KR102466371B1 - Display Device and Driving Method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention improves display quality by displaying an image close to the release display panel and improving abnormal stair-stepping and colorful color anomalies that occur in the boundary area separating the display area and the non-display area when implementing a release display panel. along with reducing power consumption. To this end, according to the present invention, a first compensation subpixel and a second compensation subpixel having a shape different from those of the first compensation subpixel are disposed in a boundary region dividing the display area and the non-display area.

Description

Display device and its driving method {Display Device and Driving Method thereof}

The present invention relates to a display device and a method for driving the same.

As information technology develops, the market for display devices, which are communication media between users and information, is growing. Accordingly, Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), Organic Light Emitting Diode Display (OLED), Electro Phoretic Display (EPD), and Plasma Display Panel (PDP) ) is increasing.

Some of the display devices described above, for example, a liquid crystal display device or an organic light emitting display device, include a display panel including a plurality of sub-pixels arranged in a matrix form and a driver that drives the display panel. The driver includes a scan driver for supplying a scan signal (or gate signal) to the display panel and a data driver for supplying a data signal to the display panel.

In the above display device, a specific image is displayed as the display panel emits or transmits light based on power output from the power supply unit and scan and data signals output from the scan driver and data driver.

On the other hand, the above-described display device is implemented based on a release display panel having a shape such as a circle, an ellipse, and the like as well as a rectangle. However, the display device proposed in the prior art displays an existing image as it is even though a heterogeneous display panel is used, so there is a problem in that an abnormal step phenomenon and a colorful color abnormality occur at the edge of the display area, so improvement is needed. It is required.

The present invention to solve the problems of the above-described background art is to improve the abnormal step phenomenon and colorful color anomaly that occur in the boundary area dividing the display area and the non-display area when implementing the release display panel, and to improve the release display panel. It is to display a nearby image to improve display quality and reduce power consumption.

As a means for solving the above problems, the present invention provides a display device including a release display panel having a circular or elliptical shape. The release display panel includes a pixel disposed in a display area and composed of three or four sub-pixels, a first compensation sub-pixel adjacent to a border area dividing a display area and a non-display area, and a first compensation sub-pixel adjacent to the border area. and a second compensation sub-pixel having a shape different from that of the sub-pixel.

The first compensation subpixel may include at least two subpixels, and the second compensation subpixel may include at least one subpixel.

The second compensation sub-pixel may have a shape in which a length in a minor axis direction is longer than in a major axis direction.

The second compensation sub-pixel may have a shape in which a length in the long-axis direction is longer than that in the short-axis direction.

The second compensation sub-pixel may have N (N is 2 or more) opening areas.

The aperture area of the second compensation sub-pixel may selectively emit or not emit light according to an arrangement position.

The second compensation sub-pixel includes a first opening area and a second opening area, and a ratio of the first opening area to the second opening area may vary depending on positions.

The release display panel may include a black matrix disposed along the boundary area.

The length of the second compensation sub-pixel is longer in the minor axis direction than in the major axis direction, and the opening area may be divided into one side and the other side.

The position of the opening area covered by the black matrix may be different depending on the position of the second compensation sub-pixel.

A part of the opening area of the first compensation subpixel and the second compensation subpixel may be covered by the black matrix.

The positions of the black matrix covering the opening areas of the first compensation subpixel and the second compensation subpixel may be different, but the covering areas may be the same.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a pixel disposed in the display area and composed of three or four sub-pixels, a first compensation sub-pixel adjacent to a border area dividing the display area and a non-display area, and a first compensation sub-pixel adjacent to the border area and adjacent to the border area. Provided is a method of driving a display device realized by a heterogeneous display panel having a circular or elliptical shape including a second compensation subpixel having a different shape from a first compensation subpixel. A method of driving a display device includes analyzing a data signal to be supplied to a heteromorphic display panel and extracting an area other than a circular shape; Black processing so that data signals are not output for areas other than the circle, rendering only the parts corresponding to the red and blue data signals in the image of red, green and blue data signals, and outputting the parts corresponding to the remaining green data signals as they are performing image processing including algorithm processing and edge compensation processing for performing edge dithering or gradation on data signals existing in a border area; and outputting the image-processed data signal.

The image processing may be performed in the order of black processing, algorithm processing, and edge (edge) dithering, or may be performed in the order of algorithm processing, black processing, and edge (edge) dithering.

The present invention has an effect of improving an abnormal stair effect and a colorful color abnormality occurring in a boundary area dividing a display area and a non-display area when a heterogeneous display panel is implemented. In addition, the present invention has an effect of reducing power consumption as well as improving display quality by displaying an image close to the shape of the release display panel.

1 is a schematic block diagram of an organic light emitting display device;
FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a sub-pixel shown in FIG. 1; FIG.
3 is an exemplary view of a display device manufactured based on a circular display panel;
4 is a view for explaining problems of a conventional circular display panel;
5 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display panel according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
6 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display panel according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining one of the sub-pixels shown in FIG. 6;
8 schematically shows a display panel according to a third embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining one of the sub-pixels shown in FIG. 8;
10 is a flowchart for explaining a method of driving a display device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of driving a display device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
12 is a diagram showing an example of image processing according to embodiments of the present invention;
13 is a diagram showing an example of image processing according to embodiments of the present invention.
14 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display panel according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining one of the sub-pixels shown in FIG. 15;
16 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display panel according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention;
17 to 22 are exemplary diagrams for explaining one of the sub-pixels shown in FIG. 16;

Hereinafter, specific details for the implementation of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The display device according to the present invention is implemented as a small display device such as a navigation device, an image player, a personal computer (PC), a wearable device (watch, glasses, etc.) and a mobile phone (smart phone). The display panel of the display device may be selected from a liquid crystal display panel, an organic light emitting display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, and a plasma display panel, but is not limited thereto.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described using an organic light emitting display device as an example.

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an organic light emitting display device, and FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a subpixel shown in FIG. 1 .

As shown in FIG. 1 , the organic light emitting display device includes an image supply unit 110, a timing controller 120, a scan driver 130, a data driver 140, a display panel 150, and a power supply unit 180. included

The display panel 150 displays an image corresponding to a scan signal and a data signal DATA output from a driver including a scan driver 130 and a data driver 140 . The display panel 150 is implemented in a top-emission method, a bottom-emission method, or a dual-emission method.

The display panel 150 is implemented in a flat, curved, or flexible form according to the material of the substrate. In the display panel 150 , subpixels SP positioned between two substrates emit light by themselves in response to a driving current.

As shown in FIG. 2 , in one sub-pixel, a switching transistor SW connected to (or formed at an intersection of) a scan line GL1 and a data line DL1 and data supplied through the switching transistor SW A pixel circuit (PC) operating in response to the signal (DATA) is included. The pixel circuit PC includes circuits such as a driving transistor, a storage capacitor, and an organic light emitting diode and a compensation circuit for compensating for them.

In the sub-pixel, when the driving transistor is turned on in response to the data voltage stored in the storage capacitor, a driving current is supplied to the organic light emitting diode positioned between the first power line VDDEL and the second power line VSSEL. The organic light emitting diode emits light in response to a driving current.

The compensation circuit is a circuit for compensating for the threshold voltage of the driving transistor. The compensation circuit is composed of one or more thin film transistors and capacitors. Since the configuration of the compensation circuit varies greatly depending on the compensation method, specific examples and descriptions thereof will be omitted. Thin film transistors are implemented based on low-temperature polysilicon (LTPS), amorphous silicon (a-Si), oxide or organic semiconductor layers.

The image supply unit 110 processes the data signal and outputs it together with a vertical sync signal, a horizontal sync signal, a data enable signal, and a clock signal. The image supply unit 110 supplies a vertical synchronization signal, a horizontal synchronization signal, a data enable signal, a clock signal, and a data signal to the timing controller 120 .

The timing controller 120 receives a data signal from the image supply unit 110 and controls the gate timing control signal (GDC) for controlling the operation timing of the scan driver 130 and the operation timing of the data driver 140. outputs a data timing control signal (DDC) for The timing controller 120 supplies the data signal DATA together with the data timing control signal DDC to the data driver 140 .

The scan driver 130 shifts the level of the gate voltage in response to the gate timing control signal GDC supplied from the timing controller 120 and outputs a scan signal. The scan driver 130 includes a level shifter and a shift register. The scan driver 130 supplies scan signals to the subpixels SP included in the display panel 150 through the scan lines GL1 to GLm. The scan driver 130 may be formed on the display panel 150 in the form of a gate-in-panel or an integrated circuit (IC). A part formed in the gate-in-panel method in the scan driver 130 is a shift register.

The data driver 140 samples and latches the data signal DATA in response to the data timing control signal DDC supplied from the timing controller 120, converts a digital signal into an analog signal in response to the gamma reference voltage, and outputs the converted analog signal. . The data driver 140 supplies the data signal DATA to the subpixels SP included in the display panel 150 through the data lines DL1 to DLn. The data driver 140 may be formed in the form of an integrated circuit (IC).

The power supply 180 generates a first power source VDDEL and a second power source VSSEL to be supplied to the display panel 150 . The first power source VDDEL corresponds to high potential power and the second power source VSSEL corresponds to low potential power. The power supply 180 generates power (VDDEL, VSSEL) to be supplied to the display panel 150 as well as power to be supplied to the scan driver 130 or the data driver 140 based on input power supplied from the outside.

The above display device has a display panel 150 based on power (VDDEL, VSSEL) output from the power supply unit 180 and scan signals and data signals (DATA) output from the scan driver 130 and data driver 140. As it emits light, a specific image is displayed.

The display panel 150 described above is implemented as a release display panel having a shape such as a circular shape, an oval shape, or the like, as well as a rectangular shape. Such a release display panel is applied and used to a small display device such as a wearable display device (watch, glasses, etc.).

3 is an exemplary diagram of a display device manufactured based on a circular display panel, and FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining problems of the conventional circular display panel.

As shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 3 , the circular display panel may be implemented as a watch 200 in which the circular outline is exposed as it is or a watch 300 in which the circular outline is covered by a mechanism. have.

As shown in FIG. 4, the circular display panel is located outside the display area AA and has a non-display area BA for not displaying an image. In the circular display panel, the display area AA and the non-display area BA are divided by a circular (curved) boundary area (or an oblique stepped portion).

However, in the prior art, even though a circular display panel is used, as an existing image is displayed as it is, problems such as an abnormal step phenomenon and a colorful color abnormality occur at the edge of the display area.

5 is a schematic view of a display panel according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a view schematically showing a display panel according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display panel according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining one of the subpixels shown in FIG. 8 . .

<First Embodiment>

As shown in FIG. 5 , in the first embodiment of the present invention, a compensation sub-pixel (which is composed of a pixel P and a different combination) in the boundary area EG that divides the display area AA and the non-display area BA ESP) is placed.

The pixels P disposed throughout the display area AA include red, green, blue, and white subpixels or red, green, and blue subpixels. The compensation sub-pixel ESP disposed adjacent to the boundary area EG is composed of two selected sub-pixels among red, green, blue, and white sub-pixels.

For example, the compensation sub-pixel ESP includes (1) red and green sub-pixels, (2) green and blue sub-pixels, (3) blue and white sub-pixels, (4) red and green sub-pixels, ( 5) It consists of blue and green sub-pixels.

If the compensation sub-pixels (ESP) having the above structure are arranged in the circular (curved) boundary area (EG), when the circular display panel is implemented, the It is possible to prevent an abnormal staircase phenomenon and an abnormal color phenomenon to some extent. This is because sub-pixels can be disposed corresponding to the circular (curved) boundary area EG.

Meanwhile, the compensation sub-pixel ESP may be selected as a sub-pixel that emits a color that harmonizes with surrounding sub-pixels in order to obtain a maximum smooth or smooth effect. In addition, the compensation sub-pixel ESP may represent light with an intensity that matches the surrounding sub-pixels.

<Second Embodiment>

As shown in FIG. 6 , in the second embodiment of the present invention, a first compensation sub-type composed of pixels P and other combinations in the boundary area EG dividing the display area AA and the non-display area BA. A second compensation subpixel LSP having a different shape from the pixel ESP and the first compensation subpixel ESP is disposed.

The pixels P disposed throughout the display area AA include red, green, blue, and white subpixels or red, green, and blue subpixels. The first compensation sub-pixel ESP disposed adjacent to the boundary area EG is composed of two sub-pixels selected from among red, green, blue, and white sub-pixels. Unlike the first compensation subpixel ESP, the second compensation subpixel LSP disposed adjacent to the boundary region EG is composed of a single subpixel. The second compensation subpixel LSP is composed of one subpixel selected from among red, green, blue, and white subpixels. Also, unlike other subpixels, the second compensation subpixel LSP has a longer shape in the short axis direction (or horizontal direction) than in the long axis direction (or vertical direction). The second compensation subpixel LSP may be configured by rotating a subpixel having a longer length in the major axis direction than in the minor axis direction, such as the first compensation subpixel ESP, by 90 degrees.

For example, the first compensation subpixel ESP may include (1) red and green subpixels, (2) green and blue subpixels, (3) blue and white subpixels, and (4) red and green subpixels. , (5) blue and green sub-pixels, and the like. The second compensation subpixel LSP includes (1) a red subpixel, (2) a green subpixel, (3) a blue subpixel, and (4) a white subpixel.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the second compensation subpixel LSP has a first light emitting area EM1 and a second light emitting area EM2. The first light emitting region EM1 and the second light emitting region EM2 selectively emit light or not emit light according to the position where the second compensation subpixel LSP is disposed.

For example, when the second compensation subpixel LSP is located in the left boundary area EG of the circular display panel and the first light emitting area EM1 is inevitably located in the non-display area BA, the first light emitting area EM1 ) does not emit light, and the second light emitting region EM2 emits light.

For example, when the second compensation subpixel LSP is located in the right boundary area EG of the circular display panel and the second light emitting area EM2 is inevitably located in the non-display area BA, the second light emitting area EM2 ) does not emit light, and the first light emitting region EM1 emits light.

Meanwhile, in the above description, it is taken as an example that the compensation subpixel includes two light emitting regions. However, this is just one example, and the number of apertures defining the light emitting area may be defined as N (N is an integer greater than or equal to 2).

If the second compensation sub-pixel ESP having the above structure is disposed in the circular (curved) boundary area EG, in the boundary area EG between the display area AA and the non-display area BA when implementing a circular display panel, It is possible to prevent an abnormal staircase phenomenon and an abnormal color phenomenon to some extent. This is because sub-pixels are arranged corresponding to the circular (curved) boundary area EG and the light emitting area can be selected.

Meanwhile, the first and second compensating sub-pixels ESP and LSP may be selected as sub-pixels that emit colors that harmonize with neighboring sub-pixels in order to obtain a maximum smooth or smooth effect. Also, the first and second compensating sub-pixels ESP and LSP may represent light with an intensity that harmonizes with surrounding sub-pixels.

<Third Embodiment>

As shown in FIG. 8 , in the third embodiment of the present invention, a first compensation sub composed of pixels P and other combinations in the boundary area EG dividing the display area AA and the non-display area BA. Unlike the pixel ESP and the first compensation sub-pixel ESP, a third compensation sub-pixel HSP composed of a single sub-pixel is disposed. The third compensation sub-pixel HSP is only named as the third compensation sub-pixel to distinguish it from the second compensation sub-pixel of the second embodiment, and is a modified example of the second compensation sub-pixel.

The pixels P disposed throughout the display area AA include red, green, blue, and white subpixels or red, green, and blue subpixels. The first compensation sub-pixel ESP disposed adjacent to the boundary area EG is composed of two sub-pixels selected from among red, green, blue, and white sub-pixels. The third compensation subpixel HSP disposed adjacent to the boundary area EG is composed of one subpixel selected from among red, green, blue, and white subpixels.

For example, the first compensation subpixel ESP may include (1) red and green subpixels, (2) green and blue subpixels, (3) blue and white subpixels, and (4) red and green subpixels. , (5) blue and green sub-pixels, and the like. The third compensation sub-pixel HSP includes (1) a red sub-pixel, (2) a green sub-pixel, (3) a blue sub-pixel, and (4) a white sub-pixel. Like the first compensation sub-pixel ESP, the third compensation sub-pixel HSP has a longer shape in the major axis direction (or vertical direction) than in the minor axis direction (or horizontal direction).

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 , the third compensation sub-pixel HSP has a first light emitting area EM1 and a second light emitting area EM2. The first light emitting region EM1 and the second light emitting region EM2 selectively emit light or not emit light according to the position where the third compensation subpixel HSP is disposed.

For example, when the third compensation subpixel HSP is located in the upper boundary area EG of the circular display panel and the first light emitting area EM1 is inevitably located in the non-display area BA, the first light emitting area EM1 ) does not emit light, and the second light emitting region EM2 emits light.

For example, when the third compensation subpixel HSP is located in the lower boundary area EG of the circular display panel and the second light emitting area EM2 is inevitably located in the non-display area BA, the second light emitting area EM2 ) does not emit light, and the first light emitting region EM1 emits light.

Meanwhile, in the above description, it is taken as an example that the compensation subpixel includes two light emitting regions. However, this is only an example, and the light emitting area may be defined as N (N is an integer of 2 or more).

If the third compensation sub-pixel HSP having the above structure is disposed in the circular (curved) boundary area EG, the boundary area EG between the display area AA and the non-display area BA when the circular display panel is implemented. It is possible to prevent an abnormal staircase phenomenon and an abnormal color phenomenon to some extent. This is because sub-pixels are arranged corresponding to the circular (curved) boundary area EG and the light emitting area can be selected.

Meanwhile, the first and third compensating sub-pixels ESP and HSP may be selected as sub-pixels emitting a color that harmonizes with neighboring sub-pixels in order to obtain a maximum smooth or smooth effect. Also, the first and third compensating sub-pixels ESP and HSP may represent light with an intensity that harmonizes with surrounding sub-pixels.

In the above embodiments of the present invention, the compensation structure of the pixel or sub-pixel located in the border area near the upper left corner is taken as an example. However, referring to the above embodiments, it is possible to implement a compensation structure of pixels or sub-pixels located in the lower left, upper right, and lower right boundary areas.

<The fourth embodiment>

10 is a flowchart for explaining a method of driving a display device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

A method of driving a display device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of driving a display panel after realizing one or a combination thereof of the first to third embodiments described above, which is illustrated in the following diagram. equal to 10

First, a data signal is analyzed and an area other than a circle is extracted (S110). The process of analyzing the data signal and extracting a non-circular area may be performed by an image supplier or a timing controller. By extracting areas other than the circular area, it is possible to define a display area for displaying an image, a non-display area for not displaying an image, and a boundary area separating them.

Next, the data signal for the non-circular area is black-processed (S120). By black processing the data signal for the non-circular area, the data signal can be formed close to the image to be displayed. In addition, since only the part corresponding to the image to be displayed outputs the data signal and the remaining part is masked, power consumption is reduced when the data signal is output by the data driver (the masked area does not convert the data signal into an analog form or data signal is not output).

Next, an algorithm (Pixel Processing Algorism; hereinafter referred to as PPA) is processed (S130). PPA processing is performed on data signals present in all areas. PPA processing refers to an image processing algorithm that renders only portions corresponding to red and blue data signals in an image of input red, green, and blue data signals, and outputs the remaining portions corresponding to green data signals as they are.

Since a circular display panel or the like has insufficient pixels compared to an actual image, a phenomenon in which the contours of letters may be blurred may occur. PPA treatment is performed because it can compensate for these phenomena and problems and can control the contour clearly and with intensity.

Next, an outer (edge) compensation (dithering or gradation) process is performed (S140). Outer (edge) compensation processing is performed on the data signal for the circular (curved) boundary area EG. Edge compensation processing is performed to produce a similar color by mixing other colors when the requested color is not available. As can be seen from the display panels according to the first to third embodiments of the present invention, compensation sub-pixels exist outside the display panels. Therefore, if the outer (edge) compensation process is performed, it is possible to improve problems such as abnormal stair effects and colorful color anomalies in the outer (edge) as the compensation sub-pixel is used.

Next, a data signal on which image processing including black processing, PPA processing, and periphery compensation processing is completed is output (S150). The data signal on which image processing is completed is supplied to the data driver. The data signal in digital form is converted into analog form by the data driver and supplied to the display panel. The display panel displays an image based on a data signal finally output from the data driver.

<Fifth Embodiment>

11 is a flowchart for explaining a method of driving a display device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

A method of driving a display device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of driving a display panel after realizing one or a combination thereof of the first to third embodiments described above, which is illustrated in the following diagram. Same as 11.

First, a data signal is analyzed and an area other than a circle is extracted (S110). The process of analyzing the data signal and extracting a non-circular area may be performed by an image supplier or a timing controller. By extracting areas other than the circular area, it is possible to define a display area for displaying an image, a non-display area for not displaying an image, and a boundary area separating them.

Next, PPA (Pixel Processing Algorism) processing is performed (S120). PPA processing is performed on data signals present in all areas. PPA processing refers to an image processing algorithm that renders only portions corresponding to red and blue data signals in an image of input red, green, and blue data signals, and outputs the remaining portions corresponding to green data signals as they are.

Since a circular display panel or the like has insufficient pixels compared to an actual image, a phenomenon in which the contours of letters may be blurred may occur. PPA treatment is performed because it can compensate for these phenomena and problems and can control the contour clearly and with intensity.

Next, the data signal for the non-circular area is black-processed (S130). By black processing the data signal for the non-circular area, the data signal can be formed close to the image to be displayed. In addition, since only a portion corresponding to the image to be displayed outputs the data signal and the remaining portion is masked, power consumption is reduced when the data signal is output by the data driver.

Next, an outer (edge) compensation (dithering or gradation) process is performed (S140). Outer (edge) compensation processing is performed on the data signal for the circular (curved) boundary area EG. Edge compensation processing is performed to produce a similar color by mixing other colors when the requested color is not available. As can be seen from the display panels according to the first to third embodiments of the present invention, compensation sub-pixels exist outside the display panels. Therefore, if the outer (edge) compensation process is performed, it is possible to improve problems such as abnormal stair effects and colorful color anomalies in the outer (edge) as the compensation sub-pixel is used.

Next, a data signal on which image processing including PPA processing, black processing, and dithering is completed is output (S150). The data signal on which image processing is completed is supplied to the data driver. The data signal in digital form is converted into analog form by the data driver and supplied to the display panel. The display panel displays an image based on a data signal finally output from the data driver.

12 is a diagram showing an example of image processing according to example embodiments, and FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of image processing according to example embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 12 , when image processing is performed according to embodiments of the present invention, sub-pixels of the display area AA adjacent to the boundary area EG are displayed in a gradated form. For this reason, abnormal stair effects and colorful color abnormalities occurring in the boundary area EG can be improved. 12 can be obtained during dithering or gradation processing.

As shown in FIG. 13, when image processing is performed according to embodiments of the present invention, all non-display areas BA positioned after the border area EG become invalid data signals. Therefore, since the border area EG can be more clearly emphasized, abnormal stair effects and colorful color anomalies occurring in the corresponding area can be improved. 13 can be obtained during black processing ( FIG. 13 b ) and PPA processing ( FIG. 13 c ).

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described using a liquid crystal display as an example.

14 is a diagram schematically showing a display panel according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining one of the subpixels shown in FIG. 15, and FIG. 16 is a view showing a seventh embodiment of the present invention. 17 to 22 are exemplary diagrams for explaining one of the subpixels shown in FIG. 16 .

<Embodiment 6>

The liquid crystal display device described below includes an image supply unit 110, a timing controller 120, a scan driver 130, a data driver 140, a display panel 150, and a backlight unit (not shown) as shown in FIG. 1. do.

The liquid crystal display device displays an image by adjusting the transmission amount of light provided from the backlight unit. The backlay unit is disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 150 . The display panel 150 includes a lower substrate on which switching transistors and the like are formed and an upper substrate on which color filters and the like are formed. A color filter may be formed on the lower substrate.

The display panel 150 has TN (Twisted Nematic) mode, VA (Vertical Alignment) mode, IPS (In Plane Switching) mode, FFS (Fringe Field Switching ) mode or ECB (Electrically Controlled Birefringence) mode. Since such a configuration corresponds to well-known technology, it will be omitted below and the present invention will be described based on the main features of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 14, in the sixth embodiment of the present invention, a first compensation sub composed of pixels P and other combinations in the boundary area EG dividing the display area AA and the non-display area BA. A second compensation subpixel LSP having a different shape from the pixel ESP and the first compensation subpixel ESP is disposed. As shown in (a) of FIG. 14, some of the pixels arranged in the border area EG are arranged as first compensation subpixels ESP and second compensation subpixels LSP as shown in (b) of FIG. 14.

The pixels P disposed throughout the display area AA include red, green, blue, and white subpixels or red, green, and blue subpixels. The first compensation sub-pixel ESP disposed adjacent to the boundary area EG is composed of one or two sub-pixels selected from red, green, blue and white sub-pixels.

Unlike the first compensation sub-pixel ESP, the second compensation sub-pixel LSP disposed adjacent to the boundary region EG is composed of one single sub-pixel. The second compensation subpixel LSP is composed of one subpixel selected from among red, green, blue, and white subpixels.

As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 , the second compensation subpixel LSP has a first transmissive area TM1 and a second transmissive area TM2 unlike other subpixels, for example, the first subpixel SP1. have The first transmissive area TM1 and the second transmissive area TM2 selectively transmits or does not transmit light according to the position where the second compensation subpixel LSP is disposed. However, this is just one example, and the number of opening areas defining the transmission area may be defined as N (N is an integer equal to or greater than 2).

For example, the first transmission region TM1 includes the pixel electrode PXL and the common electrode VCOM. The second transmission region TM2 includes the switching transistor SW as well as the pixel electrode PXL and common electrode VCOM. As an example, the first transmission area TM1 is disposed on the left side of the data line DL, but it may be disposed on the right side of the second transmission area TM2.

The pixel electrode PXL is connected to the source or drain electrode of the switching transistor SW through the contact hole CH. The gate line GL of the switching transistor SW may be connected to the scan driver located on the opposite side through a scan line, but is not limited thereto.

In FIG. 15 , the area of the long axis direction of the second compensation subpixel LSP is divided in half and disposed as an example. When the area of the long axis direction of the second compensation subpixel LSP is divided in half, the horizontal to vertical ratio of the second compensation subpixel LSP is changed from 1:3 to 2:1.5. That is, the first and second transmission regions TM1 and TM2 of the second compensation subpixel LSP may vary according to positions.

However, the division ratio between the first transmission area TM1 and the second transmission area TM2 of the second compensation subpixel LSP depends on the shape of the boundary area EG and the boundary area EG and the second compensation subpixel ( LSPs) may vary depending on the adjacency rate among others. However, the aperture ratio (transmittance) of the second compensation subpixel LSP and the capacitance of the storage capacitor may be maintained the same as those of the first subpixel SP1 (normal subpixel).

If the compensation sub-pixels (ESP) having the above structure are arranged in the circular (curved) boundary area (EG), when the circular display panel is implemented, the It is possible to prevent an abnormal staircase phenomenon and an abnormal color phenomenon to some extent. This is because the transmission area of the sub-pixels can be divided and arranged corresponding to the circular (curved) boundary area EG, and the transmission ratio can be set.

The compensation sub-pixel ESP may be selected as a sub-pixel that emits a color that harmonizes with neighboring sub-pixels in order to obtain a maximum smooth or smooth effect. In addition, the compensation sub-pixel ESP may represent light with an intensity that matches the surrounding sub-pixels.

<Seventh Embodiment>

As shown in FIG. 16, in the seventh embodiment of the present invention, a first compensation sub composed of pixels P and other combinations in the boundary area EG dividing the display area AA and the non-display area BA. A second compensation subpixel LSP having a different shape from the pixel ESP and the first compensation subpixel ESP is disposed. As shown in (a) of FIG. 16, some of the pixels arranged in the border area EG are arranged as first compensation subpixels ESP and second compensation subpixels LSP as shown in (b) of FIG. 16.

The pixels P disposed throughout the display area AA include red, green, blue, and white subpixels or red, green, and blue subpixels. The first compensation sub-pixel ESP disposed adjacent to the boundary area EG is composed of one or two sub-pixels selected from red, green, blue and white sub-pixels.

Unlike the first compensation sub-pixel ESP, the second compensation sub-pixel LSP disposed adjacent to the boundary region EG is composed of one single sub-pixel. The second compensation subpixel LSP is composed of one subpixel selected from among red, green, blue, and white subpixels.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 , the second compensation subpixel LSP has a first transmissive area TM1 and a second transmissive area TM2 unlike other subpixels. The first transmissive area TM1 and the second transmissive area TM2 selectively transmits or does not transmit light according to the position where the second compensation subpixel LSP is disposed.

For example, the first transmission region TM1 includes the pixel electrode PXL and the common electrode VCOM. The second transmission region TM2 includes the switching transistor SW as well as the pixel electrode PXL and common electrode VCOM. As an example, the first transmission area TM1 is disposed on the left side of the data line DL, but it may be disposed on the right side of the second transmission area TM2. The pixel electrode PXL is connected to the source or drain electrode of the switching transistor SW through the contact hole CH.

In FIG. 17, the area of the long axis direction of the second compensation sub-pixel LSP is divided into 1:1 ratio, that is, arranged in half, as an example. As a result of the experiment, when designing the second compensation sub-pixel (LSP), as a result of changing the horizontal-to-vertical ratio from 1:3 to 2:1.5, the level difference in the boundary area (EG) was alleviated and visibility was improved.

However, the division ratio between the first transmissive area TM1 and the second transmissive area TM2 of the second compensation subpixel LSP may vary according to the adjacency rate of the boundary area EG. However, the aperture ratio (transmittance) and capacitor of the second compensation subpixel LSP need to be maintained the same as those of the first subpixel SP1 (normal subpixel).

A black matrix BM is disposed in the first transmission area TM1 along the boundary area EG. The black matrix BM may be located on the lower substrate or on the upper substrate. The black matrix BM is disposed in an area adjacent to the boundary area EG.

Since the black matrix BM covers (or covers) a part of the second compensation subpixel LSP having an area protruding outside the boundary area EG or an area adjacent to the border area EG, the black matrix BM covers (or covers) the boundary area EG or The oblique direction visibility is further improved.

When the black matrix BM is formed in the boundary area EG, it can also be applied to pixels or sub-pixels adjacent to this area. The first compensation subpixel ESP and the second compensation subpixel LSP composed of pixels adjacent to the boundary region EG may include black matrices BM1 to BM4 as shown in FIGS. 17 to 19 below. have.

The compensation sub-pixel first adjacent to the boundary region EG may have the structure of FIG. 17 . For example, the compensation subpixel first adjacent to the boundary region EG has the same structure as the second compensation subpixel LSP. The first black matrix BM1 covers the first transmission area TM1 in an oblique direction along the boundary area EG. In the drawing, the first black matrix BM1 is shown as a straight line, but since it corresponds to the shape of the boundary area EG, it becomes a non-linear shape. Also, since the first black matrix BM1 is formed along the periphery of the display area AA, it has a circular shape.

A compensation sub-pixel second adjacent to the boundary region EG may have the structure of FIG. 18 . For example, a compensation subpixel second adjacent to the boundary region EG has the same structure as the first compensation subpixel ESP. The second black matrix BM2 covers the oblique direction of the transmissive area along the boundary area EG, and the third black matrix BM3 covers the major axis direction of the transmissive area. The second black matrix BM2 may cover a smaller transmission area than the first black matrix BM1.

A compensation subpixel that is third adjacent to the boundary area EG may have the structure of FIG. 19 . For example, a compensation subpixel third adjacent to the boundary region EG has the same structure as the first compensation subpixel ESP. The fourth black matrix BM4 covers the major axis direction of the transmission area along the boundary area EG. The fourth black matrix BM4 may cover a larger transmission area than the third black matrix BM3.

As described above, when the first to fourth black matrices BM1 to BM4 are formed on the transmission areas of sub-pixels adjacent to the border area EG (existing in the outermost portion), the color difference problem due to non-uniformity of the transmission area can be solved. It can be prevented.

As shown in FIG. 20, the first to fourth black matrices BM1 to BM4 disposed on the subpixels adjacent to the border area EG make the luminance reduction between the subpixels the same, thereby solving the color difference problem. may be formed with the same area so as to prevent

If the compensation sub-pixels (ESP) having the above structure are arranged in the circular (curved) boundary area (EG), when the circular display panel is implemented, the It is possible to prevent an abnormal staircase phenomenon and an abnormal color phenomenon to some extent. This is because the transmission area of the sub-pixels can be divided and arranged corresponding to the circular (curved) boundary area EG, and the transmission ratio can be set.

Meanwhile, in the above description, a structure for compensating a pixel or sub-pixel located in a border area near the upper left corner has been described as an example.

As shown in FIG. 21, the black matrices BM1 to BM4 for compensating the subpixels located in the border area near the lower left are the black matrices BM1 for compensating the subpixels located in the border area near the upper left ~ BM4) may have an opposite shape.

According to the compensation method of the present invention, a black matrix structure for compensating for pixels located in the border area near the upper right corner and the lower right corner may also be prepared.

In addition, the shape of the border area EG varies along the display area AA, and the shape of the black matrix also varies corresponding to the shape of the border area EG. That is, the shape of the black matrix may be slightly different depending on positions such as upper left, lower left, upper right, and lower right boundary regions corresponding to the shape of the boundary region EG.

As shown in FIG. 22, the interior angles a1 to a3 of the first black matrix BM1 and the interior angles a1' to a3' of the second black matrix BM2 vary according to the position of the boundary area EG. . This is because the boundary area EG adjacent to the area forming a straight line or a right angle with respect to the central axis of the display area forms a structure that covers the transmission area closer to a straight line than other boundary areas.

Therefore, although the interior angles a1 to a3 of the first black matrix BM1 and the interior angles a1' to a3' of the second black matrix BM2 may differ depending on the shape of the boundary area EG, the boundary area ( EG) may vary depending on the location. Also, when the boundary region EG is elliptical rather than circular, the interior angle of the black matrix may rapidly increase or decrease in a specific region. Meanwhile, the structure of the black matrix described above can be applied to all of the first to seventh embodiments.

As described above, the present invention has an effect of improving an abnormal stair effect and a colorful color abnormality occurring in a boundary area dividing a display area and a non-display area when a heteromorphic display panel is implemented. In addition, the present invention has an effect of reducing power consumption as well as improving display quality by displaying an image close to the shape of the release display panel.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the above-described technical configuration of the present invention can be changed into other specific forms by those skilled in the art without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. It will be appreciated that it can be implemented. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not limiting. In addition, the scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims to be described later rather than the above detailed description. In addition, all changes or modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalent concepts should be construed as being included in the scope of the present invention.

110: image supply unit 120: timing control unit
130: scan driving unit 140: data driving unit
150: display panel 180: power supply unit
AA: display area BA: non-display area
EG: boundary area ESP: first compensation sub-pixel
LSP: second compensation sub-pixel HSP: third compensation sub-pixel
EM1: first light emitting area EM2: second light emitting area
TM1: first transmission area TM2: second transmission area

Claims (14)

Including a release display panel having a circular or elliptical shape,
The release display panel
A pixel disposed in the display area and composed of 3 or 4 sub-pixels;
a first compensation sub-pixel adjacent to a boundary area dividing the display area and the non-display area;
a second compensation sub-pixel adjacent to the boundary region and having a shape different from that of the first compensation sub-pixel;
The second compensation subpixel emits light, and includes a first light emitting region and a second light emitting region that selectively emits the light. According to claim 1,
The first compensation sub-pixel is composed of at least two sub-pixels arranged in a direction of a minor axis;
The second compensation sub-pixel is a display device comprising at least one sub-pixel arranged in a long axis direction. delete delete delete According to claim 1,
The display device of claim 1 , wherein the first and second light-emitting regions selectively emit or do not emit light according to positions in which they are disposed. According to claim 1,
A ratio of the first light emitting area and the second light emitting area is different according to a position. According to claim 1,
The release display panel
A display device including a black matrix disposed along the boundary area. delete According to claim 1,
The second compensation subpixel is
A display device in which positions of first and second light emitting regions covered by a black matrix are different depending on the positions of the first and second light emitting regions. According to claim 1,
A display device in which a black matrix covers a light emitting area of the first compensation subpixel and portions of the first and second light emitting areas of the second compensation subpixel. According to claim 11,
Wherein the black matrix covers the light-emitting area of the first compensation sub-pixel and the first and second light-emitting areas of the second compensation sub-pixel are different from each other, but cover the same area. A pixel disposed in the display area and composed of three or four sub-pixels, a first compensation sub-pixel adjacent to a boundary area separating the display area and non-display area, and the first compensation sub-pixel adjacent to the border area A method of driving a display device implemented with a release display panel having a circular or elliptical shape including a second compensation sub-pixel having a different shape from a pixel, the method comprising:
analyzing a data signal to be supplied to the release display panel and extracting a non-circular area;
Black processing is performed so that data signals are not output for areas other than the circular area, and only the parts corresponding to the red and blue data signals are rendered in the image of the red, green, and blue data signals, and the remaining parts corresponding to the green data signals are output as they are. performing image processing including an algorithm process for processing the boundary area and an edge compensation process for perimeter (edge) dithering or gradation of the data signal existing in the boundary area; and
And outputting the image-processed data signal,
The second compensation sub-pixel emits light, and includes a first light emitting region and a second light emitting region that selectively emits the light. According to claim 13,
The image processing step is
The black processing, the algorithm processing, and the outer compensation processing are performed in the order, or the algorithm processing, the black processing, and the outer compensation processing are performed in the order.

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