Effects of Backlight Profiles on Perceived Image Quality for High Dynamic Range LCDs

Locally dimmable backlight modules can effectively improve the dynamic range of liquid-crystal displays (LCDs) to human vision range. The resolution of addressable segments and the optical profile of these segments primarily determine the perceived image quality such as the contrast enhancement and boundary visibility. Contrast sensitivity function, the gradient of backlight image of of background luminance (units: nits/degree), was found as the threshold for the visibility of boundaries. Additionally, a study on a recommended profile with an economical number of segments was studied. Our results confirm that image qualities with this backlight modulation are improved in contrast enhancement and boundary perception using 2D-dimming backlight.