Housing sealing for electronic devices

Abstract

A sealing system for an electronic device includes a first housing component having an opening defining an outer peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface faces outward with respect to a longitudinal axis through the opening. The system also includes a flexible annular gasket. The gasket has a gasket body in contact with the outer peripheral surface. The gasket also has a sealing protrusion extending outwardly from the gasket body along its perimeter. The system also includes a second housing component defining an annular inner peripheral surface. The inner peripheral surface is disposed about and inwardly facing the outer peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface extend along a longitudinal axis. An inner peripheral surface of the second housing member is in contact with the sealing protrusion along its perimeter. This forms a liquid-tight seal between the first housing part and the second housing part, independent of a fastening force applied to the second housing part in a direction towards the first housing part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various examples of the present disclosure generally relate to the field of housings for electronic devices. Various examples of the present disclosure specifically relate to sealing concepts for creating a sealed inner space for housing electronic devices, particularly lighting fixtures. Background Art

[0002] Electronic devices (e.g., outdoor lighting or audio equipment) require protection from the intrusion of external elements (such as water) to ensure their proper operation and longevity. This is usually achieved by using sealing mechanisms between the various components of the housing of such equipment.

[0003] Conventional sealing methods typically use a gasket that is compressed between the two parts using a screw or spring-loaded clamp to generate a compressive force on the gasket. This is to ensure a liquid-tight seal between the housing parts. However, such methods have inherent limitations. One of them is that the part to be sealed needs to be extremely rigid to ensure uniform compression. This usually necessitates the use of thick or metallic materials, resulting in increased weight and cost.

[0004] Alternatively, a large number of screws may be used along the perimeter to achieve the necessary compression force. However, this approach can be very time consuming during servicing or repair of equipment, and the quality of the seal often depends on the torque applied to the screws and the degree of rigidity of the material, making the process inconsistent and dependent on the skill of the operator.

[0005] Additionally, the more complex the housing geometry, the more challenging it is to ensure a secure and effective seal, especially for movable parts such as a moving head in a luminaire. Summary of the invention

[0006]

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for advanced techniques for sealing electronic device enclosures that mitigate or alleviate at least some of the limitations and disadvantages identified above.

[0007] The features of the independent claim meet this need. The features of the dependent claims define further advantageous examples.

[0008] Hereinafter, the solution according to the present disclosure will be described with respect to the claimed sealing system and with respect to the claimed sealing method, wherein features, advantages or alternative embodiments may be assigned to other claimed objects, and vice versa. In other words, the claims related to the system may be improved with features described in the context of the method, and the method may be improved with features described in the context of the system. In addition, the technician should understand that the various features described in the context of the system and method in which the sealing gasket is used for the gasket body on the first shell or housing part (e.g., the frame part), and the sealing protrusion facing the second shell part (e.g., the second frame part or the cover part) are fixed may also be applied in the context of the system and method in which the sealing gasket is used for the gasket body on the second shell or housing part, and the sealing protrusion facing the first shell part is fixed. The technician should understand that in such examples, with necessary modifications, some features will need to be adjusted in order to adapt to the arrangement and orientation of the switch of the gasket.

[0009] A system for producing a sealed enclosure for an electronic device is provided. The system includes a first enclosure component having an opening defining an outer peripheral surface, the outer peripheral surface facing outward relative to an axis passing through the opening, the axis also being referred to as a longitudinal axis relative to the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface.

[0010] For example, the electronic device may include a lamp, a speaker, an amplifier, or generally high-power electronic devices or circuits, such as including at least one processor and memory for executing a computer-implemented process.

[0011] The opening may refer to an aperture or cavity in the first housing component that allows access to the interior space of the housing. This interior space is where the electronic device is intended to be housed and needs to be protected from external elements such as dust, water, etc.

[0012] The opening may be defined by a wall having an outer peripheral surface. This surface represents the border or edge of the opening and may be described as the portion of the first housing component that delimits the space of the opening. Depending on the design requirements of the housing, this surface may be at least partially flat, curved, have convex and / or concave areas. It may be circular, oval, rectangular or any other free form suitable for a particular application or a particular type of device to be accommodated.

[0013] The longitudinal axis represents an imaginary line that extends through the center of the opening defined by the first housing member. The axis can extend from one side of the opening to the other side and is perpendicular to the area of ​​the opening. The axis can be used as a reference line for the relative positioning and orientation of system components (including the first housing member and the second housing member and the gasket). The orientation of these components relative to this axis, their displacement along the axis, and their angular orientation relative to the axis are critical to the operation of the system. In this regard, inside or facing the inside refers to the direction toward the axis, while outside or facing the outside refers to the direction away from the axis. The axial direction refers to the direction along the axis. The axis can be referred to as the longitudinal direction with reference to the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface, which are closed surfaces extending in a ring around the axis.

[0014] The system further comprises a flexible annular gasket, wherein the gasket comprises a gasket body in contact with the outer peripheral surface and a sealing protrusion extending outwardly from the gasket body along its periphery (ie in a direction away from the longitudinal axis, in particular radially outwardly).

[0015] The system also includes a second housing component defining an annular inner peripheral surface disposed about the outer peripheral surface and facing inwardly toward the outer peripheral surface.

[0016] The outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface extend in an axial direction, or in other words along a longitudinal axis.The inner peripheral surface of the second housing component is in contact with the sealing projection along its periphery, thereby forming a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component.

[0017] The longitudinal axis also serves as a reference for the arrangement of the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface is defined by the opening of the first housing component. The outer peripheral surface is oriented so that it faces outward relative to the longitudinal axis. This surface is in contact with the gasket body and extends along the longitudinal axis, which means that its orientation and arrangement are consistent with the direction along this axis.

[0018] Similarly, the inner peripheral surface (which may also be referred to as the inwardly facing or inner sealing surface) is a portion of the second housing component. It is arranged outside around the outer peripheral surface and is oriented to face the outer peripheral surface inwardly. Like the outer peripheral surface, the inner peripheral surface also extends along the longitudinal axis.

[0019] The outer peripheral surface may also be referred to as the outwardly facing boundary of the opening in the first housing component. It may also be referred to as the outwardly facing or outer sealing surface. The outer peripheral surface may extend around the periphery of the opening and away from the longitudinal axis through the opening. This outer peripheral surface is the area where the gasket body makes contact, and it is also the surface along which the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component slides or moves.

[0020] The outer sealing surface may be the portion of the outer peripheral surface that is in direct contact with the sealing gasket, in particular the gasket body. The sealing interaction between the outer sealing surface and the gasket is essential to achieve a liquid-tight seal. This may be provided by the elasticity of the gasket when provided around the perimeter of the outer peripheral surface, or in the case of a concave area of ​​the outer peripheral surface, by an adhesive or glue, or a press fit in a peripheral groove to ensure liquid-tight contact between the gasket and the outer peripheral surface to which the gasket is fixed.

[0021] The physical structure of the first housing component forms the boundary of the opening. The opening and the outer peripheral surface may be defined by a wall and may include a continuous, uninterrupted surface, or it may include multiple interconnected surfaces. The wall may also incorporate features such as grooves or channels that may be used to accommodate a gasket or facilitate movement of the second housing component, as will be described in detail.

[0022] The interior space of the first housing component may be enclosed by the second housing component, the interior space being the volume or area within the first housing component that is accessible through the opening. This may be a space that is intended to house an electronic device and needs to be protected from the external environment. The size and shape of this interior space may vary greatly, depending on the type and configuration of the electronic device it is intended to house. It may also be divided or subdivided into separate areas to house different components or subassemblies of the electronic device.

[0023] In various examples, the system is used to create a sealed housing to protect an electronic device from intrusion of external elements such as dust, water, etc. A first housing component of the system is provided with an opening defining an outer peripheral surface. This outer peripheral surface faces outward relative to a longitudinal axis passing through the opening. The sealing mechanism in this system is a flexible annular gasket, which includes a gasket body and a sealing protrusion. The gasket body is in direct contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component. Extending radially from the gasket body along its perimeter is the sealing protrusion. The second housing component defines an inner peripheral surface, which is arranged to enclose the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component and faces inwardly to this outer peripheral surface. The inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface can be arranged coaxially to extend along the longitudinal axis. The inner peripheral surface of the second housing component contacts the sealing protrusion along its perimeter, thereby forming a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component.

[0024] Thus, a sealing system for an electronic device housing is produced, which effectively prevents the intrusion of external elements such as water, dust, etc. The sealing protrusion of the annular gasket provides an efficient sealing mechanism, which interacts with the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component to produce a liquid-tight seal, wherein the sealing force is independent of the fastening force applied to the second housing component toward the first housing component in the direction along the longitudinal axis. Specifically, this is achieved due to the compression force between the sealing protrusion and the inner peripheral surface being substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the first housing component and the second housing component are fixed to each other. Specifically, the sealing force is independent of the fastening force applied equally around the perimeter of the opening. Therefore, a seal can be formed without relying on a large number of fastening elements or overly rigid materials, and the first housing component and the second housing component can have a higher production tolerance, which can be beneficial in terms of the ease of production and assembly of the entire system. It can also contribute to sealing in housings with complex geometries.

[0025] The system may also be configured such that a linear, in particular translational, displacement of the first and second housing components towards each other in an axial direction along the longitudinal axis results in a linear, in particular translational, displacement of the inner peripheral surface along the outer peripheral surface.

[0026] In various examples, the system can be configured in such a way that moving the first housing component and the second housing component toward each other along the longitudinal axis results in a corresponding linear displacement of the inner peripheral surface along the outer peripheral surface (in particular along the gasket body) without applying direct pressure or force to the gasket body. This means that the second housing component having the inner peripheral surface moves or slides along the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component.

[0027] Thus, the linear displacement of the inner peripheral surface along the outer peripheral surface facilitates the formation of a seal along a wide variety of positions, since the sealing force (i.e., the force between the sealing projection and the inner peripheral surface) is independent of the movement of the first housing component and the second housing component in the axial direction within a predetermined range of movement. The range of movement may be defined by the range of motion of at least one locking element (in other words, a fastening element or device) that secures the two housing components to each other.

[0028] By bringing the sealing protrusion into contact with the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component by linear movement, a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component is established, and a lower positional accuracy is required between the first housing component and the second housing component. No axial force is required to maintain the sealing force, because the compression force between the gasket and the inner peripheral surface and / or the outer peripheral surface is in an orthogonal direction with respect to the axial direction, or within an angle range of 5°, 10° or 20° to the orthogonal direction. In other words, the sealing force is in a direction away from the axis, in particular in a radial direction, wherein the movement of the first housing component and the second housing component is in the axial direction.

[0029] The system may also include at least one locking element (in other words, a fastening element) for fastening the first housing component and the second housing component to each other. The fastening element may be coupled to the first housing component and / or the second housing component. The fastening element may apply a fastening force to the first housing component and / or the second housing component. The fastening element may move or displace the first housing component and / or the second housing component. The fastening movement or fastening displacement or fastening force may be achieved along the longitudinal axis. The locking element may generate a force acting on the second housing component toward the first housing component in the axial direction. The direction of this force is such that it pushes or pulls the second housing component toward the first housing component along the longitudinal axis, which causes the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface to be displaced along each other. This locking element may adopt many examples, such as screws, clamps, latches or any other suitable mechanical fasteners. Specifically, the fastening force may not produce pressure on the gasket body. The fastening force may be in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the protrusion extends from the gasket body, or in a predetermined angle range of <5°, <10° or <20° with the orthogonal direction. The tightening force may be in a direction parallel to the axial direction and / or to the inner peripheral surface and / or the outer peripheral surface, or in a predetermined angular range of <5°, <10° or <20° to the parallel direction. Thus, the tightening force may be independent of the sealing action or the sealing force. In other words, the tightening force does not increase the sealing force or the sealing strength. The tightening force does not result in a movement of the compression gasket body and / or the sealing protrusion of the first housing part and the second housing part relative to each other, or reduce the pressure on the sealing protrusion.

[0030] It should be understood that any angular feature can be seen and / or realized in a cross section, which can be along and include the longitudinal axis, or orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. Any angular feature can be realized at least in the area of ​​the inner peripheral surface and / or the outer peripheral surface that contacts or makes contact with the gasket.

[0031] Thus, the sealing protrusion on the gasket body remains compressed against the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component. This force applied by the locking element helps maintain a liquid-tight seal by ensuring that the components remain securely in contact along the sealing protrusion despite external factors such as vibration, temperature changes or pressure differences.

[0032] At least one sealing projection may extend orthogonally with respect to the inner peripheral surface, or extend within an angular range of <5°, <10° or <20° to the orthogonal direction, wherein the sealing projection extends toward and contacts the inner peripheral surface.

[0033] At least one sealing protrusion on the gasket body may extend orthogonally from the gasket body relative to the longitudinal axis and / or the outer peripheral surface, or extend within a certain angle range formed by the orthogonal direction. This angle range may be less than 5°, 10° or 20°. In other words, the sealing protrusion may be perpendicular to the gasket body, or it may slightly deviate from the vertical direction until a certain angle within the range, so that not only the vertical direction but also the angle change may be included, thereby ensuring an efficient sealing effect. By extending the sealing protrusion orthogonally or nearly orthogonally from the gasket body toward the inner peripheral surface, an effective seal can be generated when the sealing protrusion is compressed and abuts against the inner peripheral surface, and the seal is generally independent of the force or movement in the axial direction. This design increases the robustness of the seal and can also enhance the resistance of the seal to changes in pressure, temperature and other environmental factors. It can also allow the housing components and gaskets to achieve larger tolerances during the manufacturing process.

[0034] The outer peripheral surface and / or the inner peripheral surface may extend at least partially parallel to the longitudinal axis, or extend within an angle range of <5 °, <10 ° or <20 ° with a parallel direction. The outer peripheral surface and / or the inner peripheral surface may be a plane surface at least partially, or may be a curved surface, particularly a free-form surface. In other words, the surface is substantially aligned with the axis or slightly angled. They are designed so that when the first shell component and the second shell component are close to each other, the minimum distance between the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface is greater than the thickness of the gasket body in the radial direction. The distance between the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface may be greater than 1mm, or 2mm, or 5mm, thereby allowing higher manufacturing and assembly tolerances.

[0035] Therefore, in the area where the gasket contacts the inner peripheral surface and / or the outer peripheral surface, a linear displacement of the first shell and the second shell relative to each other along the longitudinal axis can result in a linear displacement of the outer peripheral surface parallel to the inner peripheral surface, and the linear displacement is parallel relative to each other's orientation, or within an angular range of <5°, <10° or <20° to the parallel direction.

[0036] Displacement or linear displacement can refer to translational movement in a direction. In the context of two surfaces moving relative to each other, "translation" refers to a type of motion in which all points of one surface move the same distance in the same direction. Surfaces slide or glide over each other without rotating or changing orientation. During a translational movement, all points on a surface (whether flat or curved) move the same distance in the same direction.

[0037] For example, imagine two flat plates sliding across each other along a tabletop. Every point on the top plate moves the same distance relative to its corresponding point on the bottom plate, and in the same direction. This movement is called translation.

[0038] In this translational motion, the relative orientation and distance between corresponding points on the two surfaces remain unchanged. This is in contrast to rotational motion, in which points on one surface move along a circular path relative to points on the other surface.

[0039] This allows for easier assembly and improved sealing. The specified orientation of the peripheral surfaces relative to the longitudinal axis ensures smooth and predictable sliding motion when the components are moved toward each other. This can help prevent misalignment, uneven pressure distribution, and possible leak paths. The specified angular deviation range may also allow for design flexibility and manufacturing tolerances.

[0040] The sealing protrusion may have a protrusion length defined as the linear distance from the gasket body to the distal end of the sealing protrusion, the protrusion length being greater than the distance between the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface. This protrusion length may be measured from the gasket body to the distal end of the sealing protrusion, and may be constant or vary along the perimeter. Specifically, at each point around the perimeter, the length of the sealing protrusion may be longer than the corresponding distance between the inner peripheral sealing surface and the outer peripheral sealing surface. Thus, the protrusion length is intentionally designed to be longer than the gap it is intended to seal, wherein the sealing protrusion deforms when it comes into contact with the inner peripheral surface (i.e., the contact surface or the sealing surface).

[0041] This ensures a secure and effective seal, wherein the longer protrusion length allows the sealing protrusion to be significantly compressed when the inner and outer peripheral surfaces are brought together. This compression ensures a tight seal that accommodates potential irregularities or variations in the dimensions of the surfaces it seals. Specifically, the sealing protrusion can be compressed by a force applied by the inner peripheral surface in a direction perpendicular to the radial axis of the sealing protrusion, or within an angle of 5, 10 or 20 degrees to the radial axis of the sealing protrusion. The force applied by the inner peripheral surface can be in a direction along the gasket body, rather than towards the gasket body.

[0042] The gasket may have a three-dimensional shape. The gasket (particularly the gasket body) may include an annular peripheral centerline that forms a closed path around the longitudinal axis and has a three-dimensional shape. Specifically, it may vary in the axial direction. In various examples, the change in the centerline along the peripheral direction may include a change that is greater than the gasket size in the axial direction in the radial cross-sectional view, or is greater than 2 times or greater than 3 times. In various examples, the peripheral groove in the inner peripheral surface and / or the outer peripheral surface may not be on a plane, but has a three-dimensional shape. In other words, the peripheral centerline of the peripheral groove extending around the longitudinal axis may not be on a certain plane, but may be three-dimensional. In various examples, the change in the centerline in the axial direction may be greater than the groove size in the axial direction, or is greater than 2 times or greater than 3 times. The centerline of the sealing protrusion or each sealing sheet may not be on a certain plane, but may also be three-dimensional. The three-dimensional path may refer to the fact that when moving along the path around the longitudinal axis, the distance of the path of the centerline around the perimeter from the longitudinal axis may vary, and when circling around the perimeter, its axial position along the axis may further vary in the axial direction.

[0043] The annular peripheral centerline may be referred to as a theoretical line that traces the middle or center of the gasket body in a peripheral direction about the longitudinal axis. The line is not confined to a single plane, but varies along the longitudinal axis, thereby allowing the gasket to conform to complex geometries.

[0044] In other words, the center line of the gasket or the center line of the sealing surface is not flat but may have a curved shape in the axial direction along the perimeter, thereby enabling the gasket to be used in housings with different geometries.Due to the annular form of the gasket, it forms a closed path.

[0045] This feature allows for greater flexibility and adaptability of the gasket, enhancing its sealing capabilities even in complex housing geometries by enabling the gasket to form a more accurate and secure seal. This also means that the gasket can adjust its shape based on the specific contours and shapes of the housing components, thereby providing an effective seal against the intrusion of external elements. In various embodiments, the change in the centerline in the axial direction may include a change that is greater than the size of the gasket in the axial direction, such as a change that is greater than 5 mm, 10 mm, or 20 mm, or 30 mm.

[0046] The sealing protrusion may comprise or may consist of at least one sealing piece (in other words a sealing lip) having a tapered form directed in an outward direction, extending radially outwards from the gasket body and extending around the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface. The tapered form ensures a wide sealing area with the inner peripheral surface, thereby providing a strong and secure barrier against liquid intrusion.

[0047] The sealing protrusion may include at least two sealing sheets, wherein at least two sealing sheets are spaced apart from each other in the direction along the longitudinal axis. At least two sealing sheets may have the same length, for example, they extend equally from the gasket body, thereby providing an improved sealing effect. The presence of multiple sealing sheets provides redundancy, and if one sheet cannot provide a complete seal, another sheet can compensate. The uniform length of the sheet ensures that each sheet has an equal opportunity to effectively seal, thereby providing a fail-safe mechanism for the sealing system. The system may include three sealing sheets with the same length. Alternatively, a first sealing sheet (that is, a sheet closer to the opening of the first housing component) may have a length shorter than a second sealing sheet. The sheet may have a convex shape surface towards the inner peripheral surface, through which a contact or sealing surface is formed.

[0048] At least two sealing sheets may have different shapes and / or different sheet lengths.The sealing sheet may comprise a combination of different materials having different elasticities.

[0049] In other words, while the peripheral surfaces may move along each other (wherein the sealing sheet maintains contact and the sealing force may remain within a predefined range), the direction of the force applied to the sealing protrusion and / or the magnitude of the force may remain substantially unaffected. The inner peripheral surface may not press against the sealing protrusion so that the force is directed toward the gasket body, but in a direction along the outer peripheral surface and along the gasket body, i.e., parallel or within a certain angular range. Furthermore, a stop feature may be implemented in the first housing component or the second housing component and / or the inner peripheral surface or the outer peripheral surface so that the movement between the parts is limited to a certain range, wherein the inner peripheral surface does not reach the gasket body and does not apply direct pressure to the gasket body.

[0050] This ensures the durability and integrity of the sealing protrusion. By preventing direct forces on the sealing protrusion towards the gasket body, potential damage or deformation to the sealing protrusion can be reduced. This maintains the performance of the seal and can increase the service life of the system.

[0051] The outer peripheral surface of the first housing component may include a groove extending partially or completely around its perimeter, in other words a peripheral groove. The gasket body may be located in the groove and in contact with the groove surface, whereby the gasket body is fixed relative to the first housing component. This feature ensures a secure placement and alignment of the gasket body relative to the first housing component. By placing the gasket body in the groove on the outer peripheral surface, the risk of displacement during assembly or use is minimized, thereby ensuring a reliable and consistent sealing performance.

[0052] The bottom surface of the groove may be a curved surface in the axial direction, in particular it may comprise at least a portion or a combination of portions having a convex, or concave, or free shape. This means that the groove designed to hold the gasket body does not have a flat bottom in the axial direction, but is curved, for example with a convex shape, which results in a more secure fit for the gasket body and greater design freedom for the first housing part, since the seal does not rely on a force of the second housing part directed toward the outer peripheral surface, in particular the gasket body.

[0053] The gasket may further comprise a base portion extending from the gasket body and fixed in a corresponding channel formed in the bottom surface of the groove in the outer peripheral surface. This base portion may be fixed in a corresponding channel formed in the bottom surface of the groove in the outer peripheral surface, and it may be press-fit locked there. Therein, the channel may have a tapered form extending in diameter with increasing distance from the gasket body and optionally following the corresponding tapered form of the base portion.

[0054] Including a base portion extending from the gasket body allows for additional locking. This base portion can be secured into a channel formed in the curved bottom surface of the groove, further stabilizing the positioning of the gasket within the groove. This press-fit assembly can be beneficial in enhancing the overall stability of the gasket within the groove, potentially improving seal integrity and performance.

[0055] In various examples, alternatively or additionally there is a channel in the gasket body and there is a projection or tab defined in the housing component to which the gasket body is fixed, which fits into this groove of the gasket body. In various examples, there may be projections in the housing at least partially around the outer peripheral surface and the perimeter of the groove, for example in at least two or three or 5 areas, the projections being separated by areas without housing projections. This enables locking in the peripheral direction in addition to locking in the axial direction.

[0056] A corresponding sealing system is provided, which has a different gasket arrangement. Instead of the gasket body contacting the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component, the gasket body now contacts the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component. Correspondingly, the sealing protrusion now extends in the direction of the axis, i.e., inwardly or radially inwardly from the gasket body along its periphery, instead of extending outwardly.

[0057] A system for producing a sealed enclosure for an electronic device includes: a first enclosure component having an opening defining an outer peripheral surface, the outer peripheral surface facing away from a longitudinal axis passing through the opening; a second enclosure component defining an inner peripheral surface, the inner peripheral surface disposed about the outer peripheral surface and facing inwardly toward the outer peripheral surface; and a flexible annular gasket including a gasket body in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the second enclosure component and a sealing protrusion extending radially inwardly from the gasket body along its perimeter, the sealing protrusion in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first enclosure component. Here, the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface extend along the longitudinal axis, and the outer peripheral surface of the first enclosure component is in contact with the sealing protrusion along its perimeter to form a liquid-tight seal between the first enclosure component and the second enclosure component.

[0058] It should be understood that this system provides an alternative sealing arrangement. This configuration may be beneficial in different assembly or equipment conditions, where the inward extension of the sealing protrusion toward and contacting the outer peripheral surface can provide a better sealing effect or an easier assembly process.

[0059] Thus, in this example, the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component may include a groove extending around its entire circumference, and wherein the gasket body is located within the groove, whereby the gasket body is fixed relative to the second housing component.

[0060] The bottom surface of the groove may be a curved surface in the axial direction. The gasket may also include a base portion extending from the gasket body and fixed in a corresponding channel formed in the bottom surface of the groove in the inner peripheral surface with a press fit. The base portion may have a tapered form in the direction toward the gasket body, which can achieve a press fit in the channel. The channel may have a tapered form, i.e., a tapered opening in a cross-sectional view, whereby the base portion is better fixed in the channel. It should be understood that the concepts described with respect to the embodiment in which the gasket body is seated on the first housing component and the sealing protrusion extends in the outward direction may also be applied to the embodiment in which the gasket body is seated on the second housing component and the sealing protrusion extends in the inward direction toward the outer peripheral surface, wherein, with necessary modifications, the terms inner peripheral surface and outer peripheral surface, inner direction and outer direction, and the first housing component and the second housing component will be interchanged in order to explain the different placement of the gasket.

[0061] For both systems, corresponding methods for producing a sealed housing are provided, wherein the gasket body is fixed on the first housing component or the second housing component. These methods can be performed, for example, with any sealing system as described in the present disclosure.

[0062] A method for forming a liquid-tight seal in a housing system for an electronic device may include the following steps: providing a first housing component, the first housing component having an opening defining an outer peripheral surface, the outer peripheral surface facing away from a longitudinal axis passing through the opening; providing a flexible annular gasket, the gasket including a gasket body in contact with the outer peripheral surface and a sealing protrusion extending radially outward from the gasket body along its perimeter; providing a second housing component, the second housing component having an opening defining an inner peripheral surface, the inner peripheral surface facing the outer peripheral surface; moving the second housing component toward the first housing component along the longitudinal axis, wherein the inner peripheral surface is displaced along the outer peripheral surface so that the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component contacts the sealing protrusion along its perimeter, and the sealing protrusion is compressed to form a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component.

[0063] A method for forming a liquid-tight seal in a housing system for an electronic device may include the following steps: providing a first housing component, the first housing component having an opening defining an outer peripheral surface, the outer peripheral surface facing away from a longitudinal axis passing through the opening; providing a second housing component, the second housing component defining an inner peripheral surface arranged to face the outer peripheral surface; providing a flexible annular gasket, the gasket including a gasket body in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component and a sealing protrusion extending radially inward from the gasket body along its periphery; moving the second housing component toward the first housing component along the longitudinal axis, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component is displaced along the inner peripheral surface so that the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component contacts the sealing protrusion along its periphery, wherein the sealing protrusion is compressed to form a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component.

[0064] For such a method and system for producing a sealed housing for an electronic device, similar technical effects can be achieved as described in the present disclosure.

[0065] It should be understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below may be used not only in the indicated corresponding combinations, but also in other combinations or alone, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Specifically, the features mentioned above and those to be explained below may be used not only in the indicated corresponding combinations, but also in other combinations or alone, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0066] Therefore, the above summary is intended only to give a brief overview of some features of some embodiments and implementations and should not be construed as limiting.Other embodiments may include other features besides those explained above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0067] These and other objects of the present invention will be appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art from the detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the following drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0068] Figure 1 An overview of a moving head light fixture according to various embodiments is schematically shown.

[0069] Figure 2 Schematically illustrates various embodiments of Figure 1 The head of the moving head fixture is located within the housing of a liquid-tight seal.

[0070] Figure 3 Schematically illustrates various embodiments of Figure 2 A side view of a moving head light fixture having additional optional locations for liquid-tight seals within the housings of the head, yoke and base of the moving head light fixture.

[0071] Figure 4 Schematically shows a method for providing Figures 1 to 3 Steps for creating a sealed enclosure for a moving head luminaire.

[0072] Figure 5 Schematically illustrates a method for Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a sealed enclosure for an electronic device.

[0073] Figure 6 Schematically illustrates various embodiments of Figure 4 and Figure 5 Detailed view of the gasket.

[0074] Figure 7 Schematically illustrated is a cross-sectional view of a sealing gasket having a base portion according to various embodiments.

[0075] Figure 8 Schematically illustrated is a cross-sectional view of a sealing gasket having a groove portion according to various embodiments.

[0076] Fig. 9 A housing component comprising two frame parts, to which a sealing gasket can be fixed, is schematically shown according to various embodiments.

[0077] Fig.10 A gasket having a three-dimensional shape and having a base portion extending partially around a perimeter according to various embodiments is schematically illustrated.

[0078] Fig.11 The steps of a method for producing a sealed enclosure for an electronic device according to various embodiments are schematically illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description of the embodiments should not be considered to have a limiting meaning. The scope of the present invention is not intended to be limited by the embodiments or drawings described below, which should be considered as illustrative examples of general inventive concepts. Unless otherwise specifically noted, the features of the various embodiments may be combined with each other.

[0080] The accompanying drawings should be considered as schematic diagrams, and the elements shown in the accompanying drawings are not necessarily shown to scale. On the contrary, the various elements are represented so that their functions and general purposes become apparent to those skilled in the art. Any connection or coupling between the functional blocks, devices, components or other physical or functional units shown in the accompanying drawings or described herein may also be achieved by indirect connection or coupling. The coupling between the components may also be established by wireless connection. The functional blocks may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software or a combination thereof.

[0081] The following will describe technologies related to sealing technology for housings or casings of electronic devices (particularly housings or casings of lamps).

[0082] Figure 1 An overview of a moving head light fixture 10 according to various embodiments is schematically shown.

[0083] The moving head light fixture 10 includes a head 11, a yoke 12 and a base 13. The head 11 accommodates various electronic and optical devices, such as light sources, light shaping components, lenses, sensors, control electronics and possible cooling devices. These components need to be protected from environmental influences such as moisture, dust or external mechanical impact, so that the head 11 must form a sealed inner space to accommodate the components. The sealing of this space is established by a housing system as described in the present disclosure. The gasket forms a liquid-tight seal, thereby providing strong protection for the sensitive electronic devices in the head 11. The yoke 12 provides a connection between the head 11 and the base 13, so that the head 11 can rotate and move in different directions.

[0084] Figure 2 Schematically illustrates various embodiments of Figure 1 The liquid-tight seal 20 is located within the housing of the head 11 of the moving head light fixture 10 .

[0085] A liquid-tight seal 20 is depicted as a dotted line extending around the entire perimeter of the head 11, thereby ensuring that a closed, protected environment is created for the internal components. Within the head 11, light sources and optical components (such as lenses and reflectors) are arranged, which are essential to the function of the moving head light fixture 10 and need to be kept safe from environmental influences. The yoke 12 connecting the head 11 to the base 13 houses the actuators that facilitate the rotation and movement of the head 11. By creating a liquid-tight barrier, the seal 20 not only protects these complex internal components, but also ensures smooth and uninterrupted operation of the moving head light fixture 10.

[0086] A liquid-tight seal 20 is formed between two housing components of the head 11, as will be described in detail with respect to the following figures. These housing components are a frame portion and a cover portion, which are designed in such a way that they define complementary outer and inner peripheral surfaces facing each other and extending along a longitudinal axis passing through the peripheral surfaces.

[0087] The system is arranged such that linear displacement of the housing components towards each other in an axial direction along the longitudinal axis results in linear displacement of the inner peripheral surface in an axial direction along the outer peripheral surface, wherein the gasket between the surfaces is not further compressed.

[0088] This design allows a reliable and secure liquid-tight seal to be created, which is essential for protecting sensitive electronic components housed within the head 11 of the moving head light fixture 10, regardless of the forces acting of the housing components towards each other.

[0089] Figure 3 Schematically shows the Figure 2 The side view of the moving head light fixture 10 shown in FIG. Figure 1 Optional locations and designs of liquid-tight seals within the housings of the head 11 , yoke 12 , and base 13 of the moving head light fixture 10 are depicted.

[0090] like Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure, the arrows depict the direction in which the first housing component 1 and the second housing component 2 can be separated from each other and then reassembled along the axis 9. This axial movement together with the arrangement of the components creates a liquid-tight seal in the head 11 of the moving head light fixture 10 because it facilitates the correct alignment and contact of the sealing protrusion on the gasket body with the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component, which will be explained in more detail with respect to the following figures.

[0091] The figure also indicates with dashed lines additional potential arrangements of the disclosed liquid-tight seals within the yoke 12 and base 13 of the moving head light fixture 10. These additional arrangements show how the technology can be applied to various portions of the moving head light fixture 10 to create multiple sealed enclosures to protect different groups of electronic components. Not only do the seals prevent moisture from intruding into the sensitive electronic components within the head 11, but they can provide similar protection to the components housed in the yoke 12 and base 13, further enhancing the overall durability and reliability of the moving head light fixture 10.

[0092] like Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure, the sealing lines of the head housing are not on a line. In other words, the sealing surface (which may be referred to as the surface between the sealing protrusion and the inner peripheral surface) may have a centerline that varies along the axial position. In general, the gasket may have an annular shape around the longitudinal axis and may have a centerline that varies along the axis around the longitudinal axis.

[0093] Figure 4 Schematically shows a method for providing Figures 1 to 3 The step of producing a sealed housing of the moving head lamp 10 is described.

[0094] like Figure 4 , which is indicated by arrows in , schematically illustrates successive stages for producing a sealed enclosure for an electronic device according to various embodiments.

[0095] In the first stage, three components are provided. These components include a first housing component 1 (such as a frame portion), a second housing component 2 (such as a cover portion) and a flexible annular sealing gasket 3. The first housing component 1 has an opening defining an outer peripheral surface. This surface is oriented so that it faces away from the longitudinal axis passing through the opening and includes an annular groove. The groove has a curved surface in the axial direction.

[0096] In the second stage, the sealing gasket 3 is positioned on the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component 1. The sealing gasket is placed in the groove so that the gasket body is seated and fixed in the groove. This configuration ensures that the gasket body remains in a fixed position relative to the first housing component.

[0097] In the third stage, the second housing component 2 is moved toward the first housing component 1. This movement occurs along the longitudinal axis, so that the two housing components are in contact with the sealing gasket 3. This forms a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component. The seal is achieved when the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component is in contact with the sealing protrusion of the gasket along its perimeter. The sealing protrusion extends radially outward from the gasket body. Therefore, the seal is formed when the inner peripheral surface moves along the gasket body without touching and approaching or squeezing the gasket body. The seal is formed only by contact with the sealing protrusion and can be maintained within a predetermined axial movement range without requiring additional axial force or torque to produce or maintain the seal, and therefore, it does not rely on the application of a large number of fasteners.

[0098] Figure 5 Schematically illustrates a method for Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a sealed enclosure for an electronic device.

[0099] The sealed inner space is constituted by a first housing part 1 and a second housing part 2. The opening of the first housing part 1 defines an outer peripheral surface 7 facing outward relative to a longitudinal axis 9 passing through the opening. Conversely, the opening of the second housing part 2 defines an inner peripheral surface 8, which faces inwardly toward the axis 9 and the outer peripheral surface 7 of the first part.

[0100] Located between these two housing parts is a flexible annular gasket 3. Figure 6 Described in detail, this gasket is composed of a gasket body and a sealing protrusion. The gasket body contacts the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component 1. The sealing protrusion extends radially outward from the gasket body along the entire circumference thereof.

[0101] The flexible annular gasket 3 is fixed in a groove extending around the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component 1. This ensures that the gasket body remains securely fixed relative to the first housing component.

[0102] When the second housing part 2 moves along the longitudinal axis towards the first housing part 1, the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface move along each other without touching each other, wherein the inner peripheral surface 8 of the second housing part comes into contact with the sealing protrusion of the gasket. This contact forms a liquid-tight seal between the first housing part and the second housing part due to the deformation of the sealing protrusion between the two parts. However, the inner peripheral surface does not touch or exert pressure on the gasket body.

[0103] In particular, the outer peripheral surface 7 of the first housing part 1 and the inner peripheral surface 8 of the second housing part 2 extend at least partially parallel along the longitudinal axis or extend at an angle of less than 5°, 10° or 20° to parallel with respect to said axis.

[0104] Figure 6 Schematically illustrates various embodiments of Figure 4 and Figure 5 Detailed view of the gasket.

[0105] like Figure 6 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the gasket 3 interacts with a first housing component 1 and a second housing component 2 in a sealed housing system for an electronic device.

[0106] The first housing part 1 defines an outer peripheral surface 7 facing outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis 9. The groove 6 extends around the entire circumference of this outer peripheral surface 7. The groove 6 contributes to locking the gasket 3 to the first housing part 1.

[0107] The gasket 3 comprises a gasket body 4 and a sealing protrusion 5. Within the gasket body, the center 14 of the gasket (particularly the gasket body) (which is part of the annular centerline) is depicted as a cross mark in the cross-sectional view. The gasket body 4 is placed in the groove 6, thereby effectively locking the gasket 3 relative to the first housing component 1. The sealing protrusion 5 extends radially outward from the gasket body 4 along its perimeter.

[0108] The second housing part 2 features an inner peripheral surface 8, which is arranged around the outer peripheral surface 7 and faces inwardly thereto. When the second housing part 2 is moved along the longitudinal axis towards the first housing part 1, the inner peripheral surface 8 comes into contact with the sealing projection 5. When the second housing part 2 is moved along the longitudinal axis towards the first housing part 1, the inner peripheral surface 8 does not come into contact with the gasket body and / or the outer peripheral surface 7. By means of the sealing projection 5, this forms a liquid-tight seal between the first housing part 1 and the second housing part 2. The distance between the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface is greater than the dimension of the gasket body in the outward (i.e. radial) direction.

[0109] The protrusion length of the sealing protrusion 5 (defined as from the gasket body 4 to the distal end of the sealing protrusion) is greater than the distance between the inner peripheral surface 8 and the outer peripheral surface 7. This ensures sufficient compression of the protrusion 5 to produce an effective seal, while also reducing the possibility of applying force to the sealing protrusion 5 in the direction of the gasket body 4.

[0110] exist Figure 6In the example of , the sealing protrusion 5 extending from the gasket body includes two sealing sheets. These sheets extend radially outward from the gasket body and extend around the entire perimeter of the outer peripheral surface. They are used to enhance the sealing effect of the gasket by providing contact points and compression points between the gasket and the housing components. The sealing protrusion includes two sealing sheets, which are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis. At least two sealing sheets are designed to have the same length, thereby providing uniform sealing contact and compression around the perimeter of the housing. This arrangement helps to ensure a reliable and stable seal under a wide range of operating conditions.

[0111] In this example, the sealing projection 5 extends orthogonally relative to the inner peripheral surface 8. However, it may also extend within an angle range of less than 5°, 10° or 20° relative to the orthogonal direction relative to the inner peripheral surface 8. The outer peripheral surface 7 and / or the inner peripheral surface 8 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis, or extend within an angle range of less than 5°, 10° or 20° relative to the parallel direction, and the peripheral surfaces may also have a free shape, as long as it is ensured that the distance between the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface along the perimeter is less than the length of the sealing sheet.

[0112] In particular, the sealing projections from the gasket body extend outwardly in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the gasket body from which they extend, or extend at an angle of less than 5°, 10° or 20° to the surface of the gasket body. This alignment optimizes the sealing effect.

[0113] Figure 7 The shape of the sealing gasket 3 is schematically shown in radial cross-section according to various embodiments.

[0114] The gasket 3 comprises a gasket body 4 within which the centre 14 of the gasket is depicted as a cross mark. The cross mark 14 depicts where the centre line is within the gasket body, where the centre line is in a direction into and out of the cross-sectional view (ie perpendicular to the plane of the image).

[0115] The tabs of sealing projection 5 each have an axis extending away from the gasket body and being perpendicular or within an angle to the perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis 9 and / or the inner or outer peripheral surface at the area where the sealing surface makes sealing contact.

[0116] The sheet has a tapered shape in a direction away from the gasket body, narrowing toward the top end, wherein the convex surface faces in the direction of the opening of the first housing and faces the inner peripheral surface. The back side of the sheet is flat.

[0117] The shape of the sheet may vary in different sections relative to the sheet axis.The upper half, which is the section closer to the opening of the first housing part, may be of convex shape, which may provide a defined sealing force and surface.

[0118] Similarly, the lower half of the sheet may be flat or concave or convex. Here, the concave shape bends inwardly toward the longitudinal axis of the sheet, thereby achieving a predefined sealing force when compressed.

[0119] The sheet may also exhibit a hybrid shape, where different sections along the length of the sheet have different curvatures. This will enable more fine control of the sealing pressure distribution along the length of the sheet.

[0120] Furthermore, the sheet may also have a free form or custom shape where the curvature is not strictly concave or convex but is designed to meet specific sealing requirements.

[0121] This variety of possible shapes allows the design of the sealing system to be tailored to the specific use case, thus ensuring optimal sealing performance under the specific conditions of use.

[0122] Furthermore, the sealing gasket 3 comprises a base portion 15 . The base portion extends from the gasket body 4 in a direction opposite to the sealing protrusion 5 .

[0123] The base portion 15 is specifically designed to provide a press fit within a corresponding channel formed in the bottom surface of the groove 6 in the outer peripheral surface 7. The design of the base portion 15 and the corresponding channel is such that when the gasket 3 is installed into the groove 6, the base portion 15 engages with the channel to create a press fit. This locks the gasket securely in place, thereby helping to maintain the correct positioning and orientation of the gasket within the groove, and ensuring a tight and effective seal between the inner peripheral surface 8 of the second housing component 2 and the outer peripheral surface 7 of the first housing component 1.

[0124] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a sealing gasket 3 having a groove portion 16 according to various embodiments is schematically shown.

[0125] Figure 8 The washers 3 shown correspond to Figure 7 , but instead of the base portion 15, the gasket 3 includes a groove portion 16. When fixed to the first housing component or the second housing component, a corresponding protrusion defined in the inner peripheral surface or the outer peripheral surface (e.g., in a peripheral groove of the housing component) can engage the groove portion so that the gasket is fixed to the housing component in the axial and peripheral directions. The cross mark 14 depicts the position of the centerline of the gasket.

[0126] The base portion 15 and / or the groove portion 16 may extend around the entire perimeter of the gasket, or at least partially around the perimeter of the gasket. For example, the gasket may include a plurality of base portions 15 and / or groove portions 16, each extending along a different peripheral section of the gasket 3. The gasket may include groove portions 16 and base portions 15 arranged alternately around the perimeter.

[0127] Fig. 9 A housing component comprising two frame parts, to which a sealing gasket can be fixed, is schematically shown according to various embodiments.

[0128] like Fig. 9 As can be seen in the figure, the first housing component is composed of at least two frame parts, which can be fixed relative to each other using fasteners and washers. These frame parts can be assembled and held together by various means (such as screws, clamps, snap connections or other suitable fastening techniques).

[0129] Each of these parts is designed to include a groove 6 around the outer peripheral surface 7. The groove extends at least partially or around the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface 7, thereby defining a channel designed to receive and securely retain the gasket 3. The surface of the groove is a curved surface in the axial direction about the axis passing through the opening.

[0130] The gasket 3 can be mounted into these grooves with its gasket body 4 and sealing protrusion 5. Depending on the specific design requirements, the gasket can be fixed mechanically (for example, by a press fit or snap fit), or can be locked using an adhesive. Once installed, the gasket will provide a seal between the parts of the housing components when they are assembled together, thereby protecting the interior of the housing from external elements. The outer peripheral surface can also have a concave area along its perimeter using an adhesive or a press fit. This is particularly useful when the gasket is fixed to the inner peripheral surface.

[0131] Fig.10 A gasket 3 having a three-dimensional shape and having a base portion 15 extending partially around the perimeter is schematically shown according to various embodiments.

[0132] An annular gasket oriented around a longitudinal axis incorporates a gasket body 4 that defines a peripheral closed centerline. The centerline comprises the center point of the gasket or gasket body in a radial cross-sectional view. For example, the centerline may comprise the center of gravity in a radial cross-section of the gasket body. Each radial cross-section of the gasket (taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis) may exhibit a center or center of gravity that together may define the path of the centerline. Thus, the centerline is a peripheral closed path around the longitudinal axis.

[0133] In some examples, as depicted in some previous examples, the centerline may lie within a single plane (ie, be two-dimensional), thereby presenting a two-dimensional configuration for the gasket in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. In this arrangement, the positioning of the gasket in the axial direction remains unchanged.

[0134] exist Fig.10 In the example of the invention, the centerline is a three-dimensional closed path, wherein it changes its position in the axial direction within a predetermined range along the longitudinal axis. Thus, the gasket centerline has a three-dimensional shape, thereby allowing for adoption in housings with different peripheral geometries, since its shape can be adjusted along the axial direction. In general, the gasket may have a three-dimensional shape, wherein the three-dimensional shape defines a three-dimensional sealing path along the inner peripheral surface, respectively the outer peripheral surface.

[0135] also, Fig.10 The base portion 15 of the gasket partially extends around the perimeter of the gasket, wherein they are separated from each other by areas of the gasket body that do not have the base portion 15. Thus, the channel defined in the peripheral surface on which the gasket body is seated may partially extend around the perimeter and may also be separated by areas without the channel. The base portion 15 and the channel may have a slightly conical shape to facilitate assembly and fit. In other words, the gasket may include one or more base portions and / or groove portions, each of which partially, or at least partially, or completely extends around the perimeter of the gasket.

[0136] Such a base portion or groove may be located on one side of the gasket body fixed to the first housing component or the second housing component, the outer peripheral surface or the inner peripheral surface, or in a peripheral groove of the outer peripheral surface or the inner peripheral surface. However, the gasket may also include a similar groove or protrusion on one side of the sealing protrusion, thereby enabling a better fit between the first housing component and the second housing component.

[0137] Fig.11 The steps of a method for producing a sealed enclosure for an electronic device according to various embodiments are schematically illustrated.

[0138] The method starts at step S10. In step S20, a first housing component is provided. This first component has an opening defining an outer peripheral surface, the outer peripheral surface being oriented away from a longitudinal axis passing through the opening.

[0139] In step S30, a flexible annular gasket is provided, which is composed of a gasket body in contact with the outer peripheral surface and a sealing protrusion extending radially outward from the gasket body along the periphery thereof.

[0140] In step S40, a second housing component is provided. This second component also features an opening defining an inner peripheral surface, which faces the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component.

[0141] Finally, in step S50, the second housing component is moved parallel to the first housing component in the axial direction along the longitudinal axis. During this movement, the inner peripheral surface is displaced along the outer peripheral surface and along the gasket body. This displacement causes the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component to contact the sealing protrusion along its perimeter, and the sealing protrusion is compressed by applying a force that is not in the direction of the gasket body, so as to form a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component. In particular, the movement of the inner peripheral surface at the contact surface relative to the sealing protrusion is performed along the inner peripheral surface, in other words, when the second housing component is moved linearly around the sealing position, the sealing protrusion is not further compressed or relaxed, but maintains the seal. The method ends in step S60.

[0142] From what has been said above, various general conclusions can be drawn:

[0143] In various examples, the housing sealing system can be configured such that the displacement of the first housing component and the second housing component toward each other does not apply additional force in the direction leading to the gasket (particularly the sealing surface), so that the sealing force does not increase. Specifically, the sealing force can be referred to as the force between the inner peripheral surface and the sealing protrusion (i.e., the force by which the sealing protrusion is deformed and pressed against the inner peripheral surface), which may be independent of the fastening force between the first housing component and the second housing component and / or not in the direction of the fastening force.

[0144] In various examples, the outer peripheral surface may also be referred to as an outer sealing surface, and the inner peripheral surface may also be referred to as an inner sealing surface. These surfaces may be closed and / or annular surfaces. They may have a free form and may be symmetrical or asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis. They may extend along a section of the axis. The perimeter may correspond to a closed path on the peripheral surface around the axis. The perimeter may be on a plane.

[0145] In various examples, the seal can be formed by creating a contact surface between the sealing sheet and the inner periphery around the entire perimeter. The contact surface can be at a distance from the outer periphery surface that does not change when the second housing component moves toward the first housing component in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, wherein the outer periphery surface moves substantially parallel to the inner periphery surface.

[0146] In various examples, the system may include: a first configuration in which no seal is formed between the first housing component and the second housing component; and a second configuration in which a seal is formed between the first housing component and the second housing component. The system may be configured to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration by linear displacement of the first housing component and the second housing component toward each other along the longitudinal axis (i.e., parallel to the longitudinal axis) (whereby the peripheral surfaces are displaced along each other). The displacement may be such that the distance between the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface in the gasket area does not become smaller than the gasket body, so that direct pressure is not applied to the gasket body. Then, further linear displacement of the first housing component and the second housing component relative to each other along the longitudinal axis around the second configuration may not result in a decrease or increase in the sealing force.

[0147] The sealing surface can be defined as the contact surface between the sealing protrusion and the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component. In the area of ​​the sealing surface, the sealing protrusion is compressed against the inner peripheral surface or the outer peripheral surface. The sealing force can be regarded as a compressive force. The sealing force can be perpendicular to the inner peripheral surface or the outer peripheral surface. During the displacement of the first housing component and the second housing component relative to each other along the longitudinal axis, the distance between the sealing surface and the outer peripheral surface remains unchanged, thereby indicating that the compression of the sealing force or the sealing protrusion has not changed. In other words, the fastening device or the fastening force will not compress the gasket and will not press the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface against each other. In various examples, the distance between the sealing surface and the outer peripheral surface can be changed by a certain amount, which is <10%, <30%, <50% or <90% of the length of the sealing protrusion, thereby avoiding contact between the gasket body and the second housing component and allowing elastic deformation of the sealing protrusion. When the distance between the sealing surface and the peripheral surface changes, that is, when the housing components are closer, the sealing force can increase the minimum sealing force by <10%, <30%, <50% or <90%.

[0148] Thus, since the inner peripheral surface defines the sealing surface, the sealing surface between the sealing projection and the inner peripheral surface also extends in the axial direction around the longitudinal axis of the first housing component. The sealing force is directed in a radial or outward direction relative to the axis. The axial direction corresponds to the direction in which the first housing component and the second housing component are assembled toward each other and held together by the fastening device. Thus, the sealing force achieved from the sealing projection toward the inner peripheral surface extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the force applied by the fastening device to the housing components.

[0149] The sealing may provide an ingress protection rating of IPX4 or higher, as defined in standard IEC 60529. The ingress protection (IP) rating system classifies the degree of protection provided by mechanical housings and electrical enclosures against solid objects and water. An IPX4 rating means that the product is protected against water splashes from any direction. Higher ratings include, for example, IPX5, IPX6, IPX7, and IPX8, which guarantee protection during continuous immersion in water. Thus, the disclosed technology may provide an effective barrier against the ingress of water and other contaminants, thereby protecting the interior of the enclosure and the electronic components housed therein.

[0150] In summary, a system for producing a housing for an electronic device is described. The system includes a first housing component having an opening, the opening defining an outer peripheral surface facing away from a longitudinal axis. This is combined with a flexible annular gasket having a body in contact with the outer peripheral surface, and a sealing protrusion extending radially from the gasket body along its perimeter. In addition, the system is combined with a second housing component, the second housing component outlining an inner peripheral surface, the inner peripheral surface being positioned around the outer peripheral surface and pointing inward. Both the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface are aligned with the longitudinal axis of the system. In order to produce a seal, the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component engages the sealing protrusion along its perimeter. This engagement results in a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component, which is designed to protect the enclosed electronic device.

[0151] Although the systems, components, and methods described herein have been described in the context of moving head light fixtures, it should be understood that the application of the described techniques and configurations is not limited thereto. The principles and innovations are applicable to a variety of electronic device enclosures that require liquid-tight sealing. These may include, but are not limited to, outdoor electronic systems, marine electronics, aerospace and avionics, data center hardware, laboratory instruments, medical devices, and telecommunications equipment, among others.

[0152] The description and drawings are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the claims to any particular implementation or use. Although the disclosed technology has been described with respect to certain preferred embodiments, equivalents and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art after reading and understanding the specification. The present disclosure includes all such equivalents and modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A system for producing a sealed enclosure for an electronic device, comprising: - a first housing part having an opening defining an outer peripheral surface, the outer peripheral surface facing outwardly relative to a longitudinal axis passing through the opening; - a flexible annular gasket comprising a gasket body in contact with the outer peripheral surface and a sealing protrusion extending outwardly from the gasket body along its perimeter; as well as - a second housing component defining an annular inner peripheral surface arranged around the outer peripheral surface and facing inwardly towards the outer peripheral surface; wherein the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface extend along the longitudinal axis, and the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component contacts the sealing protrusion along its perimeter to form a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component.

2. The system of claim 1, further configured such that translational displacement of the first housing component and the second housing component toward each other in an axial direction results in translational displacement of the inner peripheral surface along the outer peripheral surface.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the system further comprises at least one fastening element, wherein the fastening element is coupled to the first housing component and the second housing component and generates a fastening force between the first housing component and the second housing component in an axial direction.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one sealing protrusion extends orthogonally with respect to the inner peripheral surface, or extends within an angular range of <5°, <10°, or <20° from the orthogonal direction.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the outer peripheral surface and / or the inner peripheral surface extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, or extends in an axial direction within an angle range of <5°, <10° or <20° to a direction parallel to the axis.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the sealing protrusion has a protrusion length defined from the gasket body to a distal end of the sealing protrusion, the protrusion length being greater than a distance between the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the sealing protrusion comprises at least one sealing flap extending radially outward from the gasket body and extending around the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the sealing protrusion comprises at least two sealing pieces, wherein the at least two sealing pieces are spaced apart from each other in an axial direction, and wherein the at least two sealing pieces have a same length.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein translational displacement of the first housing component and the second housing component toward each other along the longitudinal axis does not exert a direct force on the sealing protrusion in the direction of the gasket body, or Wherein translational displacement of the first housing component and the second housing component toward each other along the longitudinal axis applies a force to the sealing protrusion that is not directed toward the gasket body or normal to the inner peripheral surface.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component includes an annular peripheral groove extending about the longitudinal axis, and wherein the gasket body is located within the peripheral groove, whereby the gasket body is fixed relative to the first housing component.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the annular centerline of the peripheral groove has a three-dimensional form.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the gasket further comprises a base portion extending from the gasket body and secured in a corresponding channel formed in the peripheral groove, and / or wherein the gasket further comprises a groove portion in the gasket body that is engaged by a corresponding protrusion in the peripheral groove.

13. A system for producing a sealed enclosure for an electronic device, comprising: - a first housing component having an opening defining an outer peripheral surface facing away from a longitudinal axis passing through the opening; - a second housing component defining an inner peripheral surface arranged around the outer peripheral surface and facing inwardly towards the outer peripheral surface; as well as - a flexible annular gasket, the gasket comprising a gasket body in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component, and a sealing protrusion extending inwardly from the gasket body along its periphery, the sealing protrusion in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component; The outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface extend along the longitudinal axis, and the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component contacts the sealing protrusion along its perimeter to form a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component.

14. A method for forming a liquid-tight seal in a housing system for an electronic device, the method comprising the steps of: providing a first housing component having an opening defining an outer peripheral surface facing away from a longitudinal axis passing through the opening; providing a flexible annular gasket including a gasket body in contact with the outer peripheral surface and a sealing protrusion extending outwardly from the gasket body along a perimeter thereof; providing a second housing member having an opening defining an inner peripheral surface, the inner peripheral surface facing the outer peripheral surface; The second housing component is moved toward the first housing component along the longitudinal axis, wherein the inner peripheral surface is displaced along the outer peripheral surface so that the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component contacts the sealing protrusion along its periphery and the sealing protrusion is compressed to form a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component.

15. A method for forming a liquid-tight seal in a housing system for an electronic device, the method comprising the steps of: providing a first housing component having an opening defining an outer peripheral surface facing away from a longitudinal axis passing through the opening; providing a second housing component defining an inner peripheral surface arranged to face the outer peripheral surface; providing a flexible annular gasket including a gasket body in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the second housing component and a sealing projection extending inwardly from the gasket body along a perimeter thereof; The second housing component is moved toward the first housing component along the longitudinal axis, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component is displaced along the inner peripheral surface so that the outer peripheral surface of the first housing component contacts the sealing protrusion along its periphery, wherein the sealing protrusion is compressed to form a liquid-tight seal between the first housing component and the second housing component.

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