Doorbell Elastic Component Waterproofing and Tactile Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing doorbell devices with integrated sensors face challenges in maintaining a waterproof function while preserving the tactile feedback and sensing capabilities, particularly when exposed to moisture or rain.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates an elastic component with a flexible-carrier layer and a button module secured via an interference fit, featuring a sealing ring and adhesive layers to ensure water resistance while providing a good pressing experience through elastic feedback and proper positioning within the upper case.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If waterproof structures are added to protect sensors, then waterproof performance is improved, but the pressing feeling and tactile feedback deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewaterproof performanceVSAvoidpressing feeling

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The doorbell device is segmented into multiple functional layers: a waterproof outer case, a separate button module with pressing surface, and an elastic component layer. This segmentation allows the waterproof case to protect sensors while the button module provides tactile feedback through the elastic component's deformation, resolving the contradiction between waterproofing and pressing feeling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic component acts as an intermediary between the button module and the switch. When the pressing surface is pressed, the elastic component deforms and transmits the force to the switch, providing tactile feedback while the waterproof case remains intact. This intermediary mechanism allows waterproofing without compromising the pressing experience.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If sensors are integrated into the doorbell device, then sensing functionality is improved, but vulnerability to moisture and rain increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesensing functionalityVSAvoidmoisture damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The sensors are nested within the waterproof case structure, specifically positioned within the button module assembly that is sealed inside the upper case. The button module with its pressing surface and elastic component is nested within the waterproof enclosure, allowing sensors to function while being protected from moisture and rain.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The button module with pressing surface is designed as a replaceable assembly that can be easily replaced if damaged by moisture. This allows the use of sensitive sensors inside the waterproof case while providing a sacrificial outer layer that protects the valuable sensing components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Ease of manufacture

If adhesive layers are used to secure components, then assembly ease is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly easeVSAvoidadhesive positioning precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Adhesive layers are applied locally at specific positions rather than uniformly across surfaces. The first adhesive layer is positioned at the first bottom surface of the button module, and the second adhesive layer is positioned at the second bottom opening, providing precise local bonding that balances assembly ease with positioning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 enhances the waterproofing of doorbell devices while maintaining a satisfying pressing feel and effective sensing functionality, ensuring the device operates reliably in wet conditions.

Implementation Method 1

the elastic force of the elastic component can feedback the pressure when the button module is pressed

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The first fastening protrusion of the elastic component is secured to the annular trench via an interference fit

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInterference fit:

Implementation Method 3

The button module is disposed on the flexible-carrier layer of the elastic component

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS11217403B2Doorbell device

Publication Date: 2022.01.04 CHICONY ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A doorbell device including upper case, elastic component, and button module is provided. The upper case has an outer surface, first annular-holding surface disposed opposite to the outer surface, first opening and annular trench. The first annular-holding surface surrounds the first opening. The annular trench surrounds the first annular-holding surface. The elastic component has first fastening protrusion and flexible-carrier layer surrounded and connected by the first fastening protrusion. The button module has a second annular-holding surface, first bottom surface, and pressing surface disposed opposite to the first bottom surface. The first fastening protrusion is interference fit with the annular trench. The button module is disposed on the flexible-carrier layer. At least a part of the first bottom surface is facing the flexible-carrier layer. The button module surrounded by the second annular-holding surface corresponds to the first opening, and the second annular-holding surface is facing the first annular-holding surface.