Rotating Magnetic Locking for Foldable Device Hinges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with foldable or pivotable form factors face challenges in securely locking their portions without mechanical dents or latches, which can lead to mechanical failures and magnetic interference with external objects.
Innovation Solution
The use of a magnetic locking mechanism involving a first and second magnet, each disposed inside a portion of the device and rotatable about a pivot axis, which magnetically engage when the distance between them is equal to or smaller than a certain distance, allowing for secure locking without external mechanical components and minimizing magnetic field leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical arrangements such as dents or latches are used for locking portions, then locking reliability is improved, but device complexity and susceptibility to mechanical failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical locking arrangements (dents, latches) with a magnetic field-based locking mechanism. Magnets generate magnetic fields that interact with magnetically attractable elements to hold portions in locked positions, eliminating the need for complex mechanical locking components and reducing mechanical failure points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field strength and interaction parameters to achieve locking and unlocking functions. By controlling the presence and strength of magnetic fields rather than mechanical forces, the system achieves reliable locking with simpler structure.
2Device complexity
If magnets are used for locking portions, then device complexity is reduced, but magnetic interference with external objects may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies magnetic shielding selectively in specific locations where magnets are positioned within portions. Magnetic shielding elements are placed locally to contain and direct magnetic fields, preventing interference with external magnetic objects while maintaining the simplicity of the magnetic locking mechanism.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If magnetic shielding is added to reduce interference, then magnetic interference is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates magnetic shielding elements that serve multiple functions: they shield magnetic fields from external objects, provide structural support for the locking mechanism, and in some cases, contribute to the aesthetic design of the device. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity despite adding shielding capabilities.
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 provides a secure, reliable, and magnetically shielded locking mechanism that prevents mechanical failures and reduces the risk of magnetic interference with external objects, such as credit cards or magnetic stripes, while maintaining a simple and efficient structure.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second magnet may be configured to rotate so that the first and second magnets magnetically engage each other when the distance between the first and second magnet is equal to or smaller than a first distance
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device or electronic device assembly may comprise a first portion and a second portion, a first magnet disposed inside the first portion and rotatable about a pivot axis with respect to the first portion, and a second magnet disposed inside the second portion and rotatable about a pivot axis with respect to the second portion. The first and second magnet may be configured to rotate so that the first and second magnets magnetically engage each other when the distance between the first and second magnet is equal to or smaller than a first distance.