Display device

Abstract

A display device includes a first receiving container, a display panel, and a second receiving container. The first receiving container includes a receiving bottom portion and a receiving side portion. The receiving side portion extends from an edge of the receiving bottom portion. The receiving bottom portion and the receiving side portion together define a receiving space therein. The display panel is positioned in the first receiving container. The display panel is configured for displaying images. The second receiving container includes a panel support portion and a chassis side portion. The second receiving container is partially combined with the first receiving container. The panel support portion fixes an edge of the display panel. The chassis side portion extends from an edge of the panel support portion. The receiving container and the top chassis may be efficiently combined without aid of a screw. Thus, the display device may be manufactured in a processing time substantially shorter than that of a conventional display device.

Description

This application claims priority under 35 USC § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 2005-10078 filed on Feb. 3, 2005, and the benefits accruing therefrom under 35 U.S.C. §119, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a display device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a display device capable of being manufactured in a processing time substantially shorter than that of a conventional display device.

2. Description of the Related Art

Recently, many types of information process devices have been developed. In addition, the information process devices have many functions as well as substantially short operation time. The information process devices may include display devices enabling users to monitor information.

A liquid crystal display is an example of the display devices. The liquid crystal display device may display images by using a liquid crystal layer. The liquid crystal display device may have a thickness thinner than other display devices. In addition, a power consumption of the liquid crystal display device may be substantially lower than those of other display devices. Furthermore, the liquid crystal display device may operate with a substantially low voltage.

The liquid display device may include a liquid crystal display panel, a light generation unit, a receiving container, and a top chassis. The display device displays images by using a light transmittance of a liquid crystal layer. The light generation unit provides the display panel with light. The receiving container receives the liquid crystal display panel and the light generation unit. The top chassis may be combined with the receiving container to fix the liquid crystal display panel.

Generally, the receiving container may be combined with the top chassis by a screw. However, a time required for combining the receiving container with the top chassis by using the screw is too long.

Therefore, there is a desire to provide a display device having a receiving container and a top chassis where the receiving container may be combined with the top chassis without using a screw. Thus, the time required for manufacturing the display device may be decreased.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a display device capable of being manufactured in a substantially short processing time by combining a receiving container and a top chassis with each other without the aid of additional combination means.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes a first receiving container, a display panel, and a second receiving container. The first receiving container includes a receiving bottom portion and a receiving side portion. The receiving side portion extends from an edge of the receiving bottom portion. The receiving bottom portion and the receiving side portion together define a receiving space therein. The display panel is positioned in the first receiving container. The display panel is configured for displaying images. The second receiving container includes a panel support portion and a chassis side portion. The second receiving container is partially combined with the first receiving container. The panel support portion fixes an edge of the display panel. The chassis side portion extends from an edge of the panel support portion.

In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes a receiving container, a display panel, and a top chassis. The receiving container includes a bottom face and a sidewall. The bottom face and the sidewall together define a receiving space therein. The sidewall includes a first combination portion that is recessed. The display panel is positioned in the receiving space. The display panel is configured for displaying images. The top chassis includes a panel support face, a chassis sidewall, and a second combination portion. The panel support face fixes an edge of the display panel. The chassis sidewall extends from an edge of the panel support face to be combined with a sidewall of the receiving container. The second combination portion protrudes from the chassis sidewall to be combined with the first combination portion.

According to the present invention, a display device having a receiving container and a top chassis, where the receiving container may be combined with the top chassis without the aid of additional combination means such as a screw. Thus, a time required for manufacturing the display device may decrease.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II′ in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a combination protrusion combined with a combination portion in the display device illustrated in FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III′ in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a partial exploded perspective view of the display device in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV′ in FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V′ in FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI′ in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a partial exploded perspective view of the display device in FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional viewtaken along line VII-VII′ FIG.18; and

FIG. 21 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, the thickness of layers and regions are exaggerated for clarity. Like reference numerals refer to similar or identical elements throughout. It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, region or substrate is referred to as being “on” or “onto” another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath”, “lower”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “beneath” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Embodiments of the invention are described herein with reference to cross-section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the invention. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments of the invention should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ shown in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an exemplary embodiment of a display device includes a light generation unit (not shown), a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a first receiving container 100, and a second receiving container 150. The first receiving container 100 is hereinafter referred as a bottom mold. The second receiving container 150 is hereinafter referred as a top chassis.

In an exemplary embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 1, the display device may be substantially frame shaped. For orientation purposes, a Cartesian coordinate system may be used where a first side of the display device extends along a Y-axis direction, and a second side of the display device extends along an X-axis direction, where the Y-axis is substantially perpendicular to the X-axis and a Z-axis direction is substantially perpendicular to both the X and Y axes.

The light generation unit may be positioned in the bottom mold 100. An external power supplier (not shown) provides the light generation unit with power so that the light generation unit may generate a light.

The display device may include a pair of the light generation units. The pair of the light generation units may face side faces of the light guide plate 10, and the side faces of the light guide plate 10 may be positioned opposite to each other substantially along the X-axis direction.

Alternatively, the display device may include one light guide plate. The light guide plate may face one side face of the light guide plate 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, the light generation unit may be a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), an external electrode fluorescent lamp (EEFL) or a lighted emitting diode (LED). The CCFL may have a substantially low heat emission rate so that the CCFL may have a substantially long endurance. Additionally, the CCFL may have an elongated shape. An electrode of the EEFL may be positioned outside the EEFL. The LED may generate a light having a dotted optical distribution.

In an exemplary embodiment, the light guide plate 10 may be positioned in the bottom mold 100. The side faces of the light guide plate 10 may face the pair of the light generation units. Light generated from the light generation units may be irradiated onto the side faces of the light guide plate 10. In another exemplary embodiment, the light may also be reflected and refracted in the light guide plate 10 so that the light may be irradiated from an upper portion of the light guide plate 10. Reflection patterns (not shown) may be positioned beneath a bottom face of the light guide plate 10. The reflection patterns may disperse the lights incident into the light guide plate 10 so that a light path of the lights may be varied.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, an exemplary embodiment of the display device may include the light guide plate 10 configured as a substantially rectangular shape. In an alternative embodiment, the light guide plate 10 may have a wedge shape that is wide to narrow in a direction away from the light generation unit, in case the light generation unit faces only one side face of the light guide plate 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, the reflection plate 20 may be positioned in the bottom mold 100. The reflection plate 20 may also be positioned beneath the light guide plate 10. The reflection plate 20 is configured to reflect light irradiated from a lower portion of the light guide plate 10 to the reflection plate 20. The light reflected by the reflection plate 20 may then be incident onto the light guide plate 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, the optical sheet member 30 may be received in the bottom mold 100. The light guide plate 10 may be positioned on the light guide plate 10. The optical sheet member 30 may be configured to improve optical characteristics of a light irradiated from an upper portion of the light guide plate 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, the optical sheet member 30 may include a diffusion sheet 32 and a prism sheet 34. The diffusion sheet 32 may be configured to disperse light irradiated from the upper portion of the light guide plate 10 to improve a brightness uniformity of the light. The prism sheet 34 may be positioned on the diffusion sheet 32. The light passing through the diffusion sheet 32 is reflected and refracted in the prism sheet 34 so that a vertical brightness of the light irradiated from a front face of the prism sheet 34 may increase. In an exemplary embodiment, the prism sheet 34 may include a first prism sub-sheet formed substantially in the X-axis direction and a second prism sub-sheet formed substantially in a Y-axis direction. Alternatively, the prism sheet 34 may include one sheet. In addition, in another exemplary embodiment, the optical sheet member 30 may include a protection sheet (not shown) positioned over the prism sheet 34. The protection sheet may protect the prism sheet 34.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel 40 may be received in the bottom mold 100. The display panel 40 may be positioned over the optical sheet member 30. The display panel 40 may be configured to display images by using the light irradiated through the optical sheet member 30. The display panel 40 may include a first substrate 42, a second substrate 44, and a liquid crystal layer 46.

The first substrate 42 may include pixel electrodes (not shown), thin film transistors (TFT) (not shown), and signal lines (not shown). The pixel electrodes may be arranged in a matrix shape. The thin film transistors may apply drive voltages to the pixel electrodes. The signal lines may be used for operating the thin film transistors.

In an exemplary embodiment, a transparent and conductive film may be patterned by a photolithography process to form the pixel electrodes. The transparent and conductive film may be an indium tin oxide (ITO) film, an indium zinc oxide (IZO) film, or an amorphous indium tin oxide (a-ITO) film.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second substrate 44 may be positioned opposite the first substrate 42. The second substrate 44 may include a common electrode (not shown) and color filters (not shown). The common electrode may be positioned over the first substrate 42. The common electrode may be conductive and transparent. The common electrode may be positioned on a front face of the second substrate 44. The color filters may face the pixel electrodes.

In an exemplary embodiment, the color filters may include a red color filter, a green color filter, and a blue color filter. A red light included in a white light may selectively pass through the red color filter. A green light included in the white light may selectively pass through the green color filter. A blue light included in the white light may selectively pass through the blue color filter.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, an exemplary embodiment of the liquid crystal layer 46 may be positioned between the first substrate 42 and a second substrate 44. The liquid crystal layer 46 may be rearranged by a magnetic field generated between the pixel electrode and the common electrode. The liquid crystal layer 46 that is rearranged may adjust a light transmission of the light passing through the optical sheet member 30. The light then passes through the color filters to display the images.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel 40 may include a printed circuit board (not shown) and a flexible printed circuit board (not shown).

The printed circuit board may include a drive circuit unit for processing image signals. The drive circuit unit may configure at least one of the image signals as a drive signal for controlling the thin film transistor. The image signals may be applied from an area outside of the drive circuit unit to the drive circuit unit.

The flexible printed circuit board is electrically connected between the printed circuit board and the first substrate 42 so that the drive signal generated from the printed circuit board may be applied to the first substrate 42.

In an exemplary embodiment, the upper mold 50 may be received in the bottom mold 100. The upper mold 50 may be positioned between the optical sheet member 30 and the display panel 40. The upper mold 50 may include a stepped portion where an edge portion of the display panel 40 may be received. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper mold 50 may be configured to apply pressure to an edge portion of the optical sheet member 30 so that the optical sheet member 30 may be fixed. In addition, the stepped portion of the upper mold 50 may be configured to support the edge portion of the display panel 40.

In an exemplary embodiment and referring to FIG. 2, the bottom mold 100 may include a receiving bottom portion 110 and a receiving side portion 120. The receiving side portion 120 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 110 in substantially in the Z-direction. The receiving bottom portion 110 and the receiving side portion 120 in the bottom mold 100 define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, a combination portion 122 and a chassis support portion 124 may be formed on an outer side face of the receiving side portion 120. The combination portion 122 may configured to be combined with the top chassis 150 by using elasticity, where portions of the combination portion 122, the chassis support portion 124, and the top chassis 150 are configured to deform under an applied force and then return substantially to their original positions when the force is removed. The chassis support portion 124 may be configured to support the top chassis 150.

In an exemplary embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 2, the combination portion 122 and the chassis support portion 124 may be formed on one side face of the receiving side portion 120. In another exemplary embodiment, a plurality of combination portions 122 and chassis support portions 124 may be formed on a side face of the receiving side portion 120. Alternatively, the combination portions 122 and the chassis support portions 124 may be formed on all of the side faces of the receiving side portion 120.

In an exemplary embodiment, the combination portion 122 may include a combination body 122a and a combination head 122b. The combination body 122amay have an elongated shape. The combination head 122b may be combined with an end portion of the combination body 122a. The combination body 122a may extend in an outward direction from the receiving side portion 120 and/or be integrally formed with the receiving side portion 120. In another exemplary embodiment, the combination head 122b may include synthetic resins having spaces therein so that the combination head 122b may have elastic portion enabling the combination head 122bto be moved a predetermined amount by an external force and return substantially to its original position when the force is removed. In another exemplary embodiment, an edge portion of the combination head 122b may be combined with the top chassis 150 so that movement of the top chassis 150 with respect to the bottom mold 100 may be substantially limited.

In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the chassis support portion 124 may extend from the receiving side portion 120 and/or be integrally formed with the receiving side portion 120. In an exemplary embodiment, the chassis support portions 124 may be slanted or extend at an angle with respect to the receiving side portion 120. Additionally, the chassis support portions 124 may be configured to push the top chassis 150 in a direction away from the bottom mold 100 so that the top chassis 150 may be firmly fixed with respect to the bottom mold 100. Alternatively, the chassis support portion 124 may be configured as a spring having elasticity.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 150 may be combined with the bottom mold 100 so that the top chassis 150 may prevent or substantially reduce the display panel 40 from being damaged by external impacts or vibrations. In addition, the top chassis 150 may be configured to substantially limit movement of the display panel 40 with respect to the bottom mold 100.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 150 may include a panel support portion 152 and a chassis side portion 154. The panel support portion 152 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 110. The chassis side portion 154 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 152. The chassis side portion 154 may be substantially perpendicular to the panel support portion 152.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 152 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 152 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 152 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 100. The display panel 40 may display images through the opening of the panel support portion 152.

In an exemplary embodiment, the chassis side portion 154 may include a combination hole 154a. The combination hole 154a may be combined with the combination portion 122. Because the combination hole 154a is combined with the combination portion 122, the top chassis 150 may be combined with the bottom mold 150. The combination head 122b may be configured to include an elastic portion. Thus, at least a portion of the combination head 122b may be elastically bent so that the combination head 122b may be inserted into the combination hole 154a, and thereby combined with the combination hole 154a. Thus, the combination head 122b and the chassis support portion 124 together may enable the top chassis 150 to be firmly combined with the bottom mold 100.

In an exemplary embodiment, the combination head 122b may be configured to apply pressure to the chassis side portion 154 in a direction toward the bottom mold 100. In an alternative embodiment, the chassis support portion 124 may be configured to apply pressure to the chassis side portion 154 in a direction away from the bottom mold 100. Thus, the top chassis 150 may be firmly combined with the bottom mold 100.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device includes an edge-typed backlight assembly (not shown) where the light generation unit is positioned on a side face of the light guide plate 10. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the display device may include a direct-typed backlight assembly of which the light generation unit is positioned beneath the display panel 40 to directly supply a light to the display panel 40.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the display device may include the reflection plate 20. Alternatively, the display device may include a metal reflection layer instead of the reflection plate. The metal reflection layer may be positioned on the receiving bottom portion 110.

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the display device may include the bottom mold 50 formed by an injection molding process. Further, exemplary embodiments of the display device include configurations where the bottom mold 50 may be formed from a metal or plastic.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken-along line II-II′ in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a combination protrusion combined with a combination portion in the display device illustrated in FIG. 3. The display device may be substantially similar to that already illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 and any further explanation will be omitted.

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 200, and a top chassis 250.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 200 may include a receiving bottom portion 210 and a receiving side portion 220. The receiving side portion 220 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 210. The receiving bottom portion 210 and the receiving side portion 220 together define a receiving space in the bottom mold 200. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, a combination protrusion 222 may be formed on an outer face of the receiving side portion 220. The combination protrusion 222 may be combined with a combination portion 254a. The combination portion 254a may extend from the top chassis 250. The combination protrusion 222 may extend in an outward direction from the receiving side portion 220 and/or be integrally formed with the receiving side portion 220. The combination protrusion 222 may have an elongated shape. Alternatively, the combination protrusion 222 may have a configuration that is wide to narrow in a direction away from the receiving side portion 220.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 250 may be combined with the bottom mold 200 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 200. The top chassis 250 may include a panel support portion 252 and a chassis side portion 254. The panel support portion 252 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 210. The chassis side portion 254 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 252 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 220. The chassis side portion 254 may be substantially perpendicular to the panel support portion 252.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 252 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 252 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 252 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 200.

In an exemplary embodiment, the chassis side portion 254 may extend from the panel support portion 252 toward the combination protrusion 222. In addition, the chassis side portion 254 may include the combination portion 254a. The combination portion 254a is configured to be combined with the combination protrusion 222. The combination portion 254a may include combination wings. The combination wings are portions of the chassis side portion 254 that are configured to engage the combination protrusion 222 when the top chassis 250 is combined with the bottom mold 200. The combination wings may be divided in a radial shape, as illustrated in FIG. 5. The combination protrusion 222 may be inserted among the combination wings so that intervals among the combination wings may become wider. When the combination protrusion 222 is inserted among the combination wings, the combination wings may apply pressure to the combination protrusion 222. Thus, the combination wings enable the combination protrusion 222 to be firmly combined with the combination portion 254a.

In an exemplary embodiment as described above, the combination portion 222 may extend in an outward direction from the receiving side portion 220. When the combination protrusion 222 is inserted between the combination wings in the chassis side portion 254, the combination wings may apply pressure to the combination protrusion 222. As a result, the bottom mold 200 may be firmly combined with the top chassis 250.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III′ in FIG. 6. The display device of the present embodiment is substantially similar as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 to 2 and any further explanation thereof will be omitted.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 300, a top chassis 350, and a combination member 360.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 300 may include a receiving bottom portion 310 and a receiving side portion 320. The receiving side portion 320 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 310 substantially in a Z-direction. The receiving bottom portion 310 and the receiving side portion 320 together define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 350 may be combined with the bottom mold 300 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 300. The top chassis 350 may include a panel support portion 352 and a chassis side portion 354. The panel support portion 352 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 310. The chassis side portion 354 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 352 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 320.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 352 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 352 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 352 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 300.

In an exemplary embodiment, the chassis side portion 354 may include a combination hole 354a. The position of the combination hole 354a corresponds to the combination member 360. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the display device includes the combination hole 354a. Alternatively, the display device may be formed without the combination hole 354a.

In an exemplary embodiment, the combination member 360 may combine the bottom mold 300 with the top chassis 350 by using a magnetic force. The combination member 360 may include a first magnet 362 and a second magnet 364. The first magnet 362 may be received within a portion of an aperture or recess of the receiving side portion 320. The second magnet 364 may be positioned on an outer face of the chassis side portion 354. The first magnet 362 may be received by the receiving side portion 320 so that the receiving side portion 320 may fix the first magnet 362 therein.

An attractive force due to the magnetic field is generated between the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364. The attractive force enables the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364 together to apply pressure to the chassis side portion 354. Thus, the bottom mold 300 may be firmly combined with the top chassis 350. In addition, in embodiments where the combination hole 354a in the chassis side portion 354 is positioned between the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364, the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364 may be efficiently attracted to each other.

As described above, the magnetic force between the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364 applies pressure to the chassis side portion 354. Thus, the bottom mold 300 may be firmly combined with the top chassis 350.

FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. The display device of the present embodiment is substantially similar as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 and any further explanation thereof will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 8, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 300, a top chassis 350, and a combination member 360.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 300 may include a receiving bottom portion 310 and a receiving side portion 320. The receiving side portion 320 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 310. The receiving bottom portion 310 and the receiving side portion 320 together define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving side portion 320 may include a second receiving recess 322 at an outer side face portion thereof. The second receiving recess 322 is configured to receive a first receiving protrusion 354b formed at an outer side face portion of a chassis side portion 354.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 350 may be combined with the bottom mold 300 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 300. The top chassis 350 may include a panel support portion 352 and the chassis side portion 354. The panel support portion 352 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 310. The chassis side portion 354 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 352 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 320.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 352 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 352 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 352 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 300.

In an exemplary embodiment, the chassis side portion 354 may include a combination hole 354a and the first receiving protrusion 354b. The position of the combination hole 354a corresponds to the combination member 360. The first receiving protrusion 354b is configured be received in the second receiving recess 322.

In an exemplary embodiment, the combination member 360 combines the bottom mold 300 with the top chassis 350 by using a magnetic force. The combination member 360 may include a first magnet 362 and a second magnet 364. The first magnet 362 is received in the receiving side portion 320. The second magnet 364 is positioned on the chassis side portion 354 corresponding to the position of the first magnet 362.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first magnet 362 is positioned in the receiving side portion 320. In addition, the first magnet 362 is exposed through the second receiving recess 322. Thus, the receiving side portion 320 may firmly fix the first magnet 362 therein. The second magnet 364 is received in the first receiving protrusion 354b. The second magnet 364 is positioned opposite to the first magnet 362.

Because an attractive force is generated between the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364, the second magnet 364 may be difficult to separate from the top chassis 350 by an external force. The attractive force enables the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364 together to apply pressure to the chassis side portion 354. Thus, the bottom mold 300 may firmly combine with the top chassis 350. In addition, the combination hole 354a positioned between the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364 enables the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364 to be efficiently attracted to each other.

As described above, the second magnet 364 is received in the first receiving protrusion 354b. Thus, the first magnet 362 and the second magnet 364 together may firmly apply pressure to the chassis side portion 354. As a result, the bottom mold 300 may be firmly combined with the top chassis 350.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of the display device in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV′ in FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V′ in FIG. 9. The display device of the present embodiment is substantially similar as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 and any further explanation thereof will be omitted.

Referring to FIGS. 9 to 12, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 400, a top chassis 450, and a case 500.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 400 includes a receiving bottom portion 410 and a receiving side portion 420. The receiving side portion 420 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 410. The receiving bottom portion 410 and the receiving side portion together define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving side portion 420 includes a screw recess 422 and a combination recess 424. The screw recess 422 may be positioned to align with a screw hole 454a1 in the top chassis 450. The combination recess 424 may be configured to receive a combination protrusion 454b1 in the top chassis 450.

The screw recess 422 may be formed along an outer face of the receiving side portion 420 in a Z-axis direction. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the screw recess 422 may be positioned between two combination recesses 424. The combination recess 424 may be configured as an “L” shaped section substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 410.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 450 may be combined with the bottom mold 400 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 400. The top chassis 450 may include a panel support portion 452 and a chassis side portion 454. The panel support portion 452 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 410. The chassis side portion 454 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 452 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 420.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 452 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 452 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 452 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 400.

In an exemplary embodiment, the chassis side portion 454 may include the screw hole 454a1, a combination protrusion 454b1, and an opening portion 454c1. The screw hole 454a1 is received in the screw recess 422. The combination protrusion 454b1 may be received in the combination recess 424. The position of the opening portion 454c1 corresponds to the combination protrusion 454b1.

In an exemplary embodiment, the screw hole 454a1 may extend into or through an outer side face of the chassis side portion 454. A screw thread (not shown) is positioned on an inner face of the screw hole 454a1. The screw thread may be combined with a screw 514.

In an exemplary embodiment, the combination protrusions 454b1 may be positioned on each side of the screw hole 454a1. An end section of the combination protrusion 454b1 may be configured as an “L” shape so that the combination protrusion 454b1 may be easily combined with the combination recess 424. The combination protrusion 454b1 may be inserted in the combination recess 424 in a Z-axis direction substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 420 so that the combination protrusion 454b1 may be combined with the combination recess 424. The combination protrusion 454b1 may be combined with the combination recess 424 so that movement of the top chassis 450 may be substantially limited in a direction away from the bottom mold 400.

In an exemplary embodiment, in order to form the combination protrusion 454b1, a portion of the chassis side portion 454, wherein the portion is adjacent to the screw hole 454a1, may be separated from the chassis side portion 454. The portion may then be bent to form the combination protrusion 454b1. Because the portion may be bent to form the combination protrusion 454b1, the chassis side portion may have an opening portion 454c1. The opening portion 454c1 is a space defined by the chassis side portion 454, a fixing plate 510, and the receiving side portion 420. As described above, the portion of the chassis side portion 454 may be separated from the chassis side portion 454 and bent to form the combination protrusion 454b1. Alternatively, the combination protrusion 454b1 may make contact with the chassis side portion 454.

In an exemplary embodiment, the case 500 may be combined with the bottom mold 400 and the top chassis 450 so that the case 500 may fix the bottom mold 400 and the top chassis 450. The case 500 may include the fixing plate 510 fixing the chassis side portion 454 and the receiving side portion 420. A pair of the fixing plates 510 may be arranged substantially parallel in an X-axis direction substantially parallel with the chassis side portion 454.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing plate 510 may include a combination hole 512. The combination hole 512 enables the case 500 to be fixed to the bottom mold 400 and the top chassis 450. A screw thread may be formed on an inner face of the combination hole 512 so that the screw 514 may be efficiently combined with the combination hole 512. The screw 514 may be combined with the screw hole 454a1 through the combination hole 512. When the screw 514 is combined with the screw hole 454a1, a force may be applied to the chassis side portion 454 in a direction toward the fixing plate 510. As a result, the fixing plate 510 may be firmly combined with the chassis side portion 454. In addition, because the chassis side portion 454 is combined with the receiving side portion 420 by the combination protrusion 454b1, the fixing plate 510, the chassis side portion 454, and the receiving side portion 420 may be firmly combined with each other.

As described above, the combination protrusion 454b1 in the top chassis 450 may be combined with the combination recess 424 in the bottom mold 400. Thus, the top chassis 450 may be efficiently combined with the bottom mold 400 without additional combination means.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing plate 510 in the case 500 may be combined with the chassis side portion 454 by the screw 514. Thus, the fixing plate 510, the chassis side portion 454, and the receiving side portion 420 may be firmly combined with each other.

As described above, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes the case 500, thereby enabling the case 500, the top chassis 450, and the bottom mold 400 to be combined with each other. Alternatively, the top chassis 450 and the bottom mold 400 may be combined with each other without aid of the case 500.

In exemplary embodiments, a manufacturer of the display panel 40 may manufacture the display device without the case 500. A customer of the display panel 40 may combine the case 500 with the display device as a finished product.

FIG. 13 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. The display device of the present embodiment of the present invention is substantially similar as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 and any further explanation thereof will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 13, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 400, a top chassis 450, and a case 500.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 400 may include a receiving bottom portion 410 and a receiving side portion 420. The receiving side portion 420 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 410. The receiving bottom portion 410 and the receiving side portion 420 together define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

The receiving side portion 420 includes a screw recess 422 and a combination recess 426. The screw recess 422 may be aligned with a screw hole 454a2 in the top chassis 450. The combination recess 426 may be configured to receive a combination protrusion 454b2 in the top chassis 450.

The screw recess 422 may be formed along an outer side face of the receiving side portion 420 in a Z-axis direction. The screw recess 422 may be positioned between the combination recesses 426. The combination recess 426 may include an inner face slanted with respect to an outer face of the receiving side portion 420.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 450 may be combined with the bottom mold 400 to combine the display panel 40 to the bottom mold 400. The top chassis 450 may include a panel support portion 452 and a chassis side portion 454. The panel support portion 452 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 410. The chassis side portion 454 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 452 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 420.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 452 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 452 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 452 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 400.

The chassis side portion 454 may include a screw hole 454a2 and a combination protrusion 454b2 and an opening portion 454c2. The screw hole 454a2 is received in the screw recess 422. The combination protrusion 454b2 may be received in the combination recess 426. The position of the opening portion 454c2 corresponds to the combination protrusion 454b2.

The screw hole 454a2 may extend into or through an outer face of the chassis side portion 454. A screw thread is formed on an inner face of the screw hole 454a2. The screw thread enables the screw hole 454a2 to be firmly combined with the screw 514.

In an exemplary embodiment, the screw hole 454a2 may be positioned between the combination protrusions 454b2. The combination protrusion 454b2 may extend in a direction slanted with respect to the chassis side portion 454 so that the combination protrusion 454b2 may be efficiently combined with the combination recess 426. The combination protrusion 454b2 may be inserted in the combination recess 426 in a direction substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 420 to be combined with the combination recess 426.

In an exemplary embodiment, in order to form the combination protrusion 454b2, a portion of the chassis side portion 454, wherein the portion is adjacent to the screw hole 454a2, may be separated from the chassis side portion 454. The portion may then be bent to form the combination protrusion 454b2. Because the portion is bent to form the combination protrusion 454b2, the chassis side portion 454 may have an opening portion 454c2. The opening portion 454c2 is a space defined by the chassis side portion 454, a fixing plate 510, and the receiving side portion 420. As described above, the portion of the chassis side portion 454 may be separated from the chassis side portion 454 and bent to form the combination protrusion 454b2.

In an exemplary embodiment, the case 500 may be combined with the bottom mold 400 and the top chassis 450 so that the case 500 may fix the bottom mold 400 and the top chassis 450. The case 500 may include the fixing plate 510 fixing the chassis side portion 454 and the receiving side portion 420. A pair of the fixing plates 510 may be arranged substantially parallel in an X-axis direction substantially parallel with the chassis side portion 454.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing plate 510 may include a combination hole 512. The combination hole 512 enables the case 500 to be fixed to the bottom mold 400 and the top chassis 450. A screw thread may be formed on an inner face of the combination hole 512 so that the screw 514 may be efficiently combined with the combination hole 512. The screw 514 may be combined with the screw hole 454a2 through the combination hole 512.

When the screw 514 is combined with the screw hole 454a2, force may be applied to the chassis side portion 454 in a direction toward the fixing plate 510. As a result, the fixing plate 510 may be firmly combined with the chassis side portion 454.

In addition, because the chassis side portion 454 may be combined with the receiving side portion 420 by the combination protrusion 454b2, the fixing plate 510, the chassis side portion 454, and the receiving side portion 420 may be firmly combined with each other.

FIG. 14 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. The display device of the present embodiment of the present invention is substantially similar as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 and any further explanation thereof will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 14, an exemplary embodiment of the display device may include a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 400, a top chassis 450, and a case 500.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 400 may include a receiving bottom portion 410 and a receiving side portion 420. The receiving bottom portion 410 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 410. The receiving bottom portion 410 and the receiving side portion 420 together define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving side portion 420 may include a screw recess 422 and a combination recess 424. The screw recess 422 receives a screw hole 454a3 in the top chassis 450. The combination recess 424 is configured to receive a combination protrusion 454b3 in the top chassis 450.

In an exemplary embodiment, the screw recess 422 may be formed along an outer side face of the receiving side portion 420 in a Z-axis direction. The screw recess 422 may be positioned between combination recesses 424. A section of the combination recess 424 may be configured as an “L” shape.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 450 may be combined with the bottom mold 400 to fix the display panel 40 to the bottom mold 400. The top chassis 450 may include a panel support portion 452 and a chassis side portion 454. The panel support portion 452 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 410. The chassis side portion 454 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 452 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 420.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 452 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 452 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 452 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 400.

In an exemplary embodiment, the chassis side portion 454 may include a screw hole 454a3, a combination protrusion 454b3, and an opening portion 454c3. The screw hole 454a3 is received in the screw recess 422. The combination protrusion 454b3 may be received in the combination recess 424. The position of the opening portion 454c3 corresponds to the combination protrusion 454b3.

In an exemplary embodiment, the screw hole 454a3 may extend into or through an outer face of the chassis side portion 454. A screw thread is formed on an inner side of the screw hole 454a3 so that the screw hole 454a3 may be efficiently combined with the screw 514.

In an exemplary embodiment, the screw hole 454a3 may be positioned between combination protrusions 454b3. The combination protrusion 454b3 may be configured as an “L” shape so that the combination protrusion 454b3 may be easily combined with the combination recess 424. The combination protrusion 454b3 may be inserted into the combination recess 424 in a direction substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 420 to be combined with the combination recess 424.

In an exemplary embodiment, in order to form the combination protrusion 454b3, a portion of the chassis side portion 454 may be separated from the chassis side portion 454. The portion may then be bent to form the combination protrusion 454b3. Because the portion is bent to form the combination protrusion 454b3, the chassis side portion may have an opening portion 454c3. The opening portion 454c3 may be positioned at a central portion of the chassis side portion 454. As a result, the opening portion 454c3 may prevent the chassis side portion 454 from being partially bent by an external force.

In an exemplary embodiment, the case 500 may be combined with the bottom mold 400 and the top chassis 450 to fix the bottom mold 400 and the top chassis 450. The case 500 may include a fixing plate 510 fixing the chassis side portion 454 and the receiving side portion 420. A pair of the fixing plates 510 may be positioned substantially parallel in an X-axis direction substantially parallel with the chassis side portion 454.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing plate 510 may include a combination hole 512. The combination hole 512 enables the case 500 to be fixed to the bottom mold 400 and the top chassis 450. The combination hole 512 may include a screw thread. The screw thread enables the combination hole 512 to be especially combined with the screw 514.

The screw 514 is combined with the screw hole 454a3 through the combination hole 512. When the screw 514 is combined with the screw hole 454a3, a force may be applied to the chassis side portion 454 in a direction away from the bottom mold 400. As a result, the fixing plate 510 may be firmly combined with the chassis side portion 454. In addition, the opening portion 454c3 positioned at the central portion of the chassis side portion 454 may prevent the chassis side portion 454 from being partially bent by the external force applied to the chassis side portion 454.

As described above, the chassis side portion 454 is combined with the receiving side portion 420 by the combination protrusion 454b3. Thus, the fixing plate 510, the chassis side portion 454 and the receiving side portion 420 may be firmly combined with each other.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI′ in FIG. 15. The display device of the present embodiment of the present invention is substantially similar as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 and any further explanation thereof will be omitted.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 600, and a top chassis 650.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 600 includes a receiving bottom portion 610 and a receiving side portion 620. The receiving side portion 620 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 610. The receiving bottom portion 610 and the receiving side portion 620 together define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 650 may be combined with the bottom mold 600 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 600. The top chassis 650 may include a panel support portion 652 and a chassis side portion 654. The panel support portion 652 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 610. The chassis side portion 654 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 652 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 620.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 652 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 652 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 652 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 600.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 652 may include a bent portion 652a. The bent portion 652a may enable the top chassis 650 and the bottom mold 600 to be combined with each other. A portion of the panel support portion 652 may be bent toward the receiving bottom portion 652 to form the bent portion 652a. Here, the bent portion 652a may be partially combined with the receiving side portion 654 so that movement of the top chassis 650 may be substantially limited in a Y-axis direction away from the bottom mold 600. In addition, the panel support portion 652 may include a plurality of the bent portions 652a so that the top chassis 650 and the bottom mold 600 may be firmly combined with each other.

As described above, the bent portion 652a in the panel support portion 652 may be combined with the receiving side portion 654 so that the top chassis 650 may be efficiently combined with the bottom mold 600 without aid of additional combination means.

FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. The display device of the present embodiment of the present invention is substantially similar as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 and any further explanation thereof will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 17, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 600, and a top chassis 650.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 600 may include a receiving bottom portion 610 and a receiving side portion 620. The receiving side portion 620 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 610. The receiving bottom portion 610 and the receiving side portion 620 together define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 650 may be combined with the bottom mold 600 so that the display panel 40 may be combined with the bottom mold 600. The top chassis 650 may include a panel support portion 652 and a chassis side portion 654. The panel support portion 652 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 610. The chassis side portion 654 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 652 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 620.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 652 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 652 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 652 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 600.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 652 may include a bent portion 652b. The bent portion 652b may enable the top chassis 650 and the bottom mold 600 to be combined with each other. A portion of the panel support portion 652 may be separated from the panel support portion 652. The portion may then be bent toward the receiving bottom portion 610 to form the bent portion 652b. For example, a vertical section of the bent portion 652b may be configured as an “L” shape. Here, the bent portion 652b may be partially combined with the receiving side portion 654 so that movement of the top chassis 650 may be substantially limited in a Y-axis direction away from the bottom mold 600.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 19 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating the display device in FIG. 18. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII′ in FIG. 18. The display device of the present embodiment of the present invention is substantially similar as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 and any further explanation thereof will be omitted.

Referring to FIGS. 18 to 20, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 700, and a top chassis 750.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 700 may include a receiving bottom portion 710 and a receiving side portion 720. The receiving side portion 720 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 710. The receiving bottom portion 710 and the receiving side portion 720 together define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40, and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving side portion 720 may include a combination recess 722 in which a combination protrusion 754a in the top chassis 750 is to be received. The combination recess 722 may be formed along the receiving side portion 720 in a Z-axis direction. The combination recess 722 may be opened in a direction opposite to the receiving bottom portion 710. The combination recess 722 may include a stepped portion 722a slanted with respect to an outer face of the receiving side portion 720. The stepped portion 722a may be one of the inner side face portions of the combination recess 722. The stepped portion 722a may be combined with the combination protrusion 754a so that movement of the top chassis 750 may be substantially limited in a Y-axis direction away from the bottom mold 700.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 750 may be combined with the bottom mold 700 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 700. The top chassis 750 includes a panel support portion 752 and a chassis side portion 754. The panel support portion 752 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 710. The chassis side portion 754 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 752 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 720.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 752 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 752 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 752 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 700.

In an exemplary embodiment, the chassis side portion 754 may include the combination protrusion 754a and an opening portion 754b. The combination protrusion 754a may be received in the combination recess 722. The position of the opening portion 754b corresponds to the combination protrusion 754a.

The combination protrusion 754a may extend from the chassis side portion 754 in a direction slanted with respect to the chassis side portion 754. The chassis side portion 754 may include a plurality of the combination protrusions 754a. The combination protrusions 754a may be slanted in directions opposite to each other so that the combination protrusions 754a facing each other may be closer. An end portion of the combination protrusion 754a may be bent at lease once.

In an exemplary embodiment, in order to form the combination protrusion 754a, a portion of the chassis side portion 754 may be separated from the chassis side portion 754. The portion may then be bent to form the combination protrusion 754a. Thus, the opening portion 754b may be formed in the chassis side portion 754.

In an exemplary embodiment, the combination protrusion 754a may be combined with the stepped portion 722a in the combination recess 722 so that the top chassis 750 may be combined with the bottom mold 700. Here, the combination protrusion 754a may combined with the stepped portion 722a in the combination recess 722 so that movement of the top chassis 750 may be substantially limited in a Y-axis direction away from the bottom mold 700.

In an exemplary embodiment, one of the combination protrusions 754a may be combined with one of the stepped portions 722a. The other combination protrusion 754a may be then combined with the other stepped portion 722a.

As described above, the combination protrusion 754a in the chassis side portion 754 may be combined with the combination recess 722 in the receiving side portion 720. Thus, the top chassis 750 may be firmly combined with the bottom mold 700 without aid of additional combination means.

FIG. 21 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention. The display device of the present embodiment of the present invention is substantially similar as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for a bottom mold and a top chassis. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 and any further explanation thereof will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 21, an exemplary embodiment of the display device includes a light generation unit, a light guide plate 10, a reflection plate 20, an optical sheet member 30, a display panel 40, an upper mold 50, a bottom mold 700, and a top chassis 750.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom mold 700 may include a receiving bottom portion 710 and a receiving side portion 720. The receiving side portion 720 may extend from an edge of the receiving bottom portion 710. The receiving bottom portion 710 and the receiving side portion 720 together define a receiving space. The light generation unit, the light guide plate 10, the reflection plate 20, the optical sheet member 30, the display panel 40 and the upper mold 50 may be received in the receiving space.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving side portion 720 may include a combination recess 724. The combination recess 724 may receive a combination protrusion 754c in the top chassis 750. The combination recess 724 may be formed along the receiving side portion 720 in a Z-axis direction. The combination recess 724 may be opened in a direction opposite to the receiving bottom portion 710. The combination recess 724 may include a stepped portion 724a. The stepped portion 724a may be one of the inner side face portions of the combination recess 724. The stepped portion 724a may be combined with the combination protrusion 754c so that movement of the top chassis 750 may be substantially limited in a Y-axis direction away from the bottom mold 700.

In an exemplary embodiment, the top chassis 750 may be combined with the bottom mold 700 so that the display panel 40 may be combined with the bottom mold 700. The top chassis 750 may include a panel support portion 752 and a chassis side portion 754. The panel support portion 752 may be substantially parallel with the receiving bottom portion 710. The chassis side portion 754 may extend from an edge of the panel support portion 752 substantially parallel with the receiving side portion 720.

In an exemplary embodiment, the panel support portion 752 may selectively cover an edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the panel support portion 752 has an opening exposing a central portion of the display panel 40 therethrough. The panel support portion 752 may be configured to apply pressure to the edge portion of the display panel 40 so that the display panel 40 may be fixed to the bottom mold 700.

In an exemplary embodiment, the chassis side portion 754 may include a combination protrusion 754c and an opening portion 754d. The combination protrusion 754c may be received in the combination recess 724. The position of the opening portion 754d corresponds to the combination protrusion 754c.

In an exemplary embodiment, the combination protrusion 754c may extend from the chassis side portion 754 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the chassis side portion 754. An end portion of the combination protrusion 754c may be bent more than one time. For example, the end portion of the combination protrusion 754c may be bent three times, where the portions may be substantially perpendicular to each other. The chassis side portion 754 may include a plurality of the combination protrusions 754c. The combination protrusions 754c may face each other. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the bent portions of the combination protrusions 754c may face each other.

In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the chassis side portion 754 may be separated from the chassis side portion 754. The portion may then be bent to form the combination protrusion 754c. Because the portion of the chassis side portion 754 is bent to form the combination protrusion 754c, the opening portion 754c may be formed in the chassis side portion 754.

In an exemplary embodiment, the combination protrusion 754c may be combined with the stepped portion 724a in the combination recess 724 so that the top chassis 750 may be combined with the bottom mold 700. Here, the combination protrusion 754c may be combined with the stepped portion 724a in the combination recess 724 so that movement of the top chassis 750 may be substantially limited in a Y-axis direction away from the bottom mold 700.

In an exemplary embodiment, one of the combination protrusions 754c may be combined with one of the stepped portions 724a. The other combination protrusion 754c may be then combined with the other stepped portion 724a.

According to the present invention, a receiving container may be combined with a top chassis without aid of additional combination means such as a screw. Thus, a time required for manufacturing a display device may decrease.

Having thus described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is to be understood that the invention defined by the appended claims is not to be limited by particular details set forth in the above description as many apparent variations thereof are possible without departing from the spirit or scope thereof as hereinafter claimed.

Claims

1. A display device comprising:

a first receiving container including a receiving bottom portion and a receiving side portion, the receiving side portion extending from an edge of the receiving bottom portion, the receiving bottom portion and the receiving side portion together defining a receiving area therein;

a display panel positioned in the first receiving container, the display panel being configured for displaying images; and

a second receiving container partially combined with the first receiving container, the second receiving container including a panel support portion and a chassis side portion, the panel support portion fixing an edge of the display panel, the chassis side portion extending from an edge of the panel support portion.

2. The display device of claim 1, wherein the chassis side portion includes a combination protrusion and the receiving side portion includes a combination recess configured to combine with the combination protrusion, wherein the combination recess combined with the combination protrusion is configured to prevent substantial movement of the second receiving container with respect to the first receiving container.

3. The display device of claim 1, wherein the chassis side portion includes a combination hole and the receiving side portion includes a combination portion combined with the combination hole, wherein a portion of the combination portion elastically deforms when a force is applied to combine the combination portion with the combination hole and wherein the combination portion returns substantially to its undeformed shape when the force is removed.

4. The display device of claim 3, wherein the combination portion includes a combination body and a combination head, the combination body extending from the receiving side portion, wherein the combination head includes a portion that deforms elastically when the combination head is combined with the combination hole.

5. The display device of claim 3, wherein the receiving side portion includes a chassis support portion configured to apply force to the chassis side portion in a direction away from the first receiving container when the chassis side portion is combined with the receiving side portion.

6. The display device of claim 1, wherein the chassis side portion includes a combination protrusion and the receiving side portion includes a combination portion configured to apply pressure to the chassis side portion when the chassis side portion is combined with the receiving side portion.

7. The display device of claim 6, wherein the combination portion includes combination wings configured to apply pressure to the combination protrusion.

8. The display device of claim 1, further comprising a combination member enabling the first receiving container and the second receiving container to be combined to each other.

9. The display device of claim 8, wherein the combination member includes a first magnet and a second magnet, the first magnet received in the receiving side portion, the second magnet positioned on an outer side face of the chassis side portion, the first magnet and the second magnet generating a magnetic force attracting each other.

10. The display device of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic combination member, wherein the chassis side portion comprises a combination hole corresponding to the magnetic combination member.

11. The display device of claim 1, wherein the panel support portion includes a bent portion enabling the first receiving container and the second receiving container to be combined with each other.

12. The display device of claim 11, wherein the bent portion is a portion of the panel support portion, and the portion is bent toward an inside area of the first receiving container.

13. A display device comprising:

a receiving container including a bottom face and a sidewall, the bottom face and the sidewall together defining a receiving space therein, the sidewall including a first combination portion that is recessed;

a display panel positioned in the receiving space, the display panel being configured for displaying images; and

a top chassis including a panel support face, a chassis sidewall, and a second combination portion, the panel support face fixing an edge of the display panel, the chassis sidewall extending from an edge of the panel support face to be combined with a sidewall of the receiving container, the second combination portion protruding from the chassis sidewall to be combined with the first combination portion.

14. The display device of claim 13, wherein the second combination portion includes an “L” shaped section substantially parallel with the bottom face.

15. The display device of claim 13, wherein the second combination portion is extended from the chassis sidewall, the second combination portion being slanted with respect to the chassis sidewall.

16. The display device of claim 13, wherein the second combination portion includes an end portion that is bent at least once.

17. The display device of claim 13, wherein the second combination portion is a portion of the chassis sidewall that is bent.

18. The display device of claim 13, wherein the first combination portion includes an “L” shaped section substantially parallel with the bottom face.

19. The display device of claim 13, wherein the first combination portion includes a stepped portion partially combined with the second combination portion, wherein the stepped portion is configured to prevent substantial movement of the top chassis with respect to the sidewall of the receiving container.

20. The display device of claim 19, wherein the stepped portion is slanted with respect to a sidewall of the receiving container.

21. The display device of claim 13, further comprising a case combined with the receiving container and the top chassis.

22. The display device of claim 21, wherein the case is combined with the receiving container and the top chassis by a screw.