Sealed button for an electronic device

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.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a 35 U.S.C. § 371 application of PCT/US2013/059014, filed on Sep. 10, 2013, and entitled “Sealed Button for an Electronic Device,” which is incorporated by reference as if fully disclosed herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to electronic devices, and more specifically, to input devices for computing devices.

BACKGROUND

Many types of electronic devices, such as smart phones, gaming devices, computers, watches, and the like, include input devices, such as buttons or switches to receive user input. Often, these input buttons or switches may include a tactile element to provide feedback to a user as he or she provides input to the button. However, as electronic devices become smaller, space available for buttons and switches, especially those that compress, becomes smaller. Moreover, many buttons and switches for electronic devices may require movable or electronic components and thus require sealing elements to prevent fluids or the like from entering into the enclosure and damaging the electrical components. These sealing elements may increase the size of the space required for the button or may not seal effectively. Therefore, there is a need for buttons and switches that can provide input for electronic devices that can operate in a reduce area and seal the enclosure.

SUMMARY

One example of the present disclosure includes an electronic device including an enclosure, a button, and a processing element. The button is connected to the enclosure and includes a button cap defining a user input surface, a flexible member having an interior surface and exterior surface. The flexible member is aligned with the button cap and is connected thereto. The button further includes a strain sensor 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.

Another example of the disclosure includes a waterproof button. The waterproof button includes a button cap configured to move between a first position and a second position in response to a user input force. The waterproof button also includes an at least partially flexible metal plate aligned with the button cap and a strain sensor directly connected to a first surface of the flexible metal plate. The strain sensor includes a flexible circuit and a strain gauge connected to the flexible circuit. In use, the flexible metal plate bends in response to a user input force applied to the button cap, deforming the flexible circuit and the strain gauge.

Yet another example of the disclosure includes a waterproof button for an electronic device. The waterproof button includes a user input element, a flexible member aligned with the user input element, and a strain sensor defined on the flexible member, the strain sensor includes a strain gauge and is the strain sensor is deposited directly onto the flexible member.

SPECIFICATION

Overview

Some embodiments herein include a compact electronic device, such as a wearable electronic device, smart phone, portable music player, gaming device, or the like, including a waterproof button. The waterproof button can be compressed to provide user input to the electronic device, even under water, without allowing water or other fluids to enter into the electronic device. In some embodiments, the waterproof button may not require a membrane, such as a rubber gasket, or one or more O-rings, and may still substantially prevent water from entering into the electronic device, even as the button is compressed or otherwise selected. For example, in some embodiments the electronic device may be a watch or other wearable item and the waterproof button may be connected to a sidewall of the watch. In this example, the button may be compressed by a user and move towards the sidewall of the watch as it is compressed. Although the button may move vertically or horizontally relative to the enclosure, the button is configured provide an electrical signal to the electronic device corresponding to the movement, while water may be prevented from entering into the electronic device through the button or around the button.

In some embodiments, the waterproof button may include a button cap including a force collector, a flexible member, and a strain sensor mounted to or otherwise connected to the flexible member. The button cap extends at least partially outwards from a sidewall of an enclosure for the electronic device and can be compressed by a user. The force collector may be a nub or extension connected to the bottom of the button cap and the flexible member is connected to or mounted beneath the force collector. A circuit element including a strain sensor is connected to an opposite side of the flexible member from the force collector. In operation, a user presses onto the outer surface of the button cap, causing the button cap to move relative to the enclosure. The force then is collected by the force collector into a reduce area, i.e., focused or aggregated, and transferred to the strain sensor via the flexible member. In particular, as button cap compresses, the force collector presses against the flexible member, causing the flexible member to bend or otherwise deform. The deformation of the flexible member at least partially deforms the circuit element or otherwise causes the strain sensor to detect the user force to the button.

The flexible member may be a separate element sealingly attached to the enclosure or housing. Alternatively, the flexible member can be a living hinge formed integrally with the enclosure, such as a thinned portion of a sidewall that is flexible. In many embodiments, the flexible member acts to seal the internal components of the electronic device from the environment surrounding the enclosure. For example, the flexible element may prevent water from entering into the cavity defined by the enclosure, even as the button is compressed. As another example, the flexible element and button cap may be integrally formed. In this example, the button cap and flexible element may be formed in the enclosure or a portion of the enclosure. The button cap and flexible element may have sufficient flexibility so as to at least partially deform or bend in response to a user input force. The deformation of the button cap and flexible element together allow the strain sensor to register the user input to the button cap. In this embodiment, the force collector may be omitted or may be formed integrally with the button cap and flexible element.

The waterproof button may also include a feedback element. For example, a collapsible dome or a tactile element can be positioned between the button cap and the flexible member. In this example, the force collector may be connected to a bottom surface of the dome. In operation, as a force is exerted on the button cap, the force is transmitted to the dome, which collapses (at least in part) to provide tactile feedback to the user. The force collector on the bottom of the dome then exerts a force against the flexible member, which causes the flexible member to deform so that the strain sensor can detect the input force.

In some embodiments, the waterproof button may further include a sealing plate. The sealing plate may be included in embodiments where the flexible member may not extend between the sidewalls of the enclosure. The sealing plate may be connected on an interior of the enclosure and at least partially surrounds the button cap, the strain sensor, and the flexible member. For example, the sealing plate may act as a lid for the elements of the button assembly positioned on the interior surface of the enclosure. Alternatively or additionally, the waterproof button may include an O-ring or sealing material (e.g., soft polymer) positioned around the button cap and/or force collector.

Turning now to the figures, an illustrative electronic device including the waterproof button will now be discussed.FIG. 1is a perspective view of an electronic device100including a screen102, an enclosure104substantially surrounding the screen102, a plurality of input buttons110, and a waterproof button106. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1, the electronic device100is a smart phone. However, the electronic device may be substantially any type of electronic device that includes user input.

The screen102may be substantially any type of component that displays visual output. For example, the screen102may be a liquid crystal display (LDC), a plasma display, or the like. The screen102may also include one or more input sensors, such as a multi-touch sensors, or the like that may detect user input to the screen102.

The enclosure104surrounds the screen102as well as one or more of the input buttons110and/or the waterproof button106. The enclosure104generally acts as a housing to protect the internal components of the electronic device100and provides a case for the electronic device.

The one or more input buttons110allow a user to input data to the electronic device100. For example, the one or more inputs buttons110may include keys including glyphs that correspond to particular inputs. In this example, in the input buttons may form a keyboard, number pad, or command buttons.

The waterproof button106provides user input to the electronic device100. In many embodiments, the waterproof button106may be a mechanical component that is physically altered (e.g., moved) by a user and then provides an electronic signal to a processing element corresponding to the user input. The waterproof button106will be discussed in more detail below, but generally may be activated by a user without allowing water, fluid, or debris from entering into the electronic device. Although the input buttons110have been shown as separate from the waterproof button106, in some embodiments, each of the buttons for the electronic device100may be waterproof, which may allow the device100to be better protected from damage in certain environments.

In other embodiments, the waterproof button106may be incorporated into a wearable electronic device.FIG. 2is a top perspective view of a wearable electronic device including the waterproof button106. The wearable electronic device200may include a hub202or computing center. In embodiments where the electronic device200is configured to be worn by a user, the device200may include one or more straps204,206that may connect to opposite sides of the hub202. Each of the straps204,206may wrap around a portion of a wrist, arm, leg, chest, or other portion of a user's body to secure the hub202to the user. For example, the ends of each of the straps204,206may be connected together by a fastening mechanism208. The fastening mechanism208can be substantially any type of fastening device, such as, but not limited, to, hook and loop, magnetic fasteners, snaps, buttons, clasps or the like. However, in one embodiment, such as the one shown inFIG. 2, the fastening mechanism208is a buckle including a prong234or other element that can be inserted into one or more apertures212in the second strap206to secure the first and second straps204,206together.

The hub202of the wearable electronic device generally contains the computing and processing elements of the wearable electronic device200. The hub202may include a display216at least partially surrounded by an enclosure214. In some embodiments, the display216may form a face of the hub202and the enclosure214may wrap around the edges and backside of the display216.

FIG. 3is an enlarged cross-section view of the wearable electronic device200taken along line3-3inFIG. 2. With reference toFIGS. 2 and 3, the internal components of the wearable device200may be contained within a cavity230defined by the enclosure214and the display116. The enclosure214protects the internal components of the hub202, as well as connects the display216to the hub202.

The enclosure214may be constructed out of a variety of materials, such as, but not limited to, plastics, metals, alloys, and so on. The enclosure214includes a button aperture232(seeFIG. 3) that receives at least a portion of the waterproof button106. The button aperture232defines a gap between two sidewalls240a,240bof the enclosure214. Additionally, in some embodiments, the button aperture232may vary in diameter from a top surface of the enclosure214towards the interior of cavity230. For example, a top portion of the enclosure may form a recess242a,242bon either side of the button aperture232and a bottom portion of the enclosure may extend in towards the center of the button aperture232to define a ledge246a,246bon either side of the button aperture232. The ledges246a,246breduce the size of the button aperture232as they extend further inwards than the sidewalls240a,240bdefining the top of the button aperture232.

With reference toFIGS. 2 and 3, the display216may be connected to the enclosure214through adhesive or other fastening mechanisms. In this example, the display216is seated within a recessed portion or groove of the enclosure214and the enclosure214wraps around the edges of the display216. However, in other embodiments, the display and enclosure may be otherwise connected together.

The display216may be similar to the display102and may be substantially any type of display screen or device that can provide a visual output for the wearable device200. As an example, the display216may be a LCD display, a light emitting diode display, or the like. Additionally, the display216may also be configured to receive a user input, such as a multi-touch display screen that receives user inputs through capacitive sensing elements. In many embodiments, the display216may be dynamically variable; however, in other embodiments, the display216may be a non-electronic component, such as a painted faceplate including numbers (e.g., watch face), that may not dynamically change.

The display216presents a plurality of icons218,220or other graphics that are selectively modifiable. As an example, a first graphic218may include a time graphic that changes its characters to represent the time changes, e.g., numbers to represent hours, minutes, and seconds. A second graphic220may include a notification graphic, such as, battery life, messages received, or the like. The two graphics218,220may be positioned substantially anywhere on the display216and may be varied as desired. Additionally, the number, size, shape, and other characteristics of the graphics218,220may be changed as well.

The waterproof button106extends from and attaches to the enclosure214. The water proof button106will be discussed in more detail below, but generally allows a user to provide input to the wearable electronic device200, as well can provide haptic feedback to a user.

With reference toFIG. 4, various embodiments of the electronic device100,200include a plurality of internal processing or computing elements. For example, the electronic devices100,200may include a power source122, one or more processing elements124, a memory component128, one or more sensors126, and an input/output component130. Each of the internal components may be received within the enclosure104,214and may be in communication through one or more systems buses132, traces, printed circuit boards, or other communication mechanisms.

The power source122provides power to the components of the electronic device100,200. The power source122may be a battery or other portable power element. Additionally, the power source122may be rechargeable or replaceable.

The processing element124or processor is substantially any type of device that can receive and execute instructions. For example, the processing element124may be a processor, microcomputer, or the like. Additionally, the processing element124may include one or more processors and in some embodiments may include multiple processing elements.

The one or more sensors126may be configured to sense a number of different parameters or characteristics that may be used to influence one or more operations of the electronic device100,200. For example, the sensors126may include accelerometers, gyroscopes, capacitive sensors, light sensors, image sensors, pressure or force sensors, or the like. As will be discussed in more detail below, one or more of the sensors126may be used in conjunction with the input button110or separate therefrom, to provide user input to the electronic device100,200.

With continued reference toFIG. 4, the memory component128stores electronic data that may be utilized by the electronic device100,200. For example, the memory component128may store electrical data or content e.g., audio files, video files, document files, and so on, corresponding to various applications. The memory128may be, for example, non-volatile storage, a magnetic storage medium, optical storage medium, magneto-optical storage medium, read only memory, random access memory, erasable programmable memory, or flash memory.

The input/output interface130may receive data from a user or one or more other electronic devices. Additionally, the input/output interface130may facilitate transmission of data to a user or to other electronic devices. For example, the input/output interface130may be used to receive data from a network, or may be used to send and transmit electronic signals via a wireless or wired connection (Internet, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet being a few examples). In some embodiments, the input/output interface130may support multiple network or communication mechanisms. For example, the network/communication interface130may pair with another device over a Bluetooth network to transfer signals to the other device, while simultaneously receiving data from a WiFi or other network.

The waterproof button106will now be discussed in more detail. With reference again toFIG. 3, the waterproof button106may include a button cap234, a force collector236, a flexible member238, and a strain sensor244. The waterproof button106is connected to the enclosure214or housing and seals the cavity230from water and debris.

The button cap234forms the exterior surface of the waterproof button106and as such may include a cosmetic or aesthetically appealing surface, structure, or appearance. The button cap234forms a user input element. In particular, to provide input to the waterproof button106the user compresses the top surface of the button cap234. In some embodiments the button cap234may have a rounded top surface260with straight sidewalls. The button cap234may be constructed out of a variety of materials and may include one or more coatings, paint layers, or the like. As some non-limiting examples, the button cap234may be ceramic, metal, plastic, metal alloys, or the like.

A force collector236extends from a bottom surface of the button cap234. In some embodiments, the force collector236may be integrally formed with the button cap234. However, in other embodiments, the force collector236may be a separate component attached to the button cap234. In many embodiments, the force collector236may have a reduced width as compared to a bottom surface264of the button cap234. For example, a bottom surface266of the force collector236has a smaller surface area than the top surface260of the button cap234. The force collector236may taper as it extends away from the bottom surface264of the button cap234. In embodiments where the force collector236is integrally formed with the button cap234, in cross-section, the button cap234may have a mushroom shape with the force collector236forming the trunk of the mushroom an the button cap234extending past the edges of the force collector236to define a head of the mushroom shape.

The flexible member238transfers force experienced by the button cap234to the force sensor244. The flexible member238forms a plate and is sufficiently thin and/or is comprised of a resilient material so as to be at least somewhat flexible. For example, in one embodiment the flexible member238may be a stainless steel plate that is thinned so as to bend in response to a user input. As some examples, the flexible member238may bend in response to a user applied force between 10 to 50 grams, and as a specific example, 20 grams. However, in other embodiments, the flexible member238may be formed from other materials, such as plastics or the like. The flexible member238may also be sufficiently rigid to transmit force from the force collector236and support the button cap234. The flexible member238may be formed integrally with the housing or enclosure214or may be a separate component.

The strain sensor244detects deformation of the flexible member238and produces an electrical signal.FIG. 5is a bottom plan view of the waterproof button106illustrating the strain sensor244. With reference toFIG. 5, the strain sensor244may include a strain gauge250including a strain sensitive pattern254and two terminals256connected to the strain sensitive pattern254. The strain sensitive pattern254is configured to change at least one electrical property in response to a deformation, e.g., increasing or decreasing resistance, and the two terminals256provide an electrical signal output.

The strain gauge250is electrically connected to a flexible connector258, such as a flexible circuit (flex) that electrically connects the strain gauge250to the processing element124of the electrical device100,200. As one example, the connector258may be a flexible plastic substrate, such as, but not limited to, polyimide, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), or transparent conductive polyester film. The flexible connector258forms a substrate for the strain gauge250and transfers a bending force to the strain gauge.

With reference toFIGS. 3 and 5, assembly of the waterproof button106will now be discussed in more detail. The strain element250is connected to the flexible connector258, such as through adhesive, or the like. Alternatively, the strain element250may be screen printed, deposited, or otherwise formed on the connector258to form the strain sensor244. The strain sensor244is then connected at connection points252to a bottom surface270the flexible member238. In some embodiments, the strain sensor244is welded at weld points to the flexible member238. Because the strain gauge250is mounted to the flexible connector258, which is then attached directly to the flexible member238, strain from the flexible member238may be directly transferred to the strain sensitive pattern. In particular, by mounting the strain gauges250to the connector258, such as a flex circuit, prior to mounting the connector to the flexible member238, allows the strain gauge to be more easily mounted to the flexible member238in a manner that may sufficiently transfer bending motion between the two elements. In some instances, strain gauges can be difficult to mount in order to sufficiently transfer strain from the measured item to the strain gauge. However, in this embodiment, the flexible connector258is welded to the flexible member238and therefore stretches with the flexible member238, stretching the strain gauge250correspondingly. However, other attachment mechanisms may be used that connect the strain sensor244to the flexible member238as long as the attachment allows for strain experienced by the flexible member238to be transferred to the strain gauge250.

Once the strain sensor244is connected to the flexible member238, the flexible member238is connected to the enclosure214. In particular, with reference toFIG. 3, the flexible member238spans the diameter of the button aperture232and sits on the top surface of the ledge246a,246bextending into the button aperture232. The flexible member238may have a sufficiently large width so as to be positioned adjacent the sidewalls240a,240band the ledges246a,246bmay extend underneath a portion of the flexible member238. In this manner, the ledges246a,246bsupport the ends of the flexible member238as it spans across the button aperture232. The flexible member238is connected to the ledges246a,246bin a variety of different manners, such as, but not limited to, adhesive, welding, bonding, or the like. The connection method used may depend on the material used for the enclosure214and the flexible member238. However, in embodiments where the flexible member238is welded to the enclosure, the welding may create a hermetical seal and may prevent the transmission of air, as well as fluids, therebetween. In other embodiments, adhesive, such as pressure sensitive adhesive or liquid glue may be used to connect the flexible member238to the enclosure. In these embodiments, pressure that may be exerted on the flexible member from an exterior of the electronic device (e.g., water pressure when the electronic device is positioned under water) may increase the sealing force between the flexible member and the enclosure.

As the flexible member238extends past the button aperture232and sits on the ledges246a,246, the flexible member238substantially prevents water, fluid, and other debris from entering into the cavity230. In other words, the flexible member238, which may be non-porous, acts as a seal or lid for the button aperture232and prevents water from entering through the button aperture232into the cavity230.

Once the flexible member238is connected to the enclosure214, the button cap234may be connected to the flexible member238. In particular, with continued reference toFIG. 3, the force collector236may be aligned with a location opposing the location of the strain sensor244on the bottom270of the flexible member238. The bottom266of the force collector236may be positioned on the top surface of the flexible member238. Adhesive248a,248bmay be positioned on the bottom264of the button cap234on either side of the force collector236. The adhesive248a,248bextends between the bottom264of the button cap234and the top of the flexible member238. The adhesive248a,248bsecures the button cap234to the flexible member238and therefore attaches the button cap234to the enclosure214via the flexible member238. The top surface260of the button cap234may extend past the top surface280of the enclosure214or may be flush or recessed from the top surface280of the enclosure214.

Operation of the waterproof button106will now be discussed in more detail.FIG. 6is a cross-section view of the waterproof button106as a force is exerted on the button cap. With reference toFIG. 6, as a user provides a force F to the top surface260of the button cap234, the force is transmitted from the top surface260to the force collector236. The force collector236aggregates the force applied to the top surface260and transmits the force to the flexible member238. As the force F is transmitted to the flexible member238, the flexible member238deforms. In other words, the flexible member238acts as a beam and withstands the load by bending. In particular, in this example, the top surface282of the flexible member238experiences a compression force and the bottom surface270experiences a tension force. Because the strain sensor244is welded (or otherwise directly connected) to the flexible member238, the strain sensor244experiences the same force experienced by the flexible member238. For example, because the strain sensor244is mounted to the bottom surface270of the flexible member238, the strain sensor244experiences the tension experienced by the button surface270in response to the force. The tension causes the strain sensitive pattern254to stretch, varying the electrical signal output through the terminals256. The signal is then provided via the connector258to the processing element124, which registers the user input to the waterproof button106.

Additional Examples

As briefly mentioned above, in some embodiments, the flexible member may be formed integrally with the housing.FIG. 7is a cross-section view of another embodiment the waterproof button including a flexible member that is integrally formed with the enclosure. With reference toFIG. 7, in this example, the waterproof button306may be substantially similar to the waterproof button106, but the flexible member338may be formed integrally with the housing. In particular, the enclosure314includes a thinned portion346having a thickness that is less than a thickness of other areas of the enclosure314. The thinned portion346forms a living hinge to define the flexible member338. The thickness of the thinned portion346may be sufficiently thin to allow the flexible member338to flex in response to a user input force, but may also be sufficiently thick to support the button cap234.

In one example, the thinned portion346may be defined by a button recess322defined on an exterior surface334of the enclosure314and a strain recess336defined on an interior surface of the enclosure314. However, in one embodiment, the button recess322may have a larger diameter than the strain recess336. In this embodiment, the thinned portion346may have the smallest thickness at a location corresponding to the position of the force collector236, which allows the maximum amount of deformation of the flexible member338in response to a user force to the button cap234.

In this embodiment, the button cap234may be connected directly to the housing314via adhesive248a,248b. For example, the adhesive248a,248bmay be positioned on the recessed surface342of the enclosure314that defines the floor of the button recess322.

The strain sensor244may be positioned on an interior surface of the thinned portion346and flexible member338. The strain sensor244may be oriented at a positioned that corresponds to the center of the force collector236and may experience the force transmitted via the flexible member338.

In the waterproof button306illustrated inFIG. 7, the enclosure314may not include an aperture, such that the enclosure may be entirely enclosed, sealing the cavity230of the electronic device100,200from water, fluids, and other debris.

The waterproof button306ofFIG. 7may operate in a manner substantially similar to the waterproof button106. However, in this example, the force collector236may transmit a user force to the enclosure314, in particular, the flexible member338formed in the thinned portion346. The flexible member338bends in response to the force exerted by the force collector, deforming the strain sensor244, varying a signal provided by the strain sensor244to the processing element.

In other embodiments, the button cap and the flexible member may be integrally formed together.FIG. 8is a cross-section view of an example of the waterproof button including a button cap integrally formed with the flexible member and enclosure. With reference toFIG. 8, in this embodiment the waterproof button406includes an enclosure414including the button cap434and flexible member438. For example, the enclosure414may include a sidewall and the button cap434may extend from the sidewall416by a height H such that a top surface460of the button cap434may be raised relative to a top surface464of the enclosure414. In this embodiment, the enclosure414is a single material or component that is formed to include the button cap434.

In some embodiments button cap434may have an increased thickness as compared to the sidewalls416of the enclosure414. Alternatively, an interior surface of the enclosure414may be recessed or thinned beneath the button cap434. In this example, the portion of the enclosure414may have an increased flexibility as compared to the sidewalls416. However, in either embodiment, the button cap434portion of the enclosure414may be substantially flexible such that it bends due to a user input force. For example, the enclosure414may be a plastic, metal, metal alloy, or other material, that may sufficiently flexible to bend due to a user force, but may be rigid enough to protect the internal components for the electronic device100,200.

With continued reference toFIG. 8, the strain sensor244may be connected to the interior surface462of the enclosure414. In particular, the strain sensor244may be connected to the enclosure414beneath the button cap434. The strain sensor244may be connected to the portion of the button cap434forming the flexible member438. In other words, the strain sensor244may be connected to the portion of the button cap434and enclosure414that is configured to deform due to a user force. In this example, the interior surface462of the enclosure414defining the flexible member438is configured to bend in response to a user exerting a force against the top surface460of the button cap434.

In the waterproof button406ofFIG. 8, the enclosure414may be completely or substantially sealed from environmental elements. This is because the button cap434is formed integrally with the enclosure414and thus the enclosure414does not require a button aperture or other opening for the button (or components thereof) to be positioned in. By eliminating the requirement for an opening, while still detecting a user input, the waterproof button406may be sealed from water or other elements that could harm the internal components of the electronic device100,200typically included in the cavity230, e.g., processing elements, memory components, and/or sensors.

In some embodiments the strain sensor may be directly deposited onto the flexible member.FIG. 9is a cross-section view of the waterproof button including a strain sensor deposited onto the flexible member.FIG. 10is an enlarged bottom plan view of the flexible member and strain sensor ofFIG. 9. With reference initially toFIG. 9, the waterproof button506in this example may be substantially similar to the waterproof button106illustrated inFIG. 3. However, in this example, the flexible member538may be a material configured to receive electrical traces deposited or plated thereon. As one example, the flexible member538may be a plastic material.

With reference toFIG. 9, the flexible member538may be connected to the ledges246a,246bof the enclosure214through one or more attachment elements510a,510b. In this example the attachment elements510a,510bmay connect the edges of the flexible member538to the top surface of the ledges246a,246b. However, in other embodiments, the attachment elements510a,510bmay be connected in other manners to the flexible element538and/or enclosure214.

In some embodiments, the attachment elements510a,510bmay further act to seal the cavity230. For example the attachment elements510a,510bmay seal the space between the edges of the flexible element538and the top surface of the ledges246a,246b. As one example, the attachment elements510a,510bmay be adhesive, bonding points (e.g., ultrasonic welding or chemical bonding) and the elements510a,510bact to substantially prevent water and other elements from entering into the cavity230through the button aperture232.

With reference toFIGS. 9 and 10, in this embodiment, the strain sensor544includes a strain gauge550having a strain sensitive pattern554and one or more terminals556. The strain gauge550may be substantially similar to the strain gauge250illustrated inFIG. 5. However, in this example, the strain sensitive pattern554and terminal556may be deposited onto the bottom surface570of the flexible member538. In other words, a substrate or flex circuit connecting the strain gauge to the flexible member may be omitted.

The strain gauge550may be deposited onto the bottom surface570of the flexible member538in a number of different manners, such as, but not limited to, laser direct structuring, electrical plating, or the like. Additionally, the terminals556may also function as attachment points to connect the strain gauge550to the flexible member538. For example, the terminals556may include solder points or spring fingers that connect the strain gauge to the flexible member538. In some instances, the connection points for the strain gauge, such as the solder points or spring fingers, may be connected to portions of the flexible element538that may not bend or may not bend significantly.

In some examples, the strain sensor may be deposited directly onto the enclosure of the electronic device.FIG. 11is a cross-sectional view of the waterproof button including the strain sensor connected directly to the enclosure. With reference toFIG. 11, in this embodiment the waterproof button606may be substantially similar to the waterproof button306illustrated inFIG. 7. In particular, the waterproof button606may include a flexible member338formed integrally with the enclosure314. However, in this example, the flexible member338may be a material where conductive trances can be deposited or otherwise formed directly thereon. For example, the enclosure314and the flexible member338may both be plastic.

As shown inFIG. 11, the strain sensor544may include the strain gauge550including the strain sensitive pattern that is deposited directly onto the bottom surface370of the flexible member338, which in this instance is formed integrally with the enclosure314. The strain sensor544may be substantially similar to the strain sensor544illustrated inFIG. 10and may be deposited on the enclosure314through laser direct structuring, plating techniques, or the like.

With continued reference toFIG. 11, in some embodiments, the enclosure314may include beveled edges313a,314bas it transitions from a support portion to the flexible member338. In particular the sidewalls boarding the sensor recess336may be angled as they transition to the flexible member338.

In some embodiments, the flexible member may connect to the enclosure through a fastening element or bonding element that extends through an aperture in the enclosure.FIG. 12is an enlarged cross-section view of a waterproof button including a connection element for connecting the flexible member to the enclosure. With reference toFIG. 12, the waterproof button706may be substantially similar to the waterproof button illustrated inFIGS. 3 and 9. However, in this example, the enclosure714may include a boss aperture743defined through a ledge746. In particular the enclosure714may include one or more sidewalls740defining the top portion of a button aperture732and the ledge746may extend from each of the sidewalls740. The ledge746may be recessed from the exterior surface of the enclosure714to define a button recess for the button assembly to sit. The ledge746(as shown inFIGS. 3 and 9with reference to the ledges246a,246b) may terminate prior to reach the center of the button aperture732.

With continued reference toFIG. 12, the flexible element738may include two securing posts762that extend from opposing ends thereof. Each securing post762may extend from a button surface770of the flexible member738and may include a rivet head760attached to a terminal end. The rivet head760may have a larger diameter than the post762the rivet head760acts to secure the flexible member738to the enclosure714, and in particular, to the ledge746.

In this embodiment, the flexible element738may be positioned on a top surface of the ledge746and the post762may be received through the boss aperture743. Once the post762extends through the boss743, the rivet head760may be formed or connected to the terminal end of the post762. For example, the rivet head760may be formed through a heat staking process and the boss or post762may be heated and the compressed (e.g., stamped) causing the material to flow outwards expanding the diameter of the end of the post. Once the rivet head760is formed, the head760seals against the bottom surface of the ledge746to seal the boss aperture743, as well as prevent the post762from being removed from the boss aperture743.

Additionally, with continued reference toFIG. 12, the waterproof button706may include a sealing element710, such as an O-ring. In this embodiment, the sealing element710may be received around the post720and seals against the top surface of the ledge746and the bottom surface of the flexible member738. The sealing element710prevents water from reaching the boss aperture743to better seal the button706. In some implementations, the flexible element738is configured to continuously compress the sealing element710. As an example, once the rivet head760is formed, the head760may forces the flexible element738against the ledge746of the enclosure714, which acts to compress the sealing element710, ensuring a tight seal between the sealing element710and the upper surface of the ledge746.

In some embodiments, the waterproof button may include a feedback mechanism to provide tactile feedback to a user.FIG. 13is a cross-section view of the waterproof button including a feedback mechanism. With reference toFIG. 13, the waterproof button806may be substantially similar to the waterproof button106but may include a feedback element835. In particular, button806may include a feedback element835, such as a collapsible dome or tactile element that provides a tactile feedback when the button cap834is compressed.

In some examples, the feedback element835may be an inverted dome with a base813connected to an interior surface of the button cap834and a top811connected to a force collector836. In this manner, the force collector836may form an extension from the top811of the feedback element835. The feedback element835may be sufficiently flexible so as to collapse when a user presses down on the button cap834, but may have sufficient rigidity to provide a tactical feel as it compresses.

In this embodiment, the button cap834may include a top surface860and two legs831extending downwards therefrom. The button cap834forms a user engagement surface and a user may compress the button cap834to activate the button806. The legs831of the button cap834are connected to a top surface of the flexible member238by the adhesive248a,248bor other connection mechanism. When connected to the flexible member238, the button cap834and flexible member238may define a feedback cavity841and the feedback element835may be received therein.

In operation, the user may press on the top surface860of the button cap834to compress the button cap834towards the enclosure214. As the button cap834experiences a force, the interior surface of the cap834exerts a force on the base813of the feedback element835, causing the feedback element835to compress towards its top811. The user experiences the collapsing of the feedback element835as haptic feedback corresponding to the selection of the button. As the button cap834compresses, the cap834transfers the force to the force collector836, which transmits the force to the flexible member238. As with other embodiments, as the force collector836exerts a force on the flexible member238, the flexible member238deforms, causing the strain sensor244to register the deformation and provide a signal corresponding to the user input.

In some embodiments, the waterproof button may include a sealing member positioned on an interior of the enclosure.FIG. 14is a cross-section view of the waterproof button including a sealing member. With reference toFIG. 14, in this embodiment, the waterproof button906may be substantially similar to the waterproof button106shown inFIG. 3, but may include a sealing member906connected to an interior surface253of the enclosure214. Additionally, the button cap934may include a structure that may be varied as compared to other embodiments.

As shown inFIG. 14, in some embodiments, the button cap934may include a head932defining the top surface of the button cap934and two legs933that extend from the head932. The legs933may be positioned inwards from a terminal outer edge of the button cap934, such that the button cap934may have a mushroom-like shape. The button cap934may define a cavity941or recess between the legs933that extends partially into the head931. The cavity941is configured to receive the feedback element935.

The sealing member960may be a plate or other member and may include a main body971having two sidewalls963extending at an angle from either end of the main body971. In some embodiments, the sealing member906may be circular or oval shaped and there may be a single sidewall963that extends around the entire perimeter of the main body971. The sealing member960may be substantially water impermeable and may prevent water from traveling therethrough.

With continued reference toFIG. 14, assembly of the waterproof button906will now be discussed in more detail. The legs933of the button cap934are inserted into the button aperture232and may be positioned adjacent or substantially adjacent to the terminal end of each ledge246a,246bof the enclosure214. The ends of the legs933that extend through the button aperture232may be connected to retaining features945a,945b. The retaining features945a,945bare positioned on an interior side of the enclosure214within the cavity230. The retaining features945a,945bact to secure the legs933to the enclosure214, while also allowing the button a cap934to travel a predetermined distance. As an example, the retaining features945a,945bmay be spring members or resilient members that allow the button cap to compress due a user force and spring back to its original location.

The flexible member238and strain sensor244are positioned between each of the legs933of the button cap934and connected to the retaining features945a,945band/or enclosure214to be secured in position. The feedback element935and/or force collector836may be received within the button cavity941and aligned with the flexible member238. In these embodiments, the feedback element935may be positioned in a non-waterproof area of the button. In particular, in this embodiment of the waterproof button906, the button cap934and button aperture23may not be sealed from the exterior environment and the dome or other feedback element935may exposed to certain elements, such as water. However, in these embodiments, the feedback element935may be a tactile or other mechanically based device and may not be used to provide an electrical signal to the processing element, and so may be exposed to certain elements, such as water, without being damaged.

In some embodiments, the bottom surface937of the head931may be positioned above a top surface251of the ledges246a,246bby a travel height of T. The travel height T defines the travel distance that the button cap934may travel when compressed by a user. The travel height T may be determined in part by the retaining members945a,945band in particular the flexibility of the retaining members945a,945b.

With continued reference toFIG. 14, the sealing member960is connected to the interior surface253of the enclosure214. The main body971of the sealing member960may be at least a long as a separation distance between each of the legs933of the button cap934and corresponding retaining members945a,945b. In other words, the sealing member960is configured to enclosure the button cap assembly and its corresponding connections to the enclosure214. This may help to prevent water or other elements that enter through the button aperture232from entering into the cavity230.

In particular, the top surface of the sidewall963of the sealing member960seals against the interior surface253of the enclosure214. The sidewall963may be connected to the enclosure214by adhesive, laser welding, adhesive, or the like. The sealing member960seals the cavity230from the button aperture232.FIG. 15is a bottom plan view of the sealing member connected to the enclosure. With reference toFIGS. 14 and 15, the bottom surface967of the sealing member960may include a communication aperture977. The communication aperture977may allow one or more communication elements, such as a flex chip connector, wires, or the like, to extend from the strain sensor244to the processing element. The flex connector or strain communication elements may extend through the aperture977and adhesive979or other sealing element may then be injected into the aperture977, sealing the aperture977and the communication elements.

In the various embodiments described herein, the waterproof button may substantially prevent water, fluids, and other elements, such as debris, etc., from being transmitted from an environment of the electronic device100,200into a cavity defined within the housing of the electronic device100,200. Additionally, the waterproof button may be activated, e.g., compressed or selected by a user, under water without allowing water to be transmitted into the enclosure cavity of the device, while still being able to register a user input signal. In many conventional buttons that include a seal to prevent water ingress, such as a rubber membrane or plunger, the button may not be activated or pressed underwater without damaging the seal. On the contrary, the waterproof button disclosed herein may be pressed while underwater, without allowing the ingress of water and the waterproof button can function while under pressure. As an example, even as the electronic device experiences pressure, such as water pressure, the waterproof button may prevent water from entering into the cavity of the electronic device.

CONCLUSION

The foregoing description has broad application. For example, while examples disclosed herein may focus on a wearable electronic device, it should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may equally apply to substantially any other type of electronic device. Similarly, although the input button may be discussed with response to a compressible button, the devices and techniques disclosed herein are equally applicable to other types of input structures. Accordingly, the discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be exemplary and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these examples.