Description

SHELF FOR DISPLAY APPARATUS

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates, in general, to a shelf for a display apparatus, and more particularly, to a shelf for a flat panel display device, which holds necessary articles on the top of the flat panel display device, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a plasma display panel (PDP), which is thin, thereby optimizing the use of space. Background Art

[2] As is generally known in the art, flat panel display devices are indispensably used in monitors for desktop computers, televisions, portable computers such as laptop computers and personal digital assistants (PDA), and small-size lightweight systems such as mobile phone terminals.

[3] These flat panel display devices include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display panel (PDP), a field emission display (FED), and so on.

[4] Among them, the LCD or PDP used for the computer monitor or the television is placed on a table therefor. This flat panel display device occupies a considerable portion of the table, but does not allow any simple consumables, fittings, or ornaments to be placed on the upper portion thereof. As such, the flat panel display device not only fails to optimize the use of space, but also harms the aesthetic appearance in its vicinity.

[5] To solve this problem, a conventional shelf comprises a simple plate and a support, and is adapted to be fixedly attached to the upper portion of a cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor or a CRT television, for articles to be placed thereon.

[6] The conventional shelf is simply installed on the upper portion of a thick image display device such as a CRT monitor or a CRT television, and is thus maintained horizontal. However, it is difficult to install the conventional shelf on a flat panel display device having a thin liquid crystal layer, such as an LCD or a PDP. Disclosure of Invention

Technical Problem

[7] Accordingly, the present invention has been made in an effort to solve the problems occurring in the related art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a shelf for a display apparatus, in which necessary articles are held on the top of the display device, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a plasma display panel (PDP), which is thin, thereby being stably installed on display apparatuses having various shapes and sizes.

[8] Another object of the present invention is to provide a shelf for a display apparatus, capable of being stably installed on display apparatuses having various shapes and sizes and allowing free adjustment of the angle of a plate. Technical Solution

[9] In order to achieve the above object, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a shelf for a display apparatus, which holds necessary articles on top of a display apparatus such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a plasma display panel (PDP). The shelf comprises: a plate having a predetermined area so as to allow the necessary articles to be put thereon, and located above the display apparatus to overlap with part of a lower surface thereof; a supporting member located below a lower surface of the plate at an upper end thereof such that the plate is supported, and having a predetermined length; and a fixing coupler including a fixing panel located at and coupled to a lower end of the supporting member such that the plate is fixed to a cradle of the display apparatus, bent coupling shafts slidably inserted on opposite sides of the fixing panel at first ends thereof and located on opposite sides of the cradle of the display apparatus at second ends thereof, and clampers mounted to the second ends of the coupling shafts such that the coupling shafts press the opposite sides of the cradle of the display apparatus. The supporting member is pivotably hinged to the fixing panel such that the plate is inclined at a predetermined angle.

[10] Further, in the present invention, the supporting member may include first supports, upper ends of which are located below the lower surface of the plate such that the plate is supported, and second supports that are located at lower ends of the first supports and slidably inserted into or hinged with the first supports.

[11] Further, in the present invention, the supporting member may be formed of metal material that is freely bent.

[12] Further, in the present invention, the clampers may include: adjustment screws screwed to the coupling shafts; and screw head grips coupled to trailing ends of the adjustment screws to turn the adjustment screws such that leading ends of the adjustment screws are in close contact with the opposite sides of the cradle of the display apparatus.

[13] Further, in the present invention, the clampers may include: adjustment bars slid into the second ends of the coupling shafts at first ends thereof, and located on the opposite sides of the cradle of the display apparatus at second ends thereof; compression springs formed of elastic material, and fitted around the adjustment bars; and pressing pads coupled to the second ends of the adjustment bars so as to be pressed by the compression springs, and pressing the cradle.

[14] Further, in the present invention, the lower surface of the plate and the upper end of

the supporting member may be provided with at least one guide bracket and at least one guide rail formed to correspond to the guide bracket so as to slide in the guide bracket, respectively.

[15] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a shelf for a display apparatus, which holds necessary articles on top of the display apparatus, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a plasma display panel (PDP). The shelf comprises: a plate having a predetermined area for the necessary articles to be put thereon; at least one support connected to a lower portion of the plate at an upper end thereof, having a predetermined length, and supporting the plate; an LCD coupler fixed to a rear surface of the display apparatus, and connected with a lower end of the support at an upper end thereof; and a plate joint including a mount closely contacting the lower surface of the plate and a hinge coupler extending downwards from the mount. The support includes an upper support connected to the hinge coupler of the plate joint at an upper end thereof, and a lower support connected to a hinge coupler of the LCD coupler at a lower end thereof; and the plate joint and the upper support are connected by a first hinge, the upper support and the lower support are connected by a second hinge, and the lower support and the LCD coupler are connected by a third hinge.

[16] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a shelf for a display apparatus, which holds necessary articles on top of the display apparatus, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a plasma display panel (PDP). The shelf comprises: a plate having a predetermined area for the necessary articles to be put thereon, and provided with a hinge coupler on a lower surface thereof; an LCD coupler fixed to the rear surface of the display apparatus, and formed to correspond to the hinge coupler of the plate so as to be connected with the hinge coupler of the plate; and a hinge connecting the hinge coupler of the plate and the LCD coupler such that the angle between the hinge coupler of the plate and the LCD coupler can be adjusted to a predetermined value.

[17] Further, in the present invention, the third hinge may include opposite pin holes, and a hinge adjustment screw that is inserted into the pin holes, is fixed, inclined, and exchanged by screwing and unscrewing, and is fitted around springs that apply elastic recovery force in opposite inward directions.

[18] Further, in the present invention, the LCD coupler may have the shape of a panel having an area corresponding to a connector to which a strut is screwed on the rear surface of the display apparatus, and may be provided with slots inclined at a predetermined angle at predetermined portions thereof so as to match positions of screw holes into which the strut of the display apparatus is coupled.

[19] Further, in the present invention, the LCD coupler may include a suction plate

closely contacting and coupled to the rear surface of the display apparatus in a vacuum state.

[20] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a shelf for a display apparatus, which holds necessary articles on top of the display apparatus, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a plasma display panel (PDP). The shelf comprises: a plate having a predetermined area for the necessary articles to be put thereon; a plate joint formed on the lower surface of the plate, and coupled through at least one spherical hinge ball; a ball retainer provided with ball retaining recesses, into which the hinge balls are pivotably inserted, on opposite sides thereof; a ball hinge joint, coupled to the hinge ball, inserted into and retained in one of the ball retaining recesses of the ball retainer at an upper end thereof, and formed with a hinge at a lower end thereof; and an LCD coupler fixed to the rear surface of the display apparatus, and provided with a hinge coupler connected with the hinge of the ball hinge joint on an upper end thereof.

[21] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a shelf for a display apparatus, which holds necessary articles on top of the display apparatus, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a plasma display panel (PDP). The shelf comprises: a plate having a predetermined area for the necessary articles to be put thereon; a plate joint provided with a mount coupled with the plate, and a hinge coupler extending downwards from the mount; at least one bent support supporting the plate, coupled to the hinge coupler of the plate joint at one end thereof, and provided with a through-hole at the other end thereof; and an LCD coupler fixed to the rear surface of the display apparatus, and having an upper end thereof passing through the through-hole of the bent support and provided with a screw hole.

[22] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a shelf for a display apparatus, which holds necessary articles on top of the display apparatus, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a plasma display panel (PDP). The shelf comprises: a plate including a flat base having a predetermined area, and a holding space on an upper portion thereof; a first support horizontally formed below the plate, and coupled to support the left lower portion of the plate with respect to the center of the plate; a second support horizontally formed below the plate, and coupled to support the right lower portion of the plate with respect to the center of the plate; an interval adjuster that couples the first and second supports and is used to adjust the distance therebetween; and side supports attached to outer ends of the first and second supports, and supporting opposite sides of the display apparatus in close contact with the opposite sides of the display apparatus.

[23] Further, in the present invention, the interval adjuster may include: inserts formed at positions opposite the first and second supports; and an interval adjustment buckle

connected between the inserts of the first and second supports. Here, the interval adjustment buckle may be screwed to the inserts, and may be turned to adjust the interval between the inserts.

[24] Further, in the present invention, the interval adjuster may include: inserts extending from the first and second supports in opposite inward directions, and provided with springs having a predetermined length at ends thereof; and a spring adjuster having a predetermined length, and having a hollow space communicating with opposite ends thereof, and having springs connected to the inserts inserted into and fixed in the hollow space.

[25] Further, in the present invention, the first and second supports may each be formed into a pair of frames, which are parallel to each other, below the plate. The side supports may each be coupled to an end of the frame, and any one of the frames may be provided with an angle adjuster, which is located at a predetermined position on the frame and adjusts the overall length of the frames and the angle of each side support.

[26] Further, in the present invention, the shelf may further comprise a connector panel having the shape of a plate which has a predetermined area and is located under the plate and above the first and second supports, hinged to the upper end of one side of each of the first and second supports at one end thereof, attached to the lower surface of the flat base on an upper surface thereof, and adjusting the angle between the plate and the first and second supports. Here, the connector panel may be rounded off at opposite ends thereof, and the flat base may be provided with catches, which correspond to the rounded ends of the connector panel, on the lower surface thereof such that the connector panel is elastically and detachably coupled to the flat base from the bottom to the top.

Advantageous Effects

[27] According to the present invention, the shelf for the display apparatus can hold necessary articles on top of the display device, such as an LCD or a PDP, which is thin, so that it can be stably installed on display apparatuses having various shapes and sizes.

[28] Further, the shelf for the display apparatus can be stably installed on display apparatuses having various shapes and sizes, and allows free adjustment of the angle of the plate. Brief Description of the Drawings

[29] FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus;

[30] FIG. 2 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a

first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus; [31] FIG. 3 is a top plan view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus; [32] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus; [33] FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus; [34] FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus; [35] FIG. 7 is a top plan view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus; [36] FIG. 8 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein an LCD coupler has the shape of a panel; [37] FIG. 9 is a rear view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein an LCD coupler has the shape of a panel; [38] FIG. 10 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein an LCD coupler has the form of a suction cup; [39] FIG. 11 is a rear view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein an LCD coupler has the form of a suction cup; [40] FIG. 12 illustrates an exchangeable LCD coupler of a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention; [41] FIG. 13 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [42] FIG. 14 is a rear view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [43] FIG. 15 is a rear view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [44] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus

in accordance with an eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[45] FIG. 17 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[46] FIG. 18 is another side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[47] FIG. 19 is a top plan view illustrating first and second supports of a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[48] FIG. 20 is a front view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[49] FIG. 21 is a top plan view illustrating a spring adjuster according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[50] Hereinafter, a shelf for a display apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[51] FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus. FIG. 2 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus. FIG. 3 is a top plan view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus. FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus.

[52] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 4, the shelf for a display apparatus, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which is installed on the upper portion of a display apparatus 2 such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a plasma display panel (PDP) and allows necessary articles to be put thereon, includes a plate 10, a supporting member 20, and a fixing coupler 30.

[53] The display apparatus 2 refers to a device such as an LCD or a PDP, implemented in the monitor of a desktop computer, a television, a portable computer such as a laptop computer or a personal digital assistant (PDA), or a small-size lightweight system such as a mobile phone terminal, and includes a display panel 3 in which an image is output to a thin film liquid crystal panel, and a cradle 4 that is mounted to the rear of the display panel 3 and supports the display panel 3.

[54] The plate 10 has a predetermined area, and is adapted to allow necessary articles to be put on an upper surface thereof and be partially supported on the upper surface of the display panel 3 of the display apparatus 2 on a lower surface thereof.

[55] The plate 10 may be provided with a plurality of heat dissipation holes 14, which are drilled so as to easily dissipate heat generated from the display panel 3 toward the upper surface thereof.

[56] The plate 10 may have mounted, therein or on one surface thereof, an anion generator (not shown) emitting anions which are beneficial for a human body, an air cleaner (not shown) purifying contaminated air into fresh air, a clock (not shown), a calendar (not shown), and so forth. Further, the plate 10 may have a mirror 16 attached to one side thereof.

[57] The plate 10 is provided with two pairs of guide brackets 12, which protrude downwards from the lower surface thereof, and extend from front to rear, midway between opposite sides thereof.

[58] Thus, the guide brackets 12 are engaged with guide rails 24 that will be described below, and thus the plate 10 can slide backwards and forwards on the upper surface of the display panel 3 of the display apparatus 2.

[59] The supporting member 20 functions to support the weight of the plate 10 such that the plate 10 is firmly supported on the display panel 3 of the display apparatus 2, and includes a pair of first supports 21, a pair of second supports 22, the guide rails 24, rail clamps 25, and hinges 26 and 28. However, in consideration of a user's taste, production costs, etc., the supporting member 20 can be modified, as in a second or third embodiment that will be described below.

[60] The first supports 21 have the shape of a bar having a predetermined length, and have upper ends located below the lower surface of the plate 10 so as to firmly support the weight of the plate 10.

[61] The second supports 22 are slidably fitted around lower ends of the first supports

21, respectively, such that the entire length of the supporting member 20 can be freely adjusted to fit display apparatuses 2 having various shapes and sizes.

[62] More specifically, the upper end of each second support 22 is provided with a recess (not shown) in a longitudinal direction, so that the lower end of each first support 21 is slidably fitted into the recess of the upper end of each second support 22.

[63] In this manner, because the first supports 21 are slidably fitted into the second supports 22 so as to correspond to display apparatuses 2 having various shapes and sizes, the overall length of the supporting member 20 can be properly adjusted to fit the display apparatus 2.

[64] Meanwhile, when the entire length of the supporting member 20 is adjusted by the slidable connection between the first supports 21 and the second supports 22, the first

supports 21 are fixed by fasteners 23, so that they can no longer slide.

[65] Each fastener 23 is screw-threaded and fastened into a female threaded hole (not shown), which is drilled and tapped on one side of the upper end of each second support 22.

[66] One end of each fastener 23 is screwed into the female threaded hole of each second support 22, and thereby the first supports 21 are fixed to the second supports 22 such that they can no longer slide.

[67] The guide rails 24 allow the plate 10 to slide backwards and forwards on the upper surface of the display apparatus 2, and are formed to correspond to the guide brackets 12 above the upper ends of the first supports 21.

[68] Thus, the guide rails 24 are inserted into the guide brackets 12 of the plate 10, and thereby the plate 10 slides backwards and forwards on the upper surface of the display apparatus 2.

[69] In this manner, because the plate 10 slides backwards and forwards by means of the guide brackets 12 and the guide rails 24, the user can easily move the plate 10 when intending to move the plate 10 backwards and forwards an arbitrary amount.

[70] Meanwhile, each guide rail 24 is provided with a clamping hole 24a, through which each rail clamp 25 passes in a direction perpendicular to the lower surface of the plate 10.

[71] The rail clamps 25 serve to prevent the guide rails 24 inserted into the guide brackets 12 from arbitrarily sliding in the guide brackets 12. To this end, each rail clamp 25 has the shape of a bolt corresponding to the clamping hole 24a, and is pivotably coupled to the upper end of each of the first supports 21.

[72] The rail clamps 25 are inserted into the clamping holes 24a of the guide rails 24.

Then, when the rail clamps 25 inserted into the clamping holes 24a of the guide rails 24 are turned in one direction, the rail clamps 25 press the lower surface of the plate 10 to bring it into close contact with the lower surface of the plate 10, and, simultaneously, the guide rails 24 are separated from the lower surface of the plate 10. Therefore, the guide rails 24 are prevented from arbitrarily sliding in the guide brackets 12 of the plate 10.

[73] Meanwhile, the hinges 26 and 28 are installed on the upper end of each of the first supports 21 and the lower end of each of the second supports 22 through hinge pins thereof so that the plate 10 can be vertically pivoted at an arbitrary angle. The plate 10, located above the upper ends of the first supports 21, is adjusted to an arbitrary tilt angle by means of the hinges 26 and 28, while being pivoted upwards and downwards.

[74] The fixing coupler 30 functions to couple the supporting member 20 with the display apparatus 2 such that the plate 10 is fixed to the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2, and includes a fixing panel 32, coupling shafts 34, and clampers 38.

[75] The fixing panel 32 has the shape of a plate, is located at the lower ends of the second supports 22, and is pivotably hinged by the hinges 28, which are installed on the lower ends of the second supports 22, on one surface of which the lower ends of the second supports 22 are located.

[76] The coupling shafts 34 have a predetermined length, and are bent such that first ends thereof are located on opposite sides of the fixing panel 32, and such that second ends thereof are located on opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2.

[77] In detail, the fixing panel 32 is provided, on opposite sides thereof, with sockets into which the first ends of the coupling shafts 34 are inserted such that the overall length of the fixing coupler 30 can be made to correspond to display apparatuses 2 having various shapes and sizes. Therefore, the first ends of the coupling shafts 34 are slidably inserted into respective sockets of the fixing panel 32.

[78] The overall length of the fixing coupler 30 is adjusted by the slidable insertion of the coupling shafts 34 into the sockets of the fixing panel 32. Then, the coupling shafts 34 are fixed to the opposite sides of the fixing panel 32 using a typical fixing means (not shown) for fixing the coupling shafts 34 inside the fixing panel 32.

[79] The fixing means (not shown) is generally constructed to fix or unfix the coupling shafts 34 in cooperation with fixing buttons 35 provided on the lower side of the fixing panel 32, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[80] In this manner, because the coupling shafts 34 are slidably inserted into the fixing panel 32 so as to correspond to display apparatuses 2 having various shapes and sizes, the overall length of the fixing coupler 30 can be adjusted to be appropriate for the display apparatus 2.

[81] The clampers 38 are mounted to the second ends of the coupling shafts 34, respectively, such that the coupling shafts 34 are brought into close contact with the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2. Each clamper 38 is preferably composed of an adjustment screw 39, a contact pad 41, and a screw head grip 40, but it may be constructed as in the fourth embodiment, which will be described below, according to a user's taste or in view of production costs.

[82] The adjustment screws 39 are screwed into through-holes (not shown) which are drilled into the second ends of the coupling shafts 34, and extend to the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2.

[83] As the adjustment screws 39 are screwed into the through-holes (not shown), leading ends of the adjustment screws 39 are located on opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2.

[84] The contact pads 41 have the shape of a plate having a predetermined size, and are mounted to the leading ends of the adjustment screws 39. When the leading ends of the adjustment screws 39 are closely contacting and pressed onto the opposite sides of the

cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2 by means of the screw head grips 40, which will be described below, the contact pads 41 function to enlarge areas closely contacting the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2, thereby allowing stronger pressure to be applied to the cradle 4.

[85] The screw head grips 40 are turned to move the adjustment screws 39 forward such that the leading ends of the adjustment screws 39 are in close contact with the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2. Each screw head grip 40 is coupled to the trailing end of each adjustment screw 39, and is preferably formed to have a cylindrical shape so that each adjustment screw 39 can be easily turned.

[86] When each screw head grip 40 having this construction is turned in one direction, the leading ends of the adjustment screws 39 are located on the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2, and simultaneously the contact pads 41 closely contact and are pressed onto the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2. Therefore, the clampers 38 allow the coupling shafts 34 of the fixing coupler 30 to be in close contact with the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2.

[87] The second supports 22 of the supporting member 20 are coupled to the fixing panel 32 of the fixing coupler 30, and the lower surface of the plate 10 is located above and fixed through the first supports 21 of the supporting member 20. Therefore, the plate 10 is fixed to the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2.

[88] FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus.

[89] Referring to FIG. 5, the shelf for a display apparatus, according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which is installed on the upper portion of a display apparatus 2 and allows necessary articles to be put thereon, has the same construction as that of the first embodiment, except that a supporting member 20 includes flexible shafts 29, guide rails 24, rail clamps 25, and hinges 28, unlike the first embodiment in which the supporting member 20 includes the first supports 21 (FIG. 1), the second supports 22 (FIG. 1), the guide rails 24 (FIG. 1), the rail clamps 25 (FIG. 1), and the hinges 26 and 28 (FIG. 1).

[90] Similarly, the shelf for a display apparatus according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a plate 10, a supporting member 20, and a fixing coupler 30.

[91] The plate 10 is the same as in the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[92] The supporting member 20 functions to support the weight of the plate 10 such that the plate 10 is firmly supported on the display apparatus 2, and includes a pair of flexible shafts 29, guide rails 24, rail clamps 25, and hinges 28.

[93] The flexible shafts 29 have the shape of a bellows that is freely bent and has a predetermined length, are formed of metal, and have upper ends located below the lower surface of the plate 10 so as to firmly support the weight of the plate 10.

[94] The plate 10, located above the upper ends of the flexible shafts 29, is freely inclined at a predetermined angle by means of the flexible shafts 29, which are freely bent.

[95] The guide rails 24 allow the plate 10 to slide backwards and forwards on the upper surface of the display apparatus 2, and are formed to correspond to the guide brackets 12 above the upper ends of the flexible shafts 29.

[96] Thus, the guide rails 24 are inserted into the guide brackets 12 of the plate 10, and thereby the plate 10 slides backwards and forwards on the upper surface of the display apparatus 2.

[97] In this manner, because the plate 10 slides backwards and forwards by means of the guide brackets 12 and the guide rails 24, the user can easily move the plate 10 when intending to move the plate 10 backwards and forwards an arbitrary amount.

[98] Meanwhile, each guide rail 24 is provided with a clamping hole 24a, through which each rail clamp 25 passes in a direction perpendicular to the lower surface of the plate 10.

[99] The rail clamps 25 serve to prevent the guide rails 24 inserted into the guide brackets 12 from arbitrarily sliding in the guide brackets 12. To this end, each rail clamp 25 has the shape of a bolt corresponding to the clamping hole 24a, and is pivotably coupled to the upper end of each flexible shaft 29.

[100] When the rail clamps 25 are inserted into the clamping holes 24a of the guide rails

24, and then are turned in one direction, the rail clamps 25 press the lower surface of the plate 10 to bring it into close contact with the lower surface of the plate 10, and simultaneously the guide rails 24 are separated from the lower surface of the plate 10. Therefore, the guide rails 24 are prevented from arbitrarily sliding in the guide brackets 12 of the plate 10.

[101] Meanwhile, the flexible shafts 29 are coupled at lower ends thereof, with a fixing panel 32 of the fixing coupler 30. At this time, the lower ends of the flexible shafts 29 are pivotably hinged with the fixing panel 32 by means of the hinges 28.

[102] The fixing coupler 30 functions to couple the supporting member 20 with the display apparatus 2 such that the plate 10 is fixed to the upper end of a display panel 3 of the display apparatus 2. The fixing coupler 30 includes the fixing panel 32, coupling shafts 34, and clampers 38 (FIG. 3), as in the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[103] In this manner, the lower ends of the flexible shafts 29 of the supporting member 20 are coupled to the fixing panel 32 of the fixing coupler 30, which is mounted to a

cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2, and the lower surface of the plate 10 is located below and fixed to the upper ends of the flexible shafts 29 of the supporting member 20. Thereby, the plate 10 is fixed to the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2.

[104] FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus.

[105] Referring to FIG. 6, the shelf for a display apparatus, according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which is installed on the upper portion of a display apparatus 2 and allows necessary articles to be put thereon, has the same construction as the first embodiment, except that guide brackets 12 are omitted from the plate 10 of the first embodiment (FIG. 2), and that a supporting member 20 includes first supports 27a, second supports 27b, and hinges 26, 27c and 28, unlike the first embodiment, in which the supporting member 20 includes the first supports 21 (FIG. 1), the second supports 22 (FIG. 1), the guide rails 24 (FIG. 1), the rail clamps 25 (FIG. 1), and the hinges 26 and 28 (FIG. 1).

[106] Similarly, the shelf for a display apparatus according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a plate 10, a supporting member 20, and a fixing coupler 30.

[107] The plate 10 is not provided with guide brackets 12 (FIG. 2), which allow the plate

10 to slide backwards and forwards on the upper surface of the display apparatus 2.

[108] Thus, because the plate 10 is fixed to the upper surface of the display apparatus 2 without being allowed to move backwards and forwards, it is more firmly fixed to the upper surface of the display apparatus 2.

[109] The first supports 27a, which will be described now, are hinged to the lower surface of the plate 10 by means of the hinges 26. At this time, each first support 27a can be additionally coupled with a hinge coupler 18 on the lower surface of the plate 10, which corresponds to each hinge 26 such that each hinge 26 is easily hinged to the lower surface of the plate 10.

[110] The hinge couplers 18 are coupled to the lower surface of the plate 10 by means of coupling bolts 19 such that the first supports 27a are easily hinged with the plate 10, and thus are formed to be hinged with the first supports 27a on the lower surface of the plate 10 by means of the hinges 26. When the plate 10 is hinged with the first supports 27a, the hinge couplers 18 facilitate hinging the plate 10 with the first supports 27a.

[I l l] The supporting member 20 functions to support the weight of the plate 10 such that the plate 10 is firmly supported on the display apparatus 2, and includes the first supports 27a, the second supports 27b, and the hinges 26, 27c and 28.

[112] The first supports 27a take the shape of a bar having a predetermined length, are paired, and have upper ends located at the hinge couplers 18 of the plate 10 so that they

firmly support the weight of the plate 10. Further, the first supports 27a are hinged with the hinge coupler 18 by means of the hinges 26 such that the plate 10 is inclined at a predetermined angle by means of vertical pivoting.

[113] The second supports 27b are located at and coupled to lower ends of the first supports 27a. The first supports 27a and the second supports 27b are hinged with each other by means of the hinges 27c, and thus are adjusted to be inclined at a predetermined angle by means of vertical pivoting.

[114] The fixing coupler 30 functions to couple the supporting member 20 with the display apparatus 2 such that the plate 10 is fixed to the top of a display unit 3 of the display apparatus 2. The fixing coupler 30 includes the fixing panel 32, coupling shafts 34, and clampers 38 (FIG. 3), as in the first embodiment, and so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[115] In this manner, the first supports 27a of the supporting member 20 are coupled to the fixing panel 32 of the fixing coupler 30, which is mounted to a cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2, and the lower surface of the plate 10 is located below and fixed to the first supports 27a of the supporting member 20. Thereby, the plate 10 is fixed to the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2.

[116] FIG. 7 is a top plan view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the shelf is coupled to the display apparatus.

[117] Referring to FIG. 7, a fixing coupler 30 of the shelf for a display apparatus according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention has the same construction as each of the first, second and third embodiments, except that each clamper 38 includes an adjustment bar 45, a compression spring 47, and a pressing pad 49, unlike each of the first, second and third embodiments in which the each clamper 38 includes the adjustment screw 39 (FIG. 3), the contact pad 41 (FIG. 3), and the screw head grip 40 (FIG. 3).

[118] Similarly, the fixing coupler 30 of the shelf for a display apparatus according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a fixing panel 32, coupling shafts 34, and clampers 38.

[119] The fixing panel 32 and the coupling shafts 34 have the same construction as in the first embodiment, and so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[120] The clampers 38 are mounted to respective second ends of the coupling shafts 34 such that the coupling shafts 34 are brought into close contact with opposite sides of a cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2. Each clamper 38 is composed of the adjustment bar 45, the compression spring 47, and the pressing pad 49.

[121] The adjustment bars 45 slide into adjustment recesses (not shown), which are provided on the second ends of the coupling shafts 34 on opposite sides of the cradle 4

of the display apparatus 2.

[122] The adjustment bars 45 slide into the adjustment recesses (not shown) at first ends thereof, and are located on the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2 at second ends thereof.

[123] Each compression spring 47 is formed of elastic material, and is fitted around each adjustment bar 45.

[124] Each pressing pad 49 functions to prevent each compression spring 47 fitted around each adjustment bar 45 from escaping from each adjustment bar 45, and has the shape of a plate having a predetermined size. The pressing pads 49 closely contact and are pressed onto the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2. Therefore, the clampers 38 allow the coupling shafts 34 of the fixing coupler 30 to be in close contact with the opposite sides of the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2.

[125] The supporting member 20 (FIG. 1) is coupled to the fixing panel 32 of the fixing coupler 30, and the lower surface of the plate 10 is located above and fixed to the supporting member 20 (FIG. 1). Thereby, the plate 10 (FIG. 1) is fixed to the cradle 4 of the display apparatus 2, and is located on the display panel 3.

[126] In this manner, the shelf for a display apparatus according to each of first through fourth embodiments allows necessary articles to be put thereon, using the plate, for a display apparatus which is thin, and allows the plate to be stably installed on display apparatuses having various shapes and sizes using the fixing coupler.

[127] FIG. 8 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein an LCD coupler has the shape of a panel. FIG. 9 is a rear view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein an LCD coupler has the shape of a panel. FIG. 10 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein an LCD coupler has the shape of a suction cup. FIG. 11 is a rear view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein an LCD coupler has the shape of a suction cup.

[128] Referring to FIGS. 8, 9, 10 and 11, the shelf for a display apparatus of the present invention includes a plate 50, a plate joint 55, a support 60, and a hinge 70.

[129] The plate 50 has a predetermined area, and is adapted to allow necessary articles to be put on an upper surface thereof.

[130] The plate joint 55 is provided with a mount that is in close contact with a lower surface of the plate 50, and a hinge coupler that protrudes downwards from the mount. The mount of the plate joint 55 is provided with through-holes (not shown), which are fastened by fixing screws B, at corners thereof. Thus, the plate joint 55 closely contacts

its mount by means of the fixing screws B.

[131] The support 60 is coupled to the hinge coupler of the plate joint 55, and has a predetermined length. The support 60 is coupled to an LCD coupler 80, which will be described below, at a lower end thereof, and thus supports the plate 50.

[132] Alternatively, the plate 50 may be provided with a hinge coupler on the lower surface thereof, and then the support 60 may be directly coupled to the hinge coupler of the plate 50 without the plate joint 55.

[133] The LCD coupler 80 is fixed to the rear surface of the display apparatus 2, and is provided with a hinge coupler, which corresponds to the lower end of the support 60, on one side thereof. Thereby, the hinge coupler of the LCD coupler 80 is hinged with the lower end of the support 60.

[134] The hinge 70 serves to mutually couple the hinge coupler of the plate 50 or the plate joint 55, the coupling ends of the support 60, and the hinge coupler of the LCD coupler 80 such that the angles between them can be adjusted.

[135] Further, the support 60 is divided into a plurality of supports: an upper one 61 and a lower one 62. The hinge 70 is also divided into three hinges: a first one 71, a second one 72, and a third one 73.

[136] The hinge coupler of the plate 50 or the plate joint 55 and the upper support 61, the upper and lower supports 61 and 62, and the lower support 62 and the hinge coupler of the LCD coupler 80 are hinged by the first hinge 71, the second hinge 72, and the third hinge 73, respectively.

[137] Further, the third hinge 73 hinged to the hinge coupler of the LCD coupler 80 is provided with opposite pin holes (not shown), into which a hinge adjustment screw 74 is inserted.

[138] After the hinge adjustment screw 74 is inserted into the pin holes provided to the third hinge 73, which is hinged to the hinge coupler of the LCD coupler 80, it is screwed or unscrewed, so that the plate 50 can be fixed, inclined, and coupled or decoupled if necessary. The hinge adjustment screw 74 is fitted around springs 75, which apply elastic recovery force in opposite inward directions.

[139] FIG. 12 illustrates an exchangeable LCD coupler of a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[140] Referring to FIG. 12, the LCD coupler 80 of the present invention can be variously modified to be suitable for the shape of the rear surface of the installed display apparatus 2.

[141] The ordinary display apparatus 2 is supported by a strut that is screwed to the rear surface thereof. A connector, to which the strut is screwed, has screw holes, positions of which are standardized. Thus, almost all the display apparatuses 2 that are on the market have the screw holes for the connector and the strut in similar positions.

[142] The LCD coupler 80 includes a bearing panel 90 having an area corresponding to the connector to which the strut is coupled on the rear surface of the display apparatus 2. The bearing panel 90 is provided with slots 87 at predetermined portions thereof. The slots 87 are formed so as to unscrew the screws fixing the strut of the display apparatus 2, overlap with the bearing panel 90, and then fix the strut and the bearing panel 90 with the unscrewed screws again.

[143] The slots 87 are preferably inclined with respect to the horizontal plane at a predetermined angle so as to match the positions of the screw holes into which the strut of the display apparatus 2 is screwed. In this manner, because the slots are inclined at a predetermined angle, the strut and the connector can be variously installed, even though the display apparatuses 2 that are on the market vary slightly in the positions of the screw holes.

[144] Further, the LCD coupler 80 preferably includes a suction plate 90, which is in close contact with and coupled to the rear surface of the display apparatus 2 in a vacuum state. Because the LCD coupler 80 is fixed to the rear surface of the display apparatus 2 using the suction plate 90, it imposes less restriction on the rear appearance of the display apparatus 2 when installed.

[145] The LCD coupler 80 having the bearing panel 90 or the suction plate 90 is hinged with the support 60 by means of the hinge adjustment screw 74, and can be exchanged as needed.

[146] FIG. 13 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a rear view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[147] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the shelf for a display apparatus of the present invention includes a plate 51, an LCD coupler 81, and a hinge 70.

[148] The plate 51 has a predetermined area, and is adapted to allow articles to be put on an upper surface thereof. The plate 51 is provided thereunder with a hinge coupler, to which the LCD coupler 81, which will be described below, is coupled.

[149] The LCD coupler 81 is fixed to the rear surface of the display apparatus 2, and has an upper end protruding to correspond to the hinge coupler of the plate 51 such that the hinge coupler of the plate 51 is coupled thereto.

[150] The hinge 70 serves to couple the hinge coupler of the plate 51 with the LCD coupler 80 such that the angle between them can be adjusted.

[151] Further, the hinge coupler of the plate 51 is preferably coupled with the LCD coupler 80 using a hinge adjustment screw 74.

[152] FIG. 15 is a rear view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[153] Referring to FIG. 15, the shelf for a display apparatus of the present invention includes a plate 50, a plate joint 56, a ball hinge 95, and an LCD coupler 80. [154] The plate 50 has a predetermined area, and is adapted to allow articles to be put on the upper surface thereof. [155] The ball hinge 95 includes hinge balls 96, a ball retainer 97 into which the hinge balls 96 are inserted, and a ball hinge joint 98 that is coupled to a lower one of the hinge balls 96 on one side thereof and an hinge coupler on the other side thereof. [156] The plate joint 56 is provided with a mount that is in close contact with the lower surface of the plate 50. The mount of the plate joint 56 is provided with through-holes

(not shown), which are fastened by fixing screws B, at corners thereof. The mount of the plate joint 56 is integrally formed with an upper one of the hinge balls 96. [157] The ball retainer 97 is provided with upper and lower ball retaining recesses, into which the hinge balls 96 are inserted to be pivoted at 360 degrees, on opposite sides thereof. [158] The ball hinge joint 98 is integrally formed with the upper hinge ball 96, which is inserted into and retained in the lower ball retaining recess of the ball retainer 97, on an upper end thereof, and is provided with a hinge 70, which is coupled to the hinge coupler, on a lower end thereof. [159] The LCD coupler 80 is fixed to the rear surface of the display apparatus, and has the hinge coupler corresponding to the hinge 70 of the ball retainer 97 such that the hinge

70 of the ball retainer 97 is coupled thereto. [160] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with an eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [161] Referring to FIG. 16, the shelf for a display apparatus of the present invention includes a plate 52, plate joints 57, bent supports 99, and LCD couplers 82. [162] The plate 52 has a predetermined area, and is adapted to allow articles to be put on the upper surface thereof. The plate 52 is provided with a plurality of screw holes at regular intervals on the lower surface thereof. [163] Each plate joint 57 is provided with a mount having a plate shape, and a hinge coupler protruding downwards from the mount. The mount of each plate joint 57 has through-holes formed at positions corresponding to the screw holes of the plate, and is thereby screwed into the plate. [164] Each bent support 99 is formed in an arcuate shape, and supports the plate. Each bent support 99 is coupled to the hinge coupler of each plate joint 57 at one end thereof, and is provided with a through-hole, into which the LCD coupler 82 to be described below is screwed, at the other end thereof. [165] Alternatively, the other end of each bent support 99 may be directly coupled to a screw hole, which is formed in the rear surface of the display apparatus 2 and is

coupled with a strut, without being coupled with the LCD coupler 82. Further, at least two bent supports 99 are preferably installed.

[166] Each LCD coupler 82 is fixed to the rear surface of the display apparatus. Each

LCD coupler 82 passes through the through-hole of each bent support 99 at an upper end thereof, and is simultaneously provided with a screw hole for screwing.

[167] FIG. 17 is a side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is another side view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a top plan view illustrating first and second supports of a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a front view illustrating a shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[168] Referring to FIGS. 17, 18, 19 and 20, the shelf for a display apparatus of the present invention includes a plate 100, a first support 150, a second support 152, an interval adjuster 160, and side supports 165.

[169] The plate 100 is composed of a flat base 102, an enclosure 104, and a catch 106.

The flat base 102 has a predetermined area, and the enclosure 104 is formed upwards along an edge of the flat base 102. Thereby, the plate 100 has a holding space on an upper portion thereof.

[170] The first support 150 is horizontally formed below the plate 100, and is coupled to support the left lower portion of the plate 100 with respect to the center of the plate 100. The second support 152 is horizontally formed below the plate 100, and is coupled to support the right lower portion of the plate 100 with respect to the center of the plate 100. The first and second supports 150 and 152 are coupled to the interval adjuster 160 so as to allow the distance therebetween to be adjusted.

[171] The interval adjuster 160 preferably has a structure in which its inserts extend from the first and second supports 150 and 152, and an interval adjustment buckle 162 is connected with the inserts.

[172] The inserts extend from the first and second supports 150 and 152 in opposite directions, and have opposite male threads on outer circumferences thereof.

[173] The interval adjustment buckle 162 has the shape of a pipe having a predetermined length, has a hollow space communicating with opposite ends thereof, and is provided with opposite female threads on inner circumferences of opposite ends thereof. Thus, the inserts of the first and second supports 150 and 152 are screwed into the interval adjustment buckle 162 in opposite directions.

[174] Thus, when the interval adjustment buckle 162 is turned in one direction, the distance between the first and second supports 150 and 152 is decreased. In contrast,

when the interval adjustment buckle 162 is turned in the other direction, the distance between the first and second supports 150 and 152 is increased. Thereby, the distance between the first and second supports 150 and 152 can be adjusted.

[175] The side supports 165 are formed of elastic material, and extend from outer ends of the first and second supports 150 and 152 so as to closely contact and be supported on opposite upper ends of the display apparatus 2.

[176] Each of the first and second supports 150 and 152 is preferably formed into a pair of frames, which are parallel to each other, below the plate 100. Each side support 165 is coupled to an end of the pair of frames.

[177] Any one of the pair of frames is provided with an angle adjuster 154 at a predetermined position thereof. As the angle adjuster 154 adjusts the overall length of the frames, the angle of each side support 165 can be adjusted to correspond to the angle of each upper end of the display apparatus 2.

[178] Like the interval adjustment buckle 162, the angle adjuster 154 is preferably provided with opposite female threads, and parts of the frame are provided with opposite male threads on outer circumferences thereof.

[179] The first and second supports 150 and 152 are provided with upper couplers 156, each of which is coupled to and supports the lower portion of the plate, at certain positions thereof in upward directions.

[180] The upper couplers 156 support the weight of the front of the plate 100, and the weight of the rear of the plate 100 is supported by height adjustment screws 158.

[181] The height adjustment screws 158 are provided with rear positions of the first and second supports 150 and 152, and are vertically screwed into the first and second supports 150 and 152. Thereby, the angle of the plate is adjusted by rotating the height adjustment screws 158.

[182] Alternatively, the upper couplers 156 may be directly coupled to the plate 100, or may be connected to a connector panel 118, which is located under the plate 100 and above the first and second supports 150 and 152.

[183] The connector panel 118 is located between the flat base 102 of the plate 100 and the first and second supports 150 and 152, and has the shape of a plate having a predetermined area.

[184] The connector panel 118 is hinged to the upper end of one side of each of the first and second supports 150 and 152 at one end thereof, and is attached to the lower surface of the flat base 102 on the upper surface thereof, so that the angle between the plate 100 and the first and second supports 150 and 152 can be adjusted.

[185] Further, the connector panel 118 is rounded off at opposite ends thereof. The flat base 102 is provided with catches 106, which correspond to the rounded ends of the connector panel 118, on the lower surface thereof, so that the connector panel 118 is

detachably coupled to the flat base 102. A paper holder 140 is coupled to the connector panel 118 so as to be able to be inserted or withdrawn. A sliding main body 120 and a mirror 125 are attached to the connector panel 118. [186] FIG. 21 is a top plan view illustrating each spring adjuster according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 21, each spring adjuster 164, having the same function as the interval adjustment buckle 162 of FIG. 19, is preferably applied to the interval adjuster 160 of the present invention. [187] The interval adjuster 160 includes spring adjusters 164, each of which is connected to inserts. [188] The inserts extend from the first and second supports 150 and 152 in opposite inward directions, and are connected with springs having a predetermined length at ends thereof. [189] Each spring adjuster 164 has the shape of a pipe having a predetermined length, and has a hollow space communicating with opposite ends thereof. Thus, the springs connected to the inserts of the first and second supports 150 and 152 are inserted into and fixed to the hollow space of each spring adjuster 164. [190] The spring adjuster 164 adjusts the distance between the first and second supports

150 and 152 by means of elasticity of the springs, so that it is in close contact with the upper end of the display apparatus 2. [191] Further, side supports 165 are in close contact with opposite upper ends of the display apparatus 2 due to the retraction force of the springs of the spring adjusters

164.

Industrial Applicability [192] The shelf for a display apparatus in accordance with the present invention can hold necessary articles by installing the plate on the upper portion of a display apparatus, which is thin.