Force-Sensor Dock Interface for Intent-Based Tablet Undocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for signaling intent to dock or undock electronic devices from a dock, such as tablets, are limited in applicability and can interfere with the device's aesthetic, necessitating a user-friendly solution.
Innovation Solution
Implementing force sensors, such as strain gauges, to detect changes in force or pressure distribution indicative of docking or undocking intentions, utilizing electropermanent magnets to facilitate easy attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical buttons or touch interface buttons are used to signal docking/undocking intent, then the device can detect user intent, but the device's aesthetic is interfered with and applicability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the docking/undocking signal detection function from the device's physical structure (removing buttons) and relocates it to the magnetic coupling interface. The force sensor is integrated into the magnetic dock assembly rather than the tablet, allowing intent detection without adding visible controls to the device body, thus preserving aesthetic while enabling operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces force sensors as an intermediary element between the user's physical action (lifting/placing the device) and the system's response (docking/undocking). This intermediary detects the mechanical force applied during magnetic coupling or separation, translating physical intent into digital signals without requiring visible buttons or controls on the device.
2Ease of operation
If magnetic coupling is used for docking, then attachment and detachment are easy, but a method is needed to reliably detect the transition states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having force sensors continuously monitor the magnetic coupling interface before, during, and after docking/undocking operations. The sensors detect force changes that precede complete separation or attachment, allowing the system to anticipate and prepare for state transitions before they fully occur, ensuring reliable detection of intermediate states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where force sensor data is continuously fed back to the processing system to determine docking/undocking intent. The system monitors force magnitude, direction, and duration, using this feedback to distinguish between intentional undocking actions and incidental movements, thereby achieving precise transition state detection that maintains ease of operation.
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
Provides a natural and intuitive 'grab and go' experience for undocking, enhancing user interaction while maintaining the device's aesthetic integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The electronic device may include a first set of magnets, the first set of magnets arranged to magnetically couple with a second set of magnets of the dock
Implementation Method 2
one or more force sensors for detecting a signal indicative of intent to dock and undock the electronic device from the dock. The signal may be a force or pressure distribution associated with the electronic device being lifted away from the dock
Data Source
AI summary
Various arrangements are presented for an electronic device having a battery housing and a tablet computer system having an electronic device having one or more force sensors and arrangements thereof for detecting signals indicative of intent to undock the electronic device from a dock. The electronic device may comprise an electronic display. The electronic device may include a plurality of electrical contacts arranged to transfer electrical signals between the dock and the electronic device when the electronic device is magnetically docked with the dock. The dock and/or the electronic device may include force sensors for detecting a signal indicative of intent to dock and undock the electronic device from the dock. The signal may be a force or pressure distribution associated with the electronic device being lifted away from the dock or setting the electronic device onto the dock for docking.