Thursday, June 14, 2007

Imagine designing a rugged case that completely seals a device, such as a Smartphone, from water, dust and dirt. Now add the challenge of providing sound transmission through the microphone and speaker openings without compromising protection. Impossible?

Several months ago, OtterBox engineers faced this very dilemma. Donaldson Acoustic Vents proved the ideal solution for ensuring optimal sound quality while increasing the device protection offered by OtterBox.

Donaldson’s acoustically transparent filtration vents seal microphone and speaker openings on OtterBox Smartphone cases from everyday elements. The vents serve as effective barriers to contaminants such as hairspray, oils, perspiration and water. They also reduce wind noise and minimize frequency transmission loss. The vents’ ability to withstand temperature fluctuations makes them perfect for OtterBox customers who operate in harsh work environments like construction, engineering and military.

“Donaldson Acoustic Vents are superior in quality, and their acoustical properties are great for sound transmission throughout the OtterBoxes,” said Jason Thompson, Mechanical Engineer. “They also provide an IP54 rating for water protection, which safeguards devices from splash and heavy rain.”

So how do they work? Donaldson Acoustic Vents adhere over sound openings at the top of the case for the speaker and at the base of the microphone. Through a pressure-sensitive adhesive ring, the vent securely fastens to the inside of the opening to withstand extreme environments.

“The competitive price point and quality of the Donaldson vents made our selection decision an easy one,” said Thompson.

“Donaldson engineers have been creating solutions to contamination issues for more than 90 years, and we’re excited to partner with innovative companies like OtterBox in increasing the value of their products through effective contamination control,” commented Peggy Herrmann, VP of Disk Drive, Semiconductor, Fuel Cell, and Venting Solutions at Donaldson Company, Inc.

OtterBox also uses standard Donaldson Filtration Vents for OtterBox Rugged Laptop Carrying Cases, which provide an IP67 rating for complete water protection.


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