Waterproof Button Mechanism Using Transmissive Barrier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic devices with buttons face challenges in maintaining water resistance due to the 'pass-through' configuration of buttons through the housing, which can lead to water ingress and damage over time, as traditional seals like o-rings and gaskets degrade with use.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof button mechanism is implemented where the button assembly does not require a 'pass-through' configuration, using a continuous housing with a transmissive barrier that allows electromagnetic emissions from an emissive object to be detected by sensors within the internal volume, eliminating the need for physical pathways and thus preventing water ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pass-through button configuration is used, then the button is accessible from the exterior, but water can ingress through the button pathway into the internal volume
Solution Approach 1:
The button assembly is segmented into separate functional components: the button body remains in the external recess for user access, while the detectable object is separated and positioned within the internal volume near the sensor. This segmentation allows the button to be accessible externally while the detection mechanism operates internally without requiring a physical pathway through the housing.
Solution Approach 2:
Electromagnetic radiation serves as an intermediary between the button assembly and the sensor. The detectable object on the button modulates electromagnetic signals that pass through the transmissive barrier, allowing the sensor to detect button presses without requiring a physical opening in the housing.
2Reliability
If traditional seals like o-rings and gaskets are used to prevent water ingress, then water resistance is initially maintained, but the seals degrade with use over time
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical sealing system (o-rings, gaskets) is replaced with an electromagnetic field-based detection system. The transmissive barrier allows electromagnetic signals to pass while maintaining physical integrity and water resistance. This eliminates the need for degradable mechanical seals while preserving both button functionality and waterproofing indefinitely.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmissive barrier acts as an intermediary that allows electromagnetic radiation to pass through while maintaining a physical seal. This barrier replaces the need for mechanical seals, providing permanent water resistance without degradation.
3Reliability
If a continuous housing with transmissive barrier is used, then water ingress is prevented, but the button mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The detectable object serves multiple functions: it is attached to the button for mechanical coupling, contains the emissive or detectable element for signal generation, and acts as a carrier for the electromagnetic interaction. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall assembly despite the sophisticated operation.
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
This solution ensures that electronic devices remain waterproof, even with movable components, by using a continuous housing and transmissive barriers that allow electromagnetic detection without physical contact, thereby preventing water damage and maintaining device integrity over time.
Implementation Method 1
An emissive object can be attached to the button body, the emissive object being movable between a first position and a second position, the emissive object configured to emit electromagnetic radiation. A first sensor can be positioned within the internal volume. The first sensor can generate a first signal in response to detecting electromagnetic radiation of the emissive object in the first position.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device can include: a housing defining an exterior surface and an internal volume, the exterior surface defining a recess having a base portion and a sidewall, the housing forming a continuous component; a button body positioned within the recess; an emissive object attached to the button body, the emissive object being movable between a first position and a second position and configured to emit electromagnetic radiation; a first sensor positioned within the internal volume and configured to generate a first signal in response to detecting electromagnetic radiation in the first position; a second sensor positioned within the internal volume and configured to generate a second signal; a processor positioned within the internal volume, and in electrical communication with the first sensor and the second sensor; and a memory having electronic instructions that cause the processor to respond to the first signal and the second signal.