Lid Magnetic Sensing Layout for Reliable Multi-Magnet Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless device cases face issues with unreliable magnetic sensor detection due to interference from multiple magnets, leading to inefficient charging and potential damage, especially in compact designs where regulations prohibit charging during transit.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic sensing device using a magnetic sensor and strategically positioned first, second, and third magnets, where the sensor is triggered by different magnetic polarities based on the case's state, ensuring reliable detection and reducing interference by saturating the sensor with deep polarity saturation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If multiple magnets are used in the case to hold the lid closed and hold wireless devices, then the holding force and functionality are improved, but magnetic sensor detection reliability deteriorates due to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the magnetic sensing function into two independent sensors: a first magnetic sensor dedicated to detecting lid closure state and a second magnetic sensor dedicated to detecting wireless device presence. This segmentation isolates each sensor's detection function from interference by other magnets, as each sensor monitors a specific magnetic field region associated with its designated magnet, thereby resolving the reliability issue while maintaining multiple holding magnets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field shielding structures (such as ferromagnetic shields or magnetic field isolation elements) as intermediaries between the magnets and the magnetic sensors. These shields act as mediators that redirect or contain magnetic field lines, preventing stray magnetic fields from interfering with sensor detection while allowing the magnets to maintain their holding function. This intermediary structure resolves the contradiction by protecting sensor reliability without reducing holding force.
2Volume of moving object
If the case is designed to be compact, then the portability and space efficiency are improved, but magnetic sensor detection accuracy deteriorates due to increased magnet proximity and interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns specific detection zones to each magnetic sensor, with the first sensor monitoring the magnetic field region near the lid closure magnet and the second sensor monitoring the region near the device-holding magnet. This spatial segmentation of detection functions allows accurate detection despite compact dimensions, as each sensor focuses on its designated zone and is less affected by magnets in other zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs magnetic field shielding and directional sensing techniques to replace purely mechanical spacing solutions. Instead of relying solely on physical distance to reduce interference, the system uses magnetic field management through shielding materials and directional sensor orientation to maintain detection accuracy in compact designs, effectively substituting mechanical separation with magnetic field control.
3Measurement precision
If magnets are positioned close to magnetic sensors for efficient detection, then detection sensitivity is improved, but magnetic sensor damage risk increases due to strong magnetic fields
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions each magnetic sensor in close proximity to its designated magnet for high detection sensitivity, but segments the magnetic field environment using shielding structures. The first sensor is positioned near the lid magnet with its own shield, and the second sensor is positioned near the device-holding magnet with its own shield. This segmentation allows close positioning for sensitivity while the shields prevent excessive field strength from damaging the sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field shielding structures as intermediaries between the magnets and sensors. These shields are positioned between strong magnets and their corresponding sensors, allowing the magnets to be close to the sensors for sensitivity while the shields mediate the magnetic field strength, preventing damage while maintaining detection capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If charging is prohibited during transit per regulations, then compliance is improved, but energy conservation and out-of-box experience deteriorate due to unreliable case state detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses segmented magnetic detection (separate sensors for lid state and device presence) to achieve reliable case state determination. This reliable detection enables the charging system to accurately determine when the case is closed and devices are properly positioned, allowing charging to proceed only when appropriate. This resolves the contradiction by providing the detection reliability needed to comply with transit regulations while enabling energy conservation through accurate state monitoring that prevents inappropriate charging.
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 provides reliable proximity detection, reduces interference effects, and conserves energy by ensuring accurate case and device state determination, enhancing the out-of-box experience while adhering to regulatory requirements and minimizing magnet usage.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic sensor, wherein a first output of the magnetic sensor is triggered by magnetic fields having a first polarity and a second output of the magnetic sensor is triggered by magnetic fields having a second polarity
Implementation Method 2
a first magnet, the first magnet being positioned at a fixed distance from the magnetic sensor
Implementation Method 3
a magnetic field having the second polarity is a) from a third magnet, the third magnet being positioned at an adjustable distance from the magnetic sensor, or b) from the second magnet
Data Source
AI summary
The technology provides for a magnetic sensing device. The device includes a magnetic sensor configured to generate a first output triggered by a first polarity and a second output triggered by a second polarity. The device includes a first magnet, a second magnet, and a third magnet. The device may be configured such that, when the second magnet is not within a predetermined distance from the first magnet, a magnetic field from the first magnet having the first polarity causes the first output and the second output to have a first set of values. The device may be configured such that, when the second magnet is within the predetermined distance from the first magnet, a magnetic field from the third magnet having the second polarity causes the first output and the second output to have a second set of values.