WO2007117058A2

WO2007117058A2 - Image display apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2007117058A2
Application number: PCT/KR2006/002820
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jin Uk Baek; Seok Bong Han; Jong Man Park
Original assignee: Lg Electronics Inc.
Priority date: 2006-04-11
Filing date: 2006-07-19
Publication date: 2007-10-18
Also published as: WO2007117058A3

Abstract

An image display apparatus includes a display for outputting an image, a supporting device supporting the display and having a front surface on which an optical surface for reflecting and diffusing light is formed, and a light emission device emitting the light to the optical surface.

Description

IMAGE DISPLAY APPARATUS

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to an image display apparatus, and more particularly, to an image display apparatus that can improve an installing stabilization and a space efficiency and can be formed to be slim by improving a structure of a supporting device for supporting a display device. Background Art

[2] Generally, an image display apparatus includes a display device for displaying an image and a supporting device for supporting the display device. The display device may be a monitor or a television. The supporting device includes a stand standing on a supporting surface and ωupled to a rear surface of the display device and a base horizontally coupled to a lower end of the stand.

[3] That is, the display device is pivotally ωupled to a top of the stand by a hinge. To prevent the display device frαn falling down due to moment generated by the load, the base has a relatively wide area.

[4] In the above-described image display apparatus, since the display device, the stand and the base are provided as separated units, the number of parts increases and the space efficiency of a place where the display apparatus will be installed is not good.

[5] Due to the large number of parts, it is difficult to assemble the display apparatus and thus the manufacturing cost increases.

[6] Furthermore, since the parts cannot be properly disposed in the display device, a thickness of the display device increases, thereby deteriorating the quality of the flat display device.

[7] In addition, since the hinge provided between the display device and the supporting device is too long, the volume taken by the display device increases, thereby deteriorating the space efficiency. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[8] An object of the present invention is to provide an image display apparatus that substantially obviates one or more problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art.

[9] Another object of the present invention is to provide an image display apparatus in which a display supporting device is simplified and which can prevent the display device from falling down and reduce an overall volume to improve the space efficiency.

[10] Futher another object of the present invention is to provide an image display apparatus that can be manufactured by the relatively small number of parts, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost.

[11] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an image display apparatus that can reduce a thickness of a flat display panel by properly disposing internal parts of a display device.

[12] Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide an image display apparatus that is reduced in a size by compactly mounting a hinge between a display device and a supporting device, thereby improving the space efficiency and satisfying a user.

[13] Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide an image display apparatus that has a simple, inexpensive stand by improving the structure of a hinge provided between a display device and a supporting device, thereby reducing the overall size of the display apparatus. Technical Solution

[14] To achieve these objects and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, there is provided An image display apparatus including: a display for outputting an image; a supporting device supporting the display and having a front surface on which an optical surface for reflecting and diffusing light is formed; and a light emission device emitting the light to the optical surface.

[15] In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image display apparatus including: a display; a light emission device mounted on the display; and a supporting device supporting the display and having a reflective surface for reflecting light emitted from the light emission device.

[16] In still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image display apparatus including: a display module; a supporting device to which the display module is coupled and which has a front concave surface, wherein a diameter of the supporting device is reduced as it goes upward; and a rotational member connecting the display module to the supporting device.

[17] In still yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image display apparatus including: a display; and a supporting device curved rearward at a predetermined curvature, the supporting device having a curved front surface whose color is different frctn those of other portions. Advantageous Effects

[18] According to the present invention, since the apparatus is thin, a variety of desires of the consumers for the flat display can be satisfied. [19] That is, the structure of the display device is simple, the falling down of the display apparatus can be prevented, and the volume of the apparatus is reduced to improve the space efficiency. [20] In addition, since the number of parts used for the display apparatus is reduced, the manufacturing process is simple and the manufacturing cost is reduced. In addition, the apparatus can be easily installed. [21] In addition, since the arrangement of the part of the display module can be optimized, the thickness of the flat display can be reduced to improve the emotional satisfaction of the user. [22] Furthermore, since the hinge between the display and the supporting device is relatively small, a front-rear length of the image display apparatus is reduced to improve the space efficiency.

[23] Since the hinge between the display and the supporting device is simple, the manufacturing cost of the supporting device can be reduced and the overall size of the display can be reduced. [24] In addition, since the light emission device is provided o the supporting device supporting the display, the user can easily identify if the display is in a power saving mode in a state where the display is turned off. [25] Furthermore, the light emission device allows the user can easily manipulate the keyboard even in a dark place. [26] Since the power consumption for driving the light emission device is lower than that for the conventional saving mode of the display, the overall power consumption can be reduced. [27] Since the display is automatically turned on and off when the user's hand approaches within a predetermined distance from the supporting device, no separate on/bff button is required. Therefore, the outer appearance of the display can be improved. Since the light emission device is also turned on and off in response to the on/bff operation of the display, the user can clearly identify the on/bff state of the display.

Brief Description of the Drawings [28] Hg. 1 is a perspective view of an image display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[29] Hg. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the image display apparatus of Rg. 1 ;

[30] Rg. 3 is a rear perspective view of a printed circuit board (PCB) bracket of a display depicted in Rg. 1;

[31] Rg.4 is a rear perspective view of a main frame of the display depicted in Rg. 1 ;

[32] Rg. 5 is a rear perspective view of a rear cabinet of the display depicted in Rg. 1 ;

[33] Rg. 6 is a rear perspective view of a rotational member of the display depicted in

Rg. l;

[34] Rg. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the rotational member of Hg. 6;

[35] Rg. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a front cover of a supporting device depicted in Rg. 1;

[36] Rg. 9 is a longitudinal sectional view of the supporting device of Rg. 8;

[37] Rg. 10 is a front perspective view of a front cover of the supporting device of Rg. l;

[38] Rg. 11 is a rear perspective view of the front cover of Rg. 10;

[39] Rg. 12 is a front perspective view of a weight balance of the supporting device of

Hg. 1;

[40] Rg. 13 is a rear perspective view of the weight balance of Hg. 12;

[41] Rg. 14 is a perspective view of a supporting member of the supporting device of

Hg. 1;

[42] Rg. 15 is a perspective view of a top cover of the supporting device of Rg. 1 ;

[43] Rg. 16 is a rear perspective view of a back cover of the supporting device of Rg. 1 ;

[44] Rg. 17 is a front perspective view of the supporting device, illustrating light projected toward a reflective surface of the supporting device of Hg. 1; and

[45] Rg. 18 is a side sectional view of an image output device illustrating light reflected from the supporting device of Rg. 1. Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[46] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully oonvey the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[47] Hg. 1 is a perspective view of an image display apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention and Hg. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the image display apparatus of Rg. 1.

[48] Referring to Rgs. 1 and 2, an image display apparatus 1 according to the present invention includes a display 10 for displaying an image, a supporting device 40 for supporting the display 10, a signal cable 29 for transmitting an image signal to the display 10, and a coupling member 50 coupled to an end portion of the signal cable 29. A power cable and signal cable extending from a main body such as a computer are coupled to the coupling member 50.

[49] That is, the display 10 includes a display module 12 displaying an image, a front frame 11 disposed around a front edge of the display module 12, a main frame 16 coupled to a rear surface of the display module 12 to protect the display module 12, an inverter coupled to a front surface of the main frame 16 to supply electric, power to the display module by inverting a direct current into an alternating current and boosting and outputting the voltage, and a main control unit 14 for controlling the drive of the inverter 15 and the transmitting and receiving of the image signal.

[50] As the display module, an LCD, PDP or OLED that can display an image may be used.

[51] The display 10 includes a bracket 13 coupled to the front surface of the main frame

16 and a rear cabinet 17 disposed in rear of the main frame 16 and coupled to the front frame 11. A variety of parts including the inverter 15 and the main control unit 14 are mounted on and protected by the bracket 13.

[52] Meanwhile, a rotational member 60 is coupled to the rear surface of the main frame

16. The rotational member penetrates at least partly the rear cabinet 17 and is coupled to the supporting device 40.

[53] In the above-described display 10, the internal parts mounted in the display 10 are concentrated on a central portion of the main frame 16 to make the display 10 slim. That is, an edge portion of the display can be thinner that that of the conventional display device. Namely, since the internal parts mounted in the display 10 are supported on the central portion of the main frame 16, a thickness of the central portion of the display 10 is greater than the edge portion of the display 10. Therefore, the user feels as if the edge portion of the display 10 is thinner than its real thickness.

[54] When the internal parts are disposed as described above, since the edge portion of the rear cabinet 17 is thinner than the central portion of the rear cabinet 17 when viewed from a side, the user's satisfaction can be improved. Furthermore, since the rear cabinet 17 has a central portion thicker than an edge portion, the user's satisfaction can be more improved. In addition, since the rear cabinet 17 is formed of a single plate without any parting line or hole, the user cannot feel the thickness different to its outer appearance. In addition, since a cover for coupling the rotational member or a heat dissipation hole can be eliminated from the rear cabinet 17, the surface of the rear cabinet 17 can be smoothly formed.

[55] The coupling member 50 includes a cable terminal in which the power cable will be inserted and a signal terminal in which a cable extending frcm the main body such as the computer will be inserted.

[56] Major parts of the display 10 will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[57] Rg. 3 is a rear perspective view of the bracket of the display.

[58] Referring to Rg. 3, the bracket 13 is disposed in front of the main frame 16 and the inverter 15 and the main control unit 14 are coupled in rear of the bracket 13.

[59] The bracket 13 is provided with a plurality of fixing hooks 131 , an inverter fbdng rib 132 disposed near the fixing hooks 131 to fix the inverter 15, a plurality of main control unit coupling hooks 133, and a main control unit fixing rib 134 formed near the main control unit coupling hook 133 to fix the main control unit 14.

[60] A plurality of coupling bosses 135 protrude frcm a rear surface of the bracket 13. A coupling member penetrating the main frame 16 is formed on the coupling boss 135. Other parts in addition to the inverter 15 and the main control unit 14 may be mounted inside the bracket 13. That is, it is a feature of the present invention that, since the parts are concentrically mounted on the bracket 13, the thickness of the display 10 is minimized at the edge portion of the display 10. To achieve this, the bracket 13 is mounted on the central portion of the main frame 16.

[61] In addition, the bracket 13 is formed of a metal material to quickly dissipate heat, thereby preventing the display module 12 frcm being damaged by the heat emitted from the parts such as the main control unit 14 and the inverter 15. Needless to say, it is preferable that all of the parts are mounted on the bracket 13.

[62] Rg. 4 is a rear perspective view of the main frame.

[63] Referring to Rg. 4, the main frame 16 is disposed in front of the rear cabinet 17.

Like the bracket 13, the main frame is formed of a metal material to quickly dissipate the heat, thereby preventing the display module 12 or other parts from being damaged by the heat emitted from the parts.

[64] That is, in the conventional display, a variety of parts such as the inverter, PCB and the like stud the display module. Therefore, the thickness of the edge portion of the display increases by the thickness of the studded part. However, in the display according to the present invention, since the variety of parts are ωncentrically arranged on the central portion of the display module 12, the edge portion of the display is relatively thin.

[65] Meanwhile, a rotational member coupling portion 163 is formed on an approximately central portion of the rear surface of the main frame 16. That is, the rotational member coupling portion 163 includes a hook rib 164 on which an edge portion of a display supporting portion (61 of Hg. 6) of the rotational member 60 is hooked, a firing rib 165 for fixing the side edge portion of the rotational member 60, a shaft insertion hole 167 in which a shaft (62 of Hg. 6) of the rotational member 60 is inserted, and a coupling hole 166 in which the coupling member penetrating the display supporting portion 61 is inserted.

[66] The hook rib 164 protrudes rearward and is bent so that the upper edge portion of the display supporting portion 61 can be hooked thereon. The coupling hole 166 is formed at locations where coupling members penetrating four corners of the display supporting portion 61.

[67] The rotational member coupling portion 163 may be formed near a central portion and lower edge portion of the main frame 16. Therefore, a height of the display 10 is determined according to a position where the rotational member 60 is mounted. That is, the fixing position of the rotational member 60 can be selected by a user or a manufacturer. The rotational member coupling portion 163 is not limited to the above- described structure. That is, the rotational member coupling portion 163 can be formed in a variety of structures.

[68] However, a main ooncept of the present invention is in that the rotational member

60 is coupled to the main frame 16 supporting the display module and the rotational member coupling portions 163 can be formed at a plurality of locations. Hg. 4 shows that the rotational member 60 is fixed near a lower edge portion of the main frame 16.

[69] Hg. 5 is a rear perspective view of the rear cabinet of the display according to the present invention.

[70] Referring to Hg. 5, the rear cabinet 17 of the present invention defines a rear surface of the display 10. Unlike the conventional rear cabinets, the rear cabinet of the present invention is formed through an injection molding process to have a smooth overall surface.

[71] According to the conventional display, a variety of holes or grooves such as heat dissipation holes for dissipating the heat generated from the display module and the PCB, cover holes for coupling the cover covering the rotational member, or cable grooves for coupling the power cable are scattered and formed. Furthermore, since the rear surface of the rear cabinet is formed not to have a smooth surface but many steps, a thickness of the display increases and the outer appearance of the rear portion is deteriorated. Furthermore, the stepped rear surface makes it difficult to perform the assembling process in the assembling lines.

[72] However, no heat dissipation hole, cover or cable groove is formed on the rear cabinet 17 according to the present invention to provide a smooth surface. Furthermore, since no additional part such as the cover member is coupled thereto, a coupling line (parting line) between the coupled part and the rear cabinet 17 can be eliminated. Therefore, the outer appearance of the rear cabinet 17 can be improved.

[73] That is, the rear cabinet 17 according to the present invention is not provided with any protrusions or holes but only a penetration sleeve 171 in which the rotational member 60 inserted. The penetration sleeve 171 protrudes rearward by a predetermined length from a central portion or a lower end of the rear cabinet 17 according to the production specification. That is, the rotational member coupling portion 163 formed on the rear surface of the main frame 16 may be formed the central portion and lower end of the main frame 16. Therefore, the forming position of the penetration sleeve 171 may be compatible with other rear cabinets 17.

[74] Meanwhile, The rear cabinet 17 protrudes rearward as it goes from the edge portion to the central portion. That is, in order to prevent interference with a part seating portion 161 protruding inward of the main frame 16, the central portion of the rear cabinet 17 protrudes by a predetermined height higher than that of the edge portion.

[75] However, since the surface of the rear cabinet 17 is smoothly formed without any parting lines, hole or steps, the user cannot easily feel the protrusion of the central portion of the rear cabinet 17. That is, the overall thickness of the display 10 is felt to be same as the thickness of the edge portion of the display 10, thereby improving the user satisfaction.

[76] That is, the penetration sleeve 171 extends rearward from the rear-lower portion of the rear cabinet 17 and is provided with a hollow portion. The rotational member 60 mounted on the rear surface of the main frame 16 penetrates the hollow portion and is coupled to the supporting device 40. Here, the hollow portion is formed to have a size preventing the display 10 pivoting in a vertical direction from interfering with the penetration sleeve 171. The penetration sleeve 171 can be formed to have a cross- section formed in a variety of shapes such as a circular shape, a polygonal shape and the like. The penetration sleeve 171 is integrally formed with the rear cabinet 17. As shown in the drawing, the penetration sleeve 171 protrudes from the rear surface of the rear cabinet 17 is gently curved frαn the rear surface to improve the outer appearance. If required, a lower portion of the penetration sleeve 171 , which is not observed by naked eyes of the user, may be emitted.

[77] Since no additional part except for the penetration sleeve 171 extending at a gentle curve is coupled to the rear cabinet 17 and no step is formed on the rear surface of the rear cabinet 17, it can be easily manufacture through the injection molding process, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process.

[78] Furthermore, in the image display apparatus 1 according to the presentinvention, since the rotational member 60 is coupled to the main frame 16, the rear cabinet 17 does not require a cover member for covering the rotational member 60. Therefore, the outer appearance of the rear cabinet 17 is smooth. In addition, since the penetration sleeve 171 is inserted or aligned in the supporting device 40, it cannot be observed frαn an external side. Furthermore, since there is no sharp corner or point, the supporting device 40 does not involve any risk for the user handling the same.

[79] A light emission device cover 172 is attached to a lower end portion of the rear cabinet 17 below the penetration sleeve 171 and a light transmission window 173 is formed on the light emission device cover 172. Therefore, the light emitted from a light emission device 70 is irradiated to a reflective surface of the supporting device 40 through the light transmission window 173. Furthermore, the light emission device cover 172 is detachably mounted on the rear cabinet 17 so that it is easy to replace or repair the light emission device 70.

[80] Hg. 6 is a rear perspective view of a rotational member mounted on the display and

Hg. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the rotational member of Hg. 6.

[81] Referring to Rgs. 6 and 7, the rotational member mounted on the display 10 according to the present invention has first and second ends ωupled respectively to the main frame 16 and the supporting device 40, respectively.

[82] That is, the rotational member 60 includes the display supporting portion 61 attached to the rear surface of the main frame 16, the shaft 62 extending rearward from the rear surface of the display supporting portion 61, the hinge 63 crossing the shaft 62 at an end of the shaft 62, washers 66 and tighten nuts 65 inserted in the hinge 63, and fixing members 64 fitted between the washers 66 and fixedly ωupled to the supporting device 40.

[83] The shaft 62 may be integrally formed with the display supporting portion 61 or fixedly fitted on the rear surface of the display supporting portion 61. When the shaft 62 is fitted on the display supporting device 61 as a separate unit, there is a need to prevent the idling of the display supporting portion 61 around the shaft 62. Therefore, in order to prevent the idling, one side portion of the outer drcumference of the shaft

62 coupled to the supporting portion 61 is cut away as shown in Hgs. 6 and 7. When the shaft 62 is formed in a cylindrical shape without the cut-away portion, it is tightly inserted in a boss 612 so that it can be supported by factional force. Therefore, the display 10 rotates about its axis to realize the portrait mode.

[84] In addition, the hinge 63 coupled to the shaft 62 in a crossing direction is integrally formed with the shaft 62 to rotate together with the shaft 62. Alternatively, the hinge

63 may be fitted to the shaft 62 so that only the shaft 62 can rotate. Preferably, the hinge 63 may be integrally formed with the shaft 62 to rotate together.

[85] That is, in order to prevent the hinge 63 and the shaft 62 from rotating together and to prevent the display 10 from inadvertently rotating by gravity, the washers 66 are fitted around the hinge 63. In order to allow the tighten nuts 65 to be tightened on the outer drcumference of the end portion of the hinge 63, a thread is formed on the outer drcumference of the end portion of the hinge 63. That is, in order to prevent the hinge 63 from inadvertently rotating by the load of the display 10, at least a portion of the hinge 63 has an outer drcumference cut by a D-cut process and at least one washer 66 is fitted around the hinge 63. The washer 66 may be a normal washer or a spring washer. At least one of the washers 66 fitted around the hinge 63 has a hole formed in a shape identical to a cross-section of the hinge 63 cut by the D-cut process so that the washer 66 can rotate together with the hinge 63. Another washer is further fitted around the hinge 63 in front and rear of the washer 66 having the hole formed in the shape identical to the cross-section of the hinge 63 cut by the D-cut process. As the hinge 63 rotates by the above described assembling structure, frictional force is generated between the washers, thereby preventing the display 10 from falling down by its gravity and making it possible to adjust the display at a desired inclination.

[86] In addition, the fixing member 64 is bent at a portion to be divided into two sections with reference to the bent portion. One of the two sections of the fixing member 64 is fitted around the hinge 63 and the other is coupled to the supporting device 40. A plurality of coupling holes are formed on the section coupled to the supporting device 40 so that the coupling members can be inserted through the coupling holes. The assembly of the fixing member 64 and the supporting device 40 will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [87] The washers 63 are inserted around the hinge 63 in front and rear of the section fitted around the hinge 63 to prevent the fixing member 64 from directly contacting the shaft 62, thereby preventing the abrasion of the fixing member 64 and the shaft 62. By properly adjusting the tightening degree of the tighten nut 65, the display 10 can smoothly rotate without falling down by its load.

[88] At least one of the washers 63 is provided with a rotation restriction portion 68 to prevent the display supporting portion 61 from rotating over a predetermined angle. That is, when the display supporting portion 61 rotates by the predetermined angle, the rotation restriction portion 68 contacts the fixing member 64 to prevent the display supporting portion 61 from further rotating. Therefore, when the display device excessively rotates downward, the rotation restriction portion 68 prevents the display device from being damage.

[89] In addition, a coupling hole 611 is formed on a corner portion of the display supporting portion 61 so that a coupling member is inserted through the coupling hole 611. The coupling member inserted through the coupling hole 611 is further inserted through the coupling hole 166 of the main frame 16 so that the rotational member 60 can be fixed on the rear surface of the main frame 16.

[90] As described above, the rotational member 60 according to the present invention has a first end fixed to the main frame 16 and a second end coupled to the supporting member 25 of the supporting device. In this state, the main frame 16 can rotate relative to the supporting member 25. Therefore, a distance between the main frame 16 and the supporting member 25 can be reduced and a distance between the display device and the supporting device is also reduced. As a result, by the structure of the rotational member and the mounting structure of the rotational member, the display device can be more compact, thereby more reliably preventing the display 10 frαn falling down. Needless to say, the structure of the hinge is simplified, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs and improving the convenience of the manufacturing process.

[91] Rg. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the display supporting device and Rg. 9 is a longitudinal sectional view of the supporting device.

[92] Referring to Rgs. 8 and 9, unlike the conventional supporting device, the supporting device 40 supporting the display 10 does not require a separate base member.

[93] That is, the supporting device 40 includes a front cover formed having a predetermined curvature, a weight balance 42 coupled to a rear surface of the front cover 41 to support the load of the display 10, a supporting member 43 disposed on a top surface of the weight balance 42 to transmit the load of the display 10 to the weight balance 42, a back cover 46 covering the rear surface of the weight balance 42 and coupled to the front cover 41, a top cover 44 seating on an upper portion of the back cover 46, and a signal cable 45 for transmitting an image signal to the display 10.

[94] The signal cable 45 includes a lead-in portion 452 connected to a cable box 50, a fixing portion 451 connected to an end portion of the lead-in portion 452, and a transmission portion 453 extending from the firing portion 451 and connected to the display 10.

[95] A power cable and a main body signal cable extending frcm the main body such as the computer are connected to the cable box 50. The image signal transmitted frcm the main body signal cable is transmitted to the main control unit 14 of the display through the lead-in portion 452 and the transmission portion 453. The firing portion 451 is fixedly coupled to the weight balance 27 to prevent the signal cable 45 connected to the rear surface of the display 10 from being separated by external force.

[96] The rotational member 60 is coupled to the front surface of the supporting member

43 to transmit the load of the display 10 to the weight balance 42.

[97] By the above-described coupling structure, the weight balance 42 compensates for the moment generated by the gravity of the load of the display 10, thereby preventing the display 10 from falling down frontward.

[98] In addition, the light emitted frcm the light emission device 70 mounted on the rear surface of the display 10 is reflected from the rounded front surface of the supporting device 40 to the user's eyes. Furthermore, by properly adjusting the intensity of the light emitted from the light emission device 70, the supporting device 40 can provide a feeling as if it breathes. That is, the supporting device 40 can provide a luxurious and mysterious feeling. An on/bff interval and on/bff time of the light emission device 70 can be automatically controlled by the control unit. R>r example, the on/bff of the light emission device 70 can be controlled according to whether the display is turned on or off. Alternatively, the light emission device 70 can be controlled such that it is automatically turned off when the display 10 is switched from a normal mode to a power saving mode.

[99] The structures and functions of the parts of the supporting device will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[100] Hg. 10 is a front perspective view of the front cover of the supporting device and

Hg. 11 is a rear perspective view of the front cover.

[101] Referring to Hgs. 10 and 11, the front cover 41 of the supporting device 40 includes a cover body 411 rounded at a predetermined curvature, a bottαn portion 412 extending horizontally from a lower end of the cover body 411, a center boss 417 protruding from a center-rear surface of the oover body 411, and an upper boss 416 protruding from a upper-rear surface of the oover body 411.

[102] As shown in Rgs. 10 and 11 , the cover body 411 is rounded rearward. The reflective surface 415 for reflecting the light is formed on the front surface of the cover body 411. In order to effectively reflect the light emitted frαn the light emission device 70, the reflective surface 415 is super-polished or coated with a color identical to that of the light emitted from the light emission device 70. R>r example, when the light emission device emits red light, the reflective surface 415 may be coated with red color.

[103] In addition, the reflective surface 415 is coated with a color different from that of other portions so that the display device 1 can be distinguished from others or the light emitted from the light emission device 70 can have a different color.

[104] In addition, a cover neck 413 having a relatively narrow width extends from an upper portion of the oover body 411. A top surface of the oover neck 413 is concaved by a predetermined depth to define a rotational member receiving portion 414 preventing the oonfliction with the rotational member 60.

[105] In addition, the center boss 417 protruding from the rear surface of the cover body

411 is formed at a location distanced from the bottom surface by a predetermined height and is inserted in the weight balance 42. The weight balance 42 is fixed on the rear surface of the front cover by a coupling member inserted through the rear surface of the weight balance 42.

[106] In addition, the upper boss 416 is formed at a plurality of locations on the rear surface of the cover neck 413 and inserted in the supporting member 43. The supporting member 43 is fixed on the rear surface of the front oover 41 by a coupling member inserted through the rear surface of the supporting member 43.

[107] The bottom portion 412 of the front cover 41 closely contacts the supporting surface on which the display device 1 is installed. The bottom portion 412 is formed in a crescent shape.

[108] That is, the bottom portion 412 has a relatively small area and is spaced rearward apart from the lower end of the display 10. Therefore, the load of the display 10 generates a moment. In order to support the moment, the weight balance 42 is provided on the bottom portion 412. That is, the load of the weight balance 42 compensates for the moment generated by the load of the display 10. [109] Furthermore, a curvature of the inner circumference of the bottom portion 412 is different from that of the inner cirαmference of the bottom portion 412. That is, a width of the center portion of the bottom portion 412 is greater than those of the side portions of the bottom portion 412. This increases a contact area of the bottom portion 412 with the apparatus supporting surface, thereby preventing the display 10 from falling down.

[110] An anti-sliding member may be attached on the bottom surface 42 to prevent the image display apparatus 1 from sliding when the installing surface of the image display apparatus 1 is inclined at a predetermined angle. The anti-sliding member may be formed of a material such as rubber or velcro-tape having a predetermined friction.

[Ill] Rg. 12 is a front perspective view of the weight balance of the supporting device and Rg. 13 is a rear perspective view of the weight balance.

[112] Referring to Rgs. 12 and 13, the front surface of the weight balance 42 of the supporting device 40 is rounded with a curvature identical to that of the front oover 41. A curvature of the rear surface of the weight balance 42 is identical to that of the back cover 46.

[113] That is, in order to compensate for the moment generated by the load of the display

10, the weight balance 42 is formed to have a predetermined weight or more. Therefore, the weight balance 42 may be formed of a material such as cast iron.

[114] Meanwhile, the weight balance 42 is provided with an insertion hole 421 in which the center boss 417 protruding from the rear surface of the front cover 41 is inserted. The weight balance 42 is provided at the top surface with a supporting member seating portion 422 on which a lower end of the supporting member 43 seats. The supporting member seating portion 422 is provided with a coupling hole 423 to fix the supporting member 43 on the weight balance 42.

[115] The weight balance 42 is provided at a center-rear surface with a guide groove 424 extending from the top surface to the bottom surface. The signal cable 45 is disposed on the guide groove 424 and the fbάng portion 451 of the signal cable 45 is fixed on the lower end of the guide groove 424. Alternatively, the fbdng portion 451 of the signal cable 45 may be coupled to the inner circumference of the lower end of the back cover 46.

[116] In addition, like the bottom surface of the front cover 41, a width B of the middle portion of the lower end of the weight balance 42 is greater than those A of the side portions of the lower end of the weight balance 42.

[117] Rg. 14 is a perspective view of the supporting member of the supporting device. [118] Referring to Rg. 14, the supporting member 43 of the supporting device 40 seats on the top surface of the weight balance 42.

[119] The supporting member 43 includes a base 432 closely contact the top surface of the weight balance 42, a center body 431 extending upward from the base 432, an upper body 433 extending from a top surface of the center body 431, and a top cover coupling portion 434 extending horizontally frαn the upper end of the upper body 433.

[120] That is, the base 432 is rounded to have a curvature identical to that of the top surface of the weight balance 42. The base 432 is provided with coupling holes corresponding to those formed on the top surface of the weight balance 42. Therefore, by the coupling members inserted into the coupling holes, the supporting member 43 can be securely fixed on the weight balance 42. Therefore, the load of the display 10 transmitted through the supporting member 43 is transmitted to the weight balance 42.

[121] Meanwhile, the center body 431 is provided with a plurality of through holes 435.

The upper bosses 416 protruding from the rear surface of the front cover 41 are inserted into the through holes 435. By the coupling members inserted in the upper bosses 416, the supporting member 43 is securely coupled to the rear surface of the front cover 41. That is, the supporting member 43 is dually coupled to the front cover 41 and the weight balance 42 to avoid the shaking during the angle adjustment of the display 10. Furthermore, the load 10 of the display 10 can be dispersed to the weight balance 42 and the front cover 41.

[122] The fbάng portion 64 of the rotational member 60 is coupled to the front surface of the upper body 433. That is, the coupling holes 436 formed on the upper body 433 correspond to the coupling holes formed on the fbάng portion 64 of the rotational member 60. The rotational member 60 is securely coupled to the supporting member 43 by coupling members penetrating the coupling holes.

[123] In addition, a plurality of hook holes 437 is formed on a coupling surface 434 of the top cover and coupling hooks 442 (see Hg. 15) protruding from the bottom surface of the top cover 44 are inserted in the hook holes 437.

[124] By the above-described structure, a moment obtained by multiplying the load of the display 10 with a length of the shaft 62 of the rotational member 60 is applied to the rotational member 60. The load of the front cover 41 and the weight balance compensates for the moment to prevent the display 10 frαn falling down.

[125] Hg. 15 is a perspective view of the top cover of the supporting device.

[126] Referring to Hg. 15, the top cover 44 of the supporting device 40 includes a rounded portion 441 having a top surface concaved with a predetermined curvature, a plurality of coupling hooks 442 protruding frcm the bottom surface of the rounded portion 441, and an extending end 443 extending downward from a bottom edge portion of the rounded portion 441.

[127] That is, the rounded portion 441 of the top cover 44 covers opened top surface to shield the inner space of the rounded portion 441. The extending end 443 closely contacts the top cover coupling surface 434 of the supporting member 43. The coupling hooks 442 are inserted in the hook holes 437 formed on the top cover coupling surface 434.

[128] By the above-described structure, the top cover 44 is detachably coupled to the top surface of the supporting member 43 while covering the top surface of the supporting device 40 to shield the inner space.

[129] Hg. 16 is a rear perspective view of the back cover of the supporting device.

[130] Referring to Rg. 16, the back cover 46 of the supporting device 40 includes a cover body 461 rounded with a curvature identical to that of the front cover 41 and a funnel portion 463 extending from an upper end of the cover body 461. The cover body 461 is provided at a lower-center with a hole through which the lead-in portion 452 of the signal cable 45 passes.

[131] The back cover 46 has a diameter that is gradually reduced as it goes to a portion and increased again from the portion. Here, a portion frαn the bottom surface of the back cover 46 to a portion where the diameter is smallest becomes the cover body 461. A portion from the portion where the diameter becomes the cover neck 462. A portion from the cover neck 462 to a portion where the diameter is largest becomes the funnel portion 463.

[132] Since the back cover 46 is provided with the cover neck 462, the user can easily carry the display apparatus 1. That is, in order to carry the display apparatus 1, the user grasps the cover neck 462 and lefts the display apparatus 1. Since the diameter of the cover neck 462 is relatively small, it is easy for the user to grasp the cover neck 462 using only one hand. Furthermore, the funnel portion 463 prevents the supporting device 40 frαn slipping out of the user's hand.

[133] In addition, since the back cover 46 is gently rounded and the width is gradually reduced and increased again, the overall outer appearance looks like a vase. That is, the overall outer appearance can be improved.

[134] Rg. 17 is a front perspective view of the supporting device, illustrating light emitted toward the reflective surface of the supporting device of Rg. 1 and Rg. 18 is a side sectional view of an image output device illustrating light reflected from the supporting device of Hg. 1.

[135] Referring to Rgs. 17 and 18, the light emission device 70 emits light having a specific wavelength toward the reflective surface 415 of the supporting device 40.

[136] The light directed to the reflective surface 415 is diffused and reflected from the reflective surface 415. That is, since the reflective surface 415 is rounded with a predetermined curvature, the light emitted frcm the light emission device 70 is diffused and reflected by the rounded shape of the reflective surface 415. Therefore, the light diffused and reflected is collected on the overall area of the reflective surface 415.

[137] In addition, when the intensity of the light by adjusting an amount of the current applied to the light emission device 70, an amount of the light reflected from the reflective surface 415 varies. That is, the fade-in and fade-out of the light are repeated as if the light breathes, thereby providing a luxurious and mysterious feeling.

[138] In addition, the moment the display 10 is turned on or off or switched to the power saving mode, the intensity of the light emitted from the light emission device 70 varies so that user can easily identify the fact that the display 10 is turned on or off or switched to the power saving mode.

[139] In addition, a sensor member is mounted on the inner circumference of the supporting device 40 so that the display is turned on or off when the user's hand approaches within a predetermined distance frαn the front oover 41 of the supporting device 40. The moment the user's hand approaches within the predetermined distance or a sink signal is transmitted from the control unit of the display 10, the display 10 can be switched from the saving mode to the normal operation mode. The sink signal is an operational signal transmitted from the control unit of the main body to the display 10. When the sink signal is transmitted to the display 10 for a predetermined time period, the display is automatically switched to the power saving mode. The moment the sink signal is transmitted to the display 10, the display 10 is switched again frαn the power saving mode to the normal operation mode.

[140] When the above-described image display apparatus 1 is associated with the computer, since the light emission device 72 keeps emitting the predetermined intensity of the light, the user can effectively use the keyboard even in the dark place.

[141] Meanwhile, as an preferred embodiment of the present invention, the light emission device 70 is mounted on a rear-lower end of the display 10 and the light emitted from the light emission device 70 is reflected from the reflective surface 415 of the front cover 41.

[142] However, the present invention is not limited to the above case, ϊbr example, the light emission device 70 may be mounted on the front cover 41 and the front oover 41 is formed of a transparent or semi-transparent material so that the light can be emitted from the supporting device 40.

[143] That is, the front oover 41 is formed of the transparent or semi-transparent material and at least one light emission device 70 is mounted on the rear-edge of the front cover. In addition, the front cover 41 and the weight balance 42 are coupled to each other in a state where they are spaced apart from each other. A concave-convex structure may be formed on one of the front surface of the weight balance 42 and the rear surface of the front cover 41 so that the light can be scattered in multi-direction. Here, by properly arranging and sizing the concave-convex structure formed on the front cover 41 and the weight balance 42, the light can be uniformly emitted from the front cover 41 or emitted from a specific portion of the front cover 41.

[144] According to another possible embodiment, a plate deposited with a reflective material may be provided on a bottom of the concaved space formed on the front surface of the front cover 41 and the light emission device may be installed on an upper end of the front oover 41. Here, the plated deposited with the reflective material may extend from a lower end of the front cover 41 or may be separated prepared and coupled to the lower end of the front cover 41.

[145] By the above-described structure, the light emitted from the light emission device is reflected on the plate provided on the bottom of the supporting device 40 and the reflected light 415 is further reflected from the reflective surface 415. Then, the light is diffused and reflected by the front cover 41 rounded with a predetermined curvature. Then, the diffused and reflected light is collected on the reflective surface to provide an effect identical to a case where the light is emitted from the rear surface of the display 10. Industrial Applicability

[146] According to the present invention, the image display apparatus can be formed in a simple structure and prevented from falling down while reducing the overall volume thereof to improve the space efficiency, thereby satisfying a variety of consumer s wants. Therefore, the present invention is very likely to be applied to the industrial field.

Claims

[I] An image display apparatus comprising: a display for outputting an image; a supporting device supporting the display and having a front surface on which an optical surface for reflecting and diffusing light is formed; and a light emission device emitting the light to the optical surface. [2] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light emission device is mounted on the display. [3] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the optical surface is a reflective surface that is curved with a predetermined curvature to reflect the light emitted from the light emission device. [4] The image display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the light emission device is mounted on the supporting device. [5] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the optical surface is transparent or semi-transparent to transmit the light emitted from the light emission device. [6] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light emission device includes an LED (light emitting diode). [7] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the supporting device is curved with a predetermined curvature, a width of the supporting device being gradually reduced as it goes upward and gradually widened again frαn a predetermined portion. [8] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the supporting device is formed in a closed-curve shape having a front surface that is concave. [9] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, further ocmprising: a weight balance mounted in a supporting device and having a predetermined weight to support a load of the display; and a supporting member for pivotally coupling the display to the supporting device. [10] The image display apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the weight of the weight balance is set to endure a moment generated by the load of the display.

II 1] The image display apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the weight balance is formed of cast iron.

[12] The image display apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the display is connected to a front surface of the supporting member and the supporting member seats on the weight balance. [13] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light emission device is gradually or temporarily turned on and off according to the onoff of the display and the operational state of the display. [14] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a rotational member attached to the display to allow for the angle adjustment of the display; and a supporting member mounted in the supporting device to disperse the load of the display transmitted to the rotational member. [15] The image display apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the rotational member is coupled to a front surface of the supporting member. [16] The image display apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a weight balance on which the supporting member seats. [17] The image display apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the supporting member is formed of metal having a predetermined rigidity. [18] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display comprises: a display module for outputting an image; a front frame disposed in front of the display module to protect an edge of the display module; a main frame disposed in rear of the display module to support and protect the display module; a circuit fixed on the main frame to drive the display module; and a rear cabinet for protecting the rear surface of the display. [19] An image display apparatus comprising: a display; a light emission device mounted on the display; and a supporting device supporting the display and having a reflective surface for reflecting light emitted from the light emission device. [20] The image display apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the light emission device is mounted on a rear-lower end of the display and inclined at a predetermined angle. [21] The image display apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the display comprises: a display module; and a front frame disposed in front of the display module to protect an edge of the display module; a main frame disposed in rear of the display module to support and protect the display module; a plurality of circuits fixed on the main frame to drive the display module; and a rear cabinet for protecting the rear surface of the display.

[22] The image display apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the circuits are concentrated on a central portion of the main frame such that a thickness defined by the front frame and the rear cabinet at the central portion is greater than at an edge portion of the main frame. [23] The image display apparatus according to claim 21, further comprising a bracket coupled to a central portion of the main frame, the circuits being coupled to the bracket. [24] The image display apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the central portion of the main frame is concaved to define a circuit seating portion in which the circuits are disposed. [25] The image display apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the rear surface of the rear cabinet is gently curved. [26] The image display apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the front-lower end of the supporting device is disposed in rear of the lower end of the display. [27] The image display apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the supporting device is provided with a grasping portion where a diameter is relatively small. [28] The image display apparatus according to claim 19, wherein a bottom surface of the supporting device has a middle portion having a width greater than those of side edge portions. [29] The image display apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the reflective surface is curved at a predetermined curvature so that the light emitted from the light emission device is reflected and collected. [30] The image display apparatus according to claim 19, wherein a color of the reflective surface is identical to that of the light emitted from the light emission device. [31] An image display apparatus comprising: a display module; a supporting device to which the display module is coupled and which has a front concave surface, wherein a diameter of the supporting device is reduced as it goes upward; and a rotational member connecting the display module to the supporting device. [32] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, wherein a front surface of the supporting device is brighter than a rear surface of the supporting device. [33] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the concave front surface is super-polished or coated with a reflective material. [34] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, further comprising: a light reflective portion provided on a bottom of the concave front surface; and a light emission device mounted on an upper portion of the concave front surface, wherein the light emitted from the light emission device is reflected frαn the light reflective portion to the concave front surface. [35] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, wherein curvatures of inner and outer circumferences of the bottom surface of the supporting device are different from each other. [36] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, wherein a front surface of the supporting device is designed to emit light by itself or illuminated by a light emitting unit. [37] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the supporting device is gradually increased in its diameter from a portion so that a user can effectively grasp. [38] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, wherein an anti-sliding member is attached on a bottom surface of the supporting device. [39] The image display apparatus according to claim 38, wherein the anti-sliding member is formed of rubber or fabric having a rough surface. [40] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the rotational member includes a supporting portion supporting the display module, a shaft extending from a rear surface of the supporting portion, a hinge extending in a direction crossing the shaft, and fmng members fitted around the hinge. [41] The image display apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the rotational member includes a plurality of washers interposed between the fixing members and a tighten nut fitted around the hinge to provide proper frictional force between the washers. [42] The image display apparatus according to claim 40, further comprising: a cabinet for protecting the display module; and a hollow sleeve protruding rearward from the cabinet, the rotational member passing through the sleeve.

[43] The image display apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the sleeve is integrally formed with the cabinet through an injection molding process.

[44] The image display apparatus according to claim 40, wherein at least one end of the hinge is cut through a D-cut process and at least one washer has a hole corresponding to the cut end of the hinge.

[45] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, further comprising a main frame on which a variety of parts for driving the display module are mounted, the main frame being provided with two or more rotational member coupling portions for fibάng the rotational member so that the rotational member can be variably fixed on the main frame.

[46] The image display apparatus according to claim 31, further comprising: a supporting member having a front surface to which the rotational member is coupled; and a weight balance having a top surface on which the supporting member seats, the weight balance oompensating for a mement generated by a load transmitted from the supporting member.

[47] An image display apparatus comprising: a display; and a supporting device curved rearward at a predetermined curvature, the supporting device having a curved front surface whose color is different frαn those of other portions.

[48] The image display apparatus according to claim 47, further comprising a light emission device mounted on one of the display and the supporting device to emit light having a specific wavelength to the curved front surface.

[49] The image display apparatus according to claim 47, wherein the display includes a display module, a front frame for protecting the display module, and a rear cabinet, wherein the rear cabinet has a rear surface has a central portion gently protruding rearward so that a thickness of the display looks thinner.

[50] The image display apparatus according to claim 47, further comprising a rotational member rotatably coupled to the supporting device, wherein the rotational member includes a display supporting portion fixed on the display, a shaft extending rearward frcm the display supporting portion, a hinge extending in a direction crossing an extending direction of the shaft, and a fixing member supported on the hinge and the supporting device. [51] The image display apparatus according to claim 50, wherein a washer is fitted around at least one end of the hinge and a nut is coupled to the end to fix the washer and provide frictional force. [52] The image display apparatus according to claim 50, wherein the display supporting portion is fixed on a main frame in the display. [53] The image display apparatus according to claim 47, further comprising a weight balance received in the supporting device to prevent the display from falling down due to a load of the display. [54] The image display apparatus according to claim 53, wherein a bottom surface of the weight balance is formed in a shape identical to that of a bottom surface of the supporting device. [55] The image display apparatus according to claim 53, wherein a bottom surface of the weight balance is formed in a closed-curve shape having a left-right width greater than a front-rear width. [56] The image display apparatus according to claim 53, wherein a bottom surface of the weight balance are concaved rearward and a curvature of a front edge portion is different from that of a rear edge portion.