Light Module Frame Coplanar Wedging for Narrow Bezel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional backlight module frame structures are unable to effectively reduce the thickness of the side frames while maintaining strength and stability, as the thickness is limited by the combined thicknesses of the rear, plastic, and front frames, and the side frames must cover positioning pins or elements, which hinders the reduction of the side plate thickness.
Innovation Solution
A frame structure for a light module that employs a coplanar positioning and wedging method, using a rear plate with top positioning protrusions and a plastic frame with connecting parts and positioning elements, and a front frame with positioning holes, allowing the frames to be wedged in the same plane, thereby reducing the width of the side frame while maintaining stability and strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional multi-layer frame structure (rear plate, plastic frame, front frame) is used, then structural strength and stability are maintained, but frame thickness cannot be reduced below the sum of individual component thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the rear plate and front frame into a single integrated frame structure. The rear plate serves as the backlight housing while the front frame functions as the bezel, eliminating the need for a separate plastic frame layer. This consolidation reduces the overall frame thickness while maintaining structural integrity through unified design and construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated frame structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, serves as the housing for the rear plate, forms the front bezel, and incorporates positioning features for the light guide plate. By making the frame multi-functional, the design eliminates redundant components and reduces overall thickness without compromising strength.
2Length of stationary object
If side frames are made thinner to achieve narrow bezel design, then aesthetic appearance and modern design are improved, but positioning stability of light guide plate deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating positioning features at specific locations rather than distributing thickness uniformly. The integrated frame includes localized positioning protrusions and corresponding recesses at critical areas to secure the light guide plate, allowing the side frames to be thin overall while maintaining stability at key positioning points.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of relying on frame thickness for positioning stability, the patent transitions to a different dimensional approach by using protrusion-recess mechanisms that engage in the thickness direction. This allows thin side frames to provide robust positioning through vertical engagement features rather than horizontal thickness.
3Manufacturing precision
If positioning pins or elements are added to secure light guide plate, then positioning accuracy is improved, but side frame thickness must increase to accommodate these elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing positioning protrusions and recesses within the plane of the integrated frame rather than requiring additional thickness. The positioning features are nested into the frame structure itself, with protrusions extending from one surface and corresponding recesses on the opposite surface, eliminating the need for external positioning pins that would increase thickness.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame structure of a light module is described. The frame structure includes a rear plate including first side plates, a plastic frame and a front frame. Each first side plate is set with at least one fixing hole and includes top positioning protrusions. The plastic frame includes second side plates disposed on the first side plates. Each second side plate includes a connecting part disposed on the first side plate, at least one fixing element connected to the connecting part and lodged in the fixing hole, and positioning elements protruded on the connecting part. Each positioning element has a positioning slot. The top positioning protrusions are embedded in the positioning slots. The front frame includes side rims disposed on the second side plates. Each side rim is set with positioning holes. The positioning elements of each second side plate are embedded in the positioning holes.