Protective case and method for generating airflow therefrom

Abstract

This invention provides a protective case for dissipating heat from portable electronic devices and a method for generating airflow for the case. [Solution] The protective case comprises a housing configured to accommodate a portable electronic device and an airflow generator integrated into the housing. The airflow generation method includes the steps of generating an airflow and moving air within the housing of the protective case. By providing external active cooling and protective cover functions, the protective case improves the performance and reliability of the portable electronic device without requiring any changes to its internal configuration.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a protective case and a method for generating airflow therefor, and more particularly to a protective case and a method for generating airflow therefor for actively cooling electronic equipment and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Unless otherwise stated herein, the approaches described in this section are not prior art to the claims of this application and will not be recognized as prior art by their inclusion in this section.

[0003] As electronic devices become smaller and more powerful due to the demands of AI, 5G, and other advanced applications, cooling has become a critical issue. Due to the constraints of limited internal space and the need for waterproofing, conventional active cooling methods (e.g., fans) are often excluded. Furthermore, conventional passive cooling approaches, including heat spreaders, vapor chambers, heat sinks, and advanced thermal materials, can only suppress temperatures. If heat cannot be effectively dissipated, the system must rely on thermal management techniques such as throttling, which can cause a 50% performance drop or even lead to device shutdown. Protective cases for consumer electronics such as smartphones tend to exacerbate this problem by hindering heat dissipation to the surrounding environment and acting as an insulator. [Overview of the project]

[0004] Therefore, the first object of this application is to provide a protective case and a method for generating airflow therefor to improve upon the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0005] One embodiment of the present application discloses a protective case for a portable electronic device, comprising a housing configured to accommodate the portable electronic device and an airflow generator integrated within the housing.

[0006] One embodiment of the present application discloses a method for generating an air flow for a portable electronic device, including generating a net air flow; and moving air within the housing of a protective case; the air flow generating device of the protective case is integrated into a housing adapted to accommodate the portable electronic device.

[0007] These and other objects of the present invention will become clearly apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments shown in various figures and drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] A schematic side view of a protective case according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 2] A schematic side view of a protective case according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 3] A schematic cross-sectional view of an AFG device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 4] A schematic side view of a protective case according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 5] A schematic top view of a protective case according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 6] A schematic side view of a protective case according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 7] It is a schematic diagram of the wiring configuration of the AFG device shown in Fig. 5(a). [Figure 8] It is a schematic diagram of the waveforms of the modulation signal and the demodulation signal of the AFG device shown in Fig. 5(a). [Figure 9] It is a schematic diagram of the slow motion of the differential mode motion and the common mode motion of the AFG device shown in Fig. 5(a). [Figure 10] It is a schematic diagram of an air pulse according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] The contents of U.S. Patent No. 12,356,141, U.S. Application No. 19 / 007,580, and U.S. Application No. 19 / 303,389 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0010] To facilitate heat dissipation, the present invention provides a protective case that includes not only a housing for holding portable electronic devices, but also an airflow generator (AFG) or air pulse generator (APG) device, referencing U.S. Patent No. 12,356,141, U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 007,580, and U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 303,389. The AFG device integrated into the housing is operated to generate air pulses toward or away from the portable electronic devices at an ultrasonic pulse rate. The air pulses force air toward the housing or the surroundings, generating a net airflow that induces airflow(s) in the space between the housing and the portable electronic devices held inside. Thus, heat generated from the portable electronic devices can be released to the outside of the protective case.

[0011] To ensure a large airflow, an AFG device may be introduced that has modulation and demodulation means. The modulation means uses an ultrasonic carrier frequency f UC It generates ultrasonic pneumatic waves / fluctuations (UAW) having the following characteristics: The amplitude of the UAW is controlled by the input signal S IN It is modulated according to the following. Next, this amplitude-modulated ultrasonic pneumatic wave / variation (AMUAW) has spectral components embedded in the AMUAW that correspond to the ultrasonic carrier frequency ± n·f UC The AMUAW is synchronously demodulated by a demodulation means so that it is shifted by an integer multiple of (n is a positive integer). As a result of this synchronous demodulation, the spectral components of the AMUAW are partially converted to the baseband. In this way, the AFG device can be miniaturized while creating a large airflow or air pressure so that it can function as a (small) air pump or bladeless fan.

[0012] For example, Figure 1(a) is a schematic side view of the protective case 10, and Figure 1(b) is a schematic side view of the protective case 10 combined with a portable electronic device 190 (such as a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or virtual reality (VR) device).

[0013] The housing 150 of the protective case 10 is configured to hold the portable electronic device 190. For example, the housing 150 is hollowed out to form an unfilled space 155 used for carrying the portable electronic device 190. In Figure 1, the housing 150 does not cover the top of the portable electronic device 190 (e.g., its display screen). Alternatively, the housing 150 may leave the bottom or side(s) of the portable electronic device 190 exposed while securely housing the device. For portable electronic devices having a shape different from that of the portable electronic device 190, the physical structure of the housing 150 may be adaptively modified to fit the portable electronic device. This shape-customizable characteristic of the housing 150 relative to the portable electronic device 190 allows for the flexible placement of the AFG device 100 within the protective case 10, enabling the AFG device 100 to be positioned according to the hot spots of the portable electronic device 190 to efficiently dissipate heat.

[0014] The AFG device 100 can generate airflow to carry heat away from the portable electronic device 190. Specifically, the AFG device 100 is operated to generate air pulses toward or away from the protective case 10 at an ultrasonic pulse rate. These air pulses always generate a (first) net airflow in a (first) direction (e.g., +Z or -Z) to introduce cool air (e.g., at ambient temperature) from the outside into the space 155 or exhaust air heated by the ambient environment from the AFG device 100. The (first) airflow induces (possibly) (second) airflows within the space 155, moving in a direction (possibly) different from the (first) direction. When the portable electronic device 190 is held by the housing 150, the (second) airflows (possibly) constrained by the space between the portable electronic device 190 and the housing 150 absorb and carry heat away from the portable electronic device 190, thereby cooling the portable electronic device 190. As a result, throttling does not occur or is less likely to occur, allowing the portable electronic device 190 to increase the power target(s) of its processor(s) or circuit(s).

[0015] The AFG device 100 can be attached to the housing 150. For example, the AFG device 100 can be embedded in a recess 159 of the housing 150. The surface 100S1 of the AFG device 100 can be in contact with the inner surface 150Si of the housing 150 to help secure the AFG device 100 in place.

[0016] The depth of the recess can be adjusted. For example, in Figure 1, the depth of the recess 159 may be substantially greater than the thickness of the AFG device 100 so that the surface 100S2 opposite to the distal surface 100S1 of the AFG device 100 is spaced away from the portable electronic device 190 but positioned proximal to the portable electronic device. Alternatively, in Figure 2(a), a schematic side view of a protective case 20a according to one embodiment of the present invention, the depth of the recess 259a of the housing 250a may be substantially close to (or less than) the thickness of the AFG device 200a. In this case, the proximal surface 200S2 may be in contact with the portable electronic device 290a. The spacing / distance(s) between the protective case 20a and the portable electronic device 290a may be configured to allow the flow of cold / heated air and absorb impact forces, thereby affecting heat dissipation efficiency or physical protection against accidental drops or impacts.

[0017] The housing may provide multiple air inlets / outlets to facilitate heat transfer. For example, in Figure 1, the housing 150 has an opening 156 that allows air to enter and exit the protective case 10. Some of the openings 156 may be located near or far from the AFG device 100. Alternatively, in Figure 2(b), a schematic side view of the protective case 20b according to an embodiment of the present invention, the housing 250b has an opening 256b in addition to the opening 256a. The opening 256b may be located aligned with or corresponding to the AFG device 200b. When the AFG device 200b is in the "open" position, the recess 259b may be connected to the external environment via the opening 256b, allowing air driven by the AFG device 200b to flow.

[0018] In one embodiment, the housings 150 / 250a / 250b may have internal air channels (not shown in Figures 1 and 2) to form an air path around the AFG device 100 / 200a / 200b to promote heat dissipation.

[0019] An AFG device may incorporate multiple inlets / outlets that allow air to enter and exit the AFG device. For example, Figure 3(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of an AFG device 300a according to one embodiment of the present invention. The AFG device 300a may have an opening 317a formed on the top of its cap structure 311a. Corresponding to the opening 317a, the AFG device 300a may have an opening 316a formed on its support substrate 310a, which is located on the opposite side of the cap structure 311a. The opening 316a may be aligned with or positioned in correspondence to an opening (e.g., 256b) in its housing (e.g., 250b), allowing cold / heated air to be drawn in or discharged through the two openings.

[0020] The AFG device 300a may have a film structure 304a (e.g., a membrane or diaphragm) arranged corresponding to the opening 316a or 317a. The film structure 304a may have flaps 301a and 303a arranged opposite each other. The operating principle of the AFG device 300a is the same as that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,943,585B2, No. 12,317,034B2 and Application No. 18 / 624,105, which are incorporated herein by reference. The flaps 301a and 303a constituting the flap pair 302a can be considered to operate at an ultrasonic carrier frequency f UC They are operated to perform common-mode motion that forms an AMUAW at ultrasonic opening rates (such as 192kHz or 96kHz). Meanwhile, flaps 301a and 303a are also operated to perform differential-mode motion that forms an opening or virtual valve (VV) at ultrasonic opening rates (such as 192kHz or 96kHz) which can be considered demodulated motion.

[0021] A slit 312a is formed between flaps 301a and 303a, resulting in the formation of an opening or VV. In this invention, the same notation (e.g., 312a) is used for "slit," "opening," and "VV" because they are in the same physical location and represent similar concepts in different embodiments. VV312a emphasizes its ability to be controlled to open and close, while opening 312a particularly emphasizes the open state. By operating flaps 301a and 303a, the distance between the free ends of flaps 301a and 303a increases, forming an opening 312a or VV312a.

[0022] In the present invention, flaps 301a and 303a performing common-mode motion mean that flaps 301a and 303a are operated to move in a common direction or are operated by a common drive signal (for example, the modulated signal SM shown in Figure 7). Furthermore, flaps 301a and 303a performing differential-mode motion mean that flaps 301a and 303a are operated to move / bend in different / opposite directions relative to a common reference position, or are operated by a differential pair of drive signals (for example, the demodulated signals +SV and -SV shown in Figure 7, but not limited to these).

[0023] Since differential mode motion (demodulation) and common mode motion (modulation) are performed simultaneously by the flap pair 302a, simultaneous in-situ modulation and demodulation can be achieved with a specific wiring configuration. For example, as shown in Figure 7, the AFG device 300a may have an actuator 301aA located on flap 301a and an actuator 303aA located on flap 303a. Each actuator (e.g., 301aA or 303aA) has an upper electrode and a lower electrode. For example, Figures 7(a), (b), and (c) show details of the areas enclosed by the dashed lines shown in Figure 3(a), respectively. As shown in Figures 7(a) and (b), the lower electrode of actuator 301aA or 303aA receives the modulation signal SM, and the upper electrode of actuator 301aA or 303aA receives the demodulation signals +SV and -SV, which have opposite polarity. Appropriate bias voltage VBIAS can be applied to either the lower electrode shown in FIG. 7(a) or the upper electrode shown in FIG. 7(b). As shown in FIG. 7(c), one electrode of the actuator 301aA or 303aA receives both the modulation signal SM and the demodulation signal +SV or -SV (but not limited thereto), and the other electrode is appropriately biased.

[0024] For the waveforms of the modulation signal SM and the demodulation signal ±SV, reference can be made to FIG. 8 (or those similar to those shown in FIG. 8). In one embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the demodulation frequency of the demodulation signal ±SV can be half of the modulation frequency of the modulation signal SM. Specifically, the polarity of the pulse of the modulation signal SM with respect to a constant voltage CY alternates / switches twice within one operation cycle time T. At a specific time, when the demodulation signal +SV includes a first pulse having a first polarity with respect to a constant / average voltage and the demodulation signal -SV includes a second pulse having a second polarity with respect to a constant / average voltage, the first and second polarities are opposite, but the first and second pulses can have equal amplitudes. The polarity of the pulse of the demodulation signal +SV or -SV with respect to a constant / average voltage CY alternates / switches once within one operation cycle time T. Therefore, the flaps 301a and 303a form the aperture 312a at an ultrasonic aperture rate of 192 kHz, and the AFG device 300a generates an air pulse at an ultrasonic pulse rate f Pulse The operation cycle time T UC of the ultrasonic carrier frequency f CY is the reciprocal of the ultrasonic pulse rate f Pulse , that is, T CY = 1 / f Pulse and can be.

[0025] Actually, the differential mode motion (demodulation) and the common mode motion (modulation) do not necessarily occur in a time division manner. Instead, at a certain point, the common mode motion and the differential mode motion can be combined to generate the net motion of the flap 301a or 303a through the above wiring configuration. For example, FIG. 9 shows the time from t 11 to t <\ 17The lower part of Figure 8 shows an embodiment of the (symmetrical motion) of the flap pair 302a, and these time t 11 ~t 17 This shows a magnified view of the area shown in Figure 8.

[0026] In Figure 9, time t 14 from t 17 As flap 301a moves upward and flap 303a moves downward, VV312a is at time t 17 At time t, it is considered to be in an open state (i.e., the opening 312a is formed) (and remains open thereafter). Similarly, the opening 312a is considered to be in an open state at time t 11 (and earlier) it is present in flap pair 302a. 14 -t 17 During this period (or time t) 11 The common mode motion of flaps 301a and 303a in this configuration is effectively "eliminated".

[0027] In Figure 9, time t 11 from t 14 Until flap 301a moves downward and flap 303a moves upward, VV312a is considered to be in a "closed" state, that is, flaps 301a and 303a are t 11 -t 14 During this period, it can be treated as a continuous membrane and behave as one (a complete membrane) with respect to membrane movement. When VV312a is in the "closed" state, the difference in displacement between the free ends of flaps 301a and 303a is less than (or equal to) the thickness of the film structure 304a.

[0028] The "closed" state of VV312a occurs during the transition of the differential mode motion of flaps 301a and 303a. Specifically, during the (first) transition time (e.g., t 11 -t 17 In this state, the flap 301a, driven by the demodulated signal + SV, transitions from upward to downward movement; (second) transition time (e.g., t 11 -t 17In this case, the flap 303a, driven by the demodulated signal-SV, transitions from downward to upward movement. In other words, VV312a is the transition time of flaps 301a and 303a (e.g., t 11 -t 17 ) or the transition time of the demodulated signal -SV and +SV (e.g., t 11 -t 17 ) sub-interval (for example, t 13 -t 15 During this time, that is, while flaps 301a and 303a move in opposite directions and the demodulated signals -SV and +SV increase and decrease in opposite directions, the flaps remain closed. In short, when VV312a is closed, flaps 301a and 303a are moving.

[0029] The direction of the net airflow 300aF generated by the AFG device 300a can be controlled by adjusting the phase between the modulated signal SM and the demodulated signal ±SV. For example, in Figure 9, the first transition time t of the demodulated signal +SV is 11 -t 17 This occurs when the modulated signal SM is low. In this case, the AFG device 300a may generate an airflow 300aF in one direction. If the demodulated signal ±SV is shifted so that the transition time of the demodulated signal ±SV matches the time interval while the modulated signal SM is high, the AFG device 300a may instead generate an airflow 300aF in the opposite direction.

[0030] Alternatively, the direction of the net airflow of 300 aF may depend on the modulated signal SM. Specifically, the modulated signal SM may include an alternating current (AC) component or a non-zero direct current (DC) voltage / offset input signal S. INThis can occur according to the following. The polarity of the DC offset may be related to the direction of the net airflow 300aF. For example, Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of an air pulse AP according to one embodiment of the present invention. During a time interval T1, the air pulse AP1 generated by the AFG device 300a can always generate a (first) net airflow in the (first) direction D1 in response to a positive DC offset. On the other hand, during a time interval T2, the air pulse AP2 generated by the AFG device 300a can always generate a second net airflow in the second direction D2, opposite to the first direction D1, in response to a negative DC offset.

[0031] In other words, the AFG device 300a can generate a unidirectional net airflow 300aF. Alternatively, the AFG device 300a can switch the direction of its airflow 300aF. However, the time interval T1 or T2 (e.g., 0.5 seconds) is the operating cycle time T CY Alternatively, longer than the reciprocal of the minimum audible frequency (e.g., 10 Hz), the (first or second) net airflow generated by the air pulse AP1 or AP2 can always be considered to be in a single direction D1 or D2.

[0032] The intensity of the net airflow of 300 aF is controllable. Specifically, the intensity of the net airflow of 300 aF may be influenced by the magnitude of the modulation signal SM. For example, the intensity of the net airflow of 300 aF may be a function of the DC offset. The intensity of the net airflow of 300 aF may depend on factors such as the amplitude of individual air pulses (e.g., AP1 or AP2) (e.g., peak values ​​p1, p3 or p5 in Figure 10). The amplitude of air pulses AP1 or AP2 may vary from pulse to pulse or remain consistent between pulses.

[0033] In Figure 10, the operation cycle time T is shown. CYThe internal air pulses (e.g., AP1 or AP2) are asymmetric. The degree of asymmetry can be evaluated by the ratio of p2 to p1, where p1 > p2. Here, p1 is the peak value of a first half-cycle pulse with a first polarity relative to a reference level, and p2 is the peak value of a second half-cycle pulse with a second polarity relative to the reference level. This reference level may correspond to ambient conditions (e.g., ambient pressure or zero airflow).

[0034] The asymmetry of the air pulse (e.g., AP1 or AP2) may indicate the presence of low-frequency components (multiple) of the air pulse AP1 or AP2 generated by the AFG device 300a. The greater the asymmetry, the stronger the baseband spectral component of the air pulse AP1 or AP2.

[0035] The AFG device 300a can generate an asymmetric air pulse AP1 or AP2 by matching the opening timing of VV312a (responding to the demodulated signal ±SV) with the acceleration timing of the common-mode motion of flaps 301a and 303a (responding to the modulated drive signal SM). Specifically, it is the demodulation operation of the AFG device 300a that converts the symmetric UAW generated by the modulation operation into an asymmetric air pulse (e.g., AP1 or AP2). If the "open" period of VV312a overlaps with the time interval of one polarity of the acceleration of the common-mode flap motion, the AFG device 300a generates a single-ended (SE) or SE-like air pulse. Therefore, as shown in Figure 9, the transition time of the demodulated signal ±SV may not coincide with the transition time of the modulated signal SM. In other words, the asymmetry of the pulse depends on the appropriate timing for opening VV312a.

[0036] The VV312a aperture does not determine the air pulse AP or AP intensity, but it does affect how strong the "near-net-zero pressure" effect is. When the VV312a aperture is wide, the "net-zero pressure" effect becomes more pronounced, auto-neutralization is completed, the asymmetry becomes more apparent, and as a result a prominent baseband signal is obtained.

[0037] The AFG apparatus 300a can be configured / constructed using various techniques depending on the application requirements. In Figure 3(a), the chamber 315a is defined between the cap structure 311a and the film structure 304a. The film structure 304a, supported by the support structure 321a, can be manufactured using a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) manufacturing process. A silicon (Si) substrate having a thickness of 250–500 micrometers can be etched to form the support structure 321a. On top of this Si substrate, a thin layer, typically 3–6 micrometers thick, made of silicon-on-insulator (SOI) or poly-on-insulator (POI), can be etched to form the flaps 301a and 303a. A layer of piezoelectric material, such as lead zirconate titanate (PZT), can be deposited on top of the flap pair 302a to form the actuator.

[0038] Whether an AFG device is top-firing or side-firing can affect the direction(s) of the airflow(s) within its protective casing. A top-firing AFG device (e.g., 300a) refers to a configuration in which an opening(e.g., 317a) is formed on top of its cap structure(e.g., 311a). A top-firing AFG device can generate a net airflow in the +Z or -Z direction, coinciding with the main direction of motion of the AFG device's flaps. A side-firing AFG device is characterized by an opening formed in the side wall of its cap structure.

[0039] More broadly, the location of the openings in an AFG device can affect the direction(s) of the airflow(s) within its protective case. For example, Figure 3(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of an AFG device 300b according to one embodiment of the present invention. The AFG device 300b may be used, for example, to implement the AFG device 100. AFG devices 300a and 300b may share similar mechanisms; however, the opening 316b of the AFG device 300b is formed on a support structure 321b perpendicular to its support substrate 310b. The air pulse generated by the film structure 304b of the AFG device 300b always produces a net airflow 300bF in a single direction (e.g., +Z), which then induces airflows 300bF' and 300bF''. The direction of airflow 300bF' passing through opening 317b (e.g., ±Z) may be perpendicular to the direction of airflow 300bF'' passing through opening 316b (e.g., ±X). The interaction of these airflows may affect the direction(s) of airflow(s) near the AFG device 300a.

[0040] Alternatively, Figure 3(c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of an AFG apparatus 300c according to an embodiment of the present invention. AFG apparatuses 300a and 300c may have similar mechanisms; however, the opening 317c of the AFG apparatus 300c is formed in the side wall of its cap structure 311c. A net airflow 300cF generated by an air pulse from the film structure 304c of the AFG apparatus 300c, always directed in a single direction (e.g., +Z), induces an airflow 300cF'. The direction of the airflow 300cF' passing through the opening 317c (e.g., ±X) may be perpendicular to the direction of the airflow 300cF passing through the opening 316c (e.g., ±Z).

[0041] Alternatively, Figure 3(d) is a schematic cross-sectional view of an AFG apparatus 300d according to another embodiment of the present invention. The AFG apparatus 300d may be used, for example, to realize the AFG apparatus 200a. The AFG apparatuses 300c and 300d may share similar mechanisms; however, the opening 316d of the AFG apparatus 300d is formed on the side of its support substrate 310d. The net airflow 300dF generated by the air pulse from the film structure 304d of the AFG apparatus 300d, which is always directed in a single direction (e.g., +Z), induces airflows 300dF' and 300dF''. In Figure 3(d), the direction of the airflow 300dF' passing through the opening 317d (e.g., ±X) may be parallel to the direction of the airflow 300dF'' passing through the opening 316d (e.g., ±X). Alternatively, if the opening 316d is located on a side perpendicular to the side wall of the cap structure 311d, where another opening 317d is formed, the direction of the airflow 300dF' passing through the opening 317d (e.g., ±Y) may be perpendicular to the direction of the airflow 300dF'' passing through the opening 316d (e.g., ±X).

[0042] To supply power to operate the AFG device 400, the AFG device 400 may be coupled to a power source 460 (e.g., a battery, solar cell, or near-field communication (NFC) wireless charger) as shown in Figure 4(a), a schematic side view of a protective case 40a according to one embodiment of the present invention, and the power source 460 may supply power to the AFG device 400. The location of the power source 460 may depend on factors such as the location of the AFG device 400 or the location of components 491 of the portable electronic device 490 (e.g., the antenna, processor, or battery of the portable electronic device 490). For example, the NFC wireless charger of the AFG device 400 may be located corresponding to the location of the NFC wireless charger of the portable electronic device 490. Alternatively, the power source 460 may be located away from the processor or battery of the portable electronic device 490. Alternatively, if the protective case 40a can be connected to the battery of the portable electronic device 490, the power source 460 may be omitted.

[0043] Component 470 may be added to the protective case 40a to provide advanced functionality. For example, component 470 may be a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature near the portable electronic device 490. Component 470 may transmit signals related to the sensed temperature to the AFG device 400 to selectively start / stop the AFG device 400 based on temperature conditions. Alternatively, component 470 may be a controller configured to identify hot spots within the housing or to control the operation of the AFG device. For example, component 470 may start / stop a specific AFG device or adjust the strength of the airflow generated by the AFG device to regulate the ambient temperature. The location of component 470 may depend on factors such as the location of the AFG device 400 or the location of component 491. For example, component 470 may be located near the processor of the portable electronic device 490 but away from the AFG device 400.

[0044] The substrate 480 (for example, a printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible printed circuit (FPC), or a support substrate 310a as shown in Figure 3) may be configured to support the AFG device 400, the power supply 460, or the components 470 placed on it. Wiring connecting the AFG device 400, the power supply 460, or the components 470 can facilitate power supply to the AFG device 400 or the components 470, while also enabling communication between the AFG device 400 and the components 470. The substrate 480 may also have openings 486a or 486b, which are positioned corresponding to openings 456a or 456b in the housing 450a to form an air passage(s) from the bottom of the housing 450a to the AFG device 400. Thus, the cold air entering through the opening(s) 486a or 486b is heated by the portable electronic device 490, and the heated air can exit the housing 450a through the opening(s) 486b or 486a.

[0045] The configuration of the AFG device may be reversed. For example, in Figure 4(a), the AFG device 400, power supply 460, or component 470 is located on a substrate 480 situated between the AFG device 400 and the housing 450a. However, in Figure 4(b), a schematic side view of a protective case 40c according to one embodiment of the present invention, the AFG device 400, power supply 460, or component 470 is located between the substrate 480 and the housing 450c. The structure of the recess 459c in the housing 450c differs from the recess 459a in the housing 450a and may depend on the shape of the AFG device 400, power supply 460, or component 470, etc. The recess 459a or 459b, or the space between the portable electronic device 490 and the housing 450a or 450b, may form a channel(s) for directing air into the housing 450a or 450b.

[0046] The protective case may have several AFG devices having the same or different shapes(s) or sizes(s). For example, in Figure 5(a), a schematic top view of a protective case 50d according to one embodiment of the present invention, the protective case 50d has AFG devices 500a, 500b, and 500c arranged in different arrays. Optionally, the number of AFG devices may be less than the number of openings in the housing 550d. Optionally, the number of AFG devices (e.g., 8) or the number of their arrays may be a function of the temperature or power density of the portable electronic device.

[0047] The location / distribution of AFG devices (e.g., the distance between two adjacent AFG devices or two adjacent arrays) may depend on factors such as the temperature or power density of the portable electronic device, or the location of the battery, antenna, or processor of the portable electronic device. For example, more AFG devices may be placed closer to the battery or processor of the portable electronic device, while fewer AFG devices may be placed closer to the antenna of the portable electronic device.

[0048] The AFG devices (or multiple devices) of the protective case may feature the same or different structures (or multiple devices) or operations (or multiple devices). For example, Figure 5(b) shows a schematic top view of a protective case 50g according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] In one embodiment, the structure and operation of two adjacent flap pairs may be identical. For example, two flaps 501e and 503e facing each other to constitute a flap pair 502e of AFG device 500e are actuated to move in opposite directions to form a VV between them. Similarly, an adjacent flap pair 506e may also be actuated to form a VV between its flap 507e and flap 505e, with flap 505e positioned next to flap 503e without a slit in between. For analogy, all VVs of AFG device 500e may be closed simultaneously, and similarly, they may be opened simultaneously. When adjacent flaps 503e and 505e of two adjacent flap pairs 502e and 506e move in opposite directions by electrically connected lower electrodes, current flows between the two adjacent flap pairs 502e and 506e, which contributes to a reduction in overall power consumption.

[0050] In one embodiment, the structure and operation of two adjacent flap pairs may differ. For example, flap pair 502f of AFG device 500f may generate a (first) air pulse toward aperture 556f in response to demodulated and modulated signals, while flap pair 506f of AFG device 500f may generate a (second) air pulse toward the same aperture 556f in response to different demodulated and modulated signals. The demodulated signal toward the flap of flap pair 502f (e.g., 501f) may be a delayed version of the demodulated signal toward the flap of flap pair 506f (e.g., T CY / 2, operating cycle time T CY(It is delayed by half the amount). Also, the modulated signal of flap pair 502f may be seen as the inverted signal or polarity inverted signal of the modulated signal of flap pair 506f. Correspondingly, the first air pulse and the second air pulse may be interleaved with each other and in time (alternate) to increase the pulse rate (e.g., by doubling).

[0051] As shown in Figure 5(b), the film structures 504e and 504f positioned above the openings 556e and 556f of the housing 550g have different shapes. Specifically, the orientation of the flap pair (e.g., 506e) of AFG device 500e is different from the orientation of the flap pair (e.g., 506f) of AFG device 500f. For example, the plane of symmetry of the flap (e.g., 507e) of AFG device 500e is perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the flap (e.g., 507f) of AFG device 500f. This may help reduce resonance.

[0052] Apart from direction, the operation of two flap pairs in different AFG devices may differ. For example, in one embodiment, the demodulated or modulated signal of the flap of flap pair 502e (e.g., 501e) may be a delayed version of the demodulated or modulated signal of the flap of flap pair 502f (e.g., 501f). In one embodiment, AFG device 500e may generate air pulses toward the opening 556e, always producing a net (first) airflow in a (first) single direction. On the other hand, AFG device 500f may generate air pulses away from the opening 556f, always producing a net (second) airflow in a (second) single direction. The first single direction (e.g., +Z) may be the same as or different from the second single direction (e.g., +Z or -Z).

[0053] For example, as shown in Figure 6(a), a schematic side view of a protective case 60c according to one embodiment of the present invention, the AFG devices 600a and 600b can generate airflow in opposite directions. In this way, the airflow generated by the AFG device 600a can enter the housing 650c through the opening 656a, introducing cool air (e.g., at ambient temperature) into the housing 650c. The cool air can then move through the housing 650c and absorb heat. The heated air can then be drawn out of the housing 650c by the AFG device 600b through the opening 656b. This push-pull configuration can promote heat dissipation.

[0054] For example, as shown in Figure 6(b), a schematic side view of a protective case 60f according to one embodiment of the present invention, the AFG devices 600d and 600e can continuously generate airflow in the same direction (e.g., -Z or +Z) to draw cold air into the housing 650f or to push heated air out of the housing 650f. Corresponding to the airflow generated by the AFG devices 600d and 600e, air can flow into (or out of) the housing 650f through the opening(s) 656f. In other words, even AFG devices operating in the same direction can help remove excess heat from the portable electronic device 690.

[0055] The geometric features of the AFG device or housing are related to the resonance or ultrasonic carrier frequency f UC They may be associated with or independent of each other. Optionally, the length (e.g., LN5), width (e.g., WD5), or thickness TH6 of the housing 650f is the ultrasonic carrier frequency f UC The corresponding wavelength λ UC This can be substantially different from a multiple of 1 / 4. Optionally, the slits between the flaps (e.g., 501e and 503e) may be positioned so as not to coincide with any antinodes or nodes of the housing 650c's resonance. Optionally, the film structure (e.g., 504e) may be driven at or near its resonance to reduce power consumption.

[0056] The impact-resistant structure of the housing can be improved after the addition of AFG devices. For example, the housing 650c in Figure 6(a) includes recesses 659a and 659b in which AFG devices 600a and 600b are located to form a three-dimensional pattern structure inside. This structure can not only form an air channel, but can also provide sufficient buffer space or shock absorption for the portable electronic device 690 or minimize structural resonance.

[0057] The geometric features of the housing and its AFG device(s) are mutually influential and closely related. For example, the location(s) of opening(s) 656c or 656f may relate to the direction of the airflow generated by the AFG device(s) (e.g., 600a, 600b, 600d, or 600e), the location(s) of the AFG device(s) (e.g., 600a, 600b, 600d, or 600e), or the area where the user holds the protective case. Optionally, if AFG device 600a draws cold air into the housing 650c and AFG device 600b expels hot air from there, opening(s) 656c may be omitted. Optionally, opening(s) 656f may be located away from the holding area intended for the user to grasp by hand, and AFG device(s) near the holding area may be side-firing type.

[0058] The AFG device may be small relative to the portable electronic device 690 (or its battery). The portable electronic device 690 (or its battery or processor) may overlap completely with a compact AFG device (e.g., 600d). Due to the small size of the AFG device (e.g., 10-15 mm in length, 10-15 mm in width, and 2-3 mm in thickness), the housing 650f may also be made thin.

[0059] The use of ordinal terms such as "first" and "second" does not in itself imply priority, precedence, or order of one element over another, a timeline in which a method of operation is performed, or the necessity of all elements existing simultaneously. Rather, these terms are simply used as labels to distinguish one element with a certain name from another element with the same name.

[0060] The term "substantially" generally means that there may or may not be a small deviation. For example, the terms "substantially parallel" or "substantially aligned" indicate that the angle between two components may be less than or equal to a certain threshold (e.g., 5 degrees, 1 degree, 0.1 degrees). The term "substantially aligned" indicates that the deviation between two components is less than or equal to a certain threshold (e.g., 1 or 0.1 micrometers or milliseconds). The term "substantially identical" indicates that the deviation is within a certain percentage (e.g., 5%, 1%, 0.1%).

[0061] The technical features described in the following embodiments can be mixed or combined in various ways, provided that there is no conflict between them.

[0062] In summary, an AFG device is installed inside a protective case facing a portable electronic device to generate airflow between the protective case and the portable electronic device, thereby efficiently cooling the device without adversely affecting its performance. To enhance cooling efficiency, the protective case may be equipped with temperature sensors or an independent power supply, which may be installed inside the protective case facing the portable electronic device. Furthermore, the geometric features of the protective case (e.g., openings or channels) may be designed in conjunction with the AFG device to promote airflow and increase structural strength. In other words, by providing external active cooling and protective cover functions, the protective case improves the performance and reliability of the portable electronic device without requiring any changes to its internal configuration.

[0063] Those skilled in the art will readily understand that many modifications and changes to the apparatus and method can be made while maintaining the teachings of the present invention. Accordingly, the above disclosure should be construed as being limited only to the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A protective case for portable electronic devices: A housing configured to accommodate the aforementioned portable electronic device; and Having an airflow generating device integrated into the housing; Protective case.

2. The first surface of the airflow generator is in contact with the inner surface of the housing; The second surface of the airflow generator is on the opposite side of the first surface; The second surface adjacent to the portable electronic device is either in contact with the portable electronic device or spaced apart from it. The protective case according to claim 1.

3. The opening of the airflow generator is aligned with the opening of the housing or is located near the opening of the housing. The protective case according to claim 1.

4. The airflow generating device is positioned within the recess of the housing. The protective case according to claim 1.

5. The number of at least one airflow generating device is less than the number of openings in the housing; The at least one airflow generating device includes the airflow generating device, The protective case according to claim 1.

6. The airflow generator further includes a temperature sensor and is configured to receive signals related to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor. The protective case according to claim 1.

7. The system further includes a power supply configured to supply power to the aforementioned airflow generator. The protective case according to claim 1.

8. The position or single direction of the airflow generator is determined according to the position of the battery, antenna, or processor of the portable electronic device. The protective case according to claim 1.

9. The film structure of the airflow generator is configured to operate to generate multiple air pulses at an ultrasonic pulse rate; The plurality of air pulses always generate a net airflow in a single direction. The protective case according to claim 1.

10. The flap pair of the film structure has a first flap and a second flap that face each other; The flap pair is configured to perform differential mode motion and form a virtual valve or opening at an ultrasonic opening rate synchronized with the ultrasonic pulse rate; The virtual valve is closed within a period corresponding to the first transition time of the first flap and the second transition time of the second flap. The protective case according to claim 9.

11. A method for generating airflow for portable electronic devices, Steps to generate airflow; and Includes the step of moving air within the housing of the protective case; The airflow generator of the protective case is integrated into the housing configured to house a portable electronic device. Method for generating airflow.

12. The first surface of the airflow generator is in contact with the inner surface of the housing; The second surface of the airflow generator is on the opposite side of the first surface; The second surface adjacent to the portable electronic device is either in contact with the portable electronic device or spaced apart from it. The method for generating airflow according to claim 11.

13. The opening of the airflow generator is aligned with the opening of the housing or is located near the opening of the housing. The method for generating airflow according to claim 11.

14. The airflow generating device is positioned within the recess of the housing. The method for generating airflow according to claim 11.

15. The number of at least one airflow generating device is less than the number of openings in the housing; The at least one airflow generating device includes the airflow generating device, The method for generating airflow according to claim 11.

16. The protective case further comprises a temperature sensor; The airflow generating device is configured to receive a signal related to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor. The method for generating airflow according to claim 11.

17. The protective case further includes a power supply configured to supply power to the airflow generator. The method for generating airflow according to claim 11.

18. The position or single direction of the airflow generator is determined according to the position of the battery, antenna, or processor of the portable electronic device. The method for generating airflow according to claim 11.

19. A pair of film flaps has a first flap and a second flap that face each other; The flap pair is configured to perform differential mode motion and form a virtual valve or opening at an ultrasonic opening rate synchronized with the ultrasonic pulse rate; The virtual valve is closed within a period corresponding to the first transition time of the first flap and the second transition time of the second flap; The method for generating airflow according to claim 11.

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