electronic machinery

Abstract

To provide a natural convection heat dissipation structure and a forced heat dissipation structure using fans as means of dissipating heat from a circuit board having a heat generating image sensor mounted thereon without increasing thickness of an image capturing device.SOLUTION: An image capturing device of the present invention comprises heat dissipation fins 703a, b, c, f, g having curved shapes formed continuously from an inlet port 603 to first exhaust ports 604, 605 on a metal plate 703 when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device and electronic equipment equipped with a heat dissipation structure for a heat generating element. [Background technology]

[0002] As an example of a heat dissipation structure of a conventional imaging device, Patent Document 1 discloses an imaging device that is composed of a first housing unit that holds a heat-generating circuit board and a second housing unit that is fixed to the first housing unit at a predetermined distance.

[0003] The spaces formed at predetermined intervals communicate with the outside air via a top opening exposed on the top surface of the imaging device and a rear opening exposed on the rear surface of the imaging device, forming an air flow path.

[0004] The rear surface of the first housing unit, which forms the air flow path, has a heat dissipation structure that increases the surface area of ​​the surface facing the second housing unit, and by thermally connecting the electronic components to the heat dissipation structure, the heat generated by the circuit board is dissipated to the outside of the imaging device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-10237 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, although Patent Document 1 describes that heat can be dissipated by natural convection from the rear surface of the imaging device to the upper surface, it does not specify a structure for forced heat dissipation using a fan or the like.

[0007] Furthermore, since an opening for heat dissipation is provided on the top surface of the imaging device, the thickness of the top surface of the imaging device increases, and the thickness of the entire imaging device also increases.

[0008] In view of these points, the present invention aims to provide a natural convection heat dissipation structure and a forced heat dissipation structure using a fan or the like as a method of dissipating heat from a circuit board on which heat-generating electronic components are mounted without increasing the thickness of the imaging device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] An imaging device of the present invention includes an imaging element, a circuit board, a control circuit that controls the imaging element and is disposed on the circuit board, a duct, a metal plate that is thermally connected to the control circuit, an inlet for introducing air into the duct, a first outlet for discharging air from the duct, and a second outlet for discharging air from the duct, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the first discharge port is located on an opposite side of the optical axis from the grip portion of the imaging device, the metal plate constitutes an inner wall of the duct, the inlet is provided on a first surface constituting an exterior cover of the imaging device, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the second outlet is provided on a second surface constituting the exterior cover, the second surface being different from the first surface, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the first exhaust port is provided in a third surface constituting the exterior cover adjacent to the first surface, the third surface being located on a surface different from the first surface, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the heat dissipation fins formed on the metal plate are characterized by having a curved shape that is continuously formed from the inlet toward the first outlet. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] It is preferable to provide a bottom opening exposed on the bottom surface of the imaging device, a first opening exposed on a first side surface of the imaging device, and a second opening exposed on the back surface of the imaging device near the finder.

[0011] This makes it possible to provide a natural convection heat dissipation structure and a forced heat dissipation structure using a fan or the like, thereby efficiently dissipating heat from the imaging device and lengthening the imaging time of the imaging device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is an external perspective view of an imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view of the bottom appearance of an imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an image pickup apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a rear view of an imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a rear cover of an image pickup apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an imaging device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the bottom; [Figure 7] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an imaging device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the back; [Figure 8] 10 is a bottom perspective view of an imaging device according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the imaging device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the imaging device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 10 is a bottom perspective view of an imaging device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 10 is a cross-sectional view of an imaging device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, seen from the bottom. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the imaging device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the imaging device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 13 is a rear view of the imaging device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 13 is a rear view of the imaging device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 1 is a system block diagram of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 18]1 is an external perspective view of an information terminal device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an information terminal device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] A perspective view of the cooling accessory 3, which is an external accessory. [Figure 21] An image of the camera body with the cooling accessory attached DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0014] First Embodiment (Camera system description) FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Referring to FIG. 1, the configuration of a camera system consisting of a camera body 1 and a display unit 101 is shown.

[0016] FIG. 1(a) is a front perspective view of the camera body 1, and FIG. 1(b) is a rear perspective view of the camera body 1. FIG.

[0017] In the following description, the X axis is the width direction (horizontal direction) of the camera body 1, the Y axis is the height direction (vertical direction) of the camera body 1, and the Z axis is the optical axis direction (depth direction) of the camera body 1.

[0018] A display unit 101 is provided on the rear surface of the camera and displays images and various information.

[0019] The display unit 101 is equipped with a touch panel, and can detect touch operations on the display surface (operation surface) of the display unit 101.

[0020] The outside viewfinder display unit 102 is a display unit provided on the top surface of the camera, and displays various settings of the camera, including the shutter speed and aperture.

[0021] The shutter button 103 is an operation unit for issuing a shooting instruction.

[0022] The mode changeover switch 104 is an operation unit for switching between various modes.

[0023] The terminal cover 105 is a cover for protecting a connector (not shown) of a connection cable or the like that connects the camera body 1 to a connection cable for connecting to an external device.

[0024] The main electronic dial 106 is a rotary operation member, and by turning this main electronic dial 106, settings such as shutter speed and aperture can be changed.

[0025] The power switch 107 is an operating member for switching the power of the camera body 1 on and off.

[0026] The sub electronic dial 108 as a second dial operation member is a rotary operation member, and can be used to move the selection frame, advance images, and the like.

[0027] A multi-controller 109 is mounted on the back, and the multi-controller 109 allows input by pressing the key tops as well as tilting the key tops.

[0028] The key top can be tilted in eight directions, including up, down, left, right, and diagonal directions. The multi-controller 109 is mainly used to move the selection frame and make selections in each menu.

[0029] The rear electronic dial 110 as the third dial operation member is a rotary operation member, and can be used to move the selection frame, advance images, and the like.

[0030] The rear electronic dial 110 is positioned so that it can be easily operated intuitively while a captured image is being played back on the display unit 101, and is also easy to operate when the camera is held vertically.

[0031] A SET button 111 is provided in the center of the rear electronic dial 110. The SET button 111 is a push button, and is mainly used to confirm a selected item.

[0032] The video button 112 is used to start and stop video shooting (recording).

[0033] The button group 113 is an operation button related to focus and exposure, and is made up of three buttons arranged horizontally in a triple row: an AF start button, an AE lock button, and an AF frame selection button.

[0034] By pressing it while the camera is ready to shoot, you can control AF, change the AF range, and fix the exposure.

[0035] The button group 114 is made up of three buttons: an L-shaped zoom-in / zoom-out button, an information display button, and a quick setting button.

[0036] The zoom in / out button can be used to turn zoom in mode on and off in the live view display in shooting mode, and can be used to turn zoom in mode on and off for the playback image in playback mode. The information display button can be used to switch the display method for information displayed on the display unit 101, and the quick setting button is a button that allows you to quickly transition to setting items for shooting parameters.

[0037] The button group 115 is made up of a play button and an erase button.

[0038] The playback button is an operation button that switches between shooting mode and playback mode. By pressing the button group 116 during shooting mode, the camera switches to playback mode, and the most recent image recorded on a recording card (not shown) can be displayed on the display unit 101.

[0039] In playback mode, an image can be selected and deleted by pressing the delete button.

[0040] The button group 116 is made up of a menu button and a rating button. By pressing the menu button, a menu screen in which various settings can be made is displayed on the display unit 101.

[0041] The user can intuitively perform various settings using touch operations, the multi-controller 109, the rear electronic dial 110, and the SET button 111 in accordance with the menu screen displayed on the display unit 101.

[0042] The rating button can be pressed in playback mode to rate (rank) the playback image.

[0043] An interchangeable lens (not shown) is attached to and detached from the mount portion 122 .

[0044] The communication terminal 117 is provided inside the mount portion 122 and is a communication terminal for the camera body 1 to communicate with the lens side (detachable).

[0045] The viewfinder 118 is an eyepiece, and is configured as an electronic viewfinder, unlike conventional optical types. By looking through the viewfinder 118, the user can view the image displayed inside.

[0046] An eyepiece detection sensor is provided inside the eyepiece detection window 119 to detect whether the photographer has placed his or her eye close to the viewfinder 118 or not.

[0047] The eyepiece cover 123 comes into contact with the photographer when the photographer looks through the finder 118 .

[0048] The grip part 120 is a holding part shaped to be easily gripped with the right hand when the user holds the camera body 1, and is shaped to fit easily in the hand from the card cover 300 to the rear cover 600, and is provided with a rubber front rubber 121 to prevent slipping.

[0049] The card cover 300 is a cover for protecting the slot for storing the recording card. The card cover 300 is provided in the grip part 120 in the area where the user's palm rests, and its position and size are determined taking into consideration the restrictions of the internal card slot and operability.

[0050] (Explanation of Cooling Accessory 3) The cooling accessory 3, which is an external accessory, will be described with reference to FIG.

[0051] The cooling accessory top surface 33 is provided with a tripod male screw 311 that rotates in conjunction with the operation of a tripod screw dial 312, and two positioning pins 313 that engage with the positioning holes 238, 239 on the bottom surface of the camera body 1 described above.

[0052] The tripod male screw 311 is screwed into the camera tripod female screw 237 of the camera body 1 by rotating the tripod screw dial 312 , thereby fastening the cooling accessory 3 to the camera body 1 .

[0053] The battery chamber closing protrusion 314 that protrudes slightly from the cooling accessory top surface 33 closes the camera battery chamber opening of the camera body 1 in place of the camera battery cover 231 when the camera side battery cover 231 is removed when the cooling accessory 3 is attached.

[0054] The battery chamber closing protrusion 314 is provided with a drip-proof seal 315 around its periphery.

[0055] Also, a plug connector 316 is arranged on the battery chamber closing protrusion 314 to be coupled with the receptacle connector (not shown) of the camera body 1 described above.

[0056] A flat rectangular air outlet 317 is opened in the center of the cooling accessory top surface 33, and its position and size match the adjacent air intake opening 603 on the opposing camera side when attached to the camera body 1. A stretchable air outlet seal 318 is laid around the periphery of the air outlet 317 to prevent air leakage through gaps with the camera body 1.

[0057] (Illustration of the camera body 1 with the cooling accessory 3 attached) 21A and 21B are diagrams showing the camera body 1 with the cooling accessory 3 attached, with FIG. 21A being a view from the front and FIG. 21B being a view from the rear.

[0058] The external appearance of the cooling accessory 3 will be described within the scope shown in FIG.

[0059] A battery cover 302 for attaching and detaching a battery housed in the cooling accessory 3 is arranged on the right side of the rear surface of the cooling accessory 3.

[0060] The battery stored in the cooling accessory 3 is used to drive at least the fan built into the cooling accessory, and the battery used in this embodiment is the same type as the battery used in the camera body 1 described below, taking into consideration user convenience.

[0061] A main switch 303 on the right side of the cooling accessory 3 is a switch for switching the function of the cooling accessory 3 on and off.

[0062] The exterior surface on the right side of the cooling accessory 3 is a grip assist surface 304 that has a design shape that continues with the grip part 120 of the camera body 1 from the front side to the upper right part of the rear side accessory battery cover.

[0063] The grip assist surface 304 is provided to assist the gripping function of the lower part of the user's palm that extends beyond the grip section 120 when the user holds the camera body 1 .

[0064] Therefore, the right side of the housing of the cooling accessory 3 cannot be formed to protrude significantly beyond the camera body 1.

[0065] Louvers 305 and 306 with lattice-like holes arranged on the rear and front side of the housing protrusion 31 of the cooling accessory 3 serve as outside air intakes, serving as inlets for introducing outside air into the built-in cooling fan.

[0066] A tripod screw dial 312 located at the left end on the front side of the housing is an operating member used when fastening the cooling accessory 3 to the bottom surface of the camera body 1.

[0067] A tripod female screw 307 provided on the bottom surface 32 of the cooling accessory is used to attach the image capturing device 1 to a tripod.

[0068] Video boss hole 308, arranged alongside tripod female screw 307, corresponds to the video boss (pin) provided on many video camera tripods, and by engaging with each other, prevents inadvertent rotational shaking of the camera relative to the tripod. Camera battery cover storage section 309 stores camera battery cover 231, which is removed when attaching cooling accessory 3 and will be described later.

[0069] (A perspective view of the bottom of the camera body 1) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the bottom of the camera body 1. FIG.

[0070] The openings 601, 602, 603, 604, and 605 of the rear cover 600 will be described with reference to FIG. 1(b) and FIG.

[0071] Heat dissipation openings 601 and 602 are provided in the upper part of the rear cover 600. The openings 601 and 602 are provided on either side of the viewfinder 118, with the opening 601 being located to the left of the viewfinder 118 and the opening 602 being located to the right of the viewfinder 118 when viewed from the rear.

[0072] A heat dissipation opening 603 is provided on the bottom surface of the rear cover 600. The opening 603 is provided so as to be exposed to the bottom surface.

[0073] The opening 603 is housed in a storage portion of the movable display unit 101, and is provided only in the right half when viewed from the rear of the display unit 101.

[0074] The openings 604 and 605 are provided so as to be exposed on the left side when viewed from the rear of the rear cover 600.

[0075] Openings 604 and 605 are housed in the storage area of ​​movable display unit 101, and are provided from the center to the upper half of movable display unit 101 when viewed from the rear of camera body 1. Opening 605 is located below hinge cover 606.

[0076] The openings 604 and 605 are located on the opposite side of the optical axis A from the grip portion 120 of the imaging device.

[0077] Since the openings 604 and 605 are provided from the center to the upper half of the movable display part 101, the air flowing in from the opening 603 on the bottom surface of the main body can easily flow through the entire duct 800, and the heat of the metal plate 703 forming the duct 800 can be efficiently dissipated.

[0078] The configuration of the duct 800 will be described later.

[0079] The opening 601 is disposed between the button group 116 and the finder 118, and is located lower than the convex surfaces of the key tops of the button group 116.

[0080] The opening 602 is disposed between the multi-controller 109 and the finder 118 and is located lower than the convex surfaces of the key tops of the multi-controller 109 .

[0081] Since the openings 601 and 602 are located at a position lower than the convex surface of the key top, it is possible to prevent the openings 601 and 602 from being blocked by the photographer's fingers when the photographer presses an operation button near the openings 601 and 602.

[0082] If the openings 601 and 602 are blocked, there is a possibility that the heat radiation function of the camera body 1 will not function properly, so the openings 601 and 602 are arranged at a position lower than the convex surface of the key top.

[0083] The relationship between the openings 601, 602, 603, 604, and 605 will be described.

[0084] The cooling accessory 3 has a built-in fan for cooling the camera body 1. The cooling accessory 3 can be attached to the bottom surface of the camera body 1.

[0085] The cooling accessory 3 can exhaust air from the accessory body by driving a fan built into the accessory.

[0086] When the cooling accessory 3 is attached to the bottom surface of the camera body 1 and the fan of the cooling accessory 3 is driven, the air discharged from the accessory body flows into the duct 800 through the opening 603 .

[0087] That is, the opening 603 serves as an air intake port. The air that flows in through the opening 603 passes through the inside of the duct 800 and is discharged from the openings 601, 602, 604, and 605.

[0088] The opening 603 is provided on a side parallel to the X-axis and is disposed on the long side of the metal plate 703 .

[0089] In other words, the openings 601, 602, 604, and 605 function as exhaust ports. The duct 800 of the camera body 1 will be described later.

[0090] The openings 604 and 605 are provided on sides parallel to the Y axis and are arranged on the short side of the metal plate 703. The openings 601 and 602 are provided on sides parallel to the X axis and are provided on the long side of the metal plate 703 and on the side opposite to the opening 603.

[0091] By flowing air from the accessory body into the inside of the camera body 1, it is possible to dissipate heat from heat-generating components inside the camera body 1. The relationship between the duct 800 of the camera body 1 and the internal heat-generating components will be described later.

[0092] The relationship between the openings 601, 602, 604, and 605 will now be described.

[0093] The opening area of ​​the opening 601 is smaller than the opening area of ​​the opening 604 and is also smaller than the opening area of ​​the opening 605. Similarly, the opening area of ​​the opening 602 is smaller than the opening area of ​​the opening 604 and is also smaller than the opening area of ​​the opening 605.

[0094] Due to the difference in opening area, the air that flows in through opening 603 is mainly discharged from openings 604 and 605. The amount of air discharged from openings 601 and 602 is less than the amount of air discharged from openings 604 and 605.

[0095] Therefore, the role of the main exhaust ports is played by openings 604 and 605. Therefore, the opening areas of openings 601 and 602 are made smaller than the opening area of ​​opening 604 and smaller than the opening area of ​​opening 605.

[0096] The center of the opening 601 in the height direction of the camera body 1 and the center of the viewfinder 118 in the height direction of the camera body 1 do not coincide.

[0097] Similarly, the center of the opening 602 in the height direction of the camera body 1 and the center of the viewfinder 118 in the height direction of the camera body 1 do not coincide.

[0098] As described above, the center of the opening 601 and the center of the opening 602 do not coincide with the center of the viewfinder 118, so that when the photographer looks through the viewfinder 118, the air expelled from the openings 601 and 602 is less likely to hit the photographer's eyes.

[0099] The relationship between the opening area of ​​the opening 601 and the opening area of ​​the opening 602 will be described.

[0100] The opening area of ​​opening 601 is smaller than the opening area of ​​opening 602. The opening area of ​​opening 601 and the opening area of ​​opening 602 are made different so that the amount of air that flows in from opening 603 and is discharged from opening 601 and opening 602 is the same.

[0101] By making the amount of air discharged from the opening 601 and the opening 602 the same, the photographer will feel the air in the same way when looking through the viewfinder 118 with either his right eye or his left eye.

[0102] The position of opening 601 is closer to openings 604 and 605 than opening 602, and is arranged on a different plane from the plane on which openings 604 and 605 are arranged. Opening 601 is arranged at the top of the rear side of camera body 1, on a plane that connects opening 602 with openings 604 and 605.

[0103] The rear cover 600 has a recessed shape 608 for opening and closing the display unit 101. The recessed shape is formed so that the operator's fingers can fit into the recessed shape when opening and closing the display unit 101, making the opening and closing operation easier.

[0104] The rear cover 600 is provided with an opening 607 for heat dissipation. The opening 607 is provided so as to be exposed on the surface facing the recessed shape 608. (The opening 607 is provided so as to be exposed on the right side when viewed from the rear.)

[0105] The opening 607 is provided on the surface opposite to the openings 604 and 605 .

[0106] The opening area of ​​the opening 607 is smaller than the opening area of ​​the opening 604 and is also smaller than the opening area of ​​the opening 605 .

[0107] Due to the difference in opening area, the air that flows in through opening 603 is mainly discharged from openings 604 and 605. The amount of air discharged from opening 607 is less than the amount of air discharged from openings 604 and 605. Therefore, openings 604 and 605 act as the main exhaust ports.

[0108] Therefore, the opening area of ​​the opening 607 is smaller than the opening area of ​​the opening 604 and smaller than the opening area of ​​the opening 605 .

[0109] (An exploded perspective view of the camera body 1 shown in FIG. 1) Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the camera body 1 shown in Fig. 1. The figure shows the state in which the rear cover 600 and card cover 300 of the camera body 1 have been removed, and a circuit board 4 is disposed inside.

[0110] The image processing system IC 400 is mounted on the circuit board 4, and since the image processing system IC 400 is relatively large in size, there are also restrictions on the layout on the circuit board 4.

[0111] In this embodiment, two different types of card slots are attached to the side of the image processing system IC 400 on the circuit board 4.

[0112] A first card slot 401 is attached to the rear side of the main body, and a second card slot 402 (not shown) is attached to the front side of the main body.

[0113] In this embodiment, the first card slot 401 is a slot into which a first card 501 (XQD card or CF express card) is inserted, and the second card slot 402 is assumed to be a slot for a second card 502 (SD card).

[0114] However, the type of memory card is not limited to this, and may be a single slot, double slots of the same type, or any other combination of slots.

[0115] An eject button 401a is provided in the first card slot 401, and when a card (not shown in FIG. 5) corresponding to the first card slot 401 is inserted, a lever 401b rotates, and the eject button 401a moves in a protruding direction to the right in the figure.

[0116] On the other hand, when the eject button 401a is pressed, the lever 401b rotates in the opposite direction to the previous one, and FIG. 5 is pushed outward.

[0117] Due to placement restrictions on the image processing system IC400, there may be restrictions on the position of the first card slot 401 in the width direction of the camera body 1. A battery storage section 124 is located on the front side of the body of the circuit board 4, and when the duct 800 is not present, part of the battery storage section 124 is exposed.

[0118] The image processing system IC 400 is an element that generates heat when taking video images or performing other processing.

[0119] (View of camera body 1 from the rear) FIG. 4 is a diagram of the camera body 1 as seen from the rear, with the display unit 101 removed and the image processing system IC 400 shown with hidden lines.

[0120] The relationship between the openings 602 and 603 and the image processing system IC 400 will be described.

[0121] The image processing system IC400 is disposed inside a projection line obtained by extending the lines at both ends of the opening 603 in the upward direction in the figure.

[0122] The opening 602 is located inside the projection line obtained by extending the lines at both ends of the opening 603 in the upward direction of the figure.

[0123] That is, the heat source (image processing system IC400) and the exhaust port (opening 602) are aligned vertically in a straight line on the extension of the opening area of ​​the intake port (opening 603).

[0124] The center position of the opening 602 in the width direction of the camera body 1 coincides with the center position of the image processing system IC400 in the width direction of the camera body 1. The centers of the opening 602 and the image processing system IC400 coincide with the center line 500.

[0125] The center position of the opening 607 in the height direction of the camera body 1 coincides with the center position of the image processing system IC400 in the height direction of the camera body 1. The centers of the opening 607 and the image processing system IC400 coincide with the center line 501.

[0126] As described above, rear cover 600 has eyepiece cover 123, opening 601, and opening 602 arranged therein.

[0127] In this embodiment, openings 601 and 602 do not overlap with eyepiece cover 123 in projection when viewed from the rear of camera body 1. In a configuration different from this embodiment, openings 601 and 602 may overlap with part of eyepiece cover 123 in projection when viewed from the rear of camera body 1.

[0128] By overlapping the openings 601 and 602 with a part of the eyepiece cover 123 in the projection, the air being discharged from the openings 601 and 602 can be made less noticeable when the photographer looks through the viewfinder 118.

[0129] (Exploded perspective view seen from inside the rear cover 600) FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 4, and is an exploded perspective view seen from inside the rear cover 600.

[0130] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 4, and is a schematic view for ease of explanation.

[0131] The configuration of the duct 800 into which air from the cooling accessory 3 flows will be described.

[0132] The rear cover 600 has a sealing rib 607 that separates the inside of the camera body 1 from the outside air. The sealing rib 607 has a standing wall shape that extends in the depth direction of the camera body 1, and the standing wall is formed on four sides.

[0133] The inner dimensions of the four sides are set to be approximately the same as the size of the display unit 101. Sealing ribs 607 provided on the four sides have no openings other than the openings 603, 604, and 605 and openings 601 and 602 (not shown) to maintain a tight seal.

[0134] Double-sided tape 702 is placed on the four sides of sealing rib 607. Double-sided tape 702 has a hollowed-out shape, and is shaped to face the four sides of sealing rib 607.

[0135] The metal plate 703 is formed in a rectangular shape, and the edges of the four sides of the metal plate 703 are adhered to the sealing rib 607 of the rear cover 600 with double-sided tape 702 .

[0136] A plurality of fins are provided on the metal plate 703 to enhance heat dissipation, as will be described later.

[0137] The metal plate 703 has edges on all four sides, and double-sided tape 702 is attached to a step 703j. The step 703j is formed in a drawn shape all around. By adhering the metal plate 703 to the sealing rib 607, a duct 800 that allows air to flow in is formed in the rear cover 600.

[0138] When the metal plate 703 is bonded to the sealing rib 607, it separates the inside of the camera body 1 from the outside air, and therefore the camera body 1 is also provided with a dustproof and drip-proof structure.

[0139] The duct 800 has a constant thickness Ha in the depth direction of the camera body 1 .

[0140] The relationship between the thickness Ha of the duct 800 and the openings 601, 602, 603, 604, and 605 will be described.

[0141] The relationship between the thickness Ha of the duct 800 and the opening is such that the width or height forming the opening is equal to or greater than the thickness Ha of the duct 800.

[0142] The reason why the width or height of the opening needs to be greater than or equal to the thickness Ha of the duct 800 is that if the width or height of the opening is smaller than the thickness of the duct 800, it will cause ventilation resistance when air is introduced or exhausted, and the flow of air will be obstructed.

[0143] Therefore, if the width or height of the opening is equal to or greater than the thickness of the duct 800, no ventilation resistance occurs at the opening, and the air flow is not obstructed.

[0144] Double-sided tape 704 can be attached to the surface of the metal plate 703 opposite the duct 800, and a heat dissipation part 705 can be attached thereto.

[0145] The duct 800 has approximately the same area as the display unit 101 when projected, and is disposed at a position overlapping the display unit 101.

[0146] The metal plate 703 and the heat dissipation component 705 are bonded with double-sided tape 704, and are therefore thermally connected.

[0147] The heat dissipation component 705 is disposed inside the step 703 j of the metal plate 703 .

[0148] The image processing system IC 400 is bonded to the heat dissipation component 705 via the heat dissipation rubber 706, so that the image processing system IC 400 and the heat dissipation component 705 are thermally connected.

[0149] The heat dissipation component 705 has a higher thermal conductivity than the metal plate 703 .

[0150] In this embodiment, the heat dissipation component 705 is used, but the image processing system IC 400 may be thermally connected to the metal plate 703 via heat dissipation rubber 706 without using the heat dissipation component 705 .

[0151] When the cooling accessory 3 is attached to the camera body 1 and the fan is driven, air flows into the duct 800 and the metal plate 703 is cooled.

[0152] As for the flow of air, air enters from the front to the back of the paper in FIG. 6, flows from right to left in FIG.

[0153] Since the image processing system IC 400 is thermally connected to the metal plate 703 via the heat dissipation component 705, the image processing system IC 400 is also cooled.

[0154] (Rear view with a cross section cut to show the inside of Duct 800) 7 is a cross-sectional view taken from the rear side so that the inside of a duct 800 can be seen, in order to clearly show the relationship between the rear cover 600 and the metal plate 703. In FIG.

[0155] To improve heat dissipation, a plurality of fins are formed on the metal plate 703. The fins are formed as ribs rising from the metal plate.

[0156] The height of the fin shape is set to a height that leaves a gap so that it does not come into contact with the rear cover 600 as shown in FIG.

[0157] The fin shape is formed continuously so as to connect the opening 603, the opening 604, and the opening 605, and the ribs are not interrupted along the way.

[0158] There are several types of fin shapes, which will be explained below.

[0159] Fins 703a are formed along the flow of intake air from opening 603. Specifically, they are formed in a shape that is parallel to the vertical direction in FIG. 7 (camera height direction of camera body 1).

[0160] Fins 703b are formed along the flow of exhaust air from openings 604 and 605. Specifically, the fins are formed in a shape that is parallel to the left-right direction in FIG. 7 (the camera width direction of camera body 1).

[0161] The fin 703c has an arc shape that connects the fin 703a and the fin 703b with a tangent line. The fins 703a, 703b, and 703c form a continuous fin that connects the opening 603 with the openings 604 and 605.

[0162] The fins 703a are arranged between the projection lines of the columnar shapes 603a that form the openings 603, which are extended upward in Figure 7, and are not arranged in the path of the air flowing in from the openings 603, and each shape is formed so as not to obstruct the flow.

[0163] In other words, the fins 703a are formed from the shadow of the pillars of the pillar shape 603a.

[0164] The fin 703d is formed in a fin shape facing the opening 602.

[0165] Fin 703d is formed on the opposite side of openings 604 and 605 in duct 800 and in the portion of fin 703c where the arc shape is not formed, when fins 703a, 703b, and 703c form a continuous fin shape toward opening 603 and openings 604 and 605.

[0166] The fins 703d are arranged in a fin shape so as not to block the opening 602.

[0167] There are two types of fin shapes: fins facing openings 604 and 605, and fins facing opening 602, which correspond to forced air cooling when cooling accessory 3 is attached to main camera body 1 and natural convection when not attached.

[0168] The fin 703h is different from the fin 703e, which is aligned with the exhaust gas flow from the openings 604 and 605 like the fin 703b, and the fin 703e does not face the opening 605 even if it is extended as it is.

[0169] Therefore, fin 703f is formed so as to be bent toward opening 605. Fin 703f has an arc shape that connects fin 703e and opening 605 in the shortest distance.

[0170] Similarly, the fin 703g is also bent toward the opening 604, and has an arc shape that connects the fin 703b and the opening 604 in the shortest distance.

[0171] The relationship between the image processing system IC400 and the fins will now be described.

[0172] 7, the image processing system IC400 is shown with hidden lines. The image processing system IC400 is disposed at a position where it overlaps with the arc-shaped fin 703c in projection.

[0173] Since it is arranged so as to overlap the arc-shaped fin 703c, it is in a position where it is likely to be hit by the air that flows in from the opening 603, which is an intake port.

[0174] The features of this embodiment are as follows.

[0175] The imaging device includes a control circuit (heating element) 400 that controls an imaging element arranged on a circuit board, a duct 800, and a metal plate 703 that is thermally connected to the heating element 400 (Figures 6 and 7).

[0176] The imaging device further includes an inlet 603 for allowing air to flow into the duct 800, first outlets 604, 605 for discharging fluid from the duct 800, and second outlets 601, 602 for discharging fluid from the duct 800.

[0177] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the first outlets 604 and 605 are located on the opposite side of the optical axis from the grip portion 120 of the imaging device.

[0178] The metal plate 703 forms the inner wall of the duct 800 .

[0179] The inlet 603 is provided on a first surface that constitutes the exterior cover of the imaging device 1.

[0180] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the second outlets 601 and 602 are provided on a second surface constituting the exterior cover, which is located on a surface different from the first surface.

[0181] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the first outlets 604 and 605 are provided on a third surface that constitutes the exterior cover and is adjacent to the first surface and is located on a surface different from the first surface.

[0182] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the heat dissipation fins 703a, b, c, f, and g formed on the metal plate are characterized by having a curved shape that is continuously formed from the inlet 603 toward the first outlets 604 and 605.

[0183] The heat dissipation fins formed from the metal plate 703 include first fins 703a, b, c, f, and g that are continuously formed in an arc shape 703c from the inlet 603 toward the first outlets 604 and 605, and a second fin 703d that faces toward the second outlets 601 and 602.

[0184] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the second fin 703d is characterized in that it is formed on the opposite side to the position where the first outlets 604, 605 are located and in a part where the arc shape 703c of the first fin is not formed.

[0185] The first fin consists of a parallel fin portion 703a that follows the flow of fluid flowing in from the inlet 603, a parallel fin portion 703b that follows the flow of fluid toward the first outlets 604 and 605, and an arc-shaped fin portion 703c that connects the parallel fin portions.

[0186] In the first fins 703a, b, c, f, and g formed from the metal plate 703, the fin portion 703b in the parallel portion along the flow of the fluid (air) of the first exhaust ports 604 and 605 has a portion that does not face the first exhaust ports 604 and 605.

[0187] The portions are characterized by having bent tip shapes 703f and 703g that point toward the first outlets 604 and 605.

[0188] When the heating element 400 is projected onto the plane of the duct 800, the position of the heating element 400 within the duct 800 is characterized in that it is located within the region of the arc-shaped fin portion 703c.

[0189] The side of the metal plate 703 where the inlet 603 is formed is defined as a first side, and the side where the first outlets 604 and 605 are formed is defined as a second side (FIGS. 6 and 7).

[0190] The width of the first side direction of the metal plate 703 of the fin portion 703a of the parallel portion along the flow of the fluid flowing in from the inlet 603 is characterized by being within the range of the width of the first side direction of the metal plate 703 of the columnar shape 603a forming the inlet 603.

[0191] The imaging device is provided with a rear display device 101 on the rear surface of the imaging device.

[0192] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the duct 800 is the same size as the space in which the rear display device 101 is housed, and is positioned so that it overlaps the space in which the rear display device 101 is housed when projected.

[0193] (Block diagram showing an example configuration of digital camera 1) FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a digital camera 1 according to the present invention.

[0194] The shutter 410 is a focal plane shutter that can freely control the exposure time of an imaging unit 411, which will be described later.

[0195] This control is performed by the system control unit 420, which will be described later.

[0196] The imaging unit 411 is an imaging device that has an imaging surface on which an object image (optical image) that has passed through the lens 501 is formed, and outputs an electrical signal (analog signal) corresponding to the optical image on the imaging surface through photoelectric conversion.

[0197] The imaging unit 411 may be an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Couple Device) or a CMOS (Complementary MOS) sensor.

[0198] The A / D converter 412 is a signal conversion means used to convert an analog signal output from the imaging unit 411 into a digital signal.

[0199] The image processing unit 413 is an image calculation means that performs predetermined pixel interpolation, resizing processing such as reduction, and color conversion processing on the digital signal from the A / D converter 412 or the digital signal from the memory control unit 422 described later, to generate image data.

[0200] Based on the calculation results obtained by the image processing unit 413, the system control unit 420 controls the aperture position and the lens position.

[0201] The image processing unit 413 further performs calculation processing using the image data, and performs TTL type AWB (auto white balance) processing based on the calculation results obtained.

[0202] The system control unit 420 is a control unit that is made up of at least one processor or circuit, and controls the entire digital camera 1 .

[0203] Each process of the present invention is realized by executing a program recorded in a nonvolatile memory 423, which will be described later.

[0204] The memory 421 is a storage means for temporarily recording the digital signals obtained by the imaging unit 411 and converted by the A / D converter 412 and the image data generated by the image processing unit 413 .

[0205] The memory 421 has a storage capacity sufficient to store a predetermined number of still images and a predetermined period of moving images and audio.

[0206] The memory control unit 422 is a memory control means that controls the transmission and reception of data controlled by the system control unit 420 to and from the A / D converter 412 , the image processing unit 413 , and the memory 421 .

[0207] The digital signal output from the A / D converter 412 is written directly into the memory 421 via the image processing unit 413 and the memory control unit 422, or via the memory control unit 422 only.

[0208] The nonvolatile memory 423 is an electrically erasable and recordable read-only storage means, and stores constants, programs, etc. for the operation of the system control unit 420.

[0209] The system memory 424 is a readable and writable storage means that stores constants and variables for the operation of the system control unit 420, programs read from the nonvolatile memory 423, and the like.

[0210] The system timer 425 is a timing unit that measures the time until an auto power-off function that turns off various display members (described later) is executed, and the exposure time.

[0211] The auto power off function has the function of turning off various display members (described later) to prevent battery consumption when it is determined that the photographer is not operating the digital camera 1.

[0212] The power supply unit 430 is made up of a primary battery such as an alkaline battery or a lithium battery, a secondary battery such as an NiCd battery, an NiMH battery, or a Li battery, an AC adapter, or the like.

[0213] The power supply control unit 431 is made up of a circuit for detecting the power supply unit 430 that serves as the power source for driving the digital camera 1, a DC-DC converter, a switch circuit for switching the power supply destination, and the like.

[0214] The power supply unit 430 then detects whether a battery is installed, the type of battery, and the remaining battery power.

[0215] Furthermore, the power supply control unit 431 controls the DC-DC converter based on the detection result and instructions from the system control unit 420, and supplies the required voltage to the supply destination at the required timing.

[0216] The communication terminal 440 is provided on the digital camera 1 and is electrically connected to a lens communication terminal 506, which will be described later.

[0217] By electrically connecting the communication terminal 440, the system control unit 420 that controls the entire digital camera 1 becomes able to communicate with the lens 1500, which will be described later.

[0218] The recording medium I / F 441 is an interface with a recording medium 1600, which will be described later.

[0219] The orientation detection unit 442 detects the orientation of the digital camera 1 relative to the direction of gravity.

[0220] Based on the orientation detected by the orientation detection unit 442, orientation information can be output indicating whether the image captured by the imaging unit 411 was captured with the digital camera held horizontally or vertically.

[0221] The system control unit 420 can add the orientation information output by the orientation detection unit 442 to the image data.

[0222] The attitude detection unit 442 may be an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, or the like.

[0223] If an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor are used as the attitude detection unit 442, it is also possible to detect the movement of the digital camera 1 (panning, tilting, lifting, whether it is stationary or not, etc.).

[0224] Eyepiece 443 is the part where the photographer's eye (object) 700 approaches (comes into contact with) digital camera 1.

[0225] The eyepiece detection unit 444 is a proximity or eyepiece detection sensor that detects the approach (eyepiece approach) and departure (eye separation) of the eye 700 to the eyepiece unit 443.

[0226] Eye proximity detection unit 444 detects whether eye 700 is in proximity to eyepiece unit 443 based on whether a light receiving unit (not shown) of the infrared proximity sensor receives light.

[0227] After detecting eye contact, system control unit 420 determines that the eye contact state continues until eye removal is detected.

[0228] After detecting eye separation, the system control unit 420 remains in the eye-displacement state until it detects eye placement.

[0229] The infrared proximity sensor is just an example, and other sensors may be used for the eye proximity detection unit 444 as long as they can detect the approach of an eye or an object that can be regarded as an eye.

[0230] The memory 421 also serves as a memory for displaying images (video memory).

[0231] The digital signals and image data written in the memory 421 are displayed on the rear display unit 450 and EVF 451 via the memory control unit 422 .

[0232] The rear display unit 450 performs display in accordance with a signal from the memory control unit 422 .

[0233] When the eye-contact detection unit 444 detects that the eye is in contact with the EVF 451 , the EVF 451 displays a picture in accordance with a signal from the memory control unit 422 .

[0234] The analog signal generated by the imaging unit 411 is A / D converted by the A / D converter 412, and the digital signal recorded in the memory 421 is sequentially transferred to the rear display unit 450 or the EVF 451 for display.

[0235] This allows for real-time live view display.

[0236] The system control unit 420 switches the display (display state) / non-display (non-display state) of the rear display unit 450 and the EVF 451 according to the state detected by the eyepiece detection unit 444 described above.

[0237] When the eyepiece is not in use, the image is displayed on the rear display unit 450, and the EVF 451 is not displayed.

[0238] Also, while the eyepiece is in viewfinder, the image is displayed on the EVF 451 and not on the rear display unit 450.

[0239] The operation unit 460 is a variety of operation members serving as an input unit that accepts operations from the user.

[0240] The operation unit 460 includes various operation members (mode changeover switch 461, shutter button 462, first shutter switch 463, second shutter switch 464, touch panel 465, and power switch 466) which will be described later.

[0241] The operation unit 460 is an operation means for inputting various operation instructions to the system control unit 420 .

[0242] A mode changeover switch 461 switches the operation mode of the system control unit 420 between a still image capturing mode, a moving image capturing mode, and the like.

[0243] The still image shooting mode includes an auto shooting mode, an auto scene determination mode, and a manual shooting mode.

[0244] Furthermore, the still image shooting modes include aperture priority mode (Av mode), shutter speed priority mode (Tv mode), and program AE mode (P mode).

[0245] Similarly, the video shooting mode may include multiple shooting modes.

[0246] The shutter button 462 is a button that allows the photographer to give instructions for preparation for shooting and instructions for shooting.

[0247] The first shutter switch 463 is turned on when the shutter button 462 provided on the digital camera 1 is pressed halfway (a shooting preparation instruction) during operation, and generates a first shutter switch signal SW1.

[0248] The first shutter switch signal SW1 starts photographing preparation operations such as AF (autofocus) processing, AE (auto exposure) processing, and AWB (auto white balance) processing.

[0249] The second shutter switch 464 is turned on when the shutter button 462 is fully pressed (a photographing instruction) and generates a second shutter switch signal SW2.

[0250] In the system control unit 420, the analog signal is read from the imaging unit 411 and then converted into a signal by the A / D converter 412 and the image processing unit 413 in response to the second shutter switch signal SW2.

[0251] Furthermore, the system control unit 420 starts the photographing process operation up to writing the image data temporarily recorded in the memory 421 to the recording medium 1600, which will be described later.

[0252] The touch panel 465 is a device that detects touch or drag operations by the photographer.

[0253] Here, it is integrated with the rear display unit 450, and operations can be performed by touching the display unit of the rear display unit 450 with a finger.

[0254] The power switch 466 is a switch that switches the power supply ON / OFF. The power supply control unit 431 controls the power supply from the power supply unit 430 by the switching operation of the power switch 466.

[0255] The heat dissipation fan 470 is controlled by the system control unit 420 and cools the heat source inside the digital camera 1 .

[0256] The lens unit 1500 is an interchangeable lens that can be attached to and detached from the digital camera 1 .

[0257] Lens 501 is a group of lenses for generating an optical image (subject image) from subject light reflected by the subject, and is composed of multiple lenses, but in this diagram, for simplicity, only one lens is shown.

[0258] The lens communication terminal 506 is a communication terminal through which the lens unit 1500 communicates with the digital camera 1 .

[0259] As described above, the lens unit 1500 is able to communicate with the system control unit 420 that controls the entire digital camera 1 by electrically connecting the lens communication terminal 506 and the communication terminal 440 .

[0260] This allows the system control unit 420 to communicate with the lens system control circuit 505 and the aperture drive circuit 504 to control the position of the aperture 503 and the focus state of the real image when the lens 501 is displaced.

[0261] The recording medium 1600 is detachable from the digital camera 1 and is a recording medium such as a memory card for recording captured images.

[0262] For example, an SD card, a FLASH (registered trademark) memory, a hard disk, etc. can be mentioned.

[0263] As described above, duct 800 is formed inside rear cover 600, and cooling accessory 3 is attached to camera body 1 and driven.

[0264] Then, the air from the fan flows from the opening 603 into the openings 604 and 605, and the image processing system IC 400 thermally coupled to the duct 800 dissipates heat.

[0265] Furthermore, even when the cooling accessory 3 is not attached, when the camera body 1 is placed in the normal position, the opening 603 and the image processing system IC 400 are aligned in a straight line.

[0266] Therefore, heat generated by the image processing system IC400 is easily released from the opening 602 by natural convection.

[0267] When the camera body 1 is placed in a vertical position with the grip part 120 facing up, the opening 607 and the image processing system IC 400 are aligned in a straight line.

[0268] Therefore, the heat generated by the image processing system IC400 is easily released from the opening 607 by natural convection.

[0269] By providing the camera body 1 with openings 603, 604, and 605 for forced air cooling and openings 602 and 607 for natural heat dissipation, forced air cooling by fan driving and heat dissipation by natural convection can be achieved.

[0270] The fin shape is formed continuously so as to connect the opening 603, the opening 604, and the opening 605, and the ribs are not interrupted along the way.

[0271] Therefore, air can easily flow from the opening 603 to the openings 604 and 605 during forced air cooling.

[0272] In this embodiment, air is caused to flow from the accessory body into the interior of the camera body 1, thereby dissipating heat from heat-generating components inside the camera body 1.

[0273] However, the fluid is not limited to air, and may be a fluid including a liquid such as water.

[0274] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0275] <Second embodiment> In this example, only changes from the first embodiment will be described.

[0276] (Shape of fins formed on metal plate 703) The difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment is the shape of the fins formed on the metal plate 703. This will be specifically explained with reference to FIG.

[0277] In each figure, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis indicate the same directions as in the first embodiment.

[0278] The fins formed on the metal plate 900 on the projection of the image processing system IC400 are not the fins 703c in the first embodiment, but cylindrical fins 900a.

[0279] The cylindrical fin 900a has a larger surface area than the fin 703c in a projection comparison of the image processing system IC400.

[0280] The height of the fin 900a is greater than that of the fin 703c.

[0281] The cylindrical shape makes the surface area larger than that of the fin 703c, and allows the image processing system IC400 to dissipate heat efficiently.

[0282] Although the fins 900a in FIG. 8 are cylindrical, they are not limited to a cylindrical shape and may be hemispherical to allow air to pass through more easily and improve heat dissipation efficiency.

[0283] (Different fin shapes formed on the metal plate 1000) Another embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0284] Fins 1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d, and 1000e formed on the projection of image processing system IC400 have the same arc shape as fin 703c in the first embodiment, but are not connected in shape to fin 1000cc.

[0285] The fin 703c and the fin 1000cc have the same shape.

[0286] The fins 1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d, and 1000e are arranged between the respective arc shapes of the 1000cc.

[0287] That is, fins 1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d, and 1000e are arranged in the air passage of fin 1000cc.

[0288] Fins 1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d, and 1000e are arranged in the air passage of fin 1000cc.

[0289] Therefore, air is more likely to reach the fins 1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d, and 1000e that are arranged on the projection of the image processing system IC400, and therefore heat from the image processing system IC400 can be dissipated efficiently.

[0290] As described above, the fins formed on the projection of the image processing system IC400 are different from the fins formed continuously to connect the opening 603 and the openings 604 and 605.

[0291] This improves the heat dissipation efficiency of the image processing system IC 400, making it possible to suppress heat generation.

[0292] <Third embodiment> In the first and second embodiments described above, the metal plate 703 is heated by the image processing system IC400, and the heat spreads uniformly within the metal plate 703.

[0293] The heat that has spread inside the metal plate 703 is discharged into the duct 800 via the fins, and the air inside the duct 800 is heated.

[0294] This air tends to flow due to the chimney effect toward the second exhaust port (openings 601 and 602) which is in the upward direction when viewed from the rear of the camera body 1.

[0295] However, as shown in FIG. 6, if the height Hb of the fin shape is close to the thickness Ha of the duct 800, the gap through which air flows in the direction of the thickness Ha within the duct 800 becomes small.

[0296] Therefore, even if the air in the duct in FIG. 7 tries to flow toward the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602), the air flow may be obstructed due to the fact that the height Hb of the fin shape is close to the thickness Ha of the duct 800.

[0297] As described above, even if fins that form a flow path for forced air cooling are installed, natural air cooling may be hindered if the fan is not driven. Examples that solve this problem will be described from the third embodiment onwards.

[0298] 10 and 11, the configuration of an imaging device according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0299] (View of the metal plate 1100 from the back of the camera body 1) In each figure, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis indicate the same directions as in the first embodiment.

[0300] FIG. 10 is a view of the metal plate 1100 as viewed from the back of the camera body 1, in which the fin shape of the metal plate 703 described in FIG. 7 of the first embodiment has been changed to that of the metal plate 1100 of this embodiment.

[0301] In the figure, the solid arrow B indicates the air flow during forced cooling, and the dotted arrow C indicates the air flow during natural cooling.

[0302] The metal plate 1100 forms the duct 800 together with the rear cover 600 (not shown).

[0303] The duct 800 has an intake port (opening 603), a first exhaust port (opening 604), and a second exhaust port (openings 601 and 602).

[0304] The opening 603 is provided on a side parallel to the X-axis and is disposed on the long side of the metal plate 1100.

[0305] The opening 604 is provided on a side parallel to the Y axis, and is disposed on the short side of the metal plate 1100.

[0306] The openings 601 and 602 are provided on the sides parallel to the X-axis, on the long side of the metal plate 1100, and on the side opposite to the opening 603.

[0307] The metal plate 1100 differs from the metal plate 703 only in the shape of the fins, but there are no other changes. The shape of the fins of the metal plate 1100 shown in this embodiment will be described.

[0308] Fin 1100a is angled near the intake port (opening 603) toward the first exhaust port (openings 604, 605) with respect to the vertical direction in FIG. 10 (camera height direction of camera body 1).

[0309] Fin 1100b has an upwardly convex curved shape near the first exhaust port (opening 604) that approaches the second exhaust port (opening 601) when viewed from the rear of camera body 1.

[0310] The fin 1100c has an arc shape that connects the fin 1100a and the fin 1100b.

[0311] As described above, the fin shape of the metal plate 1100 is angled with respect to the horizontal and vertical directions of the camera body 1 in all of the shapes of the fins 1100a, 1100b, and 1100c.

[0312] Furthermore, the fins 1100b and 1100c have a groove shape 1100d in the direction vertically below the second exhaust port (openings 601 and 602) when viewed from the rear surface of the camera body 1.

[0313] (A rear perspective view of the metal plate 1100 shown in FIG. 10) Fig. 11 is a rear perspective view of the metal plate 1100 shown in Fig. 10. As shown in Fig. 11, the groove shape 1100d is a concave shape formed by removing a part of the fins 1100b and 1100c.

[0314] In FIG. 10, it is desirable that the area of ​​width Wb of groove shape 1100d includes the area of ​​width Wa of the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602), and that width Wb of groove shape 1100d is larger than width Wa of the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602).

[0315] The relationship between the curved shape of the fin 1100b and the center of the arc will be described.

[0316] In FIG. 10, the radius of the arc shape 1100ba located at the lowest part of the fin 1100b is R, and the center of the arc is P.

[0317] At this time, it is desirable that the arc center P is within the range of the width Wa of the second exhaust port (opening 601).

[0318] Although the example given here is the arc shape 1100ba located at the bottom of the fin 1100b, this applies to all of the arc shapes of the fin 1100b.

[0319] In Figure 10, the centers of the arcs are on the same line, and the radii of the arcs are also the same.

[0320] However, the centers of the arcuate shapes of the fin 1100b do not have to be on the same straight line, and the radii of the arcuate shapes do not necessarily have to be the same.

[0321] According to the above configuration, it is possible to exhaust the air in the duct 800 that flows through the groove shape 1100d to the maximum extent possible using the entire width Wa of the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602).

[0322] The features of this embodiment are as follows.

[0323] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, it has a fourth surface that forms an exterior cover and is located on the grip side without an inlet or outlet (FIG. 10). The grip is a grip portion.

[0324] The fins 1100a adjacent to the fourth surface and extending toward the inlet 603 and the first outlet 604 are characterized in that they approach the fourth surface as they approach the inlet 603.

[0325] The side of the metal plate 703 where the inlet 603 is formed is defined as a first side, and the side where the first outlets 604 and 605 are formed is defined as a second side (FIGS. 10 and 11).

[0326] The fins 1100a, b, c, d have a curved fin portion 1100b that approaches the second outlets 601, 602, and an arc-shaped fin portion 1100c that connects the fin portion 1100a that extends toward the inlet 603 and the curved fin portion 1100b.

[0327] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the arc center P of the curved fin portion 1100b approaching the second outlets 601, 602 is on the first surface side and falls within the range of the width Wa of the metal plate 703 of the second outlet 601 in the first side direction.

[0328] The curved fin portion 1100b and the arc-shaped fin portion 1100c are characterized by having different arc centers.

[0329] The side of the metal plate 703 where the inlet 603 is formed is defined as a first side, and the side where the first outlets 604 and 605 are formed is defined as a second side (FIGS. 10 and 11).

[0330] The fins 1100a, 1100b, 1100c, and 1100d have grooves 1100d through which air passes at the points closest to the second exhaust ports 601 and 602, and when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, an area of ​​width Wb of groove 1100d in the long side direction of the metal plate 703 includes an area of ​​width Wa of second exhaust port 601 in the first side direction of the metal plate 703.

[0331] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the width Wb of the groove 1100d in the long side direction of the metal plate 703 is wider than the width Wa of the second discharge port 601 in the long side direction of the metal plate 703.

[0332] (A cross-sectional view of the camera body 1 taken along line AA in FIG. 6) FIG. 12 shows a cross section of the camera body 1 taken along line AA and explained in FIG. 6 of the first embodiment, with the metal plate 703 replaced with a metal plate 1100 of this embodiment.

[0333] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the height Hc of the groove shape 1100d is half the height Hb of the fins 1100b.

[0334] The height Hc of the groove shape 1100d may be zero, which makes the gap between the height Hc of the groove shape 1100d and the thickness Ha of the duct 800 larger than the height Hb of the fins 1100b.

[0335] Therefore, the space inside the duct becomes larger above the groove shape 1100d, and air flows more easily.

[0336] According to the above configuration, when forced air cooling is performed by driving the fan of the cooling accessory 3, as shown by arrow B, air flows in through the intake port (opening 603), passes through fins 1100a, 1100c, and 1100b in order, and is discharged through the first exhaust port (opening 604).

[0337] When the fan is not driven, the air heated at any position in the duct 800 can flow along the shapes of the fins 900 to the groove shapes 1100d as shown by arrow C due to the chimney effect.

[0338] As shown in FIG. 12, there is a gap between the groove shape 1100d and the rear cover 600, so that the air that has flowed up to the groove shape 1100d can flow through the gap to the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602).

[0339] Therefore, the fin shape of the metal plate 1100 of this embodiment makes it possible to discharge the air heated at any position in the duct 800 from the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602) without obstructing the air.

[0340] Therefore, in this embodiment, natural cooling can be performed efficiently.

[0341] The above explanation is for the case where the camera body 1 is in a horizontal position. However, the effect of natural cooling in this configuration is also possible when the camera body 1 is in a position tilted by 90 degrees. This is explained below.

[0342] Consider a state in which Fig. 10 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, that is, the front rubber 121 shown in Fig. 1 is in a vertical position at the bottom.

[0343] At this time, the intake port (opening 603) is located on the lower left side surface relative to the ground, and the first exhaust port (opening 604) is located above the ground.

[0344] The stack effect allows air heated at any position within duct 800 to flow through fins 1100a, 1100c, and 1100b in this order to the first exhaust port (opening 604). Similarly, consider the state in which Figure 10 is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise.

[0345] That is, the grip portion 120 shown in FIG. 1 is in the upright position.

[0346] The intake port (opening 603) is located on the upper right side surface relative to the ground, and the first exhaust port (opening 604) is located below the ground.

[0347] At this time, the air heated at any position in duct 800 can flow to the intake port (opening 603) by passing through fins 1100b, 1100c, and 1100a in this order due to the chimney effect.

[0348] Therefore, in this embodiment, natural air cooling can be performed even when the camera body 1 is in the vertical position.

[0349] <Fourth embodiment> In the first to third embodiments described above, the intake port (opening 603) is located on the bottom surface of the duct 800, and the first exhaust port (openings 604, 605) is located on the left side surface of the duct 800.

[0350] However, even if the surface on which the intake port (opening 603) and the first exhaust port (openings 604, 605) are arranged is not limited, it is possible to provide a fin shape that forms a flow path for forced air cooling and perform sufficient natural air cooling without driving the fan.

[0351] Examples of this will be described in the fourth and fifth embodiments.

[0352] (Fin shape of the metal plate 703 explained in FIG. 7) Referring to FIG. 13, the configuration of an imaging device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0353] In each figure, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis indicate the same directions as in the first embodiment.

[0354] FIG. 13 is a view of a metal plate 1200 seen from the back of the camera body 1, in which the fin shape of the metal plate 703 described in FIG. 7 of the first embodiment has been changed to a metal plate 1100 in this embodiment.

[0355] In the drawing, solid arrows D indicate the air flow during forced cooling, and dotted arrows E indicate the air flow during natural cooling. Metal plate 1200 forms duct 800 together with rear cover 600 (not shown).

[0356] In this embodiment, the intake port (opening 603) is provided on a side parallel to the Y axis, and is arranged on the short side of the metal plate 1200.

[0357] The first exhaust port (opening 604) is provided on a side parallel to the Y axis, on the short side of the metal plate 1200, and on the side opposite to the opening 603.

[0358] In this embodiment, there is no problem even if the positions of the intake port (opening 603) and the first exhaust port (opening 604) are reversed.

[0359] In this case, the second exhaust ports (openings 601 and 602) are provided on the side parallel to the X-axis and are arranged on the long side of the metal plate 1200. The metal plate 1200 differs from the metal plate 703 only in the fin shape, but there are no other changes.

[0360] The shape of the fins of the metal plate 1200 shown in this embodiment will be described.

[0361] The fin shape of the metal plate 1200 is formed continuously in the horizontal direction of the camera body 1 from the intake port (opening 603) toward the first exhaust port (openings 604, 605).

[0362] The fins 1200a have a curved shape that approaches the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602).

[0363] The fins 1200a are shaped to be angled at any point relative to the horizontal and vertical directions of the camera body 1.

[0364] The fins 1200a have groove shapes 1200b in the vertically downward direction of the second exhaust ports (openings 601 and 602).

[0365] The reason is the same as that explained in FIG. 10 of the third embodiment.

[0366] It is desirable that the area of ​​width Wd of groove shape 1200b includes the area of ​​width Wc of the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602), and that width Wd of groove shape 1200b is larger than width Wc of the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602).

[0367] According to the above configuration, when forced air cooling is performed by driving the fan of the cooling accessory 3, air flows in through the intake port (opening 603) as shown by arrow D, and is discharged through the first exhaust port (opening 604) along the fins 1200a.

[0368] When the fan is not driven, the chimney effect allows air heated at any position within duct 800 to flow along the upwardly convex shape of fin 1200a to groove shape 1200b, as shown by arrow E.

[0369] The air that has flowed up to the groove shape 1200b travels through the gap provided between the groove shape 1200b and the rear cover 600, and is able to flow to the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602).

[0370] Therefore, the fin shape of the metal plate 1200 of this embodiment makes it possible to discharge the air heated at any position in the duct 800 from the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602) without obstructing the air.

[0371] Therefore, natural cooling can be performed in this embodiment as well.

[0372] The above explanation is for the case where the camera body 1 is in a horizontal position. However, the effect of natural cooling in this configuration is also possible when the camera body 1 is in a position tilted by 90 degrees. This is explained below.

[0373] Consider the state in which Figure 13 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise. That is, the grip unit 120 shown in Figure 1 is in a vertical position with the grip unit 120 facing downward. In this state, the intake port (opening 603) is located below the ground, and the first exhaust port (opening 604) is located above the ground.

[0374] The air heated at any position within the duct 800 can flow along the shape of the fins 1200a to the first exhaust port (opening 604) due to the chimney effect.

[0375] Similarly, consider a state in which the image in Fig. 13 is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise, that is, the grip portion 120 shown in Fig. 1 is in the upright position.

[0376] At this time, the intake port (opening 603) is positioned above the ground, and the first exhaust port (opening 604) is positioned below the ground.

[0377] The air heated at any position within the duct 800 can flow along the fins 1200a to the air intake (opening 603) due to the chimney effect.

[0378] Therefore, in this embodiment, natural air cooling can be performed even when the camera body 1 is in the vertical position.

[0379] <Fifth embodiment> Referring to FIG. 14, the configuration of an imaging device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0380] (View of the metal plate 1300 from the back of the camera body 1) FIG. 14 is a view of the metal plate 1300 as viewed from the back of the camera body 1, in which the fin shape of the metal plate 703 described in FIG. 7 of the first embodiment has been changed to that of the metal plate 1300 of this embodiment.

[0381] In each figure, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis indicate the same directions as in the first embodiment.

[0382] The solid arrows F in the drawing indicate the air flow during forced cooling. The metal plate 1300 forms a duct 800 together with the rear cover 600 (not shown).

[0383] In this embodiment, the air intake port (opening 603) is provided on a side parallel to the X-axis, and is arranged on the long side of the metal plate 1300.

[0384] The first exhaust port (opening 604) is provided on a side parallel to the X-axis, on the long side of the metal plate 1300, and on the side opposite to the opening 603.

[0385] In this case, the second exhaust ports (openings 601 and 602) are provided on the side parallel to the Y axis and are arranged on the short side of the metal plate 1300. The metal plate 1300 differs from the metal plate 703 only in the shape of the fins, but there are no other changes. The fin shape of the metal plate 1300 shown in this embodiment will be described.

[0386] The fin shape of the metal plate 1300 is formed continuously in the vertical direction of the camera body 1 from the intake port (opening 603) toward the first exhaust port (openings 604, 605).

[0387] The fins 1300a and 1300b each have a curved shape that approaches the second exhaust ports (openings 601 and 602).

[0388] The fins 1300a and 1300b are shaped to be angled with respect to the horizontal and vertical directions of the camera body 1 at all points.

[0389] The fins 1300a and 1300b have a groove shape 1300c in the horizontal direction of the second exhaust ports (openings 601 and 602).

[0390] The reason is the same as that explained in FIG. 10 of the third embodiment.

[0391] It is desirable that the area of ​​width Wf of groove shape 1300c includes the area of ​​width We of the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602), and that width Wf of groove shape 1300c is larger than width We of the second exhaust port (openings 601, 602).

[0392] According to the above configuration, when forced air cooling is performed by driving the fan of the cooling accessory 3, air flows in through the intake port (opening 603) as shown by arrow F, and is discharged through the first exhaust port (opening 604) along the fins 1300a and 1300b.

[0393] When the fan is not driven, the chimney effect allows air heated at any position within the duct 800 to flow along the fins 1300a and 1300b to the first exhaust port (openings 604 and 605), similar to the air flow during forced air cooling as shown by arrow F.

[0394] The above explanation is for the case where the camera body 1 is in a horizontal position.

[0395] However, the effect of natural cooling in this configuration is possible even when the camera body 1 is tilted by 90 degrees, as will be explained below.

[0396] Consider the state of Figure 14 rotated 90 degrees clockwise.

[0397] That is, the grip portion 120 shown in FIG. 1 is in the vertical position with the grip portion 120 facing downwards.

[0398] At this time, the intake port (opening 603) is located on the left side of the ground, the first exhaust port (opening 604) is located on the right side of the ground, the second exhaust port (opening 601) is located above the ground, and the second exhaust port (opening 602) is located below the ground.

[0399] The chimney effect allows air heated at any position within the duct 800 to flow along the curved shape of the fin 1300b from the center of the fin 1300b, where the groove shape 1300c is located, to both ends of the fin 1300b along the same shape.

[0400] The air that flows toward both ends of the fin 1300b can also flow toward the second exhaust ports (openings 601b and 601c) due to the chimney effect.

[0401] Furthermore, the air heated at any position in the duct 800 can flow along the upwardly convex shape of the fins 1300a to the groove shape 1300c due to the chimney effect.

[0402] The air that has flowed up to the groove shape 1300c travels through the gap provided between the groove shape 1300c and the rear cover 600, and can then flow to the second exhaust port (opening 601a).

[0403] Similarly, consider a state in which the image in Figure 14 is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise, that is, the grip portion 120 shown in Figure 1 is in the upright position.

[0404] At this time, the intake port (opening 603) is located on the right side of the ground, the first exhaust port (opening 604) is located on the left side of the ground, the second exhaust port (opening 601) is located below the ground, and the second exhaust port (opening 602) is located above the ground.

[0405] The chimney effect allows air heated at any position within the duct 800 to flow along the curved shape of the fin 1300a from the center of the fin 1300a, where the groove shape 1300c is located, to both ends of the fin 1300a along the same shape.

[0406] The air that flows toward both ends of the fin 1300a can also flow toward the second exhaust ports (openings 602b, 602c) due to the chimney effect.

[0407] Furthermore, the air heated at any position in the duct 800 can flow along the upwardly convex shape of the fins 1300b to the groove shape 1300c due to the chimney effect.

[0408] The air that has flowed up to the groove shape 1300c travels through the gap provided between the groove shape 1300c and the rear cover 600, and can then flow to the second exhaust port (opening 602a).

[0409] Therefore, in this embodiment, natural air cooling can be performed even when the camera body 1 is in the vertical position.

[0410] The features of this embodiment are as follows.

[0411] The imaging device 1 has a control circuit (heat generating element) 400 that controls an imaging element arranged on a circuit board, a duct 800, and a metal plate 703 that is thermally connected to the control circuit 400.

[0412] Furthermore, the imaging device has an inlet 603 for allowing air to flow into the duct 800, first outlets 604, 605 for discharging fluid from the duct 800, and second outlets 601, 602 for discharging fluid (air) from the duct 800.

[0413] The metal plates 1200 and 1300 form the inner walls of the duct 800 .

[0414] The inlet 603 is provided on a first surface that constitutes the exterior cover of the imaging device 1.

[0415] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plates 1200 and 1300, the first outlet 604 is provided on a second surface constituting the exterior cover, which is located on a surface different from the first surface.

[0416] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plates 1200 and 1300, the second outlets 601 and 602 are provided on a third surface that is different from the first and second surfaces.

[0417] The heat dissipation fins 1200a, 1200b, 1300a, 1300b, 1300c formed on the metal plates 1200, 1300 are characterized by having a curved shape that is continuously formed from the inlet 603 toward the first outlets 604, 605.

[0418] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plates 1200 and 1300, the inlet 603, the first outlet 604, and the second outlets 601 and 602 are characterized by being provided in a direction perpendicular to the protruding direction of the heat dissipation fins.

[0419] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plates 1200, 1300, the fins 1200a, b, 1300a, b, 1300c are characterized by having curved fins 1200b, 1300c that converge towards the second outlets 601, 602.

[0420] The side of the metal plate 703 where the inlet 603 is formed is defined as a first side, and the side where the second outlets 601 and 602 are formed is defined as a second side (FIGS. 14 and 15).

[0421] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 1200, the fins 1200a and 1200b have grooves 1200b through which the fluid passes at the locations closest to the second outlets 601 and 602.

[0422] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 1200, the area of ​​the groove having a width Wd in the second side direction of the metal plate 1200 includes an area of ​​the second outlets 601, 602 having a width Wc in the second side direction of the metal plate 1200.

[0423] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 1200, the width Wd of the groove metal plate 703 in the second side direction is wider than the width Wc of the second discharge outlets 601, 602 in the second side direction of the metal plate 1200.

[0424] The side of the metal plate 703 where the inlet 603 is formed is defined as a first side, and the side where the second outlets 601 and 602 are formed is defined as a second side (FIGS. 14 and 15).

[0425] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 1300, the fins 1300a, 1300b, and 1300c have grooves 1300c through which fluid passes at the locations closest to the second outlets 601 and 602.

[0426] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 1300, the area of ​​width Wf in the second side direction of the metal plate 1300 of the groove includes the area of ​​width We in the short side direction of the metal plates 1200, 1300 of the second discharge ports 601, 602.

[0427] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 1300, the width Wf of the groove metal plate 703 in the second side direction is wider than the width We of the second discharge outlets 601, 602 in the second side direction of the metal plate 1300.

[0428] Sixth Embodiment In the third to fifth embodiments, the fin has an upwardly convex curved shape and further has a groove shape, the width of which is not limited to the uniform width as in the third to fifth embodiments, and the width of the groove shape as in this embodiment can be adopted.

[0429] Referring to FIG. 15, the configuration of an imaging device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0430] (A view of the metal plate 1100 forming the duct 800 from the rear of the camera body 1) In each figure, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis indicate the same directions as in the first embodiment.

[0431] FIG. 15 is a view of the metal plate 1100 forming the duct 800, as described in FIG. 10 of the third embodiment, seen from the rear of the camera body 1. In FIG.

[0432] The difference between this embodiment and the third embodiment is that the shape of the fins formed on the metal plate 703 is different.

[0433] In this embodiment, the width of the groove shape 1100da increases in the vertically downward direction as indicated by dimensions Wb and Wg in the drawing.

[0434] This allows air to flow more easily from the bottom side of duct 800 toward the second exhaust ports (openings 601, 602) due to the chimney effect, thereby enhancing the effect of natural air cooling.

[0435] Seventh Embodiment In the third to sixth embodiments, the fins form a continuous shape from the intake port (opening 603) to the first exhaust port (openings 601, 602). Furthermore, the fins have a convex curved shape with a grooved shape in the middle. Here, the heat dissipation fins do not necessarily have to be formed on the same curve through the grooved shape, and it is also possible to change the phase from the same curve at the boundary of the grooved shape.

[0436] (A view of the metal plate 703 forming the duct 800 from the rear of the camera body 1) In each figure, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis indicate the same directions as in the first embodiment.

[0437] Referring to FIG. 16, the configuration of an imaging device according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0438] FIG. 16 is a view of the metal plate 703 forming the duct 800, as described in FIG. 10 of the third embodiment, as seen from the rear of the camera body 1. In FIG.

[0439] The difference between this embodiment and the third embodiment is that the shape of the fins formed on the metal plate 703 is different.

[0440] The fins 1100ba and 1100bb will be described.

[0441] In this embodiment, the fins 1100bb are not formed at the ends of the arc shapes of the fins 1100ba, but the fins 1100bb are arranged in the air passages of the fins 1100ba indicated by solid arrows G in the figure.

[0442] This allows air to easily hit the fins 1100bb during forced air cooling by the fan drive of the cooling accessory 3, allowing the metal plate 1100 to dissipate heat efficiently.

[0443] Furthermore, the positional relationship between the fins 1100ba and 1100bb is not limited. In this embodiment, by adjusting the positional relationship between the fins 1100ba and 1100bb, it is possible to fine-tune the air passage.

[0444] Eighth Embodiment In the first to seventh embodiments, an imaging device (camera) has been described, but in this embodiment, an information terminal device (a so-called tablet terminal) will be described.

[0445] In this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, only the differences from the previous embodiment will be described.

[0446] (Configuration of information terminal device 1700) FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an information terminal device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, the configuration of an information terminal device 1700 is shown.

[0447] 18(a) is a front perspective view of the information terminal device 1700, and FIG. 18(b) is a rear perspective view of the information terminal device 1700. FIG.

[0448] In the following description, the X axis is the width direction (horizontal direction) of the information terminal device 1700, the Y axis is the height direction (vertical direction) of the information terminal device 1700, and the Z axis is the thickness direction (depth direction) of the information terminal device 1700.

[0449] A display unit 1703 is provided on the front surface of the information terminal device 1700 and displays images and various types of information.

[0450] The display unit 1703 is equipped with a touch panel, and can detect a touch operation on a display surface (operation surface) of the display unit 1703. By operating the touch panel of the display unit 1703, the information terminal device 1700 can be operated.

[0451] (An exploded perspective view of the information terminal device 1700) Fig. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the information terminal device 1700 shown in Fig. 18. The contents of the information terminal device 1700 are held by a front cover 1701 and a back cover 1702.

[0452] The front cover 1701 has an opening 1701a on the long side and an opening 1701b on the short side.

[0453] Although only one side is visible in FIG. 18, openings 1701a and 1701b are also provided on the long and short sides (not shown), respectively.

[0454] The display unit 1703 is mounted on the front cover 1701 .

[0455] The metal plate 1704 is fixed to the inner wall of the front cover 1701 with a space therebetween, and this space serves as the duct described above in the first embodiment.

[0456] The front cover 1701 has a step 1701c that separates the inside of the information terminal device 1700 from the outside air.

[0457] The sealing rib 1701c has a stepped shape extending in the depth direction of the information terminal device 1700, and the stepped shape is formed on all four sides.

[0458] The inner dimensions of the four sides are set to be approximately the same as the size of the display unit 1703. Step shapes 1701c provided on the four sides have no openings other than the openings 1701a and 1701b described above in order to maintain airtightness.

[0459] Double-sided tape (not shown) is placed on the step shapes 1701c on the four sides. The double-sided tape has a hollowed-out shape, and is shaped to face the four sides of the step shapes 1701c.

[0460] The metal plate 1704 is formed in a rectangular shape, and the edges of the four sides of the metal plate 1704 are adhered to the stepped shape 1701c of the front cover 1701 with double-sided tape.

[0461] To improve heat dissipation, a plurality of fins are provided on the metal plate 1704. The fins are formed on the metal plate 1704 so as to extend into the duct.

[0462] The fin shape is the same as in the above-described embodiment.

[0463] The fin shape may be any of those described in Examples 1 to 7. The effects described in Examples 1 to 7 are also similarly achieved.

[0464] The metal plate 1704 has edges on four sides, and a step 1704a is attached with double-sided tape 1705. The step 1704a is formed in a drawn shape around the entire periphery.

[0465] By adhering the metal plate 1704 to the step shape 1701c, a duct through which air can flow is formed in the front cover 1701.

[0466] When the metal plate 1704 is bonded to the stepped portion 1701c, the inside of the information terminal device 1700 is separated from the outside air, and therefore the information terminal device 1700 is also provided with a dustproof and drip-proof structure.

[0467] The duct has a certain thickness in the depth direction of the information terminal device 1700.

[0468] The relationship between the thickness of the duct and the openings 1701a and 1701b will be described.

[0469] The duct configuration of the information terminal device 1700 is the same as that of the first embodiment described above.

[0470] The relationship between the thickness of the duct and the openings 1701a and 1701b is such that the width or height of the openings is equal to or greater than the thickness of the duct.

[0471] The reason why the width or height of the opening needs to be greater than the thickness of the duct is that if the width or height of the opening is smaller than the thickness of the duct, it will create ventilation resistance when air is flowing in or out, and the flow of air will be obstructed.

[0472] Therefore, if the width or height of the opening is equal to or greater than the thickness of the duct, no ventilation resistance occurs at the opening, and the air flow is not obstructed.

[0473] Double-sided tape 1705 can be attached to the surface of the metal plate 1704 opposite the duct, and a heat dissipation part 1706 can be attached thereto.

[0474] The duct has approximately the same area as the display unit 1703 when projected, and is disposed at a position overlapping the display unit 1703 .

[0475] The metal plate 1704 and the heat dissipation component 1706 are bonded with double-sided tape 1705, and are therefore thermally connected.

[0476] The heat dissipation component 1706 is disposed inside the step 1704 a of the metal plate 1704 .

[0477] The circuit board 1707 has an image processing system IC (not shown), and is thermally connected to the heat dissipation component 1706 by being bonded to the heat dissipation component 1706 via heat dissipation rubber (not shown).

[0478] The heat dissipation component 1706 has a higher thermal conductivity than the metal plate 1704 .

[0479] The battery 1708 is a power source for driving the information terminal device 1700, and is connected to the circuit board 1707 via a connector (not shown).

[0480] The battery 1708 is disposed between the circuit board 1707 and the back cover 1702 .

[0481] In this embodiment, the heat dissipation component 1706 is used, but the image processing system IC may be thermally connected to the metal plate 1704 via the heat dissipation rubber 706 without using the heat dissipation component 1706 .

[0482] When the cooling accessory 3 is attached to the information terminal device 1700 and the fan is driven, air flows into the duct and the metal plate 1704 is cooled.

[0483] The image processing system IC 400 is also cooled because it is thermally connected to the metal plate 1704 via the heat dissipation component 1706 .

[0484] As described above, a duct is formed inside the front cover 1701, and the cooling accessory 3 is attached to the information terminal device 1700 and driven.

[0485] Then, the air from the fan flows into the openings 1701a and 1701b, and the image processing system IC, which is thermally coupled to the duct, dissipates heat.

[0486] Furthermore, even when the cooling accessory 3 is not attached, when the information terminal device 1700 is placed in the normal or vertical position, the heat generated by the image processing system IC400 is discharged from the openings 1701a and 1701b due to the chimney effect.

[0487] The features of this embodiment are as follows.

[0488] The electronic device has a control circuit 400 that controls an imaging element arranged on a circuit board, a duct 800, and a metal plate 703 that is thermally connected to the control circuit 400 (FIGS. 18 and 19).

[0489] The electronic device further has an inlet 603 for allowing air to flow into the duct 800, first outlets 604, 605 for discharging fluid from the duct 800, and second outlets 601, 602 for discharging fluid from the duct 800.

[0490] The metal plate 703 constitutes the inner wall of the duct 800 .

[0491] The inlet 603 is provided on a first surface that constitutes the exterior cover of the electronic device 1.

[0492] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the second outlets 601 and 602 are provided on a second surface constituting the exterior cover, which is positioned on a surface different from the first surface.

[0493] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the first outlets 604 and 605 are provided on a third surface that constitutes the exterior cover and is adjacent to the first surface and is located on a surface different from the first surface.

[0494] When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate 703, the heat dissipation fins 703a, b, c, f, and g formed on the metal plate 703 are characterized by having a curved shape that is continuously formed from the inlet 603 toward the first outlets 604 and 605. [Explanation of symbols]

[0495] 1 camera body 4 Circuit Board 101 Display section 400 Image Processing System IC 601 Opening (secondary exhaust port) 602 Opening (secondary exhaust port) 603 Opening (intake) 603a Column shape 604 Opening (first exhaust port) 605 Opening (first exhaust port) 703 Heat dissipation metal plate 703a Fin 703b Fin 703c fins 703f Fin 703g fins 800 duct

Claims

1. an imaging device comprising: an imaging element; a circuit board; a control circuit arranged on the circuit board and controlling the imaging element; a duct; a metal plate thermally connected to the control circuit; an inlet for introducing air into the duct; a first outlet for discharging air from the duct; and a second outlet for discharging air from the duct; when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the first discharge port is located on an opposite side of the optical axis from the grip portion of the imaging device, the metal plate constitutes an inner wall of the duct, the inlet is provided on a first surface constituting an exterior cover of the imaging device, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the second outlet is provided on a second surface constituting the exterior cover, the second surface being different from the first surface, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the first exhaust port is provided in a third surface constituting the exterior cover adjacent to the first surface, the third surface being located on a surface different from the first surface, An imaging device characterized in that, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the heat dissipation fins formed on the metal plate have a curved shape that is continuously formed from the inlet toward the first outlet.

2. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the heat dissipation fins formed from the metal plate include a first fin that is continuously formed in an arc shape from the inlet toward the first outlet, and a second fin that is directed toward the second outlet, The imaging device described in claim 1, characterized in that, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the second fin is formed on the opposite side to the position where the first outlet is located and in a portion where the arc shape of the first fin is not formed.

3. 3. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the first fin formed on the metal plate is formed of a parallel fin portion that follows the flow of air flowing in from the inlet, a parallel fin portion that follows the flow of air toward the first outlet, and an arc-shaped fin portion that connects the parallel fin portions.

4. 4. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, in a first fin formed from the metal plate, a fin portion in a parallel portion along the air flow of the first exhaust port has a portion that does not face the first exhaust port, and the tip of that portion has a bent shape so as to face the first exhaust port.

5. 3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein when the control circuit is projected onto a plane of the duct, the position of the control circuit within the duct is located within the area of ​​the arc-shaped fin portion.

6. When the side of the metal plate where the inlet is formed is defined as a first side, and the side where the first outlet is formed is defined as a second side, An imaging device as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the width of the parallel fin portion of the metal plate along the flow of air flowing in from the inlet in the first side direction is within the range of the width of the columnar metal plate forming the inlet in the first side direction.

7. the imaging device includes a rear display device on a rear surface of the imaging device, An imaging device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the duct is the same size as the space in which the rear display device is housed and is positioned so that it overlaps the space in which the rear display device is housed when projected.

8. 8. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the imaging device has a fourth surface that constitutes the exterior cover and is located on the gripping portion side and does not have an inlet or an outlet, and the heat dissipation fins that are adjacent to the fourth surface and extend toward the inlet and the first outlet approach the fourth surface as they approach the inlet.

9. When the side of the metal plate on which the inlet is formed is defined as a first side, and the side on which the first outlet is formed is defined as a second side, the heat dissipation fin has a curved fin portion approaching the second outlet and an arc-shaped fin portion connecting the curved fin portion and the fin portion extending toward the inlet, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the center of an arc of the curved fin portion approaching the second outlet is on the first surface side and falls within a range of the width of the second outlet in the first side direction of the metal plate, 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the curved fin portion and the arc-shaped fin portion have different arc centers.

10. When the side of the metal plate on which the inlet is formed is defined as a first side, and the side on which the first outlet is formed is defined as a second side, the heat dissipation fin has a groove through which air passes at a location closest to the second exhaust port, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, an area of ​​the groove having a width in a long side direction of the metal plate includes an area of ​​the second discharge port having a width in a first side direction of the metal plate, The imaging device of claim 9, characterized in that, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the width of the groove in the long side direction of the metal plate is wider than the width of the second discharge outlet in the long side direction of the metal plate.

11. an imaging device comprising: an imaging element; a circuit board; a control circuit arranged on the circuit board and controlling the imaging element; a duct; a metal plate thermally connected to the control circuit; an inlet for introducing air into the duct; a first outlet for discharging air from the duct; and a second outlet for discharging air from the duct; the metal plate forms an inner wall of the duct, the inlet is provided on a first surface constituting an exterior cover of the imaging device, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the first exhaust port is provided on a second surface constituting the exterior cover, the second surface being different from the first surface, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the second outlet is provided on a third surface different from the first surface and the second surface, An imaging device characterized in that, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the heat dissipation fins formed on the metal plate have a curved shape that is continuously formed from the inlet toward the first outlet.

12. The imaging device described in claim 11, characterized in that when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the inlet, the first outlet, and the second outlet are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the protruding direction of the heat dissipation fin.

13. 13. The imaging device according to claim 11, wherein the heat dissipation fins have curved fins that approach the second outlet when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate.

14. When the side of the metal plate where the inlet is formed is defined as a first side, and the side where the second outlet is formed is defined as a second side, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the heat dissipation fin has a groove through which air passes at a location closest to the second exhaust port, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, an area of ​​the groove having a width in the second side direction of the metal plate includes an area of ​​the second discharge port having a width in the second side direction of the metal plate, The imaging device described in any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the width of the groove in the second side direction of the metal plate is wider than the width of the second discharge outlet in the second side direction of the metal plate.

15. When the side of the metal plate where the inlet is formed is defined as a first side, and the side where the second outlet is formed is defined as a second side, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the heat dissipation fin has a groove through which a fluid passes at a location closest to the second outlet, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, an area of ​​the groove having a width in a second side direction of the metal plate includes an area of ​​the second discharge port having a width in a short side direction of the metal plate, The imaging device described in any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the width of the groove in the second side direction of the metal plate is wider than the width of the second discharge outlet in the second side direction of the metal plate.

16. An electronic device comprising: a circuit board; a control circuit disposed on the circuit board; a duct; a metal plate thermally connected to the control circuit; an inlet for introducing air into the duct; a first outlet for discharging air from the duct; and a second outlet for discharging air from the duct, the metal plate constitutes an inner wall of the duct, the inlet is provided on a first surface constituting an exterior cover of the electronic device, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the second outlet is provided on a second surface constituting the exterior cover, the second surface being different from the first surface, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the first exhaust port is provided in a third surface constituting the exterior cover adjacent to the first surface, the third surface being located on a surface different from the first surface, An electronic device characterized in that, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the metal plate, the heat dissipation fins formed on the metal plate have a curved shape that is continuously formed from the inlet toward the first outlet.

Images