Hinge Magnet Assembly for Precise Fold-State Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face challenges in accurately detecting their folding state due to insufficient magnetic field strength when a magnet and sensor are disposed at a set distance from each other, hindering precise state detection.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a hinge structure with a magnet assembly and sensor module where the magnet is affixed using a non-metallic material to reduce magnetization, and the distance between the magnet and sensor changes with folding and unfolding motions, ensuring sufficient magnetic field strength for accurate detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the magnet and sensor are disposed at a set distance from each other, then the device structure is simplified and manufacturing is easier, but the magnetic field strength detected by the sensor is insufficient, hindering accurate state detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the distance between the magnet and sensor dynamic rather than fixed. The magnet is attached to the rotary member that rotates during folding/unfolding, causing the distance to change automatically with the device state. This dynamic arrangement allows the sensor to detect sufficient magnetic field strength at certain positions while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial parameter (distance) between the magnet and sensor by attaching the magnet to a rotating component. As the rotary member rotates through different angles during folding and unfolding, the distance parameter varies dynamically, enabling the sensor to detect adequate magnetic field strength without requiring a permanently reduced distance or increased magnet strength.
2Strength
If the magnet is affixed using metallic material, then the attachment is stronger and more durable, but the magnetization of the hinge structure increases, interfering with magnetic field detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite material approach by combining a non-metallic adhesive (such as epoxy or polyurethane) with metallic reinforcement elements (such as metal flakes or fibers) in the adhesive layer. This composite material provides both strong attachment strength and non-magnetic properties, preventing interference with the magnetic field detection while ensuring durable bonding between the magnet and rotary member.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by using non-metallic material specifically at the critical location where the magnet attaches to the rotary member. This localized application of non-magnetic material ensures that the hinge structure does not become magnetized, while the overall structural strength is maintained through proper adhesive formulation and bonding design.
3Measurement precision
If the distance between magnet and sensor is reduced to increase magnetic field strength, then detection accuracy improves, but the risk of physical interference and wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic distance arrangement where the magnet is attached to a rotary member that rotates during device folding and unfolding. This creates a variable distance between the magnet and sensor, allowing the system to achieve sufficient magnetic field strength at certain rotation angles without the components being in constant close proximity, thereby reducing physical interference and wear risks.
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 configuration allows for precise detection of the device's state, enabling accurate operation adjustments based on its folded or unfolded condition.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor may be a Hall sensor and configured to detect a strength and/or direction of a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
The sensor may be a Hall sensor and configured to detect a strength and/or direction of a magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a first and second housing, a sensor module, and a hinge. The hinge includes first and second rotary members, a first arm rotatable about a first arm shaft, operating in conjunction with rotation of the first rotary member, wherein a rotational axis of the first arm shaft is different from the first axis of rotation, a second arm rotatable about a second arm shaft, operating in conjunction with rotation of the second rotary member, wherein a rotational axis of the second arm shaft is different from the second axis of rotation, and a magnet assembly disposed on at least one of the first arm member or the second arm member such that at least a portion of the magnet assembly faces the sensor, wherein a distance between the magnet and the sensor is changeable based on rotation of the first and second housing.