TWI437950B - System and method for thermally controlling an electronic display - Google Patents

Description

System and method for thermally controlling an electronic display

Embodiments of the present invention are related to the field of cooling/heating systems for electronic displays, including heat exchange, fluid dynamics, and related electronic systems.

The prior art includes an electronic display that operates at near room temperature. These displays may include a heat sink and a fan that is designed to cool a power module or other component that would otherwise generate excessive heat. The cooling device is typically designed to avoid damage to the display caused by heat generated by the component itself.

Electronic displays are typically used indoors or in a temperature controlled environment. Although the temperature around the display may be relatively stable (near room temperature), the components of the display may generate a significant amount of thermal energy. If not properly removed, such heat may damage the display or reduce its useful life. Conductive and convective heat transfer systems have traditionally been used to remove thermal energy from the electronic components of the display via as many side walls as possible of the display. Although such heat transfer systems have enjoyed some degree of success in the past, today's electronic displays require better cooling (and in some cases heating) performance.

Modern electronic displays are used outdoors and in other cases, the ambient temperature may be above or below room temperature. In addition to the introduction of heat from the ambient warm air, heat from the sun's radiation into the surface of the display may also be a major factor. 200 watts (Watts) or more in some applications and regions The force is common through the surface of the display. Furthermore, there is a need in the market for larger and brighter displays that sometimes require high definition. As the size of electronic displays increases, more heat will be absorbed from the sun and more heat will be introduced into the display. Comparing the ambient light from the sun with the reflected light from the surrounding surface, the display must generate more light, and the display and/or its backlight module typically also generate more thermal energy.

Furthermore, in some applications the temperature may drop relatively below room temperature. Certain components of an electronic display may malfunction or may be permanently destroyed by exposure to such low temperatures. For example, the performance of liquid crystal materials in liquid crystal displays may be affected by low temperatures.

One or more thermal control features may be included in the exemplary embodiments as disclosed herein. A plurality of thermal control features have been disclosed and these features can be used alone or in any combination. The exact combination of features is based on the particular cooling/heating requirements required for the display in question, depending on the form of the display, the size of the display, and its particular environment. The embodiments can be practiced in any form of electronic display including, but not limited to, the following displays: LCD, light emitting diode (LED), organic light emitting diode (OLED), field emission display (FED), cathode ray tube ( CRT), plasma, and projection displays. An exemplary embodiment is implemented in an LCD display.

One thermal feature relates to an isolated gas cooling system. The gas cooling system is preferably a closed cycle comprising a first gas chamber having a transparent front plate and a second gas The body chamber has a cooling plenum. The first gas chamber is disposed in front of and coextensive with the visible surface of the electronic display. The transparent front panel can be disposed prior to the surface of the electronic display to define the depth of the first gas chamber. A cooling chamber fan, or an equalizer thereof, may be disposed in the cooling plenum and may be used to propel gas surrounding the circumference of the isolated gas cooling chamber. As the gas traverses the first gas chamber, it contacts the surface of the electronic display, absorbing thermal energy from the surface of the display. Since the gas and the associated surface of the first gas chamber are transparent, the displayed image quality is maintained excellent. After the gas traverses the transparent first gas chamber, the gas can be introduced into the post-cooling plenum for cooling.

Another thermal feature may use the isolated gas system as a heating device, either alternatively, in lieu of or in addition to its cooling performance. An isolated gas heating system can be a closed loop system including a first gas chamber disposed in front of the display surface and a second chamber having a heating plenum or a cooling/heating plenum. A heating element can be disposed within the plenum to heat the gas in the second chamber. As the gas is forced into the first chamber, it can transfer its thermal energy to the display surface. The gas can then be returned to the plenum to begin another heating cycle. The plenum can operate as only one cooling plenum, only one heating plenum, or a combination of heating/cooling plenums; depending on the particular display and its particular operating environment.

Some embodiments may place electronic components for operating the electronic display within the plenum of the isolation gas chamber. Such electronic components may include, but are not limited to, the following components: transformers, circuit boards, processors, resistors, capacitors, batteries, motors, power supplies, lighting devices, wiring and wiring harnesses, and switches. If The plenum is used as a cooling plenum, and the cooled gas in the plenum can further assist in cooling the electronic components that will naturally generate thermal energy during operation. Moreover, if the plenum is used as a source of thermal energy for the display, the natural thermal energy from the electronic component can also heat the gas in the plenum, thereby reducing the energy required to supply the heating element.

Linear polarizers can be used in some embodiments to further reduce the solar load of the electronic display. The polarizer can be used in combination with an isolation gas chamber, or can be placed simply before the electronic display and has an insulating gap between the display and the polarizer. The adiabatic gap reduces the amount of thermal energy that is transmitted between the polarizer and the display.

Some electronic displays, such as LCDs, require a backlight module to produce an image on the surface of the display. The backlight module is typically a source of thermal energy for the display. Thus, certain embodiments may utilize a compression convection system to cool the backlight elements of the display. The compression convection system can include a compression convection plate disposed adjacent to the backlight module to define a gap. Gas is forced through the gap to promote more efficient cooling on the backlight module. In some embodiments, the wall of the plenum can constitute the compression convection plate.

Some embodiments may also utilize an air curtain device that forces gas (whether warm or cold) across the outer surface of the display assembly.

Finally, certain embodiments may use a fluid assembly that brings fluid contact against the surface of the display to cool it. The fluid may be substantially a clear form of the coolant that is poured through the front cavity, the front cavity containing the display surface.

It will be appreciated that the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments encompasses a thermally controlled display that includes, but is not limited to, an LCD. For the purposes of simple explanation, embodiments may be described in terms of components of an LCD display. By way of example and not limitation, embodiments may be used in connection with the following displays: LCD, light emitting diode (LED), organic light emitting diode (OLED), field emission display (FED), cathode ray Tube (CRT), plasma, and projection displays. Again, embodiments can be used with other displays that have not yet been discovered. In particular, embodiments are contemplated for use with full color, flat panel OLED displays. Further, embodiments are specifically contemplated for use with relatively large, high definition LCD displays. Although the embodiments described herein may be suitable for use in an outdoor environment, they are also suitable for indoor applications (eg, factory environments, refrigerated rooms/refrigerators, etc.) that may have thermal stability for the display. Dangerous.

Isolated gas cooling system

As shown in FIG. 1, when the display 10 is exposed to an outdoor component, the temperature inside the display 10 may vary greatly in the absence of a particular type of cooling device. For its part, display 10 may not function properly or may significantly reduce its useful life. Direct sunlight is particularly problematic for causing an increase in the internal temperature of the display 10.

In Figure 1, the display area of the electronic display is shown to include a narrower gas chamber that is disposed in front of and coextensive with the surface of the electronic display. The display shown is also equipped with an optional air curtain Set 114. The air curtain device 114 will be discussed in detail below. Optionally, the display can have a reflector 119 to mitigate sunlight reflection to the display surface. Moreover, in an outdoor environment, the outer cover 70 is preferably a color that reflects sunlight.

As shown in FIG. 2, an exemplary embodiment of electronic display 10 includes an isolated gas cooling chamber 20 housed in display housing 70. A transparent first gas chamber is defined by the spacer 100 and the transparent front plate 90. A second transparent front panel 130 can be divided into sheets on the front panel 90 to assist in avoiding damage to the front panel 90 and to protect the interior of the display. The cooling chamber 20 surrounds a display assembly 80 and associated backlight module 140.

Display 10 can include means for cooling the gas in the second gas chamber. The means may include one or more fans 60 that may be disposed at the base of the display housing 70. The fan 60 can ingest cold air and force the cooler intake air over at least one outer surface of the cooling plenum 45 of a back. An air conditioning system (not shown) may also be utilized to cool the air contacting the outer surface of the plenum 45, if desired. Alternatively, the fan 60 can simply absorb ambient air.

Referring to FIG. 3, an embodiment of the isolated gas cooling chamber 20 can include a closed circuit having a first gas chamber 30 and a second gas chamber 40. The first gas chamber has a transparent plate 90. The second gas chamber includes a cooling plenum 45. The term "isolated gas" means that the gas is located in the isolating gas cooling chamber 20, and the external gases in the outer cover of the display are substantially isolated from each other. Since the first gas chamber 30 is disposed on the front side of the surface 85 of the electronic display, the gas should be substantially free of dust or other dust. A contaminant that can negatively affect the display image. An optional filter material (not shown) can be used to assist in preventing contaminants and dust from entering the first gas chamber 30.

The insulating gas can be almost any transparent gas such as general air, nitrogen, helium or any other transparent gas. The gas is preferably colorless to avoid affecting image quality. Furthermore, the isolated gas cooling chamber 20 need not be completely sealed from the outside air. It is sufficient that the gas in the chamber is relatively isolated to a certain extent, that is, dust and contaminants are substantially inaccessible to the first gas chamber.

In the closed loop structure shown in FIG. 3, the first gas chamber 30 is in gas communication with the second gas chamber 40. A cooling chamber fan 50 can be disposed in the cooling plenum 45 and used to propel the gas surrounding the insulating gas cooling chamber 20. The first gas chamber 30 has at least one front glass 90 disposed on a front side of the electronic display surface 85.

Referring to FIG. 4, the front panel 90 can be disposed forward from the electronic display surface 85 by the spacer element 100. The spacer element 100 defines a depth through a narrow passageway in front of the electronic display surface 85. The spacer element 100 can be combined with or alternately with the remaining elements of the device (eg, in conjunction with the front panel 90). The electronic display surface 85, the spacer element 100, and the transparent front plate 90 define a first gas chamber 30. The chamber 30 is in gas communication with the inflator 45 via the inlet 110 and the outlet 120.

As shown in FIG. 3, the back surface of the first gas chamber 30 preferably includes an electronic display surface 85 of the display assembly 80. As the isolation gas in the first gas chamber 30 traverses the display, it contacts the electronic display surface 85. The cooling gas is in direct contact with the electronic display surface 85 to enhance convective heat transfer from the electronic display surface 85. In an exemplary embodiment, electronic display surface 85 includes a back surface of first gas chamber 30. Accordingly, the term "electronic display surface" means the front side of a conventional electronic display (without the embodiments disclosed herein).

In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic display surface 85, the front panel 90, and the optional second front panel 130 may be comprised of a glass substrate. However, the display surface 85, the transparent front panel 90, or the optional second transparent front panel 130 need not necessarily be glass. Therefore, the term "glass" can be used interchangeably with the terminology plate, but the glass material is not required. Further, the electronic display surface 85 does not need to include the back surface wall of the front gas compartment 30. An additional board can be used. However, by utilizing the electronic display surface 85 as the back surface wall of the gas compartment 30, there may be less surface that affects the travel of visible light through the display. Again, the device will be brighter and less expensive for the manufacturer.

Although the illustrated embodiment utilizes an electronic display surface 85, specific modifications and/or coatings (eg, anti-reflective coating) can be applied to the electronic display surface 85, or other components in the system to provide cooling gas or to improve the Optical performance of the device. As shown in the embodiments, the electronic display surface 85 can be a front glass substrate of a liquid crystal display (LCD) assembly. However, almost any display surface can be adapted for use with embodiments of the cooling system of the present invention. Although not necessary, it is preferred to allow the cooling gas in the first gas chamber 30 to directly contact the electronic display surface 85. Thereby, the convective heat transfer from the display element to the circulating gas will be at a maximum.

Referring to FIG. 4, the front plate 90 of the first gas chamber 30 is transparent and disposed on the front side of the electronic display surface 85. The arrows shown represent the movement of the isolation gas through the first gas chamber 30. As shown, the isolation gas traverses the first gas chamber 30 in a horizontal direction. While the cooling system 20 can be designed to move gas in a horizontal or vertical direction, it is preferred to drive the gas in a horizontal direction. By this means, if dust or contaminants do enter the first gas chamber 30, they will tend to land on the bottom of the chamber 30 outside the viewable area of the display. The system can move the gas from left to right, or conversely from right to left. After the gas traverses the first gas chamber 30, it exits from the outlet 120. The outlet 120 defines an inlet connection to the post-cooling plenum 45.

Figure 5 shows a schematic view of the post-cooling plenum (illustrated by transparency for explanation). One or more fans 50 in the inflator may provide the necessary force to push the isolation gas through the isolation gas to cool the chamber. The first gas chamber 30 is designed to collect thermal energy from the surface 85 of the display, while the second gas chamber 40 is designed to extract thermal energy from the gas and remove thermal energy from the cooling chamber 20. The second chamber 40 can have a variety of different contours or features to conform to the internal structure of a particular electronic display application.

A variety of different electronic components 200 can be placed anywhere in the second gas chamber 40, if desired. Electronic component 200 can include, but is not limited to, transformers, circuit boards, processors, resistors, capacitors, batteries, motors, power supplies, lighting devices, wiring and wiring harnesses, and switches. The elements may be disposed directly on the wall of the chamber or supported on the shaft or cylinder 210. Thus, the cooling plenum can be designed to not only extract thermal energy from the first gas chamber 30, but also cool various different electronic components 200. (In addition, as described below, if separated The off-gas system is used to heat the display, and the electronic components can be used to assist in heating the isolation gas. )

Referring now to Figures 6 and 7, various surface features 150 can be added to improve thermal energy dissipation from the inflatable portion 45. The surface features 150 provide more surface area to dissipate thermal energy from the gases in the second gas chamber 40. These features 150 can be positioned at a number of locations on the surface of the plenum 45.

Referring now to Figures 8 and 9, one or more thermoelectric modules 160 can be positioned on at least one surface of the plenum 45 to further cool the gas contained in the second gas chamber 40. Thermoelectric module 160 can be used independently or in combination with surface features 150. Alternatively, thermoelectric module 160 can be used to heat the gas in the plenum if the isolation gas system is used to heat the display in a cold environment.

Figure 10 illustrates an exemplary method for removing thermal energy from the gas contained in the rear plenum 45. Fan 60 may be configured to absorb air and blow the air across the front and rear side surfaces of plenum 45. In addition, the fan 60 can absorb air, the conditioned air enters the display housing 70 or can simply absorb ambient surrounding air. Moreover, in the present configuration, the fan 60 can also force air through the heat generating components of the electronic display (such as the display assembly 80 and the backlight module 140) to further enhance the function of cooling the overall display. It should be noted that this embodiment can be used in conjunction with the compressed convection cooling method disclosed in detail below. The gas discharged after heating may be discharged through one or more holes 179 provided in the display housing 70.

Isolated gas heating system

As mentioned above, the isolated gas system can also be utilized to heat the electronic display. Display. Referring to Figures 11 and 12, a heating element 220 can be disposed in the second gas chamber 40 and operates to heat the gas passing through the second gas chamber 40. The heating elements can be any of the generally available heating elements or thermoelectric modules. In many cases, the components are simply a material that contains high electrical resistance so that thermal energy is generated as current passes. The heating element can be, but is not limited to, any of the following: a nichrome wire or strip, a screen printed metal/ceramic track on a ceramic insulating (typically steel) plate, CalRod (generally located at A fine coil of nichrome wire in a ceramic adhesive, sealed in a sturdy metal casing, a heating fixture, and a ceramic with a positive thermal impedance coefficient (PTC).

As previously mentioned, the inflator 45 can house the electronic component 200 for providing power and controlling the electronic display. The electronic component can be any of the following components: a transformer, a processor, a circuit board, a power supply, a resistor, a capacitor, a motor, a wire harness, and a connector. The telecommunications connection of the electronic component 200 can pass through the wall of the inflator 45. The electronic component 200 can be located anywhere within the inflator. The electronic component 200 can be disposed on the rear or front surface of the inflator and can be disposed directly on the surface of the inflator or can be suspended by a mounting rod such that gas can be completely surrounded by the components.

The isolated gas cooling system is continuously operable when the display is in operation. However, temperature sensors (not shown) and switches (not shown) can be incorporated into the electronic display if desired. Thus, the thermostat can be used to detect when the temperature reaches a predetermined target value, and the isolation gas system can be selectively engaged when the temperature within the display reaches a preset value. The preset target temperature can be selected and the system can be configured to heat, cool, or heat and cool the display to help maintain the display within an acceptable temperature range.

Linear polarizer with adiabatic gap

Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of another thermal control feature. As seen from the configuration, the front plate 90 and the second front plate 130 may be composed of glass and may be stacked together. The first and second front plates 130 and 90 may be secured to each other by an index matched optical adhesive layer 201 to form a front glass unit 206. The display assembly 80 can include a liquid crystal group 212 interposed between the front polarizing plate 216 and the rear polarizing plate 214. In another embodiment, display assembly 80 can be used in any other form of electronic display in any other form. The space between display assembly 80 and front glass unit 206 defines an insulated gap 300. The adiabatic gap 300 provides for the front glass unit 206 to form a thermal separation from the LCD assembly 80. This thermal separation localizes the thermal energy on the front glass unit without allowing the solar load of the LCD assembly. The adiabatic gap 300 can include a first gas chamber 30 if used in conjunction with an isolation gas system. In other embodiments, the adiabatic gap 300 can be used without an isolation gas system, which is simply a thermal insulation layer for both air and solar loads.

The second front panel can have a first surface 202 and a second surface 208. The first surface 202 can be exposed to the component; and the second surface 208 can be secured to the first front panel 90 by positioning the mating optical adhesive 201. The first front panel 90 can have a third surface 209 and a fourth surface 204. The third surface 209 can be fixed to the second front plate 130 by positioning the mating optical adhesive 201; and the fourth surface can be directly adjacent to the insulating gap 300. In some embodiments, an anti-reflective coating can be applied to first surface 202 and fourth surface 204 in order to reduce the solar load of display assembly 80 and improve visual image quality. Yu Qi In other embodiments, the anti-reflective coating can be applied to only at least the first, second, third, or fourth surface, one of 202, 208, 209, and 204, respectively.

14 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of front glass unit 206. The front glass unit 206 includes a second front plate 130, a positioning mating optical adhesive layer 201, a linear polarizing plate 400, and a first front plate 90. The linear polarizer 400 can be bonded to at least one of the following surfaces: first, second, third or fourth surfaces, respectively 202, 208, 209 and 204. Furthermore, the anti-reflective layer can be applied to at least one of the following surfaces: first, second, third or fourth surfaces, respectively 202, 208, 209 and 204. The linear polarizer 400 can be aligned to the front polarizer 209 disposed within the LCD assembly 85. The contents of the linear polarizer 400 within the front glass unit 206 further reduce the solar load on the display assembly 80. The reduction in solar load can significantly reduce the internal temperature of the electronic display. Linear polarizer 300 can also cause a reduction in specular reflection of front glass unit 206 and display assembly 80. As previously mentioned, the insulating gap 300 can include a first gas chamber 30 if used in conjunction with an isolating gas system. In other embodiments, the adiabatic gap 300 can be used without an isolation gas system, which is simply a thermal insulation layer for both air and solar loads. Additionally, it should be noted that display assembly 80 can be an LCD component, but can be other forms of electronic displays.

It should also be noted that the second front panel 130 is optional. Embodiments may utilize only the first front panel 90 having a linear polarizer attached to the front or front surface of the front panel 90. An anti-reflective layer may also be attached to the front or back surface of the front panel 90. If only the front panel 90 is used and the second front panel 130 is not used, the front panel 90 Can be exercised with additional strength.

Compressed convection

Some forms of electronic displays require a backlight module to produce an image on a visual screen. The LCD is one of the displays that requires a backlight module. Other forms of displays, such as plasma displays and OLEDs, do not require a backlight module to generate light by itself. However, these forms of display still produce significant thermal energy. Thus, in the foregoing description, a compression convection system will be described as being associated with a backlight module, although it should be noted that such embodiments can be implemented in other forms of display. Thus, when a backlight or backlight module is discussed, the components can also create a rear side of the other heat generation and the compression convection system can facilitate more efficient cooling of the alternate displays. It should also be noted that 15A to 15B and FIGS. 17A to 17C are not necessarily drawn to scale. The relationship between these components can be exaggerated for the purpose of interpretation.

15 shows a cross-sectional view of a backlight module 140 having a compression convection plate 300, the space between the two features defining a narrow gap 305. The size of the gap can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the display, its operating conditions, the form of the backlight module and its back surface material, and the amount of compressed convection fans and the energy applied thereto. Certain exemplary embodiments may utilize a gap distance of about 0.25 to 3.5 inches. Other embodiments may utilize slightly larger gaps. It has also been found that forcing air through the gap 305 increases the cooling performance of the backlight module 140. One or more compression convection fans 310 can be used to pull air through the gap 305. 15B shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a compression convection system in which one or more compression convection fans 310 push air through the gap 305.

Figure 16 shows an upper view of the aforementioned isolated gas system. Cut line 17-17 is shown passing through the isolated gas system.

17A to 17C show cross-sectional views of the 17-17 region shown in Fig. 16. Referring first to Figure 17A, the front facing the display is a first gas chamber 30 that abuts the electronic display 80. The front of the first gas chamber 30 is the front plate 90. After facing the display, the backlight module 140 is placed close to the second gas chamber 40. With this configuration, the outer wall surface of the second gas chamber 40 functions as a compression convection plate. This embodiment does not utilize a compression convection fan, but uses a fan 60 instead of absorbing air from the exterior of the display housing and forcing it over the surface of the second gas chamber 40. As mentioned previously, the air may simply be ambient air or alternatively the air may be from an air conditioning unit (not shown). To facilitate gas flow between the backlight module 140 and the cooling chamber 40, a guiding device 320 can be used.

Referring now to Figure 17B, the cooling chamber 40 houses a guiding feature 41 that is used in conjunction with the guiding device 320 to facilitate gas flow between the backlight and the cooling chamber. Figure 17C shows another embodiment in which both the external fan 60 and the compression convection fan 310 are used. This embodiment can also utilize the version of the guide shown in Figures 17A and 17B.

The backlight 140 can include a printed circuit board (PCB) having a plurality of light sources disposed on a side facing the electronic display 80. The light source disposed in the backlight may be any of the following: an LED, an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a field emission display (FED), a light emitting polymer (LEP), or an organic electroluminescent (OEL) light source. In an exemplary embodiment, backlight 140 may desirably have a low order between the side facing the electronic display 80 and the side facing the second gas chamber. Thermal impedance. To accomplish this low order thermal impedance, the backlight 140 can be fabricated to utilize metal printed circuit board (PCB) technology to further transfer thermal energy from the light source. The rear surface of the backlight may also be metal or other thermally conductive material to further enhance convective heat transfer characteristics. The surface may even have a plurality of surface features such as fins to further increase convective heat transfer characteristics. The compressed convection fan 310 can then send warm air out of the venting device 179 (shown in Figure 2) so that it can completely exit the display housing.

When the display is in operation, the external fan 60 and the compression convection fan 310 continue to operate. However, a temperature sensor (not shown) and a switch (not shown) can be incorporated into the electronic display if desired. This effective thermostat can be used to detect when the temperature reaches the preset target value. In this case, various fans can be selectively engaged when the temperature within the display reaches a preset value. A preset target can be selected and the system can be constructed with a thermostat (not shown) to help maintain the display within an acceptable temperature range. This not only saves energy costs but also saves the effective life of the device.

Air curtain

In addition to the various thermal control features disclosed above, an air curtain device can also be used. The air curtain device can be used alone or in combination with any of the other aforementioned thermal control features.

Figure 18 shows an electronic display 10 having a housing 70 and a front panel 90. The air baffle 114 for the air curtain is shown in phantom in the drawing. Cut line 19-19 is also shown in this figure.

Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional view of the 19-19 region shown in Figure 18. The figure shows that the circulation of gas flows through the outer casing 70 when the fan 60 is activated. As mentioned before, the wind Fan 60 draws air into inlet housing 70 via inlet 51. This air may be ambient air or alternatively air conditioned air. The absorbed air flow is represented by arrow 111. Once in the display housing 70, air can flow upward along arrow 121. This air can be used by any of the thermal control features described above. For example, this air can be used to cool the isolation gas within the second chamber (inflator) or in a compression convection system as described above.

For purposes of explanation, the detailed internal components of the display are omitted from this figure and only the chamber 61 is shown. It should be noted herein that the air curtain can be implemented in any form of electronic display and in conjunction with any of the foregoing thermal control features. A variety of different internal features (not shown) may be provided in the chamber 61 to direct air toward the baffle 114. The absorbed air can continue to pass through the chamber 61 through arrow 121 until it reaches the baffle 114, which can direct air against the surface of the external display. The exterior surface may be a first front panel 90, or alternatively any additional front panel that has been previously detailed (e.g., second front panel 130).

Thus, an air curtain can be used as an exhaust to cool the internal components of the display. Alternatively, cooling air from the air curtain can be used to further cool the outer front surface of the display, which can be subject to significant solar loading or heat transfer from the surrounding hot air.

Fluid cooling system

Figure 20 is a schematic diagram illustrating another thermal control feature. As seen in the figures, the cooling system 22 contains a variety of different components in the fluid pathway. Preferably, this can be accomplished by connecting the elements in a series of tubes or conduits (schematically illustrated by dashed lines). The cooling system 22 component includes a reservoir 37, a pump 47, and a cooling chamber 4 in the fluid passage. More Preferably, the system also includes a filter 83 and a heat sink 72 that is also in the fluid path. Optionally, the system can also include a fan unit 94. However, the optional fan unit is preferably not disposed in the fluid path with other components.

The storage tank 37 contains a major amount of cooling fluid and, when the fluid is in the tank 37, provides a surface area to direct thermal energy away from the fluid. The trough has at least two openings, an outlet 13 and a return port 14. Optionally, the storage tank includes a vent 66. Pump 47 causes cooling fluid to flow through system 22. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the pump 47 can be placed in a number of locations along the cooling fluid passage to meet the appropriate results. However, in order to minimize the curvature of the plates 44 and 128, it is preferred to position the pump 47 behind the cooling chamber 4 so that the pump can actually pull the liquid coolant from the bottom to the top of the cooling chamber. If the pump is so positioned, engaging the pump at the top end of the cooling chamber 4 creates a low pressure region. In this way, the fluid flows through the cooling chamber 4 in accordance with the arrows. Since some of the cooling fluid "slows down easily", the pump 47 is preferably a positive displacement pump.

In order to adjust the cooling fluid flowing through the cooling chamber, a bypass line having a valve 634 can be provided. The bypass path provides a bypass line to the cooling fluid to divert the cooling chamber 4. The valve 634 is adapted to facilitate controlling the amount of cooling fluid to divert through the bypass path. The bypass path and valve 634 allows a predetermined portion of the cooling fluid to divert from the flow into the cooling chamber 4, and thus facilitates control of the rate of fluid passing through the cooling chamber itself. In this way, the rate of fluid passing through the cooling chamber can be adjusted.

It will be observed by those skilled in the art that other methods and devices may also be used. It is used to adjust the fluid passing through the cooling chamber. For example, the size of the pump 47 and the pumping speed can be idealized to achieve the desired application. Alternatively, pumps of various speeds can also be used. Preferably, the pumps of various speeds are electrically connectable to at least one pressure transducer (not shown). Preferably, a pressure transducer may be provided upstream of the cooling chamber 4, and another pressure converter may be provided downstream of the cooling chamber 4. The pressure information is provided from at least one pressure transducer and can be utilized to set the operating speed of the pumps at various speeds. In this manner, the rate of fluid passing through the cooling chamber 4 can be adjusted to maintain the proper pressure in the device. Maintaining proper pressure in the cooling chamber 4 is important to prevent deformation or breakage of the display glass.

A non-essential filter 83 can be added to remove contaminants from the fluid. Preferably, a heat sink 72 and fan unit 94 may also be included to provide better thermal stability. Optionally, a plug (not shown) can be provided to facilitate filling the system with cooling fluid or emptying the cooling fluid.

During operation, fluid exits the reservoir 37 from the outlet 13 and may be disposed below the slot 37. As it flows to the cooling chamber 4, the fluid passes through the optional filter 83. After flowing out of the filter 83, the fluid then enters the cooling chamber 4 via the inlet 98 of the manifold 59. The fluid coolant passes up the fluid compartment in the cooling chamber 4 in the indicated direction (dashed arrow). This cooling fluid flows out of the cooling chamber 4 via the outlet 99 of the upper manifold 60. Preferably, the fluid is then received by an optional heat sink 72. When passing through the optional heat sink 72, an optional fan unit 94 can force air through the heat sink 72 to assist in the transfer of thermal energy from the cooling fluid. A pump 47, which can be positioned behind the heat sink 72, can pull the fluid toward the reservoir. The fluid is received into the storage tank via the return port 14 37. Preferably, the return port 14 can be positioned relatively far from the outlet 13 to allow the returning fluid to have the greatest chance of being cooled before it exits the reservoir 37 via the outlet 13.

If desired, the fan unit can be disposed on the bottom plate of the housing 75 just after the cooling chamber 4 of the display 15. The fan unit provides an air laminar flow through the interior of the housing 75. Preferably, the gas stream can be directed across at least one outer surface of the storage tank 37. As previously discussed, the air vent stream may ultimately be directed onto the cooling chamber surface 44 by way of an unnecessary air curtain system 114.

A temperature sensor (not shown) and a switch (not shown) can be incorporated in the electronic display if desired. A temperature sensor can be used to detect when the temperature reaches a preset target value. In this case, the pump can be selectively engaged when the temperature within the display reaches a preset value. A preset target can be selected and the system can be constructed with a thermostat (not shown) to facilitate maintaining the display at a relatively fixed temperature, or at least within an acceptable temperature range. Alternatively, to avoid the use of a thermostat, the pump 47 can continue to operate when the electronic display is in operation.

4‧‧‧Cooling room

10‧‧‧Electronic display

13‧‧‧Export

14‧‧‧Return port

15‧‧‧ display

17-17‧‧‧Cutting line

19-19‧‧‧Cutting line

20‧‧‧Cooling room

22‧‧‧ cooling system

30‧‧‧First gas chamber

37‧‧‧ storage tank

40‧‧‧Second gas chamber

41‧‧‧ Guidance features

44‧‧‧ board

45‧‧‧Inflatable Department

47‧‧‧ pump

50‧‧‧room fan

51‧‧‧ entrance

59‧‧‧Management

60‧‧‧fan

61‧‧‧ chamber

66‧‧‧ vents

70‧‧‧ Cover

72‧‧‧ radiator

75‧‧‧ Cover

80‧‧‧Display components

83‧‧‧Filter

85‧‧‧Electronic display surface

90‧‧‧ front board

94‧‧‧Fan unit

98‧‧‧ Entrance

99‧‧‧Export

100‧‧‧ spacer

110‧‧‧ entrance

111‧‧‧ arrow

114‧‧‧Air curtain installation

119‧‧‧reflector

120‧‧‧Export

121‧‧‧ arrow

128‧‧‧ boards

130‧‧‧Second transparent front panel

140‧‧‧Backlight module

150‧‧‧Surface features

160‧‧‧Thermal module

179‧‧ holes

200‧‧‧Electronic components

201‧‧‧ Positioning with optical adhesive layer

202‧‧‧ first surface

204‧‧‧ fourth surface

206‧‧‧Front glass unit

208‧‧‧ second surface

209‧‧‧ Third surface/polarizer

210‧‧‧ Rod or cylinder

212‧‧‧LCD Group

214‧‧‧ rear polarizer

216‧‧‧ front polarizer

220‧‧‧heating elements

300‧‧‧Insulation gap

305‧‧‧ gap

310‧‧‧Compressed convection fans

320‧‧‧Guide

400‧‧‧Linear polarizer

634‧‧‧Valve

A better understanding of the exemplary embodiments can be obtained by the following detailed description and the following drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same parts and wherein: FIG. 1 is an exemplary embodiment and an exemplary electronic display. Combined perspective view.

2 is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of an element exhibiting an isolated gas cooling system.

3 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a cooling chamber.

4 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of an isolated cooling chamber, particularly a transparent front side of a first gas chamber.

Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of an isolated cooling chamber showing the optional electronic components placed in the plenum.

Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of an isolated cooling chamber. The surface features can be included in the inflator.

7 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a cooling chamber showing surface features that may be included in the plenum.

Figure 8 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an isolated cooling chamber containing a thermoelectric module.

Figure 9 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a cooling chamber containing a thermoelectric module.

Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment showing the elements of an isolated gas cooling chamber.

Figure 11 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a heating chamber.

Figure 12 is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a heating chamber showing the unnecessary electronic components and heating elements.

13 and 14 are cross-sectional views of an exemplary embodiment utilized in a linear polarizer having an isolated gas system or an insulating gap.

15A and 15B are side views of an exemplary embodiment of a compressed convection cooling system having a compression convection plate.

Figure 16 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment when the cooling plenum is utilized as a compression convection plate.

17A to 17C are cross-sectional views of an embodiment when the cooling plenum is utilized as a compression convection plate.

Figure 18 is a front plan view of the display using an air curtain device.

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the display utilizing an air curtain device.

Figure 20 shows a schematic of the components used to liquid cool the display.

10‧‧‧Electronic display

20‧‧‧Cooling room

45‧‧‧Inflatable Department

60‧‧‧fan

70‧‧‧ Cover

80‧‧‧Display components

85‧‧‧Electronic display surface

90‧‧‧ front board

100‧‧‧ spacer

130‧‧‧Second transparent front panel

140‧‧‧Backlight module

179‧‧ holes

Claims (19)

A thermal control system for an electronic display, the electronic display having a display surface and a backlight module, the system comprising: a first gas chamber positioned before the surface of the electronic display, the first gas chamber having a An inlet, an outlet and an outer surface; a second gas chamber is in closed loop gas communication with the inlet and the outlet of the first gas chamber, and after being positioned on the surface of the electronic display, the second gas chamber has inner and outer surfaces One or more chamber fans are disposed in the second gas chamber to drive the isolation gas around the first and second gas chambers, wherein the isolation gas is not mixed with outside air; and one or more An external fan is adapted to force ambient air past the outer surface of the second gas chamber. The system of claim 1, further comprising: one or more electronic components housed in the second gas chamber for operating the electronic display. The system of claim 1, further comprising: one or more surface features disposed on an outer surface of the second gas chamber. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a mechanism for heating the isolated gas contained in the second gas chamber. The system of claim 4, wherein the means for heating the insulating gas contained in the second gas chamber comprises one or more heating elements disposed in the second gas chamber. The system of claim 1, wherein: the outer surface of the second gas chamber is disposed adjacent to the backlight module, and a space between the backlight module and the surface of the outer chamber defines a gap. The system further includes: one or more compressed convection fans adapted to draw air through the gap. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3 and 6 further comprising: an air curtain device adapted to force air across the outer surface of the first gas chamber. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3 and 6, further comprising: a linear polarizer disposed before the first gas chamber. The system of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: a temperature detecting device adapted to measure the temperature of the surface of the display; a switch, and the temperature detecting device and the chamber The external fan is coupled; wherein the fan is turned on when the temperature of the display surface reaches a target value. The system of any one of claims 1 to 6 further comprising: a filter in the second gas chamber. As described in any one of claims 1 to 3 and 6 And wherein the one or more external fans force air over the outer surface of the second gas chamber, wherein the second gas chamber has been conditioned by the air. A thermal control electronic display includes: a display assembly; a backlight module positioned behind the display assembly and having a rear surface; a gas-isolated closed-loop cooling system surrounding the display assembly and the backlight module, One of the circulating fans forces the isolation gas to surround the closed-loop cooling system; a compression convection plate is adjacent to the rear surface of the backlight module, and a space between the convection plate and the rear surface of the backlight module defines a gap; and one or more A compressed convection fan is adapted to draw outside air through the gap. The display of claim 12, further comprising: a linear polarizer positioned before the display assembly. The display module of claim 12, wherein the backlight module comprises: a printed circuit board (PCB) having a front surface and a rear surface; a plurality of LEDs attached to the front surface of the PCB; and a metal The surface is applied to the back surface of the PCB. Display as described in any one of claims 12 to 14 And the compressed convection fan is further configured to draw outside air to pass over a portion of the closed loop cooling system. A method for thermally controlling an electronic display, the electronic display comprising a display surface and a backlight module, the method comprising the steps of: providing an isolated gas system including a first gas chamber and a second gas volume a first gas chamber in contact with the surface of the electronic display, the second gas chamber being in gas communication with the first gas chamber, wherein the first and second gas chambers contain the isolation gas and block the isolation The gas is mixed with the outside air; forcing the isolation gas into the first gas chamber; transferring thermal energy from the surface of the electronic display to the isolation gas; introducing the isolation gas into the second gas chamber; if cooling is necessary Cooling the isolation gas in the second gas chamber; and redirecting the isolation gas into the first gas chamber. The method of claim 16, wherein the cooling step comprises the steps of: transferring thermal energy from the insulating gas to a wall of the second chamber; forcing air over the wall of the second chamber; Thermal energy is transferred to the air from the wall of the second chamber. The method of claim 16, further comprising the step of: heating the isolation gas in the second chamber if heating is necessary. As described in any one of claims 16 to 18 The method further includes the steps of: providing a compression convection plate after the backlight module, defining a gap between the compressed convection plate and the backlight module; forcing outside air to pass through the gap to cool the backlight module group.