TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a television receiver employing a display mode that makes a frame structure that is an actual part of the television receiver less conspicuous, while displaying a decorative image such as a painting or photograph on a display region of the television receiver, and relates to a method for driving such a television receiver.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, development of electronic apparatuses and like apparatuses for home use which can be utilized as a part of an interior of the home have been increasing in demand; such apparatuses serve as interior by making good use of their design while the apparatuses are not being used.

Among such apparatuses, television receivers have increased in their presence due to the recent development in size, and hence the foregoing demand of developing the apparatuses utilizable as a part of the interior is increasing even more.

On this account, attempts have been made with the television receiver to improve their interior usability, for example by allowing color selection of their frame structure.

However, this attempt can only achieve so much in improving the interior usability of the television receiver; it is the display region that occupies most part of the appearance of the television receiver, which display region gives the strongest impression.

Accordingly, improvement in relation to the display region of the television receiver is in high demand.

The following description specifically explains this point, by use of, as an example, a television receiver in which the display region is made up of a screen of a liquid crystal display device.

A television receiver in which the liquid crystal display device is used can be provided on the wall due to its light weight and its thin thickness.

The liquid crystal display device has an entirely black display surface while its display is turned off.

Consequently, while the television receiver disposed on the wall is turned off, the wall will have a black object thereon.

This black object spoils the interior. Due to the enlargement of recent television receivers, the interior is spoiled even more than before.

In view of this, the television receiver further requires to employ a mode that displays a decorative image or the like, other than its original function to display image data such as broadcasting and video. This allows the television receiver to be utilized as a part of the interior while the television receiver is not used by the original function.

Moreover, in order to improve the interior usability, it is necessary to further make a frame structure that is an actual part of the television receiver less conspicuous while the decorative image or the like is displayed.

Displays for interior decoration that use a flat type of display means have been conventionally available as an interior item, for example upon consideration of inconvenience in using a real painting as an interior decoration (e.g., being troublesome to replace pictures, requiring space for storing an unused painting, and compatibility of the painting with the frame).

For instance, Patent Literature 1 discloses an interior decoration display that uses a liquid crystal display device as the flat type of display means.

Illustrated in (a) of FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the interior decoration display when seen from its front side, and (b) of FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a display section of the interior decoration display.

As illustrated in (a) and (b) of FIG. 11, a liquid crystal display section 220 includes: a display unit 221 having a backlight 221a provided on its rear side and a dot-matrix liquid crystal display panel 221b provided on its front side; a transparent protection panel 222 attached on the front side of the display unit 221; and a casing 223 that covers the protection panel 222 and display unit 221 around their sides and rear. The casing 223 has an opening that matches in shape with the external shape of the protection panel 222. A peripheral part of the liquid crystal display panel 221b has a driving circuit (source driver or gate driver) for driving the liquid crystal display panel 221b; such a region serves as a non-display region. Hence, with the interior decoration display, the protection panel 222 provided on the front side of the liquid crystal display panel 221b have a peripheral part on which its surface is shaped as a lens, by having its cut plane bent. Such a configuration allows none of the non-display region in the peripheral part of the liquid crystal display panel 221b be visible and displays the peripheral part of the display region of the liquid crystal display panel 221b in an enlarged manner, in cases where the liquid crystal display section 220 is seen from various angles from the front. Therefore, if a frame pattern is displayed in the peripheral part of the liquid crystal display panel 221b, the frame pattern is displayed in an enlarged manner to fill the whole frame section, due to the effect of the lens-shaped part of the protection panel 222.

Moreover, a power source section 240 is connected to a commercial AC power supply, to supply direct-current electrical power that is required by the liquid crystal display section 220. Further, the power supply section 240 supports the liquid crystal display section 220 in a suspended manner, via two suspension wires 241 and 241.

With the interior decoration display of the foregoing configuration, it is possible to make the non-display region in the peripheral part of the liquid crystal display panel 221b not visible, while freely changing decorative images such as a painting and a frame pattern being displayed in the display region and combining the decorative image with the frame pattern. Hence, the interior decoration display serves as an excellent display for interior decoration use.

CITATION LISTPatent Literature

Patent Literature 1

Japanese Patent Application Publication, Tokukaihei, No. 10-260654 A (Publication Date: Sep. 29, 1998)

SUMMARY OF INVENTIONTechnical Problem

Meanwhile, although the interior decoration display disclosed in Patent Literature 1 has an advantage that the non-display region of the peripheral part of the liquid crystal display panel 221b is made not visible by the lens-shaped part provided on the peripheral part of the protection panel 222 as described above, this display has a problem that an image displayed in the peripheral section of the display region is displayed in a distorted manner.

In the case of the display for interior decoration, the peripheral section of the display region serves as a frame display region, so even though the image displayed therein is distorted, this distorted display does not particularly become a problem.

However, if the lens-shaped configuration of Patent Literature 1 is used with a television receiver that employs a mode to display a decorative image on the television receiver so that the television receiver can be utilized as a part of the interior, a major problem occurs that when regular television is viewed, an image displayed in the peripheral section of the display region is displayed in a distorted manner.

Hence, although the lens-shaped configuration of Patent Literature 1 is applicable for a display exclusively for decoration purposes, it is not applicable to a television receiver that employs both the decoration and viewing uses.

The present invention is accomplished in view of the foregoing problem, and its object is to provide a television receiver and a method for driving a television receiver, which television receiver displays a decorative image such as a painting or photograph as though the decorative image had a real frame while displaying the decorative image on a display region section of the television receiver, so that the television receiver can be utilized as a part of the interior.

Solution to Problem

In order to attain the object, a television receiver of the present invention includes: a frame structure; and a display region surrounded by the frame structure, displaying an image, the display region, while displaying a decorative image, displaying a decorative frame on a peripheral section of the decorative image, the display region having a higher surface luminance in a part of the display region in which the decorative frame is displayed as compared to a surface luminance in a part of the display region in which the decorative image is displayed.

Moreover, in order to attain the object, a method of the present invention for driving a television receiver including a frame structure and a display region surrounded by the frame structure, displaying an image, includes: causing the display region to display a decorative frame on a peripheral section of the decoration picture while the display region displays a decorative image; and causing the display region to have a higher surface luminance in a part of the display region in which the decorative frame is displayed as compared to a surface luminance in a part of the display region in which the decorative image is displayed.

According to the configuration, a surface luminance of a display region in which a decorative frame is displayed is higher than a surface luminance of a display region in which a decorative image is displayed.

Hence, a viewer of the television receiver, upon viewing the display region of the television receiver, can more easily sense the decorative image as a real painting or like picture.

That is to say, the brightness of the decorative image is different from that of the image of the decorative frame. Hence, the decorative image is more recognized as a separate image to the image of the decorative frame. Furthermore, the image of the decorative frame is sensed as a brighter image; hence, it is more easily sensed as a real frame, not as an image.

Accordingly, the viewer can more easily sense the image of a painting as though it is framed in a real frame. As a result, the viewer can easily sense that a real painting is displayed.

As described above, with the configuration, it is possible to provide a television receiver and a method for driving the television receiver, which television receiver can display a decorative image as though it is framed with a real frame so that the television receiver can be utilized as a part of an interior.

Note that the decorative image denotes an image used for decorative purposes, such as a painting or a photograph. A painting in the specification denotes a picture drawn or printed on for example a piece of paper or canvas. Further, a photograph includes, for example, a photograph printed on a piece of paper or the like.

Moreover, the decorative frame mainly denotes a frame (frame pattern) used for framing and exhibiting the painting, photograph, or the like.

Moreover, the decorative image is an image displayed at a time when for example a viewer of the television receiver selects a picture mode in order to utilize the television receiver as a part of the interior, which picture mode is a mode for displaying the decorative image.

Moreover, the television receiver of the present invention is configured in such a manner that the decorative frame includes at least one color that is in a same range as a color of the frame structure.

Moreover, a method of the present invention for driving a television receiver is configured in such a manner that the decorative frame is to include at least one color that is in a same range as a color of the frame structure.

According to the configuration, while a decorative image such as a painting or photograph is displayed in the display region, both (i) the actual frame structure of the television receiver, which frame structure is an essential configuration in view of durability of the television receiver and (ii) a decorative frame displayed on a peripheral section of the decorative image, are visible as a frame of the decorative image.

Meanwhile, by having at least one color of the decorative frame be of a color in a same color range as at least one color of the frame structure, it is possible to cause the frame structure and the decorative frame be sensed as though they were assimilated with each other.

Namely, a color of the decorative frame is made to be a color close to that of the frame structure, in order to have the actual frame structure be perceived as being integrated with the decorative frame. This results in making the frame structure less conspicuous.

In the specification, to have at least one color of the decorative frame be in a same color range as at least one color of the frame structure denotes that a color in a same range of at least one color included in the frame structure is included as at least one color of the colors included the decorative frame, or that a color in a same range of at least one color included in the decorative frame is included as at least one color of the colors included in the frame structure.

Moreover, colors that are in the same range means that the colors have a hue in common. For example, colors that are in the same range as red include all colors that include red as a common hue, such as red, reddish purple, red purple, purplish red, yellowish red, yellow red, and reddish yellow. Moreover, achromatic colors such as white, gray, and black are all colors in a same range.

Hence, by the above configuration, it is possible to achieve a television receiver and a method for driving a television receiver, each of which allows a frame structure to be less conspicuous while a display region of the television receiver displays a decorative image, and a frame of the decorative image to be shown so that it looks more real.

The decorative image denotes an image provided for decorative purposes, such as a painting or a photograph. In the specification, a painting denotes a picture drawn or printed on for example a piece of paper or canvas. Moreover, a photograph denotes a photographed object that is printed on for example a piece of paper.

Moreover, the decorative image is an image displayed upon selection of a picture mode for example by a viewer of the television receiver, which picture mode is a mode displaying the decorative image to utilize the television receiver as a part of the interior.

Moreover, with the television receiver of the present invention, it is preferable that the color that is in a same range is a hue adjacent in position on a Munsell hue circle having ten hues, from among the ten hues in the Munsell hue circle.

Moreover, with the method of the present invention for driving the television receiver, it is preferable that the color that is in a same range is to be a hue adjacent in position on the Munsell hue circle having ten hues, from among the ten hues in the Munsell hue circle.

Colors in the same range in the foregoing configuration are determined based on the Munsell hue circle having ten hues, and are hues that are located adjacent to each other. For example, colors in a same range as purple is, according to the Munsell hue circle having ten hues, red purple and blue purple.

According to the configuration, a color of the decorative frame and a color of the frame structure are colors that belong to a same range. Hence, it is possible to make the frame structure less conspicuous.

Therefore, by the above configuration, it is possible to achieve a television receiver and a method for driving a television receiver, each of which allows a frame structure to be less conspicuous while a display region of the television receiver displays a decorative image, and a frame of the decorative image to be shown so that it looks more real.

Note that the Munsell hue circle is classified by numbers and symbols based on hue, one of the three attributes of color. The Munsell color system is employed in JIS specification (JIS Z 8721) as a â€œSpecification according to their three attributesâ€ . Details thereof are described later.

Moreover, with the television receiver of the present invention, it is preferable that the color that is in a same range is a same hue on a Munsell hue circle having ten hues, from among the ten hues in the Munsell hue circle.

Moreover, with the method of the present invention for driving a television receiver, it is preferable that the color that is in a same range is to be a same hue on a Munsell hue circle having ten hues, from among the ten hues in the Munsell hue circle.

According to the configuration, the color of the decorative frame and the color of the frame structure are colors of a same hue among the ten hues of the Munsell hue circle. Hence, it is possible to further make the frame structure less conspicuous.

Therefore, by the foregoing configuration, it is possible to achieve a television receiver and a method for driving a television receiver, each of which allows a frame structure to be less conspicuous while a display region of the television receiver displays a decorative image, and a frame of the decorative image to be shown so that it looks more real.

Moreover, with the television receiver of the present invention, it is preferable that the color that is in a same range is an achromatic color.

Moreover, with the method of the present invention for driving a television receiver, it is preferable that the color that is in a same range is to be an achromatic color.

According to the configuration, the color of the decorative frame and the color of the frame structure are achromatic colors such as white, gray, and black, which colors are of a same range.

Therefore, by having such a configuration, it is possible to have the frame be configured so that it suits well to, for example, a black and white decorative image.

Moreover, with the television receiver of the present invention, it is preferable that the color that is in a same range has a same color value.

Moreover, with the method of the present invention for driving a television receiver, it is preferable that the color that is in a same range is to have a same color value.

According to the configuration, color value, which is an attribute of color regarding relative brightness of an object surface, is the same. Hence, it is possible to further make the frame structure less conspicuous.

Moreover, with the television receiver of the present invention, it is preferable that the decorative frame has a width of not less than onefold of a width of the frame structure.

Moreover, with the method of the present invention for driving the television receiver, it is preferable that the decorative frame is to have a width of not less than onefold of a width of the frame structure.

According to the configuration, while the decorative image is displayed in the display region, both the frame structure and the decorative frame serve as the frame of the decorative image.

Further, by having the width of the decorative frame be not less than onefold of the width the frame structure, the frame structure is made less conspicuous.

Namely, the decorative frame is conspicuous as the frame of the decorative image.

Hence, by the foregoing configuration, it is possible to achieve a television receiver and a method for driving a television receiver, each of which allows a frame structure to be less conspicuous while a display region of the television receiver displays a decorative image, and a frame of the decorative image to be shown so that it looks more real.

Moreover, with the television receiver of the present invention, it is preferable that the width of the decorative frame is not more than fivefold of the width of the frame structure.

Moreover, with the method of the present invention for driving the television receiver, it is preferable that the width of the decorative frame is to be not more than fivefold of the width of the frame structure.

As described above, the width of the frame structure is less conspicuous by having the width of the decorative frame be not less than onefold of the width of the frame structure.

However, if the width of the decorative frame is too thick, proportion of the frame is too high with respect to the size of the decorative image. As a result, a viewer generates a feel of awkwardness to the picture, and further appearance of the picture is remarkably spoiled.

Meanwhile, as in the foregoing configuration, by having the decorative frame be of a width not more than fivefold of the width of the frame structure, it is possible to make the width of the frame structure less conspicuous and further prevent the width of the decorative frame from becoming too wide. This allows achievement of a television receiver and a method for driving a television receiver that can maintain its good appearance.

Moreover, with the television receiver of the present invention, it is preferable that the frame structure has a width in a range from not less than 5 mm to not more than 85 mm.

If the width of the frame structure is not more than 5 mm, the frame structure lacks in strength, thereby making it difficult to achieve a durable television receiver.

On the other hand, if the width of the frame structure is not less than 85 mm, this spoils the good appearance of the television receiver.

Therefore, by providing the frame structure so as to have a width ranging from not less than 5 mm to not more than 85 mm as in the foregoing configuration, it is possible to achieve a durable television receiver while still maintaining its good appearance.

Moreover, with the television receiver of the present invention, it is preferable that the surface luminance of the display region in which the decorative image is displayed is not more than 50 cd/m².

Moreover, with the method of the present invention for driving a television receiver, it is preferable that the surface luminance of the display region in which the decorative image is displayed is to be not more than 50 cd/m².

According to the configuration, the region in which the decorative image is displayed has an extremely low surface luminance. This causes the viewer of the television receiver to feel as though the viewer were viewing not a luminous color but a reflected color. In other words, it is possible to cause the viewer to feel as though the viewer were viewing not an image displayed on a screen but a real picture drawn or painted on a piece of paper or the like.

Moreover, the television receiver of the present invention is more preferably configured in such a manner that the surface luminance of the display region in which the decorative image is displayed is not more than 30 cd/m².

Moreover, with the method of the present invention for driving a television receiver, it is more preferable that the surface luminance of the display region in which the decorative image is displayed is to be not more than 30 cd/m².

According to the configuration, the surface luminance is not more than 30 cd/m²; even if an external light luminance is dark, for example of not more than 100 cd/m², it is still possible to have the viewer sense as though the viewer were viewing a real picture that is drawn or painted on a piece of paper or the like.

Therefore, it is possible to achieve a television receiver and a method for driving a television receiver, each of which is capable of displaying the decorative image as though it were real, even in a dark place.

Moreover, a television receiver of the present invention further includes a backlight disposed on a rear side of the display region that is surrounded by the frame structure, the backlight being capable of varying a luminance within a light emitting surface of the backlight, the surface luminance of the display region in which the decorative frame is displayed being higher as compared to the surface luminance of the display region in which the decorative image is displayed, by varying the luminance within the light emitting surface of the backlight.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

As described above, the television receiver of the present invention, while the display region displays a decorative image, displays a decorative frame in a peripheral section of the decorative image, and in the display region, a part of the display region in which the decorative frame is displayed has a higher surface luminance as compared to a surface luminance in a part of the display region in which the decorative image is displayed.

Moreover, as described above, a method of the present invention for driving a television receiver is a method in which, while the display region displays the decorative image, the display region is caused to display a decorative frame in a peripheral section of the decorative image, and in the display region, a part in the display region in which the decorative frame is displayed has a higher surface luminance as compared to a surface luminance in a part of the display region in which the decorative image is displayed.

This attains an effect of providing a television receiver and a method for driving the television receiver, which television receiver, in a case where a decorative image such as a painting or photograph is displayed in a display region of the television receiver, displays the decorative image as though the decorative image had a real frame, so that the television receiver can be utilized as a part of the interior.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view illustrating a liquid crystal television receiver of an embodiment of the present invention that is hung on a wall; (a) illustrates the television receiver in a television mode, and (b) illustrates the television receiver in a picture mode.

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention, and is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a liquid crystal display device.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention, and is a block diagram related to luminance control.

FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention, and is a view illustrating a flowchart related to luminance control.

FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention, and is a view illustrating one example of a liquid crystal television receiver of one embodiment of the present invention, which television receiver is in a picture mode and is hung on a wall; (a) illustrates a case where a decorative frame has a width twofold of a width of a frame structure, and (b) illustrates a case where the decorative frame has a width fivefold of the width of the frame structure.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention, and is a view illustrating one example of a liquid crystal television receiver of one embodiment of the present invention, which television receiver is in a picture mode and is hung on a wall; (a) illustrates a case where a decorative frame has a width twofold of a width of a frame structure, and (b) illustrates a case where the decorative frame has a width fivefold of the width of the frame structure.

FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention, and is a view illustrating one example of a liquid crystal television receiver of one embodiment of the present invention, which television receiver is in a picture mode and is hung on a wall; (a) illustrates a case where a decorative frame has a width twofold of a width of a frame structure, and (b) illustrates a case where the decorative frame has a width fivefold of the width of the frame structure.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention, and is a view illustrating one example of a liquid crystal television receiver of one embodiment of the present invention, which television receiver is in a picture mode and is hung on a wall.

FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention, and is a view illustrating one example of a liquid crystal television receiver of one embodiment of the present invention, which television receiver is in a picture mode and is hung on a wall.

FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a Munsell hue circle having 20 hues.

FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a conventional technique; (a) illustrates a conventional interior decoration display when seen from its front side, and (b) illustrates a cross section of a display section of the conventional interior decoration display.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTSEmbodiment 1

The following description specifically explains one embodiment of the present invention by use of a liquid crystal television receiver as an example, in which a display region of the television receiver is made of a screen of a liquid crystal display device.

A liquid crystal television receiver in which this liquid crystal display device is used can be provided on the wall due to its light weight and its thin thickness.

However, the liquid crystal display device has an entirely black display surface while its display is turned off. Consequently, while the television receiver disposed on the wall is turned off, the wall will have a black object thereon.

This black object spoils the interior. Due to the enlargement of recent television receivers, the interior is spoiled even more than before.

On this account, the liquid crystal television receiver of the present embodiment has, other than the original function for displaying image data such as broadcasting and video, a display mode for displaying a decorative image or the like while the liquid crystal television receiver is not used for the original function, so that the liquid crystal television receiver can be utilized as a part of the interior. The following describes this with respect to drawings.

Illustrated in (a) and (b) of FIG. 1 is a liquid crystal television receiver 1 of the present embodiment, which liquid crystal television receiver 1 is hung on a wall 2. More specifically, (a) of FIG. 1 illustrates a viewable region 7 while the display mode is set as a television mode, and (b) of FIG. 1 illustrates the viewable region 7 while the display mode is set as the picture mode.

In the embodiment, the television mode denotes a regularly used mode in which broadcasting and video, particularly dynamic image is displayed on the liquid crystal television receiver 1.

On the other hand, the picture mode denotes a display mode in which a decorative image such as a painting or a photograph, which decorative image is mainly a still image displayed for decorative purposes, is displayed while the liquid crystal television receiver 1 is not used in the regularly used mode.

Note that the painting denotes a picture drawn or printed on for example a piece of paper or canvas. Moreover, the photograph denotes a photographed object printed on for example a piece of paper.

As illustrated in (a) and (b) of FIG. 1, the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of the present embodiment has, when seen from a front view: a frame structure 4 which is a part of a housing of the liquid crystal television receiver 1 serving as an actual frame-shaped frame; and a display region 3 surrounded by the frame structure 4, which display region 3 is a region in which an image is displayed.

First described with reference to (a) of FIG. 1 is the liquid crystal television receiver 1 while its display mode is in the television mode.

As illustrated in (a) of FIG. 1, a viewer of the liquid crystal television receiver 1 views, as the viewable region 7, the frame structure 4 and the display region 3 surrounded by the frame structure 4. While the display mode of the liquid crystal television receiver 1 is in the television mode, a television image is displayed on the entire display region 3.

Next described with reference to (b) of FIG. 1 is the liquid crystal television receiver 1 while its display mode is in the picture mode.

As illustrated in (b) of FIG. 1, the display region 3 in the viewable region 7 displays a painting as the decorative image, instead of the television image.

More specifically, the display region 3 is divided into two regions, i.e., a decorative image display region 3a and a decorative frame display region 3b. The decorative image display region 3a is positioned in a central section of the display region 3, and occupies most part of the display region 3. The decorative image display region 3a displays the painting which serves as the decorative image.

On the other hand, the decorative frame display region 3b is positioned at a peripheral section of the decorative image display region 3a, and fills a gap between the decorative image display region 3a and the frame structure 4.

The decorative frame display region 3b displays an image of a decorative frame 5 which corresponds to the decorative image displayed in the decorative image display region 3a.

By carrying out such a display, the viewer can view the decorative image displayed in the decorative image display region 3a and the image of the decorative frame 5 displayed in the decorative frame display region 3b as one integrated image. As a result, the entire image displayed in the display region 3 can be more easily perceived as one framed painting.

Furthermore, the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of the present embodiment has a feature that a surface luminance of the decorative image display region 3a differs from a surface luminance of the decorative frame display region 3b. Therefore, the whole image is more easily perceived as a real framed painting. This is described below.

(Luminance of Decorative Frame)

In the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of the present embodiment, the decorative image display region 3a has a different surface luminance from that of the decorative frame display region 3b. More specifically, the decorative frame display region 3b has a surface luminance higher than that of the decorative image display region 3a.

Since the surface luminance of the decorative frame display region 3b is higher than that of the decorative image display region 3a, the viewer of the liquid crystal television receiver 1 is caused to more easily perceive, upon viewing the viewable region 7, that they are viewing a real painting.

This is because the decoration frame 5 displayed as an image is more easily sensed as a real frame.

In other words, since the decorative image has a different brightness from an image of the decorative frame 5, it is difficult to recognize the decorative image as a continuous image of the image of the decorative frame 5. Consequently, the difference in texture between the decorative image and the image of the decorative frame 5 is more easily perceived, thereby making it more easy to sense the image as though a real painting is framed.

Particularly, in a case where the image of the decorative frame 5 is of a metal touch, it is easy to show its brightness that is unique to metal, by having the surface luminance of the decorative frame 5 be high. Hence, the decorative frame 5 can be perceived as more real. Therefore, it is more easily sensed as though a real painting were hung.

(Control Method)

The following description deals with one example of how to control the surface luminance of the display region 3, more specifically, how to control the surface luminance of the decorative frame display region 3b so that the surface luminance of the decorative frame display region 3b is higher than the surface luminance of the decorative image display region 3a.

First schematically described is a configuration of the liquid crystal display device 20 with reference to FIG. 2, which liquid crystal display device 20 is provided in a liquid crystal television receiver (not illustrated).

The television receiver in the present embodiment is configured in such a manner that its display region is made up of a screen of a liquid crystal display device, as described above. Further, the screen of the liquid crystal display device is made up of a display surface of the liquid crystal display panel, as described later.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a liquid crystal display device 20 of the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the liquid crystal display device 20 of the present embodiment includes, as its main components, a liquid crystal module 30, a backlight unit 50, and a sensor and control section 70. The following describes these one by one.

(Liquid Crystal Module)

First described is the liquid crystal module 30. The liquid crystal module 30 includes a liquid crystal display panel 40 having a display surface 42 and a scanning line driving circuit 44 and signal line driving circuit 46 that input signals for displaying an image on the liquid crystal display panel 40. The display surface 42 of the liquid crystal display panel 40 makes up the screen 22 of the liquid crystal display device 20.

Moreover, the liquid crystal display panel 40 has a plurality of scanning lines (not illustrated) drawn out from the scanning line driving circuit 44 and a plurality of signal lines (not illustrated) drawn out from the signal line driving circuit 46, which are disposed so that the scanning lines and signal lines form a matrix.

Namely, the liquid crystal display panel 40 of the present embodiment is configured to be what is called an active matrix type, and includes a plurality of pixels. Further, each of the pixels includes TFT (Thin Film Transistor) elements (not illustrated) as switching elements.

Moreover, the liquid crystal display panel 40 has what is called a color filter, whereby color display is possible.

Note that the configuration of the liquid crystal display panel 40 is not limited to the active matrix type, and various configurations are applicable.

(Backlight Unit)

Next described is the backlight unit 50. This backlight unit 50 is provided on a rear side of the liquid crystal module 30. The backlight unit 50 has (i) a backlight 60 including a light emitting surface 62 and (ii) a backlight driving circuit 64 for driving the backlight 60.

Moreover, the backlight unit 50 of the present embodiment is configured to allow what is called local dimming. In the embodiment, local dimming denotes attaining a different luminance per predetermined region in the light emitting surface.

One example of a configuration in which the local dimming is possible as such is a configuration in which a light guide plate, which is a constituent of the backlight 60, is divided into a plurality of sections, and a light source is disposed in each of the divided light guide plates. By independently controlling the light sources, luminance can be varied within the light emitting surface.

The configuration of the backlight unit 50 is not limited to the foregoing configuration. Namely, the backlight unit 50 does not necessarily need to be a configuration that allows the local dimming, and may be a configuration in which light of an even luminance is emitted within the light emitting surface.

Moreover, even with the case where the backlight unit 50 is to be configured so as to allow the local dimming, a method different from dividing the light guide plate may be used to allow the local dimming.

Moreover, LED (Light Emitting Diode) of red, green, and blue colors can be used as the light source. Use of the LED as the light source allows not just easily reducing the electrical consumption, but further allows lighting in low luminance. Further, in cooperation with its broad color reproduction range, a smooth gradation expression from a low gradation is possible, thereby allowing display in colors close to its actual color and with low awkwardness. Moreover, lighting of the LED is changed within the plane in communication with the display image, to increase contrast and further reduce electrical consumption.

Note that the light source is not limited to the LED, and other light sources, for example a fluorescent lamp such as a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), an organic EL and the like, can also be used.

(Surface Luminance Control)

Moreover, the liquid crystal display device 20 of the present embodiment includes an external light luminance sensor section 110 and the like so that the surface luminance of the display region 3 is controlled as appropriate depending on external light luminance around the liquid crystal display device 20.

With the liquid crystal display device 20, the surface luminance is controlled depending on the external light luminance sensed by the external light luminance sensor section 110. Hence, it is easy to show the decoration picture as though it is real even if the liquid crystal display device 20 changes in its viewing environment.

It is not essential to provide the external light luminance sensor section 110 and control the surface luminance depending on the external light luminance; the liquid crystal display device 20 may be configured to have no external light luminance sensor section 110.

(Sensor and Control Section)

The following describes the sensor and control section 70 in relation to controlling the surface luminance. The sensor and control section 70 senses the external light luminance, and controls the liquid crystal module 30 and backlight unit 50 based on the sensed external light luminance.

More specifically, the sensor and control section 70 mainly includes an external light luminance sensor section 110 and an image data calculation section 80 connected to the external light luminance sensor section 110.

Further, the image data calculation section 80 is connected to (i) a liquid crystal module control section 82 that controls the liquid crystal module 30 and (ii) a backlight unit control section 84 that controls the backlight unit 50.

The liquid crystal module control section 82 is connected to the scanning line driving circuit 44 and signal line driving circuit 46 of the liquid crystal module 30, described above.

Moreover, the backlight unit control section 84 is connected to a backlight driving circuit 64 of the backlight unit 50 described above.

The following description more specifically explains the configuration of the sensor and control section 70 and its specific controlling method, with reference to drawings.

(Block Diagram of Luminance Control)

FIG. 3 is a block diagram related to luminance control in the liquid crystal display device of the present embodiment.

FIG. 3 more specifically illustrates the configuration of the sensor and control section 70 described with reference to FIG. 2 above.

Namely, the image data calculation section 80, in addition to being connected to the external light luminance sensor section 110, is also configured to be capable of receiving data related to an image and information related to switching of a display mode.

(Image Data)

More specifically, the image data input section 90 is connected to the image data calculation section 80 via the input image storage section 92.

In the embodiment, the image data input section 90 is a section where input of a decorative image such as a painting or a photograph is received.

Moreover, the input image storage section 92 is a section in which image data of the decorative image inputted into the image data input section 90 is stored.

Note that an image of a television broadcasting is generally not stored into the input image storage section 92.

(Display Mode)

Moreover, the image data calculation section 80 is connected to a display mode switching operation section 100.

In the present embodiment, the display mode switching operation section 100 is an operation section for switching the display mode between the regular television mode and the picture mode in which the decorative image is displayed, of the liquid crystal display device 20.

The television mode denotes a display mode in which a dynamic image of television broadcasting or video reproduction is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 20. Namely, the television mode denotes a display mode for use of the liquid crystal display device 20 as a regular television.

On the other hand, the picture mode denotes a display mode that causes display of a decorative image such as a painting or a photograph on a screen in terms of appearance, while the liquid crystal display device 20 is not used as the television mode.

(Luminance Sensor)

Moreover, the image data calculation section 80 is connected to the external light luminance sensor section 110 described above with reference to FIG. 2, via the external light luminance reading and storing section 112.

In the embodiment, the external light luminance sensor section 110 has a sensor for measuring luminance in a location in the vicinity of a located position of the liquid crystal display device 20.

The external light luminance sensed by the sensor is read and thereafter stored by the external light luminance reading and storing section 112.

As described above, the sensor measures the external light luminance, and this measured result is stored. Consequently, information related to brightness in a viewing environment of the liquid crystal display device 20 is obtained, which information serves as one element used for controlling surface luminance of the liquid crystal display device 20.

(Image Data Calculation Section)

Based on the image data, the display mode, and external light luminance information, the image data calculation section 80 calculates image data and luminance information, which are to be outputted to the liquid crystal module control section 82 and the backlight unit control section 84.

Note that, as described above with reference to FIG. 2, the liquid crystal module control section 82 and the backlight unit control section 84 are connected to the liquid crystal module 30 and the backlight unit 50, respectively.

(Decorative Frame Display Region)

In the liquid crystal display device 20 of the present embodiment, surface luminance of the display region 3 made up of the screen 22 of the liquid crystal display device 20 can be varied within its region.

That is to say, as illustrated in (b) of FIG. 1 and in FIG. 2, while the display mode is in the picture mode, the display region 3 is divided into the decorative image display region 3a and the decorative frame display region 3b. Further, the surface luminance of the decorative frame display region 3b is higher than that of the decorative image display region 3a.

Difference in the surface luminance between the decorative frame display region 3b and the decorative image display region 3a can be attained by controlling the backlight 60 and also by controlling the liquid crystal display panel 40.

More specifically, one example of how the difference in surface luminance is attained by controlling the backlight 60, as illustrated in FIG. 2, is as follows. First, the light emitting surface 62 of the backlight 60 is divided into (i) a decorative image light emitting surface 62a which is a light emitting region corresponding to the decorative image display region 3a of the display region 3, and (ii) a decorative frame light emitting surface 62b which is a light emitting region corresponding to the decorative frame display region 3b. Subsequently, the backlight unit control section 84 controls light emitting intensity of the decorative frame light emitting surface 62b via the backlight driving circuit 64, so that the light emitting intensity of the decorative frame light emitting surface 62b is higher than that of the decorative image light emitting surface 62a.

In order to attain the difference in surface luminance with the backlight 60, it is preferable that the backlight unit 50 is configured so that the local dimming is possible.

Meanwhile, one example of how to attain the difference in surface luminance by controlling the liquid crystal display panel 40 is by controlling a gradation of the liquid crystal display panel 40.

Namely, one method is to set a gradation of a region corresponding to the decorative frame display region 3b of the liquid crystal display panel 40 to a higher level than that of a region corresponding to the decorative image display region 3a of the liquid crystal display panel 40.

Control of the liquid crystal display panel 40 can be carried out by the liquid crystal module control section 82, via the scanning line driving circuit 44 and the signal line driving circuit 46.

(Flowchart)

Next described is a procedure carried out for luminance control of the screen in the liquid crystal display device 20 of the present embodiment, with reference to FIG. 4. Descriptions are provided one by one.

<S1>

First, the procedure starts by having a user of the liquid crystal display device 20, for example a viewer of the liquid crystal display device 20, to select the picture mode as the display mode.

<S2>

The image data calculation section 80 determines whether or not sensing of the external light luminance, namely, sensing of brightness of a viewing environment is ON (external light luminance sensor is ON).

When the external light luminance sensor is ON, the procedure proceeds to S3, and the sensed external light luminance is read in.

On the other hand, if the external light luminance sensor is not ON, the procedure proceeds to S6. Namely, as described above, in S6, the lighting data of the backlight (that is, the backlight lighting data) as a light source is calculated from input image information which is information other than the external light luminance.

<S3>

Upon determination in S2 that the external light luminance sensor is ON, the image data calculation section 80 reads in an external light luminance that is sensed by the sensor.

More specifically, the external light luminance sensed by the sensor of the external light luminance sensor section 110 is inputted into the image data calculation section 80 via the external light luminance reading and storing section 112.

<S4>

Thereafter, in S4, the image data calculation section 80 determines whether or not a change has occurred in the inputted external light luminance.

If it is determined that the external light luminance has changed, the procedure proceeds to S5.

On the other hand, if it is determined that no change has occurred in the external light luminance, there is no need to recalculate the lighting data of the backlight. In such a case, the procedure proceeds to S8 and S9 described later.

Note that the foregoing case relates to a case where the external light luminance is read in for a second or more times in a loop processing, and at a time when the external light luminance is read in for the first time, it is determined that the external light luminance has changed, and therefore proceeds to S5.

<S5>

If it is determined in S4 that the external light luminance has changed, and also when carrying out the loop processing for the first time, the lighting data of the backlight is calculated based on the input image information and the external light luminance that has been read in. More specifically, the lighting data of the backlight is calculated so that the luminance of the screen is to be a predetermined luminance.

<S6>

Next describes S6. As described above, S6 is carried out in the case where the external light luminance sensor is not ON in S2.

This S6 is as similar to S5 in the point that the lighting data of the backlight is calculated. However, it is different from S5 in that the external light luminance is not included in the data on which the calculation is based.

This is because in the case where S6 is to be carried out, the external light luminance sensor is not ON; hence no external light luminance is sensed.

Subsequently, a predetermined lighting data of the backlight (luminance) is derived in accordance with the decorative image. The luminance at this time is set to be lower than that of the television mode.

<S7>

The following describes S7. In S7, an image to be outputted to the liquid crystal module (image to be displayed on the panel) is prepared correlating to the backlight lighting data calculated in S5 or S6.

<S8, S9>

Based on the data calculated and generated in the steps up to S7, an image is displayed on the liquid crystal module and a backlight is lighted by the backlight unit.

This allows display of an image with a preferred surface luminance.

<S10>

Finally, the procedure ends at S10.

With the present procedure, loop processing (repeated processing) can be carried out; for example, after elapse of a predetermined time since an image is displayed, a value of the external light luminance sensor is read in again, to again calculate the lighting data of the backlight. More specifically, it is possible to have the procedure return to S2 again after carrying out S8 and S9.

By allowing such a loop processing, it is possible to achieve a high quality display further suitable for a current viewing environment such as the external light luminance, by appropriately sensing a change in the viewing environment.

Moreover, with the loop processing, calculation of the lighting data of the backlight and the like may be omitted if there is no change in the external light luminance.

More specifically, for example, in a case where it is determined in S4 that no change has occurred to the external light luminance as described above, there is no need to recalculate the lighting data of the backlight, thereby allowing omission of carrying out the processes in S5 and S7 again. Thereafter, an image is displayed on the liquid crystal module and a backlight is lighted in the backlight unit, based on the previous lighting data of the backlight and LCD display image data.

Note that the steps from S2 to S7 are carried out by the image data calculation section 80 of the sensor and control section 70, as described above.

Moreover, with the television mode, a usual image data calculation can be carried out.

Furthermore, also with the television mode, it is possible to allow variation in a display luminance depending on the external light luminance by use of an external light luminance sensor. In this case, one external light luminance sensor can commonly serve as the external light luminance sensor in the television mode and the external light luminance sensor in the picture mode.

That is to say, the external light luminance sensor used for the television mode can be shared to serve also as the external light luminance sensor for the picture mode; no additional component is required as the external light luminance sensor for the picture mode.

(Surface Luminance)

In the embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 20 of the present embodiment which is in the picture mode has a surface luminance of the decorative frame display region 3b in the display region 3 higher than that in the decorative image display region 3a.

Namely, in S7 (LCD display image preparation) in the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 4, an LCD display image is prepared so that the surface luminance of the decorative frame display region 3b is higher than the surface luminance of the decorative image display region 3a.

In the embodiment, as described above, two methods are available in order to attain a difference in the surface luminance between the decorative frame display region 3b and the decorative image display region 3a: by controlling the backlight 60 or by controlling the liquid crystal display panel 40.

Accordingly, in S7 (LCD display image preparation), appropriate data is prepared, either which employs or is in accordance with one of the methods.

Thereafter, based on the prepared data, the liquid crystal module and backlight unit are controlled in S8 (image display (LCD)) and S9 (backlight lighting (LED)).

The surface luminance of the decorative image display region 3a in the picture mode is not particularly limited, however in view of displaying the decorative image to be perceived as real as possible, the surface luminance is preferably the following values.

Namely, with the liquid crystal display device 20 of the present embodiment, a preferable surface luminance of the decorative image display region 3a while its display mode is in the picture mode is not more than 50 cd/m², particularly not more than 30 cd/m².

This surface luminance can be said as an extremely low surface luminance, taking in consideration that surface luminance of a regular television receiver or the like is at least 450 cd/m², and that displays which are held down in surface luminance such as ones used for theater screens still have a surface luminance of at least 200 cd/m².

Moreover, in attaining the screen luminance, the luminance of the backlight is preferably 1500 cd/m². Furthermore, this backlight luminance is preferably 1000 cd/m².

Note that the surface luminance of the decorative image display region 3a preferably varies in accordance with external light luminance.

On this account, if the surface luminance is controlled together with the sensing of the external light luminance, as shown in the flowchart, it is possible to carry out thorough control of the surface luminance in accordance with the viewing environment, particularly the external light luminance.

More specifically, for example, there are cases where a viewing environment in Japan and other Asian countries is different from those of Europe and the Americas. Caused by these differences in viewing environments, an optimum surface luminance may vary.

Namely, the viewing environment in Japan and other Asian countries is generally bright, and a screen is easily seen with a relatively high surface luminance.

More specifically, the viewing environment in Japan and the like use direct lighting as lighting, and often use fluorescent lamps for these lightings. Further, external light luminance is often around 200 lx to 300 lx, and a front of the screen is often around 100 lx.

In a case where a painting or the like is displayed in such a viewing environment, the surface luminance is preferably in a range from 20 cd/m²to 30 cd/m². With such a surface luminance, it is possible to avoid the picture be sensed as an illuminant, and lessen the presence as a liquid crystal display device.

Moreover, in a case where a photograph or the like is displayed, the surface luminance can be 100 cd/m². With such a surface luminance, it is easy to maintain a degree of vividness and contrast, thereby making it suitable to use the liquid crystal display device as a photograph display device (photo viewer).

On the other hand, the preferable surface luminance differs from this in the viewing environment of Europe and the Americas.

Namely, the viewing environment of Europe and the Americas is generally dark, and a screen is easily seen with a relatively dark surface luminance.

More specifically, the viewing environment in Europe and the like use indirect lighting as the lighting, and incandescent lamps are often used for these lightings. Further, the external light luminance (in-room luminance) in such cases is around 10 lx to 30 lx, and a front of the screen is around 10 lx to 30 lx.

In a case where a painting or the like is displayed in such a viewing environment, the surface luminance is preferably in a range of 10 cd/m²to 15 cd/m².

Meanwhile, in a case where a photograph or the like is displayed, the surface luminance is preferably 50 cd/m².

Moreover, even in a case where the liquid crystal display device is provided at a same location, there are case where the external light luminance varies in accordance with the on and off of lighting and also the time. As a result an optimum surface luminance also varies together with such a change.

If the surface luminance is set so that it is automatically set to an optimum value in accordance with the external light luminance, it becomes easy for the viewer to view a screen that has an optimum luminance at all times.

Further, according to the flowchart described with reference to FIG. 4 for example, it is possible to automatically control the surface luminance.

Embodiment 2

The following description explains the liquid crystal display device 20 according to the present invention, and further other features of the liquid crystal television receiver 1 that employs the liquid crystal display device 20. The descriptions will be given one by one.

Configurations other than what is particularly described in the following descriptions are the same as Embodiment 1. Moreover, for easy description, members that have identical functions as the members illustrated in the drawings of Embodiment 1 are provided with identical reference signs, and their descriptions are omitted.

FIGS. 5 to 9 are views each illustrating a liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention in the picture mode, which each liquid crystal television receiver is hung on the wall 2.

FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a Munsell hue circle having 20 hues.

In order to further improve the interior usability, the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of the present embodiment, while the decoration picture or the like is displayed, has the surface luminance of the decorative frame display region 3b be higher than the surface luminance of the decorative image display region 3a, and further has a color of the decorative frame 5 be a color in the same range as that of the frame structure 4, to make the frame structure 4 less conspicuous.

A color in the same range denotes, in the present embodiment, all achromatic colors such as white, gray, and black in a case of an achromatic color. Meanwhile, in a case where the color is a chromatic color, the color in the same range denotes a same hue or its adjacent hue of the 10 hues on the outer side of the hue circle of the Munsell hue circle having 20 hues, illustrated in FIG. 10. It is also possible to use the 20 hues, and have the same hue or adjacent hues serve as the color in the same range. Use of the 20 hues allows the frame structure 4 to be further less conspicuous.

The following description further specifically explains this with reference to FIGS. 5 to 9, using the case where the frame structure 4 is of an achromatic color as an example.

Illustrated in (a) and (b) of FIG. 5 are each a liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention in which the color of the frame structure 4 is white and a color in the same range as the color of the frame structure 4, i.e., white, is used as the color of the decorative frame 5.

Each illustrated in (a) and (b) of FIG. 6 is a liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention in which the color of the frame structure 4 is black and a color in the same range as the color of the frame structure 4, i.e., black, is used as the color of the decorative frame 5.

The dotted lines in FIGS. 5 and 6 indicate a borderline between the frame structure 4 and the decorative frame 5.

Each illustrated in (a) and (b) of FIG. 7 is a liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, in which the color of the frame structure 4 is black, and gray is used as the color of the decorative frame 5, which gray is a color in the same range as the color of the frame structure 4.

FIG. 8 illustrates a liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, in which the color of the frame structure 4 is black and includes a white pattern 8, and the color of the frame structure 4 or the color in the same range as the color of the pattern 8 is used as the color of the decorative frame 5.

FIG. 9 illustrates a liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, in which a color of the frame structure 4 is black and the color of the decorative frame 5 is a gradation from white to black, which colors are ones in the same range.

The foregoing combinations are merely exemplifications for describing the embodiment of the present invention.

As described above, with the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, while the display mode described above is in the picture mode, the image data that is image processed by the image data calculation section 80 is calculated and prepared, and the peripheral section of the decorative image displays a decorative frame 5 that is set in advance to include a color in the same range as the color of the frame structure 4.

The following description further explains in detail of a case where the frame structure 4 is of a chromatic color (drawings have been omitted).

For instance, when the frame structure 4 is of a red purple hue (5RP (Red Purple)) in the Munsell hue circle having 20 hues as illustrated in FIG. 10, 5RP, 10(Purple), and 10RP are either the same hue or an adjacent hue to the red purple hue, as illustrated in the Munsell hue circle having 20 hues in FIG. 10. Hence, the 5RP, 10P, and 10RP serve as the colors in the same range.

Therefore, with the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, while the display mode is in the picture mode, image data that is image processed by the image data calculation section 80 is calculated and prepared, and the decorative frame 5 that is set in advance to include at least one color in the same range as the red purple hue (5RP), that is, the color of the frame structure 4, is displayed in a peripheral section of the decorative image.

According to the configuration, the decorative frame 5 can be made to include a color in the same range as the color of the frame structure 4. Hence, it is possible make the frame structure 4 less conspicuous.

The above description deals with a configuration which uses the Munsell hue circle having 20 hues, however it is also possible in the present embodiment to use the Munsell hue circle having 10 hues.

With the Munsell hue circle having 10 hues as shown on the outer sides of the circumference in FIG. 10, for instance, 5Y (Yellow) and 10Y of the Munsell hue circle having 20 hues serve as Y, and 5GY (Green Yellow) and 10GY of the Munsell hue circle having 20 hues serves as GY; consequently, the 20 hue becomes 10 hues.

Therefore, for example, in the case where the frame structure 4 is of a yellow hue (Y), the yellow hue (Y), the yellow red hue (YR (Yellow Red)), and the green yellow hue (GY) are the same hue or adjacent hues as illustrated in the Munsell hue circle having 10 hues in FIG. 10. Hence, Y, YR and GY serve as the colors in the same range.

As described above, according to the configuration that uses the Munsell hue circle having 10 hues, the color of the decorative frame 5 and the color of the frame structure 4 are either adjacent hues or are the same hue among the 10 hues of the Munsell hue circle. Hence, the frame structure 4 is made less conspicuous.

Moreover, as described above, the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention can be configured in such a manner that the color of the decorative frame 5 and the color of the frame structure 4 are achromatic colors such as white, gray, black, and the like, which colors are in the same range.

According to the foregoing configuration, it is possible to attain a configuration that suits a black and white decorative image.

As described above, the present embodiment describes how to find a color that is in the same range by use of the Munsell hue circle illustrated in FIG. 10 in the case where the frame structure 4 is of a chromatic color. However, other methods may also be used. For instance, it is also possible to regard a color as a color in a same range in a case where the hues have a hue in common. More specifically, according to this method, colors in the same range as red include all colors that include red as its common hue, such as red, reddish purple, red purple, purplish red, yellowish red, yellow red, reddish yellow and the like.

Moreover, in the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, the color of the same range preferably has a same color value.

Each illustrated in (a) of FIG. 5, (a) of FIG. 6, and (a) of FIG. 7 is a viewable region 7 in which its decorative frame 5 has a width W2 twofold of a width W1 of its frame structure 4.

As illustrated in (a) of FIG. 5, (a) of FIG. 6, and (a) of FIG. 7, the viewable region 7 of an embodiment of the present invention includes the frame structure 4 and the display region 3.

Furthermore, the display region 3 includes the decorative image display region 3a and the decorative frame display region 3b.

While a decorative image is displayed on the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, a decorative frame 5 is displayed on a peripheral section of the decorative image, in which the decorative frame has the width W2 that is not less than onefold of the width W1 of the frame structure 4.

(Onefold or Twofold Configuration)

Illustrated in (a) of FIG. 5, (a) of FIG. 6, and (a) of FIG. 7 are examples in which widths W1 in up-down and left-right directions of the frame structure 4 are of a same width, and widths W2 of the decorative frame 5 are also of a same width, in which widths W2 are twofold of the widths W1. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the same applies in a case where the widths W1 of the frame structure 4 vary between each other.

For example, in a case where a liquid crystal television receiver of a 52 inch type is used, which upper frame structure, lower frame structure, left frame structure, and right frame structure of the frame structure 4 have a width of 41 mm, 72 mm, 43.5 mm, and 43.5 mm, respectively, the widths of the decorative frame 5 is set to be twofold of a corresponding width of the frame structure 4. As a result, the widths of the upper decorative frame, lower decorative frame, left decorative frame, and right decorative frame of the decorative frame 5 become 82 mm, 144 mm, 87 mm, and 87 mm, respectively. Meanwhile, the upper decorative frame may be set to have a same width as the lower decorative frame, as 144 mm, or all four sides may be set to have the same width as the lower decorative frame, as 144 mm.

Moreover, if the width of the decorative frame 5 is set so that the width is onefold of the frame structure 4, the width of the upper decorative frame, the lower decorative frame, the left decorative frame, and the right decorative frame in the decorative frame 5 becomes 41 mm, 72 mm, 43.5 mm, and 43.5 mm, respectively. Meanwhile, the upper decorative frame can be set to be the same as the lower decorative frame as 72 mm, or all four sides can be set to be the same as the lower decorative frame, as 72 mm.

That is to say, in a case where the display mode switching operation section 100 described later in details is in a picture mode for displaying a decorative image, image data that is image processed by the image data calculation section 80 of the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention is calculated and prepared, and the decorative frame 5 having a width set in advance is to be displayed on the peripheral section of the decorative image.

According to the configuration, when a decorative image is displayed, both the frame structure 4 and the decorative frame 5 serve as the frame of the decorative image.

However, by having the width W2 of the decorative frame 5 be not less than onefold of the width W1 of the frame structure 4, for example twofold of the width W1 of the frame structure 4, the width W1 of the frame structure 4 becomes less conspicuous.

Namely, just the decorative frame 5 is conspicuous as the frame of the decorative image.

Therefore, it is possible to make the frame structure 4 less conspicuous while the decorative image is displayed, and achieve a liquid crystal television receiver 1 which can show a frame of the decorative image with a more real appearance.

(Fivefold Configuration)

Each illustrated in (b) of FIG. 5, (b) of FIG. 6, and (b) of FIG. 7 is a liquid crystal television receiver 1 of the embodiment of the present invention in the picture mode, which liquid crystal television receiver 1 is hung on the wall 2.

Each illustrated in (b) of FIG. 5, (b) of FIG. 6, and (b) of FIG. 7 is a view illustrating the viewable region 7 in which the width W2 of the decorative frame 5 is fivefold of the width W1 of the frame structure 4.

In the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, the width W2 of the decorative frame 5 is fivefold of the width W1 of the frame structure 4.

As described above, the width W2 of the decorative frame 5 is not less than onefold of the width W1 of the frame structure 4, to make the width W1 of the frame structure 4 less conspicuous.

However, if the width W2 of the decorative frame 5 is too thick, proportion of the frame is too high with respect to the size of the decorative image. This causes the viewer to feel awkwardness with the image, and the appearance is remarkably spoiled.

Hence, as in the configuration, by having the width W2 of the decorative frame 5 be not more than fivefold of the width W1 of the frame structure 4, it is possible to make the width W1 of the frame structure 4 less conspicuous since the width is remarkably narrower than the width W2 of the decorative frame 5, while further preventing the width W2 of the decorative frame 5 from being too wide. As a result, it is possible to achieve a liquid crystal television receiver 1 with which a good appearance is maintained.

In (b) of FIG. 5, (b) of FIG. 6, and (b) of FIG. 7, widths W1 of the frame structure 4 are of a same width, and widths W2 of the decorative frame 5 are also of a same width, in which widths W2 are fivefold of the widths W1. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the same applies in a case where the widths of the frame structure 4 vary between each other.

(Dimension Example)

For example, in a case where a liquid crystal television receiver of a 65 inch type is used, which upper frame structure, lower frame structure, left frame structure, and right frame structure of the frame structure 4 have a width of 44.5 mm, 81 mm, 44.5 mm, and 44.5 mm, respectively, the widths of the decorative frame 5 is set to be fivefold of corresponding widths of the frame structure 4. As a result, the widths of the upper decorative frame, lower decorative frame, left decorative frame, and right decorative frame of the decorative frame 5 become 222.5 mm, 405 mm, 222.5 mm, and 222.5 mm, respectively. Meanwhile, the lower decorative frame may be set to have a same width as the upper decorative frame, as 222.5 mm, or the widths of the decorative frame 5 may be set within a range of onefold to fivefold of the widths of the frame structure 4. Moreover, the television receiver may include a function that allows the viewer to set the width of the decorative frame 5 to any width.

That is to say, in a case where the aforementioned display mode switching operation section 100 is in the picture mode, image data that is image processed by the image data calculation section 80 of the liquid crystal television receiver of another embodiment of the present invention is calculated and prepared, and the decorative frame 5 having a width set in advance is to be displayed on the peripheral section of the decorative image.

Moreover, as described above, the width of the frame structure 4 to be used for the liquid crystal television receiver 1 of an embodiment of the present invention preferably ranges from not less than 5 mm to not more than 85 mm.

If the width of the frame structure 4 is not more than 5 mm, the frame structure 4 lacks in strength, thereby making it difficult to achieve a durable television receiver.

On the other hand, if the width of the frame structure 4 is not less than 85 mm, this spoils the good appearance of the television receiver.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, by using the frame structure 4 having a width ranging from not less than 5 mm but not more than 85 mm, it is possible to achieve a durable liquid crystal television receiver 1 while still maintaining its good appearance.

(Blank Image)

Furthermore, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 9, a blank image 6 is preferably inserted between the decorative image and the decorative frame 5. This blank image 6 is displayed in a blank image display region 3c in the display region 3. The blank image display region 3c is positioned between the decorative image display region 3a and the decorative frame display region 3b.

According to the configuration, by further inserting the blank image 6 between the decorative image and the decorative frame 5, it is possible to attain a display of the decorative image further close to a real picture.

That is to say, for example, with a decorative image such as a woodblock print which appears more natural by having a blank in its peripheral section, use of this configuration allows attaining a display of the decorative image that is further close to a real picture.

This as a result attains a liquid crystal television receiver 1 that is capable of displaying the decorative image more like a real picture.

Moreover, for example, in a case where the decorative image is a painting, a blank painting paper can be displayed as the blank image 6, and in a case where the decorative image is a photograph, a blank printing paper can be displayed as the blank image 6.

Note that the surface luminance of the blank image display region 3c is not particularly limited, but is preferably, for example, not more than 50 cd/m².

Moreover, for example, in a case where an external light luminance is dark, for example is not more than 100 cd/m², the surface luminance is preferably not more than 30 cd/m².

According to the configuration, the luminance of the blank image 6 is low; hence, it is possible to cause the viewer of the liquid crystal television receiver 1 to sense the color as not a luminous color but a reflected color. In other words, it is possible to cause the user to perceive the image as not an image displayed but as an actual painting that is drawn or painted on a piece of paper or the like.

Moreover, the frame structure 4 is perceived by the viewer of the liquid crystal television receiver 1 as not a luminous color but a reflected color. Hence, it is possible to make the frame structure 4 be less conspicuous.

As a result, it is possible to achieve a liquid crystal television receiver 1 that can display the decorative image more like a real picture.

On the other hand, according to the configuration, it is possible to make just a surface luminance of the region in which the decorative image is displayed or just a surface luminance of the region including the region in which the decorative image is displayed and the region displaying the blank image 6, extremely low. With such a configuration, it is possible to cause the viewer of the liquid crystal television receiver 1 to sense just the decorative frame 5 as the luminous color. This as a result allows the frame structure 4 to be less conspicuous.

As described above, the embodiment of the present invention describes, as the television receiver, a liquid crystal television receiver whose display region is a screen of a liquid crystal display device, however the television receiver of the present invention is not limited to this configuration; the television receiver may be any television receiver whose display region is a screen of various display devices, such as PDP (Plasma Display Panel), CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), organic EL, or the like.

The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same way may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention allows display of a decorative image such as a painting as though the decorative image had a real decorative frame. Hence, the present invention is suitably used for a television receiver of a large screen which requires to have a good appearance, to serve as part of an interior.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

- 1 liquid crystal television receiver (television receiver)
- 3 display region
- 4 frame structure
- W1 width of frame structure
- W2 width of decorative frame