Sealed PCB Module With Waterproof Dome Switch Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic communication modules lack waterproof push-button switches and have low integration complexity, especially when incorporating advanced communication components like RFID, NFC, and Bluetooth, and existing waterproof switches from other modules are not suitable for these advanced functions.
Innovation Solution
A sealed electronic module with a watertight compartment containing a printed circuit board, featuring a housing with a single opening sealed by a sealing element, which includes a metal dome switch and ribbings to support the board, and a single-sided adhesive tape for waterproofing, allowing integration of RFID, NFC, and Bluetooth technologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If waterproof push-button switches are added to electronic communication modules, then usability in wet environments is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing function and the push-button switch function into a single integrated waterproof push-button switch component. This component combines a waterproof membrane or coating with the switch mechanism, eliminating the need for separate sealing elements and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining waterproof usability
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproof push-button switch serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the operational switch and the waterproof seal for the compartment. This multi-functional design improves ease of operation in wet environments without adding extra components that would increase device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If advanced communication components (RFID, NFC, Bluetooth) are integrated, then functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple communication components (RFID, NFC, Bluetooth) onto a single printed circuit board within the sealed compartment. By combining these components in one integrated module rather than separate units, the patent reduces assembly steps and manufacturing complexity while maintaining advanced functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic communication module is designed as a universal platform that can implement multiple communication technologies (RFID, NFC, Bluetooth) simultaneously. This multi-functional design allows a single device to perform various communication functions without requiring separate dedicated modules for each technology, thereby controlling manufacturing costs
3Ease of manufacture
If a single opening is used in the housing, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but waterproofing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the opening and the sealing function into an integrated waterproof seal structure. The sealing element is designed to fit precisely over the single opening and is bonded to both the housing and the printed circuit board, creating a reliable waterproof barrier while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through the single-opening design
4Volume of moving object
If the module is made compact, then integration density is improved, but assembly precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the printed circuit board with communication components is placed within the sealed compartment formed by the housing and sealing element. The ribbings on the housing provide precise positioning features that guide the PCB into place, enabling compact integration while reducing assembly precision requirements through built-in alignment mechanisms
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 compact, cost-effective, and waterproof electronic module capable of implementing advanced wireless communication technologies while maintaining functionality and durability.
Implementation Method 1
the sealing element comprises an adhesive on all or part of its internal face; the sealing element comprises an internal face pasted to the surface of the edge of opening and the backside face of the printed circuit board
Data Source
AI summary
A sealed electronic module (1) including at least one actionable part (2), the module (1) including a case (2) having: a watertight compartment (4) containing a printed circuit board (5), the compartment (4) being formed by a housing (13) with a unique opening (20), the housing (13) including the printed circuit board (5), and a sealing element (6a, 6b) configured for closing tightly the unique opening (20) by being fixed to the housing (13) and the printed circuit board (5).