Layered Speaker Seal Structure for Waterproof Airflow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices, particularly wearable devices, face limitations in performance due to the inclusion of multiple components that compromise durability and functionality when designed for portability, necessitating improved component arrangements and seals to enhance protection and durability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multi-layered seals with perforated supports and adhesive layers, along with varying membrane layers providing different levels of waterproof ratings and thicknesses, and the use of elastic adhesives to secure speaker meshes to speaker frames, ensuring robust attachment and protection against impacts and environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are included to enhance functionality, then device performance is improved, but device durability and ingress protection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The seal structure implements nesting by placing multiple membrane layers (first membrane layer, second membrane layer, third membrane layer) within a single seal assembly. Each membrane layer is positioned between adhesive layers and supported by a perforated support structure, creating a nested configuration that provides enhanced ingress protection while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for wearable devices with multiple functional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal employs composite materials by combining multiple membrane layers with different waterproof ratings (at least 10 bar for first and second membranes, at least 5 bar for third membrane), adhesive layers, and a perforated support structure. This composite approach creates a multi-functional seal that provides both superior water resistance and structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between enhanced functionality and durability.
2Reliability
If membrane layers with high waterproof ratings are used, then ingress protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seal structure divides the waterproofing function into segmented layers: a first membrane layer with at least 10 bar waterproof rating, a second membrane layer with at least 10 bar waterproof rating, and a third membrane layer with at least 5 bar waterproof rating. Each layer is separated by adhesive layers and supported by a perforated support structure, allowing the complex waterproofing requirement to be achieved through modular, manageable segments rather than a single complex barrier.
3Strength
If elastic adhesives are used to secure speaker meshes, then attachment durability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive layers undergo parameter changes by transitioning from a liquid or semi-liquid state during application to a cured solid state providing elastic bonding. This parameter change allows the adhesives to initially flow and conform to the speaker mesh and frame surfaces for easy application, then cure to provide durable elastic attachment that accommodates thermal expansion and mechanical stress, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing ease and attachment strength.
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 enhanced durability and ingress protection, allowing wearable devices to function effectively in diverse environments without compromising performance, by balancing waterproofing and airflow while preventing damage from impacts and moisture.
Implementation Method 1
a first adhesive layer on the perforated support; a first membrane layer on the first adhesive layer; a second adhesive layer on the first membrane layer; and a second membrane layer on the second adhesive layer
Implementation Method 2
The adhesive can include a third adhesive different from the first adhesive and the second adhesive. The third adhesive can include an elastic adhesive material
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a multi-layer seal and a speaker mesh attached to a speaker frame. In at least one example, the cavity is defined by the sidewall and the display cover with the cavity in fluid communication with an external environment through the gap. In some examples, an electronic device includes a housing sidewall defining an opening; an electronic positioned adjacent to the opening; and a seal between the electronic and the first opening, the seal including a perforated support; a first adhesive layer on the perforated support; a first membrane layer on the first adhesive layer; a second adhesive layer on the first membrane layer; and a second membrane layer on the second adhesive layer.