CONNECTION BRACKET AND DISPLAY APPARATUS INCLUDING THE SAME

A display apparatus comprises: a first display unit comprising a first connector, a second display unit disposed adjacent to one side of the first display unit and comprising a second connector, and a connection bracket configured to connect the first display unit and the second display unit. The connection bracket comprises: a third connector configured to be electrically connected to the first connector, a fourth connector configured to be electrically connected to the second connector, and a hinge.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a connection bracket and a display apparatus including the same.

BACKGROUND ART

A display apparatus is a kind of an output apparatus that converts obtained or stored electrical information into visual information and displays the visual information to a user.

The display apparatus may be classified into a self-luminous type including a display panel that emits light on its own such as an organic light emitting diode (OLED), and a non-self-luminous type including a display panel that does not emit light on its own, and receives light from a backlight unit such as a liquid crystal display (LCD).

The display apparatus may include a plurality of display units. Each of the plurality of display units may display an image.

DISCLOSURE

Technical Problem

The present disclosure is directed to providing a connection bracket capable of facilitating a connection between a plurality of display units and a display apparatus including the same.

Further, the present disclosure is directed to providing a connection bracket capable of facilitating folding and/or tilting between a plurality of display units and a display apparatus including the same.

Further, the present disclosure is directed to providing a connection bracket including an improved structure to allow a plurality of display units to be arranged in various ways and a display apparatus including the same.

Further, the present disclosure is directed to providing a connection bracket with improved design aspects and a display apparatus including the same.

Technical Solution

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a display apparatus includes a first display unit including a first connector; a second display unit including a second connector; and a connection bracket configured to connect the first display unit and the second display unit, wherein the connection bracket includes a first panel configured to be mounted on the first display unit, a third connector on the first panel and configured to be electrically connected to the first connector, a second panel configured to be mounted on the second display unit, a fourth connector on the second panel and configured to be electrically connected to the second connector, and a hinge configured to be slidable between the first panel and the second panel so as to adjust an angle between the first display unit and the second display unit while the first panel is mounted on the first display unit, the third connector is electrically connected to the first connector, the second panel is mounted on the second display unit, and the fourth connector is electrically connected to the second connector.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, as the hinge slides, a length of the hinge is variable.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the hinge may include a first hinge portion extending from the first panel and a second hinge portion extending from the second panel. The first hinge portion and the second hinge portion are couplable together to be slidable relative to one another.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the hinge may include a hinge rail formed on one of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion, and a hinge protrusion formed on the other of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion and configured to be moved along the hinge rail when the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion are sliding relative to one another.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the hinge may include a hinge groove formed on one of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion so as to be open toward the other of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion, and a hinge protruding portion formed on the other of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion and configured to be inserted into the hinge groove. The hinge protruding portion may be configured to be withdrawn from, and inserted into, the hinge groove.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the connection bracket may extend from a rear side of the first display unit to a rear side of the second display unit along a direction in which the first display unit and the second display unit are arranged.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first display unit may include a first side adjacent to the second display unit and extending along a vertical direction, and a second side spaced apart from the first side and extending along the vertical direction. The second display unit may include a third side adjacent to the first side of the first display unit and extending along the vertical direction, and a fourth side spaced apart from the third side and extending along the vertical direction. A front edge of the first side and a front edge of the third side may come into contact with each other as the hinge slides.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the hinge may include a first hinge portion extending from the first panel and a second hinge portion extending from the second panel and coupled to the first hinge portion. Each of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion may be rotatable with respect to a point where the front edge of the first side and the front edge of the third side come into contact with each other.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first display unit may include a fifth connector closer to the second side than the first connector. The second display unit may include a sixth connector closer to the fourth side than the second connector. The connection bracket may include a seventh connector on the first panel and configured to be electrically connected to the fifth connector, and an eighth connector on the second panel and configured to be electrically connected to the sixth connector.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first display unit may include a fifth connector closer to the second side than the first connector. The second display unit may include a sixth connector closer to the fourth side than the second connector. The first panel of the connection bracket may be configured to cover the first connector and the fifth connector. The second panel of the connection bracket may be configured to cover the second connector and the sixth connector.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the display apparatus may further include a third display unit including a fifth connector. The first display unit may include a sixth connector spaced apart from the first connector. The hinge may be a first hinge. The connection bracket may include a third panel configured to be mounted on the third display unit, a seventh connector on the third panel and configured to be electrically connected to the fifth connector, an eighth connector on the first panel and configured to be electrically connected to the sixth connector, and a second hinge configured to be slidable between the first panel and the third panel to adjust an angle between the first display unit and the third display unit while the first panel is mounted on the first display unit, the eighth connector is electrically connected to the sixth connector, the third panel is mounted on the third display unit, and the seventh connector is electrically connected to the fifth connector.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the connection bracket may include a position adjusting device configured to vertically move at least one of the third connector connected to the first connector and the fourth connector connected to the second connector.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first display unit may include a first coupler. The second display unit may include a second coupler. The connection bracket may include a third coupler on the first panel and coupled to the first coupler, and a fourth coupler on the second panel and coupled to the second coupler.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the third connector and the fourth connector may be electrically connectable. The first display unit and the second display unit may be configured to transmit and receive at least one of power, control signals, and video signals through the connection bracket.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the connection bracket may include a first position adjusting device configured to vertically move the third connector connected to the first connector, and a second position adjusting device configured to vertically move the fourth connector connected to the second connector. While the first position adjusting device moves the third connector coupled to the first connector, a first gap may be formed between the first panel and the third connector so as to allow the third connector to be maintained in a state of being coupled to the first connector. While the second position adjusting device moves the fourth connector coupled to the second connector, a second gap may be formed between the second panel and the fourth connector so as to allow the fourth connector to be maintained in a state of being coupled to the second connector.

Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a connection bracket configured to connect a first display unit including a first connector to a second display unit disposed adjacent the first display unit and including a second connector. The connection bracket includes a first panel configured to be mounted on a rear side of the first display unit; a third connector formed on the first panel and configured to be electrically connected to the first connector; a second panel configured to be mounted on a rear side of the second display unit; a fourth connector formed on the second panel and configured to be electrically connected to the second connector; and a hinge configured to be slidable between the first panel and the second panel so as to allow a length of the hinge to vary.

MODES OF THE INVENTION

The various embodiments and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technology disclosed herein to specific forms, and the disclosure should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and/or alternatives to the corresponding embodiments.

In describing the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to designate similar constituent elements.

A singular expression may include a plural expression unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

The expressions “A or B,” “at least one of A or/and B,” or “one or more of A or/and B,” A, B or C,” “at least one of A, B or/and C,” or “one or more of A, B or/and C,” and the like used herein may include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

The expression “at least one of A and/or B” should be understood to represent “A” or “B” or any one of “A and B.”

For example, the expression “at least one of A and B” includes any of the following: A, B, A and B. The expression “at least one of A, B, and C” includes any of the following: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, A and B and C.

The term of “and/or” includes a plurality of combinations of relevant items or any one item among a plurality of relevant items.

Terms such as “unit”, “module”, “member”, and “block” may be embodied as hardware or software. According to embodiments, a plurality of “unit”, “module”, “member”, and “block” may be implemented as a single component or a single “unit”, “module”, “member”, and “block” may include a plurality of components.

Herein, the expressions “a first”, “a second”, “the first”, “the second”, etc., may simply be used to distinguish an element from other elements, but is not limited to another aspect (importance or order) of elements.

When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled,” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

In this disclosure, the terms “including”, “having”, and the like are used to specify features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more of the features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components or combinations thereof.

When an element is said to be “connected”, “coupled”, “supported” or “contacted” with another element, this includes not only when elements are directly connected, coupled, supported or contacted, but also when elements are indirectly connected, coupled, supported or contacted through a third element.

Throughout the description, when an element is “on” another element, this includes not only when the element is in contact with the other element, but also when there is another element between the two elements.

The terms “forward and backward direction”, “forward,” “backward,” “lateral direction”, “horizontal direction”, “right side”, “left side”, “up and down direction”, “vertical direction”, “upward,” “downward,” etc. used in the following description may be defined based on the drawings. For example, based on a display apparatus1shown inFIG.1, a direction in which an image is displayed may be defined as the forward direction (+X direction), and a side opposite to the front may be defined as the backward direction (−X direction). For example, a direction in which the plurality of display units10is arranged based on the display apparatus1shown inFIG.1may be defined as the lateral (or horizontal) direction (Y direction). However, the shape and location of each component are not limited by the above-mentioned terms.

Hereinafter for convenience of description, a display unit10included in the display apparatus1will be described using a monitor as an example. However, the display unit10of the present disclosure is not limited to a monitor. For example, the display unit10of the present disclosure may also be applied to devices such as TVs, smart phones, and tablet PCs.

In addition, the drawing shows the display apparatus1including the flat display unit10as an example, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The present disclosure may also be applied to a curved display unit or a bendable or flexible display unit in which a flat state and a curved state are variable.

FIG.1is a perspective view of a display apparatus according to one embodiment.FIG.2is a rear perspective view of the display apparatus shown inFIG.1.

Referring toFIGS.1and2, the display apparatus1may include a plurality of display units10and a connection bracket20.

The display apparatus1may include a plurality of display units10. The display apparatus1may include at least two display units10.

For example, the display apparatus1may include a first display unit10aand a second display unit10bdisposed adjacent to one side of the first display unit10a.For example, the display apparatus1may include a first display unit10a,a second display unit10bdisposed adjacent to one side of the first display unit10a,and a third display unit10cdisposed adjacent to the other side of the first display unit10a.

For example, for convenience of description, the display unit10adisposed in the center among the plurality of display units10may be defined as the first display unit10a.Additionally, the second display unit10band the third display unit10cmay be defined based on the first display unit10a.For example, the display unit10bdisposed on the left side of the first display unit10amay be defined as the second display unit10b,and the display unit10cdisposed on the right side of the first display unit10amay be defined as the third display unit10c.However, the ordinal numbers of “first”, “second”, and “third” do not limit the configuration of the first display unit10a,the second display unit10b,and the third display unit10c.

Additionally, it is illustrated that the display apparatus1includes three display units10a,10b,and10con the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The display apparatus1may include four or more display units. The display apparatus1may include two display units.

The display unit10may have different horizontal and vertical side lengths. That is, the display unit10may be provided to have a long side and a short side. Each display unit10may be provided in a rectangular plate shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the display unit10may be provided in a square plate shape with long and short sides having the same length. Alternatively, the display unit10may be provided in various sizes.

For example, the display unit10may include a first side14extending along a substantially vertical direction (Z direction), and a second side15spaced apart from the first side14and extending along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction). The first side14and the second side15may be spaced apart in the lateral direction (Y direction). The first side14and the second side15may be provided with short sides. For example, the display unit10may include a third side16extending along the substantially lateral direction (Y direction) and a fourth side17spaced apart from the third side16and extending along the substantially lateral direction (Y direction). The third side16may connect a lower end of the first side14and a lower end of the second side15. The fourth side17may connect an upper end of the first side14and an upper end of the second side15. The third side16and the fourth side17may be spaced apart in the up and down direction (Z direction). The third side16and the fourth side17may be provided with long sides. The third sides16a,16b,and16c,and the fourth sides17a,17b,and17ccorrespond to the display units10a,10b,and10c.The ordinal numbers of “first”, “second”, and “third” do not limit the configuration of the first side14, the second side15, the third side16, and the fourth side17.

Based on the description above, a first side14aof the first display unit10amay be adjacent to a second side15bof the second display unit10b.Based on the description above, a second side15aof the first display unit10amay be adjacent to a first side14cof the third display unit10c.

The display unit10may receive content data including video signals and audio signals from various content sources and output video and audio corresponding to the video signals and the audio signals. For example, the display unit10may receive content data through a broadcast reception antenna or cable, receive content data from a content playback device, or receive content data from a content providing server of a content provider.

The display unit10may be configured to display a screen. The display unit10may include a display panel11provided to display an image on a front surface. For example, the front surface of the display unit10may form a front surface of the display apparatus1.

A screen display area may be formed on the front surface of the display panel11. The screen may be displayed in front of the display panel11. A plurality of pixels may be formed in the screen display area, and the screen displayed on the screen display area may be formed by a combination of light emitted from the plurality of pixels. For example, a single screen may be formed on the screen display area by combining light emitted from the plurality of pixels like a mosaic.

Each of the plurality of pixels may emit light of various brightnesses and colors. Particularly, each of the plurality of pixels may include sub-pixels. The sub-pixels may include a red sub-pixel capable of emitting red light, a green sub-pixel capable of emitting green light, and a blue sub-pixel capable of emitting blue light. Each of the plurality of pixels may emit light of various brightnesses and colors by combining the light emitted from the red sub-pixel, the green sub-pixel, and the blue sub-pixel.

The display panel11may be a self-luminous display panel such as an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) or a non-self-luminous display panel such as a liquid crystal display (LCD). There is no particular limitation on the type of display panel11, and each display unit10may include various types of display panels11.

When the display panel11is an LCD panel, the display panel11may include a thin film transistor substrate in which thin film transistors (TFTs) are formed in a matrix form, a color filter substrate coupled in parallel with the thin film transistor substrate, and a liquid crystal injected between the thin film transistor substrate and the color filter substrate and having optical properties that vary depending on changes in voltage or temperature. Additionally, a back light unit (BLU) (not shown) may be provided inside a case12. The backlight unit may be disposed behind the display panel11to emit light toward the display panel11. At this time, the display panel11may block or pass the light emitted from the backlight unit. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and as described above, the display panel11may be a self-luminous display panel such as an OLED panel.

The first display unit10amay include a first display panel11a.The second display unit10bmay include a second display panel11b.The third display unit10cmay include a third display panel11c.However, the ordinal numbers of “first”, “second”, and “third” do not limit the configuration of the first display panel11a,the second display panel11b,and the third display panel11c.

The display unit10may include the case12provided to accommodate the display panel11. The case12may form at least a part of the exterior of display unit10. Components for the display unit10to display images or to perform various functions, such as the display panel11may be accommodated in the case12.

The case12may be provided to support and/or fix the display panel11. The case12may be provided to cover a rear surface of the display panel11. For example, a rear surface of the case12may form a rear surface of the display apparatus1.

For example, the case12may be provided in the form of an assembly in which a plurality of components is coupled.

The case12may be referred to as a chassis, frame, mold, cover, etc.

The first display unit10amay include a first case12a.The second display unit10bmay include a second case12b.The third display unit10cmay include a third case12c.However, the ordinal numbers of “first”, “second”, and “third” do not limit the configuration of the first case12a,the second case12b,and the third case12c.

A port18provided to receive power and/or signals from the outside may be formed in one of the plurality of display units10. For example, the port18may be formed at a rear13aof the first display unit10a.As will be described later, the plurality of display units10may be electrically connected to each other by the connection bracket20. As a result, the port18may not be formed in each of the plurality of display units10. That is, the display unit10a,in which the port18is formed, and the display unit10bor10c,in which the port18is not formed, may share power and/or signals (e.g., video signals and control signals) through the connection bracket20. As a result, the number of ports18and the number of cables connected to the port18may be reduced. The display apparatus1may have an elegant appearance. However, according to embodiments, the port18may be formed in each of the plurality of display units10or in some of the plurality of display units10.

The display apparatus1may include the connection bracket20. The connection bracket20may be configured to connect the plurality of display units10. For example, when the display apparatus1includes the first display unit10aand the second display unit10b,the connection bracket20may be configured to connect the first display unit10aand the second display unit10b.For example, when the display apparatus1includes the first display unit10a,the second display unit10b,and the third display unit10c,the connection bracket20may be configured to connect the first display unit10a,the second display unit10b,and the third display unit10c.

The connection bracket20may be detachably coupled to a rear13of the plurality of display units10. The connection bracket20may be provided to cover the rear13of the plurality of display units10.

The connection bracket20may be provided to extend along a direction in which the plurality of display units10is arranged. For example, when the display apparatus1includes the first display unit10aand the second display unit10b,the connection bracket20may extend from the rear13aof the first display unit10ato a rear13bof the second display unit10balong a direction in which the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bare arranged. For example, when the display apparatus1includes the first display unit10a,the second display unit10b,and the third display unit10c,the connection bracket20may extend from the rear13bof the second display unit10bto a rear13cof the third display unit10calong a direction in which the first display unit10a,the second display unit10b,and the third display unit10care arranged.

FIG.3is a perspective view illustrating an example of the display apparatus shown inFIG.1in a folded state. As illustrated inFIG.3, the term “folded” may indicate a lateral axis of a first display unit10amay be angled relative to the respective lateral axes of the adjacent second display unit10band the adjacent third display unit10cwhen the display units are arranged side by side as shown.FIG.4is a rear perspective view of the display apparatus shown inFIG.3.

An angle between the display units10adjacent to each other among the plurality of display units10may vary. The display units10adjacent to each other among the plurality of display units10may be arranged to be foldable and/or tiltable.

The display units10adjacent to each other may be arranged to be foldable and/or tiltable by a hinge30of the connection bracket20. An angle between the display units10adjacent to each other may be adjusted by the hinge30of the connection bracket20. A description thereof will be described.

On the drawing, it is illustrated that the second display unit10bis folded and/or tilted within a predetermined range with respect to the first display unit10a,and the third display unit10cis folded and/or tilted within a predetermined range with respect to the first display unit10a.However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the first display unit10amay be folded and/or tilted within a predetermined range with respect to the second display unit10b.Alternatively, the first display unit10amay be folded and/or tilted within a predetermined range with respect to the third display unit10c.

FIG.5illustrates a state in which a plurality of display units and a connection bracket according to one embodiment are separated from each other.FIG.6is an enlarged view of part A shown inFIG.5.FIG.7illustrates the plurality of display units and the connection bracket shown inFIG.5when viewed from another direction.FIG.8is an enlarged view of part B shown inFIG.7.

Each of the plurality of display units10may include at least one connector. The at least one connector may be formed at the rear13of each of the plurality of display units10. For example, the display unit10may include two connectors adjacent to both sides14and15, respectively. For example, the display unit10may include two connectors extending along each of both sides14and15.

The connection bracket20may include connectors corresponding to each connector of the plurality of display units10. The connection bracket20may include a connector configured to be electrically connected to each connector of the plurality of display units10. The connection bracket20may include panels20a,20b,and20cmounted on each of the plurality of display units10. The number of panels of the connection bracket20may be the same as the number of display units10.

For example, the connector of the display unit10and the connector of the connection bracket20may be connected using a pogo pin method. However, this is only an example, and the connector of the plurality of display units10and the connector of the connection bracket20may be electrically connected through various known methods.

Meanwhile, connectors100,200,500,600,900and/or1000formed on the display unit10may be referred to as display side connectors100,200,500,600,900and/or1000. Connectors300,400,700and/or800,1100and/or1200formed on the connection bracket20may be referred to as bracket side connectors300,400,700and/or800,1100and/or1200.

Hereinafter an example in which the display apparatus1includes the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bwill be described. The description of the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bcorresponds to an example of a description of the adjacent display units among the plurality of display units10. Accordingly, the description of the first display unit10a,and the second display unit10bmay be equally applied to the first display unit10aand the third display unit10c.In addition, when the display apparatus1includes four or more display units10, a description of the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be equally applied to display units adjacent to each other among the plurality of display units.

The first display unit10amay include a first connector100. The first connector100may be formed at the rear13aof the first display unit10a.For example, the first connector100may be disposed adjacent to the first side14aof the first display unit10a.For example, the first connector100may have a shape extending along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction).

The second display unit10bmay include a second connector200. The second connector200may be formed at the rear13bof the second display unit10b.For example, the second connector200may be disposed adjacent to the second side15bof the second display unit10b.For example, the second connector200may have a shape extending along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction).

The connection bracket20may include a first panel20aconfigured to be mounted on the first display unit10a.The first panel20amay be mounted on the rear13aof the first display unit10a.The first panel20amay extend along the substantially lateral direction (Y direction) between the first side14aand the second side15aof the first display unit10a.The first panel20amay extend between both sides14aand15aof the first display unit10a,along the direction in which the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bare arranged.

The connection bracket20may include a second panel20bconfigured to be mounted on the second display unit10b.The second panel20bmay be mounted on the rear13bof the second display unit10b.The second panel20bmay extend along the substantially lateral direction (Y direction) between the first side14band the second side15bof the second display unit10b.The second panel20bmay extend between both sides14band15bof the second display unit10b,along the direction in which the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bare arranged.

The connection bracket20may include a third connector300formed on the first panel20aand configured to be electrically connected to the first connector100. The third connector300may have a shape corresponding to the first connector100. For example, the first connector100and the third connector300may be configured to transmit and receive power and/or signals (e.g., video signals and control signals).

The connection bracket20may include a fourth connector400formed on the second panel20band configured to be electrically connected to the second connector200. The fourth connector400may have a shape corresponding to the second connector200. For example, the second connector200and the fourth connector400may be configured to transmit and receive power and/or signals (e.g., video signals and control signals).

The third connector300and the fourth connector400of the connection bracket20may be electrically connected. For example, the third connector300and the fourth connector400may be electrically connected through an electronic circuit, a cable21(refer toFIG.16), etc. For example, the third connector300and the fourth connector400may be configured to transmit and receive power and/or signals (e.g., video signals and control signals).

As the connection bracket20is mounted on the first display unit10aand the second display unit10b,the first connector100and the third connector300may be electrically connected, and the second connector200and the fourth connector400may be electrically connected. Additionally, the third connector300and the fourth connector400of the connection bracket20may be electrically connected. As a result, the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay exchange power and/or signals with each other through the connection bracket20. The first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be configured to transmit and receive at least one of power, control signals, or video signals through the connection bracket20. The first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be configured to share various information. The first display unit10amay include a fifth connector500. The fifth connector500may be formed at the rear13aof the first display unit10a.The fifth connector500may be spaced apart from the first connector100in the lateral direction (Y direction). The fifth connector500may be arranged closer to the second side15aof the first display unit10athan the first connector100. For example, the fifth connector500may have a shape extending along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction).

The first connector100and the fifth connector500may be disposed adjacent to each of both sides14aand15aof the first display unit10a.

The second display unit10bmay include a sixth connector600. The sixth connector600may be formed at the rear13bof the second display unit10b.The sixth connector600may be spaced apart from the second connector200. The sixth connector600may be disposed closer to the first side14bof the second display unit10bthan the second connector200. For example, the sixth connector600may have a shape extending along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction).

The second connector200and the sixth connector600may be disposed adjacent to each of both sides15band14bof the second display unit10b.

The connection bracket20may include a seventh connector700formed on the first panel20aand configured to be electrically connected to the fifth connector500. The seventh connector700may have a shape corresponding to the fifth connector500. The seventh connector700may be spaced apart from the third connector300in the lateral direction (Y direction). For example, the fifth connector500and the seventh connector700may be configured to transmit and receive power and/or signals (e.g., video signals and control signals).

The third connector300and the seventh connector700may be disposed adjacent to each of both sides of the first panel20a.

The connection bracket20may include an eighth connector800formed on the second panel20band electrically connected to the sixth connector600. The eighth connector800may have a shape corresponding to the sixth connector600. The eighth connector800may be spaced apart from the fourth connector400in the lateral direction (Y direction). For example, the sixth connector600and the eighth connector800may be configured to transmit and receive power and/or signals (e.g., video signals and control signals).

The fourth connector400and the eighth connector800may be disposed adjacent to each of both sides of the second panel20b.

The first panel20aof the connection bracket20may have an extended shape to cover the first connector100and the fifth connector500. The second panel20bof the connection bracket20may have an extended shape to cover the second connector200and the sixth connector600.

An example in which the display apparatus1includes a first display unit10a,a second display unit10b,and a third display unit10cwill be described. As described above, the contents of the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be equally applied to the first display unit10aand the third display unit10c,and a description the same as the above description may be omitted.

The third display unit10cmay include a ninth connector900. The ninth connector900may be formed at the rear13cof the third display unit10c.For example, the ninth connector900may be disposed adjacent to the first side14cof the third display unit10c.For example, the ninth connector900may have a shape extending along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction).

The third display unit10cmay include a tenth connector1000. The tenth connector1000may be formed at the rear13cof the third display unit10c.The tenth connector1000may be spaced apart from the ninth connector900in the lateral direction (Y direction). For example, the tenth connector1000may be disposed adjacent to the second side15cof the third display unit10c.For example, the tenth connector1000may have a shape extending along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction).

The ninth connector900and the tenth connector1000may be disposed adjacent to each of both sides14cand15cof the third display unit10c.

The connection bracket20may include a third panel20cconfigured to be mounted on the third display unit10c.The third panel20cmay be mounted on the rear13cof the third display unit10c.The third panel20cmay extend along the substantially lateral direction (Y direction) between the first side14cand the second side15cof the third display unit10c.The third panel20cmay extend between both sides14cand15cof the third display unit10c,along the direction in which the first display unit10aand the third display unit10care arranged.

The connection bracket20may include an eleventh connector1100formed on the third panel20cand electrically connected to the ninth connector900. The eleventh connector1100may have a shape corresponding to the ninth connector900. For example, the ninth connector900and the eleventh connector1100may be configured to transmit and receive power and/or signals (e.g., video signals and control signals).

The connection bracket20may include a twelfth connector1200formed on the third panel20cand electrically connected to the tenth connector1000. The twelfth connector1200may have a shape corresponding to the tenth connector1000. The twelfth connector1200may be spaced apart from the eleventh connector1100in the lateral direction (Y direction). For example, the tenth connector1000and the twelfth connector1200may be configured to transmit and receive power and/or signals (e.g., video signals and control signals).

The eleventh connector1100and the twelfth connector1200may be disposed adjacent to each of both sides of the third panel20c.

The seventh connector700and the eleventh connector1100of the connection bracket20may be electrically connected. For example, the seventh connector700and the eleventh connector1100may be electrically connected through an electronic circuit, a cable21(refer toFIG.16), etc. For example, the seventh connector700and the eleventh connector1100may be configured to transmit and receive power and/or signals (e.g., video signals and control signals). As the connection bracket20is mounted on the first display unit10aand the third display unit10c,the fifth connector500and the seventh connector700may be electrically connected, and the ninth connector900and the eleventh connector1100may be electrically connected. Additionally, the seventh connector700and the eleventh connector1100of the connection bracket20may be electrically connected. As a result, the first display unit10aand the third display unit10cmay exchange power and/or signals with each other through the connection bracket20. The first display unit10aand the third display unit10cmay be configured to transmit and receive at least one of a control signal or a video signal through the connection bracket20. The first display unit10aand the third display unit10cmay be configured to share various information.

The first connector100will be described as an example of the display side connector with reference toFIG.6. A description of the first connector100shown inFIG.6may be applied to the second connector200, the fifth connector500, the sixth connector600, the ninth connector900, and the tenth connector1000.

The first connector100may include a connector body100aand a connector terminal100bformed on the connector body100a.For example, the connector body100amay have a shape recessed from the rear13aof the first display unit10a.For example, the connector terminal100bmay be formed of a conductive material to transmit electrical signals and/or current.

The first connector100may include a connector hook groove42. The connector hook groove42of the first connector100may be coupled to a connector hook41of the third connector300, which will be described later. Accordingly, the first connector100and the third connector300may be connected more stably. For example, at least one connector hook groove42may be provided.

Each of the second connector200, the fifth connector500, the sixth connector600, the ninth connector900, and the tenth connector1000may include substantially the same configuration as the first connector100.

The third connector300will be described as an example of the bracket side connector with reference toFIG.8. A description of the third connector300shown inFIG.8may be applied to the fourth connector400, the seventh connector700, the eighth connector800, the eleventh connector1100and the twelfth connector1200.

The third connector300may include a connector body300aand a connector terminal300bformed on the connector body300a.The connector body300amay have a shape corresponding to the connector body100a.For example, the connector body300amay have a shape that protrudes from the first panel20a.However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the connector body100amay have a shape that protrudes toward the connector body300a,and the connector body300amay have a recessed shape to correspond to the connector body100a.For example, the connector terminal300bmay be formed of a conductive material to transmit electrical signals and/or current. For example, the connector terminal300bmay be provided to be in contact with the connector terminal100a.

The third connector300may include a connector hook41. The connector hook41of the third connector300may be coupled to the connector hook groove42of the first connector100. Accordingly, the first connector100and the third connector300may be connected more stably. For example, at least one connector hook41may be provided. Meanwhile, contrary to the drawing, the first connector100may include a connector hook, and the third connector300may include a connector hook groove.

Each of the fourth connector400, the seventh connector700, the eighth connector800, the eleventh connector1100, and the twelfth connector1200may have substantially the same configuration as the third connector300. For example, as shown inFIG.10(described herein), the fourth connector includes a connector body400aand a connector terminal400b.

The display side connectors100,200,500,600,900and/or1000and the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200may have shapes that correspond to each other. Accordingly, the connection bracket20may be easily mounted on the plurality of display units10. The connection bracket20may be accurately mounted on the plurality of display units10. Additionally, the bracket side connector and the display side connector may be connected more reliably. In the drawing, it is illustrated that the display side connectors100,200,500,600,900and/or1000have a recessed shape, and the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200have a protruding shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the display side connectors100,200,500,600,900and/or1000may have a protruding shape, and the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200may have a recessed shape. For example, a portion of the display side connectors may have a protruding shape, and a portion of the bracket side connectors corresponding to the portion of the display side connector may have a recessed shape. For example, the remaining portion of the display side connector may have a recessed shape, and the remaining portion of the bracket side connector corresponding to the remaining portion of the display side connector may have a protruding shape.

The ordinal numbers of “first”, “second”, “third”, “fourth”, “fifth”, “sixth”, “seventh”, “eighth”, “ninth”, “tenth”, “eleventh” and “twelfth” do not limit the configuration of the first connector100, the second connector200, the third connector300, the fourth connector400, the fifth connector500, the sixth connector600, the seventh connector700, the eighth connector800, the ninth connector900, the tenth connector1000, the eleventh connector1100and the twelfth connector1200.

In the related art, when a display apparatus includes a plurality of display units, a cable may be needed for electrical connection between the plurality of display units. However, a work for connecting cables between the plurality of display units may be complicated. The cable connections between the plurality of display units may impair the aesthetics of the display apparatus.

In comparison with the related art, according to the present disclosure, a separate cable for electrical connection between the plurality of display units10may not be needed. The display units adjacent to each other among the plurality of display units10may be electrically connected to each other by the connection bracket20. By simply attaching the connection bracket20to the plurality of display units10, the plurality of display units10may be electrically connected to each other. That is, a cable connection work may be omitted, and the electrical connection between the plurality of display units10may be easily made. Connectors, electronic circuits, electronic components, cables, etc., for electrical connection between the plurality of display units10may be built into the connection bracket20. For example, the connection bracket20may include the connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200corresponding to the connectors100,200,500,600,900and/or1000formed on the display unit10. The aesthetics of the display apparatus1may be improved.

The plurality of display units10may include a coupler60, and the connection bracket20may include a coupler70provided to be coupled to the coupler60. As the coupler60of the display unit10and the coupler70of the connection bracket20are coupled, the coupling force between the display units10and the connection bracket20may be increased. Accordingly, the connection bracket20may not be easily separated from the plurality of display units10. The electrical connection between the plurality of display units10and the connection brackets20may not be easily broken.

For example, each of the coupler60and the coupler70may be formed of a magnetic material. For example, an attractive force may act between the coupler60and the coupler70. Alternatively, each of the coupler60and the coupler70may include an electropermanent magnet, and as a current is supplied between the coupler60and the coupler70, the coupler60and the coupler70may be separated. Alternatively, each of the coupler60and the coupler70may include an electromagnet, and as a current between the coupler60and the coupler70is blocked, the coupler60and the coupler70may be separated. Alternatively, the coupler60and the coupler70may be coupled by a separate fastening member (e.g., screw, etc.). Alternatively, the coupler60and the coupler70may be coupled by having shapes that correspond to each other. For example, one of the coupler60and the coupler70may include a hook, and the other of the coupler60and the coupler70may include a hook groove (or hook hole) provided to be locked to the hook. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples, and the coupler60and the coupler70may be coupled through various known methods.

For example, the first display unit10amay include a first coupler60a.The first coupler60amay be disposed around the first connector100and/or the fifth connector500. At least one first coupler60amay be provided. For example, the second display unit10bmay include a second coupler60b.The second coupler60bmay be disposed around the second connector200and/or the sixth connector600. At least one second coupler60bmay be provided. For example, the third display unit10cmay include a third coupler60c.The third coupler60cmay be disposed around the ninth connector900and/or the tenth connector1000. At least one third coupler60cmay be provided.

For example, the connection bracket20may include a fourth coupler70aformed on the first panel20aand coupled to the first coupler60a.For example, the connection bracket20may include a fifth coupler70bformed on the second panel20band coupled to the second coupler60b.For example, the connection bracket20may include a sixth coupler70cformed on the third panel20cand coupled to the third coupler60c.

For example, an attractive force may act between the first coupler60aand the fourth coupler70a.For example, an attractive force may act between the second coupler60band the fifth coupler70b.For example, an attractive force may act between the third coupler60cand the sixth coupler70c.

FIG.9is a perspective view of the connection bracket according to one embodiment.FIG.10is an exploded view of a portion of the connection bracket shown inFIG.9.FIG.11is an enlarged view of part C shown inFIG.10.FIG.12is an enlarged view of part D shown inFIG.10.FIG.13is a partial plan cross-sectional view of an example of the display apparatus in an unfolded state.FIG.14is a partial plan cross-sectional view of an example of the display apparatus in a folded state.

Referring toFIG.9, the connection bracket20may include the hinge30. The hinge30may be configured to adjust an angle between display units adjacent to each other among the plurality of display units10. For example, while the connection bracket20is mounted on the plurality of display units10, the hinge30of the connection bracket20may allow display units, which are adjacent to each other among the plurality of display units10, to be folded and/or tilted.

The hinge30may be disposed between panels adjacent to each other among the panels of the connection bracket20. In the drawing, it is illustrated that a hinge30ais disposed between the first panel20aand the second panel20bof the connection bracket20, and a hinge30bis disposed between the first panel20aand the third panel20cof the connection bracket20, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, when the display apparatus1includes the first display unit10aand the second display unit10b,the connection bracket20may include the first panel20aand the second panel20band a single hinge30amay be disposed between the first panel20aand the second panel20b.For example, the number of hinges30may be one less than the number of panels of the connection brackets20.

The hinge30may be configured to be slidable. The hinge30may be configured to be rotatable within a predetermined range. For example, the hinge30may have a shape that is convexly curved backward. For example, the hinge30may be configured to be flexible.

An example of the hinge30of the connection bracket20will be described with reference toFIGS.10to14. Particularly, the hinge30adisposed between the first panel20aand the second panel20bof the connection bracket20will be described with reference toFIGS.10to14. A description of the hinge30adescribed below may be equally applied to the hinge30bdisposed between the first panel20aand the third panel20c.Additionally, the description of the hinge30adescribed below may also be applied to at least one hinge that is added to the connection bracket as at least one display unit is added. For example, when the display apparatus further includes a fourth display unit (not shown) disposed adjacent to the second display unit (or third display unit), the content of the present disclosure may also be applied to a hinge (not shown) for adjusting an angle between the second display unit (or third display unit) and the fourth display unit.

The hinge30amay be configured to adjust an angle between the first display unit10aon which the first panel20ais mounted and the second display unit10bon which the second panel20bis mounted. For example, the hinge30amay rotate the first display unit10awith respect to the second display unit10bwithin a predetermined range. For example, the hinge30amay rotate the second display unit10bwith respect to the first display unit10awithin a predetermined range.

The hinge30amay be configured to be slidable between the first panel20aand the second panel20b.As the hinge30aslides, a length of the hinge30amay be variable. The length of the hinge30amay increase or decrease within a predetermined range.

The hinge30amay include a first hinge portion310extending from the first panel20a.The hinge30amay include a second hinge portion320extending from the second panel20b.The second hinge portion320may be detachably coupled to the first hinge portion310. The second hinge portion320may be slidably coupled to the first hinge portion310. That is, the first hinge portion310and the second hinge portion320may slide relative to each other.

The hinge30amay include a hinge rail330and a hinge protrusion340. The hinge rail330may be formed on one of the first hinge portion310and the second hinge portion320. The hinge protrusion340may be formed on the other of the first hinge portion310and the second hinge portion320. In the drawing, it is illustrated that the hinge rail330is formed on the first hinge portion310and the hinge protrusion340is formed on the second hinge portion320, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Unlike the drawings, the hinge rail330may be formed on the second hinge portion320and the hinge protrusion340may be formed on the first hinge portion310.

The hinge protrusion340may be configured to perform a relative movement along the hinge rail330. For example, while the hinge rail330is maintained in a fixed position, the hinge protrusion340may slide relative to the hinge rail330. For example, while the hinge protrusion340is maintained in a fixed position, the hinge rail330may slide relative to the hinge protrusion340. For example, the hinge protrusion340and the hinge rail330may slide relative to each other. For example, the hinge protrusion340may be configured to be movable between a first position P1(refer toFIG.13) provided at one end of the hinge rail330, and a second position P2(refer toFIG.14) provided at the other end of the hinge rail330. Accordingly, the length of the hinge30amay be variable.

For example, the hinge rail330may have an arc shape. The hinge rail330and the hinge protrusion340may be configured to slide relative to each other along an arc shape. Accordingly, the hinge30amay be configured to be rotatable within a predetermined range.

For example, the hinge rail330may be formed to penetrate a hinge protruding portion360, which will be described later. For example, the hinge protrusion340may have a shape extending between a first hinge body351and a second hinge body352, which will be described later. However, this is only an example, and the hinge rail330may be formed separately from the hinge protruding portion360, and the hinge protrusion340may be formed separately from the first hinge body351and the second hinge body352.

For example, a plurality of hinge rails330may be provided, and the plurality of hinge rails330may be arranged along the vertical direction (Z direction). For example, the hinge protrusion340may be provided in plurality to correspond to the hinge rail330. Each of the plurality of hinge protrusions340may be provided to correspond to each of the plurality of hinge rails330.

The hinge30amay include a hinge groove350and the hinge protruding portion360. The hinge groove350may be formed on one of the first hinge portion310and the second hinge portion320. The hinge protruding portion360may be formed on the other of the first hinge portion310and the second hinge portion320. In the drawing, it is illustrated that the hinge groove350is formed in the second hinge portion320and the hinge protruding portion360is formed in the first hinge portion310, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Unlike the drawings, the hinge groove350may be formed in the first hinge portion310and the hinge protruding portion360may be formed in the second hinge portion320.

The hinge protruding portion360may be withdrawn from the hinge groove350and inserted into the hinge groove350. For example, as the first hinge portion310and the second hinge portion320slide relative to each other, the hinge protruding portion360may be withdrawn from the hinge groove350and exposed to the outside of the hinge30a,or the hinge protruding portion360may be inserted into the hinge groove350and not exposed to the outside of the hinge30a.Accordingly, the length of the hinge30amay be variable.

For example, the second hinge portion320may include a first hinge body351and a second hinge body352spaced apart from the first hinge body351. The hinge groove350may be formed between the first hinge body351and the second hinge body352. The hinge protruding portion360may enter between the first hinge body351and the second hinge body352and be inserted into the hinge groove350. However, when the hinge groove350is formed in the first hinge portion310, the first hinge portion310may include the first hinge body351and the second hinge body352.

For example, the first hinge body351and the second hinge body352may each have a shape curved backward, and the hinge groove350may also have a shape curved backward. The hinge protruding portion360may have a shape that is inserted into the hinge groove350. The hinge protruding portion360and the hinge groove350may be provided to slide relative to each other along a curved shape. Accordingly, the hinge30amay be configured to be rotatable within a predetermined range.

Referring toFIGS.13and14, as the hinge30of the connection bracket20slides, the display apparatus1may be converted from an unfolded state (refer toFIG.13) to a folded state (refer toFIG.14). Conversely, as the hinge30of the connection bracket20slides, the display apparatus1may be converted from the folded state (refer toFIG.14) to the unfolded state (referFIG.13).

Referring toFIG.13, the display apparatus1may be provided in the unfolded state. At this time, the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be arranged side by side in the lateral direction (Y direction). An angle formed by the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be approximately 180 degrees. The screen of the first display unit10aand the screen of the second display unit10bmay be provided on the same plane. A front edge19aof the first side14aof the first display unit10amay not be in contact with a front edge19bof the second side15bof the second display unit10b.

When the display apparatus1is in the unfolded state, the hinge protruding portion360may be inserted into the hinge groove350. The hinge protruding portion360may not be exposed to the outside of the hinge30a.The hinge protruding portion360may be covered by the first hinge body351and the second hinge body352.

When the display apparatus1is in the unfolded state, the hinge protrusion340may be in the first position P1provided at one end of the hinge rail330. While the hinge protrusion340is in the first position P1, the front surface of the first display unit10aand the front surface of the second display unit10bmay be provided on the same plane.

When the display apparatus1is in the unfolded state, the length of the hinge30amay be the minimum length of the hinge30a.An overlapping area between the first hinge portion310and the second hinge portion320of the hinge30amay be maximum.

Referring toFIG.14, the display apparatus1may be provided in the folded state. At this time, the second display unit10bmay be in a state after sliding relative to the first display unit10a.However, unlike the drawing, the first display unit10amay be in a state after sliding relative to the second display unit10b.Alternatively, the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be in a state after sliding relative to each other. The first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be in a state after rotating relative to each other. An angle formed by the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be less than 180 degrees. The screen of the first display unit10aand the screen of the second display unit10bmay be provided on different planes. The front edge19aof the first side14aof the first display unit10amay be in contact with the front edge19bof the second side15bof the second display unit10b.For example, a point where the front edge19aof the first display unit10aand the front edge19bof the second display unit10bcome into contact may be provided to form a rotation center of the hinge30a.For example, the first hinge portion310and the second hinge portion320may be rotatable with respect to the point where the front edge19aof the first display unit10aand the front edge19bof the second display unit10bcome into contact.

When the display apparatus1is the folded state, the hinge protruding portion360may be withdrawn from the hinge groove350. At least a portion of the hinge protruding portion360may be exposed to the outside of the hinge30a.

When the display apparatus1is the folded state, the hinge protrusion340may be in the second position P2provided at the other end of the hinge rail330. While the hinge protrusion340is in the second position P2, the angle formed by the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be less than 180 degrees.

When the display apparatus1is the folded state, the length of the hinge30amay be the maximum length of the hinge30a.The overlapping area between the first hinge portion310and the second hinge portion320of the hinge30amay be minimal.

Meanwhile, referring toFIG.10, a first gap221may be formed between the first panel20aand the third connector300. As will be described later, while the position of the third connector300is adjusted (refer toFIGS.19and20), the third connector300may be movable within the first gap221and may not interfere with other components. Accordingly, the third connector300may be maintained in a state of being connected to the first connector100, and the electrical connection between the third connector300and the first connector100may not be easily broken. For example, the third connector300may move along the connector rail22aor22formed on the first panel20a,and the first gap221may be formed between the third connector300and the connector rail22aor22. In summary, while a position adjusting device80(refer toFIGS.19and20) moves the third connector300coupled to the first connector100, the first gap221may be formed between the first panel20aand the third connector300to maintain the state in which the third connector300is coupled to the first connector100.

A second gap222may be formed between the second panel20band the fourth connector400. As will be described later, while the position of the fourth connector400is adjusted (refer toFIGS.19and20), the fourth connector400may be movable within the second gap222and may not interfere with other components. Accordingly, the fourth connector400may be maintained in a state of being connected to the second connector200, and the electrical connection between the fourth connector400and the second connector200may not be easily broken. For example, the fourth connector400may move along the connector rail22bor22formed on the second panel20b,and the second gap222may be formed between the fourth connector400and the connector rail22bor22. In summary, while the position adjusting device80(refer toFIGS.19and20) moves the fourth connector400coupled to the second connector200, the second gap222may be formed between the second panel20band the fourth connector400to maintain the state in which the fourth connector400is coupled to the second connector200.

The description about the gap of the third connector300and the fourth connector400may be also applied to the seventh connector700, the eighth connector800, the eleventh connector1100, and the twelfth connector1200.

FIG.15is a perspective view of a display apparatus according to one embodiment.FIG.16is an exploded view of a portion of a connection bracket shown inFIG.15.FIG.17is a partial plan cross-sectional view of an example of the display apparatus in an unfolded state.FIG.18is a partial plan cross-sectional view of an example of the display apparatus in a folded state.

An example of a connection bracket20′ will be described with reference toFIGS.15to18. In describing the connection bracket20′ shown inFIGS.15to18, the same member numbers may be assigned to the same components as those of the connection bracket20shown inFIGS.1to14. A shape of a hinge30′ of the connection bracket20′ shown inFIGS.15to18may be slightly different from the shape of the hinge30of the connection bracket20shown inFIGS.1to14. However, other than this, the connection bracket20′ shown inFIGS.15to18may include substantially the same configuration as the connection bracket20shown inFIGS.1to14. Additionally, the hinge30′ shown inFIGS.15to18may operate substantially the same as the hinge30shown inFIGS.1to14. Therefore, a description the same as the above-mentioned description may be omitted.

The hinge30′ may include a first hinge portion310′ extending from the first panel20a.The hinge30′ may include a second hinge portion320′ extending from the second panel20b.A plurality of first hinge portions310′ may be provided, and the plurality of first hinge portions310′ may be arranged along the vertical direction (Z direction). A plurality of second hinge portions320′ may be provided, and the plurality of second hinge portions320′ may be arranged along the vertical direction (Z direction).

The hinge30′ may include a hinge rail330′ and a hinge protrusion340′. The hinge rail330′ and the hinge protrusion340′ may be slidably coupled to each other. The hinge protrusion340′ may be configured to perform a relative movement along the hinge rail330′.

The hinge rail330′ may be formed in one of the first hinge portion310′ and the second hinge portion320′. The hinge protrusion340′ may be formed on the other of the first hinge portion310′ and the second hinge portion320′. In the drawing, it is illustrated that the hinge rail330′ is formed on each of the plurality of first hinge portions310′, and the hinge protrusion340′ is formed on each of the plurality of second hinge portions320′, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the hinge rail330′ may be formed on each of the plurality of second hinge portions320′, and the hinge protrusion340′ may be formed on each of the plurality of first hinge portions310′. For example, some of the plurality of hinge rails330′ may be formed on some of the plurality of second hinge portions320′, and others of the plurality of hinge rails330′ may be formed on some of the plurality of first hinge portions310′. The plurality of hinge protrusions340′ may be formed to correspond to the plurality of hinge rails330′.

The hinge30′ may include a hinge groove350′ and a hinge protruding portion360′. The hinge groove350′ and the hinge protruding portion360′ may be slidably coupled to each other. The hinge protruding portion360′ may be configured to be withdrawn from the hinge groove350′ and inserted into the hinge groove350′.

The hinge groove350′ may be formed in one of the first hinge portion310′ and the second hinge portion320′. The hinge protruding portion360′ may be formed on the other of the first hinge portion310′ and the second hinge portion320′. In the drawing, it is illustrated that the hinge groove350′ is formed between second hinge portions adjacent to each other among the plurality of second hinge portions320′, and the hinge protruding portion360′ is formed in the plurality of first hinge portions310′, respectively. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the hinge groove350′ may be formed between first hinge portions adjacent to each other among the plurality of first hinge portions310′, and the hinge protruding portion360′ may be formed in the plurality of second hinge portions320′, respectively. For example, some of the plurality of hinge protruding portions360′ may be formed on some of the plurality of first hinge portions310′, and others of the plurality of hinge protruding portions360′ may be formed on some of the plurality of second hinge portions320′. The plurality of hinge grooves350′ may be formed to correspond to the plurality of hinge protruding portions360′.

Referring toFIG.17, the display apparatus1may be provided in the unfolded state. While the hinge protrusion340′ is in the first position P1, the front surface of the first display unit10aand the front surface of the second display unit10bmay be provided on the same plane.

Referring toFIG.18, the display apparatus1may be provided in the folded state. While the hinge protrusion340′ is in the second position P2, the angle formed by the first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be less than 180 degrees.

The connection bracket20′ may include a cover member25provided to cover the cable21. The cover member25may be arranged between the first panel20aand the second panel20bto protect the cable21. For example, the cover member25may be provided to connect the rear of the first panel20aand the rear of the second panel20b.For example, the cover member25may be provided to connect the front of the first panel20aand the front of the second panel20b.For example, the cover member25may be provided to be flexible. For example, the cover member25may be affected by the operation of the hinge30′. For example, as the hinge30′ slides, a length of the cover member25may increase and decrease within a predetermined range. Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawings, the above-described connection bracket20may also include a cover member25.

The connection bracket20′ may include a guide portion50provided to guide the coupling of the connection bracket20′ and the display unit10. The display unit10may have a shape corresponding to the guide portion50. For example, the guide portion50may have a shape that protrudes from each of the panels20a,20b,and20cof the connection bracket20′, and the display unit10may have a recessed or pierced shape to allow the guide portion50to be locked thereto. The connection bracket20′ may be more easily mounted on the display unit10as the connection bracket20′ is provided with the guide portion50. The connection bracket20′ may be mounted at an accurate position on the display unit10as the connection bracket20′ is provided with the guide portion50. Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawings, the above-described connection bracket20may also include a guide portion50.

FIG.19schematically illustrates a side cross-section of a portion of the display apparatus according to one embodiment.FIG.20schematically illustrates a side cross-section of a portion of the display apparatus according to one embodiment.

The connection brackets20and20′ may include a position adjusting device80. The position adjusting device80may be configured to adjust a step difference between the plurality of display units10. The position adjusting device80may be configured to adjust a height of each of the plurality of display units10. The position adjusting device80may be provided in each of the plurality of display units10so as to move the plurality of display units10in the up and down direction (vertical direction).

The position adjusting device80may be provided to correspond to at least one of the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100, and/or1200. In the drawings, it is illustrated that each of the plurality of position adjusting devices80corresponds to each of the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200(refer toFIGS.9and15), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the position adjusting device80may be provided to correspond to one of the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200, or correspond to some of the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200.

The position adjusting device80may move the bracket side connector. The position adjusting device80may slide the bracket side connector. For example, when the position adjusting device80is provided to correspond to the third connector300, the position adjusting device80may move the third connector300connected to the first connector100in the substantially vertical direction. For example, when the position adjusting device80is provided to correspond to the fourth connector400, the position adjusting device80may move the fourth connector400connected to the second connector200in the substantially vertical direction. For example, when the position adjusting device80is provided to correspond to each of the third connector300and the fourth connector400, the position adjusting device80may move at least one of the third connector300connected to the first connector100or the fourth connector400connected to the second connector200in the substantially vertical direction.

An example of the position adjusting device80will be described with reference toFIGS.19and20. The position adjusting device80may include a moving block81fixed to the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200, and an adjustment screw82rotatably coupled to the moving block81.

The moving block81may be movable in the substantially vertical direction (Z direction), and the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200may be movable together with the moving block81. As the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200move, the display side connectors100,200,500,600,900and/or1000connected to the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200may also be moved. Accordingly, the height of the display unit10may be adjusted.

Meanwhile, in the drawing, it is illustrated that the moving block81is directly fixed to the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. However, the moving block81may be indirectly fixed to the bracket side connectors300,400,700,800,1100and/or1200through a separate intermediate member.

The adjustment screw82may be configured to adjust a position of the moving block81. As the adjustment screw82rotates in a state of being coupled to the moving block81, a rotational movement R of the adjustment screw82may be converted into a linear movement D of the moving block81. As the adjustment screw82rotates in a state of being coupled to the moving block81, the moving block81may be moved in the vertical direction. For example, the adjustment screw82may be screwed to the moving block81. For example, a direction of a rotation axis of the adjustment screw82may be parallel to a moving direction of the moving block81.

At least a portion of the adjustment screw82may be exposed to the outside of the connection brackets20and20′. Accordingly, a user can rotate the adjustment screw82relative to the moving block81. For example, the adjustment screw82may be arranged to protrude downwardly from the connection bracket20and20′ (refer toFIGS.9,15and19) or to protrude toward the rear of the connection brackets20and20′ (refer toFIG.20). However, this is only an example, and the position of the adjustment screw82may be not limited as long as the adjustment screw82is configured to be rotated with respect to the moving block81.

FIG.21illustrates an example of the installation of the display apparatus.FIG.22illustrates an example of the installation of the display apparatus.FIG.23illustrates an example of the installation of the display apparatus.

The display apparatus1may include a support member S1, S2or S3for mounting and/or supporting the plurality of display units10. The plurality of display units10may be in a floating state from the floor through the support member S1, S2or S3. For example, the support member S1, S2, or S3may be provided in the form of a stand, a wall mount, an arm, etc. For example, the support member S1, S2, or S3may be provided to be interchangeable.

The connection brackets20and20′ may include a mounting member23configured to be coupled to various support members S1, S2, and S3. The mounting member23may be provided on at least one of the plurality of panels20a,20b,and20c.For example, the mounting member23may be formed on the first panel20a.However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the mounting member23may be formed on the second panel20band/or the third panel20caccording to embodiments. For example, the mounting member23may include a plurality of Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) holes23hformed according to the VESA standard.

For example, referring toFIG.21, a support member S1may be disposed on the floor to support the plurality of display units10.

For example, referring toFIG.22, a support member S2may be mounted on a wall W of a structure F to support the plurality of display units10. For example, the support member S2may be provided to be coupled to an upper end of the wall W of the structure F.

For example, referring toFIG.23, a support member S3may be mounted on one end of the structure F to support the plurality of display units10. For example, the support member S3may function as a type of partition.

FIG.24illustrates an example of the arrangement of a first display apparatus and a second display apparatus.FIG.25illustrates a side view of an example of the arrangement of the first display apparatus and the second display apparatus.

Referring toFIG.24, the screen of the first display apparatus1aand the screen of the second display apparatus1bmay be arranged to face different directions. For example, as each of the first display apparatus1aand the second display apparatus1bis provided in the folded state, a work space by the first display apparatus1aand a work space by the second display apparatus1bmay be created. Accordingly, a separate partition may not be needed between the first display apparatus1aand the second display apparatus1b.

Referring toFIG.25, the first display apparatus1aand the second display apparatus1bmay be coupled to each other through the mounting members23. For example, the mounting member23of the first display apparatus1aand the mounting member23of the second display apparatus1bmay be directly coupled or indirectly coupled through a separate fastening member90. As a result, the first display apparatus1aand the second display apparatus1bmay be restrained to each other and maintained in a fixed position. The first display apparatus1aand the second display apparatus1bmay be prevented from falling down.

The present disclosure is not limited toFIGS.24and25, and the plurality of display apparatus1may be arranged in various ways according to the user's needs.

According to one embodiment, the display apparatus1may include the first display unit10aincluding the first connector100, the second display unit10bdisposed adjacent to one side of the first display unit and including the second connector200, and the connection bracket20configured to connect the first display unit and the second display unit. The connection bracket20may include the first panel20aconfigured to be mounted on the first display unit, the third connector300formed on the first panel and configured to be electrically connected to the first connector, the second panel20bconfigured to be mounted on the second display unit, the fourth connector400formed on the second panel and configured to be electrically connected to the second connector, and the hinge30configured to be slidable between the first panel and the second panel so as to adjust an angle between the first display unit on which the first panel is mounted and the second display unit on which the second panel is mounted.

As the hinge30slides, the length of the hinge may be variable.

The hinge may include the first hinge portion310extending from the first panel, and the second hinge portion320extending from the second panel and slidably coupled to the first hinge portion.

The hinge may include the hinge rail330formed on one of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion, and the hinge protrusion340formed on the other of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion and configured to perform a relative movement along the hinge rail.

The hinge may include the hinge groove350formed on one of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion and provided to open toward the other of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion. The hinge may include the hinge protruding portion360formed on the other of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion and configured to be inserted into the hinge groove. The hinge protruding portion360may be configured to be withdrawn from and inserted into the hinge groove.

The connection bracket20may be provided to extend from the rear side of the first display unit to the rear side of the second display unit along the direction in which the first display unit and the second display unit are arranged.

The first display unit may include the first side14aadjacent to the second display unit and extending along the vertical direction, and the second side15aspaced apart from the first side and extending along the vertical direction. The second display unit may include the third side15badjacent to the first side of the first display unit and extending along the vertical direction, and the fourth side14bspaced apart from the third side and extending along the vertical direction. The front edge19aof the first side and the front edge19bof the third side may come into contact with each other as the hinge slides.

The hinge may include the first hinge portion310extending from the first panel, and the second hinge portion320extending from the second panel and coupled to the first hinge portion. Each of the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion may be rotatable with respect to the point where the front edge19aof the first side and the front edge19bof the third side come into contact with each other.

The first display unit may further include the fifth connector500closer to the second side than the first connector, and the second display unit may further include the sixth connector600closer to the fourth side than the second connector. The connection bracket may include the seventh connector700formed on the first panel and configured to be electrically connected to the fifth connector, and the eighth connector800formed on the second panel and configured to be electrically connected to the sixth connector.

The first display unit may further include the fifth connector500closer to the second side than the first connector, and the second display unit may further include the sixth connector600closer to the fourth side than the second connector. The first panel of the connection bracket may have the extended shape to cover the first connector and the fifth connector, and the second panel of the connection bracket may have the extended shape to cover the second connector and the sixth connector.

The hinge30may have a shape that is convexly curved backward.

The display apparatus1may further include the third display unit10cdisposed adjacent to the other side of the first display unit and including the fifth connector900. The first display unit may further include the sixth connector500spaced apart from the first connector and disposed closer to the third display unit than the first connector. The hinge may be the first hinge30a.The connection bracket may include the third panel20cconfigured to be mounted on the third display unit, the seventh connector1100formed on the third panel and configured to be electrically connected to the fifth connector, the eighth connector700formed on the first panel and configured to be electrically connected to the sixth connector, and the second hinge30bconfigured to be slidable between the first panel and the third panel to adjust an angle between the first display unit on which the first panel is mounted and the third display unit on which the third panel is mounted.

The connection bracket may further include the position adjusting device80configured to vertically move at least one of the third connector connected to the first connector or the fourth connector connected to the second connector.

The first display unit may include the first coupler60aand the second display unit may include the second coupler60b.The connection bracket may include the third coupler70aformed on the first panel and coupled to the first coupler, and the fourth coupler70bformed on the second panel and coupled to the second coupler.

An attractive force may act between the first coupler60aand the third coupler70a.An attractive force may act between the second coupler60band the fourth coupler70b.

The third connector and the fourth connector may be electrically connectable. The first display unit10aand the second display unit10bmay be configured to transmit and receive at least one of power, control signals, and video signals through the connection bracket20.

While the position adjusting device80moves the third connector300coupled to the first connector100, the first gap221may be formed between the first panel and the third connector so as to allow the third connector300to be maintained in a state of being coupled to the first connector100. While the position adjusting device80moves the fourth connector400coupled to the second connector200, the second gap222may be formed between the second panel and the fourth connector so as to allow the fourth connector400to be maintained in a state of being coupled to the second connector200.

According to one embodiment, the connection bracket may be configured to connect the first display unit including the first connector to the second display unit disposed adjacent the first display unit and including the second connector. The connection bracket may include the first panel20aconfigured to be mounted on the rear side of the first display unit, the third connector300formed on the first panel and configured to be electrically connected to the first connector, the second panel20bconfigured to be mounted on the rear side of the second display unit, the fourth connector400formed on the second panel and configured to be electrically connected to the second connector, and the hinge30configured to be slidable between the first panel and the second panel so as to allow a length of the hinge to vary.

The hinge may include the hinge rail330having an arc shape. The hinge may include the hinge protrusion340configured to be movable between the first position P1provided at one end of the hinge rail and the second position P2provided at the other end of the hinge rail.

While the hinge protrusion is in the first position P1, the front surface of the first display unit and the front surface of the second display unit may be provided on the same plane.

While the hinge protrusion is in the second position P2, the angle formed by the first display unit and the second display unit may be less than 180 degrees.

The first panel may extend between both sides14aand15aof the first display unit along the direction in which the first display unit and the second display unit are arranged. The second panel may extend between both sides14band15bof the second display unit along the direction in which the first display unit and the second display unit are arranged.

As is apparent from the above description, it is easy to electrically connect a plurality of display units.

Further, it is easy to fold and/or tilt between a plurality of display units.

Further, a plurality of display units may be arranged in various combinations, thereby creating various working environments.

Further, a separate cable may not be required when electrically connecting a plurality of display units.

Further, aesthetics of a display apparatus may be improved.