Mini-LVDS Signal Embedding for Fewer Display Driver Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing mini-LVDS interface in display systems requires a large number of channels for signal transmission between the timing controller and source drivers, leading to increased circuit area and cost.
Innovation Solution
Embedding a reset signal in a first data signal and control signals in second data signals, allowing transmission via shared mini-LVDS channels, thereby reducing the need for additional control channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate control channels are used for transmitting control signals to source drivers, then the source drivers can be properly configured and controlled, but the number of channels increases leading to larger circuit area and higher cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges control signal transmission with data signal transmission by embedding control signals within data channels. Specifically, control signals are transmitted during periods when data channels are not actively transmitting display data, allowing single data channels to serve dual purposes and reducing the total number of required channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The data channels are designed to perform multiple functions: transmitting display data during active periods and transmitting control signals during idle periods. This multi-functionality allows the same physical channel infrastructure to support both data and control operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated control channels.
2Reliability
If many channels are used for signal transmission between timing controller and source drivers, then all control and data signals can be transmitted reliably, but the connecting wires occupy large circuit area increasing system cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines control channel functionality into existing data channels by transmitting control signals during idle periods of the data channels. This merging reduces the total channel count while maintaining reliable transmission of both control and data signals through temporal multiplexing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic transmission patterns where data channels alternate between transmitting display data and control signals. Control signals are transmitted during specific time periods when the data channel is idle, creating a periodic multiplexing scheme that reduces channel requirements while maintaining signal reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of handling signal transmission applicable to a display system includes a plurality of steps. The steps include transmitting a reset signal embedded in a first data signal to each of at least one source driver via a first data channel, generating a first control signal for setting the at least one source driver, and transmitting the first control signal embedded in a second data signal to each of the at least one source driver via a second data channel when the reset signal is transmitted via the first data channel.