Remote control device

Abstract

The remote control device according to embodiments of the present invention is provided with a separate tilting unit, comprising a rotary shaft, so that a tilting switch unit coupled to the tilting unit can be rotated, and thus can efficiently control the operation of a display device having various functions.

Description

remote control device

[0001] The present invention relates to a remote control device that controls a display device through user operation, and is equipped with a separate tilting part including a rotation axis so that a tilting switch part coupled to the tilting part is rotated.

[0002] As the information society develops, the demand for display devices is increasing in various forms. In this context, remote control devices are being used as an interface method between the display device and the user.

[0003] With the advancement of technology, the functions of display devices are becoming more complex and diverse. For example, they can play content such as videos downloaded from external sources, and internet browsing has also become possible.

[0004] Consequently, it is currently difficult to control the operation of display devices that provide complex and diverse functions using conventional button-based remote control devices. This is because the size of the remote control device and the number of buttons are limited.

[0005] Ultimately, a means is needed to efficiently control the operation of a display device having the various functions described above using a remote control device, even with a small number of buttons.

[0006] To this end, remote control devices are recently equipped with rotatable tilting switches. Users can easily change the channel of the display device using the tilting switch, and can perform functions such as increasing or decreasing the volume.

[0007] In this case, the remote control device must ensure that the rotational movement of the tilting switch is smooth so that the user does not experience inconvenience during operation, and the structural robustness of the rotating tilting switch compared to existing buttons must be considered. Therefore, structural means of the remote control device that take the above-mentioned points into account are required.

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a remote control device, and more specifically, to provide a remote control device that controls a display device through user operation by having a separate tilting part including a rotation axis, so that a tilting switch part coupled to the tilting part rotates.

[0009] In addition, the rotation guide of the tilting part includes a curved surface that contacts the edge of a guide hole formed in the housing, and the edge of the guide hole includes a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface of the rotation guide, thereby providing a remote control device that allows the tilting switch part to rotate.

[0010] In addition, the purpose is to provide a remote control device that can improve user operation convenience by having multiple tilting switch sections.

[0011] In addition, the purpose is to provide a remote control device that can improve durability by blocking foreign substances that may enter the printed circuit board through the guide hole.

[0012] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0013] A remote control device is provided comprising: a housing having a guide hole formed therein; a tilting switch portion received in the housing and positioned at a location corresponding to the guide hole; a tilting portion to which the tilting switch portion is rotatably coupled; a rubber member having a pair of protrusions formed on the front surface of the tilting portion, spaced apart from each other in a first direction and in contact with the rear surface of the tilting switch portion; and a printed circuit board having a pair of metal domes formed at a location corresponding to the pair of protrusions on the front surface of the rubber member. The tilting portion includes a shaft to which the tilting switch portion is coupled and which is positioned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0014] The tilting part may include a pair of fixed legs spaced apart in the second direction so that the rear surface of the tilting switch part is in contact with the pair of protrusions, to which the shaft is coupled; and a fixed plate formed to which the pair of fixed legs are coupled and to which the pair of protrusions are exposed.

[0015] The tilting switch portion may include a switch rib formed by penetrating the guide hole and protruding from the front of the housing and extending in the second direction; and a rotation guide extending from the switch rib and rotatably coupled to the shaft.

[0016] The above-mentioned rotational guide may include a curved surface that contacts the edge of the guide hole.

[0017] The guide hole may include a curved surface on the rim that corresponds to the curved surface of the rotation guide.

[0018] The above-described rotary guide may include a coupling surface formed by being drawn in from the rear; and a fitting rib formed by protruding from the coupling surface and into which the shaft is fitted.

[0019] The above-mentioned fitting ribs may be formed such that a plurality of them are spaced apart in the second direction and surround the outer surface of the shaft.

[0020] The tilting switch portion may include a pair of pressing protrusions that protrude in the first direction from both ends of the rotation guide and come into contact with the pair of protrusions.

[0021] The above rubber member may include a pair of inlet grooves that are inserted from the rear and expose the pair of protrusions.

[0022] The above rubber member may include a pair of flow surfaces formed through the pair of inlet grooves, which are formed at an angle on the front surface and extend to the outer circumference of the pair of protrusions.

[0023] Each of the above pair of protrusions may include: a first protrusion that contacts the rear surface of the tilting switch portion; a second protrusion extending from the first protrusion and having the flow surface formed on its outer circumference; and a third protrusion extending from the second protrusion and formed through the inlet groove to contact the metal dome.

[0024] Depending on the rotation direction of the tilting switch portion, one of the pair of protrusions may be pressed, and the metal dome formed at a position corresponding to the pressed protrusion may be pressed.

[0025] The above rubber member may include a material having elasticity.

[0026] The above housing includes a front cover including the guide hole; and a rear cover coupled to the front cover, wherein the front cover may include a plurality of fastening ribs formed to protrude from the rear and in close contact with the front surface of the rubber member.

[0027] The above tilting switch unit may include a first tilting switch unit and a second tilting switch unit arranged in the second direction.

[0028] The remote control device according to the present invention may be provided with a separate tilting part including a rotation axis in a remote control device that controls a display device through user operation, so that a tilting switch part coupled to the tilting part can be rotated.

[0029] In addition, the rotation guide of the tilting part includes a curved surface that contacts the edge of a guide hole formed in the housing, and the edge of the guide hole includes a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface of the rotation guide, so that the tilting switch part can be rotated.

[0030] In addition, multiple tilting switch sections can be provided to improve user convenience of operation.

[0031] In addition, durability can be improved by blocking foreign substances that may enter the printed circuit board through the guide holes.

[0032] The effects obtainable from the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0033] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating each configuration of a display device.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a front view of a remote control device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of area A of Figure 2.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the shape of a tilting switch unit rotated in a remote control device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a tilting part in a remote control device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a rear view of a tilting switch unit in a remote control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating the shape in which a tilting switch part is coupled to a tilting part in a remote control device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a rear view of a front cover housing a tilting switch unit in a remote control device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the BB in Figure 3.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the shape of the tilting switch part rotated in FIG. 9.

[0043] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the CC section of Figure 3.

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components regardless of drawing symbols will be assigned the same reference number, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the ease of drafting the specification and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Furthermore, in describing embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art could obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description will be omitted. Additionally, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings, and it should be understood that they include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0045] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0046] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0047] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0048] In this application, terms such as “comprising” or “having” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0049] Meanwhile, the display device described in this specification is, for example, an intelligent display device that adds computer support functions to broadcast reception functions. While faithful to broadcast reception functions, it also includes internet functions, and can be equipped with interfaces that are more convenient to use, such as a handwriting input device, a touch screen, or a spatial remote control. Furthermore, by supporting wired or wireless internet functions, it can be connected to the internet and computers to perform functions such as email, web browsing, banking, or games. A standardized general-purpose OS may be used for these various functions.

[0050] Accordingly, the display device described in the present invention allows various applications to be freely added or removed, for example, on a general-purpose OS kernel, thereby enabling various user-friendly functions to be performed. More specifically, the display device may be, for example, a network TV, HBBTV, a smart TV, etc., and may also be applicable to a smartphone depending on the circumstances.

[0051] FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining each configuration of a display device (100). The display device (100) may include a broadcast receiver (110), an external device interface unit (171), a network interface unit (172), a storage unit (140), a user input interface unit (173), an input unit (130), a control unit (180), a display module (150), an audio output unit (160), and / or a power supply unit (190).

[0052] The broadcast receiving unit (110) may include a tuner unit (111) and a demodulating unit (112).

[0053] Meanwhile, unlike the drawing, the display device (100) may include only the external device interface unit (171) and the network interface unit (172) among the broadcast receiver (110), the external device interface unit (171), and the network interface unit (172). That is, the display device (100) may not include the broadcast receiver (110).

[0054] The tuner unit (111) can select a broadcast signal corresponding to a channel selected by the user or all previously stored channels among the broadcast signals received through an antenna (not shown) or a cable (not shown). The tuner unit (111) can convert the selected broadcast signal into an intermediate frequency signal or a baseband video or audio signal.

[0055] For example, the tuner unit (111) can convert the selected broadcast signal into a digital IF signal (DIF) if it is a digital broadcast signal, and convert it into an analog baseband video or audio signal (CVBS / SIF) if it is an analog broadcast signal. That is, the tuner unit (111) can process a digital broadcast signal or an analog broadcast signal. The analog baseband video or audio signal (CVBS / SIF) output from the tuner unit (111) can be directly input to the control unit (180).

[0056] Meanwhile, the tuner unit (111) can sequentially select broadcast signals of all broadcast channels stored through a channel memory function among the received broadcast signals and convert them into intermediate frequency signals or baseband video or audio signals.

[0057] Meanwhile, the tuner unit (111) may be equipped with multiple tuners to receive multiple channels of broadcast signals. Alternatively, a single tuner that simultaneously receives multiple channels of broadcast signals is also possible.

[0058] The demodulator (112) can receive the digital IF signal (DIF) converted by the tuner (111) and perform a demodulation operation. The demodulator (112) can output a stream signal (TS) after performing demodulation and channel decoding. At this time, the stream signal may be a signal in which a video signal, an audio signal, or a data signal is multiplexed.

[0059] The stream signal output from the demodulation unit (112) can be input to the control unit (180). After performing demultiplexing, video / audio signal processing, etc., the control unit (180) can output video through the display module (150) and output audio through the audio output unit (160).

[0060] The sensing unit (120) refers to a device that detects changes within the display device (100) or detects external changes. For example, it may include at least one proximity sensor, illumination sensor, touch sensor, infrared sensor (IR sensor), ultrasonic sensor, optical sensor (e.g., camera), voice sensor (e.g., microphone), battery gauge, and environmental sensor (e.g., hygrometer, thermometer, etc.).

[0061] The control unit (180) can check the status of the display device (100) based on information collected from the sensing unit (120), and if a problem occurs, notify the user or control it to maintain the best state by self-adjusting.

[0062] In addition, the content, quality, size, etc. of the video provided to the display module (150) can be controlled differently according to the viewer detected by the sensing unit (120) or the ambient light level, thereby providing an optimal viewing environment. As smart TVs advance, the number of functions installed in the display device (100) increases, and the number of sensing units (120) also increases accordingly.

[0063] The input unit (130) may be provided on one side of the main body of the display device (100). For example, the input unit (130) may include a touch pad, a physical button, etc. The input unit (130) may receive various user commands related to the operation of the display device (100) and transmit a control signal corresponding to the input command to the control unit (180).

[0064] Recently, as the size of the bezel of the display device (100) decreases, there are many display devices (100) in which the physical button-shaped input part (130) exposed externally on the device itself is minimized. Instead, a minimum number of physical buttons are located on the back or side, and user input can be received through a remote control device (200) via a touchpad or a user input interface part (173) to be described later.

[0065] The storage unit (140) may store programs for each signal processing and control within the control unit (180), and may also store signal-processed video, audio, or data signals. For example, the storage unit (140) may store applications designed for the purpose of performing various tasks that can be processed by the control unit (180), and may selectively provide some of the stored applications upon request from the control unit (180).

[0066] The program, etc. stored in the storage unit (140) is not specifically limited as long as it can be executed by the control unit (180). The storage unit (140) may also perform the function of temporarily storing video, audio, or data signals received from an external device through the external device interface unit (171). The storage unit (140) may store information regarding a predetermined broadcast channel through a channel memory function such as a channel map.

[0067] Although the storage unit (140) of FIG. 1 is illustrated in an embodiment in which it is provided separately from the control unit (180), the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and the storage unit (140) may be included within the control unit (180).

[0068] The storage unit (140) may include at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.) or non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0069] The display module (150) can generate a driving signal by converting a video signal, data signal, OSD signal, control signal processed by the control unit (180) or a video signal, data signal, control signal, etc. received from the interface unit (171).

[0070] The display module (150) can be a flexible display, and can also be a 3D display. The 3D display module (150) can be classified into a glasses-free type and a glasses type.

[0071] The display device (100) may include a display module (150) that occupies most of the front surface area and a case that packages the display module (150) while covering the back side of the display module (150).

[0072] Conventional LCDs, which were primarily used, received light through a backlight unit because the LCD itself has difficulty emitting light. A backlight unit is a device that supplies light from a light source uniformly to a liquid crystal located on the front. While thin LCDs could be realized as the backlight unit became thinner, it is difficult to implement the backlight unit using a flexible material, and when the backlight unit bends, it becomes difficult to supply light uniformly to the liquid crystal, resulting in a problem where the brightness of the screen changes.

[0073] On the other hand, in the case of LED (Light Emitting Diode) or OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode), since the elements forming the pixels each emit light on their own, a backlight unit is not used, so it can be implemented to be flexible. In addition, since each element emits light on its own, it does not affect its own brightness even if the positional relationship with neighboring elements changes, so a flexible display module (150) can be implemented.

[0074] OLEDs made their debut in earnest in the mid-2010s and are rapidly replacing LCDs in the small and medium-sized display market. OLEDs are displays created using the self-luminous phenomenon where fluorescent organic compounds emit light when an electric current flows through them; they have a faster image response speed compared to LCDs, resulting in almost no ghosting when displaying videos.

[0075] OLEDs use three types of phosphor organic compounds, such as red, green, and blue, which have self-emissive functions. Since they are light-emitting display products that utilize the phenomenon where electrons injected from the cathode and anode combine with positively charged particles within the organic material to emit light on their own, they do not require a backlight that degrades color quality.

[0076] The display module (150) may include a coupling magnet, a first power supply, and a first signal module.

[0077] The side of the display module (150) that displays an image may be referred to as the front or front. When the display module (150) displays an image, the side where the image cannot be observed may be referred to as the rear or rear. Meanwhile, the display module (150) may be configured as a touch screen and may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0078] The audio output unit (160) receives a voice-processed signal from the control unit (180) and outputs it as voice.

[0079] The interface section (170) serves as a passage for various types of external devices connected to the display device (100). The interface section may include not only a wired method of transmitting and receiving data through a cable but also a wireless method using an antenna.

[0080] The interface section (170) may include at least one of a wired / wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device equipped with an identification module, an audio I / O (Input / Output) port, a video I / O (Input / Output) port, and an earphone port.

[0081] As an example of a wireless method, the aforementioned broadcast receiver (110) may be included, and may include not only broadcast signals but also mobile communication signals, short-range communication signals, wireless internet signals, etc.

[0082] The external device interface unit (171) can transmit or receive data with a connected external device. To this end, the external device interface unit (171) may include an A / V input / output unit (not shown).

[0083] The external device interface section (171) can be connected wirelessly or via wired connection to external devices such as DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), Blu-ray, game console, camera, camcorder, computer (laptop), set-top box, etc., and can also perform input / output operations with external devices.

[0084] Additionally, the external device interface unit (171) can establish a communication network with various remote control devices (200) to receive control signals related to the operation of the display device (100) from the remote control device (200) or transmit data related to the operation of the display device (100) to the remote control device (200).

[0085] The external device interface unit (171) may include a wireless communication unit (not shown) for short-range wireless communication with other electronic devices. Through this wireless communication unit (not shown), the external device interface unit (171) can exchange data with an adjacent mobile terminal. In particular, the external device interface unit (171) can receive device information, information on an application being executed, an application image, etc. from a mobile terminal in mirroring mode.

[0086] The network interface unit (172) may provide an interface for connecting the display device (100) to a wired / wireless network including the Internet network. For example, the network interface unit (172) may receive content or data provided by the Internet or a content provider or network operator through the network. Meanwhile, the network interface unit (172) may include a communication module (not shown) for connecting to a wired / wireless network.

[0087] The external device interface section (171) and / or network interface section (172) may include a communication module for short-range communication such as Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity), Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee, NFC (Near Field Communication), a communication module for cellular communication such as LTE (long-term evolution), LTE-A (LTE Advance), CDMA (code division multiple access), WCDMA (wideband CDMA), UMTS (universal mobile telecommunications system), WiBro (Wireless Broadband), etc.

[0088] The user input interface unit (173) can transmit a signal input by the user to the control unit (180) or transmit a signal from the control unit (180) to the user. For example, it can transmit / receive user input signals such as power on / off, channel selection, and screen settings from the remote control device (200), transmit user input signals input from local keys (not shown) such as power key, channel key, volume key, and setting value to the control unit (180), transmit user input signals input from a sensor unit (not shown) that senses user gestures to the control unit (180), or transmit a signal from the control unit (180) to the sensor unit.

[0089] The control unit (180) may include at least one processor and can control the overall operation of the display device (100) using the included processor. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a CPU (central processing unit). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or a processor based on other hardware.

[0090] The control unit (180) can demultiplex a stream input through the tuner unit (111), demodulator unit (112), external device interface unit (171), or network interface unit (172), or process the demultiplexed signals to generate and output a signal for video or audio output.

[0091] The image signal processed by the control unit (180) is input to the display module (150) and can be displayed as an image corresponding to the image signal. Additionally, the image signal processed by the control unit (180) may be input to an external output device through the external device interface unit (171).

[0092] The voice signal processed by the control unit (180) can be sound-outputted to the audio output unit (160). Additionally, the voice signal processed by the control unit (180) can be input to an external output device through the external device interface unit (171). Although not shown in FIG. 2, the control unit (180) may include a demultiplexer, an image processing unit, etc.

[0093] In addition, the control unit (180) can control the overall operation within the display device (100). For example, the control unit (180) can control the tuner unit (111) to control the selection (tuning) of a broadcast corresponding to a channel selected by the user or a previously stored channel.

[0094] Additionally, the control unit (180) can control the display device (100) by means of a user command or an internal program input through the user input interface unit (173). Meanwhile, the control unit (180) can control the display module (150) to display an image. At this time, the image displayed on the display module (150) may be a still image or a video, and may be a 2D image or a 3D image.

[0095] Meanwhile, the control unit (180) can make a predetermined 2D object appear within the image displayed on the display module (150). For example, the object may be at least one of a connected web screen (newspaper, magazine, etc.), an EPG (Electronic Program Guide), various menus, widgets, icons, still images, videos, and text.

[0096] Meanwhile, the control unit (180) can modulate and / or demodulate the signal using an Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK) method. Here, the Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK) method may refer to a method of modulating the signal by varying the amplitude of the carrier wave according to the data value, or restoring the analog signal to a digital data value according to the amplitude of the carrier wave.

[0097] For example, the control unit (180) can modulate the video signal using an amplitude shift keying (ASK) method and transmit it through a wireless communication module.

[0098] For example, the control unit (180) can demodulate and process the video signal received through the wireless communication module using an amplitude shift keying (ASK) method.

[0099] Through this, the display device (100) can easily transmit and receive signals with other adjacent video display devices without using a unique identifier such as a MAC address (Media Access Control Address) or a complex communication protocol such as TCP / IP.

[0100] Meanwhile, the display device (100) may further include a shooting unit (not shown). The shooting unit can photograph the user. The shooting unit may be implemented with one camera, but is not limited thereto, and may also be implemented with multiple cameras. Meanwhile, the shooting unit may be embedded in the display device (100) on the upper part of the display module (150) or may be placed separately. Image information captured by the shooting unit may be input to the control unit (180).

[0101] The control unit (180) can recognize the user's location based on the image captured by the capturing unit. For example, the control unit (180) can determine the distance (z-axis coordinate) between the user and the display device (100). Additionally, the control unit (180) can determine the x-axis coordinate and y-axis coordinate within the display module (150) corresponding to the user's location.

[0102] The control unit (180) can detect a user's gesture based on each of the images captured by the shooting unit or the signals detected by the sensor unit, or a combination thereof.

[0103] The power supply unit (190) can supply power throughout the display device (100). In particular, it can supply power to a control unit (180) which can be implemented in the form of a System On Chip (SOC), a display module (150) for image display, and an audio output unit (160) for audio output.

[0104] Specifically, the power supply unit (190) may be equipped with a converter (not shown) that converts AC power into DC power and a DC / DC converter (not shown) that converts the level of DC power.

[0105] Meanwhile, the power supply unit (190) receives power from an external source and distributes power to each component. The power supply unit (190) may use a method of supplying AC power by directly connecting to an external power source, and may include a power supply unit (190) that can be recharged and used by including a battery.

[0106] In the former case, it is used by connecting a wired cable, making movement difficult or limiting the range of motion. In the latter case, movement is free, but the weight increases by the amount of the battery, the volume becomes larger, and for charging, it must be directly connected to a power cable for a certain period of time or combined with a charging dock (not shown) that supplies power.

[0107] The charging dock can be connected to a display device through an externally exposed terminal, or the built-in battery can be charged by bringing it close using a wireless method.

[0108] The remote control device (200) can transmit user input to the user input interface unit (173). To this end, the remote control device (200) may use Bluetooth, RF (Radio Frequency) communication, infrared (Infrared Radiation) communication, UWB (Ultra-wideband), ZigBee, etc. Additionally, the remote control device (200) may receive video, audio, or data signals output from the user input interface unit (173) and display or output audio from the remote control device (200).

[0109] Meanwhile, the above-described display device (100) may be a digital broadcast receiver capable of receiving fixed or mobile digital broadcasts.

[0110] Meanwhile, the block diagram of the display device (100) shown in FIG. 1 is merely a block diagram for one embodiment of the present invention, and each component of the block diagram may be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the actual implemented display device (100).

[0111] That is, as needed, two or more components may be combined into a single component, or a single component may be subdivided into two or more components. In addition, the functions performed in each block are intended to explain embodiments of the present invention, and the specific operations or devices do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0112] FIG. 2 is a front view of a remote control device (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of area A of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a view showing the shape of a tilting switch unit (220) rotated in a remote control device (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a tilting unit (230) in a remote control device (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a rear view of a tilting switch unit (220) in a remote control device (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a view showing the shape of a tilting switch unit (220) being coupled to a tilting unit (230) in a remote control device (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a rear view of a front cover (212) in which a tilting switch unit (220) is housed in a remote control device (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of BB of FIG. 3. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the shape of the tilting switch part (220) rotated in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of CC of FIG. 3.

[0113] Hereinafter, in describing the remote control device (200) of the present invention, the left and right directions are described based on the x-axis direction, the up and down directions are described based on the y-axis direction, and the forward and rear directions are described based on the z-axis direction.

[0114] Referring together to FIGS. 2 to 11, a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a housing (210), a tilting switch part (220), a tilting part (230), a rubber member (240), and a printed circuit board (250).

[0115] First, a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a housing (210) having a guide hole (211) formed therein. Here, the housing (210) may include a front cover (212) having a guide hole (211) and a rear cover (213) coupled to the front cover (212).

[0116] It may also include a tilting switch portion (220) that is accommodated in the housing (210) and positioned at a location corresponding to the guide hole (211). Additionally, the tilting switch portion (220) may be rotatably coupled to the tilting portion (230).

[0117] As illustrated in FIG. 4(a) and FIG. 4(b), the tilting switch unit (220) can be rotated by user operation. Through this, the operation of the display device (100) having various functions as described above can be efficiently controlled. For example, the user can change the channel of the display device (100) by rotating the tilting switch unit (220), and can increase or decrease the volume, etc.

[0118] In addition, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the tilting switch unit (220) may include a first tilting switch unit (220a) and a second tilting switch unit (220b) arranged in a second direction (x-axis direction). And the first tilting switch unit (220a) and the second tilting switch unit (220b) may be operated individually as shown in FIG. 4.

[0119] Accordingly, a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be equipped with a plurality of tilting switch units (220), thereby improving user convenience of operation. In addition, as described above, the operation of a display device (100) having various functions can be efficiently controlled.

[0120] In particular, a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a tilting part (230) for causing the tilting switch part (220) to rotate. Here, the tilting part (230) may include a shaft (231) as shown in FIG. 5. The shaft (231) may be coupled to allow the tilting switch part (220) to rotate and may serve as a rotation axis.

[0121] Accordingly, the shaft (231) can be positioned to match the rotational direction of the tilting switch unit (220), and in the remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the shaft (231) can be positioned in a second direction (x-axis direction).

[0122] Referring together with FIG. 9, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a tilting part (230) may be located on the front surface of a rubber member (240). In addition, a pair of protrusions (241) may be formed on the rubber member (240) that are spaced apart from each other in a first direction (y-axis direction) and come into contact with the rear surface of a tilting switch part (220).

[0123] In addition, a rubber member (240) may be positioned on the front surface of a printed circuit board (250) in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The printed circuit board (250) may include a pair of metal domes (251) formed at positions corresponding to a pair of protrusions (241).

[0124] Here, the metal dome (251) can be pressed by a protrusion (241) that is pressed when the tilting switch part (220) rotates. And a control signal for controlling the display device (100) can be transmitted by the pressure of the metal dome (251).

[0125] More specifically, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the tilting part (230) may include a pair of fixed legs (232) and a fixed plate (233) as shown in FIG. 5. Here, the pair of fixed legs (232) may serve to connect the shaft (231). Additionally, the pair of fixed legs (232) may serve to support the shaft (231). To this end, the pair of fixed legs (232) may be spaced apart in a second direction (x-axis direction).

[0126] In addition, a pair of fixed legs (232) are spaced apart in the second direction (x-axis direction) and can serve to bring the rear surface of the aforementioned tilting switch part (220) into contact with a pair of protrusions (241).

[0127] Furthermore, the remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention can further improve user convenience of operation through the first tilting switch unit (220a) and the second tilting switch unit (220b) arranged in the second direction (x-axis direction) as described above, and for this purpose, the length of the shaft (231) in the second direction (x-axis direction) can be varied. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 5, the number of fixed legs (232) to which the shaft (231) is coupled can be increased.

[0128] In addition, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the tilting part (230) may include a fixed plate (233) formed such that a pair of fixed legs (232) are coupled and a pair of protrusions (241) are exposed.

[0129] Here, the fixed plate (233) may be in the number of pieces as shown in FIG. 5. In addition, the fixed plate (233) may be formed integrally as shown in FIG. 7, in which case it may include a pair of through holes in which a pair of protrusions (241) can pass through.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 7 together, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the tilting switch part (220) may include a switch rib (221) that is formed by extending in a second direction (x-axis direction) and protruding from the front of the housing (210) through a guide hole (211). The tilting switch part (220) may also include a rotation guide (222) that extends from the switch rib (221) and is rotatably coupled to a shaft (231).

[0131] Here, referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 together, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the rotation guide (222) of the tilting switch unit (220) may include a curved surface (2221) that contacts the edge of the guide hole (211). The guide hole (211) may include a curved surface (2111) on the edge that corresponds to the curved surface (2221) of the rotation guide (222). Through this, the tilting switch unit (220) can be rotated smoothly by user operation.

[0132] Referring together to FIG. 6 and FIG. 8, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the rotation guide (222) of the tilting switch unit (220) may include a coupling surface (2222) formed by being drawn in from the rear side. The rotation guide (222) may also include a fitting rib (2223) formed by protruding from the coupling surface (2222) and into which a shaft (231) is fitted.

[0133] Additionally, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of fitting ribs (2223) may be spaced apart in a second direction (x-axis direction) and formed to surround the outer surface of a shaft (231).

[0134] And, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the remote control device (200) can allow the tilting switch part (220) to rotate smoothly by user operation through the combined structure of the shaft (231) and the fitting rib (2223).

[0135] Here, FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a tilting switch unit (220) coupled to a tilting unit (230) in a remote control device (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention. First, as shown in FIG. 7 (a), the rotation guide (222) of the first tilting switch unit (220a) and the second tilting switch unit (220b) can be fitted onto the shaft (231). At this time, the fitting rib (2223) formed on the coupling surface (2222) of the rotation guide (222) can be fitted onto the shaft (231).

[0136] After that, the first tilting switch part (220a) and the second tilting switch part (220b) can be pushed in the direction of the arrow so that the tilting switch part (220) is coupled to the tilting part (230) as shown in Fig. 7 (b).

[0137] Additionally, referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 together, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the tilting switch part (220) is formed to protrude in a first direction (y-axis direction) from both ends of the rotation guide (222) and may include a pair of pressing protrusions (223) that come into contact with a pair of protrusions (241).

[0138] And in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, through the structure described above, one of a pair of protrusions (241) is pressed according to the rotation direction of the tilting switch part (220), and a metal dome (251) formed at a position corresponding to the pressed protrusion (241) can be pressed.

[0139] In addition, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the rubber member (240) may include a pair of inlet grooves (242) that are inserted from the rear and expose a pair of protrusions (241), as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0140] In addition, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the rubber member (240) is formed at an angle from the front and extends to the outer surface of a pair of protrusions (241), and may include a pair of flow surfaces (243) formed through a pair of inlet grooves (242).

[0141] At this time, in the remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, each of the pair of protrusions (241) may include a first protrusion (2411), a second protrusion (2412), and a third protrusion (2413). The first protrusion (2411) may come into contact with the rear surface of the tilting switch part (220). More specifically, the first protrusion (2411) may come into contact with the pressing protrusion (223) of the tilting switch part (220).

[0142] And the second projection (2412) extends from the first projection (2411), and a flow surface (243) may be formed on the outer surface. Additionally, the third projection (2413) extends from the second projection (2412) and is formed through an inlet groove (242) so as to come into contact with the metal dome (251). Here, the width of the third projection (2413) in the first direction (y-axis direction) may be smaller than the width of the second projection (2412) in the first direction (y-axis direction).

[0143] A remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention can secure a restoring force that rotates the tilting switch part (220) by allowing the protrusion part (241) to return to its original state after being pressed by the rotation of the tilting switch part (220) through the shape of the rubber member (240) and the shape of the protrusion part (241) described above. This can be implemented through the shape of the flow surface (243) formed through the inlet groove (242) as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0144] Additionally, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the rubber member (240) may include an elastic material. Likewise, after the protrusion (241) is pressed by the rotation of the tilting switch part (220), the protrusion (241) returns to its original state, and a restoring force that rotates the tilting switch part (220) can be secured.

[0145] Referring together to FIG. 8 and FIG. 11, in a remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the housing (210) may include a front cover (212) including a guide hole (211) and a rear cover (213) coupled to the front cover (212). In particular, the front cover (212) may include a plurality of fastening ribs (2121) that are formed protruding from the rear and are in close contact with the front surface of a rubber member (240).

[0146] Here, the plurality of fastening ribs (2121) can serve to block foreign substances that may enter the printed circuit board (250) through the guide hole (211). In particular, the plurality of fastening ribs (2121) can implement a shielding structure against liquids that may enter through the guide hole (211), thereby improving the durability of the remote control device (200).

[0147] In addition, a plurality of fastening ribs (2121) formed on the front cover (212) of the remote control device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be formed to surround the tilting switch part (220) and the tilting part (230) as shown in FIG. 8. By doing so, the configuration of the tilting switch part (220) and the tilting part (230) serves to protect them from impact caused by external forces, and the durability of the remote control device (200) can be improved.

[0148] To summarize the above, the remote control device according to the present invention may include a separate tilting unit comprising a rotation axis in a remote control device that controls a display device through user operation, thereby allowing a tilting switch unit coupled to the tilting unit to rotate. Additionally, the rotation guide of the tilting unit may include a curved surface that contacts the edge of a guide hole formed in the housing, and the edge of the guide hole may include a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface of the rotation guide, thereby allowing the tilting switch unit to rotate. Furthermore, the user's convenience of operation may be improved by providing a plurality of tilting switch units. Additionally, durability may be improved by blocking foreign substances that may enter the printed circuit board through the guide hole.

[0149] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. Housing with a guide hole formed therein; A tilting switch part accommodated in the above housing and positioned at a location corresponding to the guide hole; A tilting part to which the above-mentioned tilting switch part is rotatably coupled; A rubber member having the tilting part positioned on the front surface and a pair of protrusions formed thereon that are spaced apart from each other in a first direction and contact the rear surface of the tilting switch part; and The printed circuit board includes the above-mentioned rubber member positioned on the front surface and a pair of metal domes formed at positions corresponding to the pair of protrusions, and The above tilting part is, A remote control device comprising a shaft coupled to the above-mentioned tilting switch portion and positioned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above tilting part is, A pair of fixed legs spaced apart in the second direction so as to be coupled to the shaft, and such that the rear surface of the tilting switch portion contacts the pair of protrusions; and A remote control device characterized by including a fixed plate formed such that the above-mentioned pair of fixed legs are joined and the above-mentioned pair of protrusions are exposed.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above tilting switch unit is, A switch rib formed by penetrating the guide hole and protruding from the front of the housing, and extending in the second direction; and A remote control device characterized by including a rotary guide that extends from the switch rib and is rotatably coupled to the shaft.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above rotation guide is, A remote control device characterized by including a curved surface that contacts the edge of the guide hole.

5. In Paragraph 4, The above guide hole is, A remote control device characterized by including a curved surface on the above-mentioned rim that corresponds to the curved surface of the above-mentioned rotation guide.

6. In Paragraph 3, The above rotation guide is, A bonding surface formed by being drawn in from the rear; and A remote control device characterized by including a fitting rib formed protruding from the above-mentioned coupling surface and into which the shaft is fitted.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above insert rib is, A remote control device characterized by having a plurality of units spaced apart in the second direction and formed to surround the outer surface of the shaft.

8. In Paragraph 3, The above tilting switch unit is, A remote control device characterized by including a pair of pressing protrusions formed to protrude in the first direction at both ends of the rotation guide and in contact with the pair of protrusions.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above rubber member is, A remote control device characterized by including a pair of inlet grooves that are inserted from the rear and expose the pair of protrusions.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above rubber member is, A remote control device characterized by being formed at an angle from the front and extending to the outer surface of the pair of protrusions, and including a pair of flow surfaces formed through the pair of inlet grooves.

11. In Paragraph 10, Each of the above pair of protrusions is, A first projection in contact with the rear surface of the above-mentioned tilting switch portion; A second projection extending from the first projection and having the flow surface formed on its outer surface; and A remote control device characterized by including a third projection that extends from the second projection and is formed through the inlet groove to contact the metal dome.

12. In Paragraph 1, A remote control device characterized by one of the pair of protrusions being pressed according to the rotational direction of the tilting switch portion, and the metal dome formed at a position corresponding to the pressed protrusion being pressed.

13. In Paragraph 1, The above rubber member is, A remote control device characterized by including an elastic material.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above housing is, A front cover including the above guide hole; and It includes a rear cover coupled to the front cover, and The above front cover is, A remote control device characterized by including a plurality of fastening ribs that are formed protruding from the rear and are in close contact with the front surface of the rubber member.

15. In Paragraph 1, The above tilting switch unit is, A remote control device characterized by including a first tilting switch unit and a second tilting switch unit arranged in the second direction.

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