U.S. patent application number 12/047422 was filed with the patent office on 2008-06-26 for receiving container for a display apparatus, backlight assembly and display apparatus having the receiving container, and method thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.. Invention is credited to Young-Bee CHU, Jeung-Soo KIM.
Application Number | 20080151573 12/047422 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38173207 |
Filed Date | 2008-06-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080151573 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KIM; Jeung-Soo ; et
al. |
June 26, 2008 |
RECEIVING CONTAINER FOR A DISPLAY APPARATUS, BACKLIGHT ASSEMBLY AND
DISPLAY APPARATUS HAVING THE RECEIVING CONTAINER, AND METHOD
THEREOF
Abstract
A receiving container for a display apparatus receives a
light-guiding unit and a light-generating unit disposed adjacent to
a side surface of the light-guiding unit. The receiving container
includes a bottom plate, a sidewall, and a gap-regulating portion.
The light-guiding unit is disposed on the bottom plate. The
sidewall faces the side surface of the light-guiding unit and is
disposed at a peripheral portion of the bottom plate. The
gap-regulating portion is formed at the sidewall or the bottom
plate, to reduce a gap between the light-generating unit and the
light-guiding unit. Thus, loss of light emitted by the point light
source decreases so that power consumption of a backlight assembly
and a display apparatus is reduced.
Inventors: |
KIM; Jeung-Soo; (Seoul,
KR) ; CHU; Young-Bee; (Suwon-si, KR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CANTOR COLBURN, LLP
20 Church Street, 22nd Floor
Hartford
CT
06103
US
|
Assignee: |
SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO.,
LTD.
Suwon-si
KR
|
Family ID: |
38173207 |
Appl. No.: |
12/047422 |
Filed: |
March 13, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11612880 |
Dec 19, 2006 |
7360942 |
|
|
12047422 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
362/611 ;
362/632 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G02B 6/0091 20130101;
G02B 6/0083 20130101; G02B 6/0073 20130101; G02B 6/0016 20130101;
G02B 6/0068 20130101; G02B 6/009 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
362/611 ;
362/632 |
International
Class: |
F21V 8/00 20060101
F21V008/00; F21V 21/00 20060101 F21V021/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 19, 2005 |
KR |
10-2005-0125213 |
Claims
1. A backlight assembly comprising: a light-guiding unit; a
light-generating unit comprising a printed circuit film and a
light-generating unit having a printed circuit film and a light
source mounted on the printed circuit film, the light-generating
unit disposed adjacent to a side surface of the light-guiding unit;
and a receiving container comprising: a first side wall having a
stepped portion to support the light-guiding unit; and a second
side wall having a gap-regulating portion regulating the distance
between the light-generating unit and the light-guiding unit
wherein the first and second side walls are interconnected.
2. The backlight assembly of claim 1, wherein the gap-regulating
portion is a protrusion protruding from the sidewall.
3. The backlight assembly of claim 2, wherein the sidewall has a
receiving groove, at which the light-generating unit is disposed,
the sidewall formed to face the side surface of the light-guiding
unit, the protrusion disposed at a base portion of the receiving
groove.
4. The backlight assembly of claim 2, wherein the protrusion
comprises: a guiding surface slanted with respect to the bottom
plate, the guiding surface guide the light-generating unit; and a
catching jaw surface securing the light-generating unit that is
guided by the guiding surface.
5. The backlight assembly of claim 2, wherein a portion of the
printed circuit film overlaps with an edge of the light-guiding
unit.
6. The backlight assembly of claim 1, wherein the printed circuit
film has a hole, and the gap-regulating portion is a guiding boss
protruding from the sidewall and inserted into the hole.
7. The backlight assembly of claim 6, wherein the guiding boss is
slanted toward the sidewall.
8. The backlight assembly of claim 7, wherein the sidewall has
receiving grooves facing the side surface of the light-guiding
unit, and the guiding boss is disposed on the sidewall between the
receiving grooves.
9. The backlight assembly of claim 1, wherein the gap-regulating
portion is a guiding groove formed at a portion of the sidewall
corresponding to the light-generating unit.
10. The backlight assembly of claim 9, wherein the guiding groove
faces the side surface of the light-guiding unit, and a base face
of the guiding groove is slanted to guide the light-generating unit
to the light-guiding unit.
11. The backlight assembly of claim 10, wherein the light source
comprises an inclined surface formed at an end portion of the light
source.
12. The backlight assembly of claim 1, wherein the light-guiding
unit further comprises a light-diffusing pattern formed at the side
surface of the light-guiding unit and corresponding to the
light-generating unit.
13. A display apparatus comprising: a backlight assembly comprising
a light-guiding unit and a light-generating unit having a light
source disposed adjacent to a side surface of the light-guiding
unit and a printed circuit film on which the light-generating unit
is mounted; a receiving container comprising: a first side wall
having a stepped portion to support the light-guiding unit; and a
second side wall having a gap-regulating portion regulating the
distance between the light-generating unit and the light-guiding
unit; and a display panel disposed on the light-guiding unit,
wherein the first and second side walls are interconnected.
14. The display apparatus of claim 13, wherein the gap-regulating
portion protrudes from the sidewall and comprises: a catching jaw
surface supporting the light-generating unit in a direction
substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and in a direction
substantially perpendicular to the side surface of the
light-guiding unit; and a guiding surface guiding the
light-generating unit to the catching jaw surface.
15. The display apparatus of claim 13, wherein the printed circuit
film is disposed between the light-generating unit and the display
panel.
Description
[0001] This is a continuation application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/612,880 filed Dec. 19, 2006, now allowed
and also claims priority to Korean Patent Application No.
2005-125213, filed on Dec. 19, 2005 and all the benefits accruing
therefrom under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119, and the contents of which in
its entirety are herein incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a receiving container for a
display apparatus, a backlight assembly having the receiving
container, a display apparatus having the receiving container, and
a method thereof. More particularly, the present invention relates
to a receiving container for a display apparatus, which is capable
of reducing loss of light emitted from a point light source, a
backlight assembly and a display apparatus having the receiving
container, and a method of reducing a loss of light emitted from
the point light source.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] In general, a liquid crystal display ("LCD") apparatus is
applied to a personal computer, a notebook computer, a navigator
for an automobile, a television set, etc., to display an image from
the data converted to electrical format. Since an LCD apparatus has
advantages such as a light weight, a small volume, etc., the LCD
apparatus is widely used in various industrial fields.
[0006] An LCD apparatus includes a backlight assembly in order to
display an image at a place with limited light. Recently, research
has been conducted for reducing volume, thickness and weight of an
LCD apparatus, and for improving light-using efficiency to reduce
power consumption and display quality of a display apparatus. A
backlight assembly occupies most of the volume, thickness, and
weight of a display apparatus. Thus, reducing volume, thickness and
weight of a backlight assembly, and improving power consumption and
brightness thereof relates directly to technical competitiveness
and design competitiveness of an LCD apparatus.
[0007] A small and medium-sized LCD apparatus employed by a mobile
device, such as a cellular phone and a personal digital assistant,
includes a light-emitting diode ("LED") that has a low power
consumption, a small volume, a light weight, etc.
[0008] Recently, brightness of a backlight assembly and an LCD
apparatus has been improved by an LED emitting high luminance
light. However, a light-using efficiency of the LED is not high
enough. Thus, power consumption of a backlight 1 assembly and an
LCD apparatus increases.
[0009] A low light-using efficiency is caused by a structure of a
conventional mobile LCD apparatus. Particularly, the conventional
mobile LCD apparatus includes a light-guiding unit, which guides
light generated by an LED to a display panel. The LED is disposed
adjacent to a side surface of the light-guiding unit. The light
generated by the LED enters the light-guiding unit, but a portion
of the light is reflected by the side surface of the light guide
plate, and is thus leaked. As a gap between the light-guiding unit
and the LED increases, light leakage increases.
[0010] Therefore, preferably, a light-emitting portion of the LED
is disposed as close to the light-guiding unit as possible.
Conventionally, a gap between the light-emitting portion of the LED
and the light-guiding unit is designed to be smaller than about 1
mm. However, the gap between the light-emitting portion of the LED
and the light-guiding unit becomes greater than the designed value
due to a margin of members of the backlight assembly in a
manufacturing process.
[0011] Particularly, the LED is spaced apart from the light-guiding
unit by a distance greater than the designed range because of a
cutting margin caused by a process of cutting a printed circuit
film on which the LED is mounted, an injection margin caused by a
process of injection-molding the light-guiding unit, etc.
Therefore, a portion of light generated by the LED is not guided by
the light-guiding unit and is lost, so that power consumption of
the backlight assembly and a display apparatus having the backlight
assembly increases.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The present invention provides a receiving container for a
display apparatus reducing loss of light emitted from a point light
source.
[0013] The present invention also provides a backlight assembly
having the above receiving container.
[0014] The present invention also provides a display apparatus
having the above backlight assembly.
[0015] The present invention also provides a method of reducing a
loss of light from a point light source in a backlight
assembly.
[0016] In exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a
receiving container for a display apparatus (hereinafter, referred
to as a "receiving container") receives a light-guiding unit and a
light-generating unit disposed adjacent to a side surface of the
light-guiding unit. The receiving container includes a bottom
plate, a sidewall, and a gap-regulating portion. The light-guiding
unit is disposed on the bottom plate. The sidewall faces the side
surface of the light-guiding unit and is disposed at a peripheral
portion of the bottom plate. The gap-regulating portion is formed
at the sidewall or the bottom plate, to reduce a gap between the
light-generating unit and the light-guiding unit.
[0017] The light-generating unit may include a printed circuit film
and a light source mounted on the printed circuit film. The light
source may include a light-emitting diode.
[0018] The gap-regulating portion may be a protrusion. The
protrusion protrudes from the sidewall and presses the light source
toward the light-guiding unit.
[0019] Alternatively, the gap-regulating portion may be a guiding
boss. The guiding boss protrudes from the sidewall and slants
toward the sidewall from the light-guiding unit, and is insertable
into an opening formed at the printed circuit film.
[0020] Alternatively, the gap-regulating portion may be a guiding
groove formed at the sidewall.
[0021] In other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a
backlight assembly includes a light-guiding unit, a
light-generating unit, and a receiving container. The light
generating unit includes a printed circuit film and a light source
and is disposed adjacent to a side surface of the light-guiding
unit. The light source is mounted on the printed circuit film. The
receiving container includes a bottom plate, a sidewall, and a
gap-regulating portion. The light-guiding unit is disposed at the
bottom plate. The sidewall faces a side surface of the
light-guiding unit, and is disposed at a peripheral portion of the
bottom plate. The gap-regulating portion is formed at the sidewall
or the bottom plate, reducing a gap between the light-generating
unit and the light-guiding unit.
[0022] The gap-regulating portion may be a protrusion protruding
from the sidewall and contacting the light source.
[0023] Alternatively, the gap-regulating portion may be a guiding
boss, which protrudes from an upper portion of the sidewall, and
inserted into an opening formed at the printed circuit film.
[0024] Alternatively, the gap-regulating portion may be a guiding
groove formed at the sidewall.
[0025] In still other exemplary embodiments of the present
invention, a display apparatus includes a backlight assembly, a
receiving container, and a display panel. The backlight assembly
includes a light-guiding unit and a light-generating unit having a
light source and a printed circuit film. The light-generating unit
is disposed adjacent to a side surface of the light-guiding unit.
The light source is mounted on the printed circuit film. The
receiving container includes a bottom plate, a sidewall, and a
gap-regulating portion. The light-guiding unit is disposed at the
bottom plate. The sidewall faces a side surface of the
light-guiding unit, and is disposed at a peripheral portion of the
bottom plate. The gap-regulating portion reduces a gap between the
light-generating unit and the light-guiding unit.
[0026] In yet other exemplary embodiments of the present invention,
a method of reducing a loss of light from a light-generating unit
in a backlight assembly includes sliding a light-generating unit
including the light source over a gap regulating portion protruding
from a sidewall of a receiving container, the sidewall adjacent to
a light incident surface of a light guiding unit disposed in the
receiving container, and retaining the light-generating unit in
position adjacent the light incident surface of the light-guiding
unit by the gap regulating portion to reduce a gap between the
light-generating unit and the light incident surface.
[0027] According to the above, the light-generating unit is spaced
apart from the light-guiding unit within a pre-determined gap
thereby increasing light-using efficiency of the backlight assembly
and the display apparatus.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] The above and other features and advantages of the present
invention will become readily apparent by reference to the
following detailed description when considered in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
receiving container for a display apparatus according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view illustrating portion `A` in FIG.
1;
[0031] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I in
FIG. 1;
[0032] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
receiving container for a display apparatus according to another
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in
FIG. 4;
[0034] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
backlight assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0035] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the
exemplary backlight assembly illustrated in FIG. 6;
[0036] FIG. 8 is another exploded perspective view illustrating the
exemplary backlight assembly illustrated in FIG. 7;
[0037] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in
FIG. 6;
[0038] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
backlight assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0039] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the
exemplary backlight assembly illustrated in FIG. 10;
[0040] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view illustrating portion `B` in FIG.
11;
[0041] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV' in
FIG. 10;
[0042] FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
backlight assembly according to still another exemplary embodiment
of the present invention;
[0043] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the
exemplary backlight assembly illustrated in FIG. 14;
[0044] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V' in
FIG. 14;
[0045] FIGS. 17A to 17C are cross-sectional views illustrating an
exemplary printed circuit film coupled to an exemplary guiding
boss;
[0046] FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an
exemplary backlight assembly according to still another exemplary
embodiment of the present invention;
[0047] FIG. 19 is an enlarged view illustrating portion `C` in FIG.
18;
[0048] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI' in
FIG. 18;
[0049] FIGS. 21A and 21B are cross-sectional views illustrating
exemplary point light sources received in an exemplary guiding
groove;
[0050] FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
display apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0051] FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the
exemplary display apparatus illustrated in FIG. 22; and
[0052] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII'
in FIG. 23.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0053] The invention is described more fully hereinafter with
reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the
invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in
many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the
embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are
provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and
will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in
the art. In the drawings, the size and relative sizes of layers and
regions may be exaggerated for clarity.
[0054] It will be understood that when an element or layer is
referred to as being "on", "connected to" or "coupled to" another
element or layer, it can be directly on, connected or coupled to
the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be
present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being
"directly on," "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to"
another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or
layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. As
used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of
one or more of the associated listed items.
[0055] It will be understood that, although the terms first,
second, third etc. may be used herein to describe various elements,
components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements,
components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited
by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one
element, component, region, layer or section from another element,
component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element,
component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed
a second element, component, region, layer or section without
departing from the teachings of the present invention.
[0056] Spatially relative terms, such as "beneath," "below,"
"lower," "above," "upper" and the like, may be used herein for ease
of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to
another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It
will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended
to encompass different orientations of the device in use or
operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.
For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements
described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would
then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the
term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below.
The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at
other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used
herein interpreted accordingly.
[0057] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of
the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an" and
"the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood
that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this
specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude
the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
[0058] Embodiments of the invention are described herein with
reference to cross-section illustrations that are schematic
illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate
structures) of the invention. As such, variations from the shapes
of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing
techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments
of the invention should not be construed as limited to the
particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include
deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.
For example, an implanted region illustrated as a rectangle will,
typically, have rounded or curved features and/or a gradient of
implant concentration at its edges rather than a binary change from
implanted to non-implanted region. Likewise, a buried region formed
by implantation may result in some implantation in the region
between the buried region and the surface through which the
implantation takes place. Thus, the regions illustrated in the
figures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended
to illustrate the actual shape of a region of a device and are not
intended to limit the scope of the invention.
[0059] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and
scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly
understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this
invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such
as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be
interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their
meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be
interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly
so defined herein.
[0060] Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained
particularly with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0061] Receiving Container for a Display Apparatus
[0062] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
receiving container for a display apparatus according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0063] A receiving container 30 for a display apparatus receives a
light-guiding unit and a light-generating unit having disposed
adjacent to a side surface of the light-guiding unit, as will be
further described below.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 1, a receiving container 30 includes a
bottom plate 31, a first sidewall 33, a second sidewall 35, a third
sidewall 37, a fourth sidewall 39 and a gap-regulating portion
40.
[0065] The receiving container 30 is sized for receiving the
light-guiding unit, having a plate shape, on the bottom plate 31.
In order to reduce weight of the receiving container 30, an opening
is formed through a center portion of the bottom plate 31. The
first, second, third and fourth sidewalls 33, 35, 37 and 39 are
disposed at a peripheral portion of the bottom plate 31 to face
side surfaces of the light-guiding unit. The first and second
sidewalls 33 and 35 face each other. The third and fourth sidewalls
37 and 39 face each other, and connect the first sidewall 33 to the
second sidewall 35, respectively. A stepped portion 32 is formed at
inner portions of the first, second, third and fourth sidewalls 33,
35, 37 and 39. Thus, each outer side portion of the first, second,
third and fourth sidewalls 33, 35, 37 and 39 has a height greater
than a height of each inner side portion of the first, second,
third and fourth sidewalls 33, 35, 37 and 39 due to the stepped
portion 32.
[0066] At the first sidewall 33, a recess is formed from an upper
portion of the stepped portion 32 along an inner side portion of
the first sidewall 33, an upper end portion of the first sidewall
33 and an outer side portion of the first sidewall 33. This recess
may be sized for receiving a branch from a printed circuit film of
a light generating apparatus and a signal-transmitting film of a
display panel, as will be further described below. Additionally, at
the stepped portion 32 of the first sidewall 33, receiving grooves
34 are formed such that the receiving grooves 34 face the
light-guiding unit to be disposed on the bottom plate 31. In the
receiving groove 34 the point light source of the light generating
apparatus is disposed such that the point light source faces a side
surface of the light-guiding unit. The number of receiving grooves
34 may correspond to the number of point light sources of the light
generating apparatus.
[0067] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view illustrating portion `A` in FIG.
1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' in FIG.
1.
[0068] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the gap-regulating portion 40
protrudes from a base portion of the receiving groove 34 toward the
light-guiding unit. In other words, the gap-regulating portion 40,
hereinafter referred to as "protrusion 40" protrudes into the
receiving groove 34 towards the opposing second sidewall 35. The
protrusion 40 includes a catching jaw surface 41 and a guiding
surface 43.
[0069] The guiding surface 43 is formed at a slant with respect to
the bottom plate 31 such that the light-guiding unit is closer to a
lower portion of the guiding surface 43 than to an upper portion of
the guiding surface 43. The catching jaw surface 41 is extended
from an end of the guiding surface 43 toward the first sidewall 33
to face the bottom plate 31.
[0070] The point fight source of the light generating apparatus is
inserted into the receiving groove 34 from an upper portion of the
receiving container 30. The point light source slides along the
guiding surface 43, and is stopped at the catching jaw surface 41.
The catching jaw surface 41 secures the point light source with
respect to a direction perpendicular to the bottom plate 31 and a
direction perpendicular to the side surface of the light-guiding
unit that faces the first sidewall 33.
[0071] The protrusion 40 presses the light-generating unit toward
the light-guiding unit, in a process of inserting the point light
source into the receiving groove 34. Thus, a gap between the
light-generating unit and the light-guiding unit is sustained
within a pre-designed value range. The size of the protrusion 40
may be adjusted to suit a particular need.
[0072] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
receiving container for a display apparatus according to another
exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a
cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' in FIG. 4.
[0073] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a receiving container 50
includes a bottom plate 51, a first sidewall 53, a second sidewall
55, a third sidewall 57, a fourth sidewall 59 and a gap-regulating
portion 60. Receiving grooves 54 are formed at the first sidewall
53.
[0074] The receiving container 50 is substantially the same as the
receiving container 30 in FIGS. 1 to 3 except for the
gap-regulating portion 60.
[0075] The gap-regulating portion 60 is not formed at the receiving
groove 54, but is formed on an upper surface of a stepped portion
52 corresponding to a first sidewall 53.
[0076] The gap-regulating portion 60 is a guiding boss protruding
from the stepped portion 52, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. The
gap-regulating portion 60, hereinafter referred to as "guiding boss
60", is formed on the stepped portion 52 between the receiving
grooves 54 and the outer side of the first sidewall 53, and
protrudes to be slanted toward the first sidewall 53 from the
light-guiding unit. The guiding boss 60 may be additionally
positioned between adjacent receiving grooves 54.
[0077] A hole into which the guiding boss 60 is inserted is formed
at the printed circuit film of a light generating apparatus, as
will be further described below. The guiding boss 60 is formed at a
slant, as described above, rather than perpendicular with respect
to the bottom plate 51. In other words, the guiding boss 60 forms
an acute angle with an upper surface of the stepped portion 52, the
acute angle facing the outer side of the first sidewall 53 and away
from the light guiding unit to be disposed on the bottom plate 51.
As the guiding boss 60 is inserted into the hole, the printed
circuit film moves to a lower end portion of the guiding boss 60 so
that the printed circuit film moves toward the light-guiding unit
by a pre-determined distance. Therefore, the point light source
mounted on the printed circuit film is disposed closer to the
light-guiding unit.
[0078] Backlight Assembly
[0079] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
backlight assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view
illustrating the exemplary backlight assembly illustrated in FIG.
6. FIG. 8 is another exploded perspective view illustrating the
exemplary backlight assembly illustrated in FIG. 7
[0080] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a backlight assembly 100
includes a light-guiding unit 110, a light-generating unit 120, and
a receiving container 130.
[0081] The light-guiding unit 110 guides light generated by the
light-generating unit 120 to emit the light from the light exiting
surface 111 of the light guiding unit 110. The light-guiding unit
110 may include a light-scattering and light-guiding material,
which has high light transmittance, high thermal resistance, high
chemical resistance, high mechanical strength, etc. For example,
the light-scattering and light-guiding material may include
polymethylmethacrylate, polyamide, polypropylene, polyurethane,
etc.
[0082] The light-guiding unit 110 has a plate-shape, and includes
the light-exiting surface 111, a counter surface, facing a bottom
plate 131 of the receiving container 130, and first, second, third
and fourth side surfaces 113, 115, 117 and 119. The light-exiting
surface 111 and the counter surface are disposed opposite to each
other. The first, second, third and fourth side surfaces 113, 115,
117 and 119 connect the light-exiting surface 111 to the counter
surface. The first side surface 113 and the second side surface 115
are disposed opposite to each other. As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and
8, a light-diffusing pattern 114, which diffuses an incident light,
is formed at the first side surface 113. The third side surface 117
and the fourth side surface 119 are disposed opposite to each other
and connect the first side surface 113 to the second side surface
115.
[0083] Light that enters the light-guiding unit 110 through the
first side surface 113, repeats reflection and diffusion inside the
light-guiding unit 110 to be propagated to the second side surface
115. In case that a condition for exiting is satisfied, the guided
light exits from the light-guiding unit 110 through the
light-exiting surface 111. A reflecting plate 112 may be included
between the counter surface of the light-guiding unit 110 and the
bottom plate 131 for reflecting light exiting the counter surface
back into the light-guiding unit 110. Alternatively, a reflecting
material may be coated on the counter surface of the light-guiding
unit 110.
[0084] For example, the light-guiding unit 110 may have a
wedge-shape, such that a thickness of the light-guiding unit 110
increases along a direction from the first side surface 113 to the
second side surface 115. Also for example, the counter surface of
the light-guiding unit 110 may include ridges, grooves, prisms, or
protrusions for encouraging direction of light towards the light
exiting surface 111.
[0085] The light-generating unit 120 provides the light-guiding
unit 110 with light. The light-generating unit 120 may include a
point light source 121 and a printed circuit film 125. The point
light source 121 may include a light-emitting diode ("LED") that
has a small volume and a light weight. The point light source 121
includes a light-generating part and an outer case. The
light-generating part is built within the outer case.
[0086] The printed circuit film 125 extends in a longitudinal
direction of the first side 2, surface 113 and may be disposed on a
stepped portion 132 of the first sidewall 133. A portion of the
printed circuit film 125 may overlap with an edge of the light
guiding unit 110. A branch protrudes from a side end portion of the
printed circuit film 125 to be connected to an external power
supply part (not shown). The branch may be received on a recess
formed on an uppermost surface of the first sidewall 133. The point
light source 121 is mounted on the printed circuit film 125, and an
electrode terminal of the light-generating part of the point light
source 121 is electrically connected to a conductive pattern formed
at the printed circuit film 125. The printed circuit film 125
receives electric power by the external power supply part (not
shown) to apply driving current to the point light source 121. The
point light source 121 that receives the driving current emits
light that has a high straightness. In the illustrated embodiment,
three point light sources 121 are mounted on a lower surface of the
printed circuit film 125, and are disposed to face the
light-diffusing pattern 114 of the first side surface 113. While
three point light sources 121 are shown, alternative numbers of
point light sources 121 would also be within the scope of these
embodiments. Alternatively, the printed circuit film 125 may be
disposed between the point light source 121 and the first sidewall
133.
[0087] The receiving container 130 receives the light-guiding unit
110 and the light-generating unit 120. The receiving container 130
includes a bottom plate 131, a first sidewall 133, a second
sidewall 135, a third sidewall 137, a fourth sidewall 139 and a
gap-regulating portion 140. A stepped portion 132 may be formed at
inner portions of the first, second, third, and fourth sidewalls
133, 135, 137, and 139. The gap-regulating portion 140 in this
embodiment is a protrusion, and will hereinafter be referred to as
"protrusion 140". The receiving container 130 is substantially the
same as the receiving container 30 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3.
[0088] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III'
in FIG. 6.
[0089] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the point light source 121 is
received in the receiving groove 134 formed at the first sidewall
133. The point light source 121 slides along a guiding surface 143
of the protrusion 140, and is caught by a catching jaw surface 141
of the protrusion 140. The protrusion 140 presses the point light
source 121 toward the light-guiding unit 110. Thus, the point light
source 121 is forced to be closer to the first side surface 113 of
the light-guiding unit 110.
[0090] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
backlight assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view
illustrating the exemplary backlight assembly illustrated in FIG.
10.
[0091] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a backlight assembly 200
includes a light-guiding unit 210, a light-generating unit 220, and
a receiving container 230. The backlight assembly 200 is
substantially the same as the backlight assembly 100 illustrated in
FIGS. 6 through 9, except for the receiving container 230 and the
light-generating unit 220.
[0092] The receiving container 230 includes a bottom plate 231, a
first sidewall 233, a second sidewall 235, a third sidewall 237,
and a fourth sidewall 239 and a gap-regulating portion 240.
[0093] The light-guiding unit 210 is disposed on the bottom plate
231. In order to reduce weight of the receiving container 230, an
opening is formed at a center portion of the bottom plate 231. The
first, second, third and fourth sidewalls 233, 235, 237 and 239 are
disposed in a peripheral portion of the bottom plate 231 to face
first, second, third and fourth side surfaces 213, 215, 217 and 219
of the light-guiding unit 210, respectively. The light-guiding unit
210 includes a light exiting surface 211 and an opposing counter
surface. The first side surface 213 may include light diffusing
patterns 214 facing the first sidewall 233. A reflecting plate 212
may be disposed between the counter surface and the bottom plate
231. The first and the second sidewalls 233 and 235 are disposed
opposite to each other. The third and the fourth sidewalls 237 and
239 are disposed opposite to each other, and connect the first
sidewall 233 to the second sidewall 235.
[0094] At the first sidewall 233, a recess is formed from an upper
portion of the stepped portion 232 along an inner side portion of
the first sidewall 233, an upper end portion of the first sidewall
233 and an outer side portion of the first sidewall 233, such as
for receiving a signal-transmitting film of a display panel, as
will be further described below. A recess may be further formed
along a lower end portion of the first sidewall 233 and an outer
side portion of the first sidewall 233, such as for receiving a
branch portion of the printed circuit film 225. Additionally, at
the stepped portion 232 of the first sidewall 233, receiving
grooves 234 are formed to face the first side surface 213 of the
light-guiding unit 210. Openings 236, as can be seen in FIG. 12,
corresponding to each of the receiving grooves 234 are formed at
the bottom plate 231.
[0095] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view illustrating portion B' in FIG.
11. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV' in
FIG. 10.
[0096] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the gap-regulating portion 240
is formed at a base portion of each receiving groove 234. The
gap-regulating portion 240 protrudes from the base portion of each
receiving groove 234, and is hereinafter referred to as "protrusion
240". The protrusion 240 includes a catching jaw surface 241 and a
guiding surface 243.
[0097] The guiding surface 243 is formed at a slant with respect to
the bottom plate 231 such that the light-guiding unit 210 is closer
to an upper portion of the guiding surface 243 than to a lower
portion of the guiding surface 243. The catching jaw surface 241 is
extended from an upper end portion of the guiding surface 243
toward the first sidewall 233.
[0098] The light-generating unit 220 provides the light-guiding
unit 210 with light. The light-generating unit 220 includes a point
light source 221, such as an LED, and a printed circuit film
225.
[0099] The printed circuit film 225 extends in a longitudinal
direction of the first sidewall 233. A branch protrudes from a side
end portion of the printed circuit film 225 to be connected to an
external power supply part (not shown). The point light source 221
is mounted on the printed circuit film 225, and an electrode
terminal of a light-generating part of the point light source 221
is electrically connected to a conductive pattern formed at the
printed circuit film 225. The printed circuit film 225 is disposed
adjacent a lower surface of the bottom plate 231 so that the point
light source 221 is disposed at the receiving groove 234 through an
opening 236 that is formed through the bottom plate 231.
Alternatively, the printed circuit film 225 may be disposed between
the first sidewall 233 and the point light source 221.
[0100] During a process of assembling the backlight assembly 200,
the point light source 221 slides along the guiding surface 243,
and is stopped at the catching jaw surface 241. The catching jaw
surface 241 secures the point light source 221 with respect to a
direction perpendicular to the bottom plate 231 and a direction
perpendicular to the first side surface 213.
[0101] The protrusion 240 presses the light-generating unit 220
toward the first side surface 213 in a process of inserting the
point light source 221 into the receiving groove 234. Thus, a gap
between the light-generating unit 220 and the first side surface
213 is sustained within a pre-designed value range.
[0102] FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
backlight assembly according to still another exemplary embodiment
of the present invention. FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view
illustrating the exemplary backlight assembly illustrated in FIG.
14.
[0103] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, a backlight assembly 300
includes a light-guiding unit 310, a light-generating unit 320, and
a receiving container 330. The backlight assembly 300 is
substantially the same as the backlight assembly 100 illustrated in
FIGS. 6 to 9, except for the receiving container 330 and the
light-generating unit 320.
[0104] The light-guiding unit 310 is disposed on a bottom plate 331
of the receiving container 330, and includes first, second, third,
and fourth side surfaces 313, 315, 317, and 319, a light exiting
surface 311, and a counter surface opposite the light exiting
surface 311. The first side surface 313 includes light diffusing
patterns 314 facing receiving grooves of the first sidewall 333 for
diffusing light from the light-generating unit 320. A reflecting
plate 312 may be disposed between the bottom plate 331 and the
light-guiding unit 310.
[0105] The light-generating unit 320 includes a printed circuit
film 325 and a point light source 321, such as an LED. The
light-generating unit 320 is substantially the same as the
light-generating unit 120 illustrated in FIG. 7, except for the
printed circuit film 325.
[0106] Three point light sources 321 are disposed in a row at a
lower surface of the printed circuit film 325, although an
alternate number of point light sources 321 may be employed. Holes
326 are formed at the printed circuit film 325 such that the holes
326 are disposed between the locations of the point light sources
321 on the printed circuit film 325.
[0107] The receiving container 330 is substantially the same as the
receiving container 50 illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5.
[0108] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V' in
FIG. 14. FIGS. 17A to 17C are cross-sectional views illustrating an
exemplary printed circuit film coupled to an exemplary guiding
boss.
[0109] Referring to FIG. 16, the point light source 321 mounted on
a lower surface of the printed circuit film 325 is disposed in the
receiving groove 334 of the receiving container 330. A guiding boss
340 formed at the receiving container 330 is inserted into the hole
326 formed at the printed circuit film 325. The stepped portion 332
is formed at inner portions of the first, second, third and fourth
sidewalls 333, 335, 337 and 339. The guiding boss 340 protrudes
from a stepped portion 332 such that the guiding boss 340 is
disposed between adjacent receiving grooves 334. The guiding boss
340 is formed at a slant toward the first sidewall 333.
[0110] Thus, as illustrated in FIGS. 17A to 17C, as the printed
circuited film 325 moves to a lower portion of the guiding boss
340, the printed circuited film 325 moves toward the first side
surface 313 of the light-guiding unit 310. Therefore, the
light-generating unit 320 is disposed closer to the light-guiding
unit 310.
[0111] FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an
exemplary backlight assembly according to still another exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is an enlarged view
illustrating portion `C` illustrated in FIG. 18.
[0112] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a backlight assembly 500
includes a light-guiding unit 510, a light-generating unit 520, and
a receiving container 530. The backlight assembly 500 is
substantially the same as the backlight assembly 100 illustrated in
FIGS. 6 to 9, except for the receiving container 530 and the
light-generating unit 520.
[0113] The receiving container 530 includes a bottom plate 531, a
first sidewall 533, a second sidewall 535, a third sidewall 537, a
fourth sidewall 539 and a gap-regulating portion 534.
[0114] The light-guiding unit 510 is disposed at the bottom plate
531. Light exits the light-guiding unit 510 through a light exiting
surface 511. A reflective plate may be disposed between the bottom
plate 531 of the receiving container 530 and a counter surface of
the light-guiding unit 510. The first, second, third and fourth
sidewalls 533, 535, 537 and 539 of the receiving container 530 are
disposed at a peripheral portion of the bottom plate 531 to face
first, second, third and fourth side surfaces 513, 515, 517 and 519
of the light-guiding unit 510, respectively. The first side surface
513 may include light diffusing patterns 514. A stepped portion 532
is formed at inner portions of the first, second, third and fourth
sidewalls 533, 535, 537 and 539. The gap-regulating portion 534 is
formed at a stepped portion 532 corresponding to the first sidewall
533.
[0115] In this example, the gap-regulating portion 534 is a guiding
groove formed at the stepped portion 532, and the gap-regulating
portion 534 is hereinafter referred to as a "guiding groove 534".
The guiding groove 534, as illustrated in FIG. 19, is formed to
face the first side surface 513 of the light-guiding unit 510. A
base face 541 of the guiding groove 534 is slanted with respect to
the bottom plate 531, such that the first side surface 513 of the
light-guiding unit 510 is closer to a lower portion of the base
face 541 than to an upper portion of the base face 541.
[0116] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI' in
FIG. 18. FIGS. 21A and 21B are cross-sectional views illustrating
exemplary point light sources received in an exemplary guiding
groove.
[0117] Referring to FIG. 20, a point light source 521, such as an
LED, mounted on a printed circuit film 525 is disposed in a guiding
groove 534. The point light source 521 makes contact with a base
face 541 of the guiding groove 534. An inclined surface 522,
identified in FIG. 21A, is formed at an end portion of the point
light source 521, the end portion contacting the base face 541.
[0118] As illustrated in FIG. 21A, the point light source 521
making contact with the base face 541 of the guiding groove 534
slides until it is stopped at the bottom plate 531 as illustrated
in FIG. 21B. Thus, the point light source 521 disposed at the
bottom plate 531 makes contact with the first side surface 513 of
the light-guiding unit 510. Therefore, a gap between the
light-guiding unit 510 and the light-generating unit 520 is reduced
so that a light-using efficiency increases.
[0119] When the backlight assembly 500 is applied to a display
apparatus, a display panel disposed on the printed circuit film 525
presses the printed circuit film 525 in a downward direction toward
the bottom plate 531. Thus, the point light source 521 is prevented
from moving in an upwards direction along the base face 541, and
the point light source 521 is bound by the bottom plate 531, the
base face 541 and the first side surface 513. Therefore, the
light-generating unit 520 is pushed closer to the light-guiding
unit 510 and is forced to remain closer to the light-guiding unit
510.
[0120] Display Apparatus
[0121] FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
display apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view
illustrating the exemplary display apparatus illustrated in FIG.
22.
[0122] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, a display apparatus 800
includes a backlight assembly 805, a receiving container 830, and a
display panel 870. The receiving container 830 receives the
backlight assembly 805. The backlight assembly 805 provides the
display panel 870 with light.
[0123] The backlight assembly 805 includes a light-guiding unit 810
and a light-generating unit having a point light source 821, such
as an LED, and a printed circuit film 825. The light-guiding unit
810, the point light source 821, and the printed circuit film 825
are substantially the same as the light-guiding unit 110, the point
light source 121 and the printed circuit film 125, respectively
illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 9. However, any of the previously
described backlight assemblies and receiving containers may be
alternatively included in the display apparatus 800.
[0124] The receiving container 830 includes a bottom plate 831, a
first sidewall 833, a second sidewall 835, a third sidewall 837 and
a fourth sidewall 839 and a gap-regulating portion 840. The
gap-regulating portion 840 may include a catching jaw surface 841
and a guiding surface 843. The receiving container 830 is
substantially the same as the receiving container 130 illustrated
in FIG. 7.
[0125] The light-guiding unit 810 is disposed at the bottom plate
831. The light-guiding unit 810 includes first, second, third, and
fourth side surfaces 813, 815, 817, and 819, a light exiting
surface 811, and a counter surface opposite the light exiting
surface 811. The first side surface 813 may include light diffusing
patterns 814. The point light source 821 mounted on the printed
circuit film 825 is disposed in a receiving groove 834 formed at an
inner portion of the first sidewall 833 of the receiving container
830. The point light source 821 is pressed toward a first side
surface 813 of the light-guiding unit 810 by a protrusion of the
gap regulating portion 840 formed at a base portion of the
receiving groove 834. Thus, a gap between the light-generating unit
and the light-guiding unit 810 is sustained within a pre-designed
value range.
[0126] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII'
in FIG. 23.
[0127] Referring to FIGS. 22 to 24, the display apparatus 800
further includes optical sheets 850. The optical sheets 850 are
disposed with respect to the light-guiding unit 810 to increase an
optical property of light exiting from the light-guiding unit 810,
for example, brightness and brightness uniformity.
[0128] The optical sheets 850 include a reflecting sheet 812, a
diffusing sheet 851 and light-condensing sheets 853 and 855. The
reflecting sheet 812 is disposed under a counter surface of the
light-guiding unit 810 to reflect a light that leaks through the
counter face, toward the light-guiding unit 810.
[0129] The diffusing sheet 851 is disposed on a light-exiting
surface 811 of the light-guiding unit 810 to enhance brightness of
light exiting from the light-guiding unit 810. The light-condensing
sheets 853 and 855 are disposed on the diffusing sheet 851 to
enhance brightness uniformity of light exiting from the diffusing
sheet 851.
[0130] The display panel 870 displays an image using light that
exits from the optical sheets 850. The display panel 870 is
disposed at a stepped portion 832 formed at first, second, third
and fourth sidewalls 833, 835, 837 and 839. The display panel 870
includes a first substrate 871, a second substrate 875 and a liquid
crystal layer disposed between the first and second substrates 871,
875.
[0131] The first substrate 871 includes a lower substrate and a
switching element. The lower substrate is a transparent substrate,
such as glass, on which gate lines are formed in a first direction
and date lines insulated from the gate lines are formed in a second
direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The
gate lines and the data lines define pixel areas. The pixel areas
are arranged in a matrix configuration.
[0132] The switching element, for example, a thin film transistor
("TFT"), is disposed at each pixel area. A source terminal of each
TFT is electrically connected to a respective data line. A gate
terminal of each TFT is electrically connected to a respective gate
line. A drain terminal of each TFT is electrically connected to a
pixel electrode for each pixel area, the pixel electrode including
optically transparent and electrically conductive material.
[0133] The second substrate 875 is spaced apart from the first
substrate 871 by a predetermined distance, a cell gap, to face the
first substrate 871. The second substrate 875 includes an upper
substrate and color filters. The color filters are arranged on the
upper substrate in a matrix configuration to correspond to the
pixel areas. The color filters may include red, green, and blue
("RGB") color filters through which light is transmitted to display
a predetermined color. A common electrode that includes transparent
conducting material and corresponds to the pixel electrode, is
formed at a whole surface of the upper substrate.
[0134] When a gate voltage is applied to the gate terminal to
turn-on the TFT, a data voltage is applied to the pixel electrode
and generating an electric field between the pixel electrodes and
the common electrode. Thus, an arrangement of liquid crystal
molecules in the liquid crystal layer between the first substrate
871 and the second substrate 875 varies in response to the electric
field. Therefore, a transmittance of light that is provided to the
display panel 870 through the optical sheet 850 by the point light
source 821, varies so that the display panel 870 displays an image
having a desired gray scale.
[0135] The display panel 870 further includes a signal-transmitting
film 873. A first side edge of the signal-transmitting film 873 is
electrically connected to the display panel 870. A second side edge
of the signal-transmitting film 873, which is opposite to the first
side edge, is electrically connected to the printed circuit film
825. Driving chips 874 that control a panel-driving signal such as
the gate voltage and the data voltage, are mounted on the
signal-transmitting film 873.
[0136] According to the receiving container, the backlight assembly
having the receiving container and the display apparatus having the
receiving container, a gap-regulating portion, such as a
protrusion, a guiding boss, and a guiding groove, is formed at the
receiving container to press a light-generating unit having a point
light source, such as an LED, toward a light-guiding unit.
Therefore, a gap between the light-guiding unit and the
light-generating unit is sustained within a pre-designed value
range.
[0137] Thus, brightness of light exiting from the backlight
assembly having the receiving container increases, and power
consumption of the backlight assembly is reduced by decreasing
light loss. Thus, power consumption of the display apparatus having
the backlight assembly is reduced, and display quality is increased
by enhancing the brightness.
[0138] Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention have
been described, it is understood that the present invention should
not be limited to these exemplary embodiments but various changes
and modifications can be made by one ordinary skilled in the art
within the spirit and scope of the present invention as hereinafter
claimed.
* * * * *