Electronic device

Abstract

An electronic device (10) includes a cooling fan (40), a device body (20) accommodating the cooling fan (40) and having an upper body suction port (22e) formed in an upper surface (22a), and an upper external panel (51) covering the upper surface (22a). The upper outer panel (51) has a right panel (51R) covering the right portion of the upper surface (22a) and a second partial panel (51L) covering the left portion of the upper surface (22a). A space serving as an air suction port (Se) is ensured between the right panel (51R) and the left panel (51L). With this configuration, cooling performance in the electronic device may be further improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device. Background Art

[0002] PCT patent publication No. WO2021 / 193882 discloses an electronic device that can be used as a gaming device, a video reproduction device, etc. The electronic device has a device body that accommodates a circuit board, a cooling fan, etc., and an external panel mounted on the outer surface of the device body. An air intake port is formed in the outer surface of the device body. A space is ensured between the external panel and the outer surface of the device body. The space serves as an air flow path connected to the air intake port formed in the outer surface of the device body. The air flow path (space) is open to the front and right side of the electronic device. Through the opening, air is introduced into the air flow path between the external panel and the outer surface of the device body, thereby cooling the components inside the device body. Summary of the Invention

[0003] As the performance of a central processing unit (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU) included in a device main body increases, the amount of heat generated increases. Therefore, there is a need to improve cooling performance.

[0004] The electronic device disclosed herein includes a cooling fan, a device body, and a first external panel. The device body houses the cooling fan and has a first external surface and a first main body air intake port. The first external surface is an external surface on one side in a first direction. The first main body air intake port is formed in the first external surface. The first external panel covers the first external surface. The first external panel includes a first partial panel covering a portion of the first external surface and a second partial panel covering another portion of the first external surface. A space is secured between the first partial panel and the second partial panel to serve as the first air intake port.

[0005] Since the space between the first partial panel and the second partial panel also serves as the air intake, the cooling performance can be easily improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a perspective view of one example of an electronic device proposed in the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 2 It is a plan view of an electronic device.

[0008] Figure 3 is a front view of the electronic device.

[0009] Figure 4A is an exploded perspective view of the electronic device, and depicts an upper side of a device body, an upper side of an upper exterior panel, and an upper side of a lower exterior panel.

[0010] Figure 4Bis an exploded perspective view of the electronic device, and depicts the underside of the device body, the underside of the upper exterior panel, and the underside of the lower exterior panel.

[0011] Figure 5 yes Figure 4A A perspective view of the device body depicted in FIG.

[0012] Figure 6 It is a plan view of the main body of the equipment.

[0013] Figure 7 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII.

[0014] Figure 8 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII.

[0015] Figure 9A yes Figure 7 , and depicting the air intake formed in the upper exterior panel.

[0016] Figure 9B yes Figure 7 and depicting the air intake formed in the lower exterior panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Hereinafter, an electronic device proposed in the present disclosure will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. As an example, an electronic device 10 will be explained in the present disclosure.

[0018] In the following instructions, Figure 1 The Z1 direction and the Z2 direction in the drawings are referred to as the upper side and the lower side, respectively. In addition, the X1 direction and the X2 direction are referred to as the right side and the left side, respectively, and the Y1 direction and the Y2 direction are referred to as the front side and the rear side, respectively. These directions are defined to describe the shapes of the elements (components, members, and components) of the electronic device 10 and the relative positional relationships between them. Therefore, the directions in the drawings are not intended to limit the posture of the electronic device 10 during use.

[0019] [Electronic equipment]

[0020] For example, the electronic device 10 is an entertainment device used as a gaming device or an audio-visual device. The electronic device 10 outputs video image data generated by executing a game program, video / sound data obtained via a network, or video / sound data obtained from a recording medium such as an optical disc to a display device such as a television. Alternatively, the electronic device may be a personal computer or a server computer.

[0021] like Figure 4AAs shown, the electronic device 10 includes a device body 20, an upper external panel 51 covering an upper surface 22a of the device body 20, and a lower surface 23a (see FIG. Figure 4B )'s lower outer panel 52.

[0022] like Figure 4A As shown, the device body 20 has a housing 21. The housing 21 houses, for example, a circuit board 31 (see Figure 7 ). The circuit board 31 is equipped with various electronic components including a CPU, a GPU, and a memory. In addition, the housing 21 may include a power supply device 34 (see Figure 4A The power supply device 34 receives power from outside the electronic device 10 and supplies power for driving devices included in the device body 20 (for example, the circuit board 31 and the cooling fan 40 ).

[0023] Furthermore, a cooling fan 40 and heat radiators (eg, heat sinks 32A and 32B and heat pipes 33) are provided in the housing 21 (see FIG. Figure 7 The heat radiator is connected to an electronic component such as a CPU. The cooling fan 40 introduces external air into the housing 21 and forms an air flow passing through the heat radiator.

[0024] The housing 21 may include, for example, an upper housing 21U (see Figure 7 ) and the lower housing 21L (refer to Figure 7 The upper case 21U covers the upper side of the circuit board 31, the upper side of the cooling fan 40, etc. The upper case 21U has an upper surface 22a (see FIG. 22 ) constituting the device body 20. Figure 4A ) of the upper wall 22. The lower case 21L covers the lower side of the circuit board 31, the lower side of the cooling fan 40, etc. The lower case 21L has a lower surface 23a (see Figure 4B )'s lower wall 23.

[0025] like Figure 7 As shown, cooling fan 40 includes an impeller 41 and a drive unit 42. Drive unit 42 houses an electric motor. Cooling fan 40 is arranged so that impeller 41 rotates about an axis Ax1 extending in the vertical direction. Impeller 41 has a plurality of fins 41a arranged in the direction of rotation of impeller 41. Each fin 41a is connected to the outer peripheral surface of drive unit 42.

[0026] like Figure 7As shown, the circuit board 31 is arranged to intersect the vertical direction. In the vertical direction, the circuit board 31 may be positioned between the upper end of the impeller 41 (the upper edge 41c of each fin 41a) and the lower end of the impeller 41 (the lower edge 41d of each fin 41a). When the cooling fan 40 is driven, air flows outward in the radial direction of the impeller 41. Airflows F3 and F4 are then formed above and below the circuit board 31, respectively, along the circuit board 31.

[0027] [Inhalation]

[0028] An air intake port 22e is formed on the upper surface 22a (ie, the upper wall 22) of the device body 20 (see Figure 4A and Figure 7 ). In addition, the air intake 23e (see Figure 4B and 7 ) are formed in the lower wall 23 of the housing 21 (hereinafter, the air intake ports 22e and 23e are referred to as the "upper body air intake port" and the "lower body air intake port," respectively). The upper body air intake port 22e is formed directly above the cooling fan 40. The lower body air intake port 23e is formed directly below the cooling fan 40. The cooling fan 40 is positioned between the upper body air intake port 22e and the lower body air intake port 23e.

[0029] like Figure 7 As shown, an upper air flow path Pa is formed between the upper surface 22a of the device body 20 and the upper outer panel 51. A space is ensured between the upper surface 22a of the device body 20 and the upper outer panel 51. This space serves as the upper air flow path Pa. Figure 3 As shown, air intakes Sa and Sb are formed between the outer peripheral edge of the upper exterior panel 51 and the apparatus body 20. External air is introduced into the upper air flow path Pa through the air intakes Sa and Sb and flows toward the upper body air intake 22e.

[0030] like Figure 3 As shown, the air intake ports Sa and Sb are formed, for example, between the edge of the upper exterior panel 51 and the edge of the upper surface 22a of the device body 20. More specifically, the air intake ports Sa and Sb are formed between the front and right edges of the right panel 51R to be described later and the edge of the upper surface 22a of the device body 20.

[0031] The air intake ports Sa and Sb may be open in a direction intersecting the axis Ax1 of the cooling fan 40. For example, the air intake port Sa may be open to the front side of the electronic device 10, while the air intake port Sb may be open to the right side of the electronic device 10. The air intake ports Sa and Sb may be connected to each other at a corner of the electronic device 10.

[0032] The lower portion of the electronic device 10 also has a similar air intake structure as the upper portion. Figure 7As shown, a lower air flow path Pb is formed between the lower surface 23a of the device body 20 and the lower outer panel 52. A space is ensured between the lower surface 23a of the device body 20 and the lower outer panel 52. This space serves as the lower air flow path Pb. Figure 3 As shown, air intakes Sc and Sd are formed between the edge of the lower exterior panel 52 and the apparatus body 20. External air is introduced into the lower air flow path Pb through the air intakes Sc and Sd, and flows toward the lower body air intake 23e.

[0033] like Figure 3 As shown, the air intake ports Sc and Sd are formed, for example, between the edge of the lower outer panel 52 and the edge of the lower surface 23a of the device body 20. More specifically, the air intake ports Sc and Sd are formed between the front and right edges of the right panel 52R to be described later and the edge of the lower surface 23a of the device body 20.

[0034] The air intake ports Sc and Sd may be open in a direction intersecting the axis Ax1 of the cooling fan 40. For example, the air intake port Sc may be open to the front side of the electronic device 10, while the air intake port Sd may be open to the right side of the electronic device 10. The air intake ports Sc and Sd may be connected to each other at a corner of the electronic device 10.

[0035] The structures of the upper and lower air flow paths Pa, Pb and the air intake ports Sa, Sb, Sc, Sd are not limited to Figure 3 For example, the external panels 51 and 52 may be arranged so as to allow air to be introduced from the rear side and / or left side of the electronic device 10 in addition to the front side and right side of the electronic device 10.

[0036] In another example, the upper portion of the electronic device 10 may have only one of the air inlet Sa opened to the front and the air inlet Sb opened to the right. In addition, the lower portion of the electronic device 10 may have only one of the air inlet Sc opened to the front and the air inlet Sd opened to the right.

[0037] In another example, the upper outer panel 51 may have an air inlet located directly above the main body air inlet 22e instead of the air inlets Sa and Sb. Furthermore, the lower outer panel 52 may have an air inlet located directly below the main body air inlet 23e instead of the air inlets Sc and Sb.

[0038] The outer panels 51 and 52 each have Figure 1etc., but may have a box-like shape with its upper or lower side open. That is, the peripheral portion of the external panel 51 may be bent downward so as to surround the peripheral surface (front surface and right and left side surfaces) of the device body 20. In this case, the air intake ports Sa and Sb may be formed along the peripheral surface of the device body 20. In addition, the peripheral portion of the external panel 52 may be bent upward so as to surround the peripheral surface (front surface and right and left side surfaces) of the device body 20. In this case, the air intake ports Sc and Sd may be formed along the peripheral surface of the device body 20.

[0039] [Assisted air flow path]

[0040] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the device body 20 has an auxiliary air flow path Pc. The auxiliary air flow path Pc extends through the device body 20 in the up-down direction. The housing 21 of the device body 20 has a tubular flow path wall 24. The auxiliary air flow path Pc is defined by the tubular flow path wall 24.

[0041] The air introduced from the outside can pass through the auxiliary air flow path Pc from one of the lower side and the upper side toward the other side in the device body 20. In the example explained in this disclosure, the air flows from the lower side toward the upper side in the device body 20 ( Figure 8 (Figure 5 shows air flow F5 passing through auxiliary air flow path Pc). Even if there is a difference in air intake performance between the upper main body air intake port 22e and the lower main body air intake port 23e, the auxiliary air flow path Pc can still supply air in amounts corresponding to the respective air intake performances to the main body air intake ports 22e and 23e. Specifically, the auxiliary air flow path Pc can supply a sufficient amount of air to the air intake port with greater air intake performance.

[0042] The auxiliary air flow path Pc can be formed within the outer surface of the electronic device 10 (more specifically, the outer peripheral surface of the device body 20). In other words, the auxiliary air flow path Pc may not be exposed to the outer surface of the electronic device 10. Accordingly, it is possible to form the air flow F5 from the lower side to the upper side in the device body 20 while suppressing the influence of the auxiliary air flow path Pc on the appearance of the electronic device 10.

[0043] like Figure 7 As shown, the impeller 41 of the cooling fan 40 has guide sections 41e and 41f between the upper end (the upper edge 41c of each fin 41a) and the lower end (the lower edge 41d of each fin 41a). The guide sections 41e and 41f extend in the direction of rotation of the impeller 41 and connect the plurality of fins 41a to each other. The guide sections 41e and 41f can each be formed into an annular shape and connect all the fins 41a to each other.

[0044] like Figure 7 As shown, when the cooling fan 40 is driven, air (airflow F12) introduced into the device body 20 through the upper body air intake port 22e is guided radially outward by the guide sections 41e and 41f. This air then forms airflow F3 above the circuit board 31. Furthermore, air (airflow F22) introduced into the device body 20 through the lower body air intake port 23e is guided radially outward by the guide sections 41e and 41f. This air then forms airflow F4 below the circuit board 31.

[0045] like Figure 7 As depicted in FIG, the position of the circuit board 31 in the vertical direction is lower than the horizontal plane Ph, which passes through the center between the upper end (upper edge 41c) and the lower end (lower edge 41d) of the impeller 41 (that is, the circuit board 31 is relatively close to the lower edge 41d of each fin 41a). In accordance with the position of the circuit board 31, the positions of the guide sections 41e and 41f are also lower than the horizontal plane Ph.

[0046] The air intake ports Sa and Sb are provided on the upper portion of the electronic device 10 (see Figure 3 ) and the air intakes Sc and Sd provided at the bottom (see Figure 3 ) have substantially the same size, and the amount of air passing through these ports is also substantially equal to each other. At the same time, due to the positions of the guide sections 41e and 41f, the air suction performance for the air from above the cooling fan 40 and the suction performance for the air from below the cooling fan 40 are unbalanced. Specifically, the positions of the guide sections 41e and 41f are quite close to the lower end side of the impeller 41, so that the suction performance for the air from above the cooling fan 40 (the suction performance of the upper main body suction port 22e) is greater than the suction performance for the air from below the cooling fan 40 (the suction performance of the lower main body suction port 23e). Therefore, the air introduced upward from the suction ports Sc and Sd provided in the lower portion of the electronic device 10 passes through the auxiliary air flow path Pc (see Figure 8 Then, the air is introduced into the housing 21 through the upper main body air inlet 22e. Accordingly, the suction performance of the air above the cooling fan 40 and the suction performance of the air below the cooling fan 40 can be fully exerted.

[0047] like Figure 7As shown, impeller 41 has two guide sections 41e and 41f. Guide section 41f is positioned radially outward of guide section 41e. A space is formed between the outer peripheral edge of inner guide section 41e and the inner peripheral edge of outer guide section 41f. Airflow is generated in this space. The two guide sections 41e and 41f facilitate achieving an appropriate balance between airflow F3 formed above circuit board 31 and airflow F4 formed below circuit board 31.

[0048] It should be noted that Figure 7 Unlike the example shown, the number of guide sections included in the impeller 41 may be one, or may be greater than two. Alternatively, the impeller 41 may not be provided with a guide section.

[0049] like Figure 8 As shown, the auxiliary air flow path Pc connects the upper air flow path Pa formed on the upper side of the device body 20 to the lower air flow path Pb formed on the lower side of the device body 20. As a result, part of the air flowing through one of the air flow paths Pa and Pb is added to the other of the air flow paths Pa and Pb via the auxiliary air flow path Pc. Figure 8 In the example depicted in FIG, a portion of the air flowing through the lower air flow path Pb ( Figure 8 F5 in ( ) is added to the upper air flow path Pa via the auxiliary air flow path Pc, as previously explained. This allows for full utilization of both the suction performance of air above the cooling fan 40 and the suction performance of air below the cooling fan 40.

[0050] like Figure 8 As shown, the auxiliary air flow path Pc is open upward. The upward opening of the auxiliary air flow path Pc is covered by the upper outer panel 51. With this configuration, the air passing through the auxiliary air flow path Pc is guided by the upper outer panel 51 toward the upper body air intake 22e.

[0051] When the electronic device 10 is viewed in plan, the auxiliary air flow path Pc can be completely covered by the upper exterior panel 51. The front and right edges of the upper exterior panel 51, more specifically the front and right edges of the right panel 51R (described later), extend forward and to the right beyond the outer peripheral surface (front and right side surfaces) of the device body 20. This prevents the auxiliary air flow path Pc from being exposed. Unlike the example depicted in the accompanying drawings, the auxiliary air flow path Pc can be partially exposed from the upper exterior panel 51.

[0052] In addition, if Figure 8As shown, the auxiliary air flow path Pc is open downward. This opening is covered by the lower outer panel 52. With this configuration, a portion of the air that has been introduced from the air intake ports Sc and Sd after passing above the lower outer panel 52 flows into the auxiliary air flow path Pc.

[0053] When viewing the electronic device 10 from the bottom, the auxiliary air flow path Pc is entirely covered by the lower outer panel 52. The front and right edges of the lower outer panel 52, more specifically the front and right edges of the right panel 52R (described later), extend forward and to the right beyond the outer peripheral surface (front surface and right side surface) of the device body 20. Accordingly, when, for example, the electronic device 10 is held in an upright position, the auxiliary air flow path Pc is prevented from being exposed. Unlike the example depicted in the accompanying drawings, the auxiliary air flow path Pc may be partially exposed from the lower outer panel 52.

[0054] In contrast to the example depicted in the drawings, the cooling fan 40 may be provided so that the suction performance for air from below the cooling fan 40 becomes greater than the suction performance for air from above the cooling fan 40. In this case, a portion of the air introduced from the air intake ports Sa and Sb provided at the upper portion of the electronic device 10 flows into the auxiliary air flow path Pc. The air then passes through the auxiliary air flow path Pc and reaches the lower side of the device body 20.

[0055] [Location of auxiliary air flow path]

[0056] like Figure 2 As shown, when viewing the electronic device 10 from above and below (the axis of the cooling fan 40), the auxiliary air flow path Pc is located outside the main body air intake ports 22e and 23e. Specifically, the auxiliary air flow path Pc is positioned between the main body air intake port 22e and the air intake ports Sa and Sb. Furthermore, the auxiliary air flow path Pc is positioned between the main body air intake port 23e and the air intake ports Sc and Sd. In other words, a straight line L1 passing through the centers of the main body air intake ports 22e, 23e and the air intake ports Sa, Sb, Sc, and Sd intersects the auxiliary air flow path Pc.

[0057] Since the auxiliary air flow path Pc is positioned between the main body air intake port 23e and the air intake ports Sc and Sd, air flow from the air intake ports Sc and Sd toward the auxiliary air flow path Pc can be smoothly formed. In addition, since the auxiliary air flow path Pc is positioned between the main body air intake port 22e and the air intake ports Sa and Sb, air flowing out of the auxiliary air flow path Pc is added to the air flow from the air intake ports Sa and Sb toward the upper main body air intake port 22e.

[0058] Figure 2The straight line L1 in the figure may be a straight line passing through the center of the main body air inlets 22e, 23e. In addition, the straight line L1 may be a straight line passing through the approximate center of the air inlets Sa, Sb, Sc, and Sd (the connection point between the air inlets Sa and Sc on the front side and the air inlets Sb and Sd on the right side). In addition, the auxiliary air flow path Pc may be a straight line with the width W1 of the auxiliary air flow path Pc (see Figure 6 ) are formed by intersecting the approximate centers of the two sides.

[0059] The position of the auxiliary air flow path Pc is not limited to Figure 6 As an example, the approximate center of the width W1 of the auxiliary air flow path Pc may be offset from the straight line L1.

[0060] like Figure 6 As shown, auxiliary air flow path Pc is located between corner 20c of device body 20 and upper and lower main body air intake ports 22e, 23e. More specifically, main body air intake ports 22e, 23e are formed in the front right portion of device body 20. This position of auxiliary air flow path Pc is between corner 20c on the front right side of device body 20 and main body air intake ports 22e, 23e. Consequently, areas of device body 20 that are prone to becoming dead zones (areas around corners) are effectively used to form auxiliary air flow path Pc.

[0061] like Figure 7 As shown, the upper outer panel 51 can be curved in such a manner that the distance between the upper surface 22a and the upper outer panel 51 gradually increases toward the corner 20c of the device body 20. In addition, the lower outer panel 52 can be curved in such a manner that the distance between the lower surface 23a and the lower outer panel 52 gradually increases toward the corner 20c of the device body 20. With this configuration, the flow of air through the auxiliary air flow path Pc can be smoothed.

[0062] [Dimensions of auxiliary air flow path]

[0063] The cooling fan 40 is provided with an impeller 41, which is rotatable about an axis Ax1 extending in the vertical direction as described above. Figure 6 As shown, the angle range θ1 of the auxiliary air flow path Pc in the circumferential direction around the axis Ax1 may be 10 degrees or more. By configuring in this way, it is possible to easily form an air flow inside the auxiliary air flow path Pc.

[0064] The angle range θ1 of the auxiliary air flow path Pc is preferably 20 degrees or greater. The angle range θ1 is more preferably 30 degrees or greater. The angle range θ1 may be 40 degrees or greater. As the angle range θ1 increases, the amount of air passing through the auxiliary air flow path Pc can be increased.

[0065] The angle range θ1 may be equal to or smaller than 60 degrees. By limiting the angle range θ1 in this manner, it is possible to reduce the influence on the arrangement of components in the device body 20.

[0066] like Figure 6 As shown, the inner surface of the auxiliary air flow path Pc may include a surface 24c along the right side surface of the device body 20 and a surface 24a along the front surface of the device body 20. The inner surface of the auxiliary air flow path Pc may also include an inclined surface 24b that intersects the straight line L1. That is, the auxiliary air flow path Pc may also have a roughly triangular shape formed by three surfaces (24c, 24a, 24b). According to the auxiliary air flow path Pc of this shape, the size of the auxiliary air flow path Pc can be increased between the corner 20c of the device body 20 and the main body air intake 22e, 23e. The front surface of the device body 20 is the surface on which the power button, connector, etc. of the electronic device 10 are provided.

[0067] Note that the shape of the auxiliary air flow path Pc is not limited to a substantially triangular shape. The auxiliary air flow path Pc may be circular or elliptical.

[0068] The air flow path Pd (see Figure 7 and Figure 8 ) is contained in the device body 20 (inside the housing 21). Figure 6 The air flow F6 shown. The housing 21 has a flow path wall 24e (refer to Figure 7 、 Figure 8 The flow path wall 24 e is curved so as to surround the impeller 41 , and an air flow path Pd is formed between the flow path wall 24 e and the impeller 41 .

[0069] The housing 21 has a tubular flow path wall 24 defining the auxiliary air flow path Pc, as previously described. The tubular flow path wall 24 includes a wall portion constituting an inclined surface 24b (see Figure 6 ). A portion of the flow path wall 24e surrounding the impeller 41 constitutes the inclined surface 24b of the tubular flow path wall 24. That is, an air flow path Pd is formed inside the flow path wall 24e surrounding the impeller 41 (refer to Figure 7 、 Figure 8 ), an auxiliary air flow path Pc is formed on the outer side of the flow path wall 24e.

[0070] The housing 21 includes an upper housing 21U and a lower housing 21L that are joined together in the vertical direction. Figure 8As shown, the upper housing 21U includes an upper portion of a tubular flow path wall 24 that defines the auxiliary air flow path Pc. The lower housing 21L includes a lower portion of the tubular flow path wall 24. The upper portion of the tubular flow path wall 24 may have a connecting section 24g. The lower portion of the tubular flow path wall 24 may have a connecting section 24h. The connecting sections 24g and 24h are secured to each other using a fixing means such as screws.

[0071] [Upper panel air intake]

[0072] like Figure 4A As shown, the upper outer panel 51 includes two outer panels arranged side by side in the left-right direction. That is, the upper outer panel 51 has a left panel 51L covering the left portion of the upper surface 22a of the device body 20 and a right panel 51R covering the right portion of the upper surface 22a.

[0073] like Figure 9A As shown, a space serving as an air intake port Se is secured between the left panel 51L and the right panel 51R. The left panel 51L and the right panel 51R respectively have a right edge 51a and a left edge 51b that are opposed to each other in the left-right direction. This space is secured between the edges 51a and 51b of the partial panels 51L and 51R, that is, between the right end surface of the left panel 51L and the left end surface of the right panel 51R, serving as the air intake port Se.

[0074] Since the space between the left panel 51L and the right panel 51R is also used as the air intake Se, the cooling performance can be further improved compared to, for example, using only the air intakes Sa and Sb.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the upper main body air intake 22e formed in the device body 20 is completely covered by the right panel 51R. In other words, the upper main body air intake 22e does not protrude from between the partial panels 51R and 51L. This configuration can prevent foreign matter such as dust from entering the upper main body air intake 22e.

[0076] The upper main body air inlet 22e is formed with a cover 47U having a plurality of openings (see Figure 4A The cover 47U prevents foreign matter from entering the apparatus body 20 through the main body air inlet 22e. The right panel 51R may completely cover the cover 47U.

[0077] Inlet Sa and Sb (see Figure 3 ) is formed between the outer edge of the upper outer panel 51 and the outer peripheral edge of the device body 20, as described above. Therefore, the air introduced from the air inlets Sa, Sb and the air introduced from the upper panel air inlet Se are introduced from the upper body air inlet 22e (refer to Figure 7) is introduced. Therefore, the cooling performance in the electronic device 10 can be improved.

[0078] like Figure 3 As depicted, the air intake ports Sa and Sb open in a direction intersecting the axis Ax1 of the cooling fan 40. Specifically, the air intake port Sa opens toward the front of the electronic device 10, and the air intake port Sb opens toward the right side of the electronic device 10. Meanwhile, the upper panel air intake port Se opens upward. Thus, the air intake ports Sa, Sb, and the upper panel air intake port Se open in mutually orthogonal directions.

[0079] The right panel 51R and the left panel 51L can be removed independently from the device body 20. That is, only the right panel 51R can be removed from the device body 20, and only the left panel 51L can be removed from the device body 20. The engaging protrusions 51e and 51f (see FIG. 22 ) that engage with the upper surface 22a of the device body 20 are Figure 4B ) are formed on the lower surfaces of the corresponding partial panels 51R and 51L.

[0080] There is no structure connecting the right edge 51a (see FIG9A ) of the left panel 51L and the left edge 51b (see FIG9A ) of the right panel 51R. Therefore, air outside the electronic device 10 can smoothly pass through the upper panel air intake Se.

[0081] like Figure 1 As depicted in FIG, edges 51a and 51b of partial panels 51L and 51R are substantially parallel to each other. This prevents the width of the space between edges 51a and 51b from increasing excessively. Consequently, the extent to which upper surface 22a of device body 20 is exposed from this space can be reduced. The width of the space between partial panels 51L and 51R can be determined to minimize the impact on the appearance of electronic device 10.

[0082] like Figure 2 As shown, edges 51a and 51b of the partial panels 51L and 51R may extend diagonally with respect to both the front-rear direction and the left-right direction of the electronic device 10. The edges 51a and 51b may extend linearly in a plan view of the electronic device 10.

[0083] like Figure 2 As shown, the space between the edges 51a and 51b of the partial panels 51L and 51R extends from the rear edge to the front edge of the upper outer panel 51. With this structure, it is easy to ensure a sufficient length for the upper panel air intake port Se. Only a portion of the space in the length direction (for example, the center and front portion) can be used as the upper panel air intake port Se. In contrast, the entire space can also be used as the upper panel air intake port Se.

[0084] like Figure 9A As shown, the right edge 51a of the left panel 51L can be flush with the left edge 51b of the right panel 51R. That is, the surface of the partial panel 51L and the surface of the partial panel 51R can be positioned in the same plane H1 around the edges 51a and 51b. The structure of the partial panels 51L and 51R can prevent foreign matter from being caught on the edges 51a and 51b of the partial panels 51L and 51R, and can protect the edges 51a and 51b from being damaged. Figure 9A Unlike the example depicted in FIG. 5 , the positions of the right edge 51 a of the left panel 51L and the left edge 51 b of the right panel 51R in the up-down direction may be displaced from each other.

[0085] like Figure 5 As shown, the upper surface 22a of the device body 20 has a first area 22m and a second area 22n. The upper body air inlet 22e is formed in the first area 22m. The first area 22m is covered by the right panel 51R of the upper outer panel 51. The upper air flow path Pa (refer to Figure 7 ) is formed between the first region 22m and the right panel 51R of the upper outer panel 51. The first region 22m is a region corresponding to the upper air flow path Pa.

[0086] like Figure 5 As shown, the first region 22m of the upper surface 22a is recessed from the remaining region (the second region 22n). In other words, the second region 22n is recessed from the horizontal plane Ph (refer to Figure 7 ) to the upper wall 22 is greater than the distance from the horizontal plane Ph to the upper wall 22 in the first region 22m. The second region 22n may have a portion positioned on the left side of the first region 22m and a portion positioned on the rear side of the first region 22m, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 The upper surface 22a of the device body 20 may be in contact with the upper exterior panel 51 at the second region 22n.

[0087] Since the distance from the horizontal plane Ph to the upper wall 22 is large in the second region 22n, the device body 20 is allowed to have a large volume in the second region 22n. In the second region 22n, for example, the heat sink 32A (see Figure 7 ) can be set below the upper wall 22.

[0088] like Figure 5 As shown, the outer peripheral portion of the first area 22m of the upper surface 22a may have an inclined area 22p. The inclined area 22p may surround the upper body air intake 22e. In more detail, the inclined area 22p may be formed on the left and rear sides of the upper body air intake 22e. The radiator 32A may be partially positioned below the inclined area 22p, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the left-right dimension of the heat sink 32A can be increased.

[0089] like Figure 9A As shown, the position of the inclined area 22p corresponds to the space between the edges 51a and 51b of the partial panels 51L and 51R (the upper panel air intake port Se). In other words, the inclined area 22p is located below the upper panel air intake port Se. The air introduced from the upper panel air intake port Se is guided by the inclined area 22p toward the upper body air intake port 22e.

[0090] like Figure 9A As shown, the upper surface 22a of the device body 20 extends to the right edge 51a of the left panel 51L. The boundary 22u between the inclined area 22p and the second area 22n is located below the left panel 51L.

[0091] [Lower panel air intake]

[0092] The upper panel air intake port Se is formed in the above-described manner at the upper portion of the electronic device 10. The lower portion of the electronic device 10 has an air intake structure similar to that of the upper portion.

[0093] Specifically, if Figure 4B As shown, the lower outer panel 52 also includes two outer panels 52R and 52L arranged side by side in the left-right direction. That is, the lower outer panel 52 has a left panel 52L covering the left portion of the lower surface 23a of the device body 20 and a right panel 52R covering the right portion of the lower surface 23a.

[0094] like Figure 9B As shown, a space serving as an air intake port Sf is secured between the left panel 52L and the right panel 52R. The left panel 52L and the right panel 52R respectively include a right edge 52a and a left edge 52b that are opposed to each other in the left-right direction. This space is secured between the right edge 52a of the left panel 52L and the left edge 52b of the right panel 52R, that is, between the right end surface of the left panel 52L and the left end surface of the right panel 52R, serving as the air intake port Sf.

[0095] Since the space between the left panel 52L and the right panel 52R is also used as the air intake port Sf, it is easy to further improve the cooling performance compared to, for example, the case of using only the air intake ports Sc and Sd. Hereinafter, the air intake port Sf is referred to as the "lower panel air intake port".

[0096] like Figure 7 As shown, the lower main body air inlet 23e is completely covered by the right panel 52R. Therefore, the lower main body air inlet 23e does not protrude from between the partial panels 52R and 52. This configuration can prevent foreign matter such as dust from directly entering the lower main body air inlet 23e.

[0097] The lower main body air inlet 23e is formed with a cover 47L having a plurality of openings (see Figure 4B The cover 47L prevents foreign matter from entering the apparatus body 20 through the main body air inlet 23e. The right panel 52R may completely cover the cover 47L.

[0098] As mentioned above, the suction ports Sc and Sd (see Figure 3 ) is formed between the outer edge of the lower outer panel 52 and the outer peripheral edge of the device body 20. The air introduced from the air inlets Sc, Sd and the air introduced from the lower panel air inlet Sf are passed through the lower air flow path Pb from the lower body air inlet 23e (refer to Figure 7 ) is introduced. Therefore, the cooling performance in the electronic device 10 can be improved.

[0099] like Figure 3 As depicted in FIG, the air intake ports Sc and Sd open in a direction intersecting the axis Ax1 of the cooling fan 40. Specifically, the air intake port Sc opens toward the front of the electronic device 10, and the air intake port Sd opens toward the right side of the electronic device 10. Meanwhile, the lower panel air intake port Sf opens downward. In this manner, the air intake ports Sc, Sd, and lower panel air intake port Sf open in mutually orthogonal directions.

[0100] Like the partial panels 51R and 51L of the upper exterior panel 51, the partial panels 52R and 52L can be removed independently from the device body 20. The engaging protrusions 52e and 52f (see FIG. 2 ) that engage with the upper surface 22a of the device body 20 are shown in FIG. Figure 4A ) are formed on the lower surfaces of the corresponding partial panels 52R and 52L.

[0101] There is no structure connecting the right edge 52a of the left panel 52L and the left edge 52b of the right panel 52R, so that the outside air can smoothly pass through the lower panel air intake port Sf.

[0102] The edges 52a and 52b of the partial panels 52L and 52R can be substantially parallel to each other. This can prevent the width of the space between the edges 52a and 52b from increasing excessively. As a result, the extent to which the lower surface 23a of the device body 20 is exposed from this space can be reduced. The width of the space between the edges 52a and 52b of the partial panels 52L and 52R can be determined to minimize the impact on the appearance of the electronic device 10.

[0103] The edges 52a and 52b of the partial panels 52L and 52R may extend diagonally with respect to both the front-rear direction and the left-right direction of the electronic device 10. The edges 52a and 52b may extend linearly in a plan view of the electronic device 10.

[0104] like Figure 4BAs shown, the space between the edges 52a and 52b of the partial panels 52L and 52R extends from the rear edge to the front edge of the lower outer panel 52. This structure can easily ensure a sufficient length for the lower panel air intake Sf. Only a portion of the space in the length direction (for example, the center and front portions) can be used as the lower panel air intake Sf. In contrast, the entire space can also be used as the lower panel air intake Sf.

[0105] like Figure 9B As shown, the right edge 52a of the left panel 52L can be flush with the left edge 52b of the right panel 52R. That is, the surface of the partial panel 52L and the surface of the partial panel 52R can be positioned in the same plane H2 around the edges 52a and 52b. By such a structure of the partial panels 52L and 52R, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from being caught on the edges 52a and 52b of the partial panels 52L and 52R, and to protect the edges 52a and 52b from being damaged. It should be noted that Figure 9B Unlike the example depicted in FIG. 5 , the positions of the right edge 52 a of the left panel 52L and the left edge 52 b of the right panel 52R in the up-down direction may be displaced from each other.

[0106] like Figure 7 As shown, the lower surface 23a of the device body 20 has a first area 23m and a second area 23n. The lower body air intake 23e is formed in the first area 23m. The first area 23m is covered by the right panel 51R of the upper outer panel 51. The lower air flow path Pb is formed between the first area 23m and the right panel 51R of the upper outer panel 51. The first area 23m corresponds to the lower air flow path Pb.

[0107] like Figure 7 As shown, the first area 23m of the lower surface 23a of the device body 20 is recessed from the remaining area (second area 23n). In other words, the second area 23n is recessed from the horizontal plane Ph (refer to Figure 7 ) to the lower wall 23 is greater than the distance from the horizontal plane Ph to the lower wall 23 in the first region 23m. The lower surface 23a of the device body 20 can be in contact with the lower outer panel 52 in the second region 23n. Since the distance from the horizontal plane Ph to the lower wall 23 in the second region 23n is large as described above, the device body 20 is allowed to have a large volume in the second region 23n.

[0108] like Figure 9B As shown, the outer peripheral portion of the first area 23m of the lower surface 23a may have an inclined area 23p. The inclined area 23p may surround the lower body air inlet 23e. In more detail, the inclined area 23p may be formed on the left and rear sides of the lower body air inlet 23e.

[0109] like Figure 9BAs shown, the position of the inclined region 23p corresponds to the space between the edges 52a and 52b of the partial panels 52L and 52R (the lower panel air intake port Sf). In other words, the inclined region 23p is located above the lower panel air intake port Sf. The air introduced from the lower panel air intake port Sf is guided by the lower surface 23a in the inclined region 23p toward the lower body air intake port 23e.

[0110] like Figure 9B As shown, the lower surface 23a of the device body 20 extends to the right edge 52a of the left panel 52L. The boundary 23u between the inclined area 23p and the second area 23n is located above the left panel 51L.

[0111] [Overview of the structure related to the upper and lower panel air intake ports]

[0112] (1) The electronic device proposed by the present disclosure includes a cooling fan, a device body, and a first external panel, the device body accommodating the cooling fan and having a first external surface and a first main body air intake port, the first external surface being an external surface on one side in a first direction, the first main body air intake port being formed in the first external surface, and the first external panel covering the first external surface. The first external panel includes a first partial panel covering a portion of the first external surface and a second partial panel covering another portion of the first external surface. A space serving as the first air intake port is ensured between the first partial panel and the second partial panel. Since the space between the first partial panel and the second partial panel also serves as the air intake port, it is easy to improve the cooling performance.

[0113] (2) In the electronic device according to (1), a second air intake port can be ensured between the outer peripheral edge of the device body and the edge of at least one of the first partial panel and the second partial panel, and a first air flow path can be formed between at least one of the partial panels and the first outer surface of the device body, through which air flows from the first air intake port and the second air intake port toward the first main body air intake port. With this configuration, the air suction performance of the electronic device can be improved.

[0114] (3) In the electronic device according to (2), the second air intake port may be open in a direction intersecting with the first direction.

[0115] (4) In the electronic device according to (1) to (3), the first partial panel and the second partial panel may respectively have a first edge and a second edge facing each other. A space serving as the first air intake port may be ensured between the first edge of the first partial panel and the second edge of the second partial panel.

[0116] (5) In the electronic device according to (1) to (4), the first edge of the first partial panel and the second edge of the second partial panel may be substantially parallel to each other. With this configuration, the width of the space between the first edge and the second edge can be suppressed from increasing excessively.

[0117] (6) In the electronic device according to (1) to (5), the first edge of the first partial panel can be flush with the second edge of the second partial panel. With this configuration, foreign matter can be suppressed from being caught on the edges of the partial panels, and the edges can be protected from damage.

[0118] (7) In the electronic device according to (1) to (6), the first main body air intake port can be completely covered by the first partial panel. By configuring in this way, it is possible to suppress foreign matter such as dust from entering the main body air intake port.

[0119] (8) In the electronic device according to (1) to (7), the first main body air intake port may be covered by the first partial panel. The first outer surface may have a first area and a second area, the first area being covered by the first partial panel and constituting the first air flow path, and the second area being a remaining area. The first area may extend to a second edge of the second partial panel.

[0120] (9) In the electronic device described in any of (1) to (8), the first main body air intake port may be covered by the first partial panel, the first outer surface may include a first area covered by the first partial panel and constituting the first air flow path, and a second area serving as a remaining area, and the second area may be positioned higher in the first direction than the first area. This configuration increases the volume of the second area inside the first outer surface (i.e., the space between the circuit board and the first outer surface).

[0121] (10) The electronic device according to (1) to (9) may further include a second external panel covering the second external surface of the device body. The device body may have a second main body air intake port formed in the second external surface, and the second external panel may have a third partial panel covering a portion of the second external surface and a fourth partial panel covering another portion of the second external surface. A space for serving as the third air intake port may be ensured between the third partial panel and the fourth partial panel. According to this structure, the space between the third partial panel and the fourth partial panel is also used as the air intake port, thereby further improving the degree of freedom in design for improving the air intake performance.

[0122] It should be noted that the electronic device proposed by the present disclosure is not limited to the electronic device 10 described so far, and various modifications may be made thereto.

[0123] The cooling fan 40 is disposed in the electronic device 10 such that the axis Ax1 thereof extends in the vertical direction, for example. However, the position of the cooling fan 40 is not limited thereto.

[0124] As an example, the cooling fan 40 may be provided in the device body 20, wherein the axis Ax1 of the cooling fan 40 is provided horizontally, or wherein the axis Ax1 extends along the circuit board 31. The position of the cooling fan 40 is not necessarily set between the main body air intake ports 22e, 23f. In addition, a plurality of cooling fans 40 may be provided in the device body 2. In this case, the plurality of cooling fans 40 may be configured in such a manner that the respective axes Ax1 extend in the up-down direction, or in such a manner that the respective axes Ax1 extend along the circuit board 31. In such a case as well, if there is a difference in the suction performance of the two main body air intake ports 22e, 23f, an amount of air corresponding to the difference can be provided through the auxiliary air flow path Pc.

[0125] Furthermore, in addition to the upper panel air intake port Se and the lower panel air intake port Sf, the auxiliary air flow path Pc is included in the electronic device 10. However, the auxiliary air flow path Pc is not necessarily included in the electronic device 10.

[0126] Furthermore, only either one of the upper panel air intake port Se and the lower panel air intake port Sf may be included in the electronic device 10 .

Claims

1. An electronic device comprising: cooling fan; an apparatus main body accommodating the cooling fan and having a first outer surface and a first main body air intake port formed in the first outer surface, the first outer surface being an outer surface on one side in a first direction; and a first exterior panel covering said first exterior surface, wherein The first exterior panel has a first partial panel covering a portion of the first exterior surface and a second partial panel covering another portion of the first exterior surface, and A space serving as a first air intake is ensured between the first partial panel and the second partial panel.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein ensuring a second air intake port between an outer peripheral edge of the device body and an edge of at least one of the first partial panel and the second partial panel, and A first air flow path is formed between at least one of the partial panels and the first outer surface of the device body, and air flows from the first air intake port and the second air intake port to the first main body air intake port through the first air flow path.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein The second air intake port opens in a direction intersecting the first direction.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein The first partial panel and the second partial panel have first and second edges respectively that are opposite to each other, and A space serving as a first air intake is ensured between the first edge of the first partial panel and the second edge of the second partial panel.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein The first edge of the first partial panel and the second edge of the second partial panel are substantially parallel to each other. The electronic device according to claim 1 , wherein: The first edge of the first partial panel is flush with the second edge of the second partial panel.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein The first main body air intake port is completely covered by the first partial panel.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein The first main body air intake port is covered by the first partial panel, The first outer surface has a first area and a second area, the first area is covered by the first partial panel and constitutes the first air flow path, and the second area is a remaining area, and The first region extends to a second edge of the second partial panel.

9. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein The first main body air intake port is covered by the first partial panel, The first outer surface has a first area and a second area, the first area is covered by the first partial panel and constitutes the first air flow path, and the second area is a remaining area, and The position of the second region in the first direction is higher than the position of the first region in the first direction.

10. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: a second outer panel covering a second outer surface of the device body, wherein The device body has a second body air intake port formed in the second outer surface, the second exterior panel having a third partial panel covering a portion of the second exterior surface and a fourth partial panel covering another portion of the second exterior surface, and A space serving as a third air intake port is ensured between the third and fourth partial panels.

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