Waterproof Switch With Integrated Sealing Button
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waterproof switch apparatuses for electronic devices suffer from increased complexity, space consumption, impaired tactile qualities, and jamming risks due to the addition of waterproofing elements, which complicate assembly and tolerance alignment.
Innovation Solution
A switch design featuring a two-section switch body with a larger first section and a smaller second section, allowing for a reduced component count and improved tactile feedback, along with a sealing means such as a gasket or ridge that covers the second section, and a button structure with a flex assembly that extends through a housing opening to enhance waterproofing and tactility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If waterproofing elements are added to protect against water ingress, then waterproofing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is integrated directly into the push-button structure, merging two previously separate components (push-button and seal) into one unified part. This eliminates the need for separate waterproofing elements and reduces assembly complexity while maintaining waterproofing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The push-button is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the actuating mechanism and the waterproof seal. The integrated sealing element allows the single component to provide both mechanical operation and water protection, reducing the overall number of components needed.
2Reliability
If waterproofing elements are added to protect against water ingress, then waterproofing is improved, but space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the sealing element into the push-button, the patent eliminates the need for additional space-consuming waterproofing layers between the push-button and switch. The seal is formed as part of the push-button structure itself, reducing overall assembly thickness.
3Reliability
If waterproofing elements are placed between push-button and switch, then waterproofing is improved, but tactile qualities are impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the waterproofing element from between the push-button and switch, extracting it from the contact path. Instead, the seal is formed by the push-button's own integrated sealing element at its periphery, allowing direct contact between the push-button and switch surface for improved tactile feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sealing element acts as a peripheral mediator that provides waterproofing without interfering with the central contact surface. The seal is positioned at the circumference of the push-button, allowing the center to maintain direct tactile contact with the switch.
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 reduces component complexity, minimizes tolerance stack-up, and enhances tactile feedback while maintaining waterproof integrity, reducing the risk of button jamming and simplifying assembly processes.
Implementation Method 1
a sealing means (6) configured to cover a circumference of the second switch body section (2b)
Implementation Method 2
The elastomer envelops the first circuit board and is embedded with interference fit in the recess to achieve a water-resistant effect
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3(a)~3(d)
Figure 4(a)~4(b)
AI summary
A switch (1) comprising a switch body (2), having a first switch body section (2a) and a second switch body section (2b), a switch contact (3) configured to be arranged in a slot (4) in the first switch body section (2a), a switch contact cover (5) configured to cover the slot (4), and a sealing means (6) configured to cover a circumference of the second switch body section (2b).