Wearable Device Magnet Array Spacing for Coupling and Interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional wearable devices with sensors lack an effective mechanism for coupling opposing ends using magnets, and existing medical telemetry systems often generate false alarms during medical procedures, complicating hospital operations and resource management.

Innovation Solution

A wearable device structure utilizing a plurality of magnets positioned at defined distances to couple opposing ends, integrated with ID circuitry and a support structure, allowing communication with social networks and payment systems, and equipped with sensors for monitoring physiological data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If magnets are positioned close together to maximize coupling strength, then the coupling force increases, but magnetic interference between adjacent magnets increases causing false alarms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling forceVSAvoidfalse alarm rate
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the magnetic coupling system into multiple discrete magnet positions rather than using a single large magnet or continuously distributed magnets. By segmenting the magnetic elements and spacing them at specific distances, the system achieves adequate coupling force while reducing magnetic interference that causes false alarms. The magnets are arranged in arrays with controlled pitch and orientation to minimize cross-talk between adjacent magnetic elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different magnetic properties and spacing configurations to different regions of the wearable device. Adjacent magnets are positioned at optimized distances that provide sufficient local coupling strength while maintaining adequate separation to prevent magnetic field interference. The magnetic strength, size, and spacing vary locally across the device surface to balance coupling effectiveness with false alarm reduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If multiple magnets are used to improve coupling reliability, then the coupling becomes more secure, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling reliabilityVSAvoidmagnet array complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the magnet array structure to serve multiple functions simultaneously: providing coupling force, maintaining device structural integrity, enabling flexible positioning, and reducing magnetic interference. The same magnet mounting structure that holds the magnets in place also provides mechanical support for the wearable device and facilitates flexible configuration options, thereby reducing overall device complexity despite using multiple magnets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple functions into the magnet assembly structure. The magnets are integrated with the device housing or support structure in a way that simultaneously provides coupling, structural support, and positioning functions. This merging of functions reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device architecture despite the presence of multiple magnetic elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 wearable device provides a secure, efficient means of coupling and communication, reducing false alarms in medical telemetry systems and enhancing user interaction with portable devices, while promoting healthier lifestyles through integrated monitoring and feedback mechanisms.

Implementation Method 1

A plurality of magnets are positioned at first and second ends that provide for coupling of the first end to the second end

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS9436903B2Wearable device with magnets with a defined distance between adjacent magnets
Publication Date: 2016.09.06 FITBIT INC
  • US9436903B2 patent drawing
  • US9436903B2 patent drawing
  • US9436903B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wearable device is provided with a wearable device structure with first end and second ends. A plurality of magnets is positioned at the first and second ends that provide for coupling of the first end to the second end of the wearable device structure. At least a portion of adjacent magnets are separated a defined distance from each other. ID circuitry is at a surface or an interior of the wearable device structure.