Apple Inc.
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.