U.S. patent application number 10/364943 was filed with the patent office on 2003-07-03 for computers with power exhaust systems.
Invention is credited to Williams, John Williamson.
Application Number | 20030124971 10/364943 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24067568 |
Filed Date | 2003-07-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030124971 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Williams, John Williamson |
July 3, 2003 |
Computers with power exhaust systems
Abstract
Computers with power exhaust systems include a visually dominant
top or side mounted power exhaust stack in fluid communication with
an exhaust fan mounted proximate to the top or side mounted stack.
The power exhaust fan pulls ambient air in from the lower portion
of the computer and forces it out the top or a top portion of the
housing into a power exhaust stack. The power exhaust stack is
prominently positioned on the computer to provide a visual focal
point reminiscent of an automotive "souped-up" operating machine
which can forcibly cool the computer even when loaded with high-end
graphics cards and fast microprocessors. The power exhaust stacks
can be configured in a number of ways such as in an arcuate or
linearly extending diesel truck-like chrome stack configuration, or
in a header or laterally extending exhaust pipe(s)
configuration.
Inventors: |
Williams, John Williamson;
(Chapel Hill, NC) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MYERS BIGEL SIBLEY & SAJOVEC
PO BOX 37428
RALEIGH
NC
27627
US
|
Family ID: |
24067568 |
Appl. No.: |
10/364943 |
Filed: |
February 12, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10364943 |
Feb 12, 2003 |
|
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09519270 |
Mar 7, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
454/184 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 1/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
454/184 |
International
Class: |
H05K 005/00 |
Claims
That which is claimed is:
1. A computer housing with a power exhaust stack, comprising: a
computer housing with at least one upstanding wall and a ceiling
overlying said at least one upstanding wall defining an enclosure
space therebetween; at least one power exhaust stack extending
upwardly from said housing ceiling, said power exhaust stack having
a tubular section defining an air flow channel and opposing first
and second end portions, wherein said power exhaust stack has a
profile which rises generally vertically a distance up from said
ceiling and directs said air flow channel upwardly out from said
computer housing; at least one air vent disposed in said at least
one upstanding wall; and an exhaust fan mounted proximate to said
ceiling in fluid communication with said power exhaust stack first
end portion, wherein, during operation, said exhaust fan directs
air out from said computer housing through said power exhaust stack
air flow channel.
2. A computer housing according to claim 1, wherein said power
exhaust stack has a reflective external surface.
3. A computer housing according to claim 1, wherein said power
exhaust stack external surface has the appearance of chrome.
4. A computer housing according to claim 1, further comprising a
lid pivotably connected to the end of said power exhaust stack
second portion.
5. A computer housing according to claim 1, further comprising a
cap which is fixedly attached to said exhaust stack second end
portion via a plurality of standoffs to define an air exit path
therebetween such that, during operation, air is directed out of
said power exhaust stack second end through said air exit path.
6. A computer housing according to claim 1, wherein said ceiling
has a length and a width, said length direction extending between
the front and rear walls of said computer housing, and wherein said
power exhaust stack tubular section is a single exhaust stack of
substantially round cross-section which has a diameter sized at
about at least 25-30% the length of said ceiling.
7. A computer housing according to claim 1, wherein said ceiling
has a length and a width, said length direction extending between
the front and rear walls of said computer housing, and wherein said
power exhaust stack tubular section comprises a substantially round
cross-section with a diameter which is substantially equal to the
width of said ceiling.
8. A computer housing according to claim 1, wherein said power
exhaust stack tubular section has a substantially round
cross-section with a diameter of at least about four inches.
9. A computer housing according to claim 1, wherein said power
exhaust stack second end portion has an inclined configuration.
10. A computer housing according to claim 9, further comprising an
exhaust air filter disposed in said power exhaust stack and
configured and sized to extend across said air flow channel.
11. A computer housing with a top mounted exhaust stack,
comprising: a computer housing having a top portion and four
upstanding walls, said four upstanding walls including a front
wall, a rear wall, and first and second opposing side walls; an
exhaust stack extending upwardly from said housing top portion,
said exhaust stack comprising an air foil section defining at least
one air flow channel therein, said air foil section including
opposing first and second end portions, said first end portion
configured to overlie said ceiling adjacent said front wall,
wherein said power exhaust stack air foil section has a profile
when viewed from the side which rises at said first end portion and
then turns to generally horizontally extend toward the rear of said
computer housing to direct said air out of and away from said
computer housing toward the rear of said computer housing; at least
one air vent disposed in at least one of said four upstanding
walls; and at least one exhaust fan mounted to said housing such
that it is proximate to and in fluid communication with said
exhaust stack air foil section, wherein, during operation, said
exhaust fan directs air out from said computer housing and into
said exhaust stack air foil section and out of said computer
housing.
12. A computer housing with a top mounted exhaust stack according
to claim 11, wherein said exhaust stack air foil section has a
width and a length, wherein said computer top portion has a width
and a length, and wherein said exhaust stack air foil section width
is substantially the same as said ceiling width.
13. A computer housing with a top mounted exhaust stack according
to claim 11, wherein said computer top portion has a width and a
length, and wherein said exhaust stack air foil section has a
length which is less than the length of said computer top
portion.
14. A computer housing with a top mounted exhaust stack according
to claim 11, wherein said computer top portion has a width and a
length, and wherein said exhaust stack air foil length is one of
substantially the same or longer than said top portion length.
15. A computer housing with a top mounted exhaust stack according
to claim 11, wherein said exhaust stack air foil section comprises
a reflective external surface.
16. A computer housing with a top mounted exhaust stack according
to claim 11, wherein said exhaust stack air foil section has the
appearance of chrome.
17. A computer housing according to claim 11, wherein said at least
one exhaust fan is a plurality of exhaust fans positioned along the
length of said air foil section.
18. A computer housing according to claim 17, wherein at least one
of said exhaust fans is mounted in said air foil section such that
it extends in the radial direction across a portion of said air
flow channel.
19. A computer housing according to claim 11, wherein said computer
housing is configured as a substantially open body at said top
portion, and wherein said air foil section is configured to attach
to said computer walls such that it overlies and defines the
ceiling of an enclosure space.
20. A computer housing with a power exhaust stack, comprising: a
computer housing with four upstanding side walls and a ceiling
overlying said four upstanding side walls including a front wall, a
rear wall, and two opposing side walls; at least one power exhaust
stack extending outwardly from at least one of said housing side
walls, said power exhaust stack comprising at least one tubular
member having an external surface and at least one air flow channel
therein, said at least one tubular member having opposing first and
second end portions, wherein said power exhaust stack tubular
member has a profile when viewed from above which extends outwardly
from a forward portion of said side wall and turns to extend
generally horizontally alongside said side wall to direct said air
flow channel such that the air exits out and away from said
computer housing adjacent said rear wall; at least one air vent
disposed in at least one of said four upstanding walls; and at
least one exhaust fan mounted in said housing such that it is
proximate to and in fluid communication with said power exhaust
stack first end portion, wherein, during operation, said exhaust
fan directs air out from said computer housing through at least one
of said tubular members of said power exhaust stack.
21. A computer housing according to claim 20, wherein said power
exhaust stack at least one tubular member has a reflective external
surface.
22. A computer housing according to claim 21, wherein said power
exhaust stack comprises one tubular member.
23. A computer housing according to claim 21, wherein said power
exhaust stack comprises a plurality of tubular members.
24. A computer housing according to claim 20, wherein said at least
one power exhaust stack is two, each extending outwardly from
opposing sidewalls.
25. A computer housing according to claim 24, wherein each of said
power exhaust stacks comprises a plurality of tubular members, each
tubular member having an external surface and at least one channel
therein, and wherein each of said tubular members is mounted to a
respective one of said sidewalls at a different position along the
length of said respective sidewall.
26. A computer housing according to claim 25, wherein said at least
one exhaust fan is a plurality of exhaust fans, wherein said
exhaust fans are mounted in said housing such that at least one is
proximate to a respective one of said opposing power exhaust
stacks.
27. A computer housing according to claim 26, wherein each of said
tubular members is in fluid communication with an exhaust fan.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/519,270, filed Mar. 7, 2000. The contents
of this document is incorporated by reference as if recited in full
herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to exhaust systems for computers, and
particularly to exhaust systems for personal computers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Conventionally, computers have used exhaust fans to exhaust
hot air from the computer casing to cool electronic equipment held
therein. Typically, as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,559,673 to Gagnon
et al., one or more exhaust fans are positioned on the rear of the
computer housing or casing and hidden from main viewing
surfaces.
[0004] Many computer gaming enthusiasts are searching for improved
ways to cool their computer systems to obtain improved performance
and/or graphic capability compared to conventional systems.
Improved cooling can be particularly helpful for computer systems
employing increased numbers of heat generating components such as
faster operating microprocessor chips, more electronic powered
devices, and/or multiple graphics cards. The increased graphic
capability is desirable for many gaming enthusiasts in order to
provide more realistic play, and/or improved PC gaming platform
performance.
[0005] In operation, computer systems with advanced operating
protocols and components and improved cooling can improve the
response time or speed of the system. Unfortunately, by employing a
larger number of powered electronic equipment within the computer
casing and/or by configuring the computer system with faster
operating systems, the computer system within the housing can build
up heat during operation and potentially, and undesirably,
overheat, thereby causing the system to crash.
[0006] In addition, such exhaust systems are conventionally hidden
from view (positioned on a rear surface of the housing) or
otherwise de-emphasized so as to blend in with the computer
housing.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to
configure computers with power exhaust systems to vent heat
therefrom to reduce the likelihood that the computer system
performance will be negatively affected by overheating during
operation.
[0008] It is another object of the present invention to emphasize
visually the performance or power capability of the computer by
configuring a power exhaust system in a visually dominant manner
which is visible during use.
[0009] These and other objects of the invention are provided by a
top-mounted (or side mounted adjacent the top) visually dominant
power exhaust stack. Preferably, the power exhaust stack is in
fluid communication with an exhaust fan to vent hot air from the
top of the computer.
[0010] A first aspect of the invention is a computer with a power
exhaust stack. The computer includes a computer housing with at
least one upstanding wall (and typically four upstanding walls) and
a ceiling attached to and overlying the at least one upstanding
wall to define an enclosure. The computer also includes at least
one power exhaust stack extending upwardly from the housing
ceiling. The power exhaust stack comprises a tubular section with
an airflow channel therein and opposing first and second end
portions. The power exhaust stack tubular section has a profile
when viewed from the side which rises a distance up from the
ceiling and arcuately turns to direct the air flow channel (and
second end portion) toward the rear of the computer. The computer
includes a plurality of air vents disposed in at least one of the
at least one upstanding walls and an exhaust fan mounted proximate
to said ceiling in fluid communication with the power exhaust stack
first end portion. During operation of a computer subsiding within
the computer housing, the exhaust fan directs air out from the
computer housing (i.e., above and away from the enclosure) through
the power exhaust stack.
[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the power exhaust stack has a
reflective external surface, or is formed of or coated with chrome
or a chrome-like material, to provide an external surface which has
the appearance of chrome, while the computer housing is red.
[0012] The invention can, alternatively, be directed to an
aesthetic configuration to provide a computer housing with a
visually dominant top-mounted exhaust stack (but not requiring the
use of an upwardly mounted proximate exhaust fan). The computer
housing includes a computer housing with at least one upstanding
wall (and typically four upstanding walls) and a ceiling overlying
the at least one upstanding wall to define an enclosure. The
housing also includes at least one power exhaust stack extending
upwardly from the housing ceiling. The power exhaust stack
comprises a tubular section with at least one airflow channel
therein and opposing first and second end portions. The power
exhaust stack tubular section has a profile when viewed from the
side which generally vertically rises a distance up from the
ceiling and then arcuately turns to direct the air flow channel
toward the rear of the computer housing.
[0013] A second aspect of the invention is a power exhaust
modification kit for a computer. The power exhaust modification kit
for a computer comprises an upwardly extending power exhaust stack
with a tubular section comprising at least one air flow channel and
opposing first and second end portions. The power exhaust stack
tubular section has a profile when viewed from the side such that
it generally vertically rises a distance up at the first end
portion and then arcuately turns to direct the air flow channel
toward the rear of the computer casing at the second end portion.
The kit also includes a template configured to overlay at least a
portion of the top of the computer casing. The template has visual
indicia representing an opening sized and configured to correspond
with the power exhaust stack first end portion for allowing a user
to identify a desired location (and/or the desired size opening or
shape of the opening) for an opening in the top of the computer.
The kit also includes an exhaust fan sized and configured to
assemble to the computer such that it is mounted proximate to the
top of the computer adjacent the desired location. In position, the
exhaust fan is operably associated with the power exhaust stack to
direct air from the computer casing during operation.
[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the kit can include a second
template configured to overlay at least one side of the computer,
the second template has visual indicia representing at least one
air vent aperture corresponding to air vent inlet openings for
allowing a user to identify a desired location (and/or draw a
desired opening shape) on the bottom portion of the side walls of
the computer for the air vent aperture(s). The kit can also include
grommets and filters to be positioned proximate to the air vent
inlets.
[0015] Another aspect of the present invention is a computer
housing with an alternate embodiment of a power exhaust stack.
Similar to those described above, the computer housing includes at
least one, and typically, four, upstanding side walls and a ceiling
overlying the at least one (and typically, four) upstanding side
walls. The computer also includes at least one power exhaust stack
having a tubular section extending upwardly from the housing
ceiling. The power exhaust stack tubular section comprises at least
one airflow channel therein and opposing first and second end
portions. The power exhaust stack tubular section has a profile
which generally vertically rises a distance up from the ceiling and
directs the airflow channel upwardly out (above and away) from the
computer. The computer housing also includes at least one air vent
disposed in at least one of the (four) upstanding walls and an
exhaust fan mounted proximate to the ceiling in fluid communication
with the power exhaust stack first end portion. During operation,
the exhaust fan directs air out (above and away) from the computer
housing through the power exhaust stack.
[0016] The second end portion of the tubular member can be either
substantially horizontal or inclined. The computer housing can also
include a lid pivotably connected to the end of the power exhaust
stack second portion. The lid can be biased to open with relatively
low air pressure exhausting from the computer. The lid can be a
light weight component extending over the air flow channel.
Alternatively, a stationary cap can be used such that it is fixedly
attached to the second end portion of the stack but spatially
separated a distance therefrom to provide an exit flow path
therebetween.
[0017] Another aspect of the present invention is a computer
housing with another embodiment of a top mounted exhaust stack. As
above, the computer housing has at least one and typically four
upstanding walls and a ceiling overlying the four upstanding walls
to define an enclosure. The four upstanding walls include a front
wall, a rear wall, and first and second opposing side walls. The
computer housing includes an exhaust stack with an air foil section
which extends upwardly from the housing ceiling. The exhaust stack
airfoil section comprises at least one airflow channel and opposing
first and second end portions. The first end portion is configured
to overlie the ceiling adjacent the front wall. The power exhaust
stack airfoil section has a profile which rises at the first end
portion and then generally horizontally extends toward the rear
wall to direct the airflow channel upwardly out and away from the
computer housing and outward to exit in a direction which extends
toward the rear of the computer housing. The computer housing also
includes at least one air vent (preferably a plurality) disposed in
at least one of the four upstanding walls and at least one exhaust
fan (preferably a plurality) mounted proximate to the ceiling in
fluid communication with the exhaust stack. During operation, the
exhaust fan directs air out from the computer housing through the
ceiling and into the exhaust stack so that air vents away and above
from the housing.
[0018] Yet another aspect of the invention is directed to another
embodiment of a power exhaust stack. In this embodiment, the power
exhaust stack is mounted to a upper forward side-portion of the
computer casing. The power exhaust stack is configured to resemble
intake or exhaust or header pipe configurations. More particularly,
as above, the computer housing includes at least one, and
typically, four, upstanding side walls and a ceiling overlying the
at least one, and typically, four, upstanding side walls (to define
an enclosure). For four side wall configurations, the walls include
a front wall, a rear wall, and two opposing side walls. At least
one power exhaust stack is mounted to an upper forward portion of
at least one of the side walls and the power exhaust stack extends
outwardly the respective housing side wall. The power exhaust stack
comprises at least one tubular member with an external surface and
at least one airflow channel therein. The at least one tubular
member has opposing first and second end portions. The power
exhaust stack tubular member has a profile when viewed from above
which extends outwardly from a forward portion of the side wall on
which it is mounted and turns to extend generally horizontally
alongside the respective side wall to direct the air flow channel
such that the air exits out from said computer housing at a
rearward portion of the side wall toward the rear of the computer
(above and away from the housing). The computer housing also
includes at least one air vent disposed in at least one of the
upstanding walls and an exhaust fan mounted proximate to the
ceiling in fluid communication with the power exhaust stack tubular
member first end portion. During operation, the exhaust fan directs
air out from the computer housing through the airflow channel in
the power exhaust stack. The power exhaust stack at least one
tubular member can be one or a bundle of tubular members, having
the same or different lengths.
[0019] Accordingly, the present invention can provide a visually
distinctive top-mounted (or upper side mounted) exhaust stack
(i.e., a power exhaust stack) in a number of configurations,
preferably to provide one or more of an aesthetic visually dominant
appearance and/or to provide a power exhaust system which forces
air out of the top of a personal computer housing. The power
exhaust system can operate as a supplemental exhaust system
("piggy-backing" onto existing or conventional rear mounted fans)
or as the primary exhaust system. The power exhaust system can be
provided by an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or as an
add-on or modification to the computer in an after market kit.
[0020] In operation, the power exhaust stack is preferably in fluid
communication with a cooling fan inserted into the top of the
housing. The fan and power exhaust stack (i.e., power exhaust
system) can reduce the likelihood that the computer will overheat
by circulating ambient air from the bottom portion of the computer
housing upwardly to emit the heated air out the top of the computer
casing. The power exhaust can operate with any number of exhaust
fan sizes, but preferably operates with fans having an output of
about 50-70 cubic feet per minute. For power exhaust systems
employing multiple top mounted fans, then smaller sized units can
be employed, such as about 20-40 cfm units. Preferably, the power
exhaust system can maintain the temperature inside the housing at
about 90 degrees Fahrenheit even with a computer configured as a
"tower style" computer with a two-tier shelf which is substantially
loaded. Preferably, in keeping with the automotive theme, the power
exhaust stack is configured with a chrome or chrome-like external
surface.
[0021] Aesthetically, in order to make this power exhaust PC system
bear a distinctive visually dominant custom appearance (to visually
emphasize the power of the device itself), the invention preferably
configures the power exhaust as a diesel type tubular chrome
exhaust stack with an upwardly-extending, slightly arcuate profile
which is preferably configured to direct the air exhaust flow
toward the rear of the computer housing (directing the heated
exhaust air above and away from the housing). Of course, as noted
above, other automotive themed configurations can also be employed.
Further, the housing itself may be provided in a color selected to
additionally emphasize the "power" associated with the power
exhaust system (preferably the color is associated with "souped-up"
automotive (hot rod) products, such as candy apple red).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of
the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain
principles of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 1 is a front view of a computer with a power exhaust
stack according to the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a side view of the computer with a power exhaust
stack shown in FIG. 1.
[0025] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the computer with a power exhaust
stack shown in FIG. 1.
[0026] FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial cutaway view of the computer
with a power exhaust stack shown in FIG. 1, illustrating an exhaust
fan mounted to the top of the computer in fluid communication with
the power exhaust stack.
[0027] FIG. 5A is an exploded view of one embodiment of a computer
with a power exhaust stack according to the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 5B is a side cutaway view of a computer housing
illustrating air-flow in a two-tier tower style computer housing
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIGS. 5C-5E are side views of assembly sequences for one
embodiment of a top mounted power exhaust stack and exhaust fan
(such as is shown assembled in FIGS. 1-3) according to the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 6 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of a
computer with power exhaust stack according to the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 7A is a side view of the computer with a power exhaust
stack similar to that shown in FIG. 6, with a different
end-configuration and with a "rain" cap pivotably mounted
thereto.
[0032] FIG. 7B is a partial view of the power exhaust stack shown
in FIG. 7A having a stationary cap attached thereto.
[0033] FIG. 8 is a side view of yet another embodiment of a
computer with two-power exhaust stacks according to the present
invention.
[0034] FIG. 9A is a side view of an additional embodiment of a
computer with a power exhaust stack in an airfoil configuration
according to the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 9B is a partial cutaway of the computer and power
exhaust stack shown in FIG. 9A, illustrating a plurality of fans
mounted to at least partially extending (oriented at an angle above
the horizontal axis) across the air flow channel at spaced apart
intervals located along the length of the power exhaust stack
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 9C is a front view of a power exhaust stack similar to
that shown in FIG. 9A, illustrating that the airfoil configuration
can be configured as a replacement ceiling, as an alternative to
mounting onto a ceiling.
[0037] FIG. 10 is a partial side view of another embodiment of the
present invention similar to that shown in FIG. 9A. As shown, the
power exhaust stack can extend over the entire length of the
computer casing (designated as L.sub.2) or can be truncated short
of the entire length (designated as L.sub.1) and can include one or
more exhaust fans horizontally mounted.
[0038] FIG. 11A is a front view of yet an additional embodiment of
the present invention, illustrating a computer with an upper
side-mounted power exhaust stack.
[0039] FIG. 11B is a side view of the computer and power exhaust
stack shown in FIG. 11A.
[0040] FIG. 11C is a perspective view of the computer and power
exhaust stack shown in FIG. 11A.
[0041] FIG. 11D is a top view of the design shown in FIG. 11A.
[0042] FIG. 11E is a side view of an alternate embodiment of a
power exhaust stack similar to that shown in FIG. 11B illustrating
the power exhaust stack as a plurality of tubes.
[0043] FIG. 12 illustrates a modification kit which can be used to
install a power exhaust system on computers on an after-market
basis.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0044] The present invention now will be described more fully
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention
may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be
construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather,
these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be
thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the
invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like
elements throughout. In the figures, certain regions or components
may be exaggerated for clarity.
[0045] Generally described, the present invention is directed to
power exhaust stacks for computers. The power exhaust stacks are
configured to be visually dominant and visible during use of the
computer to emphasize the power available in the operating system
of the computer. Preferably, the power exhaust stacks are mountable
to the top of computer casing or housing to direct the hot air out
of the top of the computer housing (to a certain extent taking
advantage of the fact that hot air rises). Alternatively, the power
exhaust stacks can be mounted proximate the top of the housing,
such as on upper portions of the side walls. In any event, the
power exhaust stacks can be combined with one or more
proximately-positioned exhaust fans to provide power exhaust
systems for one or more of OEM (original equipment manufacturers)
and after-market users.
[0046] Turning now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of a computer 10
having a power exhaust stack 15 mounted onto a computer housing 20
is shown. The computer housing 20 is preferably a "tower style"
personal computer housing. As such, it includes at least one wall
which, together with an overlying ceiling defines an enclosure
space for holding the electronic components of the computer. This
computer housing can be rectangular, triangulated, cylindrical,
oval, or otherwise configured. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the computer
housing 20 is substantially rectangular and includes four
upstanding walls 22, 23, 24, 25 and a ceiling 21 or top overlying
the four walls. As shown, the four walls include a front wall 22,
rear wall 25, and two opposing side walls 23, 24. The front wall 22
typically includes the CD and floppy/hard disc drives 22A, 22B
located thereon. Of course, other drives, ports, or operating
buttons can also be located as desired on this surface. As shown in
FIG. 3, the rear wall 25 holds the power port 25A and other
connector ports 25B. It can also include one or more exhaust fans
26 mounted thereon to assist in the ventilation or exhaust of the
heat from the computer housing 20. The computer housing 20 can also
include air intake fans positioned to help increase air circulation
(not shown).
[0047] Preferably, the computer housing 20 includes at one least
air inlet port 20p therein (either with or without an associated
intake fan). As shown, in FIG. 1, the computer housing 20 includes
at least one air inlet port 20p formed in lower portions of
opposing side walls 23, 24 of the computer housing. As is shown in
FIG. 2, in a preferred embodiment, there are at least two
corresponding air inlet ports 20p on each of the side walls 23, 24
(the opposing side wall 24 being configured substantially the same
as the side wall 23 shown in FIG. 2). As shown, the four inlet
ports 20p have about a 1.0 inch to a 1.5 inch diameter. Of course,
other aperture configurations, shapes, and arrangements as well as
numbers of air inlet ports (lesser or greater) can also be
employed. For example, as shown in FIGS. 11B and 11C, a single
elongated air inlet port 20p can be employed.
[0048] Filters 20f to filter or inhibit the intake of particulate
matter and/or dust into the computer housing 20 can also be
employed. The filters 20f can be positioned to overlay the opening
in the inlet port such as via attachment to an inner surface of the
side walls or the outer surface of the side walls 23, 24 proximate
to the air inlet ports 20p. In a preferred embodiment, they are
formed in an externally accessible grommet 20g to define a filter
assembly 20a which can be easily inserted and removed from the
exterior of the housing 20 to replace or clean the filter 20f at
desired intervals. For unitary body grommets, the 20f is typically
attached to an exterior surface prior to assembly to the housing to
allow the grommet 20g to be popped into the air inlet port from the
outside of the housing without obstruction or interference
therefrom (the inside portion of the grommet yields as it slides
into position over the port).
[0049] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5A, the grommet 20g is configured
and sized to securely reside on the circumference of the air inlet
port 20p. The filter 20f can be configured as a fine metal mesh
filter which is preferably configured to allow sufficient amounts
of air to be drawn into the housing during operation while
inhibiting the migration or introduction of dust, hair, or other
particulate matter or larger sized foreign objects into the
computer housing 20. It is preferred that the filter be configured
as a micron rated filter to inhibit micron-sized matter from
entering the computer.
[0050] Preferably, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the power exhaust
stack 15 is a tubular member which is mounted to the top or ceiling
21 of the computer housing 20. Although shown with a substantially
circular or round cross-section, the power exhaust stack tubular
member can be otherwise configured, such as with a rectangular,
oval, square, or other external and/or internal shape(s) which
provides an inner hollow portion which defines at least one air
flow channel 35 therein. As such, the power exhaust stack 15
defines the air flow channel 35 which directs air out from the
ceiling 21 (and above and away from ) the computer housing 20. As
shown in FIG. 4, in this embodiment, the power exhaust stack 15
extends upwardly from the ceiling 21 and has a profile when viewed
from the side which rises a distance up from the ceiling 21 and
arcuately turns to direct the air flow channel 35 toward the rear
of the computer housing 20.
[0051] As is also shown in FIG. 4, the computer 10 includes an
exhaust fan 30 which is mounted such that it is proximate to the
air flow channel 35. Preferably, as shown, the exhaust fan 30 is
mounted onto the ceiling 21.
[0052] As shown in FIG. 5A, for computer housings 20 which have an
underlying skeleton cage 20sk to which the outer side walls 23, 24
and ceiling 21 are attached, the exhaust fan 30 can be mounted to
the top of the skeleton cage 20sk such that, after assembly, it is
proximate to an opening 21o formed in the ceiling 21 and positioned
to be in fluid communication with the air flow channel 35 of the
power exhaust stack 15. As shown in FIG. 5A (and available in
certain conventional computer models), the skeleton cage 20sk
includes upper mounting prongs 21konto which the ceiling which has
matable portions (shown in dotted line as elements 21m in FIGS.
5C-5D) formed on the inside of the downwardly extending inner
sidewalls 21w slides into and locks to thereby secure the ceiling
to skeleton cage 20sk.
[0053] FIG. 5A also shows that, in this embodiment, the exhaust fan
30 is configured to mount to the top of the skeleton cage 20sk such
that it extends a distance upwardly and out of the ceiling 21 of
the housing. A seal 60 surrounds the perimeter of the fan 30 and
attaches the exhaust stack 15 to the computer housing in a
substantially air-tight manner.
[0054] FIGS. 5C-5E illustrate an assembly sequence for the
embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 5A. As shown in FIG. 5C,
the exhaust fan 30 is separated such that fan blades 31 (shown as a
lightweight plastic integral blade assembly) are removed from the
shaft 32 held on the fan body 30b. The fan body 30b is mounted to
the top of the skeleton cage 20sk such that the fan shaft 32 is
oriented upwardly and aligned with the opening in the ceiling 21o.
The ceiling 21 is then pushed downward and then over to laterally
slide such that inner sidewall mating portions 21m engage and mate
with the mounting protrusions 21sk to lock into position. By
removing the fan blades 31, the shaft 32 is narrow enough (even if
it extends a distance above the ceiling) within the opening 21o to
provide sufficient clearance to allow the ceiling 21 to be
manipulated thereabout. If one were to leave the fan blade 32
mounted to the fan body in this embodiment, the upper portion of
the fan would block the lateral movement within the closed
perimeter of the circular opening needed to allow the sliding
engagement with the skeleton cage. As shown in FIG. 5E, once the
ceiling 21 is locked into position, the fan blades 32 can be
reattached (either before or after the seal 60 is mounted to the
ceiling) but preferably before the stack is mounted thereon. The
seal is preferably adhesively secured to the top of the ceiling 21,
thus, once secured to the housing remains in place. To gain entry
to the housing subsequent to the assembly, one can remove the power
exhaust stack 15, and pry the fan blades 32 of the shaft 31 to be
able to slide the ceiling 21 off the mounting portions 21sk.
[0055] In any event, as shown in FIG. 4, the exhaust fan 30 is
mounted proximate to the ceiling 21 such that it is in fluid
communication with the first end portion 15f of the power exhaust
stack 15. During operation, as shown in FIG. 5B, ambient air enters
the air inlet ports 20p and travels up through the housing (through
the second tier 20t in housings 20 having dual tiers, as shown).
The air is then drawn up by action of the exhaust fan on top of the
housing 20. The exhaust fan 30 then directs air out from the
computer housing 20 through the power exhaust stack 15. Preferably,
for single power exhaust fan configurations, the exhaust fan 30 is
configured to operate at a rate of about 30-80 cubic feet of air
per minute (cfm), and more preferably from about 50-70 cfm. In
operation, the power exhaust stack 15 and exhaust fan 30 can
generate an audible "whoosh", particularly at initial activation,
as the air is forced up and out of the computer housing 20 which
audibly affirms the power of the device.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 3, the power exhaust stack and exhaust fan
are supplemental to a conventional air exhaust system 26, and can
be run concurrent with operation of the computer, or can be
intermittently, or selectively, operated, such as only when using
problematic heat generating components like during the playing of
action and/or graphic-intense games. A computer program icon
representing the supplemental power exhaust system can be loaded
onto the desktop such as found on a Windows.RTM. or Macintosh.RTM.
based computer operating system for user selectable software
controlled operation. Of course, heat sensors can be located within
the housing at suitable locations to measure and represent the heat
profile therein. For example, one or more sensors can be located
proximate the graphics board(s), motherboard, or microprocessor in
the housing. Accordingly, feedback to a controller indicating
operating temperatures have exceeded recommended levels can act to
automatically activate the power exhaust system. Alternatively, or
additionally, a "software" trigger can be operably associated with
pre-identified or computer programs coded and "tagged" as high
energy software applications to activate the power exhaust system
upon active selection of the tagged software program.
Alternatively, the device can be manually activated and disabled as
desired.
[0057] Turning again to preferred configurations, the instant
invention can also employ one or more exhaust filters which can be
located (preferably proximate the second end portion 15s of the
power exhaust stack 15) in the power exhaust stack 15 so that it
extends across the flow channel 35 (not shown). As the air exits
the air flow channel 35, this filter is not concerned so much with
the intake of dust, but rather the introduction of foreign objects
such as toys, coins, or children's hands. As such, a larger mesh
filter configuration can be employed. In addition, it is preferred
that the exhaust filters be recessed a short distance from the
second end portion 15s of the stack so as to not to interfere with
the exterior appearance of the stack, while also reducing the
distance a foreign object can readily enter into the exhaust
stack.
[0058] Similarly, the computer 10 can also or alternatively include
a cap or lid 40 hinged or pivotably mounted to an end portion of
the power exhaust stack 15, such as shown in FIG. 7A. The cap 40 is
preferably configured as a light-weight component to reduce the
interference with the flow of air in the air flow channel. The
hinge 45 is preferably biased to open upon application of a low
magnitude pressure due to air exiting the computer housing through
the air flow channel so as to not unduly restrict the flow of air
therefrom. Of course, as shown in FIG. 7B, chimney-cap 41
stationary type arrangements can also be employed, these position
the cap 41 a fixed distance away from the end of the stack via
intermediate short stand-offs 42 and the air vents between the exit
of the air flow channel 35e and the chimney cap 41. That is, the
cap 41 is fixed spatially separated a distance from the second end
portion of the power exhaust stack by mechanical attachment to
spacers or standoff's 42 located around the perimeter thereof (this
embodiment can be particularly suitable for linearly extending
stack configurations). Of course, in either case, exhaust filters
can also be used therewith (not shown).
[0059] As shown throughout, the power exhaust stack 15 is
preferably configured to provide an aesthetic visually dominant
appearance which provides a focal point for the computer housing 20
symbolic of the operating capability or power of the system itself.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the ceiling has a length and a width;
the length direction "L" extends between the front and rear walls
22, 25 of the computer housing 20 while the "W" width direction
extends between the two opposing side walls 23, 24. As shown in
this embodiment, the power exhaust stack 15 is preferably a single
tubular shaped section which has a substantially round
cross-section and a diameter sized at about at least 25-30% the
length of the ceiling. As is also shown for this embodiment, the
power exhaust stack 15 is mounted proximate the rear wall 25 of the
computer. Preferably, the exhaust stack(s) are sized with an air
flow channel 35 having a diameter of at least about 4 inches, and
more preferably about 4.5 inches. As shown in the embodiment of
FIG. 1, it is more preferred that the exhaust stack air flow
channel 35 has a diameter which is substantially equal to the width
of the ceiling 21.
[0060] In keeping with the above, it is also preferred that the
power exhaust stack be configured with an externally reflective
surface such as a metallic or chrome-like coating, plating, or
deposition formed over a plastic or resin or fiber-reinforced resin
substrate. Of course, the substrate should be selected to withstand
temperatures associated with the exhausted air. It is more
preferred that power exhaust stack be configured from chrome. The
chrome or chrome-like appearance of the external surface yields an
automotive themed hot rod "souped-up" aesthetic appearance.
Similarly, the computer housing 20 can be provided in colors
representing hot-rod colors (such as candy apple red, bright or
canary yellow, metallic primary colors, or other similar "muscle"
colors). Alternatively, or in addition, the computer housing can be
ornamented with lightning bolts, flames, and other power-invoking
or "muscle" images.
[0061] Other power exhaust stack configurations can also be
employed. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the power exhaust stack
15 can be configured as a plurality of aligned power exhaust stacks
15. FIGS. 6 and 7A illustrate yet another embodiment: a generally
vertically-extending stack 150 (i.e., it extends upwardly from the
housing ceiling 21 to direct the air upwardly out of the exhaust
stack). FIG. 6 also shows an inclined top perimeter surface 150s.
FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate that the top perimeter surface can be
substantially planar. As noted above (for any embodiment described
herein although not required), but particularly for the power
exhaust stack 150, an exhaust filter and/or cap 40, 41 can be
attached thereto.
[0062] FIG. 9A illustrates a power exhaust stack 250 representative
of an air foil design. As shown, the exhaust stack 250 includes an
air foil section which extends upwardly from the housing ceiling
and includes at least one air flow channel 35 therein. The exhaust
stack 250 includes opposing first and second end portions 250f,
250s. The first end portion 250f is configured to overlie the
ceiling 21 adjacent the front wall 22 and preferably extends
substantially coincident with the ceiling (covering substantially
the entire width and at least a partial distance along the length
of the ceiling 21). The power exhaust stack air foil section 250
has a profile which is curvilinear such that it rises at the first
end portion 250f and then substantially horizontally extends toward
the rear wall 25 to direct the air flow channel(s) 35 upwardly out
and away from the computer housing 20 and outwardly toward the rear
of the computer housing 20.
[0063] FIG. 9B is a partial cutaway view of the power stack
configuration of FIG. 9A, illustrating a plurality of exhaust fans
30 (shown as four) mounted at different positions along the length
of the air flow channel 35. In this embodiment, the fans 30 are
mounted at an angle from the horizontal direction such that each
extends across a portion of the air flow channel. Of course, as
shown in FIG. 10, they can alternatively be mounted to extend
horizontally across the top of the computer housing. The air foil
section 250 can be formed as a matable two piece component (split
lengthwise) which can allow for easier assembly of the fans across
portions and along the length of the air flow channel not shown).
The fans 30 shown in FIG. 9B can be mounted onto structural ribbing
which can be attached to the internal walls of the air flow channel
at the appropriate angles to orient the fan in the desired
direction and at a desired position. The ribbing can be adhesively
secured, brazed, welded, or attached by other means as is know to
those of skill in the art. Preferably, the fans are mounted and
spatially separated a sufficient distance to direct air out of the
rear of the air flow channel. A plurality of equally rated fans can
be used (preferably 10-30 cfm), or alternatively staggered and
different rated fans can be employed. For example, a 30 cfm fan can
be located either or both at the front and/or rear end of the air
foil section with two lesser rated fans positioned intermediate
thereof.
[0064] FIG. 9C illustrates that the power exhaust stack air foil
section 250 can form the ceiling 21 of the housing itself. Indeed,
in this embodiment, the air foil section sides 251 are configured
to slidably attach to the mounts 21sk disposed on the upper portion
of the skeletal frame (shown in FIG. 5A) to overlay or attach to
the sidewalls and define the lower enclosure space for the computer
components.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 10, the power exhaust stack 250 can end
short of the entire length of the computer housing 20 (shown for
example at length L.sub.1 with a longer length L.sub.2 represented
in dotted line). Additionally, as shown in FIG. 10, a plurality of
power exhaust fans 30 can be positioned along the length of the air
flow channel 35. The exhaust fans 30 can each vent into a single
air flow channel 35 (as shown) or can alternatively vent into an
individually formed air channel within the power exhaust stack (not
shown).
[0066] FIGS. 11A-11E illustrate yet another embodiment of a power
exhaust stack 350 according to the present invention. In this
embodiment, the power exhaust stack 350 is configured to resemble
one or a bundle of cylindrical tubes resembling an exhaust manifold
or exhaust pipe arrangement (such as are found on motorcycles). As
shown in FIGS. 11A-11D, the power exhaust stack 350 includes at
least one tubular member in fluid communication with at least one
power exhaust fan 30. The power exhaust stack 350 (and preferably
the exhaust fan 30) is mounted on an upper portion of at least one
side wall 23, 24 proximate the ceiling 21. The computer housing 20
may include one power exhaust fan 30 and stack 350 arranged on one
of the side walls 23. The computer housing 20 may alternatively
include symmetrically positioned power exhaust stacks 350, with one
tube 351, 352 (or one tube bundle 353) located on each opposing
side wall 23, 24 as shown. Preferably, one or both of which may
include a power exhaust fan 30 in fluid communication therewith.
(In operation, one of the power stacks may merely act as an
aesthetic balance element, they may be arranged in a master-slave
set-up, or they may operate selectively or individually).
[0067] FIG. 11E illustrates two tubes positioned on the housing
sidewall so as to be aligned to extend from approximately the same
forward portion of the sidewall. Of course, the tubes can be
alternatively arranged so as one is more forward, or each are
spatially separated to extend from different regions of the housing
sidewalls (although preferably from the top to help exhaust the hot
air therefrom). Exhaust fan arrangements for power exhaust stacks
350 with tube bundles 353, can be such that a selected number (one,
two, or all of the tubes) can be mounted in the computer so that
they are in fluid communication with one exhaust fan 30 or each
tube can operate with an (typically smaller rated) individual
exhaust fan. Thus, one or more of the tubes 351, 352 may be
non-functional as exhaust channels or may be operative from a
shared exhaust fan arrangement or an individual exhaust fan
arrangement.
[0068] As shown in FIG. 11D, looking from the top view, the profile
of the tubular section(s) extends outwardly from a forward portion
of the respective side wall 23, 24 and turns to extend generally
horizontally along the length of the computer housing 20 to direct
the air flow channel 35 along the length of the computer housing 20
to exit toward the rear wall 25.
[0069] For "header" arrangements, as is common with automotive
"headers", each of the pipes can be configured with the same length
along the length of the housing even though each subsequent pipe
has a shorter horizontal length with respect to the mounting on the
housing (not shown). That is, the header configuration can include
a first pipe having a first substantially horizontally extending
configuration and a first length extending from the front portion
of the housing. A second pipe can be set back a distance along the
length of the sidewall of the housing body and can have a second
configuration (different from the first) with an additional amount
of vertical length and a shorter horizontal length (defining the
same overall length as the first length) each of the pipes then
terminating at a common exhaust point, junction or body.
EXAMPLE
[0070] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of power exhaust stack 15
modification hardware which was used to modify a personal computer
as well as templates which can make the modification easier for
subsequent users (i e., a modification kit). As shown an exhaust
fan 30 was mounted to the skeleton frame 20sk. A suitable exhaust
fan is manufactured by Droan Manufacturing Co. and is rated at 70
cfm. The exhaust fan 30 was positioned on top of the skeleton frame
20sk because of internal clearance issues and then threaded with
screws 31 to attach same thereto (see also FIG. 4). A 4.5 inch
opening 21o was formed in the ceiling 21 corresponding to the
diameter size of the power exhaust stack 15 (which has the air flow
channel 35 which fits over the exhaust fan 30). A sealing means 60
such as an O.D. axle installed seal wheel seal grit guard was used
to assemble the exhaust stack 15 onto the ceiling over the exhaust
fan 30. A suitable wheel seal is a Guardian HP axle installed seal
manufactured by Stemco of Longview, Tex.
[0071] FIG. 4 illustrates the assembled configuration with the
exhaust stack 15 press fit against the wheel seal 60 which is
attached to the ceiling 21 (via an outdoor or durable adhesive such
as OUTDOOR GOOP.TM.). Of course, other attachment means and
components can also be employed as will be appreciated by those of
skill in the art. Preferably, the juncture of the exhaust stack 15
at the ceiling or housing portion is such that a substantially air
tight seal is formed so that exhaust air is more efficiently forced
out of the stack. and an outdoor adhesive used to join same. Two
one-inch openings 20p were formed in each of the opposing side
walls 23, 24 and grommets 20g were positioned in same to protect
potentially exposed rough edges thereat. A lockable extension cord
50 (FIGS. 5B and 12) was routed in the housing 20 to connect the
power hook up to the exhaust fan. The lockable power cord 50 allows
the power to be locked on or off.
[0072] FIG. 12 illustrates a computer modification kit 100 that can
allow users to modify existing computers. As shown, the kit 100
includes at least one template 75 with visual indicia (such as
center markings, edge markings, aperture openings, marked units)
representing at least one exhaust opening size (multiple templates
or templates with multiple sized opening choices can also be
provided). The template 75 can be overlaid onto the ceiling 21 (or
for side-mounted stacks, side wall openings) and the proper opening
corresponding to the selected exhaust stack formed into the
computer. The kit 100 can also include the power exhaust stack 15,
the sealing or mounting means 60, a plurality of grommet/filter
assemblies 20g/20f, a power cord 50, and an exhaust fan 30. The kit
can additionally include a second template 175 corresponding to air
inlet port openings much like the template discussed above.
[0073] The computer housing with power exhaust stack of the present
invention can also be customized to bear ornamental features or
company logos according to a user's needs. For example, surface
ornamentation, as well as "hood" ornaments or symbols can be
applied to one or more of the stack itself or the housing.
[0074] The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and
is not to be construed as limiting thereof. Although a few
exemplary embodiments of this invention have been described, those
skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications
are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially
departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this
invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be
included within the scope of this invention as defined in the
claims. Therefore, it is to be understood that the foregoing is
illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as
limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that
modifications to the disclosed embodiments, as well as other
embodiments, are intended to be included within the scope of the
appended claims. The invention is defined by the following claims,
with equivalents of the claims to be included therein.
* * * * *