Mini-LVDS Control Embedding for Reduced Display Driver Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing mini low voltage differential signaling (mini-LVDS) interface in display systems requires a large number of channels between the timing controller and source drivers, leading to increased circuit area and cost due to the numerous connecting wires.
Innovation Solution
The method involves transmitting a reset signal via a first mini-LVDS channel and control signals via a second mini-LVDS channel, allowing the control signals to be embedded in the data channels, thereby reducing the number of control channels needed and minimizing circuit area and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate control channels are used for transmitting control signals to source drivers, then the timing controller can reliably configure source drivers, but the number of channels increases leading to larger circuit area and higher cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges control signal transmission with existing data transmission channels by embedding control signals within the mini-LVDS data channels. Specifically, control signals are transmitted during the front porch period of the video signal when the data channels are otherwise idle, allowing one channel to serve dual purposes (data and control) thereby reducing the total number of channels needed and decreasing circuit area
Solution Approach 2:
The mini-LVDS data channels are made multi-functional by enabling them to transmit both display data and control signals. The channels operate in different modes at different times: during active video periods they transmit data, while during front porch periods they transmit control signals for source driver configuration, thus eliminating the need for dedicated separate control channels
2Adaptability or versatility
If many channels are used between timing controller and source drivers, then all control and data signals can be transmitted, but the number of connecting wires increases leading to higher circuit cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple signal transmission functions into fewer physical channels. By embedding control signals within the existing mini-LVDS data channels during idle periods (front porch), the system reduces the number of physical connecting wires needed while maintaining full signal transmission capability for both data and control functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the continuous idle periods (front porch) within the video signal transmission cycle to carry control signals. This ensures that the data channels are continuously productive - transmitting data during active periods and control signals during front porch periods - thereby reducing the need for additional dedicated control channels and associated wiring costs
Data Source
AI summary
A method of handling signal transmission applicable to a timing controller of a display system, wherein the timing controller is couplable to at least one source driver of the display system via a plurality of mini low voltage differential signaling (mini-LVDS) channels, includes transmitting a reset signal to each of the at least one source driver via a first mini-LVDS channel among the plurality of mini-LVDS channels; generating a first control signal for setting the at least one source driver; and transmitting the first control signal to each of the at least one source driver via a second mini-LVDS channel among the plurality of mini-LVDS channels when the reset signal is transmitted via the first mini-LVDS channel.