Waterproof Button with Integral Flexible Member and Strain Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
As electronic devices become smaller, there is a need for input buttons that can operate in reduced spaces while maintaining waterproof sealing to prevent fluid ingress and damage to internal components.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof button design featuring a button cap, a flexible member, and a strain sensor, where the flexible member is connected to the button cap and deforms to detect user input, allowing the strain sensor to generate a signal without requiring additional sealing elements like membranes or O-rings, even when compressed or used underwater.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sealing elements are added to prevent fluid ingress, then waterproofing is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing function with the button structure itself by making the button cap and flexible member integrally formed as a single piece. This eliminates the need for separate sealing elements like O-rings or membranes, achieving waterproofing without increasing button size. The integral construction merges the button body and seal into one component that performs both input detection and fluid barrier functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The button cap and flexible member serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide tactile input detection through strain sensor deformation, maintain waterproof sealing against fluid ingress, and eliminate the need for separate sealing components. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate parts.
2Reliability
If sealing elements are added to prevent fluid ingress, then waterproofing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces structural complexity by merging the button cap and flexible member into a single integrally formed component. This eliminates the need for multiple separate sealing elements, O-rings, or membranes that would increase assembly steps and potential failure points. The unified structure simplifies both manufacturing and maintenance while maintaining effective waterproofing.
3Volume of moving object
If button space is reduced for compact devices, then device size decreases, but sealing effectiveness worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible member that acts as both the button input mechanism and the sealing barrier. This thin, flexible component can be compressed during button operation while maintaining its waterproof sealing function. The flexible nature allows effective sealing in a compact space without requiring thick rigid sealing elements that would increase button size.
Solution Approach 2:
By making the button cap and flexible member integrally formed, the patent creates a compact button structure where the sealing function is built into the button itself rather than requiring additional space for separate sealing components. This integration maintains sealing effectiveness while minimizing the overall button footprint.
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 enables compact, waterproof user input on electronic devices, preventing water and debris from entering while allowing for user input detection, enhancing protection and functionality in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
When a force is exerted on the button cap, the flexible member bends and the strain sensor detects a user input corresponding to the force
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the disclosure includes an electronic device including an enclosure (214), a button (106), and a processing element (not shown). The button is connected to the enclosure and includes a button cap (234) defining a user input surface, a flexible member (238) having an interior surface (270) and exterior surface. The flexible member is aligned with the button cap and is connected thereto. The button further includes a strain sensor (244) connected to the interior surface of the flexible member, the strain sensor is in communication with the processing element. When a force is exerted on the button cap, the flexible member bends and the strain sensor detects a user input corresponding to the force and provides a signal to the processing element corresponding to the user input. In some embodiments, the button may be substantially or completely waterproof.