Introduction
In the context of the rapid development of new energy vehicles and Marine industries, the waterproof performance of electronic components has become a key indicator to determine product safety and durability. Zhejiang Shang Kai Automotive Electric Appliance Co., Ltd. recently announced the "high waterproof intelligent vehicle micro switch" patent, through structural innovation and material optimization, the waterproof level to IPK level, providing a new solution for equipment control in harsh environments. This technology not only meets the demand for highly reliable components in fields such as new energy vehicles and ships, but also sets a new benchmark for the industry by simplifying design and reducing costs.
Technological breakthrough
Zhejiang Shangkai's patented technology focuses on two major innovation points:
Conductive rubber seal layer: The waterproof design of traditional microswitches relies on complex sealing structures, and the patent covers the surface of the circuit board (PCBA) with conductive rubber layer, which not only realizes the circuit conduction function, but also forms a physical waterproof barrier. This design not only simplifies the assembly process, but also reduces the risk of water seepage due to seal aging, significantly improving the stability of the switch in wet, dusty environments.
Integrated light guide function: The unique button seat design in the patent integrates motion guide and light guide function, replacing the traditional independent light guide column parts. This innovation reduces the number of parts in the production process, reduces assembly costs by more than 30 percent, and avoids failures caused by light guide columns falling off, further enhancing product durability.
In addition, through the linkage design of the balance bar and the press block, the micro-switch ensures that the force is uniform when the button is operated, and can maintain a stable touch feedback even in frequent pressing scenarios, which is suitable for high-frequency use scenarios such as new energy vehicle door locks and ship control panels.
Application scenario
In the field of new energy vehicles: in the charging interface of electric vehicles, battery management system and other key parts, IPK waterproof ability can effectively prevent the risk of short circuit caused by rainwater infiltration. For example, the microswitch can be integrated into the charging gun locking mechanism to ensure safe charging in extreme weather.
Marine and outdoor equipment: Ship deck equipment is often exposed to seawater corrosion and high humidity environment, and traditional switches are prone to failure due to salt spray erosion. Zhejiang Shangkai's patented technology extends the service life of the switch through corrosion resistant materials and sealing design, while its compact structure is adapted to the installation needs of cabin space.
Smart home and industrial equipment: Although the patent is mainly for automotive scenarios, its high waterproof characteristics are also applicable to the outdoor control panel of bathroom appliances in smart homes and industrial automation equipment, showing a wide range of market adaptability.



Industry impact
At present, the global waterproof standard for automotive electronic components is iterating from IPX7 to a higher level. The IPK-class micro switch of Zhejiang Shangkai not only conforms to this trend, but also provides a technology upgrade path for small and medium-sized enterprises through low-cost solutions. According to industry analysis, in 2025, the global market size of high-waterproof electronic components is expected to exceed 12 billion US dollars, of which new energy vehicles and ships will account for more than 40%. Another important aspect of the patent is its "cost reduction and efficiency" model: the integrated design reduces component procurement and warehousing costs by 20%; The long life design can extend the maintenance period of the equipment to 1.5 times that of traditional products. These advantages make it highly competitive in the price-sensitive mid-market and are expected to accelerate the adoption of high waterproof technology.
Future outlook
The technological innovation opened in Zhejiang is only the starting point of the industry change. In the future, the development of microswitches will show two major trends:
Intelligent integration: Combining sensors and iot technology, real-time monitoring of switch status and warning of potential failures, such as predicting contact wear through current fluctuation analysis; Environmentally friendly material applications: Use degradable rubber or recycled plastics to meet global carbon reduction targets while improving material stability at extreme temperatures.
Conclusion
The patent of "highly waterproof intelligent vehicle microswitch" redefines the reliability standard of electronic components in harsh environments through structural simplification and material innovation. Whether it is the safe charging of new energy vehicles or the lasting control of Marine equipment, this technology is providing more efficient and economical solutions for the industry. As the demand for waterproofing continues to escalate, such innovations will push electronic components from "functional satisfaction" to "scenario customization", laying a solid foundation for the next stage of intelligent manufacturing.
Post time: Apr-24-2025