WO2014115937A1

WO2014115937A1 - Display apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2014115937A1
Application number: PCT/KR2013/005394
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jae Hyun Sung; Sang Don Park; Chung Ha Lee; Bang Won Lee; Se Hwan Kim; Sim Dong Yeo; Deog Jin Lee; Na Young Choi
Original assignee: Lg Electronics Inc.
Priority date: 2013-01-24
Filing date: 2013-06-19
Publication date: 2014-07-31

Abstract

A display apparatus is disclosed. The display apparatus includes a camera, a display module, and an angle adjustment member to adjust a tilt angle of the display module based on a image photographed by the camera such that the display module is tilted with respect to a bottom surface. As a result, user convenience is improved.

Description

DISPLAY APPARATUS

The present invention relates to a display apparatus and, more particularly, to a display apparatus that is capable of improving user convenience.

Various types of display apparatuses to display an image have been used. For example, a liquid crystal display panel, a plasma display panel, and an organic light emitting diode display panel are used.

As the display apparatuses are being used in an increasingly wider variety of fields, various characteristics are required in the respective fields. In addition to characteristics related to simple display of an image, various demands in consideration of a stereoscopic effect and immersion have increased. In order to satisfy such various demands, research is continuously underway into display apparatus structures.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a display apparatus and, more particularly, to a display apparatus that is capable of improving user convenience.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the above and other objects can be accomplished by the provision of a display apparatus including a camera, a display module, and an angle adjustment member to adjust a tilt angle of the display module based on a image photographed by the camera such that the display module is tilted with respect to a bottom surface.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a display apparatus including a camera, a display module, a controller to calculate a tilt angle of the display module based on a image photographed by the camera, and an angle adjustment member to adjust the tilt angle of the display module based on the calculated tilt angle of the display module such that the display module is tilted with respect to a bottom surface, wherein the controller changes the tilt angle of the display module based on a location change of eyes of a user or a distance change between the user and the display apparatus.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a display apparatus including a display module, an angle adjustment member to adjust a tilt angle of the display module such that the display module is tilted with respect to a bottom surface, and a controller to control an object indicating that the tilt angle of the display module is being adjusted to be displayed on the display module during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module.

As is apparent from the above description, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the display apparatus may adjust a tilt angle of the display module based on an image photographed by the camera, thereby further improving user immersion and satisfaction during viewing of the video. Consequently, it is possible to improve user convenience.

Meanwhile, in a case in which eyes of the user move or in a case in which the horizontal distance between the user and the display apparatus is changed, the tilt angle of the display module may be changed. Consequently, it is possible to continuously maintain a proper tilt angle of the display module.

Meanwhile, in a case in which switch to the tilt angle is performed, an object indicating the calculated tilt angle of the display module and switch to the tilt angle may be displayed. Consequently, it is possible for the user to intuitively recognize the tilt angle of the display module.

Meanwhile, the display module may be tilted by an optimal tilt angle per user. Consequently, it is possible to improve user convenience per user.

Meanwhile, in a case in which the tilt angle of the display module is adjusted, a manual mode or an automatic mode may be selected. Consequently, it is possible to tilt the display module according to the mode selected by the user.

Meanwhile, in a case in which an image of plural users is contained in the photographed image, a message informing that there are plural users and allowing selection of a specific item may be displayed. Consequently, it is possible to set the tilt angle of the display module according to the item selected by the user.

Meanwhile, in a case in which the user viewing the display apparatus disappears, the mode of the display module may be switched to a vertical mode. Consequently, it is possible to provide a user-based tilt mode.

Meanwhile, in a case in which the user of the display apparatus moves, an indicator indicating an optimal view position of the user based on a photographed image of the user during movement of the user may be displayed. Consequently, it is possible to guide the movement of the user without resetting of the tilt angle of the display module.

Meanwhile, according to this embodiment, the tile angle of the display module in the tilt mode may be restricted to within a predetermined range, thereby improving user satisfaction and structural stability of the display module. Specifically, in a display module having a predetermined radius of curvature to improve user immersion, the user satisfaction and structural stability of the display module may be further improved. At this time, switch between the tilt mode and the vertical mode may be easily achieved by the angle adjustment member. Consequently, it is possible to achieve switch to a desired mode according to user selection.

On the other hand, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the display apparatus may display on the display module an object indicating that the tilt angle of the display module is being adjusted during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module. Consequently, it is possible for the user to intuitively recognize that the tilt angle of the display module is being adjusted. As a result, user convenience may be improved.

Meanwhile, the object may include an indicator indicating sequential or stepwise progress during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module. Consequently, it is possible for the user to recognize that the tilt angle of the display module is being sequentially or stepwise adjusted.

Meanwhile, phase change per frequency and/or gain change of an audio signal output from the audio output unit may be performed in response to the tilt angle of the display module during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module. Consequently, it is possible to adjust directivity of the audio signal output from the audio output unit, thereby providing an audio suitable for the user.

Meanwhile, at least one selected from color, brightness, and lightness of a video displayed on the display module may be changed in response to the tilt angle of the display module during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module. Consequently, it is possible to adjust video quality of the displayed video, thereby providing a video suitable for the user.

The above and other objects, features and other advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a display module of the display apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3a is a sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 1 in a vertical mode of the display apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3b is a sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 1 in a tilt mode of the display apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an angle adjustment member of the display apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention in detail;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the angle adjustment member of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a tilt angle of the display apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention in the tilt mode;

FIG. 7 is a graph showing results of satisfaction based on the tilt angle in an experimental example of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is an internal block diagram of the display apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is an internal block diagram of a controller of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10a is a side view showing a display apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10b is a sectional view showing an angle adjustment member of FIG. 10a;

FIG. 11 is a sectional view showing an angle adjustment member according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation method of a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 13a to 19b are reference views illustrating the operation method of FIG. 12;

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an operation method of a display apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

FIGS. 21a to 23b are reference views illustrating the operation method of FIG. 20.

Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

In order to clearly and simply describe the present invention, portions irrelevant to the description of the present invention are omitted from the drawings. Throughout the specification, identical or nearly identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the drawings, thickness, width, etc. are enlarged or reduced in order to more clearly describe the present invention. In the present invention, however, thickness, width, etc. are not limited to those shown in the drawings.

In a case in which one part “includes” another part throughout the specification, other parts are not excluded unless exclusion of the other parts is concretely described and the part may further include the other parts. In addition, in a case in which one part, such as a layer, a film, a region, or a plate, is placed “on” another part, the one part may be placed “directly on” the another part and, in addition, a further part may be disposed between the one part and the another part. In a case in which one part, such as a layer, a film, a region, or a plate, is placed “directly on” another part, it means that a further part is not disposed between the one part and another part.

Meanwhile, the terms “module” and “unit,” when attached to the names of components are used herein to help the understanding of the components and thus they should not be considered as having specific meanings or roles. Accordingly, the terms “module” and “unit” may be used interchangeably.

Hereinafter, a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention and FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a display module of the display apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 3a is a sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 1 in a vertical mode of the display apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention and FIG. 3b is a sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 1 in a tilt mode of the display apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, the display apparatus 100 according to this embodiment includes a display module 10 to display a video, a stand member 20 to fix the display module 10, and an angle adjustment member 30 to adjust a tile angle of the display module 10.

The display apparatus 100 according to this embodiment may be a curved display module having a curved screen. More specifically, the screen of the display module 10 may be curved so as to have a predetermined radius of curvature R. Consequently, the display module 10 is configured such that opposite sides of the display module 10 protrude and a middle portion of the display module 10 recedes. As a result, the distance from eyes of a user to the display module 10 is uniform over the entire region of the display module 10.

Since the distance from the eyes of the user to each side portion of the display module 10 is greater than the distance from the eyes of the user to the middle portion of the display module 10 in a conventional art, a recognition degree of the opposite side portions of the display module is lowered with the result that the opposite side portions of the display module may be indistinct. In this embodiment, on the other hand, the distance from the eyes of the user to each side portion of the display module 10 is equal to that from the eyes of the user to the middle portion of the display module 10, thereby improving a stereoscopic effect. As a result, user immersion is improved.

In this embodiment, the radius of curvature R of the display module 10 is within a predetermined range, thereby improving immersion and stability. The radius of curvature R may be changed based on the size of the screen (for example, the horizontal length of the screen) of the display module 10 and a protrusion ratio of each side portion to the middle portion of the display module, which will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2.

The protrusion ratio of each side portion to the middle portion of the display module 10 may be defined by an angle A between a flat surface FS extending from the middle portion of the display module 10 and an inclined surface IS extending from the middle portion to each side portion of the display module 10. Since the inclined surface IS is at a right angle to a virtual circle C having the radius of curvature R of the display module 10, a central angle of a sector having an arc formed by the display module 10 on the virtual circle C is 2A.

At this time, a ratio of a horizontal length W of the display module 10 to the central angle 2A is equal to a ratio of a circumferential length of the virtual circle C to a total angle (360 degrees) as expressed by Equation 1 below.

[Equation 1]

2A:W = 360:2πR

In this case, a radius of curvature RA of the display module 10 based on the horizontal length W of the display module 10 at a specific angle A is defined as follows.

[Equation 2]

RA = (360W)/{(2π)＊(2A)}

At this time, in this embodiment, the radius of curvature R of the display module 10 may have a value between a radius of curvature R5 (hereinafter, referred to as a “radius of curvature of five degrees”) in a case in which each side portion of the display module 10 protrudes five degrees more than the middle portion of the display module 10 and a radius of curvature R15 (hereinafter, referred to as a “radius of curvature of fifteen degrees”) in a case in which each side portion of the display module 10 protrudes fifteen degrees more than the middle portion of the display module 10. In a case in which the radius of curvature R of the display module 10 is less than the radius of curvature of five degrees R5, it may be difficult to equalize the distance to the middle portion of the display module 10 with the distance to each side portion of the display module 10. In a case in which the radius of curvature R of the display module 10 is greater than the radius of curvature of fifteen degrees R15, on the other hand, the radius of curvature R of the display module 10 is excessively large with the result that user inconvenience may be caused and stability of the display module 10 may be lowered.

According to Equation 2, the radius of curvature of five degrees R5 is approximately 5.8 W and the radius of curvature of fifteen degrees R15 is approximately W. Therefore, a ratio of the radius of curvature R to the horizontal length W of the display module 10 according to this embodiment may be approximately 1.9:1 to 5.8:1. In this embodiment, therefore, the ratio of the radius of curvature R to the horizontal length W of the display module 10 is restricted as described above, thereby improving stability of the display module 10 while improving user immersion.

For example, the display module 10 may include an organic light emitting device (OLED) panel using an OLED. The OLED panel is a self-emissive organic light emitting display panel using a principle in which, when current flows in a fluorescent or phosphorescent organic thin film, electrons and holes are coupled to one another in the organic thin film to generate light. The organic light emitting display panel has advantages in that bright and vivid video quality is provided, a viewing angle is not restricted, and power consumption is low. Specifically, the organic light emitting display panel may be manufactured by stacking the organic thin film. Consequently, the organic light emitting display panel may be flexible and, therefore, it is possible to manufacture the organic light emitting display panel such that the organic light emitting display panel has a predetermined radius of curvature R as described above. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention may be applied to display modules 10 of various structures and types.

The display module 10 and the stand member 20 may be fixed by a fixing unit 110. For example, the fixing unit 110 may fix the display module 10 and the stand member 20 through screw coupling. As a result, the display module 10 and the stand member 20 may be fixed through a simple process using a simple part. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, fixing units 10 of various well-known types and structures may be used.

In this embodiment, the angle adjustment member 30 to adjust a tile angle of the display module 10 is provided in the stand member 20. As a result, durability and stability of the angle adjustment member 30 are improved. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the angle adjustment member 30 may be disposed between the stand member 20 and the display module 10. Various other modifications are also possible.

More specifically, in this embodiment, the stand member 20 may include a first unit 210 to which the display module 10 is fixed and a second unit 220 disposed under the first unit to support the first unit 210. The angle adjustment member 30 is located between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220. As the length of the angle adjustment member 30 is changed, the distance between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 at the region at which angle adjustment member 30 is located is changed. Consequently, a tilt of the second unit 220 to the first unit 210 is changed. As a result, a tilt angle B of the display module 10 may be changed.

That is, in a state in which the length of the angle adjustment member 30 located between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 is relatively large, as shown in FIG. 3a, the display module 10 is set in a vertical mode. On the other hand, in a state in which the length of the angle adjustment member 30 located between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 is relatively small, as shown in FIG. 3b, the distance between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 only at one side of each of the first and

second units

210 and 220 is decreased with the result that the display module 10 is set in a tilt mode.

In this embodiment, the first unit 210 may have various structures that are capable of fixing and supporting the display module 10. In this embodiment, the display module 10 is a curved display module having a radius of curvature R as described above. For this reason, the first unit 210 may also be formed in a curved shape in which opposite sides of the first unit 210 protrude and a middle portion of the first unit 210 recedes. Consequently, the first unit 210 may improve the external appearance of the display apparatus while stably fixing and supporting the curved display module 10.

The second unit 220 may include a bottom part 222 constituting a bottom surface and a side part 224 protruding upward along the edge of the bottom surface. The first unit 210 is located above the bottom part 222. The side part 224 surrounds a portion of the side of the first unit 210 such that a space defined between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 is not exposed outward in the vertical mode in which the distance between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 is relatively large. Consequently, it is possible to prevent the external appearance of the display apparatus from being deteriorated and to prevent accidents. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a part to prevent the space defined between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 from being exposed outward may be formed at the first unit 210. Alternatively, an additional member to prevent the space defined between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 from being exposed outward may be provided. Of course, the space defined between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 may be exposed outward.

A hinge member 202 is provided at the other side of each of the first and

second units

210 and 220 such that one side of the first unit 210 can be stably moved or rotated about the second unit 220. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in addition to the hinge member 202, various structures may be used to move or rotate the first unit 210.

In this embodiment, the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 constituting the stand member 20 may be formed of a transparent resin. For example, the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 of the stand member 20 may be formed by injection molding of the transparent resin. In this case, it is possible to improve the external appearance of the display apparatus while simplifying the process of manufacturing the same. In addition, the angle adjustment member 30 may be located at a rear portion of the stand member 20 such that the angle adjustment member 30 cannot be seen from the front of the display apparatus. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the stand member 20 may be formed of an opaque material. Furthermore, the angle adjustment member 30 may be located at a front portion of the stand member 20. Various other modifications are also possible.

The angle adjustment member 30 according to this embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the angle adjustment member of the display apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention in detail and FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the angle adjustment member of FIG. 4.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the angle adjustment member 30 of this embodiment may have a cam and shaft structure, the length of which is changed in response to a length adjustment command. The length adjustment command may be a command generated based on a user-related image acquired by a camera 195 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

More specifically, the angle adjustment member 30 may include a case 31 and a spring 33, a shaft 35, and a cam 37 disposed in the case 31. The case 31 may include an upper housing 31a and a lower base 31b such that the spring 33, the shaft 35, and the cam 37 can be smoothly located in the case 31. Fixing members 312, such as screws, are provided at opposite sides of the housing 31 to fix the housing 31 to the second unit 220.

The spring 33 may be configured in various structures or types having elasticity, by which the spring 33 can return to the original state when force applied to the spring 33 to deform the spring 33 is removed. The spring 33 functions to push the shaft 35 toward the cam 37. A cam gear 352 is formed at an end of the shaft 35 opposite to the cam 37 and a corresponding cam gear 372 is formed at an end of the cam 37 opposite to the shaft 35. When force from the spring 34 is applied, therefore, the cam gears 352 and 372 interact with each other to rotate the cam 37. Protrusions 374 are formed at the outer circumference of the cam 37.

A groove or a depression of a predetermined size is formed in the bottom part 222 of the second unit 220. The housing 31 is located in the groove or the depression. The housing 31 may be fixed to the bottom part 222 of the second unit 220 using various methods. For example, the housing 31 may be fixed to the bottom part 222 of the second unit 220 using screws. The side part 224 may cover the groove or the depression of the bottom part 222. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Various modifications are possible.

Upwardly and downwardly moving projections 314a, to which the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 are fixed, and upwardly and downwardly moving grooves 314b are included in the base 31b. When the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 are fixed to the upwardly and downwardly moving projections 314a, therefore, the length of the angle adjustment member 30 is relatively increased. When the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 are located at the upwardly and downwardly moving grooves 314b, on the other hand, the length of the angle adjustment member 30 is relatively decreased.

Hereinafter, the operation of the angle adjustment member 30 will be described. In the vertical mode of the display apparatus 100, the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 are pushed by the spring 33 in a state in which the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 are located at the upwardly and downwardly moving projections 314a. As a result, the angle adjustment member 30 is fixed while having a relatively large length.

When a user pushes the display apparatus 100 in this state, pressure is applied to the shaft 35. As a result, the cam 37 is rotated through interaction between the cam gear 352 of the shaft 35 and the cam gear 372 of the cam 37. Consequently, the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 are moved to the upwardly and downwardly moving grooves 314b. In this state, the spring 33 pushes the cam 37. As a result, the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 are fixed above the upwardly and downwardly moving grooves 314b. Consequently, the length of the angle adjustment member 30 is relatively decreased with the result that the distance between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 is decreased. As a result, the mode of the display apparatus 100 is switched from the vertical mode to the tilt mode.

When the user pushes the display apparatus 100 again in this state, pressure is applied to the shaft 35. As a result, the cam 37 is rotated through interaction between the cam gear 352 of the shaft 35 and the cam gear 372 of the cam 37. Consequently, the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 are moved to the upwardly and downwardly moving protrusion 314a. In this state, the spring 33 pushes the cam 37. As a result, the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 are fixed in the upwardly and downwardly moving grooves 314b. Consequently, the length of the angle adjustment member 30 is relatively increased with the result that the distance between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 is increased. As a result, the mode of the display apparatus 100 is switched from the tilt mode to the vertical mode.

In this embodiment, as described above, when the display apparatus 100 is pushed, the length of the angle adjustment member 30 located between the first unit 210 and the second unit 220 is changed to adjust an angle of the first unit 210 to the second unit 220. Alternatively, an additional structure to drive the angle adjustment member 30 may be provided. Of course, the present invention may be applied to angle adjustment members of various structures and types.

Meanwhile, in this embodiment, a tilt angle B (an angle between a central line of the display module 10 and a vertical line perpendicular to the bottom surface) in the tilt mode may be optimized to further improve user immersion and satisfaction. In this embodiment, for example, the tilt angle B may be set to 3 degrees to 9 degrees (for example, 4 degrees to 9 degrees or 6 degrees to 9 degrees) to improve user immersion and satisfaction. In a case in which the tilt angle B is set to 3 degrees to 9 degrees, eyes of a user may be located at a 1/3 point from a boundary at which an important character or object is located, thereby maximizing user immersion and satisfaction. If the tilt angle B is less than 3 degrees, improvement in user immersion and satisfaction according to the tilt angle B may not be sufficient. If the tilt angle B is greater than 9 degrees, on the other hand, the user may feel inconvenient.

The reason that the tilt angle B is set to 3 degrees to 9 degrees as described above will hereinafter be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a view illustrating the tilt angle of the display apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention in the tilt mode.

In image photography theory, an object or a character is located at a 1/3 point from a boundary (an upper or lower edge) of a screen according to the golden rule. For this reason, the tilt angle B of the display module 10 is decided such that eyes of a user are located between a 1/3 point from the lower side of the display module 10 and a 2/3 point from the lower side of the display module 10. In this case, it is possible to effectively improve user immersion.

The tilt angle B of the display module 10 may be calculated using a vertical length X1 of the display module 10, a height X2 of the display module 10, an eye height X of a user, and a horizontal distance d between the display module 10 and the user, as will hereinafter be described in more detail.

First, a case in which eyes of the user are located at a 1/3 point of the display module 10 will be described. A height H of the 1/3 point of the display module 10 is defined by Equation 3 below.

[Equation 3]

H = (X2) + (1/3)＊(X1)＊(cos B)

That is, the height H of the 1/3 point of the display module 10 is obtained by adding a vertical height (1/3)＊(X1)＊(cos B) of the 1/3 point of the display module 10 to the height X2 of the display module 10.

On the other hand, a horizontal length L from the 1/3 point of the display module 10 to the eyes of the user is defined by Equation 4 below.

[Equation 4]

L = d + (1/3)＊(X1)＊(sin B)

That is, the horizontal length L from the 1/3 point of the display module 10 to the eyes of the user is obtained by adding a horizontal distance (1/3)＊(X1)＊(sin B) of the 1/3 point of the display module 10 to the horizontal distance d between the display module 10 and the user.

Meanwhile, a tangent value of a tilt angle B1 of the display module 10 when the eyes of the user are located at the 1/3 point of the display module 10 is defined by Equation 5 below.

[Equation 5]

tan B1 = [X － {(X2) + (1/3)＊(X1)＊(cos B1)}]/{d + (1/3)＊(X1)＊(sin B1)}

Similarly, a tangent value of a tilt angle B2 of the display module 10 when the eyes of the user are located at the 2/3 point of the display module 10 is defined by Equation 6 below.

[Equation 6]

tan B2 = [X － {(X2) + (2/3)＊(X1)＊(cos B2)}]/{d + (2/3)＊(X1)＊(sin B2)}

The vertical length X1 of the display module 10, the height X2 of the display module 10, the eye height X of the user, and the horizontal distance d between the display module 10 and the user, which have possible ranges, may be input to Equation 5 and Equation 6 to calculate a concrete tilt angle.

For example, the height X2 of the display module 10 has a value obtained by adding the height of the stand member 20 to the height of a structure (for example, an ornamental table). The height X2 of the display module 10 may have a value of about 320 mm to 450 mm. The height X2 of the display module 10 may have an average value of 380 mm. The eye height X of the user is set in consideration of a sitting height of the user and a structure (for example, sofa or chair) on which the user sits. The sitting height of the user has central values obtained by calculating the tilt angles B1 and B2 of the display module 10 with respect to the 50th shortest one of 100 Korean women having relatively small heights and the 95th shortest one (that is, the 5th tallest one) of 100 American men having relatively large heights. Results are indicated in Table 1 below.

Table 1

Height of display module [X2]	Target	X	Focal point	Optimal tilt angle	Central value
320 mm	50th shortest one of 100 Korean women	1049.5	2/3 point	3.2	5.6
			1/3 point	6.1
	95th shortest one of 100 American men	1162.5	2/3 point	5.1
			1/3 point	7.9
380mm	50th shortest one of 100 Korean women	1049.5	2/3 point	2.2	4.6
			1/3 point	5.1
	95th shortest one of 100 American men	1162.5	2/3 point	4.1
			1/3 point	7.0
450mm	50th shortest one of 100 Korean women	1049.5	2/3 point	1.0	3.4
			1/3 point	3.9
	95th shortest one of 100 American men	1162.5	2/3 point	2.9
			1/3 point	5.8

As can be seen from Table 1 above, the sitting height of the user has central values of 5.6, 4.5, and 3.4, which are located between 3 degrees and 9 degrees, in various cases. In this embodiment, as described above, the tilt angle of the display module 10 is optimized to maximize user immersion and satisfaction. Specifically, in a case in which the display module 10 has a radius of curvature R within a predetermined range based on the horizontal length of the screen of the display module 10 as in this embodiment, the opposite sides of the display module 10 protrude forward. In the tilt mode of the display module 10 in which the display module 10 has a tilt angle B of about 3 degrees to about 9 degrees, therefore, it is possible to further improve user immersion and satisfaction.

That is, in this embodiment, the radius of curvature R of the display module 10 is restricted based on the horizontal length of the screen of the display module 10 and, at the same time, the tilt angle of the display module 10 in the tilt mode is restricted, thereby maximizing user immersion and satisfaction. In addition, switching between the tilt mode and the vertical mode is easily achieved by the angle adjustment member 30 such that the user can easily select a desired mode.

In this embodiment, the display module 10 is curved. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention may be applied to a flat display module. Alternatively, the present invention may be applied to a display module having both a flat portion and a curved portion. In this embodiment, on the other hand, the display apparatus 100 has the vertical mode and one tilt mode. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the display apparatus 100 may have several tilt modes in which the display apparatus 100 is disposed at different tilt angles and switching between the tilt modes may be achieved by the angle adjustment member 30. In addition, in the present invention, the display apparatus 1090 may not have the vertical mode but may be fixed to the tilt mode.

Hereinafter, experimental examples of the present invention will be described in more detail. It should be noted, however, that the experimental examples are provided to illustrate the present invention and, therefore, the present invention is not limited thereto.

Experimental examples

A display apparatus configured such that a ratio of a radius of curvature to a horizontal length of a display panel was 5:1 was installed. 30 individuals viewed five kinds of images for 12 minutes under conditions that a viewing distance was 3.4 m and an eye height was 104.7 cm. At this time, the display apparatus had tilt angles of 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 degrees.

After viewing the images, the viewers answered 26 questions to evaluate immersion, concentration, visual satisfaction, stress, etc. A reliability index was reflected in each question based on the answers of the viewers to statistically analyze total satisfaction. The results are shown in FIG. 7. It can be seen from FIG. 7 that satisfaction is highest when the tilt angle of the display apparatus is 6 degrees and that satisfaction is excellent when the tilt angle of the display apparatus is 9 degrees. On the other hand, it can be seen from FIG. 7 that satisfaction when the tilt angle of the display apparatus is 3 degrees is lower than that when the tilt angle of the display apparatus is 0 degrees, i.e. in the vertical mode of the display apparatus. These results were likely obtained because the viewers were not familiar with the display apparatus having the tilt angles as described above.

In the present invention, the tilt angle of the display apparatus in the tilt mode is restricted to within a predetermined range as described above to improve user satisfaction. Specifically, in a display apparatus having a predetermined radius of curvature to improve user immersion, user satisfaction is further improved.

FIG. 8 is an internal block diagram of the display apparatus of FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 8, the display apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention may include a broadcast reception unit 105, a network interface unit 130, an external device interface unit 135, a memory 140, a user input interface unit 150, a controller 170, a display module 10, an audio output unit 185, a power supply unit 190, a camera 195, and an angle adjustment member 410. The broadcast reception unit 105 may include a tuner 115 and a demodulator 120. On the other hand, the broadcast reception unit 105 may further include the network interface unit 130.

The tuner 115 may select a broadcast signal corresponding to a channel selected by a user or all prestored channels from among radio frequency (RF) broadcast signals received by an antenna. In addition, the tuner 115 may convert the selected broadcast signal into a middle frequency signal or a base band video or audio signal.

The demodulator 120 may receive a digital IF signal (DIF) converted by the tuner 115 and perform demodulation and channel decoding.

After performing the demodulation and the channel decoding, the demodulator 120 may output a stream signal (TS). In this case, the stream signal may be a multiplexed video signal, a multiplexed audio signal, or a multiplexed data signal.

The stream signal output from the demodulator 120 may be input to the controller 170. The controller 170 performs demultiplexing, video/audio signal processing, etc. Subsequently, the controller 170 outputs a video to the display module 10 and outputs an audio to the audio output unit 185.

The external device interface unit 135 may connect the display apparatus 100 to an external device. To this end, the external device interface unit 135 may include an audio/video (A/U) input and output unit (not shown).

The external device interface unit 135 may be connected to an external device, such as a digital versatile disc (DVD) player, a Blu-ray player, a game console, a camera, a camcorder, a computer (laptop computer), or a settop box, in a wired/wireless fashion. In addition, the external device interface unit 135 may perform an input operation to or an output operation from the external device.

The A/V input and output unit may include a universal serial bus (USB) terminal, a composite video banking sync (CVBS) terminal, a component terminal, an S-video terminal (analog), a digital visual interface (DVI) terminal, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI) terminal, an RGB terminal, a D-SUB terminal, etc. to input video and audio signal from the external device to the display apparatus 100.

In addition, the external device interface unit 135 may be connected to various settop boxes through at least one of the above terminals to perform an input operation to or an output operation from the settop boxes.

The network interface unit 130 may provide an interface to connect the display apparatus 100 to a wired/wireless network, including the Internet. For example, the network interface unit 130 may receive content or data provided by a content provider or a network operator over a network, such as the Internet.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 130 may include a wired communication unit (not shown) or a wireless communication unit (not shown).

The wireless communication unit may perform near field communication with another electronic apparatus. The display apparatus 100 may be connected to another electronic apparatus over a network according to a communication standard, such as Bluetooth, radio frequency identification (RFID), infrared data association (IrDA), ultra wideband (UWB), ZigBee, or digital living network alliance (DLNA).

The memory 140 may store a program to process and control signals in the controller 170. Alternatively, the memory 140 may store a signal processed video, audio, or data signal.

In addition, the memory 140 may temporarily store a video, audio, or data signal input from the external device interface unit 135 or the network interface unit 130. Furthermore, the memory 140 may store information regarding a predetermined broadcast channel using a channel memory function.

The display apparatus 100 may reproduce a content file (a video file, an image file, a music file, a text file, an application file, etc.) stored in the memory 140 such that a user can enjoy the content file.

In FIG. 8, the memory 140 is provided separately from the controller 170. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the memory 140 may be included in the controller 170.

The user input interface unit 150 transfers a signal input by a user to the controller 170 or transfers a signal from the controller 170 to the user.

For example, the user input interface unit 150 may transmit/receive a user input signal, such as power on/off, channel selection, or screen setting, to/from a remote controller 200, may transfer a user input signal input from a local key (not shown), such as a power key, a channel key, a volume key, or a setting key, to the controller 170, may transfer a user input signal input from a sensor (not shown) to sense a gesture of a user to the controller 170, or may transmit a signal from the controller 170 to the sensor.

The controller 170 may demultiplex an input stream and process demultiplexed signals to generate and output a video or audio output signal through the tuner 115, the demodulator 120, or the external device interface unit 135.

The video signal processed by the controller 170 may be input to the display module 10, which may display a video corresponding to the video signal. In addition, the video signal processed by the controller 170 may be input to an external output device through the external device interface unit 135.

The audio signal processed by the controller 170 may be output to the audio output unit 185. In addition, the audio signal processed by the controller 170 may be input to an external output device through the external device interface unit 135.

Although not shown in FIG. 8, the controller 170 may include a demultiplexer and a video processor, which will hereinafter be described with reference to FIG. 9.

On the other hand, the controller 170 may control overall operation of the display apparatus 100. For example, the controller 170 may control the tuner 115 to tune to a channel selected by a user or an RF broadcast corresponding to a prestored channel.

In addition, the controller 170 may control the display apparatus 100 based on a user command input through the user input interface unit 150 or an internal program. Specifically, the controller 170 may be connected to a network to download an application or an application list desired by a user into the display apparatus 100.

On the other hand, the controller 170 may control the display module 10 to display a video. In this case, the video displayed on the display module 10 may be a still picture or a motion picture. On the other hand, the video displayed on the display module 10 may be a two-dimensional (2D) video or a three-dimensional (3D) video.

Meanwhile, the controller 170 may recognize location of a user based on a image photographed by the camera 195. For example, the controller 170 may recognize a distance (z-axis coordinate) between the user and the display apparatus 100. In addition, the controller 170 may recognize an x-axis coordinate and a y-axis coordinate in the display module 10 corresponding to the location of the user.

The display module 10 coverts a video signal, a data signal, or an on-screen display (OSD) signal processed by the controller 170 or a video signal or a data signal received from the external device interface unit 135 into RGB signals to generate a drive signal.

A plasma display panel (PDP), a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting device (OLED), or a flexible display may be used as the display module 10. In addition, the display module 10 may have a 3D display function.

On the other hand, a touchscreen may be used as the display module 10. In this case, the display module 10 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

The audio output unit 185 receives an audio signal processed by the controller 170 and outputs the received audio signal in the form of audible sound.

The power supply unit 190 supplies power to the display apparatus 100. Specifically, the power supply unit 190 may supply power to the controller 170, which may be realized in the form of a system on chip (SOC), the display module 10 to display a video, and the audio output unit 185 to output an audio.

To this end, the power supply unit 190 may include a converter (not shown) to convert alternating current power into direct current power.

The camera 195 photographs am image and transmits the photographed image to the controller 170. At this time, the operation of the camera 195 may be controlled by the controller 170. A plurality of cameras 195 may be provided. In a case in which a plurality of cameras 195 is provided, a first time point image and a second time point image may be photographed. As a result, it is possible to calculate the distance between a user and the display apparatus.

Meanwhile, various types of cameras, such as an RGB camera and an infrared type camera, may be used as the camera 195.

The angle adjustment member 410 is provided to adjust a tilt angle of the display module 10. In an automatic tilt mode, the tilt angle of the display module 10 is adjusted so as to correspond to a tilt angle of the display module 10 calculated by the controller 170 or a predetermined tilt angle of the display module 10.

To this end, as shown in FIGS. 10a to 11, which will hereinafter be described, the angle adjustment member 410 may include a motor (not shown) and a first connection member (not shown) and a second connection member (not shown), the lengths of which are changed based on rotational force from the motor. The tilt angle of the display module 10 may be automatically adjusted based on the difference in length between the first connection member and the second connection member. On the other hand, the angle adjustment member 410 may further include a rotary member (not shown) rotated by rotational force from the motor, and a motion conversion member (not shown) to convert rotational force from the rotary member into a rectilinear motion, which will hereinafter be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 10a to 11.

The remote controller 200 transmits a user input to the user input interface unit 150. To this end, the remote controller 200 may use radio frequency (RF) communication, infrared (IR) communication, Bluetooth communication, ultra wideband (UWB) communication, ZigBee communication, etc.

In addition, the remote controller 200 may receive a video, audio, or data signal output from the user input interface unit 150 and display the received signal or output an audio or vibration.

On the other hand, the remote controller 200 may transmit coordinate information corresponding to motion of the remote controller 200 to the display apparatus 100. As a result, a pointer corresponding to the motion of the remote controller 200 may be displayed on the display module of the display apparatus. Since the pointer corresponding to the motion of the remote controller 200 in a 3D space is moved and displayed as described above, the remote controller 200 may be referred to as a 3D pointing device.

Meanwhile, the block diagram of the display apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 8 is a view illustrating the embodiment of the present invention. The respective components of the block diagram may be combined, added, or omitted according to the specifications of a display apparatus 100 which is actually embodied. That is, two or more components may be combined into a single component or one component may be divided into two or more components as needed. In addition, functions performed by the respective components of the block diagram illustrate the embodiment of the present invention and not limit the scope of right of the present invention.

On the other hand, the display apparatus 100 may not include the tuner 115 and the demodulator 120 shown in FIG. 8 and may receive and reproduce a broadcast video through the network interface unit 130 or the external device interface unit 135.

FIG. 9 is an internal block diagram of the controller of FIG. 8.

Referring to FIG. 9, the controller 170 according to the embodiment of the present invention may include a demultiplexer 310, a video processor 320, an OSD generator 340, a mixer 345, a frame rate converter 350, and a formatter 360. In addition, the controller 170 may further include an audio processor (not shown) and a data processor (not shown).

The demultiplexer 310 demultiplexes an input stream. For example, in a case in which an MPEG-2 TS is input, the MPEG-2 TS may be demultiplexed into video, audio, and data signals. A stream signal input to the demultiplexer 310 may be a stream signal output from the tuner 115, the demodulator 120, or the external device interface unit 135.

The video processor 320 may process a demultiplexed video signal. To this end, the video processor 320 may include a video decoder 325 and a scaler 335.

The video decoder 325 decodes the demultiplexed video signal. The scaler 335 scales the resolution of the decoded video signal such that the video signal can be output to the display module 10.

Decoders based on various standards may be used as the video decoder 325.

On the other hand, the video signal decoded by the video processor 320 may be input to the mixer 345.

A processor 330 may control overall operation of the display apparatus 100 or the controller 170. For example, the processor 330 may control the tuner 115 to tune to a channel selected by a user or an RF broadcast corresponding to a prestored channel.

In addition, the processor 330 may control the display apparatus 100 based on a user command input through the user input interface unit 150 or an internal program.

In addition, the processor 330 may control data transmission to the network interface unit 130 or the external device interface unit 135.

In addition, the processor 330 may control operations of the demultiplexer 310, the video processor 320, and the OSD generator 340 of the controller 170.

The OSD generator 340 generates an OSD signal according to a user input or autonomously. For example, the OSD generator 340 may generate a signal to display various kinds of information on the screen of the display module 10 in the form of graphics or text based on a user input signal or a control signal. The generated OSD signal may include various data, such as a user interface screen, various menu screens, a widget, and an icon, of the display apparatus 100.

For example, the OSD generator 340 may generate a signal to display subtitles of a broadcast video broadcast information based on an electronic program guide (EPG).

Meanwhile, since the OSD generator 340 generates an OSD signal or a graphic signal, the OSD generator 340 may be referred to as a graphics processor.

The mixer 345 may mix the OSD signal generated by the OSD generator 340 with the decoded video signal processed by the video processor 320. The mixed signal is provided to the formatter 360. As the decoded broadcast video signal or an external input signal is mixed with the OSD signal, an OSD may be overlaid on a broadcast video or an externally input video.

The frame rate converter (FRC) 355 may convert the frame rate of an input video. On the other hand, the frame rate converter 355 may output the input video without conversion of the frame rate of the input video.

The formatter 360 receives a signal output from the frame rate converter 355, changes the format of the received signal so that the signal is suitable for the display module 10, and outputs the signal, the format of which has been changed. For example, R, G, and B data signals may be output. The R, G, and B data signals may be output as low voltage differential signaling (LVDS) or mini-LVDS.

On the other hand, the formatter 360 may change the format of a 3D video signal or convert a 2D video into a 3D video.

Meanwhile, the audio processor (not shown) of the controller 170 may process a demultiplexed audio signal. To this end, the audio processor (not shown) may include various decoders.

In addition, the audio processor (not shown) of the controller 170 may adjust bass, treble, and volume of the audio signal.

The data processor (not shown) of the controller 170 may process a demultiplexed data signal. For example, in a case in which the demultiplexed data signal is an encoded data signal, the demultiplexed data signal may be decoded. The encoded data signal may be EPG information containing broadcast information, such as start time and end time, of a broadcast program provided by each channel.

Meanwhile, the block diagram of the controller 170 shown in FIG. 9 is a view illustrating the embodiment of the present invention. The respective components of the block diagram may be combined, added, or omitted according to the specifications of a controller 170 which is actually embodied.

Specifically, the frame rate converter 350 and the formatter 360 may not be included in the controller 170 but may be separately provided.

Meanwhile, adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module as described above may be automatically performed using a motor. Hereinafter, various angle adjustment members will be described.

FIG. 10a is a side view showing a display apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention and FIG. 10b is a sectional view showing an angle adjustment member of FIG. 10a.

Referring to these drawings, the display apparatus 100 may include a display module 10, an angle adjustment member 410a, and a stand member 420a. Unlike what is shown in the drawings, on the other hand, the angle adjustment member 410a and the stand member 420a may be integrated. Hereinafter, a description will be given based on the angle adjustment member 410a.

The angle adjustment member 410a may include a first connection member 415a and a second connection member 425a, the lengths of which are changed by driving of a first motor 419a and a second motor 429a.

The first connection member 415a and the second connection member 425a are connected between the angle adjustment member 410a and the display module 10. The lengths of the first connection member 415a and the second connection member 425a may be changed. As previously described, the angle of the display module 10 may be adjusted by changing the lengths of the first connection member 415a and the second connection member 425a.

For example, the length of the first connection member 415a, which is located above the second connection member 425a, may be increased such that the length of the first connection member 415a is greater than the length of the second connection member 425a. On the other hand, the length of the second connection member 425a may be decreased such that the length of the second connection member 425a is less than the length of the first connection member 415a. In a case in which these two constructions are combined, the upper part of the display module 10 protrudes toward a user according to the difference in length between the first connection member 415a and the second connection member 425a. As a result, the display module 10 is tilted. That is, the display module 10 is placed in the tilt mode.

In another example, the length of the first connection member 415a, which is located above the second connection member 425a, may be decreased such that the length of the first connection member 415a is less than the length of the second connection member 425a. On the other hand, the length of the second connection member 425a may be increased such that the length of the second connection member 425a is greater than the length of the first connection member 415a. In a case in which these two constructions are combined, the lower part of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user according to the difference in length between the first connection member 415a and the second connection member 425a. As a result, the display module 10 is tilted. That is, the display module 10 is placed in the tilt mode.

The lengths of the first connection member 415a and the second connection member 425a may be adjusted by various components of the angle adjustment member 410a.

Referring to FIG. 10b, the angle adjustment member 410a may include a first motor 419a, a second motor 429a, a first rotary member 417a connected to the first motor 419a such that the first rotary member 417a can be rotated by rotational force of the first motor 419a, a second rotary member 427a connected to the second motor 429a such that the second rotary member 427a can be rotated by rotational force of the second motor 429a, a first motion conversion member 416a to convert rotational force of the first rotary member 417a into a rectilinear motion, and a second motion conversion member 426a to convert rotational force of the second rotary member 427a into a rectilinear motion.

The first rotary member 417a and the second rotary member 427a may be worm gears. The first motion conversion member 416a and the second motion conversion member 426a may be screws.

For example, when the first motor 419a is rotated in a first direction, the length of the first motion conversion member 416a may be increased. On the other hand, when the first motor 419a is rotated in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, the length of the first motion conversion member 416a may be decreased.

When the length of the first motion conversion member 416a or the second motion conversion member 426a is changed as described above, the length of the first connection member 415a connected to the first motion conversion member 416a or the length of the second connection member 425a connected to the second motion conversion member 426a is changed.

Unlike what is shown in the drawing, on the other hand, the first rotary member 417a and the second rotary member 427a may not be provided. That is, rotational forces of the first motor 419a and the second motor 429a may be directly converted into rectilinear motions through the first motion conversion member 416a and the second motion conversion member 426a, respectively.

Only one motor may be used instead of using the two

motors

419a and 429a as shown in the drawing.

FIG. 11 is a sectional view showing an angle adjustment member according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 11, the display apparatus 100 may include a display module 10, an angle adjustment member 410b, and a stand member 420b. Unlike what is shown in the drawing, on the other hand, the angle adjustment member 410b and the stand member 420b may be integrated. Hereinafter, a description will be given based on the angle adjustment member 410b.

The angle adjustment member 410b may include a first connection member 415b and a second connection member 425b, the lengths of which are changed by driving of a first motor 419b and a second motor 429b. The first connection member 415b and the second connection member 425b are disposed in parallel to the vertical direction of the display module 10 unlike FIG. 10b.

On the other hand, the first connection member 415b and the second connection member 425b may be disposed between the angle adjustment member 410b and the stand member 420b. Specifically, one end of the first connection member 415b and one end of the second connection member 425b may be in contact with a shock absorbing member 465 disposed in the stand member 420b.

The lengths of the first connection member 415b and the second connection member 425b may be changed. As previously described, the angle of the display module 10 may be adjusted by change in lengths of the first connection member 415b and the second connection member 425b.

For example, the length of the first connection member 415b, which is located at the rear of the second connection member 425b, may be increased such that the length of the first connection member 415b is greater than the length of the second connection member 425b. On the other hand, the length of the second connection member 425b may be decreased such that the length of the second connection member 425b is less than the length of the first connection member 415b. In a case in which these two constructions are combined, the upper part of the display module 10 protrudes toward a user according to the difference in length between the first connection member 415b and the second connection member 425b. As a result, the display module 10 is tilted. That is, the display module 10 is placed in the tilt mode.

In another example, the length of the first connection member 415b, which is located in front of the second connection member 425b, may be decreased such that the length of the first connection member 415b is less than the length of the second connection member 425b. On the other hand, the length of the second connection member 425b may be increased such that the length of the second connection member 425b is greater than the length of the first connection member 415b. In a case in which these two constructions are combined, the lower part of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user according to the difference in length between the first connection member 415b and the second connection member 425b. As a result, the display module 10 is tilted. That is, the display module 10 is placed in the tilt mode.

The lengths of the first connection member 415b and the second connection member 425b may be adjusted by various components of the angle adjustment member 410a.

Meanwhile, the angle adjustment member 410b may include a first motor 419b, a second motor 429b, a first rotary member 417b connected to the first motor 419b such that the first rotary member 417b can be rotated by rotational force of the first motor 419b, a second rotary member 427b connected to the second motor 429b such that the second rotary member 427b can be rotated by rotational force of the second motor 429b, a first motion conversion member 416b to convert rotational force of the first rotary member 417b into a rectilinear motion, and a second motion conversion member 426b to convert rotational force of the second rotary member 427b into a rectilinear motion.

The first rotary member 417b and the second rotary member 427b may be worm gears. The first motion conversion member 416b and the second motion conversion member 426b may be screws.

For example, when the first motor 419b is rotated in a first direction, the length of the first motion conversion member 416b may be increased. On the other hand, when the first motor 419b is rotated in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, the length of the first motion conversion member 416b may be decreased.

When the length of the first motion conversion member 416b or the second motion conversion member 426b is changed as described above, the length of the first connection member 415b connected to the first motion conversion member 416b or the length of the second connection member 425b connected to the second motion conversion member 426b is changed.

Unlike what is shown in the drawing, on the other hand, the first rotary member 417b and the second rotary member 427b may be omitted. That is, rotational forces of the first motor 419b and the second motor 429b may be directly converted into rectilinear motions through the first motion conversion member 416b and the second motion conversion member 426b, respectively.

Only one motor may be used instead of using the two

motors

419b and 429b as shown in the drawing.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation method of a display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention and FIGS. 13a to 19b are reference views illustrating the operation method of FIG. 12.

Referring first to FIG. 12, the display apparatus 100 may enter a tilt angle adjustment mode of the display module 10 (S1010).

Subsequently, the display apparatus 100 may receive a image photographed by the camera (S1020).

Subsequently, the display apparatus 100 may adjust a tilt angle of the display module 10 based on the photographed image such that the display module is tilted with respect to a bottom surface (S1030).

The tilt angle adjustment mode of step S1010 may be referred to as a tilt mode. The display apparatus 100 may enter the tilt mode according to a user input.

For example, when a user pushes a specific local key attached to the display apparatus or a specific local key of the remote controller in a state in which the user views the display apparatus, the display apparatus may enter the tilt mode.

In another example, when a menu is displayed on the display module and a user selects a tilt mode item in the menu in a state in which the user views the display apparatus, the display apparatus may enter the tilt mode.

In a further example, the display apparatus may enter the tilt mode according to a specific user gesture or a specific vocal command of the user.

In connection with step S1020, the camera 195 may photograph the user to calculate a tilt angle of the display module when the display apparatus enters the tilt mode. The controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may receive the photographed image from the camera 195.

Subsequently, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may calculate the tilt angle of the display module based on the photographed image containing an image of the user.

For example, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may calculate eye height information of the user based on a photographed image containing the image of the user. In addition to the eye height information of the user, horizontal distance information between the display apparatus 100 and the user may be further calculated.

The controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may calculate the tilt angle B of the display module 10 using the calculated eye height X of the user, the vertical length X1 of the display module 10, the height X2 of the display module 10, the horizontal distance d between the display apparatus 100 and the user, etc.

Specifically, a tangent value of the tilt angle B of the display module 10 when a user’s gaze direction is located between the 1/3 point and the 2/3 point of the display module 10 is defined by Equation 7 below in consideration of Equation 5 and Equation 6 above.

[Equation 7]

tan B = [X － {(X2) + (α)＊(X1)＊(cos B2)}]/{d + (α)＊(X1)＊(sin B)}

Where α may have a value between 1/3 and 2/3.

That is, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may determine whether the user’s gaze direction is located between the 1/3 point and the 2/3 point of the display module 10 and, upon determining that the user’s gaze direction is located between the 1/3 point and the 2/3 point of the display module 10, calculate an optimal tilt angle of the display module 10 using Equation 7.

On the other hand, in a case in which the user’s gaze direction deviates from the 1/3 point and the 2/3 point of the display module 10 for a long time, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may output to the display module 10 a message indicating that it is necessary to direct the user’s gaze direction to the 1/3 point and the 2/3 point of the display module 10. Otherwise, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may output an audio indicating that it is necessary to direct the user’s gaze direction to the 1/3 point and the 2/3 point of the display module 10.

Alternatively, in a case in which the user’s gaze direction deviates from the 1/3 point and the 2/3 point of the display module 10 for a long time, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may calculate the position to which the user’s gaze direction is directed and substitute a value according to the calculated position to which the user’s gaze direction is directed (for example, 1/4 when the user’s gaze direction is directed to a 1/4 point of the display module) for the value α of Equation 7.

Among the eye height X of the user, the vertical length X1 of the display module 10, the height X2 of the display module 10, and the horizontal distance d between the display apparatus 100 and the user, which are used in Equation 7, the vertical length X1 of the display module 10 and the height X2 of the display module 10 are initially set values of the display apparatus 100. The vertical length X1 of the display module 10 and the height X2 of the display module 10 may be directly input by a user. Alternatively, the vertical length X1 of the display module 10 and the height X2 of the display module 10 may be set based on a image photographed by the camera during initial installation of the display apparatus 100

In conclusion, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may calculate the eye height X of the user and the horizontal distance d between the display apparatus 100 and the user based on the photographed image and calculate an optimal tilt angle of the display module 10 using these values.

Meanwhile, Equation 7 is applicable only in a case in which a position to which the user’s gaze direction is directed exactly can be determined.

In a case in which a position to which the user’s gaze direction is directed exactly can be determined based on the photographed image, therefore, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may calculate an optimal tilt angle of the display module 10 as a specific value using Equation 7.

On the other hand, in a case in which a position to which the user’s gaze direction is directed exactly cannot be determined based on the photographed image, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may calculate tilt angles of the display module 10 using Equation 5, in which the user’s gaze direction is located at the 1/3 point of the display module 10, and Equation 6, in which the user’s gaze direction is located at the 2/3 point of the display module 10, and select one of the two tilt angles as an optimal tilt angle of the display module 10.

The controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may control the tilt angle of the display apparatus 100, more specifically the display module 10, to be adjusted based on the calculated optimal tilt angle.

For example, in a case in which the tilt angle of the display module 10 can be adjusted in a pressure mode (or a manual mode) as shown in FIG. 5, it may be informed that the protrusions 374 of the cam 37 must be fixed in specific positions of the upwardly and downwardly moving grooves 314b. Specifically, a guide message informing a user that the display apparatus 100 must be pushed using predetermined force such that the display module 10 is fixed at a specific position may be output to the display module 10.

In another example, in a case in which the display apparatus 100 includes the

connection members

415a and 425a, the lengths of which are changed by the

motors

419a and 429a as shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may control the

motors

419a and 429a to adjust the tilt angle of the display module 10 based on the calculated optimal tilt angle. In addition, the length(s) of the first connection member 415a and/or the second connection member 425a may be adjusted by driving of the corresponding motor(s). As a result, the tilt angle of the display module 10 may be automatically adjusted.

In a further example, in a case in which the display apparatus 100 includes the

connection members

415b and 425b, the lengths of which are changed by the

motors

419b and 429b as shown in FIG. 11, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may control the

motors

419b and 429b to adjust the tilt angle of the display module 10 based on the calculated optimal tilt angle. In addition, the length(s) of the first connection member 415b and/or the second connection member 425b may be adjusted by driving of the corresponding motor(s). As a result, the tilt angle of the display module 10 may be automatically adjusted.

FIG. 13a is a view illustrating a user 1100 who uses the display apparatus 100. The display apparatus 100 may enter the tilt mode according to a user input or may automatically enter the tilt mode without the user input.

At the time of entry into the tilt mode, the camera 195 may photograph the user 1100. As previously described, a photographed image containing an image of the user may be input to the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100.

The controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may calculate an optimal tilt angle of the display module 10 based on the photographed image containing the image of the user. As previously described, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may calculate the eye height X of the user and the horizontal distance d between the display apparatus 100 and the user based on the photographed image and calculate an optimal tilt angle of the display module 10 using these values.

The controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may control an object 1110 indicating the tilt angle of the display module 10 and switch to the tilt angle to be displayed as shown in FIG. 13b. In a case in which a user selects YES 1115, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may control the motor such that the display module 10 is automatically tilted by the calculated tilt angle. Consequently, an optimal tilt angle of the display module 10 may be easily and conveniently set to suit user location.

At the time of calculating the optimal tilt angle of the display module 10, on the other hand, it is also possible to control the display module 10 such that the display module 10 is tilted without displaying the object 1110 of FIG. 13b.

In the manual mode, it is possible to display a guide message informing a user that it is necessary to push the display apparatus 100 using predetermined force such that the display module 10 is fixed at a specific position unlike the object of FIG. 13b.

FIG. 13c is a view illustrating that the tilt angle of the display module 10 is changed based on change in location of the user.

In a case in which the eye height X of the user 1100 is a first height H1, the display module 10 is tilted by a first tilt angle θ1. That is, the lower part of the display module protrudes toward the user. Meanwhile, as previously described, the first tilt angle θ1 may have a value between 3 degrees and 9 degrees.

On the other hand, in a case in which the eye height X of the user 1100 moves to a second height H2, which is higher than the first height H1, the display module 10 is tilted by a second tilt angle θ2, which is greater than the first tilt angle θ1. Meanwhile, as previously described, the second tilt angle θ2 may have a value between 3 degrees and 9 degrees.

Meanwhile, the tilt angle of the display module 10 may be variously changed according to change in eye height of the user.

For example, the tilt angle of the display module may be changed at predetermined time intervals.

In another example, the tilt angle of the display module may be changed whenever kind of a video to be displayed is changed. Specifically, in a case in which a first broadcast video is displayed through the display apparatus 100 and is then finished or a second broadcast video is started, the tilt angle of the display module may be adjusted based on a photographed image containing an image of a user.

On the other hand, in a case in which the eye height X of the user 1100 is further lowered unlike FIG. 13c, the tilt angle of the display module may be further decreased.

Meanwhile, even in a case in which the eye height X of the user 1100 is fixed but the horizontal distance d between the user 1100 and the display module 10 is changed, unlike FIG. 13c, the tilt angle of the display module may be adjusted. In a case in which the horizontal distance d is decreased, the tilt angle of the display module may be further increased according to Equation 7 above. On the other hand, in a case in which the horizontal distance d is increased, the tilt angle of the display module may be further decreased according to Equation 7 above.

In addition, in a case in which the eye height X of the user 1100 is fixed, the horizontal distance d between the user 1100 and the display module 10 is fixed, but eyes of the user move, the tilt angle of the display module may be adjusted based on motion of the eyes of the user. For example, in a case in which the eyes of the user move upward by a predetermined angle, the upper part of the display module 10 may protrude toward the user by the predetermined angle. In another example, in a case in which the eyes of the user move downward, the lower part of the display module 10 may protrude toward the user. Consequently, it is possible to easily and conveniently adjust the tilt angle of the display module 10 based on the motion of the eyes of the user.

On the other hand, in a case in which the eyes of the user move after the tilt angle of the display module is primarily adjusted based on the eye height X of the user 1100 and the horizontal distance d between the user 1100 and the display module 10, it is possible to secondarily adjust the tilt angle of the display module 10 based on the motion of the eyes of the user.

FIGS. 14a to 14d illustrate that the location of eyes of a user is detected from a photographed image containing an image of the user.

First, FIG. 14a is a view illustrating that the user 1100 views a broadcast video 1210 of a specific channel (for example, CH9) through the display apparatus 100 in a state in which the user 1100 sits or stands.

The camera 195 of the display apparatus 100 photographs an image of the user. FIG. 14b is a view illustrating an image 1225 photographed by the camera 195.

The controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 detects a region 1230 of two eyes of the user from the photographed image 1225. In addition, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may determine whether a line connected between the two eyes, specifically two pupils, of the user extends horizontally or vertically. Specifically, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may detect motion of the two pupils of the user and determine whether the line connected between the two pupils of the user extends horizontally, upward, or downward using a direction in which the two pupils of the user move or a distance between each moving pupil of the user and a corresponding eyelid of the user. In a case in which the line connected between the two pupils of the user extends upward or downward, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may detect an angle at which the line connected between the two pupils of the user extends upward or downward.

Meanwhile, in the drawing, the line connected between the two pupils of the user extends horizontally. Consequently, it is possible to calculate the eye height X of the user 1100 based on the two eyes of the user.

FIG. 14c is a view illustrating that the user 1100 views a broadcast video 1210 of a specific channel (for example, CH9) through the display apparatus 100 in a state in which the user 1100 lies down.

The camera 195 of the display apparatus 100 photographs an image of the user. FIG. 14b is a view illustrating an image 1235 photographed by the camera 195.

The controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 detects a region 1240 of two eyes of the user from the photographed image 1235. In addition, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may determine whether a line connected between the two eyes of the user extends horizontally or vertically. In the drawing, the line connected between the two pupils of the user extends vertically. Consequently, it is possible to calculate the eye height X of the user 1100 based on one of the two eyes of the user. For example, the eye height X of the user 1100 may be calculated based on the upper one of the two eyes of the user.

FIGS. 15a to 15d illustrate various examples to set an optimal angle of the display module 10 during movement of the user 1100.

FIG. 15a is a view illustrating that, in a state in which the eye height X of the user 1100 is a first height H1 and thus the display module 10 is tilted by a first tilt angle θ1, the eye height X of the user 1100 moves to a second height H2, which is higher than the first height H1.

In this case, a message 1210 informing of deviation from an optimal angle may be output to the display module 10 as shown in FIG. 15b without additional angle adjustment. The message 1210 may contain content informing of movement to a proper position.

Referring to FIG. 15b, a first indicator 1215 indicating that the eye height X of the user 1100 corresponds to the first height H1 and a second indicator 1213 indicating that the eye height X of the user 1100 corresponds to the second height H2 are displayed. Specifically, FIG. 15b is a view illustrating that the user moves to achieve movement from the second indicator 1213 to the first indicator 1215.

At this time, the first indicator 1215 or the second indicator 1213 may contain a face image of the user photographed by the camera 195.

The user may move from the second height H2 to the first height H1 through the

indicators

1215 and 1213.

Unlike FIG. 15b, on the other hand, additional angle adjustment may be performed. In this case, as shown in FIG. 15c, a message 1220 informing that additional angle adjustment is being performed may be displayed on the display module 10.

As shown in FIG. 15d, the display module 10 may be tilted by a second tilt angle θ2, which is greater than the first tilt angle θ1, in response to the second height H2, which is the eye height X of the user 1100.

On the other hand, in a case in which the eye height X of the user 1100 is further lowered or even in a case in which the eye height X of the user 1100 is fixed but the horizontal distance d between the user 1100 and the display module 10 is changed unlike FIGS. 15a to 15d, an indicator may be displayed in a manner similar to FIG. 15b or the tilt angle of the display module may be adjusted in a manner similar to FIG. 15d.

FIGS. 16a to 16d illustrate that the display module 10 is adjusted at tilt angles corresponding to users.

In a case in which a first user 1100 views a predetermined video 1310 through the display apparatus 100 as shown in FIG. 16a, the first user 1100 may log in to the display apparatus 100.

Login may be executed through a user input after a login object 1315 is selected. Alternatively, login may be automatically executed through an image of the user photographed by the camera 195.

In a case in which the first user 1100 logs in to the display apparatus 100, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may adjust an angle of the display module 10 based on the photographed image of the user or a tilt angle preset for the first user 1100.

FIG. 16b is a view illustrating that a message 1320 informing that tilt adjustment is being performed is displayed on the display module 10 during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module. At this time, a logout object 1325 informing that the first user 1100 has logged in to the display apparatus 100 may also be displayed. The first user 1100 may log out of the display apparatus 100 through the logout object 1325.

For example, in a case in which the eye height of the first user 1100 is a first height H1, the display module 10 may be tilted by a first tilt angle θ1 as illustrated in FIG. 13c.

FIG. 16c is a view illustrating that a second user 1200 views a predetermined video 1310 through the display apparatus 100.

In a case in which the second user 1200 logs in to the display apparatus 100, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may adjust an angle of the display module 10 based on the photographed image of the user or a tilt angle preset for the second user 1200.

FIG. 16d is a view illustrating that a message 1322 informing that tilt adjustment is being performed is displayed on the display module 10 during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module. At this time, a logout object 1327 informing that the second user 1200 has logged in to the display apparatus 100 may also be displayed. The second user 1200 may log out of the display apparatus 100 through the logout object 1327.

For example, in a case in which the eye height of the second user 1200 is a second height H2, the display module 10 may be tilted by a second tilt angle θ2 as illustrated in FIG. 13c.

FIGS. 17a to 17d illustrate a method of adjusting the tilt angle of the display module in a case in which plural users use the display apparatus.

FIG. 17a is a view illustrating that a first user 1100 and a second user 1200 simultaneously view a predetermined video 1310 through the display apparatus 100.

At the time of entry into the tilt angle adjustment mode, the tilt angle of the display module may be adjusted in consideration of eye heights of the first user 1100 and the second user 1200.

In a case in which the eye height of the first user 1100 is different from the eye height of the second user 1200 or in a case in which the distance between the first user 1100 and the display apparatus is different from the distance between the second user 1200 and the display apparatus, it is not possible to adjust the tilt angle of the display module such that the display module has corresponding tilt angles. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the tilt angle of the display module such that the display module has a specific tilt angle.

FIG. 17b is a view illustrating that a message 1330 informing that there are plural users and allowing a specific item to be selected is displayed on the display apparatus 100.

In a case in which an image of plural users is contained in a photographed image, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may control a message 1330 informing that there are plural users and allowing selection of a specific item to be displayed.

The message 1330 allowing a specific item to be selected may include, for example, a first user item 1332 allowing a first tilt angle for a first user, a second user item 1334 allowing a second tilt angle for a second user, and an average item 1336 indicating an average value of the first tilt angle and the second tilt angle.

The tilt angle of the display module may be adjusted based on the item selected by a user input.

FIG. 17c is a view illustrating that a message 1325 informing that the tilt angle of the display module is being adjusted such that the display module has a tilt angle corresponding to the selected item is displayed on the display module 10 during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module.

FIG. 17d is a view illustrating that the tilt angle of the display module is adjusted based on an average value of a first tilt angle according to an eye height Ha of the first user 1100 and a second tilt angle according to an eye height Hb of the second user 1200. At this time, the tilt angle may be a third tilt angle θ3. Meanwhile, as previously described, the third tilt angle θ3 may have a value between 3 degrees and 9 degrees.

In a case in which plural users view the display apparatus 100, on the other hand, the tilt angle of the display module may be adjusted based on an item selected according to initial setting. That is, in a case in which the average item 1336 is selected as a default item from among the items of FIG. 17 at initial setting, the tilt angle of the display module may be immediately adjusted without display of an additional message.

FIG. 18 is a view illustrating that adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module is automatically performed based on presence or absence of a user.

For example, in a case in which a user 1100 views a video display on the display module 10 and the eye height of the user 1100 is H1, the tilt angle of the display module may be immediately adjusted based on a image photographed by the camera 195. As shown in FIG. 18, the display module 10 is tilted by a first tilt angle θ1.

On the other hand, in a case in which the user 1100 leaves a room, specifically for a predetermined time or more, while the video is displayed on the display module 10, the display module 10 may return from the tilt mode to the vertical mode. At this time, the display apparatus 100 may be turned off.

FIGS. 19a to 19c illustrate a menu for tilt angle setting.

As previously described, the tilt angle of the display module may be adjusted in the manual mode of FIG. 5 or in the automatic mode of FIGS. 10a to 11. In the tilt mode, therefore, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may control the tilt angle of the display module to be adjusted in an automatic angle adjustment mode or in manual angle adjustment mode.

To this end, as shown in FIG. 19a, a setting object 1420 allowing a tilt angle adjustment mode to be selected may be displayed on the display apparatus 100.

Referring to FIG. 19a, the setting object 1420 includes an automatic tilt angle setting item 1422, a manual tilt angle setting item 1424, and a tilt angle cycle setting item 1426. In addition, the setting object 1420 may include various other items.

In a case in which the automatic tilt angle setting item 1422 is selected by a user input, an automatic tilt angle setting screen 1430 may be displayed as shown in FIG. 19b.

The automatic tilt angle setting screen 1430 may include a tilt angle display window 1432 and tilt

angle adjustment items

1434 and 1436. A tilt angle set according to user selection of the tilt

angle adjustment items

1434 and 1436 may be displayed in the tilt angle display window 1432.

On the other hand, in a case in which the tilt angle cycle setting item 1426 is selected by a user input, a tilt angle cycle setting screen 1440 may be displayed as shown in FIG. 19c.

The tilt angle cycle setting screen 1440 may include a tilt angle cycle display window 1442 and tilt angle

cycle adjustment items

1444 and 1446. A tilt angle cycle may be set according to user selection of the tilt angle

cycle adjustment items

1444 and 1446. For example, the tilt angle cycle may be set to various time intervals, such as 10 minutes, 15 minutes, and 30 minutes. The set tilt angle cycle may be displayed in the tilt angle cycle display window 1442. Specifically, in a case in which the tilt angle cycle is set to 10 minutes, the camera 195 may be activated at 10 minute intervals to photograph an image. The display apparatus 100 may adjust the tilt angle of the display module based on a photographed image of the user such that the display module has the corresponding tilt angle. In a case in which the user does not move, additional tilt angle adjustment may not be performed.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an operation method of a display apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention and FIGS. 21a to 23b are reference views illustrating the operation method of FIG. 20.

Referring first to FIG. 20, the display apparatus 100 may receive a tilt angle adjustment input of the display module (S2020).

The tilt angle adjustment input may be a concrete tilt angle input according to a user input as shown in FIG. 19b.

Alternatively, the tilt angle adjustment input may be an input for automatic adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module based on user location. That is, an input for entry into the tile angle mode may correspond to the tilt angle adjustment input. For example, in a case in which a user pushes a specific local key attached to the display apparatus or in a case in which a specific local key of the remote controller, a menu is displayed on the display module. In a case in which a tilt mode item is selected from the menu, in a case in which a specific gesture of the user is present, or in a case in which a specific voice of the user is present, the display apparatus may enter the tilt angle mode.

On the other hand, in a case in which a concrete tilt angle is not input, the display apparatus 100 may calculate the tilt angle of the display module. As previously described, the display apparatus 100 may receive a image photographed by the camera and calculate an optimal tilt angle of the display module based on the photographed image.

Subsequently, the display apparatus 100 may adjust a tilt angle of the display module 10 based on the corresponding input such that the display module is tilted with respect to a bottom surface (S2030).

As previously described, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 controls the angle adjustment member based on the input tilt angle or the calculated tilt angle. For example, the controller 170 of the display apparatus 100 may control the

motor

419a or 429a of the angle adjustment member 410a of FIG. 10a or may control the

motor

419b or 429b of the angle adjustment member 410b of FIG. 11.

As a result, the display module 10 may be tilted such that the upper part or the lower part of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user.

Meanwhile, the display apparatus 100 may display an object indicating that the tilt angle of the display module is being adjusted during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module (S2040). Through display of the object, therefore, it is possible for the user to intuitively recognize that the tilt angle of the display module is being adjusted.

This object may be a

text type message

1220 or 1320 as shown in FIGS. 15c or 16b. On the other hand, a region protruding toward the user may be highlighted in order to more intuitively display such tilt angle adjustment. For example, in a case in which the display module 10 is tilted such that the upper part of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user, the brightness, color, and lightness of the upper region of the display module 10 may be changed or an icon or a pointer may be displayed on the upper region of the display module 10. Consequently, it is possible for the user to intuitively recognize that the display module 10 is tilted such that the upper region of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user.

At the time of adjusting the tilt angle of the display module, on the other hand, an indicator indicating advance per step may be displayed. In a case in which the display module is tilted by a first angle for a first time, an indicator having a first level may be displayed on the upper region of the display module. In a case in which the display module is tilted by a second angle, which is greater than the first angle, for a second time, an indicator having a second level, which is greater than the first level, may be displayed on the upper region of the display module. In a case in which the display module is tilted by a third angle for a third time, an indicator having a third level may be displayed on the upper region of the display module. Through stepwise or sequential display of the indicator, therefore, it is possible for the user to recognize that the tilt angle of the display module is being sequentially adjusted. In addition, it is possible for the user to recognize that the angle adjustment for the first time is performed at a 1/3 level and that the angle adjustment for the second time is performed at a 2/3 level.

FIG. 21a is a view illustrating that a wheel key 201 of the remote controller is scrolled in an upward direction or an upward direction key 203 is operated with respect to the display apparatus 100. In this case, the display apparatus 100 may recognize such an operation as an input to adjust the tilt angle of the display module 10 such that the upper part of the display module 10 protrudes toward a user.

At this time, the tilt angle of the display module 10 may be set based on scroll input intensity or scroll input time of the wheel key 201 in the upward direction or based on operation time or the number of times of operation of the upward direction key 203. As the time, the scroll input intensity or the scroll input time of the wheel key 201 or the operation time or the number of times of operation of the upward direction key 203 is increased, the tilt angle of the display module 10 may be increased.

FIG. 21b is a view illustrating that the upper region of the display module 10 protrudes toward a user 2100 in response to the tilt angle adjustment input. That is, FIG. 21b illustrates that the display module 10 is tilted by a predetermined angle θx.

In a case in which the user 2100 is located lower than the middle height of the display module or in a case in which the user 2100 is located lower than the display module, the user 2100 may perform an angle adjustment input such that the upper region of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user 2100. As a result, as shown in FIG. 21b, the display module 10 may be tilted by the tilt angle θx. Meanwhile, as previously described, the tilt angle θx may have a value between 3 degrees and 9 degrees.

FIG. 21c is a view illustrating that an indicator 2120 is displayed on the upper region of the display apparatus 100 on which a predetermined video 2110 is displayed during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module. The indicator 2120 may be displayed as an additional icon or text in addition to color change, brightness change, lightness change, or edge change. In addition, the indicator 2120 may be stereoscopically displayed as a three-dimensional (3D) object.

On the other hand, an audio indicating that the upper region of the display module is protruding may be output in addition to the indicator 2120. Consequently, it is possible for the user 2100 to intuitively recognize that the tilt angle of the display module is being adjusted.

In conclusion, FIG. 21c illustrates that a portion of the displayed video is changed in response to the tilt angle adjustment. In addition, a portion of the output audio may also be changed.

FIG. 21d is a view illustrating that a direction in which an audio is output from the audio output unit 185 is changed such that the audio is concentrated upon the user 2100 in response to the tilt angle adjustment. In order to change the audio direction, the audio processor (not shown) of the controller 170 may control the direction of the output audio through signal processing, such as phase change per frequency or gain change.

On the other hand,

indicators

2132 and 2134 indicating that audio output is being changed may also be displayed in addition to the change of the audio output. As a result, it is possible for the user to intuitively recognize that video adjustment, indicated by the indicator 2120, and audio adjustment are being performed according to the tilt angle adjustment.

Meanwhile, in FIGS. 21c and 21d, video quality, such as color, brightness, and lightness, of the predetermined video 2110 may also be changed in response to the adjusted tilt angle of the display module in addition to displaying the indicator 2120 on the predetermined video 2110.

For example, in a case in which the tilt angle is set such that the upper region of the display apparatus 100 protrudes toward the user as shown in FIGS. 21c and 21d, a relatively small amount of light emitted from a ceiling lighting apparatus is incident upon the display apparatus 100. In consideration of this phenomenon, therefore, the color of the predetermined video 2110 may be brightened, the brightness of the predetermined video 2110 may be increased, or the lightness of the predetermined video 2110 may be increased. As a result, it is possible to provide a video having video quality corresponding to the tilt angle of the display module.

FIGS. 22a to 22c are views illustrating that the lower region of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user 2100 in response to the tilt angle adjustment input.

For example, in a case in which the wheel key 201 of the remote controller is scrolled in a downward direction or a downward direction key (not shown) is operated with respect to the display apparatus 100, the display apparatus 100 may recognize such an operation as an input to adjust the tilt angle of the display module 10 such that the lower part of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user.

FIG. 22a is a view illustrating that the lower region of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user 2100 in response to the tilt angle adjustment input. That is, FIG. 22a illustrates that the display module 10 is tilted by a predetermined angle θy.

In a case in which the user 2100 is located higher than the middle height of the display module or in a case in which the user 2100 is located higher than the total height of the display module, the user 2100 may perform an angle adjustment input such that the lower region of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user 2100. As a result, as shown in FIG. 22a, the display module 10 may be tilted by the tilt angle θy.

FIG. 22b is a view illustrating that an indicator 2125 is displayed on the lower region of the display apparatus 100 on which a predetermined video 2110 is displayed during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module as shown in FIG. 22a. The indicator 2125 may be displayed as an additional icon or text in addition to color change, brightness change, lightness change, or edge change. In addition, the indicator 2125 may be stereoscopically displayed as a 3D object.

On the other hand, an audio indicating that the lower region of the display module is protruding may be output in addition to the indicator 2125. Consequently, it is possible for the user 2100 to intuitively recognize that the tilt angle of the display module is being adjusted.

In conclusion, FIG. 22b illustrates that a portion of the displayed video is changed in response to the tilt angle adjustment. In addition, a portion of the output audio may also be changed.

FIG. 22c is a view illustrating that a direction in which an audio is output from the audio output unit 185 is changed such that the audio is concentrated upon the user 2100 in response to the tilt angle adjustment. In order to change the audio direction, the audio processor (not shown) of the controller 170 may control the direction of the output audio through signal processing, such as phase change per frequency or gain change.

On the other hand,

indicators

2142 and 2144 indicating that audio output is being changed may also be displayed in addition to the change of the audio output. As a result, it is possible for the user to intuitively recognize that video adjustment, indicated by the indicator 2120, and audio adjustment are being performed according to the tilt angle adjustment.

Meanwhile, in FIGS. 22b and 22c, video quality, such as color, brightness, and lightness, of the predetermined video 2110 may also be changed in response to the adjusted tilt angle of the display module in addition to displaying the indicator 2125 on the predetermined video 2110.

For example, in a case in which the tilt angle is set such that the lower region of the display apparatus 100 protrudes toward the user as shown in FIGS. 22b and 22c, a relatively large amount of light emitted from a ceiling lighting apparatus is incident upon the display apparatus 100. In consideration of this phenomenon, therefore, the color of the predetermined video 2110 may be darkened, the brightness of the predetermined video 2110 may be decreased, or the lightness of the predetermined video 2110 may be decreased. As a result, it is possible to provide a video having video quality corresponding to the tilt angle of the display module.

Meanwhile, the tilt angle adjustment input may be performed using various methods.

FIG. 23a is a view illustrating that an upper one of

objects

2315 and 2317, i.e. an upper object 2315, displayed on the display apparatus 100, on which a predetermined video 2310 is displayed, is selected by an input from the remote controller 200. As a result, the upper region of the display apparatus 100 may protrude toward a user. At this time, the tilt angle of the display module may be set in proportion to the number of times of selection or selection time.

Meanwhile, in a case in which the remote controller 200 of FIG. 23a can display a pointer, the pointer may be moved to the upper region of the display apparatus 100 and then the upper region of the display apparatus 100 may be selected in a manner similar to FIG. 23a. Consequently, it is possible to easily and conveniently perform a tilt angle adjustment input.

FIG. 23b is a view illustrating a tilt angle adjustment input through a gesture of the user.

In a case in which the user 2100 takes a gesture of raising his/her right hand 2105, in a case in which the user 2100 takes a gesture of lowering his/her left hand 2107, or in a case in which these two operations are combined, the camera 195 may photograph an image of the user and the display apparatus 100, on which the predetermined video 2310 is displayed, may recognize such a gesture as an input to adjust the tilt angle of the display module 10 such that the upper part of the display module 10 protrudes toward the user. Of course, these gestures may be changed by user setting.

Meanwhile, in FIGS. 10a to 23b, the tilt angle of the display module 10 is adjusted in a case in which the display module 10 is not curved but flat. Alternatively, such tilt angle adjustment may be applied to a curved display module 10 as shown in FIG. 1. In addition, such tilt angle adjustment may be applied to a wall mount type display apparatus in addition to a stand type display apparatus.

Meanwhile, in this specification, the upward or downward tilt angle of the display module 10 is adjusted by the angle adjustment member 30, which adjusts the tilt angle of the display module 10. Alternatively, a left or right tilt angle of the display module 10 may be adjusted.

To this end, the display apparatus 100 may further include a left and right angle adjustment member (not shown).

Similarly to the first connection member 415a and the second connection member 425a of FIG. 10a or the first connection member 415b and the second connection member 425b of FIG. 10b, the left and right angle adjustment member (not shown) may include connection members which are spaced apart from each other in a horizontal direction. The left or right angle of the display module may be adjusted by change in lengths of the connection members.

The display apparatus according to the present invention not be limitedly applied to the construction and method of the embodiments as previously described; however, all or some of the embodiments may be selectively combined to achieve various modifications.

Meanwhile, the operation method of the display apparatus according to the present invention may be realized as a code, which is readable by a processor included in the display apparatus, in recording media readable by the processor. The recording media readable by the processor includes all kinds of recording devices to store data which are readable by the processor. Examples of the recording media readable by the processor may include a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), a magnetic tape, a floppy disk, and an optical data storage device. In addition, the recording media readable by the processor may also be realized in the form of a carrier wave, such as transmission through the Internet. Furthermore, the recording media readable by the processor may be distributed to computer systems connected to each other through a network such that a code readable by the processor is stored or executed in a distribution mode.

Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims.

Claims

A display apparatus comprising:

a camera;

a display module; and

an angle adjustment member to adjust a tilt angle of the display module based on a image photographed by the camera such that the display module is tilted with respect to a bottom surface.
The display apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a controller to calculate the tilt angle of the display module based on the image photographed by the camera.
The display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the angle adjustment member comprises:

a motor; and

a first connection member and a second connection member disposed in parallel to each other, the lengths of the first connection member and the second connection member being changed based on rotational force from the motor,

the tilt angle of the display module being adjusted based on a difference in length between the first connection member and the second connection member.
The display apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the angle adjustment member further comprises:

a rotary member rotated by the rotational force from the motor; and

a motion conversion member to convert rotational force from the rotary member into a rectilinear motion.
The display apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first connection member and the second connection member are disposed in a direction perpendicular to a vertical direction of the display module.
The display apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first connection member and the second connection member are disposed in a direction parallel to a vertical direction of the display module.
The display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the controller calculates an eye height of a user and a horizontal distance between the display apparatus and the user based on the image photographed by the camera and calculates the tilt angle of the display module based on the calculated eye height of the user and the calculated horizontal distance between the display apparatus and the user.
The display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, in the tilt mode, the controller controls the tilt angle of the display module to be adjusted in an automatic angle adjustment mode or in manual angle adjustment mode.
The display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the controller controls an object indicating the calculated tilt angle of the display module and switch to the tilt angle to be displayed.
The display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, when a user logs in to the display apparatus, the controller controls the display module to be tilted based on a predetermined tilt angle or an image of the user photographed by the camera.
The display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the controller controls the tilt angle of the display module to be primarily adjusted based on an eye height of a user and a horizontal distance between the display apparatus and the user and, in a case in which eyes of the user move, controls the tilt angle of the display module to be secondarily adjusted based on the motion of the eyes of the user.
The display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, in a case in which an image of plural users is contained in the photographed image, the controller controls a message informing that there are plural users and allowing selection of a specific item to be displayed.
The display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, in a case in which an image of plural users is contained in the photographed image, the controller calculates an average value of tilt angles for the respective users as the tilt angle of the display module.
The display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the controller controls an automatic tilt angle setting screen comprising a tilt angle adjustment item or a tilt angle cycle setting screen comprising a tilt angle cycle adjustment item to be displayed.
The display apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, in a case in which a user of the display apparatus moves, the controller controls an indicator indicating an optimal view position of the user based on a photographed image of the user during movement of the user to be output.
A display apparatus comprising:

a camera;

a display module;

a controller to calculate a tilt angle of the display module based on a image photographed by the camera; and

an angle adjustment member to adjust the tilt angle of the display module based on the calculated tilt angle of the display module such that the display module is tilted with respect to a bottom surface,

wherein the controller changes the tilt angle of the display module based on a location change of eyes of a user or a distance change between the user and the display apparatus.
A display apparatus comprising:

a display module;

an angle adjustment member to adjust a tilt angle of the display module such that the display module is tilted with respect to a bottom surface; and

a controller to control an object indicating that the tilt angle of the display module is being adjusted to be displayed on the display module during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module.
The display apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the object is displayed at a region of the display module which further protrudes toward a user, the object having an indicator indicating at least one selected from among color change, brightness change, lightness change, and edge change of the protruding region.
The display apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising:

an audio output unit to output an audio signal, wherein

the controller performs phase change per frequency and/or gain change of the audio signal output from the audio output unit in response to the tilt angle of the display module during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module.
The display apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the controller changes at least one selected from color, brightness, and lightness of a video displayed on the display module in response to the tilt angle of the display module during adjustment of the tilt angle of the display module.