Computing device

Abstract

An anti-reflow device for preventing air reflow from one or more fan modules includes a first wall, a second wall, and a screen. The second wall is positioned opposite and generally parallel to the first wall such that an opening is defined between the first wall and the second wall. The screen is positioned within the opening defined between the first wall and the second wall and is movable to adjust a size of the opening.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a computing device with improved cable routing, and more specifically, to an anti-backflow device that allows for proper cable routing while preventing gas from flowing back from the fan module. [Previous Technology]

[0002] Many computing devices, such as servers, have a large number of cables connecting various components. These components typically include multiple fan modules, which are operated to direct airflow in the desired direction to help cool the computing device during operation. Due to the layout of the computing device, cables often extend through the gaps between different fan modules. While these gaps allow for proper cable routing, they also provide an opening that can lead to gas backflow, reducing the efficiency of the fan modules and negatively impacting the performance of the computing device. Therefore, new anti-gas backflow devices are needed to properly route the cables and prevent gas from flowing back from the fan modules. [Summary of the Invention]

[0003] The terms "implementation" and similar terms, such as "example," "configuration," "oriented," "exemplary," and "option," are intended to broadly refer to all subjects of this disclosure and the following claims. Statements containing these terms should be understood not to limit the subject of this disclosure or the meaning or scope of the following claims. The embodiments covered by this disclosure are defined by the following claims and not by this summary. The summary is a high-level overview of various aspects of this disclosure and introduces some concepts that will be further elaborated in the following description paragraphs. The summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the subjects claimed in the claims. Nor is the summary intended to be used alone to determine the scope of the subjects claimed in the claims. The subject of the invention should be understood by referring to the appropriate portions of the entire specification of this disclosure, any or all of the drawings, and the respective claims.

[0004] In a first embodiment, this disclosure relates to a computing device including one or more fan modules and an anti-backflow device for preventing gas from flowing back from the fan modules. The anti-backflow device includes a first wall, a second wall, and a baffle. The second wall is opposite to and substantially parallel to the first wall, such that an opening is defined between the first wall and the second wall. The baffle is positioned within the opening defined between the first wall and the second wall. The baffle is movable to adjust the size of the opening.

[0005] In a portion of the first embodiment, the baffle has a first end and a second opposing end. The first end is adjacently coupled to a first end of a first wall and a first end of a second wall. The second opposing end is movable relative to a second opposing end of the first wall and a second opposing end of the second wall.

[0006] In a portion of the first embodiment, the first end of the baffle is coupled to (1) the first end of the first wall, (2) the first end of the second wall, (3) a top plate extending between the first end of the first wall and the first end of the second wall, or (4) any combination of (1) to (3).

[0007] In a portion of the first embodiment, the second opposite end of the baffle moves relative to the second end of the first wall and the second end of the second wall to adjust the size of the opening.

[0008] In a portion of the first embodiment, the baffle is formed by a plurality of baffle members pivotally coupled together. The baffle members extend between the first wall and the second wall.

[0009] In a portion of the first embodiment, the baffle members are configured to fold over each other as the baffles move, such that the size of the baffles decreases as the size of the opening increases.

[0010] In a portion of the first embodiment, the baffle members are pivotally coupled such that the folding direction of two adjacent baffle members is alternating for each pair of adjacent baffle members.

[0011] In a portion of the first embodiment, the baffle member includes a first baffle member, a second baffle member at one end pivotally coupled to the first baffle member, and a third baffle member at the opposite end pivotally coupled to the second baffle member.

[0012] In a portion of the first embodiment, the first folding direction of the first baffle member and the second baffle member extends along a first direction from the pivot coupling point between the first baffle member and the second baffle member. Furthermore, the second folding direction of the second baffle member and the third baffle member extends along a second direction perpendicular to and opposite to the first direction from the pivot coupling point between the second baffle member and the third baffle member.

[0013] In a portion of the first embodiment, the anti-backflow device further includes ribs. The ribs press against the first baffle and the second baffle to deflect the first baffle and the second baffle toward the first folding direction.

[0014] In a portion of the first embodiment, each pair of baffle members is pivotally coupled via at least one hinge. The hinge allows each pair of baffle members to pivot in a circumferential direction, but not in the opposite circumferential direction.

[0015] In a portion of the first embodiment, the hinges pivotally coupled to each pair of baffle members include at least one stop flange. The stop flange prevents each pair of baffle members from pivoting in opposite circumferential directions.

[0016] In a portion of the first embodiment, the orientation of the hinges coupling each pair of baffle members is alternating for each pair of adjacent baffle members.

[0017] In a portion of the first embodiment, the baffle includes a latch. The latch matches one or both of the first and second walls to lock the baffle to the size of the opening.

[0018] In a portion of the first embodiment, the first wall includes a plurality of slots extending along the length of the first wall. The latch includes a pin extending from the baffle toward the first wall. The pin can be selectively inserted into one of the slots to lock the baffle and the size of the opening.

[0019] In a portion of the first embodiment, the first wall includes at least one stop extending into at least one slot of the slots. When a pin is inserted into a slot, the stop of the slot prevents the pin from being removed from the slot.

[0020] In a portion of the first embodiment, a first wall includes a channel defined therein. The channel and each slot are continuous. And the pin can only move within the channel, into the slot, and out of the slot.

[0021] In a portion of the first embodiment, the fan module is coupled to the housing of the fan wall. The portion of the fan wall housing is positioned near a baffle opposite the first wall of the anti-backflow device, such that the movement of the pin of the anti-backflow device is restricted by the portions of the first wall of the anti-backflow device and the fan wall.

[0022] In a second embodiment, this disclosure relates to a computing device including one or more electronic components, a fan wall, one or more cables, and an anti-backflow device. The fan wall includes at least one first fan module, a second fan module, and an opening defined between the first fan module and the second fan module. The anti-backflow device is at least partially disposed in the opening defined between the first fan module and the second fan module, and the anti-backflow device includes a first wall, a second wall, and a baffle. The second wall is opposite to and substantially parallel to the first wall, such that the opening is defined between the first wall and the second wall, and the opening of the anti-backflow device at least partially overlaps the opening of the fan wall. The baffle is positioned within the opening defined between the first wall and the second wall and is movable relative to the first wall and the second wall. The cables extend through the opening in the fan wall and the opening in the anti-backflow device. The baffle is movable to adjust the size of the opening of the anti-backflow device to accommodate the size of the cables extending through it.

[0023] In a portion of the second embodiment, the baffle is formed by a plurality of baffle members pivotally coupled together. The baffle members are configured to fold over each other as the baffle moves, thereby reducing the size of the opening in the anti-backflow device. The folding direction of each pair of baffle members is alternating for each pair of adjacent baffle members.

[0024] The foregoing summary is not intended to represent every embodiment or all aspects of this disclosure. Rather, the foregoing provides only examples of some novel aspects and features described herein. The foregoing features and advantages, as well as other features and advantages of this disclosure, will be elucidated from the following detailed description of representative embodiments and modes of implementation of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. Other aspects of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art through reference to the following detailed description of several embodiments made according to the drawings, a simplified explanation of which is given below.

Implementation Method

[0025] Various embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to denote similar or equivalent elements. Each reference numeral is identified by the first digit (for three-digit reference numerals) or the first two digits (for four-digit reference numerals) corresponding to the reference numeral in the drawing. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and are only used to illustrate aspects and features of this disclosure. Although those skilled in the art will recognize that these aspects and features can be implemented in other relationships or other methods without one or more specific details, this disclosure still sets forth many specific details, relationships, and methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of some embodiments and features of this disclosure. In some cases, well-known structures and operations will not be presented in detail for illustrative purposes. The embodiments disclosed herein are not necessarily limited to the order of the described actions or events, and some actions may occur in a different order and / or simultaneously with other actions or events. Furthermore, not all described actions or events are necessary to implement the embodiments and features of this disclosure.

[0026] For the purposes of this embodiment, unless expressly stated otherwise, and where appropriate, the singular includes the plural, and vice versa. The word "comprising" means "including but not limited to". Furthermore, approximate words such as "approximately", "almost", "substantially", and "nearly" are used herein to mean "within", "near", "almost in", "within 3-5% of the height difference", "within acceptable manufacturing tolerances", or any logical combination thereof. Similarly, the terms "vertical" or "horizontal" mean additionally including "within 3-5% of the height difference" in the vertical or horizontal direction, respectively. Furthermore, the word "direction", such as "top", "bottom", "left", "right", "above", and "below", means the equivalent direction depicted in the reference figures, and the location may be understood according to the context of the object or element referenced, such as from the commonly used location of the object or element, or as described in another manner herein.

[0027] Figure 1 illustrates an anti-backflow device 100 for a computing device. The anti-backflow device is formed by a first wall 102, a second wall 108, a top plate 114, a bottom plate 116, and a baffle 120. The first wall 102 and the second wall 108 are generally parallel to each other. The top plate 114 and the bottom plate 116 are generally parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first wall 102 and the second wall 108. The top plate 114 is coupled to a first end 103A of the first wall 102 and a first end 109A of the second wall 108. The bottom plate 116 is coupled to a second end 103B of the first wall 102 and a second end 109B of the second wall 108. An opening 101 is defined between the first wall 102, the second wall 108, the top plate 114, and the bottom plate 116. The baffle 120 is at least partially positioned within the opening 101. The first end of the baffle 120 is coupled adjacently to the first end 103A of the first wall 102 and the first end 109A of the second wall 108, while the opposite second end of the baffle 120 is movable relative to the second end 103B of the first wall 102, the second end 109B of the second wall 108, and the bottom plate 116. The baffle 120 can be coupled to any combination of the first wall 102, the second wall 108, and the top plate 114. For example, in some embodiments, the baffle 120 is coupled only to the top plate 114.

[0028] The baffle 120 is formed of a plurality of individual baffle members pivotally coupled to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of baffle members includes a first baffle member 130, a second baffle member 140 pivotally coupled to the first baffle member 130 at one end, and a third baffle member 150 pivotally coupled to the opposite end of the second baffle member 140. The first baffle member 130 is typically pivotally coupled to any point where the anti-backflow device 100 is coupled to the baffle 120. For example, if the baffle 120 is coupled to the top plate 114, then the first baffle member 130 is pivotally coupled to the top plate 114. The first baffle member 130 may be referred to as the initial baffle member (for example, a baffle member coupled to some other part of the anti-backflow device 100 that is not another baffle member), while the second baffle member 140 and the third baffle member 150 may be referred to as subsequent baffle members (for example, baffle members not coupled to any structure other than another baffle member). The third baffle member 150 may also be referred to as the final baffle member (for example, a baffle member coupled to only one other baffle member and not coupled to any other structure).

[0029] Generally, baffle 120 will comprise a plurality of baffle members, including an initial baffle member and one or more subsequent baffle members. The initial baffle member will be coupled to (i) any combination of the first wall 102, the second wall 108, and the top plate 114 and (ii) one of the subsequent baffle members. Each of the one or more subsequent baffle members will be coupled to at least one other baffle member and will not be coupled to any structure other than one of the other baffle members. Thus, a subsequent baffle member may be coupled to two other baffle members (e.g., the second baffle member 140), or it may be a final baffle member coupled only to another baffle member (e.g., the third baffle member 150).

[0030] In embodiments where baffle 120 comprises only two baffle members, one or more subsequent baffle members will comprise only one subsequent baffle member, which is also the final baffle member (because it is not coupled to any structure other than the other baffle member, and is only coupled to the other baffle member). In embodiments where baffle 120 comprises three or more baffle members, one or more subsequent baffle members will comprise at least one subsequent baffle member that is not the final baffle member (because it is not coupled to any structure other than the other baffle member, and is coupled to multiple other baffle members), and at least one subsequent baffle member that is also the final baffle member (because it is not coupled to any structure other than the other baffle member, and is only coupled to the other baffle member).

[0031] The size of the opening 101 can be adjusted by moving the baffle 120 (and thus the plurality of baffle members). As discussed in more detail herein, the size of the opening 101 can be adjusted to accommodate cables extending through the opening 101 in the computing device by moving the second end of the baffle 120 (e.g., the third baffle member 150) relative to the second end 103B of the first wall 102 and the second end 109B of the second wall 108. The size of the opening 101 decreases by extending the baffle 120 to a longer length (so that the baffle members 130-150 unfold). And the size of the opening 101 increases by retracting the baffle 120 to a shorter length (so that the baffle members 130-150 fold over themselves). By minimizing the size of the opening 101 as much as possible while allowing cables to pass through, the flow of gas within the computing device in an undesirable direction can be prevented. For any position of the baffle 120, the baffle 120 typically extends the entire distance between the first wall 102 and the second wall 108.

[0032] The first wall 102 includes a plurality of teeth 104 projecting from its edge, defining a plurality of slots 106. Similarly, the second wall 108 includes a plurality of teeth 110 projecting from its edge, defining a plurality of slots 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the teeth 104 and slots 106 extend the entire length of the edge of the first wall 102 from the first end 103A to the second end 103B. Similarly, the teeth 110 and slots 112 extend the entire length of the edge of the second wall 108 from the first end 109A to the second end 109B.

[0033] The baffle 120 includes two pins 152A and 152B extending from both sides of the third baffle member 150, configured to fit into slots 106 of the first wall 102 and slots 112 of the second wall 108. Pin 152A extends toward the first wall 102 and is selectively inserted into one of the slots 106 between two teeth 104. Pin 152B extends toward the second wall 108 and is selectively inserted into one of the slots 112 between two teeth 110. Thus, pins 152A and 152B act as latches to lock the baffle 120 in place, thereby locking the size of the opening 101. Therefore, the teeth 104, 110 and the slots 106, 112 generally define various different positions of the baffle 120 when the anti-backflow device 100 is used.

[0034] Although Figure 1 illustrates the teeth 104 and slots 106 extending to the entire length of the first wall 102, other embodiments of the anti-backflow device 100 may include any number of teeth 104, thereby defining any number of slots 106. Similarly, although teeth 110 and slots 112 are illustrated extending to the entire length of the second wall 108, other embodiments of the anti-backflow device 100 may include any number of teeth 104, 110 and any number of slots 106, 112, thereby defining any number of possible locations of the baffle 120 during the use of the anti-backflow device 100.

[0035] Figure 1 also illustrates various tabs extending from different surfaces of the anti-backflow device. One or more protrusions 118A extend from the first wall 102, one or more protrusions 118B extend from the top plate 114, and one or more tabs (not visible in Figure 1) extend from the second wall 108. In embodiments including any of these tabs, the tabs can be used to lock the anti-backflow device 100 to any other structure, such as the housing of a computing device, the fan wall housing of a fan wall, or another component.

[0036] Figure 2 shows an enlarged view of the pin 152A inserted into a slot 106 of the first wall 102. As shown, each tooth 104 includes a pair of latches 202 extending into the adjacent slot 106. Thus, each slot 106 will have a pair of latches 202 extending therein (one latch 202 for each adjacent tooth 104). The distance between the two latches 202 within one of the slots 106 is less than the diameter of the pin 152A. Therefore, the latches 202 prevent the pin 152A from moving out of the slot 106 and help to lock the baffle 120 into place.

[0037] Figure 3A illustrates a perspective view of the first baffle member 130 and the second baffle member 140, which have an overall identical design. As shown, the baffle members 130 and 140 include a body 300 having a set of tabs 302 extending from opposite edges of the body 300. The body 300 is generally square. The baffle members 130 and 140 further include rods 304 formed along opposite edges. In the illustrated embodiment, the rods 304 are formed in pairs along each edge, and each rod 304 is positioned between two tabs 302. However, other embodiments may include only a single rod 304 along any edge (which may include only two tabs 302), or three or more rods 304 along any edge (which may include four or more tabs 302). A gap 306 is defined between each rod 304 and the body 300. The rod 304 can be integrally formed with the body 300 and the tab 302, or it can be formed separately and then coupled to the tab 302.

[0038] Figure 3B illustrates a third baffle member 150. The third baffle member 150 has a body 350 with a set of tabs 352 extending only along one edge of the body 350. The body 350 is generally square. The third baffle member 150 further includes a rod 354 formed only along a single edge of the body 350, with a gap 356 defined between each rod 354 and the body 350. In the illustrated embodiment, the rods 354 form a pair of rods along a single edge, each rod 354 positioned between two tabs 352. However, other embodiments may include only a single rod 354 along the edge (which may include only two tabs 352), or three or more rods 354 along the edge (which may include four or more tabs 302). The gap 356 is defined between each rod 354 and the body 350. The rod 354 may be integrally formed with the body 350 and the tab 352, or it may be formed separately and then coupled to the tab 352. On opposite edges of the body 350, the third baffle member 150 includes outwardly extending tabs 358 in place of the additional rod 354. In the illustrated embodiment, the tabs 358 extend from the body 350 at approximately a right angle, but in other embodiments they may extend at any angle.

[0039] Figure 4 illustrates a hinge 400 for pivotally coupling the baffle members together. The hinge 400 includes two separate receiving portions 402A, 402B connected by a central portion 404. The receiving portions 402A, 402B define corresponding channels 406A, 406B, sized to receive rods 304 of the first baffle member 130 and the second baffle member 140, and rod 354 of the baffle member 150. The channels 406A, 406B are large enough to allow rods 304, 354 to rotate within them. The receiving portions 402A, 402B are wide enough that the length of the channels 406A, 406B is approximately equal to the length of rods 304, 354. In some embodiments, the receiving portions 402A, 402B are formed of an elastic material and have openings slightly narrower than the diameter of rods 304, 354. This allows the hinge 400 to engage with the rods 304 and 354, and prevents the baffle members from separating from each other during use due to any unintended forces experienced by the baffle members 130-150 or the hinge 400. The hinge 400 also includes a stop flange 408A extending from one side of the receiving portion 402A and a stop flange 408B extending from one side of the receiving portion 402B. The stop flanges 408A and 408B prevent the baffle members from folding toward the stop flanges 408A and 408B.

[0040] Figure 5A is a side view of the first baffle member 130 and the second baffle member 140 when fully or substantially extended. The first baffle member 130 and the second baffle member 140 are connected and extended via hinge 400 such that the first baffle member 130 and the second baffle member 140 are aligned end to end (e.g., a single axis cannot extend perpendicular to the body 300 of the two baffle members 130, 140). As shown, the lower rod 304 of the first baffle member 130 is disposed in the channel 406A of the receiving portion 402A, and the higher rod 304 of the second baffle member 140 is disposed in the channel 406B of the receiving portion 402B. Therefore, the first baffle member 130 can pivot about axis 502, which is coaxial with the rod 304 of the first baffle member 130 and extends into and out of the plane of the figure. Similarly, the second baffle member 140 is pivotable about axis 512, which is coaxial with the rod 304 of the second baffle member 140 (and generally parallel to the axis 502 around which the first baffle member 130 pivots).

[0041] However, the stop flanges 408A and 408B restrict the pivoting direction of the baffle members 130 and 140, thereby restricting the folding direction of the pair of baffle members 130 and 140. The first baffle member 130 can rotate about axis 502 in a circumferential direction 504A away from the stop flange 408A, but cannot rotate about axis 502 toward the stop flange 408A in the opposite circumferential direction 504B. The length of the stop flange 408A is greater than the height of the gap 306 adjacent to the stop flange 408A (located between the rod 304 and the body 300), therefore, the contact between the stop flange 408A and the body 300 of the first baffle member 130 will prevent rotation in the circumferential direction 504B. Similarly, the second baffle member 140 can rotate about axis 512 in a circumferential direction 514A away from the stop flange 408B, but cannot rotate about axis 512 toward the stop flange 408B in the opposite circumferential direction 514B. The length of the stop flange 408B is greater than the height of the gap 306 adjacent to the stop flange 408B (located between the rod 304 and the body 300), therefore, the contact between the stop flange 408B and the body 300 of the second baffle member 140 will prevent rotation in the circumferential direction 514B. Therefore, the folding direction of the pair of baffle members can be set by properly positioning the hinge 400.

[0042] Figure 5B illustrates the state when the first baffle 130 and the second baffle 140 are fully or substantially folded together. As shown, the central portion 404 of the hinge 400 is long enough that the baffles 130 and 140 can rotate fully along their respective circumferential directions 504A and 514A. The folding directions of the first baffle 130 and the second baffle 140 are generally defined as perpendicular to the first baffle 130 and the second baffle 140 when the first baffle 130 and the second baffle 140 are unfolded (Figure 8A), and parallel to the first baffle 130 and the second baffle 140 when the first baffle 130 and the second baffle 140 are fully folded (Figure 8B). Therefore, the folding direction points away from the side of the hinge 400 that includes the two stop flanges 408A and 408B, and points towards the side of the hinge 400 that does not include the stop flanges 408A and 408B.

[0043] Figure 6 illustrates the baffle 120 when all baffle members 130-150 are connected together and slightly folded. A pair of hinges 400 connecting the baffle members 130 and 140 are oriented such that the stop flanges 408A and 408B of these hinges are positioned on the right side relative to the plane of the figure, and the folding direction 602A of the baffle members 130 and 140 points to the left relative to the plane of the figure. Therefore, when the baffle members 130 and 140 are folded (or begin to fold), the folding direction 602A points away from the pair of hinges 400 connecting the baffle members 130 and 140. A pair of hinges 400 connecting the baffle members 140 and 150 are oriented such that the stop flanges 408A and 408B of these hinges are positioned on the left side relative to the plane of the figure, and the folding direction 602B of the baffle members 140 and 150 points to the right relative to the plane of the figure. Therefore, when the baffles 140 and 150 are folded (or when folding begins), the folding direction 602B points away from the pair of hinges 400 connecting the baffles 140 and 150, and is generally opposite to the folding direction 602A. It is worth noting that a baffle coupled to another part of the anti-backflow device 100 also has a folding direction. In the illustrated embodiment, this baffle is the first baffle 130, whose folding direction is substantially the same as folding direction 602B.

[0044] Through the direction of alternating hinges 400 (e.g., the direction to which stop flanges 408A, 408B extend), hinges 400 couple baffle members 130-150 together and to the rest of the anti-backflow device 100. When baffle 120 is fully folded, baffle members 130-150 are typically folded together. Therefore, the cross-sectional area of ​​baffle 120 will not be greater than the area of ​​the body 300 of baffle members 130, 140 and / or the body 350 of the third baffle member 150. Generally, for a baffle 120 comprising at least three baffle members, the direction of hinges 400 is alternating for each pair of adjacent baffle members, such that the folding direction of the two baffle members within each pair of adjacent baffle members will be alternating for each pair of baffle members.

[0045] As shown in Figure 6, the baffle 120 includes a pair of hinges 400 connected to the upper edge of the first baffle member 130, opposite the edge of the first baffle member 130 connected to the second baffle member 140. These upper hinges 400 are coupled to the top plate 114 of the anti-backflow device. Figure 7 illustrates the underside of the top plate 114 without the baffle 120 attached. As shown, the top plate 114 includes tabs 702 extending downward from the surface of the top plate 114, and a pair of rods 704 extending between the tabs 702. The pair of upper hinges 400 are coupled to these rods 704, thereby pivotally coupling the first baffle member 130 to the top plate 114. A gap 706 is defined between the rods 704 and the underside of the top plate 114. The gap 706 is shorter than the lengths of the stop flanges 408A and 408B. Therefore, similar to other hinges 400, these upper hinges 400 can be coupled to the rod 704 in a specific direction to set the desired folding direction of the first baffle 130.

[0046] Figures 8A and 8B show perspective views of the anti-backflow device 100, illustrating how the baffle 120 moves. In Figure 8A, the baffle 120 extends to a first position with a relatively small opening 101. Baffle members 130 and 140 are unfolded, while the third baffle member 150 is slightly folded. The hinge 400 connecting the second baffle member 140 and the baffle member 150 is oriented such that the tab 358 of the third baffle member 150 pivots toward the slot 106 of the first wall 102 and the slot 112 of the second wall 108. The pin 152A of the third baffle member 150 is inserted into the slot 106 of the first wall 102, which is closer to the second end 103B of the first wall 102 than to the first end 103A. Similarly, the pin 152B of the third baffle 150 is inserted into the slot 112 of the second wall 108, which is closer to the second end 109B of the second wall 108 than to the first end 109A. When the baffle 120 extends to its longest length (which may be the length shown in Figure 8A or a different length), the position of the baffle 120 may be referred to as the fully extended position, the fully deployed position, the fully closed position, or the fully elongated position.

[0047] In Figure 8B, the baffle 120 has been moved to the second position, such that the first baffle member 130, the second baffle member 140, and the third baffle member 150 begin to fold onto themselves due to their pivotal coupling. Typically, the user can move the baffle 120 upwards by grasping the tab 358 of the third baffle member 150 and raising the third baffle member 150 to the desired position. When the third baffle member 150 is raised, the baffle 120 will typically fold onto itself. As shown, the hinges 400 are oriented alternately as follows: (i) a pair of hinges 400 coupling the first baffle member 130 to the top plate 114; (ii) a pair of hinges 400 coupling the first baffle member 130 to the second baffle member 140; and (iii) a pair of hinges 400 coupling the second baffle member 140 to the third baffle member 150. Therefore, when the first baffle 130 folds towards the leading edge of the first wall 102 and the second wall 108, the second baffle 140 folds in the opposite direction, folding below the first baffle 130. The third baffle 150 folds in the opposite direction to the second baffle 140, thus folding below the second baffle 140. Since the second baffle 140 itself is already folded below the first baffle 130, the third baffle 150 is also folded below the first baffle 130.

[0048] The pin 152A of the third baffle member 150 is inserted into the slot 106 of the first wall 102, which is closer to the first end 103A of the first wall 102 than to the second end 103B. Similarly, the pin 152B is inserted into the slot 112 of the second wall 108, which is closer to the first end 109A of the second wall 108 than to the second end 109B. When the upper edge of the first baffle member 130 is in approximately the same position relative to the top plate 114 and the bottom plate 116, both the second baffle member 140 and the third baffle member 150 move toward the top plate 114 and away from the bottom plate 116, thereby increasing the size of the opening 101. When the baffle 120 is retracted to its shortest length (which may be the length shown in Figure 8B or a different length), the position of the baffle 120 may be referred to as the fully retracted position, the fully folded position, the fully open position, or the fully shortened position.

[0049] Figure 9A illustrates an anti-backflow device without baffle 120 coupled to top plate 114. As shown, second wall 108 may include an inwardly projecting tab 900 (also referred to as a bias tab) extending from second wall 108 toward first wall 102. Figure 9B illustrates a side view of tab 900 when baffle 120 is coupled to top plate 114. As shown, tab 900 is positioned such that hinge 400 connecting first baffle member 130 and second baffle member 140 is aligned with tab 900. Tab 900 presses against these hinges 400, causing them to project outward away from tab 900. Thus, tab 900 causes first baffle member 130 and second baffle member 140 to rotate relative to hinge 400 in their respective first circumferential directions 504A and 514A, causing the pair of baffle members 130, 140 to begin to fold slightly in folding direction 602A. Since a pair of baffles 130 and 140 have already begun folding along the folding direction 602A, when the user begins to move the baffle 120 upwards (e.g., by moving the third baffle 150 upwards), the pair of baffles 130 and 140 continue to fold along the folding direction 602A. Therefore, the tab 900 biases the baffles 130 and 140 toward the correct folding direction, thereby biasing each pair of baffles of the baffle 120 toward their correct folding direction and ensuring that the baffle 120 is folded correctly.

[0050] Figures 10A to 10D illustrate the process of installing an anti-backflow device 100 in a computing device 1000. As shown, the computing device 1000 includes a fan wall 1010, which includes a fan wall housing 1012 and a plurality of fan modules mounted in the fan wall housing 1012. The computing device 1000 will also typically include one or more electronic components, such as a motherboard, processor, memory card, hard drive, etc. These fan modules include at least a first fan module 1014A and a second fan module 1014B. The fan wall also includes an opening 1016 defined between the first fan module 1014A and the second fan module 1014B in the fan wall housing 1012, through which various cables of the computing device 1000 can be routed. However, if the cable does not occupy the majority of the opening 1016, the total area of ​​the open space where gas can flow in opposite directions between the first fan module 1014A and the second fan module 1014B (which will occupy a large part of the total area of ​​the opening 1016) will be larger than expected, thereby reducing the cooling effect achieved by the fan wall 1010.

[0051] In Figure 10B, the anti-backflow device 100 is installed in the computing device 1000. In the illustrated embodiment, the anti-backflow device is coupled to the fan wall housing 1012. As discussed above with respect to Figure 1, in some embodiments, the anti-backflow device 100 includes any combination of a protrusion 118A extending from the first wall 102, a protrusion 118B extending from the top plate 114, and a projection extending from the second wall 108. These protrusions can be clamped into openings in the fan wall housing 1012 (and / or other elements of the computing device 1000). These protrusions help to secure the anti-backflow device 100 in place and prevent the anti-backflow device 100 from unexpectedly falling off or moving during use.

[0052] In Figure 10B, the baffle 120 has been moved upward as high as possible to a fully folded position, so that the opening 101 of the anti-backflow device 100 is as large as possible. When the baffle 120 is in this position, the opening 101 of the anti-backflow device generally overlaps at least most of the opening 1016 of the fan wall 1010.

[0053] In Figure 10C, cables 1020A and 1020B have been inserted into the opening 101 of the anti-backflow device 100 and the opening 1016 of the fan wall 1010. Since the baffle 120 remains in the fully open position, most of the opening 101 is not occupied by cables 1020A and 1020B. Therefore, the total area of ​​the open space between the first fan module 1014A and the second fan module 1014B that allows for reverse gas flow (which occupies a large portion of the total area of ​​the opening 101) is still larger than expected.

[0054] In Figure 10D, the baffle 120 has been moved as far down as possible to the fully deployed position (and in some cases to the fully deployed position). The pin 152A of the third baffle member 150 has been inserted into the slot 106 of the first wall 102, and the pin 152B of the third baffle member 150 has been inserted into the corresponding slot 112 of the second wall 108, thereby locking the baffle 120 in place. In this position, the opening 101 of the anti-backflow device 100 is much smaller than in Figure 10C, causing the cables 1020A and 1020B to occupy the majority of the opening 101. Compared to Figure 10C, the total area of ​​the open space where gas can flow in reverse between the first fan module 1014A and the second fan module 1014B is significantly reduced. The backflow rate (e.g., gas flowing in reverse through the fan wall 1010) is thus reduced, thereby improving the cooling performance of the fan wall 1010.

[0055] Figure 11A illustrates a rear view of the fan wall housing 1012 when the anti-backflow device 100 is in place. The computing device 1000 will typically include other structures surrounding the anti-backflow device 100 (e.g., the first fan module 1014A and / or the second fan module 1014B, other portions of the fan wall housing 1012, etc.), but these structures are not shown in Figure 11A. It can be seen that the fan wall housing 1012 is positioned such that the teeth 104 of the first wall 102 are positioned immediately adjacent to the ridge 1100 of the fan wall housing 1012. The pins 152A and 152B of the third baffle member 150 are located between the teeth 104 and the ridge 1100 of the first wall 102. The ridge 1100 is typically located on the opposite side of the pins 152A away from the first wall 102. Therefore, when pin 152A is removed from the first wall 102, ridge 1100 will contact pin 152A and prevent pin 152A from being removed further from the first wall 102. Although not shown, fan wall housing 1012 will typically include a corresponding ridge positioned opposite the second wall 108 of the anti-backflow device 100, such that pin 152B is positioned between the second wall 108 and the other ridge.

[0056] Figure 11B is a side view of the computing device 1000, showing the position of the pin 152A of the third baffle member 150. It can be seen that the channel 1102 is defined between (i) the teeth 104 of the first wall 102 and (ii) the ridge 1100 of the fan wall housing 1012. The pin 152A of the third baffle member 150 is restricted to movement within this channel 1102 and to entering and exiting the slot 106 defined in the first wall 102. A corresponding channel will also be defined between (i) the teeth 110 of the second wall 108 and (ii) another ridge located in front of the second wall 108. The pin 152B of the third baffle member 150 will be restricted to movement within this channel and to entering and exiting the slot 112 defined in the second wall 108. Therefore, the ridge 1100 and the corresponding ridge will provide a limited space in which the pins 152A and 152B can move, which reduces the risk of potential damage to the baffle 120 during use.

[0057] Figure 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment in which an anti-backflow device replaces the fan wall housing 1012 to define a channel for movement of pins 152A and 152B. Figure 12 illustrates an anti-backflow device 1200. The anti-backflow device 1200 is substantially the same as the anti-backflow device 100, comprising a first wall 102 (not shown in Figure 12), a second wall 108, and a baffle 120 formed by a first baffle member 130, a second baffle member 140, and a third baffle member 150. However, the second wall 108 includes an additional vertical structure 1202 that extends beyond the teeth 110 and the slot 112 defined therebetween, thereby defining a channel 1204 in the second wall 108 that is continuous with the slot 112. The pin 152B of the third baffle member 150 is movable within the channel 1204 and can also move in and out of the slot 112, such that the pin 152B is restricted in a manner substantially the same as that shown in Figures 11A and 11B. Generally, the first wall 102 of the anti-backflow device 1200 will also include an additional vertical structure that extends beyond the tooth 104 and the slot 106 defined therebetween, thereby defining a channel in the first wall 102 continuous with the slot 106, and such that the pin 152A is also restricted in the same manner as the pin 152B.

[0058] Although the baffles 120 of the anti-backflow device 100 and the anti-backflow device 1200 contain only three baffle members 130, 140, and 150, the baffles 120 can generally contain any number of individual baffle members. Typically, in all embodiments, the folding direction of each pair of baffle members will alternate with respect to each pair of adjacent baffle members. In some cases, the folding direction may also alternate between (i) an initial baffle member pivotally coupled to the rest of the anti-backflow device itself (e.g., coupled to the top plate 114) and (ii) a pair of baffle members containing the initial baffle member and the next baffle member. In these cases, the initial baffle member can only pivot in one circumferential direction relative to the top plate 114. In other cases, the initial baffle member connected to the top plate 114 or other parts of the anti-backflow device can pivot in either direction relative to the top plate 114.

[0059] Although both the anti-backflow device 100 and the anti-backflow device 1200 are illustrated as having two walls, a top plate, and a bottom plate, other embodiments may include more or fewer structures. For example, the anti-backflow device according to this disclosure may include only two walls and a top plate, without a bottom plate. In another embodiment, the anti-backflow device according to this disclosure does not have a top plate or a bottom plate, and the two walls are coupled to the fan wall housing 1012 and / or the housing of the computing device itself. In a further embodiment, the anti-backflow device according to this disclosure may include only one wall instead of two walls, or it may include more than two walls.

[0060] In addition, although the baffle 120 is shown as coupled to the top plate 114, the baffle 120 can be coupled to any suitable part of the anti-backflow device.

[0061] Although many embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated and described with reference to one or more examples, any person skilled in the art will be able to make or know equivalent substitutions and modifications after reading and understanding the specification and accompanying drawings. Furthermore, although a particular feature of the invention may be disclosed in only one of the many examples, that feature may also be combined with other features of other examples where such combination is desirable and advantageous for any given or particular application.

[0062] Although many embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, these embodiments should be understood as exemplary and not as limiting the scope of this disclosure. Any modifications may be made to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited to any of the above-described embodiments. Rather, the scope of this disclosure should be defined according to the appended claims and their equivalents. [Simplified Explanation of the Diagram]

[0063] This disclosure, its advantages, and the drawings will be better understood by taking into account the accompanying drawings and the following description of representative embodiments. These drawings depict only representative embodiments and should not be considered as limiting the various embodiments or the scope of the claims. Figure 1 illustrates an anti-backflow device with a baffle according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 illustrates an anti-backflow device with a pin inserted into its slot according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3A illustrates a first type of baffle member forming the baffle of the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3B illustrates a second type of baffle member forming the baffle of the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 4 illustrates a hinge of the baffle member pivotally coupled to the baffle of the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 5A illustrates a pair of baffle members fully or substantially in the unfolded position according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 5B illustrates a pair of baffle members fully or substantially in the folded position according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 6 illustrates the folding direction of the baffle member of the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 illustrates the connection point of the top plate of the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8A illustrates the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure when the baffle is in a first position. Figure 8B illustrates the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure when the baffle is in a second position. Figure 9A illustrates the bias plate of the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9B illustrates the bias plate of a pair of baffle members biased towards a specific folding direction according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10A illustrates a computing device according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure without the anti-backflow device installed. Figure 10B illustrates a computing device according to a partial embodiment of the anti-backflow device with the baffle in the fully extended position. Figure 10C illustrates a computing device according to a partial embodiment of the anti-backflow device with the baffle in the fully extended position and a pair of cables extending through the opening of the anti-backflow device. Figure 10D illustrates a computing device with the baffle of the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure in a more folded position, and a pair of cables extending through the opening of the anti-backflow device. Figure 11A illustrates an anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure, mounted in a computing device and adjacent to the fan wall of the computing device. Figure 11B illustrates a pin of the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure, the pin being movable within a slot defined by the anti-backflow device and within a channel partially defined by the fan wall housing. Figure 12 illustrates an additional embodiment of the anti-backflow device according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure, wherein the pin of the anti-backflow device is movable within the slot and channel defined by the anti-backflow device. [Biomaterial Storage]

[0065] Domestic storage information (please note in order of storage institution, date, and number): None. International storage information (please note in order of storage country, institution, date, and number): None.

Claims

1. A computing device comprising: one or more fan modules; and an anti-backflow device for preventing gas from flowing back from the one or more fan modules, the anti-backflow device being positioned adjacent to at least one of the one or more fan modules, the anti-backflow device comprising: a first wall; a second wall opposite to and substantially parallel to the first wall such that an opening is defined between the first wall and the second wall; and a baffle positioned within the opening defined between the first wall and the second wall, the baffle being movable to adjust a size of the opening.

2. The computing device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the baffle has a first end and a second opposite end, the first end being adjacently coupled to a first end of a first wall and a first end of a second wall, and the second opposite end being movable relative to a second opposite end of a first wall and a second opposite end of a second wall.

3. The computing device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first end of the baffle is coupled to (1) the first end of the first wall, (2) the first end of the second wall, (3) a top plate extending between the first end of the first wall and the first end of the second wall, or (4) any combination of (1) to (3).

4. The computing device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the second opposite end of the baffle is movable relative to the second opposite end of the first wall and the second opposite end of the second wall to adjust the size of the opening.

5. The computing device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the baffle is formed by a plurality of baffle members pivotally coupled together, each of the baffle members extending between the first wall and the second wall.

6. The computing device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the baffle members are configured to fold over each other as the baffle moves, such that a dimension of the baffle decreases as the dimension of the opening increases.

7. The computing device as claimed in claim 5, wherein each pair of baffles is pivotally coupled via at least one hinge that allows each pair of baffles to pivot in a circumferential direction but not in an opposite circumferential direction.

8. The computing device as claimed in claim 7, wherein the at least one hinge pivotally coupled to each of the pairs of baffles includes at least one stop flange that prevents each of the pairs of baffles from pivoting along the opposite circumferential directions.

9. A computing device comprising: one or more electronic components; a fan wall including at least one first fan module, a second fan module, and an opening defined between the first fan module and the second fan module; one or more cables; and an anti-backflow device at least partially disposed in the opening defined between the first fan module and the second fan module, the anti-backflow device comprising: a first wall; a second wall opposite to and substantially parallel to the first wall such that an opening is defined between the first wall and the second wall, the opening of the anti-backflow device at least partially overlapping the opening of the fan wall; and a baffle positioned within the opening defined between the first wall and the second wall, the baffle being movable relative to the first wall and the second wall, wherein the one or more cables extend through the opening in the fan wall and the opening in the anti-backflow device; and wherein the baffle is movable to adjust a size of the opening of the anti-backflow device to accommodate a size of the one or more cables extending through it.

10. The computing device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the baffle is formed by a plurality of pivotally coupled baffle members configured to fold over each other as the baffle moves to reduce the size of the opening of the anti-backflow device, wherein a folding direction of each pair of baffle members is alternating for each pair of adjacent baffle members.

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