Display device capable of controlling power consumption, and method therefor

Abstract

Disclosed is a display device comprising: a display panel; a backlight unit which is disposed to face the display panel, and which provides light to the display panel by using a plurality of light-emitting elements; a memory in which light-emitting element information set differently according to the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is stored; and a processor, wherein the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is adjustable, and, when the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is adjusted, the processor controls the backlight unit such that the number of light-emitting elements turned on from among the plurality of light-emitting elements and the luminance thereof are adjusted on the basis of the light-emitting element information stored in the memory.

Description

Display device capable of controlling power consumption and method thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device capable of controlling power consumption and a method thereof.

[0002] Advances in display technology have made it possible to create large, high-definition screens. These display devices often utilize backlight units that supply light to the display, which utilize multiple light-emitting elements. Furthermore, with the development of the Internet of Things (IoT), various electronic devices have been integrated into interconnected systems. The displays of these hub devices often offer an Always On Display (AOD) mode to enhance user convenience. Typically, a TV serves as the hub, and when these devices are always on, they consume significant amounts of power. In today's society, where energy prices fluctuate significantly due to the depletion of energy resources, this issue needs to be addressed for economic reasons. Furthermore, while energy-saving models of electronic devices are being released to address this issue, these products are limited to the specifications selected at the time of purchase.

[0003] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a display device and method capable of controlling power consumption.

[0004] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device includes a display panel, a backlight unit that is arranged to face the display panel and provides light toward the display panel using a plurality of light-emitting elements, a memory storing light-emitting element information that is set differently according to a distance between the display panel and the backlight unit, and a processor, wherein the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is adjustable, and the processor can control the backlight unit to adjust the number and brightness of light-emitting elements turned on among the plurality of light-emitting elements based on the light-emitting element information stored in the memory when the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is adjusted.

[0005] In addition, the display panel further includes a side support capable of bending and an actuator disposed on the rear of the backlight unit and connected to one end of the side support, and the processor drives the actuator to push the side support when a user operation for adjusting the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is input, and the side support can move the display panel away from the backlight unit as the bending state changes according to the driving of the actuator.

[0006] Additionally, the display device may further include a guide frame that supports an outer surface of the side support close to the side of the housing to guide the bending direction of the housing and the side support forming the exterior of the display device.

[0007] Additionally, the side support may be a shutter including a plurality of plates, and the guide frame may be a linear rail.

[0008] Meanwhile, the display panel further includes a side support portion connected to one side thereof and having one end curved toward the center of the backlight unit, and an actuator disposed on the rear of the backlight unit and connected to the curved end of the side support portion, wherein the processor can drive the actuator to pull the side support portion when a user operation for adjusting the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is input.

[0009] Meanwhile, the device further includes a variable member connecting the outer periphery of the display panel and the outer periphery of the backlight unit, and an actuator connected to one end of the variable member, wherein the variable member is connected to be perpendicular to the display panel and the backlight unit, and the processor can drive the actuator to change the length of the variable member when a user operation for adjusting the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is input.

[0010] Alternatively, the processor may display a selection menu on the display panel for selecting an operation mode of the display device, and when a power saving mode for reducing power consumption of the display device is selected from the selection menu, the processor may control the actuator to separate the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit to be greater than the distance in the normal mode, turn off light-emitting elements at a predetermined interval among a plurality of light-emitting elements, and control the backlight unit to increase the brightness of the remaining light-emitting elements.

[0011] Meanwhile, the display panel further includes first and second side supports that are detachable from both sides, and the first and second side supports include a plurality of pairs of protrusions that are sequentially arranged opposite each other in a direction away from the display panel, and the backlight unit is supported by one pair of protrusions among the plurality of pairs of protrusions, and the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit may vary depending on the position of the pair of protrusions that support the backlight unit.

[0012] Alternatively, the processor may control the backlight unit to turn off light-emitting elements at a predetermined interval among the plurality of light-emitting elements and increase the brightness of the remaining light-emitting elements when the backlight unit is moved so that it is supported by a pair of protrusions that is further from the display panel among the plurality of protrusion pairs.

[0013] A method for controlling power consumption of a display device including a display panel and a backlight unit may include the steps of: displaying a selection menu for selecting an operation mode of the display device; receiving a user selection for the selection menu; and, based on the user selection, adjusting the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit and the number and brightness of light-emitting elements to be turned on among a plurality of light-emitting elements in the backlight unit, respectively.

[0014] Alternatively, the step of adjusting the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit and the number and brightness of light-emitting elements to be turned on may include, when a general mode is selected from a selection menu, maintaining the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit by a first preset distance, turning on a first preset number of light-emitting elements among a plurality of light-emitting elements, and adjusting the brightness of each of the turned-on light-emitting elements to the first brightness, and when a power-saving mode for reducing power consumption of the display device is selected, separating the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit by a second distance greater than the first distance, turning on a second number of light-emitting elements smaller than the first number, and adjusting the brightness of each of the turned-on light-emitting elements to a second brightness greater than the first brightness.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the operation of a display device in normal mode and power saving mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIGS. 3 to 5 are drawings showing examples of light-emitting patterns of light-emitting elements in various modes of a display device.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the structure of a display device in a normal mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the structure of a display device in power saving mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the operation of an actuator in a normal mode and a power-saving mode of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a detailed configuration of a side support according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the structure of a display device in a normal mode according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing the structure of a display device in power saving mode according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing the structure of a display device in a normal mode according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining a state in which a side support part is separated during a process in which a power consumption mode of a display device is switched according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing the structure of a display device in power saving mode according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an example of a screen on which a mode selection menu is displayed in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining a method for controlling power consumption of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0030] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0031] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0033] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0034] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0035] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0036] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0037] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0038] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0039] Below, display devices according to various embodiments are specifically described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the structure and operation of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The display device (100) may be implemented as a TV, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and may be implemented as various types of electronic devices equipped with a display, such as a monitor, a kiosk, or an electronic whiteboard.

[0041] The display device (100) can operate in multiple operating modes, such as a normal mode and a power-saving mode. The normal mode refers to a mode for general use of the display device (100) without considering reduction in power consumption. For example, a mode in which almost all of the light-emitting elements provided in the backlight unit within the display device (100) are turned on and used can be the normal mode.

[0042] A power-saving mode refers to an operating mode that can reduce power consumption compared to a normal mode. For example, a mode in which the number of light-emitting elements turned on among a plurality of light-emitting elements provided in a backlight unit within a display device (100) is reduced compared to a normal mode may be a power-saving mode. The power-saving mode may be set to be single or multiple. If multiple power-saving modes are supported, the number of light-emitting elements that emit light may be set differently for each power-saving mode. For example, if all light-emitting elements are used in the normal mode, the first power-saving mode may be set to operate using the remaining light-emitting elements while turning off 10% of the light-emitting elements, and the second power-saving mode may be set to operate using the remaining light-emitting elements while turning off 20% of the light-emitting elements. The power-saving mode may also be implemented in three or more modes. FIG. 1 compares and explains the operation in the normal mode and one power-saving mode.

[0043] According to FIG. 1, a display device (100) includes a display panel (110) and a backlight unit (120). The display panel (110) can display a desired screen by passing light emitted from the backlight unit (120). The display panel (110) can include a polarizing plate, a thin film transistor, a liquid crystal, a color filter, a polarizing plate, etc. The display panel (110) can be an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel, and can be one of a TN (Twisted Nematic) panel, an IPS (In-Plane Switching) panel, and a VA (Vertical Alignment) panel, but is not limited thereto.

[0044] The backlight unit (120) is a configuration for providing light to the display panel (110). The backlight unit (120) includes a plurality of light-emitting elements (121) and a substrate (122). Various driving circuits and wires for driving the plurality of light-emitting elements (121) may be arranged on the substrate (122). In addition, various components necessary for the operation of the display device (100) may be arranged on the front or back surface of the substrate (122).

[0045] The backlight unit (120) may include various types of light-emitting elements such as a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), an external electrode fluorescent lamp, and a light emitting diode (LED). However, in the present disclosure, a direct LED (full array LED, direct LED) structure using multiple LEDs will be described.

[0046] Since the backlight unit (120) is composed of direct-type LEDs, local dimming can be performed to improve the contrast ratio of the screen and manage power consumption by turning on or off only some of the plurality of light-emitting elements (121) that make up the backlight unit (120). Accordingly, as shown in Fig. 1, the number of light-emitting elements (121) that are turned on in power-saving mode can be adjusted to be smaller than that in normal mode.

[0047] A plurality of light-emitting elements (121) can be driven by a driving circuit to provide light toward the display panel (110). The brightness of the plurality of light-emitting elements (121) can be adjusted according to the size of an incoming electrical signal (e.g., the size of a current value).

[0048] A plurality of light emitting elements (121) can emit light so that the light spreads in an inverted cone shape toward the display panel (110) based on the light source. In this case, if the areas of each light emitted from the light source overlap each other, the screen displayed on the display panel (110) may not have uniform brightness, and thus may not be able to provide a high-quality screen to the user. Therefore, the plurality of light emitting elements (121) can be aligned and arranged on the backlight unit (120) so that the light spots projected onto the display panel (110) do not overlap each other and there are no missing areas.

[0049] Meanwhile, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) is adjustable. The distance can be adjusted to maintain different distances when the operating mode is normal mode or power-saving mode. The distance in power-saving mode can be adjusted to be greater than the distance in normal mode.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 1, when the display device (100) is in normal mode, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) may be a first distance (d1). Assuming that all light-emitting elements (121-1 to 121-n) are turned on when the display device (100) is in normal mode, the first distance (d1) may be appropriately set in consideration of the wide angle of each light-emitting element (121-1 to 121-n) and the distance between each light-emitting element (121) so that the light spots do not overlap or are not missed.

[0051] Meanwhile, when the display device (100) is in power saving mode, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) is adjusted to a second distance (d2). The second distance (d2) is set to a value greater than the first distance (d1). Therefore, when in power saving mode, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) becomes greater than when in normal mode, so that the area of ​​the light spot emitted from the plurality of light emitting elements (121) and reaching the display panel (110) can be formed wider.

[0052] The display device (100) reduces the number of light-emitting elements (121) that are turned on in power-saving mode. Accordingly, power consumption in power-saving mode can be reduced compared to normal mode.

[0053] In addition, the display device (100) appropriately distributes the positions of the light emitting elements (121) that are turned on among all light emitting elements (121-1 to 121-n) by considering the wide angle of each light emitting element. Accordingly, even if the number of light emitting elements (121) that are turned on in the power saving mode is smaller than in the normal mode, a screen without any missing areas can be displayed on the display panel (110).

[0054] However, as the number of light-emitting elements (121) that serve as light sources decreases, the overall brightness or clarity of the screen displayed on the display panel (110) may decrease. To compensate for this, when the display device (100) is in power-saving mode, the brightness of the light-emitting elements (121) that are turned on is adjusted. Specifically, a higher current value than in the normal mode may be applied to each light-emitting element (121) that is turned on, thereby increasing the brightness of each light-emitting element (121).

[0055] Even if the current value flowing into each of the plurality of light-emitting elements (121) is increased in this way, the number of light-emitting elements (121) that are turned on is reduced, so that the power consumption in the power-saving mode can be lowered compared to the normal mode.

[0056]

[0057] The distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) can be adjusted automatically or manually. Each method will be described in detail later.

[0058] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 2, the display device (100) includes a display panel (110), a backlight unit (120), a memory (130), and a processor (140). The display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) are connected in a structure in which the distance therebetween is adjustable. Since the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) have been described in detail in the above-described section, a redundant description thereof will be omitted.

[0059] The memory (130) may store various programs, commands, data, etc. required for the operation of the display device. For example, the memory (130) may store information on the operation mode of the display device (100), information on light-emitting elements set differently for each operation mode, etc. The light-emitting element information may include information for identifying light-emitting elements to be turned on or off in each operation mode, information on electrical signals to be provided to each light-emitting element, etc.

[0060] The memory (130) may be implemented in the form of memory embedded in the display device (100), or may be implemented in the form of memory that is attachable to the display device (100). In the case of memory embedded in the display device (100), the memory (130) may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., one time programmable ROM (OTPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD)).

[0061] The processor (140) is a component for performing the overall operation of the display device (100). The processor (140) can perform various operations using programs, commands, data, etc. stored in the memory (130). The processor (140) may be implemented as a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an AI (Artificial Intelligence) processor, an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), or a TCON (Time Controller) for processing a digital image signal. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a MCU (Micro Controller Unit), an MPU (micro processing unit), a controller, an application processor (AP), a communication processor (CP), or an ARM processor, or may be defined by the relevant terminology. In addition, the processor (140) may be implemented as a SoC (System on Chip), an LSI (Large Scale Integration) having a built-in processing algorithm, or may be implemented in the form of an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0062] Specifically, assuming that the device can operate in one of the normal mode and the power saving mode as in FIG. 1, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) can be varied to one of the first distance (d1) and the second distance (d2).

[0063] When the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) is a first distance (d1), the processor (140) can control the backlight unit (120) to turn on a first number of light emitting elements (121) among all light emitting elements (121) of the backlight unit (120) based on the light emitting element information stored in the memory (130). The first number refers to the number of light emitting elements (121) set for the normal mode. The first number may be set to be the same as the number of all light emitting elements (121), but is not necessarily so, and may be set to the number of light emitting elements (121) remaining excluding light emitting elements (121) at the edge or in some areas or faulty light emitting elements (121) depending on the design. The processor (140) can adjust each light emitting element (121) that is turned on in the normal mode to the first brightness set to suit the normal mode.

[0064] When the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) is a second distance (d2) that is longer than the first distance (d1), the processor (140) turns on a second number of light-emitting elements (121) among all light-emitting elements (121) of the backlight unit (120) based on the light-emitting element information stored in the memory (130). The second number is set to be smaller than the first number. The processor (140) can identify the second number and the positions of the light-emitting elements (121) to be turned on based on the light-emitting element information stored in the memory (130). The processor (140) can adjust the luminance of each of the second number of light-emitting elements (121) to a second luminance that is greater than the first luminance. The processor (140) can identify the second luminance based on the light-emitting element information stored in the memory (130).

[0065] The light-emitting element information stored in the memory (130) may be information established through repeated experiments during the manufacturing process of the display device (100). That is, the display device (100) may have various changes in the type and characteristics of the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120), the wide-angle or brightness characteristics of the light-emitting element (121) itself, the arrangement interval, etc., depending on the manufacturer, product type, specifications, etc. The distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) is basically determined to suit the general mode.

[0066] For example, a manufacturing company can conduct an experiment to change the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) while turning on all the light-emitting elements (121) of the backlight unit (120) in the normal mode. Based on the experimental results, the distance that can obtain the optimal display quality can be set as the first distance (d1), and the number of light-emitting elements (121) and the brightness value at this time can be stored in the memory (130) as light-emitting element information matching the normal mode. The experiment can be conducted in the same manner in the power-saving mode. That is, the manufacturing company determines the number (i.e., the second number) and positions of the light-emitting elements (121) to be turned on in the power-saving mode, taking into account the target value of the power consumption to be reduced. The positions of the light-emitting elements (121) to be turned on can be determined as positions distributed in a certain pattern considering the wide angle of each light-emitting element. The manufacturing company sets the distance that can obtain the optimal display quality while the second number of distributed light-emitting elements (121) are turned on as the second distance (d2). Optimal display quality means a state in which the brightness uniformity of the entire screen is maximized. The manufacturer adjusts the brightness of each light emitting element (121) to compensate for the overall brightness of the display panel (110) when the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) is a second distance (d2), and the second number of light emitting elements (121) are turned on. Accordingly, the second brightness can be set. In this way, light emitting element information for each operation mode can be prepared and stored in the memory (130). However, this is only an example, and the light emitting element information can be set in various other ways and contents.

[0067] Meanwhile, in the above embodiments, the number and brightness of the light-emitting elements (121) that are turned on are both controlled according to the operation mode or distance, but in other embodiments, only the number of light-emitting elements (121) may be controlled.

[0068] For example, there may be an environment where there are few viewers watching the display device (100) in power-saving mode. In such an embodiment, the display device (100) may only adjust the number of light-emitting elements (121) to be turned on in power-saving mode, and maintain or even lower the brightness. Accordingly, power consumption can be reduced as much as possible.

[0069] If the display device (100) is equipped with a proximity sensor or the like to detect the approach of a user, or if an event such as the user touching the screen of the display device (100) or operating a button provided on the main body or remote control of the display device (100) occurs, the display device (100) can adjust the brightness to be brighter.

[0070] FIGS. 3 to 5 are diagrams showing examples of light-emitting patterns of light-emitting elements in various operating modes of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 shows a light-emitting pattern in normal mode. Referring to FIG. 3, in normal mode, the display device (100) can turn on all light-emitting elements (121) of the backlight unit (120).

[0071] Fig. 4 shows a light-emitting pattern in the first power-saving mode. Referring to Fig. 4, when in the first power-saving mode, the display device (100) can alternately turn on or off the light-emitting element (121) of the backlight unit (120).

[0072] Specifically, when there is a turned-on light-emitting element (121), all of the light-emitting elements (121) closest to it in the up, down, left, and right directions can be turned off. Conversely, the light-emitting elements (121) closest to the turned-off light-emitting element (121) can be turned on.

[0073] Since the plurality of light-emitting elements (121) are turned on or off alternately in this way, no overlapping or missing light spots occur, so that a screen with a constant brightness can be implemented on the display panel (110) even in power-saving mode.

[0074] Fig. 5 shows a light-emitting pattern in the second power-saving mode. Referring to Fig. 5, in the second power-saving mode, the display device (100) can turn on a smaller number of light-emitting elements (121) than in the first power-saving mode. In Fig. 5, it can be seen that when one light-emitting element (121) is turned on in one line, the pattern is such that three light-emitting elements (121) are then turned off.

[0075] For example, if there is a light-emitting element (121) that is turned on in the second power-saving mode, all other light-emitting elements (121) surrounding it can be turned off. As a result, even if the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) becomes greater than in the first power-saving mode and the light spot reaching the display panel (110) from one light-emitting element (121) becomes larger, there is no overlapping portion with the light area formed by the other light-emitting elements (121), so that a screen with uniform brightness can be implemented.

[0076] Information on the status of the light-emitting element (121) of the backlight unit (120) can be preset during the manufacturing process of the display device (100), and the specific details thereof are as described in FIG. 2.

[0077] As described above, the display device can operate in various operating modes, such as a normal mode and at least one power-saving mode, and the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) changes in each operating mode. Depending on the embodiment, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) may be adjusted automatically or manually. Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the distance is adjusted automatically will first be described.

[0078] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a display device in a normal mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a display device in a power-saving mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the operation of an actuator in a normal mode and a power-saving mode of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] Users can input various user operations by operating input means such as buttons on the remote control or the display device's main body, the display device's touch screen, or by using voice or motion input. Users can also input user operations to select operating modes such as normal mode and power-saving mode.

[0080] Specifically, when the power saving mode is selected by the user, the processor (130) can drive the actuator (160) to push the side support (150). As the length of the shaft (161) increases due to the driving of the actuator (160), the side support (150) is pushed toward the display panel (110), and accordingly, the display panel (110) connected to one end of the side support (150) can move away from the backlight unit (120).

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the display device (100) includes a side support (150) connecting the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) and an actuator (160) connected to one end of the side support (150). The side support (150) is configured to support the gap between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) in order to maintain the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) at a constant value for each preset value. In FIG. 6, it is described that one side support (150) is connected only to one end of each of the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120), but it is not necessarily limited thereto, and depending on the embodiment, another side support may be additionally connected in the same manner to the other end of each of the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120). In this case, the actuators on both sides may be interconnected.

[0082] The side support member (150) is connected to the display panel (110) and the actuator (160), respectively. The side support member (150) may be formed of a member capable of bending in whole or in part. For example, the side support member (150) may have a shutter-shaped structure composed of a plurality of plates and a connecting member connecting them, but is not limited thereto.

[0083] When the side support member (150) receives force from an actuator (160) connected to one end, the bending state changes so that some areas are stretched or bent, thereby pushing or pulling the display panel (110) connected to the other end. Accordingly, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) can be maintained differently when the display device (100) is in normal mode and power-saving mode.

[0084] Specifically, the outer circumferential length of the side support (150) can have a fixed value, and as the length of the shaft (161) connecting the side support (150) and the actuator (160) increases and decreases, the bending portion of the side support (150) changes, thereby pulling or pushing the display panel (110).

[0085] Meanwhile, the side support (150) may include a roll (not shown). In this case, when the actuator (160) pulls the side support (150), the side support (150) is wound around the roll, thereby reducing the outer circumference of the side support (150), thereby pulling the display panel (110). Conversely, when the actuator (160) pushes the side support (150), the side support (150) wound around the roll is released, thereby increasing the outer circumference of the side support (150), thereby pushing the display panel (110).

[0086] The actuator (160) is a configuration that receives power from an external source and generates power to change the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120). The actuator (160) may be placed on the rear surface opposite to the surface on which the light-emitting element (121) of the backlight unit (120) is placed.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 8, the length of the shaft (161) protruding from the actuator (160) may be longer in the power-saving mode than in the normal mode. As described in FIGS. 6 and 7, in the power-saving mode, the actuator (160) is driven and the length of the shaft (161) may be increased.

[0088] When the display device (100) is in normal mode, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) may be a first distance (d1). At the first distance (d1), the shaft (161) connected to one end of the actuator (160) and the side support (150) may protrude by a first length (L1), and all of the plurality of light-emitting elements (121) may be turned on.

[0089] When the display device (100) is in power saving mode, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) may be a second distance (d2). At the second distance (d2), the shaft (161) may have a second length (L2) that is longer than the first length (L1).

[0090] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a side support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 9, the display device (100) may further include a housing (170) and a guide frame (180). The housing (170) is a component that forms the exterior of the display device (100) and may protect the internal components of the display device (100) from the external environment. The side of the housing (170) may be formed to have a fixed length, but is not limited thereto, and may also be formed of a member whose length can be changed. The housing (170) may cover all of the side of the display panel (110), the side of the backlight unit (120), and the rear side, except for the portion where the screen of the display panel (110) is displayed.

[0091] The guide frame (180) is a member that guides the bending direction of the side support member (150). The guide frame (180) may be made of a material with strong rigidity.

[0092] The side support portion (150) bent by the actuator (160) can be bent along the shape of the guide frame (180). Since the guide frame (180) is formed by being bent in a J shape from one side of the backlight unit (120) toward one side of the display panel (110) facing it, the side support portion (150) can be pushed away by the actuator (160) to increase the vertical distance of the display panel (110) from the backlight unit (120).

[0093] The guide frame (180) may be a linear rail that can move along the side of the housing (170), but is not limited thereto.

[0094] FIG. 10 is a side view of a display device in a normal mode according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 11 is a side view of a display device in a power-saving mode according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the side support (150) may be a linear variable member and may be positioned perpendicular to the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120), respectively. The side support (150) may be a hydraulic shaft, but is not limited thereto.

[0096] At least one actuator (160) may be placed adjacent to one of the two side ends of the backlight unit (120). The actuator (160) may adjust the length of the side support (150) using power generated by receiving power from an external source. As the length of the side support (150) is adjusted, the distance between the display panel (110) coupled to one side of the side support (150) and the backlight unit (120) coupled to the other side may be adjusted.

[0097] Specifically, in the normal mode, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) may be spaced apart by a first length (d1). In the power-saving mode, the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) may be spaced apart by a second length (d2) that is longer than the first length (d1).

[0098] In this way, by changing the overall length of the side support (150) depending on the driving of the actuator (160), different distances between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) can be maintained in the normal mode and the power saving mode, respectively.

[0099] In the above, with reference to FIGS. 6 to 11, various examples of structures that can be applied to a display device capable of automatic distance adjustment and their operations have been described.

[0100] Meanwhile, the processor (140) may display a selection menu for selecting one of the operation modes on the display panel (110). Accordingly, when one of the selection menus is selected, the actuator (160) may be driven according to the selected operation mode to automatically perform switching between the normal mode and the power saving mode.

[0101] For example, when the power saving mode is selected, the actuator (160) can be controlled to separate the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) to a distance greater than that in the normal mode. The processor (140) can also adjust the number and brightness of the light-emitting elements (121) to be turned on accordingly.

[0102] Figures 6 to 11 illustrate structural changes in the normal mode and one power saving mode, but multiple power saving modes can also be adjusted in the same manner.

[0103] Meanwhile, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) can also be manually adjusted by the user. The manual method is described below.

[0104] FIGS. 12 to 14 are side views of a display device in a normal mode according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14 , the display device (100) includes a first side support (150-1) and a second side support (150-2) forming a pair for manually switching the operation mode.

[0105] The first side support (150-1) and the second side support (150-2) may be arranged oppositely to cover both side ends of the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120). One end of the first and second side support (150-1, 150-2) may be fixed to the side end of the display panel (110) and may be detachable. The first and second side support (150-1, 150-2) may be made of an elastic material, but is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0106] A plurality of pairs of protrusions (151-n) may be formed on the inner surface of the first and second side supports (150-1, 150-2) so as to be sequentially arranged facing each other in a direction away from the display panel (110).

[0107] A plurality of pairs of protrusions (151-n) are configured to support a backlight unit (120). By placing the side ends of the backlight unit (120) on the plurality of pairs of protrusions (151-n), the backlight unit (120) can be maintained in a fixed state at a certain distance from the display panel (110). That is, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) can vary depending on the positions of the plurality of pairs of protrusions (151-n) supporting the backlight unit (120).

[0108] For example, FIG. 12 shows a backlight unit (120) fixed to a first pair of protrusions (151-1) at a first distance (d1) from the display panel (110) in the normal mode.

[0109] Figure 13 shows the shapes of the first and second side supports (150-1, 150-2) during the process of switching from normal mode to power saving mode.

[0110] To switch from normal mode to power saving mode, the user can pull the handle (152) protruding from the outer surface of the first and second side supports (150-1, 150-2) from the backlight unit (120) toward the display panel (110) (x1).

[0111] At this time, as the first and second side supports (150-1, 150-2) having elasticity are bent by tension, the backlight unit (120) mounted on the first pair of protrusions (151-1) may fall off from the first pair of protrusions (151-1).

[0112] After this, when the backlight unit (120) reaches a position parallel to the second pair of protrusions (151-2), the first and second side supports (150-1, 150-2) that were bent are restored to their original straight shape by elasticity, so that the backlight unit (120) can be seated on the second pair of protrusions (151-2).

[0113] In this way, when the operation mode is manually switched from normal mode to power saving mode by the user's force, as shown in FIG. 14, the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) can be maintained in a state of being arranged with a gap of the second distance (d2).

[0114] Since the second distance (d2) has a larger value than the first distance (d1), the number of light-emitting elements (121) turned on in the power-saving mode having the second distance (d2) may be less than that in the normal mode having the first distance (d1). A specific description of the plurality of light-emitting elements (121) in the power-saving mode is as described in FIGS. 1 to 5.

[0115] In FIGS. 12 to 14, a case in which a pair of side supports (150-1, 150-2) are pulled toward the display panel (110) and separated is described, but it can be implemented in various other forms.

[0116] For example, the side support (150) may be attached in a structure that is laterally detachable from the surrounding housing (170). The connection between the side support (150) and the surrounding housing (170) may be made by a fastening structure such as a protruding structure or a bolt, or a coupling structure such as a magnet, but is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0117] The user can separate the side supports (150) on both sides laterally, then move the backlight unit (120) slightly further away from the display panel (110), and then reattach the side supports (150). The backlight unit (120) can be supported by one of the pairs of protrusions (151-n) provided on both sides, i.e., the first and second side supports (150), through manual operation by the user. The plurality of protrusion pairs (151-n) can be formed to be sequentially opposite each other in a direction away from the display panel, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 14. Accordingly, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) can vary depending on the position of the pair of protrusions (151-n) supporting the backlight unit (120).

[0118] Meanwhile, even when a user manually adjusts the distance, the user may perform a separate operation of selecting a selection menu to control the operation of the processor (140). The operation of the user selecting a selection menu may be performed before or after the distance adjustment, or may be omitted depending on the embodiment.

[0119] Specifically, light-emitting element information that is set differently for the case where the backlight unit (120) is located at a position supported by the first pair of protrusions (151-1) and the case where the backlight unit (120) is located at the second pair of protrusions (151-2) can be stored in the memory (130).

[0120] Based on the information stored in the memory (130) in this way, the processor (140) can control the plurality of light-emitting elements (121) to turn on or off depending on where the backlight unit (120) is located among the plurality of protrusion pairs (151-n).

[0121] Meanwhile, in order to determine whether the backlight unit (120) is supported by a pair of protrusions (151), electrodes or other sensors (not shown) may be provided on the first and second side supports (150-1, 150-2).

[0122] The sensor can be placed at a position where a plurality of pairs of protrusions (151-n) are formed on the inner surface of the first and second side supports (150-1, 150-2).

[0123] Accordingly, when the backlight unit (120) is positioned at the first pair of protrusions (151-1), the processor (140) can identify the current position of the backlight unit (120) based on the sensing value of the sensor. The processor (140) can recognize the current operation mode based on the identified position information, obtain light-emitting element information corresponding to the operation mode from the memory (130), and then control the backlight unit (120) based on the information. When the backlight unit (120) is spaced a greater distance or moves closer, the processor (130) can adjust the number and brightness of the light-emitting elements (121) that are turned on accordingly.

[0124] Meanwhile, according to another embodiment, the processor (130) may also adjust the number and brightness of light-emitting elements (121) that are turned on according to the user's operation, separately from the user manually adjusting the distance.

[0125] FIG. 15 is a diagram of a display panel on which a mode selection menu is displayed in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. When a user inputs a user operation for checking a menu, the display device (100) may display a selection menu for selecting an operation mode on the display panel (110). The selection menu may include a normal mode and a power-saving mode, but is not limited thereto, and the power-saving mode may be configured as a first power-saving mode, a second power-saving mode, and an nth power-saving mode. When the nth power-saving mode is selected by the user, the processor (140) may drive the actuator (160) based on information about the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) when in the nth power-saving mode, which is stored in the memory (130).

[0126] For example, if the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) is set to a second distance (d2) and stored in the memory (130) in the first power saving mode, when the user selects the first power saving mode, the processor (140) can control the display panel (110) to move away from the backlight unit (120) by the second distance (d2) by the side support (150) by driving the actuator (160). In addition, the backlight unit (120) can be controlled based on information about the number and brightness of the light-emitting elements (121) turned on in the first power saving mode.

[0127] Similarly, when the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) is set to a first distance (d1) in the normal mode and the user selects the normal mode to switch from the first power saving mode to the normal mode, the processor (140) can drive the actuator (160) to control the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) to have the first distance (d1). Thereafter, the processor (140) can increase the number of light-emitting elements (121) that are turned on compared to the first power saving mode and decrease the brightness of the turned-on light-emitting elements (121).

[0128] Meanwhile, all light emitting elements (121) of the backlight unit (120) may be turned off while the actuator (160) is driven to switch the operation mode.

[0129] Fig. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling power consumption of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Fig. 16, the display device displays a selection menu for selecting a sleep mode (S101).

[0130] The display device identifies the selected operation mode when a user selection is entered for the selection menu (S102).

[0131] The display device may be initially set to a normal mode. In this state, if the power saving mode is selected by the user (S102), the display device increases the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit to a second distance based on previously stored light-emitting element information (S103).

[0132] The display device adjusts the number and brightness of the light-emitting elements turned on to a second state (S104). The second state refers to a state in which the second number of light-emitting elements described in the above-described embodiments operate at a second brightness.

[0133] When the normal mode is selected by the user while operating in power saving mode (S102), the display device adjusts the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit to a first distance based on previously stored information (S103). The display device adjusts the number and brightness of the light-emitting elements turned on to a first state (S104). The first state refers to a state in which the first number of light-emitting elements described in the above-described embodiments operate at a first brightness.

[0134] The power consumption control method described in FIG. 16 can be performed by the display device described in the various embodiments described above, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and can also be performed by a display device having a different configuration.

[0135] As described above, according to embodiments according to the present disclosure, the power consumption value of the display device (100) can be changed according to one mode selected from the normal mode or the power saving mode, and when the power saving mode is selected to reduce power consumption, the distance between the display panel (110) and the backlight unit (120) is adjusted, and the number of light-emitting elements (121) turned on within the backlight unit (120) is adjusted, thereby achieving the desired effect of reducing power consumption of the display device (100). In addition, in order to improve the problem of reduced brightness due to a decrease in the number of light-emitting elements (121) serving as light sources, the brightness is increased by increasing the value of the current flowing into the turned-on light-emitting elements (121), so that even if the total number of turned-on light-emitting elements (121) is reduced compared to the normal mode, a screen having a brightness similar to that in the normal mode can be displayed.

[0136] Although various embodiments of the present disclosure have been individually described above, each embodiment does not necessarily have to be implemented alone, and the configuration and operation of each embodiment may be implemented in combination with at least one other embodiment.

[0137] In addition, although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. Display panel; A backlight unit positioned to face the display panel and providing light toward the display panel using a plurality of light-emitting elements; A memory storing information on light-emitting elements that are set differently depending on the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit; and Processor; including; The distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is adjustable, The above processor, A display device, wherein when the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is adjusted, the backlight unit is controlled to adjust the number and brightness of light-emitting elements turned on among the plurality of light-emitting elements based on the light-emitting element information stored in the memory.

2. In paragraph 1, A side support member connected to one side of the above display panel and capable of bending; and It further includes an actuator which is arranged at the rear of the backlight unit and connected to one end of the side support; The above processor, When a user operation for adjusting the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is input, the actuator is driven to push the side support, A display device, wherein the side support member moves the display panel away from the backlight unit as the bending state changes according to the operation of the actuator.

3. In paragraph 2, a housing forming the appearance of the display device; and A display device further comprising a guide frame that supports an outer surface of the side support close to a side of the housing to guide a bending direction of the side support.

4. In paragraph 3, The above side support is a shutter including a plurality of plates, A display device wherein the above guide frame is a linear rail.

5. In paragraph 1, A side support member connected to one side of the display panel and having one end bent toward the center of the backlight unit; and further comprising an actuator disposed at the rear of the backlight unit and connected to a curved end of the side support; The above processor, A display device, wherein when a user operation for adjusting the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is input, the actuator is driven to pull the side support.

6. In paragraph 1, A variable member connecting the outer periphery of the display panel and the outer periphery of the backlight unit; and It further includes an actuator connected to one end of the above variable member; The above variable absence is, Connected vertically to the above display panel and the above backlight unit, The above processor, A display device that drives an actuator to change the length of the variable member when a user operation for adjusting the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit is input.

7. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 6, The above processor, A selection menu for selecting the operation mode of the display device is displayed on the display panel, When a power saving mode for reducing power consumption of the display device is selected from the above selection menus, the actuator is controlled to separate the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit to a distance greater than that in the normal mode. A display device that controls the backlight unit to turn off light-emitting elements at a certain interval among the plurality of light-emitting elements and increase the brightness of the remaining light-emitting elements.

8. In paragraph 1, Further comprising first and second side supports detachable from both sides of the display panel; The first and second side supports, It comprises a plurality of pairs of protrusions sequentially arranged facing each other in a direction away from the display panel, The above backlight unit, Supported by one pair of projections among the above multiple pairs of projections, A display device, wherein the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit varies depending on the positions of a pair of protrusions supporting the backlight unit.

9. In paragraph 8, The above processor, A display device, wherein when the backlight unit moves so as to be supported by a pair of protrusions located further from the display panel among the plurality of protrusion pairs, the backlight unit is controlled to turn off light-emitting elements at a predetermined interval among the plurality of light-emitting elements and increase the brightness of the remaining light-emitting elements.

10. A method for controlling power consumption of a display device including a display panel and a backlight unit, A step of displaying a selection menu for selecting an operation mode of the display device; A step for receiving user selection for the above selection menu; and A method for controlling power consumption, comprising: a step of controlling the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit and the number and brightness of light-emitting elements to be turned on among a plurality of light-emitting elements in the backlight unit, based on the user selection.

11. In paragraph 10, The step of controlling the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit and the number and brightness of the light-emitting elements to be turned on, respectively, is: When the general mode is selected from the above selection menu, a step of maintaining the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit to a preset first distance, turning on a preset first number of light-emitting elements among the plurality of light-emitting elements, and adjusting the brightness of each of the turned-on light-emitting elements to the first brightness; and A method for controlling power consumption, comprising: when a power saving mode for reducing power consumption of the display device is selected, the step of increasing the distance between the display panel and the backlight unit by a second distance greater than the first distance, turning on a second number of light-emitting elements smaller than the first number, and adjusting the brightness of each of the turned-on light-emitting elements to a second brightness greater than the first brightness;

Images