ION PROTECTION TECHNIQUE FOR ELECTRONIC SYSTEM WITH FLOW BETWEEN INTERNAL AIR PLENUM AND AN EHD DEVICE

摘要

Techniques are described for integration of EHD-type air movers with electronic systems, and in particular, for limiting infiltration of ions and/or charged particulates into an internal air plenum. In some designs, it may be desirable to allow or even encourage EHD motivated air flow (whether drawn or forced) through the internal air plenum while providing a barrier to transit of ions and/or charged particulates that may be generated during EHD operation. Such a barrier may employ electrostatic forces to impede transit of ions and/or charged particulate across a vent positioned to allow air flow from or into the internal air plenum. In some cases, an electrostatic barrier may include a fluid permeable mesh or grill that spans a substantial cross-section of the vent. In some cases, an electrostatic barrier need only be positioned adjacent such a vent to exert electrostatic forces on ions and charged particulate that might otherwise transit the vent. In some cases, an electrostatic barrier may be coupled to power supply voltages and thereby achieve a desired potential. In some cases, a dielectric or electrically isolated conductive surface may accumulate sufficient charge (e.g., by ion impingement) to thereafter exert the desired electrostatic forces and impede further ion and charged particulate transit through the vent.