Acoustic Output Device Waterproof Sheet Nesting

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing acoustic output devices with waterproof structures face challenges in downsizing in the direction orthogonal to the push button operation due to the protrusion of the seat mounting and joint portions, which hinder compact design.

Innovation Solution

The acoustic output device incorporates an elastically deformable waterproof sheet with a bag-shaped pocket portion positioned between the push button and the switch, where the flat surface portion is inclined or parallel to the operation direction, and an intermediate portion is used to reduce protrusion, allowing for a more compact design by utilizing the component space effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the seat mounting portion and joint portion of the waterproof sheet are positioned to protrude from the switch and push button in a direction orthogonal to the operation direction, then the waterproofing function is achieved, but the device size in the direction orthogonal to the operation direction increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproofing functionVSAvoiddevice size in direction orthogonal to operation direction
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproof sheet is inserted into the insertion hole formed in the base case, with the pocket portion positioned between the push button and switch. This nesting arrangement allows the waterproof sheet to be contained within the existing structural space rather than protruding outward, eliminating the need for additional protruding portions while maintaining the waterproofing function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The waterproof sheet is oriented with its flat surface portion joined to the base case and the pocket portion extending in the operation direction of the push button rather than in the direction orthogonal to operation. This dimensional reorientation allows the waterproofing function to be achieved without increasing the device size in the orthogonal direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Length of stationary object

If the flat surface portion of the waterproof sheet is positioned to face in the operation direction of the push button, then the device size in the direction orthogonal to operation is reduced, but the structural stability and waterproofing effectiveness may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice size in direction orthogonal to operation directionVSAvoidwaterproofing effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproof sheet with the pocket portion is nested within the insertion hole, ensuring that the waterproofing structure is contained within the base case rather than protruding. This maintains compact dimensions while preserving waterproofing effectiveness through proper positioning and containment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This configuration reduces the device's size in the direction orthogonal to the push button operation, enhances operational force efficiency, and simplifies the push button structure while maintaining waterproofing, allowing for a more compact and user-friendly design.

Implementation Method 1

the deformed portion of the waterproof sheet is pressed, elastically deformed, and pushed into the sheet insertion hole

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11582545B2Acoustic output device
Publication Date: 2023.02.14 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US11582545B2 patent drawing
  • US11582545B2 patent drawing
  • US11582545B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An acoustic output device includes a base case whose internal space is formed as an arrangement space and in which an insertion hole communicating with the internal space is formed, a cover that covers at least a part of the base case, an elastically deformable waterproof sheet including a flat surface portion joined to the base case and a bag-shaped pocket portion inserted into the insertion hole, a push button including an operating portion to be pressed and operated and a working portion inserted into the pocket portion, a substrate that is arranged in the arrangement space, and a switch that is arranged on the substrate and operated by the working portion via the pocket portion.