Asymmetric Magnet Geometry for Lateral Restoring Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic couplings between electronic devices and accessory devices are prone to decoupling due to lateral forces, as they rely solely on normal magnetic forces, lacking lateral magnetic attraction, which can cause the devices to move or slide apart, and existing solutions like mechanical features compromise aesthetics and durability.
Innovation Solution
The use of magnetic elements with asymmetric surface profiles, such as trapezoidal or triangular shapes, that form magnetic circuits providing asymmetric counterforces to resist lateral movements, maintaining alignment and preventing decoupling by increasing the force required to overcome the magnetic attraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If magnets are used to form a magnetic coupling, then magnetic attraction force is provided, but lateral forces can cause the magnets to move or slide apart
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring at least one magnet with a non-symmetric geometry (e.g., rectangular, square, or triangular shape) such that the magnetic field distribution becomes asymmetric. This asymmetric magnetic field generates lateral restoring forces that automatically counteract lateral displacement forces, preventing the magnets from sliding apart without requiring additional mechanical features.
2Reliability
If mechanical features are added to prevent lateral movement, then coupling stability is improved, but aesthetics are reduced and mechanical features are susceptible to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical features (such as clips, latches, or interlocking structures) with a magnetically-generated restoring force. By configuring the magnet geometry to create an asymmetric magnetic field, the system produces lateral forces that automatically resist lateral displacement, eliminating the need for additional mechanical components and their associated aesthetic and durability compromises.
3Force
If larger magnets are used to increase magnetic attraction, then resistance to lateral forces is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the magnet (shape, orientation, dimensions) rather than simply increasing the magnet size. By optimizing the magnet geometry to create an asymmetric magnetic field configuration, the system generates lateral restoring forces that effectively resist lateral displacement without requiring proportionally larger magnets, thus maintaining compact device dimensions.
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
This solution enhances the resistance to lateral forces, reducing the need for mechanical features and allowing for more robust and aesthetically pleasing magnetic attachments that maintain device alignment without the use of larger magnets, thereby improving the reliability and design of electronic and accessory device couplings.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic force that attracts one magnet to the other... the magnetic circuit provides an asymmetric counterforce that causes the accessory magnet to align with the magnet
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device and accessory device are disclosed. The devices may be designed to magnetically couple together. Accordingly, each device may include one or more magnets that magnetically couple. In order to maintain the magnetic coupling and resist some at least some force or forces acting on, for example, the accessory device, the magnets may include a shape designed to increase the amount of force required to move the magnets in the accessory device relative to the magnets in the electronic device. The shape of the magnets may include polygonal shapes such as a trapezoid or a triangle. Magnets, having a trapezoidal or a triangular shape, magnetically couple with one another, may provide a stronger counterforce to lateral forces acting on the magnets.