Digital signage
The digital signage system addresses inefficiencies in backlight control by using integrated sensors and a system control unit to optimize power usage and automate brightness adjustments, achieving high brightness with reduced power consumption.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/FI2025/050377
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-07-12
- Filing Date
- 2025-06-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-15
AI Technical Summary
Existing digital signage systems face challenges in controlling backlight brightness efficiently, lack standardized methods for data transfer and control, and suffer from high power consumption and inefficiency, particularly in outdoor applications.
A digital signage system with integrated sensors and a system control unit that adjusts backlight brightness based on ambient light, temperature, and illumination levels, using a digital control method to optimize power consumption and automate brightness adjustments.
The system achieves high brightness levels with reduced power consumption by dynamically controlling backlight modules, ensuring efficient operation and reliability in various conditions.
Smart Images
Figure FI2025050377_15012026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] DIGITAL SIGNAGE
[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] The present disclosure relates to digital signages.
[0004] BACKGROUND
[0005] In traditional displays, controlling brightness of backlight involves analogue adjustments, which pose several challenges. Firstly, is a lack of a standardized method for controlling brightness, especially when components in backlight modules needs to be changed. Secondly, is the need for a robust and cost-efficient method for data transfer and control of the backlight modules. Moreover, the demand for increased brightness and larger sizes in the displays, particularly for outdoor applications, continues to grow.
[0006] However, meeting these demands results in higher power consumption, as increased brightness requires an exponential increase in power. With the increasing emphasis on improving efficiency and reducing power consumption in electronic devices, there is a critical need for a means to provide high brightness with low power consumption. The present solutions often rely on commercial technology that utilizes low-quality, inefficient power feed units, which typically rely on constant voltage power supplies designed for generic use, and then require voltage-to- current converter circuitry to provide the necessary constant current power feeds. However, such solutions are flawed in several ways, such as the components are generally of low quality and not efficient, resulting in short lifespans and reliability issues. Additionally, the power efficiency of the present solutions is very low. Moreover, the controllability of the backlight is complicated and inefficient in the present solutions, as it is not possible to control the output current in a linear and efficient manner, making the present solutions unsuitable for professional environments.
[0007] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.
[0008] SUMMARY
[0009] The aim of the present disclosure is to provide a digital signage to provide a standardized digital control over brightness adjustment. The aim of the present disclosure is achieved by a digital signage as defined in the appended independent claims to which reference is made to. Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims.
[0010] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" , "include", "have", and "contain" and variations of these words, for example "comprising" and "comprises" , mean "including but not limited to", and do not exclude other components, items, integers or steps not explicitly disclosed also to be present. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.
[0011] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a block diagram of a digital signage, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an arrangement of a first sensor and a second sensor in a digital signage, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0014] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a graphical representation of illumination level of a display unit measured with respect to time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0015] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.
[0016] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a digital signage comprising: a display control unit configured to receive data to be rendered on a display of the digital signage; a display unit connected to the display control unit, wherein the display unit comprises the display, and a plurality of backlight modules configured to provide backlight for the display; a power supply unit configured to supply power to the plurality of backlight modules, via an integrated driver circuit, wherein the integrated driver circuit is configured to control each one of the plurality of backlight modules; a first sensor configured to measure ambient light, a second sensor configured to measure illumination level of the display unit; a plurality of inside temperature sensors configured to measure an inside temperature of the digital signage from a plurality of measurement points, and at least one ambient temperature sensor configured to measure outside temperature of the digital signage; at least one fan array configured to circulate air inside the digital signage; and a system control unit configured to: receive the measured inside temperature, the measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, and the measured illumination level; determine a power supply value for the power to be supplied to the plurality of backlight modules, based on the measured inside temperature and measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, and the measured illumination level; control the power supply unit with the determined power supply value; and control the at least one fan array, based on at least one of the following: the measured inside temperature, the measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, the measured illumination level.
[0017] The present disclosure provides an aforementioned digital signage that is able to digitalize the control of the system control unit over the power supply unit. Moreover, the digitalized control of the system control unit over the power supply unit enables to effectively automate adjustment of brightness levels of the plurality of backlight modules. Furthermore, the digital signage is able to produce high levels of brightness from the plurality of backlight modules while optimizing power consumption by the digital signage.
[0018] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "digital signage" refers to a large-scale digital display structure used for advertising purposes, by displaying static or dynamic data, such as images, videos, and animations. Optionally, the digital signage is in a form of an electronic billboard. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "display control unit" refers to a type of controller having processing capabilities, which is used to control and manage an operation of the display unit. Optionally, the display control unit is an android Central Processing Unit (CPU). Notably, the display control unit acts a firewall to prevent from external attacks as the system control unit cannot be accessed directly from outside due to the presence of the display control unit. Optionally, the display control unit comprises a video card configured to receive the data to be displayed via High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI). Throughout the present disclosure, the term "data" refers to information in form of images, videos and animations that is to be displayed on the display of the digital signage. Notably, the data being received by the display control unit enables the display control unit to provide the data to the display unit whenever the data is to be rendered on the display (arranged in the display unit) of the digital signage. Optionally, the data is received by the display control unit from one of: an external service provider, a media player, or a memory unit operatively coupled to the display control unit.
[0019] Optionally, the display control unit comprises a communication interface configured to receive the data to be rendered on the display, and send status data of the digital signage to a service center for maintenance of the digital signage. In this regard, the term "communication interface" refers to a means of communication in the display control unit that enables the display control unit to send and receive any data. The communication interface may be wired, wireless, or a combination thereof. The communication interface could be an individual network or a combination of multiple networks. Examples of the communication interface may include, but are not limited to, the Internet, a local network (such as, a TCP / IP-based network, an Ethernet-based local area network, an Ethernet-based personal area network, a Wi-Fi network, and the like), Wide Area Networks (WANs), Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), a telecommunication network, and a short-range radio network (such as Bluetooth®). Throughout the present disclosure, the term "status data" refers to a type of data that indicates a working status of the digital signage. In other words, the status data indicates whether the digital signage is functioning properly or not. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "service center" refers to a third-party organisation that looks after the maintenance of the digital signage. Notably, the status data being sent to the service center enables the service center to timely identify any damages or malfunctioning in the digital signage. Optionally, the status data is sent to the service center periodically, after fixed intervals of time. A technical effect is that the digital signage is timely repaired by the service center in case of any damage or malfunctioning.
[0020] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "display unit" refers to that section of the digital signage in which displaying of the data takes place. Optionally, the display unit is one of: a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) cell; a Light Emitting Diode (LED) cell. Notably, the display unit being connected to the display control unit enables the display unit to receive the data to be rendered from the display control unit. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "display" refers to a display screen over which the data is rendered to be displayed. Optionally, the display is arranged in the display unit such that the display is facing a real-world environment for the data to be displayed to users in the real-world environment. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "backlight module" refers to a component in the display unit that provides necessary illumination for the data to be rendered on the display. In other words, the plurality of backlight modules creates the brightness that allows the display to be seen. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "backlight" refers to the illumination that is provided by the plurality of backlight modules to the display. Notably, the plurality of backlight modules are arranged behind the display in the display unit that enables the plurality of backlight modules to provide the backlight for the display.
[0021] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "power supply unit" refers to a component that supplies the power to the plurality of backlight modules required for the operation of the plurality of backlight modules. Optionally, the power supply unit is one of: a battery unit, a charging unit, a terminal power supply. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "integrated driver circuit" refers to an integrated circuitry arrangement that is used to supply the power from the power supply unit to the plurality of backlight modules. Notably, the integrated driver circuit being configured to control each one of the plurality of backlight modules implies that the integrated driver circuit controls when and how much power is supplied from the power supply unit to each one of the plurality of backlight modules.
[0022] Optionally, to control each one of the plurality of backlight modules, the integrated driver circuit is configured to control at least one backlight module amongst the plurality of backlight modules at a given time instant. In this regard, the term "given time instant" refers to any particular instance of time. In an implementation, the integrated driver circuit is configured to control a single backlight module amongst the plurality of backlight modules at the given time instant, which enables the integrated driver circuit to control each one of the plurality of backlight modules individually. In another implementation, the integrated driver circuit is configured to control all of the plurality of backlight modules at the given time instant, which enables the integrated driver circuit to control all of the plurality of backlight modules simultaneously. Optionally, the integrated driver circuit is configured to control the plurality of backlight modules by dividing the plurality of backlight modules into two groups. Optionally, the plurality of backlight modules are controlled by the integrated driver circuit in groups of 8 backlight modules or 16 backlight modules. A technical effect is that the integrated driver circuit is adaptable in controlling the plurality of backlight modules in different scenarios.
[0023] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "ambient light" refers to that light which is present in an ambient environment of the digital signage. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "first sensor" refers to a type of sensor that is capable of sensing data related to the ambient light. Optionally, the first sensor is an OPT3001 sensor. The OPT3001 sensor is able to accurately measure an intensity of light within human visibility spectrum. Moreover, the OPT3001 sensor has high infrared light rejection rate. Subsequently, the use of the OPT3001 sensor as the first sensor enables to measure the ambient light that lies within the human visibility spectrum.
[0024] Optionally, the first sensor is configured to measure the ambient light periodically at time intervals in range of 1 second to 30 minutes. Optionally, the first sensor is configured to measure the ambient light periodically at time intervals in range of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 seconds to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 minutes. Notably, the first sensor being configured to measure the ambient light periodically implies that the first sensor is not required to be used continuously. A technical effect is that a power consumption by the first sensor is reduced as the first sensor is configured to measure the ambient light periodically.
[0025] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "illumination level of the display unit" refers to an amount of light that is emitted from the display unit. Notably, the illumination level of the display unit is measured with respect to a given direction. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "second sensor" refers to a type of sensor that is capable of sensing data related to the illumination level of the display unit. Optionally, the second sensor is a digital color sensor. The digital color sensor senses red, green and blue lights illuminated from the display unit, and converts the sensed red, green and blue lights into digital values. Notably, the digital color sensor has a high sensitivity, a wide dynamic measurement range and optimum circuit characteristics which makes the digital color sensor suitable to be used as the second sensor. Optionally, the second sensor measures the illumination level of the display unit in a range of 0.005 to 40 K lx.
[0026] Optionally, the wherein the second sensor is configured to measure the illumination level of the display unit periodically at time intervals in range of 1 second to 30 minutes. Optionally, the second sensor is configured to measure the illumination level of the display unit periodically at time intervals in range of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 seconds to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 minutes. Notably, the second sensor being configured to measure the illumination level of the display unit periodically implies that the second sensor is not required to be used continuously. A technical effect is that a power consumption by the first sensor is reduced as the second sensor is configured to measure the illumination level of the display unit periodically.
[0027] Optionally, the first sensor and the second sensor are selected from one of: a chromatic sensor, a photoresistor, a pyranometer, a pyrheliometer, a lux meter. In this regard, the term "chromatic sensor" refers to a color sensor that detects a color of any emitted light. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "photoresistor" refers to a type of resistor whose resistance value changes based on an amount of light that is received thereby. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "lux meter" refers to a device used to measure an intensity of the light in a given area. A technical effect of the first sensor and the second sensor being selected from one of: the chromatic sensor, the photoresistor, the pyranometer, the pyrheliometer, the lux meter is that the ambient light and the illumination level of the display unit are measured using well-known sensors that are easily available and provide reliable and accurate measurement.
[0028] Optionally, the first sensor and the second sensor are arranged in the digital signage at an angle of 90 degrees with respect to each other. In this regard, the first sensor and the second sensor being arranged in the digital signage at the angle of 90 degrees with respect to each other implies that a direction in which the ambient light is measured by the first sensor is perpendicular to the direction in which the illumination level of the display unit is measured by the second sensor. A technical effect of the first sensor and the second sensor being arranged in the digital signage at the angle of 90 degrees with respect to each other is that the ambient light is more accurately measured by the first sensor without getting affected by the illumination of the display unit.
[0029] Optionally, a photonic filter is arranged between the first sensor and the second sensor to prevent light of the display unit from entering the first sensor. In this regard, the term "light of the display unit" refers to that light which illuminates from the display unit for displaying the data. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "photonic filter" refers to a device that selectively blocks the light of the display unit from passing therethrough. Subsequently, the photonic filter is able to prevent the light of the display unit from entering the first sensor as the light of the display unit is blocked by the photonic sensor. Notably, the light of the display unit being prevented from entering the first sensor ensures that the light of the display unit has no effect in the measuring of the ambient light by the first sensor. A technical effect of the photonic filter is arranged between the first sensor and the second sensor to prevent light of the display unit from entering the first sensor is that the ambient light is more accurately measured by the first sensor without any effect of the light of the display unit.
[0030] Optionally, the first sensor is configured to measure the ambient light when the illumination level of the display unit measured with the second sensor is lower than a predetermined value. In this regard, the term "predetermined value" refers to a numerical value that acts as an indicator of when the first sensor should measure the ambient light. Notably, the ambient light is measured accurately when the affect of the illumination of the display unit is minimal on the ambient light. Subsequently, the first sensor being configured to measure the ambient light when the illumination level of the display unit is lower than the predetermined value ensures that the ambient light is measured when the effect of the illumination of the display unit is minimal on the ambient light. Optionally, the predetermined value is different during different stages of a day. For example, during night time, the predetermined value can be 25 percent (in scale 0 - 100 percent), and during day time, the predetermined value is 50 percent. A technical effect is that the first sensor is configured to measure the ambient light only at most effective times which enables to save processing capabilities.
[0031] Optionally, when measured value of the second sensor indicates no change in the illumination level of the display unit, then the second sensor is configured to activate one of: a continuous measurement of the illumination level of the display unit, a faster periodic measurement of the illumination level of the display unit, until a change in the illumination level of the display unit is detected in the illumination level of the display unit. In this regard, no change in the illumination level of the display unit implies that no data is being rendered on the display of the digital signage, due to either the display being broken or the data not being able to be shared from the display control unit to the display unit. The continuous measurement of the illumination level of the display unit implies that the illumination level of the display unit is measured by the second sensor at every time instant continuously. The faster periodic measurement of the illumination level of the display apparatus implies that a duration of the time intervals at which the second sensor is configured to measure the illumination level of the display unit is reduced. Notably, the second sensor being configured to activate one of: the continuous measurement of the illumination level of the display unit, the faster periodic measurement of the illumination level of the display unit, enables to eliminate a possibility of missing out on measuring the change in the illumination level of the display unit at those time instants when the second sensor is not measuring. A technical effect is that an operation of the second sensor is effectively adjusted when no change is detected in the illumination level of the display unit, and in normal conditions when the change in the illumination level is detected then the second sensor is operated to save computational resources. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "inside temperature of the digital signage" refers to an internal temperature value inside the digital signage generated due to the heat that is generated inside the digital signage due to its operation. It will be appreciated that the inside temperature of the digital signage is different at different points inside the digital signage. Subsequently, the inside temperature of the digital signage is measured from the plurality of measurement points. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "inside temperature sensor" refers to a type of temperature sensor that is capable of sensing data related to the inside temperature of the digital signage. Notably, each inside temperature sensor amongst the plurality of inside temperature sensors is configured to measure the inside temperature of the digital signage from a corresponding measurement point amongst the plurality of measurement points. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "outside temperature of the digital signage" refers to a temperature value of an ambient environment outside the digital signage. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "ambient temperature sensor" refers to that type of sensor which is capable of sensing data related to the outside temperature of the digital signage. Notably, the at least one ambient temperature sensor is used to measure the outside temperature of the digital signage from at least points in the ambient environment of the digital signage. Optionally, the at least one ambient temperature sensor is placed at a position when outside air enters the digital signage, and the outside temperature of the digital signage is measured from the outside air entering the digital signage.
[0032] Optionally, the plurality of measurement points comprises at least one of: the display unit, the power supply unit, the first sensor, the second sensor. In this regard, the inside temperature of the digital signage is different at the display unit, he power supply unit, the first sensor, and the second sensor, which makes the at least one of: the display unit, he power supply unit, the first sensor, and the second sensor as at least one significant point inside the digital signage. Subsequently, the plurality of measurement points comprising the at least one of: the display unit, the power supply unit, the first sensor, the second sensor enables the plurality of inside temperature sensors to effectively measure the inside temperature of the digital signage from the at least one significant point inside the digital signage. A technical effect is that the inside temperature of the digital signage is effectively measured from the at least one significant point inside the digital signage.
[0033] Optionally, an inside temperature sensor amongst the plurality of inside temperature sensors is arranged with the first sensor and the second sensor in the digital signage to measure the inside temperature of an area above the display unit. In this regard, the inside temperature sensor amongst the plurality of inside temperature sensors being arranged with the first sensor and the second sensor in the digital signage enables the inside temperature sensor to be arranged in close proximity of the area above the digital signage, as the first sensor and the second sensor arranged in the close proximity of the area above the digital signage. Notably, the inside temperature in the close proximity of the area above the digital signage is highest in the digital signage, and thus the inside temperature sensor being able to measure the inside temperature of the area above the digital signage enables to measure the highest value of the inside temperature of the digital signage. A technical effect of the inside temperature sensor being arranged with the first sensor and the second sensor in the digital signage is that a packaging and cabling of the inside temperature sensor is done together with the first sensor and the second sensor which enhances a reliability of the inside temperature sensor, and enables edge processing capabilities in the inside temperature sensor when arranged together with the first sensor and the second sensor making data communication more efficient thus saving processing capacity. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "fan array" refers to a collective arrangement of fans in a linear array. It will be appreciated that the "at least one fan array" refers to "a single fan array" in some implementations, and "a plurality of fan arrays" in other implementations. Notably, the at least one fan array being configured to circulate the air inside the digital signage enables to dissipate heat that is generated inside the digital signage and subsequently, regulate the inside temperature of the digital signage. Optionally, a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) frequency of each fan array amongst the at least one fan array is independently configured. Optionally, the PWM frequency of each fan array amongst the at least one fan array is 25 KiloHertz.
[0034] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "system control unit" refers to a specialized controlling arrangement that monitors and manage critical operations and physical state of hardware components within the digital signage. Notably, the system control unit enables features such as remote diagnostics, troubleshooting, and recovery. Optionally, the system control unit is implemented in form of a System Management Board (SMB). Notably, the system control unit being configured to receive the measured inside temperature, the measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, and the measured illumination level enables to system control unit to be aware of the working conditions of the digital signage in real-time, and make decisions, accordingly. It will be appreciated that the system control unit is communicably coupled to the plurality of inside temperature sensors, the at least one ambient temperature sensor (for example via I2C interface), the first sensor, and the second sensor, which enables the system control unit to receive the measured inside temperature, the measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, and the measured illumination level.
[0035] Optionally, the display control unit is further configured to collect information of sunrise and / or sunset times from external data systems. In this regard, the external data systems may include cloud-based services, web-based applications, and the like. Notably, the display control unit being further configured to collect the information of the sunrise and / or sunset times enables the display control unit to be aware of the geographical conditions in which the digital signage operates. For example, a high brightness of the illumination level of the display unit may be required at 6 AM, in comparison to a low brightness of the illumination level of the display unit required at 5 PM. A technical effect of the display control unit further configured to collect the information of the sunrise and / or sunset times from the external data systems is that the geographical conditions in which the digital signage operates in effectively taken into account in the decision making of the display control unit.
[0036] Optionally, the collected information of the sunrise and / or sunset times is stored in the system control unit, and wherein the system control unit is further configured to control periodic measurement frequency of the first sensor and the second sensor, based on the sunrise and / or sunset times. In this regard, the collected information of the sunrise and / or sunset times being stored in the system control unit enables the system control unit to access the collected information of the sunrise and / or sunset times whenever required. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "periodic measurement frequency" refers to a frequency of the time intervals at which the measurement is done by the first sensor and the second sensor. Notably, the periodic measurement frequency of the first sensor and the second sensor being controlled, based on the sunrise and / or sunset times enables that the periodic measurement frequency to be controlled based on the geographical conditions in which the digital signage operates. A technical effect is that the geographical conditions in which the digital signage operates are effectively taken into account in controlling the periodic measurement frequency.
[0037] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "power supply value" refers to a value of the power to be supplied to the plurality of backlight modules by the power supply unit. Notably, the power supply value regulates the illumination level of the display unit, as a high value of the power supply value ensures a high power supply to the plurality of backlight modules which increases the illumination level of the display unit, and vice versa. The power supply value being determined based on the measured inside temperature and measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, and the measured illumination level enables the system control unit to consider the working conditions of the digital signage in the real-time in determining the power supply value. It will be appreciated that the power supply value is determined as such that a power consumption of the digital signage is optimized while maintaining an optimum illumination level of the display unit. For example, when the measured ambient light is high then the brightness of the plurality of backlight modules needs to be high, and subsequently, the power supply value is determined to be high. Optionally, the power supply value is in a range of 5 to 9 Volts.
[0038] Optionally, when the inside temperature of digital signage indicates that the display unit is overheating, the power supply value is determined to be zero to turn off the display unit. In an implementation when the inside temperature of the digital signage is increasing then the power supply value is determined as such to dim the plurality of the backlight modules in order to keep the display unit to be turned on for a longer duration. In another implementation, when the inside temperature of the digital signage is decreasing then the power supply value is determined as such to brighten the plurality of the backlight modules again.
[0039] Notably, the system control unit being configured to control the power supply unit with the determined power supply value implies that the system control unit adjusts and regulates a functioning of the power supply unit such that the power that is supplied to the plurality of backlight modules by the power supply unit is equal to the power supply value. Optionally, the system control unit is configured to control the power supply unit with the determined power supply value, digitally, via a Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI). In this regard, the term "Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI)" refers to a standardized protocol used for communication between the system control unit and the power supply unit. Notably, the DALI digitalizes the communication between the system control unit and the power supply unit, thus, allowing the system control unit precise control over the power supply unit. A technical effect is that the system control unit is able to effectively digitalize the control of the power supply unit which automates the control of the power supply unit by the system control unit.
[0040] Optionally, when the inside temperature of the digital signage is higher than a threshold value then the system control unit is configured to turn off a Backlight Overtemperature Protection in the plurality of backlight modules via DALI, which enables the digital signage to be cooled off.
[0041] The system control unit being configured to control the at least one fan array implies that the system control unit is able to adjust and regulate the operation of the at least fan array to control a capacity at which the at least one fan array is to be operated, based on an amount of heat present in the digital signage. Notably, the at least one fan array being controlled, based on the at least one of the following : the measured inside temperature, the measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, the measured illumination level enables the system control unit to consider the working conditions of the digital signage in the real-time in order to determine how much heat is generated inside the digital signage and accordingly, at how much capacity the at least one fan array is to be operated.
[0042] Optionally, the digital signage comprises an impact sensor (for example, an ultra-low-power high performance three-axis linear accelerometer) which is used to measure and identify impacts such as intent to cause damage to the digital signage. Optionally, a user-selectable scale of measurement of the impact sensor is one of: 2g, 4g, 8g, 16g. Moreover, the impact sensor is capable of measuring accelerations with output data rates from 1 to 5.3 Hertz.
[0043] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is a block diagram of a digital signage 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the digital signage 100 comprises a display control unit 102 configured to receive data to be rendered on a display 104 of the digital signage 100. Moreover, the digital signage 100 comprises a display unit 106 connected to the display control unit 102, wherein the display unit 106 comprises the display 104, and a plurality of backlight modules (depicted as a backlight module 108) configured to provide backlight for the display 104. Furthermore, the digital signage 100 comprises a power supply unit 110 configured to supply power to the plurality of backlight modules 108, via an integrated driver circuit 112, wherein the integrated driver circuit 112 is configured to control each one of the plurality of backlight modules 108. Furthermore, the digital signage 100 comprises a first sensor 114A configured to measure ambient light, a second sensor 114B configured to measure illumination level of the display unit 106. Furthermore, the digital signage 100 comprises a plurality of inside temperature sensors (depicted as an inside temperature sensor 116) configured to measure an inside temperature of the digital signage 100 from a plurality of measurement points, and at least one ambient temperature sensor (depicted as an ambient temperature sensor 118) configured to measure outside temperature of the digital signage 100. Furthermore, the digital signage 100 comprises at least one fan array (depicted as a fan array 120) configured to circulate air inside the digital signage. Furthermore, the digital signage 100 comprises a system control unit 122 configured to receive the measured inside temperature, the measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, and the measured illumination level. Moreover, the system control unit 122 is configured to determine a power supply value 124 for the power to be supplied to the plurality of backlight modules 108, based on the measured inside temperature and measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, and the measured illumination level. Furthermore, the system control unit 122 is configured to control the power supply unit 110 with the determined power supply value 124. Furthermore, the system control unit 122 is configured to control the at least one fan array 120, based on at least one of the following: the measured inside temperature, the measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, the measured illumination level. Optionally, the display control unit 102 comprises a video card 126 configured to receive the data to be displayed via High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI).
[0045] Referring to FIG. 2, illustrated is a schematic illustration of an arrangement of a first sensor 200 and a second sensor 202 in a digital signage 204, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the digital signage 204 comprises a display unit 206. Herein, the first sensor 200 and the second sensor 202 are arranged on an area above the display unit 206, where the first sensor 200 is configured to measure an ambient light 208, and the second sensor 202 is configured to measure an illumination level 210 of the display unit 206. Optionally, the first sensor 200 and the second sensor 202 are arranged in the digital signage 204 at an angle of 90 degrees with respect to each other. Optionally, a photonic filter 212 is arranged between the first sensor 200 and the second sensor 202 to prevent light of the display unit 206 from entering the first sensor 200.
[0046] Referring to FIG. 3 illustrated is a graphical representation of an illumination level of a display unit measured with respect to time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, x- axis depicts the time, and y-axis depicts the illumination level of the display unit. Herein, a predetermined value is 50 percent. During time periods between T1 to T2, and T3 to T4, as the illumination level of the display unit is less than the predetermined value, a first sensor is configured to measure an ambient light. During another time period between T2 to T3, as the illumination level of the display unit is more than the predetermined value, the first sensor is configured to not measure the ambient light.
Claims
CLAIMS1. A digital signage (100, 204) comprising: a display control unit (102) configured to receive data to be rendered on a display (104) of the digital signage; a display unit (106, 206) connected to the display control unit, wherein the display unit comprises the display, and a plurality of backlight modules (108) configured to provide backlight for the display; a power supply unit (110) configured to supply power to the plurality of backlight modules, via an integrated driver circuit (112), wherein the integrated driver circuit is configured to control each one of the plurality of backlight modules; a first sensor (114A, 200) configured to measure ambient light (208), a second sensor (114B, 202) configured to measure illumination level (210) of the display unit; a plurality of inside temperature sensors (116) configured to measure an inside temperature of the digital signage from a plurality of measurement points, and at least one ambient temperature sensor (118) configured to measure outside temperature of the digital signage; at least one fan array (120) configured to circulate air inside the digital signage; and a system control unit (122) configured to: receive the measured inside temperature, the measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, and the measured illumination level; determine a power supply value (124) for the power to be supplied to the plurality of backlight modules, based on the measured inside temperature and measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, and the measured illumination level; control the power supply unit with the determined power supply value; andcontrol the at least one fan array, based on at least one of the following: the measured inside temperature, the measured outside temperature, the measured ambient light, the measured illumination level.
2. A digital signage (100, 204) according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit (102) comprises a communication interface configured to receive the data to be rendered on the display, and send status data of the digital signage to a service center for maintenance of the digital signage.
3. A digital signage (100, 204) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein to control each one of the plurality of backlight modules (108), the integrated driver circuit (112) is configured to control at least one backlight module amongst the plurality of backlight modules at a given time instant.
4. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system control unit (122) is configured to control the power supply unit (110) with the determined power supply value (124), digitally, via a Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI).
5. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first sensor (114A, 200) and the second sensor (114B, 202) are selected from one of: a chromatic sensor, a photoresistor, a pyranometer, a pyrheliometer, a lux meter.
6. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first sensor (114A, 200) and the second sensor (114B, 202) are arranged in the digital signage at an angle of 90 degrees with respect to each other.
7. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a photonic filter (212) is arranged between the firstsensor (114A, 200) and the second sensor (114B, 202) to prevent light of the display unit (106, 206) from entering the first sensor.
8. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first sensor (114A, 200) is configured to measure the ambient light (208) periodically at time intervals in range of 1 second to 30 minutes.
9. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first sensor (114A, 200) is configured to measure the ambient light (208) when the illumination level (210) of the display unit (106, 206) measured with the second sensor (114B, 202) is lower than a predetermined value.
10. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second sensor (114B, 202) is configured to measure the illumination level (210) of the display unit (106, 206) periodically at time intervals in range of 1 second to 30 minutes.
11. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein when measured value of the second sensor (114B, 202) indicates no change in the illumination level (210) of the display unit (106, 206), then the second sensor is configured to activate one of: a continuous measurement of the illumination level of the display unit, a faster periodic measurement of the illumination level of the display unit, until a change in the illumination level of the display unit is detected in the illumination level of the display unit.
12. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of measurement points comprises at least one of: the display unit (106, 206), the power supply unit (110), the first sensor (114A, 200), the second sensor (114B, 202).
13. A digital signage (100, 204) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein an inside temperature sensor amongst the plurality of inside temperature sensors (116) is arranged with the first sensor (114A, 200) and the second sensor (114B, 202) in the digital signage to measure the inside temperature of an area above the display unit (106, 206).
14. A digital signage (100, 204) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the display control unit (122) is further configured to collect information of sunrise and / or sunset times from external data systems.
15. A digital signage (100, 204) of claim 14, wherein the collected information of the sunrise and / or sunset times is stored in the system control unit (122), and wherein the system control unit is further configured to control periodic measurement frequency of the first sensor (114A, 200) and the second sensor (114B, 202), based on the sunrise and / or sunset times.