JP2016218326A - Display device and display method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To more appropriately implement a display of an image utilizing flexibility of a display unit when using the display unit having the flexibility.SOLUTION: A display device 10 displaying an image comprises: a display unit 12 that displays images; a display control unit 210 that causes the display unit 12 to display the images; a storage unit 14 that can store at least a part of the display unit 12; and a region detection unit 204 that detects a non-storage region in the display unit 12. The display unit 12 has deformable flexibility, and the storage unit 14 is configured to deform at least the part of the display unit 12 to thereby store at least the part of the display unit 12. The display control unit 210 is configured to set a display region serving a region having the image displayed in the display unit in coincidence with the non-storage region to be detected by the region detection unit 204.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a display device and a display method.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, display devices (display devices) that display images such as still images and moving images have been widely used for applications such as displaying advertisements and various types of guidance. More specifically, liquid crystal displays are widely used as display devices (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1).

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  In recent years, an EL display (for example, an organic EL display) has been developed as a configuration for displaying an image by a method different from liquid crystal. Since the EL display displays an image by an EL (electroluminescence) method that does not require a backlight, the display portion that displays the image can have flexibility. This also makes it possible to realize a deformable display.

  However, in the past, when a flexible display unit is used, it cannot be said that a method for using the display unit utilizing the flexibility has been sufficiently studied. Therefore, when a flexible display unit is used, it is desired to display an image by appropriately utilizing the flexibility of the display unit. Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a display device and a display method that can solve the above-described problems.

  The inventor of the present application has conducted intensive research on a preferable configuration of a display device using a flexible display unit such as an organic EL display. First, using the flexible characteristics, it was considered that the display unit is deformed and stored small when the display device is not used (when not in use). If comprised in this way, when clearing a display apparatus etc., the area required for installation can be reduced, for example.

  In addition, the inventors of the present application have considered, based on further earnest research, that the configuration for housing the display unit is utilized not only when the display device is not used but also when the image display is used. More specifically, for example, it is considered that only a part of the display unit is accommodated in accordance with a use situation or the like, and an image is displayed by using a part that is not accommodated. In such a case, as a particularly preferable configuration, not only the display unit can be stored but also a non-storage region that is not stored in the display unit is detected, for example, an image is displayed only in the non-storage region. We thought about displaying. That is, in order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration.

  (Configuration 1) A display device that displays an image, a display unit that displays an image, a display control unit that performs control to display an image on the display unit, and a storage unit that can store at least a part of the display unit The display unit includes a region detection unit that detects a non-storage region that is a region not stored in the storage unit, the display unit has deformable flexibility, and the storage unit is at least a part of the display unit. By deforming the display unit, at least a part of the display unit is stored, and by changing the part to be deformed in the display unit, the size of the region stored in the storage unit in the display unit is changed, and the display control unit Sets a display area, which is an area for displaying an image on the display unit, in accordance with a non-storage area detected by the area detection unit.

  When configured in this way, for example, the image display area can be appropriately set in accordance with the non-storage area. In addition, for example, even when the areas stored in the storage unit are varied in the display unit, it is possible to more appropriately display an image in accordance with the size of the non-storage region. In addition, thereby, for example, it is possible to more appropriately display an image in accordance with a situation where the display device is used.

  In this case, by setting the display area in accordance with the non-storage area, it is possible to select only a necessary area from the entire display unit and display an image. Therefore, with this configuration, for example, when a flexible display unit is used, it is possible to suppress power consumption and display an image more appropriately. Thereby, for example, in the case of using a flexible display unit, it is possible to more appropriately display an image using the flexibility of the display unit.

  The area detection unit detects the non-storage area, for example, directly or indirectly. Further, in this configuration, setting the display area in accordance with the non-storage area means, for example, setting a display area having a size corresponding to the size of the non-storage area. More specifically, the display control unit sets a display area in the non-storage area, for example. In this case, for example, the display control unit sets the display area so that the display area becomes larger when the non-storage area is larger. The display control unit may set the entire non-storage area as the display area.

  (Configuration 2) The storage unit stores at least a part of the display unit by winding the display unit from at least one end side of the display unit. If comprised in this way, a display part can be accommodated appropriately, for example.

  For example, the storage unit may wind up the display unit only from one end side of the display unit, or may wind up the display unit from both ends on one end side and the other end side. Moreover, it is preferable that a storage part has a housing | casing part which covers the part wound up in the display part, for example. Moreover, as this housing | casing part, a cylindrical member etc. can be used suitably, for example.

  (Configuration 3) The storage unit stores at least a part of the display unit by folding at least a part of the display unit. If comprised in this way, a display part can be accommodated appropriately, for example.

  (Configuration 4) The storage unit stores at least a part of the display unit by winding at least a part of the display unit around the conical winding core. If comprised in this way, a display part can be accommodated appropriately, for example.

  (Configuration 5) The storage unit includes a housing unit that houses at least a part of the display unit therein, and the non-storage area is a part that is drawn out of the housing unit in the display unit, The unit detects the non-storage area by detecting the amount of the display unit pulled out of the housing unit.

  If comprised in this way, a display part can be appropriately accommodated in an accommodating part, for example. In this case, the display area can be set more appropriately by detecting the amount of the display unit that is pulled out of the housing unit.

  (Configuration 6) The area detection unit detects the size of the non-storage area, and the display control unit applies a magnification corresponding to the size of the non-storage area detected by the area detection unit to the image to be displayed on the display unit. The image is enlarged or reduced and displayed in the display area. Enlarging or reducing an image at a magnification according to the size of the non-storage area is, for example, when the non-storage area is larger than a predetermined reference size based on the size of the non-storage area detected by the area detection unit. Is to enlarge the image and to reduce the image when the non-storage area is smaller than a predetermined reference size. If comprised in this way, the display of the image by a display part can be performed more appropriately, for example. In addition, for example, it is possible to more appropriately display an image using the flexibility of the display unit.

  (Configuration 7) The image forming apparatus further includes an installation direction detection unit that detects an orientation in which the display unit is installed, and the display control unit further enlarges or reduces the image based on the orientation of the display unit detected by the installation direction detection unit. To decide. If comprised in this way, an image can be displayed more appropriately according to the direction in which the display part is installed, for example.

  In addition, detecting the direction in which the display unit is installed may be, for example, detecting whether the direction of the display unit with respect to an observer viewing the display device is vertical or horizontal. Further, it is preferable that the display control unit changes the orientation of the image in accordance with the orientation in which the display unit is installed. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to rotate the image so that the vertical direction of the image is aligned with the observer.

  (Configuration 8) The area detection unit detects the size of the non-storage area, and the display control unit is a plurality of images each associated with the size of the non-storage area as an image to be displayed on the display unit. The size-corresponding image can be selected, and the size-corresponding image corresponding to the size of the non-storage area detected by the area detecting unit is selected and displayed on the display unit.

  In the case of such a configuration, for example, it is possible to switch an image displayed in the display area by changing the size of the non-storage area. In addition, thereby, for example, images can be automatically switched in conjunction with an operation of storing the display unit in the storage unit, an operation of pulling out the display unit from the storage unit, or the like. Therefore, if comprised in this way, the display of the image which utilized the softness | flexibility of the display part can be performed more appropriately, for example.

  (Configuration 9) The display unit displays an image using power supplied from the battery. If comprised in this way, a display apparatus can be used appropriately in various places, for example.

  In this case, as described above, for example, by displaying an image in the display area set in accordance with the non-storage area, the power consumption can be appropriately suppressed. Therefore, when configured in this way, when a battery is used, it is possible to display an image for a longer time.

  (Configuration 10) The display unit is an EL display. If comprised in this way, a display part can be given a softness | flexibility appropriately, for example. In addition, for example, it is possible to more appropriately display an image using the flexibility of the display unit.

  Note that an EL display is a display using a substance that emits light according to electric power. In this case, the substance that emits light in response to electric power is, for example, a substance that emits light when a voltage is applied. Moreover, the display using such a substance is a display which comprised the pixel in the screen which displays an image with such a substance, for example.

  In addition, in an EL display, by using a substance that emits light in this manner, for example, an image can be appropriately displayed without using a light source such as a backlight. Further, by not using a backlight or the like, for example, as described above, it is possible to appropriately give flexibility to the display unit. As the EL display, for example, an organic EL display or the like can be suitably used.

  (Configuration 11) A display method for displaying an image using a display device that includes a display unit that displays an image and a storage unit that can store at least a part of the display unit. The storage unit is configured to store at least a part of the display unit by deforming at least a part of the display unit, and to change a part to be deformed in the display unit, thereby changing the storage unit in the display unit. When controlling the size of the area stored in the display unit and displaying the image on the display unit, the display unit detects a non-storage area that is not stored in the storage unit and displays the image on the display unit. A display area that is a display area is set according to the detected non-storage area. If comprised in this way, the effect similar to the structure 1 can be acquired, for example.

  According to the present invention, for example, in the case of using a flexible display unit, it is possible to more appropriately display an image utilizing the flexibility of the display unit.

It is a figure which shows an example of the display apparatus 10 which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the display device 10. 1B and 1C show an example of how the display device 10 is installed. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a display device 10. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of the state which varied the magnitude | size and direction of a non-storage area | region variously. FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C show examples in which the size or direction of the non-storage area is made different. It is a figure which shows the example of the specific structure of the area | region detection part 204, and the detection method. FIG. 4A shows a first example of the area detection unit 204. FIG. 4B shows a second example of the area detection unit 204. FIG. 4C shows a third example of the area detection unit 204. FIG. 4D shows a fourth example of the area detection unit 204. It is a figure which shows the various modifications of the structure of the display apparatus. FIGS. 5A to 5C show an example of a double-winding display device 10. FIG. 5D shows an example of the configuration of the dual display type display device 10. It is a figure which shows the further modification of a structure of the display apparatus. Fig.6 (a) shows the example of a structure of the display apparatus 10 in the case of accommodating the display part 12 by a folding system. FIGS. 6B to 6D show examples of the configuration of the display device 10 when the display unit 12 is housed in a conical winding method.

  Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of a display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the display device 10, and shows a simplified characteristic portion of the display device 10.

  In this example, the display device 10 is a display device that displays an image based on image data, and displays, for example, an advertisement image, various types of guidance, and the like. In this example, the display device 10 includes at least the display unit 12 and the storage unit 14.

  In addition to the display unit 12 and the storage unit 14, the display device 10 further includes, for example, a configuration for controlling power supply and image display. These configurations will be described in more detail later. In addition, except for the points described above and below, the display device 10 may have the same or similar features as known display devices. The image displayed on the display device 10 may be a moving image or a still image. Further, the image data for displaying an image may be, for example, data stored inside the display device 10, for example, data supplied from an external computer or the like.

  The display unit 12 is a part constituting a screen for displaying an image on the display device 10. In this example, the display unit 12 is a flexible display that can be deformed, such as curved, and has a shape when stored in the storage unit 14 and when displaying an image. Change. Further, when displaying an image, an image can be displayed even when a part of the image is displayed in the storage unit 14, and an image is displayed according to the size of the non-storage area that is not stored in the storage unit 14. I do. Control of image display by the display unit 12 will be described in more detail later.

  For example, a known flexible display can be suitably used as the display unit 12. In this case, the flexible display is a display that can be deformed flexibly. In this case, the display is a part of the display panel that displays an image in the configuration of the image display device.

  More specifically, as the display unit 12, an EL display using a substance that emits light according to electric power can be suitably used. Moreover, as an EL display, a well-known organic EL display etc. can be used suitably, for example.

  Here, when an EL display is used as the display unit 12, an image can be displayed without using a light source such as a backlight. Therefore, in this case, for example, the display unit 12 can be appropriately flexible. It is also possible to set an area for displaying an image on the display unit 12 without considering the position and size of the backlight. This also makes it possible, for example, to set the display method of the image more flexibly.

  The storage unit 14 is a part for storing the display unit 12 when the display device 10 is not used, and stores at least a part of the display unit 12 by deforming at least a part of the display unit 12. To do. Further, in this example, the storage unit 14 has a configuration capable of adjusting the storage amount for storing the display unit 12, and the storage unit 14 in the display unit 12 is made different by changing the portion to be deformed in the display unit 12. The size of the area to be stored in is different.

  More specifically, in this example, the storage unit 14 includes a housing unit 102, a shaft unit 104, and a tip holding unit 106. The housing unit 102 is a housing part of the storage unit 14, and stores at least a part of the display unit 12 therein when the display unit 12 is stored. Moreover, as the housing | casing part 102, a cylindrical member etc. can be used suitably, for example. In this case, the cylindrical member is, for example, a member that has a hollow cylindrical portion in which the display unit 12 is accommodated.

  The shaft portion 104 is a shaft member disposed inside the housing portion 102, and winds the display portion 12 from one end side of the display portion 12 by rotating within the housing portion 102. Thereby, in this example, storage part 14 winds up display part 12 from one end side, and stores display part 12.

  The tip holding unit 106 is a member that supports the other end side of the display unit 12. In this example, the tip holding part 106 is, for example, a lid-like member that closes the outlet of the display unit 12 in the housing unit 102, and when the display unit 12 is entirely stored in the housing unit 102, The exit of the housing unit 102 is closed. The tip holding portion 106 may be a reinforcing member that reinforces the other end side of the display portion 12. The tip holding unit 106 may store, for example, a part of a control circuit that controls the operation of the display unit 12.

  According to this example, for example, the display unit 12 can be appropriately stored in the storage unit 14. In this case, for example, by appropriately adjusting the amount of winding of the display unit 12, the portion to be deformed in the display unit 12 can be changed, and the area stored in the storage unit 14 in the display unit 12 can be changed. it can. Thereby, the size of the non-storage area pulled out from the storage section 14 in the display section 12 can be changed variously.

  As described above, in this example, the storage unit 14 stores the display unit 12 by winding the display unit 12. Therefore, in FIG. 1A, in order to make the characteristics of the storage unit 14 easy to understand, an outline of a cross-sectional view of the configuration of the display device 10 is shown. Further, in this drawing, for convenience of illustration, the state where the display unit 12 is wound is shown in a simplified manner by drawing a plurality of concentric circles.

  In addition, the display unit 12 may be pulled out of the storage unit 14 in the same or similar manner as, for example, a known pull-down curtain or light-shielding curtain. In this case, for example, the display unit 12 is pulled twice so It can be considered to be stored in the storage unit 14. With this configuration, for example, the display unit 12 wound in the cylindrical housing unit 102 can be pulled out and fixed by a necessary amount.

  Further, as described above, in the present example, the display device 10 displays, for example, an advertisement image, various types of guidance, and the like. In this case, the direction in which the display device 10 is installed is preferably set as appropriate according to the image to be displayed. 1B and 1C show an example of how the display device 10 is installed.

  FIG. 1B shows an installation example when the display unit 12 is pulled out from the storage unit 14 from the bottom to the top. In this case, it is preferable to support the display unit 12 using, for example, the auxiliary rod 20 or the like. FIG.1 (c) shows the example of installation in the case of pulling out the display part 12 from the accommodating part 14 toward the bottom from the top. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to install the display device 10 in the same manner as a known projector screen or the like.

  In FIG. 1C, as the configuration of the display device 10, a configuration in which an end portion reinforcing member 112 that is a reinforcing member is disposed on the side end portion of the display unit 12 is illustrated. By using the end reinforcing member 112, the shape of the display unit 12 pulled out from the storage unit 14 can be more appropriately stabilized. Further, the end reinforcing member 112 may be similarly used in the display device 10 having other configurations described above and below. Further, the direction in which the display device 10 is installed at the time of use is not limited to the direction shown in FIGS.

  Subsequently, an example of a functional configuration of the display device 10 will be described. FIG. 2 shows an example of a functional configuration of the display device 10.

  In the above, in order to describe the point that the display unit 12 is stored in the storage unit 14 that is one of the features of the display device 10, the description has been given focusing on only a part of the configuration of the display device 10. However, as described above, the display device 10 further includes, for example, a configuration for controlling power supply and image display in addition to the display unit 12 and the storage unit 14. These configurations are disposed in the storage unit 14, for example. Further, for example, some of these configurations may be disposed outside the storage unit 14.

  More specifically, in this example, the display device 10 includes a power supply unit 202, a region detection unit 204, an installation direction detection unit 206, an image output unit 208, and a display control unit 210 in addition to the display unit 12 and the storage unit 14. In addition. The power supply unit 202 is configured to supply power to each unit of the display device 10. For example, the power source unit 202 is disposed in the housing unit 102 (see FIG. 1) of the storage unit 14 and is stored in the storage unit 14 in the display unit 12. Power is supplied to each part from the end side.

  In this example, a battery is used as the power supply unit 202. In this case, the battery is a battery that can supply power to another configuration without receiving power from the outside. If comprised in this way, the display apparatus 10 can be used appropriately in various places, for example.

  The region detection unit 204 is a detection unit that detects a non-storage region that is not stored in the storage unit 14 in the display unit 12. In this example, the region detection unit 204 detects a non-storage region by detecting the amount of the display unit 12 that is pulled out of the housing unit 102 of the storage unit 14. In this case, more specifically, the amount pulled out of the casing unit 102 is, for example, the length of the portion of the display unit 12 pulled out of the casing unit 102. Further, the length of the display unit 12 is, for example, a length in a direction in which the display unit 12 is pulled out from the housing unit 102. Further, detecting the non-storage area means, for example, detecting the size of the non-storage area. Detecting the non-storage area may be, for example, detecting the maximum size of an image that can be displayed in the non-storage area. The specific configuration and detection method of the area detection unit 204 will be described in more detail later.

  The installation direction detection unit 206 is a detection unit that detects the direction in which the display device 10 is installed. In this case, detecting the orientation in which the display device 10 is installed means, for example, detecting whether the orientation of the display unit 12 with respect to an observer viewing the display device 10 is portrait or landscape. It may be. Further, the installation direction detection unit 206 may detect, for example, the orientation of the display unit 12 with respect to the direction of gravity.

  The image output unit 208 is a data output unit that outputs image data indicating an image to be displayed on the display unit 12. In this example, the image output unit 208 causes the display control unit 210 to control image display on the display unit 12 by outputting the image data to the display control unit 210.

  In this case, the image output unit 208 may output, for example, image data stored in advance in a storage device or the like to the display control unit 210. Further, for example, image data received from an external PC or a mobile terminal device (for example, a smartphone) may be output to the display control unit 210. Further, for example, the image data may be received from the outside via a memory card or the like in which the image data is stored and output to the display control unit 210.

  The display control unit 210 is a control unit that performs control to display an image on the display unit 12. The display control unit 210 may be, for example, a CPU of the display device 10. In this example, the display control unit 210 sets a display area in accordance with the non-storage area of the display unit 12 detected by the area detection unit 204 and displays an image in the display area.

  In this case, setting the display area in accordance with the non-storage area means, for example, setting a display area having a size corresponding to the size of the non-storage area. More specifically, the display control unit 210 sets a display area in the non-storage area, for example, by setting at least a part of the non-storage area as the display area. For example, the display control unit 210 sets the display area so that the display area becomes larger when the non-storage area is larger. The display control unit 210 may set the entire non-storage area as a display area.

  Further, it is preferable that the display control unit 210 sets a display area having the maximum size that can be accommodated in the non-storage area. In this case, it is preferable that the display control unit 210 determines the maximum size that can be accommodated in the non-storage area based on, for example, the relationship between the shape of the non-storage area and the aspect ratio of the image. In this case, the display area may be set in consideration of a predetermined margin (margin) area or the like.

  In this example, the display control unit 210 further sets the display area based on the orientation of the display device 10 detected by the installation direction detection unit 206. In this case, it is preferable that the display area having the maximum size that can be accommodated in the non-storage area is set so as to be accommodated in the non-storage area when an image is displayed according to the orientation of the display device 10.

  According to this example, for example, the image display area can be appropriately set in accordance with the non-storage area in the display unit 12. In addition, for example, even when the areas stored in the storage unit 14 in the display unit 12 are variously changed, it is possible to more appropriately display an image in accordance with the size of the non-storage area. Thereby, for example, it is possible to more appropriately display an image in accordance with a situation where the display device 10 is used. The display of the image according to the size of the non-storage area will be described in more detail later.

  In this example, by setting a display area in accordance with the non-storage area, it is possible to select only a necessary area from the entire display unit 12 and display an image. In this case, for example, power consumption can be suppressed as compared with a case where an image is displayed on the entire display unit 12. Therefore, according to this example, for example, power consumption can be suppressed and an image can be displayed more appropriately. Further, as in this example, when an image is displayed on the display unit 12 using the power supplied from the power supply unit 202 that is a battery, the image is displayed for a longer time by suppressing power consumption, etc. Is also possible.

  In the above description, the method for setting the display area has been described for the case where the display area is set in the non-storage area. However, in a modification of how to set the display area, for example, setting the display area to include a part of the area stored in the storage unit 14 may be considered. More specifically, for example, in the case where an image is displayed in a state where a part is hidden in the storage unit 14, a region that extends from a part of the region stored in the storage unit 14 to the non-storage region is set as the display region. Setting is also conceivable.

  In this example, the display area set in the display unit 12 is an area for displaying an image to be shown to an observer who visually recognizes the display device 10. Therefore, when further displaying a management image or the like that is not shown to the observer, for example, for a management purpose, a further image is displayed in a region other than the display region in a portion stored in the storage unit 14, for example. It is also possible to display it. Therefore, even when such an image is displayed, it can be considered as a configuration having the same characteristics as the display device 10 of this example.

  Next, image display control by the display unit 12 will be described using a specific example of displaying an image in accordance with the size of the non-storage area. FIG. 3 shows an example of a state in which the size and direction of the non-storage area are varied. FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C show examples in which the size or direction of the non-storage area is made different.

  FIG. 3A shows an example of a state in which the display device 10 including the display unit 12 having a width W is installed sideways and the display unit 12 is largely pulled out. In this case, installing the display device 10 in the horizontal direction means installing the display device 10 in a direction in which the direction in which the display unit 12 is pulled out is horizontal. In the case shown in FIG. 3A, the display unit 12 is pulled out from the storage unit 14 so that the pulled-out amount is L1. Therefore, the non-storage area is an area where the horizontal direction (horizontal direction) is L1 and the vertical direction (gravity direction) is W.

  FIG. 3B shows an example of a state in which the display device 10 is installed sideways and the display unit 12 is pulled out smaller than L1. More specifically, in the case shown in FIG. 3B, the display unit 12 is pulled out from the storage unit 14 so that the pulled-out amount becomes L2 smaller than L1. Therefore, the non-storage area is an area where the horizontal direction is L2 and the vertical direction is W.

  Moreover, FIG.3 (c) shows an example of the state which installed the display apparatus 10 vertically. In this case, installing the display device 10 vertically means installing the display device 10 so that the direction in which the display unit 12 is pulled out is parallel to the direction of gravity. More specifically, in the case shown in FIG. 3C, the display unit 12 is pulled out from the storage unit 14 so that the pulled-out amount becomes L3. Therefore, the non-storage area is an area where the horizontal direction is W and the vertical direction is Ll.

  For the various states as described above, in this example, for example, an image is displayed on the display unit 12 in accordance with the direction and size of the non-storage area in each case. In this case, the display control unit 210 (see FIG. 2), for example, with respect to the image to be displayed on the display unit 12 at a magnification according to the size of the non-storage area detected by the region detection unit 204 (see FIG. 2). The image is enlarged or reduced and displayed in the display area. In this case, to enlarge or reduce the image at a magnification according to the size of the non-storage area is, for example, when the non-storage area is larger than a predetermined reference size, the image is enlarged and the non-storage area is set to a predetermined size. If it is smaller than the reference size, the image may be reduced. With this configuration, for example, the magnification of image display can be determined so that a larger image is displayed when the amount of drawing of the display unit 12 is larger.

  In this example, the display control unit 210 further determines the magnification for enlarging or reducing the image based on the orientation of the display unit 12 detected by the installation direction detection unit 206 (see FIG. 2). In this case, it is preferable that the display control unit 210 appropriately change the orientation of the image according to the orientation in which the display unit 12 is installed. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to rotate the image so that the vertical direction of the image is aligned with the observer. More specifically, for example, in the case shown in FIG. 3C, it is preferable to rotate the image by 90 ° compared to the case shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

  According to this example, for example, an image can be displayed more appropriately according to the amount by which the display unit 12 is pulled out or the direction of the display unit 12. Thereby, for example, it is possible to more appropriately display an image using the flexibility of the display unit 12.

  In this case, as a more specific application example, for example, it is conceivable to automatically enlarge an image by pulling out more display units 12 as necessary. It is also conceivable to adjust the amount of pulling out the display unit 12 according to the situation where the display device 10 is used, and to select the size of the image to be displayed. For example, when the display device 10 is used in a narrow place, or when the number of observers viewing the display device 10 is small, the amount of the display unit 12 to be pulled out is reduced, and when the display device 10 is used in a wide place, When there are a large number of people, it may be possible to increase the amount by which the display unit 12 is pulled out and display an image in a size that matches the usage situation.

  In another example of image display control, for example, it may be possible to change only the size of the display area without changing the display magnification. In this case, for example, when the non-storage area is small, it is conceivable to display only a partial image and display an image showing a larger part by increasing the amount by which the display unit 12 is pulled out. If comprised in this way, the information amount displayed on a display area can be varied according to the amount which pulls out the display part 12, for example. Further, when the display device 10 is used, for example, when it is desired to see a larger amount of information at the same time, a method of pulling out more of the display unit 12 can be considered.

  In the example of control described above, it is conceivable that the same image is used as the image to be displayed on the display unit 12 regardless of the drawing amount of the display unit 12 or the orientation of the display unit 12. However, in still another example of image display control, for example, the image itself to be displayed may be changed in accordance with the amount by which the display unit 12 is pulled out.

  More specifically, in this case, for example, as an image to be displayed on the display unit 12, it may be possible to prepare in advance a plurality of size-corresponding images that are a plurality of images respectively associated with the size of the non-storage area. In this case, for example, based on the size of the non-storage area detected by the area detection unit 204, the display control unit 210 selects a size-corresponding image corresponding to the size and causes the display unit 12 to display it.

  When configured in this way, for example, by changing the size of the non-storage area, it is possible to automatically switch the image displayed in the display area. In addition, thereby, for example, the image can be automatically switched in conjunction with the operation of storing the display unit 12 in the storage unit 14 or the operation of pulling out the display unit 12 from the storage unit 14.

  Here, various effects obtained by the display device 10 of the present example will be described in more detail by comparing with the conventional configuration. Conventionally, as a configuration for displaying an image outdoors or the like, a signboard (a large signboard or the like) on which a picture is drawn with paint or the like is widely used. However, in the case of such a signboard, since all the display contents are drawn, in order to change the display contents, it is necessary to remove the display contents once and draw again.

  On the other hand, in recent years, a large liquid crystal display or the like that displays an image based on image data is also used as an alternative to a large signboard or the like. However, in this case as well, the image display area has a fixed size depending on the screen size of a liquid crystal screen or the like. Therefore, for example, even when only a small image is to be displayed, the size of the apparatus cannot be adjusted.

  Further, when a large signboard, a liquid crystal display, or the like is used, it is necessary to use a configuration having a large size and weight in order to display an image having a size larger than a certain level. As a result, in such a case, it is usually installed at a fixed position where it cannot move. Further, since large signboards and liquid crystal displays are flat and cannot be deformed, they occupy many places even if they are stored in a warehouse or the like when not in use.

  On the other hand, in the present example, as described above, the display device 10 used for displaying an advertisement uses the display unit 12 that can be deformed such as a curve, and is stored by winding or the like. By adopting a configuration that can be stored in 14, it is possible to realize a configuration in which, for example, display contents can be easily changed and storage can be performed in a space-saving manner. In this case, for example, since the device can be more appropriately downsized, the display device 10 can be moved by a small number of people (for example, one person).

  Further, in this example, the size of the display area in the display unit 12 is made variable by detecting the non-storage area of the display unit 12 by the area detection unit 204. In this case, power consumption can be appropriately suppressed by performing lighting control that displays an image only in the display area set in the non-storage area. Therefore, according to this example, it is possible to appropriately realize a new function display device (display) having characteristics that are not in the conventional configuration, for example, for the display device 10 used for displaying advertisements.

  In addition, the display device 10 of this example can be used for various purposes other than displaying advertisements. For example, the display device 10 may be used to explain a product at a store or introduce a menu at a restaurant. In this case as well, it is conceivable to adjust the amount of the display unit 12 to be extracted in various ways according to the environment in which explanation and introduction are performed and the display contents. In addition, various information can be displayed under conditions suitable for the environment and display contents. Moreover, when using it at a store etc., for example, installing the display apparatus 10 in a shop front, changing the amount which pulls out the display part 12 by business hours and closing time, and switching display content automatically according to it. Etc. are also conceivable. In these cases, for example, various information can be provided by various methods by changing the display contents in accordance with the amount by which the display unit 12 is pulled out. Further, for example, it is conceivable to change the brightness of the screen according to the amount by which the display unit 12 is pulled out.

  Further, in this example, by displaying an image on the display unit 12 with a configuration using a battery, for example, in various usage scenes such as an event venue or a construction site, it is easier without worrying about power supply. The display device 10 can be used. In this case, since power saving can be achieved as described above, it is possible to display an image for a longer time.

  The configuration of the display device 10 may be used as a display device for a smaller device such as a portable terminal. More specifically, for example, it may be used for screen display of a PC (for example, a portable notebook PC) or a mobile phone. Also in these cases, for example, it is possible to more appropriately display an image utilizing the flexibility of the display unit.

  Subsequently, regarding a more specific configuration of the display device 10, a specific configuration of the region detection unit 204 and an example of a detection method will be described. FIG. 4 shows a specific configuration of the region detection unit 204 and an example of a detection method.

  FIG. 4A shows a first example of the area detection unit 204. In this case, the display device 10 further includes a plurality of width detection members 302a to 302c. The plurality of width detection members 302 a to 302 c are members for detecting the width of the display unit 12, and are disposed on the side surface of the display unit 12, so that the display unit 12 is pulled out according to the amount pulled out. The total width of the display unit 12 and the width detection members 302a to 302c is made different. Accordingly, the width detection members 302a to 302c have a predetermined relationship between the distance from which the display unit 12 is pulled out and the width. In this case, as the region detection unit 204, a sensor or the like that measures the total width at a predetermined position can be suitably used. The position where the area detection unit 204 is disposed is preferably, for example, in the vicinity of the exit of the display unit 12 in the housing unit 102 of the storage unit 14.

  If comprised in this way, the amount by which the display part 12 was pulled out can be appropriately detected based on the relationship between the distance and width which pulled out the display part 12, for example. This also makes it possible to appropriately detect the size of the non-storage area. The width detection member is not limited to the illustrated configuration, and for example, a member whose width continuously changes can be used.

  FIG. 4B shows a second example of the area detection unit 204. In this case, the display device 10 further includes a scale 304 disposed along the side surface of the display unit 12. In this case, as the area detection unit 204, a sensor or the like that reads a scale at a predetermined position can be suitably used. If comprised in this way, based on the reading result of the sensor by the area | region detection part 204, the amount by which the display part 12 was pulled out can be detected appropriately, for example. This also makes it possible to appropriately detect the size of the non-storage area.

  FIG. 4C shows a third example of the area detection unit 204. In this case, the area detection unit 204 has a needle portion that engages with a groove 308 formed in the display unit 12, and detects the amount by which the display unit 12 is pulled out based on the position of the needle unit. The needle portion is restricted in movement in the pull-out direction of the display unit 12 at a position facing the side region of the display unit 12 and is held movably in a direction intersecting (orthogonal) with the pull-out direction. ing. Although not shown, the region detection unit 204 further includes a sensor that detects the position of the needle portion in a direction that intersects the pulling direction.

  Further, in this configuration, the display unit 12 has a groove forming unit 306 on the side surface facing the needle unit of the region detection unit 204. The groove forming part 306 is a part where the groove 308 is formed in the display part 12. Further, in the groove forming portion 306, the groove 308 is formed so as to be inclined with respect to the pulling direction of the display portion 12, as shown in the figure.

  In such a configuration, when the pull-out amount of the display unit 12 is changed, the needle portion of the region detection unit 204 engaged with the groove 308 is in a direction intersecting the pull-out direction according to the pull-out amount. Will move. Therefore, for example, by detecting the position of the needle portion with a sensor, it is possible to appropriately detect the amount by which the display portion 12 is pulled out. This also makes it possible to appropriately detect the size of the non-storage area.

  In this case, for example, the amount by which the display unit 12 has been pulled out may be detected based on the relationship between the position of the needle unit and the amount of pulling that are associated in advance when the display device 10 is manufactured. If comprised in this way, the amount by which the display part 12 was pulled out can be detected appropriately, for example.

  FIG. 4D shows a fourth example of the area detection unit 204. In this case, the area detection unit 204 is disposed in the housing unit 102 of the storage unit 14, for example, and detects the thickness of the display unit 12 wound in the housing unit 102. If comprised in this way, based on the detected thickness, it can be calculated how many times the display part 12 is wound around the axial part 104, for example. Moreover, based on this calculation result, the amount by which the display unit 12 is pulled out can be detected. Therefore, even in such a configuration, the size of the non-storage area can be detected appropriately.

  In the illustrated case, the region detection unit 204 is disposed near the exit of the display unit 12 in the housing unit 102. However, in the storage unit 14, a mechanism for smoothly pulling out the display unit 12 may be provided near the exit of the display unit 12. Further, when such a mechanism is used, it may be difficult to detect the thickness of the display unit 12.

  Therefore, in such a case, it is preferable to dispose the region detection unit 204 at a position further away from the exit of the display unit 12. For example, the region detection unit 204 may be disposed at a position (upper side in the drawing) opposite to the exit of the display unit 12 with the shaft unit 104 interposed therebetween.

  Subsequently, various modifications of the configuration of the display device 10 will be described. FIG. 5 shows various modifications of the configuration of the display device 10. Except as described below, in FIG. 5, the configuration denoted by the same reference numerals as in FIGS. 1 to 4 may have the same or similar features as the configurations in FIGS.

  FIGS. 5A to 5C show an example of a double-winding display device 10. FIG. 5A shows an example of the configuration of the double-winding display device 10. FIGS. 5B and 5C show an example of using the display device 10.

  In the above description, the single-winding display device 10 in which the display unit 12 is wound only from one side of the display unit 12 has been mainly described. However, the storage unit 14 may wind up the display unit 12 from both ends on one end side and the other end side, for example, with a configuration as illustrated. In this case, the direction in which the display unit 12 is pulled out is set in the horizontal direction, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B, and the display unit 12 is used in a horizontal arrangement, or the direction in which the display unit 12 is pulled out is set in the vertical direction. As shown in (c), it can be considered to be used in a vertical arrangement. Also in this case, it is conceivable that the display area is set in accordance with the non-storage area of the display unit 12 as in the case described with reference to FIGS. Thereby, for example, the same effect as that described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5D shows an example of the configuration of the dual display type display device 10. In the above description, a single display type configuration in which an image is displayed using only one display unit 12 has been mainly described. However, in a further modification of the configuration of the display device 10, it is conceivable to use a dual display type configuration using a plurality of display units 12 as shown in the figure, for example. Also in this case, it is conceivable that the display area is set in accordance with the non-storage area of the display unit 12 as in the case described with reference to FIGS. Thereby, for example, the same effect as that described with reference to FIGS.

  Further, in a further modification of the configuration of the display device 10, it is conceivable to store the display unit 12 by a method other than winding. FIG. 6 shows a further modification of the configuration of the display device 10. In addition, except the point demonstrated below, the structure which attached | subjected the same code | symbol as FIGS. 1-5 in FIG. 6 may have the same or similar characteristic as the structure in FIGS.

  Fig.6 (a) shows the example of a structure of the display apparatus 10 in the case of accommodating the display part 12 by a folding system. In this case, as the display unit 12, as shown in the drawing, a configuration that can be bent and deformed to one side and the other side in a direction perpendicular to the main surface is used. In this case, the direction perpendicular to the main surface is, for example, a direction perpendicular to the display surface of the display unit 12 when the display unit 12 is extended without being folded. Further, in this configuration, the storage unit 14 includes a box-shaped housing unit 102 having an open surface on one side, for example. The storage unit 14 stores at least a part of the display unit 12 by, for example, folding at least a part of the display unit 12 in the housing unit 102.

  Also when comprised in this way, the display part 12 can be appropriately accommodated in the accommodating part 14, for example. Also in this case, as in the case described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, for example, it is conceivable to set the display area in accordance with the non-storage area of the display unit 12. Thereby, for example, the same effect as that described with reference to FIGS.

  Further, as a configuration of the storage unit 14, for example, it is conceivable to store the display unit 12 by a method other than storing in the hollow inside the housing unit 102. FIGS. 6B to 6D show examples of the configuration of the display device 10 when the display unit 12 is housed in a conical winding method. 6B, 6C, and 6D are a perspective view, a top view, and a side sectional view of the display device 10, respectively.

  In this case, as the display unit 12, for example, a configuration having a fan-like shape as shown in FIG. 6B is used. The storage unit 14 is configured by a conical winding core, and stores at least a part of the display unit 12 by winding at least a part of the display unit 12 around the winding core. In this case, for example, the conical winding core has a circular cross-sectional shape orthogonal to the axial direction and a shape in which the radius of the circle gradually decreases from one side to the other side in the axial direction. It is a winding core. Moreover, the cross-sectional shape orthogonal to the axial direction is, for example, the shape of the portion where the plane orthogonal to the axial direction and the side surface of the winding core intersect. More specifically, the conical winding core may be, for example, a conical or frustoconical winding core.

  Also when comprised in this way, the display part 12 can be appropriately accommodated in the accommodating part 14, for example. Also in this case, as in the case described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, for example, it is conceivable to set the display area in accordance with the non-storage area of the display unit 12. Thereby, for example, the same effect as that described with reference to FIGS.

  Moreover, in the above, the case where the image was directly displayed on the display part 12 was mainly demonstrated. However, in a further modified example, it is conceivable that the display unit 12 is used as a light source instead of directly displaying an image on the display unit 12. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to draw an image on the display unit 12 in advance and use the display unit 12 as a deformable backlight. Also in this case, an image can be appropriately displayed in the non-storage area of the display unit 12 by setting a display area (light emitting area) in accordance with the non-storage area of the display unit 12 and lighting the display unit 12. it can. Also in this case, by selecting and lighting a part of the display unit 12, for example, the same effect as that described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4 can be obtained.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated using embodiment, the technical scope of this invention is not limited to the range as described in the said embodiment. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications or improvements can be added to the above embodiment. It is apparent from the description of the scope of claims that embodiments with such changes or improvements can be included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  The present invention can be suitably used for a display device, for example.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Display apparatus, 12 ... Display part, 14 ... Storage part, 20 ... Auxiliary rod, 102 ... Housing | casing part, 104 ... Shaft part, 106 ... Tip holding | maintenance part , 112... End reinforcing member, 202... Power supply unit, 204... Region detection unit, 206... Installation direction detection unit, 208. 302 ... Width detection member, 304 ... Scale, 306 ... Groove forming part, 308 ... Groove

Claims (11)

A display device for displaying an image,
A display unit for displaying the image;
A display control unit that performs control to display the image on the display unit;
A storage unit capable of storing at least a part of the display unit;
An area detection unit that detects a non-storage area that is an area that is not stored in the storage unit in the display unit;
The display unit has a deformable flexibility,
The storage unit stores at least a part of the display unit by deforming at least a part of the display unit, and varies the portion to be deformed in the display unit, thereby allowing the storage unit to store the display unit. The size of the area stored in the part is different,
The display control unit sets a display area, which is an area for displaying the image, on the display unit in accordance with the non-storage area detected by the area detection unit.   The display device according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores at least a part of the display unit by winding the display unit from at least one end side of the display unit.   The display device according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores at least a part of the display unit by folding at least a part of the display unit.   The display device according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores at least a part of the display unit by winding at least a part of the display unit around a conical winding core. . The storage unit includes a housing unit that stores at least a part of the display unit therein.
The non-storage area is a portion that is pulled out of the housing part in the display part,
The said area | region detection part detects the said non-storage area | region by detecting the quantity pulled out of the said housing | casing part in the said display part, The any one of Claim 1 to 4 characterized by the above-mentioned. Display device. The area detection unit detects the size of the non-storage area,
The display control unit enlarges or reduces an image to be displayed on the display unit at a magnification corresponding to the size of the non-storage area detected by the area detection unit, and displays the image on the display area. A display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. An installation direction detection unit for detecting the direction in which the display unit is installed;
The display device according to claim 6, wherein the display control unit determines the magnification for enlarging or reducing the image based on the orientation of the display unit detected by the installation direction detection unit. The area detection unit detects the size of the non-storage area,
The display control unit can select a plurality of size-corresponding images, which are a plurality of images respectively associated with the size of the non-storage area, as an image to be displayed on the display unit, and the region detection unit detects The display device according to claim 1, wherein the size-corresponding image corresponding to the size of the non-storage area is selected and displayed on the display unit.   The display device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays the image using power supplied from a battery.   The display device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit is an EL display. A display method for displaying an image,
A display unit for displaying the image;
Using a display device comprising a storage unit capable of storing at least a part of the display unit,
The display unit has a deformable flexibility,
The storage unit stores at least a part of the display unit by deforming at least a part of the display unit, and varies the portion to be deformed in the display unit, thereby allowing the storage unit to store the display unit. The size of the area stored in the part is different,
When performing control to display the image on the display unit,
A non-storage area that is an area that is not stored in the storage section in the display section;
A display method comprising: setting a display area, which is an area for displaying the image, in the display unit in accordance with the detected non-storage area.