PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11950354-B2
Application Number: US-202217653634-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Internal architecture of a computing device

Abstract:
This application relates to a layout of components within an electronic device. The electronic device includes a circuit board and one or more thermal components located on or proximate to each surface of the circuit board. As a result, thermal energy generated by components of the circuit board are drawn away from the circuit board in a more efficient manner. Additionally, the electronic device may include one or more air movers designed to draw ambient air into the electronic device in a manner that causes the ambient air to cool components upstream from the air movers. Further, the electronic device includes a fin stack that is thermally coupled to the aforementioned thermal components, and further receives air driven in by the air mover(s). Also, the electronic device is designed to receive the ambient air through openings that define a 360-degree air inlet.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electronic device, comprising:
 a multi-part housing, comprising:
 a first part that defines a first internal volume and has a first opening, 
 a second part separably coupled to the first part, the second part defining a second internal volume in fluidic communication with the first internal volume such that air flows between the first internal volume and the second internal volume, wherein the second part includes a circular base and includes circumferentially disposed second openings that allow air to pass between an external environment and the second internal volume, 
 a power supply unit partially positioned in the second internal volume, and 
 an air mover capable of moving an amount of air from the second internal volume, through the power supply unit, and to the external environment by way of the first opening. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The electronic device as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the air mover creates a pressure differential between the first and second internal volumes such that the amount of air moves: (i) from the external environment through the circumferentially disposed second openings into the second internal volume, and (ii) from the second internal volume to the first internal volume. 
     
     
       3. The electronic device as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising electronic components disposed within the second internal volume that are capable of generating an amount of electronic component heat during operation. 
     
     
       4. The electronic device as recited in  claim 3 , wherein the amount of air moving through the second internal volume to the first internal volume captures at least some of the amount of electronic component heat. 
     
     
       5. The electronic device as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the circumferentially disposed second openings are characterized as having a size, a shape, and a pitch so as to restrict passage of radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic energy therethrough. 
     
     
       6. The electronic device as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the air mover includes a dual fan assembly capable of creating a pressure differential. 
     
     
       7. The electronic device as recited in  claim 1 , further including within the first internal volume:
 a circuit assembly having a mounting surface secured to a first surface of a substrate, and a surface displaced from and generally parallel to the mounting surface, 
 a first part thermally coupled to a second surface opposite the first surface of the substrate, and 
 a second part thermally coupled to the surface. 
 
     
     
       8. The electronic device as recited in  claim 7 , wherein the first and second parts are each capable of independently capturing at least some of an amount of circuit assembly heat generated by the circuit assembly during operation thereof. 
     
     
       9. The electronic device as recited in  claim 8 , wherein the first past comprises a heat pipe or a fin stack, and wherein the second part includes a vapor chamber. 
     
     
       10. The electronic device as recited in  claim 9 , further comprising a heat spreader between the second surface and a heat pipe. 
     
     
       11. The electronic device as recited in  claim 10 , wherein the substrate comprises electrical traces form a heat path between the heat spreader and the first surface. 
     
     
       12. An electronic device, comprising:
 a housing; and 
 components, disposed within a first internal volume defined by the housing, include: 
 a chassis comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side, 
 a printed circuit board coupled to the first side, 
 a first thermal component coupled to the first side, wherein the printed circuit board is positioned between the first thermal component and the chassis, 
 a second thermal component coupled to the second side, 
 a vapor chamber in thermal contact with the printed circuit board at the second surface, and 
 a spring fastener assembly capable of applying a compressive force to the thermal contact between the vapor chamber and the printed circuit board. 
 
     
     
       13. The electronic device as recited in  claim 12 , further comprising a fin stack having a heat fin capable of transferring heat to an amount of air in thermal contact therewith. 
     
     
       14. The electronic device as recited in  claim 12 , further comprising:
 a heat spreader secured to the printed circuit board at a surface of the printed circuit board, and 
 a heat pipe attached to the heat spreader. 
 
     
     
       15. The electronic device as recited in  claim 14 , further comprising an air mover capable of moving the amount of air through the housing. 
     
     
       16. An electronic device, comprising:
 a multi-part housing, comprising:
 a first part that defines a first internal volume and comprises a first set of openings that connects the first internal volume to an external environment, 
 a second part separably coupled to the first part defines a second internal volume in fluidic communication with the first internal volume such that air can flow between the first internal volume and the second internal volume, the second part having a circular base that includes circumferentially disposed second set of openings that allow air to pass between an external environment and the second internal volume, wherein the second set of openings are characterized as having a size, a shape, and a pitch so as to restrict passage of radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic energy therethrough, 
 an air mover, and 
 a fin stack positioned between the air mover and the first set of openings. 
 
 
     
     
       17. The electronic device as recited in  claim 16 , further comprising an air mover, wherein the air mover creates a pressure differential between the first and second internal volumes such that an amount of air moves: (i) from the external environment through the second set of openings into the second internal volume, and (ii) from the second internal volume to the first internal volume. 
     
     
       18. The electronic device as recited in  claim 17 , wherein the fin stack comprises a single fin stack. 
     
     
       19. The electronic device as recited in  claim 17 , wherein the air mover includes a dual fan assembly.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to electronic devices. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to a design layout of internal components within electronic devices. The various embodiments show and describe layouts that can enhance thermal efficiency within the electronic devices, as well as efficiencies in space saving. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Recent advances in electronic devices provide for increased computing capabilities. This is due in part to, for example, processing circuitry that operates at higher operating frequencies. As a result, modern computing devices can provide faster computations as well as higher quality video output. 
     However, when the processing circuitry operates at higher frequencies, thermal energy generation increases. This can lead to the computing device having to throttle down, or reduce, the operating frequency to prevent damage to the processing circuitry based on increased thermal energy. Additionally, a trend for smaller form factor computing devices currently exists. This can result in locating components closer to each other, as well as heated air (from the increased thermal energy) occupying a greater portion of space within the electronic device. 
     SUMMARY 
     This paper describes various embodiments that relate to electronic devices and the internal architecture/layout of components within electronic devices. 
     According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include a multi-part housing that is symmetrically disposed about a longitudinal axis. The housing may comprise a first part that defines a first internal volume and has a first opening, a second part separably coupled to the first part that defines a second internal volume axially displaced from the first internal volume and in fluidic communication with the first internal volume such that air flows between the first internal volume and the second internal volume, and a heat removal assembly disposed within the first internal volume. The second part includes a circular base that is centered at the longitudinal axis and includes circumferentially disposed second openings that allow air to pass between an external environment and the second internal volume, and the heat removal assembly has an air mover that is capable of moving an amount of air from the first internal volume, through a heat exchanger, and to the external environment by way of the first opening. 
     According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include a housing symmetrically disposed about a longitudinal axis, and components disposed within a first internal volume defined by the housing. The components may include a heat exchanger, a printed circuit board (PCB) that includes electrical traces, a PCB first surface that is opposite a PCB second surface, and a circuit assembly (CA) that is secured to the PCB first surface at a CA first surface and electrically coupled to the electrical traces, the circuit assembly having a CA second surface displaced from and generally parallel to the CA first surface. Further, the components may include a heat capture assembly in thermal communication with the heat exchanger. The heat capture assembly may comprise a first part thermally coupled to the CA second surface and a second part thermally coupled to the circuit assembly by way of the PCB second surface, wherein the electrical traces, and the first and second parts are capable of transferring heat generated by the circuit assembly independent of the other. 
     According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include a multi-part housing that is symmetrically disposed about a longitudinal axis. The housing may comprise a first part that (i) defines a first internal volume and has (ii) a first opening that connects the first internal volume to an external environment. Further, the housing may comprise a second part that is separably coupled to the first part and defines a second internal volume axially displaced from the first internal volume and is in fluidic communication with the first internal volume such that air can flow between the first internal volume and the second internal volume. In addition, the housing may include a heat removal assembly disposed within the first internal volume. The second part has a circular base centered at the longitudinal axis that includes circumferentially disposed second openings that allow air to pass between an external environment and the second internal volume wherein the second openings are characterized as having a size, a shape, and a pitch so as to restrict passage of radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic energy therethrough. Also, the heat removal assembly causes movement of an amount of air from the second internal volume and to the first internal volume, and to the external environment via the first opening. Further, the housing may include electrical components disposed within the second internal volume. The electrical components are capable of generating heat during operation, some of which is captured by the moving air. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the described embodiments. 
     This Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example embodiments to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above-described features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following Detailed Description, Figures, and Claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements. 
         FIG.  1    illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device; 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a side view of the electronic device; 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a bottom view of the electronic device; 
         FIG.  4    illustrates an exploded view of the electronic device, showing various internal features; 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a side view of the electronic device, showing the thermal components assembled, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG.  6    illustrates a plan view of several thermal components assembled to the circuit board, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG.  7    illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device, showing airflow passing through the electronic device and at least some of its various components; 
         FIG.  8    illustrates an isometric view of several antennas, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG.  9    illustrates a side view of the electronic device, showing the antenna in relation to other internal components, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG.  10    illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device, showing an alternate configuration of thermal components; 
         FIGS.  11 A- 11 C  illustrate alternate embodiments of electronic devices that may include internal components described herein; 
         FIG.  12    illustrates a flowchart showing a method for assembling an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; and 
         FIG.  13    illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Representative applications of methods and apparatus according to the present application are described in this section. These examples are being provided solely to add context and aid in the understanding of the described embodiments. It will thus be apparent to one skilled in the art that the described embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the described embodiments. Other applications are possible, such that the following examples should not be taken as limiting. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting; such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     This application is directed to electronic devices and a modified layout within electronic devices to enhance the overall performance and efficiency. As non-limiting examples, electronic devices described herein may refer to desktop computing devices, laptop computing devices, display devices, and portable electronic devices (e.g., smartphones and tablet computing devices). The modifications and enhancements shown and described for electronic devices provide enhanced efficiency in terms of use of space (within a housing of the electronic device), airflow performance, thermal performance, and noise performance. 
     Electronic devices described herein include multiple thermal components used to cool heat-generating components (e.g., processing circuits, integrated circuits, voltage regulators) located on a circuit board. In this detailed description and in the claims, a “thermal component” may refer to a device designed to absorb or extract thermal energy (i.e., heat) from a heat-generating component. For example, a thermal component may include a thermal extraction component, a heat transport component, or a thermally conductive component, as non-limiting examples. Examples of thermal extraction components and heat transfer components include a vapor chamber and a heat pipe. Examples of thermally conductive components include a metal, or metal alloy, that relies on its intrinsic properties (i.e., relatively high thermal conductivity) to absorb thermal energy. Copper is an exemplary metal used with a thermally conductive component. Additional examples of thermal components include heat sinks that absorb thermal energy and allow a fluid (e.g., air) to pass through its surfaces. A fin stack is an example of a heat sink. 
     The heat-generating components may include several high-power (i.e., high energy consumption) integrated circuitry (e.g., system on a chip or SOC, other processing circuitry) that can generate thermal energy during operation. In order to cool and dissipate thermal energy generated by these heat-generating components, some electronic devices include a vapor chamber thermally coupled to an integrated circuit(s) as well as a heat pipe thermally coupled to one or more voltage regulators used to control the voltage to the integrated circuit(s). The integrated circuit(s) and voltage regulator(s) can be positioned on opposite surfaces, or sides, of the circuit board. Moreover, the thermal components may lie on the opposite surfaces of the circuit board. For example, the vapor chamber may lie on one surface of the circuit board to dissipate thermal energy from the integrated circuit(s), while the heat pipe may lie on the other, opposing surface of the circuit board to dissipate thermal energy from the voltage regulator(s). Additionally, the electronic device may include a fin stack thermally coupled to the vapor chamber and the heat pipe. By providing thermal solutions to both surfaces of the circuit board, a single fin stack can be used, thereby saving spacing within the housing or reducing the overall size of the housing and thus the overall size of the electronic device. 
     Additionally, the circuit board may include a centrally located main logic board (“MLB”) within the housing. When the circuit board is centrally located within the housing, the high-power integrated circuits on the circuit board can be more efficiently cooled by, for example, air movers (e.g., blowers or fans) that drive ambient air into the electronic device and around or over multiple surfaces of the circuit board and its components. “Ambient air” refers to air initially in the environment external with respect to the electronic device. Further, several components are located upstream relative to the air movers. In this regard, the air movers cause the ambient air to pass over and/or between the components prior to reaching the air movers. 
     The electronic device housing may include an airflow inlet and outlet in locations designed to enhance airflow throughout the housing. For example, the airflow inlet may include multiple openings that define (collectively) a circular airflow inlet, thereby providing ambient air with an inlet path that spans 360 degrees. In this regard, the air movers can drive ambient air in into the electronic device from virtually any direction, causing the ambient air to reach (and subsequently cool) the components. Additionally, the airflow outlet may include multiple openings aligned with the fin stack. Also, the outlet of the air movers are aligned with the fin stack. In this regard, the subsequently heated ambient air can pass through the fin stack and then out of the electronic device through the airflow outlet. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 13   . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG.  1    illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device  100 . Electronic device  100  may include a desktop computing device, including a personal desktop computing device. However, in other embodiments, electronic device  100  may take the form of various computing devices, such as a laptop computing device, a mobile wireless communication device, a tablet computing device, or a display device, as non-limiting examples. 
     Electronic device  100  includes a housing  102 , or enclosure, that provides an internal volume (or storage location) for several internal components of electronic device  100 . Housing  102  may include a metal housing, composed of aluminum, stainless steel, or a metal alloy. Housing  102  may alternatively be formed from one or more non-metals. Housing  102  includes several surfaces, or sides. As shown, housing  102  includes a surface  104   a  that provides an area for several input/output (“I/O”) ports. For example, electronic device  100  includes an I/O port  106  and an indicator  108 . I/O port  106  may include a particular I/O port, such as Universal Serial Bus (“USB”), solid state drive (“SSD”) port, Ethernet, or a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (“HDMI”) port, as non-limiting examples. Although a single I/O port is shown, I/O port  106  may represent several additional I/O ports. Indicator  108  may include a light source. When illuminated, indicator  108  may signal that electronic device  100  is on or whether I/O port  106  is in use. 
       FIG.  2    illustrates a side view of electronic device  100 . Housing  102  includes multiple housing components. For example, housing  102  may include a housing component  110   a  coupled with a housing component  110   b . Housing component  110   a  provides a base, while housing component  110   b  is used to store several internal components. As shown, housing components  110   a  and  110   b  include openings  112   a  and openings  112   b , respectively. Openings  112   a  and  112   b  each include a set of openings, each of which defining multiple through holes in the housing components  110   a  and  110   b , respectively. Based on the design, openings  112   a  provide an airflow inlet for ambient air used to cool several internal components, while openings  112   b  provide an airflow outlet for the ambient air to exit electronic device  100 . Additionally, based on the design, housing component  110   a  elevates housing component  110   b  and provides substantial area for openings  112   a . These features will be shown and described in further detail below. Also, the diameter of each of the openings  112   a  and  112   b  are large enough for airflow transmission, but small enough to protect against issues such as fires (internally within electronic device  100 ) and electromagnetic interference (“EMI”) into or out of electronic device  100 . 
     Further, housing component  110   b  includes a surface  104   b  that provides an area for openings  112   b  and I/O ports  116 . I/O ports  116  may each include any type of port previously described for I/O port  106  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). Additionally, electronic device  100  may include a power button  117 . Also, based on the design, surface  104   b  and surface  104   a  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) may be parallel, opposing surfaces, of housing component  110   b.    
       FIG.  3    illustrates a bottom view of electronic device  100 . As shown, openings  112   a  in housing component  110   a  define a circular, 360-degree airflow inlet. Referring again to  FIG.  2   , the airflow inlet (i.e., openings  112   a ) can receive ambient air from virtually any direction based on the 360-degree design. Moreover, by elevating housing component  110   b , housing component  110   a  provides space for the 360-degree airflow inlet. 
     Also, electronic device  100  may include wireless communication capabilities that uses one or more antennas (discussed below). As a result, electronic device  100  may include a radio transparent material  118  that represents one or more non-metals, such as plastic, resin, or a combination thereof, as non-limiting examples. In this manner, housing components  110   a  and  110   b  may include metal, while radio transparent material  118  provides a separation between housing components  110   a  and  110   b  and permits radio frequency (“RF”) transmission to and from the antennas of electronic device  100 . 
       FIG.  4    illustrates an exploded view of electronic device  100 , showing various internal features. For purposes of simplicity, some components are not shown. Also, although not explicitly shown, the various components of electronic device  100  can be coupled together by, for example, fasteners, solder, clips, and/or adhesives. As shown, housing components  110   a  and  110   b  substantially define the exterior of electronic device  100 , while housing component  110   b  defines an internal volume  120 , or space, for several internal components shown in  FIG.  4    and discussed herein. 
     Electronic device  100  include a circuit board  122  that may define a motherboard or MLB. Circuit board  122  carries, and is electrically connected to, several electrical components, including (but not limited to), processing circuits (including integrated circuits), memory circuits, and flexible circuits. As shown, circuit board  122  carries an integrated circuit  124 . Integrated circuit  124  may represent one or more processing circuits. For example, integrated circuit  124  may include a system on a chip (“SOC”) used to integrate several components of electronic device  100 . Also, an SSD  125  is electrically coupled to, and mechanically suspended from, circuit board  122 . 
     During operation, at least some electrical components can generate significant thermal energy (i.e., heat). For example, based on the computing capabilities (i.e., processing frequency), integrated circuit  124  generates thermal energy during use. Ideally, the thermal energy is dissipated, or drawn away, from integrated circuit  124  to prevent integrated circuit  124  from a throttling down event or from damage. In order to prevent these scenarios, electronic device  100  includes several thermal components. For example, electronic device  100  includes a thermal component  126   a  in thermal communication with the integrated circuit  124 , and a thermal component  126   b  (shown substantially as dotted lines) thermally coupled to another component(s) (not shown in  FIG.  4   ). When assembled, thermal components  126   a  and  126   b  are stationed on, or positioned on or over or proximate to, opposing surfaces or sides of circuit board  122 . As a result, thermal energy generated on one surface of circuit board  122  (by integrated circuit  124 , for example) can be removed by thermal component  126   a , while thermal component  126   b  can remove thermal energy from voltage regulators (not shown in  FIG.  4   ) on the opposing surface of circuit board  122 . In some embodiments, thermal component  126   a  is a vapor chamber and thermal component  126   b  is a heat pipe. However, other thermal components are possible. Also, in some embodiments, thermal component  126   a  and  126   b  can be interchanged such that the vapor chamber and heat pipe are in different locations. Also, in some embodiments, both thermal component  126   a  and  126   b  can include heat pipes or vapor chambers. 
     Additionally, electronic device  100  may include a thermal component  126   c  that is in thermal communication with thermal components  126   a  and  126   b . In some embodiments, thermal component  126   c  includes a fin stack. Accordingly, at least some thermal energy generated by integrated circuit  124  can be dissipated in part by thermal component  126   c . Further, by positioning thermal components  126   a  and  126   b  at opposing surfaces or sides of circuit board  122  and placing thermal component  126   c  in thermal communication with thermal components  126   a  and  126   b , thermal component  126   c  can, in some embodiments, be limited to a single thermal component (i.e., a single fin stack). 
     Also, electronic device  100  may further include a thermal component  126   d  secured directly or indirectly with circuit board  122 . For example, thermal component  126   d  may include a heat spreader formed from a metal (e.g., copper), wherein the heat spreader is mechanically coupled to a stiffener component (not shown) using, for example, one or more fasteners (not shown). Further, the stiffener component may be mechanically coupled to the circuit board  122  by, for example, solder. Accordingly, thermal component  126   d  is designed to draw thermal energy away from integrated circuit  124 . Moreover, electronic device  100  may further include several voltage regulators (discussed above) positioned between circuit board  122  and thermal component  126   d . According to one exemplary configuration, the voltage regulators may be positioned between the stiffener component and heat spreader  126   d . Thermal component  126   d  can dissipate thermal energy generated by the voltage regulators. Additionally, with respect to this particular configuration, thermal component  126   b  may comprise a heat pipe that is soldered to the heat spreader  126   d.    
     Further, the electronic device  100  may include a spring  128   a  and a spring  128   b . As shown and described below, when assembled, the springs  128   a  and  128   b  provide a compressive force to improve the thermal contact or communication between the thermal components  126   a ,  126   b ,  126   c , and  126   d , and the heat generating components of the electronic device. 
     Additionally, electronic device  100  includes an air mover  130   a  and an air mover  130   b . Air movers  130   a  and  130   b  may include blowers or fans, including centrifugal blowers or fans. Air movers  130   a  and  130   b  are designed to draw ambient air into electronic device  100  via openings  112   a , causing the ambient air to move throughout electronic device  100  and convectively cool several components of electronic device  100 . The ambient air is subsequently drawn into a respective pair of fan inlets (shown, not labeled), or openings, of air movers  130   a  and  130   b . Air movers  130   a  and  130   b  each include a fan outlet (not shown in  FIG.  4   ) aligned with thermal component  126   c . As a result, the ambient air is heated while moving throughout electronic device  100  and subsequently expelled through the thermal component  126   c , and then out of electronic device  100  via openings  112   b . While two air movers are shown, the number of air movers may vary in other embodiments. 
     Electronic device  100  further includes a chassis  132  designed to hold several components. In some embodiments, chassis  132  is secured with housing component  110   b  (when electronic device  100  is assembled) by, for example, fasteners, clips, and/or adhesives. Also, chassis  132  is connected to, and holds, thermal components  126   a  and  126   c , as well as air movers  130   a  and  130   b . Additionally, circuit board  122  is coupled to, and suspended from, chassis  132 . Based on the design layout, various components are stationed/positioned on or over opposing surfaces or sides of chassis  132 . For example, thermal component  126   a  and air movers  130   a  and  130   b  are coupled to one surface of chassis  132 , while circuit board  122  is coupled to an opposing surface of chassis  132 . Chassis  132  may be formed from a thermally conductive material, such as a metal. In this regard, chassis  132  can be thermally coupled to, or in thermal communication with, thermal components  126   a ,  126   b ,  126   c , and  126   d.    
     Electronic device  100  further includes a plate  134  used as a support structure and designed to carry several components. For example, electronic device  100  further includes a power supply unit  136 , or PSU, designed to convert alternating current (“AC”) to low-voltage regulated direct current (“DC”) to power the internal components of electronic device  100 . Power supply unit  136  can be coupled to, and suspended from, plate  134 . Plate  134  can carry one or more antennas, which will be shown below. Also, plate  134  can be coupled to, and suspended from, circuit board  122 . 
       FIG.  5    illustrates a side view of electronic device  100 , showing thermal components  126   a ,  126   b ,  126   c , and  126   d  assembled, in accordance with some described embodiments. Thermal components  126   a ,  126   b ,  126   c , and  126   d  can represent a thermal assembly  137 , which may define a subassembly of electronic device  100 . Additionally, chassis  132  and air movers  130   a  and  130   b  (shown in  FIG.  4   ) can also make up thermal assembly  137 . Thermal components  126   a  and  126   c  are positioned on or over circuit board  122  (with thermal component  126   c  stacked on thermal component  126   a ), while thermal components  126   b  and  126   d  are positioned on or over another, opposing surface of circuit board  122 . Accordingly, both major surfaces or sides of circuit board  122  can be cooled. Additionally, thermal components  126   a  and  126   c  can be coupled to one surface of chassis  132 , while circuit board  122  and thermal components  126   b  and  126   d  can be coupled directly or indirectly to another, opposing surface of chassis  132 . Also,  FIG.  5    shows thermal components  126   a ,  126   b ,  126   c , and  126   d  can combine to surround circuit board  122  and chassis  132 . 
     In some embodiments, thermally assembly  137  provides a modular system that carries several thermal components. Using chassis  132  to carry at least some of the thermal components, thermal assembly  137  may provide a subassembly that advantageously decreases manufacturing time and assembly of electronic device  100 . 
       FIG.  6    illustrates a plan view of several thermal components assembled relative to circuit board  122 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, circuit board  122  includes a surface  138  (representing one of two major surfaces of circuit board  122 ). As is mentioned above, circuit board  122  may carry one or more voltage regulators  140  (shown as dotted lines) on surface  138 . Voltage regulators  140  are used to control voltage to components, such as integrated circuit  124  (shown in  FIG.  4   ). When assembled, springs  128   a  and  128   b  may be coupled to the chassis  132  using one or more fasteners  129  (as shown in  FIG.  4   ) such that the integrated circuit  124 , circuit board  122 , and at least thermal components  126   b  and  126   a  are, in effect, sandwiched between the chassis  132  and springs  128   a  and  128   b . Thus, the compressive force resulting from the mechanical coupling between chassis  132  and springs  128   a  and  128   b  improves the efficiency and effectiveness of the thermal contact or thermal communication between the heat generating components of the electronic device and the thermal components  126   a ,  126   b ,  126   c , and  126   d . It should be noted that, according to certain embodiments, each of fastener(s)  129  may comprise a threaded bolt at the spring ( 128   a  and/or  128   b ) that, when assembled, is matingly received by a holder component at the chassis  132 , wherein the holder component may be spring-loaded. 
       FIG.  7    illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of electronic device  100 , showing airflow passing through electronic device  100  and at least some of its various components. For purposes of simplicity, some components of electronic device  100  are removed. The dotted lines with arrows represent airflow of ambient air through electronic device  100 . In this regard, during operation, air movers  130   a  and  130   b  (the latter shown in  FIG.  4   ) each include impellers (not shown) that are rotationally driven, thereby driving ambient air into electronic device  100  via openings  112   a . While air mover  130   b  is not shown in  FIG.  7   , it should be noted that air mover  130   b  can operate in a similar manner as that of air mover  130   a , and can include any features as those of air mover  130   a . Based on its relative position, power supply unit  136  can initially receive the ambient air. The ambient air can cool power supply unit  136 , while also passing between and/or around the various components of power supply unit  136 , where the ambient air can subsequently pass through and/or around chassis  132  to cool other components of electronic device  100 . 
     Also, the ambient air passes around multiple surfaces of circuit board  122 , thus providing cooling to circuit board  122  and at least some of the components located on circuit board  122 . After cooling at least some components, the ambient air is driven into fan inlets  142   a  and  142   b  of air mover  130   a . The ambient air is then driven out of a fan outlet  144  of air mover  130   a . As shown, fan outlet  144  is aligned with thermal component  126   c . As a result, the ambient air is expelled out of fan outlet  144  to thermal component  126   c . The ambient air can convectively cool thermal component  126   c , which draws thermal energy received by thermal components  126   a  and  126   b  (shown in  FIG.  4   ). The ambient air can subsequently pass through thermal component  126   c  and be expelled out of electronic device  100  via openings  112   b , based on the alignment between thermal component  126   c  and openings  112   b.    
       FIG.  7    further shows relationships between components that take advantage of the space and thermal efficiency of electronic device  100 . For example, based on their relative positions in electronic device  100 , air movers  130   a  and  130   b  are designed to “pull” the ambient air into electronic device  100 , causing the ambient air to flow around and over respective surfaces of circuit board  122  and power supply unit  136 . In other words, circuit board  122  and power supply unit  136  are upstream relative to air movers  130   a  and  130   b.    
     Referring again to  FIG.  3   , power supply unit  136 , as well as other components, can receive the ambient air in many different directions due to the openings  112   a  providing a 360-degree airflow inlet. Also, in some embodiments, a dimension  146   a , or width, of openings  112   a  (collectively) is greater than a dimension  146   b , or width, representing a maximum dimension of circuit board  122  or power supply unit  136 . As a result, openings  112   a  surround each of circuit board  122  and power supply unit  136 , thereby providing greater access to the ambient air, as circuit board  122  and power supply unit  136  do not substantially obstruct the flow of ambient air to other components. Regarding power supply unit  136 , dimension  146   b  can represent a diameter of power supply unit  136 , and accordingly power supply unit  136  may include a circular PSU. When dimension  146   b  is smaller than dimension  146   a , the circular design of power supply unit  136  generally does not impede airflow, as compared to square and rectangular PSU&#39;s. 
       FIG.  8    illustrates an isometric view of several antennas of electronic device  100 , in accordance with some described embodiments. Electronic device  100  may include an antenna  150   a , an antenna  150   b , and an antenna  150   c . Antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c  are used by electronic device  100  for wireless communication. Accordingly, each of antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c  can be designed for at least one specific RF, and support communication in accordance with protocol such as BLUETOOTH®, WIFI®, near-field communication (“NFC®”), or the like. Accordingly, electronic device  100  can communicate by multiple communication protocols using antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c . Plate  134  includes several openings, some of which receive a respective antenna of antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c . Plate  134  can provide separation between antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c , in a manner that prevents RF interference among antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c . Also, plate  134  can orient at least some of antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c  orthogonally relative to each other, further providing increased separation. When electronic device  100  is assembled, antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c  may secure with housing component  110   b  (shown in  FIG.  4   ) by fasteners, clips, or other securing mechanisms, as non-limiting examples. In an alternate embodiment, plate  134  carries antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c.    
     Also, electronic device  100  further includes a shield  152  used to provide an insulation or barrier for the components of power supply unit  136 . In this manner, shield  152  can block interference (e.g., EMI) from components on circuit board  122  (not shown in  FIG.  8   ), and may also block interference from power supply unit  136  to components on circuit board  122 . Additionally, shield  152  can be modified to allow other components to fit within housing  102  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) in a desired manner. For example, referring to  FIG.  4   , SSD  125  is suspended from circuit board  122 . Shield  152  includes a recessed region  153  that defines a non-planar portion of shield  152 . In this regard, SSD  125  can be positioned in housing  102  without contacting shield  152 , while receiving the benefits of shield  152 . Also, SSD  125  can be cooled as the ambient air can pass around shield  152  based on recessed region  153 . 
       FIG.  9    illustrates a side view of electronic device  100 , showing antennas of electronic device  100  in relation to other internal components, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, antennas  150   a  and  150   b  are positioned relative to I/O port  106  and I/O ports  116 . Based on the design of plate  134 , antennas  150   a  and  150   b , as well as antenna  150   c  (not shown in  FIG.  9   ) are offset with respect to I/O ports  106  and  116 . In other words, antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c  lie on a different plane as that of I/O ports  106  and  116 . For example, an imaginary line  160  is used as a reference from which dimensions  162   a ,  162   b ,  164   a , and  164   b  are drawn. A dimension  162   a  (i.e., height or elevation from imaginary line  160 ) of antenna  150   a  is smaller than a dimension  162   b  of I/O ports  116 . Similarly, a dimension  164   a  of antenna  150   b  is smaller than a dimension  164   b  of I/O port  106 . This offset relationship prevents issues such as de-sensitization of antennas  150   a ,  150   b , and  150   c.    
       FIG.  10    illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device  200 , showing an alternate configuration of thermal components. Electronic device  200  may include any components and structures, along with their associated features, described for electronic device  100  (shown in prior Figures). However, for purposes of simplicity, some components of electronic device  200  are removed. 
     Similar to a prior embodiment, electronic device  200  includes a circuit board  222 . As shown in the enlarged view, circuit board  222  carries an integrated circuit  224  on a surface and voltage regulators  250  (representative of one or more voltage regulators) on an opposing surface. In order to extract thermal energy generated by integrated circuit  224 , electronic device  200  includes a thermal component  226   a  that is thermally coupled to integrated circuit  224 . In some embodiments, thermal component  226   a  includes a vapor chamber. Also, in order to extract thermal energy generated by voltage regulators  250 , electronic device  200  includes a thermal component  226   b  that is thermally coupled to voltage regulators  250 . In some embodiments, thermal component  226   b  includes a fin stack. Also, electronic device  200  includes a thermal component  226   c  that is thermally coupled to thermal component  226   a , thereby allowing thermal component  226   c  to extract thermal energy received by thermal component  226   a . In some embodiments, thermal component  226   c  includes a fin stack. 
     Electronic device  200  further includes a chassis  232  designed to carry several components. For example, chassis  232  carries an air mover  230  (representative of one or more air movers), as well as other components described herein. During operation, air mover  230  includes impellers (not shown) that are rotationally driven, thereby driving ambient air into electronic device  200  via openings  212   a . The dotted lines with arrows represent airflow of ambient air through electronic device  200 . As shown, the ambient air can pass through thermal component  226   b . As a result, thermal component  226   b , when taking the form of a fin stack, can extract thermal energy from voltage regulators  250 , and can be cooled by the ambient air (drawn into electronic device  200 ) that passes through thermal component  226   b . Also, the ambient air can cool a power supply unit  236  of electronic device  200 . The ambient air can pass between and/or around the various components of power supply unit  236 . Additionally, the ambient air passes through and/or around chassis  232  to subsequently cool other components of electronic device  200 . 
     Also, the ambient air passes around multiple surfaces of circuit board  222 , thus providing cooling to circuit board  222  and at least some of the components located on circuit board  222 . After cooling at least some components, the ambient air is driven into one or more fan inlets (shown, not labeled) of air mover  230 . The ambient air is then driven out of a fan outlet (shown, not labeled) of air mover  230 . The ambient air is expelled out of air mover  230  to thermal component  226   c . The ambient air can pass through and convectively cool thermal component  226   c , and can subsequently be expelled out of electronic device  200  via openings  212   b , based on the alignment between thermal component  226   c  and openings  212   b .  FIG.  10    shows that different thermal components can be substituted into an electronic device, and provide different methods of cooling heat-generating components. 
     In accordance with an embodiment, there is an electronic device that includes a multi-part housing, symmetrically disposed about a longitudinal axis. The multi-part housing includes a first part that defines a first internal volume and has a first opening, a second part that is separably coupled to the first part and defines a second internal volume axially displaced from the first internal volume and in fluidic communication with the first internal volume such that air flows between the first internal volume and the second internal volume, wherein the second part includes a circular base centered at the longitudinal axis and includes circumferentially disposed second openings that allow air to pass between an external environment and the second internal volume. Further, the housing includes a heat removal assembly disposed within the first internal volume, wherein the heat removal assembly—has an air mover capable of moving an amount of air from the first internal volume, through a heat exchanger, and to the external environment by way of the first opening. It should be further noted that the air mover creates a pressure differential between the first and second internal volumes such that the amount of air moves: (i) from the external environment through the second openings into the second internal volume, and (ii) from the second internal volume to the first internal volume. The electronic device also includes electronic components disposed within the second internal volume that are capable of generating an amount of electronic component heat during operation. Moreover, the amount of air moving through the second internal volume to the first internal volume captures at least some of the electronic component heat. 
     Further, in the described embodiment, the second openings are characterized as having a size, a shape, and a pitch so as to restrict passage of radio frequency (RE) electromagnetic energy therethrough. 
     Additionally, in the described embodiment, e air mover includes a dual fan assembly capable of creating the pressure differential. 
     It should also be noted that within the first internal volume is disposed a circuit assembly that has a mounting surface that is secured to a first surface of a substrate having electrical traces, and a surface that is displaced from and is generally parallel to the mounting surface, and a heat capture assembly in thermal communication with the heat exchanger, wherein the heat capture assembly has a first part thermally coupled to a second surface opposite the first surface of the substrate and a second part thermally coupled to the generally parallel surface. Further, the first and second parts of the heat capture assembly are each capable of independently capturing at least some of an amount of circuit assembly heat generated by the circuit assembly during operation thereof. Further, in the described embodiment, the first part of the heat capture assembly comprises a heat pipe assembly or a fin stack, and the second part includes a vapor chamber. Additionally, the heat pipe assembly comprises a heat spreader between the second surface and a heat pipe, and the electrical traces form a heat path between the heat spreader and the first surface. 
     In accordance with an embodiment of an electronic: device described herein, the electronic device includes a housing symmetrically disposed about a longitudinal axis. Further, the electronic device includes components disposed within a first internal volume defined by the housing, wherein the components include a heat exchanger, a printed circuit board (PCB) that includes electrical traces and a PCB first surface that is opposite a PCB second surface, a circuit assembly (CA) that—is secured to the PCB first surface at a CA first surface and electrically coupled. to the electrical traces, wherein the circuit assembly has a CA second surface displaced from and generally parallel to the CA first surface, and a heat capture assembly in thermal communication with the heat exchanger, wherein the heat capture assembly has a first part thermally coupled to the CA second surface and a second part thermally coupled to the circuit assembly by way of the PCB second surface, wherein the electrical traces and the first and the second parts are capable of transferring heat that is generated by the circuit assembly independent of the other. 
     In the described embodiment, the heat exchanger includes a fin stack having a heat fin capable of transferring heat to an amount of air in thermal contact therewith. In addition, the second part of the heat capture assembly includes a heat pipe assembly comprising a heat spreader that is secured (for example, by way of a stiffener component) to the PCB at the PCB second surface, and a heat pipe attached to the heat spreader. It should be noted that the first part of the heat capture assembly includes a vapor chamber in thermal contact with the CA second surface and a spring fastener assembly capable of applying a compressive force to the thermal contact between the vapor chamber and the CA second surface. Moreover, the heat exchanger further includes an air mover capable of moving the amount of air through the heat exchanger. 
     In accordance with an embodiment of an electronic device described herein, the electronic device comprises a multi-part housing that is symmetrically disposed about a longitudinal axis. The multi-part housing comprises a first part that (i) defines a first internal volume and has (ii) a first opening that connects the first internal volume to an external environment, a second part separably coupled to the first part and that defines a second internal volume axially displaced from the first internal volume and in fluidic communication with the first internal volume such that air flows between the first internal volume and the second internal volume, the second part having a circular base centered at the longitudinal axis that includes circumferentially disposed second openings that allow air to pass between an external environment and the second internal volume, wherein the second openings are characterized as having a size, a shape, and a pitch so as to restrict passage of radio frequency (RE) electromagnetic energy therethrough. 
     Further, a heat removal assembly is disposed within the first internal volume, wherein the heat removal assembly causes movement of an amount of air from the second internal volume to the first internal volume, and then to the external environment via the first opening, and electrical components disposed within the second internal volume, wherein the electrical components are capable of generating heat during operation, some of which is captured by the moving air. It should be noted that the heat removal assembly includes an air mover and a heat exchanger, wherein the air mover creates a pressure differential between the first and the second internal volumes such that the amount of air moves (i) from the external environment through the second openings into the second internal volume, and (ii) from the second internal volume to the first internal volume. It should be noted that the heat exchanger includes a fin stack, and the air mover includes a dual fan assembly. 
       FIGS.  11 A- 11 C  illustrate alternate embodiments of electronic devices that may include internal components described herein.  FIG.  11 A  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device  300  that can take the form of a standalone display or a desktop computer with a display. As shown, electronic device  300  includes a housing  302  and a display  304  coupled to housing  302 . Housing  302  can define an internal volume to carry one or more components described herein for electronic devices. Also, although not shown, electronic device  300  may work in conjunction (wired or wireless) with accessories, such as a mouse and a keyboard. Although not shown, electronic device  300  may further include one or more I/O features (e.g., buttons, switches, ports). 
       FIG.  11 B  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device  400  that can take the form of a mobile wireless communication device (e.g., smartphone) or a tablet computing device. As shown, electronic device  400  includes a housing  402  and a display  404  coupled to housing  402 . Housing  402  can define an internal volume to carry one or more components described herein for electronic devices. Although not shown, electronic device  400  may further include one or more I/O features (e.g., buttons, switches, docks/ports) and display  404  may include a capacitive touch input display. 
       FIG.  11 C  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device  500  that can take the form of a laptop computing device. As shown, electronic device  500  includes a housing  502  that includes a display housing  504  and a base portion  506  rotationally coupled to display housing  504 . Also, display housing  504  carries a display  508 , and base portion  506  includes a track pad  510  and a keyboard  512 , both of which can be used as inputs. Housing  502  can define an internal volume to carry one or more components described herein for electronic devices. Although not shown, electronic device  500  may further include one or more I/O features (e.g., buttons, switches, docks/ports). 
       FIG.  12    illustrates a flowchart  600  showing a method for assembling an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. The method shown and described in flowchart  600  can be implemented in the electronic devices described herein. 
     In step  602 , a first thermal component is thermally coupled to an integrated circuit located on a first surface of a circuit board. In some embodiments, the first thermal components includes a vapor chamber. Also, the integrated circuit may include an SOC. 
     In step  604 , a second thermal component is thermally coupled to a component on a second surface of the circuit board. The second surface is opposite the first surface. The component may represent one or more voltage regulators used to control voltage to the integrated circuit. Also, the second thermal component may include a heat pipe. Additionally, other thermal components (e.g., heat spreader) can be thermally coupled to the component. By having thermal components on multiple surfaces of the circuit board, the circuit board and its components can be cooled more efficiently. 
     In step  606 , a chassis is secured with the circuit board. The chassis is thermally coupled to the first thermal component and the second thermal component. Additionally, one or more air movers can be secured with the chassis. Moreover, the air mover(s) and the circuit board may be positioned on or over opposing sides of the chassis. 
     In step  608 , a third thermal component is thermally coupled to the first thermal component and the second thermal component. The third thermal component may include a fin stack. 
       FIG.  13    illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device  700 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The details shown for electronic device  700  can be used to implement the various techniques described herein, according to some embodiments. In particular,  FIG.  13    shows components that can be included in electronic devices described herein. As shown in  FIG.  13   , electronic device  700  can include a processor  702  that represents a microprocessor or controller for controlling the overall operation of electronic device  700 . Electronic device  700  can also include a user input device  708  that allows a user of electronic device  700  to interact with electronic device  700 . For example, user input device  708  can take a variety of forms, such as a button, keypad, dial, touch screen, audio input interface, visual/image capture input interface, input in the form of sensor data, and so on. Still further, electronic device  700  can include a display  710  that can be controlled by processor  702  (e.g., via a graphics component) to display information to the user. A data bus  716  can facilitate data transfer between at least a storage device  740 , processor  702 , and a controller  713 . Controller  713  can be used to interface with and control different equipment through an equipment control bus  714 . Electronic device  700  can also include a network/bus interface  711  that couples to a data link  712 . In the case of a wireless connection, network/bus interface  711  can include a wireless transceiver. 
     As noted above, electronic device  700  also includes storage device  740 , which may include a single disk or a collection of disks (e.g., hard drives). In some embodiments, storage device  740  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. Electronic device  700  can also include a Random-Access Memory (RAM)  720  and a Read-Only Memory (ROM)  722 . ROM  722  can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. RAM  720  can provide volatile data storage, and stores instructions related to the operation of applications executing on electronic device  700 . 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a non-transitory computer readable medium. The non-transitory computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the non-transitory computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The non-transitory computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the described embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. 
     It is well understood that the use of personally identifiable information should follow privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy of users. In particular, personally identifiable information data should be managed and handled so as to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly indicated to users.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20220304
Publication Date: 20240402
Grant Date: 20240402
Priority Date: 20220304
Inventors: LAURENT, KRISTOPHER P.
DEGNER, BRETT W.
NIGEN, JAY S.
PRATHER, ERIC R.
NARAJOWSKI, DAVID H.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H05K1/0209", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/203", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/201", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K2201/064", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K2201/066", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/20409", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/203", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K1/0209", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/20136", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/203", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K2201/066", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K2201/064", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/201", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 87832823