PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10782742-B1
Application Number: US-201816103827-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B1

Title: Electronic device that uses air pressure to remove liquid

Abstract:
An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device may include a sensing component positioned in an enclosure. The sensing component can determine ambient air pressure. In order for the sensing component to access ambient air, the electronic device includes a through hole in the enclosure. The through hole allows communication from the ambient air to the sensing component. In some instances, liquid becomes lodges in the through hole and reduces or inhibits the ability of the sensing component to determine the ambient air pressure. In order to expel the liquid from the through hole, the electronic device may include an air accumulation module designed to receive air from the internal volume, causing an increased air pressure within the air accumulation module. The air accumulation module can subsequently release the air in a direction toward the through hole. In this manner, the air can expel the liquid from the through hole.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A wearable electronic device, comprising:
 an enclosure that defines an internal volume, the enclosure comprising a sidewall having first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the sidewall defining a through hole comprising:
 a first opening at the first surface, 
 a second opening at the second surface, and 
 a third opening at the second surface; 
 
 a sensing component aligned with the second opening; 
 a transparent layer coupled with the enclosure, the transparent layer and the enclosure defining an internal volume; and 
 an air accumulation module positioned in the internal volume and in communication with the through hole, the air accumulation module comprising:
 a first valve configured to open and receive at least some air in the internal volume in response to a force moving the transparent layer, thereby reducing the internal volume and increasing air pressure of the air in the internal volume, 
 a chamber that stores the air received by the first valve, and 
 a second valve configured to open and expel the air stored in the chamber into the third opening and the first opening. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The wearable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 a first force applied to the transparent layer causes a first volume of air to enter the first valve and remain in the chamber, 
 a second force, subsequent to the first force, applied to the transparent layer causes a second volume of air to enter the first valve and remain in the chamber, and 
 when air pressure from at least the first volume of air and the second volume of air causes the second valve to open and at least some of the air in the chamber exits the second valve and forces a liquid out of the through hole. 
 
     
     
       3. The wearable electronic device of  claim 2 , wherein the first valve comprises a first one-way valve, and wherein the second valve comprises a second one-way valve. 
     
     
       4. The wearable electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising a display assembly covered by the transparent layer, wherein the force applied to the transparent layer provides a touch input to the display assembly. 
     
     
       5. The wearable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the air accumulation module is aligned with the third opening, and wherein the air released from the air accumulation module exits the enclosure through the first opening. 
     
     
       6. The wearable electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising a force detection unit capable of determining an amount of force applied to the transparent layer, wherein the force applied to the transparent layer compresses the force detection unit and reduces the internal volume from a first internal volume to a second internal volume less than the first internal volume, the second internal volume causing a corresponding increase of air pressure from a first air pressure to a second air pressure greater than the first air pressure. 
     
     
       7. The wearable electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a first band coupled to the enclosure; and 
 a second band coupled to the enclosure, wherein the first band combines with the second band to form a loop that secures the enclosure with a user. 
 
     
     
       8. A wearable electronic device, comprising:
 an enclosure that defines an internal volume, the enclosure comprising a sidewall and a through hole formed into the sidewall; 
 a first band and a second band, the first band and the second band coupled to the enclosure, wherein the first band combines with the second band to form a loop that secures the enclosure with a user; 
 a sensing component positioned in the internal volume and capable of determining ambient air pressure via the through hole; and 
 an air accumulation module positioned in the internal volume, the air accumulation module comprising:
 a first valve configured to open in response to a first air pressure of air in the internal volume and receive at least some of the air from the internal volume, 
 a chamber that stores the air received by the first valve, and 
 a second valve configured to open in response to a second air pressure of the air and expel at least some of the air within the chamber and out of the through hole, the second air pressure greater than the first air pressure. 
 
 
     
     
       9. The wearable electronic device of  claim 8 , further comprising:
 a transparent layer; and 
 a force detection unit positioned between, and coupled with, the transparent layer and the enclosure. 
 
     
     
       10. The wearable electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein:
 a first force applied to the transparent layer causes a first volume of air to enter the first valve and remain in the chamber, 
 a second force, subsequent to the first force, applied to the transparent layer causes a second volume of air to enter the first valve and remain in the chamber with the first volume of air, and 
 when air pressure from at least the first volume of air and the second volume of air causes the second valve to open and at least some of the air in the chamber exits the second valve. 
 
     
     
       11. The wearable electronic device of  claim 8 , wherein the first valve closes at a third air pressure below the first air pressure, and wherein the second valve closes at a fourth air pressure below the second air pressure opens the second valve. 
     
     
       12. The wearable electronic device of  claim 8 , further comprising a display assembly, wherein the first air pressure is achieved in response to user interaction with the display assembly. 
     
     
       13. The wearable electronic device of  claim 8 , wherein the through hole comprises:
 a first opening at a first surface of the sidewall; 
 a second opening at a second surface of the sidewall, the second surface opposite the first surface; and 
 a third opening at the second surface. 
 
     
     
       14. The wearable electronic device of  claim 13 , further comprising a sensing component aligned with the second opening, wherein the second valve is aligned with the third opening, and wherein the air accumulation module is configured to expel a liquid from the first opening. 
     
     
       15. A method for expelling a liquid from a wearable electronic device, the wearable electronic device comprising an enclosure having a through hole, the method comprising:
 by the wearable electronic device:
 receiving a force at a transparent layer of the wearable electronic device; 
 receiving air, based on receiving the force, from an internal volume, defined by the enclosure and the transparent layer, into an air accumulation module of the wearable electronic device, wherein the air comprises a first air pressure that opens a first valve of the air accumulation module; and 
 expelling at least some of the air from the air accumulation module through a second valve of the air accumulation module that causes the liquid to exit the through hole, wherein the second valve opens in response to a second air pressure of the air within the air accumulation module being greater than the first air pressure. 
 
 
     
     
       16. The method of  claim 15 , wherein:
 providing the air into the air accumulation module comprises providing the air through the first valve, and 
 expelling at least some of the air from the air accumulation module comprises providing the air through the second valve such that the air passes through the through hole. 
 
     
     
       17. The method of  claim 16 , wherein receiving the force at the transparent layer of the wearable electronic device comprises:
 applying a first force to the transparent layer, thereby causing a first volume of air to enter the first valve and remain in a chamber of the air accumulation module, 
 applying a second force, subsequent to the first force, to the transparent layer, thereby causing a second volume of air to enter the first valve and remain in the chamber with the first volume of air, and 
 when air pressure from at least the first volume of air and the second volume of air causes the second valve to open and at least some of the air in the chamber exits the second valve. 
 
     
     
       18. The method of  claim 15 , wherein the first valve closes at a third air pressure below the first air pressure, and wherein the second valve closes at a fourth air pressure below the second air pressure opens the second valve. 
     
     
       19. The method of  claim 15 , wherein receiving the force at the transparent layer comprises receiving a touch input to a display assembly. 
     
     
       20. The method of  claim 15 , wherein receiving the force at the transparent layer reduces the internal volume and causes a corresponding increased air pressure such that the air enters the air accumulation module.

Description:
FIELD 
     The following description relates to electronic devices. In particular, the following description relates to electronic devices with liquid ejection features designed to expel liquid that because lodged or otherwise positioned in an opening of the electronic device. Electronic devices can create an air pressure buildup, within a housing of the electronic device, to expel the liquid. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Modern portable electronic devices provide several new functions and features. For example, an electronic device may include a sensor that communicates with the external environment. The sensor allows the electronic device to enable fitness-related applications. 
     In order to provide these features, the sensor requires access to ambient air outside of the electronic device. As a result, the electronic device may include one or more ports, or openings, in the housing. However, the ports render the electronic device vulnerable to water ingress, which can distort or prevent use of the sensor. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a wearable electronic device is described. The wearable electronic device may include an enclosure that includes a through hole. The wearable electronic device may further include a transparent layer coupled with the enclosure. The transparent layer and the enclosure can define an internal volume. The wearable electronic device may further include an air accumulation module positioned in the internal volume and in communication with the through hole. The air accumulation module may include a first valve that receives at least some air in the internal volume when a force moves the transparent layer to reduce the internal volume and increase air pressure of the air in the internal volume. The air accumulation module may further include a chamber that stores the air received by the first valve. The air accumulation module may further include a second valve capable of expelling the air stored in the chamber into the through hole. 
     In another aspect, a wearable electronic device is described. The wearable electronic device may include an enclosure that defines an internal volume. The enclosure may include a sidewall having a through hole. The wearable electronic device may further include a first band and a second band. The first band and the second band can be coupled to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the first band combines with the second band to form a loop that secures the enclosure with a user. The wearable electronic device may further include a sensing component positioned in the internal volume and capable of determining ambient air pressure via the through hole. The wearable electronic device may further include an air accumulation module positioned in the internal volume. The air accumulation module may include a first valve capable of receiving the air from the internal volume. The air accumulation module may further include a chamber that stores the air received by the first valve. The air accumulation module may include a second valve capable of expelling the air within the chamber such that the air passes through the through hole and expels a liquid. 
     In another aspect, a method for expelling a liquid from a wearable electronic device is described. The wearable electronic device may include an enclosure having a through hole. The method may include receiving a force at a transparent layer of the wearable electronic device. The method may further include providing air, based on receiving the force at the transparent layer, from an internal volume, defined by the enclosure and the transparent layer, into an air accumulation module of the wearable electronic device. The method may further include expelling at least some of the air from the air accumulation module that causes a liquid to exit the through hole. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a valve, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a cross sectional view of the valve shown in  FIG. 3 , showing the valve in a closed position. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a cross sectional view of the valve shown in  FIG. 3 , showing the valve in an open position. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1 , showing the valve covering an opening in the enclosure. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device, showing the valve opening in response to a force applied to the transparent layer. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an air accumulation module, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a cross sectional view of the air accumulation module shown in  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of an electronic device, showing the air accumulation module integrated with the electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 10 , showing the air accumulation module filled with air. 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 11 , showing a force applied to the transparent layer. 
         FIG. 13  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an input mechanism and an air driving mechanism attached to the input mechanism, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of an electronic device, showing the air driving mechanism moving air toward an air accumulation module, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a plan view of an embodiment of an electronic device, showing a vibrational component, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 15 , showing the vibrational component moving air toward an air accumulation module, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of an electronic device, showing a speaker module, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of an electronic device, showing a liquid sensor, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a plan view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 18 , showing a display assembly presenting a notification, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a block diagram of a portable electronic device, in accordance with some embodiment. 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for expelling a liquid from a wearable 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 the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     The following disclosure relates to electronic devices capable of expelling liquid from a through hole, or port, of the electronic device. The liquid or contaminant may block the through hole, thereby limiting access by components (microphones, barometric pressure sensors, speaker modules, as non-limiting examples) of the electronic device to the ambient environment outside of the electronic. The through hole may refer a void in an enclosure of the electronic device, with the enclosure providing a housing for the components. In order to expel the liquid, the electronic device may incorporate a valve or an air accumulation module, both of which are designed to release air into the through hole subsequent to a buildup of air pressure in the electronic device. User interaction, such providing a touch input to a display assembly of the electronic device) can initiate pressure buildup. For example, when the user provides a touch input to the display assembly, the user contacts a transparent layer (or transparent protective cover), causing the transparent layer to move toward the enclosure. As a result, the internal volume, defined by the transparent layer and the enclosure, is reduced, which reduces the volume of air in the internal volume and causes a corresponding increase in air pressure. 
     In the case of the valve, the valve remains closed until the air pressure increases and forces the valve opening, and the air is subsequently released through the valve an increased pressure relative to ambient air pressure outside the electronic device. The increased air pressure provides a force to expel the liquid. In the case of the air accumulation module, the air accumulation module includes a first valve, a second valve, and a chamber. The first value is designed to open when the air pressure in the electronic device increases by, for example, the aforementioned user interaction, and air enters the chamber. However, the second valve remains closed and the air is stored in the chamber. The air remains stored until multiple user interactions cause multiple instances of the first valve opening and air subsequently entering chamber. As the internal air pressure in the chamber increases through the multiple instances of air entry, the internal air pressure reaches (or exceeds) an air pressure that causes the second valve to open and release the air from the second valve, and the air directed to the through hole and provides a force capable of expelling liquid from the through hole. The air pressure created in the chamber of the air accumulation may provide a greater expelling force, as compared to the air pressure provided by the (single) valve. 
     Using either the valve or the air accumulation module to expel the liquid, the through hole is free of, or at least substantially free of, the liquid, and access by the aforementioned components to the ambient environment outside of the electronic device is restored. By utilizing user interaction with the display assembly, the electronic device can rely upon customary usage of the electronic device to expel the liquid, rather than relying on other complex means that incorporate multiple mechanical and electrical components, as well as software upgrades. Other input mechanisms and devices can be used to drive or force air into the air accumulation module. For example, the electronic device may include a crown, or dial, that can be rotated by the user to drive air to the air accumulation module. The electronic device may also include a vibrational component, such as a haptic engine, that can oscillate and drive air to the air accumulation module. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-21 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device  100 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the electronic device  100  includes a wearable electronic device. For example, the electronic device  100  includes an enclosure  102 , or housing, as well as a band  104   a  and a band  104   b  coupled to the enclosure  102 . The band  104   a  may couple together with the band  104   b  to form a loop that secures around a user&#39;s appendage (such as a wrist) in order to secure the enclosure  102  (and more generally, the electronic device  100 ) to the user&#39;s appendage. The enclosure  102  may be formed from a material, such as steel (including stainless steel), ceramic, plastic, aluminum, or some combination thereof, as non-limiting examples. The enclosure  102  is designed to carry several components, such as a processor circuit, a memory circuit, a flexible circuit, a battery, a speaker module, and a microphone, as non-limiting examples. 
     The electronic device  100  may further include a transparent layer  106  coupled to the enclosure  102 . The transparent layer  106  can provide a transparent protective cover for a display assembly  108  (shown as a dotted line). The display assembly  108  may include a display layer (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) designed to present visual information in the form of motion images, still images, and/or textual information. The display layer may further present icons representing software application that can be executed and presented on the display layer. In order to interact with the display layer to change the visual information, the display assembly  108  may further include a touch input component (not shown in  FIG. 1 ). Furthermore, the electronic device  100  may include an input mechanism  112  that represents a mechanical feature used to alter the visual information presented by the display layer of the display assembly  108 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , the input mechanism  112  is a crown, or dial, designed to rotate about an axis of rotation to alter the visual information, and can also be depressed and actuated toward the enclosure  102  to alter the visual information. Although not shown, the electronic device  100  may further include additional input mechanisms in the form of button and switches, both of which are mechanical features with which a user can interact. 
     The electronic device  100  may further include through holes, or openings, formed in the enclosure  102 . For example, the enclosure  102  includes a through hole  114  that allow air to enter and exit the enclosure  102 . This allows a sensing component (not shown in  FIG. 1 ), such a barometric pressure sensor, to determine ambient air pressure. Also, although not shown, the enclosure  102  may include additional through hole that are used to vent the electronic device  100 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of an electronic device  200 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 2 , the electronic device  200  includes a mobile wireless communication device, such as a smartphone or a tablet computer. The electronic device  200  includes an enclosure  202 , or housing. The enclosure  202  is designed to carry several components, such as a processor circuit, a memory circuit, a flexible circuit, a battery, a speaker module, and a microphone, as non-limiting examples. The electronic device  200  may further include a transparent layer  206  designed to provide a transparent protective cover. The electronic device  200  may further include a display assembly  208  (shown as a dotted line). The display assembly  208  may include display layer (not shown in  FIG. 2 ) that is designed to present visual information in the form of motion images, still images, and/or textual information. The display layer of the display assembly  208  may further present icons representing software application that can be executed and presented on the display assembly  208 . In order to interact with the display assembly  208  to change the visual information, the display assembly  208  may further include a touch input component (not shown in  FIG. 2 ) and a force detection unit (not shown in  FIG. 2 ). Furthermore, the electronic device  200  may include an input mechanism  212  that represents a button that can be depressed to alter the visual information presented by the display layer of the display assembly  208 . Although not shown, the electronic device  200  may further include additional input mechanisms in the form of button and switches, both of which are mechanical features with which a user can interact. The electronic device  200  may further include through holes, or openings, formed in the enclosure  202 . For example, the electronic device  200  includes a through hole  214  that defines a void in the enclosure  202  that allow air to enter and exit the enclosure  202 . This allows a sensing component (not shown in  FIG. 2 ), such a barometric pressure sensor, to determine ambient air pressure. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a valve  320 , in accordance with some described embodiments. When integrated into an electronic device (such as the electronic device  100  shown in  FIG. 1  or the electronic device  200  shown in  FIG. 2 ), the valve  320  can regulate air. The valve  320  includes a flap  322   a  and a flap  322   b . These flaps can engage each other (as shown in  FIG. 3 ) or separate. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a cross sectional view of the valve  320  shown in  FIG. 3 , showing the valve  320  in a closed position. The flap  322   a  is engaged with the flap  322   b  by a closing force. The closing force is a function of the selected material of the flaps (which can define a spring constant of the flaps) as well as the material thickness of the flaps. The valve  320  can remain closed when air (represented by dotted lines) is below a predetermined threshold air pressure. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a cross sectional view of the valve  320  shown in  FIG. 3 , showing the valve  320  in an open position. As shown, the flap  322   a  is separated from the flap  322   b . When the air (represented as dotted lines) reaches (or exceeds) the predetermined threshold air pressure, the air overcomes the closing force that maintains the flap  322   a  engaged with the flap  322   b , causing the valve  320  to opening and allowing air to pass (through the valve  320 ). When the air pressure reduces below the predetermined threshold air pressure, the valve  320  returns to a closed position, as shown in  FIG. 4 . It should be noted that the valve  320  shown in  FIGS. 3-5  may include features of a one-way valve by opening in response to airflow generally in one direction (denoted by the arrows of the dotted lines representing air), while remaining closed in response airflow in the opposite direction. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , showing the valve  320  covering an opening in the enclosure  102 . As shown, the transparent layer  106  covers the display assembly  108 . The transparent layer  106  can combine with the enclosure  102  to define an internal volume  128 , with the valve  320  positioned in the internal volume  128 . The electronic device  100  further includes a force detection unit  110  coupled with the transparent layer  106  and the enclosure  102 . The force detection unit  110  is designed to determine an amount of force applied to the transparent layer  106  during a touch event from a user to the display assembly  108 . The force detection unit  110  includes several capacitors (not shown in  FIG. 6 ), with each capacitor having a pair of capacitor plates spaced apart from each other by a distance. In response to the applied force, the force detection unit  110  compresses, causing the distance of at least some the capacitor plates of the several capacitors to reduce. The reduction in the distance corresponds to the amount of force applied to the transparent layer  106 . 
     As shown in the enlarged view, the through hole  114  may include an opening  116   a  formed on an exterior surface of the enclosure  102 . The through hole  114  may further include an opening  116   b  and an opening  116   c  formed on an interior surface of the enclosure  102 . Based on the aforementioned openings, the through hole  114  fully extends through the enclosure  102 . 
     The electronic device  100  may further include a sensing component  130  designed to communicate with the ambient environment. In some embodiments, the sensing component  130  is a speaker. In other embodiments, the sensing component  130  is a microphone. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 6 , the sensing component  130  is a pressure sensor (such as a barometric pressure sensor) designed to measure ambient air pressure. The electronic device  100  can use the ambient air pressure, as determined by the sensing component  130 , to determine elevation changes (increases or decrease) of the electronic device  100  when, for example, the user of the electronic device  100  is climbing or descending. This information can be used to determine the user&#39;s fitness or activity levels. 
     In order to communicate with the environment and determine ambient air pressure, the sensing component  130  is aligned with the through hole  114  at the opening  116   b . However, in some instances, a contaminant may become lodged in the through hole  114  and block (or at least partially block) the through hole  114 , thereby preventing access by the sensing component  130  to the ambient air and subsequently reducing the performance of the sensing component  130 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 6 , a liquid  132  is in the through hole  114 . As a result, air may not enter or exit the enclosure  102 . 
     The electronic device  100  can use valve  320  and other features of the electronic device  100  to expel the liquid  132 . For example,  FIG. 7  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device  100 , showing the valve  320  opening in response to a force applied to the transparent layer  106 . The force (represented by arrows) can be initiated by user interaction with the display assembly  108 . The force causes the force detection unit  110  to compress, which causes the transparent layer  106  to move toward the enclosure  102 . As a result, the internal volume  128  is reduced. Based upon this reduction, the volume of air in the internal volume  128  reduces, causing a corresponding increase in air pressure within the internal volume  128 . 
     When the valve  320  is exposed to the increased air pressure, the flap  322   a  separates from the flap  322   b  and the valve  320  is open. The air (represented by the dotted lines) passes through the valve  320 , and the force of the air (from the increased air pressure) expels the liquid  132  from the through hole  114 . As a result, the sensing component  130  can again access the ambient environment. By using the valve  320 , the air in the internal volume  128  cannot initially escape until a sufficient air pressure buildup occurs along the valve  320 . This air pressure buildup provides a stronger expelling force used to expel the liquid  132 , as opposed to allowing air to flow through the through hole  114  without using the valve  320  to create air pressure buildup. It should be noted that when the force is no longer applied to the transparent layer  106 , the force detection unit  110  returns to its original uncompressed state, the internal volume  128  returns to its original (or initial) volume, the air pressure in the internal volume  128  returns to ambient pressure, and the valve  320  returns to the closed position (see  FIG. 6 , for example). 
     In some instances, a higher air pressure may be provided to force the liquid out of the enclosure. In this regard, the valve  320  can be replaced with an air accumulation module designed to provide increased air pressure.  FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an air accumulation module  440 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The air accumulation module  440  is designed to receive air and store air such that internal air pressure (in the air accumulation module  440 ) increases and subsequently releases the air. In this regard, the air accumulation module  440  may include a valve  442   a  and a valve  442   b . When integrated into an electronic device (not shown in  FIG. 8 ), the valve  442   a  can be positioned to receive air, while the valve  442   b  can be positioned to expel air. This will be shown and described further below. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a cross sectional view of the air accumulation module  440  shown in  FIG. 8 . The valve  442   a  may include a flap  444   a  and a flap  444   b , while the valve  442   b  may include a flap  444   c  and a flap  444   d . The air accumulation module  440  may further include a chamber  446  designed to receive air and store air, causing internal air pressure in the chamber  446  to increase. As shown, the valve  442   a  and the valve  442   b  are both in the closed position, as their respective flaps are engaged with each other. However, as denoted by dotted lines, the valve  442   a  and the valve  442   b  may transition to an open position. The valve  442   a  and the valve  442   b  may transition from the closed position to the open position when sufficient air pressure cause the valve  442   a  and the valve  442   b . Moreover, different air pressured may be required to open the valves. For example, the valve  442   b  may require a higher air pressure as compared to the air pressure required to open the valve  442   a . As a result, prior to the valve  442   b  opening, the valve  442   a  may open and allow air into the chamber  446 , and a subsequent air pressure buildup ensues in the chamber  446  so long as the valve  442   b  remains closed. When integrated into an electronic device (not shown in  FIG. 9 ), multiple user interactions with the electronic device cause multiple instances of air to enter the chamber  446  through the valve  442   a . However, as air continues to enter the chamber  446 , the air pressure in the chamber  446  reaches (or exceeds) an air pressure required to open the valve  442   b . This causes the valve  442   b  opens and the air inside the chamber  446  exits through the valve  442   b . When the air pressure decreases below the air pressure required to open the valve  442   b , the valve  442   b  closes. Also, when the air pressure decreases below the air pressure required to open the valve  442   a , the valve  442   a  closes. 
       FIGS. 10-12  show the air accumulation module  440  integrated with an electronic device.  FIG. 10  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of an electronic device  400 , showing the air accumulation module  440  integrated with the electronic device  400 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The electronic device  400  may include any components and associated features described herein for an electronic device. For example, the electronic device  400  may include an enclosure  402  and a transparent layer  406  coupled with the enclosure  402  by a force detection unit  410 . The electronic device  400  may further include a display assembly  408  coupled to the transparent layer  406 . The enclosure  402  may include a through hole  414  with several openings. 
     As shown in the enlarged view, the through hole  414  may include an opening  416   a , an opening  416   b , and an opening  416   c . The opening  416   a  is formed on an exterior surface of the enclosure  402 , while the opening  116   b  and the opening  116   c  are formed on an interior surface of the enclosure  402 . Based on the aforementioned openings, the through hole  114  fully extends through the enclosure  402 . The air accumulation module  440  is aligned with the opening  416   c . Also, electronic device  400  may include a sensing component  430  aligned with the opening  416   b . The sensing component  430  is designed to communicate with the ambient environment. However, a liquid  432  is positioned in the through hole  414 . 
     When a force (represented by arrows) is applied by, for example, user interaction with the display assembly  408 , the force detection unit  410  compresses and the transparent layer  406  moves toward the enclosure  402 . As a result, an internal volume  428  (defined by the enclosure  402  and the transparent layer  406 ) is reduced. Based upon this reduction, the volume of air in the internal volume  428  reduces, causing a corresponding increase in air pressure within the internal volume  428 . As a result of the increased air pressure from the internal volume  428  decreasing, the valve  442   a  opens and air (represented by dotted lines) begins to enter the chamber  446  of the air accumulation module  440 , causing the internal air pressure within the chamber to increase. However, the valve  442   b  remains closed. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device  400  shown in  FIG. 10 , showing the air accumulation module  440  filled with air. Subsequent to the user interaction with the display assembly  408 , the force is no longer applied to the transparent layer  406 , and the force detection unit  410  returns to an uncompressed state. As a result, the internal volume  428  increases (to its original state) and the air pressure in the internal volume  428  decreases. As shown in the enlarged view, the valve  442   a  is closed and air is trapped in the chamber  446 . The internal air pressure in the chamber  446  is elevated as a result of the air entering the valve  442   a.    
       FIG. 12  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 11 , showing a force applied to the transparent layer  406 . The force (represented by arrows) may result from a subsequent user interaction (or subsequent user interactions) to the display assembly  408 . In other words, the user interact in  FIG. 12  may be subsequent to the user interaction described in  FIG. 10 . The subsequent user interaction(s) with the display assembly  408  causes the force detection unit  410  to compress and the transparent layer  406  moves toward the enclosure  402 . As a result, the internal volume  428  is again reduced, causing a corresponding increase in air pressure within the internal volume  428 . 
     As shown in the enlarged view, the increased air pressure causes the valve  442   a  to open and air (represented by dotted lines) again enters the chamber  446 , causing the internal air pressure within the chamber  446  to further increase. While a prior internal pressure increase in the chamber  446  did not open the valve  442   b , the internal pressure increase in the chamber  446  resulting from the force to the transparent layer  406  (shown in  FIG. 12 ) that increases air pressure in the internal volume  428  causes the valve  442   b  to open. As a result, the air is released from the air accumulation module  440  through the valve  442   b , and the force from the released air expels the liquid  432  from the through hole  414 . The sensing component  430  may again communicate with the ambient environment via the through hole  414 . 
       FIG. 10-12  show that each user interaction with the display assembly  108  can result in air being pumped into the air accumulation module  440 . The internal air pressure in the air accumulation module  440  (in particular, in the chamber  446 ) is allowed to increase for one or more user interactions until the internal air pressure in the air accumulation module  440  forces the valve  442   b  open. This may result in an increased force from the air when the air is released from the air accumulation module  440 , as compared to the force from the air pressure that opens the valve  320  (shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 ). Accordingly, the air accumulation module  440  may provide a greater expelling force to remove liquids or contaminants that are lodged or otherwise positioned in a through hole of an enclosure of an electronic device. 
       FIGS. 13-16  illustrate different features in an electronic device that can be used to drive air to an air accumulation module, which can then expel a liquid or other contaminant. Similar to the user interaction with a display assembly, the features shown in  FIGS. 13-16  can also drive air through user interaction. The air accumulation modules shown in  FIGS. 14 and 16  may function in a manner previously describe for an air accumulation module. Also, while an air accumulation module is shown and described in  FIGS. 13-16 , a valve, such as the valve  320  (shown in  FIGS. 3-7 ), can replace the air accumulation module. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an input mechanism  512  and an air driving mechanism  550  attached to the input mechanism  512 , in accordance with some described embodiments. When integrated into an electronic device (not shown in  FIG. 13 ), the input mechanism  512  may include a user interaction device, similar to the input mechanism  112  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). In this regard, the input mechanism  512  may include a crown that is rotated by a user, with the rotation causing an adjustment to visual information presented on a display assembly of an electronic device. 
     As shown, the input mechanism  512  is coupled to the air driving mechanism  550  by a shaft  552 . The air driving mechanism  550  may include several blades, resembling blades of a fan. In this manner, rotation of the input mechanism  512  causes rotation of the air driving mechanism  550 , as well as the shaft  552 , with the rotation of the air driving mechanism  550  driving air. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of an electronic device  500 , showing the air driving mechanism  550  moving air toward an air accumulation module  540 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The electronic device  500  may include any components and associated features described herein for an electronic device. The input mechanism  512 , the air driving mechanism  550 , and the shaft  552  are integrated into the electronic device  500 . When the input mechanism  512  is rotated, the rotation is translated to the air driving mechanism  550  via the shaft  552 , and the air driving mechanism  550  drives air (shown as dotted lines) toward into an air accumulation module  540  via a valve (not labeled) of the air accumulation module  540 . The air accumulation module  540  may include any features described herein for an air accumulation module, such as multiple valves and a chamber. Driving air into air accumulation module  540  by rotating the input mechanism  512  can increase internal air pressure in the air accumulation module  540  until an additional valve of the air accumulation module  540  opens, releasing the air through a through hole  514  formed in an enclosure  502  of the electronic device  500 . The force from the released air from the air accumulation module  540  may expel a liquid  532  from the through hole  514 , and a sensing component  530  of the electronic device  500  may be in communication with the ambient environment. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates a plan view of an embodiment of an electronic device  600 , showing a vibrational component  660 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The electronic device  600  may include any components and associated features described herein for an electronic device. For purposes of simplicity and illustration, the transparent layer, the display assembly, and the force detection unit are removed. The vibrational component  660  may include a haptic engine. In this regard, the vibrational component  660  may include a mass  662  carried by several springs (not labeled). The mass  662  is designed to oscillate at a predetermined frequency. The oscillation of the mass  662  may create a feedback, such as a haptic feedback, that is felt or otherwise recognized by a user of the electronic device  600 . Also, the oscillation of the mass  662  can drive air within the electronic device  600 . 
       FIG. 16  illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device  600  shown in  FIG. 15 , showing the vibrational component  660  moving air toward an air accumulation module  640 , in accordance with some described embodiments. When the mass  662  oscillates, the oscillation causes air to leave vibrational component  660 . The air (shown as dotted lines) can be driven toward into an air accumulation module  640  via a valve (not labeled) of the air accumulation module  640 . The air accumulation module  640  may include any features described herein for an air accumulation module. Driving air into air accumulation module  640  through oscillation can increase internal air pressure in the air accumulation module  640  until an additional valve of the air accumulation module  640  opens, releasing the air through a through hole  614  formed in an enclosure  602  of the electronic device  600 . The force from the released from the air accumulation module  640  may expel a liquid  632  from the through hole  614 , and a sensing component  630  of the electronic device  600  may be in communication with the ambient environment. 
       FIG. 17  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of an electronic device  700 , showing a speaker module  770 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The electronic device  700  may include any components and associated features described herein for an electronic device. As shown, the electronic device  700  may include an enclosure  702  having a through hole  714  that passes through the enclosure  702 . The through hole  714  may include an opening  716   a  and an opening  716   d  formed on an exterior surface of the enclosure  702 , as well as an opening  716   b  and an opening  716   c  formed on an interior surface of the enclosure  702 . Based on the aforementioned openings, the through hole  714  fully extends through the enclosure  702 . The electronic device  700  may further include an air accumulation module  740  positioned in the through hole  714 . Also, the electronic device  700  may further include a sensing component  730 . The sensing component  730  and the air accumulation module  740  may include any features described herein for a sensing component and an air accumulation module, respectively. 
     The speaker module  770 , aligned with the opening  716   b , is designed to generate acoustical energy in the form of audible sound. The speaker module  770  may include a diaphragm  772  that is driven to generate the acoustical energy. While being driven, the diaphragm  772  pushes air and creates sounds waves. The air accumulation module  740  may be positioned in a manner such that air (shown as dotted lines) driven by the speaker module  770  causes a valve (not labeled) of the air accumulation module  740  to open. Driving air into air accumulation module  740  through use of the speaker module  770  can increase internal air pressure in the air accumulation module  740  until an additional valve of the air accumulation module  740  opens, releasing the air through the through hole  714 , and in particular through the opening  716   d . The force from the released air may expel a liquid  732  from the through hole  714 , and the sensing component  730  may be in communication with the ambient environment. 
     The foregoing embodiments provide passive means for expelling a liquid. For instance, regular user interaction with a display assembly or an input mechanism of an electronic device can initiate air movement in the electronic device to open a valve (or valves) and ultimately drive out air using an elevated air pressure. However, the electronic device may include some modifications that provide a more active means for expelling air. 
       FIG. 18  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of an electronic device  800 , showing a liquid sensor  880 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The electronic device  800  may include any components and associated features described herein for an electronic device. As shown, the electronic device  800  includes an enclosure  802  a having a through hole  814 . The electronic device  800  may further a transparent layer  806  coupled with the enclosure  802  by a force detection unit  810 , and a display assembly  808  coupled with the transparent layer  806 . The enclosure  802  and the transparent layer  806  may define an internal volume  828  that holds several operational components (not shown in  FIG. 18 ) as well air. The electronic device  800  may further include a sensing component  830  and an air accumulation module  840 . The sensing component  830  and the air accumulation module  840  may include any features described herein for a sensing component and an air accumulation module, respectively. 
     As shown in the enlarged view, a liquid  832  is positioned in the through hole  814 , and in proximity to the liquid sensor  880  such that the liquid sensor  880  can detect the liquid  832 . The liquid sensor  880  may provide an input to a processor (not shown in  FIG. 18 ) of the electronic device  800 , and the processor can instruct the display assembly  808  to provide a notification on a display layer (not shown) of the display assembly  808  that the liquid  832  is detected. For example,  FIG. 19  illustrates a plan view of the electronic device  800  shown in  FIG. 18 , showing a display assembly  808  presenting a notification  882 , in accordance with some described embodiments. In particular, a display layer of the display assembly  808  can present the notification  882 . The notification  882  can be generated based on detection of the liquid  832  by the liquid sensor  880  (shown in  FIG. 18 ). By providing the notification  882  on the display assembly  808 , the user can actively take action to expel the liquid  832 . This may be advantageous in situations in which the user frequently subjects the electronic device  800  to a liquid. Referring again to  FIG. 18 , the user can provide a touch input to the display assembly  808  by depressing the transparent layer  806 , thereby causing the force detection unit  810  to compress and the internal volume  828  to reduce (similar to a manner previously described). The reduction in the internal volume  828  may cause air pressure of air in the internal volume to increase, and the air may be forced into the air accumulation module  840  (similar to a manner previously described). Further, after multiple user interactions with the display assembly  808  that increases the air pressure in the internal volume  828 , the internal air pressure in the air accumulation module  840  increases, and a valve (not labeled) opens and the air passes through the through hole  814 . The air pressure from the air may expel the liquid  832 . When the liquid sensor  880  no longer detects the liquid  832 , the liquid sensor  880  may provide an input to the processor, and the processor can command the display assembly  808  to remove the notification  882 . 
       FIG. 20  illustrates a block diagram of a portable electronic device  900 , in accordance with some embodiment. The portable electronic device  900  is capable of implementing the various techniques described herein. The portable electronic device  900  may include any features described herein for an electronic device. Also, electronic devices described herein may include any feature or features described for the portable electronic device  900 . In some embodiments, the portable electronic device  900  takes the form of the electronic device  100  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). The portable electronic device  900  can include one or more processors  910  for executing functions of the portable electronic device  900 . The one or more processors  910  can refer to at least one of a central processing unit (CPU) and at least one microcontroller for performing dedicated functions. 
     According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  900  can include a display assembly  920 . The display assembly  920  is capable of presenting a user interface that includes icons (representing software applications), textual images, and/or motion images. In some examples, each icon can be associated with a respective function (such as a software application) that can be executed by the one or more processors  910 . In some cases, the display assembly  920  includes a display layer (not illustrated), which can include a liquid-crystal display (LCD), light-emitting diode display (LED), organic light-emitting diode display (OLED), or the like. According to some embodiments, the display assembly  920  includes a touch input detection component that can be configured to detect changes in an electrical parameter (e.g., electrical capacitance value) when the user&#39;s appendage (acting as a capacitor) comes into proximity with the display assembly  920  (or in contact with a transparent layer that covers the display assembly  920 ). The display assembly  920  is connected to the one or more processors  910  via one or more connection cables  922 . 
     According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  900  can include one or more environmental sensors  930  capable of detecting environmental conditions that are present within, or general proximate to, the portable electronic device  900 . In some examples, the one or more environmental sensors  930  may include a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, a liquid sensor, an ambient pressure sensor, underwater depth sensor, a magnetic field sensor, a strain gage, a capacitive sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a microphone, and/or a thermometer. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental sensors  930  can determine whether the portable electronic device  900  is exposed to a specific environmental stimulus (e.g., moisture). In response, the one or more processors  910  can modify a notification that is presented by the display assembly  920  that corresponds to the specific environmental stimulus. The one or more environmental sensors  930  is/are connected to the one or more processors  910  via one or more connection cables  932 . 
     According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  900  can include one or more input/output components  940  (also referred to as “I/O components”) that enable communication between a user and the portable electronic device  900 . In some cases, the one or more input/output components  940  can refer to a button or a switch that is capable of actuation by the user. In some cases, the one or more input/output components  940  can refer to a soft key that is flexibly programmable to invoke any number of functions. In some examples, the one or more input/output components  940  can refer to a switch having a mechanical actuator (e.g., spring-based switch, slide-switch, rocker switch, rotating dial, etc.) or other moving parts that enable the switch to be actuated by the user. In some examples, the one or more input/output components  940  can include a capacitive switch that is integrated with the display assembly  920 . Also, the one or more input/output components  940  can include a force detect unit that includes several force detection units, each of which is designed to detection an amount of applied force (by, for example, a touch input) to the display assembly  920 . When the one or more input/output components  940  are used, the input/output components  940  can generate an electrical signal that is provided to the one or more processors  910  via one or more connection cables  942 . 
     According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  900  can include a power supply  950  that is capable of providing energy to the operational components of the portable electronic device  900 . In some examples, the power supply  950  can refer to a rechargeable battery. The power supply  950  can be connected to the one or more processors  910  via one or more connection cables  952 . The power supply  950  can be directly connected to other devices of the portable electronic device  900 , such as the one or more input/output components  940 . In some examples, the portable electronic device  900  can receive power from another power sources (e.g., an external charging device) not shown in  FIG. 20 . 
     According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  900  can include memory  960 , which can include a single disk or multiple disks (e.g., hard drives), and includes a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within the memory  960 . In some cases, the memory  960  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. The memory  960  can also include a Random Access Memory (RAM) and a Read-Only Memory (ROM). The ROM can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM can provide volatile data storage, and stores instructions related to the operation of the portable electronic device  900 . In some embodiments, the memory  960  refers to a non-transitory computer readable medium, where an operating system (OS) is established at the memory  960  that can be configured to execute software applications, confidence interval algorithms, and/or machine learning algorithms that are stored at the memory  960 . The one or more processors  910  can also be used to execute software applications, confidence interval algorithms, and/or machine learning algorithms that are stored at the memory  960 . In some embodiments, a data bus  962  can facilitate data transfer between the memory  960  and the one or more processors  910 . 
     According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  900  can include a wireless communications component  970 . A network/bus interface  972  can couple the wireless communications component  970  to the one or more processors  910 . The wireless communications component  970  can communicate with other electronic devices via any number of wireless communication protocols, including at least one of a global network (e.g., the Internet), a wide area network, a local area network, a wireless personal area network (WPAN), or the like. In some examples, the wireless communications component  970  can transmit data to the other electronic devices over IEEE 802.11 (e.g., a Wi-Fi® networking system), Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), ZigBee, Wireless USB, Near-Field Communication (NFC), a cellular network system (e.g., a 3G/4G/5G network such as UMTS, LTE, etc.), or the like. 
       FIG. 21  illustrates a flowchart  1000  showing a method for expelling a liquid from a wearable electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. The wearable electronic device may include an enclosure having a through hole. Also, the wearable electronic device may include one or more bands designed to secure the wearable electronic device to a user. 
     In step  1002 , a force is received at a transparent layer of the wearable electronic device. The force may result from user interaction with the wearable electronic device. For instance, the wearable electronic device may include a display assembly capable of receiving a touch input. The transparent layer may be coupled to the enclosure by a force detection unit design to determine an amount of force applied to the transparent layer during user interaction with the display assembly. Also, the force may compress the force detection unit, and the transparent layer moves toward the enclosure. 
     In step  1004 , air is provided, based on receiving the force at the transparent layer, from an internal volume, defined by the enclosure and the transparent layer, into an air accumulation module of the wearable electronic device. When the transparent layer moves toward the enclosure, the internal volume decreases, which causes the air volume in the internal volume to decrease. The decreased air volume results in a corresponding increased air pressure of the air. The increased air pressure may open a valve of the air accumulation module, causing air to enter a chamber of the air accumulation module. 
     In step  1006 , at least some of the air is expelled from the air accumulation module that causes a liquid to exit the through hole. With one or more additional user interactions, air may enter the chamber of the air accumulation module a corresponding number of times. Further, the internal air pressure may increase such that an additional valve of the air accumulation module opens and the air is released. 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20180814
Publication Date: 20200922
Grant Date: 20200922
Priority Date: 20180814
Inventors: SPENCER, MAEGAN K.
PERKINS, RYAN C.
YANG, SHANNON X.
DE JONG, ERIK G.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16K31/12", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16K31/12", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 72516805