PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10128608-B2
Application Number: US-201715471697-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Sealed electronic connectors for electronic devices

Abstract:
A plug connector for an electronic device has a deformable seal positioned on it such that when the plug connector is mated to the electronic device a liquid-tight seal is formed between the plug connector and the electronic device. A seal may also be positioned within a receptacle connector cavity of the electronic device such that it forms a liquid-tight seal to a plug connector when the plug connector is mated to the electronic device.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A plug connector comprising:
 a body; 
 an outer shell encasing at least a portion of the body; 
 a connector tab extending away from the body beyond the outer shell; and 
 a seal positioned at least partially between the outer shell and the connector tab, the seal fully surrounding a cross-sectional portion of the connector tab at a location where the connector tab extends out of the body and wherein the seal further includes a protruding portion that extends towards a distal end of the connector tab. 
 
     
     
       2. The plug connector of  claim 1  wherein the connector tab forms a portion of an axisymmetric connector that can be mated with a receptacle connector in a first orientation and a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated 180 degrees along an axis of symmetry from the first orientation. 
     
     
       3. The plug connector of  claim 1  wherein the connector tab includes a first surface having a plurality of external contacts and a second surface opposite the first surface. 
     
     
       4. The plug connector of  claim 1  further comprising one or more retention features that secure the plug connector to a corresponding receptacle connector in a mated position. 
     
     
       5. The plug connector of  claim 1  wherein the seal is positioned to form a liquid-tight seal to an enclosure of an electronic device when the plug connector is mated to a receptacle connector of the electronic device. 
     
     
       6. The plug connector of  claim 1  wherein the seal is formed from a silicone material. 
     
     
       7. The plug connector of  claim 1  wherein the seal extends away from the body a distance between 0.25 and 2 millimeters. 
     
     
       8. A plug connector comprising:
 a body having a first face; 
 an outer shell encasing at least a portion of the body; 
 a connector tab extending from a base portion positioned at the first face to a distal end, the connector tab including a first surface having a plurality of contacts and a second surface opposite the first surface; and 
 a deformable seal positioned around a perimeter of the base portion of the connector tab, the seal including a protruding portion that extends towards a distal end of connector tab forming a step positioned along the first and second surfaces of the connector tab. 
 
     
     
       9. The plug connector of  claim 8  wherein the deformable seal is in direct contact with both the body and the connector tab. 
     
     
       10. The plug connector of  claim 8  wherein the deformable seal is positioned at least partially between the outer shell and the connector tab. 
     
     
       11. The plug connector of  claim 8  wherein the deformable seal is disposed across a majority of the first face. 
     
     
       12. The plug connector of  claim 8  wherein the deformable seal is secured to the body with an adhesive. 
     
     
       13. The plug connector of  claim 8  wherein the deformable seal is formed from an elastomeric material having a hardness in a range between 5 and 80 Shore A. 
     
     
       14. The plug connector of  claim 8  wherein the deformable seal extends away from the first face a distance between 0.25 and 2 millimeters.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO OTHER APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/384,112, for “SEALED ELECTRONIC CONNECTORS FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES” filed on Sep. 6, 2016, to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/398,377, for “VACUUM SEALED CONNECTOR FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES” filed on Sep. 22, 2016, to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/398,383, for “SEALED ACCESSORIES FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES” filed on Sep. 22, 2016, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
     This application is related to the following concurrently filed and commonly assigned U.S. nonprovisional patent applications: 
     U.S. nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 15/471,936, Filed Mar. 28, 2017, “VACUUM SEALED CONNECTOR FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES; U.S. nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 15/472,096, Filed Mar. 28, 2017, “SEALED ACCESSORIES FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES”; each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to electronic connectors and accessories that are used with electronic devices. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to electronic connectors and accessories that provide methods of sealing the connectors, accessories and the electronic device against liquid or debris ingression. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Currently there are a wide variety of electronic devices available for consumers today that employ a broad range of external electronic connectors to facilitate communication with other devices and/or charging of the electronic device. As an example, audio jack, data and power connectors are sometimes positioned on one or more external surfaces of an electronic device. As electronic devices become more indispensable to their operators they are used in increasingly harsh environments and are likely to be exposed to moisture or debris that may result in liquid or debris ingression into the connectors and/or the electronic device. This may result in damage within the connector and possibly damage to circuitry within the electronic device. Protection of the electronic device and/or accessories from such environmental damage can enable new applications for the electronic device and/or accessories. 
     SUMMARY 
     Some embodiments of the invention pertain to electrical connectors that have one or more gaskets or seals configured to impede moisture from penetrating the connector and/or electronic devices. Various embodiments relate to a seal positioned on the connector plug and/or within an electronic device such that a liquid-tight seal is formed when the connector plug is mated with the electronic device. 
     In some embodiments a plug connector comprises a body and an outer shell encasing at least a portion of the body. A connector tab extends away from the body beyond the outer shell; and a seal is positioned at least partially between the outer shell and the connector tab. The seal fully surrounds a cross-sectional portion of the connector tab at a location where the connector tab extends out of the body. In various embodiments the connector tab forms a portion of an axisymmetric connector that can be mated with a receptacle connector in a first orientation and a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated 180 degrees along an axis of symmetry from the first orientation. 
     In some embodiments the connector tab includes a first surface having a plurality of external contacts and a second surface opposite the first surface. In various embodiments the plug connector further comprises one or more retention features that secure the plug connector to a corresponding receptacle connector in a mated position. In some embodiments the seal is positioned to form a liquid-tight seal to an enclosure of an electronic device when the plug connector is mated to a receptacle connector of the electronic device. 
     In some embodiments the seal is formed from a silicone material. In various embodiments the seal extends away from the first face a distance between 0.25 and 2 millimeters. 
     In some embodiments a plug connector comprises a body having a first face and a connector tab extending from a base portion positioned at the first face to a distal end, the connector tab including a first surface having a plurality of contacts and a second surface opposite the first surface. A deformable seal is positioned around a perimeter of the base portion of the connector tab. In various embodiments the deformable seal is in direct contact with both the body and the connector tab. 
     In some embodiments the body has an outer shell encasing at least a portion of the body and the deformable seal is positioned at least partially between the outer shell and the connector tab. In various embodiments the deformable seal is disposed across a majority of the first face. 
     In some embodiments the deformable seal is secured to the body with an adhesive. In various embodiments the deformable seal is formed from an elastomeric material having a hardness in a range between 5 and 80 Shore A. In some embodiments the deformable seal extends away from the first face a distance between 0.25 and 2 millimeters. 
     In some embodiments an electronic device comprises an exterior housing having a receiving opening and a receptacle connector positioned within the exterior housing and having a cavity that communicates with the receiving opening, wherein there are a plurality of electrical contacts disposed within the cavity and positioned to make contact with a corresponding plug connector. A deformable peripheral seal is positioned between the receiving opening and the plurality of electrical contacts and the deformable peripheral seal has an aperture aligned with the receiving opening wherein the aperture is smaller than the receiving opening. 
     In some embodiments a portion of the deformable peripheral seal is disposed between the exterior housing and the receptacle connector. In various embodiments the deformable peripheral seal is integrated within the receptacle connector. In some embodiments a tab portion of the corresponding plug connector is receivable within the cavity and the deformable peripheral seal has an aperture that is smaller than the tab portion such that a liquid-tight seal is formed between the tab portion and the electronic device when the corresponding plug connector is mated with the receptacle connector. 
     In some embodiments the exterior housing includes a trim ring and wherein the receiving opening is formed into the trim ring. In various embodiments a portion of the deformable peripheral seal is positioned between the trim ring and the receptacle connector. 
     In some embodiments an accessory for an electronic device comprises an exterior housing having a first face, and a plug connector configured to be received by a receptacle connector of the electronic device. The receptacle connector comprises a connector tab extending away from the first face and a seal positioned around the connector tab and against the first face where the seal fully surrounds a cross-sectional portion of the connector tab at a region where the connector tab extends out of the housing. 
     In various embodiments the connector tab includes an opening at an exterior surface of the connector tab and the accessory further comprises a vacuum generator fluidly coupled to the opening. In some embodiments the vacuum generator is operated by deflecting a portion of the exterior housing. In various embodiments the vacuum generator comprises a resilient deflectable portion of the housing that forms at least a portion of a cavity such that depressing the resilient deflectable portion causes an increase in air pressure at the port and subsequently releasing the deflectable portion to return to its original shape causes a decrease in air pressure at the port. 
     In some embodiments the accessory further comprises an electric motor operatively coupled to the vacuum generator. In various embodiments the vacuum pump comprises a piston-type vacuum pump. In some embodiments the vacuum pump comprises a diaphragm-type vacuum pump. 
     In some embodiments the motor can be activated to provide an alert to a user without operating the vacuum pump. In various embodiments the accessory further comprises a user activated switch that can control whether the motor functions as a vibration device without activating the vacuum generator or functions as a vacuum pump. In some embodiments the vacuum generator comprises speaker that functions as both a speaker and a vacuum pump diaphragm. 
     In some embodiments the accessory further comprises an air pressure sensor that is pneumatically coupled to the port. In various embodiments the accessory further comprises a vacuum release valve that is operable by a user to break a vacuum seal between the electronic device and the module. In some embodiments the connector tab includes a vent port that mates to an exhaust port within a receptacle connector of the electronic device, and the vent port is coupled to an aperture in the exterior housing of the accessory. 
     In some embodiments the accessory further comprises a light source that emits light outside of the exterior housing. In various embodiments the light source is controlled and powered by the electronic device when the plug connector is received by the receptacle connector of electronic device. In some embodiments the accessory further comprises a sensor for detecting one or more parameters of a liquid and the sensor communicates with the electronic device through the plug connector. 
     In some embodiments the accessory further comprises a second connector that connects to a module and forms a liquid-tight seal to the module. In various embodiments the accessory further comprises a speaker secured to the housing and configured to emit sound outside of the housing. In some embodiments the accessory further comprises a camera that can capture images outside of the accessory. 
     In some embodiments an accessory for an electronic device comprises an exterior housing and an axisymmetric connector tab electrically coupled to the accessory and extending from a base portion to a distal end. The connector tab includes a first surface having a plurality of contacts and a second surface opposite the first surface. A deformable seal is positioned around a perimeter of the base portion of the connector tab. 
     In some embodiments a portable electronic device comprises an exterior housing having a receiving opening and a receptacle connector positioned within the exterior housing and having a cavity that communicates with the receiving opening. A vacuum generator is fluidly coupled to the cavity by a vacuum line that extends between the cavity and the vacuum generator. 
     In some embodiments the vacuum generator is operated by deflecting a portion of the exterior housing. In various embodiments the vacuum generator comprises a resilient deflectable portion of the housing that forms at least one wall of a cavity such that depressing the resilient deflectable portion causes an increase in air pressure at the port and subsequently releasing the deflectable portion to return to its original shape causes a decrease in air pressure at the port. In various embodiments the vacuum generator is operated by an electric motor. 
     In some embodiments the electric motor operates a piston-type vacuum pump. In various embodiments the electric motor operates a diaphragm-type vacuum pump. In some embodiments the motor also functions as a vibration device. In various embodiments the motor functions as a vibration device when operated in a first direction and functions as a vibration device and a vacuum pump when operated in an opposite direction. 
     In some embodiments the vacuum generator comprises speaker that functions as both a speaker and a vacuum pump diaphragm. In some embodiments the portable electronic further comprises an air pressure sensor that is pneumatically coupled to the port. In some embodiments the portable electronic device further comprises a vacuum release valve pneumatically coupled to the port. In various embodiments the receptacle connector includes an exhaust port that is pneumatically coupled to the vacuum generator. 
     In some embodiments the vacuum generator is engaged by a user operating a user interface input of the electronic device. In various embodiments the user interface inputs include one of: a button, an interactive graphical user interface displayed on a touch sensitive screen and a voice recognition system. 
     In some embodiments an electronic device comprises an exterior housing, an electrical receptacle connector having a vacuum port, and an electrically operated vacuum generator disposed within the exterior housing and pneumatically coupled to the vacuum port. In various embodiments the electronic device further comprises a touch screen and a processor that executes a software program presenting an icon on the touch screen for a user to operate the vacuum generator. 
     In various embodiments the receptacle connector includes an exhaust port that is pneumatically coupled to the vacuum generator. In some embodiments the receptacle connector is configured to receive a plug connector of an accessory. The plug connector forms a sealed connection to the exhaust port and allows the transfer of vacuum exhaust from the vacuum generator, through the mated connectors and out of the accessory. 
     In some embodiments the vacuum generator is an electric motor that functions as a vibration device when operated in a first direction and functions as a vibration device and a vacuum pump when operated in an opposite direction. In various embodiments the electronic device further comprises a vacuum release valve pneumatically coupled to the vacuum port. 
     To better understand the nature and advantages of the present disclosure, reference should be made to the following description and the accompanying figures. It is to be understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the scope of the present disclosure. Also, as a general rule, and unless it is evident to the contrary from the description, where elements in different figures use identical reference numbers, the elements are generally either identical or at least similar in function or purpose. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of an electronic device and a corresponding plug connector according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is a partial view of the electronic device illustrated in  FIG. 1  with the corresponding plug connector engaged in a receptacle connector of the electronic device; 
         FIG. 3  is an isometric view of a plug connector including a seal according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  is a partial cross-sectional view of the plug connector illustrated in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a partial cross-sectional view of the plug connector illustrated in  FIG. 3  when it is engaged with an electronic device; 
         FIG. 6A  is a partial cross-sectional view of a plug connector including a seal with an enlarged interface area according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 6B  is a partial cross-sectional view of a plug connector including a seal with an enlarged interface area according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 6C  is a partial isometric view of a plug connector including a seal with an enlarged interface area according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 7  is a partial cross-sectional view of a plug connector including a seal having an extended length according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 8  is a partial cross-sectional view of a plug connector including a seal having a “U-shaped” cross-section according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 9  is a partial cross-sectional view of a plug connector including a seal having a curved cross-section according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 10  is a partial cross-sectional view of a plug connector including a seal having a tapered interface region according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 11A  is an isometric view of a plug connector including an O-ring seal according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 11B  is a partial cross-sectional view of the plug connector illustrated in  FIG. 11A  installed in a receptacle connector; 
         FIG. 12A  is an isometric view of a plug connector including tapered tab seal according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 12B  is a partial cross-sectional view of the plug connector illustrated in  FIG. 12A  installed in a receptacle connector; 
         FIG. 13A  is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device including an internal seal according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 13B  is a view of the receptacle connector opening of the electronic device illustrated in  FIG. 13A ; 
         FIG. 14  is a partial cross-sectional view of a receptacle connector for an electronic device that includes an internal seal according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 15A  is a partial cross-sectional view of a plug connector with internal contacts according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 15B  is an isometric view of the plug connector illustrated in  FIG. 15A ; 
         FIG. 16  is an isometric view of an accessory having a plug connector according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 17  is an isometric view of an accessory having a plug connector and a display that shows diving data according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 18  is an isometric view of an accessory having a second liquid-tight plug connector according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 19  is an isometric view of an accessory having a vacuum generator coupled to a plug connector according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 20  is an isometric view of the accessory illustrated in  FIG. 19  showing a portion of the housing in a deformed state; 
         FIG. 21  is a plan view of the internal construction of an accessory having a vacuum generator coupled to a plug connector according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIGS. 22 and 23  are plan views of a rotary vacuum generator in different states according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 24  is an isometric view of a docking station that is configured to form a seal to an electronic device and an electronic device within an environmental protection case according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 25  is simplified view of an electronic device that includes a vacuum generation system according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and 
         FIG. 26  is an simplified view of a one direction drive clutch that can be used in the electronic device illustrated in  FIG. 25 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to plug connectors equipped with a seal to prevent liquid from entering a corresponding electronic device when the plug connector is mated with the electronic device. Other embodiments relate to seals that are positioned within an electronic device receptacle connector cavity such that when a plug connector is mated with the electronic device a liquid-tight seal is formed between the plug connector and the electronic device. Further embodiments relate to sealed accessories that mate to an electronic device with sealed connectors. Yet further embodiments relate to vacuum generators that can be disposed within an electronic device or an accessory and used to generate a vacuum seal between mated connectors (e.g., between an electronic device and an accessory). While the present disclosure can be useful for a wide variety of configurations, some embodiments of the disclosure are particularly useful for electronic devices that need to be protected against liquid ingression, as described in more detail below. 
     For example, in some embodiments a tab portion of a plug connector is configured to be received within a cavity of a receptacle connector of an electronic device. The tab portion of the plug connector has a seal formed around its base such that when the plug connector is mated with the electronic device a liquid-tight seal (as defined in more detail below) is formed between the plug connector and the electronic device. 
     In another example a receptacle connector of an electronic device is configured to receive a corresponding plug connector. A tab of the plug connector is received through an opening in the exterior housing of the electronic device and into a receptacle containing a plurality of electronic contacts. A peripheral seal is disposed within the receptacle cavity of the electronic device, positioned between the opening and the plurality of contacts such that it forms a liquid-tight seal to the tab of the plug connector. 
     In another example an accessory has a plug connector with a gasket that seals to an electronic device. The accessory may also be sealed so it and the electronic device can be used in wet or dirty environments, including under water. 
     In a further example an electronic device or an accessory is equipped with a vacuum pump that is coupled to a mating connector such that when an electronic device is mated to an accessory a vacuum seal can be formed between the mated connectors. 
     In order to better appreciate the features and aspects of liquid-tight electronic connectors for electronic devices according to the present disclosure, further context for the disclosure is provided in the following section by discussing one particular implementation of sealed connectors in an electronic device according to embodiments of the present disclosure. These embodiments are for example only and other embodiments can be employed in other electronic devices and connector configurations such as, but not limited to computers, watches, media players and other devices. 
     Seals for Connector Plugs 
       FIG. 1  depicts an illustrative rendering of an electronic device  100 , such as a smart phone, according to some embodiments of the disclosure. In various embodiments electronic device  100  may be a tablet computer, a mobile computing device, a smart phone, a cellular telephone, a digital media player, or a variety of different types of electronic devices. Electronic device  100  includes an exterior housing  105  having an exterior surface  110 , a receptacle connector  115 , a multipurpose button  120  as an input component, a touch screen display  125  as both an input and output component and more microphones and speakers. 
     Electronic device  100  can be charged and may communicate through receptacle connector  115  that is sized and configured to receive plug connector  130 , as shown in a mated position in  FIG. 2 . In some embodiments receptacle connector  115  and/or plug connector  130  may have one or more gaskets or seals (not shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ) that prevent liquid ingression into the receptacle connector and/or electronic device  100 , as described in more detail below. In  FIGS. 1 and 2 , plug connector  130  is illustrated with a data transfer cable  135 , however it can be employed in other configurations such as a docking station or accessory. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 3  a larger view of plug connector  130  is illustrated. Plug connector  130  includes a connector tab  305  that is sized to be inserted into a cavity (not shown) in corresponding receptacle connector  115  (see  FIG. 1 ). Tab  305  includes a metal ground ring  310  that surrounds a contact region  315 . Contact region  315  may contain a first plurality of external elongated electrical contacts  320 ( 1 ) . . .  320 ( 8 ) retained in a dielectric frame. This particular embodiment has eight electrical contacts, however other embodiments may have more or less electrical contacts. 
     Contacts  320 ( 1 ) . . .  320 ( 8 ) need not be external and may have a variety of shapes such as, but not limited to square, round, leaf springs or cantilevered beams. Connector  130  further comprises a connector body  325  having tab  305  coupled to and extending out of a first face  330  of the body and cable  135  extending out of a second, opposite, face  335  of the body. Connector tab  305  extends out of first face  330  from a base portion  340  at an interface (not shown in  FIG. 3 ) between body  130  and tab  305  to a distal end  345 . In some embodiments connector tab  305  may be double sided, including first and second surfaces  350 ,  355 , respectively where each surface has one or more electrical contacts. In yet further embodiments tab  305  may form a portion of an axisymmetric connector that can be mated with a receptacle connector in both a first orientation and a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated 180 degrees along axis of symmetry  360  from the first orientation. Axis of symmetry  360  is an axis along which at least tab  305  is symmetrical. In some embodiments this may result in two contact regions  315  while in other embodiments tab  305  may only have one contact region. In various embodiments, plug connector  130  may have one or more retention features  365 , shown in  FIG. 3  as a recess, that can be used to retain the plug connector in a mated position, as discussed in more detail below. 
     Plug connector  130  may also include a deformable seal  370  positioned around a perimeter of base portion  340  of connector tab  305  such that when the plug connector is mated with electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) a liquid-tight seal is formed between the plug connector and the electronic device. A liquid-tight seal can be used to prevent moisture from entering receptacle connector  115  (see  FIG. 1 ) of electronic device  100  and causing damage to connector contacts and/or circuitry within the electronic device. In some embodiments seal  370  may be manufactured as a separate component and glued or adhered to plug connector  130  while in other embodiments the seal may be formed or insert-molded onto the plug connector. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 4  a cross-section of a portion of plug connector  130  is shown. In this embodiment, seal  370  extends between an outer shell  405  and connector tab  305  fully surrounding a cross-sectional portion of connector tab  305  at interface  410  where the connector tab extends out of body  325 . By fully surrounding connector tab  305 , a complete seal can be formed between the plug connector and the receptacle connector as discussed with respect to  FIG. 5  such that liquid cannot penetrate between connector  130  and electronic device  100  when the connectors are fully mated as shown in  FIG. 2 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 4 , seal  370  is in direct contact with both body  325  and connector tab  305  and includes a protruding portion  412  that extends towards a distal end of connector tab  305  forming a step between outer shell  405  and connector tab  305  along first and second surfaces  350 ,  355  of the connector tab. Seal  370  also includes a sealing face  413  that extends outward from first and second surfaces  350 ,  355  towards outer shell  405 . In some embodiments seal  370  is formed across only a portion of first face  330  (as illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 4 ), however in other embodiments it may be formed across the entire first face  330 , as discussed in more detail below. In various embodiments seal  370  extends away from first face  330  a distance  415  between 0.1 and 2 millimeters. In some embodiments distance  415  is between 0.15 and 1 millimeters while in various embodiments distance  415  may be between 0.2 and 0.3 millimeters. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 5 , a cross-section of plug connector  130  mated with electronic device  100  is illustrated. As shown in  FIG. 5 , when plug connector  130  is fully mated with the receptacle connector of device  100  protruding portion  412  of seal  370  is in direct contact with a portion of exterior housing  105  around a periphery of a receiving opening  505  deforming the seal. The deformed seal forms a liquid-tight barrier between the plug connector and the electronic device that fully surrounds the opening of the receptacle connector of electronic device  100 . In some embodiments plug connector  130  may have one or more retention features, such as features  365  in  FIG. 3 , that retain the plug connector in a mated position such that the liquid-tight seal is maintained until a user unplugs the plug connector. 
     In some embodiments seal  370  may be made from a silicone, elastomer or rubber having an appropriate hardness (i.e., durometer) such that it conforms to receiving opening  505  when pushed against electronic device  100  and held in place by retention features  365  (see  FIG. 3 ). In various embodiments seal  370  has a hardness between 1 and 90 (Shore A) while in some embodiments the hardness may be between 20 and 40 (Shore A) and in one embodiment between 25 and 35 (Shore A). In some embodiments the hardness, the dimensions and/or the geometry of seal  370  can be modified such that a liquid-tight seal to electronic device  100  is formed with higher or lower levels of applied force between plug connector  130  and electronic device  100 , as discussed in more detail below. In various embodiments seal  370  may be made from a hydrophilic material, designed to swell when exposed to water, while in other embodiments it may be designed from a hydrophobic material designed to repel water. 
     As defined herein, a liquid-tight seal shall mean a seal that conforms to one or more of the following ratings as defined by the International Protection Rating and International Electrochemical Commission (IEC) 60529 that may also be known as the I.P.68 rating. In some embodiments the liquid-tight seal will protect the electronic device against the harmful ingress of water and have a “liquid ingress” rating between 1 (dripping water) and 8 (immersion beyond 1 meter). In various embodiments the liquid-tight seal shall be rated between 1 (dripping water) and 4 (splashing water) while in some embodiments the liquid-tight seal shall be rated between 2 (dripping water with device tilted at 15 degrees) and 5 (water jet). In various embodiments the liquid-tight seal shall be rated between 3 (spraying water) and 6 (powerful water jets) while in some embodiments the liquid-tight seal shall be rated between 4 (splashing water) and 7 (immersion up to 1 meter). In various embodiments the liquid-tight seal shall be rated between 5 (water jets) and 8 (immersion beyond 1 meter) while in some embodiments liquid-tight shall mean the seal will protect the electronic device against liquid ingress up to 100 feet for 30 minutes. 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 6-10  various seal configurations on plug connectors are illustrated that can be used to alter both the force versus deflection characteristics of the seal, as well as changing the geometry of the sealing surface of the seal. These alterations may be useful to form a liquid-tight seal with different levels of applied force and different plug retention mechanisms. For example, if a magnetic retention mechanism were used, a seal having a lower force versus deflection characteristic may be desired. These are merely examples and other variations of seal designs for plug connectors are within the scope of this disclosure. In each of the examples illustrated in  FIGS. 6-10 , the described seal can be made from any of the same materials described above that can be used to form seal  370 . 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 6A-6C , two embodiments of a seal formed across a majority of first face  610  are shown. In a first embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 6A , a seal  605  is similar to seal  370  in  FIG. 5  is used, however seal  605  does not have a stepped sealing surface and the seal is formed across a majority of first face  610  of body  615 . Seal  605  ends before it reaches outer shell  620 . However, in  FIGS. 6B and 6C  a similar embodiment is illustrated that has a seal  625  also formed across a majority of first face  610 , however in this embodiment seal  625  extends to an outer edge  630  of outer shell  620 . The embodiments in  FIGS. 6A-6C  may exhibit a higher force per given displacement than seal  370  in  FIG. 5  due to the greater amount of displacement of seal material during a mating event. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 7 , an embodiment similar to  FIG. 6  is illustrated, having a seal  705  formed across a majority of first face  710  of body  715 , however in this embodiment seal  705  is recessed into body  715  a larger distance such that the seal will have a lower force per given displacement (i.e., spring rate) than seal  605  in  FIG. 6 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 8  another embodiment of a seal  805  is illustrated showing a seal that has a cross-sectional profile resembling a “U” shape, giving it a smaller cross-sectional area and a lower force for a given displacement (i.e., spring rate).  FIG. 9  illustrates a seal  905  that is similar to  FIG. 8 , having a reduced cross-sectional area, however  FIG. 9  is formed in a semicircular shape such that an interface surface  920  of the seal is curved. Finally,  FIG. 10  illustrates a seal  1005  that is formed across a majority of first face  1010  of body  1015  similar to seals  605  and  705  in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , respectively, however seal  1005  in  FIG. 10  has a tapered interface surface  1020  allowing a distal portion  1025  of the seal to contact the electronic device first. 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 11A through 12B , alternate methods of forming a seal between a plug connector and an electronic device with a seal formed on the plug connector are illustrated. An isometric view of a plug connector  1115  with an O-ring or similar type of seal  1105  is illustrated in  FIG. 11A . A cross-section of plug connector  1115  inserted within a receptacle connector of an electronic device is illustrated in  FIG. 11B . Seal  1105  is formed around tab  1110  of plug connector  1115  and into a corresponding groove. Seal  1105  is compressed between tab  1110  and cavity  1120  of the receptacle connector of the electronic device forming a liquid-tight seal. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 12A , an isometric view of plug connector  1215  is shown having first surface  1220  and second opposing surface  1225  that are tapered and formed from a deformable material configured to form a seal to a receptacle connector of an electronic device.  FIG. 12B  illustrates a cross-sectional view of plug connector  1215  installed in a receptacle connector of an electronic device. First surface  1220  and second surface  1225  form a liquid-tight seal to a receptacle connector cavity  1230  of electronic device  1235  as they are inserted within cavity  1230 . In some embodiments plug connector  1215  may include an internal frame  1240  formed from a metal or other rigid material so the plug connector can retain its shape and hold plurality of contacts  1260 ( 1 ) . . .  1260 ( 8 ) in place so they may make contact with receptacle contacts  1245 . Plug connector  1215  may have a contact region  1265  that may retain plurality of electrical contacts  1260 ( 1 ) . . .  1260 ( 8 ) in a dielectric frame. This particular embodiment has eight electrical contacts, however other embodiments may have more or less electrical contacts. 
     In other embodiments (not illustrated in  FIGS. 12A and 12B ) a front portion of tab  1290  may have an enlarged “bulbous” cross-section and may be made from a deformable seal material such that it forms a liquid-tight seal towards an end of cavity  1230 . In a further embodiment an entire, or a large portion of body  1255  can be made from a deformable material, such as the seal material disclosed herein, and can form a liquid-tight seal to electronic device  1235 . More specifically, in one embodiment body  1255  may be coated with a deformable material. 
     Seals for Receptacle Connectors 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 13A-14 , embodiments of electronic devices and receptacle connectors that include one or more seals within them are illustrated. These embodiments can form a liquid-tight seal to a plug connector that may not be equipped with a seal, as discussed in more detail below. 
     For example,  FIG. 13A  illustrates a partial cross-section of an electronic device  1300  that may be similar to electronic device  100  in  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, electronic device  1300  has an exterior housing  1305  having a receiving opening  1310 . In this particular embodiment, a portion of exterior housing  1305  includes a trim ring  1315  with receiving opening  1310  formed within the trim ring. A receptacle connector  1320  is positioned within exterior housing  1305  and has a cavity  1325  that communicates with receiving opening  1310 . A plurality of electrical contacts  1330  are disposed within cavity  1325  and are positioned to make contact with a corresponding plug connector, such as plug connector  130  in  FIG. 1 . 
     A deformable peripheral seal  1335  is positioned between receiving opening  1310  and plurality of internal contacts  1330 . More specifically, in this embodiment a portion of peripheral seal  1335  is positioned between trim ring  1315  and receptacle connector  1320 . Peripheral seal  1335  has a sealing portion  1340  extending towards a center of cavity  1325 , forming a seal aperture  1345  having dimensions smaller than receiving opening  1310 . Seal aperture  1345  is also shown in  FIG. 13B  which is a view looking into receptacle connector  1320  from the exterior of electronic device  1300 . 
     Receiving opening  1310  has an aperture that is larger than seal aperture  1345 . As used herein, aperture dimension shall be defined as the size of a two-dimensional opening (e.g., for a rectangular opening the aperture dimension includes both the length and width of the opening). In some embodiments the larger aperture dimension of receiving opening  1310  allows plug connector  130  (see  FIG. 1 ) to be easily mated with electronic device  1300  since trim ring  1315  may be made from a relatively hard material such as a metal or a plastic. The smaller seal aperture  1345  dimension of seal  1335  allows the seal to conform to the plug connector tab  305  (see  FIG. 3 ) and form a liquid-tight seal. In some embodiments this configuration may have the benefit of performing a “wiping” action on contacts  320 ( 1 ) . . .  320 ( 8 ) (see  FIG. 3 ) of plug connector  130 . More specifically, as plug connector is inserted into cavity, seal  1335  can wipe contacts  320 ( 1 ) . . .  320 ( 8 ) (see  FIG. 3 ) of liquid and/or debris before the contacts enter cavity  1325  and make electrical connection with internal contacts  1330 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 13A , in some embodiments seal  1335  may protrude into cavity  1325  a distance  1350  between 25 and 400 microns while in various embodiments it may protrude between 25 and 200 microns and in one embodiment it may protrude between 50 and 100 microns. In some embodiments seal  1335  may have a width  1355  between 25 microns and 800 microns while in various embodiments it may have a width between 50 and 300 microns and in one embodiment between 100 and 150 microns wide. In various embodiments a vacuum port  1360  is disposed within cavity  1325  and may be coupled with a duct  1365  to a vacuum generator (not shown), as discussed in more detail with regard to  FIGS. 19-23 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 14  another embodiment of a receptacle connector  1405  is illustrated having a peripheral seal  1410  positioned to form a liquid-tight seal to a plug connector is illustrated. As compared to the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 13A and 13B , this embodiment has a peripheral seal  1410  that is formed as a portion of receptacle connector  1405 . In some embodiments receptacle connector  1405  can be made from two components secured together such that they captivate seal  1410  holding it in place. More specifically, receptacle connector  1405  may include a connector portion  1415  and a ring portion  1420  where the ring portion is secured to the connector portion. Ring portion  1420  may be secured to connector portion  1415  with adhesive, fasteners or welding, including ultrasonic welding. In other embodiments seal  1410  may be insert molded in place within receptacle connector  1405 . Seal  1410  is positioned between receiving opening  1435  and contacts  1440  such that moisture cannot reach the contacts. In some embodiments it may be beneficial to have seal  1410  assembled during the assembly of receptacle connector  1405  and not during assembly of electronic device  1425  to simplify assembly of the electronic device. In further embodiments this configuration may allow seal  1410  to be positioned deeper within cavity  1430  such that it is less visible to a user and provides an improved aesthetic appearance. 
     In some embodiments seals that are positioned on the plug can be used in conjunction with seals positioned within the electronic device and/or with seals that are positioned within the receptacle connector. In various embodiments two internal seals such as seal  1335  in  FIG. 3A  and seal  1410  in  FIG. 14  can be used together. One may function as a primary and the other as a secondary seal. Further, seal  1335  may serve as a wiper and seal  1410  may serve as a seal. In further embodiments all three seals may be used in conjunction with one another, that is seal  1335 , seal  1410  and a plug seal such as seal  370  in  FIG. 3 . 
     Seals for Connector Plugs with Internal Contacts 
     Now referring to  FIG. 15A , a cross-section of plug connector  1500  is illustrated that is similar to plug connector  130  illustrated in  FIG. 3 , however plug connector  1500  has internal contacts  1505 .  FIG. 15B  illustrates an isometric view of plug connector  1500 . In this embodiment, a seal  1510  extends between an outer shell  1515  and a connector tab  1520  fully surrounding a cross-sectional portion of the connector tab. By fully surrounding connector tab  1520 , a complete seal can be formed between the plug connector and the receptacle connector as illustrated in  FIG. 5  such that liquid cannot penetrate between the connector and the electronic device when the connectors are fully mated as shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     Sealed Accessories for Electronic Devices 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 16-24  various accessories, which may also be referred to as modules herein, are disclosed. These accessories may be mated to a corresponding electronic device and perform one or more functions, as explained in more detail below.  FIG. 16  illustrates an isometric view of an example accessory  1600  having a plug connector  1605  that is similar to plug connector  130  illustrated in  FIG. 3 , however accessory  1600  does not have a cable attached to it. Accessory  1600  may include a body  1610  with an exterior housing  1615  having a first face  1620 . Plug connector  1605  may include a connector tab  1625  that extends away from first face  1620 . A seal  1630  may be positioned around connector tab  1625  and against first face  1620  such that the seal fully surrounds a cross-sectional portion of the connector tab at a region where the connector tab extends out of exterior housing  1615 . Seal  1630 , which can be implemented as any of the seals described above including seals  370 ,  605 ,  705 ,  805 ,  905 ,  1005  and  1105 , can form a liquid-tight seal to an enclosure of an electronic device when the plug connector is mated with the receptacle connector of the electronic device. As described, seal  1630  is one example of a suitable seal for accessory  1600  only and other configurations of seal  1630  are within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In a first example, one of the functions that accessory  1600  may perform is to seal receptacle connector  115  (see  FIG. 1 ) of electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) using seal  1630  such that the receptacle connector of the electronic device is protected from moisture and/or debris. Accordingly, in some embodiments accessory  1600  including exterior housing  1615 , is liquid-tight. In another example, exterior housing  1615  of accessory  1600  may be buoyant and provide a means of flotation for electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ). In a further example, accessory  1600  may include a light source that functions as a flashlight, a camera illuminator, an underwater light or performs any other illumination function. 
     Accessory  1600  may perform myriad other functions where seal  1630  may be beneficial to mitigate the ingress of liquid and/or debris within receptacle connector  115  (see  FIG. 1 ) of electronic device  100 . In one example accessory  1600  may include one or more sensors for detecting one or more parameters of a liquid. The one or more sensors may be able to communicate data through the mated connectors to the electronic device. Some example parameters that can be detected are pressure, temperature and chemical properties such as, but not limited to pH level, resistivity and mineral content of a liquid. 
     In a further example accessory  1600  may include a camera (not shown in  FIG. 16 ) that can capture images outside of exterior housing  1615  and a microphone that captures sound in or out of water. In one specific example accessory  1600  may be an underwater camera that captures video or still images. In further examples accessory  1600  may function as a WiFi, satellite or other type of antenna, including an underwater antenna or SONAR device. In another example accessory  1600  may include a power source that can be recharged and supply power to the accessory and/or the electronic device. In some embodiments various functions of accessory  1600  can be controlled by one or more buttons on the accessory, or through the electronic device that communicates with the accessory through plug connector  1605 . The shape and configuration of accessory  1600  illustrated in  FIG. 16  is for example only and myriad other configurations of accessory are within the scope of this disclosure. For example, in some embodiments accessory  1600  may have a display, as described in more detail below. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 17 , an isometric view of an accessory  1700  that is similar to accessory  1600  illustrated in  FIG. 16 , however accessory  1700  has a display  1710 . Display  1710  may be used to display pertinent information to a user such as, for example, diving information when a user is SCUBA diving. 
     Accessory  1700  may include a plug connector  1705  that is similar to plug connector  130  illustrated in  FIG. 3 . Accessory  1700  may further include an exterior housing  1715  having a first face  1720 . Plug connector  1705  may have a connector tab  1725  that extends away from first face  1720 . A seal  1730  may be positioned around connector tab  1725  and against first face  1720  such that the seal fully surrounds a cross-sectional portion of the connector tab at a region where the connector tab extends out of exterior housing  1715 . Seal  1730  can be implemented as seal  1630  and form a liquid-tight seal to an enclosure of an electronic device when the plug connector is mated with the receptacle connector of the electronic device 
     In some embodiments accessory  1700  may have a display  1710  that can communicate information to a user. In this example, display  1710  communicates a diving depth, water temperature and the elapsed dive time (E.T.) of the dive. Accordingly, in some embodiments accessory  1700 , including exterior housing  1715  is liquid-tight and may have one or more sensors  1735  that enable it to sense its depth in water, the temperature of the water and/or dive time or other parameters that may be of interest when under water. In further embodiments other parameters such as oxygen tank level, heart rate, and/or water clarity can be sensed and/or communicated to a user. These are only examples and myriad other parameters may be displayed. 
     In further examples accessory  1700  may have alarm functions for a predetermined depth, temperature and/or dive time. The alarm function may include a flashing light and/or an acoustic device that can be seen and/or heard underwater. The acoustic device may include a speaker  1740  secured to exterior housing  1715  and configured to emit sound outside of the housing. In some embodiments the emitted sound may be through the air (e.g., a speaker system for use at the poolside) while in other embodiments the emitted sound may be through the water (e.g., an underwater diver alert tone or an underwater shark deterrent). 
     In further examples accessory  1700  may be equipped with an illumination source  1745  and/or an internally rechargeable power source (not shown in  FIG. 17 ) to provide backup power to the electronic device it is plugged into. In yet further examples accessory  1700  may be equipped with any type of camera including a video camera that may be useful for underwater photography. Myriad features and functions may be integrated within accessory  1700  that may be useful when electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) is exposed to moist and/or dirty environments. 
     In further examples accessory  1700  can be used as an accessory for a smart fishing rod that reads out, for example, line distance, line tension and/or elapsed time. In yet other examples, accessory  1700  may have a second electrical connector that is also liquid-tight and configured to couple the accessory to another device, as described in more detail below. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 1800 , an isometric view of an accessory  1800  that is similar to accessories  1600  and  1700  illustrated in  FIGS. 16 and 17 , respectively, however accessory  1800  has a second liquid-tight connector  1810 . Second liquid-tight connector  1810  may be used to couple accessory  1800  and/or electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) to a separate device that may have a specialized connector interface. 
     For example, it may be desirable to couple electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) to a commercially available water testing probe  1815  that has a specialized connector  1820  that is compatible with a water testing meter. In this case accessory  1800  can be used as an interposer to both mechanically and electrically convert between receptacle connector  115  (see  FIG. 1 ) of electronic device  100  and specialized connector  1820  of water testing probe  1815 . More specifically, in some embodiments, accessory  1800  may have circuitry within it (not shown in  FIG. 18 ) that enables electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) to communicate with a device having a specialized connector interface. Plug connector  1825  of accessory  1800  may be similar to plug connector  130  illustrated in  FIG. 3  and thus include a seal  1805  similar to seal  305  described with respect to  FIG. 3  or seal  1630  described with respect to  FIG. 16 . In another embodiment accessory  1800  may be used to adapt a set of headphones or other accessory to electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ). 
     Vacuum Enabled Accessories for Electronic Devices 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 19-23 , various accessories that enable a vacuum to be generated between an electronic device and the accessory are disclosed. The vacuum may be generated within the mated connectors of the electronic device and the accessory, assisting in the formation of a liquid-tight seal between the electronic device and the accessory, as discussed in more detail below. 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 19 and 20  an accessory  1900  having an exterior housing  1905  with a first face  1910 , includes a plug connector  1915  configured to be mated with a receptacle connector  115  (see  FIG. 1 ) of an electronic device, such as electronic device  100  in  FIG. 1 . Accessory  1900  can be designed and configured to perform a variety of different functions and have a variety of different features and capabilities, such as those described above with respect to accessory  1600  and accessory  1700 . Similarly, the shape and size of housing  1905  depicted in  FIG. 19  is just one example of housing  1905 . Housing  1905  is not limited to any particular size and/or shape and can have any appropriate shape and size in other embodiments. 
     Plug connector  1915  can be similar to connector  130  described above and can include a connector tab  1920  that extends away from first face  1910 . A seal  1925  may be positioned around connector tab  1920  such that it forms a seal with electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) when plug connector  1915  is mated with receptacle connector  115  (see  FIG. 1 ) of the electronic device. 
     One notable difference between accessory  1900  and previously described accessories is the inclusion of a vacuum generator  1927  that can be positioned within housing  1905  and coupled to a vacuum port  1930 . As shown in  FIG. 19 , vacuum port  1930  can be open at an exterior surface of connector tab  1920 . When connector  1915  is mated with a corresponding receptacle connector, seal  1925  forms a liquid and air-tight seal between the two connectors. Vacuum generator  1927  can be activated prior to or during the mating process to pump air and/or fluid out of the cavity formed between the two mated connectors through a vacuum duct  1945  as described below. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 19 and 20 , vacuum generator  1927  is a resilient deflectable portion  1933  of exterior housing  1905  that forms at least one wall, or a portion of at least one wall,  1935  of a cavity  1940 . Cavity  1940  may be sealed except for vacuum duct  1945  that leads to vacuum port  1930  disposed at the exterior surface of connector tab  1920 . Deflectable portion  1933  of housing  1905  may be made from a material such as a flexible plastic, rubber or other material that can be deformed with applied pressure and regains its original shape once the pressure is released. Deflectable portion  1933  may be made from any resilient material. By depressing resilient deflectable portion  1933  of housing  1905 , as illustrated in  FIG. 20 , a user causes an increase in air pressure at port  1930  and subsequently releasing the deflectable portion to return to its original shape, as illustrated in  FIG. 19 , causes a decrease in air pressure at the port. Thus, the more resilient the material, the more force it will exert when trying to return back to its original shape and the higher the vacuum it will draw at port  1930 . 
     To form a vacuum seal between electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) and accessory  1900 , a user may first depress deflectable portion  1933 . The user may then mate receptacle connector  115  (see  FIG. 1 ) of electronic device  100  with plug connector  1915  of accessory  1900  such that seal  1925  forms a seal between the electronic device and the accessory. The user can then release deflectable portion  1933 , drawing a vacuum through port  1930 . The desired level of vacuum can be designed by selecting the appropriate material for deflectable portion  1933  of housing  1905 . The vacuum may be used to retain accessory  1900  in the mated position and may also be used to ensure a liquid-tight seal between the accessory and the electronic device. 
     To release accessory  1900  from the electronic device, a user may push deflectable portion  1933  enough to release the vacuum, while in other embodiments a vacuum release valve may be included within the accessory and/or within the electronic device, as described in more detail below. In further embodiments a user may push deflectable portion  1933  past the point where pressure is equalized within the mated connectors, causing a positive pressure which will apply a demating (e.g., ejection) force between the electronic device and accessory  1900 . 
     In some embodiments, entire housing  1905  is deflectable while in other embodiments both top surface  1950  and bottom surface  1955  are deflectable and in one embodiment only the top surface is deflectable. In various embodiments, port  1930  may be disposed elsewhere on accessory  1900  such as within a portion of seal  1925  such that it can pull a vacuum within the mated connectors. Further embodiments of accessories may use an electronically actuated vacuum pump as described in more detail below. 
       FIG. 21  illustrates an accessory  2100  that is similar to accessory  1900  in  FIGS. 19 and 20  but includes an electronically actuated vacuum generator  2105  and a pressure sensor  2110 . Accessory  2100  has an exterior housing  2115  including a plug connector  2120  and a seal  2125 . Vacuum generator  2105  can evacuate air and/or fluid out of the cavity formed between seal  2125  and a corresponding receptacle connector with which plug connector  2120  is mated. Vacuum generator  2105  can be coupled to an electric motor  2130  that is operated by an electronic switch  2135  and powered by an internal energy source  2140 . However, in other embodiments electric motor  2130  may be controlled and/or powered by electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) through plug connector  2120 . 
     Vacuum generator  2105  has a vacuum line  2145  routed to a duct  2150  that is terminated with a port  2155  in plug connector  2120 . Vacuum line  2145  may be coupled to pressure sensor  2110  that detects air pressure within the vacuum line and communicates associated data to accessory  2100  and/or electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ). In various embodiments the electronic device may operate vacuum generator  2105  until pressure sensor  2110  detects a desired level of vacuum and communicates associated data to the electronic device which in response turns off the vacuum generator. In some embodiments, pressure sensor  2110  may continuously monitor a vacuum level when the connectors are mated and notify the electronic device when the vacuum level has dropped below a threshold value, indicating that the vacuum seal may be compromised. 
     In some embodiments vacuum line  2145  may also be coupled to a vacuum release valve  2165 . For example, in  FIG. 21  vacuum release valve  2165  includes a deflectable portion of housing  2170  that can be pushed by a user to operate a lever  2175  against a spring  2180  to open vacuum line  2145 , relieving the vacuum. In other embodiments an electronically actuated vacuum release valve may be used and operated by a user interface with electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) and/or accessory  2100 . Other configurations of vacuum release valves are within the scope of this disclosure. Vacuum generator  2105  may also have a discharge line  2182  that discharges air drawn through port  2155  to the external environment. One example of a vacuum generator  2105  that may be used in some embodiments is described in more detail in  FIGS. 22 and 23 . 
       FIGS. 22 and 23  illustrate a piston-type dual diaphragm vacuum generator  2105  that can be used within an accessory, such as accessory  2100  in  FIG. 21 .  FIG. 22  illustrates vacuum generator  2105  at the end of a discharge cycle with piston  2203  traveling upward exhausting vacated air through exhaust valve  2205  and ready to pull a vacuum through vacuum valve  2210 . In  FIG. 23  piston  2203  is traveling downward, pulling exhaust valve  2205  shut and pulling vacuum valve  2210  open. As piston  2203  continues downward more air is drawn through vacuum valve  2210  and a vacuum level within a mated pair of connectors can be increased. Once piston  2203  is at the bottom of the stroke the piston starts traveling upward again forcing vacuum valve  2210  closed and exhaust valve  2205  open. As piston  2203  travels up, all the air drawn in is exhausted and the piston is ready to draw additional vacuum through vacuum valve  2210 . 
     Other embodiments may use alternative configurations for vacuum generators and this disclosure is not limited to the vacuum generators described herein. For example, various embodiments may use an electromagnetically actuated diaphragm, similar to that used within a speaker. In some embodiments a speaker may be used as both a speaker to generate sound and as a portion of a vacuum pump. The speaker diaphragm may act similar to piston  2203  in  FIGS. 22 and 23 , drawing air in through one port and exhausting air out through another port. 
     In some embodiments the generation of a vacuum between electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) and an accessory may remove the need for a retention mechanism on the mating connectors to maintain the devices in a mated and sealed condition. More specifically, in some embodiments a vacuum generated between mated connectors may be used instead of or in addition to some other type of mechanical retention feature to maintain the connectors in a mated position. In one example, instead of a mechanical latch that uses retention features (e.g., see features  365  in  FIG. 3 ), a magnetic latch may be used to maintain the connectors in a mated position and to help maintain a liquid-tight seal. In various embodiments the retention force between the connectors can be in the range of 10 to 15 Newtons while in other embodiments it can be in the range of 7 to 18 Newtons. 
     Docking Stations and Protective Cases for Electronic Devices 
       FIG. 24  illustrates an electronic device  2400  that may be similar to electronic device  100  in  FIG. 1 . Electronic device  2400  is illustrated by itself (on the left) and within an environmentally protective case  2405  (on the right). A docking station  2410  is configured to receive either electronic device  2400 , or electronic device  2400  with case  2405 , and form a liquid-tight seal to the mated device. Docking station  2410  may include any of the features disclosed herein pertaining to accessories illustrated in  FIGS. 16-23 . 
     For example, docking station  2410  may include a plug connector  2415  that is similar to plug connector  130  illustrated in  FIG. 3 . Docking station  2410  may have an exterior housing  2420  having a first face  2425 . Plug connector  2415  may have a connector tab  2430  that extends away from first face  2425 . A seal  2435  can be similar to seal  1630  and can be positioned around connector tab  2430  and against first face  2425  such that the seal fully surrounds a cross-sectional portion of the connector tab at a region where the connector tab extends out of exterior housing  2420 . Seal  2435  can be configured to form a liquid-tight seal to an electronic device when the plug connector is received by the receptacle connector of the electronic device. Seal  2435  is for example only and other configurations of the seal are within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In another example, docking station  2410  may include speakers (not shown in  FIG. 24 ) for use at a pool side or where they may be exposed to liquid. Seal  2435  may be used to form a seal to electronic device  2400  protecting receptacle connector  2440  from damage from liquid and/or debris. In a further example, docking station  2410  may be used on a boat or other watercraft and may be used to protect electronic device  2400  from damage due to liquid or debris entering receptacle connector  2440 . As discussed above, in some embodiments docking station  2410  may be equipped with a vacuum generator to form a vacuum seal between plug connector  2415  and receptacle connector  2440 . In other embodiments electronic device  2400  may be equipped with a vacuum generator and docking station  2410  may be passive. More specifically, in one embodiment receptacle connector  2440  may be similar to receptacle connector  1320  illustrated in  FIG. 13A , and may have a port  1360  that is coupled by duct  1365  to a vacuum generator disposed within electronic device  2400 . 
     Electronic Devices with Vacuum Generators 
     Now referring to  FIG. 25  an electronic device  2500  is illustrated that may be similar to electronic device  100  in  FIG. 1 , however electronic device  2500  includes a vacuum generator that can be used to generate a vacuum seal between the electronic device and a mated plug connector of an accessory device, such as one of the accessory devices described above. 
     Electronic device  2500  can be a tablet computer, a mobile computing device, a smart phone, a cellular telephone, a digital media player, or a variety of other different types of electronic devices. In the embodiments shown in  FIG. 25 , electronic device  2500  is a smart phone and includes an exterior housing  2505  having an exterior surface  2510 , a receptacle connector  2515 , a multipurpose button as an input component, a touch screen display as both an input and output component and more microphones and speakers (illustrated in more detail in  FIG. 1 ). In other embodiments, electronic device  2500  can have more, fewer or different components than those illustrated in  FIG. 25   
     Electronic device  2500  can be charged and may communicate through receptacle connector  2515  that is sized and configured to receive plug connector  2520 , shown in  FIG. 24  as being spaced apart from the receptacle connector in a demated position. In some embodiments receptacle connector  2515  and/or plug connector  2520  may have one or more gaskets or seals that prevent liquid ingression into the receptacle connector and/or electronic device  2500 , as described in more detail below. In  FIG. 25  plug connector  2520  is at the end of a cable  2525  that is coupled to an accessory  2530 . 
     Vacuum generator  2535  can be disposed within exterior housing  2505  of electronic device  2500  and coupled to an electric motor  2540  that is operated by device processor and controller  2545 . Vacuum generator  2535  can be powered by an internal energy source, such as a rechargeable battery (not shown in  FIG. 25 ), and operatively coupled to a vacuum line  2550  that extends between the vacuum generator and a vacuum port  2555  within receptacle connector  2515 . Vacuum port  2555  may be used to draw a vacuum within mated receptacle  2515  and plug  2520  connectors, as discussed above. Vacuum line  2550  may be coupled to a pressure sensor  2560  that detects air pressure within the vacuum line and communicates associated data to device processor and controller  2545 . In various embodiments electronic device  2500  may operate vacuum generator  2535  until pressure sensor  2560  detects a desired level of vacuum and in response device processor and controller  2545  turns off the vacuum generator. 
     In some embodiments, pressure sensor  2560  may continuously monitor a vacuum level when the connectors are mated and notify the electronic device when the vacuum level has dropped below a threshold value, indicating that the vacuum seal may be compromised. In some embodiments vacuum line  2550  may also be coupled to a vacuum release valve (not shown in  FIG. 25 ) to break the vacuum seal formed between the connectors so they can be demated, as discussed above. In various embodiments a vacuum release valve may be activated by squeezing a portion of exterior housing  2505  of electronic device  2500 . 
     Vacuum generator  2535  may also have an exhaust line  2565  that discharges air drawn through vacuum port  2555  to the external environment. In the example illustrated in  FIG. 25 , exhaust line  2565  is routed to an exhaust port  2570  within receptacle connector  2515 . Exhaust port  2570  is configured to line up with mating port  2575  on plug connector  2520  and form a sealed connection when the plug connector is mated with the receptacle connector. A discharge line  2580  runs from mating port  2575  through cable  2525 , into accessory  2530  and is routed to an exhaust aperture  2585  on housing  2590  of the accessory. Thus, exhaust air is discharged from the vacuum generator within electronic device and is routed through the mated connectors and out of the accessory. In other embodiments exhaust line  2565  can be routed to an exhaust port disposed on exterior housing  2505  of electronic device  2500 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 25  a diaphragm-type vacuum generator  2535  is illustrated. Vacuum generator  2535  is illustrated with diaphragm  2595  at the end of a discharge cycle. Vacuum generator  2535  is driven by electric motor  2540  through clutch  2600 . Electric motor  2540  may be controlled by device processor and controller  2545 . In some embodiments clutch  2600  may be a unidirectional drive clutch that is illustrated in more detail in plan view in  FIG. 26 , however other clutch designs may be used and are within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In some embodiments clutch x enables electric motor  2540  to drive vacuum generator  2535  when the electric motor is operated in a clockwise direction (see  FIG. 26 ). More specifically, electric motor  2540  may be coupled to inner hub  2605 . When inner hub  2605  turns in a clockwise direction, cog  2610  engages teeth  2615  on outer hub  2620  and forces it to also turn in a clockwise direction. Outer hub  2620  is coupled to vacuum generator  2535 . Conversely, when electric motor  2540  is operated in a counter clockwise direction inner hub  2605  does not engage outer hub  2620  because cog  2610  slips past teeth  2615 . 
     In some embodiments the clockwise, counterclockwise feature may be useful when using a vibration motor to perform independent functions as both a vibration device and a vibration/vacuum pump driver. Thus, in some embodiments a single electric motor  2540  with an offset weight  2597  can be switched between a vibration feedback mode (e.g., to alert a user to an incoming call or text message when electronic device is a smart phone in silent or vibration mode) in which the vacuum pump is not activated (e.g., operated in a counterclockwise direction), and a vacuum mode in which the vacuum pump is activated (e.g., operated in a clockwise direction). Other types of drive mechanisms, motors and clutches can be used and are within the scope of this disclosure. Although vacuum generator  2535  is illustrated as one specific type of generator, other type of generators can be used such as, but not limited to, a squeeze type, a piston type or a speaker diaphragm, as discussed above. 
     Plug connector  2520  may include a deformable seal  2598  positioned around a perimeter of a base portion of such that when the plug connector is mated with electronic device  2500  a liquid-tight seal is formed between the plug connector and the electronic device. In some embodiments receptacle connector  2515  of electronic device  2500  may have an interior seal as described in  FIGS. 13A-14 . 
     To operate vacuum generator  2535  a user may employ one or more user interface input devices  2513  that may include one or more sensors, a keyboard, pointing devices such as a mouse or trackball, a touchpad or touch screen incorporated into a display, a scroll wheel, a click wheel, a dial, a button, a switch, a keypad, audio input devices such as voice recognition systems, microphones, and other types of input devices. In general, use of the term “input device” is intended to include all possible types of devices, sensors and mechanisms for inputting information to electronic device  2500 . For example, in an iPhone®, user input devices  2513  may include one or more buttons provided by the iPhone®, a touch screen, and the like. A user may provide input regarding vacuum pump operation and/or vacuum release valve operation using one or more of input devices  2513 . 
     User interface output devices  2517  may include a display subsystem, indicator lights, or non-visual displays such as audio output devices, etc. The display subsystem may be a cathode ray tube (CRT), a flat-panel device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a projection device, a touch screen, and the like. In general, use of the term “output device” is intended to include all possible types of devices and mechanisms for outputting information from electronic device  2500 . For example, menus and other options for performing functions in accordance with a contactless operating mode may be displayed to the user via an output device. Software (programs, code modules, instructions) that when executed by device processor and controller  2545  provide the functionality described above may be stored in a storage subsystem. 
     Although embodiments are described and illustrated herein as using one particular electronic connector (for example, plug connector  130  in  FIG. 3 ), embodiments of the disclosure are suitable for use with a multiplicity of electronic connectors. For example, any plug or receptacle connector can be used with embodiments of the invention. As illustrative examples, audio jacks, AC wall plugs, RJ-45&#39;s, USB&#39;s or any other type of connector can be used without departing from this disclosure. As another example the embodiments disclosed herein are applicable to connector devices such as those used in SIM card trays. In one example a seal may be used to seal the SIM card tray to a housing of the electronic device and a vacuum generator may be used to draw a vacuum within the SIM card enclosure. 
     Although electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) is described and illustrated as one particular electronic device, embodiments of the disclosure are suitable for use with a multiplicity of electronic devices. For example, any device that receives or transmits audio, video or data signals can be used with embodiments of the disclosure. In some instances, embodiments of the disclosure are particularly well suited for use with portable electronic media devices because of their potentially small form factor. As used herein, an electronic media device includes any device with at least one electronic component that can be used to present human-perceivable media. Such devices can include, for example, portable music players (e.g., MP3 devices and Apple&#39;s iPod devices), portable video players (e.g., portable DVD players), cellular telephones (e.g., smart telephones such as Apple&#39;s iPhone devices), video cameras, digital still cameras, projection systems (e.g., holographic projection systems), gaming systems, PDAs, as well as tablet (e.g., Apple&#39;s iPad devices), laptop or other mobile computers. Some of these devices can be configured to provide audio, video or other data or sensory output. 
     For simplicity, various internal components, such as control circuitry, graphics circuitry, bus, memory, storage device and other components of electronic device  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) are not shown in the figures. 
     In the foregoing specification, embodiments of the disclosure have been described with reference to numerous specific details that can vary from implementation to implementation. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The sole and exclusive indicator of the scope of the disclosure, and what is intended by the applicants to be the scope of the disclosure, is the literal and equivalent scope of the set of claims that issue from this application, in the specific form in which such claims issue, including any subsequent correction. The specific details of particular embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without departing from the spirit and scope of embodiments of the disclosure. 
     Additionally, spatially relative terms, such as “bottom or “top” and the like can be used to describe an element and/or feature&#39;s relationship to another element(s) and/or feature(s) as, for example, illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use and/or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as a “bottom” surface can then be oriented “above” other elements or features. The device can be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20170328
Publication Date: 20181113
Grant Date: 20181113
Priority Date: 20160906
Inventors: KASAR, DARSHAN R.
STANLEY, CRAIG M.
FLAMHOLZ, DAVID B.
QIAN, Phillip
LANG, MATTHEW E.
TOTING, FERDINAND S.
JOL, ERIC S.
DO, TRENT K.
YAMASAKI, JOEL C.
Esmaeili, Hani
VAN NORTWICK, NATHAN A.
BLANCO, RICHARD J.
LORMAN, JONATHAN C.
WAGMAN, DANIEL
HUO, EDWARD S.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01R24/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6691", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/28", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6683", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/717", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/76", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/60", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/631", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/521", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R2107/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/5227", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/62", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/5219", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R2201/16", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/62", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/60", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/5219", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/5219", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/631", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/717", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6683", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6691", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R2107/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/60", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/521", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/76", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/28", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/5227", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/521", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R24/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 61280892