Waterproof Button Module With Flexible Multi-Barrier Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional button structures in electronic devices suffer from reduced durability and ineffective waterproofing and dustproofing due to the use of waterproof adhesives that harden or fall off, and O-rings that block button operation.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof button module with a flexible button mainbody featuring annular protruding structures that form multiple barriers against moisture and dust, combined with an elastic connecting element to maintain alignment and provide reset force, ensuring durability and effective sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If waterproof adhesion is applied between the button structure and the electronic device, then waterproofing is improved, but the adhesion hardens or falls off after multiple presses reducing service life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the waterproof adhesive layer from the button structure, replacing it with a self-sealing flexible button mainbody that achieves waterproofing through its material properties and structural design (annular protruding structures) rather than through adhesive bonding
Solution Approach 2:
The button mainbody is made of flexible material that can deform during pressing and automatically return to its original state, creating a dynamic seal that maintains waterproofing without relying on adhesive layers that harden or detach
2Reliability
If an O-ring is installed in the button structure to achieve waterproof effect, then waterproofing is improved, but the button made of hard material is blocked by the O-ring preventing effective pressing
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible button mainbody replaces the rigid button combined with O-ring, allowing the button itself to provide the sealing function through its flexibility and deformability, eliminating the need for separate O-ring components
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function and button function are merged into a single flexible button mainbody component, eliminating the need for separate O-ring elements and simplifying the structure while improving operability
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 module maintains IP67 or higher waterproofing and dustproofing after 10,000 presses, prevents dust and moisture ingress, and enhances user feedback with stable operation and reduced risk of component damage.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic connecting element... a second end of the at least one elastic connecting element is connected to the button shaft element
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a waterproof button module, which is applied to an electronic device, including a button mainbody, a button shaft element and at least one elastic connecting element. The button mainbody is made of a flexible material, and the button mainbody includes a pressing portion, a connecting portion and at least two annular protruding structures. The connecting portion is integrally connected to and surrounds the pressing portion. The at least two annular protruding structures are separated from each other and disposed on the connecting portion. A first end portion of the button shaft element is connected to an inner surface of the button mainbody, and a second end portion of the button shaft element is for pressing a touch unit. The at least one elastic connecting element is connected to the button shaft.