Apple has been granted a patent that involves ways to protect its device against liquid spills. It’s dubbed “Liquid and Connection Detection.”
About the patent
In the patent Apple notes that devices such as tablet computers, laptop computers, all-in-one computers, desktop computers, smart phones, storage devices, wearable-computing devices, portable media players, portable computing devices, navigation systems, monitors, audio devices, remotes, adapters, and others have become ubiquitous.
There’s a problem in that liquid can occasionally enter their connector receptacles. This liquid can be sweat from a user working out. The liquid can be spilled on or near the electronic device housing the connector receptacle. The liquid can come from the electronic device being submerged. Whatever the source, this liquid can corrode the contacts in the connector receptacle.
Apple says there’s a need to be able to detect liquid in a connector receptacle such that mitigating steps can be taken to avoid contact corrosion. However, these steps might depend on whether a connector insert has been inserted into the connector receptacle. Also, what’s needed is to be able to detect whether a connection has been made between the connector receptacle and a corresponding connector receptacle.
Apple’s patent involves connector receptacles and connector receptacle interfaces that can detect a connection to a corresponding connector insert, can detect liquid in the connector receptacle, and can limit damage to the connector receptacle caused by the liquid.
Summary of the patent
Here’s Apple’s abstract of the patent: “Connector receptacles and connector receptacle interfaces that can detect a connection to a corresponding connector insert, can detect liquid in the connector receptacle, and can limit damage to the connector receptacle caused by the liquid.”
I hope you’ll help support Apple World Today by becoming a patron. Almost all our income is from Patreon support and sponsored posts. Patreon pricing ranges from $2 to $10 a month. Thanks in advance for your support.
Also, check out my daughter-in-law’s “Scattered Words” website if you’re interested in unique, handcrafted jewelry made out of an array of vintage dictionaries, books, and even a few antiques.
