Gray Scale Detector Corrector for LCD Image Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data conversion methods for displaying images on flat display devices, such as LCDs, result in indistinguishable gray scales due to limited resolution, leading to poor picture quality as the first derivative of the gamma property curve is smaller than 1, causing difficulties in distinguishing between adjacent gray scales.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that includes a gray scale detector to identify same gray scales among adjacent pixels and a gray scale corrector to generate N-bit data from M-bit input data, where N is greater than M, by analyzing gray scale overlap areas and generating correction signals to enhance gray scale representation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If 8 bit data is used for display, then device complexity is reduced, but gray scale distinguishability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the bit depth parameter from 8 bits to 10 bits for gray scale representation. This parameter change allows 1024 gray scale levels instead of 256, significantly improving gray scale distinguishability while maintaining compatibility with standard display devices through selective application in specific regions where gamma curve slope is less than 1
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the display region into different areas based on the gamma property curve characteristics. The 10 bit data conversion is selectively applied only to regions where the first derivative of the gamma curve is less than 1, while other regions continue to use standard 8 bit data. This segmentation approach improves gray scale distinguishability where needed without unnecessarily increasing device complexity across the entire display
2Reliability
If gray scale compensation is performed, then picture quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary data conversion apparatus that sits between the image processing unit and the display device. This intermediary converts specific portions of the image data from 8 bit to 10 bit resolution where gray scale compensation is needed, without requiring complex signal processing throughout the entire system. The intermediary approach improves picture quality by enabling precise gray scale control in critical regions while keeping overall device complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different data precision levels to different regions of the image based on local requirements. Areas where the gamma curve slope is less than 1 receive 10 bit data conversion for improved gray scale distinguishability, while other areas maintain standard 8 bit processing. This local quality approach ensures picture quality is improved where it matters most without unnecessarily increasing signal processing complexity across the entire image
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method of converting data to display smooth and vivid images and to improve the gray scale use efficiency. The apparatus of converting data includes a gray scale detector that that generates a gray scale detection signal and a gray scale change signal by detecting a same gray scale, from an M bit input data, in a plurality of pixels adjacent to one another. The apparatus of converting data further includes a gray scale corrector that generates an N bit data by correcting one of the same gray scale according to the gray scale detection signal and the gray scale change signal output from the gray scale detector, wherein N and M are integers, N being larger than M.