Audio amplifier and method for cooling audio amplifier

Abstract

An audio amplifier and a method for cooling an audio amplifier are described. The audio amplifier includes: a bottom wall; a housing connected to the bottom wall to form an accommodation space therebetween and including a cooling plate parallel to the bottom wall and having an inner side face facing the accommodation space and an outer side face, the cooling plate being provided with a fin portion protruding from the outer side face and a plurality of column members extending into the accommodation space from the inner side face toward the bottom wall; an electronic card positioned in the accommodation space and including a plurality of electronic components positioned on the card such that a column component of the plurality of column components of the cooling plate contacts against the electronic components; a cover fixed to the housing and positioned parallel to the bottom wall such that the fin portions are interposed between the cover and the outer side of the cooling plate to define a duct system; and a fan positioned between the cover and the outer side of the cooling plate for generating an air flow through the duct system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an audio amplifier and a method for cooling an audio amplifier.

[0002] In particular, the technical field is that of systems for dissipating heat generated inside audio amplifiers, in particular for automotive applications.The need to dissipate heat in an efficient manner in audio amplifiers with reduced size is particularly felt in the automotive field. Background Art

[0003] Patent document US10076062B2 shows a heat dissipation system in an audio amplifier. The described audio amplifier comprises an electronic card located inside a container, which has fins on its outer surface. In particular, the electronic card is fastened inside the side of the container at opposite edges. The heat generated by the components of the electronic card is transferred to the container at the contact points and passes through the duct system defined by the fins. However, the arrangement of the electronic board within the internal space of the container makes the transfer of heat from the electronic board to the fins not very effective. In addition, due to the arrangement of the fins and their general shape, the audio amplifier US10076062B2 is not very suitable for installation in the interior of a vehicle.

[0004] Patent documents WO2018 / 196141A1, EP3349555A1 and JP2022110640A describe examples of heat dissipation systems in audio amplifiers; however, even these systems do not meet market demand. Summary of the invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an audio amplifier and a method for cooling an audio amplifier, which overcome the above-mentioned defects of the prior art.

[0006] In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide an audio amplifier and a method for cooling an amplifier which allow heat to be dissipated in an efficient manner.

[0007] It is also an object of the invention to provide an audio amplifier and a method for cooling an amplifier, wherein the electronic card is protected from factors external to the amplifier.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a compact amplifier circuit suitable for installation in a vehicle.

[0009] Said objects are fully achieved by the invention according to what is characterized in the appended claims.

[0010] In particular, the audio amplifier comprises a bottom wall. The audio amplifier comprises a housing. The housing is connected to the bottom wall to form a receiving space for insertion. Preferably, the receiving space is a (substantially) closed space.

[0011] The audio amplifier comprises a cooling plate. In particular, the housing comprises the cooling plate. The cooling plate is parallel to the bottom wall. Preferably, the cooling plate defines a front wall of the housing. The cooling plate has an inner side facing the accommodation space and an outer side opposite to the inner side.

[0012] The cooling plate is provided with a fin portion. The fin portion protrudes from the outer side. In particular, the fin portion includes a plurality of fins. Each fin has an extension (length) on a plane defined by the cooling plate (i.e., along the plane). Each fin extends between a first end and a second end. Each fin has a height or depth on a plane transverse (or parallel) to the plane defined by the cooling plate (i.e., along the plane). Each fin protrudes from the outer side of the cooling plate. More specifically, each fin protrudes from the side in an opposite direction relative to the accommodating space.

[0013] The amplifier, in particular the cooling plate, comprises a plurality of column components, which protrude from the inner side toward the bottom wall into the accommodation space.

[0014] The amplifier comprises an electronic card. The electronic card is positioned in the accommodation space. The electronic card is configured for processing (i.e., amplifying) an audio signal. The electronic card comprises a plurality of electronic components. A column component of a plurality of column components abuts against the electronic card, that is, is in contact with the electronic card. In particular, the electronic components are positioned on the card so that a column component of a plurality of column components of the cooling plate abuts against the electronic components in contact. According to an example, all the electronic components are located on the electronic board. Preferably, the electronic card is positioned in the accommodation space parallel to the bottom wall. According to an example, the distance between the bottom wall and the electronic card is smaller than the distance between the electronic card and the cooling wall.

[0015] In one example, the amplifier includes a cover. The cover is fixed to the housing, in particular to the front wall of the housing. The cover is positioned parallel to the bottom wall so that the fin portion is interposed between the cover and the outer side of the cooling plate to define a duct system. The purpose of the column component of the plurality of column components is to transfer heat generated by the electronic card (i.e., the electronic component) to the cooling plate in an efficient manner.

[0016] The amplifier comprises a fan configured to generate an air flow. The fan is configured to generate an air flow through the duct system. In particular, the fan is configured to generate a delivery air flow through the duct system and towards the fan. In particular, the fan is configured to generate a return air flow from the fan. The purpose of the air flow generated by the fan is to transport the heat generated by the electronic card and transported to the cooling plate through the plurality of column components through the duct system. In particular, it can be noted that the air flow is outside the accommodation space and therefore does not directly contact the electronic card or electronic components located in the accommodation space. In other words, the path of the air flow is separated from the electronic components. This aspect brings the advantage of protecting the electronic card and its components from any contamination by external factors (e.g., dirt and moisture).

[0017] In one embodiment, the cover is attached to the housing to define a cooling volume. The cooling volume is at least partially open to an environment outside the amplifier. Preferably, the cooling volume and the accommodation space are isolated from each other. The accommodation volume is isolated from an environment outside the amplifier.

[0018] The cover may be attached to the housing such that the fan is at least partially covered; in other words, the fan is interposed between the cover and the housing.

[0019] According to an example embodiment, a column component of the plurality of column components is (exclusively) located at the fin portion of the cooling plate. In this way, since the column component abuts the electronic card at the electronic component, the transfer of heat is optimized, thereby limiting the transfer of heat to those areas where the most heat is generated.

[0020] The cooling plate may comprise one or more non-finned portions (thus without fins), ie one or more flat portions. Preferably, at the non-finned portions, there are no column members.

[0021] For example, the housing includes a side wall. The side wall protrudes from the cooling plate (i.e., from the front wall). The side wall is perpendicular to the extension plane of the cooling plate (i.e., the front wall). The side wall is connected to the cooling plate (i.e., connected to the front wall) along the periphery of the cooling plate. The side wall may include a front face. The amplifier includes one or more electrical connectors connected to the electronic card. The one or more electrical connectors may be positioned on the front face of the side wall.

[0022] The amplifier comprises an outlet opening for air. The outlet opening is in fluid communication with the fin portion, in particular, the outlet opening is in fluid communication with a fin of the plurality of fins.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the front face of the side wall defines an outlet opening in fluid communication with the duct system. In other words, the front face of the side wall comprises an outlet opening (the outlet opening). The fan may be positioned between the fin portion and the outlet opening.

[0024] Preferably, the cover comprises a grille. The grille may be positioned at the outlet opening. In particular, the cover may be coupled to the housing such that the grille is positioned at the outlet opening of the side wall.

[0025] Thus, the air flow generated by the fan escapes from the outlet opening.

[0026] Preferably, the grille is integrally formed with the cover.

[0027] In one embodiment, the ductwork is radially positioned.

[0028] The duct system has a plurality of inlet openings. Therefore, the air flow generated by the fan enters the duct system from the plurality of inlet openings, passes through the duct system and exits from the outlet openings.

[0029] The side wall may have a first side and a second side. The second side is opposite to the first side. The first side and the second side are separated from the front. The side wall may have a back side opposite to the front. The first side and the second side are separated from the back side. The first side and the second side, the front side and the back side define a side wall having a rectangular shape.

[0030] Preferably, the plurality of inlet holes are positioned on the back side and / or on the first side and / or on the second side.

[0031] More preferably, the plurality of inlet holes are positioned on the back side, on the first side and on the second side. The inlet holes positioned on three separate sides of the side wall facilitate fresh air entry even in the case of a less than optimally positioned amplifier (e.g., in the case of partial shading of one face of the side wall caused by the positioning of the amplifier within the vehicle).

[0032] In one embodiment, the fins of the plurality of fins are arranged radially. Each fin extends between a first end and a second end. The first end is close to the fan. The second end is close to the side wall of the housing. In one embodiment, the second end is close to at least one of the back side, the first side, and the second side. In other words, the second end of the fin can be distributed through at least one of the back side, the first side, and the second side.

[0033] According to an example, the outlet opening is positioned at a central position on the front face.The duct system comprises a plurality of ducts.

[0034] The duct system includes a plurality of inlet holes. In one example, each duct is defined by a pair of adjacent fins. Each duct defines an inlet hole. Specifically, the inlet hole is defined by the second end of a pair of adjacent fins. The inlet hole can be arranged on the side wall of the housing. In one embodiment, the inlet hole is arranged on at least one of the back side, the first side and the second side.

[0035] The pipe system has a plurality of outlet holes. In one example, each pipe defines an outlet hole. Specifically, the outlet hole is defined by the first end of a pair of adjacent fins.

[0036] The inlet hole is arranged on the side wall of the housing, and the outlet hole is in fluid communication with the outlet opening via the fan. Therefore, air enters through the inlet hole, passes through the duct to reach the outlet hole, and is forced by the fan to leave through the outlet opening.

[0037] In one embodiment, the pipeline system is arranged radially. In particular, the pipelines are arranged radially.

[0038] Preferably, the ducts are radially positioned for the outlet openings to communicate with the inlet openings of the duct system.

[0039] According to one example, the housing is made of a heat-conducting metal material. According to one example, the housing is made in one piece. In other words, the housing is made of a heat-conducting solid material. According to one example, the housing is made by die-casting.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the electronic component abutting against a column component of the plurality of column components comprises a power device. The electronic component (ie, the power device) may comprise a power switch and / or an integrated electronic power component.

[0041] According to an example embodiment, the amplifier, in particular the housing and / or the bottom wall, comprises a set of fastening columns (protruding from the inner side) connected to the electronic card of the amplifier and the housing and / or the bottom wall. In particular, the fastening columns of the set of fastening columns are configured for fastening the electronic card to the housing and / or the bottom wall by means of fastening screws. Preferably, the fastening columns of the set of fastening columns protrude from the inner side toward the bottom wall into the accommodation space and are configured for fastening the electronic card to the housing by means of fastening screws.

[0042] The fan is configured to rotate around a rotation axis. Preferably, the rotation axis is perpendicular to a plane defined by the cooling plate. Specifically, the rotation axis is perpendicular to the extension direction of the fins (in other words, the rotation axis is perpendicular to the duct system).

[0043] According to an example, the fan includes a plurality of blades, which are circularly positioned around an axis of rotation and are configured to rotate around the axis of rotation. Preferably, the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the plane defined by the cooling plate. The fan may include a housing, and the plurality of blades may be positioned inside the housing. The housing is preferably box-shaped. The housing may be elongated mainly along an extension plane parallel to the plane defined by the cooling plate. In other words, the housing may be elongated mainly along an extension plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the plurality of blades. By rotating the blades, the fan generates an air flow. In particular, the fan is configured to generate a delivery flow toward the fan and a return flow from the fan by the rotation of the blades.

[0044] The housing has an inlet for air and an outlet for air. The delivery flow enters the housing through the inlet and leaves through the outlet. Preferably, the inlet is positioned on an extension plane of the housing. The inlet may have a circular shape. The inlet may be positioned at a plurality of blades aligned with the axis of rotation. Preferably, the outlet is positioned on a plane perpendicular to the extension plane of the housing (i.e., parallel to the axis of rotation). When the fan is positioned in the audio amplifier, the outlet of the housing is positioned at the outlet opening. The fan is configured to draw air from the inlet. The fan is configured to diffuse air radially relative to the axis of rotation and to convey air through the outlet of the housing in a predetermined direction at the outlet. The purpose of this aspect is to improve the forced circulation efficiency of the fan, thereby reducing the available space for placing the fan.

[0045] According to an example, the housing comprises a seat between the fin portion and the outlet opening. The seat constitutes a recessed portion (i.e., a recess) towards the bottom wall relative to a plane defined by the cooling plate (i.e., relative to the fin portion). The seat is configured to accommodate the fan, that is, the fan is at least partially accommodated in the seat of the housing.

[0046] In particular, the seat has a first space and a second space. The first space and the second space are aligned along an axis perpendicular to the plane defined by the cooling plate. In particular, the first space is configured to accommodate a fan, i.e., the housing of the fan is located in the first space. The second space is isolated from the external environment. The second space constitutes a compensation space for air arriving from the duct system and entering the housing of the fan.

[0047] The seat of the housing includes one or more support elements at the first space, and the support element is configured to support the housing of the fan in the first space. For example, the housing includes a pair of pins, which are located in the seat near the fin portion. The pair of pins can be configured as a corresponding pair of pins for coupling to the housing of the fan. The housing may include a support element, which is located in the seat near the front position to support the housing of the fan. The fan is accommodated in the seat (particularly, in the first space) so that the outlet of the housing is aligned with the outlet opening.

[0048] The present invention also provides a method for cooling an audio amplifier; preferably, the amplifier is manufactured according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

[0049] The method comprises the step of preparing a bottom wall. The method comprises the step of preparing a shell. The shell is connected to the bottom wall to form a receiving space for insertion. Preferably, the receiving space is a (substantially) closed space.

[0050] The housing comprises a cooling plate. The cooling plate is positioned parallel to the bottom wall, that is, the method comprises the step of preparing the cooling plate parallel to the bottom wall. The cooling plate has an inner side facing the accommodation space and an outer side opposite to the inner side.

[0051] The method may include the step of preparing a cooling plate having an inner side facing the receiving space.

[0052] The cooling plate is provided with a fin portion. In other words, the method may include the step of preparing a fin portion in the cooling plate. The fin portion protrudes from the outer side. In particular, the fin portion includes a plurality of fins. Each fin has an extension (length) on a plane defined by the cooling plate (i.e., along the plane). Each fin has a height or depth on a plane transverse (or parallel) to the plane defined by the cooling plate (i.e., along the plane). Each fin protrudes from the outer side of the cooling plate. More specifically, each fin protrudes from the outer side in an opposite direction relative to the accommodating space.

[0053] The cooling plate includes a plurality of column components. The column components protrude from the inner side toward the bottom wall into the accommodation space. In other words, the method may include the step of preparing a plurality of column components protruding from the inner side toward the bottom wall into the accommodation space.

[0054] The method comprises the step of preparing an electronic card. The electronic card is positioned in a receiving space, ie, the step of preparing the electronic card comprises positioning the electronic card in the receiving space. The electronic card processes (ie, amplifies) an audio signal.

[0055] The electronic board comprises a plurality of electronic components. A column component of the plurality of column components abuts against the electronic card, that is, is in contact with the electronic card. In particular, the electronic components are positioned on the card so that a column component of the plurality of column components of the cooling plate abuts against these electronic components in contact.

[0056] According to one example, the method comprises the step of preparing a cover. The cover is fixed to the housing. The cover is positioned parallel to the bottom wall so that the fin section is interposed between the cover and the outer side of the cooling plate to define a duct system.

[0057] The method comprises the step of generating an air flow by means of a fan. The method may comprise the step of preparing the fan. Preferably, the fan is positioned between the cover and the outer side of the cooling plate. The air flow passes through the duct system.

[0058] There may be the step of passing the air flow generated by the fan through the duct system.

[0059] The method may include the step of transferring heat generated by electronic components of the electronic card from the electronic components to the cooling plate.The method may include the step of conveying heat through a duct system of the cooling plate by means of an air flow generated by a fan.

[0060] According to an example embodiment, a column component of the plurality of column components is (exclusively) located at a fin portion of the cooling plate. The method may include the step of transferring heat from the electronic components of the electronic card to the fin portion of the cooling plate through a column component of the plurality of column components.

[0061] The cooling plate may comprise one or more non-finned portions (thus without fins), ie one or more flat portions. Preferably, at the non-finned portions, there are no column members.

[0062] For example, the housing includes a side wall. The side wall is connected to the cooling plate along the periphery of the cooling plate (i.e., connected to the front wall). The side wall may include a front face. The amplifier includes one or more electrical connectors connected to the electronic card. The one or more electrical connectors may be positioned on the front face of the side wall.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the front face of the side wall defines an outlet opening in fluid communication with the duct system. A fan may be positioned between the fin and the outlet opening. The method may include the steps of preparing a side wall including a front face in the housing and preparing one or more electrical connectors connected to the electronic card and positioned on the front face of the side wall. The method may include the step of positioning the fan between the fin and the outlet opening, the outlet opening being prepared in the front face of the side wall. The method may include the step of fluidly connecting the outlet opening to the fin by means of the fan.

[0064] In particular, the housing comprises a side wall having a front face defining an outlet opening, and the method comprises the step of passing air between the fins and the outlet opening by means of a fan positioned between the fins and the outlet opening.

[0065] According to one example, the outlet opening is positioned at a central position of the front face. The duct system comprises a plurality of ducts. Preferably, the ducts are radially positioned for the outlet opening to communicate with an inlet opening of the duct system.

[0066] According to one example, the housing is made of a heat-conducting metal material. According to one example, the housing is made in one piece. In other words, the housing is made of a heat-conducting solid material. According to one example, the housing is made by die-casting.

[0067] The side wall may have a first side and a second side. The second side is opposite to the first side. The first side and the second side are separated from the front. The side wall may have a back side opposite to the front. The first side and the second side are separated from the back side. The first side and the second side, the front side and the back side define a side wall having a rectangular shape.

[0068] Preferably, the plurality of inlet holes are positioned on the back side and / or on the first side and / or on the second side.

[0069] More preferably, the plurality of inlet holes are positioned on the back side, on the first side and on the second side.

[0070] The method may include the step of causing the air flow to enter through a plurality of inlet apertures. The method may include the step of causing the air flow to pass through a duct system. The method may include the step of causing the air flow to escape through an outlet opening.

[0071] According to an example, the electronic component abutting against a pillar component of the plurality of pillar components comprises a power device. The electronic component (ie, the power device) may comprise a power switch and / or an integrated electronic power component.

[0072] According to an example embodiment, the method comprises the step of preparing a set of fastening posts in the housing and / or in the bottom wall, the set of fastening posts being connected to the electronic card and the housing and / or the bottom wall. The method may comprise the step of fastening the electronic card to the housing and / or the bottom wall using fastening screws.

[0073] Preferably, the method comprises the steps of preparing a set of fastening posts protruding from the inner side toward the bottom wall into the accommodation space, and fastening the electronic card to the housing through the fastening posts by means of fastening screws.

[0074] According to an example, the fan includes a plurality of blades positioned circularly around an axis of rotation. The method may include the step of rotating the plurality of blades around the axis of rotation. Preferably, the axis of rotation is perpendicular to a plane defined by a cooling plate. The fan may include a housing, and the plurality of blades may be positioned inside the housing. The housing is preferably box-shaped. The housing may be elongated primarily along an extension plane parallel to the plane defined by the cooling plate. In other words, the housing may be elongated primarily along an extension plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the plurality of blades. By rotating the blades, the fan generates an air flow. In particular, the fan generates a delivery flow toward the fan and a return flow from the fan by the rotation of the blades.

[0075] The housing has an inlet for air and an outlet for air. The delivery flow enters the housing through the inlet and leaves through the outlet. Preferably, the inlet is positioned on an extension plane of the housing. The inlet may have a circular shape. The inlet may be positioned at a plurality of blades aligned with the axis of rotation. Preferably, the outlet is positioned on a plane perpendicular to the extension plane of the housing (i.e., parallel to the axis of rotation). When the fan is positioned in the audio amplifier, the outlet of the housing is positioned at the outlet opening. The method may include the step of sucking air from the inlet of the housing by the fan. The method may include the step of diffusing the air radially relative to the axis of rotation. The method may include the step of conveying air in a predetermined direction through the outlet of the housing or passing the air through the outlet of the housing in a predetermined direction.

[0076] According to one example, the housing comprises a seat between the fin portion and the outlet opening. The seat constitutes a recessed portion (ie a recess) towards the bottom wall relative to a plane defined by the cooling plate (ie relative to the fin portion).

[0077] The fan may be at least partially received in the seat of the housing.

[0078] In particular, the seat has a first space and a second space. The first space and the second space are aligned along an axis perpendicular to the plane defined by the cooling plate. In particular, the housing of the fan is located in the first space. The second space is isolated from the external environment. The second space constitutes a compensation space for air arriving from the duct system and entering the housing of the fan.

[0079] The seat of the housing includes one or more support elements at the first space to support the housing of the fan in the first space. For example, the housing includes a pair of pins, which are located in the seat near the fin portion. The pair of pins can be coupled to a corresponding pair of pins of the housing of the fan. The housing may include a support element, which is located in the seat near the front position to support the housing of the fan. The fan is accommodated in the seat (particularly, in the first space) so that the outlet of the housing is aligned with the outlet opening. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0080] This and other characteristics will become more apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0081] Figure 1A and Figure 1B shows an exploded view of an audio amplifier according to one or more aspects of the present invention;

[0082] Figure 1C Shows Figure 1B A magnified view of the details;

[0083] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C An audio amplifier according to one or more aspects of the present invention is shown;

[0084] Figure 3 An audio amplifier according to one or more aspects of the present invention is shown, wherein the direction of air flow is schematically shown;

[0085] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C A fan of an audio amplifier according to one or more aspects of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] In the drawings, numeral 1 denotes an audio amplifier. The audio amplifier 1 includes a housing 11 and a bottom wall 12. The housing 11 and the bottom wall 12 are connected to each other to form a receiving space that is substantially closed relative to the external environment.

[0087] The housing 11 includes a cooling plate 111 forming a front wall of the housing 11. The cooling plate 111 (i.e., the front wall) is positioned parallel to the bottom wall 12. The cooling plate 111 and the bottom wall 12 have substantially the same extension. The housing 11 includes a side wall 112. The side wall 112 is connected to the front wall (i.e., the cooling plate 111) along the periphery of the front wall and is positioned perpendicular to the front wall (i.e., the cooling plate 111) and the bottom wall 12.

[0088] The side wall 112 has a front side 112A and a back side 112B opposite to the front side 112A. The side wall 112 has a first side surface 112C and a second side surface 112D opposite to the first side surface 112C. The first side surface 112C and the second side surface 112D are separated from the front side 112A and the back side 112B. The housing 11 and the bottom wall 12 together define a main body having a box shape.

[0089] In particular, the side wall 112 includes four corner elements 112E, which are positioned at the corners defined by the faces 112A, 112B, 112C and 112D of the side wall 112. The corner elements 112E protrude from the corners of the side wall 112 along a plane perpendicular to the side wall 112 (i.e., parallel to the bottom wall 12 or the cooling plate 111). Each corner element 112E includes a slot. Each slot is configured to accommodate a fastening screw to fasten the audio amplifier 1 to a support surface such as a vehicle.

[0090] The cooling plate 111 has an inner side surface 111A facing the accommodation space and an outer side surface 111B opposite to the inner side surface 111A. The cooling plate 111 is provided with a fin portion 111C, which protrudes from the outer side surface 111B and includes a plurality of fins A. Each fin A extends along a plane defined by the cooling plate 111 and extends in height in a plane transverse (or parallel) to the plane defined by the cooling plate 111. In particular, each fin A is spaced apart from adjacent fins A.

[0091] The audio amplifier 1 includes a cover 13. The cover 13 is preferably fixed to the front wall (i.e., cooling plate 111) of the housing 11 and positioned parallel to the bottom wall 12 (i.e., front wall). In this way, the fin portion 111C is interposed between the cover 13 and the outer side 112B of the cooling plate 111 to define a duct system. In particular, the duct system is formed by pairs of adjacent fins A.

[0092] The audio amplifier 1 comprises a fan 14 which is configured to generate an air flow through the duct system.

[0093] In particular, the front face 112A of the side wall 112 has an outlet opening 121 , so that the duct system and the outlet opening 121 are in fluid communication and the duct system is in communication with the external environment. The fan 14 is positioned between the fins (duct system) and the outlet opening 121 .

[0094] In particular, the cover 13 includes a grille 131. The cover 13 includes a main wall which is parallel to the cooling plate 11 when mounted on the housing 11. The grille 131 protrudes from the main wall of the cover 13 in a vertical direction so that when the cover 13 is coupled to the housing 11, the grille 131 is positioned at the outlet opening 121.

[0095] The duct system has a plurality of inlet holes 111D, that is, each duct includes an inlet hole 111D. The air flow generated by the fan 14 enters the duct system (particularly, through the duct) from the plurality of inlet holes 111D. The inlet holes of the plurality of inlet holes 111D are positioned on the back 112B, the first side 112C and the second side 112D. The duct system has a plurality of outlet holes 111E. The outlet holes 111E are located at the fan 14. In particular, the ducts of the duct system are radially positioned between the outlet holes 111E and the inlet holes 111D. The outlet opening 121 is fluidically connected to the outlet holes 111E through the fan 14, and is fluidically connected to the inlet holes 111D through the duct system. The air flow enters the duct system from the inlet hole 111D, passes through the duct system, and leaves the duct system through the outlet hole 111E; subsequently, the air flow enters the fan 14 and leaves the fan, and then escapes from the audio amplifier 1 through the outlet opening 121. In particular, the fan 14 may include a plurality of blades 141 and a housing 142. A plurality of blades 141 are positioned inside the housing 142 and are positioned circularly around the axis of rotation, and are configured to rotate around the axis of rotation to generate an air flow. The axis of rotation of the blades 141 is positioned perpendicular to the cooling plate 111. Preferably, the housing 142 is box-shaped and is mainly elongated along an extension plane parallel to the plane defined by the cooling plate 111 (in other words, the housing 142 is elongated along an extension plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the blades 141). The housing 142 has an air inlet 142A and an air outlet 142B. The fan 14 is configured to generate a delivery flow toward the fan 14 and a return flow 14 from the fan 14. The delivery flow enters the housing 142 through the inlet 142A and leaves through the outlet 142B of the housing. Preferably, the inlet 142A is positioned on the extension plane of the housing 142. In particular, the inlet 142A is a circular opening located at a plurality of blades 142 around the axis of rotation. Preferably, the outlet 142A of the housing 142 is positioned at the outlet opening 121 on a plane perpendicular to the extension plane of the housing 142. The fan 14 is a "fan unit".

[0096] The fan 14 is positioned on the housing 11 so that the housing 142 is spaced apart from the upper surface of the cooling plate 111; in this way, an air volume is defined between the upper surface of the cooling plate 111 and the housing 142 of the fan, which acts as a manifold; the manifold is in fluid communication with the duct system defined by the fins and with the suction port of the fan 14. The housing defines a central support surface 17 located at a position away from the duct system, and a pair of spacer columns 18 located at a position close to the duct system; the housing 142 of the fan rests on the central support surface and on the spacer columns. Preferably, the spacer columns 18 are provided with contact pins 181 protruding toward the cover 13; the contact pins 181 are operably inserted into corresponding holes formed in the housing 142 of the fan to ensure the correct positioning of the fan 14. When the cover 13 is fixed to the housing 11, the fan 14 is inserted between the cover located above and the central support surface 17 and the spacer columns 18 located below. A manifold air space is defined below the housing 142 (that is, below the fan 14). The purpose of the manifold air space is to collect air from the ducts of the duct system and create an area of ​​uniform pressure from which the fan draws air (axially) and then forces it radially (relative to the fan's impeller) through the outlet opening (protected by the grille 131). The length of the spacer 18 defines the height of the manifold air space measured parallel to the axis of rotation of the fan 14.

[0097] The audio amplifier 1 comprises an electronic card 15, which is configured for processing (ie amplifying) audio signals. The electronic card 15 is positioned in the accommodation space parallel to the bottom wall 12. The electronic card 15 comprises a plurality of electronic components.

[0098] The cooling plate 111 includes a plurality of column components 111F protruding from the inner side surface 111A toward the bottom wall 12 into the accommodation space. The plurality of column components 111F abut in contact with corresponding electronic components among the plurality of electronic components of the electronic card 15. In particular, the column component 111F extends between a first end positioned on the inner side surface 111A of the cooling plate 111 and a second end positioned to contact the electronic component of the electronic card 15 so as to transfer heat generated by the electronic component to the cooling plate 111. The column component 111F is located at the fin A of the cooling plate 111 (i.e., at the fin portion).

[0099] The housing 11 (cooling plate 111) includes a set of fastening columns 111G protruding from the inner side 111A into the accommodation space. The fastening columns 111G are configured to connect the housing 11 to the bottom wall 12. In particular, the fastening columns 111G are configured to fasten the electronic card 15 in the accommodation space between the housing 11 (cooling plate 11) and the bottom wall 12, for example, by means of fastening screws.

[0100] The audio amplifier 1 comprises one or more electrical connectors 16 which are positioned on the front face 112A of the side wall 112 at the side of the outlet opening 121 . The electrical connectors 16 are connected to the electronic card 15 .

[0101] During operation of the audio amplifier 1, heat generated by the electronic card 15, in particular by the electronic components (more specifically, by the power devices of the electronic card 15), is transferred from the column part 111F toward the fin part of the cooling plate 15. The fan 14 generates an air flow through the duct system. External air enters through the inlet hole 111D of the duct system and is transported through the duct system by the air flow generated by the fan 14. During the passage through the duct system, the air is heated in contact with the heat that has been transferred from the electronic components to the cooling plate 111 through the column part 111F. Subsequently, the air flow heated in this way escapes from the duct system through the outlet hole 111E and enters the fan 14. In particular, the heated air flow follows the delivery flow into the fan 14 through the inlet 142A, and follows the return flow out of the fan through the outlet 142B. Finally, the air flow escapes from the fan 14 toward the external environment through the outlet opening 121.

Claims

1. An audio amplifier (1) for automotive applications, comprising: -Bottom wall(12); - a shell (11) connected to the bottom wall (12) to form a receiving space between the shell (11) and the bottom wall (12), the receiving space being a closed space, wherein the shell (11) comprises a cooling plate (111), the cooling plate (111) being parallel to the bottom wall (12) and having an inner side surface (111A) facing the receiving space and an outer side surface (111B) opposite to the inner side surface (111A), the cooling plate (111) being provided with a fin portion (111C) protruding from the outer side surface (111B) and a plurality of column components (111F) extending from the inner side surface (111A) toward the bottom wall (12) into the receiving space; - an electronic card (15) positioned in the accommodation space and comprising a plurality of electronic components, the plurality of electronic components being positioned on the electronic card (15) such that a column component (111F) of the plurality of column components of the cooling plate (111) abuts against the plurality of electronic components, the electronic card (15) being configured to amplify an audio signal; - a cover (13) fixed to the housing (11) and positioned parallel to the bottom wall (12) so that the fin section (111C) is interposed between the cover (13) and the outer side (111B) of the cooling plate (111) to define a duct system; - a fan (14) mounted between the cover (13) and the outer side (111B) of the cooling plate (111) to generate an air flow through the duct system.

2. The audio amplifier (1) according to claim 1, wherein: A column member (111F) among the plurality of column members is located at the fin portion (111C) of the cooling plate (111).

3. The audio amplifier (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The housing (11) comprises a side wall (112) having a front face (112A), and the amplifier (1) comprises one or more electrical connectors (16) mounted on the front face (112A) of the side wall (112) and connected to the electronic card (15).

4. The audio amplifier (1) according to claim 3, wherein: The front face (112A) of the side wall (112) defines an outlet opening (121) in fluid communication with the duct system, and the fan (14) is mounted between the fin portion (111C) and the outlet opening (121).

5. The audio amplifier (1) according to claim 4, wherein: The cover (13) comprises a grille (131) located at the outlet opening (121) and formed integrally with the cover (13).

6. The audio amplifier (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The side wall (112) of the shell (11) has a first side surface (112C) and a second side surface (112D) and a back surface (112B) opposite to the front surface (112A), and the pipe system has a plurality of inlet holes (111D) located on the first side surface (112C), the second side surface (112D) and the back surface (112B).

7. The audio amplifier (1) according to claim 5, wherein: The outlet opening (121) is located at a central position of the front face (112A), and the duct system comprises a plurality of ducts radiating outwardly so that the outlet opening (121) and the inlet hole (111D) of the duct system are in fluid communication with each other.

8. The audio amplifier (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The shell (11) is made of a heat-conducting metal material and is an integral structure.

9. The audio amplifier (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The electronic component abutting against a column component (111F) among the plurality of column components comprises a power switch and / or an integrated electronic power component.

10. The audio amplifier (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The housing (11) comprises a set of fastening columns (111G), which protrude from the inner side surface (111A) toward the bottom wall (12) into the accommodating space and are configured to fasten the electronic card (15) to the housing (15) by means of fastening screws.

11. A method for cooling an audio amplifier (1), comprising the following steps: - providing a bottom wall (12) and a shell (11), the shell (11) being connected to the bottom wall (12) to form a receiving space between the shell (11) and the bottom wall (12), the receiving space being a closed space, wherein the shell (11) comprises a cooling plate (111), the cooling plate (111) being parallel to the bottom wall (12) and having an inner side surface (111A) facing the receiving space and an outer side surface (111B) opposite to the inner side surface (111A), the cooling plate (111) being provided with a fin portion (111C) protruding from the outer side surface (111B) and a plurality of column components (111F) extending from the inner side surface (111A) into the receiving space toward the bottom wall (12); - providing an electronic card (15), the electronic card (15) being positioned in the accommodation space and comprising a plurality of electronic components, the plurality of electronic components being positioned on the electronic card (15) such that a column component (111F) of the plurality of column components of the cooling plate (111) abuts against the plurality of electronic components, the electronic card (15) being configured to process audio signals; - providing a cover (13) which is fixed to the housing (11) and positioned parallel to the bottom wall (12) so that the fin section (111C) is interposed between the cover (13) and the outer side (111B) of the cooling plate (111) to define a duct system; - generating an air flow through the duct system via a fan (14) mounted between the cover (13) and the outer side (111B) of the cooling plate (111).

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein: A column member (111F) among the plurality of column members is located at the fin portion (111C) of the cooling plate (111).

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: The housing (13) includes a side wall (112) having a front face (112A) defining an outlet opening (121), the method comprising the step of causing air to flow between the fin portion (111C) and the outlet opening (121) by means of the fan (14), the fan (14) being mounted between the fin portion (111C) and the outlet opening (121).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The side wall (112) of the shell (11) has a first side surface (112C) and a second side surface (112D) and a back surface (112B) opposite to the front surface (112A), and the piping system has a plurality of inlet holes (111D) located on the first side surface (112C), the second side surface (112D) and the back surface (112E), and wherein the outlet opening (121) is located at a central position of the front surface (112A), and the piping system includes a plurality of outwardly radiating pipes so that the outlet opening (121) and the inlet hole (111D) of the piping system are in fluid communication with each other.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein: The electronic component abutting against a column component (111F) among the plurality of column components comprises a power switch and / or an integrated electronic power component.

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