PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9967375-B1
Application Number: US-201715593252-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B1

Title: Liquid-resistant coating on an electronic device

Abstract:
An electronic device having liquid-resistant modifications that prevent liquid ingress into an opening (or openings) in an enclosure of the electronic device is disclosed. For example, the electronic device may include a coating formed from a liquid-resistant material that is applied internally to the enclosure. The electronic device may further include a frame that carries a protective transparent layer designed to cover a display assembly. In order to secure the frame with the enclosure, the electronic device may include an adhesive assembly disposed over an outer perimeter of the coating. The adhesive assembly may include several adhesive parts initially separate from one another. However, with the adhesive parts between the frame and the enclosure, the adhesive parts can be compressed by the frame and the enclosure, causing the adhesive parts to expand and engage each other. As a result, the coating and the adhesive parts provide a seal against liquid.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electronic device, comprising:
 an enclosure that defines an internal volume, the enclosure comprising a first portion separated from and coupled to a second portion by a molded part; 
 a platform that extends into the internal volume and capable of carrying a component, the platform defined by the first portion and the molded part; 
 a coating layer that coats the molded part and at least a portion of the platform, wherein a portion of the platform that is not coated by the coating layer defines an uncovered portion; and 
 a first adhesive part and a second adhesive part separate from the first adhesive part, the first adhesive part and the second adhesive part disposed on the coating layer and covering the uncovered portion, wherein the material first adhesive part and a second adhesive part secure the component to the platform and combines with the coating layer; and 
 a seal that is between the component and the platform, the seal preventing passage of moisture around the molded part, wherein the first adhesive part and the second adhesive part, under compression, expand to engage each other and combine with the coating layer to form the seal. 
 
     
     
       2. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the uncovered portion of the platform includes the first portion. 
     
     
       3. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the first adhesive part is positioned on the uncovered portion. 
     
     
       4. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the component comprises a frame that carries a protective layer formed from a transparent material. 
     
     
       5. The electronic device of  claim 4 , further comprising a fastener having a compliant coating, wherein the enclosure include a through hole that receives the fastener, and wherein the complaint coating forms a second seal against the moisture at the through hole. 
     
     
       6. The electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising a switch assembly, wherein the enclosure comprises a through hole that opens to the internal volume, and wherein the switch assembly comprises:
 a switch positioned at least partially in the through hole, the switch configured to generate a command to an operational component in the internal volume; 
 a bracket that carries the switch; and 
 a sealing element that (i) secures the bracket with the enclosure at the through hole, and (ii) provides a seal against a liquid at the through hole. 
 
     
     
       7. An electronic device, comprising:
 an enclosure having an interior surface that defines an internal volume, the enclosure comprising: 
 a first metal portion, 
 a second metal portion separate from the first metal portion, and 
 a molded layer between the first metal portion and the second metal portion, wherein the enclosure and the molded layer define a platform; 
 a coating applied to the enclosure at the interior surface along the platform, the coating covering the first metal portion, the second metal portion and the molded layer; 
 a first adhesive part positioned on the platform; and 
 a second adhesive part positioned on the platform, wherein the first adhesive part and the second adhesive part compress and expand to contact each other and combine with the coating such that a liquid is prevented from passing through the enclosure between the first metal portion and the second metal portion and into the internal volume. 
 
     
     
       8. The electronic device of  claim 7 , further comprising:
 a third adhesive part, and 
 a fourth adhesive part, wherein the third adhesive part compresses and expands to engage both the second adhesive part and the fourth adhesive part, and wherein the fourth adhesive part compresses and expands to engage the first adhesive part. 
 
     
     
       9. The electronic device of  claim 7 , wherein:
 the first adhesive part comprises a protruding section, 
 the second adhesive part comprises a recessed section that corresponds to the protruding section, and 
 the protruding section compresses and expands to engage the recessed section. 
 
     
     
       10. The electronic device of  claim 7 , further comprising a frame, wherein the first adhesive part and the second adhesive part define a adhesive assembly that combines with the coating to seal against the liquid between the frame and the enclosure. 
     
     
       11. The electronic device of  claim 7 , wherein the second metal portion comprises a chassis, and wherein at least some of the chassis is free of the coating such that the chassis defines an electrical grounding pathway. 
     
     
       12. The electronic device of  claim 7 , further comprising:
 a channel between the first metal portion and the second metal portion; and 
 a second molded layer positioned in the channel, wherein the molded layer and the second molded layer combine to form a radio frequency window. 
 
     
     
       13. An electronic device, comprising:
 an enclosure having an interior surface that defines an internal volume, the enclosure comprising a platform; 
 a coating that is disposed along the interior surface and the platform; 
 an adhesive assembly positioned on the coating at the platform, the adhesive assembly comprising a first adhesive part and a second adhesive part separate from the first adhesive part; 
 a frame that is secured with the enclosure by the adhesive assembly, the frame and the enclosure compressing and expanding the first adhesive part to engage the second adhesive part; and 
 a liquid-resistant seal that prevents a liquid from entering the internal volume between the frame and the enclosure, the liquid-resistant seal defined by the coating combined with the adhesive assembly. 
 
     
     
       14. The electronic device of  claim 13 , wherein:
 the first adhesive part comprises a protruding section, 
 the second adhesive part comprises a recessed section having a shape corresponding to the protruding section, and 
 the frame combines with the enclosure to compress both the protruding section and the recessed section such that the protruding section and the recessed section engage each other. 
 
     
     
       15. The electronic device of  claim 13 , further comprising:
 a channel formed in the enclosure; 
 a first molded layer disposed in the channel; and 
 a second molded layer in the internal volume and engaging the first molded layer, wherein the platform is at least partially defined by the second molded layer. 
 
     
     
       16. The electronic device of  claim 15 , wherein the enclosure comprises an extension that engages the second molded layer and fixes a positioned of the second molded layer. 
     
     
       17. The electronic device of  claim 15 , wherein the enclosure comprises:
 a first metal portion; and 
 a second metal portion separated from the first metal portion by the first molded layer and the second molded layer. 
 
     
     
       18. The electronic device of  claim 17 , wherein the enclosure comprises a sidewall defined in part by the first metal portion, and wherein the coating is applied to the first metal portion and the sidewall. 
     
     
       19. The electronic device of  claim 13 , further comprises:
 a rail embedded in the frame; 
 a fastener that includes a fastener coating, the fastener extending through an opening of the enclosure and secured with the rail, the fastener coating engaging the enclosure at the opening to provide a seal against the liquid at the opening. 
 
     
     
       20. A method for forming an electronic device that includes an enclosure having an interior surface that defines an internal volume, the enclosure comprising a platform, the method comprising:
 applying a coating along the interior surface and the platform; and 
 positioning an adhesive assembly on the coating at the platform, the adhesive assembly comprising a first adhesive part and a second adhesive part separate from the first adhesive part; and 
 securing a frame with the enclosure by the adhesive assembly by compressing the first adhesive part such that the first adhesive part expands and contacts the second adhesive part and the coating and the adhesive assembly combine to form a liquid-resistant seal that prevents a liquid from passing between the frame and the enclosure and from entering the internal volume. 
 
     
     
       21. The method of  claim 20 , wherein applying the coating comprises spraying the internal volume with the coating. 
     
     
       22. The method of  claim 21 , wherein spraying the internal volume with the coating comprises applying a polyurethane material. 
     
     
       23. The method of  claim 20 , wherein applying the coating to the internal volume comprises applying the coating to a molded layer positioned between a first metal portion of the enclosure and a second metal portion of the enclosure, the molded layer defining a radio frequency window. 
     
     
       24. The method of  claim 23 , wherein the platform is at least partially defined by the molded layer. 
     
     
       25. The method of  claim 20 , further comprising cutting the coating to define a corner region of the coating to remove a portion of the coating, thereby increasing an amount of the internal volume. 
     
     
       26. The method of  claim 20 , further comprising extending a fastener through an opening of the enclosure to secure the fastener with the frame, wherein the fastener includes a compliant liquid-resistant coating that is compressed in the opening and seals the opening from the liquid.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/383,982, filed on Sep. 6, 2016, and titled “WATER RESISTANT FEATURES OF A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The following description relates to an electronic device. In particular, the following description relates to a coating that is applied to the electronic device in locations that may otherwise allow liquid ingress into the electronic device. For example, the coating may cover a channel, or other opening, that leads to an internal volume of the electronic device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Portable electronic devices generally include multiple components pieced together. For example, a portable electronic device can include an enclosure, or housing, coupled to a frame. As a result, liquid ingress may enter at an interface between the enclosure and the frame. 
     The enclosure may include other openings for use with other features. For example, water may enter the opening that receives the switch. However, as a result of these openings, the portable electronic device is vulnerable to liquid ingress. Water can cause damage, such as a short circuit, to circuitry associated with the switch. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include an enclosure that defines an internal volume. The enclosure may include a first portion separated from and coupled to a second portion by a molded part. The electronic device may further include a platform that extends into the internal volume and capable of carrying a component. The platform can be defined by the first portion and the molded part. The electronic device may further include a coating layer covering the molded part and at least a portion of the platform. The electronic device may include an adhesive material disposed on the coating layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive material secures the component to the platform and combines with the coating layer to form a seal that is between the component and the platform. The seal may prevent passage of moisture around the molded part. 
     In another aspect, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include an enclosure that defines an internal volume. The enclosure may include a first metal portion. The enclosure may further include a second metal portion separate from the first metal portion. The enclosure may further include a molded layer between the first metal portion and the second metal portion. The electronic device may further include a coating applied to the enclosure at the internal volume. The coating may cover the first metal portion, the second metal portion and the molded layer to provide a seal against liquid ingress passing through the enclosure between the first metal portion and the second metal portion. 
     In another aspect, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include an enclosure that defines an internal volume. The enclosure may include a through hole that opens to the internal volume. The enclosure may further include a switch assembly. The switch assembly may include a switch positioned at least partially in the through hole. The switch can be configured to generate a command to an operational component in the internal volume. The switch assembly may further include a bracket that carries the switch. The switch assembly may further include a sealing element that (i) secures the bracket with the enclosure at the through hole, and (ii) provides a seal against liquid ingress at the through hole. 
     In another aspect, a method for forming an electronic device that includes an enclosure defining an internal volume is described. The enclosure may include a platform. The method may include applying a coating along the internal volume and the platform. The method may further include positioning an adhesive assembly on the coating at the platform. The adhesive assembly may include a first adhesive part and a second adhesive part separate from the first adhesive part. The method may further include securing a frame with the enclosure by the adhesive assembly by compressing the first adhesive part to expand the first adhesive part to engage the second adhesive part. In some embodiments, the coating and the adhesive assembly combine to form a liquid-resistant seal that prevents a liquid from entering the internal volume between the frame and the enclosure. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       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  illustrates a front isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a rear isometric view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 2 , taken along line A-A, showing the camera aligned with the opening of the enclosure; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an exploded view of the electronic device shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , showing various components and features of the electronic device; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates an isometric view of the enclosure undergoing a coating operation; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates the enclosure shown in  FIG. 5 , subsequent to the coating operation and removal of the mask; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a cross sectional view of the enclosure shown in  FIG. 6 , taken along line B-B, showing the first coating disposed along the first layer and the enclosure; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of an adhesive assembly that secures the frame with the enclosure, showing the adhesive assembly divided into multiple sections; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a partial plan view of the adhesive assembly (shown in  FIG. 8 ) positioned on the enclosure, further showing the adhesive assembly disposed on the enclosure and the first coating; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a cross sectional view of the enclosure shown in  FIG. 9 , taken along line C-C, showing the adhesive parts positioned on the enclosure and the first coating; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a cross sectional view of the enclosure shown in  FIG. 10 , further showing the protective layer and the frame secured with the enclosure via the adhesive assembly; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates an exploded view of a switch assembly that includes the switch, as well as several additional components that assemble with the switch; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a cross sectional view of the switch and various components shown in  FIG. 12 , showing the switch and components positioned in the enclosure; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates an exploded view of the button and several sealing elements; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a cross sectional view of the button and the sealing elements shown in  FIG. 14 , showing the components positioned in the enclosure; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a cross sectional view of the enclosure, showing the first rail embedded in the frame and covered by the adhesive; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates an exploded view showing the vent and various components used with the vent; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a cross sectional view of the vent shown in  FIG. 17 , showing the vent positioned in the enclosure; 
         FIG. 19  illustrates an isometric view of the first fastener and a coating disposed on the first fastener; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a cross sectional view of the first fastener shown in  FIG. 19 , showing the first fastener inserted into the enclosure and secured with the second rail; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates an isometric view of the dock; 
         FIG. 22  illustrates a cross sectional view of the dock shown in  FIG. 21 , showing the dock inserted into the enclosure; 
         FIG. 23  illustrates an isometric view of the speaker module and associated components used with the speaker module; 
         FIG. 24  illustrates a cross sectional view of the speaker module shown in  FIG. 23 , taken along line D-D, showing liquid-resistant modifications to the speaker module; 
         FIG. 25  illustrates a cross sectional view of the speaker module and associated components disposed in the enclosure; 
         FIG. 26  illustrates an isometric view of the tray and the sealing element used with the tray to limit or prevent liquid ingress; 
         FIG. 27  illustrates a cross sectional view of the tray and the sealing element shown in  FIG. 26 , showing the tray and the sealing element partially positioned in an opening of the enclosure; 
         FIG. 28  illustrates a cross sectional view of the tray and the sealing element shown in  FIG. 27 , showing the tray and the sealing element positioned in the enclosure; 
         FIG. 29  illustrates an isometric view of the audio module and associated components used with the audio module that are designed to limit or prevent liquid ingress; 
         FIG. 30  illustrates a cross sectional view of the audio module shown in  FIG. 29 , showing the sealing element disposed in the opening of the audio module interface; 
         FIG. 31  illustrates a cross sectional view of the audio module shown in  FIG. 30 , further showing the audio module secured with the sealing element; 
         FIG. 32  illustrates an exploded view of the circuit board, along with several elements used to provide an ingress barrier for the circuit board; 
         FIG. 33  illustrates a cross sectional view of the circuit board shown in  FIG. 32 , further showing the first sealing element surrounding the first connector, and the first connector connected with a circuit connector; 
         FIG. 34  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an enclosure suitable for an electronic device, showing a receiving element used to receive a fastener, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 35  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for forming an electronic device that prevents liquid ingress through an enclosure of the electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 36  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for forming an electronic device having an enclosure, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 37  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for forming an electronic device having an enclosure defines an internal volume, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 38  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for assembling an electronic device that includes an enclosure that defines an internal volume, in accordance with some described embodiments; and 
         FIG. 39  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for forming an electronic device having an enclosure that includes an internal volume, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     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. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     The following disclosure relates to electronic devices that include several modifications designed to prevent liquid ingress into the electronic device. An electronic device described herein may include several openings, or through holes, each of which allows functionality of a component (of the electronic device) to enhance the overall performance of the electronic device. Rather than reduce the number of openings, thereby reducing the number of features, the electronic device (and some of its components) may include one or more liquid-resistant features located at or near the openings. The phrase “liquid-resistant” may apply to a material or material that is resistant to water-based solutions. The liquid-resistant features enable the electronic device to include the various components, while limiting or preventing liquid from entering the openings. As a result, damage to the electronic device that can result from liquid ingress may be prevented. 
     The electronic device may include an enclosure formed from metal. The enclosure may define an internal volume used as a housing for several internal components, such as a radio circuit, as a non-limiting example. In order to enable wireless communication by the radio circuit, the enclosure may include a channel (or channels) opening to the internal volume. The channel may be covered or plugged by an insert-molded material in an internal region of the enclosure and a plastic molded material on an exterior region of the enclosure, with each material allowing passage of radio frequency (“RF”) transmission. In order to prevent liquid ingress through the channel and through the interface regions of the molded materials, a coating may be applied along the interior of the enclosure. The coating may cover the insert-molded material and seal the enclosure from liquid that may enter through the channel. Also, the coating may include a material that allows passing of RF transmission. 
     The enclosure may further include an opening for a component, such as a switch used to control a function (or functions) of the electronic device. The switch may be part of an assembly that also includes a switch body and a bracket. The switch body may include a liquid-resistant film. Further, the switch body may seal with the bracket by a sealing element, such as an O-ring or insert-molded element. Also, the bracket may seal with the enclosure at the opening (that receives the switch) by a sealing element. 
     Also, internal components of the electronic device may include a material (or materials) applied to liquid-sensitive components. For example, a circuit board may include integrated circuits covered by an encapsulating material that shields the integrated circuits from liquids without affecting the performance of the circuit board and its components. Further, the circuit board may include connectors designed to electrically couple the circuit board with other circuit boards and/or internal components. To shield the connectors, foam made from a liquid-resistant material may surround the connectors. 
     A “sealing element” as used in this detailed description may include a compliant or compressible material that is generally liquid-resistant. For example, a sealing element may include rubber or silicone. The sealing element may include a pre-fabricated ring designed to fit around a component. Alternatively, the sealing element may be molded over a component by a molding operation, such as insert molding. In this regard, the sealing element may include liquid silicone rubber. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-39 . 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  illustrates a front isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device  100 , in accordance with some described embodiments. In some embodiments, the electronic device  100  is a laptop computer device. In other embodiments, the electronic device  100  is a wearable electronic device designed to secure with an appendage (such as a wrist) of a user of the electronic device  100 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the electronic device  100  is a portable electronic device, such as a mobile wireless communication device that may take the form of, for example, a smartphone or a tablet computer device. Also, the electronic device  100  may include liquid-resistant modifications that provide the electronic device  100  with a shield from ingress into the electronic device  100 . This will be described below. 
     The electronic device  100  may include an enclosure  102  that defines an internal volume that receives several internal components (not shown), such as a processor circuit, a memory circuit, an internal power supply, sensors, speaker modules, and a microphone, as non-limiting examples. The enclosure  102  may be formed from a metal, such as aluminum or an alloy that includes aluminum. However, other materials are possible, such as glass, rigid plastic or ceramic. Also, when the enclosure  102  is formed from a metal, the enclosure  102  may undergo an anodization process that includes immersing the enclosure  102  in an anodic bath with one or more acidic compounds. The anodization process is designed to provide an aesthetic finish to the enclosure  102  as well as improve the structural rigidity. 
     The electronic device  100  may further include a display assembly  104  designed to present visual information, such as text, video, or still images, to a user of the electronic device  100 . Further, the display assembly  104  may include a touch-sensitive layer, including capacitive touch-sensitive technology, designed to respond to a touch input to the display assembly  104 . In this regard, the display assembly  104  may respond to the touch input by changing the visual information presented on the display assembly  104 . The electronic device  100  may further include a protective layer  106  that covers the display assembly  104 . The protective layer  106  may include a transparent material, such as glass or sapphire. Also, the protective layer  106  may include an opening  108 . When the electronic device  100  is used for voice communication, the opening  108  may define an acoustical pathway for an audio module (not shown) to transmit acoustical energy out of the electronic device  100  by way of the opening  108 . 
     The electronic device  100  may include external controls, or input devices, that provide an input or command to an operational component (such as a processor circuit) of the electronic device  100 . For example, the electronic device  100  may include an input device, such as a switch  110 , electrically coupled to a processor circuit (not shown) in the electronic device  100 . The switch  110  may be actuated relative to the enclosure  102  in a direction toward or away from the protective layer  106 . The electronic device  100  may further include an additional input device, such as a button  112 , electrically coupled to a processor circuit in the electronic device  100 . The switch  110  may be actuated relative to the enclosure  102  in a direction toward the enclosure  102 . In order to provide the switch  110  and the button  112 , the enclosure  102  may include a first sidewall  114  having openings, with an opening used to receive the switch  110  and another opening used to receive the button  112 , as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     The electronic device  100  may further require additional openings for additional features of the electronic device  100 . For example, the electronic device  100  may include a second sidewall  116 . The second sidewall  116  may include openings  118  that allow airflow into and out of the electronic device  100 . A vent (not shown), located in the electronic device  100 , that includes an air-permeable, liquid-resistant material, may seal the openings  118 . This will be shown and described below. Also, the electronic device  100  may include openings  122 . A speaker module (not shown), located in the electronic device  100 , may be modified to prevent liquid ingress entering the openings  122  from further ingress into the electronic device  100 . This will be shown and described below. Also, the electronic device  100  may include an opening  124  and a dock (not shown) aligned with the opening  124 . The dock may be used to receive a connector (not shown). In this manner, the electronic device  100  may electrically couple with an external device (not shown), by way of the dock, such that the electronic device  100  may send or receive data, as well as receive electrical power to charge in internal power supply (not shown), or battery, in the electronic device  100 . 
     In order to secure the protective layer  106  with the enclosure  102 , the electronic device  100  may include fasteners, such as a first fastener  126  and a second fastener  128 , that pass through additional openings (not labeled) of the enclosure  102  and fasten into rails (not shown) that are secured with the protective layer  106 . This will also be shown and described below. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a rear isometric view of the electronic device  100  shown in  FIG. 1 . As shown, the enclosure  102  may be partitioned into multiple regions. For example, the enclosure  102  may include a first portion  103  (denoting a top portion of the enclosure  102 ), a second portion  105  (denoting a bottom portion of the enclosure  102 ), with the first portion  103  and the second portion  105  separated by a chassis  107 , or base frame. In some instances, a cutting operation applied to the enclosure  102  separates a single body of metal into the first portion  103 , the second portion  105 , and the chassis  107 . In this regard, the first portion  103 , the second portion  105 , and the chassis  107  may be formed from the same material(s). In some embodiments (not shown), the first portion  103  and the second portion  105  remain at least partially linked with the chassis  107 , subsequent to the cutting operation. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , the cutting operation severs the first portion  103  and the second portion  105  from the chassis  107 . Also, the first portion  103  and the second portion  105  may be used not only as protective components, but may also define part of an antenna (or multiple antennae) used by the electronic device  100 . Further, the chassis  107  may be used not only as a protective component, but also as an electrical ground for internal components (not shown) that are electrically coupled to the chassis  107 . 
     The enclosure  102  may include a first part  132  that separates the first portion  103  from the chassis  107 , and a second part  134  that separates the second portion  105  from the chassis  107 . In some embodiments, the first part  132  and the second part  134  are positioned in a first channel  136  and a second channel (not labeled), respectively. The channels may define partial openings in the enclosure  102  that open to the internal volume of the enclosure  102 . In this regard, the channels may allow for radio frequency (“RF”) communication through the enclosure  102 . Accordingly, the electronic device  100  may include radio circuits (not shown), such as a Bluetooth radio circuit, cellular network circuits, and an 802.11 (Wi-Fi) protocol radio circuit, that provide the electronic device  100  with RF communication capabilities. Also, the first part  132  and the second part  134  may include an insert-molded plastic. However, other RF-passive materials (that is, materials through which RF transmission permeate or resonate) are possible. The first part  132  and the second part  134  may be used to at least partially fill the channels, with an additional material (not shown) disposed in the internal volume and engaged with the aforementioned parts. The first part  132  and second part  134  may be co-planar, or flush, with respect to the enclosure  102 , and may enhance the appearance of the electronic device  100  by providing the enclosure  102  with a generally continuous or smooth finish. 
     The electronic device  100  may further include a camera  138  designed to capture an image external to the electronic device  100 . Accordingly, the enclosure  102  may include an opening  142  that allows the camera  138  to capture an image. Also, in order to retain some account information related the user of the electronic device  100  and/or to authenticate the user, a subscriber identity module (“SIM”) card (not shown) may be disposed in the electronic device  100 . In this regard, the electronic device  100  may include a tray  144  designed to carry the SIM card. The tray  144  may eject from the electronic device  100  in order to insert and/or remove the SIM card. 
     Due in part to the various openings and channels described in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the electronic device  100  may include several desirable features for a user. However, despite the openings and channels, the electronic device  100  may nonetheless include enhancements to provide a liquid-resistant device, which may prevent ingress into the electronic device  100 , thereby preventing damage to one or more components of the electronic device  100 . In order for the electronic device  100  to include liquid-resistant capabilities, the openings and channels should be sufficiently sealed. This will be shown and described below. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device  100  shown in  FIG. 2 , taken along line A-A, showing the camera  138  aligned with the opening  142  of the enclosure  102 . Some parts are removed for purposes of simplicity. As shown, the electronic device  100  includes a camera trim  152  that at least partially surrounds the camera  138 . The camera trim  152  is designed to carry a protective layer  154  that provides a transparent cover for the camera  138 . The protective layer  154  may be secured with the camera trim  152  by an adhesive  156 . In some embodiments, the adhesive  156  includes a heat-activated film. However, other adhesives are possible. The adhesive  156  may provide a liquid-resistant bond between the camera trim  152  and the protective layer  154 . 
     Also, the enclosure  102  may include a groove  158  formed in the enclosure  102  and extending around the opening  142 . Also, as shown, the groove  158  can open to the opening  142 . The groove  158  is designed to receive a sealing element  162  that engages the camera trim  152 . The sealing element  162  may include a compliant, liquid-resistant seal. In some embodiments, the sealing element  162  is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer. When engaged with both the enclosure  102  and the camera trim  152 , the sealing element  162  may provide a liquid-resistant barrier between the enclosure  102  and the camera trim  152 , thereby preventing liquid from entering the electronic device  100  at a location between the camera trim  152  and the enclosure  102 . Also, as shown, the sealing element  162  includes a chamfered region  164  designed to interface with a chamfered region  166  of the camera trim  152  during insertion of the camera trim  152  into the opening  142 . In this regard, the aforementioned chamfered regions may facilitate insertion of the camera trim  152 . Also, although not required, the enclosure  102  may further include a pocket  168 . When compressed by the camera trim  152  and the enclosure  102 , the sealing element  162  may extend into the pocket  168 . Accordingly, the pocket  168  may be used as a relief section such that camera trim  152  can be inserted into the opening  142  without the sealing element  162  providing an excessive force against the camera trim  152 . In other words, by receiving a portion of the sealing element  162 , the pocket  168  may prevent the camera trim  152  from unwanted positioning in the enclosure  102 . 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an exploded view of the electronic device  100  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , showing various components and features of the electronic device  100 . For purposes of illustration, the display assembly  104  and the protective layer  106  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) are removed. As shown, the enclosure  102  may define an internal volume  180  designed to receive several internal components. Various features and components of the electronic device  100  previously described may include one or more liquid-resistant modifications designed to prevent or limit liquid ingress into the electronic device  100 . The features and components described in  FIG. 4  will be further described in this detailed description. 
     The switch  110  may include a switch body  202  that receives the switch  110 . The switch body  202  may secure with a bracket  204  secured by a sealing element (not shown). Also, the switch body  202  may include a film (not shown) that provides a liquid-resistant barrier for the switch body  202 . This will be shown below. Also, the bracket  204  may include a first sealing element  206  that engages an opening  172  of the enclosure  102  when the switch  110  is installed in the electronic device  100 . In this manner, the switch  110  may be included in the electronic device  100 , while the opening  172  is sealed to prevent liquid ingress into the electronic device  100  at the opening  172 . As shown, the button  112  may include protrusions designed to enter openings  174  in the enclosure  102 . The protrusions may include sealing elements that provide a liquid-resistant barrier at the openings  174 . 
     The electronic device  100  may further include a frame  240  designed to carry the protective layer  106  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). The frame  240  may include an adhesive  242  used to adhesively secure the aforementioned protective layer with the frame  240 . The adhesive  242  may be applied in a tortuous configuration so as to avoid certain components (such as fasteners, connectors, buttons, etc.). Also, although the adhesive  242  is shown as continuously applied to the frame  240 , the adhesive  242  may include breaks or discontinuities. 
     The electronic device  100  may further include an audio module  260  designed to convert audio signals into acoustical energy in the form of audible sound. The audio module  260  may include a sealing element  264  that secures the audio module  260  with an audio module interface  280  that extends through an opening  244  of the frame  240 , allowing the audio module interface  280  to adhesively secure with the protective layer  106  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). The sealing element  264  may include extensions designed to deform when engaged with the audio module  260  as well as the audio module interface  280 , thereby providing a liquid-resistant seal between the audio module  260  and the audio module interface  280 . The extensions will be shown and described in detail below. 
     The frame  240  may include several rails at least partially embedded in the frame  240 , with the rails used to secure the frame  240  with the enclosure  102 . For example, the frame  240  may include a first rail  246  that secures in a first receptacle  176  of the enclosure  102 . The first rail  246  may be embedded in the frame  240 , and also covered by the adhesive  242 . In this manner, the adhesive  242  provides an ingress barrier in a location corresponding to the first rail  246 . This will be shown below. Also, the frame  240  may include a second rail  248  that includes a first opening  252  and a second opening  254 . When the frame  240  is secured with the enclosure  102 , the first fastener  126  and the second fastener  128  extend through the first opening  252  and the second opening  254 , respectively, with each fastener secured with an opening of the second rail  248 . Also, an adhesive layer (shown later) may be used to adhesively secure the frame  240  with the enclosure  102 . Although not shown, the frame  240  may include a third rail having a size and shape similar to that of the first rail  246 , and designed to secure in a second receptacle  178  of the enclosure  102 . 
     In order to allow airflow into and out of the electronic device  100 , the electronic device  100  may include a vent  302 . The vent  302  may include a membrane  304  that is air-permeable, but liquid resistant. In this manner, when the vent  302  secured in the enclosure  102  and against the openings  118 , air may enter or exit the enclosure  102  via the openings  118  and the vent  302 , while the membrane  304  prevents liquid passage into the electronic device  100 . Also, the vent  302  may include a bracket  306  and a sealing element  308  secured over the bracket  306 . The sealing element  308  may be molded onto the bracket  306  by an insert molding operation. The sealing element  308  may include silicone, or another compliant, liquid-resistant material. Also, the sealing element  308  may engage the enclosure  102  to provide an ingress barrier between the bracket  306  and the enclosure  102 . This will be shown below. 
     In order to seal the openings that receive the first fastener  126  and the second fastener  128 , the first fastener  126  and the second fastener  128  may be coated with polymeric material that is sprayed or otherwise deposited thereon. The polymeric material may include polyurethane, as a non-limiting example. As shown, the first fastener  126  includes a coating (not labeled) and the second fastener  128  includes a coating (not labeled). The aforementioned coatings may compress or conform to the openings that receive the first fastener  126  and the second fastener  128 , thereby sealing those openings from liquid ingress. 
     The electronic device  100  may further include a dock assembly  500  that aligns with the opening  124  when installed in the internal volume  180 . The dock assembly  500  may include several terminals designed to electrically couple the electronic device  100  with an external device (not shown). As a result of the terminals, the dock assembly  500  may include several openings. However, the dock assembly  500  may be sealed such that liquid ingress entering the dock assembly  500  is prevented or limited from further ingress into the internal volume  180 . This will be shown below. 
     The electronic device  100  may further include a speaker module  602  that aligns with the openings  122  when installed in the internal volume  180 . The speaker module  602  may include a speaker opening  604  that allows acoustical energy generated by the speaker module  602  to exit the speaker module  602 . Despite the speaker opening  604 , the speaker module  602  may include several internal modifications such that any liquid entering the speaker opening  604  (by way of the openings  122 ) does not cause damage to the speaker module  602 . Also, the speaker module  602  may include a bracket  606  secured with the speaker module  602  by a sealing element (shown and described below). 
     As previously described, the tray  144  is designed to carry the SIM card, and may eject from the electronic device  100  for insertion and/or removal of the SIM card. The tray  144  may include a sealing element  146  designed to fold or collapse when compressed between the tray  144  and the enclosure  102 . This will be shown below. 
     In addition to the electronic device  100  having several liquid-resistant modifications to exterior regions, the electronic device  100  may include additional modifications to centrally located components. For example, the electronic device  100  may include an internal power supply  702  and a circuit board  704  electrically coupled with the internal power supply  702 . An encapsulating material may cover the circuit board  704 , as well as several components (shown as dotted lines) on the circuit board  704 , thereby forming a liquid-ingress barrier that prevents corrosion and short-circuiting, due to liquid, of the aforementioned components. Alternatively, the circuit board  704  may be covered by a tape or spray. 
     Also, the electronic device  100  may include main circuit board  802 , or “motherboard,” that is in communication with several electrical components in the electronic device  100 . The main circuit board  802 , along with components (shown as dotted lines) on the main circuit board  802 , may be encapsulated with an encapsulating material  804 . The encapsulating material  804  may include a hydrophobic coating designed resist water that would otherwise contact the main circuit board  802  and its components. The encapsulating material  804  may be applied by a vapor deposition operation. Also, the main circuit board  802  may include connectors used to electrically couple the main circuit board  802  with other circuit boards (not shown) or other components. For example, the main circuit board  802  may include a first connector  806  uncovered by the encapsulating material  804 , and surround by a first sealing element  818  formed from a liquid-resistant material, such as a closed-cell foam. This will be further shown and described below. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an isometric view of the enclosure  102  undergoing a coating operation. As shown, the enclosure  102  may further include a first layer  182  and a second layer  184  disposed in the internal volume  180 , and positioned in locations corresponding to the first part  132  and the second part  134  (shown in  FIG. 2 ), respectively. The first layer  182  and the second layer  184  may provide a rigid layer in locations generally void of the enclosure materials, such as between the first portion  103  and the chassis  107 , and between the second portion  105  and the chassis  107 . In order to apply the first layer  182  and the second layer  184 , a molding operation (including an insert molding operation) to the enclosure  102  may be used. Accordingly, the first layer  182  and the second layer  184  may be referred to as a first insert molded layer and a second insert molded layer, respectively. The first layer  182  and the second layer  184  may include a rigid, non-metal material(s) that provides structural support to the enclosure  102 , particularly in locations of the channels that receive the first part  132  and the second part  134 . Moreover, the first layer  182  and the second layer  184  may include RF-permissive materials that permit transmission of RF communication. In other words, the first part  132  and the first layer  182  may form a first RF window for an electronic device (such as the electronic device  100 , shown in  FIG. 1 ), and the second part  134  and the second layer  184  may form a second RF window for the electronic device. 
     The coating tool  190  may apply a spray coating  192  that includes a polymeric material, such as polyurethane, as a non-limiting example. However, other materials, such as UV-cured glues or other sealing materials may be used. The spray coating  192  is designed to cover the first layer  182  and the second layer  184 , particularly in locations corresponding to the first part  132  and the second part  134  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). In this manner, the spray coating  192  may seal the enclosure  102  and prevent liquid ingress entering the channels (not shown) located in areas corresponding to the first part  132  and the second part  134 . Once the spray coating  192  is applied to the enclosure  102 , the spray coating  192  is cured by a heating operation. Also, in some instances, the enclosure  102  includes a mask  194  used to prevent the spray coating  192  from contacting certain predetermined locations of the enclosure  102 , such as locations in which some internal components are secured or fastened with the enclosure  102 . The mask  194  may be removed subsequent to the coating operation. While a particular shape of the mask  194  is shown, other shapes are possible. 
     In some instances, air may become trapped at an interface between two or more parts. As the air passes through the spray coating  192 , the air may cause bubbling. In order to reduce bubbling of the spray coating  192 , the spray coating  192  may include a thinner material, or other solvent, to thin the spray coating  192 . Also, the heating/curing operations may be altered to promote movement of any bubbles out of the spray coating  192  once the spray coating is applied to the enclosure  102 . For example, the heat applied to the spray coating  192  during a curing operation coupled with decreased heating time may, along with the thinner, reduce the bubbling of the spray coating  192 . In addition, a vacuum can be used to remove the air and/or pull the spray coating  192 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates the enclosure  102  shown in  FIG. 5 , subsequent to the coating operation and removal of the mask  194 . Subsequent to the removal of the mask  194 ,  FIG. 6  shows a first coating  186  and a second coating  188  covering the first layer  182  and the second layer  184 , respectively. The first coating  186  and the second coating  188  remain to provide an ingress barrier to liquids that may pass through the aforementioned channels that receive the first part  132  and the second part  134  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). Also, when the mask  194  is removed the enclosure  102 , the chassis  107  includes a region or regions in which the first coating  186  and the second coating  188  are not present. The region(s) of the enclosure  102  that does not include the first coating  186  or the second coating  188  can be used not only as a platform to which internal components are secured, but also as an electrically conductive region (as the enclosure  102  can be formed from a metal) that provides an electrical grounding pathway. 
     Also, while a spraying operation is shown and described in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , additional processes may be used to apply a coating. For example, the first coating  186  and the second coating  188  may be applied by manual means, including brushing or applying a coating material to a small surface. These manual means may be complementary to the spraying operation, in order to ensure coating material is applied to corner regions or other complex, non-planar geometries. Also, in order to alter the amount of spray coating  192  (shown in  FIG. 5 ) dispensed and/or the amount of pressure applied to the spray coating  192 , the coating tool  190  may include a nozzle such that the spray coating  192  may be dispensed through the nozzle. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a cross sectional view of the enclosure  102  shown in  FIG. 6 , taken along line B-B, showing the first coating  186  disposed along the chassis  107 , the first layer  182  and the first portion  103 . As shown, the first coating  186  substantially covers the first layer  182  such that any liquid ingress that passing through the first part  132  and the first layer  182  may be limited or prevented from passing into the internal volume  180 . Also, the first coating  186  may substantially cover a platform  109  that defines a receiving surface for the frame  240  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). The platform  109  may be formed in part by the first portion  103  and the first layer  182 . Also, the first portion  103  and the first layer  182  may interface each other such that the first coating  186  may cover the first portion  103  and the first layer  182  along a horizontal plane (parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the chassis  107 ). In this manner, any forces (such as gravitational forces) acting on the first coating  186  do not cause the first coating  186  to “drain” or fall onto the chassis  107 . In other words, the horizontal plane promotes the first coating  186  remaining on the platform  109 . Although not shown, in other locations, the second portion  105  may combine with the second layer  184  to form an additional part of the platform  109  in a similar manner as that shown in  FIG. 7 . 
     Also, as shown in  FIG. 7 , the chassis  107  may include an extension  111  used as a levee, or embankment, that prevents the first layer  182  from creeping or otherwise extending to unwanted locations of the chassis  107 . Also, the extension  111  may provide an additional horizontal interface, similar to above, between the first layer  182  and the chassis  107 , thereby promoting a stagnation or fixation of the first coating  186 . Also, it should be noted that the material used for the first coating  186  includes RF-permissive materials so as to provide little, if any, interference with RF communication. 
     Additional sealing means may be provided to the enclosure  102  that combines with the coatings. For example,  FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of an adhesive assembly  330  that secures the frame  240  with the enclosure  102  (both of which are not shown), showing the adhesive assembly  330  divided into multiple sections. For example, the adhesive assembly  330  may include a first adhesive part  332 , a second adhesive part  334 , a third adhesive part  336 , and a fourth adhesive part  338 . Dividing the adhesive assembly  330  into multiple sections may facilitate applying the adhesive assembly  330  to the enclosure  102 . This may reduce the manufacturing time, and associated costs, of assembling the adhesive assembly  330  with the enclosure  102  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). Also, while a discrete number of sections are shown, a different number of sections is possible. Also, each adhesive part is designed to mate with an adjacent section. As shown, each adhesive part may include “V” configuration. For example, the first adhesive part  332  includes a protruding section  342  that extends into a recessed section  344  of the second adhesive part  334 . The protruding section  342  may include a protruding V-shaped section, and the recessed section  344  may include a recessed V-shaped section having a shape corresponding to that of the protruding section  342 . Although the adhesive parts may be separated when applied to the enclosure  102  (shown in  FIG. 4 ), when the frame  240  is secured with the enclosure  102 , the compressive forces between the frame  240  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) and the enclosure  102  may cause the adhesive parts to expand and engage other adhesive parts at their respective V-sections. This will be shown and described below. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a partial plan view of the adhesive assembly  330  positioned on the enclosure  102 , further showing the adhesive assembly  330  disposed on the enclosure  102  and the first coating  186 . In some instances, the adhesive assembly  330  is also disposed on the first layer  182  (shown in  FIG. 5 ). As shown, the first adhesive part  332  and the second adhesive part  334  may at least partially cover the first coating  186  such that the adhesive parts combine with the first coating  186  to provide an ingress barrier. Although not shown, the remaining adhesive parts may at least partially cover the second coating  188  (shown in  FIG. 6 ) in a similar manner. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates a cross sectional view of the enclosure  102  shown in  FIG. 9 , taken along line C-C, showing the adhesive assembly  330  positioned on the enclosure  102  and the first coating  186 . As shown, the first adhesive part  332  is separated from the second adhesive part  334 . However, the adhesive parts may compress, causing the adhesive parts bond with one another. For example,  FIG. 11  illustrates a cross sectional view of the enclosure  102  shown in  FIG. 10 , further showing the protective layer  106  and the frame  240  secured with the enclosure  102  via the adhesive assembly  330 . As shown, the compression forces provided by the frame  240  and/or the enclosure  102  cause the adhesive parts of the adhesive assembly  330  to expand and engage one another. In this regard, the adhesive assembly  330  may combine with the first coating  186  (and also the second coating  188 , not shown) to further provide an ingress barrier against liquids that may attempt to enter between the frame  240  and the enclosure  102 . 
     Also, in some instances, prior to securing the protective layer  106  and the frame  240  with the enclosure  102 , the coatings may undergo a cutting operation to reduce the space occupied by the coating. For example, as shown in  FIG. 11 , the first coating  186  may be cut along a corner region  196  such that the amount of material defining the first coating  186  is reduced at the corner region  196 . The cutting operation may include a milling operation or a computer numeric control (“CNC”) cutting operation. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates an exploded view of a switch assembly that includes the switch  110 , as well as several additional components that assemble with the switch  110 . The switch  110  may be connected to a switch body  202  that allows the switch  110  to actuate relative to the switch body  202 . The switch body  202  may include a film  210  disposed on the switch body  202 . The film  210  may include a liquid-resistant material. In some embodiments, the film  210  includes a nylon film. Also, as shown, the first sealing element  206  may be positioned on an outer perimeter of the bracket  204 . The first sealing element  206  may include a compliant, liquid-resist material that conforms in response to compressive forces. The switch body  202  may secure with the bracket  204  by a second sealing element  212 , which may include a complaint seal or gasket. Also, the bracket  204  may include an opening  214  that allows a circuit (not shown) to electrically couple with the switch  110 . 
       FIG. 13  illustrates a cross sectional view of the switch and various components shown in  FIG. 12 , showing the switch  110  and components positioned in the enclosure  102 . As shown, when the switch  110  and associated components are positioned in the opening  172 , the first sealing element  206  seals with the enclosure  102  to prevent liquid ingress entering the opening  172  and passing into the internal volume  180 . Further, the second sealing element  212  may prevent liquid ingress passing through the opening  172  from contacting an electrical connection point between the switch body  202  and a circuit  216  electrically coupled to the switch body  202 . Also, the film  210  further protects the switch body  202  from liquid ingress. Accordingly, the enclosure  102  may be sealed at the opening  172  from liquid ingress. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates an exploded view of the button  112  and several sealing elements. As shown, the button  112  may include a first protrusion  224  that receives a first sealing element  226  and a second protrusion  228  that receives a second sealing element  230 . The first sealing element  226  and the second sealing element  230  may include a compliant, liquid-resist material that conforms in response to compressive forces. Also, the first sealing element  226  and the second sealing element  230  may stretch to fit onto grooved regions of the first protrusion  224  and the second protrusion  228 , respectively. For example, the first protrusion  224  includes a first grooved region  236  for the first sealing element  226 , and the second protrusion  228  includes a second grooved region  238  for the second sealing element  230 . 
       FIG. 15  illustrates a cross sectional view of the button  112  and the sealing elements shown in  FIG. 14 , showing the components positioned in the enclosure  102 . When positioned in the openings  174 , the sealing elements may engage the enclosure  102  to form a liquid barrier between the button  112  and the enclosure  102  to prevent liquid from entering the internal volume  180 . For example, as shown in the enlarged view, the first sealing element  226  may compress against the first protrusion  224  and the enclosure  102 . The second sealing element  230  (labeled in  FIG. 14 ) may be positioned and compressed in a manner similar to that of the first sealing element  226 . Accordingly, the enclosure  102  may be sealed from liquid ingress at the openings  174 . Also, when the button  112  is depressed, the first protrusion  224  slides through the opening of the enclosure  102  and engages a switch mechanism  232  (which may include a tactile switch) to close the switch mechanism  232 , thereby sending an electrical signal along a circuit  234  electrically coupled to the switch mechanism  232 . However, the first sealing element  226  moves in conjunction with the first protrusion  224  and remains positioned against an internal surface of one of the openings  174  to provide the liquid ingress barrier. It should also be noted that the second protrusion  228  moves in a manner similar to that of the first protrusion  224  to engage the switch mechanism  232 , and the second sealing element  230  moves in conjunction with the second protrusion  228  while remaining positioned against an internal surface of the remaining one of the openings  174  to provide the liquid ingress barrier. 
       FIG. 16  illustrates a cross sectional view of the enclosure  102 , showing the first rail  246  embedded in the frame  240  and covered by the adhesive  242 . As shown, the adhesive  242  covers the first rail  246  in a manner such that any liquid ingress entering between the frame  240  and the protective layer  106  may be prevented from further liquid ingress, due in part to the adhesive  242 . In particular, the adhesive  242  may prevent advancement of liquid ingress in locations associated with the first rail  246 . 
       FIG. 17  illustrates an exploded view showing the vent  302  and various components used with the vent  302 . For example, the membrane  304  may include an air-permeable, water-resistant material that allows air, but not liquid, to pass through the vent  302 . The membrane  304  may be secured with the bracket  306  by an adhesive  310 . However, other methods may be used to secure the membrane  304  with the bracket  306 . For example, the membrane  304  may be ultrasonically welded to the bracket  306 . Alternatively, the membrane  304  may be molded into the bracket  306  by an insert molding operation. Also, the vent  302  may further include a sealing element  308  secured with an outer perimeter of the bracket  306 . The sealing element  308  may include a compliant, liquid-resist material that conforms in response to compressive forces. Also, the sealing element  308  may be molded to the bracket  306  by an insert molding operation. However, other methods described for securing the membrane  304  with the bracket  306  may be used to secure the sealing element  308  with the bracket  306 . Also, as shown, the bracket  306  may include an opening  312  to allow air to pass through the bracket  306  via the opening  312 . 
       FIG. 18  illustrates a cross sectional view of the vent  302  shown in  FIG. 17 , showing the vent  302  positioned in the enclosure  102 . As shown in the enlarged view, the sealing element  308  may compress against the bracket  306  and the enclosure  102  to form an ingress barrier that prevents liquid that enters the openings  118  (both of which are shown in  FIG. 4 ) from further passing into the internal volume  180 . In this manner, the membrane  304  is positioned at the openings  118  to allow air, but not liquid, into or out of the internal volume  180 . This may allow the electronic device  100  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) to equilibrate and adjust to a change in external pressure. 
     Also, the vent  302  may undergo an assembly test to ensure the membrane  304  is properly secured with the bracket  306 . In particular, the assembly test may determine whether the adhesive  310  properly seals the membrane  304  with the bracket  306 , and/or whether the sealing element  308  properly seals the bracket  306  with the enclosure  102 . For example, a polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”) material (not shown) may engage the membrane  304  and seal the openings  118 . Then a negative pressure, or vacuum, may be applied within the internal volume  180 , and the air leak rate around the adhesive  310  and sealing element  308  is determined and compared with a threshold air leak rate to ensure a desired seal is achieved. 
       FIG. 19  illustrates an isometric view of the first fastener  126  and a sealing element  402  disposed on the first fastener  126 . As shown, the first fastener  126  may include a head  404  and a shaft  406 . The shaft  406  can receive a tool (not shown) to rotationally drive the shaft  406  into an object, such as the second rail  248  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). Also, the shaft  406  may provide a threaded engagement with the object. The sealing element  402  may include a polymeric material, such as polyurethane, deposited on the shaft  406  and under the head  404 . Alternatively, the sealing element  402  may be replaced by an O-ring. The sealing element  402  may include a compliant, liquid-resistant material that compresses in response to some forces. Also, although the first fastener  126  is shown, the second fastener  128  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) may include any feature or features previously described for the first fastener  126 . 
       FIG. 20  illustrates a cross sectional view of the first fastener  126  shown in  FIG. 19 , showing the first fastener  126  inserted into the enclosure  102  and secured with the second rail  248 . As shown, when the first fastener  126  is inserted into an opening  412  of the enclosure  102  and in threaded engagement with the second rail  248 , the sealing element  402  may compress between the enclosure  102  and the first fastener  126 , thereby forming an ingress barrier at the opening  412 . It will be appreciated that the second fastener  128  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) may achieve similar results when inserted into the enclosure  102 . 
       FIG. 21  illustrates an isometric view of the dock assembly  500 . The dock assembly  500  may include a dock body  502  having an opening  504 , or cavity, designed to receive a connector (not shown). The dock assembly  500  may further include terminals  506  electrically coupled with one or more circuit boards (previously described). The terminals  506  are designed to electrically couple the connector with one or more of the circuit boards. The dock assembly  500  may further include a protrusion  508  designed to mate and engage with the connector, when the connector is in the opening  504 , to provide a frictional force that maintains the connector within the opening  504  and maintains the connector in electrical communication with the terminals  506 . The dock assembly  500  may further include a first sealing element  510  that seals an opening  520  (formed in the dock body  502 ) that receives the protrusion  508 . In some embodiments, the first sealing element  510  includes an adhesive. However, other types of materials are possible, such as a compliant material previously described for a sealing element. As shown, the first sealing element  510  is located on a wall that includes the opening  520  through which the protrusion  508  passes. However, the first sealing element  510  may extend to an additional wall. This will be discussed below. Also, the dock assembly  500  may include a moisture detection sensor  512  that detects moisture that enters the opening  504 . 
     In order for the dock assembly  500  to prevent liquid ingress into an electronic device (that includes the dock assembly  500 ), the various features of the dock assembly  500  require several openings that are sealed. For example,  FIG. 22  illustrates a cross sectional view of the dock assembly  500  shown in  FIG. 21 , showing the dock assembly  500  inserted into the enclosure  102 . The opening  504  of the dock assembly  500  aligns with the opening  124  such that a connector (not shown) may extend through the opening  124  of the enclosure  102  and into the dock assembly  500 . The terminals  506  may electrically couple with a circuit  514  that passes through a rear opening of the dock assembly  500 . As shown in the enlarged view, the dock body  502  may include a second sealing element  516  that seals the rear opening to prevent liquid entering the dock body  502  from further passing through the rear opening and into the internal volume  180 . The second sealing element  516  may include any material previously described for the first sealing element  510 . Also, the first sealing element  510  may extend across a rear portion, or a second wall, of the dock assembly  500  to provide further ingress protection. For example, the moisture detection sensor  512  (shown in  FIG. 21 ) may include an electronic moisture detection circuit electrically coupled with the circuit  514 . In this instance, the moisture detection sensor  512  requires an opening (not shown) along the rear portion in order to electrically couple with the circuit  514 . The first sealing element  510  may cover at least a portion of the opening to provide ingress protection at the moisture detection sensor  512 . Also, the dock assembly  500  may include a plate  518  secured with the dock assembly  500 . The plate  518  may include a plastic plate secured with the dock assembly  500  by a laser welding operation, as a non-limiting example. The plate  518  facilitates covering the openings of the dock assembly  500 , and may combine with the second sealing element  516  to provide the dock assembly  500  with a liquid-resistant barrier. 
       FIG. 23  illustrates an isometric view of the speaker module  602  and associated components used with the speaker module  602 . As shown, when the speaker module  602  is positioned in the electronic device  100  (shown in  FIG. 4 ), the speaker opening  604  aligns with an opening of the electronic device, thereby allowing acoustical energy generated from speaker module  602  to exit the speaker opening  604  and the electronic device opening. In order to provide a liquid-resistant seal, the speaker module  602  may include a sealing element  608  designed to secure between a portion of the speaker module  602  and the bracket  606 . The sealing element  608  may include a compliant, liquid-resist material that conforms in response to compressive forces. Also, although not shown, an additional sealing element may surround the bracket  606  such that the additional sealing element engages the bracket and the enclosure  102  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) when the speaker module  602  is inserted into to the electronic device. 
       FIG. 24  illustrates a cross sectional view of the speaker module  602  shown in  FIG. 23 , taken along line D-D, showing liquid-resistant modifications to the speaker module  602 . For example, the speaker module  602  may include an acoustic volume that includes a front volume  612  and a back volume  614 . The front volume  612  and the back volume  614  are separated at least partially by a membrane  616 , with the front volume  612  opening to the speaker opening  604  and the back volume  614  fully enclosed by multiple components. The speaker module  602  may further include a membrane  616  designed to vibrate at various frequencies to produce acoustical energy. Also, the membrane  616  may include a liquid-resistant membrane such that the membrane  616  is not damaged when exposed to liquid. In this regard, the membrane  616  may include silicone, as a non-limiting example. The speaker module  602  may further include an internal bracket  618  that receives the membrane  616 . The internal bracket  618  may include a liquid-resistant material, such as plastic. The internal bracket  618  may combine with the membrane  616  to define a partition in the speaker module  602  that separates the front volume  612  from the back volume  614 , in which the front volume  612  may receive liquid through the speaker opening  604  without causing damage to the speaker module  602  as the sensitive components (not shown) may be positioned within the back volume  614 . Further, in order to provide pressure relief to the back volume  614 , the internal bracket  618  may include an air vent  622  that includes an air-permeable, liquid resistant material designed to let air flow into and out of the back volume  614 . 
       FIG. 25  illustrates a cross sectional view of the speaker module  602  and associated components disposed in the enclosure  102 . As shown, the speaker module  602  is positioned in the enclosure  102  and aligned with the openings  122  (both of which are shown in  FIG. 4 ). Also, a mesh material  626  may cover the openings  122  and provide an aesthetic finish. The bracket  606  may secure with the speaker module  602  by an adhesive  624  that include a liquid-resistant adhesive. Also, the sealing element  608  is positioned between the speaker module  602  and the bracket  606  to form an ingress barrier between the speaker module  602  and the bracket  606 . In this manner, the speaker module  602  is positioned in the enclosure  102  such that any liquid entering the openings  122  may extend into the front volume  612  but not the back volume  614 . Also, any air entering the openings  122  may extend into both the front volume  612  and the back volume  614 , with the latter using the air vent (not labeled, shown in  FIG. 24 ) to receive air. Accordingly, the speaker module  602  may provide acoustical energy without promoting liquid ingress throughout an electronic device. 
       FIG. 26  illustrates an isometric view of the tray  144  and the sealing element  146  used with tray  144  to limit or prevent liquid ingress. As shown, the tray  144  may include a head portion  352  and a body portion  354  extending from the head portion  352 . The head portion  352  may include an opening  356  designed to receive a tool (not shown) such that when the tray  144  is in the electronic device  100  (shown in  FIG. 4 ), the tool can actuate an ejection apparatus (not shown) that causes the tray  144  to eject from the electronic device. Further, when the tray  144  is inserted into the electronic device, the head portion  352  may be co-planar, or flush, with respect to a portion of the enclosure  102  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). The body portion  354  is designed to receive and carry a SIM card (not shown). Further, the body portion  354  may include a recessed portion  360  designed to receive the sealing element  146 . 
     The sealing element  146  may include a compliant, liquid-resistant material such as silicone, as a non-limiting example. As shown in  FIG. 26 , the sealing element  146  may include a first section  358  and a second section  362 . Further, the sealing element  146  may include an opening  364  that allows the tray  144  to be inserted through the sealing element  146  via the opening  364 . The opening  364  allows the sealing element  146  to be formed from a single piece material, and accordingly, the sealing element  146  may be referred to as a single piece sealing element. Further, when the sealing element  146  is secured to the tray  144 , the second section  362  may be secured with the tray  144  at the recessed portion  360 . The first section  358  may bend or compress, in response to a force, causing the first section  358  to bend and/or deform relative to the second section  362 . Further, in some instances, the first section  358  may collapse onto the second section  362 . This will be shown below. 
       FIG. 27  illustrates a cross sectional view of the tray  144  and the sealing element  146  shown in  FIG. 26 , showing the tray  144  and the sealing element  146  partially positioned in an opening  370 , or through hole, of the enclosure  102 . As shown in  FIG. 27 , the sealing element  146  is not under any compressive force and is generally undisturbed. Further, with no forces acting on the sealing element  146 , the first section  358  is perpendicular, or at least substantially perpendicular, with respect to the second section  362 . 
     The opening  370  is designed to receive not only the tray  144 , but also the sealing element  146 . The opening  370  may include an internal surface  372  designed to engage the sealing element  146 , and in particular, the first section  358 . When the tray  144  is fully inserted into the opening  370  (shown below), at least a portion of the sealing element  146  engages and deforms. In this regard, the opening  370  may include a notch  374  positioned in the opening  370  such that when the tray  144  slides into the opening  370 , the first section  358  will engage the notch  374 , causing the first section  358  to bend or deform (relative to the second section  362 ). In addition to serving as a contact point of the sealing element  146 , the notch  374  may provide a stop for the tray  144 . This will be shown below. 
       FIG. 28  illustrates a cross sectional view of the tray  144  and the sealing element  146  shown in  FIG. 27 , showing the tray  144  and the sealing element  146  positioned in the enclosure  102 . The tray  144  may be “fully inserted” into the enclosure  102  when a surface of the head portion  352  is co-planar, or flush, with respect to a surface of the enclosure  102 , as shown in  FIG. 28 . Further, the  144  may be fully inserted when a tray housing  376  receives the tray  144 , as shown in  FIG. 28 . As shown, when the tray  144  is fully inserted within the opening  370  (labeled above) of the enclosure  102 , the sealing element  146  bends. For example, as shown in the enlarged view, the first section  358  bends relative to the second section  362 . Further, in some instances, the first section  358  may bend sufficiently enough to collapse onto and engage the second section  362 . However, the first section  358  remains circumferentially engaged with the internal surface  372  of the opening  370  (both labeled in  FIG. 27 ). As a result, when the tray  144  is inserted in the enclosure  102 , as shown in  FIG. 28 , the opening  370  is sealed from liquid ingress by the sealing element  146 . Also, in addition to providing a seal against a liquid (or liquids), the sealing element  146  may also center the tray  144 , in multiple dimensions, with respect to the tray housing  376 . 
       FIG. 29  illustrates an isometric view of the audio module  260  and associated components used with the audio module  260  that are designed to limit or prevent liquid ingress. The audio module  260  may generate acoustical energy. In this regard, the audio module  260  may be used as a speaker that emits acoustical energy through a snout  262 . 
     In order to provide an ingress barrier, the sealing element  264 , shown as a partial cross section, may be fitted onto the snout  262 . The sealing element  264  may include a compliant, liquid-resistant material that deforms in response to compressive forces. Further, the sealing element  264  may include several extensions, or flaps, designed to bend. As shown in the enlarged view, the sealing element  264  may include a first interior extension  266  and a second interior extension  268 . The first interior extension  266  and the second interior extension  268  may bend or deform in response to engaging the snout  262 . Also, when the sealing element  264  is fitted onto the snout  262 , the first interior extension  266  and the second interior extension  268  are designed to compress against the snout  262  and provide a liquid-resistant seal between the sealing element  264  and the audio module  260  (at a location around the snout  262 ). 
     Further, an audio module interface  280  can be used to interface with an additional component, such as the opening  108  of the protective layer  106  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). The audio module interface  280  may adhesively secure with the protective layer  106  around the opening  108 , thereby forming a liquid-resistant seal. Also, the audio module interface  280  may include an opening  282  to receive the sealing element  264  and the snout  262 . This will be shown below. Also, the sealing element  264  may further include a first exterior extension  276  and a second exterior extension  278 . The first exterior extension  276  and the second exterior extension  278  may bend or deform in response to the sealing element  264  being positioned in the opening  282 . 
       FIG. 30  illustrates a cross sectional view of the audio module  260  shown in  FIG. 29 , showing the sealing element  264  disposed in the opening  282  of the audio module interface  280 . As shown, when the sealing element  264  is in the opening  282 , the first exterior extension  276  and the second exterior extension  278  bend against the audio module interface  280  along the circumference of the opening  282 . This bending action may compress the aforementioned extensions and enhance the seal between the audio module interface  280  and the sealing element  264 . 
       FIG. 31  illustrates a cross sectional view of the audio module  260  shown in  FIG. 30 , further showing the audio module  260  secured with the sealing element  264 . As shown, when the snout  262  is positioned in the sealing element  264 , the first interior extension  266  and the second interior extension  268  bend against the snout  262 . This may enhance the seal between the audio module  260  and the sealing element  264 . Accordingly, the sealing element  264  may provide a liquid-resistant seal between the audio module  260  and the audio module interface  280 , and the audio module interface  280  may secure with the protective layer  106  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) in a manner that prevents liquid passing through the opening  108  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) from further extending around the sealing element  264 . 
       FIG. 32  illustrates an exploded view of the main circuit board  802 , along with several elements used to provide an ingress barrier for the main circuit board  802 . As shown, an encapsulating material  804  may be applied to the circuit board. The encapsulating material  804  may be applied by a deposition procession, including vapor deposition, in order to reduce the overall space occupied by the encapsulating material  804 . Also, the encapsulating material  804  may include a hydrophobic material designed to resist some liquids. In this manner, the encapsulating material  804  may block water, for example, that would otherwise engage the main circuit board  802 . The encapsulating material  804  may cover internal components, such as a first internal component  812 , a second internal component  814 , and a third internal component  816 . In this regard, the first internal component  812 , the second internal component  814 , and the third internal component  816  are protected against liquid exposure, which is particularly useful when any of the aforementioned internal components includes an integrated circuit or other operational component susceptible to damage from water. 
     While the encapsulating material  804  may cover the main circuit board  802  and its internal components, the encapsulating material  804  may not cover the connectors. For example, the main circuit board  802  may include a first connector  806  and a second connector  808 , both of which may be used to electrically couple the main circuit board  802  with another circuit board (not shown) or another electrical component (not shown). As shown, the encapsulating material  804  includes openings in locations corresponding to the first connector  806  and the second connector  808 . In order to shield the first connector  806  and the second connector  808 , the first connector  806  and the second connector  808  may be surrounded by a first sealing element  818  and a second sealing element  822 , respectively. In some embodiments, each of the first sealing element  818  and the second sealing element  822  includes a closed-cell foam. However, in some embodiments, each of the first sealing element  818  and the second sealing element  822  includes an open-cell foam. The first sealing element  818  and the second sealing element  822  may combine with connectors (not shown) to seal the first connector  806  and the second connector  808 , respectively. This will be shown below. 
     Also, in the event that liquid enters an electronic device, a determination can be made whether the main circuit board  802  is exposed to the liquid. In this regard, liquid contact indicators may be applied to the encapsulating material  804  (subsequent to the encapsulating material  804  deposited on the main circuit board  802 ). For instance, a first liquid contact indicator  824  and a second liquid contact indicator  826  are applied to the encapsulating material  804 . Both the first liquid contact indicator  824  and the second liquid contact indicator  826  are designed to change their appearance (change in color, for example) to provide a visual indication that the first liquid contact indicator  824  and the second liquid contact indicator  826  have been exposed to liquid. 
       FIG. 33  illustrates a cross sectional view of the main circuit board  802  shown in  FIG. 32 , further showing the first sealing element  818  surrounding the first connector  806 , and the first connector  806  connected with a circuit connector  836  that is coupled with a circuit  840 , which may include a flexible circuit. As shown, the circuit connector  836  may surround the first connector  806  and combine with the first sealing element  818  to provide an ingress barrier for the first connector  806 . 
     As discussed above, an enclosure of an electronic device may undergo an anodization process. However, the anodization process may alter the enclosure such that the outer perimeter, or exterior, is no longer electrically conductive. In instances when the enclosure  102  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) is used in part as an electrical ground, the enclosure  102  may no longer provide the electrical ground. However, the outer perimeter may undergo a laser ablation operation to remove an anodization layer, thereby exposing an electrically conductive portion of the enclosure. The laser ablation operation may be used along receiving points and screw points, each designed to receive a component, such as a fastener, thereby allowing the receiving points and screw points to provide an electrically conductive path. 
     However, in order to prevent the laser ablation operation from removing the insert molded layers and/or the liquid resistant coating, the receiving points may be modified. For example,  FIG. 34  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an enclosure  902  suitable for an electronic device, showing a receiving element  904  used to receive a fastener (not shown), in accordance with some described embodiments. The enclosure  902  may include any feature or features previously described for an enclosure. As shown in the enlarged view, the receiving element  904  may include an opening  906  designed to mate with a fastener or another component (not shown). The opening  906  may undergo a laser ablation operation to remove an anodization layer to expose an electrically conductive potion of the enclosure  902 . In this manner, when the fastener or component is positioned in the opening  906 , the fastener or component may be electrically coupled to the enclosure  902 . 
     As shown, a layer  982 , similar to the first layer  182  (shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 ) surrounds the receiving element  904 . Also, the enclosure  902  may further include a coating layer (not shown) designed to prevent liquid ingress into the enclosure  902 , similar to a manner previously described. In order to prevent the layer  982  and any coating layer from burning off, or otherwise being removed, during the laser ablation operation, the receiving element  904  may include a radial thickness  908  extending from the opening  906  to an edge of the receiving element  904 . The radial thickness  908  provides additional space between the layer  982  and the opening  906 . In this manner, during the laser ablation operation, the layer  982  (and any coating applied to the layer  982 ) is not removed by the laser ablation. 
       FIG. 35  illustrates a flowchart  1000  showing a method for forming an electronic device that prevents liquid ingress through an enclosure of the electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. The enclosure may be formed from a metal and may include a channel that opens to an internal volume of the electronic device, with the internal volume defined by the enclosure. 
     In step  1002 , a mask is used to mask, or cover, an internal volume of the enclosure. The mask may include a removable mask. In this manner, when the mask is removed, any material applied to the mask is also removed. Further, the mask may allow the enclosure to retain electrically conductive portions. 
     In step  1004 , a coating is applied to the enclosure at the internal volume. The coating may provide a seal against the liquid ingress passing through the channel. The coating may include a liquid-resistant material, such as polyurethane. Also, the coating may be applied by one or more techniques, including spraying and painting, as non-limiting examples. 
     In step  1006 , after applying the coating, the mask is removed. The portion of the coating that is applied to the mask is also removed with the mask, while the portion uncovered by the mask remains on the enclosure at the internal volume. The portion in which the coating does not cover the enclosure, which may include a chassis of the enclosure, can be used as an electrical grounding pathway of the enclosure. In this regard, any component electrically connected to the enclosure can be electrically grounded. This may allow for the removal of static charge on the component. 
       FIG. 36  illustrates a flowchart  1100  showing a method for forming an electronic device having an enclosure, in accordance with some described embodiments. The enclosure may include a through hole. In step  1102 , a switch is positioned at least partially in the through hole. The switch may be used as an input device to control a function (or functions) of the electronic device, such as a volume adjustment (e.g., muting). 
     In step  1104 , the switch is secured with a switch body. The switch body is designed to carry or hold the switch, while also allowing the switch to move/actuate relative to the switch body. Also, in some instances, the switch body is coated by a film design to provide the switch body with ingress protection. Also, the switch body may electrically couple with a circuit that relays control signals generated by the switch. 
     In step  1106 , the switch body is secured with a bracket. The bracket may include a sealing element that engages the enclosure at the through hole to prevent liquid ingress from entering the enclosure at the through hole. The sealing element may include a compliant material that conforms to the dimensions of the enclosure, and in particular, the dimensions of the through hole. 
       FIG. 37  illustrates a flowchart  1200  showing a method for forming an electronic device having an enclosure defines an internal volume, in accordance with some described embodiments. The enclosure may include a through hole that opens to the internal volume. In step  1202 , a dock is positioned in the internal volume. The dock is designed to receive and electrically couple to a connector that can supply data and/or electrical power to the electronic device. The dock may include a first opening that is aligned with the through hole such that the first opening may receive the connector. Also, the dock may further include a second opening. 
     In step  1204 , a terminal is provided at the second opening. The terminal is configured to electrically couple with the connector when the connector is inserted into the first opening. Accordingly, the terminal may include an electrically conductive material, such as a metal. Also, the terminal may be electrically coupled to a circuit inside the electronic device. In this manner, the circuit can carry electrical signals, in the form of data or electrical power, throughout the electronic device. 
     In step  1206 , the terminal is secured with a sealing element. The sealing element is designed to cover the second opening and prevent a liquid from entering the internal volume via the second opening. In some instances, the sealing element includes an adhesive. In this manner, the sealing element not only provides a seal but also adhesively secures the terminal with the second opening. 
       FIG. 38  illustrates a flowchart  1300  showing a method for assembling an electronic device that includes an enclosure that defines an internal volume, in accordance with some described embodiments. The enclosure may include a through hole that opens to the internal volume. In step  1302 , a speaker housing is disposed in the internal volume. The speaker housing may include a speaker opening that is aligned with the through hole. Also, with the exception of the speaker opening, the speaker housing may be free of additional openings, or may include an opening(s) covered by an airtight seal, such that the speaker housing defines an acoustic volume (including a front and back volume) that is maintained separately from air inside the internal volume. 
     In step  1304 , a bracket is positioned around a portion of speaker housing. For example, the bracket may at least partially surround a portion of the speaker housing associated with the speaker opening, thereby providing additional support to the speaker housing along the speaker module. Also, the bracket may adhesively secure with the enclosure at or near the through hole. The adhesive used to secure the bracket to the enclosure may include a liquid-resistant adhesive. 
     In step  1306 , a sealing element seals the bracket against the enclosure at the through hole. The sealing element may be positioned between the bracket and the enclosure, and may also engage the bracket and the enclosure. In this regard, the speaker housing is sealed from air in the internal volume. Further, the speaker housing is positioned and designed to receive or emit air from an external environment outside the electronic device. Also, a speaker module (that includes the speaker housing) can emit acoustic energy from the speaker opening and the through hole. In this regard, the speaker module may include a membrane acoustically driven to generate the acoustical energy. 
       FIG. 39  illustrates a flowchart  1400  showing a method for forming an electronic device having an enclosure that includes an internal volume, in accordance with some described embodiments. The enclosure may include a through hole that opens to the internal volume. In step  1402 , a tray is provided. The tray may be suitable for carrying a SIM card. In this regard, the tray may be referred to as a SIM tray. 
     In step  1404 , the tray receives a sealing element. The sealing element extends around the tray. In this manner, when the tray is inserted into the through hole, the sealing element bends against the enclosure at the through hole, thereby forming a seal at the through hole. The sealing element may include a first section and a second section connected to the first section. When the tray is inserted into the through hole, the first section may bend or collapse onto, or in a direction toward, the second section. Further, the first section may remain engaged with the enclosure such that the sealing element provides a seal or shield against liquid ingress at the through hole. 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     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: 20170511
Publication Date: 20180508
Grant Date: 20180508
Priority Date: 20160906
Inventors: ZHAO, XIAO YING
LUI, TIMOTHY S.
CATER, TYLER B.
PHOUTHAVONG, RASAMY
MYERS, SCOTT A.
POPE, BENJAMIN J.
HURRELL, DAVID A.
XYDIS, CHRISTOPHER R.
HUO, EDWARD S.
DINH, RICHARD HUNG MINH
FIRKA, MICHAEL W.
AUCLAIR, MARTIN J.
MUNDELL, KURTIS J.
BAVETTA, SALOME
LEUTHEUSER, Paul
Esmaeili, Hani
FROESE, KEVIN M.
CHOWDHURY, IHTESHAM H.
TAN, TANG YEW
BATES, ERIC W.
ZHANG, Yaocheng
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H04M1/026", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0217", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R2499/11", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/025", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R2499/11", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/1461", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B1/3816", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/18", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0249", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1633", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1684", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/026", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1698", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/025", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H9/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1633", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1684", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0249", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1698", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G17/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/44", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/44", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H13/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B1/3816", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/18", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/026", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 61904284