Apple's new patent reveals that the iPhone can be waterproof even with a data cable plugged in

Many mobile phones now have waterproof features, most of which use rubber gaskets or seals. However, such a design can only ensure waterproof effects when the data interface is not in use. Once our data interface is in use, all waterproof functions will fail. In order to further supplement the waterproof characteristics of the iPhone, Apple has developed a new sealing technology - a deformable sealing connector.

Recently, a patent applied by Apple was published, titled "Sealing accessories for electronic devices." Apple proposed three solutions, one of which is to add a rubber ring at the end of the data interface, so that when the interface is inserted, it can form a tight fit with the body to play a waterproof role.

The second is to set up a raised deformable material on the Lightning metal connector. When the connector is inserted into the interface, the material can wedge into the opening and completely block the gap. The third is to use a tapered connector, which is thinner at the front and thicker at the back, which can play a certain sealing role after being fully inserted.

Apple said they even considered a vacuum waterproofing solution, using a pump to suck out the air and create a vacuum to make the connector tighter. When not in use, there will be a mechanism to let air in, so that the connector can be easily taken out.

In fact, Apple has been trying to develop waterproof patents. In the past few years, we have seen many examples. For example, Apple has also proposed that a self-healing material can be used to cover the interface. The connector reaches the contact point after passing through the sealing membrane, and the covering material returns to the sealed state after separation. There is also a speaker waterproof patent. Through a "mesh umbrella structure", the vibration of the audio can transfer the liquid out of the audio channel.

Of course, these patents may not necessarily be implemented in products, but Apple still emphasized in the patent that it hopes to find a way to allow interfaces and connectors to be used normally in humid, dirty and other environments, which is also good for their service life.