Magnetic Field Compensating Conductive Traces for Compass Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with compasses face challenges in providing accurate compass data due to interfering magnetic fields generated by other electronic components, particularly in compact devices where components are in close proximity, leading to errors in angular degrees.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of power return lines that generate compensating magnetic fields to cancel out interfering fields, routed closer to the compass and formed in circular loops or with branches and resistors to optimize current flow and magnetic field strength, on printed circuit boards alongside power supply lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If power supply lines and electronic components are placed close to the compass in compact electronic devices, then device compactness is improved, but magnetic interference increases causing compass data errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful magnetic fields generated by power supply lines into beneficial compensating fields by routing power return lines close to the compass. The return currents in these lines generate magnetic fields that oppose and cancel the interfering fields from power supply lines and electronic components, thereby protecting the compass while maintaining compact device design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces power return lines as intermediary elements that act as magnetic field mediators. These lines are strategically positioned between the compass and the interfering electronic components, serving as a protective barrier that generates compensating magnetic fields to neutralize the harmful effects of nearby current-carrying conductors.
2Measurement precision
If power return lines are routed closer to the compass than power supply lines, then magnetic field compensation is improved, but power return line length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating power return line routing in specific regions close to the compass where magnetic field compensation is most needed, rather than uniformly distributing the return path. This allows the design to optimize compass protection in the critical local area while accepting increased length only where necessary for compensation effectiveness.
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 solution significantly reduces magnetic interference, allowing for more accurate compass data by creating nearly equal and opposite magnetic fields, thereby enhancing the operational accuracy of compasses in electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
Other electronic components and power supply traces associated with these components may generate interfering magnetic fields. A power return line may generate a compensating magnetic field in the vicinity of the compass that substantially cancels the interfering magnetic field generated by the power supply line or by the electronic component.
Implementation Method 2
A compass may include a magnetic sensor such as a magnetometer for sensing the Earth's magnetic field.
Data Source
AI summary
Electronic devices may be provided with compasses for detecting the Earth's magnetic field. Electronic devices may be provided with electronic components that generate interfering magnetic fields for the compass. Electronic components may be coupled between a power supply line and a power return line on a printed circuit. The power return line may be configured to generate a compensating magnetic field to counteract the interfering magnetic fields. The power return line may be formed parallel to the power supply line. The power supply line may have multiple branches equidistant from the compass. The power return line may have a portion closer to the compass than the power supply line and the electronic component. The power return line may have multiple branches, may be provided with resistors on each branch and may include a portion of a circular loop the runs around the compass on the printed circuit board.