WO2006054855A1

WO2006054855A1 - Modularized light source device and planar light-emitting apparatus using the same

Info

Publication number: WO2006054855A1
Application number: PCT/KR2005/003862
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bumyoung Myoung
Original assignee: Hunatech Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2004-11-16
Filing date: 2005-11-15
Publication date: 2006-05-26
Also published as: KR100586173B1; TW200633595A

Abstract

Disclosed is a light source device where a lamp and a power supply module are integrated into a lamp housing. A planar light-emitting device using the light source device is also disclosed. The lamp housing includes a tube member and a light reflector pocket extended over a length corresponding to that of the lamp section while forming an integrated body together. A linear light source, i.e., the lamp section and the lamp drive section are received respectively inside of the light reflector pocket and the tube member to form a modularized light source device. Electrode terminals connected to the lamp drive section are mounted at both plugs of the tube member. The light source device may further include an electrode heating section for heating the lamp electrodes to facilitate starting of the lamp. The planar light-emitting device is structured such that one or more light source devices are disposed close to at least one lateral side of a waveguide plate and received and supported by means of a frame. The frame has a cover structure, which is designed to be pivotably opened and closed from the front side and, at closed position, cover and press the edge portion of the light source device and/or the waveguide plate. The light source device is modularized and the waveguide plate and the film can be simply installed and removed from the front side, thereby allowing easy installation and maintenance. The lamp electrode is first heated before starting, thereby enabling a reduced starting voltage of the lamp.

Description

MODULARIZED LIGHT SOURCE DEVICE AND PLANAR LIGHT-EMITTING APPARATUS USING THE SAME

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to a modularized light source device, in which a lamp and a power supply are designed into an integrated module such that the lamp can be lightened by a connector coupling alone without any separate wiring work and by a low starting voltage even at low temperature. In addition, the present invention relates to a planar light-emitting device using such a light source device, in which the light source device is used as an edge-type light source for a waveguide plate, a detachable cover structure is adopted such that the light source device and the waveguide plate can be easily installed and removed from the front side, and a perfect waterproof structure is provided, thereby enable to use it as a display device for an outdoor advertising film. Background Art

[2] A variety of display devices have been used for indoor or outdoor propaganda or advertisement. Typically, propaganda or adverting film (hereinafter, referred to as an "advertising film") employs a backlight where light is transmitted from its rear side to brighten the device, in order to draw people's attractions. A planar light-emitting device using a waveguide plate (hereinafter, referred to as a "planar light-emitting device") has begun to be widely used as a backlight device of the advertising film. This device can provide a uniform distribution of luminance over the entire plan, and thus no light stain occurs in the advertising film and the luminance of a light-emitting face is excellent. In addition, its light source employs a cold cathode fluorescent lamp having a long service light and a high luminance, thereby providing an extended life span of the product and thus increasingly extending its market share.

[3] In general, a planar light-emitting device includes a frame, a waveguide plate mounted thereon, and a light source. The light source is provided with a straight tube type lamp such as a cold cathode fluorescent lamp and a lamp drive section for supplying an electric power to the lamp. A planar light-emitting device is categorized into a direct-type where a lamp is disposed under the rear face of the waveguide plate to provide a direct illumination, and an edge-type where the lamp is disposed in the lateral side of the waveguide plate and light is laterally incident on the waveguide plate to be indirectly emitted towards the front face of the waveguide plate. The edge-type can be made to be thinner than the direct-type and thus more suitable to a slim type ad¬ vertising tool. The present invention relates to an edge-type light-emitting device.

[4] In a conventional edge-type planar light-emitting device, a lamp set including a lamp and a light reflector pocket receiving the lamp and a power supply set for providing a lamp driving power are formed in separate units, rather than an integrated module. Therefore, the frame needs separate spaces for installing the lamp set and the power supply set respectively, which must be installed in the separate spaces through separate processes. After installation, electrical connection work must be additionally carried out. Thus, users cannot easily perform installation and maintenance. Furthermore, an installation space for the power supply set is provided typically rearwards of the frame. With this configuration, in order to install or replace the power supply set, a worker must have access to the rear side of the frame. Because of this, a planar light-emitting device has difficulties being applied to a wall-attached device. Even in case of a wall- attachment and detachment type, in order to replace the lamp set or the power supply set, the device must be removed from the wall inconveniently. Since the lamp set and the power supply set are connected through an electric wire, the existing wire connection must be removed and re-made even in order to replace either one of them. Thus, the front and rear sides of the fame must be opened at the same time, or the frame must be partially disassembled. In this way, the conventional light source device having separate structures for the lamp set and the power supply set results in a complicated installation and maintenance, which cannot be easily carried out by consumers. Similar configurations to the above conventional planar light- emitting device are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,386,722 entitled "Backlight unit for use in planar display" and U.S. Patent No. 6,474,825 entitled "Planar light-emitting display panel."

[5] A planar light-emitting device employs a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) as its light source. At a low ambient temperature, this CCFL needs a higher starting voltage and provides a significantly low luminance, relative to a higher temperature. A conventional lamp set (hereinafter, referred to as a "conventional lamp set") is structured such that a CCFL is mounted inside a light reflector pocket made of a thin steel plate. Assuming that a starting voltage at 25⁰C is 100%, in case of this con¬ ventional lamp, as the ambient temperature of the lamp is decreased to O⁰C, -1O⁰C, and -2O⁰C, its starting voltage is increased to 143%, 151% and 153% respectively (refer to the graph of Fig. 13). Therefore, when the planar light-emitting device is used outdoors in wintertime of sub-zero temperature, a relatively higher voltage must be applied to start the lamp unless any other measures therefor. Without a higher voltage, the lamp is not lighted or it takes a longer time to light the lamp. However, if a higher voltage than a rated voltage is applied to a CCFL, the service life of the CCFL is significantly shortened. According to the specifications of CCFL manufacturers, assuming that the life span of the CCFL at 25⁰C is 100%, the life span is shortened to about 55% and 15% at 2O⁰C and 1O⁰C respectively, almost less than 7% at O⁰C, and even worse at sub- zero temperatures (refer to the graph of Fig. 14). In addition, if it is assumed that the luminance of a CCFL at 25⁰C is 100%, as the ambient temperature of the CCFL is decreased to O⁰C, -1O⁰C, and -2O⁰C, the luminance is rapidly reduced to 56%, 36% and 20% respectively (refer to the graph of Fig. 15). In order to achieve a high luminance, the lamp current or voltage must is increased, but power consumption and life span of the lamp must be compromised. Considering these points, the starting and lighting of a CCFL is to be carried out at a temperature as high as possible. Once lighted, the CCFL itself is heated due to electric discharge and thus is not affected relatively by its ambient low temperature. Thus, loss of the discharging heat needs to be minimized. When starting the CCFL, more positive measures to increase its ambient temperature are needed such that the CCFL can be successfully lighted even at a lower temperature. Generally, these requirements go for other electric discharge lamps.

[6] On the other hand, in case where a planar light-emitting device is used outdoors, water may be permeated into the lamp set or the power supply set to thereby cause various problems due to current leakage. Thus, it needs a complete measure for waterproof.

Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[7] Accordingly, the present invention has been made in order to solve the above problems in the prior art. It is an object of the invention to provide a light source device, in which a lamp and a lamp drive section are integrated into a modular form, thereby being conveniently installed and replaced and providing a wide applicability and an expandability of obtaining a desired length of light source by simply connecting plural light sources when necessary, the lamp can be lighted with a lower starting voltage even at low temperature to ensure an extended service life, and a waterproof design is provided to be suitable for outdoor uses.

[8] Another object of the invention is to provide a planar light-emitting device, in which the light source device, a waveguide plate and a frame set are employed to provide convenience in installation and maintenance and a double waterproof structure is implemented to thereby enable to use as outdoor advertising devices. Technical Solution

[9] In order to accomplish the above objects, according to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a light source device comprising: a lamp section implemented as a linear light source so as to emit light over a desired length using one or more lamps; a lamp drive section including a circuit for providing a drive power to the lamp, the circuit implemented on a printed circuit board and an output terminal of the circuit being connected to an electrode of the lamp; a lamp housing including a tube member and a light reflector pocket extended over a length corresponding to that of the lamp section while forming an integrated body together, the lamp drive section and the lamp section being received respectively inside of the tube member and the light reflector pocket; and an electrode terminal section including at least one pair of electrode terminals, the electrode terminal being mounted in a desired position of the lamp housing so as to be exposed to outside to be electrically connected from outside, one side of the electrode terminal being electrically connected with the lamp drive section, wherein every element is modularized into an integrated form through the lamp housin g- [10] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a light source device comprising: a lamp section implemented as a linear light source so as to emit light over a desired length using one or more lamps; a lamp drive section including a circuit for providing a drive power to the lamp, the circuit implemented on a printed circuit board and an output terminal of the circuit being connected to an electrode of the lamp; a lamp housing extending over a length corresponding to that of the lamp section and formed of a metallic material having a good heat conductivity, the lamp housing including a light reflector pocket and a tube member, the light being formed in an opened curvatured structure such as a "c" shape or other similar shapes which is opened with a certain width along its longitudinal direction to accommodate the lamp and emit light in one direction, the tube member extended over approximately the same length as the light reflector pocket and forming an integrated piece therewith while sharing part of each other to thereby receive the power supply module; an electrode terminal section including a first plug and a second plug for closing both opening holes of the tube member and an electrode terminal mounted respectively in the first and second plug, the electrode terminal being capable of electrically connecting from outside and being connected with the power supply module, the electrode terminal mounted in the first plug and the electrode terminal mounted in the second plug being connected in parallel; and a lamp holder for holding the lamp such that the lamp is installed inside the light reflector pocket in a stable way, wherein every element is modularized into an integrated form through the lamp housing.

[11] Preferably, the above light source device may further comprise an electrode heating section for directly heating the lamp electrode. The electrode heating section is electrically connected with the electrode terminal. When an electric power is applied to light the lamp, each electrode of the lamp is heated for a desired period of time to increase ambient temperature of the electrode before the lamp drive section supplies a starting power to the lamp, thereby facilitating a smooth lighting of the lamp.

[12] In addition, the first and second plugs closing both openings of the tube member are provided with a first groove and a second groove formed inwardly of the tube member at a desired position of the body. The electrode terminal is installed in a way as to be protruded towards the groove entrance from the bottom of the first and second grooves or as to be embedded inside the groove bottom. Conforming to this structure, a connection jack may be further provided to implement a desired length of the light source device. The connection jack is formed of an insulation material and includes a body with its part snugly inserted into the first and second grooves and a connection terminal disposed inside the body to be electrically connected with the first and second electrode terminals when the body is inserted into the first and second grooves. This connection jack is inserted into the first and second grooves respectively of the light source device such that the light source devices are linearly and closed connected to one another in parallel.

[13] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a planar light- emitting device comprising: a waveguide plate, a laterally incident light being scattered and reflected by means of a light scattering element formed in a bottom face and emitted towards an upper face by means of the waveguide plate; at least one light source module in which a lamp section composed of one or more lamps and a lamp drive section for providing a drive power to the lamp are mounted in an integral lamp housing to form one module, the lamp section being formed of a linear light source emitting over a desired length, the light source module being disposed such that the lamp is close to at least one side face of the waveguide plate; and a frame supporting the waveguide plate and the light source module in such a way that the lamp of the light source module approaches at least one side face of the waveguide plate, the fame adopting a cover structure that can be pivoted so as to be opened and closed from front side and cover and press the edge portion of the light source module and/or the waveguide plate at a closed position, wherein the cover is opened to detachably attach the light source module and the waveguide plate from front side.

[14] Preferably, the planar light-emitting device is structured such that the cover structure holds the film no to be released by means of resiliency of a leaf spring. For this purpose, a first latching groove and a second latching groove are formed in a desired position respectively of the upper end of the sidewalls and the inner face of the cover member, a compressed leaf spring is further provided between each sidewall and the first and second latching grooves of the cover member pivotably combined therewith, and resilient force of the leaf spring causes the cover member to hold the film not to be escaped.

[15] In addition, the edge portion of the lamp housing is configured to cover the edge portion of the waveguide plate so that the waveguide plate is fixed to the frame by means of a pressing force of the cover structure exerted on the lamp housing without using a separate fixing means. Advantageous Effects

[16] The light source device of the invention has the following effects.

[17] First, the lamp and the lamp drive section are mounted in an integrated form of lamp housing such that the light source device itself forms a single compact module, thereby providing convenience in installation and replacement and a variety of ap¬ plications.

[18] Second, the light source device has an extendibility of length. That is, plural light source devices can be linearly connected using a connection jack without any separate wiring work, to thereby achieve a desired length of light source.

[19] Third, the lamp electrode is rapidly heated and then started and thus can be lighted without particularly increasing the starting voltage at low temperature. Therefore, the life-shortening due to high-voltage starting can be prevented. Furthermore, when the lamp is being lighted, an electrode heating section can rapidly dissipate the heat of the lamp electrode to provide an improved luminance and service life of the lamp.

[20] Fourth, a modularized structure is adopted and, when required, the outer structure of the lamp housing can be modified. Thus, the light source device is not limited to particular structures, but can be applied to various and wider structures.

[21] Fifth, the light source device is designed such that moisture can not be easily permeated into the tube member of the lamp housing from the outside, thereby enabling to use as a light source device for an outdoor planar light-emitting device.

[22] In addition, the planar light-emitting device of the invention has the following effects.

[23] First, the planar light-emitting device is simply formed of three elements, i.e., a modularized light source device, a waveguide set and a frame set. Its installation can be completed by simply mounting the waveguide plate and the light source device in a designated position and then plugging a power plug to the light source device and closing a cover. Therefore, even a beginner can install the device on site in an easy and fast way. In addition, when the lamp comes to the end of its life, the light source device can be replaced from front side with the cover opened, thereby enabling very convenient maintenance.

[24] Second, in addition to its own waterproof structure, the light source device is further provided with a waterproof film to form a double waterproof configuration, thereby enabling indoor and outdoor applications.

[25] Third, the light source device employs a separate means for low-temperature lighting to enable outdoor use in wintertime. Brief Description of the Drawings

[26] Further objects and advantages of the invention can be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[27] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a light source device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[28] Figs. 2 and 3 illustrate a heater for heating the electrodes of the lamp;

[29] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a light source device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[30] Fig. 5 illustrates a method of linearly connecting two light source devices of Fig. 4;

[31] Figs. 6 and 7 are cross-sections showing a connection between the connection jack and the electrode terminal which are designed to have a waterproof function;

[32] Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a planar light-emitting device using the light source device of Fig. 4 according to an embodiment of the invention;

[33] Figs. 9 and 10 shows an assembled planar light-emitting device where a cover is opened and closed respectively;

[34] Fig. 11 is a sectional view taken along the line A-A in Fig. 10;

[35] Fig. 12 is a sectional view of a planar light-emitting device according to a modified embodiment of the invention;

[36] Fig. 13 is a graph showing starting voltages of a cold cathode fluorescent lamp

(CCFL) with its ambient temperatures in case of a light source device of the invention and a conventional lamp set;

[37] Fig. 14 is a graph showing life spans of a CCFL with its ambient temperatures; and

[38] Fig. 15 is a graph showing luminance of a CCFL with its ambient temperatures.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[39] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be hereafter described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Mode for the Invention

[40] (1) Light source device

[41] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a light source device according to an embodiment of the invention. The light source device of the invention is applicable mainly to the light source of an edge-type backlight unit. It is therefore preferable that the light source device of the invention is constructed in the form of a linear light source, which can provide light evenly over the entire lateral face of the waveguide plate. The light source device 100 includes one or more lamps 30, a lamp drive section 10 supplying power for starting and lighting the lamps. The light source device 100 is modularized such that all the elements are integrally formed through a lamp housing 50, considering convenient installation, lengthwise expandability, water-proof, and so on.

[42] The lamp 30 can employ a straight tube lamp capable of generating visible light. The straight tube lamp is suitable for constituting a linear light source. Among the currently known lamps, a typical lamp suitable for the light source device of the invention includes a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL). As the lamp of the invention, a lamp having a linear structure or plural LED lamps linearly arranged may be used. The CCFL has an improved efficiency at a relatively high frequency and thus is driven by an AC signal typically in a frequency range of 20~100KHz. In addition, for example, a lit lamp requires an operating voltage of 600~800volts and a starting voltage is much higher than that. Thus, in order to generate such a rated operating power, the lamp drive section 10 includes a boost converter 14 for boosting a first direct voltage of a desired level and an inverter 15 for converting into an alternating voltage of high frequency using a boosted second direct voltage and supplying an operating power to the lamp 30. For example, the first direct voltage provided to the boost converter 14 may be supplied from an external means such as a DC adapter (not illustrated). Alternatively, as illustrated in the figures, the lamp drive section 10 may be provided with a bridge circuitry 13 capable of converting an externally- supplied commercial AC power into a DC power. Furthermore, preferably an input filter 12 may be further provided for preventing noise or excess current from being introduced from outside. More preferably, the boost converter 14 may be further provided with a power factor correction (PFC) circuit.

[43] The performance of CCFL is, in nature, degraded if the ambient temperature is ex¬ cessively high or low. Thus, an additional measure is required to be taken for minimizing the effect by the ambient temperature. In particular, special measures are needed in order for the CCFL to be smoothly operated even at a very low temperature, such as when the CCFL is operated outdoor in winter time. At a low temperature, the sealed gas (Ar, Ne) and mercury of the CCFL have a decreased activity and thus result in uneven gas distribution. In particular, the mercury molecules exist in an ag¬ glomerated state. Accordingly, in order to light the CCFL at a low temperature, a relatively high starting voltage is required. Consequently, a relatively high amount of tungsten may is evaporated from the lamp electrode to accelerate blackening thereof, thereby shortening the service life of the lamp.

[44] In order to lessen the blackening and facilitate the formation of high frequency energy, the present invention proposes a solution where the lamp electrode is rapid- heated before an operating voltage is applied to the lamp. For this purpose, preferably, the light source device 100 is further provided with an electrode heating section 20 for facilitating turn-on of the lamp 30. Before applying a starting voltage to the lamp 30, the electrode heating section 20 heats either one or both of the lamp electrodes 34- 1 and 34-2 for a certain period of time to increase the ambient temperature of the lamp electrode. Specifically, the electrode heating section 20 includes a heater 24a, 24b for directly heating the lamp electrodes and a heater power supply 22 for supplying electric power to the heaters. As illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, one heater 24a is composed of a heating material plate 24a- 1 and electrode plates 24a-2 and 24a-3 tightly contacted with both faces of the heating material plate 24a- 1.

[45] The heating material plate 24a- 1 is directly contacted with the lead wires 32-1 and

32-2 of the lamp electrodes 34- 1 and 34-2, thereby allowing an efficient heat conduction between them. For this purpose, formed on the heating material plate 24a- 1 are insert holes 24a-4 and 24a-5, through which the lead wires 32-1 and 32-2 are inserted to be connected thereto. Suitable materials for the heating material plate 24a- 1 include fine ceramic materials. When a voltage (for example, DC 400V) is applied between two electrode plates 24a-2 and 24a-3, the fine ceramic material is inherently rapidly heated within a few seconds up to a target temperature (for example, 100⁰C). Thereafter, even if the electric power continues to be supplied to the fine ceramic material, no more power consumption occurs and the temperature is no longer increased. According to one exemplary fine ceramic heater 24a, 24b, it has been found out that the fine ceramic heater can be rapid-heated up to about 12O⁰C within one second and the lamp electrodes 34- 1 and 34-2 can be heated up to about 6O⁰C within a few seconds. In this way, if the lamp electrodes 34-1 and 34-2 are heated, activity of the mercury around the lamp electrodes is increased and, at this state, lighting of the lamp can be smoothly performed even at a low starting voltage. In particular, the light source device 100 of the invention can be lighted with a low starting voltage even outdoor at a low temperature of wintertime. Thus, the life shortening due to a high voltage starting can be significantly lessened.

[46] Instead of heating the lamp electrodes using a heater, alternatively, the lamp drive section 10 may be configured to have a pre-heating function. That is, before providing a starting voltage, a pre-heating circuit is operated to apply a desired pre-heating voltage to the lamp electrodes 34-1 and 34-2. Thus, the temperature surrounding the lamp electrodes is increased to facilitate lighting of the lamp.

[47] As described above, when an electric power is first applied to the lamp drive section

10, the heaters 24a and 24b are heated up for a few second to increase the temperature of the lamp electrodes 34- 1 and 34-2, in advance of applying a starting voltage for the lamp. In order for these procedures to be carried out, a separate control circuit (not shown) is needed. This circuit is configured to control the device in such a way that, when an electric power is introduced into the lamp drive section 10, it is provided only to the heater power supply 22, and then supplied only to the lamp drive section 10 when no power consumption is detected from the heaters 24a and 24b or a certain time period (for example, five seconds) lapses. The control circuit may be constructed, for example, using a comparator circuit, a switching element, and the like, and may be constituted as part of the lamp drive section 10 or the heater power supply 22.

[48] In addition, the heaters 24a and 24b may function to decrease the temperature of the lamp electrodes 34-1 and 34-2 to a proper level. In general, in case of CCFL, the temperature of the lamp electrode is, in nature, heated up to several hundreds degrees while being lit. The light source device 100 of the invention is designed such that the heat from the lamp electrodes 34-1 and 34-2 can be dissipated to outside in a fast mode, as compared with conventional ones. Thus, the surrounding temperature of the lamp electrodes is much lower than that of the conventional cases. The lamp electrodes 34- 1 and 34-2 are connected to the heater 24a and 24b through electrode lead wires 32- 1 and 32-2, which are drawn to the outside of the lamp 30. The heaters 24a and 24b are contacted with air over a large area and the lamp housing 50 has a good heat- dissipating capacity, so that the high energy heat of the lamp electrodes 34-1 and 34-2 can be extracted to the outside in a fast way. Comparing the temperatures measured re¬ spectively from the light source device and a conventional one, it has been found that the temperature of a light reflector surrounding the lamp electrode, when it is lit, is about 110 in the conventional lamp set, but, in the case of the invention, is about 6O⁰C, which is approximately a half of the conventional one. According to the present invention, the ambient temperature of the lamp electrode is not very high, thereby enabling to avoid degradation in vacuum of the glass tube, which may be caused by a difference in thermal expansion coefficients of the lamp glass tube and the lead wires 32- 1 and 32-2. In addition, blackening of the lamp is delayed to thereby enable to lengthen the service life of the lamp.

[49] The electrode heating section 20 is connected with the lamp electrodes 34- 1 and

34-2 so as to enable direct heat- transmission with each other such that the temperature of the lamp electrodes 34- 1 and 34-2 can be maintained within an optimal range to provide best performance of the lamp. That is, when the lamp 30 starts, a large amount of heat is transferred to the lamp electrodes 34- 1 and 34-2 to facilitate the starting of the lamp 30, and when the lamp 30 is being lit, the heat is extracted from the lamp electrodes 34- 1 and 34-2 of high temperature, thereby optimizing the lamp performance, including starting, lighting, service life and luminance of the lamp.

[50] It is preferable that the lamp drive section 10 and the heater power supply 22 are implemented on a single printed circuit board 16 to form a power supply module 19. In addition, the input terminal 17a and the output terminal 17b of the power supply module 19 is preferred to be formed as a connector for easy connection with an external electrical terminal and easy disconnection therefrom.

[51] Each element constituting the above light source device 100 is mounted in a lamp housing 50 to form an integrated module. Fig. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of a modularized light source device 100. The lamp housing 50 is structured such that a light reflector pocket 52 and a tube member 54 are integrally combined. One or more lamps 30 are mounted inside the light reflector pocket 52 and a power supply module 19 is housed inside the tube member 54. In order to construct an edge-type face light emitting device, the light source device 100 needs to have a structure such that it can be disposed on the lateral side of a waveguide plate and housed inside the frame. Preferably, the lamp housing 50 is formed in a bar-type structure where the light reflector pocket 52 and the tube member 54 having a same length are attached to each other while sharing part of them.

[52] The light reflector pocket 52 needs to be designed suitable to the above structure.

For example, the light reflector pocket 52 is formed in a structure which is opened with a certain width along its longitudinal direction to accommodate the lamp and suitably emit light, for example, an opened curvatured structure such as a "c" shape or other similar shapes. As illustrated in Fig. 4, for example, the light reflector pocket 52 is designed such that the length of the upper face and/or lower face thereof is further extended in the light-emitting direction, rather than the outermost face of the lamps 30a and 30b, so that the upper and/or lower faces of the light reflector pocket 52 is slightly overlapped with the edge portion of the waveguide plate. In a structure of the light reflector pocket 52 where the upper face thereof is further extended, if the waveguide plate is mounted in the frame so as to be overlapped under the upper face of the light reflector pocket 52, for example, so as to press the lamp housing with a cover, the waveguide plate can be indirectly fixed, advantageously without using a separate connection means such as a bolt. Details on this will be explained later, in conjunction with Fig. 11. As an alternative example, the upper and lower faces thereof are extended until the outermost face of the lamps 30a and 30b so as to have a same length and thus the light reflector pocket 52 is not overlapped with the waveguide plate when the light source device 100 is installed near the side face of the waveguide plate (see Fig. 12). In order to improve light-reflection efficiency, a light reflective layer or film (not shown) may be further provided in the inner wall of the light reflector pocket 52.

[53] The tube member 54 needs to be opened at least at one end thereof in order to receive the power supply module 19. In the figures, the tube member 54 is illustrated as being opened at both ends thereof. Two openings 56a and 56b are closed with a first plug 60a and a second plug 60b after the power supply module 19 is received inside the tube member. An electrode terminal is provided in an appropriate position of the lamp housing 50 to supply an electric power required for the power supply module 19. When necessary, a plurality of light source devices 100 may be linearly connected to achieve a desired length. Thus, considering this, preferably, the electrode terminals 64a and 64b are installed respectively in two plugs 60a and 60b positioned in both ends of the tube member 54. The electrode terminals 64a and 64b are connected to each other in parallel such that, when either one of two electrode terminals 64a and 64b is connected with an external electrical terminal, the other one can be connected to the electrical terminal. Figs. 4, 6 and 7 illustrate an exemplary structure of the above two plugs 60a and 60b. In the illustrated first and second plugs 60a and 60b, a first groove 66a and a second groove 66b are formed in appropriate positions of the bodies 62a and 62b inwardly of the tube member 54. The electrode terminals 64a and 64b are pr otruded towards the entrance of the grooves from the bottom of the first groove 66a and the second groove 66b. Of course, the electrode terminals 64a and 64b may be formed in such a way to be embedded inside the bottom of the grooves. The electrode terminals 64a and 64b are extended inside the tube member 54, and its end portion is formed as connectors 68a and 68b to be connected with connectors 17a and 17b of the power supply module 19. A space is provided for placing protrusions 44a and 44b of the lamp holders 42a and 42b and lead wires 32a and 32b.

[54] In order for a lamp 30 to be installed in the light reflector pocket 52 in a stable manner, the lamp 30 is inserted into the lamp holders 40a and 40b and mounted in the light reflector pocket 52. Preferably, the lamp holder is formed of a material such as rubber having flexibility and resistance to high temperature. As an embodiment, the lamp holder 40a, 40b is composed of the body 42a, 42b structured to be tightly inserted between both ends of the light reflector pocket 52 and the protrusion 44a, 44b extended perpendicularly from the end portion of the body 42a, 42b. Inside of the body and protrusion is provided with a perpendicularly bent through-hole. Both ends of the Ia mps 30a and 30b are inserted respectively into the through-hole of the bodies 42a and 42b. The lead wires 32a, 32a and 32b, 32b are pulled out of the through-hole of the protrusions 44a and 44b while being bent at about 90 degrees and extended to inside of the tube member 54. The through-hole is formed to have the same number of the lamps. The bodies 42a and 42b of the lamp holders 40a and 40b, which are combined with the lamps 30a and 30b in the above-described manner, are inserted into both ends of the light reflector pocket 52, respectively. The lead wires 32a, 32a' and 32b, 32b' connected to the lamp electrodes are coupled to the output terminal of the lamp drive section 10 housed in the tube member 54 through electric wires 18a, 18a' and 18b, 18b' Similarly, the electrode plate of the heater 24a, 24b is coupled to the output terminal of the heater power supply section 22 through electric wires 26a, 26a' and 26b, 26b' The body 62a, 62b of the plug 60a, 60b is provided with an opening 67 a, 67b to which the protrusion 44a, 44b of the lamp holder 40a, 40b can be inserted to completely close the opening 56a, 56b of the tube member 54.

[55] In the previously mentioned lamp set, when it is lighted, the surrounding area of the lamp electrode increases up to above 100 and the temperature difference between both end portions of the lamp and the intermediate area thereof reaches above 24⁰C. These high temperatures lead to degradation in the luminance and service life of the lamp. It is therefore preferable that the ambient temperature of the lamp electrode, even when lighted, be maintained to within an appropriate range in order to achieve an optimum luminance and a long period of service life. In addition to the temperature control function of the heater 24a, 24b, the size and material of the lamp housing 50 can be selected appropriately to meet these needs.

[56] For this purpose, the lamp housing 50 is formed of a metallic material having a good heat conduction property, such as aluminum or aluminum alloy. Using aluminum or the like, the light reflector pocket 52 and the tube member 54 are integrally formed to achieve efficient heat conduction between them. The tube member 54 is formed to have a size sufficient to accommodate the above temperature control function. Then, the heat of high temperature in the lamp electrode 34-1, 34-2 is rapidly transferred to the entire lamp housing 50 through the lead wire 32a, 32b and the heater 24a, 24b, and through the air. The absorbed heat is rapidly distributed and dissipated over the entire lamp housing 50. In this way, a structure adopting the lamp housing 50 of the invention maintains the ambient temperature of the lamp electrode much lower, as compared with other conventional structures.

[57] Conversely, the heat absorption and dissipation capability of the lamp housing 50 is to be maintained in an appropriate level, not too high and not too low. That is, in the wintertime when the air temperature is very low, the heat of the lamp 30 can be overly extracted through the lamp housing 50 and thus an adverse effect may occur in the luminance and service life. Most preferably, the ambient temperature of the lamp electrode must be maintained within an optimum range to achieve an optimal performance of the lamp such as its service life and luminance. For this purpose, in case where the heat absorption and dissipation capability of the lamp housing 50 needs to be slightly reduced, the outer face of the lamp housing 50 may be coated with a material having a lower heat conduction efficiency, relative to the metallic material such as aluminum. A member made of such materials may be attached to the outer face of the lamp housing 50.

[58] In the light source device 100 having the above-described structure and features, it is found out that, due to the high heat dissipation capability of the lamp housing 50, the temperature of the lamp 30 is uniformly maintained over the entire area, with the temperature fluctuation of less than 5⁰C. This means that the light source device 100 operates at a temperature range most efficient in terms of the luminance and service life of the lamp. In addition, the glass tube of the lamp and the lead wire of the lamp electrode have different heat expansion coefficients and thus a high temperature fluctuation may lead to degradation in the lamp vacuum. The light source device 100 of the invention has a relatively low temperature near the lamp electrode, as compared with the conventional ones, thereby enabling to avoid shortening of the service life, which may be caused by vacuum degradation.

[59] The light source device 100 of the invention may be implemented to linearly connect a plurality of light source devices to thereby obtain a light source having a desired length. Fig. 5 illustrates a method of linearly connecting two light source devices 100-1 and 100-2. A connection jack 110 is used to linearly connect two light source devices 100-1 and 1002. As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the connection jack 110 is composed of a body 112 made of an insulation material and a connection terminal 114 disposed inside of the body. The half of the body 112 is inserted into a groove formed in one plug 6Ob-I of the first light source device 100-1 and the remaining half thereof is inserted into a groove 66a-2 formed in one plug 60a-2 of the second light source device 100-2. In this way, electrical terminals of the first and second light source devices 100-1 and 100-2 are electrically connected to each other through connection with the connection terminal 114 of the connection jack. When the two light source devices 100-1 and 100-2 are connected, the connection 110 is preferred to be embedded in both grooves so as not to be viewed from the outside, thereby minimizing the spacing between both lamps. In case where the light source devices is to be disposed in two facing side faces respectively of a waveguide plate, a cable-type connection jack 110-1 is used to connect the light source devices. The cable-type connection jack 110-1 is constructed in such a way that a connection jack having ap¬ proximately a half size of the connection jack 110 is attached to both ends of a cable having an appropriate length.

[60] The light source devices are connected in parallel through the connection jack 110 and/or the cable-type connection jack 110-1. In addition, power supply to these light source devices is carried out through an electric power cable 122. The electric power cable 122 is also provided at its terminal with a connection jack 120 having ap¬ proximately half size of the connection jack 110. As described above, the light source device 100 does not require a complicated electric wire connection when installed, but the connection jacks 110, 110-1 and 120 can be simply plugged into the light source device 100-1, so that even a beginner can install the device on site in an easy and convenient way.

[61] In the structure of the light source device 100, the connection area of the connection jack 110, 110-1, 120 and the groove 66 of the plug 60 (where the electrode terminal 64 is provided) is permeable to moisture. Figs. 6 and 7 are cross-section showing the connection between the connection jack 110 and the electrode terminal 64, which is designed to provide a waterproof function. Fig. 6 is a sectional view of assembled state and Fig. 7 is a sectional view of disassembled state of the connection jack and the electrode terminal. [62] In order to provide a waterproof function, the body 112 of the connection jack 110 is formed preferably of a material having a slight cushion, and has a size fitting to the groove 66 of the plug 60. The connection terminal 114 is formed in a tube shape, to which the rod-type electrode terminal 64 mounted in the plug 60 can be inserted to make a connection. In order to improve the waterproof function, the plug 60 is further provided at the bottom of the groove 66 with a cylindrical protrusion 69 surrounding the electrode terminal 64. Corresponding to this, the connection jack 110 is further provided with an insert groove 116 into which the cylindrical protrusion 69 is tightly inserted. The groove 66 and the body 112 are tightly contacted and furthermore the insert groove 116 and the cylindrical protrusion 69 are tightly contacted, so that liquid such as water can be prevented from permeating towards the electrode terminal 64 and the connection terminal 114. In addition, for a further improved waterproof, the connection regions of both end plugs 60a and 60b, the lamp holders 42a and 42b, and the lamp housing 50 are sealed using a sealing material.

[63]

[64] (2) Planar light-emitting device

[65] A planar light-emitting device according to the invention includes a light source device 100 as described above and a frame set 200. Figs. 8 to 11 show a planar light- emitting device 500 according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the planar light-emitting device 500. Figs. 9 and 10 show an assembled planar light-emitting device 500 where a cover is opened and closed re¬ spectively. Fig. 11 is a sectional view taken along the line A-A in Fig. 10.

[66] A waveguide set 300 is composed of a rectangular waveguide plate 302 formed, for example, of a transparent acrylic resin and a reflective tape attached to the side face of the waveguide plate with exception of its bottom face and light incident face. On the bottom face of the waveguide plate 302 is formed a light scattering element, which scatters light incident through the light-incident lateral face to be emitted towards the front face of the waveguide plate 302. The light scattering element includes a printed ink dot, a micro negative carve, a V-groove and the like. The waveguide plate technology is well-known and thus details thereon will not be explained here.

[67] On the lateral face of the waveguide plate 302 is disposed at least one light source device 100 such that a lamp 30 is close thereto. The light source device may be disposed in one lateral face of the waveguide plate 302 or two facing lateral faces thereof, depending upon the arrangement of the light-scattering element formed on the bottom face of the waveguide plate 302. Figs. 8 to 11 illustrate an example where the light source devices are disposed on two facing lateral faces of the waveguide plate 302. In case of a long waveguide plate, an appropriate number of light source devices 100-1 and 100-2 may be linearly connected along the length thereof using a connection jack 110. In addition, in the case where the light source devices 100-1, 100-2 and 100-3, 100-4 are disposed on the facing lateral faces of the waveguide plate 302, they are connected with each other using a cable-type connection jack 110-1.

[68] The frame set 200 receives and supports the waveguide plate 302 and the light source devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3 and 100-4 disposed near the lateral face of the waveguide plate 302. The frame set 200 employs a cover structure which can be pivoted so as to be opened and closed from the front side. The frame set 200 is configured such that the waveguide plate 302 and the light source devices 100-1 to 100-4 can be installed or removed from the front side with the cover 220 opened. More specifically, the frame set 200 includes the waveguide set 300; a bottom 210, 212 receiving the light source devices 100-1 to 100-4 and supporting their bottoms; sidewalls 214a, 214b, 214c and 214d vertically extended from each edge of the bottom 212 and supporting the lateral faces of the light source devices; and cove members 220a, 220b, 220c and 22Od pivotably connected to each sidewall to cover the light source devices 100-1 to 100-4 and furthermore cover up to the edge portion of the waveguide set 300.

[69] The bottom 212 receiving and supporting the light source device 100 and the bottom 210 supporting at least the edge portion of the waveguide plate 302 are formed as a stepped portion having different heights. For example, as shown in Fig. 11, a "D" shaped member double-bent at a right angle is connected to the end portion of the bottom 212 supporting the light source device 100 to thereby form the bottom 210 supporting the waveguide set 300. One end of the upper face of the waveguide supporting bottom 210 abuts one lateral side of the lamp housing 50 to preventing from approaching the side face of the waveguide plate 302 beyond a certain limited position. In order to fix the lamp housing 50 in more stable fashion, a piece 230 is inserted between the sidewall 214 of the frame and the opposing side face of the lamp housing 50 to push the lamp housing towards the waveguide plate.

[70] At a lower temperature, in order to reduce the heat loss of the lamp 30 and smoothly drain the water permeated inside the frame, the upper face of the bottom 212 may be formed so as to minimize the contact area between the lamp housing 50 and the flat bottom face of the waveguide plate 302. For example, it is preferable a depressed and prominent surface forming a line contact or a point contact. Of course, conversely, the lamp housing 50 may be formed of a depressed and prominent face and the upper face of the bottom 210 may be formed of a flat face. For a smooth drainage, such a depressed and prominent face may be extended until the waveguide supporting bottom 210.

[71] On top of the waveguide plate 302 is rest a transparent or translucent film 400 exhibiting an advertising content. The film 400 is fixed by being pressed by the cover 200a to 20Od. As described above, the light source device 100 itself has a waterproof function. In order to provide an improved waterproof function, however, it is preferable to provide another waterproofing measure. For this purpose, a waterproof film 240 is further installed in the outer face of the light source device 100. Specifically, both end portions of the light source device 100, where the plug 60a, 60b and the lamp housing 50 are contacted with each other, is weak for waterproofing. Thus, the waterproofing film 240 is installed so as to wrap around the both end portions. One edge area widthwise of the waterproofing film 240 covers the edge portion of the film 400 when the light source device 100 is placed in the upper lateral side of the waveguide plate 302 in the practically installed state. Otherwise, it is covered by the edge portion of the film 400 when the light source device 100 is placed in the lower lateral side of the waveguide plate 302. The waterproofing film 240 is installed in a way as to be extended to the side face of the lamp housing 50 while wrapping around the side face thereof facing the sidewall 214 of the frame, and then again bent towards the upper side of the sidewall 214. Thus, due to the installed wa¬ terproofing film 240, even if a liquid is introduced from the outside through various gaps in the frame set 200, it by-passes to outside of the frame set 200, failing to permeate into the light source device 100 or between the waveguide plate 302 and the film 400.

[72] At the "closed position," each cover member 220a to 22Od presses and holds the edge portion of each side of the film 400 rested on the waveguide plate 302 while covering at least part of the light source device 100-1 to 100-4. At the open position, it provides a space enough to install or remove the film 400 and the light source device 100-1 to 100-4 from the front side. At least one leaf spring 222a, 222b is mounted between the sidewall 214a to 214d and the cover member 220a to 22Od pivotably combined thereto. For example, as shown in Fig. 11, a protrusion 216 having ap¬ proximately a T-shape is extended outwards in a slant form in the upper outer wall of the upper portion of the sidewall 214. A latch groove is provided in the upper and lower portion of the T-protrusion 216. In the cover member 220, a pivot shaft plate 226 bent and extended approximately at a right angle is connected to one edge area of an elongated cover plate 224 having a width to cover at least part of the lamp housing 50. Connected to the other edge area thereof is a pressurizing hand 228 slantly bent and extended to thereby pressurize an object thereunder. The end portion of the pivot shaft plate 226 is formed in a bent shape such that it can be slidably inserted into the latching groove under the T-shaped protrusion 216. A latching groove is formed in the inner wall of the pressurizing hand 228. For example, the end of the pressurizing hand 228 is formed in a slightly wide shape to thereby form a latching groove. The one end of the leaf spring 222 is inserted into the upper latching groove of the T-shaped protrusion 216 and the other end thereof is inserted into the inner latching groove of the pressurizing hand 228 to be bent and remain in a compressed state. The resilient force of the leaf spring 222 is biased so as to downwardly press the pressurizing hand 228 when the cover member 220 is in a closed position. When a user opens the cover member 220 beyond a certain angle of degrees, it is biased so as to completely open it.

[73] The film 400 resting on the waveguide plate 302 has a size such that the edge area of each side can be extended until the pressurizing hand 228 of the cover member 220, and fixed by the frame set 200. The upper face of the light reflector pocket 52 covers the edge area of the waveguide plate 302, as shown in Fig. 11. In this connection structure, when the cover member 220 is in the closed position, the film 400 and the lamp housing of the light source device 100 is pressed by the pressurizing hand 228 of the cover member 220, and the waveguide set 300 is pressed by the top face of the light reflector pocket 52. Therefore, if adopting the leaf spring 222 appropriately, the waveguide set 300 can be fixed only by means of indirect pressing force of the cover member 220 through the lamp housing 50, without using a separate fixing means such as a bolt.

[74] It is preferable that the frame set 200 is formed in a symmetrical shape. It is assumed that the light source device 100 is installed in an empty space between the side face of the waveguide plate where the light source device is not installed and the sidewall of the frame opposing the side face, for example, the light source device 100 is installed in the upper side face and lower side face of the waveguide set 300. At this time, it is preferable that empty spaces between the right sidewall 214b of the frame and the right side face of the waveguide set 300 and between the left sidewall 214d of the frame and the left side face of the waveguide set 300 are filled with an auxiliary member 50-1, 50-2 to firmly support the waveguide set 400 in four directions. Preferably, the auxiliary member 50-1, 50-2 is formed in the same as or similar shape to the lamp housing 50 of the light source device. That is, the widthwise length of the upper face is extended further than the outermost face of the lamp to thereby form a bar shape such that the upper face thereof is overlapped with part of the edge area of the waveguide plate 302. Thus, consistency in shape can be provided. In this way, four sides of the waveguide set 300 are indirectly pressed by means of the cover members 220a to 22Od.

[75] Fig. 12 shows a planar light-emitting device according to a modified embodiment of the invention where the fixing mode of the waveguide set 300 is modified. In this modified embodiment, the waveguide set 300 is fixed in the frame set 200 using a bolt. For this purpose, connection holes are formed in the floor of the frame 210 and ap¬ propriate places of the waveguide plate 302 and then the bolt 312 is connected to the connection holes. Since the waveguide set 300 is directly fixed to the frame set 200 by means of the bolt 312, the upper face of the light reflector pocket 52 does not need to be overlapped with the waveguide plate 302. That is, as illustrated in the figures, the widthwise length in the upper and lower faces of the light reflector pocket 52 is ap¬ proximately extended to the outermost face of the lamp such that the upper face of the light reflector pocket 52 can butt the edge area of the waveguide plate 302 without overlapping. Preferably, the cover 220 has a length so as to cover the bolt 312 such that the bolt 312 is not exposed to outside. The auxiliary member 50-1, 50-2 is formed in the same manner. In the modified embodiment of Fig. 12, since the waveguide set 300 is fixed by means of the bolt and held by means of the cover 220, the waveguide set 300 can be more firmly fixed, as compared with the structure of Fig. 11. However, comparing to the structure of Fig. 11, extra processes for fixing the bolt are needed, that is, the processes for forming a connection hole in the waveguide plate and the floor thereof and connecting the bolt 312 to the connection hole are needed. [76] In the above description, the present invention is explained illustrating a light source device 100 and a planar light-emitting device 500 using the same. However, the description is illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as limiting the technical gist of the invention. For example, applicable lamps are not limited to the CCFL, but any lamps may be adopted as long as they can form a linear lamp section corresponding to the thickness and length of the side face of the waveguide plate. For example, since typically the diameter of an LED is similar to that of the CCFL and not larger than the thickness of the waveguide plate, the lamp section may be constituted using an LED. That is, a plurality of LEDs is linearly arranged so as to correspond to the required length of the light source to thereby form a lamp section. In case of the lamp section for a backlight, the LED lamps must be close to the waveguide plate and thus are preferred to be disposed as dense as possible. The linearly arranged LED lamps can be regarded as a CCFL having the same length. As the lamp is replaced by an LED, the lamp drive section, the lamp holder, and the lamp housing need to be modified to be suitable to the LED. The LED lamp drive section can be selected from well-known ones. In the case of the lamp holder, the PCB where the LED lamp is mounted can serve as a lamp holder. In this case, the PCB with the LED mounted thereon needs to be formed so as to be inserted and fixed into the light reflector pocket of the lamp housing. The LED lamp section can be configured such that each lamp can be turned on and off. In addition, if red, green and blue lamps are alternately arranged to form an LED lamp section, the backlight unit can provide various colored backlight. These features can provide a backlight light source capable of displaying a variety of images. As described above, it is understood to those skilled in the art that the present invention can be modified in various ways within the scope of the invention. Industrial Applicability

[77] As described above, the light source device according to the present invention can be employed as a light source for a planar light-emitting device such as a backlight unit using a waveguide plate. Plural light source devices can be easily connected to implement variable length of a light source. In addition, the light source device has an electrode preheating function and a waterproof function and thus can be used outdoor in the wintertime.

[78] Furthermore, the planar light-emitting device of the invention can be widely applied to a backlight for LDC panels or advertising boards.

[79] Although the present invention has been described with reference to several preferred embodiments, the description is illustrative of the invention and not to be construed as limiting the invention. Various modifications and variations may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

[1] A light source device comprising: a lamp section implemented as a linear light source so as to emit light over a desired length using one or more lamps; a lamp drive section including a circuit for providing a drive power to the lamp, the circuit implemented on a printed circuit board and an output terminal of the circuit being connected to an electrode of the lamp; a lamp housing including a tube member and a light reflector pocket extended over a length corresponding to that of the lamp section while forming an integrated body together, the lamp drive section and the lamp section being received respectively inside of the tube member and the light reflector pocket; and an electrode terminal section including at least one pair of electrode terminals, the electrode terminal being mounted in a desired position of the lamp housing so as to be exposed to outside to be electrically connected from outside, one side of the electrode terminal being electrically connected with the lamp drive section, wherein every element is modularized into an integrated form through the lamp housing.

[2] The light source device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an electrode heating section electrically connected with the electrode terminal, wherein, when an electric power is applied to light the lamp, each electrode of the lamp is heated for a desired period of time to increase ambient temperature of the electrode before the lamp drive section supplies a starting power to the lamp, thereby facilitating a smooth lighting of the lamp.

[3] The light source device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the electrode heating section is composed of a heating material plate and an electrode plate tightly bonded to both side faces of the heating material plate, the heating material plate is composed of a lead wire of the electrode, a heater directly contacted so as to provide an efficient heat conduction with each other, and a heater power supply for supplying to two electrode plates of the heater an electric power needed to heat the heater for a desired period of time.

[4] The light source device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the heating material plate is formed of a fine ceramic configured to be rapidly heated within a few seconds and maintain the elevated temperature when an electric power is applied to the two electrode plates.

[5] The light source device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the heater power supply and/or the lamp drive section are mounted in a singe printed circuit board, and an input terminal of the heater power supply and/or the lamp drive section and the electrode terminal are provided with a connector at the end portions thereof so as provide an easy connection and disconnection.

[6] The light source device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the light reflector pocket is formed in an opened curvature structure having a "c" shape which is opened with a certain width along its longitudinal direction to accommodate the lamp and emit light in one direction, and the lamp housing is formed in a bar-type structure where the light reflector pocket and the tube member are attached to each other while sharing part of them.

[7] The light source device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lamp housing is formed of a metallic material and the outer face and/or inner face of the lamp housing is coated with a material having a lower heat conductivity than that of the metallic material.

[8] The light source device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the linear light source of the lamp section is constructed in such a way that a straight tube-type CCFL or multiple LED lamps are linearly disposed in a single row or in multiple rows.

[9] The light source device as claimed in claim 1 or 8, further comprising a lamp holder for holding the lamp such that the lamp received inside the light reflector pocket can be supported in a stable way.

[10] The light source device as claimed in claim 9, wherein, in the case where the lamp is a straight tube-type CCFL, the lamp holder is formed of a flexible material, the lamp holder includes a first lamp holder and a second lamp holder inserted into both ends of the light reflector pocket with first and second end portions of the lamp inserted into a through-hole provided in the body, and the lead wire connected to the electrode of the lamp passes through the through-hole and is then extended to inside the tube member.

[11] The light source device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tube member is provided with an opening at both end portions, the two openings are closed with a first plug and a second plug respectively, the electrode terminal is mounted in the first and second plugs respectively in parallel.

[12] The light source device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the first and second plugs are provided with a first groove and a second groove formed inwardly of the tube member at a desired position of the body, and the electrode terminal is installed in a way as to be protruded towards the groove entrance from the bottom of the first and second grooves or as to be embedded inside the groove bottom.

[13] The light source device as claimed in claim 11, further comprising a connection jack formed of an insulation material, the connection jack including a body with its part snugly inserted into the first and second grooves and a connection terminal disposed inside the body to be electrically connected with the first and second electrode terminals when the body is inserted into the first and second grooves, wherein the connection jack is inserted into the first and second grooves respectively of the light source device such that the light source devices are linearly and closed connected to one another in parallel.

[14] The light source device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the light reflector pocket is further provided with a light reflective layer or a light reflective film on its inner wall for improving light reflection efficiency.

[15] The light source device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lamp drive section includes a boost converter for increasing a first direct current voltage having a desired level, and an inverter for converting into a high-frequency alternating current voltage using the increased direct current voltage and supplying a driving power to the lamp.

[16] The light source device as claimed in claim 15, wherein the lamp drive section further includes a bridge circuitry for rectifying an alternating current power supplied through the electrode terminal and converting into a direct current, and the first direct current voltage includes a direct current voltage externally supplied through the electrode terminal or a direct current voltage supplied from the bridge circuitry.

[17] The light source device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lamp drive section further includes a pre-heater circuit for applying a desired pre-heating voltage to the lamp electrode so that ambient temperature of the lamp electrode is increased to thereby facilitate a smooth lighting of the lamp.

[18] A light source device comprising: a lamp section implemented as a linear light source so as to emit light over a desired length using one or more lamps; a lamp drive section including a circuit for providing a drive power to the lamp, the circuit implemented on a printed circuit board and an output terminal of the circuit being connected to an electrode of the lamp; a lamp housing extending over a length corresponding to that of the lamp section and formed of a metallic material having a good heat conductivity, the lamp housing including a light reflector pocket and a tube member, the light being formed in an opened curvatured structure such as a "c" shape or other similar shapes which is opened with a certain width along its longitudinal direction to accommodate the lamp and emit light in one direction, the tube member extended over approximately the same length as the light reflector pocket and forming an integrated piece therewith while sharing part of each other to thereby receive the power supply module; an electrode terminal section including a first plug and a second plug for closing both opening holes of the tube member and an electrode terminal mounted re¬ spectively in the first and second plug, the electrode terminal being capable of electrically connecting from outside and being connected with the power supply module, the electrode terminal mounted in the first plug and the electrode terminal mounted in the second plug being connected in parallel; and a lamp holder for holding the lamp such that the lamp is installed inside the light reflector pocket in a stable way, wherein every element is modularized into an integrated form through the lamp housing.

[19] The light source device as claimed in claim 18, further comprising an electrode heating section for increasing ambient temperature of the lamp electrode to facilitate a smooth lighting of the lamp, the electrode heating section including a heater composed of a heating material plate and an electrode plate tightly bonded to both side faces of the heating material plate so as to be rapidly heated when an electric power is applied to the electrode plate, the heating material plate being directly contacted with the lead wire of the electrode so as to provide an efficient heat conduction with each other; and a heater power supply for supplying to two electrode plates of the heater an electric power to heat them before the lamp drive section supplies a starting power to the lamp, when an electric power for lighting the lamp is applied.

[20] The light source device as claimed in claim 18, wherein the linear light source of the lamp section is constructed in such a way that a straight tube-type CCFL or multiple LED lamps are linearly disposed in a single row or in multiple rows.

[21] The light source device as claimed in claim 20, wherein, in the case where the lamp is a straight tube-type CCFL, the lamp holder is formed of a flexible material, the lamp holder includes a first lamp holder and a second lamp holder inserted into both ends of the light reflector pocket with first and second end portions of the lamp inserted into a through-hole provided in the body, and the lead wire connected to the electrode of the lamp passes through the through-hole and is then extended to inside the tube member.

[22] The light source device as clamed in claim 18, wherein the lamp housing is coated or attached, in its outer face, with a material having a lower heat con¬ ductivity than that of the metallic material.

[23] The light source device as claimed in claim 3 or 19, further comprising a power supply controller configured in such a way that, when an electric power is introduced into the lamp drive section, it is provided only to the heater power supply, and then supplied only to the lamp drive section while interrupting the power supply to the heater power supply, when no power consumption is detected from the heater or a certain time period lapses.

[24] A planar light-emitting device comprising: a waveguide plate, a laterally incident light being scattered and reflected by means of a light scattering element formed in a bottom face and emitted towards an upper face by means of the waveguide plate; at least one light source module in which a lamp section composed of one or more lamps and a lamp drive section for providing a drive power to the lamp are mounted in an integral lamp housing to form one module, the lamp section being formed of a linear light source emitting over a desired length, the light source module being disposed such that the lamp is close to at least one side face of the waveguide plate; and a frame supporting the waveguide plate and the light source module in such a way that the lamp of the light source module approaches at least one side face of the waveguide plate, the fame adopting a cover structure that can be pivoted so as to be opened and closed from front side and cover and press the edge portion of the light source module and/or the waveguide plate at a closed position, wherein the cover is opened to detachably attach the light source module and the waveguide plate from front side.

[25] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 24, further comprising a waterproof film rested on the waveguide plate, the waterproof film wrapping around part of the light source module while covering the edge portion of a film held by the cover structure or being covered by the edge portion of the film, such that external liquid, even if introduced through crevice of the frame, can not be permeated into the light source module, but bypass to outside.

[26] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 24 or 25, wherein the light source module includes a lamp section implemented as a linear light source so as to emit light over a desired length using one or more lamps, correspondingly to light incident side face of the waveguide plate; a lamp drive section including a circuit for providing a drive power to the lamp, the circuit implemented on a printed circuit board and an output terminal of the circuit being connected to an electrode of the lamp; a lamp housing including a tube member and a light reflector pocket extended over a length corresponding to that of the lamp section while forming an integrated body together, the lamp drive section and the lamp section being received respectively inside of the tube member and the light reflector pocket; and an electrode terminal section including at least one pair of electrode terminals, the electrode terminal being mounted in a desired position of the lamp housing so as to be exposed to outside to be electrically connected from outside, one side of the electrode terminal being electrically connected with the lamp drive section, wherein every element is modularized into an integrated form through the lamp housing.

[27] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 26, wherein the frame includes a floor receiving and supporting the light source module and the waveguide plate; sidewalls upright from each edge of the floor; and a cover member pivotably coupled to each of the sidewalls such that, at a closed position, the cover member presses and holds the edge portion of the film rested on the waveguide plate while covering at least part of the light source module, and at an "open position," the cove member provides a space enough to install or remove the film and the light source module from front side.

[28] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 27, wherein a first latching groove and a second latching groove are formed in a desired position re¬ spectively of the upper end of the sidewalls and the inner face of the cover member, a compressed leaf spring is further provided between each sidewall and the first and second latching grooves of the cover member pivotably combined therewith, and resilient force of the leaf spring causes the cover member to hold the film not to be escaped.

[29] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 26, wherein the light reflector pocket is formed in a "c" shape or similar shapes thereto which is opened with a certain width along its longitudinal direction to accommodate the lamp and emit light in one direction, and the lamp housing is formed in a bar- type structure where the light reflector pocket and the tube member are attached to each other while sharing part of them.

[30] The planer light-emitting device as claimed in claim 29, further comprising an auxiliary member having a similar shape to the lamp housing or a bar-type member, the auxiliary member filling an empty space between a side face where the light source module is not installed among the side faces of the waveguide side faces and the frame sidewall opposing the side face to thereby support the waveguide plate laterally.

[31] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 30, wherein the width wise length of the upper face of the light reflector pocket and/or the auxiliary member is extended further than the outermost face of the lamp such that the upper face thereof is overlapped with part of the edge area of the waveguide plate, so that the cover structure presses the lamp housing and/or the auxiliary member to thereby indirectly press the waveguide plate.

[32] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 30, wherein the widthwise length in the upper and lower faces of the light reflector pocket and/or the auxiliary member are extended to the outermost face of the lamp such that the upper face of the light reflector pocket and/or the auxiliary member can butt the edge area of the waveguide plate without overlapping when the lamp approaches the lateral face of the waveguide plate.

[33] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 26, further comprising a connection jack closely parallel-connecting a plurality of light source modules in a linear fashion, and the plurality of light source modules closely and linearly connected by means of the connection jack is disposed on the light incident face of the waveguide plate.

[34] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 33, wherein the connection jack includes a body made of an insulation material and a connection terminal disposed in a desired position of the body, and the body is snugly inserted into a groove formed in the plug of two light source modules to be connected such that the connection terminal can be electrically connected with the electrode terminal.

[35] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 26, further comprising a cable-type connection jack closely disposing at least one of the light source modules respectively in both side faces of the opposing waveguide plates and parallel-connecting the light source modules disposed in the both side faces, the cable-type connection jack is provided with a connection jack formed at both ends of the cable and includes a body made of an insulation material and a connection terminal disposed in a desired position of the body, and the body is snugly inserted into a groove formed in the plug of two light source modules to be connected such that the connection terminal can be electrically connected with the electrode terminal.

[36] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 24 or 25, wherein the edge portion of the lamp housing is configured to cover the edge portion of the waveguide plate so that the waveguide plate is fixed to the frame by means of a pressing force of the cover structure exerted on the lamp housing without using a separate fixing means.

[37] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 24 or 25, wherein the bottom of the frame supporting the waveguide plate has a stepped structure such that a first bottom portion supporting the lamp housing and a second bottom portion have different height, one end of the second bottom portion abuts one lateral face of the lamp housing so as not to approach the lateral face of the waveguide plate beyond a certain limited position, and a piece is inserted between the sidewall of the frame and the opposing sidewall of the lamp housing so as to push the lamp housing towards the waveguide plate.

[38] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 24 or 25, wherein either one of the top face of the frame floor or the bottom face of the lamp housing floor is structured to make a line or point contact in order to reduce contacting area and facilitate a smooth drain.

[39] The planar light-emitting device as claimed in claim 25, wherein the waterproof film is installed in such a way that it wraps around the entire light source module along its lengthwise direction, and such that, in its widthwise direction, one end portion thereof covers the edge portion of the film placed above the waveguide plate or is covered by the film and the other opposing end portion is bent at the bottom of the lateral face of the lamp housing and directed towards the upper portion of the sidewall of the frame while wrapping around the lateral face of the lamp housing facing the sidewall of the frame.