Waterproof Skin Module for Tactile Information Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information output apparatuses face limitations in durability and waterproof functionality, particularly when used in tactile modes, as they are vulnerable to contamination and moisture, which degrades their performance and restricts their use in various environments.
Innovation Solution
The information output apparatus incorporates a casing with a driving module and a skin module featuring a film and spacer system, providing a waterproof and durable solution through a sealing mechanism that includes adhesive films and support units, allowing for tactile expression and underwater use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the information output apparatus uses a tactile mode with exposed expression surface and moving parts, then tactile expression functionality is enabled, but the apparatus becomes vulnerable to contamination and moisture, reducing durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a flexible waterproof film that covers the expression surface and moving parts, allowing tactile feedback to pass through while providing a protective barrier against moisture and contamination. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining tactile functionality through the film while preventing environmental damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproof film acts as an intermediary layer between the internal mechanical components and the external environment. It mediates the interaction by allowing tactile sensation to transmit through while blocking harmful substances, thus enabling tactile operation without exposing internal parts to contaminants.
2Ease of manufacture
If the apparatus is designed without waterproof sealing, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the apparatus cannot be used in underwater or wet environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible waterproof film that can be applied to the apparatus structure, providing waterproof sealing without requiring complex sealed housings. This maintains relative manufacturing simplicity while enabling underwater and wet environment usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproofing solution combines multiple materials including the flexible film, adhesive layers, and sealing structures to create a composite waterproof system. This approach achieves effective waterproofing while managing manufacturing complexity through modular assembly.
3Reliability
If a waterproof skin module with film and spacer is added to protect against moisture, then durability and waterproof capability are improved, but device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The skin module serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides waterproof sealing, protects internal components, maintains tactile feedback transmission, and offers a mounting surface for the waterproof film. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate protective components, managing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproof film is nested within the skin module structure, with the film positioned between the spacer and the expression surface. This nested arrangement integrates multiple protective layers into a compact assembly, minimizing overall structural complexity while maintaining comprehensive protection.
Data Source
AI summary
This application relates to an information output apparatus. In one aspect, the apparatus includes a casing including an expression surface and an expression hole formed in the expression surface. The apparatus also includes a protrusion provided to reciprocate such that at least a part thereof protrudes out of the expression hole and information is expressed on the expression surface. The apparatus also includes a driving module located inside the casing and connected to the protrusion to move the protrusion.