U.S. patent application number 12/837164 was filed with the patent office on 2011-05-26 for flat cable and display apparatus including the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.. Invention is credited to Tai-hung KIM.
Application Number | 20110122323 12/837164 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43618334 |
Filed Date | 2011-05-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110122323 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KIM; Tai-hung |
May 26, 2011 |
FLAT CABLE AND DISPLAY APPARATUS INCLUDING THE SAME
Abstract
A flat cable for connecting a plurality of devices includes a
plurality of signal lines which are divided into a plurality of
signal groups, wherein at least a part of the signal groups are
separated by a separating section; and a plurality of connectors
which are respectively provided at opposite ends of the plurality
of signal lines and respectively connectable to the plurality of
devices.
Inventors: |
KIM; Tai-hung; (Hwaseong-si,
KR) |
Assignee: |
SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO.,
LTD.
Suwon-si
KR
|
Family ID: |
43618334 |
Appl. No.: |
12/837164 |
Filed: |
July 15, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
348/739 ;
348/E5.133; 439/492 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01R 12/50 20130101;
H01B 7/0892 20130101; H01B 7/0861 20130101; G06F 1/16 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
348/739 ;
439/492; 348/E05.133 |
International
Class: |
H04N 5/66 20060101
H04N005/66; H01R 12/24 20060101 H01R012/24 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 26, 2009 |
KR |
10-2009-0115379 |
Feb 12, 2010 |
KR |
10-2010-0013591 |
Claims
1. A flat cable for connecting a plurality of devices, the flat
cable comprising: a plurality of signal lines which are divided
into a plurality of signal groups, wherein at least a part of the
signal groups are spatially separated from one another by a
separating section; and a plurality of connectors which are
respectively provided at opposite ends of the plurality of signal
lines and respectively connectable to the plurality of devices.
2. The flat cable according to claim 1, wherein the separating
section comprises a slit.
3. The flat cable according to claim 1, wherein the separating
section extends in parallel to a direction along which the
plurality of signal lines transmit signals.
4. The flat cable according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of
signal lines of each of the signal groups are connected to each
other from side to side.
5. The flat cable according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of
signal lines transmit a low voltage differential signaling
signal.
6. The flat cable according to claim 5, wherein at least one of the
signal groups comprises a signal line for transmitting a "+"
signal, a signal line for transmitting a "-" signal, and a ground
line.
7. The flat cable according to claim 1, further comprising a
binding member having a tubular shape which secures the plurality
of signal groups to one another.
8. The flat cable according to claim 7, wherein the binding member
comprises one of silicon, plastic and rubber.
9. The flat cable according to claim 7, wherein the binding member
comprises a cutting line in the form of a helical pattern extending
around a tubular exterior surface of the binding member.
10. The flat cable according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of
signal groups are each bent at a predetermined angle to retain
predetermined gaps between the plurality of signal groups.
11. The flat cable according to claim 1, further comprising a
plurality of sheaths covering the plurality of signal lines,
respectively.
12. The flat cable according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of
sheaths are formed with a mesh pattern on a surface thereof.
13. The flat cable according to claim 12, wherein the mesh pattern
comprises a silver material.
14. The flat cable according to claim 12, wherein the separating
section is formed so as to not intercept the mesh-pattern.
15. The flat cable according to claim 1, further comprising a
shield which is provided in the separating section and intercepts
noise.
16. The flat cable according to claim 15, wherein the shield has a
linear shape.
17. The flat cable according to claim 15, wherein the shield
comprises at least one of aluminum and iron.
18. The flat cable according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of
connectors are connected to the plurality of devices, and the
plurality of devices are misaligned with one another relative a
direction along which the signal lines extend.
19. A display apparatus comprising: a signal processor comprising a
first device which processes a received video signal; a display
unit comprising a second device which displays an image based on
the video signal; and a flat cable connecting the first device and
the second device, the flat cable comprising: a plurality of signal
lines which are divided into a plurality of signal groups wherein
at least a part of the signal groups are spatially separated from
one another by a separating section; and a plurality of connectors
which are respectively provided at opposite ends of the plurality
of signal lines and respectively connectable to the plurality of
devices.
20. A flat cable for connecting a plurality of devices, the flat
cable comprising a first connector; a second connector; and a
plurality of signal lines which connect the first connector and the
second connector and extend along a first direction, wherein the
signal lines are aligned with one another along a second direction
perpendicular to the first direction and divided into a plurality
of signal groups each comprising at least two of the signal lines
among the plurality of signal lines, wherein the signal lines of
each of the signal groups are connected to one another, and wherein
at least a portion of each of each two adjacent signal groups are
spatially separated from one another.
21. The flat cable according to claim 20, wherein the portions of
the two adjacent signal groups are spatially separated by a slit
extending along the first direction.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority from Korean Patent
Application No. 10-2009-0115379, filed on Nov. 26, 2009, and Korean
Patent Application No, 10-2010-0013591, filed on Feb. 12, 2010, the
disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] Apparatuses and methods consistent with exemplary
embodiments relate to a flat cable and a display apparatus
including the same.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] A cable is used in communication or data transmission
between analog/digital respective integrated circuits (IC).
Conventional cables include a wire-type cable and a flat-type
cable.
[0006] The wire-type cable has excellent flexibility such that it
is easy to set a form. However, defective contact between
connecters and a snap of a wire are likely to occur in the
wire-type cable. Further, the unit cost of the wire-type cable is
expensive.
[0007] Signal lines existing in the wire-type cable are tied
together adjacent to one another in a circular space. Accordingly,
the signal lines are largely affected by each other due to noise if
a large amount of data is transmitted at a high frequency.
[0008] The flat-type cable is manufactured in the form of a flat
band by attaching several to several tens of thin strands to each
other from side to side for signal lines. In the flat-type cable,
since the respective signal lines are spread out, a noise effect
caused by the other signal lines becomes smaller than that in the
wire-type cable.
[0009] Such a flat-type cable is less defective in contact and the
unit cost thereof is inexpensive. However, the flat-type cable is
less flexible than the wire-type cable. For example, if a
transmitter terminal and a receiver terminal are not aligned in a
straight line, the cable is connected thereto by being folded,
which generates interference between the respective signal lines.
Additionally, a signal characteristic also will vary based on
length.
[0010] Further, since the flat-type cable cannot be bent like the
wire-type cable, there are a number of different folding
specifications, i.e., methods of folding, bending, etc. the flat
cable to connect the flat cable. For example, a method of folding a
flat cable is varied depending on positions of respective
connectors in a mother board and a panel. In this case, various
types of the flat cable are derived in accordance with the folding
specifications, and thus it may be difficult to manage since there
are many different specifications.
SUMMARY
[0011] One or more exemplary embodiments may enhance flexibility of
a flat cable by changing a structure of the flat cable and
intercept noise that may occur in this case due to interference
between signal lines.
[0012] The exemplary embodiments may further enhance the
flexibility by improving a method of forming and fastening the flat
cable, thereby increasing forming and assembling efficiency for the
flat cable.
[0013] According to an aspect of an exemplary embodiment, there is
provided a flat cable for connecting a plurality of devices, the
flat cable including a plurality of signal lines which are divided
into a plurality of signal groups, wherein at least a part of the
signal groups are separated from one another by a separated
section; and a plurality of connectors which are respectively
provided at opposite ends of the plurality of signal lines and
respectively connectable to the plurality of devices.
[0014] The separating section may include a slit. The separating
section may extend in parallel to a direction along which the
plurality of signal lines transmit signals. The plurality of signal
lines of each of the signal groups may be connected to each other
from side to side. The plurality of signal lines may transmit a low
voltage differential signaling signal. The signal group may include
a signal line for transmitting a "+" signal, a signal line for
transmitting a "-" signal, and a ground line. The flat cable may
further include a binding member having a tubular shape and that
secures the plurality of signal groups to one another. The binding
member may include one of silicon, plastic and rubber. The binding
member may include a cutting line in the form of a helical pattern
extending around a tubular exterior surface of the binding member.
The plurality of signal groups may be each bent at a predetermined
angle to retain predetermined gaps between the plurality of signal
groups. The flat cable may further include a plurality of sheaths
covering the plurality of signal lines, respectively. The plurality
of sheaths may be formed with a mesh pattern on a surface thereof.
The mesh pattern may include a silver material. The separating
section may be formed so as to not intercept the mesh-pattern. The
flat cable may further include a shield which is provided in the
separating section and intercepting noise. The shield may have a
linear shape. The shield may include at least one of aluminum and
iron. The plurality of connectors may be connected to the plurality
of devices that are misaligned with one another relative to a
direction along which the signal lines extend.
[0015] According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment,
there is provided a display apparatus including: a signal processor
including a first device which processes a received video signal; a
display unit including a second device which displays an image
based on the video signal; and a flat cable connecting the first
device and the second device, the flat cable including a plurality
of signal lines which are divided into a plurality of signal
groups, wherein at least a part of the signal groups are separated
from one another by a separating section; and a plurality of
connectors which are respectively provided at opposite ends of the
plurality of signal lines and respectively connectable to the
plurality of devices.
[0016] According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment,
there is provided a flat cable including a first connector; a
second connector; and a plurality of signal lines which connects
the first connector and the second connector and extend along a
first direction, wherein the signal lines are aligned with one
another along a second direction perpendicular to the first
direction and divided into a plurality of signal groups each
comprising at least two of the signal lines among the plurality of
signal lines, wherein the signal lines of each of the signal groups
are connected to one another, and wherein at least a portion of
each of each two adjacent signal groups are spatially
separated.
[0017] The portions of the two adjacent signal groups may be
spatially separated by a slit extending along the first direction.
A shield may be disposed in each of the slits. The signal lines of
each signal group may include at least one signal line for
transmitting a "+" signal, and at least one signal line for
transmitting a "-" signal. A binding member may be disposed about a
middle portion of the signal lines connecting the signal lines to
one another. The binding member may include a tubular exterior
having a helical cutting line.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The above and/or other aspects will become apparent and more
readily appreciated from the following description of exemplary
embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
in which:
[0019] FIG. 1A is a view showing a configuration of a general flat
cable;
[0020] FIG. 1B is a view showing a configuration of a flat cable
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 1C is a view showing a configuration of a flat cable
according to another exemplary embodiment;
[0022] FIGS. 2A and 2B are views for explaining a flat cable
according to another exemplary embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a view showing a plurality of signal lines divided
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 4A is a view showing that a pair of devices are
connected by a general flat cable;
[0025] FIG. 4B is a view showing that a pair of devices are
connected by a flat cable according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 5 is a view showing a configuration of a display
apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0027] FIG. 6A is a view showing a flat cable tied by a tape;
[0028] FIG. 6B is a view showing a binding member according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 6C is a view showing the flat cable according to an
exemplary embodiment tied by the binding member shown in FIG.
6B;
[0030] FIG. 6D is a view showing the flat cable shown in FIG. 6C
set to have a predetermined form;
[0031] FIG. 7A is a view showing a plurality of wires tied by the
binding member;
[0032] FIG. 7B is a view showing the arrangement of the wires for
connecting the flat cable according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0033] FIG. 7C is a view showing the flat cable shown in FIG. 7B
set to have a predetermined form; and
[0034] FIG. 8 is a view showing the flat cable according to an
exemplary embodiment formed with a silver plated pattern.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0035] Below, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail
with reference to accompanying drawings so as to be easily realized
by a person having ordinary knowledge in the art. The inventive
concept may be embodied in various forms without being limited to
the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. Descriptions of
well-known parts are omitted for clarity, and like reference
numerals refer to like elements throughout.
[0036] FIG. 1A is a view showing a configuration of a general flat
cable.
[0037] A general flat cable 1000 is manufactured in the form of a
flat band by attaching a plurality of signal lines 1100 from side
to side. The signal lines 1100 are respectively covered with a
plurality of sheaths 1100a, 1100b, 1100c, 1100d, 1100e, 1100f,
1100g and 1100h, and the plurality of sheaths 1100a, 1100b, 1100c,
1100d, 1100e, 1100f, 1100g and 1100h are connected to each other
from side to side.
[0038] Opposite ends of the plurality of signal lines 1100 are
respectively provided with a pair of connectors 1200a and 1200b,
and the pair of connectors 1200a and 1200b are respectively
connected to a pair of devices (not shown).
[0039] Referring to FIG. 1A, the plurality of sheaths 1100a, 1100b,
1100c, 1100d, 1100e, 1100f, 1100g and 1100h respectively covering
the plurality of signal lines are attached and connected to each
other from side to side. Thus, the flat cable 1000 has no
flexibility in a left and right direction of FIG. 1A. That is, it
is difficult to move the connectors 1200a, 1200b in the left-right
direction relative to one another. If the plurality of devices to
be connected by the flat cable are misaligned with respect to a
predetermined direction, the flat cable 1000 must be folded to
connect the devices.
[0040] FIG. 1B is a view showing a configuration of a flat cable
100a according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0041] A flat cable 100a according to an exemplary embodiment may
be for connection between a plurality of devices (not shown)
provided in an electronic apparatus (not shown) or for connection
between a plurality of devices respectively provided in the
electronic apparatus and various peripheral devices (not shown).
The flat cable 100a may be shaped like a flat band.
[0042] The flat cable 100a in this exemplary embodiment may include
a plurality of signal lines 110, a plurality of sheaths 110a, 110b,
110c, 110d, 110e, 110f, 110g, 110h and 110i, and a plurality of
connectors 120a and 120b.
[0043] The plurality of signal lines 110 is divided into a
plurality of signal groups, and at least a part between the
plurality of signal groups may be spatially separated by at least
one separating section.
[0044] The separating section may be in parallel with a direction
of signal transmission. Specifically, the separating section may be
arranged in a longitudinal direction of the flat cable 100a, i.e.,
in parallel with the plurality of signal lines 110.
[0045] The separating section may be a slit or a cut formed by a
cutting form. For example, the flat cable 100a may be cut in a
connection part between the plurality of signal groups.
[0046] In FIG. 1B, a sheath 110a covering a first signal line to a
sheath 110c covering a third signal line belong to a first signal
group. A sheath 110d covering a fourth signal line and a sheath
110e covering a fifth signal line belong to a second signal group;
a sheath 110f covering a sixth signal line and a sheath 110g
covering a seventh signal line belong to a third signal group; and
a sheath 110h covering an eighth signal line and a sheath 110i
covering a ninth signal line belong to a fourth signal group. The
separating sections 141, 142 and 143 are respectively provided as
slits between the first signal group and the second signal group,
between the second signal group and the third signal group, and
between the third signal group and the fourth signal group.
Referring to FIG. 1B, a length of each of the slit-like separating
sections 141, 142 and 143 is shorter than a total length of the
flat cable 100a. The flat cable 100a including the slit-like
separating sections 141, 142 and 143 can be flexibly bent along the
left and right direction. Thus, the flexibility of the flat cable
100 is secured in the left and right directions, and the connectors
120a, 120b can be easily moved relative to one another along the
left and right direction.
[0047] In the plurality of signal lines 110, only the signal lines
that belong to one signal group may be connected to each other from
side to side. Specifically, the signal lines categorized into the
same signal group are adhered and connected to each other in the
left and right direction in which the signal lines are aligned with
one another. In FIG. 1B, dotted lines indicate a part where the
signal lines are connected each other. Referring to FIG. 1B, the
sheath 110a covering the first signal line, the sheath 110b
covering the second signal line and the sheath 110c covering the
third signal line are connected to each other from side to side.
Also, the sheath 110d covering the fourth signal line and the
sheath 110e covering the fifth signal line are connected to each
other from side to side. The sheath 110f covering the sixth signal
line and the sheath 110g covering the seventh signal line are
connected to each other from side to side. The sheath 110h covering
the eighth signal line and the sheath 110i covering the ninth
signal line are connected to each other from side to side.
[0048] The plurality of signal groups may include at least one
signal line for transmitting a "+" signal, at least one signal line
for transmitting a "-" signal, and a ground signal. The signal
groups may be classified by various references. According to an
exemplary embodiment, the plurality of signal lines 110 may be
classified into a plurality of signal groups according to
transmission characteristics of a signal. Specifically, in the case
of transmitting a differential signaling (DS) signal, signal lines
having polarities opposed to each other may be classified into the
same signal group. For example, the "+" signal and the "-" signal
may be classified into one group. Also, the "+" signal, the "-"
signal and the "0V" signal may be classified into one group. In the
case of transmitting a transfer-to-transfer logic (TTL) signal or
an inter-integrated circuit (I2C) communication signal, the
plurality of signal lines 110 may be classified into a plurality of
signal groups in accordance with a predetermined reference or a
user's setting.
[0049] Through the plurality of signal lines 110, a plurality of
signals can be transmitted between the plurality of devices. For
example, the plurality of signal lines 110 may be used in
transmitting the "0V" signal, and the "+" signal and the "-" signal
of each channel.
[0050] According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of
signal lines 110 may be used for transmitting a low voltage
differential signaling (LVDS) signal. The LVDS signal is a
differential signal having a low voltage swing, which has a
constant average level throughout since one signal has a high level
if the other signal has a low level. A transmitter terminal
transmits two signals different in voltage, and a receiver terminal
compares the two different voltages with each other. Specifically,
the transmitter terminal generates and transmits two signals having
opposed polarities to each other, and the receiver terminal
compares the two voltages of the opposed polarities.
[0051] The plurality of sheaths 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d, 110e, 110f,
110g, 110h and 110i cover the plurality of signal lines,
respectively, and may be connected from side to side. The plurality
of sheaths 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d, 110e, 110f, 110g, 110h and 110i
protect the plurality of signal lines 110, respectively.
[0052] The plurality of connectors 120a, 120b may be respectively
provided in opposite terminals of the plurality of signal lines 110
and connected to the plurality of devices, respectively. According
to an exemplary embodiment, the connectors 120a, 120b may be
connected to the respective devices which are misaligned with each
other in a predetermined direction on a plane in which the
plurality of signal lines 110 are provided.
[0053] FIG. 1C is a view showing a configuration of a flat cable
100b according to another exemplary embodiment.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 1C, a sheath 150a covering a first signal
line to a sheath 150c covering a third signal line belong to a
first signal group. A sheath 150d covering a fourth signal line and
a sheath 150e covering a fifth signal line belong to a second
signal group; a sheath 150f covering a sixth signal line and a
sheath 150g covering a seventh signal line belong to a third signal
group; and a sheath 150h covering an eighth signal line and a
sheath 150i covering a ninth signal line belong to a fourth signal
group. The separating sections 161, 162 and 163 are respectively
provided as slits (or cuts) between the first signal group and the
second signal group, between the second signal group and the third
signal group, and between the third signal group and the fourth
signal group. In FIG. 1C, a length of each of the slit-like
separating sections 161, 162 and 163 is equal to a total length of
the flat cable 100. In a flat cable 100b including the slit-like
separating sections 161, 162 and 163, the flat cable 100b can be
flexibly bent in the left and right direction of FIG. 1C. Thus, the
flexibility of the flat cable 100b is secured in the left and right
direction to a greater extent than the flat cable 100a of FIG.
1B.
[0055] Dotted lines shown in FIG. 1C indicate a part where the
signal lines that belong to one group are connected to each other
from side to side. The flat cable 100b according to this exemplary
embodiment is basically the same as that shown in FIG. 1B except
the slit-like separating sections 161, 162 and 163. Repetitive
descriptions to the descriptions of FIG. 1B will be avoided as
necessary.
[0056] FIGS. 2A and 2B are views for explaining a flat cable 100c
according to another exemplary embodiment.
[0057] In a flat cable 100c in this exemplary embodiment, a
plurality of signal lines 110 is divided into a plurality of signal
groups, and at least a part between the plurality of signal groups
may be spatially separated by at least one separating section.
Further, a shield for intercepting noise may be provided in the
separating section.
[0058] The shield intercepts the noise, and may be placed in the
separating section. As an example, the shield may be at least one
of aluminum and iron.
[0059] The shield may be provided in various forms, as would be
understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. According to an
exemplary embodiment, the shield may be a line disposed in the
separating section. According to another exemplary embodiment, the
shield may surround the signal lines that belong to each signal
group.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 2A, each communication line corresponds to
each signal group including the signal lines. Each communication
line may include at least one among a signal line for transmitting
a "+" signal, a signal line for transmitting a "-" signal, and a
ground line.
[0061] If the plurality of signal lines are divided into the signal
groups, noise may occur due to interference between the adjacent
signal lines that belong to one group. To prevent interference
between the adjacent signal lines, the plurality of signal lines
are classified into the plurality of signal groups, and the shields
are respectively interposed between the divided signal groups.
Specifically, the "+" signal line and the "-" signal line may be
grouped. Also, the "+" signal line, the "-" signal line and the
ground line may be grouped. Thus, a voltage having the same phase
between differential signals, i.e., the "+" signal and the "-"
signal is removed and the noise due to the interference is shielded
to thereby improve resistance to the noise.
[0062] Referring to FIG. 2B, slit-like separating sections
respectively including the shields 251, 252, 253 are provided
between a first signal group 210a, 210b and a second signal group
210c, 210d, between the second signal group 210c, 210d and a third
signal group 210e, 210f, and between the third signal group 210e,
210f and the fourth signal group 210g, 210h, 210i.
[0063] In FIG. 2B, dotted lines indicate a part where the signal
lines that belong to one group are connected to each other from
side to side. The flat cable 100c according to this exemplary
embodiment is basically the same as that shown in FIG. 1B except
the slit-like separating sections including the shields 251, 252,
253. Repetitive descriptions to the descriptions of FIG. 1B will be
avoided as necessary.
[0064] FIG. 3 is a view showing a plurality of signal lines divided
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0065] FIG. 3 shows an arrangement for transmitting the LVDS
signal. The differential signal may be transmitted in the form of a
pair of the "+" signal and the "-" signal while taking the
differential signaling characteristics into account. Each group may
include a "2-pin" signal or a "3-pin" signal. A "2-pin" signal may
include the "+" signal and the "-" signal. A "3-pin" signal may
include the "+" signal, the "-" signal and the ground signal.
[0066] In FIG. 3, a first group, a second group, a third group, a
fifth group, a seventh group, a ninth group are used in
transmitting the "3-pin" signal. In the first group, a first pin 1,
a second pin 2 and a third pin 3 are employed in transmitting
signals of 5V, respectively. In the second group, a fourth pin 4
and a sixth pin 6 are employed in transmitting signals of 0V,
respectively, and a fifth pin 5 is employed in transmitting a noise
canceled (NC) signal, i.e., reset signal. In the third group, a
seventh pin 7 is employed in transmitting a signal of 0V, an eighth
pin 8 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXE3+, and a ninth
pin 9 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXE3-. In the fifth
group, a twelfth pin 12 is employed in transmitting a signal of
RXE2+, a thirteenth pin 13 is employed in transmitting a signal of
RXE2-, and a fourteenth pin 14 is employed in transmitting a signal
of 0V. In the seventh group, a seventeenth pin 17 is employed in
transmitting a signal of 0V, an eighteenth pin 18 is employed in
transmitting a signal of RXE0+, and a nineteenth pin 19 is employed
in transmitting a signal of RXE0-. In the ninth group, a
twenty-second pin 22 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXOC+,
a twenty-third pin 23 is employed in transmitting a signal of
RXOC-, and a twenty-fourth pin 24 is employed in transmitting a
signal of 0V. That is, the "3 pin" signal transmitted from the
first group, the second group, the third group, the fifth group,
the seventh group and the ninth group includes two signals having
opposed polarities to each other and one signal of 0V.
[0067] A fourth group, a sixth group, an eighth group, an tenth
group, an eleventh group and a twelfth group are used in
transmitting the "2-pin" signal. In the fourth group, a tenth pin
10 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXEC+, and an eleventh
pin 11 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXEC-. In the sixth
group, a fifteenth pin 15 is employed in transmitting a signal of
RXE1+, and a sixteenth pin 16 is employed in transmitting a signal
of RXE1-. In the eighth group, a twentieth pin 20 is employed in
transmitting a signal of RXO3+, and an twenty-first pin 21 is
employed in transmitting a signal of RXO3-. In the tenth group, a
twenty-fifth pin 25 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXO2+,
and a twenty-sixth pin 26 is employed in transmitting a signal of
RXO2-. In the eleventh group, a twenty-seventh pin 27 is employed
in transmitting a signal of RXO1+, and a twenty-eighth pin 28 is
employed in transmitting a signal of RXO1-. In the twelfth group, a
twenty-ninth pin 29 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXO0+,
and a thirtieth pin 30 is employed in transmitting a signal of
RXO0-. That is, the "2-pin" signal transmitted from the fourth
group, the sixth group, the eighth group, the tenth group, the
eleventh group and the twelfth group includes two signals having
opposed polarities to each other.
[0068] Accordingly, a voltage having the same phase between
differential signals included in each group is removed and the
noise due to the interference is shielded.
[0069] In the meantime, the slit-like separating sections (for
example, an A section, a B section, a C section, a D section, an E
section, an F section, a G section, an H section, an I section, a J
section and a K section) are provided between the respective
groups. Specifically, the A section is between the first and second
groups, the B section is between the second and third groups, the C
section is between the third and fourth groups, the D section is
between the fourth and fifth groups, the E section is between the
fifth and sixth groups, the F section is between the sixth group
and seventh groups, the G section is between the seventh and eighth
groups, the H section is between the eighth and ninth groups, the I
section is between the ninth and tenth groups, the J section is
between the tenth and eleventh groups, and the K section is between
the eleventh and twelfth groups.
[0070] Thus, the separating sections are cut in the form of a
"2-Pin" and a "3-Pin" by taking the differential signaling
characteristics into account, so that the flat cable can have the
same flexibility as the wire-type cable.
[0071] FIG. 4A is a view showing that a pair of devices are
connected by a general flat cable.
[0072] The pair of devices to be connected by the flat cable 1000
may be misaligned with one another along a predetermined direction
on the plane along which the signal lines extend. Since the flat
cable 1000 generally has no flexibility, the flat cable 1000 must
be folded to connect the pair of devices if the transmitter
terminal and the receiver terminal of the flat cable 1000 are not
aligned in a straight line. With this arrangement, interference
occurs between the signal lines and thus causes noise.
[0073] FIG. 4B is a view showing that a pair of devices are
connected by a flat cable 100d according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0074] In a flat cable 100d having the slit-like separating
section, the flat cable 100d may be bent flexibly in a left and
right direction of FIG. 4B. In FIG. 4B, dotted lines indicate a
part where the signal lines are connected each other, but solid
lines marked on the signal lines indicate the slit-like separating
sections.
[0075] The flat cable 100d of which the plurality of signal lines
are spread out in a row is as flexible as the wire-type cable. That
is, the pair of devices can be connected by bending the flat cable
in an up and down direction or in the left and right direction,
i.e., in any direction along the plane in which the signal lines
extend. Thus, the flexibility of the flat cable is improved in any
directions, i.e., in the up, down, left and right directions.
[0076] FIG. 5 is a view showing a configuration of a display
apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0077] The display apparatus 500 in this exemplary embodiment may
be achieved by a television (TV), a laptop computer, a desktop
computer, a set-top box, etc. Further, any electronic apparatus
that includes a plurality of devices to be connected through the
cable can be employed as a display apparatus 500 in this exemplary
embodiment.
[0078] The display apparatus 500 in this embodiment includes a
signal processor 510, a display unit 520 and a flat cable 530.
[0079] The signal processor 510 may include a first device 515 that
processes a received video signal.
[0080] The display unit 520 may include a second device 525 that
displays an image based on a video signal. The second device 525
may include a display panel (not shown), for example, a liquid
crystal display (LCD), a organic light emitting diode (OLED), a
plasma display panel (PDP), etc., and a panel driver (not shown) to
drive the display panel.
[0081] The flat cable 530 may connect the first device 515 and the
second device 525. In this case, the flat cable 530 may include a
plurality of signal lines 532, at least one shield 534, and a
plurality of connectors 536 and 538.
[0082] The plurality of signal lines 532 are divided into the
plurality of signal groups, and at least a part between the
plurality of signal groups may be spatially spaced by at least one
separating section. The separating section may be a slit or a cut.
The flat cable 530 may be cut in an area where the plurality of
signal groups are connected to one another.
[0083] The shield 534, which may be included in the separating
section, is provided for intercepting noise.
[0084] The plurality of connectors 536 and 538 include a first
connector 536 and a second connector 538, and may be respectively
provided at opposite ends of the plurality of signal lines 532 and
connected to the first device 515 and the second device 525,
respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the first connector 536 may
be connected to the first device 515, and the second connector 538
may be connected to the second device 525.
[0085] FIG. 6A is a view showing a flat cable tied by a tape.
[0086] A flat cable 600 in this exemplary embodiment may be cut in
an area where a plurality of signal groups are connected to each
other. The flat cable 600 with this type may be herein referred to
as a wire-type flexible flat cable. Also, each of the divided
signal groups may be herein referred to as a wire.
[0087] To hold the separated wires of the flat cable 600, the
middle of the wires may be tied by a tape 610. In this state, the
connectors at the opposite ends of the flat cable 600 are connected
to respective boards, thereby setting a predetermined form.
However, since the divided wires in this case are tied by the tape
610, the flat cable 600 has a lower flexibility. Further, if
assembly is performed in this state, pressure applied to the flat
cable 600 increases and thus the lifespan of the flat cable 600
becomes shorted. Further, it is difficult to assemble a product
while the flat cable has less flexibility, so that assembling
defects can be generated.
[0088] FIG. 6B is a view showing a binding member according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0089] A binding member 620 in this exemplary embodiment ties a
plurality of wires to one another, and may have a tubular shape.
The binding member 620 may be made of any one of silicon, plastic
and rubber. With this material, the binding member 620 is not stiff
and is freely bendable. Also, the binding member 620 may have a
cutting line in the form of a helical pattern, which allows the
binding member 620 to be flexibly stretched.
[0090] FIG. 6C is a view showing that the flat cable according to
an exemplary embodiment is tied by the binding member shown in FIG.
6B.
[0091] In the flat cable 600 shown in FIG. 6C, a plurality of wires
601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607, 608 and 609 are tied by the
binding member 620 at a middle portion thereof.
[0092] FIG. 6D is a view showing that the flat cable shown in FIG.
6C is set to have a predetermined form.
[0093] If the middle of the flat cable 600 is tied by a soft
material such as a silicon tube or a plastic tube instead of the
fix-type tape, the plurality of wires may be movable within the
tube-shaped binding member 620 in the left and right direction of
FIG. 6D. Also, the width of the binding member 620 in the left and
right direction may be flexibly stretched through the cutting line
formed in the binding member 620.
[0094] Thus, the flat cable 600 is free from stress and secures the
necessary flexibility.
[0095] FIG. 7A is a view showing a plurality of wires tied by the
binding member.
[0096] In FIG. 7A, a middle part of a flat cable 700 is tied by the
binding member. In this case, the middle part is fixed by the
binding member, and the plurality of wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705,
706, 707, 708 and 709 as divided parts are not fixed with regard to
directionality but are divided from one another in a horizontal
direction. Thus, the plurality of wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705,
706, 707, 708 and 709 are freely movable without any consistent
form while being connected, and different pressures are applied to
the wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and 709,
respectively. Thus, defects such as an assembling defect or a wire
or connector disconnection is likely to occur.
[0097] FIG. 7B is a view showing a method of bending the wires
while connecting the flat cable according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0098] In this exemplary embodiment, the forming specification,
i.e., the method of connecting the flat cable, may include bending
each wire 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 709 at a
predetermined angle so as to retain predetermined gaps between the
plurality of wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and
709.
[0099] In FIG. 7B, a flat cable 700 including a plurality of wires
are set to have a predetermined form. The views at a lower left
side and at a lower right side show enlarged forming parts (a PART
and b PART) of each wire 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708,
709.
[0100] The wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and 709
connected to opposite connectors of the flat cable 700 may be
folded rightward or leftward as required to connect the flat cable
700
[0101] FIG. 7C is a view showing the flat cable shown in FIG. 7B
that is set to have a predetermined form.
[0102] If the plurality of wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707,
708 and 709 are set to have a predetermined form that is folded as
shown in FIG. 7C, the flat cable 700 may be freely movable after
being set in the predetermined form.
[0103] Thus, respective directions of the plural wires 701, 702,
703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and 709 are consistently fixed
according to the forming specifications, i.e., the method of
connecting the flat cable. In this case, each wire 701, 702, 703,
704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 709 receives the same pressure. Thus,
probability is lower that the assembling defect or a wire or
connector disconnection or the like may occur.
[0104] FIG. 8 is a view showing the flat cable according to an
exemplary embodiment formed with a silver plated pattern.
[0105] According to this exemplary embodiment, a silver plate
pattern may be formed on an outer surface of a flat cable 800. The
separating section of the flat cable 800 may include a
mesh-pattern.
[0106] The silver plated pattern may be made of silver in the form
of a mesh pattern. The silver plate pattern changes impedance
characteristics of the flat cable 800 on the basis of the
specification. The silver plated pattern is formed on the surface
of the flat cable 800 to lower the impedance of the flat cable 800.
The flat cable 800 has an impedance of about 130.about.140.OMEGA.
before forming the silver plate pattern, but has a lowered
impedance of about 90.about.110.OMEGA. after forming the silver
plate pattern.
[0107] Referring to FIG. 8, the silver plate pattern includes a
plurality of "X" patterns and a plurality of "Y" patterns. A
slit-like "a" section is formed between a first signal group 801
and a second signal group 802. The "X" pattern of the silver plate
is formed on the outer surface of the first signal group 801 and is
not intercepted or cut by the "a" section.
[0108] Also, a slit-like "b" section is formed between the second
signal group 802 and a third signal group 803. The "Y" pattern of
the silver plate is formed on the outer surface of the second
signal group 802 and is not intercepted or cut by the "a" and "b"
sections.
[0109] In this manner, the plurality of "X" and "Y" patterns of the
silver plate pattern may be formed between the separating section
of the flat cable 800.
[0110] Referring to FIG. 8, the plurality of signal groups
constituting the flat cable 800 are cut at the connected areas
therebetween where the silver plate pattern is retained. Thus, the
impedance characteristics can be effectively changed by the silver
plate pattern.
[0111] As apparent from the foregoing description, according to an
exemplary embodiment, the flat cable is improved to have almost the
same flexibility as that of a wire-type cable, and noise that may
occur in this case due to interference between signal lines is
intercepted.
[0112] Further, the flexibility is further enhanced by improving
the method of forming and fastening the flat cable, thereby
increasing the forming and assembling efficiency for the flat
cable.
[0113] Although a few exemplary embodiments have been shown and
described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
changes may be made in these exemplary embodiments without
departing from the principles and spirit of the inventive concept,
the scope of which is defined in the appended claims and their
equivalents.
* * * * *