DE4218179A1 - Video output for personal computer - has multiple display panel arranged in form of book with hinged construction and coupling to microprocessor system - Google Patents

Abstract

The display panel facility suitable for use with personal computers has a number of screen modules that can be readily connected, such that each handles a range of functions. The screen display technology can be LCD, electro luminescent or gas discharge type. One, two or four panels (1,1',2,2') can be provided in which a number of blocks are hinged together (7). Each display screen has an associated keyboard. Control of the panel is a common bus with a microprocessor based unit accessing memory modules and video control circuits. Each panel is selectively coupled to the personal computer. USE/ADVANTAGE - Provides multiple display screen facilities for personal computer.

Description

The invention relates to an output device, preferably for personal computers and other information processors Facilities.

Computer monitor Dispensing facilities are often not sufficient to accommodate everyone Information relevant to a specific task at the same time are needed, also simultaneously and clearly to represent. This affects both personal computers as well Terminals of multi-user systems or mainframes. Usually on an area limited screen represented about 2000 characters. This representation corresponds usually only a section of a DIN A4 page with Typewriter text or from a book page.  

Video monitors with an entire book page on their page can be shown are for publishing systems available, but extremely expensive. In practice it is about it In addition, multiple information is often required at the same time to be able to look at.

For example, if you are working on the text design, e.g. B. one Book, one often needs insights into text passages and Figures that already exist as written chapters. In the traditional manual way of working without a computer this is not a problem because you have the necessary documents, Illustrations or drawings readily available on the Spread out the desk and practically view it in parallel can.

With the modern graphical user interfaces aspired to this way of working on the operation of the Computers or terminals to transfer. With that the Ease of use considerably improved for parallel, simultaneous access to several extensive pieces of information can hardly remedy the situation.

This is again based on elementary ergonomic facts, since a work surface of at least 0.5 m ² is available on a desk, which can be covered with leaves, open books, etc. To access peripheral information, it is only necessary to access it.

A normal screen, on the other hand, has a working area of approximately 0.05 m ² and a resolution that is usually sufficient for a single page of text or an illustration. Compared to leafing through books or files, etc., even sophisticated user interfaces with overlapping windows require rather cumbersome operations to display a certain selection of information, with the additional restriction that the windows shown cover other areas. In addition, the display capacity in the individual window is comparatively low. For this reason, the above-mentioned video monitors with large screen diagonals (over 16 inches) and high resolution (e.g. 1200 × 1024 pixels) are required for graphic user interfaces. However, such devices are very expensive and take up a considerable amount of space.

As a conceivable alternative, one could use several smaller ones known screens work in the workplace be set up. But this in turn is costly and space-consuming. In this case there should be an existing one Personal computer equipped with additional video drivers be and via appropriate software for parallel Control the screens.

Usually, however, only one screen is available and one is therefore forced to use the one stored in the computer Print information on paper for further use To be able to see work. On the one hand, this is time-consuming, on the other hand, despite the use of personal computers no paper saved - rather the opposite is the case Case.

The invention is therefore based on the object Output device, preferably for personal computers specify which, based on the costs and space requirements, the use of several conventional discrete Screen displays are superior and their handling ergonomically cheaper and better at proven, familiar Working methods is approximated.  

The object of the invention is with the characterizing Features of claims 1 to 26 solved.

The output device according to the invention consists of several flat display units that are movable or pluggable are interconnected and an integral arrangement form.

The output devices according to the invention can on the one hand can be controlled directly from the personal computer, on the other hand but can also be operated independently. In case of use the output device in addition to the screen of a Computers or terminals can provide more information being represented. This means that electronically stored Information is therefore not to be printed out on paper them for further work parallel to the screen display to be able to see. The fact that the invention Output device via internal memory and Control circuits can be used as portable Device for displaying texts or graphics, e.g. B. Speech manuscripts. This is electronically stored information on the respective Place of application, d. H. away from personal computer, available.

The invention is based on the following Exemplary embodiments with the aid of drawings are explained. Show:

FIG. 1 is an output means formed of two flat display units;

Figure 2 is an enlargement of four flat display units.

Fig. 3 shows an example of feasible, outer dimensions;

Fig. 4 shows the arrangement of operating elements;

Figure 5 shows the arrangement of sensors in the housing halves as a cross-section.

Fig. 6 is a block diagram of the internal control circuits of the output device;

Fig. 7 u. 8 details of video control circuits;

Fig. 9 shows the configuration of an interface for plug-in interface cartridge;

FIG. 10 is the principle diagram of a serial transmission method for use in the invention;

Fig. 11 u. 12 a conversion device;

FIG. 13 is a storage container for the inventive device;

Figure 14 shows the integration of the device according to the invention in a high-resolution graphics screen.

Fig. 15 u. 16 embodiments of the movable connection of the housing halves of the output device according to the invention.

The output device according to the invention is based on known ones Flat screens. Such flat screens are for example as liquid crystal displays (LCD), Electroluminescent (ELD) or gas discharge displays realizable.  

Liquid crystal displays are used in the majority portable personal computer (laptops and notebooks) applied. Such displays are through mass production comparatively inexpensive. In the further description of the embodiment is based on the application of a Liquid crystal display went out, the same short as LCD display is called.

Fig. 1 shows a two LCD displays 1, 2, which are in communication with each other, output means formed. Each of the LCD displays 1 and 2 is installed together with control elements 3 and 4 in a housing half 5 and 6, respectively. In the vorlie case, the housing halves 5 and 6 are pivotally connected to one another 7 . The housing formed from the halves 5 and 6 contains the necessary connection elements as well as the control electronics and the power supply.

Due to the constructive training, the Output device described above approximately like a book or folder can be handled. It offers in present example a display capacity of two common Computer screens (for example, twice 640 × 480 Pixels).

FIG. 2 illustrates the expansion of the output device described in FIG. 1. Here, four displays 1 , 2 , 1 ', 2 ' are provided, the housing 5 , 6 and 8 are connected to each other with a joint 7 . The third and fourth LCD display 1 'and 2 ' is arranged in the additional housing part 8 .

It is in a consistent continuation of the inventive concept possible, the display units, which in corresponding Housings are arranged by plugging them into one  to develop module-like output device. By means of the control electronics described later it is then possible several different pages or graphics at the same time read and display a text or image file. Because the above described Output devices in printed pages of similar form on the Arranging the workplace can be done at the actual Computer screen a new or updated text are created, with previous information of Representation by means of the additional output device the invention can be seen.

Based on the design of the output device in book form according to FIG. 1, which is expedient for handling reasons, this is considered to be the preferred embodiment.

3 is used to illustrate the dimensional relationships of the output device according to the invention . It is clear that the practical handling using the example of the housing half 5 shown here is sufficient. The Fig. 5 is a conventional LCD display 1 having a resolution of 640 × 480 pixels is based. It can be seen that the housing half 5 can be constructed approximately in the format of a DIN A4 page. The depth of the device is approximately 20 to 25 mm. An LCD display 1 weighs about 500 g, the entire arrangement about 1.5 kg. In terms of weight and dimensions, it corresponds to a lexicon volume or a normal folder.

With the output device shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, information can be displayed that is stored electronically in a single computer or in a computer network. This information is usually available in files. In practice, these files are so extensive that they can only be displayed in sections. To display the file information, it is therefore necessary to equip the output device according to the invention with operating elements, file management functions, functions for selecting a section and display management.

If the output device according to the invention with a conventional personal computer is connected, then can whose operating means (keyboard, mouse) are used for control will. The control software is in each case Personal computer provided. With such a Design variant has the advantage that only one Complex of controls is provided and one operation the additional display via the control units of the computer can be done and it is not necessary that To change posture.

If the output device is used independently of the personal computer, the operating elements 3 , 4 already mentioned in the description of FIG. 1 are necessary. Part of the control elements 3 , 4 is designed, for example, as a button arrangement.

Fig. 4 shows an example of this, wherein the control elements 4 are disposed in the right housing half 6 of the output device. The controls 3 of the left housing half 5 are provided in mirror image. Each of the LCD displays 1 , 2 are buttons for scrolling forward and backward 400 , e.g. B. arrow keys, a function key 402 and ten number keys 401 assigned. The labeling of the numeric keys 401 offset by 90 ° results from the possible use of the device according to the invention either in portrait or in landscape format. The keys are advantageously designed as a membrane keyboard. Of course, the LCD displays 1 , 2 can be provided in whole or in part with sensors, so that operating actions, for. B. can be triggered by touching with a pen or with the finger.

At this point it should be noted that the key arrangement disclosed in FIG. 4 and the following description relating to it is only exemplary, with the aim of realizing a large number of functions both with intuitively clear operating actions and with as few keys as possible. Practical experience on the frequency of use of the individual functions can modify the specific arrangement of the buttons or the selection of operating elements.

According to Fig. 5 the operating elements of two sensors 9, 10 to be added. These are designed, for example, as acceleration sensors, namely as a mass arrangement 12 fastened to a leaf spring 11 , which act on a sensor 100 . As a donor 100 z. B. inductive sensors, pressure sensors, light barriers or proximity sensors depending on the selected sensor principle. In each of the housing halves 5 , 6 , one of the sensors 9 , 10 is accommodated in the outer region, ie away from the joint 7 or pivot point. By means of these sensors, when the housing halves 5 or 6 are moved or folded over, an impulse for electronic page turning or page feed can be triggered.

In the case of controlling the display unit directly from the personal computer, this is also the responsibility of File management. There it is part of the operating system or the user interface, so that no further measures required are.

If the output device is to be used independently, then is constantly or temporarily with the appropriate interfaces a computer, a terminal, or a long-distance line or connected to a network connection and is via this  Interface loaded with information. This information can then be shown in sections.

Starting from a simple use case, namely the Connection of the additional output device like a printer to a personal computer, the files that you look at wants to view, selected on the personal computer, being a quasi printout of the files on the output device is provided. The data output in this way are then temporarily stored in the output device. In connection the data can then be viewed visually. The Output device has sufficient storage capacity internally, to accommodate the equivalent of several hundred printer pages can, for example, the facility has a 1 M byte storage capacity. The amount of information that is transferred during the quasi printing process, in the Arrangement treated and managed as one file.

In the simplest case, there is only one file. If other files are transferred or a file is not in the memory can be recorded, a File management problem. In the event of data overflow the known FIFO principle, i. H. the first read data are lost to make room for new data create, be applied. Furthermore there is Possibility of clipping data that is no longer in the Memory fit. It is also possible to make an inquiry perform, d. H. to stop the transfer of data, so that the user is between the first two Can choose options.

The files already stored in the output device are managed holistically. The user has the Options to apply the FIFO principle on the one hand or on the other hand an existing file by a to replace newly arriving file.  

In order to be able to call up stored data again, in the Output device maintained an internal table of contents, which can be displayed on request. Here it prepares no difficulties, special conventions for that To provide for the transfer of the file names that are in the In table of contents should appear. Are they in the content directory-listed file names but separately transmitted, so are the established transmission protocols not always usable unmodified. So it becomes the following intended:

The table of contents shows the time of recording and the beginning of each saved file, for example with a length of 60 characters. This means that a specific text can normally be easily identified. A file is selected from the table of contents with the number keys 401 . If one of the arrow keys 400 is held down, a window is opened which contains the first 240 characters of the file. The window disappears by pressing the opposite arrow key 400 or by selecting another key.

As already mentioned, the output device can optionally in Be operated in portrait or landscape format.

In the case of the landscape format, you can choose whether the arrow and function keys 400 and 402 should be on the right or left (in the first case the housing half 6 is the upper, in the second case the housing half 5 ). In portrait format, you can display a typical typewriter page on each LCD display 1 , 2 (60 characters per line, max. 80 lines); in landscape format there is a maximum of 60 lines with 80 characters each.

Each individual LCD display 1 , 2 , 1 ', 2 ' itself is organized page by page. If no page size is specified as part of the file transfer, one page corresponds to the respective display capacity depending on the selected display format. The following formats can be selected:

• - each LCD display corresponds to one page,
• - Both LCD displays side by side form one side; a Line therefore leads over both displays in the sense of one two-column display in portrait format.

In the first variant, two pages can be selected one file or one page from different files being represented.

In both variants, it is possible to temporarily display the page on one or on both LCD displays 1 , 2 by means of internal displays, eg. B. file directories, operating menus or help texts (HELP displays) to replace.

The function is selected by pressing the already mentioned function key 402 . In this case, a selection menu appears on an LCD display 1 , 2 . Individual functions can then be selected using the number keys 401 . In this way, the respective organizational form of file management and the output device is selected.

The turning is done with the aforementioned arrow keys 400 . The number keys 401 are used to select pages directly. On the one hand, you can combine the number input with an arrow key input; in this case, the entered number of pages is scrolled forward or backward. Of course, a number can be entered directly, after which the F key 402 is pressed. The corresponding predefined page is selected and displayed directly.

Alternatively, a forward or backward scrolling can be triggered by a brief movement via the sensors 9 , 10 , which are arranged in the outer regions of the housing halves 5 , 6 .

If no page size is specified, turning the page is like turning the page to a new page or a new page pair, similar to a book. If the F key 402 of an LCD display 1 , 2 is pressed, the display remains there. The next time you scroll forward without F-key 402 , the previous display moves from the right or upper display 2 to the left or lower 1 (vice versa when scrolling backwards). It is also possible to swap the assignment of the even and odd page numbers to the right (upper) or left (lower) display 2 , 1 .

If a certain page size is specified, the beginning of the new page is always shown when scrolling using sensors 9 , 10 or selecting using number keys 401 . The up and down scrolling within a page is initiated by pressing the respective arrow key 400 . If the display exceeds a page limit, the beginning of the next or the end of the previous page is also shown. The corresponding arrow keys 400 , on the other hand, lead directly to the beginning of the next or the previous page.

According to the functional description above, the basic circuitry structure of the output direction are described.

Known, highly integrated video control circuits are used to control the LCD displays 1 and 2 , which implement the various functions of information transmission, operation, file organization, display control, etc. with programmable devices. It is essential that the entire output device is organized graphically. This also applies if only texts are to be displayed.

That is, each individual pixel on both LCD displays 1 , 2 must be addressable under program control, and characters to be displayed must be converted from the character code into the dot matrix display, taking into account the respective display format. This results from the fact that it is necessary to be able to implement the various formats (portrait, across with controls on the left, across with controls on the right) in an economical manner. The program-side conversion of character codes into raster representations is generally known and is used, for example, in laser printers and for graphical user interfaces.

On the hardware side, the entire control of the additional output device in the simplest case a circuit board in the controlling personal computer is housed. That means low costs, but it has that Disadvantage that the output device is not independent of Personal computer is usable and for the installation of such PCB in the personal computer must be intervened. Several additional output devices can only be cumbersome to connect and the device can be opened Because of the comparatively unwieldy, rigid connection difficult to handle cables.

It is therefore advantageous to install an autonomous control in the output device. Fig. 6 shows such an internal circuit in the block diagram. A microprocessor 13 is connected via a bus system 14 with storage means 15 , with video control circuits 16 and 17 , via a control panel connection 18 with the control elements 3 , 4 and with interface circuits 19 . The LCD displays 1 , 2 are arranged downstream of the video control circuits 16 , 17 . Further, the power supply 20 and a circuit having the interface 19 cooperating memory card 21 is shown in Fig. 6 are indicated.

It is advantageous to equip the output device with a time counter to implement the various time-dependent administrative tasks. This can be implemented on the software side by the microprocessor 13 , for example. Corresponding discrete timer circuits can also be used.

Taking into account the cost aspects and the requirements on the part of the output device, the arrangement according to FIG. 6 is not a fully developed personal computer.

Proven interfaces to the hardware are provided for the controlling programs. In this sense, FIGS . 7 and 8 show details of the video control circuits 16 and 17 . Here, a so-called VGA circuit is used, which is connected to a video memory 23 (video RAM) and to a respective LCD display 1 , 2 .

In conventional personal computers there is only one VGA video control. In order to be able to use appropriate software, the two video control circuits 16 , 17 are assigned the same addresses on the bus system of the microprocessor 9 . Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 8 is provided a program side loadable control register 24 to the bus system 14, with selection inputs permission of both video control circuits 16, 17 via AND gates 25, 26 and an inverter 27 is connected. By loading the control register 24 accordingly, one of the video control circuits 16 , 17 is therefore selected for program-side accesses. The display on the LCD displays 1 , 2 is not affected by this.

On each of the LCD displays 1 , 2 , the information is presented, which is contained in the video memory 23 of the respective video control circuit 16 , 17 . The video memory 23 thus contains the current display. Further information to be displayed can be stored in the storage means 15 according to FIG. 6. Advantageously, 15 ROM and RAM circuits in CMOS technology and flash ROMs can be used as storage means. The already mentioned use of plug-in memory arrangements, so-called memory cards 21 , is provided in the context of the interface circuits 19 according to FIG. 6.

The software provided for internal operation is stored in ROM circuits of the storage means 15 . RAM arrays are intended for temporary information and for parts of the files that are currently being worked with. The files themselves and special programs loaded from the outside are preferably stored in flash ROM arrangements. These ensure data retention even when the supply voltage is switched off and can be electrically deleted in the device. A storage capacity of at least one megabyte is provided for files to be displayed.

In the application, the output device is loaded with information via appropriate interfaces 19 from a personal computer, a terminal, a trunk line or a network connection. The interface circuits 19 according to FIG. 6 are preferably modular. Interfaces are provided on the bus system 14 of the microprocessor 13 or the CPU, to which cassettes with the respective interface circuit 19 can be connected. This principle is useful if you want to provide only a single device type, but a variety of connection options, as is known, for example, with different printer types.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the structure of the interface between the internal switching means via a buffer stage 29 and the plug-in cassettes 28 a-e of the respective interface circuit 19 . Eight bidirectional data lines and four address lines are provided here. This means that up to 16 bytes can be addressed in each cassette 28 a-e. A fixed address (e.g. FFH) is provided uniformly for all cassettes 28 a-e. With appropriate read accesses, an identification is provided so that the software can recognize which interface is connected. The remaining lines have the following meaning:

• - RD: read access
• - WR: write access
• - RESET: Reset interface
• - IRQ: Interrupt request from the interface
• - ERROR: Error message from the interface
• - DRQ: data transfer request from the interface
• - DACK: confirmation of request
• - TC: Impulse for end of transmission (terminal count).

The respective interface circuits 19 are accommodated in the plug-in cassettes 28 a-e. So the usual standardized interfaces can be provided, which, for. B. simulate the connection of a printer (Centronics interface), a serial interface (e.g. RS 232) or a network (e.g. Ethernet).

Using microcontrollers or application-specific circuits (ASIC), the respective control circuits can be implemented in comparatively small cassettes 28 a-e. In practice, the minimum dimensions are often determined by specified connectors. Of course, it is also possible to provide several interfaces in one cassette. The respective interface to be used is then selected via the internal function control.

In Fig. 6 is already indicated by the inputs and outputs labeled passive and active that it is advantageous to provide two interface control circuits 19 . A further interface can be provided in the design implementation, so that a further cassette can be inserted. This operates a second "active" interface, ie it behaves like an otherwise controlling personal computer when connected to a device. In contrast, the first, "passive" interface behaves like the otherwise controlled device. For example, you can transfer a text to the additional output device, view it there and, if necessary, go to any printer with the portable output device in order to have the text printed in whole or in part.

It is advantageous to use the cassettes for the passive and active interface distinctive, e.g. B. by appropriate To design connector combinations.

In order to avoid restrictions in terms of design or space problems due to the dimensions of standardized connectors, special cables can be provided, which are provided for connection to the output device with appropriately selected miniaturized connectors. Here, a construction is chosen regardless of existing standards. The cables can also be firmly connected to the respective cassettes 28 a-e themselves.

As an alternative to the plug-in cassettes 28 a-e according to FIG. 9, the interface circuits 19 can be designed from the outset to be so powerful that they can directly control all interfaces in question. For this purpose, universal peripheral control circuits and high-performance microcontrollers are used. The plug-in cassette 28 a-e then only fulfills the function of a cable adapter which connects the interface lines to the respective circuit connections. It can therefore be made extremely small.

In the sense of the invention, it is when an active Interface connects to another additional Output facility is available. Several additional Output devices can be connected in series will. Such a device behaves functionally so as several individual dispensers that over independent signal paths can be controlled. The back interconnection is only for forwarding or Passing on information.

The following principles can be used to operate several output devices:
each ad has its own address and this is taken into account in the interface transmission procedures; all displays receive the same information at the same time, and each individual display uses internal function controls to determine which sections are saved or displayed.

Standardized interfaces have the advantage that the additional output device can be put into operation directly in an existing system environment without any further requirements. Of course, it is possible to provide a special interface that has an adapted specification, which can also be expanded to wireless information transmission. This special interface manages with a single information line. For this purpose, a serial transmission method is expediently provided, which is illustrated in principle in FIG. 10. The active part of this special interface is always the sending device, e.g. B. the personal computer. The transfer is organized in a package. Transmission phases in which data "packets" are transmitted alternate with idle phases. In an idle phase, another device, in this case the output device, can seize the line. In this case, information blocks are transmitted which either have a fixed length, for example 6 bytes, or which have a corresponding number of data bytes, e.g. B. 4096, are expanded. The modified frequency modulation MFM is suitable as the transmission method, for example. A transmission rate of four mega bits per second can be achieved without any problems. A megabyte of text therefore takes about 2 seconds. If the output device is used fully graphically from the computer, up to 614 400 pixels can be transferred (2 × 640 × 480). If four bits are provided per pixel (intensity control), this means about 2.5 million bits that are transmitted in less than a second.

With data transmission based on high-frequency waves, it is possible to move freely in the room with the output device independently of the personal computer. If the desk area is limited, an inductive principle can be used ( Fig. 12).

The special control circuits for the special interface can be installed directly in the personal computer concerned. However, it is also possible to provide a separate conversion device (connection box) 30 according to FIG. 11. A power supply part 31 , an interface selection circuit 32 and a converter circuit 33 are accommodated in a separate housing. The device 30 is connected to a standardized interface (for example to a Centronics parallel interface for printers). The originally connected device (e.g. the actual printer) can continue to be operated via the interface selection circuit 32 . The converter circuit 33 converts the standardized interface into the special interface. Provision can also be made to connect several output devices. Fig. 12 shows that for the purpose of inductive data transmission, an induction loop 34 is provided, which in a desk pad 35 , z. B. is made of plastic, is embedded.

When connecting the cable, the supply voltage of the conversion device 30 is supplied via the interface cable. The supply voltage can be taken either from the controlling personal computer or from the power supply part 31 of the conversion device 30 according to FIG. 11. In the interest of small line cross-sections, a protective extra-low voltage is used, and a higher-frequency AC voltage can also be provided in order to be able to form the voltage converters in the output device small and easily. In this way, you can use a thin, light and flexible cable that hardly hampers the handling of the additional output device.

With wireless operation, it is necessary to extreme the device to operate in an energy-saving manner and the batteries used to charge occasionally.

Hardware and software provisions to reduce the Power consumption is known from portable computers can be used analogously. For example, the Time intervals between different activities (Operator actions, control of the interface) will. There are no operator actions over long periods still transmissions of information, the device is in one energy-saving state, so-called standby mode transferred. The first subsequent operating action or excitation of the inter faces restores normal operation.

In addition, the sensors 9 , 10 already mentioned can be used to detect whether the device is at rest or is being moved. It is also possible to install 5 , 6 proximity switches in the housing halves, which with sufficient approximation, for. B. If the user bends over or takes it in his hand, initiate normal operation.

It is also possible to provide a switch which switches to the power-saving state when the housing of the output device is folded. In some applications, it may make sense to maintain the power-saving state of an additional display that is not currently being used, so that it can continue to receive data. This can be easily solved with a corresponding operating mode switch. This operating switch has, for example, the positions: off - standby - normal. This operating mode control can also be combined with locking the housing halves 5 and 6 (folded and locked: off; folded and not locked: standby; opened: normal operation).

The switching means for power supply 20 indicated in FIG. 6, in particular the functional unit labeled SLEEP CTL, receive a corresponding excitation from the control panel circuit 18 or from the further switching means specified here (folding and locking mechanism of the housing halves 5 , 6 , proximity switch , Operating mode selector switch).

One possibility for the easy charging of the batteries of the dispenser shown in FIG. 13a to 13c. Fig. 13a shows a storage container 36 which can accommodate one or more Augabeein devices in the collapsed state. This container 36 contains the charger 37 , as can be seen in the sectional view according to FIG. 13c. Inserted dispensing devices can be charged in this way. This requires corresponding inner plug contacts 38 . Furthermore, it is shown in FIG. 13b that the standby mode can be set via an operating mode selector switch 39 on each inserted device. It is thus possible to update the stored information in output devices that have been temporarily switched off for the purpose of loading. For this purpose, appropriate interfaces must be provided on the device housing, for example external contacts 40 or also arrangements for inductive or optoelectronic data transmission. Matching interface control circuits 41 are provided in the storage container 36 . An interface for serial data transmission according to FIG. 10 can advantageously be used for this.

It is furthermore advantageous to install all the switching means of the conversion device 30 shown in FIG. 11 in the storage container 36 according to FIG. 13a-c. That is, the conversion device 30 is designed as a storage container 36 .

The following are some useful principles for the Interface design explained from a logical point of view. These logical view concerns the appearance of the output Facility for the system and application programmer of the controlling personal computer. The off according to the invention can be like a known peripheral Device, as a novel peripheral device or as an internal device Extension operated.

As already briefly indicated in the sense of a known pe peripheral device the output device like a printer be are driven, d. H. she is trained to be on the interface behaves exactly like a printer type. Here there is the advantage that the device according to the invention can use without having to develop new software. Alternatively, new com mandos, transmission protocols etc. can be defined. Here the advantage is a greater variety of functions, a Performance optimization, with restrictions due to reasons of Compatibility can be avoided. However, this is the Development of new software necessary.

Finally, it can be provided that the output device according to the invention appears to the programmer as an internal extension of the controlling computer. The interface can for example be set up so that the video control circuits 16 , 17 appear from the perspective of the personal computer as additional graphics cards. For this purpose, it is advantageous to provide an additional functional unit in the computer which does the following:

• - Selection of the currently active graphics card, d. H. the actually provided in the computer or one of the Video control circuits;
• - Parallel-series or series-parallel conversion of the corresponding accesses.

A computer usually accesses internal peripheral units with read and write cycles which either affect the memory address space or the input / output address space. Each such cycle affects a single port of 8, 16 or 32 bits. Here, it is unproblematic to recognize the corresponding information (addresses, control signals, data) and to transmit them serially, ie bit by bit, at high speed to the additional output device. One has the advantage of being able to use sophisticated graphics software. However, the interface must be very fast. Serial transmission requires complex circuitry, and a large number of lines are required for parallel transmission. It is therefore advantageous, in a modification of this principle, to provide a single graphics adapter with extreme resolution. B. 4096 × 4096 pixels. The physiological displays (screen of the computer 42 , output device according to the invention with the LCD display 1 and 2 ) are treated hardware as windows with a lower resolution. This is illustrated in principle in FIG. 14.

From the point of view of the computer, a high-resolution (logical) graphic raster 43 of 4096 × 4096 pixels is provided. The individual physical displays are arranged as a window in this grid. The basis of such a solution is always an image memory of sufficient capacity. The content of this image memory can of course only be shown in part in the form of hidden windows on the display means. Video control circuits are used for this purpose, which enable windows to be hidden. These work on the basis of parameter information (start addresses and dimensions of the windows), with which the circuit-internal image memory addressing circuits are loaded. Finally, it is possible to use the additional output devices according to the invention independently of a computer directly controlling them, by providing suitable non-volatile, exchangeable storage media.

Known memory cards 21 on the basis of flash-ROM circuits are suitable for this.

Referring to FIG. 6, the interface circuits 19 are formed so that a memory card can be connected 21st The interface to the computer then takes over a corresponding device for writing the cards.

In the interest of ease of use and speed of work, it is envisaged that the data transmission and display control will run in parallel. That is, new data can be saved while the user is viewing other files. This can be achieved by a multitasking program organization known per se in the arrangement according to FIG. 6.

Based on the properties of the are additional output device according to the invention the following applications are possible:

The invention is to be used as a paperless printer, whereby Information that previously had to be printed without any new software visible on the additional display can be made. Compared to printing it is Speed much higher, and there will be Consumables such as paper, ribbons or toner saved.

The expansion is also more graphic by means of the invention User interfaces possible. The window principle that the underlying modern graphical user interfaces can analogous to the combination of computer screen (for the current representations in graphical form  high-quality form) and additional Output devices are transferred. So that becomes a better approximation to the desk-oriented Working method achieved. The cost is lower and that Ergonomic and space conditions are significantly cheaper than when using several conventional ones in parallel Computer screens.

The invention is also paperless electronic Operating instructions conceivable. The invention Dispensing devices are particularly suitable for Representation of operating instructions, selection menus etc. as well of explanations. It has the advantage that the explanatory displays do not appear on the computer screen cover more or less those representations for whose Explanation they were called. This is particularly the case with Text or graphics editing is an advantage, with the for Available screen area of the personal computer can also be fully used when calling auxiliary functions.

The output device that was presented in FIG. 1, for example equipped with a memory card 21 , can also be used independently of the personal computer in order to be able to give lectures and the like. the like. to present the manuscript or the speech. For such purposes, output devices according to the invention can also be made smaller and with a lower resolution in the sense of an additional display, e.g. B. with 320 × 200 pixels on each LCD display 1 and 2 . The following functions can also be implemented:

• - Display the remaining speaking time and the remaining Text portion;
• - Continuous scrolling of the text according to one given lecture pace;  
• - Enlarged character display for the purpose of recognizability greater distance;
• - Switch between keyword and full text display;
• - Control an additional LCD display for the purpose Image display via an overhead projector.

The operating means of such a modified additional output device can be optimized for any purpose. In the application case discussed above, number keys 401 are practically not necessary, and it is sufficient for both LCD displays 1 and 2 to have a common arrangement of arrow keys and function keys 400 and 401 . It is particularly advantageous here to use an infrared remote control, the control unit being able to be combined with a pointing device (rod or laser pointer) commonly used by lecturers.

With reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, some structural details of the design of the output device will be described.

Fig. 15 shows a simple movable connection or joint 7 between the housing halves 5 and 6. This movable connection can be designed as a swivel joint. As an alternative to this, it is also possible to set up such a connection 7 with special flex-resistant plastic materials.

The electrical connections between the two housing halves 5 and 6 can be realized with additional flexible flat cables or by embedding the conductor tracks in the named plastic material.

In larger embodiments of the output device, a connection of the housing halves according to FIGS. 16a-c is advantageous. Fig. 16a shows in side view, Fig. 16c in plan view, a connection with two pivot points 7 , 7 ', which are embedded in a central housing center piece 44 . The width of the middle piece 44 corresponds to the depth of both housing halves 5 and 6 . Fig. 16b shows the folded state of the two housing halves 5 and 6. Here it is advantageous to arrange the central interface connections 45 at the ends of the middle piece 44 . The cheapest are the same type of connection at each end of the middle piece 44 , so that the user can connect the relevant cable as needed at the most convenient and accessible place.

The electrical connections between the housing parts 5 and 6 and 44 can be performed by the (hollow) pivot pin 46 of the joints 7 , 7 '. Please note that swivel angles of 180 degrees must be guaranteed. It therefore makes sense to look for a separation point in the division of the circuit arrangement according to FIG. 6 which requires as few connections as possible. Here z. B. the entire control electronics in the housing half 5 , the power supply in the housing half 6 . Between the housing halves 5 and 6 one only needs the connections with the LCD display 2 and with the operating elements 4 and the supply of the supply voltages. It is also possible to divide the control electronics into three independent microprocessor arrangements which are connected to one another via serial interfaces known per se. Thus, a first microprocessor with video control circuit 16 for LCD display 1 and connection of control elements 3 in housing half 5 can be provided, a second microprocessor with video control circuit 17 for LCD display 2 and connection of control elements 4 in housing half 6 and a third microprocessor for interface control in the middle 44 .

It is also advantageous to provide fold-out rear supports in the housing parts 5 , 6 and 44 in order to be able to set up the dispensing device at an angle. It is also possible to design fold-out hooks so that the additional display can be hung on a wall. Both arrangements can each be combined in a swiveling housing part 5 , 6 or on the housing center piece 44 . For this purpose, the possibility of locking the housing parts 5 , 6 and 44 in the opened state is advantageously provided.

Reference list

1, 2 LCD displays
3, 4 controls
5, 6 housing or housing half
7, 7 'joint or connection
1 ′, 2 ′ LCD displays
8 additional housing parts
400 buttons to scroll forward and backward
401 number key
402 function key
9, 10 sensors
11 leaf spring
12 ground arrangement
100 donors
13 microprocessor
14 bus system
15 storage media
16, 17 video control circuits
18 Control panel connection
19 interface circuits
20 Power supply
21 memory card
22 VGA circuit
23 video memory
24 control registers that can be loaded on the program side
25, 26 AND gates
27 negator
28 a-e plug-in cassettes
29 buffer stage
30 conversion device
31 power supply part
32 Interface selection circuit
33 converter circuit
34 induction circuit
35 desk pad
36 storage containers
37 charger
38 inner plug contacts
39 operating mode switch
40 external contact
41 interface control circuits
42 Personal computer screen
43 high-resolution graphics grid
44 central housing center piece
45 central interface connection
46 hollow pivot pin

Claims (26)

1. Output device, preferably for personal computers and other information processing devices, characterized by a plurality of flat display units ( 1 , 2 ) for displaying a plurality of graphic characters, at least one display unit ( 1 , 2 ) being arranged in a housing ( 5 , 6 ) and at least two housings ( 5 , 6 ) in a modular and / or movable manner, forming an integral unit, connected, and means for controlling the displays ( 1 , 2 ) and operating elements ( 3 , 4 ) arranged in the housings ( 5 , 6 ) are. 2. Output device according to claim 1, characterized in that the housings ( 5 , 6 ) are connected to one another in a modular manner by insertion. 3. Output device according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing ( 5 , 6 ) by means of a pivot joint ( 7 , 7 ') are connected. 4. Output device according to claim 1 to 3, characterized in that the control means a via a common bus ( 14 ) operated microprocessor ( 13 ), memory means ( 15 ), video control circuits ( 16 , 17 ) corresponding to the number of displays ( 1 , 2 ) , comprise a control panel connection ( 18 ) and at least one interface circuit ( 19 ). 5. Output device according to claim 1 and 4, characterized in that the control means comprise a separate power supply ( 20 ). 6. Output device according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for controlling the displays ( 1 , 2 ) are operated directly via the personal computer or other information processing devices. 7. Output device according to claim 1, 4 and 5, characterized in that a memory card ( 21 ) is provided for storing data to be output, which is connected to the interface circuit ( 19 ), so that the output device is independent of time and place can be operated by the personal computer or other information processing facilities. 8. Output device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control elements ( 3 , 4 ), based on the respective application, keys for page-by-page scrolling ( 400 ), a number combination ( 401 ) and at least one function key ( 402 ). 9. Display device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the display units ( 1 , 2 ) consist of flat liquid crystal displays, electroluminescent displays or gas discharge displays. 10. Display device according to claim 1, characterized, that when operating together in parallel Personal computer or other information processing facility different data or Files in possibly different arrangement, order and Resolution based on the personal computer screen or the output medium of the other information processors Device can be displayed and that via the controls of the personal computer to control the output device he follows. 11. Output device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control of the displays ( 1 , 2 ) is organized so that a book-like, page-by-page display and scrolling in corresponding files is possible. 12. Output device according to claim 1 and 11, characterized in that the triggering of the page-by-page scrolling via the control elements ( 3 , 4 ) or a predetermined movement of a movable part of the housing ( 5 , 6 ). 13. Output device according to claim 12, characterized in that in the housings ( 5 , 6 ) sensors ( 9 , 10 ) are provided for detecting predeterminable movements. 14. Output device according to claim 1 and 4, characterized in that each individual pixel to be displayed on the display unit ( 1 , 2 ) can be addressed under program control, with existing character codes being converted into a dot matrix display. 15. Output device according to claim 1 and 4, characterized in that the interface circuits ( 19 ) for adaptation to different interfaces in the form of plug-in cassettes ( 28 a- 28 c) are constructed in a modular manner. 16. Output device according to claim 1, 4 and 15, characterized in that the interface circuits ( 19 ) comprise an active interface with control function and a passive interface with data transfer function. 17. Output device according to claim 1, 4, 15 and 16, characterized, that further output devices via the active interface are operable.   18. Output device according to claim 1 and 4, characterized in that the interface circuits ( 19 ) are set up for wireless and serial information transmission. 19. Output device according to claim 1, characterized in that a separate conversion device ( 30 ) containing a power supply part ( 31 ), an interface selection circuit ( 32 ) and a converter circuit ( 33 ), to a standardized interface of the personal computer or another information processing device is connected, wherein the originally connected device can continue to be operated and that the converter circuit ( 30 ) converts the incoming data to control the additional output device. 20. Output device according to claim 1, characterized, that in the case of non-use in one current-saving state can be transferred, the Data transfer function is retained. 21. Output device according to claim 1, characterized in that a storage container ( 36 ) is provided which accommodates the housing ( 5 , 6 ) comprising the display units ( 1 , 2 ) and wherein the storage container ( 36 ) has a charger ( 37 ), which is connected to the housing ( 5 , 6 ) via internal plug contacts ( 38 ) and an operating mode switch ( 39 ) for manual transfer to a standby mode, in this case via an interface circuit ( 41 ) provided in the storage container ( 36 ) and external contacts ( 40 ) a further data transfer is possible. 22. Output device according to claim 1 and 4, characterized in that the video control circuit ( 16 , 17 ) via the personal computer or other information processing devices are operated as additional personal computer internal graphics cards. 23. Output device according to claim 1 to 22, characterized by the use as a paperless printer for fast text or graphic reproduction on several pages according to the number of display units used ( 1 , 2 ) or their image area division. 24. Output device according to claim 1 to 22, marked by the use as an electronically representable, time-controlled speech or graphic manuscript. 25th edition device according to claim 3, characterized in that the swivel joint (7, 7 ') is formed as a double comb-like rotary joint with central housing means (44) being provided on the housing central portion (44) one or more central interface ports (45) and the electrical connection between the housings ( 5 , 6 ) via hollow pivot pins ( 46 ) of the swivel joint ( 7 , 7 ') is performed. 26. Output device according to claim 1, 2 and 25, characterized in that on the housings ( 5 , 6 ) or on the housing center piece ( 44 ) fold-out supports and / or hooks are provided for setting up or fastening.