Segmented Back Cover Structure for Waterproof Camera Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices face challenges in providing both waterproof performance and aesthetic design, particularly for camera modules that have increased in size, requiring a structure that meets both functional and design needs.

Innovation Solution

The electronic device incorporates a back cover with a camera cover that attaches a sealing member, ensuring waterproof performance while offering a pleasing exterior design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single back cover structure is used to cover the camera module, then the structure is simple, but waterproof performance and aesthetic design are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof performanceVSAvoidback cover structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The back cover is divided into two separate components: a main back cover and a camera cover. The camera cover specifically covers the camera module opening, while the main back cover covers the remaining area. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the camera cover can focus on waterproof sealing around the camera module, while the main back cover provides overall structural support and aesthetic design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the camera module size is increased, then functionality is improved, but the design needs become more complex and waterproofing becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera module functionalityVSAvoidcover structure design
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the camera cover from the main back cover, the design can independently accommodate larger camera modules without compromising the overall back cover structure. The camera cover can be specifically designed to match the increased camera module dimensions while maintaining proper sealing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If a separate camera cover is added, then waterproof performance and design are improved, but the number of parts increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof performanceVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The camera cover is integrated with the main back cover through coupling protrusions and recesses, forming a unified assembly that acts as a single functional unit. This merging approach allows the two components to work together seamlessly while maintaining the benefits of separate design optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP4178182B1Back cover and electronic device including same
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP4178182B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4178182B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4178182B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a housing which forms an accommodation space, a front cover coupled to one side of the housing, a back cover coupled to the housing at an opposite side of the front cover, and a camera device disposed in one area of the accommodation space. The back cover includes a plate which covers the other area of the accommodation space and a camera cover which covers the camera device, the camera cover having a first edge coupled to the housing and a second edge coupled to the plate.