Hybrid Magnetic Array with Dynamic Electromagnet Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Permanent magnetic attachment features are insufficient in withstanding peak or abnormal operating conditions, as they have a fixed magnetic field strength and can interfere with nearby magnetically sensitive objects, and may not provide enough force to maintain component connection during accidental bumps or drops.
Innovation Solution
Integration of electromagnets with magnetic field sensors and switches that energize the electromagnets only when necessary, such as during changes in the magnetic field indicative of movement or drops, to augment the attachment force provided by permanent magnets, minimizing power consumption and reducing interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the magnetic field strength of permanent magnets is increased to withstand peak operating conditions, then the attachment force is improved, but interference with nearby magnetically sensitive objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static permanent magnet system to a dynamic electromagnet system. The electromagnet's magnetic field strength can be dynamically adjusted based on operating conditions - increased during peak loads or drops to maintain attachment, and reduced during normal operation to minimize interference with magnetically sensitive objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the magnetic field parameter from fixed (permanent magnet) to variable (electromagnet). By controlling the current through the electromagnet, the magnetic field strength can be changed on demand - strengthened when needed for attachment security and weakened when interference must be minimized.
2Force
If electromagnets are used to provide variable attachment force, then the attachment force can be dynamically adjusted, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action by implementing sensors that continuously monitor attachment conditions and trigger electromagnet activation only when needed - such as during detected drops, bumps, or separation attempts. This intermittent operation allows dynamic force adjustment while minimizing overall power consumption compared to continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through sensors (accelerometers, magnetic field sensors, or separation detectors) that monitor attachment status and provide signals to control the electromagnet. The electromagnet is activated only when sensor feedback indicates a need for enhanced attachment force, optimizing the balance between attachment security and power consumption.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If permanent magnets are used for attachment, then no power source is required, but the magnetic field strength is fixed and insufficient for peak conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of both permanent magnets and electromagnets into a hybrid system. The permanent magnet provides baseline attachment force without power consumption, while the electromagnet supplements this force when needed. This combination maintains the zero-power advantage during normal operation while enabling enhanced force when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional magnetic attachment system where the permanent magnet handles normal attachment operations without power, and the electromagnet handles peak condition scenarios. The system universally covers both low-power normal operation and high-force emergency retention requirements.
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
Enhances the attachment force dynamically to withstand peak conditions while minimizing power expenditure and reducing the risk of disconnection, and helps in protecting devices from impact damage by controlling deceleration during drops.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet; a magnetic field sensor that includes a switch that electrically couples the electromagnet with the power source to energize the electromagnet
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic field sensor that includes a switch that electrically couples the electromagnet with the power source to energize the electromagnet when changes detected by the magnetic field sensor in a magnetic field fall within a predefined range of magnetic field characteristics
Implementation Method 3
a permanent magnet configured to secure a magnetically attractable device to an exterior surface of the portable electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
This application relates to devices and accessories that include or are configured to react with a mixture of electromagnets and permanent magnets. In particular the permanent magnets are configured to maintain persistent connections between components while the electromagnets are configured to pulse or activate periodically to maintain the connections or fix alignment of the various connections in certain circumstances.