PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11860585-B2
Application Number: US-202016904294-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Wearable electronic device with a compressible air-permeable seal

Abstract:
Embodiments are directed to a smartwatch including a housing that at least partially defines an internal volume, and a touch-sensitive display positioned at least partially within the internal volume. A front cover can be positioned over the touch-sensitive display and can define a front exterior surface. A seal can be positioned between the housing and the front cover and configured to transition between an uncompressed state and a compressed state in response to an increase from a first external pressure on the front cover to a second external pressure. In the uncompressed state, the seal has a first density and is air-permeable allowing an internal pressure of the internal volume to equalize with external air at the first pressure. In the compressed state, the seal has a second density, greater than the first density, and is configured to inhibit ingress of water at the second pressure.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A smartwatch comprising:
 a housing defining an internal volume; 
 a touch-sensitive display positioned at least partially within the internal volume; 
 a front cover positioned over the touch-sensitive display, the front cover defining a front exterior surface of the smartwatch and configured to move from a first position to a second position in response to an increase in pressure on the front cover; and 
 a seal positioned between the housing and the front cover and configured to transition between an uncompressed state and a compressed state in response to the front cover moving from the first position and to the second position, wherein:
 in the uncompressed state, the seal is configured to equalize a first pressure within the housing with a second pressure of the external environment; and 
 in the compressed state, the seal is configured to inhibit water ingress. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The smartwatch of  claim 1 , wherein:
 in the uncompressed state, the seal comprises one or more passages that allow air to move between the internal volume and an external environment; and 
 in the compressed state, the one or more passages are at least partially collapsed. 
 
     
     
       3. The smartwatch of  claim 1 , wherein the seal comprises a porous material that is configured to inhibit water ingress when exposed to a first external pressure. 
     
     
       4. The smartwatch of  claim 3 , wherein the seal further comprises:
 a first adhesive layer that couples the porous material to the front cover; and 
 a second adhesive layer that couples the porous material to the housing. 
 
     
     
       5. The smartwatch of  claim 1 , wherein:
 in the uncompressed state, the seal has a first density; and 
 in the compressed state, the seal has a second density greater than the first density. 
 
     
     
       6. The smartwatch of  claim 1 , wherein, in the compressed state, the seal is air-impermeable. 
     
     
       7. The smartwatch of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the housing defines an upper opening; 
 the housing defines a ledge that extends around the upper opening; 
 the seal is positioned along the ledge; and 
 the front cover extends at least partially into the upper opening of the housing. 
 
     
     
       8. The smartwatch of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the smartwatch further comprises a force sensor that is configured to detect a force applied to the front cover; and 
 the seal is positioned along a surface of the force sensor. 
 
     
     
       9. The smartwatch of  claim 1 , wherein the seal comprises polytetrafluoroethylene material. 
     
     
       10. An electronic watch comprising:
 a housing that defines an internal chamber of the electronic watch; 
 a cover coupled to the housing and defining a front surface of the electronic watch, the cover configured to move from a first position to a second position in response to an increase in pressure on the front cover; 
 a processing unit positioned within the internal chamber; and 
 a compressible seal positioned between the housing and the cover, the compressible seal configured to increase in density in response to the cover moving from the first position and to the second position; wherein:
 when the cover is subjected to an ambient air environment, the compressible seal is configured to resist an ingress of water at a first water pressure and equalize an air pressure within the internal chamber with an air pressure of the ambient environment; and 
 when the cover is subjected to a submerged water environment, the compressible seal is configured to resist an ingress of water at a second water pressure greater than the first water pressure. 
 
 
     
     
       11. The electronic watch of  claim 10 , wherein:
 the compressible seal comprises:
 a first adhesive layer coupled to the housing; 
 a second adhesive layer coupled to the cover; and 
 a porous layer positioned between the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer; and 
 
 the porous layer is configured to compress in response to the pressure on the front surface of the cover increasing. 
 
     
     
       12. The electronic watch of  claim 10 , wherein:
 the cover comprises a set of side surfaces; and 
 the compressible seal is coupled to a back surface of the cover and is positioned adjacent to the set of side surfaces. 
 
     
     
       13. The electronic watch of  claim 10 , wherein:
 the housing defines an opening; and 
 the cover is positioned at least partially within the opening. 
 
     
     
       14. The electronic watch of  claim 13 , wherein:
 the electronic watch defines a gap between the cover and the housing; and 
 the gap provides a path between the ambient air environment and the compressible seal. 
 
     
     
       15. The electronic watch of  claim 10 , wherein the compressible seal couples the cover to the housing. 
     
     
       16. The electronic watch of  claim 10 , wherein:
 the electronic watch further comprises:
 a pressure transducer positioned within the internal chamber; and 
 a compression layer positioned between the cover and the housing; 
 
 the compression layer is adjacent to the compressible seal; 
 the compression layer is configured to allow the cover to translate in response to changes in the pressure on the cover; and 
 the pressure transducer is configured to detect an internal pressure change caused by the translation of the cover. 
 
     
     
       17. An electronic device, comprising:
 a housing; 
 a cover coupled to the housing to define an internal volume, the cover defining a surface of the electronic device and configured to move toward the housing in response to an increase in pressure on the front cover; and 
 a seal extending along a perimeter of the cover and coupling the cover to the housing, the seal configured to compress in response to the cover moving toward the housing, wherein:
 in response to a first external pressure, the seal is configured to exhibit a first level of air-permeability configured to equalize a first pressure within the internal volume with a second pressure of the external environment; and 
 in response to a second external pressure, greater than the first external pressure, the seal is configured to exhibit a second level of air-permeability that is less than the first level of air-permeability. 
 
 
     
     
       18. The electronic device of  claim 17 , wherein:
 in response to the first external pressure, the seal is configured to have a first resistance to water entering the housing; and 
 in response to the second external pressure, the seal is configured to have a second resistance to water entering the housing, wherein the second resistance is greater than the first resistance. 
 
     
     
       19. The electronic device of  claim 17 , wherein:
 in response to the second external pressure, the seal is configured to compress; and 
 the electronic device further comprises a compression limiter that is less compressible than the seal. 
 
     
     
       20. The electronic device of  claim 19 , wherein the compression limiter comprises a ledge defined by the housing.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to a portable or wearable electronic device having a sealed interior cavity and, more particularly, to portable or wearable electronic devices having a compressible vented seal. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Wearable communication devices such as smartwatches are typically worn by a user throughout the day and may include various sensors that measure environmental conditions. However, because these devices are worn by a user, they can be subjected to a variety of operating conditions that can affect the operability and reliability of the various sensors. For example, during typical use, a wearable communication device may be submerged in water. It may be desirable to protect internal components of wearable communication devices from potentially harmful environmental factors. The following disclosure is directed to a vented seal that allows for barometric pressure equalization while also preventing the ingress of water or other liquids. 
     SUMMARY 
     Embodiments described herein are directed to a smartwatch that includes a housing defining an internal volume, a touch-sensitive display positioned at least partially within the internal volume, and a front cover positioned over the touch-sensitive display, where the front cover defines a front exterior surface of the smartwatch. The smartwatch can also include a seal positioned between the housing and the front cover, where the seal is configured to transition between an uncompressed state and a compressed state in response to an increase from a first external pressure on the front cover to a second external pressure on the front cover. In the uncompressed state, the seal can be air-permeable when exposed to the first external pressure, and in the compressed state, the seal can be configured to inhibit water ingress when exposed to the second external pressure. 
     In some examples, in the uncompressed state, the seal includes one or more passages that allow air to move between the internal volume and an external environment, and in the compressed state, the one or more passages are at least partially collapsed. The seal can include a porous material that is configured to inhibit water ingress when exposed to the first external pressure. In some embodiments, the seal includes a first adhesive layer that couples the porous material to the front cover, and a second adhesive layer that couples the porous material to the housing. In the uncompressed state, the seal can have a first density, and in the compressed state, the seal has a second density greater than the first density. In the compressed state, the seal can be air-impermeable. 
     In some cases, the housing defines an upper opening and a ledge that extends around the upper opening, the seal is positioned along the ledge, and the front cover extends at least partially into the upper opening of the housing. The smartwatch can include a force sensor that is configured to detect a force applied to the front cover, and the seal can be positioned along a surface of the force sensor. In some cases, the seal includes a polytetrafluoroethylene material. 
     Embodiments described herein are also directed to an electronic watch that includes a housing that defines an internal chamber of the electronic watch, a cover coupled to the housing and defining a front surface of the electronic watch, and a processing unit positioned within the internal chamber. The electronic watch can also include a compressible seal positioned between the housing and the cover, where the compressible seal is configured to increase in density as a pressure on the front surface of the cover increases. When subjected to an ambient air environment, the compressible seal can be configured to resist an ingress of water at a first water pressure and allow an ingress of air at a pressure of the ambient air environment, and when subjected to a submerged water environment, the compressible seal can be configured to resist an ingress of water at a second water pressure greater than the first water pressure. 
     The compressible seal can include a first adhesive layer coupled to the housing, a second adhesive layer coupled to the cover, and a porous layer positioned between the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer. The porous layer can be configured to compress in response to the pressure on the front surface of the cover increasing. In some cases, the cover includes a set of side surfaces, and the compressible seal is coupled to a back surface of the cover and is positioned adjacent to the set of side surfaces. The housing can define an opening, and the cover can be positioned at least partially within the opening. The electronic watch can define a gap between the cover and the housing, and the gap can provide a path between the ambient air environment and the compressible seal. In some cases, the compressible seal couples the cover to the housing. In some embodiments, the electronic watch also includes a pressure transducer positioned within the internal chamber, and a compression layer positioned between the cover and the housing. The compression layer can be adjacent to the compressible seal and configured to allow the cover to translate in response to changes in the pressure on the cover. The pressure transducer can be configured to detect an internal pressure change caused by the translation of the cover. 
     Embodiments are also directed to an electronic device that includes a housing, a cover coupled to the housing to define an internal volume, the cover defining a surface of the electronic device, and a seal extending along a perimeter of the cover and coupling the cover to the housing. In response to a first external pressure, the seal can be configured to exhibit a first level of air-permeability, and in response to a second external pressure, greater than the first external pressure, the seal can be configured to exhibit a second level of air-permeability. 
     In some cases, in response to the first external pressure, the seal is configured to have a first resistance to water entering the housing, and in response to the second external pressure, the seal is configured to have a second resistance to water entering the housing. The second resistance can be greater than the first resistance. In response to the second external pressure, the seal is configured to compress. The electronic device can include a compression limiter that is less compressible than the seal. The compression limiter can include a ledge defined by the housing. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG.  1 A  illustrates a first view of an example electronic device incorporating an air-permeable seal; 
         FIG.  1 B  illustrates an exploded view of an example electronic device incorporating an air-permeable seal; 
         FIG.  2 A  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example electronic device taken along line A-A; 
         FIG.  2 B  illustrates a detailed view of the example electronic device shown in  FIG.  2 A ; 
         FIG.  3 A  illustrates an example air-permeable seal in an expanded state; 
         FIG.  3 B  illustrates an example air-permeable seal in a compressed state; 
         FIG.  4    illustrates an example air-permeable seal for an electronic device; 
         FIGS.  5 A- 5 D  illustrate example air-permeable seals for an electronic device; 
         FIGS.  6 A and  6 B  illustrate an example air-permeable seal for an electronic device; 
         FIG.  7    illustrates an example air-permeable seal for an electronic device; 
         FIG.  8    illustrates an example air-permeable seal for an electronic device; 
         FIG.  9    illustrates an example air-permeable material for a seal for an electronic device; 
         FIG.  10    illustrates an exploded view of a backside of an electronic device with a back cover incorporating an air-permeable seal; and 
         FIG.  11    is a block diagram illustrating an example electronic device, within which an air-permeable seal can be integrated. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to an electronic device, such as a portable and/or wearable electronic device that may use an air-permeable seal for equalizing air pressure within the electronic device with the air pressure of the external environment. The air-permeable seal may be implemented on a smartwatch or smartphone and be positioned between a cover and a housing of the electronic device to allow pressure equalization between an internal chamber of the electronic device and the external environment. Unlike some traditional pressure equalization vents which can rupture, tear, and/or leak as pressure on the seal increases, or become clogged over time, the air-permeable seal system described herein may improve the robustness and reliability of electronic devices by compressing, and thereby sealing off, an internal cavity of the electronic device as the external pressure on the device increases. Compression of the air-permeable seal can increase a resistance of the seal to water ingress, which may allow a device incorporating these seals to be taken to greater underwater depths. 
     In some embodiments, an electronic device may include an internal pressure-sensing device that is positioned within an internal chamber of the electronic device and measures environmental and/or internal pressures of the electronic device. Output from the pressure-sensing device may be used to determine the device&#39;s elevation, velocity, direction of motion, orientation, water depth, and so on. For example, a pressure-sensing device may make barometric pressure measurements to determine an elevation of the device or a change in elevation of the device. The accuracy of pressure measurements from the internal pressure-sensing device may rely on the rate of pressure equalization between the internal cavity and the external environment. Accordingly, if pressure equalization is slow, pressure measurements made by the internal pressure-sensing device may lag behind the actual external pressure. 
     Embodiments described herein are generally directed to electronic devices incorporating a seal that is permeable to air, and resists/inhibits the ingress of water (which may be referred to as an “air-permeable seal”) that is positioned between a cover glass and a housing of the electronic device. Such a seal system may be incorporated into electronic devices such as smartwatches, mobile phones, tablet computing devices, laptop computing devices, personal digital assistants, digital media players, wearable devices, and the like to provide an air-permeable seal that allows pressure equalization between an internal chamber of the device and the external environment. When the pressure of the environment around the electronic device increases, the pressure on the cover glass can increase and compresses the seal to restrict air flow into and out of the device. As the external pressure continues to increase, the air-permeable seal may continue to compress, which may further restrict air flow through the seal and/or increase the water resistance of the seal. When the seal is fully compressed, the seal may become impermeable to air as well as resist water penetration at greater pressures (depths) thereby isolating/sealing the internal chamber of the electronic device from the external environment. 
     As described herein, the air-permeable seal may be positioned between two or more outer housing members. For example, the air-permeable seal can be positioned between a cover glass and a housing of an electronic device. The air-permeable seal can extend around a perimeter of the cover glass such that the exposed surface area of the air-permeable seal is maximized to increase the air flow between the internal chamber and the external environment. In some embodiments, the air-permeable seal can couple the cover glass to the housing. Accordingly, the pressure that is applied to the front cover glass may be transferred to the air-permeable seal and compress the air-permeable seal, which can restrict air flow through the seal and/or increase a water resistance of the seal. As the pressure on the cover glass is decreased, the air-permeable seal may expand and the air flow through the seal may increase, thereby allowing pressure to equalize more quickly between an internal chamber of the device and the external environment. 
     As described herein, the air-permeable seal may include multiple layers and/or multiple different materials. For example, the air-permeable seal can include a first air-permeable material forming a first layer of the air-permeable seal, where the first material is air-permeable and repels water. The first material may be coupled with the housing via a second layer of adhesive material and may also be coupled to the cover glass via a third layer of adhesive material. The second and third layers of adhesive materials can be stiffer than the first air-permeable material such that, as the cover glass is moved toward the housing, the first air-permeable material compresses. In some cases, the first and second layers of the adhesive materials may be substantially impermeable to both water and air. Accordingly, pressure equalization between the internal cavity of the device and the external environment may occur via air flow through the first air-permeable material. In some embodiments, the seal can include multiple layers of air-permeable material, which may be used to increase the air flow between the internal cavity and the external environment, which may reduce lag in pressure measurement from an internal pressure-sensing device. 
     In some embodiments, as described herein, the air-permeable seal system can be used to estimate an external water pressure. For example, when the electronic device is brought underwater, the increased pressure on a cover glass of the device may compress the air-permeable seal thereby sealing the internal chamber from the external environment. In some cases, the air-permeable seal can include a second compressible layer that is also impermeable to water. As the external pressure increases (e.g., due to increasing depth), the second compressible layer may compress, thereby compressing air sealed within the internal chamber. The internal pressure-sensing device may measure these pressure changes in the internal chamber due to the seal compressing, and use these pressure measurements to estimate an external pressure and/or water depth of the device. 
     In some embodiments, as described herein, the air-permeable seal system can include a compression limiter. For example, the compression limiter may restrict movement of the cover glass towards the housing thereby restricting the amount of compression experienced by the air-permeable seal. In some cases, the compression limiter may protect the air-permeable seal from damage due to over compression. 
     As described herein, the air-permeable seal system can also include a backup or secondary seal system. For example, a second seal may be positioned between the cover glass and the housing. In an uncompressed state, the second seal may be offset from either the cover glass or the housing to form an air gap. Accordingly, in the uncompressed state, the air-permeable seal may be the primary mechanism for preventing water from entering the internal chamber while allowing the pressure to equalize with the external environment. In a compressed state, the cover glass may move toward the housing and the secondary seal may become compressed between the cover glass and the housing which may further seal the internal chamber. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 A- 11   . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG.  1 A  illustrates a first view of an example electronic device  100  incorporating an air-permeable seal. The electronic device  100  is depicted as an electronic watch (e.g., a smartwatch), though this is one example embodiment of an electronic device and the concepts described herein may apply equally or by analogy to other electronic devices, including mobile phones (e.g., smartphones), tablet computers, notebook computers, head-mounted displays, digital media players (e.g., mp3 players), health-monitoring devices, other portable electronic devices, or the like. The electronic device  100  can incorporate an air-permeable seal as described herein. 
     The electronic device  100  may be worn by a user and include one or more sensors that determine or estimate a condition of the environment (e.g., barometric pressure, moisture level, temperature, and so on) and/or condition(s) of the user (e.g., heart rate, position, direction of movement, body temperature, and so on), which may be displayed or presented to the user. Different sensors may be positioned at different locations on or within the electronic device  100  depending on operating requirements of a particular sensor, the condition being detected by the sensor, the design of the electronic device  100 , and so on. In some cases, it may be desirable to protect electronic and/or other water sensitive components that are located within the electronic device  100  from being exposed to water, or other environmental conditions such as dust, debris, contamination, and so on. Accordingly, the electronic device  100  can be sealed to protect these components. 
     The electronic device  100  can include an air-permeable seal to allow pressure in the sealed internal chamber of the electronic device to equalize with the external environmental pressure. As used herein, the term air-permeable refers to materials that are permeable to air and/or impermeable or resistant to water ingress. For example, an air-permeable seal can allow air to move through one or more materials in the seal such that pressure differences across the seal can be equalized, and may prevent water from ingress into the seal. In some cases, the air-permeable seal may alleviate the buildup of pressure within the internal chamber of the electronic device  100  which, without the air-permeable seal, would cause other seals or components of the electronic device to fail. Additionally or alternatively, the air-permeable seal can allow a pressure-sensing device located within the internal chamber of the electronic device  100  to be used to determine a barometric pressure of the external environment. For example, the air-permeable seal can allow the pressure in the internal chamber to equalize with the pressure of the ambient environment. Accordingly, barometric pressure measured by the internal pressure-sensing device can correspond to the external barometric pressure. 
     As used herein, the term air-impermeable refers to materials that do not allow air to move through the material. For example, an air-impermeable material can prevent an air pressure on one side of the seal (e.g., ambient air pressure) from equalizing with a second, different, air pressure on the other side of the seal (e.g., air pressure in an internal chamber). 
     The electronic device  100  can include a housing  102  and a cover glass  104  (which may be referred to simply as a “cover”) coupled to the housing  102 . The cover  104  can be transparent and positioned over a display  106 . The housing  102 , the cover  104  and the air-permeable seal, along with other components, may form a sealed internal chamber or volume of the electronic device  100 . The sealed internal chamber can contain a pressure-sensing device along with other electrical components. In some cases, the cover  104  defines a substantial entirety of the front surface of the electronic device  100 . The cover  104  can also define an input surface of the electronic device  100 . For example, as described herein, the electronic device  100  may include touch and/or force sensors that detect inputs applied to the cover  104 . The cover  104  may be formed from or include glass, sapphire, polymer, dielectric, or any other suitable material. 
     The display  106  can be positioned under the cover  104  and at least partially within the housing  102 . The display  106  can define an output region in which graphical outputs are displayed. Graphical outputs may include graphical user interfaces, user interface elements (e.g., buttons, sliders, etc.), text, lists, photographs, animations, videos, or the like. The display  106  can include a liquid-crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode display (OLED), or any other suitable components or display technology. In some cases, the display  106  can output a graphical user interface with one or more graphical objects that display information collected from or derived from the pressure-sensing system. For example, the display  106  can output a current barometric pressure associated with the electronic device  100  or estimated altitude of the electronic device  100 . 
     The display  106  may include or be associated with touch sensors and/or force sensors that extend along the output region of the display and which may use any suitable sensing elements and/or sensing techniques. Using touch sensors, the electronic device  100  may detect touch inputs applied to the cover  104 , including detecting locations of touch inputs, motions of touch inputs (e.g., the speed, direction, or other parameters of a gesture applied to the cover  104 ), or the like. Using force sensors, the device  100  may detect amounts or magnitudes of force associated with touch events applied to the cover  104 . The touch and/or force sensors may detect various types of user inputs to control or modify the operation of the device, including taps, swipes, multiple finger inputs, single- or multiple-finger touch gestures, presses, and the like. Touch and/or force sensors usable with wearable electronic devices, such as the device  100 , are described below. 
     The electronic device  100  may also include a crown  108  having a cap, protruding portion, or component(s) or feature(s) (collectively referred to herein as a “body”) positioned along a side surface of the housing  102 . At least a portion of the crown  108  (such as the body) may protrude from, or otherwise be located outside, the housing  102 , and may define a generally circular shape or circular exterior surface. The exterior surface of the body of the crown  108  may be textured, knurled, grooved, or otherwise have features that may improve the tactile feel of the crown  118  and/or facilitate rotation sensing. 
     The crown  108  may facilitate a variety of potential interactions. For example, the crown  108  may be rotated by a user (e.g., the crown may receive rotational inputs). Rotational inputs of the crown  108  may zoom, scroll, rotate, or otherwise manipulate a user interface or other object displayed on the display  106  (among other possible functions). The crown  108  may also be translated or pressed (e.g., axially) by the user. Translational or axial inputs may select highlighted objects or icons, cause a user interface to return to a previous menu or display, or activate or deactivate functions (among other possible functions). In some cases, the device  100  may sense touch inputs or gestures applied to the crown  108 , such as a finger sliding along the body of the crown  108  (which may occur when the crown  108  is configured to not rotate) or a finger touching the body of the crown  108 . In such cases, sliding gestures may cause operations similar to the rotational inputs, and touches on an end face may cause operations similar to the translational inputs. As used herein, rotational inputs include both rotational movements of the crown (e.g., where the crown is free to rotate), as well as sliding inputs that are produced when a user slides a finger or object along the surface of a crown in a manner that resembles a rotation (e.g., where the crown is fixed and/or does not freely rotate). In some embodiments, rotating, translating, or otherwise moving the crown  108  initiates a pressure measurement by a pressure-sensing system (such as an external and/or internal pressure-sensing device) located on or within the electronic device  100 . In some cases, selecting an activity, requesting a location, specific movements of the user, and so on may also initiate pressure measurements by the pressure-sensing system. 
     The electronic device  100  may also include other inputs, switches, buttons, or the like. For example, the electronic device  100  includes a button  110 . The button  110  may be a movable button (as depicted) or a touch-sensitive region of the housing  102 . The button  110  may control various aspects of the electronic device  100 . For example, the button  110  may be used to select icons, items, or other objects displayed on the display  106 , to activate or deactivate functions (e.g., to silence an alarm or alert), or the like. 
     The electronic device  100  may include a band  112  coupled to the housing  102 . The band may be configured to couple the electronic device  100  to a user, such as to the user&#39;s arm or wrist. A portion of the band  112  may be received in a channel that extends along an internal side of the housing  102 , as described herein. The band  112  may be secure to the housing within the channel to maintain the band  112  to the housing  102 . 
       FIG.  1 B  illustrates an exploded view of the electronic device  100 . The electronic device  100  can include an air-permeable seal  105  (hereinafter referred to as the “seal”) positioned between the housing  102  and the cover  104 . The seal  105  can extend along and/or around a perimeter of the cover  104  and couple the cover  104  to the housing  102 . In some embodiments, the seal  105  can be positioned on an upper surface of the housing  102 , and orient the cover  104  at least partially within an upper opening defined by the housing  102 . 
     The seal  105  can include an air-permeable compressible material that inhibits water ingress. For example, the seal  105  can be include a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) material, such as expanded PTFE, or nylon, polyester, acrylic, or any other suitable materials. In some embodiments, the seal  105  can be include foam or expanded materials that are permeable to air but resist the movement of water through the material. When a force is applied to the cover  104 , this force can be transferred to the seal  105  causing the seal  105  to compress between the housing  102  and the cover  104 . This compression can cause the density of the seal  105  to increase, which can increase the water resistance of the seal  105  (ability of the seal to inhibit water ingress) and/or restrict air flow through the seal  105 . In some cases, compression of the seal  105  can cause the seal  105  to become impermeable to air. The seal  105  can be configured such that when the pressure/force is removed from the cover  104 , the seal  105  can expand, which allows air to move through the seal  105  and equalize the pressure inside the housing with an external pressure. 
     In some embodiments, the housing  102  may be sealed and/or otherwise include one or more watertight and/or airtight seals and the seal  105  may be the primary or only mechanism for equalizing a pressure inside the housing with an external pressure. Accordingly, if the seal  105  is compressed and air flow is restricted through the seal  105 , an internal pressure of the housing may not equalize with the external air pressure. 
     In some embodiments, one or more input devices, such as the other portions of the housings, the crown  108 , and/or the button  110 , also include an air-permeable seal. For example, as illustrated in  FIG.  1 B , the button  110  can include an air-permeable button seal  111  that is positioned between the button  110  and the housing  102 . The button seal  111  can function as described herein to allow air to move between the external environment and the internal chamber and prevent the ingress of water into the internal chamber. In some cases, the properties of the different seals can be configured based on their location and/or the type of opening being sealed. For example, the button seal  111  could be a softer material that compresses more easily than the cover seal  105 , such that the button seal  111  compresses in response to lower forces that may be generated by the smaller surface area of the button  110 . In this regard, the electronic device  100  can have multiple different seals that are positioned at different locations on the device and can have different properties that are based on the operating conditions of the structure that is being sealed. 
     The housing  102  can define an upper opening  103  that is formed by one or more sidewalls of the housing and extends around an outer periphery of the housing  102 . The cover  104  can be positioned at least partially within the upper opening  103 . For example, a first portion of the cover  104  may be located above a top portion of the housing  102 , and a second portion of the cover  104 , such as a bottom surface, can extend into the housing and contact a portion of the housing such as a ledge. An upper surface of the cover  104  can function as a touch input surface and may be positioned above the housing  102  to allow a user to interact with the display  106 . The cover  104  can include one or side surfaces, between the bottom surface and the upper surface, that define a periphery of the cover  104 , and the shape of the periphery of the cover  104  can be configured to match the shape of the upper opening  103 . In some cases, the seal  105  can extend along the outer periphery defined by the side surfaces of the cover  104 . In this regard, the seal  105  may form a closed boundary between the housing  102  and the cover  104 , which can include the seal fully encircling the opening without any gaps or breaks that allow for the passage of water or unrestricted air flow. 
     In some cases, the seal  105  can be configured to transition between a first state (in which the seal is air-impermeable and has a first resistance to water ingress) and a second state (having a second resistance to water ingress that is greater than the first resistance) based on other physical stimuli than pressure. For example, the seal  105  can include a hydrophilic material such as a hydrogel. Upon being exposed to water, the seal  105  could absorb water, which can increase the seal&#39;s  105  resistance to further water ingress. In other cases, the seal  105  could be heat and/or electrically activated. For example, at a first temperature, the seal  105  could exhibit characteristics of the first state (air-permeable and have a first resistance to water ingress). When heated or cooled to a second temperate, different from the first, the seal  105  could exhibit characteristics of the second state (increased resistance to water ingress). 
       FIG.  2 A  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an electronic device  200  taken along section A-A of  FIG.  1 A . The electronic device  200  of  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B  may correspond to the other electronic devices described herein, including the electronic device  100  of  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B . A redundant description of shared elements and features is omitted for clarity. The electronic device  200  can include a housing  202 , which can be an example of the housing described herein (e.g., housing  102 ); a cover  204 , which can be an example of the covers described herein (e.g., cover  104 ); and a seal  205 , which can be an example of the seals described herein (e.g., seal  105 ). The housing  202 , the cover  204  and the seal  205  can form at least part of an internal chamber  203  of the electronic device  200 . The internal chamber  203  can define an internal volume of the electronic device  200  and various components such as electrical components of the electronic device  200  can be housed within the internal chamber  203 . 
     As described herein, the cover  204  can be positioned at least partially within an opening defined by the housing. The cover  204  can couple to the housing  202  via the seal  205 . For example the seal  205  can be coupled to the housing  202 , and the cover  204  can be supported by the seal  205 , such that a force/pressure applied to the cover  204  is transferred to the seal  205 . In some cases, force (F) applied to the cover  204  may be due to a pressure of the external environment  201 . For example, the pressure of the external environment  201  can be a barometric pressure at the location of the electronic device  200 . In some cases, the electronic device  200  can be taken underwater, and the pressure of the external environment  201  can be a pressure exerted by the water on the electronic device, which can increase as the electronic device is taken deeper in the water. The internal chamber  203  can also exert a pressure on the cover  204  (and housing  202 ), which can be based an internal pressure of air located within the internal chamber  203 . The difference in pressure between the external environment  201  and the internal chamber  203  can create a force on the cover  204 . For example, if the pressure of the external environment  201  is greater than the pressure of the internal chamber  203 , then the positive net force may be applied to an outer surface of the cover  204 , which can cause the seal  205  to compress moving the cover  204  toward the housing  202 . Subsequently, if the pressure of the external environment  201  decreases, the seal  205  may expand and move the cover  204  away from the housing  202 . 
     In some embodiments, the seal  205  can include a porous material, which may allow air to move into and out of the internal chamber  203 . Accordingly, if a pressure differential exists between the internal chamber  203  and the external environment  201 , then the seal  205  may allow air to move into or out of the internal chamber  203  to equalize a pressure of the internal chamber with a pressure of the external environment  201 . 
     In some embodiments, the seal  205  can be configured to remain substantially uncompressed when the electronic device  200  is located in an ambient air environment at external environmental pressures typically inhabited by a person (e.g., around sea level to around 5,000 or 10,000 feet above sea level, or greater). Accordingly, when located in an ambient air environment, the seal  205  may remain substantially uncompressed and can equalize the pressures of the internal chamber  203  with an ambient air pressure of the ambient air environment. Further, when subjected to the ambient air environment, the seal  205  can exhibit a first resistance to water entering the internal chamber  203 . 
     The seal  205  can also be configured to compress when the electronic device  200  is submerged in water. For example, the weight of the water may apply an external pressure on the front surface of the cover  204  that compresses the seal  205  and increases the density of the seal  205 . As the electronic device is taken to deeper depths, the seal  205  may continue to compress until it is substantially fully compressed. When the electronic device  200  is subjected to the submerged water environment, the compressible seal can exhibit a second resistance to water entering the internal chamber  203 , which can be greater than the first resistance when the seal  205  is uncompressed. When compressed, the seal  205  may prevent air from moving between the internal chamber  203  and the external environment  201 . As the seal  205  is compressed the seal  205  may become more resistant to water passing through the seal  205  material. Accordingly, as the electronic device  200  is taken into the water, the seal  205  can compress, increasing in density, which may increase its resistance to water ingress into the internal chamber  203 . As the electronic device is brought to greater depths within the water, the seal  205  may continue to increase its water resistance until it is substantially fully compressed. 
     In the compressed state, the seal  205  may reduce or prevent the pressure within the internal chamber  203  from equalizing with the pressure of the external environment  201 . Accordingly, while the electronic device  200  is submerged in water, a pressure differential can exist between the internal chamber  203  and the external environment  201 . For example, if the seal  205  compresses when the internal chamber  203  has a first internal pressure, the internal chamber  203  may remain around this first internal pressure even as the electronic device is take to greater depths resulting in greater external pressures being exerted on the outer surface of the housing  202  and cover  204 . 
       FIG.  2 B  illustrates a detailed view of the electronic device  200  shown by line B-B in  FIG.  2 A . As illustrated in  FIG.  2 B , the seal  205  can include multiple layers. A first layer  206  can include an air-permeable material that is permeable to air and resistant to water, as described herein. The first layer  206  can be coupled to the housing  202  and the cover  204  using one or more adhesive materials. For example, a second layer  207   a  can include a first adhesive material that couples the first layer  206  (air-permeable material) to the housing  202 . A third layer  207   b  can include a second adhesive material that couples the first layer  206  to the cover  204 . Accordingly, the seal  205  can couple the cover  204  to the housing  202  such that the seal  205  can resist compressive, tensile, and shear forces, and the like or combinations thereof. 
     The cover  204  may define an outer surface that faces the external environment and a lower/inner surface that faces the internal chamber  203 . In some cases, the seal can be coupled to the lower surface of the cover  204 . In some cases, the cover  204  can define a set of side surfaces  212 . The housing  202  can define a first upper surface  208  that forms an internal boundary of the opening. The housing  202  can also define a second upper surface  210  that forms a ledge for supporting the seal  205  and the cover  204 . In some embodiments, the seal  205  can couple to the second upper surface  210  and couple to the cover  204 , such that the set of side surfaces  212  of the cover  204  is positioned within the opening defined by the first upper surface  208 . In some embodiments, the set of side surfaces  212  can be offset from the first upper surface  208  of the housing  202  to form a gap between the housing and the cover  204 . This gap may extend between the seal  205  and the housing  202 . In this regard, the gap may allow for air and/or water to reach the seal, thereby allowing the seal  205  to equalize the pressure of the internal chamber  203  with the pressure of the external environment. In some cases, having the cover  204  and the seal  205  at least partially surrounded by the housing  202  can help protect these components from damage and/or constrain the movement of these components in relation to the housing  202 . For example, such a configuration may allow the cover  204  to move up and down and the seal to compress and expand, but limit side-to-side motion of the cover glass  204 , which can reduce sheer on the seal  205 . 
       FIGS.  3 A and  3 B  illustrate examples of a seal  305  in expanded (lower density) and compressed (higher density) states. The seal  305  may be an example of the seals described herein (e.g., seals  105  and  205 ) and be coupled to a housing  302 , which may be an example of the housing described herein (e.g., housings  102  and  202 ); and a cover  304 , which may be an example of the covers described herein (e.g., covers  104  and  204 ). The seal  305  can include an air-permeable material  306 , which may be an example of the air-permeable materials described herein (e.g., air-permeable material  206 ); and one or more adhesive materials  307 , which may be examples of the adhesive materials described herein (e.g., adhesive materials  207 ). The seal  305  can separate an external environment  301  from an internal chamber  303  that is at least partially defined by the housing  302  and the cover  304 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  3 A , the seal  305  can be in an uncompressed state as described herein. In the uncompressed state, the air-permeable material  306  can have a first density, which may allow air to move between the external environment  301  and the internal chamber  303 . Additionally or alternatively, the air-permeable material  306  can have a first resistance to water that prevents water ingress into the internal chamber  303 . Accordingly, when the seal  305  is uncompressed, the air-permeable material  306  can allow the pressure of the internal chamber  303  to equalize with the pressure of the external environment  301 , while preventing water from entering the internal chamber  303 . 
     In some embodiments, the air-permeable material  306  may be configured to support different flow rates of air between the external environment  301  and the internal chamber  303 . The air flow rate can depend on the properties of the air-permeable material  306 , the amount of surface area of the air-permeable material  306  between the external environment and the internal chamber  303 , as well as other factors. In some cases, positioning the seal  305  between the housing  302  and the cover  304  may increase the surface area of the seal  305  as compared to devices that incorporate air-permeable vents into ports on the housing, such as a speaker port. In some embodiments, the air flow rate of the seal  305  can be configured to be between 5 and 20 standard cubic centimeters per minute (SCCM). In other cases, the air flow rate of the seal  305  may be configured to be above 50, 100 or 150 SCCM. In some embodiments, the air flow rate of the seal may decrease over time. In this regard, the seal  305  can initially be configured with a higher air flow rate to maintain functions of the electronic device (e.g., internal pressure sensing) while accounting for decreases in the air flow rate over the life of the seal  305 . 
     The air-permeable material  306  can include polymer materials such as expanded polymers, foams (open cell and/or closed cell), porous materials, or other materials that are permeable to air, and resistant to water ingress. For example, the air-permeable material can include PTFE materials, such as expanded PTFE (ePTFE), nylon, polyester, acrylic, or other suitable materials. In some cases, the air-permeable material can include composite materials, such as a polymer-metal composite or other suitable combination of materials. In some embodiments, the air-permeable material  306  and/or the adhesive materials  307  can be about 10 microns to about 100 microns thick. 
     In some embodiments, in the uncompressed state, the air-permeable material  306  can define passages that allow air to move between the internal chamber  303  and the external environment  301 . For example, these passages may be property of the air-permeable material  306 , and may be homogenously distributed throughout the air-permeable material  306 , which may include channels formed from expanded portions of the air-permeable material  306 . In other examples, the passages can be one of more defined channels within the air-permeable material  306 . For example, the defined channels could be machined, etched, or otherwise formed in the air-permeable material  306  to allow air to move between the internal chamber  303  and the external environment  301 . For example, the channels could be formed in a circuitous path, such as a spiral pattern, that allows air to pass, but impedes the ingress of water or other liquid into the internal chamber  303 . In some cases, the channels can be formed in one or more of the adhesive layers  307 , and can be configured to compress, collapse, become blocked, or otherwise restricted as the seal  305  compresses. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  3 B , the seal  305  can be compressed as described herein. In the compressed state, the air-permeable material  306  can have a greater density, which may prevent/restrict air from moving between the internal chamber  303  and the external environment  301 , and increase a water resistance of the seal  305 . In the compressed state, the seal  305  can prevent the pressure within the internal chamber from equalizing with the pressure of the external environment. Additionally or alternatively, the air-permeable material  306  may prevent water at greater pressures (depths) from moving through the air-permeable material  306  and into the internal chamber  303 . In some cases, compression of the seal  305  may close paths within the air-permeable material  306  that allowed air to move through the air-permeable material  306  in the uncompressed state. 
     In some embodiments, the adhesive layers  307  can have a greater resistance to compression than the air-permeable material  306 . In this regard, the adhesive layers  307  may remain substantially uncompressed when the air-permeable material  306  becomes fully compressed. The adhesive layers  307  can also be impermeable to air and water, thus, any movement of air and/or water into or out of the internal chamber  303  would occur through the air-permeable material  306 . In some cases, compression of the air-permeable material  306  can also mechanically reinforce the seal  305 . For example, compression of the air-permeable material  306  can result in the shear resistance increasing between the seal  305 , the housing  302  and the cover  304 . In this regard, the compressed seal  305  may be able to withstand external and/or internal pressures that would cause an uncompressed seal to fail (detach, rip, etc.). In some cases, the air-permeable material  306  can be configured to progressively compress when brought to increasing depths in a submerged water environment. For example, if the electronic device is brought to relatively shallow submersion depths, such as near the water surface, the air-permeable material  306  may be configured to partially compress and have a first resistance to water ingress. As the electronic device is brought to increasing depth, the air-permeable material  306  may compress to a greater density and have a second, increased resistance to water ingress. Accordingly, as the electronic device is brought to deeper depths, the water resistance of the seal  305  may increase. 
     In some embodiments, the seal  305  can be configured to expand when the pressure/force that cause the seal  305  to compress is removed. In this regard, the seal  305  may cycle between compressed and uncompressed states. 
       FIG.  4    illustrates an example of a seal  405  for an electronic device  400 . The seal  405  can be an example of the seals described herein (e.g., seals  105 ,  205 , and  305 ) and can couple a housing  402  to a cover  404 , which may be examples of the housings and covers described herein (e.g., housings  102 ,  202 , and  302 ; and covers  104 ,  204 , and  304 ). The seal  405  can include multiple layers of an air-permeable material  406  to increase an air flow rate of the seal  405 . For example, the seal  405  can include a first layer of air-permeable material  406   a  and a second layer of air-permeable material  406   b  that are stacked on top of each other to increase a surface area of the air-permeable material  406  contained within the seal  405 . In other embodiments, additional layers of air-permeable material  406  could be included in the seal to further increase the surface area of the air-permeable material  406 , which can be used to increase an air flow rate through the seal  405 . 
     In some cases, one or more air-permeable layers  406  of can be coupled to each other and/or the housing  402  and the cover  404  via one or more adhesive layers  407 . Different adhesive layers  407  may be the same adhesive material. In other cases, the different adhesive layers  407  can be different. For example, if the cover  404  is a glass material, a first adhesive layer  407   a  that is configured to bond with the glass material may be used to couple the air-permeable layer  406  to the cover  404 . Additionally, if the housing  402  includes a different material from the cover  404  (e.g., metal, ceramic, plastic, or the like) a second adhesive layer  407   b  that is configured to bond with the housing material can be used to couple the housing  402  to the air-permeable layer  406 . In other embodiments, the air-permeable layers  406  can be the same or different air-permeable materials, which may have different air flow rates, water resistance, compressibility, and so on. 
     In some cases, the electronic device  400  can include a force sensor positioned between the housing  402  and the cover  404 . For example, the force sensor can include two electrode layers separated by a compressible material, and the amount of force can be estimated by detecting a change in capacitance between the two electrode layers due to compression of the compressible material. The compressible material can be formed from silicone, or other compressible or elastomer materials. In some cases, the force sensor can include a separate set of layers and be stacked with the seal  405  between the housing  402  and the cover  404 . In other examples, the force sensor can be integrated with the seal  405 . For example, the air-permeable layer  406  could form the compressible layer of the force sensor and two electrodes could be placed on either side of the air-permeable layer  406 . 
       FIGS.  5 A- 5 D  illustrate examples of electronic devices  500  with seals  505  that include a compression limiter  506 . The electronic device  500  can be an example of the electronic devices described herein such as electronic devices  100 ,  200 ,  300  and  400 ; and the seals  505  can be an example of the seals described herein (e.g., seals  105 ,  205 ,  305  and  405 ). In some embodiments, the seals  505  can be positioned between a housing  502  and a cover  504 , which may be examples of the housings and covers as described herein. 
     The electronic device  500  can include a compression limiter  506 , which may be used to limit the amount of compression experienced by the seal  505 . In some cases, compressing the seal  505  more than a certain amount may damage the seal  505  and/or result in the seal  505  not fully expanding when a pressure on the cover  504  is reduced. In this regard, the compression limiter  506  can be positioned between the housing  502  and the cover  504 . The compression limiter  506  can be formed from a material that is more rigid than the seal  505  and stops movement of the cover  504  toward the housing  502  to stop the seal  505  from compressing past a certain amount. 
       FIG.  5 A  illustrates a first example of a compression limiter  506  that is positioned inside of the seal  505  and coupled to the housing  502 . In this regard, as the cover  504  moves toward the housing  502 , the cover  504  will contact the compression limiter  506  and stop moving toward the housing  502  before the seal  505  is fully compressed. In some cases, the compression limiter  506  may be configured to allow the seal  505  to compress enough to stop air movement through the seal  505  or increase the water resistance of the seal by a defined amount. 
       FIG.  5 B  illustrates another example of a compression limiter  506  that is defined by the housing  502 . For example, the compression limiter  506  can include a ledge formed in the housing  502 , wherein the ledge prevents full compression of the seal  505 .  FIGS.  5 C and  5 D  illustrate additional examples of compression limiters  506  that are attached to the cover  504  and contact the housing  502  as the cover  504  moves toward the housing  502  to prevent full compression of the seal  505 .  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B  are provided as examples of different compression limiter configurations  506  to illustrate how a compression limiter  506  may be implemented in the electronic device  500 . Accordingly, other configurations are possible. 
       FIGS.  6 A and  6 B  illustrate examples of an electronic device  600  including a seal  605  including a backup seal  606 . The electronic device  600  can be an example of the electronic devices described herein and can include a housing  602 , a cover  604  as described herein, and the seal  605 , which may be an example of the seals described herein (e.g., seals  105 ,  205 ,  305 ,  405 , and  505 ). 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  6 A , a backup seal  606  can be positioned between the housing  602  and the cover  604 . The backup seal  606  can be positioned alongside the seal  605 . In an expanded state, the backup seal  606  can be offset from the cover  604  to form a gap between a top of the backup seal  606  and the cover  604 . In this regard, air that passes through the seal  605  can also pass into an internal chamber  603  of the electronic device  600 , and allow a pressure within the electronic device to equalize with a pressure of the external environment  603 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  6 B , as the cover  604  moves toward the housing  602  and the seal  605  compresses, the cover  604  can contact the backup seal  606 . The backup seal  606  can be impermeable to water and/or air. Accordingly, even if air and/or water passes through the seal  605 , the backup seal  606  can prevent the water or air from reaching the internal chamber  603 . In some cases, the backup seal  606  can have a greater impermeability to water and/or air than the seal  605 . Additionally or alternatively, the backup seal  606  can function as a compression limiter as described herein. 
       FIG.  7    illustrates an example of an electronic device  700  that includes a seal  705  including an air-permeable material  706  and a compression layer  707 . The electronic device  700  can be an example of the electronic devices described herein and can include a housing  702  and a cover  704 , which can be examples of the housings and the covers as described herein. The seal  705  can be an example of the seals described herein and can include an air-permeable material as described herein. The seal  705  can further include the compression layer  707  stacked with the air-permeable material  706 . The compression layer  707  can be used to estimate external pressures by compressing in response to increasing external pressure thereby decreasing the volume within the internal chamber  703  and increasing the pressure. 
     For example, the compression layer  707  can be configured to undergo a greater deflection than the air-permeable material  706 . In this regard, once the air-permeable material  706  has been compressed, the air pressure in the internal chamber  703  can no longer equalize with the air pressure of the external environment, and the compression layer  707  may remain uncompressed. Then, further increases in the external pressure may cause the compression layer  707  to compress, thereby decreasing the volume of the internal chamber  703  and increasing the pressure within the internal chamber  703 . A pressure-sensing device  709  (e.g., pressure transducer, or other pressure-sensing device) located within the internal chamber can measure this increase in pressure and use this change in pressure to estimate an external pressure and/or change in external pressure of the environment around the electronic device  700 . For example, the estimated external pressure could correspond to a water pressure on the electronic device  700  and may be used as a depth gauge to determine a water depth, for example, when diving or performing other underwater activities. 
       FIG.  8    illustrates an example of an electronic device  800  that includes a force sensor  808  positioned between a cover  804  and a housing  802 . The electronic device  800  can be an example of the electronic devices described herein. The force sensor  808  can be used to estimate a force applied to the cover  804  of the electronic device  800 . For example, a force sensor  808  could include a capacitive force sensor, a piezoelectric force sensor, a resistive force sensor, and so on, that is coupled between the cover  804  and the housing  802 . In some cases, the force sensor  808  can be stacked with a seal  805 . In other examples, the force sensor  808  could be mounted in parallel with the seal  805 , for example one or more force sensors could be positioned at intermittent locations along the seal  805 . 
       FIG.  9    illustrates an example of an air-permeable material  902  that can be used in a seal, as described herein. The air-permeable material  902  can include one or more channels that form circuitous paths  907  between an external environment  901  and an internal chamber  903  of an electronic device. In a first state, for example, when the electronic device is located in an ambient air environment, the paths  907  may be substantially open and allow air to move between the external environment  901  and the internal chamber  903 . Also, in the first state, the paths  907  can prevent water at the ambient pressure from ingress into the internal chamber  903 . For example, the air-permeable material  902  can include hydrophobic elements at the paths  907  that resist water. In some cases, the size and/or shape of the paths  907  may prevent water from ingress into the internal chamber  903 . In a second state, for example, when the electronic device is submerged in water, the paths  907  may compress, collapse, or otherwise restrict such that the air-permeable material  902  increases in resistance to water ingress into the internal chamber  903 . 
       FIG.  10    illustrates an exploded view of a backside of an electronic device  1000  with a back cover  1004  incorporating an air-permeable seal  1005 . The seal  1005  can be an example of the seals described herein and can be positioned between various sections of an electronic device to allow air movement between the inside of the device and the external environment, while resisting the ingress of water into the electronic device. For example, the seal  1005  can be positioned between a rear cover (e.g., rear crystal) and the housing  1002  of the electronic device  1000 . In this regard, the seal  1005  can allow the internal pressure of the electronic device to equalize with an air pressure of the external environment. In various other embodiments, one or more seals, as described herein, can be positioned at different locations and/or structures of the electronic device  1000 . 
       FIG.  11    is a block diagram illustrating an example electronic device  1100 , within which an air-permeable seal can be integrated. By way of example, the device  1100  of  FIG.  11    may correspond to the electronic devices shown in  FIGS.  1 A- 10    (or any other wearable electronic device described herein). To the extent that multiple functionalities, operations, and structures are disclosed as being part of, incorporated into, or performed by the device  1100 , it should be understood that various embodiments may omit any or all such described functionalities, operations and structures. Thus, different embodiments of the device  1100  may have some, none, or all of the various capabilities, apparatuses, physical features, modes, and operating parameters discussed herein. 
     As shown in  FIG.  11   , the device  1100  includes a processing unit  1102  operatively connected to computer memory  1104  and/or computer-readable media  1106 . The processing unit  1102  may be operatively connected to the memory  1104  and computer-readable media  1106  components via an electronic bus or bridge. The processing unit  1102  may include one or more computer processing units or microcontrollers that are configured to perform operations in response to computer-readable instructions. The processing unit  1102  may include the central processing unit (CPU) of the device. Additionally or alternatively, the processing unit  1102  may include other processing units within the device including application specific integrated chips (ASIC) and other microcontroller devices. 
     In some embodiments the processing unit  1102  may modify, change, or otherwise adjust operation of the electronic device in response to an output of one or more of the pressure-sensing devices, as described herein. For example, the processing unit  1102  may shut off the electronic device  1100  or suspend certain functions, like audio playback, if the pressure sensed by the pressure-sensing device exceeds a threshold. Likewise, the processing unit  1102  may activate the device or certain functions if the sensed pressure drops below a threshold (which may or may not be the same threshold previously mentioned). As yet another option, the processing unit  1102  may cause an alert to be displayed if pressure changes suddenly, as sensed by the pressure-sensing unit. This alert may indicate that a storm is imminent, a cabin or area has become depressurized, a port is blocked, and so on. 
     The memory  1104  may include a variety of types of non-transitory computer-readable storage media, including, for example, read access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and EEPROM), or flash memory. The memory  1104  is configured to store computer-readable instructions, sensor values, and other persistent software elements. Computer-readable media  1106  also includes a variety of types of non-transitory computer-readable storage media including, for example, a hard-drive storage device, a solid-state storage device, a portable magnetic storage device, or other similar device. The computer-readable media  1106  may also be configured to store computer-readable instructions, sensor values, and other persistent software elements. 
     In this example, the processing unit  1102  is operable to read computer-readable instructions stored on the memory  1104  and/or computer-readable media  1106 . The computer-readable instructions may adapt the processing unit  1102  to perform the operations or functions described above with respect to  FIGS.  1 A- 6   . In particular, the processing unit  1102 , the memory  1104 , and/or the computer-readable media  1106  may be configured to cooperate with a sensor  1116  (e.g., an image sensor that detects input gestures applied to an imaging surface of a crown) to control the operation of a device in response to an input applied to a crown of a device (e.g., the crown  108 ). The computer-readable instructions may be provided as a computer-program product, software application, or the like. 
     The device  1100  may also include a battery  1108  that is configured to provide electrical power to the components of the device  1100 . The battery  1108  may include one or more power storage cells that are linked together to provide an internal supply of electrical power. The battery  1108  may be operatively coupled to power management circuitry that is configured to provide appropriate voltage and power levels for individual components or groups of components within the device  1100 . The battery  1108 , via power management circuitry, may be configured to receive power from an external source, such as an AC power outlet. The battery  1108  may store received power so that the device  1100  may operate without connection to an external power source for an extended period of time, which may range from several hours to several days. 
     The device  1100  may also include a communication port  1110  that is configured to transmit and/or receive signals or electrical communication from an external or separate device. The communication port  1110  may be configured to couple to an external device via a cable, adaptor, or other type of electrical connector. In some embodiments, the communication port  1110  may be used to couple the device  1100  to an accessory, including a dock or case, a stylus or other input device, smart cover, smart stand, keyboard, or other device configured to send and/or receive electrical signals 
     The device  1100  may also include a touch sensor  1112  that is configured to determine a location of a touch on a touch-sensitive surface of the device  1100  (e.g., an input surface defined by the portion of a cover  104  over a display  109 ). The touch sensor  1112  may use or include capacitive sensors, resistive sensors, surface acoustic wave sensors, piezoelectric sensors, strain gauges, or the like. In some cases the touch sensor  1112  associated with a touch-sensitive surface of the device  1100  may include a capacitive array of electrodes or nodes that operate in accordance with a mutual-capacitance or self-capacitance scheme. The touch sensor  1112  may be integrated with one or more layers of a display stack (e.g., the display  109 ) to provide the touch-sensing functionality of a touchscreen. Moreover, the touch sensor  1112 , or a portion thereof, may be used to sense motion of a user&#39;s finger as it slides along a surface of a crown, as described herein. 
     The device  1100  may also include a force sensor  1114  that is configured to receive and/or detect force inputs applied to a user input surface of the device  1100  (e.g., the display  109 ). The force sensor  1114  may use or include capacitive sensors, resistive sensors, surface acoustic wave sensors, piezoelectric sensors, strain gauges, or the like. In some cases, the force sensor  1114  may include or be coupled to capacitive sensing elements that facilitate the detection of changes in relative positions of the components of the force sensor (e.g., deflections caused by a force input). The force sensor  1114  may be integrated with one or more layers of a display stack (e.g., the display  109 ) to provide force-sensing functionality of a touchscreen. 
     The device  1100  may also include one or more sensors  1116 . In some cases, the sensors may include a fluid-based pressure-sensing device (such as an oil-filled pressure-sensing device) that determines conditions of an ambient environment external to the device  1100 , a temperature sensor, a liquid sensor, or the like. The sensors  1116  may also include a sensor that detects inputs provided by a user to a crown of the device (e.g., the crown  108 ). As described above, the sensors  1116  may include sensing circuitry and other sensing elements that facilitate sensing of gesture inputs applied to an imaging surface of a crown, as well as other types of inputs applied to the crown (e.g., rotational inputs, translational or axial inputs, axial touches, or the like). The sensors  1116  may include an optical sensing element, such as a charge-coupled device (CCD), complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS), or the like. The sensors  1116  may correspond to any sensors described herein or that may be used to provide the sensing functions described herein. 
     In some cases, the device  1100  can include a pressure-sensing system that has multiple pressure-sensing devices that are positioned within different chambers or internal volumes of the electronic device. One pressure-sensing device may be located in a sealed volume or first internal chamber of the electronic device and another pressure-sensing device may be located in a vented or open volume or second internal chamber of the device. The sealed internal chamber may include an air-permeable seal, as described herein, that prevents water, dust, and/or other contaminants from entering the sealed housing. Air may pass through the air-permeable seal thereby equalizing the internal pressure of the sealed internal chamber with a pressure of an external environment. This internal pressure-sensing device is protected from moisture and contaminants, which helps maintain accurate pressure measurements over the life of the device and in a variety of operating environments. In some cases, the electronic device  1100  may include a pressure-sensing device located within a second unsealed chamber of a housing of the device. The second unsealed internal chamber may be coupled with an external environment (e.g., exposed to the atmosphere) via a port that is defined by an outer shell of the housing. 
     Operation of the internal and external pressure-sensing devices may be coordinated based on one or more monitored conditions of the electronic device  1100  and/or an output from one or both of the pressure-sensing devices. In some cases, the electronic device  1100  may monitor one or more conditions, such as whether the external pressure-sensing device has been exposed to moisture. If the electronic device  1100  determines that the external pressure-sensing device has been exposed to moisture, the electronic device  1100  can use pressure signals from the internal pressure-sensing device to determine an environmental pressure, or determine when the external pressure-sensing device has dried sufficiently. For example, an electronic device  1100  may initially determine an environmental pressure using the external pressure-sensing device. Subsequently, the electronic device  1100  may determine that the external pressure-sensing device has been exposed to moisture and switch to using pressure signals from the internal pressure-sensing device while the external pressure-sensing device dries. 
     In some embodiments, the device  1100  includes one or more input devices  1118 . An input device  1118  is a device that is configured to receive user input. The one or more input devices  1118  may include, for example, a push button, a touch-activated button, a keyboard, a key pad, or the like (including any combination of these or other components). In some embodiments, the input device  1118  may provide a dedicated or primary function, including, for example, a power button, volume buttons, home buttons, scroll wheels, and camera buttons. Generally, a touch sensor or a force sensor may also be classified as an input device. However, for purposes of this illustrative example, the touch sensor  1112  and the force sensor  1114  are depicted as distinct components within the device  1100 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  11   , the device  1100  also includes a display  1120 . The display  1120  may include a liquid-crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, light emitting diode (LED) display, or the like. If the display  1120  is an LCD, the display  1120  may also include a backlight component that can be controlled to provide variable levels of display brightness. If the display  1120  is an OLED or LED type display, the brightness of the display  1120  may be controlled by modifying the electrical signals that are provided to display elements. The display  1120  may correspond to any of the displays shown or described herein. 
     In some embodiments, the device  1100  includes one or more output devices  1122 . An output device  1122  is a device that is configured to produce an output that is perceivable by a user. The one or more output devices  1122  may include, for example, a speaker, a light source (e.g., an indicator light), an audio transducer, a haptic actuator, or the like. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20200617
Publication Date: 20240102
Grant Date: 20240102
Priority Date: 20200617
Inventors: CROWLEY, PATRICK J.
CHIANG, ERIC T.
JACKSON, Ross L
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G04G17/08", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B39/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/08", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/11", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G17/08", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G17/08", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/08", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B37/08", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B39/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 78943449