Frame structure, information display device, and method for manufacturing frame structure

Abstract

To improve waterproof performance regardless of the shape and size of a frame to be waterproofed.SOLUTION: A frame structure 3 of an information display device 1 includes a pair of ear parts 324A, 324B that are formed projecting from an AC adapter bracket 324 along a projection part 212, and provided through extension of a first surface 324C and a second surface 324D. A first water tight part S1 and a second water tight part S2 are formed to have their ends extending up to the positions of the ear parts 324A, 324B to overlap the ear parts 324A, 324B.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a frame structure, an information display device, and a method for manufacturing a frame structure. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, with the spread of wearable devices, a large number of waterproof mobile terminals (information display devices) that can be used in all weather conditions have been released. Proposed waterproofing technologies for these products include a technology that achieves waterproofing by squeezing elastic members such as O-rings (Patent Document 1) and a technology that achieves waterproofing by bonding with double-sided tape or adhesive (Patent Document 2). Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] With the conventional waterproofing methods described above, for example, if the waterproofing section is a three-dimensional curved surface, the elastic material or double-sided tape will wrinkle and adhesion cannot be ensured, making it difficult to ensure waterproof quality. Also, if the frame itself is divided into multiple parts, it is difficult to waterproof the frame itself.

[0004] Furthermore, waterproofing the frame itself is generally achieved by joining metal frames together using resin molding, such as in the case of smartphones, but this method is limited to certain sizes, and there is a problem that it is not possible to mold frames for large devices such as 42-inch devices due to limitations in molding machines.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to improve waterproofing performance regardless of the shape or size of the frame to be waterproofed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-described problems, a frame structure according to one aspect of the present invention is a frame structure formed in an annular shape by assembling a plurality of parts, the plurality of parts including: a first part formed with the annular direction of the frame structure as a longitudinal direction, the first part having an inner surface facing a center of the annular shape and a protruding portion protruding from the inner surface toward the center and extending along the annular direction; a second part assembled to the first part, the second part having a first surface facing the inner surface of the first part and one side surface facing the inner surface of the protruding portion, and a second surface facing an end face of the protruding portion; The waterproof member comprises a first watertight portion formed by applying an adhesive from the side of the one side along the inner surface and the outer edge of the first surface of the second part facing the one side, a second watertight portion formed by applying the adhesive from the side of the other side opposite the one side of the protruding part along the boundary between the end surface and the second surface of the second part facing the end surface of the first part, and an ear portion formed by protruding from the second part along the protruding part and extending from the first surface and the second surface, wherein the first watertight portion and the second watertight portion have their respective ends extending to the position of the ear portion and are formed to overlap at the ear portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] Waterproofing performance can be improved regardless of the shape or size of the frame to be waterproofed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an information display device according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the information display device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a frame structure according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] An exploded perspective view showing an enlarged interface section relating to the power button. [Figure 5] 5 is an exploded perspective view of the interface unit shown in FIG. 4 as viewed from the inside of the frame structure. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a joined state of the interface section shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 7] An exploded perspective view of an interface section of the AC adapter. [Figure 8] 8 is an exploded perspective view of the interface unit shown in FIG. 7 as viewed from the inside of the frame structure. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the joined state of the interface section shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the interface unit in the joined state shown in FIG. 9, viewed from the rear side. [Figure 11] Plan view of the fastening state between the AC adapter bracket and the straight frame, viewed from the Z positive side [Figure 12] Cross section AA in Figure 11 [Figure 13] An exploded perspective view of a corner portion of the frame structure [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the corner portion shown in FIG. 13 as viewed from the inside of the frame structure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a joining state of the corner portion shown in FIG. 14; [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the corner portion in the joined state shown in FIG. 15 as viewed from the rear side. [Figure 17] A plan view of the fastening state between the corner frame and the straight frame viewed from the Z positive side [Figure 18] Schematic diagram showing a modified example of the corner frame DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. To facilitate understanding of the description, the same components in the drawings will be denoted by the same reference numerals as much as possible, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0010] In the following description, the X, Y, and Z directions are perpendicular to one another. The X and Y directions are parallel to the screen 5 of the information display device 1 according to the embodiment, and are the short-side and long-side directions of the screen 5, respectively. The Z direction is the stacking direction of the front part 2, frame structure 3, and rear part 4 of the information display device 1. For ease of explanation, the positive Z direction side may also be referred to as the front side, and the negative Z direction side may also be referred to as the rear side.

[0011] <Configuration of information display device 1> First, the configuration of an information display device 1 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the information display device 1 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the information display device 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0012] 1 is a device that displays information transmitted from a PC (Personal Computer) or the like on a screen 5 provided on the front side of the device. In addition, the information display device 1 can input characters, figures, etc. by handwriting onto the screen 5 by using a dedicated pen-type input device.

[0013] Furthermore, the information display device 1 may be, for example, portable, and the shape of the rear surface 4, which will be described later, is flat. Therefore, for example, the information display device 1 can be used by placing it flat on a desk or the like, i.e., by installing it so that the Z direction is approximately vertical. A discussion can be held by multiple people surrounding the flat-placed information display device 1. Furthermore, the information display device 1 can also be used as an electronic whiteboard by hanging it from or fixing it to a wall or the like, i.e., by installing it so that the Z direction is approximately horizontal.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 2, the information display device 1 includes a front portion 2, a frame structure 3, and a rear portion 4.

[0015] The front surface 2 has a screen 5 which is a display portion for displaying images, and a bezel 6 which supports the screen 5.

[0016] The frame structure 3 holds the front part 2 and the rear part 4. Although not shown in Fig. 2, the frame structure 3 also includes circuits and the like for driving the screen 5 of the front part 2 and various other functions of the information display device 1.

[0017] The back surface portion 4 is a plate-like member that seals the inside of the frame structure 3.

[0018] The frame structure 3 is a frame body formed into a ring shape by assembling a plurality of parts, and a structure formed into a substantially rectangular shape when viewed in the Z direction is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. Details of the structure of the frame structure 3 will be described later. Note that the frame structure 3 of this embodiment may be formed into at least a ring shape, and may have other shapes, such as a substantially square shape.

[0019] The outer shapes of the front surface 2 and the rear surface 4 as viewed in the Z direction are formed to be substantially the same as the annular shape of the frame structure 3, and are formed to be substantially rectangular as viewed in the Z direction in Figures 1 and 2. As a result, the front surface 2 and the rear surface 4 are fixedly attached by being brought into contact with the frame structure 3 at their respective outer edges.

[0020] The information display device 1 has a screen size of 42 inches, a thickness in the Z direction of 14.5 mm, and a weight of 5.9 kg. Despite its 42-inch size, the information display device 1 is thin and lightweight (14.5 mm thick and 5.9 kg) and is dustproof and waterproof. Waterproof devices, such as smartphones and tablet PCs, are becoming increasingly common among information display devices 10 inches or smaller. These devices often achieve waterproofing by molding multiple separate metal frames together. However, for large devices such as 42 inches, molding multiple separate metal frames together is difficult due to the size of the molding machines. While it is possible to mold the entire frame (i.e., without using a metal frame), it is possible to create a waterproof frame through molding. However, because the frame is made of resin, it is difficult to increase its rigidity. Furthermore, the larger the device, the more prone it is to twisting, making it difficult to use a resin frame for large devices. Therefore, in the case of large devices, it is difficult to make the frame waterproof by molding (including not only molding the entire frame but also joining the metal frame by molding), and it is necessary to make the frame waterproof by a method other than molding.

[0021] The information display device 1 and frame structure 3 according to this embodiment aim to solve the above problems by improving waterproof performance regardless of shape or size. The waterproof structure of the information display device 1 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 3 and subsequent figures.

[0022] <Configuration of frame structure 3> FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the frame structure 3 according to the embodiment.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 3 , the frame structure 3 of this embodiment, which is formed in a substantially rectangular ring shape, includes four linear frames 21, 22, 23, and 24, and four corner frames 31A, 31B, 31C, and 31D. The linear frames 21 and 22 are the same length and relatively short, while the linear frames 23 and 24 are the same length and relatively long. A corner frame 31A is connected between the linear frames 21 and 23. A corner frame 31B is connected between the linear frames 23 and 22. A corner frame 31C is connected between the linear frames 22 and 24. A corner frame 31D is connected between the linear frame 24 and the linear frame 21. As a result, the linear frames 21 and 22 are arranged parallel to the X direction and form the short sides, and the linear frames 23 and 24 are arranged parallel to the Y direction and form the long sides, forming a substantially rectangular frame structure 3.

[0024] In the information display device 1 of this embodiment, the screen 5 is large, measuring 42 inches, and therefore it is essential that the frame structure 3 has a relatively high rigidity to prevent twisting of the frame structure 3. For this reason, the straight frames 21, 22, 23, and 24 of the information display device 1 are made of metal. In addition, the corner frames 31A, 31B, 31C, and 31D are molded from resin due to their complex structure.

[0025] In the following description, since the four corner frames 31A, 31B, 31C, and 31D have the same shape, they may be collectively referred to as "corner frames 31" for the sake of convenience.

[0026] The frame structure 3 of this embodiment also has interface frames 32 for connecting an AC adapter or external devices to internal components of the information display device 1 and for installing various operation buttons. The example in Fig. 3 illustrates a configuration having six interface frames 32, but the number can be changed as appropriate. The example in Fig. 3 also illustrates a configuration in which all of the interface frames 32 are installed only on linear frame 21 of the four linear frames 21, 22, 23, and 24, but the interface frames 32 may also be installed on the other linear frames 22, 23, and 24.

[0027] The interface frames 32 are arranged in pairs, one of which is installed from the inside of the information display device 1 and the other from the outside, sandwiching the linear frame 21. The example in Fig. 3 shows, as examples of interface frames 32, a configuration in which a power button cover 321 is joined from the outside and a power button bracket 322 is joined from the inside, sandwiching the linear frame 21, and a configuration in which an AC adapter cover 323 is joined from the outside and an AC adapter bracket 324 is joined from the inside, sandwiching the linear frame 21.

[0028] Interface parts such as the AC adapter, power button, and USB terminal for external communication must be molded from resin because they require complex shapes for waterproofing. For this reason, in this embodiment, the various interface frames 32 are made from resin.

[0029] The frame structure 3 according to this embodiment has a joint structure between the metal straight frames 21, 22, 23, and 24 and the resin corner frame 31 and interface frame 32, thereby improving the waterproof performance of the information display device 1.

[0030] <Basic joint structure> First, the basic waterproof joint structure between the metal frame and the resin frame will be described by taking the power button cover 321 and the power button bracket 322 of the interface frame 32 as an example.

[0031] FIG. 4 is an enlarged, exploded perspective view of an interface unit related to the power button. FIG. 4 is a perspective view seen from the same direction as FIG. 3, and shows an enlarged view of a combination of a power button cover 321 and a power button bracket 322 of the interface frame 32 in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is a view seen from the outside of the frame structure 3. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the interface unit shown in FIG. 4 seen from the inside of the frame structure 3. FIG. 5 is a perspective view rotated 90 degrees around the Z axis with respect to FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the joined state of the interface unit shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a perspective view from the same perspective as FIG. 5, and is a perspective view of the assembled state of the components shown in FIG. 5.

[0032] 4 to 6, the power button unit is composed of two parts: a power button cover 321 and a power button bracket 322. The power button cover 321 and the power button bracket 322 are arranged to sandwich the linear frame 21, and the two parts are fastened together with screws via elastic washers to make the fastened parts waterproof.

[0033] However, there are gaps between the metal straight frame 21 and the resin power button cover 321 and power button bracket 322, which allow water to seep in. Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown by the dotted line in Figure 6, a sealant is applied to a location along the outer shape of the internal power button bracket 322 to form a watertight portion S, thereby filling these gaps and achieving waterproofing.

[0034] The term "sealant" used in this embodiment is a type of "pressure-sensitive adhesive" that does not contain volatile components. The term "sealant" used in this embodiment is a type of general industrial adhesive that is "an adhesive that does not contain volatile components and does not harden after curing." The reason for this definition is that if volatile components are present, the sealant may thin during the curing process after application, creating gaps and creating the risk of failing to provide waterproofing. Furthermore, if the sealant hardens after curing, it may not be able to keep up with expansion and contraction that accompanies temperature changes, creating the risk of interfacial breakdown after curing.

[0035] Furthermore, the term "sealant" used in this embodiment refers to a material that is filled into the joints and gaps of a structure to provide waterproofing, airtightness, etc., and is synonymous with terms such as sealing and caulking. Furthermore, sealants are liquid or paste-like, and include those that function as they are after application and those that harden into a rubber-like form.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 6, the sealant is applied only between the power button bracket 322 and the straight frame 21 to form the watertight portion S, and no sealant is applied between the power button cover 321 and the straight frame 21. To prevent water from entering the product, it is sufficient to waterproof only the area between the power button bracket 322 and the straight frame 21, which are located inside the product. On the other hand, the power button cover 321 side is the exterior surface and affects the appearance of the product. For this reason, in this embodiment, the watertight portion S is formed by applying sealant only between the power button bracket 322 and the straight frame 21, which are located inside the product.

[0037] In addition, in the power button section, since the power button bracket 322 is contained on one side of the linear frame 21, waterproofing can be achieved by applying a sealant in a single stroke to form a ring-shaped watertight section S.

[0038] In addition, the terms "waterproof" and "watertight" used in this embodiment do not simply mean preventing liquids such as water from entering the inside of the device, but also include preventing the entry of substances other than liquids, such as dust.

[0039] <Joint structure of interface frame 32 according to the embodiment> 4 to 6, the component shape of the power button bracket 322 is formed so that an annular watertight portion S can be formed along the entire outer edge of the power button bracket 322 on the inner side of the set of interface frames 32. With this configuration, it is possible to completely seal the gap between the power button bracket 322 and the linear frame 21, thereby ensuring the waterproof performance of the interface frame 32.

[0040] On the other hand, if the component shapes of the straight frame 21 or the interface frame 32 become more complex, a structure may arise in which the above-mentioned annular watertight portion S cannot be formed. In this case, it may not be possible to completely seal the gap between the interface frame 32 and the straight frame 21, and waterproof performance may not be ensured. The waterproof joint structure for such a configuration will be described using the set of AC adapter cover 323 and AC adapter bracket 324 of the interface frame 32 as an example.

[0041] FIG. 7 is an enlarged, exploded perspective view of an interface unit related to the AC adapter in the frame structure 3. FIG. 7 is a perspective view viewed from the same direction as FIG. 3, and illustrates an enlarged view of a combination of an AC adapter cover 323 and an AC adapter bracket 324 in the interface frame 32 in FIG. 3. FIG. 7 is a view viewed from the exterior side of the frame structure 3. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the interface unit shown in FIG. 7 viewed from the interior side of the frame structure 3. FIG. 8 is a perspective view rotated 90 degrees around the Z axis with respect to FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the joined state of the interface unit shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a perspective view from the same perspective as FIG. 8, and is a perspective view of a state in which the components shown in FIG. 8 are assembled. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the joined interface unit shown in FIG. 9, as seen from the rear side. FIG. 10 is a perspective view rotated 180 degrees around the Y axis and 90 degrees around the Z axis with respect to FIG. 9.

[0042] As shown in Figures 7 to 10, the AC adapter unit is made up of two parts: AC adapter cover 323 and AC adapter bracket 324. Similar to the power button unit shown in Figures 4 to 6, AC adapter cover 323 and AC adapter bracket 324 are arranged so as to sandwich linear frame 21, and the two parts are fastened together with screws via elastic washers to make the fastened parts waterproof.

[0043] The idea behind applying the sealant is the same as for the power button section, and as shown by the dotted line in Fig. 9, a sealant is applied between the inner AC adapter bracket 324 and the straight frame 21 to form a watertight section (first watertight section S1), thereby achieving a waterproof structure. However, as shown in Figs. 9 and 10, in the case of the AC adapter section, unlike the power button section, the AC adapter bracket 324 is not contained within one surface (the series of surfaces facing inward) of the straight frame 21, but rather extends beyond this surface. In the examples of Figs. 7 to 10, the AC adapter bracket 324 protrudes in the negative Z direction relative to the straight frame 21.

[0044] The reason why the AC adapter bracket 324 has such a shape is that the information display device 1 is thin. Due to thickness restrictions, the AC adapter bracket 324 cannot be placed on one side of the linear frame 21. For this reason, a waterproof structure cannot be achieved by simply applying a sealant to the side shown in FIG. 9 in a single stroke, as with the power button portion. It is therefore necessary to form another watertight portion (second watertight portion S2) by applying a sealant to the opposite side (negative Z direction side) as shown by the dashed dotted line in FIG. 10.

[0045] Therefore, details of the application area when it is necessary to apply the sealant from both sides (ie, the Z positive side and the Z negative side) of the linear frame 21, as in the AC adapter section, will be described with reference to FIG.

[0046] Fig. 11 is a plan view of the fastened state between the AC adapter bracket 324 and the straight frame 21, viewed from the Z positive side. In Fig. 11, the area indicated by the dotted line is the area where the sealant is applied from the front side of the page (Z positive side), which is the first watertight portion S1 mentioned above. Also, the area indicated by the dashed dotted line in Fig. 11 is the area where the sealant is applied from the back side of the page (Z negative side), which is the second watertight portion S2 mentioned above.

[0047] As shown by the two circles 324A and 324B in Figure 11, this embodiment is characterized in that both ends of the area where the sealant is applied from the back side of the paper (second watertight section S2) overlap with both ends of the area where the sealant is applied from the front side of the paper (first watertight section S1).

[0048] Even when applying sealant across both sides of the linear frame 21 in the Z direction, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, it is possible to apply it in a single stroke, as with the power button bracket 322 shown in Figure 6. However, this presents a challenge: it is difficult to ensure waterproofing of the edge portion of the linear frame 21 (the end surface 213 described below). This is because it is difficult to keep the sealant in place no matter what orientation the frame is placed in during drying. The sealant tends to run off due to gravity, making it difficult to ensure waterproof quality in mass production. Therefore, in this embodiment, instead of applying the sealant in a single stroke, the application area is divided into two areas: the front side of the page (first watertight portion S1) and the back side of the page (second watertight portion S2) in Figure 11, and the sealant is applied separately to each area. Note that drying times are provided after application to the front side and after application to the back side.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when forming these two watertight portions S1, S2, the first watertight portion S1 in the application area on the near side of the page and the second watertight portion S2 in the application area on the far side of the page are configured to overlap at both ends (areas surrounded by two circles 324A, 324B in FIG. 11). This ensures adhesion between the AC adapter bracket 324 and the linear frame 21 at both ends (edges of the linear frame 21) even if the sealant is applied separately from both sides of the linear frame 21, making it possible to achieve a waterproof structure with stable quality.

[0050] The joining structure of the AC adapter portion of the interface frame 32 according to this embodiment will be further described with reference to Fig. 12 in addition to Fig. 7 to Fig. 11. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 11. The cross-sectional view of Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the part surrounded by a circle 324A in Fig. 11 as viewed from the X positive direction.

[0051] The straight frame 21 (first component) is formed with its longitudinal direction aligned with the annular direction (the X direction in the example of FIGS. 8 to 12) of the frame structure 3. As shown in FIGS. 8, 9, 11, and 12, the straight frame 21 has an inner surface 211 facing the center of the annular shape (the Y positive direction in this example), and a protrusion 212 that protrudes from the inner surface 211 toward the center and extends along the annular direction (the X direction).

[0052] In this example, the protrusion 212 is a plate material with a relatively small dimension in the Z direction, as shown in Fig. 12. The protrusion 212 has an end face 213 located at the tip on the center side of the annular shape, a side face 214 (one side face) facing the front side (positive Z direction side), and a side face 215 (the other side face) facing the back side (negative Z direction side).

[0053] The side surface 214 faces the inner surface 211 on the Z positive direction side, and forms a surface in the same direction integrally with the inner surface 211. The above-mentioned "one side of the straight frame 21 (a series of surfaces facing inward)" corresponds to the surface consisting of the inner surface 211 and the side surface 214. In addition, the "surface opposite to one side of the straight frame 21" corresponds to the side surface 215.

[0054] The AC adapter bracket 324 (second component) is attached to the longitudinal middle of the straight frame 21. The AC adapter bracket 324 has a first surface 324C facing the inner surface 211 of the straight frame 21 and one side surface 214 of the protruding portion 212, and a second surface 324D facing the end surface 213 of the protruding portion 212. In other words, the AC adapter bracket 324 is shaped to reach not only the inner surface 211 of the straight frame 21 and the side surface 214 of the protruding portion 212 that is continuously connected to this inner surface 211, but also the end surface 213 of the tip of the protruding portion 212.

[0055] The first watertight portion S1 is formed by applying a sealant (adhesive) from the side of one side surface 214 (positive Z direction side) along the outer edge of a first surface 324C of the AC adapter bracket 324 that faces the inner surface 211 and one side surface 214 of the straight frame 21. The second watertight portion S2 is formed by applying a sealant from the side of the other side surface 215 of the protrusion 212 (negative Z direction side) along the boundary with the end surface 213 of the second surface 324D of the AC adapter bracket 324 that faces the end surface 213 of the straight frame 21.

[0056] In particular, in this embodiment, AC adapter bracket 324 (second component) has portions surrounded by two circles 324A and 324B in Fig. 11. In the following description, these two portions will be referred to as a pair of ears 324A and 324B.

[0057] The pair of ears 324A, 324B are formed to protrude from the AC adapter bracket 324 along the protruding portion 212 to both sides in the longitudinal direction of the linear frame 21. The pair of ears 324A, 324B are provided with a first surface 324C and a second surface 324D extending from the AC adapter bracket 324.

[0058] In this embodiment, the first watertight portion S1 and the second watertight portion S2 are formed so that their respective ends extend to the positions of the pair of ears 324A, 324B and overlap at each of the pair of ears 324A, 324B. Here, "overlapping" in this embodiment means that the first watertight portion S1 and the second watertight portion S2 extend parallel to each other in the same direction (the X direction in this example) at each of the ears 324A, 324B, extend to the edge of each of the ears 324A, 324B in the X direction, and overlap when viewed from a certain direction (for example, the direction of arrow B shown in FIG. 12).

[0059] In this way, the frame structure 3 and information display device 1 of this embodiment are formed by protruding from the AC adapter bracket 324 (second part) along the protrusion 212, and are provided with a pair of ears 324A, 324B to which the first surface 324C and the second surface 324D extend, and the first watertight portion S1 and the second watertight portion S2 are formed so that their respective ends extend to the positions of the ears 324A, 324B and overlap at the ears 324A, 324B.

[0060] With this configuration, even in a configuration in which the component shapes of the straight frame 21 and the interface frame 32 illustrated with reference to Figures 7 to 12 are more complex and a single annular watertight portion S like the general waterproof structure illustrated in Figures 4 to 6 cannot be applied, waterproof performance can be ensured by providing two watertight portions S1 and S2 on both sides in the Z direction and overlapping them at the ear portions 324A and 324B. Therefore, in the example of Figures 7 to 12, this embodiment can improve waterproof performance regardless of the shape and size of the frame structure 3 to be waterproofed.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, of the pair of parts to be assembled, one straight frame 21 (first part) is made of metal, and the other AC adapter bracket 324 (second part) is made of resin. When assembling metal parts or resin parts, it is easy to ensure waterproof performance by techniques such as welding or melting. However, when assembling metal parts and resin parts, these techniques cannot be used, making it difficult to ensure waterproof performance using conventional techniques. The joining technique of this embodiment can ensure good waterproof performance even when assembling metal parts and resin parts, as described above, and can therefore provide particularly significant benefits in this case.

[0062] 7 to 12, the protruding portion 212 of the linear frame 21 (first component) is illustrated as being plate-shaped. However, the protruding portion 212 may be shaped so long as it protrudes at least toward the center of the annular shape of the frame structure 3, and may be, for example, block-shaped with a relatively large dimension in the Z direction. In this case, the second surface 324D of the AC adapter bracket 324 (second component) may have any shape that allows the second watertight portion S2 to be formed at least at the boundary with the end surface. The second surface 324D may be shaped to cover the entire end surface 213 of the protruding portion 212 in the Z direction, or to cover a portion of the side surface 215 on the Z negative side. Furthermore, the second surface 324D of the AC adapter bracket 324 (second component) may be shaped to cover the entire end surface 213 of the protruding portion 212 and also to cover at least a portion of the side surface 215 on the Z negative side.

[0063] The waterproof structure of the frame structure of this embodiment can be manufactured, for example, by the following procedure. First, in the first stage, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the AC adapter bracket 324 (second part) is attached to the straight frame 21 (first part) (attachment step). In this attachment step, for example, as described above, the external AC adapter cover 323 and the straight frame 21 can be sandwiched between them, and both parts can be fixed to the straight frame 21 by screw fastening or the like.

[0064] Next, in the second stage, after the mounting step, a sealant is applied along the outer edge of the first surface 324C of the AC adapter bracket 324, which faces the inner surface 211 of the straight frame 21 and one side surface 214 of the protruding portion 212, from the side of one side surface 214, to form a first watertight portion S1 whose ends extend to the positions of the ears 324A and 324B (first watertight portion forming step). At this time, it is preferable to install the one side surface 214 of the protruding portion 212 so that it faces upward, as shown in Fig. 9, for example. This prevents the sealant from flowing before it hardens, and allows the first watertight portion S1 to accurately fill the gap between the straight frame 21 and the AC adapter bracket 324.

[0065] Next, in the third step, after the mounting step, a sealant is applied to the second surface 324D of the AC adapter bracket 324, which faces the end surface 213 of the protrusion 212 of the linear frame 21, along the boundary with the end surface 213 from the other side surface 215 of the protrusion 212, to form a second watertight portion S2 whose ends extend to the positions of the ears 324A and 324B (second watertight portion forming step). At this time, it is preferable to install the other side surface 215 of the protrusion 212 so that it faces upward, as shown in FIG. 10, for example, opposite to the second step. This prevents the sealant from flowing before it hardens, and allows the second watertight portion S2 to accurately fill the gap between the linear frame 21 and the AC adapter bracket 324.

[0066] The above-described first watertight portion forming step in the second stage and the second watertight portion forming step in the third stage may be performed in reverse order. Essentially, one step is performed first to form either the first watertight portion S1 or the second watertight portion S2, and the other step is performed after the first watertight portion has hardened, thereby forming the first watertight portion S1 and the second watertight portion S2 so that they overlap at the ear portions 324A, 324B. This facilitates the formation of both the first watertight portion S1 and the second watertight portion S2 so that they can accurately fill the gap between the straight frame 21 and the AC adapter bracket 324.

[0067] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned second stage first watertight portion forming step and third stage second watertight portion forming step, it is preferable to perform the step of forming the first watertight portion S1 or the second watertight portion S2, whichever requires the larger amount of sealant, first. In the example of Figures 9 and 10, the first watertight portion S1 is formed longer than the second watertight portion S2, so more sealant is used, and so the first watertight portion forming step is performed first. This allows the first watertight portion S1 and the second watertight portion S2 to be formed more efficiently.

[0068] <Joint structure of corner frame 31 according to the embodiment> Like the interface frame 32 such as the AC adapter bracket 324 described above, the corner frame 31 has a more complex component shape and is structured to which a single annular watertight portion S like the general waterproof structure shown in Figures 4 to 6 cannot be applied. Therefore, in the joint structure between the corner frame 31 and the straight frame 21, waterproof performance is ensured by forming two watertight portions S1, S2, as in the examples of Figures 7 to 12.

[0069] Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a corner portion of the frame structure 3. Fig. 13 is a perspective view seen from the same direction as Fig. 3, and shows an enlarged view of the portion of corner frame 31D, which is arranged between linear frame 24 and linear frame 21, among the four corner frames 31A to 31D in Fig. 3. Fig. 13 is a view seen from the outside of the frame structure 3. Note that the joining structures of the other three corner frames 31A, 31B, and 31C are similar, and therefore, for ease of explanation, they will be collectively referred to as "corner frame 31" below.

[0070] Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the corner portion shown in Fig. 13 as seen from the inside of the frame structure 3. Fig. 14 is a perspective view obtained by rotating the viewpoint 180 degrees around the Z axis with respect to Fig. 13. Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing the joined state of the corner portion shown in Fig. 14. Fig. 15 is a perspective view from the same viewpoint as Fig. 14, and is a perspective view of the assembled state of the components shown in Fig. 14. Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the joined corner portion shown in Fig. 15 as seen from the rear side. Fig. 16 is a perspective view obtained by rotating the viewpoint 180 degrees around the Y axis and 90 degrees around the Z axis with respect to Fig. 15.

[0071] As shown in Figures 12 to 15, the corner section is made up of a resin corner frame 31 and metal linear frames 21 to 23 (two linear frames 21, 24 are shown in the drawings). Unlike the power button section shown in Figures 4 to 6 and the AC adapter section shown in Figures 7 to 12, the corner section is fixed by inserting the corner frame 31 into the linear frames 21 to 23. However, simply inserting the corner frame 31 does not make the corner section waterproof, so waterproofing is achieved by applying a sealant between the linear frames 21 to 23 and the corner frame 31, just like the power button section and AC adapter section.

[0072] The relationship between the straight frames 21-23 and the corner frame 31 is the same as in the AC adapter section, with the corner frame 31 protruding from the straight frames 21-23. In the example of Figs. 13-16, the corner frame 31 protrudes in the negative Z direction relative to the straight frames 21-23. Therefore, as shown in Figs. 15 and 16, a sealant is applied from both sides of the straight frames 21-23 (i.e., the positive Z direction side and the negative Z direction side) to form two watertight sections, i.e., first watertight sections S11, S12 and second watertight sections S21, S22. Details of the application areas will be described with reference to Fig. 17.

[0073] Fig. 17 is a plan view of the fastened state between the corner frame 31 and the straight frames 21, 24, viewed from the Z positive side. In Fig. 17, the areas indicated by dotted lines are areas where sealant is applied from the front side of the page (Z positive side), and are the above-mentioned first watertight portions S11, S12. In Fig. 17, the areas indicated by dashed dotted lines are areas where sealant is applied from the back side of the page (Z negative side), and are the above-mentioned second watertight portions S21, S22.

[0074] As with the AC adapter section, this embodiment has the feature that the ends of the areas where the sealant is applied from the back side of the page (second watertight sections S21, S22) overlap with the ends of the areas where the sealant is applied from the front side of the page (first watertight sections S11, S12), as shown by the two circles 310A and 310B in Fig. 17. Also, while both ends of the AC adapter section overlap, only one end of the corner section overlaps.

[0075] The joining structure of the corner frame 31 according to the embodiment will be further described.

[0076] 13 to 17, the straight frame 24 (first component) is formed with its longitudinal direction aligned with the annular direction (Y direction in this example) of the frame structure 3. The straight frame 24 has an inner surface 241 facing the center of the annular shape (X negative direction in this example), and a protrusion 242 that protrudes from the inner surface 241 toward the center and extends along the annular direction (Y direction).

[0077] The structures of the inner surface 241 and the protruding portion 242 are similar to those of the inner surface 211 and the protruding portion 212 of the straight frame 21. The protruding portion 242 has an end face 243, one side face 244, and the other side face 245 similar to those of the protruding portion 212. Furthermore, the positions of the end faces 243A on both sides in the extension direction of the protruding portion 242 are arranged toward the middle part in the longitudinal direction of the straight frame 24 (in this example, toward the Y positive direction) relative to the end position of the inner surface 241.

[0078] The positions of the end faces 213A on both sides in the extension direction of the protruding portion 212 of the straight frame 21 (first component) are also disposed toward the middle in the longitudinal direction of the straight frame 21 (in this example, toward the X negative direction) relative to the end positions of the inner surface 211. Note that other structures of the straight frame 21 (first component) are the same as those described with reference to Figures 8 to 12, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0079] The corner frame 31 (second part) is disposed between two straight frames (in this example, straight frames 21, 24) and is assembled to the longitudinal ends of each of the straight frames 21, 24 to connect the straight frames 21, 24.

[0080] The corner frame 31 has a first surface 310C1 facing the inner surface 211 of the straight frame 21 and one side surface 214 of the protrusion 212, and a second surface 310D1 facing the end surfaces 213, 213A of the protrusion 212. Similarly, the corner frame 31 has a first surface 310C2 facing the inner surface 241 of the straight frame 24 and one side surface 244 of the protrusion 242, and a second surface 310D1 facing the end surfaces 243, 243A of the protrusion 242. In other words, the shape of the corner frame 31 is such that it reaches not only the inner surface 211 of the straight frame 21 and the side surface 214 of the protrusion 212 that is continuously connected to this inner surface 211, but also the end surfaces 213, 213A of the tips of the protrusion 212. Similarly, the shape reaches not only the inner surface 241 of the linear frame 24 and the side surface 244 of the protrusion 242 that is continuously connected to this inner surface 241, but also the end surfaces 243 and 243A of the tip of the protrusion 242.

[0081] The first watertight portion S11 is formed by applying a sealant (adhesive) from the side of one side surface 214 (positive Z direction side) along the outer edge of the first surface 310C1 of the corner frame 31 that faces the inner surface 211 and one side surface 214 of the straight frame 21. The second watertight portion S21 is formed by applying a sealant from the side of the other side surface 215 of the protrusion 212 (negative Z direction side) along the boundary between the end surfaces 213, 213A of the second surface 310D1 of the corner frame 31 that faces the end surface 213 of the straight frame 21.

[0082] Similarly, the first watertight portion S12 is formed by applying a sealant from the side of one side surface 244 (Z positive direction side) along the outer edge of the first surface 310C2 of the corner frame 31 that faces the inner surface 241 and one side surface 244 of the straight frame 24. Furthermore, the second watertight portion S22 is formed by applying a sealant from the side of the other side surface 245 of the protrusion 242 (Z negative direction side) along the boundary between the end surfaces 243, 243A of the second surface 310D2 of the corner frame 31 that faces the end surface 243 of the straight frame 24.

[0083] In particular, in this embodiment, the corner frame 31 (second component) has portions surrounded by two circles 310A and 310B in Fig. 17. In the following description, these two portions will be referred to as a pair of ears 310A and 310B.

[0084] The pair of ears 310A, 310B are formed to protrude from the connection position between the corner frame 31 and the two straight frames 21, 24 toward the middle of the longitudinal direction of each of the straight frames 21, 24. The pair of ears 310A, 310B are provided with first surfaces 310C1, 310C2 and second surfaces 310D1, 310D2 extending from the corner frame 31.

[0085] In this embodiment, the first watertight portions S11, S12 and the second watertight portions S21, S22 are formed so that one end on the ear portion 310A, 310B side of each extends to the position of the pair of ear portions 310A, 310B and overlaps with each of the pair of ear portions 310A, 310B. Here, "overlapping" in this example means that, at one ear portion 310A, the first watertight portion S11 and the second watertight portion S21 extend parallel to each other in the same direction (the X direction in this example), extend to the edge of the ear portion 310A in the X direction, and overlap when viewed from a certain direction (for example, the direction of arrow B shown in FIG. 12). Furthermore, at the other ear portion 310B, it means that the first watertight portion S12 and the second watertight portion S22 extend parallel to the same direction (the Y direction in this example), extend to the Y-direction edge of the ear portion 310B, and overlap when viewed from a certain direction (for example, the direction of arrow B shown in Figure 12).

[0086] In this way, the frame structure 3 and information display device 1 of this embodiment are formed by protruding from the corner frame 31 (second part) along the protrusions 212, 242, and have a pair of ears 310A, 310B to which the first surfaces 310C1, 310C2 and the second surfaces 310D1, 310D2 extend, and the first watertight portions S11, S12 and the second watertight portions S21, S22 are formed so that their respective ends extend to the positions of the ears 310A, 310B and overlap at the ears 310A, 310B.

[0087] With this configuration, even in a configuration in which the component shapes of the straight frames 21-24 and the corner frame 31 illustrated with reference to Figures 13-17 are more complex and a single annular watertight portion S like the general waterproof structure shown in Figures 4-6 cannot be applied, waterproof performance can be ensured by providing two watertight portions, namely, first watertight portions S11, S12 and second watertight portions S21, S22, on both sides in the Z direction and overlapping these at the ear portions 310A, 310B. Therefore, in this embodiment, even in the examples of Figures 13-17, waterproof performance can be improved regardless of the shape and size of the frame structure 3 to be waterproofed.

[0088] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the corner frame 31. In FIGS. 13 to 17, the ears 310A and 310B of the corner frame 31 are formed as a single piece having a substantially triangular shape in a plan view in the Z direction, taking into consideration ease of manufacture, etc. However, strictly speaking, they each include two elements that provide waterproofing for the two linear frames 21 to 24 that they connect. In other words, the ears 310A and 310B of the corner frame 31 may have any other shape as long as they include these two elements. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, the pair of ears 310A and 310B may extend in the longitudinal directions (X and Y directions) of the linear frames 21 and 24, respectively, and may be configured to be substantially L-shaped with their longitudinal directions substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0089] 13 to 17 connects two straight frames 21 to 24 in a substantially perpendicular direction, the connection structure using corner frame 31 is not limited to this example. For example, if a waterproof joint structure similar to that of corner frame 31 is applied to a resin frame that connects two straight frames 21 to 24 in the same direction, it is possible to achieve the same waterproof effect as corner frame 31.

[0090] The present embodiment has been described above with reference to specific examples. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these specific examples. Design modifications to these specific examples made by a person skilled in the art as appropriate are also included within the scope of the present disclosure as long as they comprise the features of the present disclosure. The elements of the above-described specific examples, as well as their arrangement, conditions, shape, etc., are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. The elements of the above-described specific examples can be combined in various ways as appropriate, as long as no technical contradictions arise. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 1 Information display device 2 Front part 3 Frame Structure 4 Back part 5 screens 6 Bezel 21, 22, 23, 24 Straight frame (first part) 211, 241 inner surface 212, 242 protrusion 213, 213A, 243, 243A end face 214, 244 one side 215, 245 other side 31 Corner frame (second part) 32 Interface frame (second part) 310A, 310B, 324A, 324B ears 310C1, 310C2, 324C first side 310D1, 310D2, 324D 2nd side S1, S11, S12 1st watertight section S2, S21, S22 2nd watertight section [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0092] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-028611 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-076742

Claims

1. A frame structure formed into a ring shape by assembling a plurality of parts, The plurality of parts include: a first part formed with the annular direction of the frame structure as its longitudinal direction, the first part having an inner surface facing a center of the annular shape and a protruding portion protruding from the inner surface toward the center and extending along the annular direction; a second component to be assembled to the first component, the second component having a first surface facing the inner surface of the first component and one side surface of the protruding portion facing the inner surface side, and a second surface facing an end surface of the protruding portion; a first watertight portion formed by applying an adhesive from the side of the one side surface along an outer edge of the first surface of the second component facing the inner surface of the first component and the one side surface; a second watertight portion formed by applying the adhesive from the other side surface opposite to the one side surface of the protrusion along a boundary portion between the second surface of the second component and the end surface of the first component; a lug portion formed to protrude from the second component along the protruding portion, the lug portion having the first surface and the second surface extending therefrom; Equipped with The first watertight portion and the second watertight portion are formed so that their respective ends extend to the positions of the ears and overlap at the ears. Frame structure.

2. the second component is assembled to a middle portion of the first component in the longitudinal direction, the ear portion includes a pair of ear portions formed to protrude from the second component along the protruding portion on both sides in the longitudinal direction, The first watertight portion and the second watertight portion are formed so that both ends thereof extend to the positions of the pair of ears and overlap with each other at the pair of ears. The frame structure according to claim 1 .

3. the second part is disposed between the two first parts and assembled to the longitudinal ends of the two first parts to connect the two first parts; the ears include a pair of ears formed to protrude from a connection position between the second component and the two first components toward a middle portion of each of the two first components in the longitudinal direction, The first watertight portion and the second watertight portion are formed so that one end on the ear side of each of the first watertight portion and the second watertight portion extends to the position of the pair of ears and overlaps with each of the pair of ears. The frame structure according to claim 1 .

4. the first component is made of metal; The second part is made of resin. The frame structure according to claim 1 .

5. A frame structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4; a front surface portion attached to one side of the annular shape of the frame structure in a central axis direction and having a screen for displaying information; An information display device comprising:

6. A method for manufacturing a frame structure formed into an annular shape by assembling a plurality of parts, The plurality of parts include: a first part formed with the annular direction of the frame structure as its longitudinal direction, the first part having an inner surface facing a center of the annular shape and a protruding portion protruding from the inner surface toward the center and extending along the annular direction; a second component to be assembled to the first component, the second component having a first surface facing the inner surface of the first component and one side surface of the protruding portion facing the inner surface side, and a second surface facing an end surface of the protruding portion; a lug portion formed to protrude from the second component along the protruding portion, the lug portion having the first surface and the second surface extending therefrom; Equipped with a mounting step of mounting the second component on the first component; a first watertight portion forming step of applying an adhesive from the side of the one side surface along an outer edge of the inner side surface of the first component and the first surface of the second component facing the one side surface after the attaching step, to form a first watertight portion whose end extends to the position of the ear portion; a second watertight portion forming step of applying the adhesive from the other side surface opposite to the one side surface of the protruding portion along a boundary portion between the end surface and the second surface of the second component facing the end surface of the first component after the attaching step, to form a second watertight portion whose end extends to the position of the ear portion; Including, The first watertight portion forming step and the second watertight portion forming step are performed by carrying out one step first to form one of the first watertight portion and the second watertight portion first, and after the one formed first has hardened, the other step is carried out, thereby forming the first watertight portion and the second watertight portion so as to overlap at the ear portions. A method for manufacturing a frame structure.

7. In the first watertight portion forming step and the second watertight portion forming step, a step of forming the first watertight portion or the second watertight portion, whichever uses a larger amount of the adhesive, is performed first. The method for manufacturing the frame structure according to claim 6.

Images