules.

3. In paragraph 2, The above auxiliary modules are plural, A display device, wherein each of the plurality of accessory modules corresponds to each of the plurality of display groups and generates a detachment event for each of the plurality of display groups.

4. In paragraph 3, The above timing controllers are plural, Each of the above multiple timing controllers, A display device, which corresponds to each of the plurality of display groups and controls the operation of at least one display module included in the plurality of display groups.

5. In paragraph 4, The above display device, Further comprising a grid frame corresponding to the boundaries of the plurality of display modules; A display device, wherein at least one of the plurality of accessory modules is configured to be attachable to a position corresponding to the grid frame on the surface of the display device.

6. In paragraph 5, The above processor, A display device that outputs a partial image from each of the plurality of display groups so that one image is displayed on the entire screen of the display device, based on the attachment of each of the accessory modules to each of the plurality of display groups.

7. In paragraph 5, The above processor, A display device that outputs independent images from each of the plurality of display groups based on the attachment of each of the accessory modules to each of the plurality of display groups.

8. In paragraph 5, The above processor, Identifying that an accessory module corresponding to one of the plurality of display groups is detached, A display device that outputs a preset image to a display group from which the above-mentioned accessory module has been detached.

9. In the method of operating the display device, Step of outputting the image; A step of identifying a detachment event of an accessory module attachable to the surface of the display device; and A method comprising the step of performing a preset action based on the identification of the above detachment event.

10. In paragraph 9, The steps for outputting the above video are: A method for outputting a first image to a first display group including at least one first display module and outputting a second image to a second display group including at least one second display module.

11. In paragraph 10, A method, wherein the above detachment event includes a detachment event of a first accessory module corresponding to the first display group and a detachment event of a second accessory module corresponding to the second display group.

12. In paragraph 11, The step of identifying the above detachment event is: A step of identifying that both the first sub-module and the second sub-module are attached, The steps for outputting the above video are: A method for outputting a preset image based on the attachment of both the first accessory module and the second accessory module.

13. In paragraph 12, The steps for outputting the above video are: A method for outputting the first image so that a part of the image is output to the first display group, and outputting the second image so that the remaining part of the image is output to the second display group, based on the attachment of both the first accessory module and the second accessory module.

14. In paragraph 12, The steps for outputting the above video are: A method for outputting the first image signal and the second image so that different images are output to each of the first display group and the second display group based on the attachment of both the first accessory module and the second accessory module.

15. In paragraph 11, The step of identifying the above detachment event is: Further comprising a step of identifying that the first auxiliary module is detached, The steps for outputting the above video are: A method for outputting the first image so that the image preset in the first display group is output.

Images