Switch Device Waterproofing via Segmented Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch devices for electronic devices like wristwatches face challenges in maintaining long-term waterproofness due to wear of waterproof rings from friction, leading to reduced pressure contact force and compromised reliability.
Innovation Solution
A switch device design featuring first and second waterproof members arranged on the outer and inner surfaces of the wristwatch case, respectively, with press members that maintain optimal pressure contact through adjustable fastening forces, ensuring both waterproofness and airtightness by preventing wear-induced reductions in contact pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a waterproof ring is provided on the operation member to achieve waterproof protection, then waterproofness is improved, but the waterproof ring wears due to friction during sliding operation, leading to reduced pressure contact force and compromised long-term reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The waterproof sealing function is divided into two separate components: a first waterproof member on the outer surface and a second waterproof member on the inner surface. This segmentation allows each member to be independently pressed by dedicated press members, distributing the wear and maintaining sealing effectiveness over time.
Solution Approach 2:
Different surfaces are assigned different waterproofing functions: the outer surface has the first waterproof member for external sealing, while the inner surface has the second waterproof member for internal sealing. This local differentiation optimizes the sealing performance at each interface.
2Device complexity
If a single waterproof ring is used in the through hole, then the structure is simple, but the friction during sliding operation causes wear and reduces pressure contact force, compromising long-term waterproof reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The single waterproof ring is segmented into two separate waterproof members positioned at different surfaces. This segmentation reduces the friction load on each individual member while maintaining overall sealing effectiveness and improving long-term reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproof sealing is extended from a single-point sealing approach to a multi-dimensional sealing system with members on both outer and inner surfaces, creating redundant sealing paths that enhance reliability without significantly increasing complexity.
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 effectively maintains waterproofness and airtightness over a long period by preventing wear-induced reductions in contact pressure, ensuring stable operation and reliability of the switch device.
Implementation Method 1
the outer circumferential surface of the waterproof ring is worn by the friction of the waterproof ring with the inner circumferential surface of the tubular member
Implementation Method 2
the outer circumferential portion of the waterproof ring comes in pressure contact with the inner circumferential surface of the tubular member
Data Source
AI summary
A switch device includes a case having a through hole, an operation member which is inserted into the through hole of the case and protrudes inside and outside the case, a waterproof member which is placed on at least one of the outer surface and the inner surface of the case and into which the operation member is slidably inserted, and a press member which presses the waterproof member against the case.