Shared Signal Path Switching for Multi-Display Downsizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost of signal transmission in display devices with multiple displays and their control circuits are increased due to the large number of signal lines required, making it difficult to downsize the device and enhance design flexibility, especially in foldable portable terminals.
Innovation Solution
A display device with a shared signal transmission path using a switching circuit and control circuit that alternately connects the displays, reducing the number of signal lines and allowing for a simpler circuit configuration, which can be integrated with display control circuits to further minimize size and increase design freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If independent signal lines are used to connect each display with its control circuit, then display control reliability is improved, but the number of signal lines increases greatly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the signal transmission paths of multiple displays into a single shared signal line. The display control circuits alternate using this common signal line to transmit display data to different displays, thereby reducing the total number of signal lines while maintaining reliable control through coordinated switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The display control circuits operate in periodic time slots, alternately transmitting data to different displays on the shared signal line. This time-division multiplexing approach ensures that each display receives dedicated control attention in its designated time slot, maintaining reliability while sharing the physical medium.
2Adaptability or versatility
If many signal lines are passed through the hinge in a foldable portable terminal, then display control functionality is maintained, but downsizing of the hinge and device becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple signal lines that would normally pass through the hinge are merged into a single shared signal line. This consolidation dramatically reduces the number of connectors and signal traces required in the hinge assembly, enabling downsizing of both the hinge and the overall device while preserving full display control functionality through time-division multiplexing.
3Productivity
If the number of connector terminals increases with the number of signal lines, then signal transmission capability is improved, but downsizing of the printed wiring board and housing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple signal transmission channels into a single shared physical medium. By having display control circuits alternate transmission on this common signal line, the number of connector terminals and printed wiring board real estate required is dramatically reduced, while signal transmission capability is maintained through time-division multiplexing of the shared resource.
Data Source
AI summary
A display device includes first and second displays, first and second display control circuits which respectively control the displays, and a signal transmission path which is shared between the first and second displays and has one system of signal lines. The display device further includes a switching circuit for the signal transmission path and a switching control circuit for the switching circuit. The switching control circuit performs switching control of the switching circuit in synchronism with display control by the first and second display control circuits. The first display and first display control circuit, and the second display and second display control circuit are alternately connected by the signal transmission path.