[0001] The present invention relates to a display apparatus including a flat cable.
[0002] A cable is used in communication or data transmission between analog/digital respective
integrated circuits (IC). Conventional cables include a wire-type cable and a flat-type
cable.
[0003] The wire-type cable has excellent flexibility such that it is easy to set a form.
However, defective contact between connecters and a snap of a wire are likely to occur
in the wire-type cable. Further, the unit cost of the wire-type cable is expensive.
[0004] Signal lines existing in the wire-type cable are tied together adjacent to one another
in a circular space. Accordingly, the signal lines are largely affected by each other
due to noise if a large amount of data is transmitted at a high frequency.
[0005] The flat-type cable is manufactured in the form of a flat band by attaching several
to several tens of thin strands to each other from side to side for signal lines.
In the flat-type cable, since the respective signal lines are spread out, a noise
effect caused by the other signal lines becomes smaller than that in the wire-type
cable.
[0006] Such a flat-type cable is less defective in contact and the unit cost thereof is
inexpensive. However, the flat-type cable is less flexible than the wire-type cable.
For example, if a transmitter terminal and a receiver terminal are not aligned in
a straight line, the cable is connected thereto by being folded, which generates interference
between the respective signal lines. Additionally, a signal characteristic also will
vary based on length.
[0007] Further, since the flat-type cable cannot be bent like the wire-type cable, there
are a number of different folding specifications, i.e., methods of folding, bending,
etc. the flat cable to connect the flat cable. For example, a method of folding a
flat cable is varied depending on positions of respective connectors in a mother board
and a panel. In this case, various types of the flat cable are derived in accordance
with the folding specifications, and thus it may be difficult to manage since there
are many different specifications.
[0008] One or more exemplary embodiments may enhance flexibility of a flat cable by changing
a structure of the flat cable and intercept noise that may occur in this case due
to interference between signal lines.
[0009] The exemplary embodiments may further enhance the flexibility by improving a method
of forming and fastening the flat cable, thereby increasing forming and assembling
efficiency for the flat cable.
[0010] According to an aspect of an exemplary embodiment, there is provided a flat cable
for connecting a plurality of devices, the flat cable including a plurality of signal
lines which are divided into a plurality of signal groups, wherein at least a part
of the signal groups are separated from one another by a separated section; and a
plurality of connectors which are respectively provided at opposite ends of the plurality
of signal lines and respectively connectable to the plurality of devices.
[0011] The separating section may include a slit. The separating section may extend in parallel
to a direction along which the plurality of signal lines transmit signals. The plurality
of signal lines of each of the signal groups may be connected to each other from side
to side. The plurality of signal lines may transmit a low voltage differential signaling
signal. The signal group may include a signal line for transmitting a "+" signal,
a signal line for transmitting a "-" signal, and a ground line. The flat cable may
further include a binding member having a tubular shape and that secures the plurality
of signal groups to one another. The binding member may include one of silicon, plastic
and rubber. The binding member may include a cutting line in the form of a helical
pattern extending around a tubular exterior surface of the binding member. The plurality
of signal groups may be each bent at a predetermined angle to retain predetermined
gaps between the plurality of signal groups. The flat cable may further include a
plurality of sheaths covering the plurality of signal lines, respectively. The plurality
of sheaths may be formed with a mesh pattern on a surface thereof. The mesh pattern
may include a silver material. The separating section may be formed so as to not intercept
the mesh-pattern. The flat cable may further include a shield which is provided in
the separating section and intercepting noise. The shield may have a linear shape.
The shield may include at least one of aluminum and iron. The plurality of connectors
may be connected to the plurality of devices that are misaligned with one another
relative to a direction along which the signal lines extend.
[0012] According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a display
apparatus including: a signal processor including a first device which processes a
received video signal; a display unit including a second device which displays an
image based on the video signal; and a flat cable connecting the first device and
the second device, the flat cable including a plurality of signal lines which are
divided into a plurality of signal groups, wherein at least a part of the signal groups
are separated from one another by a separating section; and a plurality of connectors
which are respectively provided at opposite ends of the plurality of signal lines
and respectively connectable to the plurality of devices.
[0013] According to an aspect of another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a flat
cable including a first connector; a second connector; and a plurality of signal lines
which connects the first connector and the second connector and extend along a first
direction, wherein the signal lines are aligned with one another along a second direction
perpendicular to the first direction and divided into a plurality of signal groups
each comprising at least two of the signal lines among the plurality of signal lines,
wherein the signal lines of each of the signal groups are connected to one another,
and wherein at least a portion of each of each two adjacent signal groups are spatially
separated.
[0014] The portions of the two adjacent signal groups may be spatially separated by a slit
extending along the first direction. A shield may be disposed in each of the slits.
The signal lines of each signal group may include at least one signal line for transmitting
a "+" signal, and at least one signal line for transmitting a "-" signal. A binding
member may be disposed about a middle portion of the signal lines connecting the signal
lines to one another. The binding member may include a tubular exterior having a helical
cutting line.
[0015] The above and/or other aspects will become apparent and more readily appreciated
from the following description of exemplary embodiments, taken in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1A is a view showing a configuration of a general flat cable;
FIG. 1B is a view showing a configuration of a flat cable according to an exemplary
embodiment;
FIG. 1C is a view showing a configuration of a flat cable according to another exemplary
embodiment;
FIGS. 2A and 2B are views for explaining a flat cable according to another exemplary
embodiment;
FIG. 3 is a view showing a plurality of signal lines divided according to an exemplary
embodiment;
FIG. 4A is a view showing that a pair of devices are connected by a general flat cable;
FIG. 4B is a view showing that a pair of devices are connected by a flat cable according
to an exemplary embodiment;
FIG. 5 is a view showing a configuration of a display apparatus according to an exemplary
embodiment;
FIG. 6A is a view showing a flat cable tied by a tape;
FIG. 6B is a view showing a binding member according to an exemplary embodiment;
FIG. 6C is a view showing the flat cable according to an exemplary embodiment tied
by the binding member shown in FIG. 6B;
FIG. 6D is a view showing the flat cable shown in FIG. 6C set to have a predetermined
form;
FIG. 7A is a view showing a plurality of wires tied by the binding member;
FIG. 7B is a view showing the arrangement of the wires for connecting the flat cable
according to an exemplary embodiment;
FIG. 7C is a view showing the flat cable shown in FIG. 7B set to have a predetermined
form; and
FIG. 8 is a view showing the flat cable according to an exemplary embodiment formed
with a silver plated pattern.
[0016] Below, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to accompanying
drawings so as to be easily realized by a person having ordinary knowledge in the
art. The inventive concept may be embodied in various forms without being limited
to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. Descriptions of well-known parts are
omitted for clarity, and like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.
[0017] FIG. 1A is a view showing a configuration of a general flat cable.
[0018] A general flat cable 1000 is manufactured in the form of a flat band by attaching
a plurality of signal lines 1100 from side to side. The signal lines 1100 are respectively
covered with a plurality of sheaths 1100a, 1100b, 1100c, 1100d, 1100e, 1100f, 1100g
and 1100h, and the plurality of sheaths 1100a, 1100b, 1100c, 1100d, 1100e, 1100f,
1100g and 1100h are connected to each other from side to side.
[0019] Opposite ends of the plurality of signal lines 1100 are respectively provided with
a pair of connectors 1200a and 1200b, and the pair of connectors 1200a and 1200b are
respectively connected to a pair of devices (not shown).
[0020] Referring to FIG. 1A, the plurality of sheaths 1100a, 1100b, 1100c, 1100d, 1100e,
1100f, 1100g and 1100h respectively covering the plurality of signal lines are attached
and connected to each other from side to side. Thus, the flat cable 1000 has no flexibility
in a left and right direction of FIG. 1A. That is, it is difficult to move the connectors
1200a, 1200b in the left-right direction relative to one another. If the plurality
of devices to be connected by the flat cable are misaligned with respect to a predetermined
direction, the flat cable 1000 must be folded to connect the devices.
[0021] FIG. 1B is a view showing a configuration of a flat cable 100a according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0022] A flat cable 100a according to an exemplary embodiment may be for connection between
a plurality of devices (not shown) provided in an electronic apparatus (not shown)
or for connection between a plurality of devices respectively provided in the electronic
apparatus and various peripheral devices (not shown). The flat cable 100a may be shaped
like a flat band.
[0023] The flat cable 100a in this exemplary embodiment may include a plurality of signal
lines 110, a plurality of sheaths 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d, 110e, 110f, 110g, 110h and
110i, and a plurality of connectors 120a and 120b.
[0024] The plurality of signal lines 110 is divided into a plurality of signal groups, and
at least a part between the plurality of signal groups may be spatially separated
by at least one separating section.
[0025] The separating section may be in parallel with a direction of signal transmission.
Specifically, the separating section may be arranged in a longitudinal direction of
the flat cable 100a, i.e., in parallel with the plurality of signal lines 110.
[0026] The separating section may be a slit or a cut formed by a cutting form. For example,
the flat cable 100a may be cut in a connection part between the plurality of signal
groups.
[0027] In FIG. 1B, a sheath 110a covering a first signal line to a sheath 110c covering
a third signal line belong to a first signal group. A sheath 110d covering a fourth
signal line and a sheath 110e covering a fifth signal line belong to a second signal
group; a sheath 110f covering a sixth signal line and a sheath 110g covering a seventh
signal line belong to a third signal group; and a sheath 110h covering an eighth signal
line and a sheath 110i covering a ninth signal line belong to a fourth signal group.
The separating sections 141, 142 and 143 are respectively provided as slits between
the first signal group and the second signal group, between the second signal group
and the third signal group, and between the third signal group and the fourth signal
group. Referring to FIG. 1B, a length of each of the slit-like separating sections
141, 142 and 143 is shorter than a total length of the flat cable 100a. The flat cable
100a including the slit-like separating sections 141, 142 and 143 can be flexibly
bent along the left and right direction. Thus, the flexibility of the flat cable 100
is secured in the left and right directions, and the connectors 120a, 120b can be
easily moved relative to one another along the left and right direction.
[0028] In the plurality of signal lines 110, only the signal lines that belong to one signal
group may be connected to each other from side to side. Specifically, the signal lines
categorized into the same signal group are adhered and connected to each other in
the left and right direction in which the signal lines are aligned with one another.
In FIG. 1B, dotted lines indicate a part where the signal lines are connected each
other. Referring to FIG. 1B, the sheath 110a covering the first signal line, the sheath
110b covering the second signal line and the sheath 110c covering the third signal
line are connected to each other from side to side. Also, the sheath 110d covering
the fourth signal line and the sheath 110e covering the fifth signal line are connected
to each other from side to side. The sheath 110f covering the sixth signal line and
the sheath 110g covering the seventh signal line are connected to each other from
side to side. The sheath 110h covering the eighth signal line and the sheath 110i
covering the ninth signal line are connected to each other from side to side.
[0029] The plurality of signal groups may include at least one signal line for transmitting
a "+" signal, at least one signal line for transmitting a "-" signal, and a ground
signal. The signal groups may be classified by various references. According to an
exemplary embodiment, the plurality of signal lines 110 may be classified into a plurality
of signal groups according to transmission characteristics of a signal. Specifically,
in the case of transmitting a differential signaling (DS) signal, signal lines having
polarities opposed to each other may be classified into the same signal group. For
example, the "+" signal and the "-" signal may be classified into one group. Also,
the "+" signal, the "-" signal and the "oV" signal may be classified into one group.
In the case of transmitting a transfer-to-transfer logic (TTL) signal or an inter-integrated
circuit (I2C) communication signal, the plurality of signal lines 110 may be classified
into a plurality of signal groups in accordance with a predetermined reference or
a user's setting.
[0030] Through the plurality of signal lines 110, a plurality of signals can be transmitted
between the plurality of devices. For example, the plurality of signal lines 110 may
be used in transmitting the "oV" signal, and the "+" signal and the "-" signal of
each channel.
[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of signal lines 110 may be used
for transmitting a low voltage differential signaling (LVDS) signal. The LVDS signal
is a differential signal having a low voltage swing, which has a constant average
level throughout since one signal has a high level if the other signal has a low level.
A transmitter terminal transmits two signals different in voltage, and a receiver
terminal compares the two different voltages with each other. Specifically, the transmitter
terminal generates and transmits two signals having opposed polarities to each other,
and the receiver terminal compares the two voltages of the opposed polarities.
[0032] The plurality of sheaths 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d, 110e, 110f, 110g, 110h and 110i
cover the plurality of signal lines, respectively, and may be connected from side
to side. The plurality of sheaths 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d, 110e, 110f, 110g, 110h and
110i protect the plurality of signal lines 110, respectively.
[0033] The plurality of connectors 120a, 120b may be respectively provided in opposite terminals
of the plurality of signal lines 110 and connected to the plurality of devices, respectively.
According to an exemplary embodiment, the connectors 120a, 120b may be connected to
the respective devices which are misaligned with each other in a predetermined direction
on a plane in which the plurality of signal lines 110 are provided.
[0034] FIG. 1C is a view showing a configuration of a flat cable 100b according to another
exemplary embodiment.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 1C, a sheath 150a covering a first signal line to a sheath 150c
covering a third signal line belong to a first signal group. A sheath 150d covering
a fourth signal line and a sheath 150e covering a fifth signal line belong to a second
signal group; a sheath 150f covering a sixth signal line and a sheath 150g covering
a seventh signal line belong to a third signal group; and a sheath 150h covering an
eighth signal line and a sheath 150i covering a ninth signal line belong to a fourth
signal group. The separating sections 161, 162 and 163 are respectively provided as
slits (or cuts) between the first signal group and the second signal group, between
the second signal group and the third signal group, and between the third signal group
and the fourth signal group. In FIG. 1C, a length of each of the slit-like separating
sections 161, 162 and 163 is equal to a total length of the flat cable 100. In a flat
cable 100b including the slit-like separating sections 161, 162 and 163, the flat
cable 100b can be flexibly bent in the left and right direction of FIG. 1C. Thus,
the flexibility of the flat cable 100b is secured in the left and right direction
to a greater extent than the flat cable 100a of FIG. 1B.
[0036] Dotted lines shown in FIG. 1C indicate a part where the signal lines that belong
to one group are connected to each other from side to side. The flat cable 100b according
to this exemplary embodiment is basically the same as that shown in FIG. 1B except
the slit-like separating sections 161, 162 and 163. Repetitive descriptions to the
descriptions of FIG. 1B will be avoided as necessary.
[0037] FIGS. 2A and 2B are views for explaining a flat cable 100c according to another exemplary
embodiment.
[0038] In a flat cable 100c in this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of signal lines 110
is divided into a plurality of signal groups, and at least a part between the plurality
of signal groups may be spatially separated by at least one separating section. Further,
a shield for intercepting noise may be provided in the separating section.
[0039] The shield intercepts the noise, and may be placed in the separating section. As
an example, the shield may be at least one of aluminum and iron.
[0040] The shield may be provided in various forms, as would be understood by those of ordinary
skill in the art. According to an exemplary embodiment, the shield may be a line disposed
in the separating section. According to another exemplary embodiment, the shield may
surround the signal lines that belong to each signal group.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 2A, each communication line corresponds to each signal group including
the signal lines. Each communication line may include at least one among a signal
line for transmitting a "+" signal, a signal line for transmitting a "-" signal, and
a ground line.
[0042] If the plurality of signal lines are divided into the signal groups, noise may occur
due to interference between the adjacent signal lines that belong to one group. To
prevent interference between the adjacent signal lines, the plurality of signal lines
are classified into the plurality of signal groups, and the shields are respectively
interposed between the divided signal groups. Specifically, the "+" signal line and
the "-" signal line may be grouped. Also, the "+" signal line, the "-" signal line
and the ground line may be grouped. Thus, a voltage having the same phase between
differential signals, i.e., the "+" signal and the "-" signal is removed and the noise
due to the interference is shielded to thereby improve resistance to the noise.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 2B, slit-like separating sections respectively including the shields
251, 252, 253 are provided between a first signal group 210a, 210b and a second signal
group 210c, 210d, between the second signal group 210c, 210d and a third signal group
210e, 210f, and between the third signal group 210e, 210f and the fourth signal group
210g, 210h, 210i.
[0044] In FIG. 2B, dotted lines indicate a part where the signal lines that belong to one
group are connected to each other from side to side. The flat cable 100c according
to this exemplary embodiment is basically the same as that shown in FIG. 1B except
the slit-like separating sections including the shields 251, 252, 253. Repetitive
descriptions to the descriptions of FIG. 1B will be avoided as necessary.
[0045] FIG. 3 is a view showing a plurality of signal lines divided according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0046] FIG. 3 shows an arrangement for transmitting the LVDS signal. The differential signal
may be transmitted in the form of a pair of the "+" signal and the "-" signal while
taking the differential signaling characteristics into account. Each group may include
a "2-pin" signal or a "3-pin" signal. A "2-pin" signal may include the "+" signal
and the "-" signal. A "3-pin" signal may include the "+" signal, the "-" signal and
the ground signal.
[0047] In FIG. 3, a first group, a second group, a third group, a fifth group, a seventh
group, a ninth group are used in transmitting the "3-pin" signal. In the first group,
a first pin 1, a second pin 2 and a third pin 3 are employed in transmitting signals
of 5V, respectively. In the second group, a fourth pin 4 and a sixth pin 6 are employed
in transmitting signals of oV, respectively, and a fifth pin 5 is employed in transmitting
a noise canceled (NC) signal, i.e., reset signal. In the third group, a seventh pin
7 is employed in transmitting a signal of oV, an eighth pin 8 is employed in transmitting
a signal of RXE3+, and a ninth pin 9 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXE3-.
In the fifth group, a twelfth pin 12 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXE2+,
a thirteenth pin 13 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXE2-, and a fourteenth
pin 14 is employed in transmitting a signal of oV. In the seventh group, a seventeenth
pin 17 is employed in transmitting a signal of oV, an eighteenth pin 18 is employed
in transmitting a signal of RXE0+, and a nineteenth pin 19 is employed in transmitting
a signal of RXE0-. In the ninth group, a twenty-second pin 22 is employed in transmitting
a signal of RXOC+, a twenty-third pin 23 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXOC-,
and a twenty-fourth pin 24 is employed in transmitting a signal of oV. That is, the
"3 pin" signal transmitted from the first group, the second group, the third group,
the fifth group, the seventh group and the ninth group includes two signals having
opposed polarities to each other and one signal of oV.
[0048] A fourth group, a sixth group, an eighth group, an tenth group, an eleventh group
and a twelfth group are used in transmitting the "2-pin" signal. In the fourth group,
a tenth pin 10 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXEC+, and an eleventh pin
11 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXEC-. In the sixth group, a fifteenth
pin 15 is employed in transmitting a signal of RXE1+, and a sixteenth pin 16 is employed
in transmitting a signal of RXE1-. In the eighth group, a twentieth pin 20 is employed
in transmitting a signal of RXO3+, and an twenty-first pin 21 is employed in transmitting
a signal of RXO3-. In the tenth group, a twenty-fifth pin 25 is employed in transmitting
a signal of RXO2+, and a twenty-sixth pin 26 is employed in transmitting a signal
of RXO2-. In the eleventh group, a twenty-seventh pin 27 is employed in transmitting
a signal of RXO1+, and a twenty-eighth pin 28 is employed in transmitting a signal
of RXO1-. In the twelfth group, a twenty-ninth pin 29 is employed in transmitting
a signal of RXO0+, and a thirtieth pin 30 is employed in transmitting a signal of
RXO0-. That is, the "2-pin" signal transmitted from the fourth group, the sixth group,
the eighth group, the tenth group, the eleventh group and the twelfth group includes
two signals having opposed polarities to each other. Accordingly, a voltage having
the same phase between differential signals included in each group is removed and
the noise due to the interference is shielded.
[0049] In the meantime, the slit-like separating sections (for example, an A section, a
B section, a C section, a D section, an E section, an F section, a G section, an H
section, an I section, a J section and a K section) are provided between the respective
groups. Specifically, the A section is between the first and second groups, the B
section is between the second and third groups, the C section is between the third
and fourth groups, the D section is between the fourth and fifth groups, the E section
is between the fifth and sixth groups, the F section is between the sixth group and
seventh groups, the G section is between the seventh and eighth groups, the H section
is between the eighth and ninth groups, the I section is between the ninth and tenth
groups, the J section is between the tenth and eleventh groups, and the K section
is between the eleventh and twelfth groups.
[0050] Thus, the separating sections are cut in the form of a "2-Pin" and a "3-Pin" by taking
the differential signaling characteristics into account, so that the flat cable can
have the same flexibility as the wire-type cable.
[0051] FIG. 4A is a view showing that a pair of devices are connected by a general flat
cable.
[0052] The pair of devices to be connected by the flat cable 1000 may be misaligned with
one another along a predetermined direction on the plane along which the signal lines
extend. Since the flat cable 1000 generally has no flexibility, the flat cable 1000
must be folded to connect the pair of devices if the transmitter terminal and the
receiver terminal of the flat cable 1000 are not aligned in a straight line. With
this arrangement, interference occurs between the signal lines and thus causes noise.
[0053] FIG. 4B is a view showing that a pair of devices are connected by a flat cable 100d
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0054] In a flat cable 100d having the slit-like separating section, the flat cable 100d
may be bent flexibly in a left and right direction of FIG. 4B. In FIG. 4B, dotted
lines indicate a part where the signal lines are connected each other, but solid lines
marked on the signal lines indicate the slit-like separating sections.
[0055] The flat cable 100d of which the plurality of signal lines are spread out in a row
is as flexible as the wire-type cable. That is, the pair of devices can be connected
by bending the flat cable in an up and down direction or in the left and right direction,,
i.e., in any direction along the plane in which the signal lines extend. Thus, the
flexibility of the flat cable is improved in any directions, i.e., in the up, down,
left and right directions.
[0056] FIG. 5 is a view showing a configuration of a display apparatus according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0057] The display apparatus 500 in this exemplary embodiment may be achieved by a television
(TV), a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a set-top box, etc. Further, any electronic
apparatus that includes a plurality of devices to be connected through the cable can
be employed as a display apparatus 500 in this exemplary embodiment.
[0058] The display apparatus 500 in this embodiment includes a signal processor 510, a display
unit 520 and a flat cable 530.
[0059] The signal processor 510 may include a first device 515 that processes a received
video signal.
[0060] The display unit 520 may include a second device 525 that displays an image based
on a video signal. The second device 525 may include a display panel (not shown),
for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a organic light emitting diode (OLED),
a plasma display panel (PDP), etc., and a panel driver (not shown) to drive the display
panel.
[0061] The flat cable 530 may connect the first device 515 and the second device 525. In
this case, the flat cable 530 may include a plurality of signal lines 532, at least
one shield 534, and a plurality of connectors 536 and 538.
[0062] The plurality of signal lines 532 are divided into the plurality of signal groups,
and at least a part between the plurality of signal groups may be spatially spaced
by at least one separating section. The separating section may be a slit or a cut.
The flat cable 530 may be cut in an area where the plurality of signal groups are
connected to one another.
[0063] The shield 534, which may be included in the separating section, is provided for
intercepting noise.
[0064] The plurality of connectors 536 and 538 include a first connector 536 and a second
connector 538, and may be respectively provided at opposite ends of the plurality
of signal lines 532 and connected to the first device 515 and the second device 525,
respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the first connector 536 may be connected to
the first device 515, and the second connector 538 may be connected to the second
device 525.
[0065] FIG. 6A is a view showing a flat cable tied by a tape.
[0066] A flat cable 600 in this exemplary embodiment may be cut in an area where a plurality
of signal groups are connected to each other. The flat cable 600 with this type may
be herein referred to as a wire-type flexible flat cable. Also, each of the divided
signal groups may be herein referred to as a wire.
[0067] To hold the separated wires of the flat cable 600, the middle of the wires may be
tied by a tape 610. In this state, the connectors at the opposite ends of the flat
cable 600 are connected to respective boards, thereby setting a predetermined form.
However, since the divided wires in this case are tied by the tape 610, the flat cable
600 has a lower flexibility. Further, if assembly is performed in this state, pressure
applied to the flat cable 600 increases and thus the lifespan of the flat cable 600
becomes shorted. Further, it is difficult to assemble a product while the flat cable
has less flexibility, so that assembling defects can be generated.
[0068] FIG. 6B is a view showing a binding member according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0069] A binding member 620 in this exemplary embodiment ties a plurality of wires to one
another, and may have a tubular shape. The binding member 620 may be made of any one
of silicon, plastic and rubber. With this material, the binding member 620 is not
stiff and is freely bendable. Also, the binding member 620 may have a cutting line
in the form of a helical pattern, which allows the binding member 620 to be flexibly
stretched.
[0070] FIG. 6C is a view showing that the flat cable according to an exemplary embodiment
is tied by the binding member shown in FIG. 6B.
[0071] In the flat cable 600 shown in FIG. 6C, a plurality of wires 601, 602, 603, 604,
605, 606, 607, 608 and 609 are tied by the binding member 620 at a middle portion
thereof.
[0072] FIG. 6D is a view showing that the flat cable shown in FIG. 6C is set to have a predetermined
form.
[0073] If the middle of the flat cable 600 is tied by a soft material such as a silicon
tube or a plastic tube instead of the fix-type tape, the plurality of wires may be
movable within the tube-shaped binding member 620 in the left and right direction
of FIG. 6D. Also, the width of the binding member 620 in the left and right direction
may be flexibly stretched through the cutting line formed in the binding member 620.
[0074] Thus, the flat cable 600 is free from stress and secures the necessary flexibility.
[0075] FIG. 7A is a view showing a plurality of wires tied by the binding member.
[0076] In FIG. 7A, a middle part of a flat cable 700 is tied by the binding member. In this
case, the middle part is fixed by the binding member, and the plurality of wires 701,
702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and 709 as divided parts are not fixed with regard
to directionality but are divided from one another in a horizontal direction. Thus,
the plurality of wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and 709 are freely movable
without any consistent form while being connected, and different pressures are applied
to the wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and 709, respectively. Thus, defects
such as an assembling defect or a wire or connector disconnection is likely to occur.
[0077] FIG. 7B is a view showing a method of bending the wires while connecting the flat
cable according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0078] In this exemplary embodiment, the forming specification, i.e., the method of connecting
the flat cable, may include bending each wire 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708,
709 at a predetermined angle so as to retain predetermined gaps between the plurality
of wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and 709.
[0079] In FIG. 7B, a flat cable 700 including a plurality of wires are set to have a predetermined
form. The views at a lower left side and at a lower right side show enlarged forming
parts (a PART and b PART) of each wire 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 709.
[0080] The wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and 709 connected to opposite connectors
of the flat cable 700 may be folded rightward or leftward as required to connect the
flat cable 700
[0081] FIG. 7C is a view showing the flat cable shown in FIG. 7B that is set to have a predetermined
form.
[0082] If the plurality of wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708 and 709 are set
to have a predetermined form that is folded as shown in FIG. 7C, the flat cable 700
may be freely movable after being set in the predetermined form.
[0083] Thus, respective directions of the plural wires 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707,
708 and 709 are consistently fixed according to the forming specifications, i.e.,
the method of connecting the flat cable. In this case, each wire 701, 702, 703, 704,
705, 706, 707, 708, 709 receives the same pressure. Thus, probability is lower that
the assembling defect or a wire or connector disconnection or the like may occur.
[0084] FIG. 8 is a view showing the flat cable according to an exemplary embodiment formed
with a silver plated pattern.
[0085] According to this exemplary embodiment, a silver plate pattern may be formed on an
outer surface of a flat cable 800. The separating section of the flat cable 800 may
include a mesh-pattern.
[0086] The silver plated pattern may be made of silver in the form of a mesh pattern. The
silver plate pattern changes impedance characteristics of the flat cable 800 on the
basis of the specification. The silver plated pattern is formed on the surface of
the flat cable 800 to lower the impedance of the flat cable 800. The flat cable 800
has an impedance of about 130 ∼ 140Ω before forming the silver plate pattern, but
has a lowered impedance of about 90 ∼ 110Ω after forming the silver plate pattern.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 8, the silver plate pattern includes a plurality of "X" patterns
and a plurality of "Y" patterns. A slit-like "a" section is formed between a first
signal group 801 and a second signal group 802. The "X" pattern of the silver plate
is formed on the outer surface of the first signal group 801 and is not intercepted
or cut by the "a" section.
[0088] Also, a slit-like "b" section is formed between the second signal group 802 and a
third signal group 803. The "Y" pattern of the silver plate is formed on the outer
surface of the second signal group 802 and is not intercepted or cut by the "a" and
"b" sections.
[0089] In this manner, the plurality of "X" and "Y" patterns of the silver plate pattern
may be formed between the separating section of the flat cable 800.
[0090] Referring to FIG. 8, the plurality of signal groups constituting the flat cable 800
are cut at the connected areas therebetween where the silver plate pattern is retained.
Thus, the impedance characteristics can be effectively changed by the silver plate
pattern.
[0091] As apparent from the foregoing description, according to an exemplary embodiment,
the flat cable is improved to have almost the same flexibility as that of a wire-type
cable, and noise that may occur in this case due to interference between signal lines
is intercepted.
[0092] Further, the flexibility is further enhanced by improving the method of forming and
fastening the flat cable, thereby increasing the forming and assembling efficiency
for the flat cable.
[0093] Although a few exemplary embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated
by those skilled in the art that changes may be made in these exemplary embodiments
without departing from the principles of the inventive concept, the scope of which
is defined in the appended claims.
1. A display apparatus (500) comprising:
a signal processor (510) configured to process video signals;
a display unit (520) configured to display an image based on the processed video signals;
and
a flat cable (530) for transmitting signals between the signal processor and the display
unit, the flat cable comprising:
a plurality of signal lines (110) which are divided into first and second signal groups,
at least a part of the first and second signal groups being spatially separated from
one another; and
a plurality of connectors (120a, 120b) which are respectively provided at opposite
ends of the first and second signal groups,
characterised in that:
the first signal group comprises a signal line for transmitting a "+" signal, a signal
line for transmitting a "-" signal, and a ground line between the signal processor
and the display unit; and
the second signal group comprises a signal line for transmitting a "+" signal, a signal
line for transmitting a "-" signal between the signal processor and the display unit.
2. The display apparatus of claim 1, characterised in that the at least one of the spatially separated signal groups of the flat cable is arranged
to transmit signals from the signal processor to the display unit.
3. The display apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that each of the first and second signal groups is bent at a predetermined angle to retain
predetermined gaps between the signal groups.
4. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the at least one of the spatially separated signal groups of the flat cable is arranged
to transmit transfer-to-transfer logic (TTL) signals from the signal processor to
the display unit.
5. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the flat cable further comprises a shield (251, 252, 253) which is provided in the
separating section for intercepting noise.
6. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the flat cable further comprises a tied section in which the first and second signal
groups are arranged in an overlapping manner and tied by a tape (610).
7. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the flat cable further comprises a tied section in which the first and second signal
groups are stacked with respect to one another and tied by a binding member (620).
8. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the plurality of connectors are configured to connect to the signal processor and
the display unit, respectively.
9. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the at least a part of the signal groups are spatially separated from one another
by a separating section comprising a slit.
10. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the at least a part of the signal groups are spatially separated from one another
by a separating section which extends in parallel to a direction along which the plurality
of signal lines transmit signals.
11. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the plurality of signal lines of each of the signal groups are connected to each
other from side to side.
12. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 11 when dependent on claim
7, characterised in that the binding member has a tubular shape which secures the first and second signal
groups to one another.
13. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 12 when dependent on claim
7, characterised in that the binding member comprises one of silicon, plastic and rubber.
14. The display apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 11 when dependent on claim
7, characterised in that the binding member comprises a cutting line in the form of a helical pattern extending
around a tubular exterior surface of the binding member.