PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10578559-B2
Application Number: US-201715451296-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Liquid contact indicator

Abstract:
An electronic device having an indication member for determining liquid exposure in an electronic device is disclosed. The indication member may include ink and a layer covering the ink. The layer may include a liquid-permeable layer that allows liquid to pass through the layer and contact the ink. In this regard, at least some of the ink may rise through the layer and to a top surface of the indication member. Although the ink may be exposed at the top surface, in some cases, the ink is visible or detectable when exposed to light from an ultraviolet light source. Also, the top surface may include a pattern or other indicia that is also visible or detectable when exposed to the light source. When the indication member is exposed to liquid, the pattern may be altered or disturbed in a location corresponding to an exposed portion of the indication member.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An indication member for determining a presence of liquid in a consumer electronic device, the indication member comprising:
 a layer comprising a porous region that defines an exterior surface of the indication member; and 
 an ink material engaging the layer, wherein: 
 the ink material migrates through the porous region to a location at the exterior surface when the liquid is present at the location; and 
 the ink material fluoresces at the location when exposed to ultraviolet light. 
 
     
     
       2. The indication member of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the layer defines a second surface opposite the exterior surface; and 
 the ink material is at least partially embedded in the layer between the exterior surface and the second surface. 
 
     
     
       3. The indication member of  claim 1 , wherein the ink material is disposed in a predetermined pattern. 
     
     
       4. The indication member of  claim 3 , wherein the migration of the ink material to the location alters the predetermined pattern. 
     
     
       5. The indication member of  claim 1 , wherein the ink material, when exposed to the liquid, is carried away from the layer. 
     
     
       6. The indication member of  claim 1 , wherein the layer expands in a first direction and a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction when the liquid is present on the layer. 
     
     
       7. An electronic device, comprising:
 an enclosure defining an internal cavity; and 
 an indication member carried by the enclosure and disposed in the internal cavity, the indication member defining an exterior surface and comprising an ink material that fluoresces at a location of a liquid at the exterior surface when the exterior surface is exposed to ultraviolet light. 
 
     
     
       8. The electronic device of  claim 7 , wherein the indication member comprises a layer disposed over the ink material, the layer comprising a hydrophilic material that allows the liquid to pass through the layer at the location and cause the ink material to pass through the layer at the location. 
     
     
       9. The electronic device of  claim 8 , wherein the ink material is carried away from the layer when exposed to the liquid. 
     
     
       10. The electronic device of  claim 7 , further comprising an internal component comprising a color, wherein the portion of the indication member defining the exterior surface comprises the color. 
     
     
       11. The electronic device of  claim 7 , wherein the indication member comprises a layer defining the top surface and the ink material defines a pattern at the top surface. 
     
     
       12. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein the pattern is altered at the location of the liquid. 
     
     
       13. A method for detecting a liquid ingress event in an electronic device comprising an indication member comprising an ink material and a layer defining an exterior surface that covers the ink material, the method comprising:
 exposing the exterior surface to ultraviolet light, wherein the ink material fluoresces at a location on the exterior surface that has been contacted by the liquid when exposed to the ultraviolet light; and 
 determining whether the exterior surface includes the ink material based at least partially on the fluorescence of the ink material at the location. 
 
     
     
       14. The method of  claim 13 , wherein determining whether the exterior surface includes the ink material comprises determining whether a pattern of the exterior surface is altered. 
     
     
       15. The method of  claim 14 , wherein the pattern and the ink material fluoresce when exposed to ultraviolet light. 
     
     
       16. The method of  claim 14 , wherein the pattern comprises an indicium or a grid. 
     
     
       17. The method of  claim 13 , further comprising determining whether the ink material is carried away from the indication member by the liquid. 
     
     
       18. The method of  claim 13 , wherein exposing the exterior surface to ultraviolet light comprises exposing the exterior surface to ultraviolet light of a predetermined wavelength and the ink material comprises an ultraviolet fluorescent ink that fluoresces when exposed to the light of the predetermined wavelength.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/304,102, filed on Mar. 4, 2016, and titled “LIQUID CONTACT INDICATOR,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The following description relates to an indicator for detecting liquid. In particular, the following description relates to an indicator placed in an electronic device. The indicator can determine whether liquid entered the electronic device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     An indicator may be used to determine the presence of water by, for example, changing its appearance. The indicator may be used in an electronic device to determine whether water enters (or has entered) the electronic device. However, indicators presently on the market are essentially “commoditized” products in that they are generally similar in appearance and composition, and readily available from several manufacturers. While the color of the indicator may change after water exposure, the indicators may be easily replaced. In this regard, when the indicator determines the electronic device as undergone liquid ingress, a user of the electronic device (or other third party) can simply replace the indicator with a new, unused indicator. As such, an electronic device manufacturer may not be able to determine whether the electronic device was exposed to water. This poses a potential problem for the manufacture in determining whether a warranty (related to liquid ingress) of the electronic device should be voided. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, an indication member for determining a presence of liquid in a consumer electronic device is described. The indication member may include a layer that includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The layer may further include a porous region that allows passage of the liquid from the first surface to the second surface. The indication may further include an ink material disposed on the second surface. In this configuration, when the liquid passes to the second surface, at least some of the ink material migrates via the porous regions to the first surface such that the ink material is rendered visible by ultraviolet light. 
     In another aspect, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include an enclosure that includes an opening. The electronic device may further include an indication member carried by the enclosure and configured to determine whether liquid passes through the opening. The indication member may include an ink material visible by light from ultraviolet light after the liquid contacts the indication member. 
     In another aspect, a method for detecting liquid ingress in an electronic device that includes an indication member that includes an ink material and a layer having a top surface that covers the ink material is described. The method may include providing an ultraviolet light to the indication member. The ink material may be detectable when exposed to the ultraviolet light and may be configured to rise to the top surface when exposed to the liquid ingress. The method may further include determining, based upon providing the ultraviolet light, whether the top surface includes the ink material. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a plan view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1B , showing the electronic device having several indication members, with each indication member designed to detect liquid ingress in the electronic device; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a side view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1B , showing indication members in several openings of the electronic device; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an indication member, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 4  taken along line A-A, further showing the indication member exposed to liquid; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 5 , showing the liquid penetrating through the first layer to engage the second layer; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 6 , showing the second layer passing through the first layer and extending to the top surface; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 7 , with a dotted line indicating a location in which the second layer extends to the first surface; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 8 , with the indication member exposed to a light source; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member, showing the indication member having a layer embedded in another layer, and further showing liquid penetrating the indication member, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 10 , showing the liquid further passing through the indication member; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 11 , subsequent to the liquid fully penetrating the second layer; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 13 , with the indication member exposed to a light source; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 14 , subsequent to the indication member undergoing liquid exposure; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 15 , showing the indication member exposed to the light source; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 17 , further showing the indication member exposed to liquid, with a portion of the second layer carried away from the indication member by the liquid; 
         FIG. 19  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member, showing the indication member having a layer with openings, with each of the openings filled with an ink material; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 19 , taken along line B-B, further showing the openings of the first layer filled with the ink material; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a partial isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device, subsequent to liquid exposure to several indication members, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 22  illustrates a partial isometric view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 21 , with the electronic device exposed to a light source; 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member having an embedded layer, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 24  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 23 , showing the liquid penetrating through the first layer to engage the second layer; 
         FIG. 25  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 24 , showing the second layer passing through the first layer and extending to the top surface; 
         FIG. 26  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 27  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 26 , showing the liquid extending through the first layer and the second layer; 
         FIG. 28  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 27 , showing a portion of the third layer extending through the second layer and into the first layer; 
         FIG. 29  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 28 , showing the indication member illuminating in certain locations; 
         FIG. 30  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 31  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 30 , showing the liquid extending through the first layer and the second layer; 
         FIG. 32  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 31 , showing a portion of the third layer extending through the second layer and into the first layer; 
         FIG. 33  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 32 , showing alterations of the indication member defined by the first mixture and the second mixture; 
         FIG. 34  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member having a compound that defines at least one of the layers, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 35  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 34 , showing the liquid extending through the first layer and the second layer; 
         FIG. 36  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 35 , showing a portion of the third layer extending through the second layer and into the first layer; 
         FIG. 37  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 36 , showing alterations of the indication member defined by the first bleached; 
         FIG. 38  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 39  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 38 , showing liquid extending through the first layer and the second layer; 
         FIG. 40  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 39 , showing a portion of the third layer extending through the second layer and into the first layer; 
         FIG. 41  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 40 , showing alterations of the indication member defined by the clear region; 
         FIG. 42  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member having several additional layers, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 43  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for forming an indication member, in accordance with some described embodiments; and 
         FIG. 44  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for detecting liquid ingress in an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with some described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     The following disclosure relates to an indication member designed to alter or change its appearance in response to liquid exposure. The indication member, also referred to as a liquid contact indicator, may be placed in an electronic device, and accordingly, may be used to detect liquid ingress in an electronic device. The indication member may include multiple layers. For example, the indication member may include an ink layer and a cover layer disposed over the ink layer. In some instances, the cover layer includes an appearance (such as a color) that resembles one or more internal components of the electronic device, allowing the indication member to blend in with the internal component(s). The cover layer may be designed to interact with liquid (such as water). For example, in some embodiments, the cover layer includes a porous material that allows the liquid to pass through the cover layer. In other embodiments, the cover layer includes that dissolves when exposed to liquid. Accordingly, the layer may include a water-soluble or hydrophilic material. As a result of the liquid passing through the cover layer, the liquid may interact with the ink layer, thereby causing the ink layer to rise through the cover layer to a top surface of the indication member. 
     Although the ink layer may rise to the top surface, the ink material defining the ink layer may not be visible unless exposed to a light source. For example, the ink material may include a material that illuminates or glows when exposed to an ultraviolet (“UV”) light source. By using a material that is generally invisible unless exposed to a particular light source, the indication member may hide or disguise whether the indication member is (or has been) exposed to liquid. Further, in some instances, the ink material may illuminate or glow only when exposed to a particular UV light source, such as a UV light source that emits light within a limited, predetermined wavelength (within the UV light range for wavelengths). In this manner, only light having the predetermined wavelength can be used to illuminate the ink material. 
     In other instances, the indication member may include an ink material disposed on the cover layer. Further, the ink material may be applied to the cover layer according to a predefined pattern, such as a grid, a symbol, a letter, logo, or the like. When the pattern is exposed to liquid, the pattern may be altered or disturbed. The ink material may also include UV-fluorescent ink visible only when exposed to light from a UV light source. In this regard, the pattern, including any alterations or disturbances to the pattern (from the liquid), may be visible when exposed the UV light. 
     Also, in some instances, the indication member may include an ink material designed to “bleed” when exposed to liquid. For example, the indication member may include additional ink material that is carried away by liquid that interacts with the ink material. In this regard, when the indication member is positioned in an electronic device, the ink material, displaced by the liquid, may provide feedback as to determine where liquid travels in the electronic device. Also, the ink material may include UV-fluorescent ink visible only when exposed to light from a UV light source. 
     Other indications members may be shown and described in the present disclosure that include an ink material that does not require UV light to view the ink material. For instance, an indication member may include a cover layer and ink layer. When the indication member is exposed to liquid, the ink material may interact with the cover layer, with the resultant interaction forming a visible indication that liquid is (or was) in contact with the indication member. The visible indication may include a contrast in color between the layer and a resultant mixture between the ink material and the cover layer. 
     Alternatively, an indication member may substitute an ink material with a mineral, such as bleached salts, that interact with one or more layers of the indication member, leaving a resultant visible indication that liquid is (or was) in contact with the indication member. In another alternative, an indication member may substitute an ink material for a hydrochromatic ink designed to change an appearance of the indication member when exposed to liquid. For example, prior to liquid exposure the hydrochromatic ink may include a color. However, when exposed to liquid, the color is removed and the hydrochromatic ink is essentially not visible. In this regard, the indication member may indicate liquid exposure based on an absence (or an apparent absence) of the hydrochromatic ink. 
     Also, in order to improve the performance of the indication member, the ink material described in this detailed description may undergo a “tuning” operation. In this regard, a composition that includes ink material can be optimized to prevent “false triggers” generated by the indication member. For example, the tuning operation to the composition of ink material may prevent the indication member from providing a false indication of liquid ingress into the electronic device. A “false trigger” may be caused by increased humidity, for example, as opposed to water in liquid form contacting the indication member. Also, the tuning operation may prevent leaching, or draining, of the ink material from the indication member prior to liquid exposure to the indication member. 
     The described embodiments of the indication members may include an adhesive layer designed to secure the indication member with an electronic device, or one of the components of the electronic device. Also, in some cases, a lowermost layer of the indication member may include adhesive properties that allow the indication member to adhesively secure with an electronic device, or one of the components of the electronic device. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-44 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1A  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device  100 , in accordance with some described embodiments. In some embodiments, the electronic device  100  is a desktop computing device. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1A , the electronic device  100  is a laptop computer device, or simply, a laptop. As shown, the electronic device  100  may include an enclosure  102 . The enclosure  102  may be formed from a rigid material, such as a metal (including aluminum or aluminum alloy) or a durable plastic. As shown, the enclosure  102  includes a display housing  104  and a base portion  106 . The display housing  104  may include a display  108  designed to provide visual information in the form of textual information, video images, and other forms of media images. The base portion  106  may include a keyboard assembly  110  and a touch pad  112 , both of which are designed to provide an input or command to a processor or processors (not shown) to execute one or more instruction on a memory circuit (not shown) of the electronic device  100 . 
     Also, the electronic device  100  may include several openings. For example, as shown in the enlarged view, the base portion  106  may include a first opening  114  and a second opening  116 . In some embodiments, the first opening  114  is designed to receive an audio jack for an audio headset. Also, in some embodiments, the second opening  116  is designed to receive a connector that provides, for example, data and/or power to the electronic device  100 . 
       FIG. 1B  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device  150 , in accordance with some described embodiments. In some embodiments, the electronic device  150  is a tablet computer device. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1B , the electronic device  150  is a mobile wireless communication device, such as a smartphone. As shown, the electronic device  150  includes an enclosure  152  that defines an internal cavity to receive several operational components, such as a processor circuit and a memory circuit, as well as other components, such as a battery. The enclosure  152  may be formed from a rigid material, such as a metal (including aluminum or aluminum alloy) or a durable plastic. The electronic device  150  may also include a display assembly  154  (shown as a dotted line) designed to provide visual information in the form of textual information, video images, and other forms of media images. The display assembly  154  may include a touch sensitive capacitive layer that allows the electronic device  150  to receive a gesture or command by a capacitive coupling with the display assembly  154 . The electronic device  150  may further include a protective layer  156  that covers the display assembly  154 . As non-limiting examples, the protective layer  156  may include sapphire or glass. 
     The electronic device  150  may include several openings suitable for various user interactions. For example, the electronic device  150 , and in particular the enclosure  152 , may include a first opening  158 , a second opening  160 , and a third opening  162 . The first opening  158  may be designed to receive an audio jack for an audio headset. The second opening  160  may be designed to receive a connector that provides data and/or power to the electronic device  150 . The third opening  162  may be aligned with an audio speaker (not shown) disposed in the internal cavity of the enclosure. In this regard, the third opening  162  may allow acoustical energy in the form of audible sound to exit the electronic device  150 . Also, the enclosure  152  may include an opening  164  designed to receive a subscriber identity module (“SIM”) tray  166  that carries a SIM card (not shown) used to authenticate a user of the electronic device  150 . Other features of the electronic device  150  may include openings. For example, the protective layer  156  may include an opening  168  aligned with a second audio speaker (not shown) to allow acoustical energy exit the electronic device  150 . 
     While the openings of the electronic devices shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B  may provide an enhanced user experience, each opening may provide a pathway for liquid ingress into the electronic devices. For example, referring to  FIG. 1B , when the first opening  158  does not receive an audio jack, the first opening  158  may allow water to enter the electronic device  150 . In some instances, a manufacturer of the electronic device  150  may warrant the use of the electronic device  150  provided, for example, there is no liquid ingress into the electronic device  150 , as the liquid may cause damage to one or more operational components of the electronic device  150 . In this regard, the electronic devices shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B  may include features used to determine whether the electronic devices have undergone liquid ingress. 
     For example,  FIG. 2  illustrates a plan view of the electronic device  150  shown in  FIG. 1B , showing the electronic device  150  having several indication members, with each indication member designed to detect liquid ingress in the electronic device  150 . The protective layer  156  and the display assembly  154  are removed for purposes of illustration. As shown, the electronic device  150  may include a first indication member  170  located on a first internal component  182 . The first internal component  182  may include, for example, an audio speaker. The electronic device  150  may further include a second indication member  172  located on a second internal component  184 . The second internal component  184  may include, for example, a battery used to supply power to several internal components of the electronic device  150 . Also, the electronic device  150  may further include a third indication member  174  located on an interior surface of the enclosure  152 . Each indication member may be designed to change its appearance in response to liquid exposure. This will be described below. Also, the location of the first indication member  170 , second indication member  172 , and third indication member  174  shown in  FIG. 2  are exemplary locations, and the location of the first indication member  170 , second indication member  172 , and third indication member  174  may vary in other electronic device. Also, the number of indication members may vary. 
     Further, the indication members, in accordance with some described embodiments, may vary in size to fit into other locations of the electronic device  150 . For example,  FIG. 3  illustrates a side view of the electronic device  150  shown in  FIG. 1B , showing indication members in several openings of the electronic device  150 . For example, the first opening  158  of the electronic device  150  may include a fourth indication member  176  designed to detect liquid ingress into the first opening  158 . Similarly, the second opening  160  and the third opening  162  may include a fifth indication member  178  and a sixth indication member  180 , respectively, with the indication members designed to detect liquid ingress into the respective openings. While a discrete number of indications members are shown, the number of indication members may vary. For example, in some embodiments (not shown), the second opening  160  includes two or more indication members. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an indication member  230 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The indication member  230  (and several indication members throughout this detailed description) may include a circular, or generally circular, shape. However, the shape of the indication member  230  (and indication members throughout this detailed description) may include a polygonal shape having three or more sides. 
     As shown in the enlarged view, the indication member  230  may include a first layer  232 . The first layer  232  may be referred to as a cover layer, or uppermost layer of the indication member  230 , as the first layer  232  may cover one or more layers of the indication member  230 . In some embodiments, the first layer  232  includes a paper, or paper-like, material. In this regard, the first layer  232  may include a water-soluble or hydrophilic material designed to interact with liquid, allowing the liquid to pass through the first layer  232 . Also, in some embodiments, the first layer  232  includes a color that matches that of a component or feature (not shown) onto which the indication member  230  is positioned. For example, when the component or feature is black or white, the first layer  232  may also include a black or white appearance, respectively, such that the indication member  230  blends in with the component or feature. 
     The indication member  230  may further include a second layer  234 . In some embodiments, the second layer  234  includes an ink, or ink-based, material. The second layer  234  may be designed to extend, or rise, through the first layer  232  when the first layer  232  interacts with the liquid, causing a portion of the second layer  234  to rise to a first surface  236 , representing an uppermost surface of the indication member  230 . For example, the liquid may cause the first layer  232  to dissolve such that the liquid contacts the second layer  234 , thereby causing the second layer  234  to occupy a portion (or portions) previously occupied by the first layer  232 . Alternatively, the first layer  232  may include porous regions that allow the liquid to pass through the first layer  232  and contact the second layer  234  (when the second layer  234  is disposed on a surface of the first layer  232  and/or at least partially embedded in the first layer  232 ), thereby causing the second layer  234  to extend through the porous regions of the first layer  232 . Also, while the second layer  234  is generally positioned across a second surface, or bottom surface (not shown), of the indication member  230 , the second layer  234  may be scattered throughout certain areas to define a pattern. This will be shown below. As shown, the second layer  234  may be disposed on a surface of the first layer  232 . However, in addition, at least a portion of the second layer  234  may be embedded in the first layer  232  such that a portion of the second layer  234  is embedded between opposing surfaces of the first layer  232 . 
     Also, in some embodiments, the second layer  234  may be clear or transparent, and generally not visible (by a human eye). However, in some embodiments, the second layer  234  includes a UV-fluorescent material such that the second layer  234  glows or illuminates in response to exposure to light from a UV light source (not shown). In this regard, the second layer  234  may generally be detectable only when exposed to UV light. Further, the indication member  230  may not provide an indication that the indication member  230  is (or was) exposed to liquid unless the indication member  230  is exposed to the UV light. For example, the UV light source may illuminate portions of the second layer  234  (subsequent to liquid exposure to the indication member  230 ) that reach the first surface  236 . This will be shown below. Also, the first layer  232  may provide a barrier that blocks UV light (from the light source) until the second layer  234  reaches the first surface  236 . Also, the indication member  230  may include an adhesive layer  238  designed to adhesively secure the indication member  230  with an electronic device (not shown), or one of the internal components of the electronic device. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  230  shown in  FIG. 4  taken along line A-A, further showing the indication member  230  exposed to liquid. As shown, liquid  250  contacts the first surface  236 . Due in part to the aforementioned properties of the first layer  232 , the liquid  250  passes through the first layer  232 . For example,  FIG. 6  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  230  shown in  FIG. 5 , showing the liquid  250  penetrating the first layer  232  to engage the second layer  234 . While  FIG. 6  shows the liquid  250  passing through the first layer  232  as a “bulk” droplet, the liquid  250  may interact with the first layer  232 , causing the first layer  232  to wet and/or dissolve (or at least partially dissolve). The interaction between the first layer  232  and the liquid  250  causes the liquid  250  to engage the second layer  234 , which in turn, causes the second layer  234  to rise or extend, and occupy areas previously occupied by the first layer  232 . 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  230  shown in  FIG. 6 , showing the second layer  234  passing through the first layer  232  and extending to the first surface  236 . As shown, the second layer  234  may extend through the first layer  232  subsequent to interacting with the liquid  250  (shown in  FIG. 6 ). Further,  FIG. 7  shows portions of the second layer  234  rising to the first surface  236  in locations corresponding to the liquid exposure (from the liquid  250 ). 
     In some cases, the second layer  234  may not be visible even when positioned on the first surface  236 . As an example,  FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member  230  shown in  FIG. 7 , with a dotted line  246  indicating a location in which the second layer  234  extends to the first surface  236 . For example, the dotted line  246  represents a wetted portion (previously shown) of the first layer  232  as well as a resultant location of the second layer  234  rising to the first surface  236 . Due in part to the nature of the second layer  234  being invisible, the second layer  234  may not be seen or detected by a human eye. 
     However, when the second layer  234  includes a UV-fluorescent material, the second layer  234  may be visible when exposed to UV light.  FIG. 9  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member  230  shown in  FIG. 8 , with the indication member  230  exposed to a light source  240 . In some embodiments, the light source  240  is a UV light source that emits UV light  242  causing the second layer  234  to illuminate or glow. For example, an illuminated portion  248  (corresponding to the dotted line  246 , shown in  FIG. 8 ) of the second layer  234  may be illuminated and visible based on exposure from the UV light  242 . In this manner, the indication member  230  may readily provide an indication that the indication member  230  has been exposed to liquid. 
     Also, in some embodiments, the second layer  234  includes UV-fluorescent material designed to illuminate or glow based on exposure to UV light having a predetermined wavelength (or a wavelength within a predetermine range of wavelengths). For example, UV light is known to include a wavelength approximately in the range of 10 nanometers (nm) to 400 nm. In some embodiments, the second layer  234  includes UV-fluorescent material designed to illuminate or glow only when exposed to UV light having a wavelength in the range of 10-200 nm. In other words, the second layer  234  may include UV-fluorescent material that does not illuminate or glow when exposed to UV light having a wavelength greater than 200 nm. In this manner, the indication member  230  may include UV-fluorescent material that requires an “authenticated” UV light, as the second layer  234  may not respond to UV light having a wavelength outside the predetermined range. Further, when the indication member  230  is installed in an electronic device (not shown), a manufacturer of the electronic device may install the indication member  230 , and further be privy to the UV light required to illuminate the second layer  234  (subsequent to exposure by the indication member  230  to liquid). While an exemplary range of UV light is given, the range may differ according to the selected UV light source and UV-fluorescent material. 
     Also, although not shown, any portion of the first layer  232  may be exposed to liquid, and accordingly, any portion of the first surface  236  may include at least some of the second layer  23 . Further, when the first surface  236  is entirely covered by liquid, the first layer  232  may interact with liquid, allowing the second layer  234  to occupy any portion previously occupied by the first layer  232 . 
       FIG. 10  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  260 , showing the indication member  260  having a layer embedded in another layer, and further showing liquid  270  penetrating the indication member  260 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the indication member may include a first layer  262  disposed on a second layer  264 . Also, the second layer  264  may include a third layer  266  embedded in the second layer  264 . The third layer  266  may include an ink material, including UV-visible ink. The indication member  260 , when sufficient exposed to the liquid  270 , may allow for the third layer  266  to extend or migrate to a lateral or side region of the indication member  260 , causing the indication member  260  to change its appearance. This will be shown and discussed below. 
     In some embodiments, the first layer  262  includes a water-resistant layer. For example, the first layer  262  may include a polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”) film. However, other water-resistant materials are possible. The first layer  262  may undergo a lamination process to attach or secure with the second layer  264 . Due to the water-resistant characteristics, the first layer  262  may prevent liquid ingress from penetrating the indication member  260  in a location corresponding to an interface between the first layer  262  and the second layer  264 . Accordingly, as shown in  FIG. 10 , the liquid  270  (generally represent moisture) may penetrate the indication member  260  by along the lateral or side regions of the indication member  260 . Also, the first layer  262  may prevent the indication member from providing a “false trigger” of moisture detection. As an example, the first layer  262  may prevent relatively smaller amounts of moisture, due to increased humidity, from causing the indication member  260  to provide an indication of liquid ingress in an electronic device (not shown). This includes prevent the third layer  266  from migrating to the lateral regions of the indication member  260  when only humid air is present. In this regard, not only can the first layer  262  require the liquid  270  to pass through lateral or side regions of the indication member  260 , but an amount of the liquid  270  greater than an amount to due moisture in ambient air may be required for the indication member  260  to provide an indication of liquid ingress. 
     In some embodiments, the second layer  264  includes a paper, or paper-like, material. In this regard, the second layer  264  may include a water-soluble or hydrophilic material designed to interact with liquid, allowing the liquid to pass through the second layer  264  (similar to the first layer  232 , shown in  FIG. 4 ). Further, in some embodiments, the second layer  264  may expand in multiple directions. For example,  FIG. 11  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  260  shown in  FIG. 10 , showing the liquid  270  further penetrating the indication member  260 , and in particular, the second layer  264 . As shown, the second layer  264  may expand, due to its material properties, radially outward (along the lateral or side regions) relative to the first layer  262 . The radial expansion of the second layer  264  may provide an indication, by the indication member  260 , of liquid ingress. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  260  shown in  FIG. 11 , subsequent to the liquid  270  (shown in  FIG. 11 ) fully penetrating the second layer  264 . As a result of the liquid penetration, not only does the second layer  264  expand radially outward with respect to the first layer  262 , but also the third layer  266  extends or migrates to the lateral or side regions of the second layer  264 . In this regard, the indication member  260  may provide two forms of liquid indication, in the form of the second layer  264  expanding, and also in the form of the third layer  266  expanding to the lateral edge of the second layer  264 . It should be noted that when the third layer  266  includes a UV ink material, the third layer  266  is visible when exposed to UV light from a UV light source (not shown). 
     Referring again to  FIG. 10 , the indication member  260  may include a dimension  272  associated with minimal or no liquid penetration. The dimension  272  may be associated with the height of the indication member  260 , as defined in part by the first layer  262  and the second layer  264 . However, once the second layer  264  absorbs the liquid  270  (as shown in  FIG. 12 ), the indication member  260  may increase to a dimension  274  greater than the dimension  272  (shown in  FIG. 10 ). Accordingly, the second layer  264  may expand in two dimensions: in a radially outward dimension, and a vertical direction (perpendicular to the radially outward direction). Furthermore, the amount of increase between the dimension  274  (shown in  FIG. 12 ) and the dimension  272  (shown in  FIG. 10 ) provides yet another indication of liquid ingress by the indication member  260 . 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  330 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the indication member  330  may include a first layer  332 . The first layer  332  may include any feature or features previously described for a first layer  232 . The indication member  330  may further include a second layer  334 . The second layer  334 , denoted as dotted lines, may include a UV-fluorescent material that is generally not visible unless exposed to UV light. In some embodiments (not shown), the first layer  332  covers the second layer  334 , and portions of the second layer  334  may rise to a top surface  336  of the indication member when the first layer  332  is exposed to liquid. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 13 , the second layer  334  is positioned on the top surface  336  prior to liquid exposure to the indication member  330 . Also, the indication member  330  may include an adhesive layer  338  designed to adhesively secure the indication member  330  with an electronic device (not shown), or one of the internal components of the electronic device. Also, as shown, the second layer  334  may define a pattern. The pattern can include a unique pattern, such as a symbol, a letter, a logo, or some indicium associated with a manufacture of an electronic device that carries the indication member  330 . However, in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 13 , the second layer  334  defines a pattern in the form of a grid. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member  330  shown in  FIG. 13 , with the indication member  330  exposed to a light source  360 . The light source  360  may include a UV light source that emits UV light  362  causing the second layer  334  to illuminate or glow. Accordingly, the pattern defined by the second layer  334  may illuminate or glow when exposed to the UV light  362  such that the second layer  334  is now visible. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member  330  shown in  FIG. 14 , subsequent to the indication member  330  undergoing liquid exposure. As shown, the second layer  334 , and in particular, the pattern defined by the second layer  334 , may be altered or disturbed by the liquid. For example, the  FIG. 15  shows liquid exposure, represented by a dotted line  356 , with the liquid exposure altering the pattern of the second layer  334 . Due in part to the generally invisible nature of the second layer  334 , any alternations or disturbances to the second layer  334  may not be seen. 
     However, when the indication member  330 , and in particular, the second layer  334 , is exposed to UV light, the second layer  334  may be visible. For example,  FIG. 16  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member  330  shown in  FIG. 15 , showing the indication member  330  exposed to the light source  360 . As compared to  FIG. 14 , the pattern defined by the second layer  334  may be altered, defining an altered portion  366  that corresponds the liquid exposure to the second layer  334  (shown as the dotted line  356 , in  FIG. 15 ). In this manner, the indication member  330 , and in particular, the alteration to the second layer  334 , provides an indication that the indication member  330  has been exposed to liquid, while otherwise hiding the indication when the indication member  330  is not exposed to the UV light  362 . 
       FIG. 17  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  430 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the indication member  430  may include a first layer  432 . The first layer  432  may include any feature or features previously described for a first layer. The second layer  434  may include ink material, including UV-fluorescent ink designed to illuminate or glow when exposed to UV light. However, the second layer  434  may be designed to “bleed” when exposed to liquid, and in this regard, the second layer  434  may include additional ink material as compared to prior embodiments. For example, when exposed to liquid, the second layer  434  may be carried away by the liquid. Further, when the indication member  430  is positioned in an electronic device (not shown), the second layer  434 , when displaced by the liquid, may provide feedback to determine a location (or location) in which the liquid travels in the electronic device based upon the determined location of the second layer  434 . This will be shown below. 
       FIG. 18  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member  430  shown in  FIG. 17 , further showing the indication member  430  exposed to liquid, with a portion of the second layer  434  carried away from the indication member  430  by the liquid. The first layer  432  may dissolve or mix with the liquid. However, when the second layer  434  is exposed to the liquid, the second layer  434  may be transported. For example, when the second layer  434  is exposed to a first liquid source  442 , the second layer  434  may interact with the first liquid source  442  to form a mixture  446  that includes the second layer  434  and the first liquid source  442 . Accordingly, the second layer  434  may be carried away along a substrate  402 , which may be part of an internal component of an electronic device and/or an enclosure of the electronic device. Also, the first layer  432  may receive liquid exposure from a second liquid source  444  that may interact with the first layer  432  and pass through to the second layer  434 , causing a portion of the second layer  434  to rise to a top surface  436  of the first layer  432 . 
     In some instances, an indication member is designed to accommodate additional ink material, as compared to the indication member  430  shown in  FIGS. 17 and 18 . For example,  FIG. 19  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  450 , showing the indication member  450  having a layer with openings  460 , with each of the openings  460  filled with an ink material  456 . As shown, the indication member  450  may include a first layer  452  positioned on a second layer  454 , with the ink material  456  also used to form second layer  454 . The ink material  456  may include an ink-based material, including ink powder. Also, the ink material that forms the second layer  454  may include UV-fluorescent ink. 
     The first layer  452  may include a paper, or paper-like, material that includes water-soluble or hydrophilic material properties (similar to previous embodiments). Moreover, in some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 19 , the first layer  452  includes openings  460  that allow the first layer  452  to receive and carry the ink material  456 , in additional to the ink material  456  that forms the second layer  454 . As a result, the indication member  450  is capable of including additional ink material by way of the openings  460  in the first layer  452 . Furthermore, in some instances, the dimensions of the indication member  450  need not change for the indication member  450  to hold additional ink material. In other words, the dimensions (i.e., height) of the second layer  454  does not need to increase for the indication member  450  to hold additional ink material (as compared to the indication member  330  in  FIG. 17 ). 
     As shown in the enlarged view, the first layer  452  includes a first opening  462  and a second opening  464 , each of which being representative of several, additional openings. Both the first opening  462  and the second opening  464  include the ink material  456 . The openings  460  may be formed by several different means. For instance, the openings  460  may be formed by a cutting operation that forms several perforations in the first layer  452 . As non-limiting examples, the cutting operation to the first layer  452  may include a blade or a laser-cutting tool. Also, the ink material  456  can be applied to the first layer  452 , and in particular, the openings  460 , by a printing operation, or a spraying operation, as non-limiting examples. Also, the openings  460  may form wells that receive the ink material  456 . Although not shown, the indication member  450  may include an adhesive layer attached with the second layer  454  in order to secure the indication member  450  with an electronic device (not shown). 
       FIG. 20  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  450  shown in  FIG. 19 , taken along line B-B, further showing the openings  460  of the first layer  452  filled with the ink material  456 . As shown, the ink material  456  not only resides in the second layer  454 , but also throughout the first layer  452  in the openings  460  of the first layer  452 . Also, at least some of the openings  460  can be formed on the lateral or side regions of the first layer  452 , as shown in  FIG. 20 . In this configuration, when liquid (not shown) penetrates the indication member  450 , the ink material  456 , positioned in the openings  460  and forming the second layer  454 , can be carried away from the indication member  450 , in a manner similar to indication member  330  shown in  FIG. 18 . However, the amount of the ink material  456  may be greater, due in part to the openings  460  of the first layer  452  having the ink material  456 . 
       FIG. 21  illustrates a partial isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device  500 , subsequent to liquid exposure to several indication members in the electronic device  500 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The electronic device  500  may be similar to the electronic device  150  (shown in  FIG. 1B ), with the display assembly and the protective layer removed for purposes of illustration. The indication members described in  FIG. 21  may include features of an indication member  430  (shown in  FIG. 18 ). In this manner, the indication members may include a layer that is dissolved by the liquid, and another layer that is displaced due to liquid exposure. For example, as shown in  FIG. 21 , the electronic device  500  may include a first opening  508  that includes a first indication member (not shown). Subsequent to liquid exposure in the first opening  508 , the first indication member may include a layer that combines with the liquid, resulting in a first mixture  576  disposed along an interior region of the electronic device  500 , including an enclosure  502 . Also, the enclosure  502  may include a second indication member such that when exposed to liquid, the second indication member combines with the liquid, resulting in a second mixture  578  disposed along an interior region of the electronic device  500 . Although not shown, additional indication members are possible. As shown, the first mixture  576  and the second mixture  578  are represented by dotted lines, as these mixtures may be formed from a UV-fluorescent material generally not visible unless exposed to UV light. 
       FIG. 22  illustrates a partial isometric view of the electronic device  500  shown in  FIG. 21 , with the electronic device  500  exposed to a light source  560 . The light source  560  may include a UV light source that emits UV light  562  to illuminate the first mixture  576  and the second mixture  578 , causing the first mixture  576  and the second mixture  578  to illuminate and be visible, with the first mixture  576  and the second mixture  578  indicating that the electronic device is/was exposed to liquid ingress. 
     Based on the location of the respective mixtures, the ingress paths of the liquid may be determined. This information may be used to determine where liquid ingress is most likely to occur within the electronic device  500 . Further, the mixtures may limit or prevent third parties from removing the mixtures, as the difficulty in removing the mixtures may be due in part to the lack of visibility of the mixtures (without using UV light). Also, when the mixture includes UV-fluorescent material that illuminates based on UV light with in a predetermined wavelength range, the mixtures may be even more difficult to detect. 
       FIG. 23  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  630  having an embedded layer, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the indication member  630  may include a first layer  632 , which may include any feature or feature previously described for a first layer. However, as shown in  FIG. 23 , the first layer  232  may include a second layer  234  embedded in the first layer  232 . The second layer  234  may be embedded by processes such as impregnation, injection, or the like. Further, in some embodiments (not shown), the second layer  234  is positioned or sandwiched between two layers, each of which may include a layer similar to that of the first layer  632 . 
       FIG. 23  further shows liquid  652  disposed on a top surface  636  of the indication member  630 . Due in part to the hydrophilic properties of the first layer  632 , the first layer  632  may allow liquid  652  to pass through the first layer  632  and interact with the second layer  634 . For example,  FIG. 19  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  630  shown in  FIG. 23 , showing the liquid  652  penetrating through the first layer  632  to engage the second layer  634 . The interaction between the first layer  632  and the liquid  652  causes the liquid  652  to engage the second layer  634 , which in turn, causes the second layer  634  to rise or extend into the first layer  632 . 
       FIG. 25  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  630  shown in  FIG. 24 , showing the second layer  634  passing through the first layer  632  and extending to the top surface  636 . As shown, the second layer  634  may extend through the first layer  632  subsequent to interacting with the liquid  652  (shown in  FIG. 24 ). Further,  FIG. 25  shows portions of the second layer  634  rising to the top surface  636  in locations corresponding to the liquid exposure (from the liquid  652 ). By having an indication member  630  with an embedded layer (that is, the second layer  634 ), the indication member  630  may provide a complete encapsulation of the second layer  634 , which may prevent instances “false triggering” of the second layer  634  being exposed at the top surface when the indication member  630  receives a relatively small, or insignificant, amount of liquid. 
       FIG. 26  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  730 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the indication member  730  may include a first layer  732 . In some embodiments, the first layer  732  is formed from an ink material designed to give the indication member  730  a cosmetic or aesthetic appearance. For example, the first layer  732  may include an appearance (such as a color) similar to that of a component (not shown) on which the indication member  730  is positioned. Also, the first layer  732  may include water-soluble ink. The indication member  730  may also include a second layer  734  formed from paper, or a paper-like material, as an example. In this regard, the second layer  734  may include a water-soluble or hydrophilic material. The indication member  730  may further include a third layer  738  formed from ink or an ink-based material. In some embodiments, the third layer  738  includes a UV-fluorescent ink designed to illuminate or glow when exposed to UV light. Based on its position relative to the first layer  732  and the third layer  738 , the second layer  734  may also be referred to as an intermediate layer. 
       FIG. 27  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  730  shown in  FIG. 26 , showing liquid extending through the first layer  732  and the second layer  734 . As shown, liquid  752  may pass through the first layer  732  and the second layer  734 .  FIG. 28  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  730  shown in  FIG. 27 , showing a portion of the third layer  738  extending through the second layer  734  and into the first layer  732 . Subsequent to the liquid  752  contacting the third layer  738 , the third layer  738  may rise through and into the first layer  732  and the second layer  734  in a location corresponding to the location of the liquid  752  (shown in  FIG. 27 ). While the third layer  738  may extend into the first layer  732 , the third layer may not fully penetrate the first layer  732 , and accordingly, does not reach a top surface  736  of the indication member  730 . However, the penetration of the third layer  738  into the first layer  732  may be sufficient for the third layer  738  to illuminate or glow when exposed to UV light. 
     For example,  FIG. 29  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member  730  shown in  FIG. 28 , showing the indication member  730  illuminating in certain locations. As shown, a light source  760 , which may include a UV light source, emits UV light  762  to illuminate the indication member  730 . In particular, an illuminated portion  766  of the indication member  730  may correspond to a location in which the liquid  752  (shown in  FIG. 27 ) contacts the top surface  736 . In this regard, the indication member  730  may illuminate to indicate liquid exposure, even when the top surface  736  of the indication member  730  is undisturbed. Accordingly, the first layer  732  may maintain an appearance similar to that of a component on which the indication member  730  is positioned. Further, when the light source  760  is turned off, the indication member  730  has no indication of liquid ingress, as the illuminated portion  766  is no longer visible and the first layer  732  maintains its appearance. In some instances, the liquid  752  (shown in  FIG. 27 ) may entirely cover the top surface  736 , causing the illuminated portion  766  to entirely encompass the top surface  736 . This may also provide an indication of liquid exposure as the appearance of the first layer  732  (prior to liquid exposure) is no longer present. 
     While several prior embodiments include a UV-fluorescent material and a UV light source to detect the UV-fluorescent material, some indication members may not require a UV light source. For example,  FIG. 30  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  830 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the indication member  830  may include a first layer  832 . In some embodiments, the first layer  832  is formed from an ink material designed to give the indication member  830  a cosmetic or aesthetic appearance. For example, the first layer  832  may include an appearance (such as a color) similar to that of a component on which the indication member  830  is positioned. Also, the first layer  832  may include water-soluble ink. The indication member  830  may also include a second layer  834  formed from paper, or a paper-like material. In this regard, the second layer  834  may include a water-soluble or hydrophilic material. The indication member  830  may further include a third layer  838  formed from ink or an ink-based material. Accordingly, based on its position relative to the first layer  832  and the third layer  838 , the second layer  834  may also be referred to as an intermediate layer. 
     In some embodiments, the third layer  838  includes a color different from that of the first layer  832 . Further, in response to liquid exposure, the third layer  838 , or portions thereof, may interact and mix with the first layer  832  causing an alteration to the first layer  832 . This alteration may include a color distinguishable from the color of the first layer  832  and a color of the third layer  838 . This will be shown below. 
       FIG. 31  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  830  shown in  FIG. 30 , showing liquid extending through the first layer  832  and the second layer  834 . As shown, liquid  852  may pass through the first layer  832  and the second layer  834  to reach the third layer  838 .  FIG. 32  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  830  shown in  FIG. 31 , showing a portion of the third layer  838  extending through the second layer  834  and into the first layer  832 . Subsequent to the liquid  852  contacting the third layer  838 , the third layer  838  may rise through and into the first layer  832  and the second layer  834  in a location (or locations) corresponding to the location of the liquid  852  (shown in  FIG. 31 ). Further, the first layer  832  and the third layer  838  may mix to define a mixture  862 . The mixture  862  may include an appearance that includes a blended appearance of the first layer  832  and the third layer  838 . For example, the first layer  832  may include black and the third layer  838  may include red, and as a result, the mixture  862  may include dark red or burgundy color visibly distinguishable from the black color defining the first layer  832 . 
       FIG. 33  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member  830  shown in  FIG. 32 , showing alterations of the indication member  830  defined by the mixture  862 . The mixture  862  may include an appearance (including color) at a top surface  836  of the indication member  830  that is noticeably different from that of the first layer  832 , and the indication member  830  may provide an indication of liquid exposure based on the mixture  862 . In some instances, the liquid  852  (shown in  FIG. 31 ) may entirely cover the top surface  836 , causing the mixture  862  to entirely encompass the top surface  836 . This may also provide an indication of liquid exposure as the appearance of the first layer  832  (prior to liquid exposure) is no longer present. 
       FIG. 34  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  930  having a compound that defines at least one of the layers, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the indication member  930  may include a first layer  932 . In some embodiments, the first layer  932  is formed from an ink material designed to give the indication member  930  a cosmetic or aesthetic appearance. For example, the first layer  932  may include an appearance (such as a color) similar to that of a component on which the indication member  930  is positioned. Also, the first layer  932  may include water-soluble ink. The indication member  930  may also include a second layer  934  formed from paper, or a paper-like material. In this regard, the second layer  934  may include a water-soluble or hydrophilic material. The indication member  930  may further include a third layer  938  formed from salt or a salt-based material. Based on its position relative to the first layer  932  and a third layer  938  (discussed below), the second layer  934  may also be referred to as an intermediate layer. 
     The third layer  938  may include a material formed from bleached salts, including dried sodium hypochlorite. Further, in response to liquid exposure, the third layer  938 , or portions thereof, may interact and mix with the first layer  932  causing an alteration to the first layer  932 . This alteration may include a color distinguishable from the color of the first layer  932 . This will be shown below. 
       FIG. 35  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 34 , showing liquid extending through the first layer  932  and the second layer  934 . As shown, liquid  952  may pass through the first layer  932  and the second layer  934  to reach the third layer  938 .  FIG. 36  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  930  shown in  FIG. 35 , showing a portion of the third layer  938  extending through the second layer  934  and into the first layer  932 . Subsequent to the liquid  952  contacting the third layer  938 , the third layer  938  may rise through and into the first layer  932  and the second layer  934  in a location (or locations) corresponding to the location of the liquid  952  (shown in  FIG. 35 ). Further, the first layer  932  may mix with the third layer  938 , causing a bleached appearance at the first layer  932 . As shown, the first layer  932 , as a result of the mixture, may include a bleached region  962 . The first layer  932  may include an appearance (such as a black color), while the bleached region  962  may cause an appearance (such as gray or white) visibly distinguishable from the appearance defining the first layer  932 . 
       FIG. 37  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member  930  shown in  FIG. 36 , showing alterations of the indication member  930  defined by the bleached region  962 . The bleached region  962  may include an appearance (including color) at a top surface  936  of the first layer  932  that is noticeably different from that of the first layer  932 , and the indication member  930  may provide an indication of liquid exposure based on the bleached region  962 . In some instances, the liquid  952  (shown in  FIG. 35 ) may entirely cover the top surface  936 , causing the bleached region  962  to entirely encompass the top surface  936 . This may also provide an indication of liquid exposure as the appearance of the first layer  932  (prior to liquid exposure) is no longer present. 
       FIG. 38  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  1030 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the indication member  1030  may include a first layer  1032 . In some embodiments, the first layer  1032  is formed from an ink material designed to give the indication member  1030  a cosmetic or aesthetic appearance. For example, the first layer  1032  may include an appearance (such as a color) similar to that of a component on which the indication member  1030  is positioned. Also, the first layer  1032  may include water-soluble ink. The indication member  1030  may also include a second layer  1034  formed from paper, or a paper-like material. In this regard, the second layer  1034  may include a water-soluble or hydrophilic material. The indication member  1030  may further include a third layer  1038  formed from ink or an ink-based material. Based on its position relative to the first layer  1032  and the third layer  1038 , the second layer  1034  may also be referred to as an intermediate layer. 
     The third layer  1038  may include a material formed from a hydrochromatic ink designed to disappear (or at least not appear visible) when exposed to liquids, such as water. Further, in response to liquid exposure, the third layer  1038 , or portions thereof, may interact and mix with the first layer  1032  causing an alteration at the first layer  1032 . This alteration may include an appearance distinguishable from that of the first layer  1032 . 
       FIG. 39  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  1030  shown in  FIG. 38 , showing liquid extending through the first layer  1032  and the second layer  1034  to reach the third layer  1038 . As shown, liquid  1052  may pass through the first layer  1032  and the second layer  1034 .  FIG. 40  illustrates a cross sectional view of the indication member  1030  shown in  FIG. 39 , showing a portion of the third layer  1038  extending through the second layer  1034  and into the first layer  1032 . Subsequent to the liquid  1052  contacting the third layer  1038 , the third layer  1038  may rise through and into the first layer  1032  and the second layer  1034  in a location (or locations) corresponding to the location of the liquid  1052  (shown in  FIG. 39 ). Further, the first layer  1032  may mix with the third layer  1038 , causing a portion of the first layer  1032  to change in appearance. As shown, the first layer  1032 , as a result of the mixture, may include a clear region  1062  defined by a relative absence of color as compared to that of the first layer  1032 . As an example, the first layer  1032  may include a black appearance, while the clear region  1062  may cause a generally white appearance visibly distinguishable from the black color defining the first layer  1032 . Further, when the first layer  1032  is a color other than black, the clear region  1062  may nonetheless be visibly distinguishable from the first layer  1032 . 
       FIG. 41  illustrates an isometric view of the indication member shown in  FIG. 40 , showing alterations of the indication member  1030  defined by the clear region  1062 . The clear region  1062  may include an appearance (including color) at a top surface  1036  of the first layer  1032  that is noticeably different from that of the first layer  1032 , and the indication member  1030  may provide an indication of liquid exposure based on the clear region. In some instances, the liquid  1052  (shown in  FIG. 39 ) may entirely cover the top surface  1036 , causing the clear region  1062  to entirely encompass the top surface  1036 . This may also provide an indication of liquid exposure as the appearance of the first layer  1032  (prior to liquid exposure) is no longer present. 
       FIG. 42  illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an indication member  1130  having several additional layers, in accordance with some described embodiments. Although a cross section is shown, the indication member  1130  may include a circular, oblong, or other polygonal shape. As shown, the indication member  1130  may include a first layer  1132 . The first layer  1132  may include a fluorescent coating that includes a matt and blue appearance. In this regard, the indication member  1130  may be readily located by the appearance of the first layer  1132 , and in particular, when the first layer  1132  is exposed to UV light. 
     The indication member  1130  may further include a second layer  1134 . The second layer  1134  may include a PET film, and include a dark appearance representative of a black appearance. The second layer  1134  is designed to provide the indication member  1130  with a water-resistant layer. For example, the second layer  1134  may prevent liquid from that contacts the first layer  1132  from further penetrating through the indication member  1130 . 
     The indication member  1130  may further include a third layer  1136 . The third layer  1136  may include an adhesive material designed to secure the second layer  1134  and a fourth layer  1138  (discussed below) together and maintain these layers with the indication member  1130 . In some embodiments, the third layer  1136  includes a pressure sensitive adhesive (“PSA”), including an acrylic PSA. 
     The indication member  1130  may further include a fourth layer  1138 . The fourth layer  1138  may include a paper material, including a soluble paper. In this regard, the fourth layer  1138  may include a water-soluble or hydrophilic material, designed to receive liquid. Further, in some embodiments, the fourth layer  1138  may not only absorb liquid, but also the fourth layer  1138  may expand in one or more dimensions when the fourth layer  1138  absorbs liquid. For example, the fourth layer  1138  may act in a manner similar to that of the second layer  264 , shown in  FIGS. 5-7 . Accordingly, the fourth layer  1138  may provide an indication of liquid ingress into an electronic device (not shown), as the indication member  1130  changes its shaped based on the expansion of the fourth layer  1138 . 
     The indication member  1130  may further include a fifth layer  1140 . The fifth layer  1140  may include an ink material, including an ink-based liquid or an ink powder. Further, in some embodiments, the fifth layer  1140  includes a fluorescent ink material. When the fifth layer  1140  include fluorescent ink, the indication member  1130  may illuminate when exposed to UV light. Further, when the fourth layer  1138  is exposed to liquid, the fourth layer  1138  may absorb, or at least partially absorb, the fifth layer  1140 . And, when the fourth layer  1138  expends due to liquid absorption, the fourth layer  1138  may carry portions of the fifth layer  1140  in multiple directions in accordance with the expansion of the fourth layer  1138 . Then, when the indication member  1130  is exposed to UV light, the fifth layer  1140  may illuminate (and become visible) and illuminate the fourth layer  1138  that is UV-illuminated. This, along with the expansion of the fourth layer  1138  (when applicable), provides an indication of liquid exposure to the indication member  1130 . 
     The indication member  1130  may further include a sixth layer  1142 . The sixth layer  1142  may include an adhesive material designed to secure the fifth layer  1140  and a seventh layer  1144  (discussed below) together and maintain these layers with the indication member  1130 . In some embodiments, the sixth layer  1142  includes a pressure sensitive adhesive (“PSA”), including an acrylic PSA. Further, in some embodiments, the sixth layer  1142  includes a dark appearance representative of a black appearance. The appearance of the sixth layer  1142  may also shield the fifth layer  1140 . 
     The indication member  1130  may further include a seventh layer  1144 . The seventh layer  1144  may cover the sixth layer  1142 . In this regard, when the sixth layer  1142  includes an adhesive layer, the seventh layer  1144  may prevent the sixth layer  1142  from prematurely adhering to a surface, such as an enclosure or component of an electronic device (not shown). The seventh layer  1144  may be removed from the indication member  1130  when the indication member  1130  is ready to secure with a surface. 
     In instances when the indication member  1130  is fully immersed in liquid, some layers may erode or may be carried away from the remaining layers of the indication member  1130 . For example, the first layer  1132  and the second layer  1134  may be carried away by the flow of the liquid. However, even in these instances, at least some of the fourth layer  1138  may remain as it is adhesively secured with the third layer  1136 . This may also retain the fifth layer  1140  with the indication member  1130  and allow at least some of the fifth layer  1140  to be absorbed by the fourth layer  1138 . As such, the indication member  1130  may nonetheless provide an indication of liquid exposure when one or more layers are removed. 
       FIG. 43  illustrates a flowchart  1200  showing a method for forming an indication member, in accordance with some described embodiments. The indication member may be used to provide an indication of liquid exposure in an electronic device. In this regard, when exposed to sufficient liquid, the indication member may change its appearance, with the appearance change corresponding to liquid ingress in the electronic device. For example, the indication may include an ink material positioned below, and/or embedded, in a layer of material. The ink material may become visible after sufficient liquid exposure to the indication member. Accordingly, the indication member provides the indication by way of the ink material. 
     In step  1202 , a first layer is formed. The first layer may include a paper, or paper-like, material that includes water-soluble or hydrophilic material properties. Further in some embodiments, when the paper material is used, the first layer is designed to expand in multiple directions when exposed to liquid. For example, the first layer may expand radially outward, and may also expand in a direction perpendicular to the radially outward direction (such as vertically). In addition to the ink material (discussed below), the expansion of the first layer may provide an indication of liquid exposure or liquid ingress in an electronic device. Also, in some embodiments, a water-resistant layer is applied over the first layer such that liquid penetration into the indication member occurs at the lateral or side regions of the indication member. 
     Optionally, in step  1204 , several openings are formed in first layer. The openings formed in the first layer may include perforations formed by a cutting operation, as a non-limiting example. The openings are designed to receive and carry a material, such as an ink material. 
     In step  1206 , a second layer is secured with the first layer. The second layer may include an ink (or ink-based) material. In some embodiments, the ink material includes UV-fluorescent ink that is visible (to the human eye) only when exposed to UV light from a UV light source. In some embodiments, the ink material is colored, and accordingly, provides a visible change in appearance (without a UV light source required) to the indication member when the indication member is exposed to liquid. 
       FIG. 44  illustrates a flowchart  1300  showing a method for detecting liquid ingress in an electronic device that includes an indication member that includes an ink material and a layer having a top surface that covers the ink material, in accordance with some described embodiments. In step  1302 , a UV light source is provided to the indication member. The ink material may be detectable when exposed to the ultraviolet light source. Also, the ink material may be configured to rise to the top surface when exposed to the liquid ingress. In some embodiments, the ink material includes UV-fluorescent material designed to illuminate or glow in response to UV light. Further, the ink material may include UV-fluorescent material designed to illuminate or glow only in response to UV light having a wavelength in a predetermined range of wavelengths. 
     In step  1304 , a determination, based upon providing the ultraviolet light source, is made whether the top surface includes the ink material. The ink material may pass through one or more layers of material defining the indication member. In this regard, the indication member, in addition to a layer having UV-fluorescent ink, may include a layer that includes a water-soluble or hydrophilic material formed from a paper-based material or an ink-based material. The indication member may further include an additional layer that includes a paper-like material. Also, in some cases, the UV-fluorescent ink is disposed on an uppermost layer of the indication member. In other cases, the UV-fluorescent ink is disposed below an uppermost layer of the indication member. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20170306
Publication Date: 20200303
Grant Date: 20200303
Priority Date: 20160304
Inventors: SILVANTO, MIKAEL M.
LANCASTER-LAROCQUE, SIMON REGIS LOUIS
MCCABE, ALIX
VENKATESH, SUNITA
ZHU, Yongping
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "B32B2555/02", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01N21/94", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01N21/78", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B32B2307/726", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01N21/8803", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A61F13/42", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01N31/222", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01N21/91", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A61F2013/8497", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A61F2013/422", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A61L15/56", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01N21/91", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A61F13/42", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A61F2013/8497", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A61F2013/422", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A61L15/56", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B32B2307/726", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01N31/222", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B32B2555/02", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01N21/78", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 59723492