Pressure compensation button

Abstract

A pressure compensation button may include a depressible interface. The depressible interface may define an outer surface of the electronic device. The button may include a haptic switch. The button may include a first accumulator, such as a first piston or plunger. The first accumulator may be associated with the depressible interface. The first pressure accumulator may be configured to receive a first hydrostatic pressure. The button may include a second accumulator, such as a second piston or plunger. The second accumulator may be configured to receive a second hydrostatic pressure. The second accumulator may digest the first accumulator, such as via a mechanical linkage, to limit actuation of the haptic switch via the first hydrostatic pressure. Additional systems and methods are also disclosed.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 584,325, filed on September 21, 2023, and entitled “PRESSURE COMPENSATING BUTTON,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference into this document. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments described herein generally relate to electronic devices. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to pressure compensated buttons. Background Art

[0004] Sealed electronic device buttons may include a piston and a seal to prevent the ingress of water or other fluids and allow the button force to be transmitted to a tactile switch. However, when underwater, at certain depths and pressures, the hydrostatic pressure on the piston may provide enough force on the button to trigger the tactile switch, rendering the button unusable. To address this situation, some electronic devices may detect immersion and disable the use of the button. However, disabling the button reduces the functionality of the electronic device when submerged.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a pressure compensating button that addresses the above-mentioned deficiencies or at least provides an alternative to current systems and devices. Summary of the invention

[0006] Various examples of the present disclosure include an electronic device. The electronic device may include a housing and a button assembly. The housing may define an internal volume. The button assembly may include a pressable interface. The pressable interface may define an outer surface of the electronic device. The button assembly may include a tactile switch. The button assembly may include a first accumulator. The first accumulator may be associated with the pressable interface. The first accumulator may be configured to receive a first fluid static pressure. The button assembly may include a second accumulator. The second accumulator may be coupled to the first accumulator. The second accumulator may be configured to receive a second fluid static pressure.

[0007] In one example, the button assembly may include a mechanical linkage coupling the second accumulator to the first accumulator. The second accumulator may reduce the force applied by the first accumulator to the tactile switch. In one example, the button assembly may include a lever disposed in the internal volume. The first accumulator may include a first piston extending from the depressible interface and passing through the housing into the internal volume to contact the lever at a first contact point. The second accumulator may include a second piston extending through the housing into the internal volume to contact the lever at a second contact point. The button assembly may include a fulcrum disposed between the first contact point and the second contact point, and the lever may pivot about the fulcrum. In one example, the tactile switch may be configured to contact the lever between the fulcrum and the second contact point. In one example, the electronic device may include a first seal disposed between the first piston and the housing. The electronic device may include a second seal disposed between the second piston and the housing. In one example, the first contact point may be located at a first distance from the fulcrum. The second contact point may be located at a second distance from the fulcrum. The first distance may be less than the second distance. In one example, the first piston may apply a first force on the lever. The second piston may apply a second force on the lever. The tactile switch may apply a third force on the lever. The pressable interface may apply a fourth force on the lever. In one example, the first piston may include a first diameter. The second piston may include a second diameter. The second diameter may be sized relative to the first diameter such that the third force is zero when the fourth force is zero.

[0008] Various examples of the present disclosure include a button assembly. The button assembly may include a depressible interface that is exposed to an external environment. The button assembly may include a lever that is isolated from the external environment and includes a fulcrum. The button assembly may include a first piston that has a first size. The first piston may be exposed to the external environment. The first piston may extend from the depressible interface to apply a first force on the lever at a first contact point. The button assembly may include a second piston that has a second size. The second piston may be exposed to the external environment. The second piston may be configured to apply a second force on the lever at a second contact point. The second force may be configured to reduce the first force. The button assembly may include a tactile switch.

[0009] In one example, the fulcrum may be arranged between the first contact point and the second contact point. In one example, the tactile switch may be arranged between the fulcrum and the second contact point. In one example, the tactile switch may be configured to apply a third force on the lever. The depressible interface may be configured to apply a fourth force on the lever. The size of the second piston may be set relative to the first piston so that when the fourth force is zero, the third force is zero. In one example, the first piston may be cylindrical. The first size may include a first diameter of the first piston. The second piston may be cylindrical. The second size may include a second diameter of the second piston. The size of the second diameter may be set relative to the first diameter so that when the fourth force is zero, the third force is zero. In one example, the first piston may be movable through a first watertight seal that isolates the external environment from the internal environment. The second piston may be movable through a second watertight seal that isolates the external environment from the internal environment. In one example, the tactile switch may be isolated from the external environment via the first watertight seal and the second watertight seal.

[0010] Various examples of the present disclosure include a pressure compensation system for an electronic device. The pressure compensation system may include a housing. The housing may define an internal volume. The housing may define a piston orifice. The housing may define a reference orifice. The pressure compensation system may include a button assembly. The button assembly may include a piston extending through the piston orifice into the internal volume. The pressure compensation system may include a differential pressure sensor. The differential pressure sensor may be configured to measure a first pressure within the internal volume. The differential pressure sensor may be configured to measure a second pressure of the reference orifice.

[0011] In one example, the pressure compensation system may include a seal disposed between the piston and the housing. The internal volume may be isolated from the external environment and may be defined between the seal and the differential pressure sensor. In one example, the pressure compensation system may include a gel disposed in the reference orifice. In one example, the piston may be exposed to the external environment. In one example, the button assembly may include a pressable interface. The pressable interface may be exposed to the external environment and may define an outer surface of the electronic device. The piston may extend from the pressable interface. The piston may move through the piston orifice to change the size of the internal volume. In one example, the diameter of the piston may be equal to the diameter of the reference orifice. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The present disclosure will be readily understood through the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like structural elements, and in which:

[0013] Figure 1A An example of a wearable electronic device is shown;

[0014] Figure 1B shows a top view of a portion of a wearable electronic device;

[0015] Figure 1C A bottom view of a portion of a wearable electronic device is shown;

[0016] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a pressure compensation button; and

[0017] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another pressure-compensated button is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference will now be made in detail to the representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover substitutions, modifications and equivalents that may be included in the essence and scope of the described embodiments defined by the appended claims.

[0019] The following disclosure relates to a pressure compensating button for an electronic device. The pressure compensating button may include various configurations and arrangements to limit undesired actuation of a switch due to hydrostatic pressure. For example, the pressure compensating button may limit actuation due to hydrostatic pressure when diving or swimming deep below the surface of the water. Thus, the pressure compensating button may be used at depth.

[0020] The pressure-compensated buttons disclosed herein can compensate (e.g., automatically, passively, etc.) for hydrostatic pressure so that normal functionality and tactile feedback are maintained at depth. In some examples, a mechanical linkage or system can be used to compensate for the force from the hydrostatic pressure. For example, the pressure-compensated button can include a second reference piston to dissipate or counteract the hydrostatic force applied to the button piston.

[0021] In some examples, a pressure compensated button can use one or more sensors, sensor systems, or sensor arrangements to compensate for hydrostatic pressure. For example, a button piston can be attached to a pressure sensor (e.g., a differential pressure sensor) using a sealed volume. The differential sensor can then be used to compensate for hydrostatic pressure by exposing the differential sensor to the external environment (such as via a gel or an additional sealed piston). In such examples, the differential sensor can be activated when the pressure in the sealed volume exceeds a reference pressure (+ / - threshold) of the external environment.

[0022] The following will refer to Figures 1 to Figure 3to discuss these examples and other examples. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description of these figures given herein is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. In addition, as used herein, a system, method, article, component, feature, or sub-feature comprising at least one of a first option, a second option, or a third option should be understood to refer to a system, method, article, component, feature, or sub-feature that may include one of each listed option (e.g., only one first option, only one second option, only one third option), multiple of a single listed option (e.g., two or more first options), two options at the same time (e.g., one first option and one second option), or a combination thereof (e.g., two first options and one second option).

[0023] Figure 1A An example of an electronic device 100 is shown. Figure 1A The electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is a watch, such as a smart watch. Figure 1A The smartwatch is merely a representative example of a device that can be used in conjunction with the systems and methods disclosed herein. The electronic device 100 may correspond to any form of wearable electronic device, portable media player, media storage device, portable digital assistant ("PDA"), tablet computer, computer, mobile communication device, GPS unit, remote control device, or other electronic device. The electronic device 100 may be referred to as an electronic device or a consumer device. In some examples, the electronic device 100 may include a housing 102 that may, for example, carry operating components in an interior volume at least partially defined by the housing. The electronic device 100 may also include a strap 104 or other retaining component that can secure the device 100 to the user's body as desired. Reference is made below to Figure 1B Further details of the electronic equipment are provided.

[0024] Figure 1B An electronic device 100 (e.g., a smart watch) is illustrated, which may be substantially similar to the devices described herein (including Figure 1A The electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 1 , but without the strip 104, and may include some or all of the features of the devices described herein. The device 100 may include a housing 102 and a display assembly 106 attached to the housing 102. The housing 102 may substantially define at least a portion of an exterior surface of the device 100.

[0025] Display assembly 106 can include glass, plastic, or any other substantially transparent outer layer, material, component, or assembly. As described herein, display assembly 106 can include multiple layers, each of which provides a unique function. Thus, display assembly 106 can be an interface component or a portion of an interface component. Display assembly 106 can define a front outer surface of device 100, and as described herein, the outer surface can be considered an interface surface. In some examples, the interface surface defined by display assembly 106 can receive input from a user, such as a touch input.

[0026] In some examples, the housing 102 may be a substantially continuous or unified component and may define one or more openings to receive components of the electronic device 100. In some examples, the electronic device 100 may include input components, such as one or more buttons 108 and / or a crown 110 that may be disposed in the opening. In some examples, a material may be disposed between the button 108 and / or the crown 110 and the housing 102 to provide an airtight and / or watertight seal at the location of the opening. The housing 102 may also define one or more openings or orifices, such as an orifice 112, which may allow sound to pass into or out of the internal volume defined by the housing 102. For example, the orifice 112 may be in communication with a microphone component disposed in the internal volume. In some examples, one or more orifices 112 may be in communication with a speaker component disposed in the internal volume. In some examples, the housing 102 may define or include a feature such as a recess to removably couple the housing 102 and a strip or retaining component.

[0027] Figure 1C A bottom perspective view of electronic device 100 is shown. Device 100 may include a back cover 114, which may be attached to housing 102, for example, relative to display assembly 106. Back cover 114 may include ceramic, plastic, metal, or a combination thereof. In some examples, back cover 114 may include at least partially electromagnetically transparent components 116. Electromagnetically transparent components 116 may be transparent to electromagnetic radiation (such as visible light, infrared light, radio waves, or a combination thereof) of any desired wavelength. In some examples, electromagnetically transparent components 116 may allow sensors and / or transmitters disposed in housing 102 to communicate with an external environment. Housing 102, display assembly 106, and back cover 114 may define the internal volume and external surface of device 100 together.

[0028] In some examples, electronic device 100 may include one or more sensors 120 . Figure 1C The electronic device 100 shown includes a plurality of sensors 120. However, Figure 1CThe embodiment illustrated in the foregoing is only a representative example, and the electronic device 100 may include any number of sensors 120, including a single sensor 120 or more than two sensors 120. The sensors 120 may be configured to detect characteristics of the surrounding environment. For example, one or more sensors 120 may detect atmospheric pressure, altitude, the presence of water or fluid, or underwater depth, among other characteristics. In such examples, one or more sensors 120 may include a depth sensor, an altimeter, a pressure sensor, and the like.

[0029] Figures 1A to 1C Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any of the other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown in other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figures 1A to 1C Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0030] As described above, portable, wearable electronic devices can be designed to be used in many different environments and during any kind of activity throughout the day by a user. For example, wearable electronic watches, headphones, and phones can be carried by a user while exercising, sleeping, driving, riding, hiking, swimming, diving, in the rain, in the sun, etc. The wearable electronic devices described herein are configured to withstand a wide variety of and often harsh conditions in a variety of environments, including changing environments and humid environments. Humid environments can include, for example, wearing the device in the rain or while submerged in water during bathing, swimming, or diving.

[0031] Examples of electronic devices disclosed herein include components, features, arrangements, and configurations that facilitate use in different environments. For example, electronic devices disclosed herein include components, features, arrangements, and configurations that maintain use of the device underwater, such as when diving deep below the surface of the water. In some examples, electronic devices disclosed herein include button configurations that compensate for hydrostatic pressure applied to the buttons, such as to limit undesired actuation of the buttons due to hydrostatic pressure.

[0032] Along these lines, Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a pressure compensating button or button assembly 202 (hereinafter referred to as a "button" for convenience) is shown. As described herein, the button 202 can limit undesired actuation from external forces or pressures. For example, the button 202 can include one or more features to limit actuation caused by hydrostatic pressure when diving or swimming deep below the surface of the water. In this way, the button 202 can operate under varying environments and conditions. Therefore, the button 202 can define or form at least a portion of a pressure compensation system.

[0033] To resist external pressure (e.g., hydrostatic pressure), the button 202 can include a compensation mechanism. The compensation mechanism can be passive to compensate for varying pressures applied to a pressure region of the button 202. For example, the compensation mechanism can passively compensate for ambient pressure so that the button 202 can be used under pressure, as described herein.

[0034] Figure 2 A button 202 associated with an electronic device 100 is shown, wherein the housing 102 of the electronic device 100 defines an internal volume 204. In such examples, electronic components may be disposed in the internal volume 204. The electronic components may include a processor, a memory, or other electronic devices. In one example, the button 202 may include a depressible interface 206. In such examples, the depressible interface 206 may be pressed by a user to actuate the button 202. The depressible interface 206 may be exposed to an external environment, such as an outer surface defining the electronic device 100, but other configurations may also be envisioned. In one example, the button 202 may include a tactile switch 210. When pressure is applied to actuate the tactile switch 210, the switch may provide tactile feedback to the user. For example, the tactile switch 210 may provide tactile feedback when actuated, such as an audible and / or physical click. In one example, the tactile switch 210 may be a tactile dome switch. When pressed, the dome collapses to provide tactile feedback and complete the circuit.

[0035] In one example, the button 202 may include a first accumulator 216. At least a portion of the first accumulator 216 may be exposed to the external environment to receive external pressure. In a specific example, the first accumulator 216 is configured to receive a first fluid static pressure. In such an example, the external pressure (e.g., the first fluid static pressure) may provide a first force F1 on the first accumulator 216.

[0036] The first accumulator 216 may be associated with the depressible interface 206. For example, the first accumulator 216 may include a first piston or plunger 218 (hereinafter referred to as "first piston" for convenience). The first piston 218 may be at least partially exposed to the external environment. In one example, the first piston 218 (which may be referred to as a button piston) may extend from the depressible interface 206. The first piston 218 may extend through the housing 102 into the internal volume 204. In such examples, the first force F1 may bias the first piston 218 into the housing 102. The first force F1 may be based on the size of the first piston 218. For example, the first piston 218 may have a first size. In one example, the first piston 218 is cylindrical, and the first size includes a first diameter of the first piston 218. In such examples, a first piston 218 of a larger size (e.g., a larger diameter) may result in a larger first force F1. Conversely, a first piston 218 of a smaller size (e.g., a smaller diameter) may result in a smaller first force F1. As shown, the first seal 220 can be disposed between the first piston 218 and the housing 102. In this manner, the first piston 218 can move through the first watertight seal that isolates the external environment from the internal environment. Additionally, according to various embodiments, the first piston 218 and / or the second piston 226 can have any geometric cross-section, and the combined force applied by the first piston 218 and / or the second piston 226 is commensurate with the cross-sectional area of ​​the piston.

[0037] In one example, the button 202 may include a second accumulator 224. At least a portion of the second accumulator 224 may be exposed to the external environment to receive the external pressure. In a specific example, the second accumulator 224 is configured to receive a second fluid static pressure. In such an example, the external pressure (e.g., the second fluid static pressure) may provide a second force F2 on the second accumulator 224.

[0038] The second accumulator 224 may include a second piston or plunger 226 (hereinafter referred to as the "second piston" for convenience). The second piston 226 may be at least partially exposed to the external environment. In one example, the second piston 226 (which may be referred to as a reference piston) may extend through the housing 102 into the internal volume 204. In such examples, a second force F2 may bias the second piston 226 into the housing 102. The second force F2 may be based on the size of the second piston 226. For example, the second piston 226 may have a second size. In one example, the second piston 226 is cylindrical, and the second size includes a second diameter of the second piston 226. In such examples, a second piston 226 of a larger size (e.g., a larger diameter) may result in a larger second force F2. Conversely, a second piston 226 of a smaller size (e.g., a smaller diameter) may result in a smaller second force F2. Alternatively, the second piston 226 may have a non-cylindrical shape (such as a cylinder with an enlarged cap) that allows more or less hydrostatic pressure (depending on the shape) to affect the second force F2. As shown, a second seal 228 may be disposed between the second piston 226 and the housing. In this way, the second piston 226 may move through the second watertight seal that isolates the external environment from the internal environment. In one example, the tactile switch 210 may be configured such as Figure 2 The illustrated approach is isolated from the external environment via a first watertight seal and a second watertight seal.

[0039] The second accumulator 224 can reduce the force applied by the first accumulator 216 on the tactile switch 210. For example, the second accumulator 224 can at least partially counteract the first accumulator 216 to limit actuation of the tactile switch 210 via the first fluid static pressure. For example, the tactile switch 210 can be positioned so that sufficient first force F1 actuates the tactile switch 210. In such examples, increasing the fluid static pressure on the first piston 218 can cause the first piston 218 to actuate the tactile switch 210. The second piston 226 can be positioned so that the second force F2 reduces, counteracts, or offsets at least a portion of the first force F1. In such examples, the increased fluid static pressure can increase the second force F2 to counteract the increased first force F1, thereby limiting undesired actuation of the tactile switch 210 due to the increased fluid static pressure.

[0040] The second accumulator 224 may be coupled to the first accumulator 216. In one example, the button 202 may include a mechanical linkage 230 for compensating for increased fluid static pressure. As shown, the mechanical linkage 230 may couple the second accumulator 224 to the first accumulator 216, such as coupling the second piston 226 to the first piston 218. In such examples, the second fluid static pressure applied to the second piston 226 may reduce, cancel or offset the first fluid static pressure applied to the first piston 218, or vice versa. In this manner and in other manners, the mechanical linkage 230 may be configured such that the second fluid static pressure received by the second accumulator 224 at least partially cancels the first fluid static pressure received by the first accumulator 216. The second accumulator 224 that at least partially cancels the first fluid static pressure may allow the button 202 to be used in an environment with a greater overall fluid static pressure without undesired or unintentional button actuation. Although a mechanical linkage 230 is shown, the second accumulator 224 may be coupled to the first accumulator 216 in other ways. For example, the accumulators 216, 224 may be coupled mechanically, hydraulically, or electronically (eg, via sensors), among other configurations, without limitation.

[0041] As shown, button 202 may include lever 234 and fulcrum 236. Lever 234 and / or fulcrum 236 may be isolated from the external environment, such as being disposed in internal volume 204. As shown, first piston 218 may extend from pressable interface 206 and pass through housing into internal volume 204 to contact lever 234 at first contact point 238. In such examples, first piston 218 may extend from pressable interface 206 to apply first force F1 on lever 234 (e.g., at first contact point 238). Similarly, second piston 226 may extend through housing into internal volume 204 to contact lever 234 at second contact point 240. Second piston 226 may be configured to apply second force F2 on lever 234 (e.g., at second contact point 240). As shown, fulcrum 236 may be disposed between first contact point 238 and second contact point 240, wherein lever 234 may pivot around fulcrum 236.

[0042] The lever 234 can be configured to actuate the tactile switch 210. For example, the pivotable movement of the lever 234 about the fulcrum 236 can apply pressure to the tactile switch 210 to actuate the switch. In such an example, the tactile switch 210 can apply a third force F on the lever 234. T A third force F may be applied to the lever 234 at the third contact point 246 T .exist Figure 2In the example illustrated in FIG. 2 , the tactile switch 210 may be disposed between the fulcrum 236 and the second contact point 240. The tactile switch 210 may be configured to contact the lever 234 between the fulcrum 236 and the second contact point 240. In such an example, the tactile switch 210 may apply a third force F on the lever 234 between the fulcrum 236 and the second contact point 240. T In this manner, the tactile switch 210 can act on the same side of the lever 234 as the second piston 226, but other configurations are also contemplated. Such examples are non-limiting, and the tactile switch 210 can be positioned at other locations along the lever 234, on various sides of the fulcrum 236, and in various orientations.

[0043] In one example, the depressible interface 206 can exert a fourth force F on the lever 234. 按钮 (For example, button force). Fourth force F 按钮 It can be the force applied by the user to actuate the button 202. As shown in the figure, the fourth force F 按钮 The fourth force F may be applied to the lever 234 via the first piston 218. In such an example, the fourth force F 按钮 may be applied to the lever 234 at the first contact point 238. Therefore, the total force acting on the lever 234 at the first contact point 238 may be the first force F1 and the fourth force F 按钮 combination.

[0044] The pivotable movement of the lever 234 about the fulcrum 236 to actuate the tactile switch 210 can be based on a force / torque balance about the fulcrum 236. For example, the first contact point 238 can be located at a first distance D1 from the fulcrum 236. The second contact point 240 can be located at a second distance D2 from the fulcrum 236. The third contact point 246 can be located at a third distance D T The first distance D1 may be different from the second distance D2. For example, the first distance D1 may be smaller than the second distance D2. T The third distance D may be different from the first distance D1 and / or the second distance D2. T It may be smaller than the first distance D1 and / or the second distance D2. As shown in the figure, the first force F1 may be parallel to the second force F2. Similarly, the third force may be parallel to the first force F1 and / or the second force F2.

[0045] The force / torque balance about the pivot point 236 can be expressed using the following equation 1:

[0046] (F 按钮 +F1)D1=F T D T +F2D2 (Equation 1)

[0047] Solve for the third force F T, the force acting on the tactile switch 210 can be expressed using the following equation 2:

[0048] F T =((F 按钮 +F1)D1-F2D2) / D T (Equation 2)

[0049] The first piston 218 and the second piston 226 may be sized such that when no force is acting on the depressible interface 206 (ie, when the fourth force F 按钮 is zero), even if the first piston 218 and the second piston 226 are affected by the hydrostatic pressure, the force (for example, the third force F T ) is also zero. For example, the size of the second piston 226 can be set relative to the first piston 218 so that when the fourth force F 按钮 When the third force F is zero, T In one example, the second diameter of the second piston 226 can be sized relative to the first diameter of the first piston 218 such that when the fourth force F 按钮 When the third force F is zero, T is zero.

[0050] In this way, the hydrostatic pressure can be mitigated (e.g., increased) such as in a passive manner to ensure underwater operation of the button 202. For example, undesired actuation of the button 202 due to the hydrostatic pressure can be limited by the torque generated by the second force F2 (which cancels or counteracts the torque generated by the first force F1).

[0051] refer to Figure 2 The specific features described are for exemplary purposes only, and the button 202 may include other features and configurations. For example, the button 202 may include other components and arrangements that utilize counteracting forces to balance the hydrostatic forces acting on the button 202. As an example, the hydrostatic pressure may be applied to opposite sides of the depressible interface 206 such that the hydrostatic pressure does not bias the depressible interface 206 to move in either direction.

[0052] Figure 2 Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any of the other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown in other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 2 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0053] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another pressure compensation system 300 is shown. Figure 3 The pressure compensation system 300 illustrated in the example can use one or more sensors or sensor systems to detect and / or compensate for fluid static pressure, rather than relying on physical or mechanical linkages. For example, one or more sensors or systems can compensate for ambient pressure so that a button can be used under pressure, as described herein.

[0054] As shown, the pressure compensation system 300 may include a button or button assembly 302 (hereinafter referred to as a "button" for convenience). Similar to the button 202, the button 302 may limit undesired actuation from an external force or pressure (e.g., hydrostatic pressure). The button 302 may be associated with the electronic device 100, wherein the housing 102 of the electronic device 100 defines an internal volume 304. In one example, the button 302 may include a pressable interface 306. Similar to the pressable interface 206, the pressable interface 306 may be pressed by a user to actuate the button 302. The pressable interface 306 may be exposed to an external environment, such as an outer surface defining the electronic device 100, but other configurations are also contemplated. In one example, for the purpose of detailed description herein, the button 302 may include a differential pressure sensor 308.

[0055] In one example, the housing 102 may define a plurality of apertures, such as a piston port or aperture 312 and a reference port or aperture 314. In such an example, the button 302 may include a plunger or piston 318 extending through the piston aperture 312 into the interior volume 304. At least a portion of the piston 318 may be exposed to the external environment. In such an example, an external pressure (e.g., a hydrostatic pressure) may provide a first force F1 on the piston 318.

[0056] The piston 318 may extend from the depressible interface 306. In one example, the piston 318 may move through the piston aperture 312 to change the size of the internal volume 304. For example, a larger portion of the piston 318 may be positioned in the internal volume 304, thereby reducing the size of the internal volume 304. Conversely, reducing the size of the portion positioned in the internal volume 304 may increase the size of the internal volume 304. In such examples, the first force F1 may bias the piston 318 into the housing 102. The first force F1 may be based on the size of the piston 318. The piston 318 may be cylindrical with a certain diameter. In such examples, a larger diameter may result in a larger first force F1. Conversely, a smaller diameter may result in a smaller first force F1.

[0057] As shown, a seal 320 may be disposed between the piston 318 and the housing 102. In this manner, the internal volume 304 may be isolated from the external environment and defined between the seal and the differential pressure sensor 308. In such an example, the internal volume 304 may have a first pressure P1. The first pressure P1 (which may be a sensed pressure) may vary based on the position of the piston 318 in the internal volume 304. For example, movement of the piston 318 into the internal volume 304 may increase the first pressure P1. Conversely, reducing the size of the piston 318 within the internal volume 304 may reduce the first pressure P1.

[0058] In one example, the pressure compensation system 300 may include a gel 322 disposed in the reference orifice 314. The gel 322 may extend from the differential pressure sensor 308 to the external environment in the reference orifice 314. The gel 322 may be a silicone gel or other similar material. Such examples are merely illustrative, and the reference orifice 314 may be filled with other materials or components, such as a sealing piston or plunger in one example. An external pressure (e.g., a hydrostatic pressure) may provide a second force F2 on the gel 322 or other components in the reference orifice 314. In such examples, the second force F2 may cause the reference orifice 314 to have a second pressure P2, which may be a reference pressure.

[0059] The differential pressure sensor 308 can be configured to measure a sensed pressure and a reference pressure. For example, the differential pressure sensor 308 can measure a first pressure P1 within the internal volume 304 and a second pressure P2 referenced to the orifice 314. In this manner, the differential pressure sensor 308 can be exposed to two different media, such as the external environment and the trapped medium within the internal volume 304.

[0060] When the first pressure P1 exceeds the minimum pressure, the differential pressure sensor 308 may be activated. For example, when the first pressure P1 is greater than the second pressure P2 plus a threshold (see Equation 3 below), the differential pressure sensor 308 may be activated. In such examples, the threshold may be predetermined based on one or more characteristics of the pressure compensation system 300, the electronic device 100, or the environment.

[0061] P1>(P2+threshold) (Equation 3)

[0062] The increase in the first pressure P1 relative to the second pressure P2 may be caused by a third force F applied to the depressible interface 306. 按钮 (e.g., button force). The third force F 按钮 It can be the force applied by the user to actuate the button 302. The third force F 按钮 A force may be applied to the piston 318 to move the piston 318 through the piston aperture 312 and into the interior volume 304 .

[0063] In one example, the diameter of the piston 318 can be equal to or substantially equal to the diameter of the reference orifice 314. In such an example, when no force is acting on the depressible interface 306 (ie, when the third force F 按钮 is zero), even if the first pressure P1 and the second pressure P2 change due to the changing fluid static pressure, the first pressure P1 may be equal to or substantially equal to the second pressure P2.

[0064] In some examples, the pressure compensation system 300 may include other features. For example, the button 302 may include a haptic engine or component to provide desired tactile feedback, such as an audible and / or physical click, when the button 302 is actuated. In some examples, the pressure compensation system 300 may utilize sensor inputs from other sensors of the electronic device 100. For example, the pressure compensation system 300 may utilize sensor inputs from a depth sensor, a touch sensor, a speaker, etc. to determine when to activate the differential pressure sensor 308, such as determining the threshold of the above equation 3. In some examples, the pressure compensation system 300 may include one or more compensation bridges extending through the housing 102 to balance the first pressure P1 and the second pressure P2.

[0065] Figure 3 Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any of the other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown in other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 3 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0066] To the extent applicable to the present technology, the collection and use of data obtained from various sources may be used to improve the delivery of inspirational content or any other content that may be of interest to the user. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, the collected data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data may include demographic data, location-based data, phone numbers, email addresses, ID, home address, data or records related to the user's health or fitness level (e.g., vital sign measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information.

[0067] The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data in the present technology can be used to benefit users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that users are more interested in. Therefore, the use of such personal information data enables users to have planned control over the content delivered. In addition, the present disclosure also anticipates other uses of personal information data that benefit users. For example, health and fitness data can be used to provide insights into the user's overall health status, or can be used as positive feedback to individuals who use technology to pursue health goals.

[0068] The disclosure anticipates that entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transmission, storage or other uses of such personal information data will comply with sound privacy policies and / or privacy practices. Specifically, such entities should implement and adhere to the use of privacy policies and privacy practices that are recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or government requirements for maintaining the privacy and security of personal information data. Such policies should be easy for users to access and should be updated as changes in the collection and / or use of data occur. Personal information from users should be collected for legal and reasonable entity purposes and should not be shared or sold outside these legal purposes. In addition, such collection / sharing should be carried out after receiving the user's informed consent. In addition, such entities should consider taking any necessary steps to protect and safeguard access to such personal information data, and ensure that other entities with access to personal information data comply with the privacy policies and procedures of other entities. In addition, such entities can subject themselves to third-party assessments to prove that they comply with widely accepted privacy policies and privacy practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted to specific types of personal information data collected and / or accessed, and to applicable laws and standards including considerations of special jurisdictions. For example, in the United States, the collection or acquisition of certain health data may be governed by federal and / or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); while health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Therefore, different privacy practices should be advocated for different types of personal data in each country.

[0069] Regardless of the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates implementation schemes in which users selectively block the use or access of personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware elements and / or software elements may be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, with respect to an advertising delivery service, the technology of the present invention may be configured to allow a user to choose to "opt in" or "opt out" at any time during or after registration for the service to participate in the collection of personal information data. In another example, a user may choose not to provide emotion-related data for a target content delivery service. In another example, a user may choose to limit the length of time that emotion-related data is retained, or to completely prohibit the development of basic emotional conditions. In addition to providing "opt-in" and "opt-out" options, the present disclosure also contemplates providing notifications related to access or use of personal information. For example, a user may be notified that the user's personal information data will be accessed when downloading an application, and then the user may be reminded again just before the personal information data is accessed by the application.

[0070] In addition, it is the intention of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and processed in a manner that minimizes the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Once the data is no longer needed, the risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting the data. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health-related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect the privacy of users. De-identification can be facilitated by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at the city level rather than at the address level), controlling how the data is stored (e.g., aggregating data between users), and / or other methods when appropriate.

[0071] Thus, while the present disclosure broadly covers the use of personal information data to implement one or more of the various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that various embodiments may also be implemented without requiring access to such personal information data. That is, various embodiments of the present technology will not fail to function properly due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content may be selected and delivered to a user by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or an absolute minimum amount of personal information, such as content requested by a device associated with the user, other non-personal information available to a content delivery service, or publicly available information.

[0072] For the purpose of illustration, the foregoing description uses specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practice the embodiments. Therefore, for the purpose of illustration and description, the foregoing description of the specific embodiments described herein is presented. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the disclosed precise forms. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that, in view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are feasible.

Claims

1. An electronic device, comprising: a housing defining an interior volume; and A button component, the button component comprising: a depressible interface defining an outer surface of the electronic device; Tactile switches; a first pressure accumulator associated with the depressible interface and configured to receive a first fluid static pressure; and A second accumulator is coupled to the first accumulator and is configured to receive a second fluid static pressure.

2. An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the button assembly includes a mechanical linkage device coupling the second accumulator to the first accumulator, wherein the second accumulator reduces the force applied by the first accumulator on the tactile switch.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the button assembly comprises: a lever disposed in the interior volume; the first accumulator including a first piston extending from the depressible interface and through the housing into the interior volume to contact the lever at a first contact point; the second accumulator including a second piston extending through the housing into the interior volume to contact the lever at a second contact point; and A fulcrum is disposed between the first contact point and the second contact point, and the lever is capable of pivoting around the fulcrum. 4 . The electronic device of claim 3 , wherein the tactile switch is configured to contact the lever between the fulcrum and the second contact point.

5. The electronic device according to claim 3, further comprising: a first sealing member disposed between the first piston and the housing; and A second seal is disposed between the second piston and the housing.

6. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein: The first contact point is located at a first distance from the fulcrum; The second contact point is located at a second distance from the fulcrum; and The first distance is smaller than the second distance.

7. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein: The first piston exerts a first force on the lever; The second piston applies a second force on the lever; The tactile switch applies a third force on the lever; and The depressible interface exerts a fourth force on the lever.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein: The first piston comprises a first diameter; The second piston comprises a second diameter; and The second diameter is sized relative to the first diameter such that the third force is zero when the fourth force is zero.

9. A button assembly, comprising: a depressible interface, the depressible interface being exposed to an external environment; a lever, the lever being isolated from the external environment, the lever comprising a fulcrum; a first piston having a first size, the first piston being exposed to the external environment and extending from the depressible interface to exert a first force on the lever at a first contact point; a second piston having a second size, the second piston being exposed to the external environment and configured to exert a second force on the lever at a second contact point, the second force being configured to reduce the first force; and Tactile switch. 10 . The button assembly of claim 9 , wherein the fulcrum is disposed between the first contact point and the second contact point.

11. The button assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The tactile switch is configured to exert a third force on the lever; The depressible interface is configured to exert a fourth force on the lever; and The second piston is sized relative to the first piston such that the third force is zero when the fourth force is zero.

12. The button assembly according to claim 11, wherein: the first piston is cylindrical, and the first dimension comprises a first diameter of the first piston; The second piston is cylindrical, and the second dimension comprises a second diameter of the second piston; and The second diameter is sized relative to the first diameter such that the third force is zero when the fourth force is zero.

13. The button assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The first piston is movable through a first watertight seal isolating the external environment from an internal environment; and The second piston is movable through a second watertight seal isolating the external environment from the internal environment.

14. The button assembly of claim 13, wherein the tactile switch is isolated from the external environment via the first watertight seal and the second watertight seal.

15. A pressure compensation system for an electronic device, comprising: A housing, the housing defining: Internal volume; Piston orifice; and Reference orifice; a button assembly including a piston extending through the piston aperture into the interior volume; and Differential pressure sensor, the differential pressure sensor is configured to measure: a first pressure within the interior volume; and a second pressure at the reference orifice.

16. The pressure compensation system of claim 15, wherein: The pressure compensation system further includes a seal disposed between the piston and the housing; and The interior volume is isolated from an external environment and is defined between the seal and the differential pressure sensor.

17. The pressure compensation system of claim 16, further comprising a gel disposed in the reference orifice.

18. The pressure compensation system of claim 17, wherein the piston is exposed to the external environment.

19. The pressure compensation system of claim 16, wherein: The button assembly further includes a depressible interface exposed to the external environment and defining an exterior surface of the electronic device; and The piston extends from the depressible interface and is movable through the piston aperture to change the size of the interior volume.

20. The pressure compensating system of claim 15, wherein a diameter of the piston is substantially equal to a diameter of the reference orifice.

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