Key Module Testing and Waterproofing in Mobile Terminals

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of a fingerprint sensor and press key module in mobile terminals requires a method to check the operational state before installation, as defective modules necessitate disassembly, causing inconvenience and cost, and existing solutions lack waterproofing.

Innovation Solution

A key module design featuring a first and second bracket forming an internal space with an opening, allowing a fingerprint sensor and press key unit to be mounted and tested before installation, with a rubber unit for elasticity and waterproofing using a waterproof adhesive member.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the press key module is integrated into the terminal body, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to test operational state before installation is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration of key moduleVSAvoidoperational state verification
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables preliminary testing of the press key module's operational state before it is permanently integrated into the terminal body. The sensor bracket assembly allows the press key unit to be tested in isolation, and only after successful verification is it permanently assembled into the final device, preventing defective modules from being installed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the key module is made waterproof using adhesive members, then the waterproofing performance is improved, but the ease of repair and rework is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproofing performanceVSAvoidmodule rework capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the key module assembly into distinct components: the sensor bracket, the press key unit, and the first bracket. These segmented components can be assembled and tested separately, then permanently fixed using waterproof adhesive members only after verification, balancing waterproofing requirements with repairability during the assembly process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If defective press key modules are detected after assembly, then the reliability is maintained, but the loss of time and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional verificationVSAvoiddisassembly and rework time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary operational testing of the press key module before permanent assembly into the terminal body. The sensor bracket assembly provides a testable configuration that allows verification of the press key unit's functionality in advance, preventing the need for time-consuming disassembly and rework when defects are detected.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables operational testing of the press key unit before assembly, ensuring a waterproof and functional key module that prevents water ingress, simplifying the installation process and reducing costs.

Implementation Method 1

a rubber unit adhered to the second case and the support member such that the sensor bracket is elastically moved

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the first bracket and the second bracket are adhered to the rear cover or the rear case by a waterproof adhesive member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS10558833B2Key module and mobile terminal having the same
Publication Date: 2020.02.11 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • US10558833B2 patent drawing
  • US10558833B2 patent drawing
  • US10558833B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A key module includes a first bracket, a second bracket coupled to the first bracket to form an internal space and including an opening region, and a sensor bracket allowing a fingerprint sensor unit and a press key unit to be mounted therein, and mounted to be movable in the internal space such that one region of the fingerprint sensor unit is exposed through the opening region, wherein one surface of the fingerprint sensor unit is exposed, the press key unit is disposed on the other surface of the fingerprint sensor unit, and the press key unit includes a circuit board and a dome switch disposed on the circuit board to face the first bracket.