Magnetic Connector Quality Detection via Field Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetically-coupled connectors in electronic devices often attract dust and particles, leading to improper connections, misalignment, and potential electrical hazards, which existing systems fail to detect and address effectively.
Innovation Solution
Implementing magnetic property sensors and processing circuitry to measure and determine the coupling quality of connections between connectors and devices based on magnetic field strength and orientation, providing real-time feedback to users when the connection quality falls below a threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnetically-coupled connectors are used, then safety and cable-trap avoidance are improved, but dust and particles are attracted to the connector, causing improper connections and electrical hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by using magnetic sensors to continuously monitor the magnetic coupling properties between the connector and receptacle. The system measures magnetic field strength and orientation, compares these measurements against expected values for proper connection, and provides real-time feedback through alerts or notifications when improper connection is detected, enabling users to correct the connection issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection verification methods (such as physical alignment features or manual inspection) with a magnetic field-based detection system. Magnetic sensors measure magnetic coupling properties to determine connection quality, substituting mechanical verification with a non-contact magnetic field measurement approach that can detect improper connections caused by dust or misalignment.
2Ease of operation
If magnetic coupling is used for connector connection, then user experience and safety are improved, but connection quality cannot be detected when dust or particles obstruct electrical contacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connection verification methods with a magnetic field-based detection system. Magnetic sensors measure magnetic coupling properties (strength and orientation) to determine connection quality, substituting mechanical verification with a non-contact magnetic field measurement approach that can detect improper connections caused by dust or misalignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent monitors changes in magnetic field parameters (strength and orientation) to detect connection quality issues. By measuring these magnetic parameters and comparing them against expected values for proper connection, the system can identify when dust or particles are obstructing electrical contacts, even though the magnetic coupling itself remains intact.
3Reliability
If magnetic sensors and processing circuitry are added to detect connection quality, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates magnetic sensors and processing circuitry into existing magnetic charging infrastructure, allowing the same magnetic coupling mechanism to serve both its primary function (power transfer) and the secondary function (connection verification). The magnetic sensors dual-purpose by detecting both the presence of the connector and the quality of the connection, eliminating the need for separate detection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own magnetic coupling mechanism to detect connection quality issues. The magnetic sensors measure the magnetic field generated by the magnetic connectors themselves, allowing the system to self-diagnose connection problems without requiring external testing equipment or additional complex verification systems.
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 connection reliability by identifying and preventing faulty power transfer, reducing electrical hazards, and improving user awareness of connection issues in magnetically-coupled interfaces.
Implementation Method 1
obtain indications of magnetic coupling properties of a connector with respect to a device... measure magnetic coupling properties of a connector with respect to a device
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques, software, and systems for enhanced notification of connector coupling quality between a connector and a user device are included. In one implementation a method includes obtaining indications of magnetic coupling properties of a connector with respect to a device. Based on at least the indications of the magnetic coupling properties, the method includes determining a coupling quality of a connection between the connector and the device. The method also includes providing an indication based at least on the coupling quality of the connection falling below a threshold quality level.