DISPLAY DEVICE

A display device comprises a display panel, a backlight unit, and a rear frame. The backlight unit includes a light source unit that emits light and a sheet-like optical member that diffuses the light from the light source unit toward a rear surface of the display panel. The rear frame covers the backlight unit from a rear side of the display device. The light source unit has a first light source that is disposed spaced apart from the optical member in a front-rear direction of the display device and is provided with a first lens, and a second light source that is disposed spaced apart from the optical member and closer to the optical member than the first light source in the front-rear direction and is provided with a second lens. The first lens and the second lens have different light distribution characteristics from each other.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-44705 filed in Japan on Mar. 20, 2023. The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-44705 is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Invention

This invention generally relates to a display device. More specifically, this invention relates to a display device with a backlight unit.

Background Information

Conventionally, a display device equipped with a backlight unit is known (see Japanese Laid-Open Patent Application Publication No. 2016-021061 (Patent Literature 1), for example).

The above-mentioned Patent Literature 1 discloses a television receiver (display device) having a display panel with a display surface, a backlight unit irradiating light from the rear of the display panel to the display panel, and a rear frame located at the rear of the backlight unit. With this television receiver, the backlight unit includes a plurality of light sources that are spaced apart from the display panel by an approximate uniform distance, respectively, and are fixed to a front surface of the rear frame. With this television receiver, a main circuit board that controls the display panel and the backlight unit is located at the rear of the rear frame. The entire rear surface of the main circuit board is covered by a rear cover, which forms a housing of the television receiver.

SUMMARY

However, in the television receiver (display device) equipped with the backlight unit described in the above-mentioned Patent Literature 1, the main circuit board that controls the display panel and the backlight unit is located at the rear of the rear frame where the light sources are fixed at the front surface, and the entire rear surface of the rear frame where the main circuit board is placed is covered by the rear cover, which forms a housing of the television receiver. Therefore, there is a problem that the thickness of the television receiver (display device) in the front-rear direction increases to the extent that the main circuit board is placed at the rear of the rear frame.

One object of this disclosure is to provide a display device capable of suppressing an increase in the thickness in the front-rear direction.

In view of the state of the known technology, a display device according to an aspect of this disclosure comprises a display panel with a display surface, a backlight unit, and a rear frame. The backlight unit is configured to irradiate light to the display panel from a rear side of the display panel. The backlight unit includes a light source unit that is configured to emit light and a sheet-like optical member that is configured to diffuse the light from the light source unit toward a rear surface of the display panel. The rear frame covers the backlight unit from a rear side of the display device. The light source unit has a first light source that is disposed spaced apart from the optical member in a front-rear direction of the display device and is provided with a first lens, and a second light source that is disposed spaced apart from the optical member and closer to the optical member than the first light source in the front-rear direction and is provided with a second lens. The first lens and the second lens have different light distribution characteristics from each other.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

First Embodiment

A display device100of a first embodiment of the disclosure will be described below with reference toFIGS.1to12.

(Configuration of Display Device)

The display device100is configured to display images and video on a front surface of a display panel1. The display device100has the display panel1, a backlight unit2, a rear frame3, a component part4, and a rear cover5, as shown inFIGS.1to3.

(Configuration of Display Panel)

First, the configuration of the display panel1will be described with reference toFIGS.1and2. The display panel1includes a display surface1a. The display panel1is a liquid crystal display panel. The display panel1is configured to display an image on the display surface1aby changing the transmittance of the liquid crystal in response to light irradiated from the backlight unit2. In the illustrated embodiment, the left-right direction (i.e., the horizontal direction) of the display device100is also referred to as an X direction, and the front-rear direction (thickness) of the display device100is also referred to as a Y direction. The up-down direction (i.e., the vertical direction) of the display device100is also referred to as a Z direction. The display surface1ais disposed on the front side (Y1direction side) of the display panel1and has a rectangular flat plate shape. A cell guide1bis disposed on the rear side (Y2direction side) of the display panel1. The cell guide1bsupports the display panel1from the rear side (Y2direction side). The cell guide1bis formed in a frame-like rectangular shape that circumferentially surrounds the display panel1.

Next, the configuration of the backlight unit2is explained with reference toFIG.2. The backlight unit2irradiates light onto the display panel1from the rear side of the display panel1. The backlight unit2includes an optical member (e.g., a sheet-like optical member)21, a reflective sheet22, and a light source unit23. The reflective sheet22is an example of a “sheet-like reflective member” of the present disclosure.

(Configuration of Optical Member)

The optical member21has a plurality of optical sheets21aand a diffusion plate21b. The optical member21is configured to guide the light irradiated from the light source unit23to the entire rear surface of the display panel1. The optical sheets21airradiate the light to the display panel1by adjusting the direction of polarization of the light and suppressing diffusion of the light. The diffusion plate21bis configured to diffuse the light from the light source unit23. The optical member21is positioned between the display panel1and the reflective sheet22in the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device100. The optical sheets21aand the diffusion plate21bare stacked in this order from the display panel1side (Y1direction side) to the rear frame3side (Y2direction side). The optical member21is formed in a rectangular flat plate shape as viewed in the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device100. In the illustrated embodiment, the optical member21has a pair of optical sheets21a, but the number of the optical sheets21ais not limited to this. The optical member21can have only one optical sheet21aor three or more optical sheets21a, as needed and desired.

Referring now toFIG.4, the configuration of the reflective sheet22will be described. The reflective sheet22includes a first reflective surface221, a second reflective surface222, a connecting surface223, a pair of end inclined surfaces224aand224b, and a plurality of openings221aand222a. The reflective sheet22reflects the light from the light source unit23toward the display panel1. The reflective sheet22is disposed between the optical member21and the rear frame3in the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device100.

All of the surfaces forming the reflective sheet22(i.e., the first reflective surface221, the second reflective surface222, the connecting surface223, and the end inclined surfaces224aand224b) are integrally formed. Thus, the reflective sheet22is integrally formed as a one-piece, unitary member. Each of the surfaces forming the reflective sheet22has a rectangular flat shape. The reflective sheet22has an approximately plate shape and has two surfaces (i.e., the first reflective surface221and the second reflective surface222) with different optical distances to the optical member21, which are the distances between the optical member21and the light source unit23. The connecting surface223forms a boundary between the first reflective surface221and the second reflective surface222, and is connected between one side of the first reflective surface221extending in the left-right direction (X direction) and one side of the second reflective surface222extending in the left-right direction (X direction) on the Y direction side. The end inclined surfaces224aand224bare connected to one sides of the first reflective surface221and the second reflective surface222that extend in the left-right direction (X-direction) on the Y direction side in an inclined manner, respectively. The end inclined surface224aslopes from the connection with the first reflective surface221to the upper direction (Z1direction side) in the display device100, and the end inclined surface224bslopes from the connection with the second reflective surface222to the lower direction (Z2direction side) in the display device100.

The first reflective surface221has the openings221ain which a first light source portion (e.g., a first light source)231of the light source unit23is disposed. The second reflective surface222has the openings222ain which a second light source portion (e.g., a second light source)232of the light source unit23is disposed. The openings221aare arranged on the first reflective surface221along the left-right direction (X direction) of the display device100. The openings221bare arranged on the second reflective surface222along the left-right direction (X direction) of the display device100.

(Configuration of Light Source Unit)

The light source unit23is located on the rear side of the display panel1. In other words, the backlight unit2is a direct-lit backlight. The light source unit23has the first light source portion231and the second light source portion232. The first light source portion231and the second light source portion232of the light source unit23emit light, respectively. The first light source portion231includes a plurality of first lenses231a, a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs)231b, and a light source board231c. The second light source portion232includes a plurality of second lenses232a, a plurality of LEDs232b, and a light source board232c. The LEDs231bare an example of a “light emitting element” of the present disclosure. The LEDs232bare also an example of a “light emitting element” of the present disclosure.

The light source unit23is located on the front side (Y1direction) of the rear frame3. The first light source portion231is arranged so that the LEDs231bare exposed on the front side through the openings221aof the reflective sheet22, respectively. The first light source portion231is disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a first distance D1in the front-rear direction (Y direction), as shown inFIG.3. In other words, the optical distance of the first light source portion231, which is the distance between the optical member21and the first light source portion231, is the first distance D1. The first lenses231a, the LEDs231b, and the light source board231care arranged in this order from the display panel1side (Y1direction side) to the rear frame3side (Y2direction side). In particular, the LEDs231bare disposed on the light source board231csuch that the LEDs231bare electrically connected to the light source board231c, and the first lenses231aare arranged corresponding to the LEDs231b, respectively, such that the first lenses231acover the LEDs231b, respectively.

The second light source portion232is arranged so that the LEDs232bare exposed on the front side through the openings222aof the reflective sheet22, respectively. The second light source portion232is disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a second distance D2in the front-rear direction (Y-direction), as shown inFIG.3. In other words, the optical distance of the second light source portion232, which is the distance between the optical member21and the second light source portion232, is the second distance D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second distance D2is smaller than the first distance D1. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the second light source portion232is disposed closer to the optical member21than the first light source portion231. The second lenses232a, the LEDs232b, and the light source board232care arranged in this order from the display panel1side (Y1direction side) to the rear frame3side (Y2direction side). In particular, the LEDs232bare disposed on the light source board232csuch that the LEDs232bare electrically connected to the light source board232c, and the second lenses232aare arranged corresponding to the LEDs232b, respectively, such that the second lenses232acover the LEDs232b, respectively.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first lenses231ainclude refractive lenses, respectively, as shown inFIG.5. The refractive lenses of the first lenses231aare formed in a dome shape protruding toward the display panel1side (Y1direction side) and their center parts are depressed toward the rear frame3side (Y2direction side).

The second lenses232aare configured to diffuse light more than the first lenses231a. Specifically, the second lenses232ainclude reflective/refractive lenses, respectively, as shown inFIG.6. The reflective/refractive lenses of the second lenses232aare formed in a cylindrical shape protruding toward the display panel1side (Y1direction side) and their center parts are depressed toward the rear frame3side (Y2direction side). The depressions in the center parts of the reflective/refractive lenses have the shape of a right circular cone with their apexes facing the rear frame3side (Y2direction side). Between the reflective/refractive lenses of the second lenses232aand the LEDs232b, depressions are also provided on the display panel1side (Y1direction side). The second lenses232aare configured to diffuse light more than the first lenses231a. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the first lenses231aand the second lenses232ahave different light distribution characteristics from each other.

The LEDs231band232binclude a plurality of LEDs. The light source boards231cand232care elongated plate-shaped members that extend along the left-right direction (X-direction) of the display device100. The longitudinal direction of the light source boards231cand232ccorresponds to the left-right direction (X-direction).

The light source board231cis provided with the LEDs231barranged along the left-right direction (X direction). The light source board232cis provided with the LEDs232barranged along the left-right direction (X direction). The first lenses231aare provided to cover the LEDs231b, respectively. The second lenses232aare provided to cover the LEDs232b, respectively. Referring toFIGS.5to8, the light distribution characteristics of the first lenses231aand the second lenses232afor the light emitted from the LEDs231band232bof the light source unit23will be described.

As shown inFIG.5, the first lenses231arefract the light irradiated from the LEDs231bat all angles and diffuse the light. As shown inFIG.6, the second lenses232arefract the light irradiated from the LEDs232band diffuse the light mainly along the plane extending in the left-right direction (X direction) and the up-down direction (Z direction) of the display device100.

As shown inFIG.7, the refractive lenses of the first lenses231ahave a reduced amount of light distributed in the direction directly above the LEDs231b(i.e., 0 degrees of the light emission angle), compared to the reflective/refractive lenses of the second lenses232a. As shown inFIGS.7and8, the refractive lenses of the first lenses231ahave light distribution peaks around 75 degrees to the left and to the right when the direction directly above the LEDs231bis set to 0 degrees. The reflective/refractive lenses of the second lenses232ahave light distribution peaks at 80 degrees to the left and to the right when the direction directly above the LEDs232bis set to 0 degrees. As shown inFIG.8, the light intensity at the positions of the peaks is stronger for the refractive lenses of the first lenses231athan for the reflective/refractive lenses of the second lenses232a.

(Configuration of Light Reflection Suppressing Portion)

As shown inFIGS.9to11, the light source board232cof the second light source portion232and the second reflective surface222of the reflective sheet22are provided with light reflection suppressing portions24due to the small distance from the optical member21. The light reflection suppressing portions24are provided to suppress reflection and transmission of the light emitted from the LEDs232b. In the illustrated embodiment, the light reflection suppressing portions24include printed patterns or silkscreens disposed on the light source board232cof the second light source portion232and the second reflective surface222of the reflective sheet22. In particular, the printed patterns or silkscreens of the light reflection suppressing portions24are printed or deposited using black ink (black silk) or phosphor ink. In the illustrated embodiment, the light reflection suppressing portions24include a light reflection suppressing portion24aprovided on the light source board232cof the second light source portion232, which is disposed closer to the optical member21than the light source board231c, for each of the LEDs232b. Specifically, as seen inFIG.9, the light reflection suppressing portion24aincludes a circular printed pattern or silkscreen that surrounds the LED232bto suppress reflection and transmission of the light emitted from the LED232b. Alternatively, the light reflection suppressing portions24can include a light reflection suppressing portion24bprovided on the light source board232cof the second light source portion232for each of the LEDs232b. Specifically, as seen inFIG.10, the light reflection suppressing portion24bincludes a plurality of dot-shaped printed patterns or silkscreens that are arranged in a radial pattern relative to the LED232bto suppress reflection and transmission of the light emitted from the LED232b. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the reflective sheet22is disposed on the front side (Y1direction side) of the rear frame3in the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device100. The light reflection suppressing portions24include a light reflection suppressing portions24cprovided on the second reflective surface222of the reflective sheet22for each of the LEDs232b. Specifically, as seen inFIG.11, the light reflection suppressing portions24ceach include a plurality of line-shaped printed patterns or silkscreens that are arranged in a radial pattern relative to the respective one of the openings222aof the reflective sheet22to suppress reflection and transmission of the light emitted from the respective one of the LED232bprovided in the respective one of the openings222a.

(Configuration of Panel Post)

As shown inFIG.12, a plurality sets of panel posts25are provided to a first rear section31(or first front surface) and a second rear section32(or second front surface) of the rear frame3. Specifically, each of the sets of the panel posts25includes a panel post251and a panel post252. The panel post251is provided to the first rear section31to keep the optical distance, which is the distance between the first light source portion231and the optical member21, uniform at the first distance D1. The panel post252is provided to the second rear section32to keep the optical distance, which is the distance between the second light source portion232and the optical member21, uniform at the second distance D2. The panel posts25are an example of a “columnar spacer member” of the present disclosure. The panel post251and the panel post252are examples of a “first columnar spacer member” and a “second columnar spacer member”, respectively, of the present disclosure.

The panel posts25are components to keep the optical distances (the first distance D1and the second distance D2) uniform. The panel posts25are disposed on the display panel1side (Y1direction side) of the reflective sheet22. The panel post251is disposed on the first reflective surface221, which is disposed on the display panel1side (Y1direction side) of the first rear section31of the rear frame3. The panel post252is disposed on the second reflective surface222, which is disposed on the display panel1side (Y1direction side) of the second rear section32of the rear frame3.

The panel posts25are made of transparent resin. The panel posts25include a plate-like member extending in the left-right direction (X direction) and the up-down direction (Z direction) of the display device100and a plate-like member extending in the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device100. The panel post251is formed so that the length of the plate-like member extending in the front-rear (Y-direction) direction in the display device100is longer than the panel post252. Specifically, the panel post251has a length that is equal to or slightly smaller than the first distance D1in the front-rear direction, while the panel post252has a length that is equal to or slightly smaller than the second distance D2in the front-rear direction.

In the first embodiment, the rear frame3has the first rear section31and the second rear section32. The first rear section31and the second rear section32are offset relative to each other in the front-rear direction of the display device200and in the up-down direction of the display device200. In other words, the first and second rear sections31and32do not overlap with each other as viewed in the front-rear direction. The first rear section31forms a part of a back portion of the rear frame3on which the first light source portion231that is separated from the optical member21by the first distance D1is disposed. The second rear section32forms another part of the back portion of the rear frame3on which the second light source portion232that is separated from the optical member21by the second distance D2is disposed. The second rear section32is disposed closer to the optical member21than the first rear section31. The rear frame3further has a step section33at the boundary between the first rear section31and the second rear section32. The rear frame3is a support member supporting the display panel1and the backlight unit2. The rear frame3is provided on the rear side (Y2direction side) of the display device100with respect to the display panel1and the backlight unit2. The first rear section31and the second rear section32support the first light source portion231and the second light source portion232on the display panel1side (Y1direction side) thereof, respectively. The first light source portion231and the second light source portion232are arranged along the left-right direction (X direction) of the rear frame3, respectively. The first rear section31is disposed at the upper portion (Z1direction side) of the display panel in the up-down direction (Z direction). In other words, the first rear section31forms an upper part of the back portion of the rear frame3. The first rear section31and the second rear section32differ in distance to the optical member21. The second rear section32is disposed closer to the optical member21than the first rear section31. The step section33is provided to extend along the boundary between the first rear section31and the second rear section32in the left-right direction (X direction). The step section33connects the first rear section31and the second rear section32. The rear frame3is made of resin or sheet metal. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear frame3is integrally formed as a one-piece, unitary member.

The second rear section32of the rear frame3is disposed at the lower portion of the rear frame3in the up-down direction. In other words, the second rear section32forms a lower part of the back portion of the rear frame3. In the illustrated embodiment, as seen inFIG.3, the step section33is inclined relative to the first rear section31and the second rear section32. Specifically, the step section33forms a diagonal connection between the first rear section31and the second rear section32.

(Configuration of Component Part)

The component part4is mounted on the rear surface of the second rear section32of the rear frame3, as shown inFIG.3. The component part4includes a circuit board that controls the display device100. The component part4also includes an electrical component that produces sound. Specifically, the component4includes at least one of a power supply board41, a control board42, and a speaker43. The power supply board41supplies electric power to the display panel1and the backlight unit2. The control board42controls the display panel1and the backlight unit2. The speaker43outputs audio to be played in the display device100.

The rear cover5is provided to cover a portion of the rear frame3and the component part4from the rear side. As shown inFIG.3, the rear cover5is provided on the rear side (Z2direction side) relative to the rear frame3and the component part4. The rear cover5is made of resin and is attached to the rear side of the rear frame3by screws or other fasteners (not shown).

The rear cover5is attached to the rear frame3such that the rear surface of the rear cover5is flush with or approximately flush with the rear surface of the first rear section31of the rear frame3. In other words, the rear cover5is arranged to cover the lower portion of the rear frame3in the up-down direction. In particular, the rear cover5is arranged to cover the second rear section32and the step section33of the rear frame3from the rear side and from below, as seen inFIG.3.

Effect of First Embodiment

The first embodiment has the following effects.

In the first embodiment, as described above, the rear frame3has the first rear section31on which the first light source portion231that is separated from the optical member21by the first distance D1is disposed and the second rear section32on which the second light source portion232that is separated from the optical member21by the second distance D2is disposed. The second rear section32is disposed closer to the optical member21than the first rear section31. With this configuration, the second rear section32can be positioned forward (Y1direction side) relative to the first rear section31. As a result, a space for arranging necessary component parts can be secured on the rear side of the second rear section. Thus, necessary component parts, such as the control board42and the speaker43, can be arranged in the secured space. As a result, it is possible to prevent that the space for arranging the necessary component parts becomes significantly larger than the thickness of the rear frame3in the front-rear direction (Y direction) and that a protrusion protruding rearward (Y2direction side) from the surface of the display device100along the display panel1in the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device100is formed. Thus, the thickness of the display device100in the front-rear direction can be prevented from becoming larger. In addition, when the display device100is packed for transport or storage, the size of the packaging in the front-rear direction (Y direction) can be prevented from becoming larger. Thus, the space can be saved during transport or storage of the display device100.

In the first embodiment, as described above, the second lenses232aare configured to diffuse light more than the first lenses231a. With this configuration, the light from the second light source portion232, which is disposed closer to the optical member21than the first light source portion231, can be diffused to a wider angle by the second lenses232athan by the first lenses231a. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent that the light irradiated from the second light source portion232, which is disposed closer to the optical member21than the first light source portion231, is concentrated on a part of the display panel1without being diffused. Thus, it is possible to prevent that uneven luminance occurs on the screen of the display panel1due to the excessively high luminance at a part of the display panel1directly above the second light source portion232.

In the first embodiment, as described above, the rear frame3further has the step section33between the first rear section31and the second rear section32. With this configuration, the flat area of the surface connecting the second rear section32and the first rear section31as viewed in the front-rear direction can be reduced, compared to when the first rear section31and the second section32are connected by a more gently sloping surface. With this configuration, the second rear section32that provides the space for arranging the component parts4on the rear side thereof (Y2direction side) can be made larger.

In the first embodiment, as described above, the display device100further comprises the component part4disposed on the rear side of the second rear section32of the rear frame3. The display device100further comprises the rear cover5that covers the component part4from the rear side of the display device100. With this configuration, the component part4can be disposed on the rear side of the second rear section32that is located forward (Y1direction side) relative to the first rear section31in the rear frame3. Thus, it is possible to prevent the space for arranging the component part4from protruding significantly to the rear side. In addition, the rear cover5covers the component part4disposed on the rear side of the second rear section32that is a part of the rear frame3. Thus, there is no need to cover the entire rear frame3with the rear cover5. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the rear cover5from becoming larger.

In the first embodiment, as described above, the component part4includes the power supply board41that supplies electric power to the display panel1and the backlight unit2, the control board42that controls the display panel1and the backlight unit2, and the speaker43. With this configuration, the power supply board41, the control board42and the speaker43can be disposed in the space on the rear side of the second rear section32. In addition, the component part4is not disposed on the periphery of the display panel1. Thus, it is possible to prevent the frame around the periphery of the display panel1from becoming larger.

In the first embodiment, as described above, the rear cover5is attached to the rear frame3such that the rear surface of the rear cover5is flush with or approximately flush with the rear surface of the first rear section31of the rear frame3. With this configuration, the position of the rear side of the display device100can be aligned with the position of the rear surface of the first rear section31of the rear frame3. Thus, it is possible to effectively prevent the increase in the thickness of the display device100in the front-rear direction (Y direction). In addition, it is possible to prevent the formation of a protruding portion on the rear side of the display device100. Thus, there is no need to increase the size of the packing material used to pack the display device100to match the size of the protruding portion. With this configuration, it is possible to effectively prevent the increase in the size of the packing material in the front-rear direction (Y-direction).

In the first embodiment, as described above, the first light source portion231and the second light source portion232include the LEDs231band232bthat emit light and the light source boards231cand232con which the LEDs231band232b(the light emitting elements) are arranged, respectively. The backlight unit2also includes the reflective sheet22(reflective member) that reflects the light from the light source unit23toward the display panel1. At least one of the light source board232cof the second light source portion232and a part of the reflective sheet22that is disposed on the second rear section32of the rear frame3includes the light reflection suppressing portions24to suppress reflection of light. With this configuration, the light from the light source unit23can be efficiently incident on the optical member21by being reflected by the reflective sheet22. In addition, it is possible to suppress the reflection of light from the second light source portion232that is disposed closer to the optical member21than the first light source portion232by the light reflection suppressing portions24(24a,24b, and24c). Thus, it is possible to effectively prevent the light from the second light source portion232that is disposed closer to the optical member21than the first light source portion231from being concentrated in a portion without diffusion. As a result, it is possible to effectively prevent uneven luminance from occurring on the screen of the display panel I due to excessively high luminance of a part of the display panel1directly above the second light source portion232.

In the first embodiment, as described above, the second rear section32of the rear frame3is disposed at the lower portion (Z2direction side) of the rear frame3in the up-down direction (Z direction). With this configuration, the second rear section32can be disposed at an end portion of the rear frame3in the up-down direction (Z direction) and in the left-right direction (X direction). Thus, it is possible to provide the space for arranging necessary component part4at the end portion of the rear frame3in the up-down direction (Z direction) on the rear side of the rear frame3.

In the first embodiment, as described above, the backlight unit2includes the panel posts25(columnar spacer members) to maintaining a uniform distance between the light source unit23and the optical member21. The panel posts25each include the panel post251(first columnar spacer member) that is disposed on the first rear section31and the panel post252(second columnar spacer member) that is disposed on the second rear section32. The panel post251is longer in the front-rear direction (Y direction) than the panel post252. With this configuration, the panel post251can maintain the first distance D1between the first light source portion231that is disposed on the first rear section31and the optical member21uniform, and the panel post252can maintain the second distance D2between the second light source portion232that is disposed on the second rear section32and the optical member21uniform. As a result, the state of irradiation of light from the light source unit23can be maintained. Thus, it is possible to prevent uneven luminance from occurring due to the change in the state of light irradiated to the display panel1.

Second Embodiment

Next, a second embodiment of the disclosure is described with reference toFIG.13. In this second embodiment, unlike the above-mentioned first embodiment in which the backlight unit2includes the first and second light source portions231and232arranged at two mutually different optical distances, an example will be discussed in which a backlight unit includes a plurality of light source portions arranged at three mutually different optical distances. The same configuration as in the above-mentioned first embodiment is illustrated with the same symbol in the drawings and its explanation will be omitted.

A display device200according to the second embodiment comprises the display panel1(seeFIG.1), the backlight unit2(seeFIG.2), a rear frame203, the component part4, and a rear cover205, as shown inFIG.13. The display panel1and the component part4are basically identical to the display panel1and the component part4according to the first embodiment. The backlight unit2is basically identical to the backlight unit2according to the first embodiment, except that the backlight unit2according to the second embodiment includes a light source unit having a first light source portion230a, a second light source portion230band a third light source portion230cand a reflective sheet in the form corresponding to the rear frame203.

The rear frame203includes a first rear section (or front surface)203a, a second rear section (or front surface)203b, and a third rear section (or front surface)203c. The first, second and third rear sections203a,203band203care offset relative to each other in the front-rear direction of the display device200and in the up-down direction of the display device200. In other words, the first, second and third rear sections203a,203band203cdo not overlap with each other as viewed in the front-rear direction. The rear frame203also includes a first step section between the first rear section203aand the second rear section203band a second step section between the second rear section203band the third rear section203c. The backlight unit2includes the first light source portion230a, the second light source portion230b, and the third light source portion230c.

The first light source portion230ais disposed on the first rear section203a. The second light source portion230bis disposed on the second rear section203b. The third light source portion230cis disposed on the third rear section203c.

The first light source portion230ais disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a first distance D11. The second light source portion230bis disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a second distance D12. The third light source portion230cis disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a third distance D13. The second distance D12is smaller than the first distance D11. The third distance D13is smaller than the first distance D11and the second distance D12. In other words, the distances between the optical member21and the first, second and third light source portions230a,230band230cbecomes smaller in the order of the first distance D11, the second distance D12, and the third distance D13. The first, second and third light source portions230a,230band230care basically identical to the first and second light source portions231and232, except that the first, second and third light source portions230a,230band230chave lenses with different light distribution characteristics from the first and second lenses231aand232aaccording to their optical distances (i.e., the first, second and third distances D11, D12and D13).

In the second embodiment, the rear frame203has the first rear section203aon which the first light source portion230athat is separated from the optical member21by the first distance D11is disposed, the second rear section203bon which the second light source portion230bthat is separated from the optical member21by the second distance D12is disposed, and the third rear section203con which the third light source portion230cthat is separated from the optical member21by the third distance D13is disposed. The second rear section203bis disposed closer to the optical member21than the first rear section203a. The third rear section203cis disposed closer to the optical member21than the first rear section203aand the second rear section203b. In other words, the rear frame203is disposed close to the optical member21in the order of the first rear section203a, the second rear section203band the third rear section203c. Furthermore, the first rear section203ais disposed above the second rear section203b, and the second rear section203bis disposed above the third rear section203c. In the illustrated embodiment, the reflective sheet is also provided such that the reflective sheet extends at least along front surfaces of the first rear section203a, the first step section, the second rear section203b, the second step section and the third rear section203c.

The rear cover205is arranged to cover a portion of the rear frame203and the component part4from the rear side. Specifically, the rear cover205is attached to the rear frame203such that the rear surface of the rear cover205is flush with or approximately flush with the rear surface of the first rear section203aof the rear frame203. The rear cover205is arranged to cover the lower portion of the rear frame203in the up-down direction. The rear cover205is arranged to cover the rear side of the second rear section203band the third rear section203cof the rear frame203from the rear side. Thus, a space for arranging the component part4can be formed between the second rear section203band the rear cover205and between the third rear section203cand the rear cover205.

Other configurations of the second embodiment are the same as the above-mentioned first embodiment.

Effect of Second Embodiment

In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent the thickness of the display device200in the front-rear direction (Y direction) from becoming larger.

In the second embodiment, the first rear section203a, the second rear section203b, and the third rear section203care provided so that the distance between the rear frame203and the optical member21varies in three steps. With this configuration, relatively large component parts can be placed in the space on the rear side of the third rear section203c, where the space is relatively larger, and relatively small component parts can be placed in the space on the rear side of the second rear section203b.

Other effects of the second embodiment are the same as those of the above-mentioned first embodiment.

Third Embodiment

Next, a third embodiment of the disclosure is described with reference toFIG.14. In this third embodiment, unlike the above-mentioned first embodiment in which the second rear section32is disposed in the lower portion (Z2direction side) of the rear frame3in the up-down direction (Z direction), an example will be described in which second rear sections are located at both end portions of a rear frame in the left-right direction. The same configuration as in the above-mentioned first embodiment is illustrated with the same symbols in the drawings, and the explanation will be omitted.

A display device300according to the third embodiment has the display panel1(seeFIG.1), the backlight unit2(seeFIG.2), a rear frame303, the component parts4, and rear covers305, as shown inFIG.14. The display panel1and the component parts4are basically identical to the display panel1and the component part4according to the first embodiment. The backlight unit2is basically identical to the backlight unit2according to the first embodiment, except that the backlight unit2according to the third embodiment includes a light source unit having a first light source portion330aand a pair of second light source portions330band330cand a reflective sheet in the form corresponding to the rear frame303.

The rear frame303includes a first rear section (or front surface)303aand a pair of second rear sections (or front surfaces)303band303c. The second rear sections303band303care disposed at both end portions of the rear frame303in the left-right direction, respectively. Thus, as seen inFIG.14, the second rear sections303band303csandwich the first rear section303atherebetween in the left-right direction of the display device300. Furthermore, the first rear section303aand the second rear sections303band303care offset relative to each other in the front-rear direction of the display device200and in the left-right direction of the display device200. In other words, the first rear section303aand the second rear sections303band303cdo not overlap with each other as viewed in the front-rear direction. The rear frame203also includes a pair of step sections between the first rear section303aand the second rear section303band between first rear section303aand the second rear section303c. The backlight unit2includes the first light source portion330aand the second light source portions330band330cthat are disposed on the first rear section303aand the second rear sections303band303c, respectively, as shown inFIG.14.

The first light source portion330ais disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a first distance D21. The second light source portions330band330care disposed at positions separated from the optical member21by a second distance D22. The second distance D22is smaller than the first distance D21. In other words, the second light source portions330band330care disposed closer to the optical member21than the first light source portion330a. The first and second light source portions330a,330band330care basically identical to the first and second light source portions231and232, except that the first and second light source portions330a,330band330chave lenses with different light distribution characteristics from the first and second lenses231aand232aaccording to their optical distances (i.e., the first and second distances D21and D22and that the first and second light source portions330a,330band330care arranged such that the longitudinal directions of their light source boards correspond to the up-down direction of the display device300.

In the third embodiment, the rear frame303has the first rear section303aon which the first light source portion330athat is separated from the optical member21by the first distance D21is disposed, and the second rear sections303band303con which the second light sources330band330cthat are separated from the optical member21by the second distance D22are disposed. The second rear sections303band303care positioned closer to the optical member21than the first rear section303a. Furthermore, the first rear section303ais disposed between the second rear sections303band the second rear section303cin the left-right direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the reflective sheet is also provided such that the reflective sheet extends at least along front surfaces of the second rear section303b, the step section between the second rear section303band the first rear section303a, the first rear section303a, the step section between the first rear section303aand the second rear section303cand the second rear section303c.

The rear covers305is arranged to cover end portions of the rear frame303and the component parts4from the rear side, respectively. Specifically, the rear cover305is attached to the rear frame303so that the rear surface of the rear covers305are flush with or approximately flush with the rear surface of the first rear section303aof the rear frame303. The rear covers305are arranged to cover both end portions of the rear frame303in the left-right direction. The rear cover305is arranged to cover the rear sides of the second rear sections303band303cof the rear frame303from the rear side, respectfully. Thus, spaces for arranging the component parts4, respectively, can be formed between the second rear sections303band303cand the rear covers205, respectively.

Other configurations of the third embodiment are the same as the above-mentioned first embodiment.

Effect of Third Embodiment

In the third embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent the thickness of the display device300in the front-rear direction (Y direction) from becoming larger.

In the third embodiment, as described above, the second rear sections303band303care disposed at both end portions of the rear frame303in the left-right direction. With this configuration, the second rear sections303band303ccan be disposed at the end portions of the rear frame303in the left-right direction. Thus, the spaces for arranging necessary component parts4can be secured at the rear side of the end portions of the rear frame303in the left-right direction. In addition, the spaces are provided at the end portions in the left-right direction. Thus, the two component parts4can be installed at two separate spaces while suppressing the thickness of the display device303in the front-rear direction.

Other effects of the third embodiment are the same as those of the above-mentioned first embodiment.

Fourth Embodiment

Next, the fourth embodiment of the disclosure is described with reference toFIG.15. In this fourth embodiment, unlike the above-mentioned first embodiment in which the first rear section31and the second rear section32are connected by the inclined step section33, an example will be described in which a step section extends parallel to a plane along the front-rear direction (Y direction) of a display device and perpendicular to a front surface of a first rear section and a front surface of the second rear section. The same configuration as in the above-mentioned first embodiment is illustrated with the same symbols in the drawings, and the explanation will be omitted.

A display device400according to the fourth embodiment has the display panel1(seeFIG.1), the backlight unit2(seeFIG.2), a rear frame403, the component part4, and a rear cover405, as shown inFIG.15. The display panel1and the component part4are basically identical to the display panel1and the component part4according to the first embodiment. The backlight unit2is basically identical to the backlight unit2according to the first embodiment, except that the backlight unit2according to the fourth embodiment includes a light source unit having a first light source portion430aand a second light source portion430band a reflective sheet in the form corresponding to the rear frame403.

The rear frame403of the fourth embodiment includes a first rear section (or front surface)403aand a second rear section (or front surface)403b. The first and second rear sections403aand403bare offset relative to each other in the front-rear direction of the display device400and in the up-down direction of the display device400. In other words, the first and second rear sections403aand403bdo not overlap with each other as viewed in the front-rear direction. The rear frame403also includes a step section433between the first rear section403aand the second rear section403b. The step section433is parallel to a plane along the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device400and perpendicular to the first rear section403aand the second rear section403b. Thus, the step section433forms a perpendicular connection between the first rear section403aand the second rear section403b. The backlight unit2includes the first light source portion430aand the second light source portion430bthat are disposed on the first rear section403aand the second rear section403b, respectively, as shown inFIG.15.

The first light source portion430ais disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a first distance D31. The second light source portion430bis disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a second distance D32. The second distance D32is smaller than the first distance D31. The first and second light source portions430aand430bare basically identical to the first and second light source portions231and232, except that the first and second light source portions430aand430bhave lenses with different light distribution characteristics from the first and second lenses231aand232aaccording to their optical distances (i.e., the first and second distances D31and D32).

In the fourth embodiment, the rear frame403has the first rear section403aon which the first light source portion430athat is separated from the optical member21by the first distance D31is disposed, and the second rear section403bon which the second light source portion430bthat is separated from the optical member21by the second distance D32is disposed. The second rear section403bis positioned closer to the optical member21than the first rear section403a. Furthermore, the first rear section403ais disposed above the second rear section403b. In the illustrated embodiment, the reflective sheet is also provided such that the reflective sheet extends at least along front surfaces of the first rear section403a, the step section433and the second rear section403b.

The rear cover405is arranged to cover a portion of the rear frame403and the component part4from the rear side. Specifically, the rear cover405is attached to the rear frame403so that the rear surface of the rear cover405is flush with or approximately flush with the rear surface of the first rear section403aof the rear frame303. The rear cover405is arranged to cover the lower portion of the rear frame403in the up-down direction. The rear cover405is arranged to cover the rear side of the second rear section403bof the rear frame403. Thus, a space for arranging the component part4can be formed between the second rear section403band the rear cover405.

Other configurations of the fourth embodiment are the same as the above-mentioned first embodiment above.

Effect of Fourth Embodiment

In the fourth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent the thickness of the display device400in the front-rear direction (Y direction) from becoming larger.

In the fourth embodiment, as described above, the step433is parallel to the plane along the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device400and perpendicular to the first rear section403aand the second rear section403b. With this configuration, the distance of the connection between the first rear section403aand the second rear section403bcan be reduced, compared to when the first rear section403aand the second rear section403bare connected by a gently sloping surface. With this configuration, the second rear section403bthat can provide the space on the rear side thereof can be made larger.

Other effects of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the above-mentioned first embodiment.

Fifth Embodiment

Next, the fifth embodiment of the disclosure will be described with reference toFIG.16. In this fifth embodiment, unlike the above-mentioned first embodiment in which the rear cover5covers the component part4that is disposed on the rear side of the second rear section32, an example will be described in which a rear cover and a rear frame cover the component part4that disposed on the rear side of a second rear section. The same configuration as in the above-mentioned first embodiment is illustrated with the same symbols in the drawings, and the explanation will be omitted.

A display device500according to the fifth embodiment has the display panel1(seeFIG.1), the backlight unit2(seeFIG.2), a rear frame503, the component part4, and a rear cover505, as shown inFIG.16. The display panel1and the component part4are basically identical to the display panel1and the component part4according to the first embodiment. The backlight unit2is basically identical to the backlight unit2according to the first embodiment, except that the backlight unit2according to the fifth embodiment includes a light source unit having a first light source portion530aand a second light source portion530band a reflective sheet in the form corresponding to the rear frame503.

The rear frame503of the fifth embodiment includes a first rear section (or front surface)503aand a second rear section (or front surface)503b. The rear frame503also includes a step section533between the first rear section503aand the second rear section503b. The step section533is parallel to a plane along the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device500and perpendicular to the first rear section503aand the second rear section503b. Thus, the step section533forms a perpendicular connection between the first rear section503aand the second rear section503b. A portion (e.g., an upper portion) of the second rear section503bis covered by a portion (e.g., a lower portion) of the first rear section503a. In particular, an upper portion of the first rear section503ais disposed above the second rear section503b, and the first rear section503aextends downward beyond the step section533in the up-down direction to partially overlap the second rear section503bas viewed in the front-rear direction. The backlight unit2includes the first light source portion530aand the second light source portion530bthat are disposed on the first rear section503aand the second rear section503b, respectively, as shown inFIG.16.

The first light source portion530ais disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a first distance D41. The second light source portion530bis disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a second distance D42. The second distance D42is smaller than the first distance D41. The first and second light source portions530aand530bare basically identical to the first and second light source portions231and232, except that the first and second light source portions530aand530bhave lenses with different light distribution characteristics from the first and second lenses231aand232aaccording to their optical distances (i.e., the first and second distances D41and D42).

In the fifth embodiment, the rear frame503has the first rear section503aon which the first light source portion530athat is separated from the optical member21by the first distance D41is disposed, and the second rear section503bon which the second light source portion530bthat is separated from the optical member21by the second distance D42is disposed. The second rear section503bis positioned closer to the optical member21than the first rear section503a. Furthermore, the reflective sheet is also provided such that the reflective sheet extends at least along front surfaces of the upper portion of the first rear section503a, the step section533and the second rear section403b.

The rear cover505is arranged to cover a portion of the rear frame503and the component part4from the rear side. Specifically, the rear cover505is attached to the rear frame503so that the rear surface of the rear cover505is flush with or approximately flush with the rear surface of the first rear section503aof the rear frame503. The rear cover505is arranged to cover the lower portion of the rear frame503in the up-down direction. The rear cover505is arranged to cover a lower portion of the second rear section503bof the rear frame503from the rear side. Thus, a space for arranging the component part4can be formed between the upper portion of the second rear section503band the lower portion of the first rear section503band between the lower portion of the second rear section503band the rear cover505.

Other configurations of the fifth embodiment are the same as the above-mentioned first embodiment.

Effect of Fifth Embodiment

In the fifth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent the thickness of the display device500in the front-rear direction (Y direction) from becoming larger.

In the fifth embodiment, as described above, a portion (the upper portion) of the second rear section503bis covered by a portion (the lower portion) of the first rear section503a. With this configuration, the area of the rear cover505can be made smaller, compared to when the second rear section503bis entirely covered by the rear cover505. With this configuration, it is possible to effectively reduce the area of the rear cover505.

Other effects of the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the above-mentioned first embodiment.

Sixth Embodiment

Next, the sixth embodiment of the disclosure is described with reference toFIG.17. In this sixth embodiment, unlike the above-mentioned first embodiment in which a lower surface of a bottom section of the rear cover5extends along the horizontal direction, an example will be described in which a lower surface of a bottom section of a rear cover extends upward toward the rear side in the same inclined manner as a lower surface of a bottom section of a rear frame. The same configuration as in the above-mentioned first embodiment is illustrated with the same symbol in the drawings and its explanation will be omitted.

A display device600according to the sixth embodiment has the display panel1(seeFIG.1), the backlight unit2(seeFIG.2), a rear frame603, the component part4, and a rear cover605, as shown inFIG.17. The display panel1and the component part4are basically identical to the display panel1and the component part4according to the first embodiment. The backlight unit2is basically identical to the backlight unit2according to the first embodiment, except that the backlight unit2according to the sixth embodiment includes a light source unit having a first light source portion630aand a second light source portion630band a reflective sheet in the form corresponding to the rear frame603.

The rear frame603of the sixth embodiment includes a first rear section (or front surface)603a, a second rear section (or front surface)603band a bottom section603c. The bottom section603cincludes a lower surface (or lower inclined surface) that is inclined upward as moving rearward and is connected to a lower edge of the second rear section603bthat located on the lower side (Z2direction side) out of the edges of the second rear section603bthat extend along the left-right direction (X direction) of the display device600. The rear frame603also includes a step section633between the first rear section603aand the second rear section603b. The step section633is parallel to a plane along the front-rear direction (Y direction) of the display device600and perpendicular to the first rear section603aand the second rear section603b. Thus, the step section633forms a perpendicular connection between the first rear section603aand the second rear section603b. The backlight unit2includes the first light source portion630aand the second light source portion630bthat are disposed on the first rear section603aand the second rear section603b, respectively, as shown inFIG.17.

The first light source portion630ais disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a first distance D51. The second light source portion630bis disposed at a position separated from the optical member21by a second distance D52. The second distance D52is smaller than the first distance D51. The first and second light source portions630aand630bare basically identical to the first and second light source portions231and232, except that the first and second light source portions630aand630bhave lenses with different light distribution characteristics from the first and second lenses231aand232aaccording to their optical distances (i.e., the first and second distances D51and D52).

In the sixth embodiment, the rear frame603has the first rear section603aon which the first light source portion630athat is separated from the optical member21by the first distance D51is disposed, and the second rear section603bon which the second light source portion630bthat is separated from the optical member21by the second distance D52is disposed. The second rear section603bis positioned closer to the optical member21than the first rear section603a. Furthermore, the first rear section603ais disposed above the second rear section603b. In the illustrated embodiment, the reflective sheet is also provided such that the reflective sheet extends at least along front surfaces of the first rear section603a, the step section633and the second rear section603b.

The rear cover605is arranged to cover a portion of the rear frame603and the component part4from the rear side. Specifically, the rear cover605is attached to the rear frame603so that the rear surface of the rear cover605is flush with or approximately flush with the rear surface of the first rear section603aof the rear frame603. The rear cover605is also attached to the rear frame603so that the lower surface of the bottom section of the rear cover605is flush with or approximately flush with the lower surface of the bottom section603cof the rear frame603. The rear cover605is arranged to cover a lower portion of the rear frame603in the up-down direction. The rear cover605is arranged to cover the rear side of the second rear section603bof the rear frame603. Thus, a space for arranging the component part4can be formed between the second rear section403band the rear cover405. The rear cover605is formed such that the lower surface of the bottom section of the rear cover605extends upward toward the rear side in the same inclined manner as the lower surface of the bottom section603cof the rear frame603.

Other configurations of the sixth embodiment are the same as the above-mentioned first embodiment.

Effect of Sixth Embodiment

In the sixth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent the thickness of the display device600in the front-rear direction (Y direction) from becoming larger.

In the sixth embodiment, as described above, the rear cover605covers the component part4from the rear side (Y2direction side) in a state in which the rear cover605is arranged such that the lower surface (lower inclined surface) of the rear cover605is flush with or approximately flush with the lower surface of the bottom section603cof the rear frame603. With this configuration, it is possible to align the position of the lower surface side of the display device600in the up-down direction (Z direction) with the position of the lower surface (lower inclined surface) of the bottom section603cof the rear frame603, which is a bottom surface of the rear frame603in the up-down direction (Z direction). With this configuration, the area of the rear cover605can be made smaller, compared to when the rear cover605is formed without considering the bottom surface of the rear frame603in the up-down direction (Z direction). As a result, the area of the rear cover605can be effectively reduced.

Other effects of the sixth embodiment are the same as those of the above-mentioned first embodiment.

Modifications

The embodiments disclosed herein are just examples in every respect, and should not be interpreted as being limiting in nature. The scope of the invention being indicated by the claims rather than by the above description of the embodiments, all modifications (modification examples) within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are included.

For example, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example is shown in which the first and second light source portions231and232are arranged along the left-right direction (X direction) of the rear frame3, but the present invention is not limited to this. They may be arranged along the up-down direction (Z direction) of the rear frame3.

In the first embodiment, an example is shown in which the step section33is provided at the boundary between the first rear section31and the second rear section32of the rear frame3, but the present invention is not limited to this. The first rear section31and the second rear section32may be connected by a curved or gently sloping surface so that there is no step between the first rear section31and the second rear section32.

In the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example is shown in which the first light source portion231and the second light source portion232each include a lens, but the present invention is not limited to this. For the first light source portion231whose optical distance to the optical member21is larger than the second light source portion232, a lens may not be used.

In the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example is shown in which the refractive lenses are used for the first lenses231aand the reflective/refractive lenses are used for the second lenses232a, but the combination of lenses in the present invention is not limited to this. In addition to or in replace of the refractive lenses and the reflective/refractive lenses, a reflective lens may be used as shown in a first modification inFIG.18, for example.FIG.18shows a lens233according to the first modification, which includes a reflective lens233a, an LED233b, and a light source board233c. A transparent resin may also be used as a substitute for the lens by potting it into a dome lens shape.

In the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example is shown in which the component part4includes the power supply board41, the control board42, and the speaker43, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, for example, the component part4may include a wireless LAN module, a tuner for receiving broadcast signals, and a control circuit including a processor. The component part4may also include only one or two of a power supply board that supplies electric power to the display panel1and the backlight unit2, a control board that controls the display panel1and the backlight unit2, and a speaker.

In the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example is shown in which the light source unit23is in the form of a rod-shaped plate extending in the left-right direction (X direction) of the display device100, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in a second modification inFIG.19, a light source unit23amay include a plurality of LEDs231dand a light source board231e. As shown inFIG.19, with the light source unit23a, the light source board231eis in the form of a plate extending in the left-right direction (X direction) and the up-down direction (Z direction) of the display device. The LEDs231dare arranged above the light source board231esuch that the LEDs231dare arranged in the left-right direction (X direction) and the up-down direction (Z direction) of the display device, as shown inFIG.19. As shown in a third modification inFIG.20, a light source unit23bmay include a LED231fand a light source board231g. The light source unit23bis in the form of an individual piece including one LED231fand one light source board231g, as shown inFIG.20.

In the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example is shown in which the reflective sheet22is formed of a single rectangular sheet, but the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in a fourth modification inFIG.21, the reflective sheet22acan include end inclined portions224cand224dthat are formed with curved surfaces at end portions of the reflective sheet22a. As also shown in a fifth modification inFIG.22, a reflective sheet22bmay be divided into five reflective sheets225a,225b,225c,225d, and225e.

In the above-mentioned first and third embodiments, examples are shown in which the second rear section of the rear frame is located at the lower portion of the rear frame in the up-down direction and at least one of both end portions in the left-right direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, for example, the first to sixth embodiments are shown as independent embodiments, but these embodiments may be arbitrarily combined with respect to the arrangement of the second rear section.

In the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example is shown in which the rear cover5is provided to cover a portion of the rear frame3and the component part4from the rear side, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, for example, the rear cover may be configured to cover the component part from the rear side in a state in which the rear cover is arranged so that it is flush with or approximately flush with the rear surface of the first section of the rear frame.

(1) In view of the state of the known technology, a display device according to an aspect of this disclosure comprises a display panel with a display surface, a backlight unit, and a rear frame. The backlight unit is configured to irradiate light to the display panel from a rear side of the display panel. The backlight unit includes a light source unit that is configured to emit light and a sheet-like optical member that is configured to diffuse the light from the light source unit toward a rear surface of the display panel. The rear frame covers the backlight unit from a rear side of the display device. The light source unit has a first light source that is disposed spaced apart from the optical member in a front-rear direction of the display device and is provided with a first lens, and a second light source that is disposed spaced apart from the optical member and closer to the optical member than the first light source in the front-rear direction and is provided with a second lens. The first lens and the second lens have different light distribution characteristics from each other.

(2) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to the display device mentioned above, the rear frame has a first rear section on which the first light source is disposed, and a second rear section on which the second light source is disposed, the second rear section being disposed closer to the optical member than the first rear section.

(3) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the rear frame is provided to face the optical member.

In the display device according to the aspect of this disclosure, the rear frame has the first rear section on which the first light source that is disposed spaced apart from the optical member is disposed and the second rear section on which the second light source that is disposed spaced apart from the optical member is disposed, and the second rear section is disposed closer to the optical member than the first rear section. With this configuration, the second rear section of the rear frame can be positioned forward relative to the first rear section of the rear frame. Thus, a space for arranging necessary component parts can be secured on the rear side of the second rear section of the rear frame. With this configuration, necessary component parts, such as a control unit that controls each member and a speaker, can be placed on the rear side of the second rear section of the rear frame. As a result, it is possible to prevent that the space for arranging the necessary component parts becomes significantly larger than the thickness of the rear frame in the front-rear direction and that a protrusion protruding rearward from a surface of the display device along the display panel in the front-rear direction of the display device is formed. Thus, the thickness of the display device in the front-rear direction can be prevented from becoming larger. As a result, when the display device is packed for transport or storage, the size of the packaging in the front-rear direction can be prevented from becoming larger, and thus the space can be saved during transport or storage of the display device. In addition, the first lens that distributes light is provided in the first light source, and the second lens that distributes light according to different light distribution characteristics from the first lens is provided in the second light source. With this configuration, the light can be distributed from the light source unit according to the distance between the light source unit and the optical member. Thus, uneven luminance on the display panel can be suppressed by the light irradiated from the first and second light sources that are disposed at different distances from the optical member.

(4) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to the display device mentioned above, the second lens is configured to diffuse light more than the first lens.

With this configuration, the light from the second light source, which is disposed closer to the optical member than the first light source, can be diffused to a wider angle by the second lens than by the first lens. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent that the light irradiated from the second light source, which is disposed closer to the optical member than the first light source, is concentrated on a part of the display panel without being diffused. Thus, it is possible to prevent that uneven luminance occurs on a screen of the display panel due to the excessively high luminance at a part of the display panel directly above the second light source.

(5) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the rear frame further has a step section between the first rear section and the second rear section.

With this configuration, the flat area of a surface connecting the second rear section and the first rear section as viewed in the front-rear direction can be reduced when the step section forms a perpendicular connection between the first rear section and the second rear section, compared to when the step section is formed by a gently sloping surface and forms a diagonal connection between the first rear section and the second rear section. With this configuration, the second rear section that provides a space for arranging component parts on the rear side thereof can be made larger.

(6) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the display device further comprises a component part disposed on a rear side of the second rear section of the rear frame.

(7) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the component part is disposed within a space defined between the first rear section and the second rear section in the front-rear direction.

(8) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the display device further comprises a rear cover covering the component part from the rear side of the display device.

(9) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the rear cover is attached to the rear frame.

With this configuration, the component part can be disposed on the rear side of the second rear section that is located forward relative to the first rear section in the rear frame. Thus, it is possible to prevent the space for arranging the component part from protruding significantly to the rear side. In addition, the rear cover covers the component part disposed on the rear side of the second rear section that is a part of the rear frame. Thus, there is no need to cover the entire rear frame with the rear cover. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the rear cover from becoming larger.

(10) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the component part includes at least one of a power supply board that is configured to supply power to the display panel and the backlight unit, a control board that is configured to control the display panel and the backlight unit, and a speaker.

With this configuration, at least one of the power supply board, the control board and the speaker can be disposed in the space on the rear side of the second rear section. In addition, these component parts are not disposed on the periphery of the display panel. Thus, it is possible to prevent the frame around the periphery of the display panel (the so-called picture frame) from becoming larger.

(11) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the rear cover is attached to the rear frame such that a rear surface of the rear cover is flush with a rear surface of the first rear section of the rear frame.

With this configuration, the position of the rear side of the display device can be aligned with the position of the rear surface of the first rear section of the rear frame. Thus, it is possible to effectively prevent the increase in the thickness of the display device in the front-rear direction. In addition, it is possible to prevent the formation of a protruding portion on the rear side of the display device. Thus, there is no need to increase the size of the packing material used to pack the display device to match the size of the protruding portion. With this configuration, it is possible to effectively prevent the increase in the size of the packing material in the front-rear direction.

(12) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the first light source portion and the second light source portion each include a plurality of light emitting elements that is configured to emit light and a light source board on which the light emitting elements are arranged.

(13) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the backlight unit includes a reflective sheet that is configured to reflect light from the light source unit toward the display panel.

(14) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, at least one of the light source board of the second light source and a part of the reflective sheet that is disposed on the second rear section of the rear frame includes a light reflection suppressing portion to suppress reflection of light.

With this configuration, the light from the light source unit can be efficiently incident on the optical member by being reflected by the reflective sheet. In addition, it is possible to suppress the reflection of light from the second light source that is disposed closer to the optical member than the first light source by the light reflection suppressing portion. Thus, it is possible to effectively prevent the light from the second light source that is disposed closer to the optical member than the first light source from being concentrated in a portion without diffusion. As a result, it is possible to effectively prevent uneven luminance from occurring on the screen of the display panel due to excessively high luminance of a part of the display panel directly above the second light source.

(15) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the second rear section of the rear frame is disposed at a lower portion of the rear frame in an up-down direction of the display device.

(16) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the second rear section of the rear frame is disposed at at least one of both end portions in a left-right direction of the display device.

With this configuration, the second rear section can be disposed at an end portion of the rear frame in the up-down direction and in the left-right direction. Thus, it is possible to provide a space for arranging necessary component parts at an end portion of the rear frame in the up-down direction and in the left-right direction on the rear side of the rear frame.

(17) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the backlight unit includes a columnar spacer member to maintain a uniform distance between the light source unit and the optical member.

(18) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the columnar spacer member includes a first columnar spacer member that is disposed on the first rear section of the rear frame and a second columnar spacer member that is disposed on the second rear section of the rear frame, and the first columnar spacer member is longer in the front-rear direction than the second columnar spacer member.

With this configuration, the first columnar spacer member can maintain a uniform distance between the first light source that is disposed on the first rear section and the optical member, and the second columnar spacer member can maintain a uniform distance between the second light source that is disposed on the second rear section and the optical member. As a result, the state of irradiation of light from the light source unit can be maintained. Thus, it is possible to prevent uneven luminance from occurring due to the change in the state of light irradiated to the display panel.

(19) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the step section forms a diagonal connection between the first rear section and the second rear section.

(20) In accordance with a preferred embodiment according to any one of the display devices mentioned above, the step section forms a perpendicular connection between the first rear section and the second rear section.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a display device that can prevent the increase in thickness in the front-rear direction.

As used herein, the following directional terms “forward”, “rearward”, “front”, “rear”, “up”, “down”, “above”, “below”, “upward”, “downward”, “top”, “bottom”, “side”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “perpendicular” and “transverse” as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a display device in an upright position on a horizontal surface. Accordingly, these directional terms, as utilized to describe the display device should be interpreted relative to a display device on a horizontal surface. The terms “left” and “right” are used to indicate the “right” when referencing from the right side as viewed from the rear side of the display device, and the “left” when referencing from the left side as viewed from the rear side of the display device.

The phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “one or more” of a desired choice. For one example, the phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “only one single choice” or “both of two choices” if the number of its choices is two. For another example, the phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “only one single choice” or “any combination of equal to or more than two choices” if the number of its choices is equal to or more than three. Also, the term “and/or” as used in this disclosure means “either one or both of”.

The term “attached” or “attaching”, as used herein, encompasses configurations in which an element is directly secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly secured to the other element by affixing the element to the intermediate member(s) which in turn are affixed to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with another element, i.e. one element is essentially part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, “joined”, “connected”, “coupled”, “mounted”, “bonded”, “fixed” and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean an amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.