Variable VCOM Level Generator Circuit for LCD Flicker Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing display driver circuits face challenges in optimizing VCOM voltage levels for variable refresh rate technologies, leading to flicker issues due to wide ranges of vertical frequencies, which traditional fixed VCOM levels cannot effectively manage.

Innovation Solution

A variable VCOM level generator circuit that adjusts VCOM voltage levels based on vertical frequency or external control signals, using a digital interface to select appropriate register values for a digital-to-analog converter, allowing for adaptive VCOM voltage output to minimize flicker across varying refresh rates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a fixed VCOM voltage level is used in traditional display driver circuits, then the circuit design is simple, but flicker issues occur when using variable refresh rate technologies with wide ranges of vertical frequencies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit designVSAvoidflicker
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic VCOM voltage adjustment mechanism that automatically adapts the VCOM level based on the detected vertical frequency. The system transitions from a static fixed voltage approach to a dynamic adaptive approach, where the VCOM generator circuit continuously monitors the vertical frequency and adjusts the VCOM voltage accordingly to eliminate flicker across variable refresh rates

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the VCOM voltage parameter based on the vertical frequency parameter. By establishing a relationship between these two parameters and automatically adjusting VCOM according to the detected frequency, the system optimizes display performance across different refresh rates without requiring manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a variable VCOM level generator is implemented to adapt to different vertical frequencies, then flicker is minimized, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflickerVSAvoidcircuit design
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the VCOM generator circuit automatically detects the vertical frequency and adjusts its own output voltage without external control. The system monitors its operating conditions and self-regulates the VCOM level, eliminating the need for complex external control circuits or manual adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates a feedback loop where the vertical frequency detection result is fed back to the VCOM generator circuit. This feedback mechanism enables the system to continuously monitor the operating frequency and automatically adjust the VCOM voltage to the optimal level, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

The solution effectively minimizes flicker by ensuring symmetric voltage application to LCD panels, even with wide ranges of vertical frequencies, thereby enhancing display performance and reducing power consumption.

Implementation Method 1

a digital-to-analog converter circuit, connected to the register block

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDigital-to-Analog Conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS10056025B2Variable VCOM level generator
Publication Date: 2018.08.21 IML HONG KONG LTD
  • US10056025B2 patent drawing
  • US10056025B2 patent drawing
  • US10056025B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A variable Vcom level generator circuit generates a variable Vcom voltage level. A variable Vcom voltage can be used for variable refresh rate display technology to prevent flicker on a display panel. The Vcom level can be changed based on the vertical frequency being used or can be changed based on external control signals.