Concealed Connector in Speaker Opening for Waterproof Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small electronic devices often lack space for external electrical connectors, which can disrupt aesthetics and pose challenges in sealing for water-resistant or waterproof designs, necessitating a concealed connector solution that maintains device appearance and functionality while allowing bidirectional communication.
Innovation Solution
A concealed electronic connector is positioned within a speaker opening of the device, utilizing an acoustically permeable layer with electrically conductive fibers or a flexible circuit, allowing a mating connector to establish communication channels with the device's circuitry, ensuring water resistance and aesthetics are maintained.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an external electrical connector is provided on the device, then bidirectional communication and charging functions are enabled, but the device aesthetics are disrupted and space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is merged with the speaker opening structure. The connector housing is positioned within the speaker opening, and the acoustically permeable layer serves dual purposes: acoustic function and connector protection. This integration eliminates the need for separate external connectors while maintaining both audio and communication functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector components are nested within the speaker opening cavity. The connector housing is received within the speaker opening, and the acoustically permeable layer is positioned between the connector and the external environment. This nesting arrangement conceals the connector while preserving aesthetic appearance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an external electrical connector is provided on the device, then charging and communication functions are enabled, but water resistance is compromised due to sealing difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The connector and speaker opening are merged into a single integrated structure. The acoustically permeable layer serves as both an acoustic component and a protective barrier for the connector, eliminating the need for separate seals around traditional external connectors and maintaining water resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustically permeable layer acts as an intermediary element between the external environment and the connector. It allows acoustic signals to pass through while providing a barrier that maintains the sealed environment for water resistance, mediating between acoustic functionality and protective sealing.
3Volume of moving object
If the device size is reduced for small form factor, then portability is improved, but space for external connectors is eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker opening serves multiple functions: acoustic output, connector housing, and protective barrier support. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated connector space, allowing the device to maintain small form factor while preserving charging and communication capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector functionality is merged with the existing speaker opening structure rather than requiring separate dedicated space. The connector housing utilizes the speaker opening cavity, and shared structural elements reduce overall device volume while maintaining both audio and electrical connection functions.
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
The solution enables bidirectional communication, charging, and diagnostics while keeping the connector hidden, reducing the risk of liquid ingress and preserving the device's appearance, making it suitable for small form factor, aesthetically sensitive, and water-resistant electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
An acoustically permeable layer is positioned between the diaphragm and the speaker aperture
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a concealed electrical connector positioned within a speaker opening defined by an enclosure of the electronic device. A mating connector is configured to fit through the speaker opening and couple to the concealed electrical connector to form a bidirectional communications path with circuitry within the electronic device.