WO2007117059A2

WO2007117059A2 - Image display apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2007117059A2
Application number: PCT/KR2006/002821
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jin Uk Baek; Seok Bong Han; Jong Man Park
Original assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Current assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Priority date: 2006-04-11
Filing date: 2006-07-19
Publication date: 2007-10-18
Anticipated expiration: 2008-10-11
Also published as: WO2007117059A3

Abstract

An image display apparatus includes a display for outputting an image, a supporting device supporting the display, the supporting device contacting directly on an installing surface and extending upward, the supporting device being provided with an inner hollow hole, and a light emission unit mounted in the inner hollow hole.

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 coupled 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 ooupled to a top of the stand by a hinge. To prevent the display device from 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] An 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] 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, the supporting device contacting directly on an installing surface and extending upward, the supporting device being provided with an inner hollow hole; and a light emission unit mounted in the inner hollow hole.

[15] In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image display apparatus including: a main frame on which a variety of parts driving a display module are mounted; a cabinet covering the main frame; a rotational member having a first end coupled to a rear surface of the main frame to rotate the display module; and a supporting device to which a second end of the rotational member is coupled.

[16] In still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image display apparatus including: a display; a supporting device supporting the display, the supporting device being provided with a through hole formed in a front-rear direction; a plurality of light emission devices emitting light to an edge portion of the through hole; and a light transmission lens mounted on the edge portion of the through hole.

[17] In still yet 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, the supporting device having a hollow portion having a predetermined diameter and extending in a front-rear direction, wherein a ωlor of at least a portion of an inner surface of the hollow portion is different to that of an outer surface of the supporting device. 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/Off 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^ff operation of the display, the user can clearly identify the onMf 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] Rg. 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 Rg. 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 rear perspective view of a front cover of Rg. 10;

[38] Rg. 11 is a rear perspective view of a light transmission lens according to the present invention;

[39] Rg. 12 is a perspective view of an inner cover of the supporting device of Rg. 1 ;

[40] Rg. 13 is a perspective view of a supporting member of the supporting device of

Rg. l;

[41] Rg. 14 is a perspective view of a light emission plate inserted in the supporting device of Rg. 1;

[42] Rg. 15 is a perspective view of a weight balance of the supporting device of Rg. 1 ; and

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

Mode for the Invention

[44] 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 convey the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art.

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

[46] 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 20 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 frcra a main body such as a computer are coupled to the coupling member 50.

[47] 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.

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

[49] 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.

[50] 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 20.

[51] hi 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.

[52] 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 frαn 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.

[53] 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 from the main body such as the computer will be inserted.

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

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

[56] 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.

[57] The bracket 13 is provided with a plurality of fixing hooks 131, an inverter fbάng rib 132 disposed near the fbάng 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.

[58] A plurality of coupling bosses 135 protrude from 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.

[59] In addition, the bracket 13 is formed of a metal material to quickly dissipate heat, thereby preventing the display module 12 from 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.

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

[61] 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 frαn the parts.

[62] 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.

[63] 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 Rg. 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.

[64] 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.

[65] 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 firing position of the rotational member 60 can be selected by a user or a manufacturer. The rotational member ooupling 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.

[66] However, a main concept 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.

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

[68] Referring to Rg. 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.

[69] 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, oover 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.

[70] 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.

[71] 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.

[72] 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.

[73] 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.

[74] 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 20. 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 from 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 omitted.

[75] Since no additional part except for the penetration sleeve 171 extending at a gentle curve is ooupled 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.

[76] Furthermore, in the image display apparatus 1 according to the present invention, since the rotational member 60 is ooupled 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 20, it cannot be observed from an external side. Furthermore, since there is no sharp corner or point, the supporting device 20 does not involve any risk for the user handling the same.

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

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

[78] Referring to Rgs. 6 and 7, the rotational member mounted on the display 10 according to the present invention has first and second ends coupled respectively to the main frame 16 and the supporting device 20, respectively.

[79] 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 firing members 64 fitted between the washers 66 and fixedly coupled to the supporting device 20.

[80] 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 circumference of the shaft 62 coupled to the supporting portion 61 is cut away as shown in Rgs. 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 frictional force. Therefore, the display 10 rotates about its axis to realize the portrait mode.

[81] In addition, the hinge 63 ooupled 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.

[82] 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 drctmference 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 circumference 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, factional 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.

[83] In addition, the fbdng 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 firing member 64 is fitted around the hinge 63 and the other is coupled to the supporting device 20. A plurality of coupling holes are formed on the section coupled to the supporting device 20 so that the coupling members can be inserted through the coupling holes. The assembly of the fixing member 64 and the supporting device 20 will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[84] 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.

[85] 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 frcm further rotating. Therefore, when the display device excessively rotates downward, the rotation restriction portion 68 prevents the display device from being damage.

[86] 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.

[87] 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 oαnpact, thereby more reliably preventing the display 10 from 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.

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

[89] Referring to Rgs. 8 and 9, unlike the conventional supporting device, the supporting device 20 supporting the display 10 does not require a separate base member. That is, the supporting device 20 is formed in a single unit that directly contacts the floor surface, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs, simplifying the assembling process and improving the installation efficiency.

[90] That is, the supporting device 20 includes a front cover 21 provided with a hole having a predetermined size, a back cover 28 coupled to a rear portion of the front cover 21, and a cylindrical inner oover 24 connecting the front cover 21 to the back cover 28.

[91] The supporting device further includes a light transmission lens 22 fixedly fitted on an front edge portion of the inner cover 24, a supporting member 25 curved or bent and mounted around the inner oover 24 to support the rotational member 60, and a light emission plate 26 fitted around a rear-outer circumference of the inner cover 24. [92] The supporting device 20 further includes a weight balance 27 disposed on a bottom surface of the front oover 21, a top cover 23 for covering a rotation member penetration hole 214 formed on an upper portion of the front oover 21 , and a signal cable 29 for transmitting an image signal to the display 10. When the rotational member penetration hole 214 is provided through the front cover 21 in the form of a hole rather than a groove, the top oover 23 may be omitted.

[93] That is, the signal cable 29 includes a lead-in portion 292 connected to a coupling member 50, a fbdng portion 291 connected to an end portion of the lead-in portion 292, and a transmission portion 293 extending from the fbdng portion 291 and ωnnected to the display 10.

[94] A power cable and a main body signal cable extending from the main body such as the computer are connected to the coupling member 50. The image signal transmitted from the main body signal cable is transmitted to the main control unit 14 of the display 10 through the lead-in portion 292 and the transmission portion 293. The fixing portion 291 is fixedly coupled to the weight balance 27 to prevent the signal cable 29 connected to the rear surface of the display 10 from being separated by external force.

[95] By the above-described coupling structure, the weight balance 27 compensates for the moment generated by the gravity of the load of the display 10, thereby preventing the display 10 from falling down frontward. The front oover 21 and the back oover 28 are provided with holes, which closely contact the front and rear surfaces of the inner oover 24, respectively, thereby providing a through hole to the supporting device 20.

[96] Light emission devices such as light emitting diodes (LED) may be attached on the light emission plate 26. The light emitted from the light emission devices is directed to the user's eyes through the light transmission lens 22. An onMf interval and onbff time of the light emission devices can be automatically controlled by the control unit. R»r example, the onMf of the light emission devices can be controlled according to whether the display is turned on or off. Alternatively, the light emission devices 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.

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

[98] Eg. 10 is a rear perspective view of the front oover of the supporting device.

[99] Referring to Rg. 10, the front cover 21 of the supporting device 20 has an outer circumference curved with a predetermined curvature.

[100] That is, as the front cover 21 and the back cover 28 are curved with a predetermined curvature, the user can easily grasp the supporting device when he/she intends to carry the display 10. That is, a palm of the user closely contact the outer circumference of the supporting device 20 while fingers are inserted into the hole formed on a central portion of the supporting device 20. As a result, the user can safely grasp the supporting device 20.

[101] That is, the front cover 21 of the supporting device 20 includes a cover body 211 rounded at a predetermined curvature and erected on the rear surface of the display 10, a bottom portion 212 extending horizontally from a lower end of the cover body 211, a coupling boss 217 protruding from a rear surface of the cover body 211 and ooupled to the inner cover 24, and a coupling boss 215 to which the supporting member 25 is ooupled.

[102] The front cover 21 is provided at a central portion with a through hole 213 and at an upper portion with a rotational member penetration groove 214. An upper portion of the rotational member penetration groove 214 is closed by the top cover 23. The coupling boss 215 for coupling the supporting member 25 protrudes near the rotational member penetration groove 214. A rib 216 to which the light transmission lens 22 is coupled protrudes near an edge portion of the through hole 213.

[103] The bottom portion 212 is formed in a closed-curve including an oval shape. The weight balance 27 is disposed on the bottom portion 212. A length in a front-rear direction of the bottom portion 212 is greater than a left-right direction of the bottom portion 212 such that the lower end of the supporting device 20 cannot further protrude than the lower end of the display 10. That is, an area of the bottom portion 212 is less than that of a base provided on the conventional display apparatus, the space efficiency of the display apparatus can be improved. Furthermore, the weight balance 27 installed in the supporting device 20 prevents the display frcm falling down by the moment in spite of the small area of the bottom portion of the supporting device 20.

[104] In addition, since the fmng portion of the rotational member 60 is coupled to the front cover 21, the supporting device 20 can stably support the display 10, thereby preventing the display 10 from falling down. An anti-sliding member may be attached on an outer bottom surface of the bottom portion 212 to prevent the image display apparatus 1 frcm 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 having predetermined factional force such as rubber or fabric such as velcro- tape having a predetermined friction.

[105] Rg. 11 is a rear perspective view of the light transmission lens according to the present invention.

[106] Referring to Rg. 11, the light transmission lens 22 of the present invention closely contacts the edge portion of the through hole 213 of the front cover 21 to uniformly diffuse the light emitted from the light emission devices.

[107] That is, the light transmission lens 22 includes a light emission plate seating portion

222 formed in a circular ring shape, a plurality of extending ends 223 extending outward from the light emission plate seating portion 222, and an inner cover contacting portion 221 protruding frcm the inner edge of the light emission seating portion 222.

[108] The extending end 223 is provided with a coupling hole 224 in which the rib 216 protruding from the rear surface of the front cover 21 is inserted. Therefore, the light transmission lens 22 tightly contacts the rear surface of the front cover 21. The inner cover contacting portion 221 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending upward by a predetermined height. The inner cover contacting portion 221 closely contacts the outer circumference of the inner cover 24 to prevent the light transmission lens 22 from shaking even when the light transmission lens 22 is mounted without using a separate coupling member.

[109] Furthermore, the light transmission lens 22 is formed of a transparent or semi- transparent material, preferably a semi-transparent plastic. Therefore, the light is dimly emitted from the hollow edge portion of the supporting device 20, thereby providing a luxurious feeling to the image display apparatus 1.

[110] Rg. 12 is a perspective view of the inner cover of the supporting device.

[Ill] Referring to Rg. 12, the inner cover 24 of the present invention is formed in a cylindrical shape having a predetermined diameter and a length.

[112] That is, the inner cover 24 has front and rear end portions. The front end portion has a diameter greater than that of the rear end portion. Namely, the through hole 213 formed on the front cover 21 is greater than a through hole 281 (see Rg. 16) formed on the back cover 28.

[113] In addition, since the front and rear ends of the inner cover 24 are different in a diameter from each other, the inner cover 24 is mounted at a predetermined inclination with respect to the horizontal surface. That is, as shown in Rg. 9, the inner cover 24 is inclined such that a lower end section thereof is elevated as it goes rearward and an upper end section thereof is lowered as it goes rearward. Therefore, the light emitted from the light transmission lens 22 is reflected on the inner drcumference of the inner cover 24 to improve the outer appearance of the supporting device 20. [114] Meanwhile, the inner cover 24 is provided with extending ribs 241 extending from front and rear portions of the outer circumference and coupling bosses 242 integrally extending frαn ends of the extending ribs 241. The coupling bosses 242 formed on the ends of the extending ribs 241 corresponds to the coupling bosses 217 protruding frcm the rear surface of the front cover 21. Coupling members are inserted in the coupling bosses 242 and 217 and securely coupled to the rear surfaces of the inner and front covers 24 and 210. Then, the light emission plate 26 is coupled to rear ends of the coupling bosses 242. This will be described in more detail later.

[115] At least one supporting rib 244 protrudes from the outer circuniference of the inner cover 24 to enhance the coupling of the light emission plate 26 to the coupling bosses 242.

[116] In addition, a stepped portion 243 is formed on an rear end outer drcumference of the inner cover 24. The stepped portion 243 is securely fitted in the through hole 281 formed on the back cover 28. As described above, as the stepped portion is fitted in the through hole 281 of the back cover 28, the shaking of the back cover 28 in vertical or horizontal directions during the assembling process can be prevented.

[117] In order to effectively reflect the light emitted from the light emission devices 263

(see Rg. 14), the inner drcumference of the inner cover 24 is super-polished or coated with a reflective material having a ωlor identical to that of the light emitted from the light emission devices. Bar example, when the light emission devices emit red light, the inner circumference of the inner cover 24 may be coated with a red reflectively material. Then, the inner drcumference of the inner cover 24 may be coated with a color different from that of the outer drcumferences of the front cover 21 and the back cover 29.

[118] Rg. 13 is a perspective view of the supporting member of the supporting device.

[119] Referring to Rg. 13, the supporting member 25 of the supporting device 20 is a rigidity member endurable the load of the display by dispersing the load of the display 10 to the entire surface of the supporting device 20.

[120] That is, the supporting member 25 is formed in an arc-shape curved with a predetermined curvature or bent at a plurality of points so that it can be received in the supporting device 20. The rotational member 60 is mounted on the front surface of the supporting member 25. The supporting member 25 extends downward to disperse the load of the display 10 to the lower portion of the supporting device 20.

[121] Meanwhile, the supporting member 25 includes a lateral portion 255 to which the rotational member 60 is coupled and an extending portion 256 extending downward from the lateral portion 255.

[122] That is, a firing surface 251 to which the rotational member 60 is coupled is formed on a central portion of the lateral portion 255. A coupling hole 252 through which a coupling member passes is formed on a corner portion of the firing surface 251. The coupling hole 252 corresponds to the coupling hole formed on the firing portion 64 of the rotational member 60. The coupling member passes through the coupling holes to oouple the rotational member 60 to the supporting member 25.

[123] In addition, upper coupling holes 253 are formed on both edge portions of the lateral portion 255. A lower coupling hole 254 is formed on an end of the extending portion 256.

[124] The upper and lower coupling holes 253 and 254 correspond to the coupling bosses

215 protruding frαn the rear surface of the front oover 21. Coupling members pass through the coupling holes 253 and 254 and the coupling bosses 215 so that the supporting member 25 can be securely fixed to the rear surface of the front cover 21. Therefore, the moment generated by the load of the display and transmitted through the rotational member 60 is transmitted to the front oover 21. The load of the weight balance 27 compensates for the moment transmitted to the front cover 21.

[125] As described above, the supporting member 25 may be formed of metal so that it is not deformed by the load of the display 10.

[126] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the light emission plate inserted in the supporting device.

[127] Referring to Hg. 14, the light emission plate 26 inserted in the supporting device 20 is formed in a ring shape and fitted around the inner oover 24. The light emission plate 26 has a size almost identical to that of the light transmission lens 22. Since the diameter of the rear end of the inner cover 24 is less than that of the front end of the inner oover 24, the inner circunference of the light emission plate 26 is spaced apart and fitted around the outer circumference of the rear end of the inner oover 24.

[128] The light emission plate 26 includes a circular PCB 261 , a plurality of light emission devices 263 arranged along an inner edge of the front portion of the PCB 261 and spaced apart from each other, and a control unit 264 mounted on the PCB 261. The PCB 261 is provided with a coupling hole 262. A coupling member passing through the coupling hole 262 is inserted in the inner cover 24 and the coupling boss 242. Therefore, the front cover 21, the inner cover 24 and the light emission plate 26 are integrally coupled to each other by a single member.

[129] The light emission device 263 may be formed of an LED. However, the present invention is not limited to this case. That is, a variety of other light emission devices may be used. The onMf of the light emission devices 263 is controlled by the control unit 264 such that the light emission devices 263 are simultaneously or sequentially turned on and off. The control signal on the onMf of the light emission devices 263 is transmitted from a main control unit 14 mounted in the display to the control unit 264 mounted on the light emission plate 26.

[130] The light emission devices 263 are simultaneously or sequentially turned on to emit light. The light is irradiated through the light transmission lens 22 along the edge portion of the through hole 213 of the front cover 21, thereby providing a luxurious feeling. Furthermore, the user can easily manipulate the computer keyboard using the light irradiated from the light transmission lens 22.

[131] Rg. 15 is a perspective view of the weight balance of the supporting device.

[132] Referring to Rg. 15, the weight balance seats on the supporting device 20 and functions to support the load of the display 10.

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

10, the weight balance 27 is formed to have a predetermined weight or more. Therefore, the weight balance 27 may be formed of a material such as cast iron.

[134] Meanwhile, the weight balance 27 has load concentration portions 271 formed on both edge portions and an inner cover receiving groove 272 concaved at a predetermined depth to receive the inner cover 24. The weight balance 27 is provided at a rear end with a coupling groove 273 to which the fixing portion 291 of the signal cable 29 is coupled.

[135] As described above, the weight balance 27 having a predetermined weight is installed in the supporting device 20 prevents the display 10 from falling down even when there is no base having a predetermined area and contacting the floor surface.

[136] Therefore, since the display 10 can be sufficiently supported by only the supporting device 20 corresponding to the conventional stand supporting the display, the manufacturing cost can be reduced and the space efficiency can be improved.

[137] In addition, since the weight balance is installed in the supporting device 20, the weight center of the image display apparatus 1 moves to the bottom surface of the supporting device 20. Therefore, the image display apparatus 1 is stably installed. In the conventional art, since the weight center of the image display apparatus is set at the display 10, a moment of generated by the load of the display 10. To support the moment, a base having a relatively large area must be installed on the bottom of the stand. However, in the present invention, since the weight balance is provided in the supporting device 20 corresponding to the conventional stand, the weight center of the display device 1 is set at the bottom of the supporting device 20.

[138] Hg. 16 is a perspective view of the top cover of the supporting device.

[139] Referring to Rg. 16, the back cover 28 of the supporting device 20 is mounted on the rear surface of the front oover 21.

[140] A front edge portion of the back cover 28 is identical to a rear edge portion of the front cover 21 and thus the front cover 21 and the back cover 28 are securely coupled to each other.

[141] A through hole 281 having a diameter identical to that of the rear end of the inner oover 24 is formed at a center of the back cover 28. A through hole 282 through which an lead-in portion 292 of the signal cable 29 passes is formed on a lower end of the back cover 28.

[142] Meanwhile, the bottom portion 212 is preferably formed on a lower end of the front cover 21. However, the present invention is not limited to this case. R>r example, the bottom portion 212 may be formed on the lower end of the back cover 28.

[143] Furthermore, since the back cover 28 and the front cover 21 are gently rounded, the user can easily grasp thereof when he/she intends to carry the image display apparatus 1. That is, That is, a palm of the user closely contact the outer circumference of the supporting device 20 while fingers are inserted into the hole formed on a central portion of the supporting device 20. As a result, the user can safely grasp the supporting device 20.

[144] In addition, as shown in Rg. 9, a hook member is formed on an inner surface of the upper end of the back cover 28 and a hole in which the hook is inserted is formed on a rear end of the top oover 23. Therefore, the top oover 23 is fixed on the upper end of the back oover 28.

[145] Meanwhile, a sensor member is mounted on the inner drctmference of the inner oover 24 so that the display is turned on or off when the user's hand approaches within a predetermined distance frαn the inner oover 24.

[146] That is, in the conventional art, a power button is provided on an edge portion of the display 10. the display 10 is turned on and off by the user pressing the power button.

[147] However, in the present invention, the power button is omitted and the sensor is mounted in the supporting device. Therefore, when the user inserts his/her hand into the through hole, the sensor detects this. When the sensor detects the user's hand, the detected signal is transmitted to the main control unit 14 of the display 10 to auto- matically turn on and off the display. Since the button is omitted, the outer appearance of the front portion of the display 10 is neater. Industrial Applicability According to the present invention, the image display apparatus can be formed in a simple structure and prevented frcm 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

[1] An image display apparatus αxnprising: a display for outputting an image; a supporting device supporting the display, the supporting device contacting directly on an installing surface and extending upward, the supporting device being provided with an inner hollow hole; and a light emission unit mounted in the inner hollow hole.

[2] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light emission unit includes an LED (Light Emitting Diode).

[3] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the supporting device has a curved outer surface so that a user easily grasps thereof.

[4] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the supporting device includes a front cover provided with an inner hollow hole, a back cover coupled to a rear surface of the front cover and provided with an inner hollow hole, an inner cover connecting the inner hollow hole of the front cover to the inner hollow hole of the back cover, and a weight balance provided on a lower portion of the inner oover to prevent the display frαn falling down due to a load of the display.

[5] The image display apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a weight of the weight balance is equal to or greater than a moment generated by the load of the display.

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

[7] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light emission unit includes a plurality of light emission devices, a light emission plate on which the light emission devices are arranged and spaced apart from each other, and a light transmission lens coupled to an edge portion of the inner hollow hole to uniformly diffuse the light emitted from the light emission devices.

[8] The image display apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the light transmission lens is transparent or semi-transparent.

[9] The image display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the light emission device is turned on and off according to the onfoff of the display or the operational state of the display.

[10] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a rotational member attached on the display to adjust an angle of the display; and a supporting member mounted in the supporting device to disperse a load of the display that is transmitted to the rotational member.

[11] The image display apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the rotational member is coupled to a front surface of the supporting member and at least a portion of the supporting member is fixed on an inner άrαmference of the supporting device.

[12] The image display apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the supporting member is curved with a predetermined curvature and bent at a plurality of portions to disperse a load of the display that is transmitted from the rotational member.

[13] The image display apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the supporting member is formed of metal having a predetermined strength.

[14] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the supporting device has a sectional area that is gradually reduced as it goes upward.

[15] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the supporting device has a bottom portion having a left-right length greater than a front-rear length.

[16] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the supporting device has a front-lower end disposed in rear of a lower end of the display.

[17] 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; circuits fixed on the main frame to drive the display module; and a rear cabinet for protecting the rear surface of the display.

[18] The image display apparatus according to claim 1, 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.

[19] The image display apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising a bracket coupled to a central portion of the main frame, the circuits being coupled to the bracket.

[20] The image display apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the central portion of the main frame is concaved to define a circuit seating portion in which the circuits are disposed.

[21] The image display apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the rear cabinet has a central portion further extending rearward as compared with an edge portion.

[22] The image display apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the rear surface of the rear cabinet is gently curved.

[23] An image display apparatus comprising: a main frame on which a variety of parts driving a display module are mounted; a cabinet covering the main frame; a rotational member having a first end coupled to a rear surface of the main frame to rotate the display module; and a supporting device to which a second end of the rotational member is coupled.

[24] The image display apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the supporting device has an outer surface curved with a predetermined curvature so that a user can easily grasp thereof, the supporting device being provided with a hole in which user's fingers are inserted in a state where the user grasps thereof.

[25] The image display apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the rotational member includes a supporting portion coupled to the main frame, a shaft extending from a rear surface of the supporting portion, a hinge extending in a direction crossing the shaft, and a fixing portion fitted around the hinge.

[26] The image display apparatus according to claim 25, 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.

[27] The image display apparatus according to claim 25, further comprising a hollow sleeve protruding rearward frcra the cabinet, the rotational member passing through the sleeve.

[28] The image display apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the sleeve is integrally formed with the cabinet through an injection molding process.

[29] The image display apparatus according to claim 25, 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 to rotate together with the hinge.

[30] The image display apparatus acωrding to claim 19, wherein the main frame being provided with two or more rotational member coupling portions for fixing the rotational member so that the rotational member can be variably fixed on the main frame.

[31] The image display apparatus according to claim 23, further comprising a supporting member having a front surface to which the rotational member is coupled, the supporting member being fixed in the supporting device to disperse a load of the display.

[32] An image display apparatus comprising: a display; a supporting device supporting the display, the supporting device being provided with a through hole formed in a front-rear direction; a plurality of light emission devices emitting light to an edge portion of the through hole; and a light transmission lens mounted on the edge portion of the through hole.

[33] The image display apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the light emission devices are arranged in rear of the light transmission lens along a shape of the light transmission lens.

[34] The image display apparatus according to claim 32, further αmprising a light emission plate on which the light emission devices and a control unit for controlling the onfoff of the light emission devices are mounted.

[35] The image display apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the light transmission lens are fitted in a front portion of the through hole and fixed by a fixing rib so that it can not idle in the supporting device.

[36] The image display apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the through hole is inclined in a front-rear direction so that the light emitted frαn the light emission devices can be reflected frαn an inner άrαmference of the through hole.

[37] The image display apparatus according to claim 32, wherein a diameter of a front end of the through hole is greater than that of a rear end of the through hole.

[38] The image display apparatus according to claim 32, 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 32, 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.

[41] The image display apparatus according to claim 32, 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 frαn the display supporting portion, a hinge extending in a direction crossing an extending direction of the shaft, and a fixing member fixed on the supporting device and supported on the hinge.

[42] The image display apparatus according to claim 41, 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.

[43] The image display apparatus according to claim 41, wherein the display supporting portion is fixed on a main frame in the display.

[44] The image display apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the supporting device is provided at a front portion with a rotational member penetration hole through which the rotational member penetrates.

[45] An image display apparatus comprising: a display module; and a supporting device to which the display module is coupled, the supporting device having a hollow portion having a predetermined diameter and extending in a front-rear direction, wherein a color of at least a portion of an inner surface of the hollow portion is different to that of an outer surface of the supporting device.

[46] The image display apparatus according to claim 45, further comprising a light emission unit provided in the hollow portion.

[47] The image display apparatus according to claim 45, further comprising a weight balance received in the supporting device to prevent the display frαn falling down due to a load of the display.

[48] The image display apparatus according to claim 47, 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.