3D Multipolar Magnet Array for Foldable Display EMR Compatibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

The magnetic field generated by magnets in a foldable electronic device reduces the area available for input devices using electromagnetic induction, such as a stylus pen, due to the repulsive force when the device is folded.

Innovation Solution

A magnet array with a designated three-dimensional multipolar magnetic array is used to deviate the direction of the magnetic field, reducing its magnitude on the display area while maintaining the gap reduction effect.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If magnets are disposed at two opposite ends of the separated housings to reduce the gap, then the gap between housings is reduced, but the area available for input devices using electromagnetic induction is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegap between housingsVSAvoidarea available for input devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating different magnetic field characteristics in different spatial zones. The magnetic array is configured to generate a first magnetic field with high magnitude in the gap region (to reduce gap) while generating a second magnetic field with low magnitude in the display area (to preserve input device functionality). This spatial differentiation of magnetic field properties resolves the contradiction between gap reduction and input device area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from conventional two-dimensional magnet placement to a three-dimensional magnetic array structure. By arranging magnets in a three-dimensional configuration with specific polarities, the system achieves directional control of magnetic fields, allowing strong attraction in the gap direction while minimizing field penetration into the display area. This dimensional approach enables simultaneous optimization of both gap reduction and input device operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Strength

If a strong magnetic field is generated to maintain structural integrity of the foldable device, then the gap reduction effect is improved, but the magnetic field interference on input devices increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidmagnetic field interference on input devices
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the magnetic field generation into multiple independent magnetic elements arranged in a three-dimensional array. Each magnet in the array can be independently configured with specific polarity orientations. This segmentation allows the system to generate strong overall magnetic force for structural integrity while individual magnet configurations minimize harmful field interference in the display area through constructive and destructive interference patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a composite magnetic array structure combining multiple magnets with different polarities and orientations. This composite arrangement creates a magnetic field distribution that simultaneously achieves strong attractive force for structural integrity and reduced magnetic interference for input device operation, effectively combining beneficial field characteristics while eliminating harmful ones.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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

The solution effectively minimizes the magnetic field interference on input devices while maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of the foldable electronic device.

Implementation Method 1

a magnet array including a plurality of magnets in a three-dimensional multipolar magnetic array

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

the magnetic field generated from the magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Force

Implementation Method 3

The electronic device may detect the magnetic field generated from the input device using electro magnetic resonance (hereinafter, referred to as EMR) scheme

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12436575B2Electronic device comprising magnet array
Publication Date: 2025.10.07 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US12436575B2 patent drawing
  • US12436575B2 patent drawing
  • US12436575B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a foldable housing which has a hinge structure including a first housing and a second housing, the first housing is connected to the hinge structure and includes a first surface facing a first direction, a second surface facing a second direction opposite the first direction, and a first side surrounding the space between the first second surface, and the second housing is connected to the hinge structure and includes a third surface facing a third direction, a fourth surface facing a fourth direction opposite the third direction, and a second side, the first surface facing the third surface when the electronic device is in a folded state, and the third direction being the same as the first direction when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, a flexible display extending from the first and third surface, and a magnet array.