UV LED Light Source Unit Waterproofing via Double Gasket and Film

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Solution Overview

Problem

Ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV LEDs) used in high humidity or underwater environments face reliability issues due to deterioration of moisture-proof and waterproof functions, leading to decreased operation reliability.

Innovation Solution

A light source unit with a double gasket structure and a waterproof film covering the light emitting device, along with a bonding portion between the outer walls of the covers, enhances the waterproofing by using fluororesin materials and a molding member to protect the internal components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a waterproof structure is added to protect UV LEDs in high humidity environments, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation reliabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproof structure is divided into multiple functional layers: a waterproof film directly covering the light emitting device, first and second gaskets positioned at different locations to provide sequential sealing, and a bonding portion sealing the outer periphery. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific waterproof function independently, achieving comprehensive protection while maintaining modular simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The waterproof components are arranged in a nested configuration where the light emitting device is covered by the waterproof film, which is in turn sealed by the first gasket, then the second gasket, and finally the bonding portion at the outermost layer. This nested arrangement creates multiple barriers against moisture penetration without requiring a completely separate waterproof enclosure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If multiple gaskets and waterproof films are added around the light emitting device, then moisture-proofing is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemoisture-proof functionVSAvoidwaterproof structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The moisture-proof function is segmented across multiple components: the waterproof film provides direct coverage of the light emitting device surface, the first gasket seals the interface between the light emitting device and circuit board, and the second gasket provides additional sealing at a different position. This segmentation distributes the moisture-proof function across simple, discrete components rather than a single complex structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If a bonding portion is added between the outer walls of the first and second covers, then waterproofing is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovewaterproofingVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The bonding portion integrates multiple functions into a single component: it seals the outer periphery where the first and second covers meet, provides structural bonding between the covers, and maintains the waterproof barrier. This merging eliminates the need for separate sealing elements and complex assembly steps, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10655839B2Light source unit
Publication Date: 2020.05.19 SUZHOU LEKIN SEMICON CO LTD
  • US10655839B2 patent drawing
  • US10655839B2 patent drawing
  • US10655839B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A light source unit disclosed in an embodiment of the invention includes: a first cover having an open region at an upper portion and a recess in which a lower portion is opened; a second cover coupled to the lower portion of the first cover; a light source module disposed between the first and second covers and having a circuit board and a light emitting device on the circuit board; a waterproof film disposed on the light emitting device and facing an upper surface of the circuit board; and first and second gaskets on the upper surface of the circuit board. The first cover and the second cover are coupled to each other by protrusions and grooves and are bonded to each other by a bonding portion.