Magnetic Sensor Hinge Position Detection for Flip Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic field sensors in hinged devices require complex and costly mechanisms to achieve three distinct positional states, as they need to be placed a reasonable distance from the hinge rotational axis and often require a flip-and-rotate arrangement for additional modes, which increases complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a magnetic field producing unit and a magnetic field sensor proximate to the hinge, where one rotates around the other, allowing the sensor to detect magnetic fields on one side, the opposite side, and the absence of a field, enabling detection of at least three distinct positional states without the need for additional pivoting mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If magnetic field sensor and magnetic field producing unit are placed a reasonable distance from the hinge rotational axis, then the sensor can detect the magnetic field when the device is closed, but the device cannot achieve a reversed mode with three distinct positional states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical pivoting mechanisms with a magnetic field-based detection system. By placing the magnetic field producing unit and sensor proximate to the hinge, the system uses magnetic field presence/absence and orientation to detect three positional states (open, closed, reversed) without requiring additional mechanical pivoting structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of detection by utilizing magnetic field orientation and polarity in addition to mere presence/absence. This allows the sensor to distinguish between closed and reversed modes by detecting the direction and polarity of the magnetic field, enabling three-state detection without additional mechanical complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a flip-and-rotate arrangement is incorporated to achieve reversed mode, then three distinct positional states can be detected, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for flip-and-rotate mechanical arrangements by using magnetic field detection. The magnetic field producing unit and sensor are positioned to detect field characteristics that change with hinge position, allowing three-state detection through electronic means rather than complex mechanical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent detects positional states by monitoring changes in magnetic field parameters (presence, absence, polarity, orientation) rather than relying on mechanical position indicators. This allows the same sensor to detect multiple states by analyzing different aspects of the magnetic field signal.
3Measurement precision
If magnetic field sensor is placed in one component and magnetic field producing unit in another component, then the device can detect open and closed states, but cannot detect reversed mode without additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds orientational dimension to the magnetic field detection by positioning the sensor and producing unit such that they can detect not only the presence but also the orientation and polarity of the magnetic field. This enables differentiation between closed and reversed modes through field direction analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system detects multiple positional states by monitoring changes in magnetic field parameters including polarity and orientation. When the device is in reversed mode, the magnetic field polarity or direction changes relative to the sensor, allowing detection of the reversed state without additional hardware.
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 the detection of three distinct positional states, enabling devices to offer multiple functionalities like tablet-based, keyboard-based, and video player functionality, while reducing complexity and cost by eliminating the need for additional pivoting mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic field sensor that can sense a magnetic field, typically produced by a magnetic field producing unit
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic field sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor, and a corresponding magnetic field producing unit, such as a magnet, can be both positioned near a hinge of a hinged device, such that the magnet, in one part of the device, rotates around the Hall effect sensor, in another part of the device. Three positions can, thereby be detected: (1) when the device is closed and the magnet is “above” the sensor, (2) when the device is partially open and the magnet is “to the side” of the sensor, and (3) when the device is fully open and the magnet is “below” the sensor. The hinged device can have the hinge offset slightly to enable the magnet to rotate around the sensor as described. Alternatively, the locations of the magnet and sensor can be reversed.