Manzana is looking to go one step further in iPhone protection . A document suggests that it would improve the resistance of the mobile in various atmospheric pressure conditions. The United States Patent Office granted a patent for an electronic device with an integrated pressure sensor. According to the description, Apple would combine a sensor with a housing design that would shield the iPhone in extreme situations.
So far, the iPhone 13 has a IP68 certification that protects it against dust and gives it some resistance to water. That means that if you accidentally fall into the pool (or the WC) there would be no problem. Apple guarantees a maximum depth of 6 meters for 30 minutes.
What if you go further and want to take it to the bottom of the sea or to the top of Everest? According to Apple, sealing the device would affect the components. An increase in the temperature of the mobile would be the most evident, although the temperature sensors or pressure transducers would also be affected. Because the iPhone (or iPad) is not in contact with the outside, you cannot have an accurate measurement.
To solve the problem the new patent suggests a series of adjustments.
The portable electronic device includes a housing that defines a cavity with various components disposed therein. The cavity is sealed to form a volume of air within the cavity which is vented to the external environment through a barometric vent fluidly coupled to a first opening in the housing.
A sensor (eg, a pressure sensor) measures a characteristic of a second volume of air within an isolated chamber that is vented to the external environment through a second opening in the housing. The second volume of air is isolated from the first volume of air within the housing of the portable electronic device.
Apple contemplates multiple solutions for shield the Iphone
Apple showed multiple diagrams where it explains that the sensor can be a MEMS pressure transducer encased in a gel to protect it from liquids. Multiple isolated sensors, or behind a barometric ventilation system to avoid contact with liquids.
The sensors are typically included within a cavity of a housing for a portable electronic device. The cavity can be sealed by applying an adhesive around a perimeter to bond a second component, such as a display assembly or glass substrate, to the case, thus enclosing the cavity.
Descriptions of each figure within the patent detail the pros and cons of each solution. Engineers mention that these can be implemented through hardware, software or a combination of both.
The patent makes it clear that Apple seeks to improve iPhone protection for use in a wider variety of environments. “The devices can be commonly carried on mountaineering or skiing trips/trekking where temperatures drop well below freezing. Or they can be commonly carried in or near water,” he said.
Shield the iPhone or other mobile device to protect it from these conditions It should be a decision that considers the user experience. The patent mentions that some solutions work under certain parameters, but affect the performance of the mobile. Prior to Cancel another port to favor protection, Apple will have to put things in the balance.