Slim Magnetic User Interface Actuator Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user interface devices for portable electronic computing systems, such as laptop computers and smartphones, lack durability, high resolution, and the ability to allow interaction with multiple digits of a user's hand, limiting their functionality and usability.
Innovation Solution
A slim profile magnetically sensed user interface device with opposing faces, featuring a movable actuator assembly, magnets, and multi-axis magnetic sensors that process user input to generate output signals usable by electronic computing systems, allowing interaction with multiple digits of a user's hand and providing high-resolution input capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional user interface devices are used for portable electronic computing systems, then the device structure is simple, but the durability and resolution are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact-based user interface mechanisms with a magnetic sensing system. Magnets are embedded in the actuator assembly, and magnetic sensors detect their position and movement, eliminating the need for complex mechanical contacts and switches. This substitution improves durability by removing wear-prone mechanical components while maintaining sensing functionality through non-contact magnetic field detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sensing parameter from mechanical contact force to magnetic field position. By detecting the position and movement of magnets through magnetic field changes rather than mechanical contact, the system achieves higher resolution input capabilities and improved durability. The magnetic sensors can detect subtle movements and positions without physical contact, providing precise input data while reducing mechanical wear.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional user interface devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to allow interaction with multiple digits of a user's hand is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the actuator assembly with multiple magnets and magnetic sensors that can detect various types of user interactions including pressing, sliding, rotating, and tilting. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace multiple specialized input devices, enabling interaction with multiple digits of the user's hand simultaneously. The magnetic sensing system can distinguish between different interaction types and directions, providing versatile input capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the interaction space by detecting movement in multiple dimensions through the magnetic field. The magnetic sensors can detect position and movement in X, Y, and Z directions, as well as rotational movements. This multi-dimensional sensing capability allows users to interact with the device using multiple digits simultaneously, each capable of independent movement in various directions, greatly enhancing interaction versatility.
3Measurement precision
If traditional user interface devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the resolution of user input is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based sensing with magnetic field detection to achieve higher resolution. Magnetic sensors can detect subtle changes in magnetic field position and strength, providing precise measurement of user input movements. This non-contact sensing method eliminates the resolution limitations of mechanical switches and contact-based sensors, enabling detection of fine movements and positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where magnetic sensors continuously monitor the position of magnets in the actuator assembly. This real-time feedback provides high-resolution data about user input movements, allowing the electronic computing system to respond precisely to user actions. The continuous magnetic field monitoring enables detection of subtle movements and provides accurate positional information for enhanced input resolution.
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
Enables durable, high-resolution user interaction with electronic computing systems using multiple digits of a user's hand, enhancing the usability and functionality of portable devices by processing user input into actionable signals.
Implementation Method 1
One or more magnets and one or more magnetic sensors may sense user manipulation of the actuator assembly and provide sensor output signals
Data Source
AI summary
Slim profile magnetic user interface devices (slim UIDs) are disclosed. A slim UID may include a slim profile housing, a movable actuator assembly having user contact surfaces on opposite sides, along with a magnet, magnetic sensor, restoration element, and processing element. User mechanical interaction with the actuator element may be sensed by the magnetic sensor and processed to generate output signals usable by a coupled electronic computing system.