electronic machinery

Abstract

This invention suppresses malfunctions that occur when, in the closed state of the display unit, at least a portion of the display unit blocks at least a portion of the exhaust port. [Solution] The electronic device comprises a main body 1, a display unit 2 that is openable and closable and continuous with respect to the main body, an exhaust unit 4 provided in the main body and including an exhaust port 3, a cooling unit 5 provided inside the main body and generating airflow, a temperature detection unit 11 provided inside the main body, and a temperature detection unit 12 provided inside the main body and located downstream of the temperature detection unit 11 in the airflow generated by the cooling unit when at least a part of the display unit is blocked by at least a part of the exhaust port when the display unit is closed.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Electronic devices such as notebook computers and tablet computers are excellent in terms of being thin and light, and are widespread. Notebook computers and some tablet computers include a main body portion and a display portion. The main body portion and the display portion are continuously rotatable relative to each other around an axis and can be opened and closed.

[0003] In the open state, the display on the display portion is visible, and normal operations can be performed on the electronic device. In the closed state, the display on the display portion is not visible, and operations on the electronic device are also limited (almost impossible).

[0004] Therefore, in the closed state, it is automatically set to enter a power-saving state such as standby, sleep, or hibernation (for example, Patent Document 1). Along with this, power-saving operations such as stopping the cooling fan are performed.

[0005] On the other hand, the electronic device can be connected to an external device including an external display device and has an extended function.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] Conventional power-saving control is assumed for use of the electronic device alone. However, for example, a usage method such as displaying on an external display device in addition to the display portion of the electronic device is also conceivable.

[0008] In this method of use, when the device is in a closed state, if an external device is operating, a certain load will be placed on the CPU of the electronic device.

[0009] By the way, notebook computers and similar devices are also intended for use by general consumers, so design is extremely important.

[0010] In conventional devices, a cooling path was ensured so that the exhaust vent corresponding to the cooling fan was exposed on the surface of the casing even when the device was closed. In contrast, the new device aims to improve the design through the flatness of the casing, and is designed so that the exhaust vent is not exposed when the device is closed.

[0011] If the new device is closed while still connected to an external device, conventional power-saving control may cause problems such as an increase in internal and surface temperatures, or a decrease in CPU performance.

[0012] Therefore, in one aspect, the present invention aims to suppress malfunctions that occur when at least a part of the display unit blocks at least a part of the exhaust port when the display unit is in a closed state. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] One proposal provides an electronic device comprising: a main body; a display unit that is openable and closable and continuous with respect to the main body; an exhaust unit provided in the main body and including an exhaust port; a cooling unit provided inside the main body that generates airflow; a first temperature detection unit provided inside the main body; and a second temperature detection unit provided inside the main body, located downstream of the first temperature detection unit in the airflow generated by the cooling unit when at least a part of the display unit blocks at least a part of the exhaust port in the closed state of the display unit.

[0014] Furthermore, in the above configuration, the electronic device may include a power supply operation determination unit for determining the power supply operation status of the electronic device, an open / closed determination unit for determining the open / closed state of the main body and the display unit, and a thermal countermeasure control unit that implements a first thermal countermeasure when the first temperature detection unit detects a temperature of a first threshold or higher, and when the power supply operation determination unit determines the power supply operation status to be a predetermined state and the open / closed determination unit determines it to be a closed state, the second temperature detection unit detects a temperature of a second threshold or higher and implements a second thermal countermeasure.

[0015] Furthermore, in the above configuration, the electronic device may include a fan control unit for controlling the fan of the cooling unit, and a power output limiting unit for limiting the power output.

[0016] Furthermore, in the above configuration, the first thermal countermeasure and the second thermal countermeasure may be different. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] In one respect, it is possible to suppress malfunctions that occur when at least a part of the display unit blocks at least a part of the exhaust port when the display unit is in the closed state. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the open / closed state of the electronic device in the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the arrangement of the first temperature detection unit and the second temperature detection unit in the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the electronic device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the open / closed determination unit of the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of a control flow diagram of an embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the operation in the open and closed states. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments for implementing the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments shown below are merely examples, and there is no intention to exclude various modifications and applications of technologies not explicitly stated in the embodiments. That is, the present embodiment can be variously modified and implemented without departing from its gist. Also, each figure does not mean that it only includes the components shown in the figure, and can include other functions and the like.

[0020] The electronic device of the present embodiment is premised on a notebook computer, but includes a part of a tablet computer. The notebook computer includes a main body unit 1 and a display unit 2. The main body unit 1 and the display unit 2 are continuously rotatable relative to each other around an axis and can be opened and closed.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the open / closed state of the electronic device of the embodiment. FIG. 1A shows the open state, and FIG. 1B shows the closed state. An image of heat is added.

[0022] In the open state, the display of the display unit 2 is visible, and normal operations can be performed on the notebook computer. In the closed state, the display of the display unit 2 is not visible, and operations on the notebook computer are also limited.

[0023] An exhaust port 3 is provided on the back side of the housing of the main body unit 1. During normal operation, it is in the open state, and the heat generated inside the main body unit 1 is exhausted through the exhaust port 3.

[0024] On the other hand, in the new type of notebook computer, from the viewpoint of improving the design, it is designed so that the exhaust port 3 is not exposed in the closed state. In the illustrated example, a part of the housing of the display unit 2 covers the exhaust port 3.

[0025] Both conventional devices and new devices perform power-saving control in the closed state. The heat generation at that time is limited (almost none). Therefore, in principle, no problems occur even if the exhaust port 3 is blocked. However, there is also a risk of unintentional heat generation due to continuous power operation states such as external device connection (detailed below).

[0026] Figure 2 shows an example of the arrangement of the first and second temperature detection units in the embodiment. This will be explained along with the arrangement of the main internal components of the main body.

[0027] In this example, the CPU (Central Processing Unit) 16 is positioned in the center. The CPU 16 writes a predetermined program from the hard disk, where various programs and data are stored, to the RAM's working area, executes the program, and performs various controls. This is the part that generates the most heat.

[0028] In this example, multiple memory modules 17 are located on the right side of the diagram. Memory modules include RAM and ROM.

[0029] An exhaust port 3 is provided on the rear side (upper side in the illustration) of the main body 1. The exhaust port 3 is continuous with the heatsink 4 and constitutes the exhaust section.

[0030] In this example, the cooling fan 5 is located on the left side of the diagram. The airflow excited by the cooling fan 5 passes through the heatsink 4 and is exhausted along with the heat from the exhaust port 3. This constitutes the cooling unit.

[0031] The heat pipe 6 is provided in conjunction with the CPU 16 and transfers the heat generated by the CPU 16 to the heat sink 4.

[0032] The first temperature detection unit, thermistor 11, is located near the CPU 16 and the heat pipe 6. The second temperature detection unit, thermistor 12, is located on the upper right side of the diagram (details will be described later). Note that thermistors are just one example of temperature sensors, and other temperature sensors may be used. For example, a temperature sensor IC (integrated circuit) may be used.

[0033] In addition, expansion ports (numbering omitted) are provided on the front side of the enclosure (bottom side in the diagram).

[0034] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the electronic device of the embodiment. The thermistors 11 and 12, CPU 16, and cooling fan 5 have the same configuration and numbering as in Figure 2. A typical notebook computer includes a BIOS (basic Input / Output System) and an open / closed detection means.

[0035] BIOS13 is a system that manages computer startup, initializing hardware such as the CPU, memory, and storage, and loading the operating system. It also manages power operations such as sleep, hibernation, and power saving modes. BIOS13 is just one example of a power operation determination unit, and other power operation determination means may be used. For example, it can be replaced by EC20, which will be described later.

[0036] Figure 4 shows an example of the open / closed detection unit of the embodiment. Figure 4A is a schematic plan view, and Figure 4B is a schematic side view. An MR sensor 14 is provided on the main body 1 side. A magnet (numbering omitted) is provided on the display unit 2 side. The MR sensor changes its resistance value in response to changes in the magnetic field, and this change is converted into an electrical signal. The magnetic field is weak in the open state and strong in the closed state. Note that the MR sensor is just one example of open / closed detection, and other sensors such as optical systems may be used. For example, open / closed detection is also possible with acceleration sensors or angular velocity sensors.

[0037] In this embodiment, temperature control is performed by an EC (Embedded Controller) 20. The EC 20 is just one example of a control means, and other control means may be used.

[0038] Functional blocks are added to EC20 in Figure 3. EC20 comprises a power supply operation detection unit 21, an on / off detection unit 22, a thermal management control unit 23, a fan control unit 24, and a power output limiting unit 25. Each of the functions 21-25 is software (module) and works in cooperation with the corresponding hardware.

[0039] The power operation determination unit 21 determines the power operation status of the notebook computer based on the input signal from the BIOS 13.

[0040] The open / closed determination unit 22 determines the open / closed state of the main unit 1 and the display unit 2 based on the input signal from the MR sensor 14.

[0041] The thermal control unit 23 implements the first thermal countermeasure (details described later, see Figure 6A) based on the input signal from the thermistor 11. Furthermore, if the power supply operation determination unit 21 determines that the power supply is operating and the switching determination unit 22 determines that it is in a closed state, the second thermal countermeasure (details described later, see Figure 6B) is implemented based on the input signal from the thermistor 12.

[0042] The fan control unit 24 controls the ON / OFF status of the cooling fan 5 or the rotation speed of the cooling fan 5 based on the first or second thermal countermeasure. In principle, the control differs between the first and second thermal countermeasures. However, the results may end up being the same.

[0043] The power output limiting unit 25 limits the power output to the CPU 16 based on the first or second thermal countermeasure. For example, it lowers the power limit value. The control for the first and second thermal countermeasures is generally different. However, the results may end up being the same.

[0044] Note that the thermal countermeasures by the fan control unit 24 and the power output limiting unit 25 may be implemented individually or in combination. Furthermore, the thermal countermeasures by the fan control unit 24 and the power output limiting unit 25 are merely examples of thermal countermeasures, and other thermal countermeasures may be implemented.

[0045] Figure 5 shows an example of a control flow diagram of an embodiment. This control also starts when the notebook computer is started up.

[0046] The thermal management control unit 23 sets a first threshold value for the thermistor 11 detection value and determines whether the thermistor 11 detection value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value (step 1).

[0047] If the thermistor 11 detection value is determined to be above the first threshold, the first thermal countermeasure is implemented (Step 2). Note that the first thermal countermeasure may be the same as that of conventional thermal control.

[0048] If it is determined that the thermistor 11 detection value is less than the first threshold, the process proceeds to the next step. The power supply operation determination unit 21 determines whether the power supply is operating and the switching determination unit 22 determines whether the switch is closed (step 3).

[0049] If either the power operation determination unit 21 or the on / off determination unit 22 makes a negative determination, or if both make a negative determination, the process returns to step 1 and the determination is repeated.

[0050] The thermal management control unit 23 sets a second threshold value for the thermistor 12 detection value. When the power supply operation determination unit 21 determines that the power supply is operating and the switching determination unit 22 determines that it is in a closed state, it determines whether the thermistor 12 detection value is equal to or greater than the second threshold value (step 4).

[0051] If the thermistor 11 detection value is determined to be below the second threshold, the process returns to step 1 and the determination is repeated.

[0052] If the thermistor 11 detection value is determined to be above the second threshold, the second thermal countermeasure is implemented (Step 5).

[0053] The control process ends upon implementation of either the first thermal countermeasure (Step 2) or the second thermal countermeasure (Step 5). However, if the situation does not improve after implementing either the first or second thermal countermeasure, the process returns to Step 1 and the decision is repeated.

[0054] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the operation in the open and closed states. Figure 6A is an explanatory diagram of the operation in the open state (normal state). Figure 6B is an explanatory diagram of the operation in the closed state (specific to this invention). An assumed airflow image has been added.

[0055] First, let's explain the normal operation. If the notebook computer generates heat due to prolonged use and the thermistor 11 detects a value above the first threshold, the first thermal countermeasure is implemented (Step 2). The first thermal countermeasure includes activating the cooling fan 5 and increasing its rotation speed.

[0056] In the open state, the exhaust port 3 is in communication with the outside. The airflow excited by the cooling fan 5 removes heat from the heatsink 4 and is discharged to the outside through the exhaust port 3.

[0057] Next, we will explain the specific operation. In the closed state, exhaust port 3 is also blocked. However, in most cases, power saving control is in place in the closed state, and heat generation is limited (almost non-existent). Therefore, in principle, no malfunctions will occur. However, if the power supply remains operational due to the connection of external devices, etc., there is a risk of unintended heat generation.

[0058] If the first thermal countermeasure is implemented in the above case, the heat-containing airflow will not be discharged to the outside through the exhaust port 3, but will be trapped inside the enclosure. For example, it will diffuse along the back side of the enclosure (upper side in the diagram). In addition, heat generated from the CPU 16, which is a likely heat source, may be included in the diffused airflow. As a result, there is a risk of unexpected malfunctions occurring. For example, the memory 17 may become unexpectedly hot and fail.

[0059] Thermistor 12 is positioned downstream of thermistor 11 in relation to the airflow generated when the exhaust port 3 is blocked. In other words, thermistor 12 is distal to the exhaust port 3 than thermistor 11.

[0060] As a result, heat can be detected even if a location different from the conventional high-temperature assumption becomes a high-temperature area.

[0061] If the thermistor 12 detection value is above the second threshold under predetermined conditions, the second thermal countermeasure is implemented (Step 5).

[0062] The second threshold is set independently of the first threshold. However, it may end up being the same.

[0063] The second thermal management method differs in principle from the first thermal management method. For example, the rotation speed of cooling fan 5 in the second thermal management method may be set lower than that of cooling fan 5 in the first thermal management method. The power output limit in the second thermal management method may be lowered (the power limit value may be lowered) compared to the first thermal management method.

[0064] The second thermal management system differs from the first thermal management system, allowing it to address problems specific to the closed state.

[0065] This invention addresses a problem that is expected to occur when connecting external devices. External device connections have been managed conventionally, and the EC20 receives the corresponding signal.

[0066] Even in modified configurations, it is possible to address problems specific to the closed state.

[0067] As described above, the electronic device of this embodiment comprises a main body 1, a display unit 2 that is openable and closable and continuous with the main body 1, a heat sink 4 provided on the main body 1 and continuous with an exhaust port 3, a cooling fan 5 provided inside the main body 1 to generate airflow, a first thermistor 11 provided inside the main body 1, and a second thermistor 12 provided inside the main body 1, located downstream of the first thermistor 11 in the airflow generated by the cooling fan 5 when the display unit 2 is closed and at least a part of the display unit 2 blocks at least a part of the exhaust port 3.

[0068] With this configuration, the exhaust port 3 is blocked when the display unit 2 is closed, and even if a location different from the conventional high-temperature assumption becomes a high-temperature location, the thermistor 12 can detect the heat at that location. As a result, unexpected malfunctions can be suppressed.

[0069] Furthermore, in the above configuration, the electronic device of this embodiment may include a power supply operation determination unit 21 that determines the power supply operation status of the electronic device, an open / closed determination unit 22 that determines the open / closed state of the main body 1 and the display unit 2, and a thermal countermeasure control unit 23 that implements a first thermal countermeasure when the first thermistor 11 detects a temperature of a first threshold or higher, and when the power supply operation determination unit 21 determines the power supply operation status to be a predetermined operating state and the open / closed determination unit 22 determines it to be a closed state, and the second thermistor 12 detects a temperature of a second threshold or higher, it implements a second thermal countermeasure.

[0070] With this configuration, when the exhaust port 3 is blocked while the display unit 2 is in the closed state, problems associated with implementing the first heat countermeasure can be suppressed.

[0071] Furthermore, in the above configuration, the electronic device of this embodiment may include a fan control unit 24 for controlling the fan and a power output limiting unit 25 for limiting the power output.

[0072] Furthermore, in the above configuration, the first thermal countermeasure and the second thermal countermeasure may be different.

[0073] In the first and second thermal countermeasures, optimal thermal countermeasures can be achieved by optimizing the control of the fan control unit 24 and / or the power output limiting unit 25, respectively. In other words, when the exhaust port 3 is blocked in the closed state of the display unit 2, problems associated with implementing the first thermal countermeasure can be suppressed. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0074] 1. Main body 2 Display section 3 Exhaust vents 4 Heatsink 5 Cooling fan 6 Heat pipes 11. Thermistor (First temperature detection unit) 12. Thermistor (Second temperature detection unit) 13 BIOS 14 MR sensors 16 CPU 17 memory 20 EC (Embedded Controller) 21 Power supply operation determination unit 22 Open / Close Discrimination Unit 23 Thermal Management Control Unit 24 Fan control unit 25 Power output limiting unit

Claims

1. The main body and A display unit that is openable and closable and continuous with the main body, The main body includes an exhaust section including an exhaust port, A cooling unit is provided inside the main body to generate airflow, A first temperature detection unit is provided inside the main body, A second temperature detection unit is provided inside the main body, and when the display unit is in a closed state, at least a part of the display unit blocks at least a part of the exhaust port, and is located downstream of the first temperature detection unit in the airflow generated by the cooling unit. A power supply operation determination unit that determines the power supply operation status of an electronic device, An open / closed determination unit that determines the open / closed state of the main unit and the display unit, A thermal countermeasure control unit implements a first thermal countermeasure when the first temperature detection unit detects a temperature above a first threshold, and when the power supply operation determination unit determines the power supply operation state to be a predetermined state and the open / close determination unit determines it to be in a closed state, the second temperature detection unit implements a second thermal countermeasure when it detects a temperature above a second threshold, Electronic devices equipped with these features.

2. A fan control unit that controls the fan of the cooling unit, A power output limiting unit that limits the power output, Equipped with The electronic device according to claim 1.

3. The first thermal countermeasure and the second thermal countermeasure are different. The electronic device according to claim 1.

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