PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9625944-B2
Application Number: US-201315025214-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Waterproof port for electronic devices

Abstract:
One embodiment of the present disclosure may take the form of an electronic device. The electronic device includes a housing defining a port and a cavity, a processing element contained within the cavity of the housing, an input/output device (such as, but not limited to, a sound wave transducer) in selective communication with the port, and a flow-blocking member movably connected to the housing. The flow-blocking member selectively prevents fluid-flow, such as the flow of air, through the port. The electronic device also includes a fluid repelling member connected to the housing and positioned in a flow path between the port and the input/output device.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electronic device comprising:
 a housing defining a port and a cavity; 
 a processing element contained within the cavity of the housing; 
 an input/output device in selective communication with the port; 
 a flow-blocking member movably connected to the housing; 
 an actuator connected to the flow blocking member; 
 a fluid repelling member connected to the housing and positioned in a flow path between the port and the input/output device; and 
 a selectable component operative to: 
 move the actuator to move the flow-blocking member from an open position to a closed position to block flow through the port into the cavity; and 
 allow the actuator to move back to return the flow-blocking member from the open position to the closed position. 
 
     
     
       2. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the selectable component is movable. 
     
     
       3. The electronic device of  claim 2 , wherein the selectable component is a compressible button or a slidable button. 
     
     
       4. The electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising a biasing member operably connected to the flow-blocking member, wherein the biasing member exerts a return force on the flow-blocking member. 
     
     
       5. The electronic device of  claim 4 , wherein the biasing member is a spring. 
     
     
       6. The electronic device of  claim 4 , wherein the biasing member is a motor and exerts an open force to move the flow-blocking member to the open position and exerts the return force to move the flow-blocking member to the closed position. 
     
     
       7. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the input/output device is a microphone or a speaker. 
     
     
       8. The electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising
 a user input sensor in communication with the processing element; and 
 an actuator operably connected to the flow-blocking member and in communication with the processing element; wherein 
 the user input sensor detects a user input and in response to the user input the processing element directs the actuator to move the flow-blocking member. 
 
     
     
       9. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the fluid repelling member is a fluid repelling mesh. 
     
     
       10. The electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising a display in communication with the processing element. 
     
     
       11. A portable electronic device comprising:
 a housing defining a cavity; 
 a port defined in the housing that is in fluid communication with the cavity; 
 a sound wave transducer; and 
 a waterproof port assembly, comprising:
 a selectable component movably connected to the housing; 
 an actuator connected to the selectable component; 
 a biasing mechanism coupled to the actuator; 
 a flow-blocking member operably connected to the actuator and selectively positioned between the port and the sound wave transducer; 
 
 wherein movement of the selectable component moves the actuator to:
 compress the biasing mechanism and move the flow-blocking member to an open position; or 
 uncompress the biasing mechanism and move the flow-blocking member to a closed position. 
 
 
     
     
       12. The portable electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein the selectable component includes a base coupled to a main body having a smaller dimension than the base. 
     
     
       13. The portable electronic device of  claim 12 , wherein the base is operable to seal an aperture in the housing. 
     
     
       14. The portable electronic device of  claim 13 , further comprising an O-ring that seals against an inner surface of the housing. 
     
     
       15. The portable electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein movement of the selectable component causes movement of the sound wave transducer. 
     
     
       16. An electronic device comprising:
 a housing defining a port and a cavity; 
 a processing element contained within the cavity of the housing; 
 an input/output device; 
 a flow-blocking member movably connected to the housing; 
 a fluid repelling member connected to the housing and positioned in a flow path between the port and the input/output device; and 
 a biasing member operably connected to the flow-blocking member; and 
 an actuator coupled to the flow-blocking member operative to:
 move the flow-blocking member to an open position; and 
 allow the biasing member to move the flow blocking member from the open position to a closed position. 
 
 
     
     
       17. The electronic device of  claim 16 , wherein the biasing member is a spring. 
     
     
       18. The electronic device of  claim 16 , wherein the biasing member is a motor that exerts an open force to move the flow-blocking member to the open position. 
     
     
       19. The electronic device of  claim 16 , wherein the biasing member is a motor that exerts a return force to move the flow-blocking member to the closed position. 
     
     
       20. The electronic device of  claim 16 , wherein the biasing member exerts a return force on the flow-blocking member after a predetermined time period.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a 35 U.S.C. 371 application of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US2013/062509, filed Sep. 29, 2013 and titled “Waterproof Port for Electronic Devices,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     TECHNICAL HELD 
     The present invention relates generally to a port for an electronic device, and, more specifically, to waterproof ports and apertures for electronic devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many types of electronic devices, such as smart phones, gaming devices, computers, watches, and the like, may include ports or openings to allow transmission of sound waves or to receive connectors. Some examples of these types of ports include microphone ports, speaker apertures, and headphone ports. During operation, some types of ports, such as microphone ports and speaker ports, require air flow between the enclosure of the electronic device in order to receive and/or transmit sound waves. The airflow pathway may also allow fluids, such as water, and/or debris to enter into the enclosure, which may damage internal components. Therefore, there is a need for a port or aperture that may prevent fluid ingress while still allowing airflow during operation. 
     SUMMARY 
     One example of the present disclosure includes an electronic device may take the form of an electronic device. The electronic device includes a housing defining a port and a cavity, a processing element contained within the cavity of the housing, an input/output device (such as, but not limited to, a sound wave transducer) in selective communication with the port, and a flow-blocking member movably connected to the housing. The flow-blocking member selectively prevents fluid-flow, such as the flow of air, through the port. The electronic device also includes a fluid repelling member connected to the housing and positioned in a flow path between the port and the input/output device. 
     Another example of the disclosure includes a wearable electronic device. The wearable electronic device comprises an enclosure defining a cavity, a processing element at least partially enclosed within the cavity, and a flow aperture configured to be in selectively fluid communication with the cavity. The wearable electronic device also includes a button assembly operably connected to the enclosure and configured to selectively prevent fluid flow through the flow aperture and a sound wave transducer, such as a microphone or speaker, is positioned within the cavity and is in selective fluid communication with the flow aperture. 
     Yet another example of the disclosure includes a portable electronic device. The portable electronic device includes a housing defining a cavity, a port defined in the housing, the port being in fluid communication with the cavity, a sound wave transducer in selective communication with the port, and a waterproof port assembly operably connected to the housing. The waterproof port assembly comprises a selectable component movable connected to the housing and a flow-blocking member operably connected to the selectable component and selectively positioned between the port and the sound wave transducer. During operation, movement of the selectable component causes movement of the flow-blocking member. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front elevation view of an electronic device including the waterproof port assembly. 
         FIG. 2  is a simplified block diagram of the electronic device of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is an enlarged view of the electronic device illustrating the waterproof port assembly. 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-section view of the electronic device taken along line  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3  illustrating a first example of the waterproof port assembly. 
         FIG. 5A  is a front elevation view of the electronic device of  FIG. 1  illustrating a flow-blocking member transitioning between an open position and a closed position. 
         FIG. 5B  is a cross-section view of the electronic device of  FIG. 5A  taken along line  5 B- 5 B in  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 6A  is a front elevation view of the electronic device of  FIG. 1  illustrating the flow-blocking member in the open position. 
         FIG. 6B  is a cross-section view of the electronic device of  FIG. 6A  taken along line  6 B- 6 B in  FIG. 6A . 
         FIG. 7A  is a cross-section view of the electronic device similar to the view shown in  FIG. 4  illustrating a second example of the waterproof port assembly. 
         FIG. 7B  is a simplified top plan view of the waterproof port assembly of  FIG. 7A  illustrating movement of a flow-blocking member relative to the port. 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-section view of the electronic device similar to the view shown in  FIG. 4  illustrating another example of the biasing member of the waterproof port assembly. 
         FIG. 9A  is a front elevation view of the electronic device including a third example of the waterproof port assembly. 
         FIG. 9B  is a cross-section view of the electronic device taken along line  9 B- 9 B in  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 9C  is a cross-section view of the electronic device similar to the view illustrated in  FIG. 9B  illustrating a force applied to a selectable component. 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-section view of the electronic device similar to  FIG. 9B  illustrating a forth example of the waterproof port assembly. 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-section view of the electronic device of  FIG. 10  illustrating a force applied to the selectable component. 
         FIG. 12  is a front elevation view of another example of the selectable component of the waterproof port assembly of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 13A  is a cross-section view of the electronic device similar to  FIG. 4  illustrating a fifth example of the waterproof port assembly. 
         FIG. 13B  is an enlarged top plan view of the waterproof port assembly of  FIG. 13A  in the open position. 
         FIG. 13C  is a cross-section view of the electronic device similar to  FIG. 13A  illustrating the waterproof port assembly in the open position. 
     
    
    
     SPECIFICATION 
     Overview 
     Some embodiments herein may take the form of a compact electronic device, such as a wearable electronic device, smart phone, portable music player, gaming device, or the like, that incorporates a waterproof port or other type of aperture (collectively referred to herein as a “port”). In one embodiment, the waterproof port assembly includes an opening mechanism, such as a button or other selectable component, which selectively opens and closes a port. In the closed position, a flow-blocking member is positioned between an exterior of the electronic device and an interior of the electronic device to block air, fluids, and debris from entering into the electronic device. In the open position, the flow blocking member is moved or otherwise repositioned to allow fluid flow between the exterior of the electronic device and the interior. By selectively opening and closing (e.g., repositioning the flow-blocking member), the waterproof port may prevent water flow into the electronic device, but may still allow open to allow airflow (such as sound waves) to reach one or more sensors in the electronic device. In some embodiments, the port may also facilitate an electronic connection between an internal contact and an external connector or plug. The aperture through which this connection is made may be selectively opened and closed, as well. 
     In addition to the flow-blocking member, the waterproof port assembly may further include a fluid repelling member, such as a fluid-blocking mesh or a semi-permeable membrane. The fluid repelling member helps to prevent fluids from entering the electronic device through the waterproof port when the flow blocking member is open. In this manner, in the open position, the waterproof port may allow airflow through the port, but may substantially prevent or reduce fluid flow therethrough (at least at atmospheric pressure). By using the flow-blocking member in combination with the fluid repelling member, the waterproof port assembly may better prevent fluids from entering into the port, especially when the port assembly experiences greater than atmospheric pressure, such as may be exerted when the device is submerged in water or another fluid. That is, in instances where the port may only include a fluid repelling mesh, the mesh may prevent fluids from entering into the cavity in normal conditions. However, in instances where pressure is exerted on the mesh, such as when the device is underwater, the fluid may enter through the mesh. With the waterproof port assembly, the flow-blocking member may act to prevent fluids from entering through the port, even under enhanced (e.g., greater than atmospheric) pressure. 
     In some embodiments, the flow-blocking member may be selectively activated by depressing or otherwise interacting with a button, although other input mechanisms (slides, switches, wheels, and the like) may be used in other embodiments. For example, a button may be operably connected to the flow-blocking member and, as a user selects the button, the button may in turn cause the flow-blocking member to be repositioned so as to open/close the port. 
     As another example, the flow-blocking member may be formed integrally with the button. In this example, the button may be configured to allow fluid flow into the port in the open position, but prevent fluid flow in the closed position. As a first example, the button may be depressed into or sub-flush with respect to the enclosure of the electronic device, thereby defining flow pathway between the sidewalls of the button and the sides of the aperture into which the button moves. As a second example, the button may include a flow-directing groove or aperture defined therein. When the button is in a selected position, such as a compressed position, the flow groove or aperture may be positioned to allow air flow into and through the port. 
     The waterproof button assembly may further include a biasing mechanism. The biasing mechanism, one example of which is a spring, acts to return the flow-blocking member to a default position. In some embodiments, this default position may block or close the port. The biasing mechanism may be configured to allow the port to remain open for a select period of time. For example, the biasing mechanism may be a damped spring that may slowly return the button and/or flow blocking member to the closed position. 
     As another example, the biasing member may be an electronic component that can selectively open and close the port by selectively moving the flow blocking member. Some examples of an electronic component that can be used to move the flow blocking member include a motor, servo, or an electromagnet. In this example, the biasing member may prevent the flow blocking member from being moved from a blocking position relative to the port under certain conditions, such as when the exterior pressure exceeds a certain threshold. Continuing with this example, the biasing member may prevent the flow-blocking member from unblocking the port when the device is underwater, which may prevent fluids from being transmitted into the port accidentally. Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments where the biasing member is an electronic component, the biasing member may selectively move the flow-blocking member to allow flow through the port. As an example, the biasing member may move the flow-blocking member to open the port when a certain application or function is activated on the electronic device. 
     The waterproof port may be used to communicate fluid or energy, such as sound waves, to and/or from the electronic device. As a first example, the electronic device may include a microphone positioned beneath the waterproof port or in another location that may be in audible communication with the waterproof port. In this example, sound waves may be transmitted (such as vocal sounds) through the port to reach the microphone positioned within an enclosure of the electronic device. By selectively opening and closing the port (e.g., by moving the flow-blocking member), sound waves may be in audible communication with the microphone when the port is open, but fluids may be prevented from entering into the enclosure and potentially damaging the microphone when the port is closed. 
     As a second example, the electronic device may include a speaker positioned in audible communication with the waterproof port. In this example, sound waves produced by the speaker may be selectively transmitted through the waterproof port to an exterior of the electronic device when the port is open, but fluids may prevented from being transmitted into the enclosure when the port is closed. In particular, the waterproof port assembly may be used in instances where a sound transducer is located within the electronic device and generates audio intended to be heard outside the housing, but where the electronic device may be used in certain environments, such as being underwater, the port may be closed to prevent fluid from entering into the device via the port. 
     In other embodiments the waterproof port may be used as an input/output connection port for the electronic device. In these embodiments, the waterproof port may be opened to allow a connector, such as, but not limited to, an audio jack, a plug, a universal serial bus connector, or the like, to be received therein. However, when the waterproof port is not in use, the flow-blocking member may cover the opening to prevent air, fluid, and debris from entering the opening. 
     Turning now to the figures, an illustrative electronic device the waterproof port assembly will now be discussed in more detail.  FIG. 1  is a top plan view of an electronic device  100  including the waterproof port assembly. As discussed above, the waterproof port assembly selectively opens and closes a port to allow the electronic device to be substantially waterproof, while still including the airflow features of a port. With reference to  FIG. 1 , the electronic device  100  may include a housing  102 , a display  104 , a band  106 , the waterproof port assembly  108 , a selectable component  110 , and a port  112 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , the electronic device  100  is a wearable component, such as watch. However, in other embodiments, the electronic device  100  may be a smart phone, a portable music and/or video player, a laptop or tablet computer, or the like. As such, although the below description is made with reference to a wearable device such as that shown in  FIG. 1 , many other embodiments incorporating the waterproof port assembly  108  are envisioned. 
     The housing  102  may form a hub or main body for the electronic device  100  and may enclose one or more integral components (such as, but not limited to, one or more processors, storage components, etc.). The housing  102  may be integrally formed, two or more components connected together, or other variations of enclosures. The display  104  is a visual display element such as a liquid crystal display, plasma display, or the like. Additionally, in some embodiments, the display  104  may include input functionality, and may include a multi-touch input system, such as a capacitive input screen. The display  104  may be connected to the housing  102  and be positioned on a front of the housing  102 . 
     The electronic device  100  may include a plurality of electronic components that may be enclosed within or attached to the housing  102 .  FIG. 2  is a simplified block diagram of the electronic device  100 . With reference to  FIG. 2 , the electronic device  100  may include one or more processing elements  114 , a memory component  116 , an input/output component  118 , one or more sensors  129 , a microphone  122 , a speaker  124 , and/or power source  126 . The components or groups of components may be in electrical communication with one another, such as through one or more system busses  126 , electrical traces, wirelessly, or the like. 
     The power source  126  provides power to the components of the electronic device  100 . The power source  126  may be a battery, solar panel, or other portable power element. Additionally, the power source  126  may be rechargeable or replaceable. 
     The processing element  114  or processor is substantially any type of device that can receive and execute instructions. For example, the processing element  114  may be a processor, microcomputer, or the like. Additionally, the processing element  114  may include one or more processors and in some embodiments may include multiple processing elements. 
     The one or more sensors  120  may be configured to sense a number of different parameters or characteristics that may be used to influence one or more operations of the electronic device  100 . For example, the sensors  120  may include accelerometers, gyroscopes, capacitive sensors, light sensors, image sensors, pressure or force sensors, or the like. As will be discussed in more detail below, one or more of the sensors  120  may be used in conjunction with the waterproof port assembly  108  to selectively close and open the port, as well as receive user input therefrom. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 2 , the memory component  116  stores electronic data that may be utilized by the electronic device  100 . For example, the memory component  116  may store electrical data or content—e.g., audio files, video files, document files, and so on-corresponding to various applications. The memory  116  may be, for example, non-volatile storage, a magnetic storage medium, optical storage medium, magneto-optical storage medium, read only memory, random access memory, erasable programmable memory, or flash memory. 
     The input/output interface  118  may receive data from a user or one or more other electronic devices. Additionally, the input/output interface  118  may facilitate transmission of data to a user or to other electronic devices. For example, the input/output interface  118  may be used to receive data from a network, or may be used to send and transmit electronic signals via a wireless or wired connection (Internet, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet being a few examples). In some embodiments, the input/output interface  118  may support multiple network or communication mechanisms. For example, the network/communication interface  118  may pair with another device over a Bluetooth network to transfer signals to the other device, while simultaneously receiving data from a WiFi or other network. 
     The microphone  122  may be used in conjunction with the input port  112  to receive sound waves. The microphone  122  is configured to receive sound waves and transform them into electrical signals. In particular, the microphone  122  may be an acoustic-to-electric transducer or other sensor that converts sound into an electrical signal. As will be discussed in more detail below, the microphone  122  may be positioned to be in fluid communication with the port  112  such that the microphone  122  may receive sound waves through the housing  102 . 
     The speaker  124  may also be used in conjunction with the input port  112  or through another input port. The speaker  124  creates sound waves from electrical signals. For example, the speaker  124  may be an electro-acoustic transducer that creates sound in response to an electrical audio signal. 
     With reference again to  FIG. 1  in embodiments where the electronic device  100  is wearable, the electronic device  100  may include a band  106 , such as a wrist band, arm band, or the like, that secures the electronic device  100  to a person or structure. The band  106  may connect to the housing  102  and may include attachment elements, such as a buckle, hook and loop, fasteners, or clasps, that connect the ends of the band  106  to each other. The length of the band  106  and/or attachment elements may be varied as desired. 
     The waterproof port assembly  108  used to selectively open and close the port will now be discussed in further detail.  FIG. 3  is an enlarged view of the electronic device of  FIG. 1 , illustrating select components of the waterproof port assembly  108 .  FIG. 4  is a cross-section view of the electronic device of  FIG. 1  taken along line  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3 . With reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the waterproof port assembly  108  may include the selectable component  110  and the port  112 . The selectable component  110  is configured to receive a user input and may be movable, such as compressible, slidable, or rotatable. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the selectable component  110  may be a compressible button that translates laterally relative to a sidewall  148  of the housing  102 . However, many other types movement are envisioned, at least some of which will be discussed below with respect to  FIGS. 13A and 13B . 
     In some embodiments, the selectable component  110  may include a main body  140  and a base  136 . The main body  140  may have a smaller diameter than the base  136 , which as will be discussed in more detail below, may allow the base  136  to seal an aperture in the housing  102 . For example, the base  136  may receive an O-ring or other sealing member that seals against the inner surface of the housing  102 . In some embodiments, the selectable component  110  may have, in cross-section, a “T” shape. The top surface of the main body  140  may define a user engagement surface  150 . The user engagement surface  150  may be configured to receive a user input to allow the selectable component  110  to be moved or selected. 
     An actuator  134  is operably connected to the selectable component  110  or may otherwise be configured to be selectively activated when the selectable component  110  is activated. The actuator  134  may be an at least partially rigid member that extends between the selectable element  110  and a flow-blocking member  128 . The actuator  134  links the selectable component to the flow-blocking member and is configured to change the position of the flow-blocking member  128  upon activation of the selectable component  110 . It should be noted that the actuator  134  is illustrated as a static element in  FIG. 4 , such as a rod. However, in some embodiments, the actuator  134  may be a variable element. For example, the actuator  134  may be an electrical motor, drive shaft for a motor, or the like. Examples of this type of actuator  134  will be discussed in more detail below. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the waterproof port assembly  108  may further include or otherwise incorporate, or cooperate with, the flow-blocking member  128 . The flow-blocking member  128  acts as a cover or seal for the port  112 . The flow blocking member  128  may be positioned on an interior of the housing  102  or an exterior of the housing  102 . The flow-blocking member  128  may have a larger diameter than a diameter of the port  112 , which allows the flow-blocking member  128  to better seal the interior of housing  102  from the port  112  when in the closed position. The flow-blocking member  128  may be formed of an impermeable material such that fluids, debris, and particles may be substantially prevented from passing therethrough, even under pressure. 
     A sealing member  146  may be associated with the flow-blocking member  128  and may be used to seal the perimeter of the flow-blocking member  128  against the sidewalls of the housing  102 . The sealing member  146  may be an O-ring, cup-seal, elastomeric material, or the like. 
     In some embodiments, the waterproof port assembly  108  may further include a fluid repelling member  132 . The fluid repelling member  132  may be semi-permeable and may allow sound waves to pass therethrough, but may repel fluids, such as water. For example, the fluid repelling member  132  may be a water-resistant mesh that covers the port  112 . The fluid repelling member  132  may help to prevent fluids from entering through the housing  102  via the port  112  when the flow-blocking member  128  is in an open position. 
     With reference to  FIG. 4 , the waterproof port assembly  108  may also include a biasing member  144  operably connected to the actuator  134  and/or flow-blocking member  128 . The biasing member  144  may be substantially any element that can exert a biasing force against the flow-blocking member  128  and actuator  134 . In one embodiment, the biasing member  144  may be a spring, which can be compressed by the actuator  134  with a predetermined amount of force. Upon removal of the force, the biasing member  144  may return the actuator  134  to its original position. Other possible biasing members are, but are not limited to, a piston, a magnet, and the like. 
     In some embodiments, the biasing member  144  may be damped or otherwise configured to return the actuator  134  to a default position at a predetermined rate. In these embodiments, the flow-blocking member  128  may be returned to the closed position after a predetermined time period. This allows the port  112  to be opened for a predetermined period of time, but close automatically after the time expires. As one example, after opening, the biasing member may slowly exert a closing force on the flow-blocking member that closes the flow-blocking member after 30 seconds. However, in other embodiments, the biasing member may not be damped or may be damped to allow the flow-blocking member to return quickly to a closed position. In this example, port may remain open only as a user is exerting a force on the selectable component, or for a short time frame after the user removes the force. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the user engagement surface  150  and a portion of the main body  140  of the selectable component  110  may be received through a button aperture  138  defined in the sidewall  148  of the housing  102 . The base  136  of the selectable component  136  may have a larger diameter than the button aperture  138  and may seal against the interior surface of the sidewall  148  to prevent fluids and/or debris from entering into a cavity  130  defined by the housing  102 . The actuator  134  extends from and is operably connected to the base  136  of the selectable component  110 . The microphone  122  and/or speaker  124  may be connected to the actuator  134  and may be movable with the actuator  134 . 
     The actuator  134  connects to the flow-blocking member  128 , which in turn is connected to the biasing member  144 . A first end of the biasing member  144  is thus connected to the How-blocking member  128  and a second end of the biasing member  144  may be anchored on a portion of the housing  102  or a support structure  142 . 
     Operation of the waterproof port  108  assembly will now be discussed. With reference to  FIG. 3 , in a first position, the flow-blocking member  128  may be closed, sealing the port  112 . In this position, the flow-blocking member  128  may substantially prevent fluids and debris from entering into the cavity  130  through the port  112 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the flow-blocking member  128  may be positioned below the aperture defining the port  112  and the sealing member  146  may seal against the interior side of the housing  102  surrounding the port. The combination of the sealing member  146  and the flow-blocking member  128  may substantially prevent fluids from entering into the cavity  130 . For example, the flow blocking member  128  may be larger than the port  112  and the sealing member  146  may seal the flow-blocking member against the housing  102 , to prevent fluids from travel around the flow-blocking member  128  into the cavity  130 . In the first position, the flow-blocking member  128  may hinder sound waves from being transmitted through the port  112 . 
     To open the port  112 , the user may provide an input to the selectable component  110 .  FIG. 5A  is an enlarged plan view of the electronic device  100  as a force is applied to the selectable component  110 . Further,  FIG. 5B  is a simplified cross-section view of the electronic device taken along line  5 B- 5 B in  FIG. 5A . With reference to  FIGS. 5A and 5B , as a force F is applied to the user engagement surface  150 , the selectable component  110  moves laterally relative to the sidewall  150  and further into the cavity  130 . Movement of the selectable component  110  causes the base  136  to transmit the force F to the actuator  134 , thereby causing the actuator  134  to act on the flow-blocking member  128 . The flow-blocking member  128  moves laterally within the housing  102  towards the support  142 , compressing the biasing member  144 . Compression of the biasing member  144  allows the flow-blocking member  128  to be displaced relative to the port  112 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 5A , the flow-blocking member  128  may be offset from the center of the port  112 , such that the flow-blocking member  128  may only seal a portion of the port  112 . In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 5A , as the flow-blocking member  128  is moved, the cavity may be at least partially visible through the fluid repelling member. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 6A and 6B , as the force F continues to be applied the selectable component  110  transitions further into the cavity  130 , moving the actuator  134  closer towards the support structure  142  and compressing the biasing member  144 . The movement of the actuator  134  and the compression of the biasing member  144  moves the flow-blocking member  128  past the port  112 . This allows the port  112  to become unblocked and thus allows sound waves and air to be transmitted therethrough. It should be noted that the fluid repelling member  132  may remain in position over the port  112  to prevent fluids from entering through the port  112 , while still allowing sound waves to be transmitted therethrough. As shown in  FIG. 6A , in some embodiments, in the open position, the flow-blocking member may allow the cavity to be visible through the mesh or other material of the repellent. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 4 and 6B , when the force F is removed, the biasing member exerts a biasing force on the flow-blocking member  128  as the biasing member decompresses. As one example, in embodiments where the biasing member is a spring, as the spring stretches back out it pushes the flow-blocking member in a direction towards the sidewall  148  of the housing  102 . The biasing force is then transmitted to the actuator  134 , which forces the selectable component  110  to move towards the sidewall  148  and out of the cavity  130 . The biasing force may be configured to return the selectable component  110  to its initial, decompressed position (as shown in  FIG. 4 ). 
     In some embodiments, the biasing member  144  may be configured to exert a rate of force sufficient to close the flow-blocking member rapidly after the user force F is removed from the selectable component  110 . In other words, the biasing member may be configured to control the speed that the flow-blocking member moves in transitioning from the open position to the closed position. In these examples, the port may remain open only as the user is compressing the selectable component  110 . However, in other embodiments, as briefly mentioned above, the biasing member  144  may be configured to have a reduced rate of force. For example, the biasing member  144  may have an over-damped response. In these examples, the port may remain open for a predetermined time as determined by the over-damped response, even after the user removes the input force. This may allow the user to remove his or her input from the selectable component, while using the port to transmit sound waves or receive sound waves from the sound transducer (e.g., microphone or speaker). It should be noted that in other embodiments, the biasing member  144  may be configured to only activate the biasing force when initiated, such that the port may remain open until the user provides input to close the port. 
     In some embodiments, the actuator  134  may pivot to selectively move the flow-blocking member  128 .  FIG. 7A  is a simplified cross-section view of the waterproof port assembly including a pivoting flow-blocking member.  FIG. 7B  is a simplified top view of the flow-blocking member of  FIG. 7A  illustrating a movement path. With reference to  FIG. 7A , in this example, the actuator  134  may include a pivot  171 , such as a joint or flexible component, that connects to the flow-blocking member  128 . The pivot  171  is configured to move the flow-blocking member along a path similar to the path  165  illustrated in  FIG. 7B . This movement selectively aligns the flow-blocking member  128  with the port  112 , to close/open the port  112 . 
     In the example of  FIG. 7A , the fluid repelling member  132  may be positioned beneath the flow-blocking member  128 . In this manner, the fluid repelling member  132  may be exposed while the port  112  is open, which may prevent the fluid repelling member  132  from becoming saturated with fluids when the port is closed. In other words, in embodiments where the fluid repelling member may be positioned an exterior of the device  100  or remain exposed even while the flow-blocking member is covering the port, the device  100  may be underwater or otherwise exposed to volume of fluid, which could cause the fluid repelling member  132  to become saturated, which may reduce its effectiveness and/or cause wear over time. 
     In some embodiments, the biasing member may be an electromechanical component.  FIG. 8  is a simplified cross-section view of the waterproof port assembly  108  including an electrically driven biasing member  147 . With reference to  FIG. 8 , in this example, the biasing member  147  may be an electric motor, such as a solenoid, servo, or the like, and may include a drive shaft  149 . The drive shaft  149  is operably connected to the actuator  134  and the flow-blocking member  128 . In this example, the biasing member  144  may act to move the flow-blocking member  128 , and optionally the actuator  134 , to selectively open and close the port  112 . 
     In one embodiment, the selectable component  110  may not be movable and/or may not be connected to the actuator  134 . In this example, the selectable component  110  may include a sensor  153  that detects a user input to the user engagement surface  150  provides a signal to the biasing member  144  to open the port  112 . As an example the sensor  153  may be a capacitive sensor, a force sensor, an accelerometer, or a gyroscope that detects the user input to the selectable component  110 , such as a user touch, movement, or the like. The sensor  153  signal is then provided to processing element and/or biasing member to activate the biasing member  144 . As the biasing member  144  is activated, the drive shaft  149  moves the flow-blocking member  128  laterally relative to the port  112 . For example the drive shaft  149  causes the flow-blocking member  128  to translate within the housing  102 . Additionally, the biasing member  144  may act to close the port  112  by moving the flow-blocking member  128  in an opposite direction. 
     In the example of  FIG. 8 , the selectable component  110  may not be movable and/or movement of the selectable component may not translate into direct movement of the flow-blocking member  128 . This allows the flow-blocking member  128  to be automatically opened/closed based on a number of different inputs, not just user inputs to the selectable component  110 . As an example, the biasing member  144  may open the input port  112  in response to an application being activated (e.g., a music playback application being activated, a voice memo recording application initiating, or the like). In these examples, the biasing member  144  may automatically open the port  112  by moving the flow-blocking member  128  when the application is activated and/or as the application requests. This may also allow the biasing member  144  to close the port  112  when the application requests, closes, or becomes inactive, or after a predetermined time period. 
     In some embodiments, the selectable component may be positioned within the port.  FIG. 9A  is a top plan view of an example of the electronic device  100  with the selectable component positioned within the port.  FIG. 9B  is a simplified cross-section view of the electronic device taken along line  9 B- 9 B in  FIG. 9A .  FIG. 9C  is a simplified cross-section view of the electronic device similar to  FIG. 9B  with a force being applied to the selectable component. With reference initially to  FIGS. 9A and 9B , in this example of the waterproof port assembly  208 , the selectable component  210  may be received within an aperture defined in the housing  102 . The aperture may define the port  212  and so the selectable component  210  may be positioned at a desired location for the port  212 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 9A , the selectable component  210  may be positioned on a top of the housing  102  adjacent the display  104 , rather than on a side of the device  100  as in the example of  FIG. 3 . However, it should be noted, that the position of the selectable component in the embodiment herein may be varied as desired. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 9A and 9B , in this example, the selectable component  210  may be substantially similar to the selectable component  110  and may include a sealing element  246  positioned around the body of the selectable component  210 . In this example, the selectable component  210  may act as the flow-blocking member and may be formed of an impermeable material, to prevent fluids from entering into the cavity  130  when in the closed positioned. 
     The selectable component  210  may be connected to a biasing member  244  that may be supported on a support structure  242 . The biasing member  244  may be substantially similar to the biasing member  144  illustrated in  FIG. 4 . In this example, the biasing member  244  may act directly on the selectable component  210  to return the selectable component  210  to an initial position (e.g., the position shown in  FIG. 9B ). The waterproof port assembly  208  may also include a fluid repelling member  232 . In this example, the fluid repelling member  232  may be connected to the selectable component  210  and may be flexible. For example, the fluid repelling member  232  may be configured to stretch along to accommodate movement of the selectable component  210 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 9C , in operation, the user may apply a force F to the user engagement surface  250  formed on the top of the selectable component  210 . As the force F is applied, the selectable component  210  may compress and move vertically relative to the top surface  151  of the housing  102 . In the compressed position, an air flow path  211  is defined through the port  212  into the cavity  130 . For example, the selectable component  210  may compress such that the engagement surface  250  may be positioned below the interior edge of the top surface  151  of the housing  102 . This may allow air to flow into and out of the port  212  and may provide fluid communication between a device exterior and the microphone  122 , speaker  124 , or other input/output device positioned between the exterior of the housing  102  and the cavity  130 . As such, the selectable component  210  acts as the flow-blocking member and when it is repositioned relative to the port  212 , air may flow through the port  212  to reach the microphone  122  and/or speaker  124 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 9C , the fluid repelling member  232  may stretch along with the movement of the selectable component  210 . This allows fluids, such as water, to be repelled and substantially prevented from reaching certain components within the cavity  130 , even when the selectable component is compressed or in the open position. 
       FIGS. 10 and 11  illustrate another example of the waterproof assembly including the selectable component received in the input port. With reference to  FIG. 10 , in this example, the waterproof port assembly  308  may include a selectable component  310  positioned within the port  312 . The selectable component  310  may include a main body  340  having a stem  336  and defining a user engagement surface  350 . The stem  336  may be an elongated member that extends longitudinally from a bottom portion of the main body  340 . The stem  336  may have a smaller diameter than the main body  340  and be configured to be received in the port  312 . A flow recess  314 , which may also be an aperture, may be defined in the stem  336 . The flow recess  314  defines an area of a reduced diameter for the stem  336  and selectable component  310 . As will be discussed in more detail below, the reduced diameter may create a flow pathway between a sealing member of the housing  102  and the selectable component  310 . In other embodiments, the selectable component  310  may include a flow aperture defined through the stem. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 10 , the waterproof port assembly  308  may further include a biasing member  344 , a sealing member  346 , and a retaining clip  423 . The biasing member  344  is operably connected to the selectable component  310 , and similar to the biasing member  144 , acts to return the selectable component  310  to an initial position. The sealing member  346  may be an O-ring, seal cup, or other component configured to seal around the selectable component  310 . 
     The retaining clip  324  acts to retain the selectable component  310  attached to the housing  102 . For example, the retaining clip  324  may be a washer, C-clip, nut, or other fastening device. The retaining clip  324  may have a diameter that is larger than a diameter of the input port  312  or a portion of the input port  312  surrounding an end of the selectable component  310 . The retaining clip  324  may allow some movement of the selectable component  310  relative to the housing  102 , but may act as a stop mechanism to prevent the selectable component  310  from being removed from the assembly. For example, the retaining clip  324  may allow the selectable component  310  to move into and out of the cavity  130  of the housing  120  in response to an input force, but may prevent the selectable component  310  from being completely removed or becoming detached from the housing. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 10 , in a first position, the selectable component  310  is positioned with the stem  336  extending through the port  316 . The sealing member  346  extends around the stem  336  and seals against the internal sidewalls  318  defining the port  312 . The sealing member  346  substantially prevents fluids and debris from entering into the cavity  130  via the port  312 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 11 , as a force F is applied to the user engagement surface  350  of the selectable component  310 , the selectable component  310  travels inwardly into the housing  102 . The retaining clip  324  allows the stem  336  to extend into the cavity  130 , moving the flow recess  314  further into the port  312  and become substantially aligned with the sealing member  346 . As shown in  FIG. 11 , in this position, the flow recess  314  defines a flow pathway  311  for air to flow from the exterior of the housing  102  into the cavity  130  to reach the microphone  122 . Similarly, in the compressed or activated position, the selectable component  310  defines the flow pathway  311  from the cavity  130 , such as from the speaker  124 , to the exterior of the housing  102 . In particular, due to the reduced diameter of the stem  336  at the location of the flow recess  314 , the sealing member  324  does not seal against the entire diameter of the stem  336 . Thus, air can flow between the cavity  130  and the exterior of the housing along the stem  336  and the interior sidewall of the sealing member  346 . When the input force F is removed, the biasing member (shown in  FIG. 9C ) returns the selectable component to its closed position. 
       FIG. 12  is a side elevation view of the selectable component  310  of  FIG. 10  including a flow aperture. With reference to  FIG. 12 , in embodiments where the selectable component  310  includes a flow aperture  354 , the flow aperture  354  may include a first opening  356  at a first location and a second opening  358  at a second location that may be positioned lower on the stem  336  than the first location. In this example the flow path  311  may be defined through the selectable component  310 , rather than around it as show in  FIG. 11 . With continued reference to  FIG. 12 , the first opening  356  functions as an inlet for the flow path  311  and the second opening  358  functions as an outlet for the flow path  311 . To activate the port  312 , the selectable component  310  may be compressed similar to  FIG. 11 , but in in this example, the selectable component  310  may be sufficiently depressed such that the second opening  358  is positioned below the sealing member  346  and the first opening  356  is positioned above the sealing member  346 . Air can then travel through the flow path  311  defined in the selectable component  310  to reach the cavity  130 . 
     In some embodiments, the flow-blocking member and/or the selectable component may be slidable.  FIGS. 13A-13C  illustrate an example of the waterproof port assembly  408  including a slidable selectable component  410 . With reference initial to  FIGS. 13A and 13C , the selectable component  410  may include a main body  436  defining a flow-blocking member for the port  412  and a gripping feature  440 , such as a nub or protrusion, that extends from the main body  436 . In this example, the main body  436  may be substantially planar and may be configured to extend across the entirety of the port  412 . The gripping feature  440  extends from a top surface of the main body  436  and defines a user engagement surface to allow the user to move the selectable component  410  from a first position to a second position along a predetermined movement track  468  (see  FIG. 13B ). 
     A first end  480  of the selectable component  410  may be connected to a fluid repelling member  432 , such as a water repellent mesh. The fluid repelling member  432  may be substantially similar to the fluid repelling member in the other examples, but may be configured to be movably connected to the selectable component  410 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 13A , in a first position, the selectable component  410  may be positioned to extend across the entire opening of the port  412 . For example, the selectable component  410  may be positioned within the housing  102  to allow the main body  436  to extend between edges of the housing defining the port  412 . In this position, the main body  436  forms a flow-blocking member to prevent fluid from entering into the cavity  130 . In the closed position, the fluid repelling member  432  may be positioned within the housing  102  and adjacent to the port  412 , but may not be in fluid communication with the port  412 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 13A , the fluid repelling member  432  may be positioned next to an edge of the port  412 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 13B and 13C , to open the port  412 , the user may apply a force F to the gripping feature  440 , to move the selectable component  410  from the closed position shown in  FIG. 13A  to the open position shown in  FIGS. 13B and 13C . In this position, the main body  436  may be moved horizontally along the track  468  and be positioned adjacent an edge of the port  412  and the fluid repelling member  432  may be moved into a position to be in fluid communication with the port  412 . In one embodiment, the fluid repelling member  432  may be positioned to extend over at least a portion of the port  412 . With reference to  FIG. 13C , the gripping feature  440  may transition from being adjacent a first edge  484  of the port to being positioned against a second edge  486  of the port  412 . In other words, the gripping portion  440  may translate across a length of the port  412  to be moved to the open position. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 13B and 13C , in the open position, the main body  436  of the selectable component  410  may be only partially positioned within the port  412  and the fluid repelling member  432  may be positioned in remaining portion for the port  412 . This allows a flow path  411  to be defined between an exterior of the housing into the cavity  130  via the port  412 . Thus, sound waves can reach the microphone  122  within the cavity  130  and/or sound waves produced by the speaker  124  may travel through the port  412  to reach the exterior of the housing  102 . To close the port, the user may provide a force to the finger grip  440  to move the main body into the closed position. 
     CONCLUSION 
     The foregoing description has broad application. For example, while examples disclosed herein may focus on a wearable electronic device, it should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may equally apply to substantially any other type of electronic device. Similarly, although the waterproof port assembly may be discussed with response to a compressible button, the devices and techniques disclosed herein are equally applicable to other types of input structures. Accordingly, the discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be exemplary and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these examples.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20130929
Publication Date: 20170418
Grant Date: 20170418
Priority Date: 20130929
Inventors: WEBER DOUGLAS J.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/18", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/03", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/18", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/03", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/03", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/18", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 49385375