Plasma display apparatus and method of driving a plasma display panel

The present invention relates to a method for driving a plasma display panel and a plasma display device, and more particularly to an improvement in an interlaced type plasma display panel and an interlaced type driving technique.

[0002] A technique for interlacing and driving a plasma display panel (hereinafter referred to as PDP) is described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-160525. In this publication, X electrodes (display electrodes) and Y electrodes discharge all electrode gap in the electrode group consisting of (scan electrodes) in the same width in all the discharge gap with the PDP as electricity is generated , A technique for performing an interlaced display by alternately performing a display using the discharge of the odd-th electrode gap (discharge gap) and a display using the discharge of the even-th electrode gap (discharge gap) is disclosed. .. By using this technology, it is possible to increase the display resolution and the display brightness as compared with the normal PDP.

[0003] In FIGS. 38 and 39 showing the panel structure of this interlaced PDP, X₁, X₂, X₃Represents the display electrode 11 and Y₁, Y₂, Y₃Represents scanning electrode 12, A₁~ A₆Represents the address electrode 21. The display electrode 11 and the scanning electrode 12 are composed of transparent electrodes 11i and 12i and bus electrodes 11b and 12b, respectively. And L₁~ L₅Is the discharge gap and constitutes each display line. Further, a partition wall 25 is arranged to partition the surface discharge between the display electrode 11 and the scanning electrode 12 into a plurality of surface discharges (that is, a plurality of cells), and red, green, and red, green, and red are arranged between the partition walls 25. The phosphor layers 26R, 26G, and 26B that emit blue light are formed.

[0004] Fig. 40 shows the drive waveform of the display period with respect to the above PDP. During the display period for performing display discharge, as shown in FIG. 40, in the odd field (also called the odd frame), the odd X electrode X_oddAnd odd Y electrode Y_oddCombination of and even X electrode X_evenAnd even Y electrode Y_evenThe waveform is out of phase with the combination of, and the odd number display line L_odd(L in Figure 38₁, L₃, L₅) Discharge occurs and L_oddBecomes the display line. On the other hand, in the even field (also called the even frame), X_oddAnd Y_evenCombination and X_evenAnd Y_oddThe waveform is out of phase with the combination of, and the even display line L_even(L in Figure 38₂, L₄) Discharge occurs and L_evenBecomes the display line.

[0005] In this way, by changing the drive waveform in the odd field (odd frame) and the even field (even frame), all the electrodes of the PDP in which the display electrode 11 and the scanning electrode 12 are formed at equal intervals. Since the gap can be used as a display line, it is possible to realize a PDP that displays with high definition and high brightness.

[0006] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention] In the conventional interlaced PDP (FIGS. 38 and 39), all the electrode gaps formed at equal intervals can be used as a display line (discharge gap). , When each electrode gap becomes a discharge gap (electrode gap for display discharge) in one field (frame) of the odd field (odd frame) or even field (even frame), it is not in the other field (frame). It must be a discharge gap (electrode gap not used for display).

However, since the width of each electrode gap is set to be narrow to some extent so as to be suitable for acting as a discharge gap in one field (frame), the electrode gap is not discharged in the other field (frame). When it becomes a gap, that is, when it acts as a gap for separation between cells, the electrode gap set as described above cannot be said to be a sufficiently wide gap.

[0008] Therefore, in the invention described in JP-A-9-160525, a voltage waveform of the same phase is applied between the electrodes sandwiching the non-discharge gap to reduce (or set the voltage) applied to the non-discharge gap to 0. ) Is devised. Although the above-mentioned interlaced PDP is driven by such a driving method, there is a limit in order to further increase the operating margin as compared with the above-mentioned conventional technique.

[0009] In order to further increase the operating margin under such a situation, it has been desired to improve the structure of the PDP itself, the driving method, the driving waveform, and the like.

[0010] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a structure of an interlaced PDP for further increasing the operating margin and a driving method thereof, and to provide a driving method for improving the display resolution and brightness of the PDP. To do.

[Means for Solving the Problems] In order to solve the above problems, first of all, the structure of the interlaced PDP is improved. The conventional (above) interlaced PDP has a structure in which discharge gaps are continuously arranged, but the interlaced PDP of the present invention has a non-discharge gap sandwiched between the respective discharge gaps. The configuration is arranged. That is, in the present invention, two adjacent cells are separated by sandwiching a non-discharge gap between them. The discharge cap is configured with a narrow width suitable for the generation of discharge, and the non-discharge gap is configured with a wide width suitable for separation of discharge (that is, not to discharge).

[0012] By using such an interlaced PDP, the operating margin can be basically increased, but on the other hand, the display brightness of the PDP is increased by adding a non-discharge gap between each discharge gap. And the resolution is reduced. Therefore, as the second point, devise the drive method and drive waveform used for the above PDP, and set two or three cells adjacent to each other in the direction intersecting the discharge gap to display the display state of each cell. By controlling and lighting two cells at the same time, it is possible to prevent a decrease in brightness and improve the display resolution.

[0013] As another interlaced type PDP, a PDP having a structure that does not use a non-discharge gap (a structure in which discharge gaps are continuously arranged) can also be used by devising the following. That is, at least one structure of the electrode structure or the partition wall structure is changed so that the bond between adjacent cells becomes small and the bond exists appropriately.

[0014] By using an interlaced PDP having a structure that does not use a non-discharge gap and having such a device, the operation margin is increased based on the fact that the coupling between adjacent cells is reduced. However, on the other hand, the display brightness of the PDP is lowered by changing to the above structure. Therefore, by further devising the drive method and drive waveform, two or three cells adjacent to each other in the direction intersecting the discharge gap are combined to control the display state of each cell, and the two cells are turned on at the same time. By such a device, the decrease in brightness is prevented.

[0015] Specific solutions (PDP driving method and PDP device) for improving the PDP and its driving method will be specifically described below.

[0019] Claim<u style="single">1</u>The described PDP driving method includes a discharge gap that is sandwiched between adjacent electrodes among a plurality of electrodes arranged in one direction on a substrate to generate a discharge, and a non-discharge gap that does not generate a discharge. As the gaps and non-discharge gaps are arranged alternately<u style="single">plural</u>Non-discharge gap<u style="single">Each of</u>Between<u style="single">Muden</u>Extreme pair<u style="single">One and the other electrode</u>Is electrically connected and the discharge gap is a method of driving PDP divided into a plurality of cells, and one of the two cells adjacent to one electrode pair is set to the on state in advance. When, the electrode pair adjacent to one cell and on the opposite side of the electrode pair is used as the transfer electrode pair, and between the transfer electrode pair and the two electrode pairs adjacent to the transfer electrode pair. By applying a voltage lower than the discharge start voltage and higher than the discharge maintenance voltage, the cell adjacent to the cell via the transfer electrode pair is triggered by the discharge of the cell set in the on state in advance. It is characterized by transferring the discharge.

[0020] Claim<u style="single">2</u>The described PDP driving method is claimed.<u style="single">1</u>A plurality of address electrodes intersecting with the electrode pair of the PDP described above are provided, and when a pulse for transferring a discharge is applied to the transfer electrode pair, a predetermined pulse is applied to the address electrode to address the transfer electrode pair. It is characterized in that the discharge that becomes a trigger is reinforced by generating an opposed discharge between the electrodes.

[0026] Claim<u style="single">3</u>The described PDP driving method is claimed.<u style="single">1 note</u>In the driving method described above, two electrodes adjacent to each other with one electrode pair in between in a display period for discharging a plurality of preselected cells in a PDP having a plurality of electrode pairs together for a predetermined time. It is characterized in that alternating pulses of opposite phases are applied between pairs, and alternating pulses shifted by 1/4 phase are applied between two pairs of electrodes adjacent to each other.

[Embodiment of the Invention] (First Embodiment) The structure of the PDP of the first embodiment and the driving method thereof will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10 and 37.

[0032] FIGS. 1 and 37 are a plan view and an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the PDP of the present embodiment, respectively.

[0033] In FIGS. 1 and 37, X₁~ X₃, And Y₁~ Y₃Represents the display electrode pair 11 and the scanning electrode pair 12, respectively, and A1 to A6 and 21 (FIG. 37) represent the address electrode. Here, the number of each electrode pair is a convenient number, and the actual PDP has a large number of electrode pairs. The display electrode pair 11 and the scanning electrode pair 12 are each composed of two electrodes. In FIG. 37, the two electrodes of reference numerals 11α and 11β are X.₁Consists of an electrode pair of, and Y with two electrodes of reference numerals 12α and 12β₁Consists of a pair of electrodes. Each electrode is composed of a transparent electrode and a bus electrode in the same manner as the conventional electrodes of FIGS. 38 and 39, but the illustration is omitted in FIGS. 1 and 37. Details of the combination structure of these transparent electrodes and bus electrodes will be described later as the fourth embodiment.

Further, similarly to the conventional PDP of FIG. 39, the line-shaped surface discharge between the display electrode pair 11 and the scanning electrode pair 12 is changed to a plurality of dot-shaped surface discharges (that is, cells for a plurality of discharges). In order to partition into cells (hereinafter abbreviated as cells), a plurality of partition walls 25 are arranged in a direction intersecting the electrode pair (direction parallel to the address electrode), and between each partition wall (also referred to as a rib) 25. The phosphor layers 26R, 26G, and 26B that emit red, green, and blue light are formed in the area.

[0035] Reference numeral L shown in FIG.₁~ L₅Indicates each display line at the discharge gap (that is, the electrode gap that generates the discharge), and is NG.₁~ NG₅Is the non-discharge gap (that is, the electrode gap that does not generate a discharge).

[0036] The width of the non-discharge gap is set to be wider than the width of the discharge gap in order to prevent interference between adjacent cells, that is, to increase the operating margin. Then, the electrodes sandwiching the non-discharge gap are basically electrically coupled in a region outside the display area, and the same potential is applied. In such a configuration, each electrode of the conventional PDP shown in FIGS. 38 and 39 is divided into two electrodes, respectively. Although it is electrically coupled outside the display area, it is electrically connected within the display area when viewed in a plan view, and more specifically, at least in the area where discharge occurs (that is, the area where the cell generates discharge). It is important that it is not linked to. With this structure, it is possible to improve the separation of discharges between cells adjacent to each other in the direction intersecting the electrodes.

FIG. 2 shows a drive waveform in a display period for performing display discharge using the PDP of FIG. 1. Unlike the conventional drive waveform shown in FIG. 40, in the drive waveform of FIG. 2, the same waveform is applied to all the X electrode groups and all the Y electrode groups, and the X electrode group and the Y electrode group are combined. An alternating pulse of opposite phase is applied between them. By driving in this way, display discharge can be generated at the same time in all discharge gaps. This is a feature different from the prior art shown in FIG. 40.

[0038] FIGS. 3 to 8 show driving methods for selecting cells to be displayed in advance before performing display discharge as shown in FIG.

[0039] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a frame configuration of a drive waveform. In the present embodiment, the display is controlled by using two types of frames, an odd frame shown in FIG. 3 (a) and an even frame shown in FIG. 3 (b). Each frame is a frame corresponding to an odd-numbered frame and an even-numbered frame display signal (display data). Normally, the odd-numbered frame display signal (display data) corresponds to the odd-numbered display line display signal, and the even-numbered frame display signal (display data) corresponds to the even-numbered display line display signal. is there. The relationship between even and odd numbers may be reversed. As described above, the odd-numbered frame and the even-numbered frame are names for distinguishing two consecutive types of frames corresponding to the two types of display signals, and the order of even and odd numbers has no special meaning. (Note that these contents regarding odd-numbered frames and even-numbered frames are the same in other embodiments).

As shown in FIG. 3A, an odd-numbered frame is composed of a plurality of subframes, each subframe is composed of a reset period, an address period, and a display period, and each display period corresponds to each subframe. Is weighted. The "reset period, address period, display period" is described by omitting the "period" such as "reset, address, display" in the drawing, and this point is the same in the following drawings.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3 (b), in the even frame, a transcription period is added between the address period and the display period, and this transfer period will be described later.

[0042] Then, in the odd frame, the same data is written in two adjacent cells across the Y electrode, and in the even frame, the same data is written in the two adjacent cells across the X electrode. For example, as shown in Figure 1, Y at odd frames₁Data is written to the cells of reference numerals 201 and 202 sandwiching the electrodes, and in even-numbered frames, X₂Cells with codes 301 and 302 sandwiching the electrodes and X₃Data is written in the cells of reference numerals 311 and 312 sandwiching the electrodes.

[0043] FIG. 4 shows a drive waveform in one subframe in the odd frame of FIG. 3 (a) (that is, for example, a drive waveform for writing data to the cells of reference numerals 201 and 202 above).

[0044] The drive waveform of FIG. 4 is basically the same as the drive waveform of a conventional normal PDP, but as shown in FIG. 1, there are discharge gaps on both sides of the electrode pair, so that the electrodes It is characterized in that two cells on both sides of the pair (corresponding to cells of reference numerals 201 and 202 in FIG. 1) simultaneously generate address discharge. In the reset period of the drive waveform in FIG. 3, as shown by the symbols RP1 and RP2, the lamp waveform (blunt wave) is used for resetting using weak discharge, but the waveform is not limited to this. Absent.

The operating state of the PDP in the cell when driven by the drive waveform shown in FIG. 4 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 shows a charged state of the dielectric layer surfaces of a plurality of cells on a cross-sectional view of a PDP cut along a line along the address electrode A. Here, as individual electrodes of the electrode pair of X and Y, the reference numeral Y_nAlthough two electrodes are shown in the electrode pair of, the code X_nAnd X_{n + 1}Only one electrode pair on one side is shown.

[0046] Reference numerals a to d in FIG. 5 indicate steps corresponding to the symbols a to d shown in FIG. 4, and FIG. 5 shows (1) the state of the lit cell and (2) the non-lit cell. The state of is also described. Therefore, the operating state in the cell of FIG. 5 will be described in association with the drive waveform of FIG.

First, an appropriate wall voltage is accumulated in all cells in the first lamp wave RP1 during the reset period of FIG. 4 (reference numeral a), and the wall voltage is suitable for address discharge in the subsequent second lamp wave RP2. Adjust to level (sign b).

[0048] Correspondingly, in the steps of reference numerals a and b in FIG. 5, uniformly initialized wall charges are formed in all cells.

During the address period of FIG. 4, the scanning pulse SP (voltage-V) was applied to the Y electrode._Y) Is applied, and the intensity of the address discharge is selected by the address pulse AP applied to the address electrode (reference numeral c). In the lit cell, the voltage V_AApply the address pulse AP of, voltage -V_YCauses a strong address discharge in combination with the scanning pulse SP of_nA wall voltage is formed on the surface of the dielectric layer of two cells adjacent to each other across the electrode pair so that a display discharge occurs during the display period. Here, the two cells of reference numerals 361 and 362 correspond to the cells of reference numerals 201 and 202 in FIG.

[0050] On the other hand, in the non-lighting cell, the voltage V_ABy not applying the address pulse AP of, a weak address discharge is caused, and the wall voltage state is set so that the display discharge does not occur during the display period. Here, the weak address discharge includes the case where the address discharge does not occur.

Correspondingly, in the step of reference numeral c in FIG. 5 (1), a large wall charge is formed in the cells of reference numerals 361 and 362. On the other hand, the small wall charge remains on the side of the non-lighting cell in (2).

[0052] Further, as described above, the address discharge is simultaneously performed on two cells (reference numerals 361 and 362) adjacent to each other with the Y electrode pair in between.

[0053] In the subsequent display discharge period, a group of sustain pulses (maintenance pulses) is applied, and display discharge is performed only in the cell where strong address discharge is performed.

[0054] The state of the (1) lit cell and the state of the (2) non-lit cell in FIG. 5 are different in the steps of the reference numerals c and d. The former stores a large wall charge in the on state, and the latter stores a small wall charge in the off state.

Next, the drive waveform and operation of the subframe in the even frame will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8.

FIG. 6 shows the drive waveform of the subframe in the even frame. 7 and 8 show the operating state in the cell in the subframe.

In the odd frame, the cells on both sides of the Y electrode pair are addressed at the same time, but in the even frame, unlike the case of the odd frame, the address discharge is driven so as to be performed only on one side of the Y electrode pair.

[0058] For example, Y in FIG.₁Address the cell 301 on the downstream side of the electrode pair and the cell 311 on the downstream side of the Y2 electrode pair. The downstream side referred to here is the rear side in the scanning time direction, and corresponds to the lower side of the paper surface in FIG. (The upstream side is the opposite, and the meanings of these terms are the same below).

First, in FIG. 6, in order to address a cell on only one side of the Y electrode pair, the display electrode pair is divided by even and odd numbers, and the even X electrode pair group X_evenAnd odd X electrode pair group X_oddGroup with.

[0060] Then, in the first half of the address period, the odd-numbered Y electrode vs. Y_oddEach of (Y₁~ Y_2N-1) Sequentially address X so that address discharge does not occur on the upstream side of the Y electrode pair._oddWhile lowering the potential of X, X so that address discharge occurs on the downstream side._evenRaise the potential of. Similarly, the even-numbered Y electrode vs. Y in the second half of the address period._evenEach of (Y₂~ Y_2N) Sequentially address X so that address discharge does not occur on the upstream side of the Y electrode pair._evenWhile lowering the potential of X, X so that address discharge occurs on the downstream side._oddRaise the potential of.

[0061] Then, in the display period of even-numbered frames, two cells adjacent to each other with the X electrode pair sandwiched between them are displayed as a set. Therefore, by transferring the discharge of one cell to one cell that has undergone strong address discharge during the address period and the adjacent cell with the X electrode in between, the cell and the cell to which the discharge has been transferred are transferred. Drive the cells to discharge together. In order to transfer the discharge in this way, a transfer period is provided between the address period and the display period. This transcription period is the period indicated as "transcription" in FIG.

[0062] During this transfer period, a voltage (V) slightly lower than the discharge start voltage was applied to the cell downstream of the addressed cell (for example, 302 or 312 in FIG. 1)._MY+ V_MX) (Specifically, the voltage V of the Y electrode_MYAnd the voltage of the X electrode-V_MXBy applying (difference from), the discharge of the upstream cell (for example, 301 or 311 in FIG. 1) is triggered to cause the discharge of the downstream cell (for example, 302 or 312 in FIG. 1).

[0063] If a sufficient wall voltage is formed in the upstream cell (for example, 301 or 311 in FIG. 1) during the address period (that is, if a strong address discharge occurs), it becomes a trigger during the transfer period. A discharge occurs, inducing a discharge in the downstream cell (eg 302 or 312 in FIG. 1). On the contrary, if a sufficient wall voltage is not formed in the upstream cell during the address period (that is, if it is a weak address discharge or non-discharge), no discharge occurs during the transfer period and no discharge of the downstream cell is induced. ..

[0064] In order to induce only discharge of the cell on the downstream side of the addressed cell (for example, 302 or 312 in FIG. 1), that is, the cell on the upstream side of the addressed cell (for example, 303 or 313 in FIG. 1). In order not to induce discharge, the X electrode pairs are divided into a group of even and odd electrode pairs in the transfer period as in the case of the address period. That is, the group X of odd X electrode pairs_oddAnd even X electrode pair group X_evenIt is divided into two, and the cells adjacent to each other across the Y electrode (here, the cell on the upstream side) are driven so as not to apply a high voltage.

[0065] Specifically, in the step of reference numeral d, X_evenNegative pulse 401 for transfer to (voltage -V_MX) Is applied and X_oddA positive pulse 411 is applied to suppress transcription (this pulse is a pulse continuous with the pulse during the address period). Also, in the step of sign e, X_oddNegative pulse 402 for transfer (voltage-V_MX) Is applied and X_evenA positive pulse 412 is applied to suppress transcription.

By driving as described above, first, the cell on one side of the two cells sandwiching the Y electrode pair is addressed during the address period. Next, during the transfer period, the discharge of the cell is transferred to another cell (here, the cell on the downstream side) adjacent to the cell with the X electrode pair in between. Then, during the display period, the display discharge is performed with the two cells of the addressed cell and the transferred cell as a set (that is, the two cells adjacent to each other with the X electrode pair as a set).

[0067] The operating state of the cells in the PDP when such driving is performed will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0068] The steps of reference numerals a to f in FIGS. 7 and 8 correspond to the steps of reference numerals a to f shown in FIG. 6, and the states of the lighting cells corresponding to the steps of reference numerals a to f are shown in FIG. 7. The state of the non-lighting cell is shown in FIG. Therefore, the operating states in the cells of FIGS. 7 and 8 will be described in association with the drive waveform of FIG.

[0069] First, an appropriate wall voltage is accumulated in all cells in the first lamp wave RP1 during the reset period of FIG. 6 (reference numeral a), and the wall voltage is suitable for address discharge in the subsequent second lamp wave RP2. Adjust to level (sign b).

[0070] Correspondingly, in the steps of reference numerals a and b in FIGS. 7 and 8, uniformly initialized wall charges are formed in all cells.

During the address period of FIG. 6, a scanning pulse (voltage-V) was applied to the Y electrode._Y) Is applied and the intensity of the address discharge is selected by the pulse of the address electrode (reference numeral c). In the lit cell, the voltage V_AApply the address pulse AP of, voltage -V_YIn combination with the scanning pulse SP of, a strong address discharge is generated, and a wall voltage sufficient to cause a display discharge is formed during the display period. On the other hand, in the non-lighting cell, the voltage V_ABy not applying the address pulse AP of, a weak address discharge is generated (or no address discharge is generated), and the wall voltage state is set so that the display discharge does not occur during the display period. Then, in this address period, by applying a selection level voltage (high voltage) or a non-selection level voltage (low voltage) to the odd X electrode group and the even X electrode group as shown in FIG. 6, Y Only one of the two adjacent cells (cells of reference numeral 461 and 462 in FIG. 7) (cell of reference numeral 462 in FIG. 7) is addressed across the electrode pair (reference numeral c).

[0072] In the corresponding step of reference numeral c in FIG. 7, a large wall charge is accumulated in the cell of reference numeral 462, and a small wall charge is accumulated in the cell of reference numeral 461. The cells of reference numerals 461 and 462 correspond to the cells of reference numerals 303 and 301 (or the cells of reference numerals 313 and 311) in FIG. 1, respectively.

Next, in the step (transfer period) of d or (e) of FIG. 7, the discharge of the cell of reference numeral 462 is transferred to the cell of reference numeral 463. That is, the surface discharge of reference numeral 462a is transferred to the surface discharge of reference numeral 463a.

[0074] When transferring this surface discharge, the address electrodes A and X_2nBy utilizing the opposed discharge between the two electrode pairs, the transfer operation can be further promoted. Specifically, in the step of reference numeral d in FIG. 7, when the surface discharge of reference numeral 462a is generated, the opposite discharge of reference numeral 462b is generated almost at the same time. Then, also in the cell of reference numeral 463 on the side to be transferred, a waveform capable of generating the opposite discharge 463b is applied together with the surface discharge 463a. By performing the transfer operation in such a state, the surface discharge 462a and the opposite discharge 462b are used as trigger discharges to induce the opposite discharge of reference numeral 463b in the adjacent cell 463, and at the same time, the surface discharge of reference numeral 463a is generated. Can be generated. When the applied voltage during the transfer operation is small, the facing discharge of reference numeral 463b may not occur even if the facing discharge of reference numeral 462b occurs. Even in such a case, the opposed discharge of reference numeral 462b can promote the transfer of the discharge.

[0075] Here, since the distance between the two opposed discharges 462b and 463b is smaller than the distance between the two surface discharges 462a and 463a, the transfer of the discharge can be further promoted.

[0076] Then, in order to generate such a counter discharge for transfer, a transfer auxiliary pulse is applied to the address electrode A as shown by reference numeral 421 in FIG. The timing at which the transfer auxiliary pulse 421 is started is set to be at the same time as or earlier than the transfer pulse 401. It should be noted that the transfer can be performed without using the transfer assist pulse 421, but the transfer operation can be made more reliable by using this pulse. In other words, the operating margin during transfer can be increased.

[0077] Within such a transfer period, there are two transfer steps as shown by reference numerals d and e in FIG. 6, and these steps are the steps indicated by reference numerals d and reference numeral (e) in FIG. 7, respectively. It corresponds to. The step of the code (e) in FIG. 7 is the electrode arrangement when the code indicating the electrode is enclosed in (), that is, the code (X)._2n) ~ (Y_{2n + 1}) Is shown as corresponding to the case of the electrode arrangement. The electrode arrangement indicated by the reference numerals not enclosed in () in FIG. 7 corresponds to the step of reference numeral d.

[0078] Then, as shown in FIG. 7, in the step of reference numeral d, the odd Y electrode pair Y_2n-1The cell addressed in is even X electrode vs. X_2nTransfer to a cell adjacent to, and in step (e), even Y electrodes vs. Y_2nThe cells addressed in are odd X electrodes vs. X_{2n + 1}Transfer to cells adjacent to.

Next, FIG. 8 shows the operating state of the non-lighting cell in the subframe within the even frame. Steps a and b (reset period) are the same as in FIG. 7, but in step c (address period), all cells in the figure are not lit, so that the wall charges of all cells are charged. Is in a small state. Since there are no discharge cells (cells in the lit state) in the figure, the wall charges of all the cells remain small even in the steps (transfer period to display period) of reference numerals d to f.

As described above based on FIGS. 3 to 8, two cells adjacent to each other in the vertical direction (the column direction of the matrix screen, and the same applies hereinafter) are displayed in both even and odd frames. It corresponds to a line, and in the even frame and the odd frame, the position of the line can be displayed by one cell in the vertical direction, that is, the display line is shifted by 1/2 pitch. That is, interlaced display is possible.

[0081] This point will be further described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing a set of display cells for one column of the screen, which corresponds to a set of display cells on one line of the address electrode. X electrode vs. X₁~ X₆And Y electrode vs. Y₁~ Y₆Each of the two electrodes is a set of two electrodes, and a cell indicated by a solid circle is formed between adjacent X and Y electrodes. Then, from these cells, two adjacent cells are appropriately paired and displayed. For example, the two cells of reference numerals 501 and 502 shown in FIG. 9A are displayed in pairs as shown by the broken line circles of reference numeral 511. Then, the figure shown in (a) shall be abbreviated as shown in the figure (b). The set of cells of reference numeral 511 in (a) is illustrated as in reference numeral 521 of (b), and the X electrode pair X of (a) is shown.₁~ X₆And Y electrode vs. Y₁~ Y₆Each of the two electrode pairs of each has one electrode X as shown in (b).₁~ X₆And Y₁~ Y₆It shall be abbreviated as. (The same applies below).

FIG. 10 shows a set of display cells in the display period of the first embodiment. The set of cells for displaying odd-numbered frames and the set of cells for displaying even-numbered frames are displayed one cell in the vertical direction, that is, the display line is shifted by 1/2 pitch. You can see that it is. After all, the vertical resolution with respect to the number of electrode terminals is the same as the conventional example shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, and a high resolution equivalent to that can be realized.

[0083] Further, in the first embodiment, the set of cells for displaying odd-numbered frames and the set of cells for displaying even-numbered frames are displayed one cell on the downstream side. The direction of shifting by one cell is not limited to the downstream side, and the display may be shifted by one cell to the upstream side. In this case, the combination of the above drive waveforms may be appropriately changed.

(Second Embodiment) As described above, in the first embodiment, when displaying a normal display pattern, it is possible to display at a sufficiently high resolution. However, when displaying a special pattern, its resolution may drop. The present embodiment provides a driving method for enabling display at a sufficiently high resolution even for such a special display pattern.

[0085] Therefore, first, the resolution of the first embodiment for a special pattern will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16.

[0086] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a lighting method of the first embodiment, in which two cells vertically adjacent to each other are paired and the two cells are simultaneously lit or not lit. The even-numbered frame and the odd-numbered frame in the figure (b) are driven so that the two cells are shifted by one cell in the vertical direction.

[0087] When the display data shown in (a) of FIG. 16 is displayed by the driving method of the first embodiment using the driving method as shown in FIG. 15, the state of the lighting cells in the even-numbered frame and the odd-numbered frame. Are shown in (b) and (c) of FIG. 16, respectively.

[0088] Here, the display data shown in FIG. 16A shows display data for turning on two dots that are separated by one dot. When this display data is to be displayed using the driving method of the first embodiment, only four consecutive cells of even-numbered frames are lit as shown in (b), and cells of odd-numbered frames are lit as shown in (c). Does not light at all.

[0089] Note that the dot referred to here indicates one point of display data, and the cell indicates a discharge cell as a display unit of PDP. The black squares in the figure indicate high-level dots, and the black circles indicate lit cells. (Same as below) In this way, when trying to display display data indicating two dots that are separated by one dot, as shown in Fig. 16 (b), the dots to be separated are connected. become. That is, in the driving method of the first embodiment, there is one problem in that the display resolution for such a special display pattern is lowered.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 12A, such a problem is to make the position of the dot of the display data correspond to the position between the two cells, that is, the two cells adjacent to one dot of the display data. This is due to the fact that the two cells are lit with the same level of brightness.

Therefore, in the second embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12B, one dot is displayed in three cells, and the brightness of the cells on both sides is made lower than the brightness of the center cell. Moreover, when displaying 2-dot display data with an interval of 1 dot by associating 1 dot of the display data with the center cell of the three pairs of cells, FIG. 13 (b) As shown in, the data of each dot can be displayed separately.

That is, in the case of the second embodiment, it is possible to decompose a special display pattern that cannot be decomposed in the first embodiment. Further, since the adjacent cells are also illuminated, the decrease in brightness can be suppressed to be small as compared with the invention described in JP-A-9-160525.

[0093] Here, the advantages and disadvantages of the first embodiment and the second embodiment are compared in advance.

[0094] In the first embodiment, a sufficiently high resolution display can be realized in a normal display pattern, but the resolution may be lowered for a special display pattern as shown in FIG.

[0095] On the other hand, the second embodiment has a feature that high-resolution display can be performed for all display patterns including such a case. However, in order to realize such performance, it is necessary to adopt an advanced driving method as described below.

[0096] On the other hand, the driving method of the first embodiment is very simple as compared with the case of such a second embodiment, and is therefore excellent in that respect. Further, the special display pattern as shown in FIG. 16 often causes almost no problem in a normal TV display or the like.

[0097] That is, each of the first embodiment and the second embodiment has advantages and disadvantages, and the first embodiment is suitable for realizing a normal display by a simple driving method, while even if the driving method is used. The second embodiment seems to be more suitable when it is desired to realize extremely high resolution performance even if the above is complicated.

[0098] Next, an example of the brightness level will be described. As shown in FIG. 12B, in the example of the second embodiment, the brightness of the central cell corresponding to one dot of the display data is L, and the brightness of the two cells adjacent to both sides thereof is L / 4. To do. On the other hand, in the first embodiment, the luminances of the two cells corresponding to one dot of the display data are both L. When the brightness is set in this way and the display data is displayed every other dot, as shown in FIG. 13 (b) in the example of the second embodiment, the brightness of the two cells corresponding to the two dots to be displayed is L, the brightness of one cell between the two cells is L / 2, and the brightness of the two cells outside the two cells is L / 4. On the other hand, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13A, the brightness of all four cells corresponding to the two dots to be displayed is L. From these specific examples, it is well understood that in the case of the second embodiment, the resolution can be increased as compared with the case of the first embodiment. In FIG. 12B, the brightness of the cells on both sides of the central cell is set to L / 4, but this is an example and is not limited to this value.

[0099] The lighting state of the three cells shown in FIG. 12B is specifically realized as shown in FIG. First, there are two cells, one is the cell corresponding to the dot position (the cell with the sign p1 in the figure) (the cell in the center of the above three cells) and the other is the cell adjacent to one side of the cell (the cell with the sign p2 in the figure). Make a pair of cells. Then, the display period of the subframe is divided into the first display period and the second display period, and in the first half (first display period), the cell corresponding to the dot position among the two cells in the set (Fig.) Only the cell with the symbol p1 in the middle is lit, and in the latter half (second display period), both of the two cells in the pair (cells with the symbols p1 and p2 in the figure) are lit. This content is shown in (a1) and (a2) of FIG.

[0100] Then, two kinds of combinations of such two cells are made. For example, there are two types, p1 and p2 and q1 and q2 shown in FIG. The former is a combination of the cell corresponding to the dot position (the central cell among the above three cells) and the cell adjacent to the upstream side of the cell, and the latter is the cell corresponding to the dot position (the above three cells). It is a combination of the cell in the center of the cell) and the cell adjacent to the downstream side of the cell. The cell of reference numeral p1 and the cell of reference numeral q1 are the same cell (that is, the central cell among the above three cells).

[0101] Then, the former combination is called type A, and the latter combination is called type B. (The correspondence between the above upstream and downstream sides and type A and type B is not limited to the above combinations).

[0102] Then, the combinations of type A and type B are mixed in one frame. Specifically, the combinations of type A and type B correspond to different subframes. The former is called a type A subframe, and the latter is called a type B subframe.

By processing the display data and driving the PDP cell as described above (that is, as shown in FIG. 14), the brightness of the central cell is increased and the brightness of the cells on both sides of the cell is increased. The state of lowering, that is, the state shown in FIG. 12 (b) can be realized.

[0104] The structure of the PDP of the second embodiment is shown in FIGS. 17 (plan view) and 37 (perspective view), and some cells used for explaining the driving method of the present embodiment are described therein. .. The structure of this PDP itself is basically the same as the structure of the PDP of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 (plan view) and 37 (perspective view), and symbols indicating various electrodes and discharge gaps are also included. , Basically the same as in Fig. 1.

[0105] Next, a specific driving method will be described. As shown in FIG. 18, each subframe has a reset period, an address period, and a display period, and the display period is divided into a first display period (front part) and a second display period (rear part) with a transcription period in between. It is divided.

[0106] In the first display period, the cells of the even line are lit in the even frame, and the cells of the odd line are lit in the odd frame (generally, the even-odd relationship may be reversed). The selection of even and odd predetermined cells for driving in this way is performed as a process of the address period.

[0107] For example, in the even-numbered frame address period and the first display period of FIG. 18, the cells of reference numerals 602 and 604 of FIG. 17 are lit, and in the odd-numbered frame address period and the first display period of FIG. Turn on cells 613 and 615.

Next, in the second display period of FIG. 18, in the type A subframe, the cells on the upstream side of the cells lit in the first display period are lit, and in the type B subframe, the cells are lit in the first display period. Turn on the cell on the downstream side of the cell. Then, the process of combining the two cells in this way is performed by the transfer process during the transfer period.

[0109] For example, in the transfer period and the second display period of the type A subframe of the even frame of FIG. 18, the two cells of reference numerals 601 and 602 and the two cells of reference numerals 603 and 604 of FIG. 17 are lit at the same time. Let me. Then, in the transfer period and the second display period of the even-numbered frame type B subframe of FIG. 18, the two cells of reference numerals 602 and 603 and the two cells of reference numerals 604 and 605 of FIG. 17 are simultaneously lit.

[0110] For example, in the transfer period and the second display period of the type A subframe of the odd frame of FIG. 18, the two cells of reference numerals 612 and 613 and the two cells of reference numerals 614 and 615 of FIG. 17 are simultaneously used. Turn it on. Then, in the transfer period and the second display period of the type B subframe of the odd frame of FIG. 18, the two cells of reference numerals 613 and 614 of FIG. 17 and the two cells of reference numerals 615 and 616 are turned on at the same time.

[0111] The cell combinations and lighting states as described above are shown in FIGS. 19 to 22. First, the cell combination and the lighting state in the first display period will be described. In the even-numbered frames of the first display period, the state of addressing the even-numbered cells and turning the cells into the lit state during the first display period is shown in (a) of FIGS. 19 and 20. Here is an example of selecting the 4th cell.

On the other hand, in the odd-numbered frame of the first display period, the state of addressing the odd-numbered cell and putting the cell in the lit state during the first display period is shown in (a) of FIGS. 21 and 22. It was. Here is an example of selecting the third cell.

Next, the cell combination and the lighting state in the second display period will be described. In the type A subframe of the second display period, the cells lit in the first display period and the cells on the upstream side thereof are lit at the same time, as shown in (b) of FIGS. 19 and 21. FIG. 19 (b) shows an example in which two cells, the fourth cell and the cell above it, are lit, and FIG. 21 (b) shows an example in which two cells, the third cell and the cell above it, are lit.

On the other hand, in the type B subframe of the second display period, the cells lit in the first display period and the cells on the downstream side thereof are lit at the same time, respectively (b) of FIGS. 20 and 22. It was shown to. Figure 20 (b) shows an example in which two cells, the fourth cell and the cell below it, are lit, and FIG. 22 (b) shows an example in which two cells, the third cell and the cell below it, are lit. ..

[0115] Drive methods (drive waveforms) for four types of subframes for realizing cell combinations and lighting states as shown in FIGS. 19 to 22 above are shown in FIGS. 23 to 26, and The operating states of the cells in the PDP corresponding to the driving method of each subframe are shown in FIGS. 27 to 30.

[0116] As the first type of subframe, FIG. 23 shows the drive waveform of an even frame type A subframe, and FIG. 27 shows the operating state of the lighting cell in the subframe.

[0117] In the drive waveform of FIG. 23, first, the state of wall charge in all cells is initialized (uniformized) by two types of blunt wave RP1 and RP2 during the reset period.

Next, in the address period, in order to sequentially address the cells on only one side of the Y electrode pair, the display electrode pair is divided by even and odd numbers, and the even X electrode pair group X_evenAnd odd X electrode pair group X_oddGroup with. Then, in the first half of the address period, the odd-numbered Y electrode vs. Y_oddEach of (Y₁~ Y_2N-1) Sequentially address X so that address discharge does not occur on the upstream side of the Y electrode pair._oddWhile lowering the potential of X, X so that address discharge occurs on the downstream side._evenRaise the potential of. Similarly, in the second half of the address period, the even-numbered Y-electrode vs. Y_evenEach of (Y₂~ Y_2N) Sequentially address X so that address discharge does not occur on the upstream side of the Y electrode pair._evenWhile lowering the potential of X, X so that address discharge occurs on the downstream side._oddRaise the potential of.

[0119] Then, in the first display period following the address period, a sustain pulse is applied to perform display discharge to one cell (downstream cell) of each Y electrode pair addressed in the address period.

[0120] In the transfer period following this first display period, the cell (eg, 601 or 603 in FIG. 17) on the upstream side of the addressed cell (eg, 602 or 604 in FIG. 17) is slightly lower than the discharge start voltage. Low voltage (V_M+ Vs) (Specifically, the voltage of the Y electrode pair -V_MBy applying the difference between the voltage Vs of the X electrode pair and the voltage Vs of the X electrode pair, the discharge of the downstream cell (for example, 602 or 604 in FIG. 17) is triggered by the discharge of the upstream cell (for example, 601 or 604 in FIG. 17). 603) causes an electric discharge. As a result, the discharge is transferred from the addressed cell to the cell on the upstream side thereof.

[0121] For this transcription, Y in the first half step (step d) of the transcription period._oddTransfer pulse of reference numeral 701 (voltage-V) to the group of electrode pairs of_M) Is applied, and in the latter step (step e), Y_evenTransfer pulse of code 702 (voltage-V) in a group of electrode pairs_M) Is applied. Y in this step d_oddTransfer the discharge from the cell addressed by the group of electrode pairs of, and in step e Y_evenTransfer the discharge from the cell addressed by the group of electrode pairs of. In these steps d and e, X_oddAnd X_evenIs a positive pulse for transfer (voltage V)_S) Is applied.

[0122] In order to induce only the discharge of the cells on the upstream side, that is, not to induce the discharge of the cells on the downstream side, the Y electrode pairs are divided into a group of even and odd electrode pairs during the transfer period. That is, the group Y of odd Y electrode pairs_oddAnd even Y electrode pair group Y_evenThe cells that are adjacent to each other across the X electrode (here, the cell on the upstream side) are driven so as not to apply a high voltage.

[0123] Specifically, in the step of reference numeral d, the group Y of odd Y electrode pairs_oddNegative pulse for transfer of code 701 (voltage -V)_M) Is applied, the group Y of even Y electrode pairs_evenA positive pulse 711 for suppressing transcription is applied to. Also, in the step of sign e, the group Y of even Y electrode pairs_evenNegative pulse for transfer of sign 702 (voltage -V)_M) Is applied, the group Y of odd Y electrode pairs_oddA positive pulse 712 for suppressing transcription is applied to.

[0124] Further, when performing such transfer, a pulse represented by reference numeral 721 is applied to the address electrode A to generate an opposed discharge between the address electrode A and the scanning electrode Y, thereby further performing the transfer operation. Can be promoted. The details of this operation will be described in detail in the description of the step of reference numeral d in FIG.

[0125] Then, in the second display period following this transfer period, the cell addressed in the address period (that is, the cell subjected to the display discharge in the first display period) and the cell upstream of the cell in the transfer period are transferred. A sustain pulse is applied in order to perform display discharge by forming a pair of two cells with the cell.

FIG. 27 shows the operating state of the lighting cell when driven as shown in the drive waveform of FIG. 23 above in the even frame type A subframe. The steps of reference numerals a to f in FIG. 27 correspond to the steps of reference numerals a to f in FIG. 23.

[0127] In the two types of reference numerals of the electrodes of FIG. 27, X_2n-1~ Y_2nCorresponds to the step of sign d, (X_2n) ~ (Y_{2n + 1}) Corresponds to the step of sign (e). These steps other than d and (e) are shown as being common to both of the electrodes of the above two types of codes.

[0128] Further, in the reference numerals indicating cells, reference numerals 601 and 602 are X._2n-1~ Y_2nCorresponds to the electrodes of the sign and step d, and the signs (603) and (604) are (X_2n) ~ (Y_{2n + 1}) Is illustrated so as to correspond to the electrode and step (e).

[0129] The point that the objects displayed with the reference numerals () or the ones displayed without the reference numerals () correspond to each other is shown in the following drawings as well. ..

[0130] Reference numeral a in FIG. 27 indicates the state of the cells during the reset period, and the state of the wall charge of all the cells is made uniform.

[0131] Reference numeral b in FIG. 27 indicates the state of the cell during the address period, and one of the two cells adjacent to the Y electrode pair (here, the downstream cell) (cell of reference numeral 602 or 604). Indicates the addressed state (ON state). Here, the cell on the upstream side (cell of reference numeral 601 or 603) is not addressed (OFF state).

[0132] These cells of reference numerals 601 to 605 correspond to the cells of the same reference numeral in FIG. 17 (the same applies hereinafter).

[0133] Reference numeral c in FIG. 27 indicates the state of the cell in the first display period, and indicates the state when the cell of reference numeral 602 or 604 addressed in the step of reference numeral b is subjected to maintenance discharge for display. ing.

[0134] Reference numeral d [or reference numeral (e)] in FIG. 27 indicates the state of the cell during the transfer period, from the addressed cell of reference numeral 602 (or 604) to the cell of reference numeral 601 (or 603) on the upstream side thereof. It shows the operating state when transferring the discharge. In the transfer of this discharge, the surface discharge of reference numeral 652a is transferred to the surface discharge of reference numeral 651a. At the time of this transfer, the opposite discharges indicated by reference numerals 652b and 651b are generated to further perform the transfer operation. It can be done easily. That is, as a trigger discharge, a surface discharge of reference numeral 652a is generated and an opposite discharge of reference numeral 652b is generated. Then, a drive pulse capable of simultaneously generating a surface discharge and an opposite discharge is also applied to the cell on the transfer side. As a result, from a microscopic point of view, the facing discharge of reference numeral 652b occurs almost at the same time as the surface discharge of reference numeral 652a, and immediately after that, the facing discharge of reference numeral 651b and the surface discharge of reference numeral 651a occur almost at the same time. Although it is not necessary to use such an opposed discharge for transfer, it is possible to further promote the transfer operation by using it. This is because the distance between the two cells 602 and 601 is closer than the distance between the surface discharges of reference numerals 652a and 651a, and the distance between the opposite discharges of reference numerals 652b and 651b is closer. This is because the connection between them is likely to occur.

[0135] It is desirable to generate both of the above two opposed discharges 652b and 651b, but only one of the reference numerals 652b may be used. This may occur when the applied voltage is low.

[0136] Here, the step of reference numeral d shows the transfer operation from the cell on the downstream side (for example, 602) of the odd-numbered Y electrode pair to the cell on the upstream side (for example, 601), and the step of reference numeral (e) shows the even-numbered Y electrode. It shows the transfer operation from the pair downstream cell (eg 604) to the upstream cell (eg 603).

[0137] The reference numeral f in FIG. 27 indicates the state of the cell in the second display period, and the two cells (601 and 602, or 603 and 604) lit in the step of the reference numeral d or (e) are for display. It shows the state when the maintenance discharge of.

[0138] As the second type of subframe, FIG. 24 shows the drive waveform of the even frame type B subframe, and FIG. 28 shows the operating state of the lighting cell in the subframe.

[0139] This second type subframe (even frame type B subframe) is different from the above first type subframe (even frame type A subframe) in the transfer direction during the transfer period. Only, otherwise the same content. That is, the former transfer direction is toward the downstream side, and the latter transfer direction is toward the upstream side.

Therefore, the drive waveform (FIG. 24) of the second type subframe (even frame type B subframe) is the drive of the above first type subframe (even frame type A subframe). The drive waveform of the transfer period is basically different from the waveform (FIG. 23), and the drive waveform of the end part of the first display period and the start part of the second display period is slightly different accordingly.

[0141] The transfer pulses 701'(step d) and 702' (step e) for transferring to the downstream cell are X, respectively._evenAnd X_oddIs applied to the group of X electrode pairs. (In FIG. 23, transfer pulses of reference numerals 701 and 702 are applied to the group of Y electrode pairs). Then, the reference numerals 711'(step d) and 712' (step e) for suppressing the transfer to the cell on the upstream side are also X, respectively._oddAnd X_evenIs applied to the group of X electrode pairs. (In FIG. 23, transcription suppression pulses of reference numerals 711 and 712 are applied to the group of Y electrode pairs).

[0142] Further, when performing such transfer, a pulse indicated by reference numeral 721'is applied to the address electrode A to generate an opposed discharge between the address electrode A and the scanning electrode Y, and the transfer operation is performed. It can be further promoted. This operation will be described in the step of reference numeral d in FIG.

Next, the operating state (FIG. 28) of the lighting cell of the second type subframe (even frame type B subframe) is the sub of the above first type subframe (even frame type A). The operating state of the lighting cell of the frame) is basically different from the operating state of the transfer period [step of reference numeral d or (e)], and the second display period [step of reference numeral f] is accompanied by the operating state. ] The operating state of the lighting cell is different. The operating states of the cells in the other steps a to c are the same as in FIG. 27.

[0144] The discharge of the cell (cell of reference numeral 602 or 604) that has been addressed in the step of reference numeral b and displayed in the step of reference numeral c is transferred to the cell on the downstream side (cell of reference numeral 603 or 605). The state of each cell at that time is shown in the step of reference numeral d or (e). When transferring from the surface discharge of reference numeral 662a to the surface discharge of reference numeral 663a, it is desirable to use two opposed discharges 662b, 663b, or at least one of the opposed discharges 662b, as in the case of FIG. 27. ..

[0145] The step of reference numeral f is when two cells (cells of reference numerals 602 and 603, or cells of reference numerals 604 and 605) turned on in the step of reference numeral d or (e) perform display discharge together. Indicates the state.

[0146] As the third type of subframe, FIG. 25 shows the drive waveform of the odd frame type A subframe, and FIG. 29 shows the operating state of the lighting cell in the subframe.

[0147] This third type subframe (odd frame type A subframe) is different from the above first type subframe (even frame type A subframe) in the type of cell to be addressed. Other operations are the same. The former addresses the cells of the odd-numbered display line of the PDP of the electrode configuration shown in FIG. 17 in the address period, while the latter addresses the cells of the even-numbered display line.

[0148] In order to address the cells of the odd-numbered display line in this way, when each of the odd-numbered Y-electrode pairs is sequentially addressed in the first half of the address period shown in FIG. 25, the even-numbered X-electrode pair group X_evenA non-selective level voltage (low voltage) is applied to, and a group X of odd X electrode pairs_oddApply a selection level voltage (high voltage) to. Also, when addressing each of the even Y electrode pairs sequentially in the second half of the address period, the group X of the odd X electrode pairs_oddA non-selective level voltage (low voltage) is applied to the even X electrode pair group X_evenApply a selection level voltage (high voltage) to.

[0149] In this way, in association with addressing the cells of the odd-numbered display lines of the PDP of the electrode configuration shown in FIG. 17, during the transfer period, the discharge is transferred from the addressed cells to the cells on the upstream side thereof. Therefore, the drive waveform is applied as shown in FIG. The drive waveform during this transfer period is equivalent to that shown in FIG. The transfer direction is different from the downstream side in FIG. 24 and the upstream side in FIG. 25, but the transfer of FIGS. 24 and 25 is different due to the difference in the type of cell to be addressed in the address period (that is, the combination of electrode pairs used for addressing). The drive waveforms for the period are the same.

Next, the operating state (FIG. 29) of the lighting cell of the third type subframe (odd frame type A subframe) and the above first type subframe (even frame type A subframe). The operating state (FIG. 27) of the lighting cell of the frame) is the same as the wall charge pattern in the diagram, as is clear from comparing these two diagrams. The only difference is how the various electrodes are combined. The former addresses the odd-numbered display lines of the PDP of the electrode configuration shown in FIG. 17, and the latter addresses the even-numbered display lines by selecting and combining appropriate electrodes.

[0151] As the fourth type of subframe, FIG. 26 shows the drive waveform of the odd frame type B subframe, and FIG. 30 shows the operating state of the lighting cell in the subframe.

[0152] This fourth type of subframe (odd frame / type B subframe) is different from the above second type subframe (even frame / type B subframe) in the type of cell to be addressed. Other operations are the same. The former addresses the cells of the odd-numbered display line of the PDP of the electrode configuration shown in FIG. 17 in the address period, while the latter addresses the cells of the even-numbered display line.

[0153] In order to address the cells of the odd-numbered display line in this way, when each of the odd-numbered Y-electrode pairs is sequentially addressed in the first half of the addressing period shown in FIG._evenA non-selective level voltage (low voltage) is applied to, and a group X of odd X electrode pairs_oddApply a selection level voltage (high voltage) to. Also, when addressing each of the even Y electrode pairs sequentially in the second half of the address period, the group X of the odd X electrode pairs_oddA non-selective level voltage (low voltage) is applied to the even X electrode pair group X_evenApply a selection level voltage (high voltage) to.

[0154] As described above, in association with addressing the cells of the odd-numbered display lines of the PDP of the electrode configuration shown in FIG. 17, during the transfer period, the discharge is transferred from the addressed cells to the cells on the upstream side thereof. Therefore, the drive waveform is applied as shown in FIG. The drive waveform during this transfer period is equivalent to that shown in FIG. The transfer direction is different from the upstream side in FIG. 23 and the downstream side in FIG. 26, but the transfer of FIGS. 23 and 26 is different due to the difference in the type of cell to be addressed in the address period (that is, the combination of electrode pairs used for addressing). The drive waveforms for the period are the same.

Next, the operating state (FIG. 30) of the lighting cell of the fourth type subframe (odd frame type B subframe) and the above second type subframe (even frame type B subframe). The operating state (FIG. 28) of the lighting cell of the frame) is the same as the wall charge pattern in the diagram, as is clear from comparing these two diagrams. The only difference is how the various electrodes are combined. The former addresses the odd-numbered display lines of the PDP of the electrode configuration shown in FIG. 17, and the latter addresses the even-numbered display lines by selecting and combining appropriate electrodes.

[0156] In the present embodiment, the ratio of the lengths of the first display period and the second display period is substantially constant in all subframes, and as shown in FIG. 18, type A and type B are assigned in ascending order of brightness weight. Sort alternately. The distribution of type A and type B does not have to be alternating or may be random. Also, when the ratio of the length of the first display period to the length of the second display period is 1: 1, the brightness level is as shown in (b) of FIG. 12 and (b) of FIG. 13. This ratio Should be selected as appropriate according to the type of PDP device.

[0157] Further, it is desirable to adjust the luminance weight of each subframe in consideration of the luminance of the adjacent cell lit in the second display period.

[0158] In the above description of the first embodiment and the second embodiment, odd (th) or even (th) with respect to the electrode pair, odd (th) or even (th) with respect to the display line, And so on. These odd (th) and even (th) are only distinctions from the case of the electrode configurations shown in FIGS. 1 and 17, and PDPs having different electrode configurations (for example, the relationship between the X electrode pair and the Y electrode pair is reversed). In PDP), these even-odd relationships may be reversed.

[0159] The transfer operation of the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be added. Since the position of the transfer period is immediately before the display period in the former and in the middle part of the display period in the latter, it may seem that the operations are different at first glance, but the transfer operations of both are basically the same. Is clear from the content already described in each embodiment. It can be said that the only difference in the operation of the transfer period between the two is basically the position where the transfer period exists.

(Third Embodiment) In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the drive waveform during the display period uses a drive waveform having an opposite phase between the X electrode pair and the Y electrode pair, and the X electrode pair. Waveforms of the same phase are used between each other or between Y electrode pairs. Therefore, since the display discharge occurs at the same time in all cells, the peak value of the discharge current becomes high, which is not preferable from the viewpoint of the operation margin and the load of the drive driver. Further, since the discharge current is large, there is also a problem that the electromagnetic radiation becomes large.

[0161] In order to avoid these problems, a drive waveform as shown in FIG. 11 is used. In FIG. 11, the type of electrode pair group is X._odd, Y_odd, X_even, Y_evenThere are four types, but for convenience of describing the location where the discharge occurs, X at the end_oddWas added and illustrated. In Figure 11, X_oddAnd X_evenBetween Y_oddAnd Y_evenThe phase is opposite to that of the X electrode pair, and the X electrode pair and the Y electrode pair that are adjacent to each other are driven so as to be out of phase by 1/4. When driven in this way, a plurality of types of waveforms are dispersed, so that the peak current is lowered, and the currents in the opposite directions are combined in a direction that cancels each other, so that electromagnetic radiation can also be reduced.

[0162] In FIG. 11, the timings at which the display discharge occurs are indicated by reference numerals a to h. The display discharge of one cycle is dispersed in the eight types of discharges shown by the symbols a to h. This dispersion reduces the current value of discharges at the same time point and in the same direction by almost half, and each discharge current has a discharge current in the opposite direction that is paired with the discharge, so it also has the effect of reducing electromagnetic radiation. is there. The paired combinations of discharge currents in the opposite directions are, for example, a and g', b and h', c and e, and d and f in FIG.

(Structure of PDP apparatus) FIG. 36 shows the configuration of the PDP apparatus used in the first to third embodiments.

[0164] This PDP device includes a PDP (reference numeral 1 in FIG. 36) having the configuration shown in the plan view of FIGS. 1 and 17 and the exploded perspective view of FIG. 37, and a group of X electrode pairs and a Y electrode pair of the PDP. The X electrode pair drive circuit 101 and the Y electrode pair drive circuit 111 for driving each of the groups, the address electrode drive circuit 121 for driving the address electrode group, and the control circuit for controlling those drive circuits. It includes 131 and a signal processing circuit 141 for processing a signal S input from the outside and sending it to the control circuit 131.

[0165] In FIG. 36, a drive circuit for driving a PDP1 having an X electrode pair and a Y electrode pair and driving those electrode pairs corresponds to the first to third embodiments. Although 101 and 111 are provided, this PDP apparatus also corresponds to the fifth embodiment described later. However, in this fifth embodiment, each "electrode" is an electrode, not an "electrode pair" composed of two electrodes. Therefore, as the PDP device corresponding to the fifth embodiment, in the PDP device of FIG. 36, "electrode pair" of X and Y is read as "electrode", and "X electrode pair drive circuit 101" and "Y". "Electrode pair drive circuit 111" shall be read as "X electrode drive circuit 101" and "Y electrode drive circuit 111", respectively.

(Fourth Embodiment) As the fourth embodiment, an embodiment for improving the configuration of PDP electrodes, partition walls, a light-shielding film, and the like will be described. By using panels having the following first to sixth PDP structures instead of the PDPs having the structures shown in FIGS. 1 and 17, the characteristics and performance of the PDP device can be further improved.

FIG. 31 shows the first PDP structure. This structure is an improvement of the structure of each of the two components of the two electrodes constituting the X electrode pair 11 and the Y electrode pair 12, that is, the transparent electrodes 11i and 12i and the bus electrodes 11b and 12b.

[0168] Specifically, the bus electrodes 11b and 12b of the two paired electrodes are electrically connected outside the display area and are connected at a position overlapping the partition wall 25 within the display area. Forming a part. Since the bus electrode is formed in the portion overlapping the partition wall 25, the separation between cells adjacent in the vertical direction is not deteriorated. Moreover, since a circuit for connecting bus electrodes in parallel can be formed by this configuration, it is possible to reduce the electrical resistance of the electrode pair and also to prevent disconnection of each electrode.

[0169] Further, the transparent electrodes 11i and 12i are separated from each other in a peninsula-like shape protruding outward from the paired bus electrodes. Due to this shape, the discharge separation due to the non-discharge gap (the inner portion sandwiched between the paired bus electrodes) can be further improved.

FIG. 32 shows the second PDP structure. In this structure, in addition to the PDP structure shown in FIG. 31, the width of the partition wall 25 is increased at the non-discharge gap portion. This structure weakens the coupling between cells, so that the width of the non-discharge gap can be narrowed. Therefore, higher definition (higher resolution) is possible.

FIG. 33 shows a third PDP structure. In this structure, the light-shielding member 50 is provided in the non-discharge cap portion of the PDP having the structure shown in FIGS. 1 and 17. As a result, the reflectance to the external light incident on the PDP can be reduced, so that the contrast of the display can be improved.

FIG. 34 shows a fourth PDP structure. In this structure, in addition to the PDP structure shown in FIG. 31, a light-shielding member 50 is provided in a portion surrounded by the bus electrodes 11b and 12b. As a result, the reflectance for external light incident on the PDP can be reduced and the display contrast can be improved as compared with the PDP shown in FIG.

FIG. 35 shows the fifth PDP structure. In this structure, in addition to the PDP structure shown in FIG. 32, a light-shielding member 50 is provided in a portion surrounded by the bus electrodes 11b and 12b. As a result, the reflectance for external light incident on the PDP can be reduced and the display contrast can be improved as compared with the PDP shown in FIG.

FIG. 41 shows the sixth PDP structure. In this figure, X electrode vs. X₁Is a connecting part B that connects two electrodes to the ends on both sides.₁, B₂It has. Other X electrodes vs. X₂~ X₄And Y electrode vs. Y₁~ Y₃Is the same. With such an electrode configuration, even if a disconnection failure occurs in either of the two electrodes forming each electrode pair, the connecting portions B on both sides B.₁, B₂Since they are connected in parallel with, the disconnection can be relieved.

(Fifth Embodiment) In the first to third embodiments described above, an invention for PDP having a structure using a non-discharge gap has been described.

[0176] On the other hand, even a PDP having a structure that does not use a non-discharge gap (a structure in which discharge gaps are continuously arranged) can be used if the following measures are taken. That is, at least one of the electrode structure and the partition wall structure is devised so that the bond between adjacent cells becomes small and the bond exists appropriately.

[0177] In a PDP without a non-discharge gap, attempting to simultaneously cause a sustained discharge in adjacent discharge gaps (ie, between two adjacent cells in a direction intersecting the X and Y electrodes) will usually result in maintenance discharge. There is a problem that the discharges interfere with each other due to the spread of the discharges, and it is difficult to apply the driving method of the present invention. The state of such discharge interference (or discharge coupling) is shown in FIG.

[0178] The PDP shown in FIG. 42 is a partially modified form of the transparent electrodes of the X electrode and the Y electrode of the conventional interlaced PDP shown in FIG. 38. That is, in order to reduce the discharge of each cell and improve the discharge coupling (or discharge interference) between adjacent cells, as shown by reference numerals 11iv and 12iv, the bus electrode 11b, A transparent electrode is formed in the direction (longitudinal direction) that intersects with 12b. The ends on both sides of the transparent electrode in the vertical direction are connected to the transparent electrode in the horizontal direction (the row direction of the matrix screen, the same applies hereinafter). Even with the PDP with improved transparent electrode shape in this way, two adjacent cells D₁, D₂The discharges between are overlapped, as indicated by the symbol K, and discharge coupling may still occur. In such a state, the maintenance discharge of these two cells cannot be stably generated.

[0179] Further, by applying the following improvements to the PDP of FIG. 42, the spread of discharge can be reduced and the discharge coupling (or discharge interference) can be reduced (or eliminated).

[0180] The first improvement thereof is to further narrow the widths of the transparent electrodes 11iv and 12iv in the vertical direction, as shown in FIG. 43. Due to these improvements, the discharge cell and maintenance discharge are labeled Cell and E, respectively.₀As shown by, the discharge between adjacent cells becomes smaller, and the discharge between adjacent cells is indicated by the symbol E in the figure.₁, E₂It will be in a separated state as shown in. In FIG. 43, only one vertical transparent electrode 11iv, 12iv is formed between the adjacent partition walls 25, but a plurality of vertical transparent electrodes 11iv and 12iv may be formed.

[0181] The second improvement is to lower the voltage (that is, the maintenance voltage) of the maintenance discharge pulse for generating the maintenance discharge. As a result, even in the case of the PDP of FIG. 42, the maintenance discharge between adjacent cells can be separated.

[0182] When these first and second improvements are used in combination, PDP with less (or no) discharge interference (discharge coupling) can be realized.

[0183] The state in which the discharges are separated in this way is called "spontaneous separation" of the discharges. Then, by using the PDP capable of generating the spontaneously separated maintenance discharge in this way, the driving method as shown in the first to third embodiments described above can be applied.

[0184] As the structure of the PDP that enables the spontaneous separation of the maintenance discharge in this way, the structure shown in FIG. 43 is referred to as a first PDP structure. Similarly, the structure of the PDP for enabling the spontaneous separation of the maintenance discharge and generating an appropriate discharge coupling will be described below as the second to seventh PDP structures.

FIG. 44 shows a second PDP structure. This PDP structure is a modification of the shape of the partition wall 25 of the first PDP structure (FIG. 43). The width of the partition wall is widened on the intermediate portion between the adjacent cells, that is, on the line where the bus electrodes 11b and 12b are located. The partition wall consists of a narrow portion 25n and a wide portion 25w, and the wide portion 25w has a peninsular structure protruding from the narrow portion 25n. This makes it possible to reduce the degree of discharge coupling (discharge interference) as compared with the case of FIG. 43 (first PDP structure).

FIG. 45 shows a third PDP structure. This PDP structure is a modification of the shapes of the transparent electrodes 11i and 12i. Unlike the case of FIG. 43 (first PDP structure), a plurality of transparent electrodes 11i and 12i are formed in a direction parallel to the lateral bus electrode Bh and at a position away from the lateral bus electrode Bh. It is formed. Further, each of the bus electrodes 11b and 12b includes one horizontal bus electrode Bh and a plurality of vertical bus electrodes Bv, and the vertical bus electrode Bv is formed at a position overlapping the partition wall 25 and both. Are electrically coupled. Then, the vertical bus electrode Bv and the plurality of horizontal transparent electrodes are electrically coupled.

[0187] In the case of FIG. 45 (third PDP structure), the degree of discharge coupling (discharge interference) can be made smaller than in the case of FIG. 43 (first PDP structure).

FIG. 46 shows a fourth PDP structure. This PDP structure is a modification of the structure of the transparent electrodes 11i and 12i in FIG. 45 (third PDP structure), and one lateral transparent electrode 11i is formed on each side of the bus electrode. With this structure, the structure of the transparent electrode can be simplified as compared with the case of FIG. 45 (third PDP structure).

FIG. 47 shows a fifth PDP structure. This PDP structure shows an example of changing the shape of the partition wall 25, and FIGS. 47 (a) to (c) show a plan view of the changed example. Among them, the shape of (a) has already been described as the second PDP structure of FIG.

[0190] FIGS. 47 (b) and 47 (c) show the structure of the partition wall for further reducing the degree of discharge coupling (discharge interference) between adjacent cells as compared with the case of (a). (b) and (c) are in the direction intersecting the strip-shaped partition wall 25v extending in the vertical direction, and in the horizontal direction (row direction of the screen) so as to connect between the partition walls 25v in the vertical direction (column direction of the screen). It forms the extending bulkheads 25h2 and 25h. Moreover, these lateral partition walls 25h2 and 25h are provided with a gap 61 in the middle of two adjacent vertical partition walls 25v (in the column direction of the screen).

[0191] If there is no such gap, there is usually no discharge coupling (discharge interference) between adjacent cells. Therefore, by forming a small gap 61 as shown in FIGS. 47 (b) and 47 (c), an appropriate discharge coupling can be made possible. The degree of discharge coupling can be adjusted by the size of this gap 61.

[0192] Further, as the shape of the partition wall in the lateral direction, a shape such as reference numeral 25h1, 25h2 in FIG. 47 (b) or reference numeral 25h in (c) can be applied, but the shape is not limited to these shapes. Instead, it may be a horizontal partition wall that connects between adjacent vertical partition walls 25v and has a gap in the middle portion thereof.

FIG. 48 shows the sixth PDP structure. This PDP structure shows an example of changing the cross-sectional shape of the lateral partition wall 25h shown in FIG. 47 (fifth PDP structure).

[0194] FIG. 48 (a) is a plan view showing the structure of the partition wall corresponding to FIG. 47 (fifth PDP structure) (c), and FIGS. 48 (b1) to (b3) are the same. It is the cross-sectional view of the sectional shape of the partition wall 25h and 25v seen from the direction of the arrow Ad in the AA'line of FIG.

[0195] FIG. 48 (b1) shows a lateral partition wall 25h provided with a small gap 61 in the middle of two adjacent vertical partition walls 25v, and this gap is moderate between adjacent cells. Allows discharge coupling. It should be noted that there may be a plurality of these gaps between two adjacent vertical partition walls 25v.

[0196] In FIG. 48 (b2), by forming the lateral partition wall 25h lower than the vertical partition wall 25v, a gap formed in the step portion provides an appropriate discharge coupling between adjacent cells. enable. The stepped portions may be on both the upper and lower sides.

[0197] In FIG. 48 (b3), a small notch 62 is formed in the middle of two adjacent vertical partition walls 25v at one end surface of the lateral partition wall 25h, and the notch 62 forms a small notch 62. Allows moderate discharge coupling between adjacent cells. It should be noted that this notch may be present between two adjacent vertical partition walls 25v, or may be on both the upper and lower end faces of the horizontal partition wall 25h.

[0198] Fig. 49 (a) shows the seventh PDP structure. As this PDP structure, the structure shown in FIG. 47 (b) is used as the partition wall, and the X electrode X in FIG. 49 (a) is used.₁, X₂And Y electrode Y₁, Y₂As the above, the structure shown in FIG. 49 (b) is used.

[0199] Here, FIG. 49 (b) shows the X electrode X.₁The configuration of the X electrode X in Fig. 38 is shown.₁It is basically the same as the configuration of. The structures of the other X and Y electrodes are also the same.

[0200] In the interlaced PDP having the structure shown in FIG. 49 (a), the discharge interference between vertically adjacent cells is sufficiently small, and the discharge between the adjacent cells is moderately small. Can be combined with. Therefore, by using this PDP, the driving method of the present invention shown in the first to third embodiments can be applied.

[0201] Further, the interlaced PDP having the structure shown in FIG. 49 (a) has a simpler electrode structure than the PDP having the structures shown in FIGS. 43 to 46, but the partition wall structure is complicated. It has become. That is, since each structure has advantages and disadvantages, these PDP structures are appropriately selected according to the required performance required for the PDP device.

(Appendix 1) The discharge gap is provided with a discharge gap that is sandwiched between adjacent electrodes among a plurality of electrodes arranged in one direction on a substrate to generate a discharge and a non-discharge gap that does not generate a discharge. With respect to a plasma display panel in which gaps and the non-discharge gaps are alternately arranged and each of the electrode pairs sandwiching the non-discharge gaps is electrically connected, and the discharge gaps are divided into a plurality of cells. When driving to display using two types of frames, an odd frame and an even frame, the lighting state of each cell is set as a set of two or three cells adjacent to each other in the direction intersecting the electrode pair. A method for driving a plasma display panel, which is characterized in that the combination of cells is driven so as to be deviated by one cell in a direction intersecting the electrode pair in an even frame and an odd frame.

(Appendix 2) The frame is divided into a plurality of subframes, and the two cells or adjacent cells within the three cells are adjacent to each other during at least a part of the display period in one subframe. The method for driving the plasma display panel according to Appendix 1, which turns on both of the two cells.

(Appendix 3) The plurality of electrode pairs are a scanning electrode pair used for scanning for selecting a predetermined cell and a display electrode pair for displaying the predetermined cell in combination with the scanning electrode pair. The plasma display according to Appendix 1, wherein in one frame of the odd-numbered frame and the even-numbered frame, two cells adjacent to the scanning electrode pair are paired to perform a selection or non-selection operation. How to drive the panel.

(Appendix 4) In the other frame of the odd-numbered frame and the even-numbered frame, one cell of the two cells adjacent to the scanning electrode pair is selected or not selected. Drive of the plasma display panel according to Appendix 3, wherein the state of the cell is controlled to be transferred to a cell other than the cell among the two cells sandwiching the display electrode pair adjacent to the cell. Method.

(Appendix 5) Discharge gaps having a plurality of linear cells and non-discharge gaps having no cells for discharge are alternately arranged, and the two electrodes are electrically connected to each other in the non-discharge gap. It is sandwiched between the electrode pairs, and the electrode pair includes a scanning electrode pair for selecting a predetermined cell and a display electrode pair for displaying the predetermined cell in combination with the scanning electrode pair. For the plasma display panel in which the scanning electrode pairs and the display electrode pairs are alternately arranged, an address period for selecting a predetermined cell and a plurality of selected cells are collectively discharged for a predetermined time. When a scanning pulse is applied to a predetermined scanning electrode pair in the address period, one of the two display electrode pairs adjacent to the scanning electrode pair is displayed. By applying a selective bias voltage to a pair and a non-selective bias voltage to the other display electrode pair, one of the two cells adjacent to the scanning electrode pair is turned on or off. How to drive the display panel.

(Appendix 6) A transfer period is provided in the immediately preceding portion or the intermediate portion of the display period, and in the transfer period, the electrode of the cell is triggered by the discharge of the cell lit during the address period. The method for driving a plasma display panel according to Appendix 5, wherein the cell is driven so as to transfer the discharge of the cell to a cell adjacent to the cell in a direction intersecting the pair.

(Appendix 7) During the transfer period, between the display electrode pair to which the selective bias voltage is applied and the two scanning electrode pairs adjacent to the display electrode pair, the voltage is lower than the discharge start voltage and the discharge is maintained. By applying a voltage higher than the voltage, the discharge of the cell lit during the address period among the two cells adjacent to the display electrode pair to which the selection bias voltage is applied is triggered to the discharge of the other cell. The method of driving the plasma display panel described in Appendix 6 for transferring the above.

(Appendix 8) In the address period for sequentially scanning each of the display lines corresponding to the discharge gap and selecting a desired cell, one of the odd-numbered display line group and the even-numbered display line group is displayed. The method for driving a plasma display panel according to Appendix 5, wherein each display line in the line group is sequentially scanned, and then each display line in the other display line group is sequentially scanned.

(Appendix 9) The discharge transfer described in Appendix 7 includes a step of collectively transferring the discharge of cells in one of the odd-numbered display line group and the even-numbered display line group, and the other display line group. A method of driving a plasma display panel, which includes a step of collectively transferring the discharge of cells in the cell.

(Appendix 10) The selection bias is applied to one display electrode pair group in the odd-numbered display electrode pair group and the even-number display electrode pair group, and the non-selection bias is applied to the other. The method for driving the plasma display panel according to Appendix 5, which is applied to the group of display electrode pairs.

(Appendix 11) The discharge gap is provided with a discharge gap that is sandwiched between adjacent electrodes among a plurality of electrodes arranged in one direction on a substrate to generate a discharge and a non-discharge gap that does not generate a discharge. A plasma display panel in which gaps and the non-discharge gaps are alternately arranged, each of a plurality of electrode pairs sandwiching the non-discharge gap is electrically connected, and the discharge gap is divided into a plurality of cells. In the driving method, when one of the two cells adjacent to one electrode pair is set to the on state in advance, it is adjacent to the one cell and opposite to the one electrode pair. With the electrode pair on the side as a transfer electrode pair, a voltage lower than the discharge start voltage and higher than the discharge maintenance voltage is applied between the transfer electrode pair and the two electrode pairs adjacent to the transfer electrode pair. As a result, a method for driving a plasma display panel, characterized in that the discharge of a cell set to be turned on in advance is used as a trigger to transfer the discharge to a cell adjacent to the cell via the transfer electrode pair.

(Appendix 12) The plasma display panel includes a plurality of address electrodes intersecting with the electrode pair, and when a pulse for transferring the discharge is applied to the transfer electrode pair, the address electrode is subjected to. The method for driving a plasma display panel according to Appendix 11, wherein a predetermined pulse is applied to generate an opposed discharge between the transfer electrode pair and the address electrode to reinforce the discharge that triggers the discharge.

[0214] The method for driving a plasma display panel according to Appendix 12, wherein the pulse applied to the address electrode is started up at a timing earlier than the pulse for performing the transfer.

(Appendix 14) A discharge gap that is sandwiched between adjacent electrodes among a plurality of electrodes arranged in one direction on a substrate to generate a discharge, a non-discharge gap that does not generate a discharge, and the non-discharge. It has a connecting portion for electrically connecting each electrode of the electrode pair sandwiching the gap and a partition wall for dividing the discharge gap into a plurality of cells, and the discharge gap and the non-discharge gap alternate. The plasma display panel arranged in the above and the plasma display panel are driven to display using two types of frames, an odd frame and an even frame, and are adjacent to each other in a direction intersecting with the electrode pair. The lighting state of each cell is controlled as a set of two or three cells, and the combination of the cells is deviated by one cell in the direction intersecting the electrode pair in the even frame and the odd frame. A plasma display device including a drive circuit for driving.

(Appendix 15) A discharge gap having a plurality of linear cells, a non-discharge gap having no cells for discharge, a partition wall separating the plurality of cells, and two electrodes sandwiching the non-discharge gap are provided. It has an electrode pair formed by being electrically connected, and the plurality of electrode pairs include a scanning electrode pair and a display electrode pair so that the scanning electrode pair and the display electrode pair are alternately arranged. When displaying using the configured plasma display panel, an address period for selecting a predetermined cell, and a display period for collectively discharging a plurality of selected cells, a predetermined value is provided in the address period. When a scanning pulse is applied to the scanning electrode pair of, a selective bias voltage is applied to one of the two display electrode pairs adjacent to the scanning electrode pair, and a selective bias voltage is applied to the other display electrode pair, and the other display electrode pair is not selected. A plasma display device including a drive circuit that drives one of two cells adjacent to a pair of scanning electrodes to turn on or off by applying a bias voltage.

(Appendix 16) The present invention has a discharge gap that is sandwiched between adjacent electrodes among a plurality of electrodes arranged in one direction on a substrate to generate a discharge and a non-discharge gap that does not generate a discharge. The discharge gap and the non-discharge gap are alternately arranged, each of the plurality of electrode pairs sandwiching the non-discharge gap is electrically connected, and the discharge gap is divided into a plurality of cells. When one cell of the plasma display panel and two cells adjacent to one electrode pair of the plasma display panel is set to the on state in advance, the one electrode is adjacent to the one cell. The electrode pair on the opposite side of the pair is used as the transfer electrode pair, and between the transfer electrode pair and the two electrode pairs adjacent to the transfer electrode pair, it is lower than the discharge start voltage and higher than the discharge maintenance voltage. By applying a voltage, it is provided with a drive circuit that triggers the discharge of a cell that has been set to the on state in advance and drives the discharge to be transferred to a cell adjacent to the cell via the transfer electrode pair. A plasma display device characterized by the fact that. (Appendix 17) Discharge gaps and non-discharge gaps are arranged alternately so that the electrode pairs sandwiching the non-discharge gaps are electrically connected and the discharge gaps divided into a plurality of cells correspond to the display lines. When driving the configured plasma display panel using two types of frames, an even number frame and an odd number frame, each of which has a plurality of subframes, the subframes are divided into an address period and a display period, and the display period is divided. Is divided into a first display period and a second display period. In the first display period, only the cells of the even-numbered display line are lit in one of the even-numbered frames and the odd-numbered frames, and the other frame is lit. Only the cells of the even-numbered display line are lit, and in the second display period, the cell lit in the first display period and the two cells adjacent to the cell in the direction intersecting the electrode pair Driving a plasma display panel, characterized in that one of the cells is lit at the same time.

(Appendix 18) A transfer period for transferring the discharge is provided between the first display period and the second display period, and the discharge of the cell lit during the first display period is triggered in the transfer period. The method for driving the plasma display panel according to Appendix 17, wherein the discharge is transferred to one of the two cells adjacent to the cell in the direction intersecting with the electrode pair.

[0219] The method for driving a plasma display panel according to Appendix 17, wherein the ratio of the first display period to the second display period is made substantially constant in each of the subframes.

(Appendix 20) In the second display period, as a cell to be lit at the same time as the cell lit in the first display period, each of the two cells adjacent to the lit cell is set as a subframe in the frame. The method for driving the plasma display panel according to Appendix 17, wherein the plasma display panels are alternately selected in the order of their luminance weights.

(Appendix 21) A pair of electrodes is sandwiched between the plurality of cells selected in advance in the plasma display panel having the plurality of pairs of electrodes in a display period for collectively discharging the plurality of cells for a predetermined time. Addendum 1, 11 or 17 in which an alternating pulse of opposite phase is applied between two adjacent electrode pairs and a 1/4 phase-shifted alternating pulse is applied between two adjacent electrode pairs. How to drive the plasma display panel.

(Appendix 22) When driving a plasma display panel in which a display line having a plurality of cells is formed by using two types of frames, an even frame and an odd frame, a display corresponding to one cell is used. A plasma display panel that drives data to correspond to an on-state combination of three cells, including that one cell and two cells that are adjacent in a direction that intersects the display line with that cell in between. Drive method.

(Appendix 23) At the brightness levels of the three cells, the central cell is set to a high level, and the two cells adjacent to the central cell are set to a low level smaller than the high level. How to drive the plasma display panel.

(Appendix 24) The frame is divided into a plurality of subframes, and two adjacent cells among the three cells are turned on for at least a part of the display period in one subframe. The method of driving the plasma display panel according to Appendix 22.

[0225] The method for driving a plasma display panel according to Appendix 22, wherein the frame is divided into a plurality of subframes, and two cells adjacent to the central cell are turned on in different subframes.

(Appendix 26) The display period in each of the subframes is divided into a first display period and a second display period, and in the first display period, the one cell is turned on. In the second display period, driving the plasma display panel according to Appendix 24, which turns on the one cell and one of the two cells adjacent to the cell and on the display lines on both sides of the cell. Method.

[Appendix 27] Discharge gaps and non-discharge gaps are alternately arranged, electrode pairs sandwiching the non-discharge gap are electrically connected, and a partition wall for dividing the discharge gap into a plurality of cells is provided. The display period of each of the plasma display panel having the plasma display panel and the plurality of subframes constituting the frame is divided into a first display period and a second display period. The cell of one of the lines is lit, the cell of the other line is lit in the odd frame, and in the second display period, the cell lit in the first display period and the cell above or below the cell are adjacent to each other. A plasma display device including a drive circuit that drives the cells to light up at the same time.

[Appendix 28] The plasma display device according to Appendix 14, 15, 16 or 27, wherein the width of the non-discharge gap of the plasma display panel is formed wider than the width of the discharge gap.

(Supplementary note 29) The plasma display device according to Supplementary note 14, 15, 16 or 27, wherein the connecting portion of the plasma display panel is provided outside the display area of the plasma display panel.

[Appendix 30] The plasma display device according to Appendix 14, 15, 16 or 27, wherein the connecting portion of the plasma display panel is provided at a position overlapping the partition wall when viewed in a plan view.

(Appendix 31) The plasma according to Appendix 14, 15, 16 or 27, wherein the partition wall of the plasma display panel is formed so that the width of the non-discharge gap portion is wider than the width of the discharge gap portion. Display device.

[0232] The plasma display device according to Appendix 14, 15, 16 or 27, wherein the plasma display panel is provided with a light-shielding member in a portion of the non-discharge gap.

[Appendix 33] The plasma display device according to Appendix 14, 15, 16 or 27, wherein the connecting portion of the plasma display panel is provided at both ends of the electrode pair.

(Appendix 34) A plurality of first electrodes arranged in one direction on the substrate, and a plurality of second electrodes arranged between the respective electrodes of the plurality of first electrodes. It has a plurality of cells partitioned so as to generate a plurality of surface discharges in each gap between the adjacent electrodes, and simultaneously generates maintenance discharges of a plurality of cells adjacent to each other across the electrodes. It is possible to display the plasma display panel using two types of frames, an odd frame and an even frame, for the plasma display panel configured to have a path for combining the discharges between the adjacent cells. When driving, the lighting state of each cell is controlled as a set of two or three cells adjacent to each other in the direction intersecting with the electrode, and the combination of the cells is the same in the even frame and the odd frame. A method for driving a plasma display panel, which comprises driving the plasma display panel so as to be displaced by one cell in the direction intersecting the electrodes.

(Appendix 35) A plurality of first electrodes arranged in one direction on the substrate, and a plurality of second electrodes arranged between the respective electrodes of the plurality of first electrodes. It has a partition wall for dividing each gap between adjacent electrodes so as to generate a plurality of surface discharges, and can simultaneously generate maintenance discharges of a plurality of cells adjacent to each other across the electrodes. Moreover, the plasma display panel configured to have a path for combining the discharges between the adjacent cells and the plasma display panel are displayed using two types of frames, an odd frame and an even frame. When driving to, the lighting state of each cell is controlled as a set of two or three cells adjacent to each other in the direction intersecting with the electrode, and the combination of the cells is an even frame and an odd frame. A plasma display device including a drive circuit that drives the electrodes so as to be displaced by one cell in a direction intersecting the electrodes.

(Appendix 36) The electrode of the plasma display panel includes a bus electrode formed in one direction and a plurality of first transparent electrodes formed in a direction intersecting the bus electrode. The plasma display device according to Appendix 35, wherein the intersection between the electrode and the first transparent electrode is electrically connected.

(Appendix 37) The first transparent electrode is connected to each of two strip-shaped second transparent electrodes formed in a direction parallel to the bus electrode, each of both ends thereof. The described plasma display device.

[Appendix 38] The plasma display device according to Appendix 36, wherein the bus electrode is arranged on a center line in the longitudinal direction of the electrode.

(Appendix 39) The electrodes of the plasma display panel include a first bus electrode formed in one direction, a plurality of second bus electrodes formed in a direction intersecting the first bus electrode, and the like. The plasma display device according to Appendix 35, which is formed at a position distant from the first bus electrode in parallel with the first bus electrode and includes a third transparent electrode electrically connected to the second bus electrode. ..

(Appendix 40) The partition wall of the plasma display panel is formed from a strip-shaped first partition wall portion formed in a direction intersecting the one direction and from the first partition wall portion in a direction parallel to the one direction. The plasma display device according to Appendix 35, which includes a second partition wall formed so as to project.

(Appendix 41) The partition wall of the plasma display panel is formed from a strip-shaped first partition wall portion formed in a direction intersecting the one direction and from the first partition wall portion in a direction parallel to the one direction. A second partition wall formed so as to project is provided, and the second partition wall portion is formed at a position overlapping the bus electrode described in Appendix 36 or the first bus electrode described in Appendix 39. The described plasma display device.

(Appendix 42) The partition wall of the plasma display panel according to Appendix 39 is a band-shaped first partition wall formed in a direction intersecting the one direction and the first partition wall in a direction parallel to the one direction. A plasma display device including a second partition wall formed so as to project from the portion, and the second bus electrode is generated at a position overlapping the first partition wall portion.

(Appendix 43) The partition wall of the plasma display panel has a band-shaped first partition wall formed in a direction intersecting the one direction and a band-shaped third partition wall formed in a direction parallel to the one direction. The first partition wall portion and the third partition wall portion are connected to each other with a partition wall portion, and the third partition wall portion has a gap portion in a portion between the adjacent first partition wall portions. The plasma display device according to Appendix 35.

(Appendix 44) The partition wall of the plasma display panel has a band-shaped first partition wall formed in a direction intersecting the one direction and a band-shaped third partition wall formed in a direction parallel to the one direction. A partition wall portion is provided, and an intersecting portion is connected to the first partition wall portion and the third partition wall portion, and the third partition wall portion has a notch portion in a portion between adjacent first partition wall portions. The plasma display device according to Appendix 35 having.

(Appendix 45) The partition wall of the plasma display panel has a band-shaped first partition wall formed in a direction intersecting the one direction and a band-shaped third partition wall formed in a direction parallel to the one direction. A partition wall portion is provided, and an intersecting portion is connected to the first partition wall portion and the third partition wall portion, and in the third partition wall portion, a portion between the adjacent first partition wall portions is the first partition wall portion. The plasma display device according to Appendix 35, which is formed lower than the section.

(Appendix 46) The electrode of the plasma display panel includes a strip-shaped transparent electrode and a bus electrode formed on the center line thereof, and the partition wall has a strip-shaped shape formed in a direction intersecting the one direction. The first partition wall portion and the band-shaped third partition wall portion formed in a direction parallel to the one direction are provided, and the third partition wall portion has a gap portion or a gap portion or a portion between the adjacent first partition wall portions. The plasma display device according to Appendix 35, which has a notch and is arranged such that the bus electrode and the third partition wall overlap each other.

(Appendix 47) Each of the first and second electrodes of the plasma display panel is an electrode pair in which two electrodes adjacent to each other in parallel in one direction are electrically connected, and the two electrodes are connected. The plasma display device according to Appendix 35, wherein the gap between the electrodes sandwiched between the electrodes is a non-discharge gap configured so as not to generate a discharge.

[Effects of the Invention] Claims 1 to 1 above.<u style="single">3</u>How to drive the PDP of the present invention shown in<u style="single">Law</u>By using it, an interlaced plasma display having a wide drive margin can be realized. Moreover, the resolution can be improved while suppressing the decrease in brightness of the interlaced PDP to a small extent.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [Fig. 1] Plan view showing the structure of the PDP of the first embodiment [Fig. 2] Fig. 3 showing the driving waveform of the display period in the PDP of FIG. 1 [Fig. 3] Driving of the first embodiment. Figure 4 showing the frame configuration of the waveform [Fig. 4] Figure showing the drive waveform of the subframe in the even-numbered frame in the first embodiment [Fig. 5] The operating state of PDP in the subframe in the even-numbered frame in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a drive waveform of a subframe in an even frame in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an operating state of a lighting cell in a subframe in an even frame in the first embodiment. 8 [Fig. 9] Fig. 9 showing the operation of non-lit cells in subframes in even-numbered frames in the first embodiment. [Fig. 9] Fig. 10 showing the set of display cells. [Fig. 10] Fig. 10 of the display cells in the first embodiment. Figure 11 showing the set [Fig. 11] Figure showing the drive waveform during the display period of the first embodiment [Fig. 12] Figure showing the correspondence between the 1-dot display data and the lighting state of the cells in the interlace drive [Fig. 13] 1 The figure which shows the correspondence between the display data of every dot and the lighting state of a cell [FIG. 14] The figure which shows the lighting state of the display period in 2nd Embodiment FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a lighting method of the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a display resolution of the first embodiment for a special display pattern. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a structure of PDP of the second embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a second embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a frame configuration of a drive waveform of the embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a combination of cells in an even frame and a subframe of type A and a lighting state. [Fig. 20] A combination of cells in an even frame and a subframe of type B and a diagram showing a lighting state. Figure showing lighting state [Fig. 21] Figure showing combination of cells and lighting state in odd frame, type A subframe [Fig. 22] Odd frame, Figure showing cell combination and lighting state in type B subframe [Fig. 23] Figure showing drive waveform of even frame, type A subframe [Fig. 24] Figure showing drive waveform of even frame, type B subframe FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a drive waveform of an odd frame and a type A subframe. FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a drive waveform of an odd frame and a type B subframe. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an even frame and a type A subframe. Figure showing the operating state of the lit cell [Fig. 28] Figure showing the operating state of the lit cell in the even frame, type B subframe [Fig. 29] Figure showing the operating state of the lit cell in the odd frame, type A subframe. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an operating state of a lighting cell in an odd frame and a subframe of type B. FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a first PDP structure of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a second PDP structure of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 33 showing the PDP structure [Fig. 33] Fig. 34 showing the third PDP structure of the fourth embodiment [Fig. 35] Fig. 35 showing the fourth PDP structure of the fourth embodiment [Fig. 35] Fifth of the fourth embodiment Figure 36 showing the PDP structure of The figure which shows the structure of the PDP apparatus in each embodiment of this invention [FIG. 37] The exploded perspective view which shows the structure of the PDP in 1st Embodiment to 4th Embodiment [FIG. 38] The structure of the conventional interlacing type PDP is shown. Plan view [Fig. 39] An exploded perspective view showing the structure of a conventional interlaced PDP [Fig. 40] A diagram showing a drive waveform of a display period with respect to a conventional interlaced PDP [Fig. 41] FIG. 42 showing the PDP structure [FIG. 42] Fig. 43 showing the discharge interference (or discharge coupling) of the PDP in the fifth embodiment [Fig. 43] Fig. 44 showing the first PDP structure and the discharge state of the fifth embodiment [FIG. 44] FIG. 45 is a diagram showing a second PDP structure of a fifth embodiment. FIG. 45 is a diagram showing a third PDP structure of the fifth embodiment. FIG. 46 is a diagram showing a fourth PDP structure of the fifth embodiment. 47. Figure showing the 5th PDP structure (rib structure) of the 5th embodiment [Fig. 48] Figure showing the 6th PDP structure (rib structure) of the 5th embodiment [Fig. 49] No. 5 of the 5th embodiment Figure showing PDP structure of 7 [Explanation of symbols] 1 Plasma display panel, PDP10 Front substrate 11 X electrode, display electrode, X electrode pair, display electrode pair 12 Y electrode, scanning electrode, Y electrode pair, scanning electrode pair 13,23 Dielectric layer 14 Protective layer 20 Back substrate 21 Address electrode, A electrode 25 Partition (rib) 26 Phosphoric layer 26R, 26G, 26B Red, green, blue Phosphor layer 101 X electrode pair drive circuit, X electrode drive circuit 111 Y electrode pair drive circuit, Y electrode drive circuit 121 Address electrode drive circuit 131 Control circuit 141 Signal processing circuit X_i (Ith) X electrode pair, (ith) X electrode Y_j (Jth) Y electrode pair, (jth) Y electrode X_odd Odd X electrode pair (group), odd X electrode (group) X_even Even X electrode pair (group), even X electrode (group) Y_odd Odd Y electrode pair (group), odd Y electrode (group) Y_even Even Y electrode pair (group), even Y electrode pair (group)