Pressure-sensitive waterproof key

Abstract

The utility model discloses a pressure response type waterproof key, including a casing, waterproof key piece, pressure sensor and PCBA subassembly are established in the casing, PCBA subassembly is installed at the bottom of casing, and pressure sensor is welded on PCBA subassembly, and waterproof key piece is located above the inductive surface of pressure sensor and exposes the pressing surface of waterproof key piece from the surface of casing, the waterproof key piece is fixed in the inside of casing surface, and the gap between waterproof key piece and casing is filled and sealed through point gum, when waterproof key piece is pressed, pressure sensor converts pressure and exports linear pressure signal. Through pasting and point gum seal, improve the waterproof sealing of key, solve the waterproof failure problem of existing pressure response type waterproof key because of aging, can also realize linear inductive output of pressure signal, satisfy the demand of accurate identification of pressure size.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of electronic equipment technology, and in particular to a pressure-sensitive waterproof button. Background Technology

[0002] Existing pressure-sensitive waterproof buttons suffer from poor sealing performance and susceptibility to water ingress and short circuits. Furthermore, most pressure sensing mechanisms are on / off (only indicating "pressed / not pressed"), failing to output a linear pressure signal. Some waterproof buttons use a single sealing structure (e.g., relying solely on a silicone sleeve), which is prone to aging and waterproofing failure after prolonged use. Additionally, some pressure-sensitive buttons exhibit poor coordination between waterproofing design and pressure transmission; either the seal is too tight, leading to insensitive pressure sensing, or the seal is loose, preventing effective waterproofing. Moreover, they lack a simple, easy-to-assemble integrated design, making it difficult to balance production efficiency and reliability.

[0003] Therefore, existing technologies still need to be improved and enhanced. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a pressure-sensitive waterproof button to solve the problem of waterproof failure caused by aging of existing pressure-sensitive waterproof buttons.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: A pressure-sensitive waterproof button includes a housing, wherein the housing contains a waterproof button component, a pressure sensor, and a PCBA assembly; The PCBA assembly is installed at the bottom of the housing. The pressure sensor is soldered onto the PCBA assembly. The waterproof button is located above the sensing surface of the pressure sensor and protrudes from the surface of the housing. The waterproof button is adhered to the inner side of the housing surface. The gap between the waterproof button and the housing is sealed by dispensing adhesive. When the waterproof button is pressed, the pressure sensor converts the pressure and outputs a linear pressure signal.

[0006] In the pressure-sensitive waterproof button, the housing includes a bottom shell and a top shell. The bottom shell is screwed to the top shell. The bottom shell has a recessed mounting position. The edge of the bottom shell has several threaded posts for screwing to the top shell and providing support. The top shell has screw holes that match the position and number of the threaded posts, as well as button holes for exposing the pressing surface.

[0007] The pressure-sensitive waterproof button has six screw holes. Four screw holes are located at one end of the face shell and are arranged in pairs around the button hole. Two screw holes are located side by side at the other end of the face shell. The edge of the bottom shell is provided with six threaded posts that are adapted to the screw holes.

[0008] In the pressure-sensitive waterproof button, the pressure sensor is a resistive pressure sensor. The pressure sensor is soldered to the sensor pad of the PCBA assembly through two metal pins, with the sensing surface of the pressure sensor facing upwards and directly opposite the button hole.

[0009] In the pressure-sensitive waterproof button, the waterproof button component includes a silicone button and an adhesive backing ring. The pressing surface of the silicone button protrudes from the button hole in the faceplate, and the surface of the mounting ring on the edge of the silicone button is bonded to the inner top surface of the faceplate by the adhesive backing ring.

[0010] In the pressure-sensitive waterproof button, the gap between the bottom surface of the assembly ring and the front shell is sealed and filled with adhesive by annular dot coating.

[0011] In the pressure-sensitive waterproof button, the silicone button includes a pressing surface on the outer side and a contact protrusion on the inner side. The pressing surface and the contact protrusion are connected to the mounting ring by an elastic arm. A preset gap is provided between the contact protrusion and the sensing surface of the pressure sensor.

[0012] In the pressure-sensitive waterproof button, the PCBA assembly is fastened to the mounting position inside the bottom shell by screws.

[0013] In the pressure-sensitive waterproof button, when the pressing surface of the silicone button is subjected to pressure, the contact protrusion on the inner side of the silicone button presses against the sensing surface of the pressure sensor; the pressure sensor outputs a linearly changing resistance value according to the change in pressure.

[0014] Compared to existing technologies, the pressure-sensitive waterproof button provided by this utility model includes a housing, within which a waterproof button component, a pressure sensor, and a PCBA assembly are disposed. The PCBA assembly is installed at the bottom of the housing, the pressure sensor is soldered onto the PCBA assembly, and the waterproof button component is located above the sensing surface of the pressure sensor, with its pressing surface protruding from the housing surface. The waterproof button component is adhered to the inner surface of the housing, and the gap between the waterproof button component and the housing is sealed by adhesive filling. When the waterproof button component is pressed, the pressure sensor converts the pressure and outputs a linear pressure signal. Through adhesion and adhesive sealing, the waterproof sealing performance of the button is improved, solving the problem of waterproof failure due to aging in existing pressure-sensitive waterproof buttons; it also enables linear sensing output of the pressure signal, meeting the need for accurate pressure magnitude identification. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of the pressure-sensitive waterproof button provided by this utility model.

[0016] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the pressure-sensitive waterproof button provided by this utility model.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of the pressure sensor provided by this utility model.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the silicone button provided by this utility model.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the pressure-sensitive waterproof button provided by this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0020] This utility model provides a pressure-sensitive waterproof button. To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer and more explicit, the following detailed description, with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, further illustrates the utility model. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this utility model.

[0021] Please also refer to Figures 1 to 2 This utility model provides a pressure-sensitive waterproof button, comprising a housing, within which are a waterproof button component, a pressure sensor 1, and a PCBA assembly 2. The PCBA assembly 2 is mounted on the bottom of the housing, the pressure sensor 1 is soldered onto the PCBA assembly 2, and the waterproof button component is located above the sensing surface of the pressure sensor 1, with its pressing surface protruding from the housing surface. The waterproof button component is adhered to the inner surface of the housing, and the gap between the waterproof button component and the housing is sealed by adhesive filling. When the waterproof button component is pressed, the sensing surface is pressed in response to changes in external force. The pressure sensor 1 converts the pressure into a measurable electrical signal, outputting a linear pressure signal. Through adhesive bonding and sealing, the waterproof sealing performance of the button is improved, solving the problem of waterproof failure due to aging in existing pressure-sensitive waterproof buttons; it also enables linear sensing output of the pressure signal, meeting the need for accurate pressure identification. It can be widely used in electronic products with similar button functions, such as smart switches, smart running shoes, counters, and medical devices for detecting the degree of pressure applied to the human body.

[0022] In this embodiment, the housing includes a bottom shell 3 and a top shell 4. The bottom shell 3 and the top shell 4 are screwed together. The bottom shell 3 has a recessed mounting position for accommodating the waterproof button, pressure sensor 1, and PCBA assembly 2. The edge of the bottom shell 3 has a plurality of threaded posts 5 (or positioning posts) for screwing together with the top shell 4 and providing support. The top shell 4 has screw holes 6 that match the position and number of the threaded posts 5, and button holes 7 for exposing the pressing surface. The screws 8 pass through the screw holes 6 and are screwed into the threaded posts 5 to achieve screwing and fixing.

[0023] Preferably, the bottom shell 3 and the front shell 4 are injection molded from ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer) or PC (polycarbonate) plastic material. The bottom shell 3 serves as the mounting base for the overall structure, with an internal groove. The PCBA assembly 2 is located at one end of the bottom shell 3, and a battery 17 is located in the middle. The other end has a small board 18 for integrating other functional components (as needed, such as a power button, charging POGO PIN, LED indicator, etc.). The front shell 4 serves as the cover plate for the overall structure. When fixed to the bottom shell 3 by screws, it preferably has six screw holes 6. Four screw holes are located at one end of the front shell 4 and arranged in pairs around the button hole 7, while the other two screw holes are located side-by-side at the other end of the front shell 4. Six threaded posts 5, corresponding to the screw holes, are provided along the edge of the bottom shell 3.

[0024] To ensure a more stable fixation of the bottom shell 3 and the front shell 4, several buckles can be installed around the inner edge of the front shell 4; the edge of the bottom shell 3 has corresponding fasteners. The engagement of the buckles and fasteners further enhances the tightening effect. For ease of gripping, the other end of the bottom shell 3 and the front shell 4 can be designed with a downward-curving structure, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown.

[0025] like Figure 3As shown, the pressure sensor 1 is preferably a flexible thin-film resistive pressure sensor with linear resistance output characteristics. The resistance value decreases as the pressure applied to the sensing area increases, and the length L of the output pressure signal corresponding to the resistance value is 26.5 mm. The diameter D1 of the largest trigger area of ​​the pressure sensor is preferably 14.7 mm, and the contact area between the button and the pressure sensor does not exceed this size range. The outer diameter D2 of the pressure sensor is preferably 18.3 mm. The output end of the pressure sensor 1 has two tin-plated copper metal pins (Pin1 and Pin2) for electrical connection with the sensor pads pre-set on the PCBA assembly. The length LP of the two metal pins (e.g., 4 mm) is adapted to the spacing of the sensor pads, the spacing S between the two metal pins is preferably 2.54 mm, and the thickness H of the metal pins is preferably 0.2 ± 0.05 mm. When the pressure sensor 1 is fixed to the sensor pads of the PCBA assembly by soldering the two pins, the circular sensing surface faces upward (towards the housing), and the thickness Hr of the entire sensing part is preferably 0.43 ± 0.05 mm.

[0026] Taking the RP-C flexible thin-film pressure sensor as an example, it is essentially a two-port variable resistor whose resistance value is controlled by pressure, or a switch with a certain threshold value, which is determined by both the pressure and the device parameter settings. The RP-C flexible thin-film pressure sensor is composed of a polyester film with excellent comprehensive mechanical properties, highly conductive materials, and nanoscale pressure-sensitive materials. The top layer consists of a flexible film and a pressure-sensitive layer laminated on it, while the bottom layer consists of a flexible film and conductive circuitry laminated on it. The two are bonded together with double-sided adhesive and the sensing area is isolated. When the sensing area is compressed, the disconnected circuitry on the bottom layer becomes conductive through the pressure-sensitive layer on the top layer, and the output resistance value at the port changes with the pressure.

[0027] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the waterproof button component includes a silicone button 9 and an adhesive ring 10 with double-sided adhesive. The pressing surface 12 of the silicone button 9 protrudes from the button hole 7 of the face shell 4. The surface of the mounting ring 14 on the edge of the silicone button 9 is bonded to the inner top surface of the face shell 4 by the adhesive ring 10. A sealing filler is applied in a ring to the gap between the bottom surface of the mounting ring 14 and the face shell 4. After the adhesive cures, a closed-loop sealing structure is formed, namely a closed-loop sealing filler layer 11, which achieves double sealing and waterproofing (i.e., the adhesive ring 10 provides initial sealing, and the sealing filler layer 11 enhances the sealing effect), preventing moisture from entering from the gap between the silicone button 9 and the face shell 4, and protecting the PCBA components and pressure sensor from water damage.

[0028] The silicone button 9 is injection molded from medical-grade elastic silicone material with a Shore hardness of 50-60°. It includes a circular pressing surface 12 with a raised center on the outer side and a contact protrusion 13 on the inner side that adapts to the sensing surface of the resistive pressure sensor 1. The pressing surface 12 and the contact protrusion 13 are connected to the mounting ring 14 by an elastic arm 15. The contact protrusion 13 maintains a preset gap with the sensing surface of the resistive pressure sensor to ensure no contact when not pressed and effective pressure transmission when pressed.

[0029] The contact protrusion 11 is preferably tapered, which increases the sensing area of ​​the pressure sensor as the external pressure increases. The diameter of the contact protrusion 13 is preferably 5-6 mm. A gap is formed between the contact protrusion 13 and the elastic arm 15 through the bridging of the elastic arm 15. The elastic arm 15 can cause the pressing surface 12 to spring back after being pressed, and when not pressed, it supports the contact protrusion 13 to prevent contact with the pressure sensor 1.

[0030] When the pressing surface 12 of the silicone button 9 is subjected to external pressure, the silicone button 9 undergoes elastic deformation, and the contact protrusion 13 on its inner side presses the sensing surface of the pressure sensor 1. The pressure sensor 1 converts the mechanical pressure into a measurable electrical signal according to the change in the applied pressure, and outputs a linearly changing resistance value (i.e., pressure signal). After being processed by the PCBA component 2, the pressure signal is transmitted to the control circuit outside the waterproof button through the interface to achieve accurate identification of the pressure magnitude.

[0031] The adhesive backing ring uses waterproof adhesive, preferably waterproof foam adhesive with a thickness of 0.1~0.3mm, and is cut into a ring shape to fit the assembly ring 14 on the edge of the silicone button 9. To prevent the silicone button 9 from shifting during installation, several (three as shown in the figure) limiting posts can be set on the inner top surface of the faceplate 4 adjacent to the button hole. Limiting holes 16 are respectively set on the assembly ring 14 and the adhesive backing ring 10 to match the position and number of the limiting posts. The limiting holes 16 fit onto the limiting posts to align and prevent shifting.

[0032] like Figure 5 As shown, the sealing and filling adhesive layer 11 uses an aging-resistant and waterproof adhesive (such as silicone sealant or polyurethane sealant) to fill the gap between the silicone button and the perimeter of the front shell.

[0033] The PCBA assembly 2 is a printed circuit board with sensor pads that mate with the metal pins of the resistive pressure sensor 1, as well as a signal interface for connecting to external circuits. The interface functions of the circuit board are designed according to equipment requirements, with reserved pads for other functions (spacing matching the pins) and signal output interfaces. The PCBA assembly 2 can be fixed to the mounting position inside the bottom housing 3 by screws, snap-fit, or positioning pins, ensuring that the sensing surface of the pressure sensor faces the button hole 7 on the housing.

[0034] To prevent the four threaded posts 5 from obstructing the installation of PCBA assembly 2, a clearance notch can be set on the edge of the PCBA assembly 2 at the position where it contacts the threaded posts. Part of the threaded post 5 is stuck in the clearance notch, which can also limit and fix the PCBA assembly 2.

[0035] The pressure-sensitive waterproof button is assembled as follows: Step 1: Insert the metal pins (Pin1 and Pin2) of pressure sensor 1 into the preset sensor pads on the PCBA assembly, and fix them by wave soldering or manual soldering, ensuring that there are no cold solder joints or missing solder joints. Step 2: Place the PCBA assembly 2 with the pressure sensor 1 soldered into the mounting position inside the bottom shell 3, and fasten it by passing an M2 screw through the fixing hole on the PCBA assembly 2 and the threaded hole on the bottom shell 3. Position the sensing surface of the pressure sensor 1 directly opposite the button hole 7 on the outer shell 4 (the gap is controlled at 0.5~1mm). Step 3: Attach an annular adhesive ring 10 to the surface of the mounting ring 14 on the edge of the silicone button 9. After removing the adhesive protective film, align the silicone button 9 with the button hole 7 and press it to fix it, ensuring that the contact protrusion 13 on the inner side of the silicone button 9 is coaxially aligned with the sensing surface of the pressure sensor. Step 4: Using a dispensing machine, apply sealant in a circular pattern to the gap between the silicone button 9 and the faceplate 4. The thickness of the sealant layer should be controlled between 0.3 and 0.5 mm to ensure that the gap is completely filled without any air bubbles or breaks. Step 5: Place the assembled pressure-sensitive waterproof button at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the sealant to fully cure before completing the assembly.

[0036] During use, when the user presses the pressing surface 12 on the outside of the silicone button 9, the silicone button 9 undergoes elastic deformation, and the contact protrusion 13 on its inner side applies pressure to the pressure sensor; the resistance value of the pressure sensor decreases linearly with the increase of the pressing force (or increases, depending on the sensor model), and this resistance signal is the pressure signal, which is transmitted to the external control circuit through the PCBA component 2 to achieve accurate identification of the pressure magnitude.

[0037] In summary, the pressure-sensitive waterproof button provided by this utility model adopts a double-sealing design with an initial seal using a backing rubber ring and a reinforced sealant layer. This design ensures a stable and aging-resistant sealing structure, improving the button's waterproof performance and effectively preventing water intrusion, thus avoiding malfunctions of internal electronic components. It boasts an IP68 waterproof rating. The pressure sensor precisely aligns with the contact protrusion of the silicone button, ensuring direct and lossless pressure transmission and accurate pressure sensing. It outputs a linear resistance value based on the pressure applied, meeting the requirement for precise pressure identification and adapting to scenarios requiring pressure level recognition (such as volume adjustment and gear switching). The resistive structure is simple and reliable, with clear assembly logic for each component, eliminating the need for complex molds or high-precision machining, thus reducing production difficulty. The elastic material of the silicone button also provides cushioning, reducing the impact on the pressure sensor and extending its service life.

[0038] The overall structure is simple and reliable, easy to manufacture and process, and provides strong protection for the product's buttons. Installation and disassembly are convenient, simplifying the assembly process, ensuring structural stability, and reducing production and maintenance costs. It features fast response speed, long durability, adjustable sensitivity, and low cost. The specifications of the shell and silicone buttons can be adjusted according to the size requirements of different devices, making it compatible with various electronic devices requiring waterproofing and linear pressure sensing. It can be widely used in smart switches, smart running shoes, counters, and medical devices that detect pressure on the human body, among other electronic products with similar button functions.

[0039] It should be understood that the application of this utility model is not limited to the examples above. Those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A pressure-sensitive waterproof button, comprising a housing, characterized in that, The housing contains waterproof buttons, a pressure sensor, and a PCBA assembly. The PCBA assembly is installed at the bottom of the housing. The pressure sensor is soldered onto the PCBA assembly. The waterproof button is located above the sensing surface of the pressure sensor and protrudes from the surface of the housing. The waterproof button is adhered to the inner side of the housing surface. The gap between the waterproof button and the housing is sealed by dispensing adhesive. When the waterproof button is pressed, the pressure sensor converts the pressure and outputs a linear pressure signal.

2. The pressure-sensitive waterproof button according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes a bottom shell and a top shell. The bottom shell is screwed to the top shell. The bottom shell has a recessed mounting position inside. The edge of the bottom shell has several threaded posts for screwing to the top shell and providing support. The top shell has screw holes that match the position and number of the threaded posts, as well as button holes for exposing the pressing surface.

3. The pressure-sensitive waterproof button according to claim 2, characterized in that, The device has 6 screw holes. Four screw holes are located at one end of the front shell and are arranged in pairs around the button hole. Two screw holes are located side by side at the other end of the front shell. The edge of the bottom shell is provided with 6 threaded posts that are adapted to the screw holes.

4. The pressure-sensitive waterproof button according to claim 3, characterized in that, The pressure sensor is a resistive pressure sensor, which is soldered to the sensor pad of the PCBA assembly via two metal pins, with the sensing surface of the pressure sensor facing upwards and directly opposite the button hole.

5. The pressure-sensitive waterproof button according to claim 4, characterized in that, The waterproof button component includes a silicone button and an adhesive backing ring. The pressing surface of the silicone button protrudes from the button hole in the faceplate, and the surface of the mounting ring on the edge of the silicone button is bonded to the inner top surface of the faceplate by the adhesive backing ring.

6. The pressure-sensitive waterproof button according to claim 5, characterized in that, The gap between the bottom surface of the assembly ring and the outer shell is sealed and filled with adhesive by applying a ring-shaped dot coating.

7. The pressure-sensitive waterproof button according to claim 6, characterized in that, The silicone button includes a pressing surface on the outer side and a contact protrusion on the inner side. The pressing surface and the contact protrusion are connected to the assembly ring by an elastic arm. A preset gap is provided between the contact protrusion and the sensing surface of the pressure sensor.

8. The pressure-sensitive waterproof button according to claim 2 or 7, characterized in that, The PCBA assembly is fastened to the mounting position inside the bottom shell by screws.

9. The pressure-sensitive waterproof button according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the pressing surface of the silicone button is subjected to pressure, the contact protrusion on the inner side of the silicone button presses against the sensing surface of the pressure sensor; the pressure sensor outputs a linearly changing resistance value according to the change in the applied pressure.

Images