Magnetoresistance Detection for Compact Mode Switching

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing magnetic detection systems for notebook personal computers require complex configurations and contact-type switches, which are not suitable for simple and compact dipole detection, and often burden users with software-based operations for switching between modes.

Innovation Solution

A noncontact-type magnetic detection device using a magnetoresistance effect element with a multilayer structure and an integrated circuit, where the magnetoresistance effect element and magnet are positioned to allow external magnetic fields in positive and negative directions to enter at different times, enabling simple and compact dipole detection and mode switching through reciprocation or rotation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a reed switch and magnet are used for magnetic detection, then the device can detect magnetic fields, but the device size increases and the structure becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic field detection capabilityVSAvoiddetection system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the magnetoresistance effect element and the magnet into a single integrated detection unit. The magnetoresistance effect element is formed in a semiconductor substrate, and the magnet is positioned adjacent to it, creating a compact integrated structure that eliminates the need for separate detection components and reduces overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical reed switch with a magnetoresistance effect element that detects magnetic fields through electrical resistance changes. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical moving parts, reducing device complexity while maintaining detection functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If a reed switch is used for dipole detection, then magnetic field detection is possible, but at least two reed switches are required which increases device size

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedipole detection capabilityVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple detection functionalities into a single magnetoresistance effect element. By positioning the magnet to generate magnetic fields in multiple directions and using the magnetoresistance effect element to detect changes in electrical resistance caused by these fields, the system achieves dipole detection capability with a single integrated component rather than requiring multiple separate switches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If software-based mode switching is implemented, then mode switching functionality is achieved, but user burden increases due to preliminary input operations and program activation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode switching functionalityVSAvoiduser burden
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automatic mode switching based on magnetic field detection signals. The magnetoresistance effect element automatically detects the presence and orientation of the magnet, and the system automatically switches modes based on these detections without requiring user intervention. This eliminates the need for users to manually activate programs or perform preliminary input operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses feedback from the magnetoresistance effect element to automatically control mode switching. The detection signal from the magnetoresistance effect element, which changes electrical resistance in response to magnetic field changes, provides feedback that triggers automatic mode transitions, eliminating the need for manual software operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 a compact and efficient magnetic detection system that allows for easy switching between modes without the need for software operations, reducing user burden and device size, while enabling detection of opening and closing states.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetoresistance effect element having a multilayer structure and utilizing a magnetoresistive effect in which an electric resistance of the magnetoresistance effect element changes with respect to an external magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetoresistive effect: Magnetoresistance

Data Source

PatentUS7884601B2Magnetic detection device and electronic apparatus equipped with the same
Publication Date: 2011.02.08 ALPS ALPINE CO LTD
  • US7884601B2 patent drawing
  • US7884601B2 patent drawing
  • US7884601B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A magnet is contained in a display housing and is supported by a slidable operating member. A control housing contains a magnetoresistance effect element. Slidable shifting of the operating member causes an external magnetic field in a positive (+) direction and an external magnetic field in a negative (−) direction to enter the magnetoresistance effect element from the magnet at different timings, thereby changing the electric resistance of the magnetoresistance effect element. Accordingly, when the operating member is slidably shifted, a switching operation between predetermined modes is performed on the basis of a change in the resistance of the magnetoresistance effect element.