Holding system and method for providing improved holding of first device to second device
The controller circuit, which combines a magnetic holding device and a touch sensor, solves the problem of securing and easily removing the device during charging, achieving both secure fixation and convenient access. It is suitable for charging systems for connectorless headphones and electronic devices.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-08-16
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-17
AI Technical Summary
Existing technologies struggle to retain a device while allowing for easy access, especially when charging connectorless headphones or electronic devices. The retention system cannot simultaneously guarantee secure fixation and convenient removal.
The device combines a magnetic holding device with a touch sensor. The activation and release of the magnetic holding device are controlled by a controller circuit, while the touch sensor detects user input to achieve reliable fixing and convenient release of the device.
It enables the safe securing and convenient removal of devices while charging, meeting users' needs for convenience while on the move, and is suitable for charging scenarios of connectorless headphones and electronic devices.
Smart Images
Figure CN121693831A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a holding system and method for providing improved retention, and in particular, to a holding system and method for providing improved retention from a first device to a second device. Background Technology
[0002] Modern electronic devices often need to be charged while the user is on the move. At the same time, users often expect or require that the device be easily accessible after charging or during charging.
[0003] One such example is connectorless headphones (or in-ear headphones) that are carried while being charged or otherwise kept in a carrying case. In this case, the user expects the headphones to be securely kept in the carrying case while still being easily accessible.
[0004] Another example of this is when an electronic device (such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop) is being charged, for example, from a power bank or other power outlet. In this case, the user expects the charging cable to be securely secured so that charging is not interrupted, while still being easily removable, such as when the user wants to use the electronic device.
[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a way to securely attach one device (earphones or charging cable) to another device (carrying case or electronic device) while still allowing (one or more) devices to be easily removed. Summary of the Invention
[0006] The purpose of this teaching is to overcome or at least reduce or mitigate the problems discussed in the background section.
[0007] According to one aspect, a holding system as discussed herein is provided. The holding system includes a first device and a second device, wherein the first device includes a magnetic holding counterpart and a touch sensor, and wherein the second device includes: a magnetic holding means configured to establish magnetic holding with the magnetic holding counterpart to hold the first device to the second device; and a controller circuit configured to activate the holding means, receive a device access input and, in response, activate a touch controller, receive a touch input via the touch sensor and, in response, release the magnetic holding means.
[0008] In some embodiments, the controller circuitry of the second device includes a touch controller.
[0009] In some embodiments, the touch sensor comprises a conductive area, and wherein the first device comprises a conductor and a first connector, and wherein the second device comprises a first connector arranged to connect with the first connector of the first device, and wherein the touch sensor is connected to the first connector through the conductor, and wherein the touch controller is connected to the first connector, thereby being directly connected to the touch sensor when the first connector of the second device is connected with the first connector of the first device.
[0010] In some embodiments, the touch controller is operably coupled to the capacitor (C), and wherein the touch controller is configured to measure a time to charge and / or discharge the capacitor (C), and determine whether the touch sensor is touched based on the time to charge and / or discharge the capacitor (C), wherein the time to charge and / or discharge the capacitor (C) is longer when the touch sensor is touched than when the touch sensor is not touched.
[0011] In some embodiments, the capacitor (C) is comprised in the touch controller (including possibly arranged close to and connected to the touch controller).
[0012] In some embodiments, the capacitor (C) is comprised in the touch sensor (including possibly arranged close to and connected to the touch sensor).
[0013] In some embodiments, the connector of the first device comprises a charging connector, and the connector of the first device comprises a charging connector, and wherein one of the first device or the second device is arranged to provide a charging current to the other of the first device or the second device.
[0014] In some embodiments, the magnetic retention device comprises an electromagnet.
[0015] In some embodiments, the magnetic retention device further comprises a permanent magnet.
[0016] In some embodiments, the controller circuit is further configured to activate the magnetic retention device by activating the electromagnet in a retention direction.
[0017] In some embodiments, the controller circuit is further configured to release the magnetic retention device by deactivating the electromagnet.
[0018] In some embodiments, the controller circuit is further configured to release the magnetic retention device by activating the electromagnet in an opposite direction.
[0019] In some embodiments, the first device is an earphone, and the second device is a carrying case for the earphone, and wherein the carrying case comprises a lid.
[0020] In some embodiments, the controller circuit is further configured to activate the retention device in response to receiving the device access input.
[0021] In some embodiments, the device access input is the lid being opened.
[0022] In some embodiments, the controller circuit is further configured to activate the retention device in response to detecting the electrical connection of the connector of the second device to the connector of the first device in addition to receiving the device access input.
[0023] In some embodiments, the first device is a charging cord and the second device is an electronic device.
[0024] In some embodiments, the controller circuit is further configured to activate the retention device in response to detecting the electrical connection of the connector of the second device to the connector of the first device.
[0025] In some embodiments, the controller circuit is further configured to receive the device access input by detecting that the charge level is below a charge threshold level.
[0026] In some embodiments, the charging cord is a USB charging cord.
[0027] In some embodiments, the electronic device is a laptop computer.
[0028] In some embodiments, the electronic device is a cellular communication device or a tablet computer.
[0029] In some embodiments, the electronic device is a speaker.
[0030] In some embodiments, the electronic device is a power bank.
[0031] In some embodiments, the connector comprises a magnetic retention device, and wherein the connector comprises a magnetic counterpart.
[0032] According to an aspect, there is provided a first device configured for use in a retention system according to the teachings herein, wherein the first device comprises a magnetic retention counterpart and a touch sensor.
[0033] According to an aspect, there is provided a second device configured for use in a retention system according to the teachings herein, wherein the second device comprises: a magnetic retention device configured to establish a magnetic retention with a magnetic retention counterpart so as to retain the first device to the second device; and a controller circuit configured to activate the retention device, receive a device access input and in response thereto activate a touch release interface, receive a touch input by the touch sensor and in response thereto cause the magnetic retention device to release.
[0034] According to one aspect, a method is provided for use in a holding system including a first device and a second device, wherein the first device includes a magnetic holding counterpart and a touch sensor, and wherein the second device includes a magnetic holding means configured to establish magnetic holding with the magnetic holding counterpart to hold the first device to the second device, and wherein the method includes: activating the holding means, receiving a device access input and activating a touch release interface in response thereto, receiving a touch input via the touch sensor and releasing the magnetic holding means in response thereto.
[0035] Further embodiments and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the detailed description. It should be noted that the teachings herein are applicable to smartphones, smartwatches, tablet computers, media devices, and even automotive displays. Attached Figure Description
[0036] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate non-limiting examples of how the inventive concept can be put into practice.
[0037] FIG. 1A A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0038] FIG. 1B A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0039] FIG. 1C A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0040] FIG. 2A A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0041] FIG. 2B A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0042] FIG. 2C A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0043] FIG. 2D A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0044] FIG. 2E A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0045] FIG. 2F A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0046] FIG. 3 A flowchart is shown for a general method for an embodiment based on the teachings of this document;
[0047] FIG. 4A A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown;
[0048] FIG. 4B A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown; and
[0049] FIG. 4C A schematic diagram of a holding system according to an embodiment of the teachings herein is shown. Detailed Implementation
[0050] FIG. 1A A schematic diagram of a retention system 100 according to the teachings herein is shown. The retention system 100 includes a first device 110 and a second device 120. In some embodiments, the first device is a (connectorless) earphone 110. Such earphones are well known, and the known structure or operation of earphones is known to those skilled in the art and therefore its details will not be discussed. In this embodiment, the second device 120 is a carrying case for the earphone 110. Such carrying cases are well known, and the known structure or operation of carrying cases is known to those skilled in the art and therefore its details will not be discussed. It will only be noted that in some embodiments, the carrying case 120 has a lid 121. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first device 110 is arranged to receive current, such as charging current, from the second device 120 via a connector 113 on the first device 110, which is arranged to mate with a connector 127 on the second device 120. In some such embodiments, the carrying case 120 is arranged such that when the earphone 110 is inserted into the carrying case 120, the connector 127 connects to the connector 113 of the first device to charge the earphone's battery 114. In some such embodiments, the carrying case 120 also includes a power source 128, such as a battery and / or a connector for receiving externally supplied current, such as via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) (charging) interface.
[0051] In some embodiments, the first device 110 is arranged to provide current, such as charging current, to the second device 120 via a connector 113 on the first device 110, the connector 113 being arranged to mate with a connector 127 on the second device 120, as will be referred to below. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C To be discussed in more detail.
[0052] Second equipment (in) FIG. 1AIn the example, the carrying case 120 also includes a controller 125 for controlling the operation of the second device 120. This operation may include, but is not limited to, the use of a (suitable) charging current. Therefore, the controller 125 is configured to control the overall operation of the second device 120. In one embodiment, the controller 125 is a general-purpose controller. As those skilled in the art will understand, many alternatives exist for how the controller is implemented, such as using a field-programmable gate array (ASIC), as supplementary or alternative solutions. For the purposes of this application, all such possibilities and alternatives will be simply referred to as controller 125.
[0053] Second equipment (in) FIG. 1A In the example, the carrying case 120 also includes a memory configured to carry computer-readable instructions that, when loaded into and executed by the controller, enable the controller 125 to perform the teachings herein. In some embodiments, the memory 126 is a separate component. In some embodiments, the memory 126 is included within the controller 125. As those skilled in the art will understand, there are many alternatives to how the memory is implemented, such as using non-volatile memory circuitry, such as EEPROM memory circuitry, or using volatile memory circuitry, such as RAM memory circuitry. For the purposes of this application, all such alternatives will be simply referred to as memory 126.
[0054] Second equipment (in) FIG. 1A In the example, the carrying case 120 also includes a magnetic holding device 124, which is configured to establish a magnetic hold to hold the first device 110 to the second device 120. The first device (in...) FIG. 1A In the example, the earphone 110 includes a magnetic holding counterpart 111 arranged to interact with a magnetic holding device 124 of the second device 120 for holding the first device 110 to the second device 120 and vice versa. The magnetic holding device 124 includes an electrically activated magnet (electromagnet) 124A. It is known that such a magnet can be electrically activated to provide an attractive or repulsive magnetic force. It is also known that the magnet can be deactivated.
[0055] In some embodiments, the magnetic holding device 124 further includes a permanent magnet 124B.
[0056] like FIG. 1A As indicated, the magnetic holding device 124 (and in some embodiments, in particular the electromagnet 124A) is connected to the controller 125, such that the controller 125 can activate or deactivate the magnetic holding device 124. The controller 125 may control the attractive / repulsive force of the electromagnet 124A based on providing current in different directions, as is known to those skilled in the art.
[0057] In some embodiments, the controller 125 is configured to control the magnetic holding device 124 to attract the magnetic holding counterpart 111 in order to hold the first device 110 to the second device 120.
[0058] In some such embodiments, the controller 125 is configured to activate the electromagnet 124A to attract the magnetically retaining counterpart 111. In some alternative such embodiments, the controller 125 is configured to deactivate the electromagnet 124A, such that the permanent magnet 124B is able to attract the magnetically retaining counterpart 111. In such embodiments, the electromagnet 124A is arranged to operate in a magnetic direction opposite to that of the permanent magnet 124B when activated.
[0059] In some embodiments, the controller 125 is configured to control the magnetic holding device 124 to release the magnetic holding counterpart 111 in order to release the first device 110 from the second device 120. In some such embodiments, the controller 125 is configured to activate the electromagnet 124A to repel the magnetic holding counterpart 111. In some alternative such embodiments, the controller 125 is configured to activate the electromagnet 124A in the opposite direction to the permanent magnet 124B in order to counteract the permanent magnet 124B in order to release the magnetic holding counterpart 111.
[0060] In some such embodiments, the controller 125 is configured to activate the electromagnet 124A in a first direction to attract the magnetic holding counterpart 111, thereby holding the first device 110, and to activate the electromagnet 124A in a second direction to repel the magnetic holding counterpart 111, thereby releasing the first device 110.
[0061] The second device 120, in some embodiments, such as the second device being a carrying case. FIG. 1A In the example, the second device includes a sensor 122 in the lid 121 and a (counter) sensor 123 in the body of the second device 120, enabling the controller 125 to determine whether the lid is open. As those skilled in the art will understand, such sensor pairs 122 / 123 can be configured in various ways. One example is that a magnetic component is used as the sensor element 122 in the lid and a sensor (such as a Hall sensor 123) in the body of the second device 120. Other alternatives exist, such as an electromechanical switch arranged to signal the controller 125 whether the lid 121 is open. This enables the controller 125 to determine whether the lid 121 is open and accordingly control the magnetic holding device 124 to hold the first device 110.
[0062] Returning to the first device 110, the first device 110 also includes a touch sensor 112. As will be discussed in more detail below, the touch sensor 112 is operatively connected to the controller 125 via connectors 113 and 127, such that the controller 125 can determine whether the first device 110 (or more precisely, the touch sensor 112) has been touched, and accordingly control the magnetic holding device 124 to hold or release the first device 110. In some embodiments, the touch sensor 112 is an area comprising a conductive material. Some examples of such conductive materials are metal plates, FPC (flexible printed circuit) cables, indium tin oxide (ITO), metal connectors, metal-injected plastics, to name a few.
[0063] FIG. 1B As shown FIG. 1A The schematic diagram of the holding system 100 shown is provided, in which some parts and components are omitted for illustrative purposes.
[0064] like FIG. 1B As indicated in the document, the first device 110 also includes a first conductor 115A for connecting the touch sensor 112 to the first connector 113A, which is arranged to connect to a first connector 127A on the second device 120.
[0065] In some embodiments, the first connector 113A may be a dedicated connector for the touch sensor 112. In such an embodiment, other conductors(s) 115B are arranged to connect to the battery 114 of the first device 110 via other connectors 113B connected to other connectors 127B of the second device 120. In such an embodiment, both other connectors 113B and 127B include at least two connectors for establishing a charging connection.
[0066] In some alternative embodiments, and as such FIG. 1B As explicitly shown, the first connector 113A is shared between the touch sensor 112 and the battery 114. In such an embodiment, an additional or second conductor 115B is arranged to connect to the battery 114 of the first device 110 via another or second connector 113B connected to another or second connector 127B of the second device 120. Thus, as FIG. 1B The conductor between battery 114 and first conductor 115A, as indicated by the dashed line, is optional.
[0067] like FIG. 1BAs indicated, the controller 125 of the second device 120 includes (as included or operatively connected to) a touch integrated circuit controller (touch IC) 125A. The touch IC 125A is connected to a first connector 127A, thereby being arranged to be connected to the touch sensor 112 of the first device 110 via a first connector 113A and a first conductor 115A.
[0068] For example FIG. 1B As indicated in the embodiment where the first device 110 includes a battery to be charged, the controller 125 of the second device 120 may further include (as included or operatively connected to) a charging controller 125B (PMIC). The PMIC is connected to the battery 114 of the first device 110 via one or more connectors 127B and one or more connectors 113B and a second conductor 115B of the first device 110.
[0069] Now refer to FIG. 1C A more detailed discussion of the touch IC 125A, FIG. 1C Two graphs showing voltage changes over time are shown, each representing a scenario where the touch sensor 112 is not touched. FIG. 1C (left side of the middle) and the scene being touched ( FIG. 1C (The right side of the middle).
[0070] Touch IC 125A is a component that charges and discharges conductive areas, such as touch sensor 112. The touch IC calculates the time from a discharge state to a charge state. When a finger or conductive material approaches or touches conductive sensor 112, the total conductivity changes, and the time required for charging and discharging also changes. Touch IC 125A is configured to measure this charging / discharging time to detect the presence of a touch.
[0071] In some embodiments, the touch IC 125A also charges and discharges the conductors in the touch sensor 112. For example... FIG. 1B As indicated, charging the touch sensor 112 requires only one conductor 115A (as a conductive pad). The touch IC adds charge during the charging period. During the discharging period, the touch IC grounds conductor 115, and the charge in the capacitor (C) connected to the touch IC 125A is discharged. In some embodiments, the capacitor (C) is included (including possibly being arranged close to and connected to) the touch controller. In some embodiments, the capacitor (C) is included (including possibly being arranged close to and connected to) the touch sensor, such as... FIG. 1B As shown.
[0072] FIG. 1CThe applied charging current is shown in solid lines and the capacitor charge is shown in dashed lines. As can be seen, the time required for charging (and discharging) increases when the touch sensor 112 is touched.
[0073] Similar examples of touch ICs can be found in touchscreens; however, these touch ICs are used for a completely different purpose: determining when a user is touching the touchscreen. The inventors have recognized through inventive reasoning that such touch ICs can also be used beneficially as taught herein.
[0074] In some embodiments, the same connector 113 as the charging connector is used (e.g., FIG. 1B (In this embodiment). In such an embodiment, the controller is determining which (sub)controller should be active. PMIC 125B is connected to charging connectors 113 / 127, which will have an anode and a cathode to be able to connect to the corresponding connectors on battery 114. Touch IC 125A will share the anode signal (first connector 113A / 127A) because the cathode (second connector 113B / 127B) is typically connected to ground, which would make it difficult to use that connector.
[0075] In some embodiments, a switch is arranged on the cathode to remove the connector from ground when the touch IC is activated. This makes it possible to use the connector for touch implementation.
[0076] Since the battery will be conductive, the touch system is calibrated in some embodiments. This allows the battery to be considered, and both the touch sensor 112 and the battery 114 will steal charge from the PMIC when a conductive object or finger is near the touch sensor 112. The battery 114 is DC current, i.e., there is no switching current; therefore, the touch IC will be able to switch charging and discharging on the DC current of the battery 114.
[0077] To obtain a good touch signal, charging can be stopped when the touch sensor 112 is activated or triggered (such as when it is touched). This can be done temporarily or when the cover is opened.
[0078] When this is done temporarily, the PMIC will be shut off for a short period. This interval could be, for example, once per second. When a touch is active, the touch IC will detect the presence or proximity of a finger on the touch sensor 112. If a finger or other touch is detected, charging will be turned off, and further measurements used to detect the touch will be performed.
[0079] As discussed above, the lid 121 may be equipped with a pair of sensors 122 / 123 that enable the controller 125 to determine whether the lid is open. This is when there is activation (such as the lid being opened) or when the case is gripped by the sensors. In some embodiments, the controller 125 is configured to detect that the lid is open and, in response, stop or deactivate charging, and the touch IC will be turned on or activated. As in the case of temporary switching described above, it is the controller 125 that determines which IC (touch IC or PMIC) should be active.
[0080] In some embodiments, a connector 113 different from the charging connector is used (not explicitly shown, but...). FIG. 1B The diagram is illustrated by assuming that connectors 113B / 127B include more than one connector. In such an embodiment, touch IC 125A will not be interfered with by the charging current from PMIC 125B to battery 114. The connection 113B / 127B to battery 114 then has two wires, one anode and one cathode, and they are connected to PMIC 125B. From touch IC 125A, there are separate lines 113A / 127A connected to touch sensor 112. A third separate connector point is then required in the charging pad (…). FIG. 1B The charging pad will host a separate connector from the touch IC 125A (connectors 113A / 127A and two connectors assumed to be part of connectors 113B / 127B).
[0081] Now we will refer to one aspect. FIG. 2A , FIG. 2B , FIG. 2C , FIG. 2D , FIG. 2E , FIG. 2F And for another aspect of reference FIG. 4A , FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C The embodiments of the teachings herein will be discussed in more detail. For both aspects, a holding system 100 comprising a first device 110 and a second device 120 will be discussed. The first device 110 includes a magnetic holding counterpart 111 and a touch sensor 112. The second device 120 includes: a magnetic holding device 124 configured to establish magnetic holding with the magnetic holding counterpart 111 to hold the first device 110 to the second device 120; and controller circuitry 125. The controller 125 is configured to activate the holding device 124, receive a device access input 310, and in response, activate a touch controller 125A 320. Later, when the second device receives a touch input 340 via the touch sensor 112, it releases the magnetic holding device 124.
[0082] FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B , FIG. 2B , FIG. 2C , FIG. 2C and FIG. 2D Each of the accompanying drawings shows a schematic diagram of an example of a holding system 100 according to the teachings of this document. (Refer to these figures and...) FIG. 2D In the disclosed embodiments, the holding system includes a first device, exemplified as earphone 110, and a second device, exemplified as carrying case 100, and... FIG. 2E , FIG. 2F and FIG. 3 They are basically the same. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D In this case, the carrying case 120 is shown closed. In such an example, since the headphones 110 are securely held in place by the closed cover without requiring specific retention, the retention system can be inactive. FIG. 4A In this configuration, the carrying case 120 is opened, and the earphones are visible. In this case, the retaining device can be activated, thereby enabling the retaining device 124 of the carrying case 120 to attract or retain the earphones 110 by implementing an attractive magnetic force on the retaining counterparts 111 of the earphones(one or more), thus activating the retaining device in the retaining direction. As mentioned above, the retaining device 124 may include a permanent magnet, thus requiring no specific activation. Additionally or alternatively, the retaining device 124 includes an electromagnet, which is activated in some embodiments when the lid is opened, or more specifically, when the lid is detected to be open. In some embodiments, the retaining device includes both a permanent magnet and an electromagnet. In some such embodiments, the electromagnet is also activated to add to the magnetic attraction of the permanent magnet. The attractive magnetic force... FIG. 4B The arrow indicates the direction.
[0083] In some embodiments, if the carrying case 120 is detected to be carrying one or two (or more) earphones 110, the magnetic holding device is activated only (e.g., by activating an electromagnet). In some such embodiments, this can be detected by a connection via charging pads 113 and 127 or other contacts therein, thus the charging pads are in contact, indicating the presence of earphones. In some embodiments where the carrying case 120 is arranged to charge the earphones 110, such charging can be achieved when there is a connection between the charging pads 113, 127.
[0084] FIG. 4CThe illustration shows a user touching the earphones 110, such as when grasping them to remove them. This causes the controller to detect the touch input as discussed above, whereby the controller 125 releases the earphones 110 by reducing the attractive magnetic force. In some embodiments, the attractive magnetic force is reduced by deactivating or reducing the action of the electromagnet. In some embodiments, the attractive magnetic force is reduced by activating or increasing the action of the electromagnet in the opposite repulsive direction. In embodiments employing permanent magnets, the electromagnet can thus be used to counteract or neutralize the permanent magnet. In some embodiments, the electromagnet can be used to eject the earphones 110 from the carrying case or at least make it easier to retract them by providing a repulsive magnetic force that pushes the magnetic counterpart of the earphones 110 or retracts it. It should be noted that even though the magnetic retaining device 124 and the magnetic counterpart 111 are shown as being on the sides of the carrying case 120 and the earphones 110, they can be otherwise positioned or arranged to increase this repulsive effect. FIG. 4A In the middle, the arrow indicates the repulsive force.
[0085] FIG. 4B The illustration shows the earphones 110 being removed from the carrying case 120. In this case, the retaining device can be (re)deactivated. Similar to the above, this can be done when no connection is detected between the charging pads 117 and 123 or other contacts therein. In some embodiments where the carrying case 120 is arranged to charge the earphones 110, such charging can be deactivated when no connection is present between the charging pads 113, 127.
[0086] FIG. 4C An example view is shown where one earphone 110 is removed from the carrying case 120, while the second earphone remains in the carrying case 120. In this configuration, charging can be stopped for the removed earphone, but charging can be maintained for the earphone still in the carrying case 120. This allows for the use of only one earphone while charging the other. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C An example is shown where both earbuds are removed from the carrying case 120, thereby stopping charging for all earbuds. FIG. 1A-FIG. 1C The following scenario is illustrated: the carrying case 120 is closed again, but since there are no headphones in the carrying case (which can be perceived as discussed above), the retaining device is not engaged when the carrying case is reopened.
[0087] The foregoing discussed how controller 125 activates (e.g., by activating an electromagnet and / or a touch sensor) retaining device 124 when the lid is opened. The opening of lid 121 is one example of device access input. Other examples are cases where the user actively gives a command, such as via a (third) separate device, or by pressing a button (not shown) on the carrying case.
[0088] As a useful alternative to carrying cases without lids or with loose lids, and as discussed above, the controller circuit 125 is configured, in addition to or as an alternative to the receiving device access input, to activate the holding device 124 in response to detecting an electrical connection between the connector 127 of the second device 120 and the connector 113 of the first device 110. This can also be used to ensure that the headphones are indeed inserted so as to avoid any current consumed by the electromagnet being wasted.
[0089] FIG. 2A-FIG. 2D A flowchart is shown for use in a holding system 100 comprising a first device 110 and a second device 120, wherein the first device 110 includes a magnetic holding counterpart 111 and a touch sensor 112, and wherein the second device 120 includes a magnetic holding means 124 configured to establish magnetic holding with the magnetic holding counterpart 111 in order to hold the first device 110 to the second device 120. Holding System Reference FIG. 3 Example of a carrying case 120 for one or more headphones 110. The method includes: activating a retaining device 124 330, receiving a device access input 310 and activating a touch release interface 320 in response to therein, receiving a touch input via a touch sensor 112 340 and releasing the magnetic retaining device 124 350 in response to therein.
[0090] FIG. 4A-FIG. 4C , FIG. 4A-FIG. 4C and FIG. 1A-FIG. 1C Each illustration shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment in which the first device is exemplified as a charging cable or other connection cable connected to the second device, which is exemplified herein as a smartphone, but may also be a tablet computer or laptop computer or any device having a controller and being arranged to receive a charging connector / cable.
[0091] exist FIG. 2A-FIG. 2D The diagram illustrates how the connecting line 110 is connected to the smartphone 120. As discussed above, the magnetic holding device 124 is activated, holding the connecting line 110 (first device) to the smartphone 120 (second device). FIG. 3 In the process, touch input is received, and the holding or attracting magnetic force is deactivated or reduced.
[0092] exist FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D The image shows how the connecting line 110 is released from the smartphone, possibly by a repulsive magnetic force or a reverse magnetic force.
[0093] exist In one embodiment, the first device 110 is a charging cable, and the second device 120 is an electronic device.
[0094] It should be noted that the above is for reference only. , or The aspects or characteristics discussed also apply to And refer to The aspects and characteristics discussed also apply to , or .
[0095] about In some embodiments, the controller circuit (125) is configured to activate the holding device (124) in response to detecting that the connector (127) of the second device (120) is electrically connected to the connector (113) of the first device (110).
[0096] In some such embodiments, the controller circuitry (125) is also configured to receive device access input by detecting that the charge level is below a charging threshold level. In some embodiments, the charging threshold level is 90%, 95%, or higher of the full charge. This allows the connection cable to be released when the electronic device is (fully) charged.
[0097] As discussed, in some embodiments, the charging cable is a USB charging cable. Also as discussed, in some embodiments, the electronic device (120) is a laptop computer, a cellular communication device (such as a smartphone), or a tablet computer.
[0098] In some embodiments, the electronic device (120) is a speaker.
[0099] In some embodiments, the electronic device (120) is a power bank or other power source, such as a charger. In such embodiments, a second device may be present that is connected to either end of the connection cable.
Claims
1. A holding system (100) comprising a first device (110) and a second device (120), wherein, The first device (110) comprises: a magnetic holding counterpart (111), and a touch sensor (112), and wherein the second device (120) comprises: a magnetic holding arrangement (124) configured to establish a magnetic hold with the magnetic holding counterpart (111) in order to hold the first device (110) to the second device (120), and a controller circuit (125) configured to: activate the holding arrangement (124), receive (310) a device access input, and in response thereto activate (320) a touch controller (125A), receive (340) a touch input by the touch sensor (112), and in response thereto cause the magnetic holding arrangement (124) to release.
2. The holding system (100) according to claim 1, wherein The controller circuit (125) of the second device (120) comprises the touch controller (125A).
3. The holding system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the touch sensor (112) comprises a conductive area, and wherein the first device (110) comprises a conductor (115A) and a first connector (113A), and wherein the second device (120) comprises a first connector (127A) arranged to connect with the first connector (113A) of the first device (110), and wherein the touch sensor (112) is connected to the first connector (113A) through the conductor (115A), and wherein the touch controller (125A) is connected to the first connector (127A), so as to be directly connected to the touch sensor (112) when the first connector (127A) of the second device (120) is connected with the first connector (113A) of the first device (110).
4. The holding system (100) according to claim 3, wherein The touch controller (125A) is connected to a capacitor (C), and wherein the touch controller (125A) is configured to: measure a time to charge and / or discharge the capacitor (C), and determine, based on the time to charge and / or discharge the capacitor (C), whether the touch sensor (112) is touched, wherein the time to charge and / or discharge the capacitor (C) is longer when the touch sensor (112) is touched than when the touch sensor (112) is not touched.
5. The holding system (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein, The connector (113) of the first device (110) comprises a charging connector, and the connector (113) of the first device (110) comprises a charging connector, and wherein one of the first device (110) or the second device (120) is arranged to provide a charging current to the other of the first device (110) or the second device (120).
6. The retention system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein, The magnetic holding arrangement (124) comprises an electromagnet (124A).
7. The holding system (100) according to claim 6, wherein The magnetic holding arrangement (124) further comprises a permanent magnet (124B).
8. The retention system (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein, The controller circuit (125) is further configured to: The magnetic retention device (124) is activated by activating the electromagnet (124A) in a retention direction.
9. The retention system (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein, The controller circuit (125) is further configured to release the magnetic retention device (124) by deactivating the electromagnet (124A).
10. The holding system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The controller circuit (125) is further configured to release the magnetic retention device (124) by activating the electromagnet (124A) in an opposite direction.
11. The retention system (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein, The first device (110) is an earphone, and the second device (120) is a carrying case for the first device, and wherein the carrying case comprises a cover (121).
12. The retention system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein, The controller circuit (125) is further configured to activate the retention device (124) in response to receiving the device access input.
13. The holding system (100) according to claims 11 and 12, wherein, The device access input is the cover (121) being opened.
14. The holding system (100) according to claim 10 when dependent on claim 2, wherein, The controller circuit (125) is further configured to activate the retention device (124) in response to detecting the connector (127) of the second device (120) being electrically connected to the connector (113) of the first device (110) in addition to in response to receiving the device access input.
15. The holding system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The first device (110) is a charging cord, and the second device (120) is an electronic device.
16. The holding system (100) according to claim 15, wherein The controller circuit (125) is further configured to activate the retention device (124) in response to detecting the connector (127) of the second device (120) being electrically connected to the connector (113) of the first device (110).
17. The holding system (100) according to claim 16, wherein The controller circuit (125) is further configured to receive the device access input by detecting a charge level being below a charge threshold level.
18. The holding system (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein, The charging cord is a USB charging cord.
19. The holding system (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein The electronic device (120) is a laptop computer.
20. The holding system (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein The electronic device (120) is a cellular communication device or a tablet computer.
21. The holding system (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein The electronic device (120) is a speaker.
22. The holding system (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein The electronic device (120) is a power bank.
23. The retention system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein, The connector (127) comprises the magnetic retention device (124), and wherein the connector (113) comprises the magnetic counterpart (111).
24. A first device (110) configured to be used in a holding system (100) according to any of claims 1 to 23, wherein, The first device (110) comprises: a magnetic retention counterpart (111), and a touch sensor (112).
25. A second device (120) configured to be used in a holding system (100) according to any of claims 1 to 23, wherein, The second device (120) comprises: a magnetic retention device (124) configured to establish a magnetic retention with the magnetic retention counterpart (111) in order to retain the first device (110) to the second device (120), and a controller circuit (125) configured to: activate the retention device (124), receive (310) a device access input, and in response thereto, activate (320) a touch release interface, receive (340) a touch input by the touch sensor (112), and in response thereto, cause the magnetic retention device (124) to release.
26. A method for use in a holding system (100) comprising a first device (110) and a second device (120), wherein, The first device (110) comprises: a magnetic retention counterpart (111), and a touch sensor (112), and wherein the second device (120) comprises: a magnetic retention device (124) configured to establish a magnetic retention with the magnetic retention counterpart (111) in order to retain the first device (110) to the second device (120), and a controller circuit (125) configured to: activate the retention device (124), receive (310) a device access input, and in response thereto, activate (320) a touch release interface, receive (340) a touch input by the touch sensor (112), and in response thereto, cause the magnetic retention device (124) to release. a magnetic holding device (124) configured to establish a magnetic hold with the magnetic holding counterpart (111) in order to hold the first device (110) to the second device (120), and wherein the method comprises: activating the holding device (124), receiving (310) a device access input, and in response thereto activating (320) a touch release interface, receiving (340) a touch input by the touch sensor (112), and in response thereto causing the magnetic holding device (124) to release (350).