First Signal Line Multi-Function Protocol for Display Driver Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

In traditional display devices, the first signal line is primarily used for identifying the level state, limiting its functionality and utilization rate, especially in panel driving circuits where clock synchronization and configuration settings are dependent on the second signal line.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution enhances the functionality of the first signal line by allowing it to transmit additional instructions and data, implementing different transmission modes such as broadcast, ID assignment, downstream communication, and reply transmission, using a specific signal instruction sequence and Manchester encoding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the first signal line is used only for identifying level state, then the second signal line can be used for high-speed differential signal transmission, but the utilization rate of the first signal line is low and its functionality is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality of first signal lineVSAvoidunnecessary consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The first signal line is transformed from a single-function level identification line to a multi-functional communication line. It can transmit level identification signals, configuration instructions, data packets, and calibration information, thereby improving its adaptability and reducing the need for additional dedicated signal lines that would consume more energy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple communication functions (level identification, configuration, data transmission, calibration) into the first signal line, merging what were previously separate communication channels into one unified line, thus improving utilization rate and reducing energy waste from underused dedicated lines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If the first signal line transmits additional instructions and data, then its utilization rate improves, but the signal transmission complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveutilization rate of first signal lineVSAvoidsignal transmission complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transmission protocol is segmented into distinct packet types (configuration packets, data packets, calibration packets, etc.), each with specific formats and handling procedures. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by processing different packet types independently rather than handling all transmissions uniformly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs Manchester encoding to transform the signal transmission parameters, providing clear edge transitions that simplify reception and reduce errors. The encoding scheme changes the physical signal characteristics to make the enhanced functionality more manageable despite the increased information content.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Speed

If point-to-point high-speed signal transmission is used, then data transmission speed is improved, but the configuration and control of multiple source drivers becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission speedVSAvoidcontrol of source drivers
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The first signal line acts as an intermediary control channel between the timing controller and multiple source drivers. It carries configuration instructions and calibration data that enable the high-speed second signal lines to operate correctly, simplifying the control of multiple drivers by providing a unified configuration path rather than requiring individual setup for each driver.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary configuration and calibration through the first signal line before high-speed data transmission begins. Source drivers receive and execute configuration instructions and calibration data in advance, ensuring they are properly configured for optimal performance before actual data transmission starts, thereby simplifying operational control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach enriches the functions of the first signal line, improves its utilization rate, and enables independent data transmission without relying on the second signal line, thereby simplifying configuration and reducing unnecessary consumption.

Implementation Method 1

using a specific signal instruction sequence and Manchester encoding

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectManchester encoding:

Data Source

PatentEP3637396B1Drive control method, assembly and display apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.02.12 BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO LTD
  • EP3637396B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~2
  • EP3637396B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3637396B1 patent drawingFigure 4A

AI summary

The disclosure relates to a drive control method and assembly, and a display device. A drive control method for a timing controller includes: generating a point-to-point configuration instruction including an identity identification of a source driver, wherein the source driver is any of a plurality of drivers; sending the point-to-point configuration instruction via first signal lines; and receiving a configuration response instruction sent by the source driver via the first signal line, wherein the configuration response instruction is sent by the source driver after executing the point-to-point configuration instruction in response to detecting that the identity identification in the instruction is its own identity identification.