Accessory Triggering Devices for Mobile Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computing device accessories lack features that enable them to unlock specific actions or features on the device, such as interactive functionalities with entertainment venues, which are not supported by existing designs.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating triggering devices like near field communication tags, magnets, capacitive tip nubs, acoustic resonators, and notch filters into accessories that interact with computing devices to generate detectable signals, allowing the device to perform specific actions when matched with stored signatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional accessories are used without triggering devices, then the device maintains basic protective functionality, but the accessory cannot unlock specific actions or features on the computing device
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides basic protection while also incorporating triggering devices (NFC tags, magnets, capacitive nubs, acoustic resonators, or notch filters) that enable it to unlock specific actions and features on the computing device. This multi-functionality allows a single accessory to serve both protective and interactive purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The triggering device acts as an intermediary between the accessory and the computing device. It mediates the interaction by generating detectable signals that the computing device can recognize, thereby enabling the accessory to control or unlock features on the device without requiring direct complex communication protocols.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple triggering devices are incorporated into the accessory, then the accessory can unlock more features and actions on the computing device, but the accessory structure and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different triggering devices are placed at specific locations within the accessory structure where they can most effectively interact with the computing device. For example, capacitive nubs are positioned to contact specific areas of the touchscreen, magnets are placed near the device's magnetometer, and notch filters are positioned over the camera lens. This localized placement optimizes functionality while simplifying manufacturing.
3Reliability
If the accessory includes triggering devices that generate detectable signals, then the computing device can recognize and respond to accessory-specific signals, but the device requires additional sensors and processing capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs non-mechanical signal generation methods such as electromagnetic fields (NFC tags, magnets), electrical fields (capacitive nubs), acoustic waves (acoustic resonators), and optical filtering (notch filters). These substitutions replace what would otherwise require complex mechanical interaction mechanisms, enabling reliable signal detection using the computing device's existing sensors.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables computing devices to recognize and respond to accessory-specific signals, unlocking features or actions, enhancing the interactive experience with entertainment venues and applications.
Implementation Method 1
The triggering device can include a near field communication tag embedded in the accessory. The near field communication tag can transmits one or more wireless signals to the computing device.
Implementation Method 2
The triggering device can include a magnet coupled to the accessory, wherein the magnet causes a change in a local magnetic field. The changes in the local magnetic field can be detected by a magnetometer of the computing device.
Implementation Method 3
The triggering device can include an acoustic resonator affixed to the accessory such that the acoustic resonator emits a target frequency. The target frequency can be received by a microphone of the computing device.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein include an accessory for a computing device. The accessory includes one or more physical attributes that can produce a signal that can be detected by one or more sensors of the computing device. Once detected by the one or more sensors of the computing device, the signal can be compared with at least one signature stored in a memory of the computing device. If there is a match between the detected signal and the signature in memory, an application running on the computing device can instruct the a processor of the computing device to execute an action.