JP2007101901A - Calibration state confirmation device, calibration controller, calibration state confirming method, and calibration control method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To confirm whether a display device has been accurately calibrated, using an easy method. <P>SOLUTION: The calibration state confirmation device for the display device has a setting means of previously setting a calibration interval set time according to the kind of the display device; a use time cumulative measurement means, a decision means of deciding whether the calibration interval set time is elapsed, a uniform pattern generating means of generating a uniform pattern whose lightness and color are uniformly specified by a combination of gradation values of the primary colors R, G, and B, when it is decided that the calibration interval set time has elapsed; a reference pattern generating means of generating a reference pattern wherein a first sub-area, where the primary colors R, G, and B have minimum gradation values, respectively and a second sub-area where the primary colors R, G, and B have maximum gradation values respectively are mixed at a specified area ratio; and a display control means of defining a test pattern, comprising a first area and a second area on the screen of the display device and displays the uniform pattern in the first area and the reference pattern in the second area as the test pattern. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a calibration state confirmation device and the like, and more specifically to a calibration state confirmation device and the like that can confirm whether or not a predetermined display device is accurately calibrated.

  In recent years, in order to make the color and gradation reproduction characteristics of an image expressed in an input device such as a scanner and a digital camera, a display device such as a monitor, and an output device such as a printer the same regardless of which device is used, A technique called management is generally used. In the color management, it is common to calibrate a device to a predetermined state and describe the characteristics in a file. In addition, an organization called ICC (International Color Consortium) is promoting standardization of color management. In color management proposed by ICC, a characteristic file is called a profile.

Here, in particular, as a method for calibrating a display device such as a monitor, for example, a method as described in Patent Document 1 is known, and an image is displayed in an accurate color by calibrating the display device. It can be displayed on the device.
JP 2000-29444 A

  However, when a user who uses the display device actually uses the display device, it is difficult to know whether the display device is calibrated. Even if the display device is calibrated, if the display device is used for a long time, the gradation reproduction characteristics change due to deterioration due to aging, so it is not always accurately calibrated at the time of use. There has been a problem that there is no guarantee that the color of the image displayed on the display device is accurate.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and provides a calibration state confirmation device and the like that can confirm whether or not the display device is accurately calibrated by a simple method. Objective.

  The invention according to claim 1 for solving the above-described problem is a calibration state confirmation device for confirming a calibration state of a display device, and a time from the execution of the calibration to the next execution of the calibration. As the calibration interval setting time, a setting unit that is instructed in advance according to the type of the display device, a usage time cumulative measurement unit that cumulatively measures the usage time of the display device, and a usage time of the display device Determining means for determining whether the preset calibration interval setting time has elapsed, and the use time of the display device by the determining means has passed the preset calibration interval setting time. The brightness and color are uniform by combining the gradation values of the three primary colors RGB. A uniform pattern generating means for generating a fixed uniform pattern, a first sub-region in which the primary colors RGB each have a minimum gradation value, and a second sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a maximum gradation value each having a predetermined area A reference pattern generating unit configured to generate a reference pattern mixed in a ratio, and a test pattern configured by the first area and the second area on the screen of the display device, wherein the test pattern is defined in the first area. Display control means for controlling the uniform pattern to display the reference pattern as the test pattern in the second region.

  According to this, since the display pattern can be regularly checked by displaying the test pattern when the calibration time set for the display device has passed the calibration interval setting time, the display device can be accurately calibrated. It can be confirmed whether or not. Therefore, it is possible to accurately maintain the calibration state of the display device.

  In addition, since the calibration interval setting time can be set according to the type of the display device, the calibration state can be accurately maintained according to the type of the display device.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention for solving the above problem, in the calibration state confirmation device for confirming the calibration state of the display device, the display device receives a predetermined image via a network and displays the image. A uniform pattern generating means for generating a uniform pattern in which brightness and color are uniformly specified by a combination of gradation values of the three primary colors RGB, and a first sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a minimum gradation value. , Reference pattern generation means for generating a reference pattern in which the three primary colors RGB each have a maximum gradation value and a predetermined sub-area ratio, and a reference pattern generating means on the screen of the display device. A test pattern comprising a second area, the uniform pattern in the first area, and the reference pattern in the second area. And wherein further comprising a display control means for controlling so as to be displayed as the test pattern.

  According to this, when the display device receives a predetermined image via the network and displays the image, the test pattern is created, and the created test pattern is displayed on the display unit of the display device. Whether the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device at the timing when the device receives a predetermined image via the network and displays the image (whether the display device is accurately calibrated) Can be confirmed. Therefore, it is possible to confirm whether or not the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention for solving the above problem, in the calibration state confirmation device according to the second aspect, the calibration as a time from the execution of the calibration to the next execution of the calibration is performed. A setting interval for setting and instructing a preset interval according to the type of the display device, a usage time cumulative measuring unit for cumulatively measuring the usage time of the display device, and a usage time of the display device. And determining means for determining whether a calibration interval setting time instructed for setting has elapsed.

  According to this, the usage time of the display device has passed the calibration interval setting time set in advance according to the type of the display device, and the display device receives the predetermined image via the network and displays the image. In this case, by creating a test pattern and displaying the created test pattern on the display device, it is confirmed whether the display device is accurately calibrated regularly according to the type of the display device. In addition to the ability to display the image on the display device when the display device receives the predetermined image via the network and displays the image (whether the display device is accurately calibrated). Can be confirmed. Therefore, it is possible to confirm whether or not the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention for solving the above problem, in the calibration state confirmation apparatus according to the first or third aspect, the use time cumulative measurement means is an illumination means provided in the display device. When is turned on, the usage time is cumulatively measured.

  According to this, since it is possible to set whether or not the usage time is cumulatively measured by the usage time cumulative measurement means when the illumination means is in a lighting state according to the type of the display device, Thus, the calibration state can be accurately maintained.

  The invention according to claim 5 for solving the above-mentioned problem is the calibration control device including the calibration state confirmation device for the display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the display control means When the user who views the test pattern displayed on the screen of the display device instructs that the brightness and color of the first area and the second area do not match, the display It further has a calibration execution means for executing calibration control of the apparatus.

  According to this, the display device can be regularly calibrated by displaying the test pattern when the display device usage time has passed the calibration interval setting interval, so that the display device can be accurately calibrated. If it is determined that calibration has not been performed correctly, calibration can be executed to maintain an accurate calibration state of the display device. Therefore, it is possible to maintain the display device in an accurate calibration state of the display device.

  The invention according to claim 6 for solving the above problem is a calibration state confirmation method for confirming a calibration state of a display device, wherein a time from when the calibration is performed until the next calibration is performed. As a calibration interval setting time, a setting step instructed to set in advance according to the type of the display device, a usage time cumulative measurement step of cumulatively measuring the usage time of the display device, and a usage time of the display device A determination step of determining whether or not the preset calibration interval setting time has elapsed, and the use time of the display device has passed the preset calibration interval setting time by the determination step The brightness and color are uniform by combining the gradation values of the three primary colors RGB. A uniform pattern generating step for generating a fixed uniform pattern, a first sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a minimum gradation value, and a second sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a maximum gradation value each having a predetermined area A reference pattern generation step for generating a reference pattern mixed in a ratio, and a test pattern configured by the first area and the second area on the screen of the display device, and defining the test pattern in the first area A display control step of controlling the uniform pattern to display the reference pattern as the test pattern in the second region.

  According to this, since the display pattern can be regularly checked by displaying the test pattern when the calibration time set for the display device has passed the calibration interval setting time, the display device can be accurately calibrated. It can be confirmed whether or not. Therefore, it is possible to accurately maintain the calibration state of the display device.

  In addition, since the calibration interval setting time can be set according to the type of the display device, the calibration state can be accurately maintained according to the type of the display device.

  The invention according to claim 7 for solving the above problem is a calibration state confirmation method for confirming a calibration state of a display device, wherein the display device receives a predetermined image via a network and displays the image. A uniform pattern generating step for generating a uniform pattern in which brightness and color are uniformly specified by a combination of gradation values of the three primary colors RGB when displayed, and a first sub-region in which the three primary colors RGB each have a minimum gradation value; A reference pattern generation step of generating a reference pattern in which the three sub-colors RGB each have a maximum gradation value mixed with a predetermined area ratio; a reference pattern generation step that generates the reference pattern on the screen of the display device; A test pattern comprising a second area, the uniform pattern in the first area, and the reference pattern in the second area. And wherein further comprising a display control step of controlling so as to be displayed as the test pattern.

  According to this, when the display device receives a predetermined image via the network and displays the image, the display device creates the test pattern and causes the display device to display the created test pattern. Confirms whether the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device (whether the display device is correctly calibrated) at the timing when the predetermined image is received and displayed. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to purchase the product after confirming whether the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device.

  The invention according to claim 8 for solving the above problem is the calibration state confirmation method according to claim 7, wherein the calibration is performed as a time from the execution of the calibration to the next execution of the calibration. A setting step in which a setting interval is instructed in advance according to the type of the display device, a usage time cumulative measurement step of cumulatively measuring the usage time of the display device, and a usage time of the display device And a determination step of determining whether or not a calibration interval setting time instructed for setting has elapsed.

  According to this, the usage time of the display device has passed the calibration interval setting time set in advance according to the type of the display device, and the display device receives the predetermined image via the network and displays the image. In this case, by creating a test pattern and displaying the created test pattern on the display device, it is confirmed whether the display device is accurately calibrated regularly according to the type of the display device. In addition to the ability to display the image on the display device when the display device receives the predetermined image via the network and displays the image (whether the display device is accurately calibrated). Can be confirmed. Therefore, it is possible to confirm whether or not the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device.

  The invention according to claim 9 for solving the above-mentioned problem is the calibration state confirmation method according to claim 6 or claim 8, wherein the use time cumulative measurement step includes illumination means provided in the display device. When is turned on, the usage time is cumulatively measured.

  According to this, since it is possible to set whether or not the usage time is cumulatively measured by the usage time cumulative measurement means when the illumination means is in a lighting state according to the type of the display device, Thus, the calibration state can be accurately maintained.

  The invention according to claim 10 for solving the above problem is the calibration control method including the calibration state confirmation device for the display device according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the display control step includes: When the user who views the test pattern displayed on the screen of the display device instructs that the brightness and color of the first area and the second area do not match, the display The method further includes a calibration execution step for executing calibration control of the apparatus.

  According to this, the display device can be regularly calibrated by displaying the test pattern when the display device usage time has passed the calibration interval setting interval, so that the display device can be accurately calibrated. If it is determined that calibration has not been performed correctly, calibration can be executed to maintain an accurate calibration state of the display device. Therefore, it is possible to maintain the display device in an accurate calibration state of the display device.

  According to the present invention, since the test pattern is displayed when the usage time of the display device has passed the calibration interval setting time, the calibration state of the display device can be periodically checked, so that the display device can be accurately calibrated. It can be confirmed whether or not Therefore, it is possible to accurately maintain the calibration state of the display device.

  In addition, since the calibration interval setting time can be set according to the type of the display device, the calibration state can be accurately maintained according to the type of the display device.

(1) First Embodiment Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which the calibration state confirmation device or the like of the present invention is applied when confirming whether a predetermined display device is accurately calibrated.

  The calibration control apparatus includes a calibration state confirmation apparatus, and will be described as a calibration control apparatus below.

[Calibration control device]
First, a calibration control apparatus according to the present embodiment will be conceptually described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a calibration control device 1 and a display device 2 of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a calibration control device 1 that executes the calibration control is connected to a display device 2 such as a monitor as a target for executing the calibration control so as to be able to exchange information with each other via a network. ing.

  Here, the display device 2 is a display device externally connected to the calibration control device 1 as will be described later. For example, a liquid crystal monitor, a plasma display, a cathode ray tube, an organic EL monitor, etc., the three primary colors R (red), Any display device that reproduces colors by additive color mixing of G (green) and B (blue) may be used.

  In the calibration control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment having the above-described configuration, first, the display apparatus 2 displays the time (calibration interval setting time) from when the display apparatus 2 is calibrated until the next calibration is performed. It is set in advance according to the two types. The accumulated usage time of the display device 2 is measured, it is determined whether or not the calibration time setting time that has been set in advance has passed, and the calibration time setting time that has been set in advance has passed. If it is determined that a combination of gradation values of the three primary colors RGB is specified, a uniform pattern with uniform brightness and color is generated, and the first sub-region, each of which has the minimum gradation value, and the three primary colors RGB Generates a reference pattern in which the second subregions having the maximum gradation values are mixed at a predetermined area ratio. Then, a test pattern constituted by the first area and the second area is defined on the screen of the display device 2, and a uniform pattern is defined in the first area, and a reference pattern is defined in the second area as a test pattern. Display (see FIG. 2).

  Thereby, it can be confirmed whether the display apparatus is calibrated correctly.

[Calibration control device structure and function]
Next, the structure and function of each unit constituting the calibration control apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the calibration control apparatus of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, the calibration control device 1 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) having a calculation function, a working RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory) storing various data and programs, and the like. , Setting means, usage time cumulative measurement means, determination means, uniform pattern generation means, reference pattern generation means, display control means, control section 11 functioning as calibration execution means, storage section 12, external device connection section 13, The control unit 11, the storage unit 12, and the external device connection unit 13 are connected to each other via a bus 14.

  The control unit 11 includes a CPU (not shown), a working RAM, a ROM for storing various control programs including the calibration control program of the present invention, data, and the like, an oscillation circuit, and the like. Based on the operation signal, control information for controlling each of the constituent members is generated to realize an operation corresponding to the operation information included in the operation signal, and the control information is applied via the bus 14. To control the operation of each component. In addition, the control unit 11 executes a calibration control program stored in a ROM or the like, thereby cooperating with other constituent members to generate uniform pattern generation means, reference pattern generation means, display means, and usage time of the present invention. It functions as a cumulative measuring means, a judging means, and a calibration executing means.

  The storage unit 12 accumulates and stores information to be displayed on the display unit of the display device 2 and outputs it to the control unit 11 as accumulated storage information as necessary.

  The external connection unit 13 is for sending an instruction signal to the display device 2 via a video card built in the calibration control device 1, a VGA cable, a DVI cable, a BNC cable, or the like. Furthermore, it is configured to receive data from the colorimeter by a serial method, a USB method, IEEE1394, or other appropriate method.

[About uniform pattern and reference pattern]
(First test pattern)
As shown in FIG. 2, the test pattern 3 is displayed on the screen of the display device 2 as a target for executing calibration control. Specifically, the test pattern 3 includes a first area 10 and a second area 20. In the illustrated example, the first region 10 is a circular region, and the second region 20 is a frame-like region surrounding the first region 10.

  Here, the test pattern 3 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  A uniform pattern with uniform brightness and color is displayed in the first area 10, and a reference pattern having a predetermined reference luminance is displayed in the second area 20.

  More specifically, the first region 10 displays a uniform pattern with uniform brightness and color (in other words, all pixels have the same gradation value (RGB value)), and the three primary colors RGB. A combination of tone values is generated (configured) by the user specifying an input operation using an input unit (not shown) of the calibration control apparatus 1.

  In the second area 20, the three primary colors RGB each have a minimum gradation value (RGB value at 8 bits / color: 0) and the three primary colors RGB have maximum gradation values (RGB at 8 bits / color). The band-shaped second sub-region 22 having a value: 255) is generated (configured) by mixing them in a predetermined area ratio. For example, as illustrated, the first region and the second region are alternately arranged. In other words, a black and white stripe pattern is formed. Here, if the area ratio of the first sub-region 21 and the second sub-region 22 is set to 1: 1 (in other words, the widths of the black and white stripes are all set equal), Although the sub-regions 21 and 22 are displayed with a minimum luminance of 0% or a maximum luminance of 100%, if they are viewed at a certain distance, they are recognized as regions that are displayed with a pseudo-luminance of 50%. It becomes. Of course, for this purpose, it is necessary to set the width of the black and white stripes to be small to some extent so that it is difficult to visually observe the stripe pattern.

  In the test pattern 3 shown in this way, the second region 20 forming the surrounding frame region functions as a reference pattern that shows a pseudo luminance of 50%.

(Second test pattern)
As shown in FIG. 5, the reference pattern of the test pattern 3 is different from the first test pattern, and is a checkered pattern formed by the first sub-region 31 (black cell in the drawing) and the second sub-region 32 (white cell in the drawing). Make.

  Specifically, the first sub-region 31 (black) and the second sub-region 32 (white) are configured by unit cells having the same shape and size, and the reference pattern is determined by the two-dimensional arrangement of the unit cells. Composed. As described above, the reference pattern configured by the two-dimensional array of unit cells having the same shape and size has the effect of further improving the pseudo-uniformity at the time of observation as compared with the reference pattern made of a stripe pattern. Have. At the time of visual measurement by the user, since the reference pattern is observed from a certain viewing distance, the pattern itself and the checkerboard pattern are actually recognized directly by the user. None of them are recognized as a uniform pattern of almost gray. However, since the checkered pattern is composed of finer unit cells, the uniformity during observation is further improved.

(About the calibration status confirmation method using the test pattern)
In the display device 2 having a gamma value: γ as an index indicating the gradation reproduction characteristic (gamma characteristic), the relationship between the input signal [In] and the display luminance [Out] is
[Out] = ([In] / 255) ^γ
It is expressed by the following formula.

Here, for example, the display device 2 having a gamma value: γ = 1.8 and a display luminance of 50%
0.5 = ([In] / 255) ^1.8
From this equation, the input signal [In] = 174.

(A) Regarding setting of reference pattern In the display device 2 calibrated to γ = 1.8, in order to realize gray having a luminance of 50% of the maximum luminance, the reference pattern has a white area ratio of 50%. do it.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, if the area ratio between the first sub-region 21 and the second sub-region 22 having a black and white stripe pattern is set to 1: 1, a pseudo-luminance of 50% is displayed. It will be recognized as a region.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the area ratio of the black and white checkered pattern first subregion 21 and second subregion 22 constituted by unit cells having the same shape and size is set to 1: 1. Then, it is recognized as an area displayed with a pseudo brightness of 50%.

(B) Setting of uniform pattern When γ = 1.8, if the RGB value is set to 174 by the above calculation, gray having a luminance of 50% of the maximum luminance can be realized. Set the value to 174.

  Here, if the reference pattern and the uniform pattern respectively set as in (A) and (B) look the same brightness and color, it can be determined that the display device is accurately calibrated to γ = 1.8. become.

(Other test patterns)
Although the test pattern 3 has been described above, a case where the calibration state is confirmed with higher accuracy will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing patterns with luminance of 75%, 50%, and 25%. The RGB values of the uniform pattern in the display device 2 calibrated to γ = 1.8 are 217, 174, and 118. By displaying patterns having various luminances in this way, it is possible to check the calibration state for light and dark. In FIG. 6, for convenience of explanation, the boundary lines of the unit cells constituting the second sub-region are written and shown, but in reality, the boundary lines between the white cells are not displayed.

  In each of these three reference patterns, one cell group is composed of four unit cells arranged in two rows and two columns. Here, of the four unit cells constituting each cell group, a pair of diagonally adjacent unit cells constitutes a first subregion (black), and the remaining pair of unit cells constitutes a second subregion ( If white) is configured, a reference pattern shown in FIG. 6B with an area ratio of 1: 1 can be configured. Of the four unit cells constituting each cell group, one unit cell constitutes one sub-region, and the remaining three cells constitute the other sub-region, and the area is 3: 1 or 1: If the reference pattern 3 is configured, the reference pattern shown in FIG. 6C or 6A can be configured. In any case, the formed reference pattern is a repetitive pattern of cell groups composed of four unit cells arranged in 2 rows and 2 columns, so that sufficient pseudo uniformity can be ensured.

[About cumulative usage time measurement]
Next, usage time cumulative measurement will be described.

  The usage time cumulative measurement is a cumulative measurement of the usage time of the display device. Specifically, the usage time of the display device is cumulatively measured when the display device is turned on (ON). Shall. Since the tone reproduction characteristics of the display device change due to deterioration over time when the power is turned on, the accumulated time when the power is turned on is measured, and calibration is performed when a certain time has passed. Shall be performed. As a result, the gradation reproduction characteristics do not change due to deterioration due to aging in a state in which the display device is turned off (turned off). Therefore, when the display device is turned off, the accumulated usage time is accumulated. Time measurement shall not be performed. In this way, the usage time is cumulatively measured, and a timer is installed in order to determine whether the cumulative time has exceeded the calibration interval set time.

[Calibration interval setting time]
The calibration interval setting time will be described with reference to FIG.

  The calibration interval setting time is the time from calibration to the next calibration, and this calibration interval setting time is set in advance according to the type of display device. The calibration state can be confirmed at an appropriate interval according to the type of apparatus.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the presence / absence of calibration interval setting time and standby time measurement according to the type of display device.

  As shown in FIG. 7, examples of the display device include a liquid crystal display device (LCD), a plasma display (PDP), a cathode ray tube (CRT), an organic EL display device, and the like. Since the degree of deterioration due to changes with time and the change in gradation reproduction characteristics that occur in the state where the power is turned on (ON) are different, the calibration interval is set according to the type of display device. To do.

  Specifically, in a state where the power of the display device is turned on (turned on), that is, in a state where the illumination means included in the display device is turned on, the display device is deteriorated due to a change with time. However, the degree of deterioration due to aging that occurs when the illumination means is lit, and the change in gradation reproduction characteristics also vary depending on the type of display device. Therefore, by setting the calibration interval according to the type of such display device, the calibration state can be confirmed in various display devices, and an appropriate state can be maintained.

  Here, for example, the calibration interval setting time is set to 1500 hours for a liquid crystal display (LCD), 750 hours for a plasma display (PDP), 500 hours for a cathode ray tube (CRT), and 100 hours for an organic EL display device. And In this manner, the calibration interval setting time can be arbitrarily set by using the input unit depending on the type of each display device.

[About cumulative measurement of standby time]
The cumulative measurement of the standby time will be described with reference to FIG.

  Basically, as described above, the usage time of each display device 2 is cumulatively measured by the usage time cumulative measuring means only when the power of the display device is turned on (turned on).

  Here, whether or not cumulative measurement is performed is a problem even when the illumination unit included in the display device 2 is in a standby state. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when a liquid crystal monitor (LCD) and a cathode ray tube (CRT) are in a standby state, cumulative measurement is performed, and when a plasma display (PDP) and an organic EL display device are in a standby state. Can be set to not perform cumulative measurement. Similarly to the above, depending on the type of the display device 2, the illumination unit of the display device 2 may be operating even in the standby state. In such a case, deterioration due to changes over time occurs. End up. Therefore, according to the type of display device 2, the calibration state can be confirmed in various display devices by arbitrarily setting whether or not to perform cumulative measurement when the illumination means provided in the display device 2 is in the standby state. Can be maintained in an appropriate state.

[Calibration control processing]
Next, the calibration control process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the calibration control process, and the process shown by the flowchart is executed based on the control of a ROM (not shown) in the control unit 11.

  First, it is determined whether or not the power source of the display device 2 is turned on by the calibration control device 1 (step S11).

  Specifically, as described in [Measurement of Cumulative Usage Time], when the power of the display device 2 is turned on, the usage time of the display device 2 is cumulatively measured. It is judged whether it was done.

  Next, when the power of the display device 2 is turned on (step S11: Yes), a timer is activated (step S12).

  Specifically, as described above with respect to [Measurement of cumulative usage time], when the power of the display device 2 is turned on, the usage time of the display device 2 is cumulatively measured. When it is turned on, the timer is activated.

  If the power of the display device 2 is not turned on (step S11: No), the process waits until the power of the display device 2 is turned on.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the usage time (timer count) of the display device 2 cumulatively measured by the timer is longer than the calibration interval (step S13).

  Specifically, as described above with respect to [Calibration interval setting time], the calibration interval setting time is set in advance according to the type of the display device 2, and according to each type of display device 2. When the calibration interval set time has elapsed, the calibration state can be confirmed by displaying a test pattern or the like as will be described later, so that an accurate calibration state can be maintained. Accordingly, it is determined whether or not a preset time has elapsed.

  Next, when the usage time of the display device 2 cumulatively measured by the timer is longer than the calibration interval (step S13: Yes), a test pattern is created (step S14), and the created test pattern is displayed on the display device. 2 is displayed on the display unit 2 (step S15).

  Specifically, when the usage time of the display device 2 cumulatively measured by the timer is longer than the calibration interval, the above-described [reference pattern and uniform pattern] is used to check the calibration state. A uniform pattern and a reference pattern as described above are generated.

  Further, a test pattern 3 composed of a first area and a second area is defined on the screen of the display device 2, and a uniform pattern generated in the first area is generated and a reference pattern generated in the second area is generated. Is displayed as a test pattern 3.

  Thereby, although mentioned later, a user can judge whether the reference pattern and the uniform pattern currently displayed on the test pattern 3 displayed on the display apparatus 2 visually are the same.

  Here, when the timer count is smaller than the calibration interval (step S13: No), it is determined whether or not the power of the display device is turned off (step S21).

  Next, as a result of judging whether the reference pattern and the uniform pattern displayed on the test pattern displayed on the display device 2 visually look the same, the user looks the same on the calibration control device. It is determined whether or not an input has been made (step S16).

  When the reference pattern displayed in the test pattern and the uniform pattern are input to the calibration control device 1 (when the OK button is pressed as shown in FIG. 2) (step S16: Yes) Deletes the test pattern (step S23).

  Since the reference pattern and the uniform pattern look the same, it can be determined that the calibration is performed accurately.

  Next, when the reference pattern and the uniform pattern displayed in the test pattern look the same, they are not input to the calibration control device (when the NG button is pressed as shown in FIG. 2) (step S16: No) deletes the test pattern (step S17), executes calibration (step S18), and creates a profile (step S19). For the calibration execution process and the profile creation process, refer to Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-173890 filed by the applicant of the present invention.

  Next, the timer count is reset (step S20).

  When the calibration is performed, the display device 2 is in a state in which the calibration is accurately performed. Therefore, in order to cumulatively measure the usage time until the next calibration is performed, the timer count is reset, and a new one is newly created. Start cumulative measurement.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the display device 2 is powered off (step S21).

  Specifically, since the usage time of the display device 2 is accumulated and measured when the power of the display device 2 is turned on, the use of the display device 2 is performed if the power of the display device 2 is turned off. This is because there is no need to measure time cumulatively.

  Next, when the power of the display device 2 is turned off (step S21: Yes), the timer is stopped (step S22).

  Specifically, since the usage time of the display device 2 is accumulated and measured when the power of the display device 2 is turned on, the cumulative measurement of the usage time is performed when the power of the display device 2 is turned off. Shall be temporarily suspended.

  Next, when the power of the display device 2 is not turned off (step S21: No), the timer is operated (step S12), and thereafter the same processing as described above is performed.

  Specifically, when the power of the display device 2 is turned on, the usage time of the display device 2 is accumulated and measured. Therefore, the usage time is accumulated while the power of the display device 2 is turned on. Shall be measured.

(2) Second Embodiment Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  For example, when a product is confirmed and purchased on the display device 2 such as a monitor without looking at the actual product such as a Web catalog, the color of the product needs to be accurately expressed on the display device 2. It is necessary to determine whether or not the predetermined display device 2 is accurately calibrated.

  The case where the calibration control apparatus 1 of the present invention is applied in such a case will be described.

  Although this embodiment is different from the first embodiment, basically the same operation is performed, and therefore particularly different portions will be described in detail here.

[Calibration control device]
First, when the display device 2 receives a predetermined image via a network and displays the image, a combination of gradation values of the three primary colors RGB is specified, and a uniform pattern with uniform brightness and color is generated. A reference pattern is generated in which a first sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a minimum gradation value and a second sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a maximum gradation value are mixed at a predetermined area ratio. Then, a test pattern composed of a first area and a second area is defined on the screen of the display device 2, the uniform pattern is defined in the first area, the reference pattern is defined in the second area, It is displayed as a test pattern (see FIG. 9).

  Thereby, it is possible to confirm whether the display device 2 is accurately calibrated by a simple method.

[Calibration control processing]
Next, the calibration control process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the calibration control process, and the process shown in the flowchart is executed based on the control of a ROM (not shown) in the control unit 11.

  First, it is determined whether or not the display device 2 has received a predetermined image via the network and displayed the image (step S51).

  When the display device 2 receives a predetermined image via the network and displays the image (step S51: Yes), the test pattern 3 is created (step S52), and the created test pattern 3 is displayed on the display device 2. Are displayed on the display unit (step S53).

  The subsequent operations are the same as in the first embodiment.

  As described above, when a product is checked and purchased on a display device without looking at the actual product such as a Web catalog, the color of the product must be accurately expressed on the display device. It is necessary to determine whether the display device is accurately calibrated.

  When the display device receives a predetermined image via the network and displays the image, the display device creates the test pattern and displays the created test pattern on the display unit of the display device. Confirming whether the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device (whether the display device is correctly calibrated) at the timing when the predetermined image is received and displayed. it can. Therefore, it is possible to purchase the product after confirming whether the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device.

(3) Third Embodiment Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  Although the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment, basically the same operation is performed, and therefore, particularly different portions will be described in detail here.

[Calibration control device]
First, a time (calibration interval setting time) from when the display device 2 is calibrated until the next calibration is performed is set in advance according to the type of the display device 2. The usage time of the display device 2 is cumulatively measured, the usage time of the display device 2 has passed a preset calibration interval setting time, and the display device 2 receives a predetermined image via the network to obtain an image. When displayed, a combination of gradation values of the three primary colors RGB is specified, a uniform pattern with uniform brightness and color is generated, and the first primary area where the three primary colors RGB each have the minimum gradation value and the three primary colors RGB are respectively A reference pattern in which the second sub-region having the maximum gradation value is mixed at a predetermined area ratio is generated. Then, a test pattern composed of a first area and a second area is defined on the screen of the display device 2, the uniform pattern is defined in the first area, the reference pattern is defined in the second area, It is displayed as a test pattern (see FIG. 9).

  Thereby, it is possible to confirm whether the display device 2 is accurately calibrated by a simple method.

[Calibration control processing]
Next, calibration control processing will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the calibration control process, and the process shown by the flowchart is executed based on the control of a ROM (not shown) in the control unit 11.

  First, it is determined whether or not the power source of the display device 2 is turned on by the calibration control device 1 (step S61). When the power source of the display device 2 is turned on (step S61: Yes), the timer is activated. (Step S62).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the usage time of the display device 2 cumulatively measured by the timer is larger than the calibration interval (step S63), and the usage time of the display device 2 cumulatively measured is larger than the calibration interval. In the case (step S63: Yes), it is determined whether the display device 2 has received a predetermined image via the network and displayed the image (step S64).

  When the display device 2 receives a predetermined image via the network and displays the image (step S64: Yes), the test pattern 3 is created (step S65), and the created test pattern 3 is displayed on the display device 2. Are displayed on the display unit (step S66).

  The subsequent operations are the same as in the first embodiment.

  As described above, when a product is checked and purchased on a display device without looking at the actual product such as a Web catalog, the color of the product must be accurately expressed on the display device. It is necessary to determine whether the display device is accurately calibrated.

  Test when the usage time of the display device has passed the calibration interval setting time set in advance according to the type of display device, and the display device has received a predetermined image via the network and displayed the image By creating a pattern and displaying the created test pattern on the display unit of the display device, it is possible to check whether the display device is accurately calibrated periodically according to the type of the display device In addition, at the timing when the display device receives a predetermined image via the network and displays the image, whether the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device (the display device is accurately calibrated). Or not). Therefore, it is possible to purchase the product after confirming whether the color of the product is accurately expressed on the display device.

  In this embodiment, when the display device usage time has passed a preset calibration interval setting time, and the display device receives a predetermined image via the network and displays the image, The case where the test pattern is created and displayed has been described, but even when the preset calibration interval setting time has not elapsed, the display device received the predetermined image via the network and displayed the image. In this case, the calibration may be executed by setting that the calibration is executed.

It is the schematic which shows the calibration control apparatus and display apparatus of this invention. It is the schematic which shows the test pattern displayed on the display part of a display apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the calibration control apparatus of this invention. It is the schematic which shows the uniform pattern displayed in the 1st area | region in a test pattern, and the reference pattern displayed in a 2nd area | region. It is the schematic which shows the uniform pattern displayed in the 1st area | region in a test pattern, and the reference pattern displayed in a 2nd area | region. It is the schematic which shows the uniform pattern displayed in the 1st area | region in a test pattern, and the reference pattern displayed in a 2nd area | region. It is a figure which shows the presence or absence of the calibration interval setting time according to the kind of display apparatus, and standby time measurement. It is a flowchart which shows the calibration control process of this invention. It is the schematic which shows the test pattern displayed on the display part of a display apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the calibration control process of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the calibration control process of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Calibration control apparatus 2 ... Display apparatus 3 ... Test pattern 11 ... Control part 12 ... Memory | storage part 13 ... External apparatus connection part 14 ... Bus 10 ... 1st 1 area 20 ... 2nd area 21 ... 1st sub area 22 ... 2nd sub area 31 ... 1st sub area 32 ... 2nd sub area

Claims (10)

In the calibration status check device that checks the calibration status of the display device,
A setting means for instructing to set a calibration interval setting time as a time from the execution of the calibration to the next execution of the calibration according to the type of the display device;
Usage time cumulative measuring means for cumulatively measuring the usage time of the display device;
Determining means for determining whether the usage time of the display device has passed the preset calibration interval setting time;
When it is determined by the determining means that the usage time of the display device has passed the preset calibration interval setting time, brightness and color are specified uniformly by a combination of gradation values of the three primary colors RGB Uniform pattern generating means for generating a uniform pattern;
Reference pattern generation means for generating a reference pattern in which a first sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a minimum gradation value and a second sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a maximum gradation value are mixed at a predetermined area ratio When,
A test pattern constituted by the first area and the second area is defined on a screen of the display device, the uniform pattern is defined in the first area, and the reference pattern is defined in the second area. Display control means for controlling to display as the test pattern;
A calibration state confirmation apparatus comprising: In the calibration status check device that checks the calibration status of the display device,
When the display device receives a predetermined image via a network and displays the image,
Uniform pattern generation means for generating a uniform pattern in which brightness and color are uniformly specified by a combination of gradation values of the three primary colors RGB;
Reference pattern generation means for generating a reference pattern in which a first sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a minimum gradation value and a second sub-region in which each of the three primary colors RGB has a maximum gradation value are mixed at a predetermined area ratio When,
A test pattern constituted by the first area and the second area is defined on a screen of the display device, the uniform pattern is defined in the first area, and the reference pattern is defined in the second area. Display control means for controlling to display as the test pattern;
A calibration state confirmation apparatus comprising: The calibration state confirmation apparatus according to claim 2,
A setting means for instructing to set a calibration interval setting time as a time from the execution of the calibration to the next execution of the calibration according to the type of the display device;
Usage time cumulative measuring means for cumulatively measuring the usage time of the display device;
Determining means for determining whether the usage time of the display device has passed the preset calibration interval setting time;
A calibration state confirmation apparatus further comprising: In the calibration state confirmation device according to claim 1 or claim 3,
The calibration time confirmation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the usage time cumulative measurement means cumulatively measures the usage time when the illumination means included in the display device is in a lighting state. A calibration control device including the calibration state confirmation device for a display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
A user who views the test pattern displayed on the screen of the display device by the display control means inputs that the brightness and color of the first area and the second area do not match. In some cases, the calibration control device further comprises calibration execution means for executing calibration control of the display device. In the calibration status check method for checking the calibration status of the display device,
A setting step in which a calibration interval setting time as a time from the execution of the calibration to the next execution of the calibration is instructed in advance according to the type of the display device;
A usage time cumulative measurement step of cumulatively measuring the usage time of the display device;
A determination step of determining whether the usage time of the display device has passed the preset calibration interval setting time;
When it is determined in the determination step that the usage time of the display device has passed the preset calibration interval setting time, brightness and color are uniformly specified by a combination of gradation values of the three primary colors RGB A uniform pattern generation process for generating a uniform pattern;
A reference pattern generation step of generating a reference pattern in which a first sub-region having each of the three primary colors RGB has a minimum gradation value and a second sub-region having each of the three primary colors RGB having a maximum gradation value are mixed at a predetermined area ratio. When,
A test pattern constituted by the first area and the second area is defined on a screen of the display device, the uniform pattern is defined in the first area, and the reference pattern is defined in the second area. A display control step for controlling to display as the test pattern;
A calibration state confirmation method characterized by comprising: In the calibration status check method for checking the calibration status of the display device,
When the display device receives a predetermined image via a network and displays the image,
A uniform pattern generating step for generating a uniform pattern in which brightness and color are uniformly specified by a combination of gradation values of the three primary colors RGB;
A reference pattern generation step of generating a reference pattern in which a first sub-region having each of the three primary colors RGB has a minimum gradation value and a second sub-region having each of the three primary colors RGB having a maximum gradation value are mixed at a predetermined area ratio. When,
A test pattern constituted by the first area and the second area is defined on a screen of the display device, the uniform pattern is defined in the first area, and the reference pattern is defined in the second area. A display control step for controlling to display as the test pattern;
A calibration state confirmation method characterized by comprising: In the calibration state confirmation method according to claim 7,
A setting step in which a calibration interval setting time as a time from the execution of the calibration to the next execution of the calibration is instructed in advance according to the type of the display device;
A usage time cumulative measurement step of cumulatively measuring the usage time of the display device;
A determination step of determining whether the usage time of the display device has passed the preset calibration interval setting time;
A calibration state confirmation method further comprising: In the calibration state confirmation method according to claim 6 or 8,
The calibration method for confirming a calibration state, wherein, in the accumulated usage time measurement step, the usage time is cumulatively measured when the illumination means provided in the display device is in a lighting state. A calibration control method including the calibration state confirmation device for a display device according to any one of claims 6 to 10,
A user who visually observes the test pattern displayed on the screen of the display device in the display control step is instructed to input that the brightness and color of the first area and the second area do not match. In some cases, the method further comprises a calibration execution step of executing calibration control of the display device.

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