Hydrophobic Resin Encapsulation for Diving Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices used in marine environments face challenges with water ingress and conductivity, as existing sealed containers and connectors are not always reliable, and the weight and size of these solutions are not suitable for diving applications.
Innovation Solution
The integration of electronic circuits and batteries within a block of hydrophobic material, such as polymerizable resin, which is non-conductive and insensitive to water, along with actuators, control panels, and communication means using optical and radio signals, eliminating the need for metal sockets and ensuring the device's water resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic circuits are enclosed in a sealed container to protect from sea water, then water resistance is improved, but the device becomes heavier and larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the separate sealed container by embedding the electronic circuit directly into a block of hydrophobic material. The circuit board is positioned within the hydrophobic material block, eliminating the need for a distinct waterproof enclosure while maintaining water resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite structure where electronic circuit components are integrated within a hydrophobic material matrix. The hydrophobic material serves both as structural support and waterproof protection, combining mechanical and protective functions in a single integrated medium.
2Reliability
If sealed connectors are used for connecting cables, then water resistance is improved, but the device becomes more complex and harder to repair
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates sealed connectors by having cables pass directly through the hydrophobic material block. The hydrophobic material itself provides the waterproof barrier, removing the need for separate sealed connector components and simplifying the overall device structure.
3Reliability
If the electronic circuit is embedded in resin, then water resistance is improved, but the ability to work on the circuit is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device into a permanent hydrophobic material block containing the circuit and a separate removable cover. The cover can be detached to provide access to the circuit board for programming or repair, while the circuit remains protected within the hydrophobic material when assembled.
4Adaptability or versatility
If metal sockets are used for external charger connection, then charging functionality is enabled, but water ingress risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical electrical contacts with inductive charging. A transmitter coil outside the device magnetically couples with a receiver coil inside the device to transfer power wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical metal sockets and maintaining waterproof integrity.
5Reliability
If optical fibres are used for communication, then water resistance is improved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes communication sockets from the device by using wireless communication methods. The electronic circuit communicates with external devices through radio waves or acoustic waves transmitted through the hydrophobic material, eliminating the need for physical optical fibre connections.
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 provides a lightweight, compact, and reliable electronic device that is intrinsically insensitive to water, allowing for recharging without electrical contact and enabling remote control of actuators and communication without electrical signal propagation issues, suitable for diving equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the circuit and battery are included in a block of hydrophobic material. A hydrophobic material is insensitive to water, non-conductive and non-oxidisable
Implementation Method 2
these communication means being disposed on the surface of or inside the block and panel. When the control panel is separate from the block of hydrophobic material, it is advantageous for the device to comprise means of communication between them
Data Source
AI summary
The device (50) includes at least one electronic circuit (52) and a battery (53) provided for powering the circuit, wherein the circuit and the battery are included in a block of hydrophobic material, for example a block of resin (51). The battery is, for example, an inductively charged battery and the device can include optical sockets (56a, 56b, 56c) for fiber-optic cables, so as to avoid all contact of metal parts with water. Such a device is especially suitable for a buoyancy compensator vest, for use as a “stabilizer during immersion” and as a “closed-circuit rebreather”.