Electronic device

Abstract

The utility model provides an electronic device which can improve the visibility of a display part even under the condition that a light-emitting part is emitting light. An electronic device is provided with: an exterior body having a display unit for displaying at least one of a character, a symbol, and a graphic on the surface thereof; and a light-emitting unit which is provided inside the exterior body at a position facing the display unit, and which is capable of emitting light to the outside by transmitting the light through the exterior body, the transmissivity of the light emitted from the light-emitting unit being different between a region corresponding to the display unit in the exterior body and a surrounding region.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a portable electronic device comprising: a frame; a light-emitting part disposed inside the frame; and a light-guiding member having a light-receiving surface opposite to the light-emitting part for receiving light emitted by the light-emitting part and a light-emitting surface exposed outside the frame for emitting light, wherein the light-receiving surface and the surface other than the light-emitting surface of the light-guiding member are subjected to a reflective treatment that causes light to be reflected on the internal side.

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes a portable electronic device comprising a light-transmitting thin substrate, an operating part for user operation formed on a portion of the surface of the thin substrate, and a substrate provided on the back side of the thin substrate. An information acquisition module for acquiring operating information that changes according to the user operation is formed on a region of the surface of the substrate opposite to the operating part. A light-emitting element for illuminating the back side of the thin substrate is mounted in a region near the outer edge of the substrate, different from the region where the information acquisition module is formed. The portable electronic device is characterized in that a light-shielding member extending around the substrate is provided on the back side of the thin substrate, and a light-shielding layer is formed to prevent light from incident onto the thin substrate. The light-shielding layer extends at least from the region opposite the light-emitting element to the region where the light-shielding member is located on the back side of the thin substrate.

[0004] Patent document 3 describes an optical pad, characterized in that it comprises a pad body and a light source, wherein the pad body has a device mounting surface at the top that serves as an operating plane for a small device equipped with a camera, and light and dark patterns are formed on the device mounting surface by light emitted from the light source.

[0005] Patent document 4 describes an instant printer, characterized by comprising: a loading chamber for accommodating a film package containing stacked unexposed instant films, and having a transfer outlet for individually removing the instant films; a first conveying mechanism for bending and conveying instant films conveyed from the transfer outlet; a second conveying mechanism for conveying the instant films conveyed by the first conveying mechanism along the outer periphery of the loading chamber; an exposure head disposed near the transfer outlet for irradiating the instant films conveyed by the first conveying mechanism with light; and an unfolding roller for pressing the instant films conveyed by the second conveying mechanism and unfolding them with developing solution.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-10101

[0009] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-250202

[0010] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-104020

[0011] Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-330898 Utility Model Content

[0012] The problem to be solved by the utility model

[0013] When a display section (e.g., a sign) is installed on the outer casing of an electronic device, the visual recognizability of the display section may sometimes decrease due to light emitted from a light-emitting section inside the outer casing.

[0014] Therefore, the present invention provides an electronic device and a method for manufacturing the electronic device that can improve the visual recognition of the display even when the light-emitting part is emitting light.

[0015] Methods for solving problems

[0016] The first aspect of the present invention relates to an electronic device comprising: an outer casing having a display section that displays at least one of characters, symbols, and graphics on its surface; and a light-emitting section disposed inside the outer casing and opposite to the display section, and capable of transmitting light through the outer casing and emitting it to the outside, wherein the transmissivity of the light emitted from the light-emitting section differs between the area in the outer casing corresponding to the display section and the surrounding area.

[0017] The second aspect of the present invention relates to an electronic device according to the first aspect, by forming a transmission suppression layer containing a material with lower light transmittance than the surrounding material on the inner surface of the outer casing, thereby suppressing the transmission of light in the area corresponding to the display section.

[0018] In the third aspect of the present invention, in the electronic device involved in the second aspect, the transmission suppression layer is formed by printing.

[0019] In the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the electronic device involved in the second aspect, the transmission suppression layer is formed by attaching a bonding component.

[0020] The fifth aspect of the present invention relates to the electronic device of the second aspect, wherein the material with low light transmittance is a coating that absorbs wavelengths of light in the visible light region.

[0021] The sixth aspect of the present invention relates to an electronic device according to the first aspect, wherein the display unit displays at least one of characters, symbols, and graphics based on the difference between the three-dimensional shape on the surface and the surrounding area.

[0022] The seventh aspect of the present invention relates to the electronic device of the sixth aspect, wherein the three-dimensional shape is a shape that protrudes further outward than the surrounding surface of the outer body.

[0023] The eighth aspect of the present invention relates to the electronic device of the first aspect, wherein a coating is formed on the outer side of the outer casing, and the thickness of the coating at the transmissive portion through which light from the light-emitting portion is transmitted is set to be thinner than the thickness of the coating in other areas.

[0024] The ninth aspect of the present invention relates to the electronic device of the first aspect, wherein a striped pattern composed of periodic convex and concave shapes is formed on the surface of the outer casing, and the difference in the three-dimensional shape is the difference in the height of the convex portion of the striped pattern.

[0025] The tenth aspect of the present invention relates to the electronic device of the first aspect, wherein the electronic device has a printer function and a light-emitting part is provided in the outer casing opposite to the display part, the display part being formed on the side opposite to the side containing the film containing photosensitive material. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an electronic device involved in an implementation.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a top view showing an example of the structure of the electronic device involved in the embodiment.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the structure of the electronic device involved in the embodiment.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an electronic device involved in an implementation.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an electronic device involved in an implementation.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an electronic device involved in an implementation.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the structure of the electronic device involved in the embodiment.

[0033] Figure 8This is a side view showing an example of the structure of the electronic device involved in the embodiment.

[0034] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing steps involved in the implementation method.

[0035] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the painting process involved in the implementation method.

[0036] Figure 11 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an electronic device involved in an implementation.

[0037] Symbol Explanation

[0038] 10-Electronic device, 11-Mobile printer, 12-Outer casing, 12A-Upper surface, 14-Exit, 16-Display unit, 18, 20-Protrusions, 22-First component, 22A-Base plate, 22A1-Inner surface, 22B-Side wall, 23-Abutting part, 24-Second component, 24A-Base plate, 24B-Side wall, 26-Light-emitting part, 26A, 26B, 26C-LED light source, 28-Space, 30, 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D-Transmission suppression layer, 32-Coating, 34-Substrate, 36-Transmitting part, 40-Film application component, 100-Smartphone, F-Film, IM-Image data, L-Emitted light. Detailed Implementation

[0039] An example of an embodiment of the electronic device 10 to which the present invention relates will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] In the following description, for ease of explanation, the three arrows X, Y, and Z are used to represent the width, front-back, and height directions of the electronic device 10. First, arrow Z represents the height direction; the direction indicated by arrow Z is defined as the upward direction of the electronic device 10, and its opposite direction is defined as the downward direction. Arrow X, orthogonal to arrow Z, represents the width direction; the direction indicated by arrow X is defined as the right direction of the electronic device 10, and its opposite direction is defined as the left direction. Arrow Y represents the front-back direction and is orthogonal to both arrows Z and X; the direction indicated by arrow Y is defined as the forward direction of the electronic device 10, and its opposite direction is defined as the backward direction. Furthermore, the terms "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "front," and "rear," etc., used in the following descriptions have the same meanings as those used for the direction of use.

[0041] As an example, such as Figure 1As shown, the electronic device 10 has, for example, a printer function. Furthermore, the electronic device 10 is, for example, a portable electronic device. The electronic device 10 is, for example, a mobile printer. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, a mobile printer 11 will be used as an example to describe the embodiment. The electronic device 10 is an example of an "electronic device" according to the technology of this utility model.

[0042] The mobile printer 11 is capable of communicating with external devices. Figure 1 In the example shown, the mobile printer 11 is capable of communicating with the smartphone 100. Communication methods may include wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth (registered trademark)), but wired communication is also possible. The mobile printer 11 receives image data IM sent from the smartphone 100 and prints the subject image represented by the received image data IM onto film F. Film F is, for example, a film containing photosensitive material (so-called instantaneous film). Film F is an example of the "film" involved in the technology of this invention.

[0043] The mobile printer 11 has an outer casing 12. Figure 1 In the example shown, the outer casing 12 has a frame structure with a cuboid shape in the X direction and a length direction of the X direction. The outer casing 12 internally houses electronic components for implementing the printing function and other functions of the mobile printer 11. Furthermore, for example, the printed film F is discharged from the outlet 14 provided on the left side of the outer casing 12. The outer casing 12 is an example of an "outer casing" according to the technology of this utility model.

[0044] A display section 16 is formed on the outer casing 12. The display section 16 displays at least one of characters, symbols, and graphics on the surface of the outer casing 12. Figure 1 In the example shown, a display portion 16 is formed on the upper surface 12A of the outer casing 12. Figure 1 In the example shown, display unit 16 displays the characters "ABCD". The content displayed by display unit 16 may include, for example, company names, product names, personal names, slogans, trademarks, and / or pictographs. Furthermore, the content displayed by display unit 16 may also be, for example, symbols (e.g., arrows indicating the film ejection direction) or graphics (e.g., a power button label) used to explain the operation of the mobile printer 11. Display unit 16 is an example of a "display unit" according to the technology of this utility model.

[0045] As an example, such as Figure 2As shown, a linear stripe pattern is formed on the outer casing 12 along its length direction (in this case, the X direction). Specifically, a stripe pattern consisting of periodic bumps and recesses is formed on the surface of the outer casing 12. Hereinafter, the stripe pattern will be described using the upper surface 12A of the outer casing 12 as an example, but of course, stripe patterns can also be formed on other surfaces of the outer casing 12 in the same way.

[0046] When viewed in a cross section with the length direction as the normal direction (in the case of cross-sectional observation), protrusions 18 are periodically formed on the upper surface 12A of the outer casing 12. In cross-sectional observation, the protrusions 18 have a triangular shape, with the apex portion continuous along the length direction, thereby forming a linear stripe pattern. Thus, the periodic presence of the protrusions 18 forms a stripe pattern composed of periodic concave and convex shapes.

[0047] Here, the display unit 16 displays at least one of characters, symbols, and graphics based on the difference between the three-dimensional shape of the surface of the outer casing 12 and its surroundings. Figure 2 In the example shown, the display portion 16 protrudes further outward (in this case, upward) from the outer casing 12 than its surroundings. This creates a difference in three-dimensional shape compared to the surrounding area. Specifically, in the striped pattern described above, the portion corresponding to the display portion 16 becomes a protrusion 20 that is higher than the protrusions 18 present in the surrounding area. That is, in Figure 2 In the example shown, the difference in the three-dimensional shape is the difference in the height of the convex portion of the striped pattern.

[0048] The difference in three-dimensional shape between the display unit 16 and other areas causes differences in the way natural light (in this case, ambient light) is reflected. Thus, based on the difference in three-dimensional shape with the surrounding area, the display unit 16 can be visually identified (in this case, the characters ABCD are visible).

[0049] As an example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the outer casing 12 is configured to include a first component 22 and a second component 24 disposed adjacent to the first component 22. The first component 22 is, for example, a cover component constituting the upper side of the outer casing 12, and the second component 24 is, for example, a cover component constituting the lower side of the outer casing 12. Furthermore, the mobile printer 11 has a light-emitting portion 26 inside the outer casing 12. The light-emitting portion 26 is disposed inside the outer casing 12 at a position opposite to the display portion 16. The light-emitting portion 26 is configured to allow emitted light L to pass through the outer casing 12 and be emitted to the outside. The emitted light L is, for example, light including wavelengths in the visible light region. The light-emitting portion 26 is an example of a "light-emitting portion" according to the technology of this utility model.

[0050] exist Figure 3In the example shown, the light-emitting unit 26 is configured to include LED (Light Emitting Diode) light sources 26A to 26C. The LED light sources 26A to 26C are arranged in a straight line from right to left inside the outer casing 12. Here, an example with three LED light sources 26A to 26C is given, but this is only one example; two or fewer, or four or more LED light sources are also possible. Furthermore, the spacing, position, and arrangement of the LED light sources (e.g., arranged in a circular pattern or at the vertices of a quadrilateral) can be appropriately set. Each of the LED light sources 26A to 26C includes an RGB light-emitting element; by controlling the light emission mode of each element, the color and amount of emitted light L can be changed.

[0051] Furthermore, in Figure 3 In the example shown, the light-emitting part 26 is housed inside the first component 22, which constitutes the upper part of the outer casing 12. The first component 22 has an abutting part 23, which is the part that abuts against the second component 24. Specifically, the first component 22 has: a base plate 22A, which is a plate-shaped part having a thickness direction in the height direction; and a side wall 22B, which is erected from the periphery of the base plate 22A along the height direction. Here, with the first component 22 and the second component 24 combined, the side wall 22B is erected facing the second component 24. The side wall 22B abuts against the second component 24, and the side wall 22B also functions as the abutting part 23, the details of which will be described later.

[0052] The light-emitting part 26 is positioned opposite the inner surface of the base plate 22A. The emitted light L from the light-emitting part 26 passes through the base plate 22A and is emitted towards the outside of the outer casing 12. Here, the transmission of the emitted light L includes scattering of the emitted light L at the outer casing 12 and its subsequent outward emission. Since the outer casing 12 is made of resin material, the emitted light L is scattered when passing through the base plate 22A, thereby widening the outward emission range of the emitted light L.

[0053] Furthermore, a space 28 for accommodating the film F is formed in the second component 24, which constitutes the lower part of the outer casing 12. The film F is accommodated inside the space 28 via a cover (not shown). Here, for ease of explanation, one film F is depicted, but of course, multiple films F can be accommodated in the space 28. The space 28 is openable relative to the lower surface of the outer casing 12. In other words, a light-emitting part 26 is provided in the outer casing 12 opposite to the display part 16, which is formed on the side opposite to the side accommodating the film F (here, the upper surface). The second component 24 also has the same shape as the first component 22.

[0054] As an example, such as Figure 4As shown, the transmissive portion 36 is determined based on the distance between the light-emitting portion 26 and the inner surface of the outer casing 12 and the divergence angle of the emitted light L. This transmissive portion 36 is the area where the emitted light L transmits through the outer casing 12. Specifically, the transmissive portion 36 is determined based on the distance between the LED light sources 26A-26C of the light-emitting portion 26 and the inner surface 22A1 of the base plate portion 22A, and the divergence angle of the emitted light L from the LED light sources 26A-26C. In other words, the first component 22 of the outer casing 12 has a transmissive portion 36 that transmits the emitted light L from the light-emitting portion 26. The transmissive portion 36 is an example of a "transmissive portion" according to the technology of this utility model.

[0055] In the portable printer 11, the light-emitting part 26 is sometimes illuminated (e.g., lit up or flashing). This allows for notification of the portable printer 11's operating status or enhances the user experience (e.g., increasing the user's enjoyment while using it). However, when viewed from above the outer casing 12 of the portable printer 11 (viewed from the top surface), the light emitted by the light-emitting part 26 overlaps with the position of the display part 16 (i.e., the light-emitting part 26 and the display part 16 are opposite each other). In this case, the display part 16 becomes difficult to identify due to the illumination of the light-emitting part 26. That is, if the light-emitting part 26 is illuminated, the light emitted through the outer casing 12 is easily visually recognized, making it difficult to visually recognize reflected light at the display part 16 (e.g., reflected light caused by differences in shape from the surrounding area). As a result, the visual visibility of the display part 16 decreases.

[0056] Therefore, as an example, such as Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, in the outer casing 12, the transmittance of the emitted light L from the light-emitting portion 26 is made to differ between the region corresponding to the display portion 16 and the surrounding region. Specifically, a transmission suppression layer 30 containing a material with lower light transmittance than the surrounding area is formed on the inner surface of the outer casing 12. More specifically, in the first component 22 of the outer casing 12, the transmission suppression layer 30 is formed on the inner surface 22A1 of the base plate portion 22A. The transmission suppression layer 30 is formed in the region corresponding to the display portion 16. The region corresponding to the display portion 16 is, for example, an area of ​​the same size as the display portion 16 on the back side of the display portion 16. Figure 5 In the example shown, transmission suppression layers 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D are formed with shapes that invert the characters "ABCD" displayed by the display unit 16. The area corresponding to the display unit 16 can also be appropriately changed in size, rather than being the same size as the display unit 16. Transmission suppression layers 30, 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D are examples of the "transmission suppression layers" involved in the technology of this utility model.

[0057] Transmission suppression layers 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D are formed by printing on the inner surface 22A1 of the first component 22. Specifically, the transmission suppression layers 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D are formed by printing using a paint containing a material that absorbs wavelengths in the visible light region. For example, black paint is used to print the transmission suppression layers 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D. A portion of the emitted light L is absorbed or reflected through interaction with the transmission suppression layers 30. Thus, the transmission of emitted light L in the area corresponding to the display unit 16 is suppressed.

[0058] As described above, the light-emitting portion 26 is positioned opposite the display portion 16. Furthermore, a transmission suppression layer 30 is formed inside the outer casing 12 in the region corresponding to the display portion 16. Therefore, a portion of the emitted light L from the light-emitting portion 26 is suppressed by the transmission suppression layer 30. Here, a portion of the emitted light L is absorbed by a black coating contained in the transmission suppression layer 30. Figure 5 In the example shown, when viewing the first component 22 from the inner surface side (in this case, from below), the transmission suppression layers 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D have shapes formed by reversing the characters "ABCD". Therefore, within the regions of the shapes formed by reversing the characters "ABCD", the emitted light L is suppressed from transmitting through the outer casing 12.

[0059] As an example, such as Figure 6 As shown, in the mobile printer 11, if the light-emitting unit 26 emits light, the transmission of the emitted light L is suppressed by the transmission suppression layer 30 provided in the area corresponding to the display unit 16, as described above. Therefore, the emitted light L is less likely to transmit to the display unit 16, making it easier to visually identify the display unit 16. Figure 6 In the example shown, the transmission suppression layer 30, which is shaped by inverting the characters "ABCD", makes it easy to visually identify the characters "ABCD" on the display unit 16. Furthermore, within the range illuminated by the emitted light L, the content displayed by the transmission suppression layer 30 (here, the characters "ABCD") appears as a shadow, thereby improving the design.

[0060] The portion of the outer casing 12 opposite to the light-emitting part 26 is required to contain a material with relatively high transmittance so that the emitted light L from the light-emitting part 26 can be transmitted. On the other hand, the portion on the opposite side from the portion opposite to the light-emitting part 26 is required to contain a material with relatively low transmittance. This is to suppress excess external light from entering the interior of the outer casing 12.

[0061] When two components with different optical properties (e.g., light transmittance) are combined to form the outer casing 12, the difference in optical properties becomes noticeable at the point where the two parts meet. As a result, there is a lack of unity as a whole for the outer casing 12, which can sometimes impair its appearance.

[0062] Therefore, as an example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the thickness of the coating 32 is adjusted in the first component 22 of the outer casing 12. The first component 22 has a coating 32 and a substrate 34. The coating 32 is formed on the surface of the substrate 34. The substrate 34 is formed to contain a translucent material. Here, a translucent material refers to a material that scatters light while transmitting it. The substrate 34 is, for example, a milky white resin. Furthermore, the coating 32 is a film formed by coating material being fixed on the surface of the substrate 34, and the type of coating material is appropriately set according to the color change of the outer casing 12. As described above, the emitted light L from the light-emitting part 26 is emitted to the outside via the first component 22. By forming the first component 22 with a translucent material, the emitted light L is easily emitted to the outside of the outer casing 12, thereby making it easy to visually identify the emitted light L. The coating 32 is an example of a "coating" involved in the technology of this utility model.

[0063] On the sidewall portion 22B of the first component 22, the coating 32 has a thickness of t1. On the other hand, on the base plate portion 22A of the first component 22, the coating 32 has a thickness of t2. Furthermore, the thickness t1 of the coating 32 on the sidewall portion 22B is thicker than the thickness t2 of the coating 32 on the base plate portion 22A. In other words, the transmission portion 36 (see reference) through which the emitted light L is transmitted in the base plate portion 22A... Figure 4 At point ), the thickness t2 of the coating 32 is thinner than the thickness t1 of the coating 32 on the sidewall portion 22B.

[0064] Specifically, the thickness t1 of the coating 32 on the sidewall portion 22B is more than 1.5 times the thickness t2 of the coating 32 on the base plate portion 22A. More specifically, the thickness t1 is, for example, about 20 μm, and the thickness t2 is, for example, about 10 to 12 μm.

[0065] The second component 24 has a base plate portion 24A and a side wall portion 24B extending vertically from the periphery of the base plate portion 24A. The second component 24 is formed to contain a non-transparent material. Here, the non-transparent material refers to a material that blocks light. Specifically, the non-transparent material is, for example, a material in which titanium oxide particles are dispersed in a resin serving as a base material. That is, the second component 24 is formed, for example, from a resin containing titanium oxide. As described above, a space 28 for accommodating the film F is formed in the second component 24. By forming the second component 24 with a non-transparent material, external light is suppressed from entering the interior of the second component 24.

[0066] The first component 22 and the second component 24 are joined in an adjacent state. Furthermore, the first component 22 abuts against the second component 24 via the abutment portion 23. Figure 7 In the example shown, the sidewall portion 22B of the first component 22 abuts against the sidewall portion 24B of the second component 24. That is, in the first component 22, the sidewall portion 22B serves as the abutment portion 23. Specifically, the lower surface of the sidewall portion 22B of the first component 22 contacts the upper surface of the sidewall portion 24B of the second component 24. Furthermore, as described above, the thickness t1 of the coating 32 of the sidewall portion 22B is thicker than the thickness t2 of the coating 32 of the base plate portion 22A. That is, the thickness t1 of the coating 32 of the abutment portion 23 is thicker than the thickness t2 of the coating 32 of the transmissive portion 36.

[0067] With sidewall portion 22B and sidewall portion 24B in contact, the first component 22 and the second component 24 are engaged. The engagement method of the first component 22 and the second component 24 is not particularly limited. For example, it can be a mechanical fastening formed by combining a fixing mechanism that allows the fixing claw to engage with the hole and a screw fastening part, or it can be engaged by adhesive or ultrasonic welding.

[0068] As an example, such as Figure 8 As shown on the left, consider the case where the thickness t1 (hereinafter simply referred to as coating thickness t1) of the coating 32 on the sidewall portion 22B of the first component 22 is thinner than the thickness t2 (hereinafter simply referred to as coating thickness t2) of the coating 32 on the base plate portion 22A of the first component 22. In this case, the difference in light transmittance becomes noticeable at the point where the first component 22 and the second component 24 abut (here, sidewall portion 22B and sidewall portion 24B).

[0069] On the other hand, such as Figure 8 As shown on the right, consider the case where the coating thickness t1 of the sidewall portion 22B of the first component 22 is thicker than the coating thickness t2 of the base portion 22A of the first component 22. In this case, the light transmittance of the sidewall portion 22B of the first component 22 is close to that of the sidewall portion 24B of the second component 24, thus making the difference between the first component 22 and the second component 24 less noticeable. As a result, the overall uniformity of the outer casing 12 is increased, and the appearance is improved.

[0070] Next, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The processing steps and coating steps involved in this embodiment will be described. The processing steps and coating steps are part of the manufacturing process of the mobile printer 11. Figure 9 The processing steps shown are an example of the "manufacturing method of electronic equipment" involved in this utility model.

[0071] As an example, such as Figure 9As shown, in the processing steps, firstly, in step ST12, an outer casing 12 having a display section 16 is prepared. After step ST12, the processing steps proceed to step ST14.

[0072] In step ST14, a process is performed on the area of ​​the outer casing 12 corresponding to the display unit 16 to create a difference in the transmittance of the light L emitted from the light-emitting unit 26 (i.e., the emitted light L). Specifically, a transmission suppression layer 30 is formed on the inner surface of the outer casing 12 in the area corresponding to the display unit 16 by printing. After performing step ST14, the processing step is completed.

[0073] As an example, such as Figure 10 As shown, in the painting process, firstly, in step ST22, the first component 22 of the outer body 12 is prepared. After step ST22, the painting process proceeds to step ST24.

[0074] In step ST24, in the first component 22, the coating 32 of the sidewall portion 22B is set to be thicker than the coating 32 of the base plate portion 22A. After performing step ST24, the coating process ends.

[0075] As described above, in the electronic device 10 according to this embodiment, the outer casing 12 has a display unit 16. The display unit 16 displays characters, etc., on the surface of the outer casing 12. Furthermore, inside the outer casing 12, a light-emitting unit 26 is provided at a position opposite to the display unit 16. The light-emitting unit 26 causes light L to pass through the outer casing 12 and be emitted to the outside. Moreover, the transmissivity of the light L emitted from the light-emitting unit 26 differs between the area corresponding to the display unit 16 and the surrounding area in the outer casing 12. Therefore, even if the area corresponding to the display unit 16 is identified as another part due to differences in the degree of visual recognition and the light-emitting unit 26 provided inside the outer casing 12 is illuminated, the display unit 16 can still be easily identified.

[0076] Furthermore, in the electronic device 10 according to this embodiment, the transmission of emitted light L in the region corresponding to the display unit 16 is suppressed by forming a transmission suppression layer 30 containing a material with lower light transmittance than the surrounding material on the inner surface of the outer casing 12. As a result, for example, compared to the case where the transmission suppression layer 30 is formed on the outer surface of the outer casing 12, the impact on the appearance (e.g., the impact on the appearance of the display unit 16) is reduced.

[0077] Furthermore, in the electronic device 10 according to this embodiment, the transmission suppression layer 30 is formed by printing. Therefore, for example, compared to forming the transmission suppression layer 30 by adhesive film, it can help improve the productivity of the electronic device 10.

[0078] Furthermore, in the electronic device 10 according to this embodiment, the material with low light transmittance is a coating that absorbs light of wavelengths in the visible light region. As a result, the transmission suppression layer 30 absorbs light of wavelengths in the visible light region emitted from the light-emitting part 26, thereby further improving the visual recognition of the display part 16.

[0079] Furthermore, in the electronic device 10 according to this embodiment, the display unit 16 displays at least one of characters, symbols, and graphics based on the difference in three-dimensional shape between the surface of the outer casing 12 and its surroundings. Thus, by displaying characters, etc., on the outer casing 12 through the difference in three-dimensional shape, the design aesthetics of the outer casing 12 are improved.

[0080] Furthermore, in the electronic device 10 according to this embodiment, the three-dimensional shape has a shape that protrudes further outward from the outer casing 12 than the surrounding area. Thus, for example, compared to the case where the three-dimensional shape is recessed inward from the outer casing 12, the distance between the light-emitting part 26 and the display part 16 can be ensured, thereby expanding the emission range of the emitted light L and contributing to the miniaturization of the outer casing 12.

[0081] Furthermore, in the electronic device 10 according to this embodiment, a coating 32 is formed on the outer side of the outer casing 12, and the thickness t1 of the coating 32 on the sidewall portion 22B is thicker than the thickness t2 of the coating 32 on the base plate portion 22A. In other words, the thickness t2 of the coating 32 at the transmission portion 36 through which light from the light-emitting portion 26 is transmitted is set to be thinner than the thickness t1 of the coating 32 in other areas. Therefore, even if the thickness of the coating 32 is set to be thinner locally so that the emitted light L from the light-emitting portion 26 can be easily transmitted, the visual recognition of the display portion 16 can be easily improved in this structure. That is, the thinner the coating 32, the easier it is to strongly recognize the emitted light L, but the visual recognition differs between the area corresponding to the display portion 16 and other areas, thus improving the visual recognition of the display portion 16.

[0082] Furthermore, in the electronic device 10 according to this embodiment, a striped pattern composed of periodic undulations is formed on the surface of the outer casing 12, and the difference in the three-dimensional shape at the display section 16 is due to the difference in the height of the convex portions of the striped pattern. To improve design flexibility, when a striped pattern is formed on the surface of the outer casing 12, the display section 16 is formed according to the difference in the height of the three-dimensional shape. In this case, emitted light L easily transmits through the valley portions of the undulations in the striped pattern, but in this structure, the display section 16 easily becomes conspicuous.

[0083] Furthermore, in the electronic device 10 according to this embodiment, the electronic device 10 has a printer function. Also, in the outer casing 12, a film F containing photosensitive coating is housed in the lower second component 24. Furthermore, a light-emitting portion 26 is provided in the outer casing 12 opposite to the display portion 16 formed on the upper surface 12A. Therefore, the influence of the light emitted by the light-emitting portion 26 on the film F housed inside the outer casing 12 can be suppressed.

[0084] (Modified Example)

[0085] In the above embodiments, examples of forming the transmission suppression layer 30 by printing have been described, but the technology of this utility model is not limited thereto. In this modified example, the transmission suppression layer 30 is formed by attaching the film-adhesive component 40.

[0086] As an example, such as Figure 11 As shown, in this modified example, a transmission suppression layer 30 containing a material with lower light transmittance than the surrounding material is formed on the inner surface of the outer casing 12. Specifically, in the first component 22 of the outer casing 12, a film component 40 is adhered to the inner surface 22A1 of the base plate portion 22A. The film component 40 has, for example, a laminated structure and includes an adhesive layer, a transmission suppression layer 30, and a coating. The film component 40 is adhered to the outer casing 12 via the adhesive layer. A transmission suppression layer 30 corresponding to the content displayed by the display unit 16 is formed on the adhesive layer. The transmission suppression layer 30 contains a material that absorbs wavelengths in the visible light region. Furthermore, the transmission suppression layer 30 is protected by a coating. By adhering the film component 40, the transmission suppression layer 30 is formed in the area corresponding to the display unit 16. The film component 40 is an example of an "adhesive component" according to the technology of this utility model.

[0087] exist Figure 11 In the example shown, transmission suppression layers 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D are formed, each having a shape that inverts the characters "ABCD" displayed by the display unit 16. The film-mounted component 40 is adhered to the inner surface 22A1 of the first component 22 of the outer casing 12. This suppresses the transmission of emitted light L in the area corresponding to the display unit 16. As a result, the transmissivity of the emitted light L emitted from the light-emitting unit 26 differs between the area corresponding to the display unit 16 and the surrounding area.

[0088] As described above, in the electronic device 10 according to this modification, the transmission suppression layer 30 is formed by attaching the film-mounting member 40. Therefore, the transmission suppression layer 30 can be formed simply by attaching the film-mounting member 40, thus helping to reduce the manufacturing cost of the electronic device 10.

[0089] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of the display unit 16 being provided on the upper surface 12A of the outer casing 12 has been described, but the technology of this utility model is not limited thereto. The display unit 16 may also be provided on other surfaces of the outer casing 12. Moreover, multiple display units 16 may be provided on the surface of the outer casing 12.

[0090] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, examples of a form in which the three-dimensional shape of the display portion 16 protrudes more than its surroundings have been described, but the technology of this utility model is not limited to this. For example, the three-dimensional shape of the display portion 16 may also be a shape that is more recessed than its surroundings, or the surroundings may be roughened, and the display portion 16 may be provided as a smooth surface.

[0091] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, examples of forming the transmission suppression layer 30 by printing have been described, but the technology of this utility model is not limited to this. For example, the transmission suppression layer 30 can also be formed by locally molding a resin that does not easily transmit light, or it can be formed by installing a light-shielding cover that is different from the outer body 12 on the inner side.

[0092] Furthermore, while the above embodiments have described examples of suppressing the transmission of emitted light L in the region corresponding to the display unit 16, the technology of this invention is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to promote the transmission of emitted light L in the region corresponding to the display unit 16. Specifically, the transmission of light in the region corresponding to the display unit 16 can be promoted by forming a transmission suppression layer 30 in a portion outside the region corresponding to the display unit 16. In this way, the light transmittance is differentiated between the region corresponding to the display unit 16 and its surrounding area.

[0093] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, examples of periodic raised and recessed stripe patterns formed on the surface of the outer casing 12 have been described, but the technology of this invention is not limited to this. The surface of the outer casing 12 may also have a structure other than a stripe pattern to enhance design, or it may be a smooth surface.

[0094] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, examples have been given of the first component 22 and the second component 24 having symmetrical shapes when viewed in cross-section, but the technology of this utility model is not limited thereto. For example, the first component 22 may have a sidewall portion 22B, and the second component 24 may be a plate-shaped component. In this case, the end face of the sidewall portion 22B abuts against the periphery of the second component 24.

[0095] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, examples of the outer casing 12 being in the shape of a cuboid have been given, but the technology of this utility model is not limited to this. For example, the outer casing 12 may also be square, spherical, or cylindrical.

[0096] Furthermore, while the above embodiments have described an example where the electronic device 10 is in the form of a portable printer 11, the technology of this invention is not limited thereto. The electronic device 10 can also be a portable electronic device such as an instant camera, digital camera, smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or portable battery. Additionally, the electronic device 10 can also be a fixed electronic device such as a desktop computer, printer, television, or monitor.

[0097] Furthermore, while the above embodiments have described examples of film F being a so-called instant film containing photosensitive material, the technology of this invention is not limited thereto. For example, photographic paper containing thermal material may be used instead of film F.

[0098] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, examples of the light-emitting portion 26 being composed of an LED light source have been described, but the technology of this utility model is not limited thereto. For example, the light-emitting portion 26 may also be composed of an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) element.

[0099] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of a coating 32 being thicker throughout the entire sidewall portion 22B has been described, but the technology of this utility model is not limited thereto. It is also possible to make the coating 32 thicker on one half of the sidewall portion 22B on the side of the second component 24.

[0100] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of a thinner coating 32 throughout the entire base plate portion 22A has been described, but the technology of this utility model is not limited thereto. The coating 32 may also be thinner in an elliptical region including the transmissive portion 36, or it may be thinner only in the region corresponding to the transmissive portion 36.

[0101] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, an example of the substrate 34 of the first component 22 being a semi-transparent material has been described, but the technology of this invention is not limited thereto. For example, the substrate 34 may also be a transparent material. However, as described above, from the viewpoint of facilitating appearance adjustments based on the coating 32, it is preferable that the substrate 34 is a semi-transparent material.

[0102] Furthermore, while the above embodiments have described examples of the second component 24 being made of a non-transparent resin, the technology of this invention is not limited thereto. For example, the second component 24 may also be a structure in which a coating (e.g., a coating containing titanium oxide) is formed on a semi-transparent material substrate. However, as described above, from the viewpoint of suppressing the entry of external light, it is preferable that the second component 24 is formed of a non-transparent material.

[0103] The above description and illustrations are detailed explanations of the parts related to the technology of this utility model, and are merely one example of the technology of this utility model. For example, the description of the structure, function, effect, and effect is an example of the structure, function, effect, and effect of the parts related to the technology of this utility model. Therefore, it is of course possible to delete unnecessary parts, add new elements, or replace the above description and illustrations without departing from the spirit of the technology of this utility model. Furthermore, to avoid trouble and facilitate understanding of the parts related to the technology of this utility model, explanations of technical common sense that do not require special explanation in implementing the technology of this utility model have been omitted from the above description and illustrations.

[0104] In this specification, "A and / or B" has the same meaning as "at least one of A and B". That is, "A and / or B" means that it can be only A, only B, or a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, when more than three items are expressed by associating them with "and / or", the same meaning as "A and / or B" also applies.

[0105] All documents, patent applications and technical standards described in this specification are referenced in this specification to the same extent as the specific and individual circumstances in which each document, patent application and technical standard is specifically and individually described by reference.

[0106] The following further details are disclosed regarding the above-described implementation methods.

[0107] <Postscript 1>

[0108] An electronic device comprising:

[0109] An outer casing having a display section that displays at least one of characters, symbols, and graphics on its surface; and

[0110] The light-emitting part is disposed inside the aforementioned outer casing and opposite the aforementioned display part, and is capable of transmitting light through the aforementioned outer casing and emitting it to the outside.

[0111] The transmissivity of light emitted from the light-emitting part varies between the area corresponding to the display part and the surrounding area in the outer casing.

[0112] <Appendix 2>

[0113] According to the electronic device described in Appendix 1, wherein,

[0114] The transmission of light in the area corresponding to the display unit is suppressed by forming a transmission suppression layer containing a material with lower light transmittance than the surrounding material on the inner surface of the outer casing.

[0115] <Appendix 3>

[0116] According to the electronic device described in Appendix 2, wherein,

[0117] The aforementioned transmission suppression layer is formed by printing.

[0118] <Appendix 4>

[0119] According to the electronic device described in Appendix 2, wherein,

[0120] The aforementioned transmission suppression layer is formed by attaching adhesive components.

[0121] <Appendix 5>

[0122] The electronic device according to any one of Annexes 2 to 4, wherein,

[0123] The aforementioned materials with low light transmittance are coatings that absorb wavelengths of light in the visible light region.

[0124] <Appendix 6>

[0125] The electronic device according to any one of Annexes 1 to 5, wherein,

[0126] The aforementioned display unit displays at least one of characters, symbols, and graphics based on the difference between the three-dimensional shape on the aforementioned surface and the surrounding surface.

[0127] <Appendix 7>

[0128] According to the electronic device described in Appendix 6, wherein,

[0129] The aforementioned three-dimensional shape is a shape that protrudes further outward from the aforementioned outer body than the aforementioned surrounding area.

[0130] <Postscript 8>

[0131] The electronic device according to any one of Annexes 1 to 7, wherein,

[0132] In the aforementioned outer casing, a coating is formed on the outer side.

[0133] The thickness of the coating at the transmissive portion through which light from the light-emitting portion is transmitted is set to be thinner than the thickness of the coating in other areas.

[0134] <Postscript 9>

[0135] According to the electronic device described in Appendix 6, wherein,

[0136] The surface of the aforementioned outer casing is formed with a stripe pattern consisting of periodic undulations.

[0137] The difference in the three-dimensional shape is the difference in the height of the convex portion of the striped pattern.

[0138] <Postscript 10>

[0139] The electronic device according to any one of Annexes 1 to 9, wherein,

[0140] The aforementioned electronic device has a printer function.

[0141] The light-emitting part is provided in the outer casing at a position opposite to the display part, and the display part is formed on the side opposite to the side that contains the film containing the photosensitive material.

Claims

1. An electronic device, characterized in that, have: An outer casing having a display section that displays at least one of characters, symbols, and graphics on its surface; and The light-emitting part is disposed inside the outer casing and opposite the display part, and is capable of transmitting light through the outer casing and emitting it to the outside. The transmissivity of light emitted from the light-emitting part varies between the area corresponding to the display part and the surrounding area in the outer casing.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission of light in the area corresponding to the display unit is suppressed by forming a transmission suppression layer containing a material with lower light transmittance than the surrounding material on the inner surface of the outer casing.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The transmission suppression layer is formed by printing.

4. The electronic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The transmission suppression layer is formed by attaching adhesive components.

5. The electronic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The material with low light transmittance is a coating that absorbs wavelengths of light in the visible light region.

6. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display unit displays at least one of characters, symbols, and graphics by means of the difference between the three-dimensional shape on the surface and the surrounding area.

7. The electronic device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The three-dimensional shape is a shape that protrudes further outward from the outer part of the outer body than the surrounding area.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the outer casing, a coating is formed on the outer side. The thickness of the coating at the transmissive portion through which light from the light-emitting portion is transmitted is set to be thinner than the thickness of the coating in other areas.

9. The electronic device according to claim 6, characterized in that, A stripe pattern consisting of periodic undulations is formed on the surface of the outer casing. The difference in the three-dimensional shape is the difference in the height of the convex portion of the stripe pattern.

10. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electronic device has a printer function. The light-emitting part is provided in the outer casing at a position opposite to the display part, and the display part is formed on the side opposite to the side that contains the film containing photosensitive material.

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