SELF-STANDING SPACER WALL STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF FABRICATING AND INSTALLING SAME.

摘要

PURPOSE: Methods and structures are provided which support spacer walls (100) in a position which facilitates installation of the spacer walls (100) between a faceplate and backplate of a flat display. CONSTITUTION: Methods and structures are provided which support spacer walls (100) in a position which facilitates installation of the spacer walls (100) between a faceplate and backplate of a flat display. In one embodiment, spacer feet (111, 112) are formed at the opposing ends of the spacer wall. Tacking electrodes can be provided on the faceplate to assert an electrostatic force on the spacer feet (111, 112), thereby holding the spacer feet in place during installation of the spacer wall. The spacer wall can be mechanically and/or thermally expanded prior to attaching both ends of the spacer wall to the faceplate. The spacer wall is then allowed to contract, thereby introducing tension into the spacer wall which tends to straighten in the spacer wall. Alternatively, spacer clips can be clamped onto opposing ends of a spacer wall to support the spacer wall during installation. The spacer clips can provide electrical connections to face electrodes located on the spacer wall.