CN103294124A

CN103294124A - Sensor fusion

Info

Publication number: CN103294124A
Application number: CN2013101859959A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 小M·A·克里特拉; V·M·杜金尼; M·M-C·恩格; R·K·黄; C·摩尔; C·T·姆兰斯; A·劳德; M·D·罗尔巴克; D·J·科斯特; C·J·斯特林格; F·W·欧; J·艾; J·P·艾夫; E·M·基比提; J·P·特纳斯; S·D·卢布纳; S·S·科宾
Original assignee: Apple Computer Inc
Current assignee: Apple Inc
Priority date: 2010-09-17
Filing date: 2011-09-16
Publication date: 2013-09-11
Anticipated expiration: 2031-09-16
Also published as: WO2012036891A2; AU2016204111A1; AU2011302438A1; CA2826239A1; CA2826239C; AU2016204111B2; CN202453763U; CN102411402A; AU2011101116A4; CN102411402B; EP2616896A4; AU2011101116B4; HK1168926A1; CN103294124B; KR20130076874A; KR101520197B1; EP2616896A2; WO2012036891A3; AU2011302438B2; CN203276086U

Abstract

The disclosure relates to sensor fustion, and discloses accurate and reliable techniques for determining a current status of an accessory device in relation to an electronic device.

Description

Sensor fusion

The application is that application number is 201110274871.9, and the applying date is on September 16th, 2011, and denomination of invention is divided an application for the application for a patent for invention of " sensor fusion ".

Technical field

Described embodiment relates generally to portable electron device.More particularly, these embodiment have described and have been used in combination a plurality of sensors and confirm that accessories apparatus is with respect to the state of electronic installation.

Background technology

The latest developments of portable computing comprise such as by Cupertino, the iPad that the Apple of CA makes ^TMThe portable electric device of panel computer and the introducing of computing platform.These hand-held computing devices can dispose as follows, that is, the major part of electronic installation adopts the form for the display that presents vision content, and is the attachment means reservation free space seldom that can be used for attached accessories apparatus.

When accessories apparatus adopted the form of lid, portable electric device can be operated with existing under the consistent pattern of lid.For example, when hand-held computing device had display, the existence of lid may make can not watch display.For power saving, the display that can not watch can not be operated temporarily, up to the position of removing lid or otherwise changing lid with till exposing display.

Therefore, hope has a kind of for determining the accurate and reliable technology of accessories apparatus with respect to the current state of its electronic installation that is connected to.

Summary of the invention

This instructions has been described and has been used for that annex is attached to the relevant various embodiment of system, method and the equipment of electronic installation releasedly.

A kind of consumption electronic product comprises electronic installation at least.In described embodiment, electronic installation comprise at least processor and with the first sensor of processor communication, this first sensor is set to detect the stimulation of the first kind.First sensor comes the stimulation of the first kind is responded by first signal is provided to processor, and this first signal indication accessories apparatus is with respect to first state of electronic installation.Electronic installation comprises at least also and second sensor of processor communication that this second sensor is set to detect the stimulation of second type.Second sensor comes the stimulation of second type is responded by secondary signal is provided to processor, and this secondary signal indication accessories apparatus is with respect to second state of electronic installation.In described embodiment, when processor receives first signal from first sensor, processor is relatively by first state of first signal indication and second state of being indicated by secondary signal, and when processor determines that the indication of first state is identical with the indication of second state, processor is accepted first signal, otherwise processor is ignored first signal.

In aspect of described embodiment, accessories apparatus is the over cap with the capping (flap) that includes magnetic element, and first sensor is Hall effect (HFX) sensor.Over cap is attached to electronic installation pivotally; make in closed configuration; magnetic element in the capping provides first to stimulate, wherein this first form that stimulates for only when capping is in closed configuration with respect to electronic installation ability by the detected saturation magnetic field of HFX sensor.Second sensor is following at least any one: ambient light sensor, camera, magnetometer, multiple point touching sensing surface, RFID device and another hall effect sensor.

In another embodiment, consumption electronic product comprises electronic installation and accessory unit at least.In described embodiment, electronic product comprise processor and with the hall effect sensor (HFX) of processor communication, this HFX sensor is set to detect saturation magnetic field, and provide signal in response to detected saturation magnetic field to processor, processor utilizes described signal to come to change the mode of operation of electronic installation.Electronic installation also comprises with the HFX sensor and separating and the second different sensors.Accessory unit comprises body, and this body can be attached to electronic installation pivotally, and has magnetic element at least.When accessory unit was in closed configuration, the inside surface of body approached the protection top layer, makes magnetic element present saturation magnetic field to the HFX sensor.When processor receives indication when having the signal of saturation magnetic field from the HFX sensor, processor is inquired second sensor, it is consistent to be in closed configuration with the signal that confirms to receive from the HFX sensor and lid, processor is accepted the signal from the HFX sensor, otherwise processor is ignored the signal from the HFX sensor.

In another embodiment, a kind of method by the execution of the processor in this electronic installation in comprising the consumption electronic product of electronic installation has been described.This method can be carried out by carrying out following at least operation: detecting the stimulation of the first kind with the first sensor place of processor communication; At first signal of processor place reception from first sensor, this first signal indication accessories apparatus is with respect to first state of electronic installation; Detecting the stimulation of second type with the second sensor place of processor communication; In the secondary signal of processor place reception from second sensor, this secondary signal indication accessories apparatus is with respect to second state of electronic installation; Compare the indication of first state and the indication of second state by processor; And only when the described indication of relatively determining first state is identical with the indication of second state, processor is just accepted first signal.

In another embodiment; a kind of non-transient state computer-readable medium has been described; this computer-readable medium is used for stored energy and carries out to detect over cap with respect to the program code of the state of electronic installation by processor, and this electronic installation has processor and first sensor and second sensor at least.This computer-readable medium comprises at least: be used for receiving the indication over cap is in the signal of closed configuration with respect to electronic installation computer code from first sensor; The computer code that is used for inquiry second sensor; Be used for receiving the computer code from the information of second sensor; And be used for when the information from second sensor not have to confirm signal from first sensor, ignoring from the signal of first sensor otherwise acceptance from the computer code of the signal of first sensor.

In aspect of described embodiment, over cap comprises the capping with magnetic element, and first sensor is hall effect sensor.Over cap is attached to electronic installation pivotally; make in closed configuration; magnetic element in the capping provides first to stimulate, wherein this first form that stimulates for only when capping is in closed configuration with respect to electronic installation ability by the detected saturation magnetic field of HFX sensor.Second sensor is following at least any one: ambient light sensor, camera, magnetometer, multiple point touching sensing surface, RFID device and another hall effect sensor.

According to the detailed description of doing below in conjunction with accompanying drawing, will know other aspects and advantages of the present invention, these accompanying drawings by way of example illustration the principle of described embodiment.

Description of drawings

Detailed description with reference to below in conjunction with accompanying drawing will readily appreciate that the present invention, and in the accompanying drawings, similarly drawing reference numeral is indicated similar structural detail, wherein:

Fig. 1 shows the top perspective view according to the electronic installation of described embodiment.

Fig. 2 A shows first stereographic map of the accessories apparatus that electronic installation that form is board device and form be over cap.

Fig. 2 B shows second stereographic map of the accessories apparatus that electronic installation that form is board device and form be over cap.

Fig. 3 A shows the closed configuration by the board device shown in Fig. 2 A and the 2B and the formed cooperative system of over cap.

Fig. 3 B shows the configuration of opening of the cooperative system shown in Fig. 3 A.

Fig. 4 shows the vertical view of embodiment of the cap assemblies of segmentation.

Fig. 5 A and 5B illustration plate carry compass and as the representative magnetic interaction between the magnetic element in the capping of the part of accessory unit.

Fig. 6 A and 6B with graphical illustration can be carried the various magnetic deflections that compass detects by plate.

Fig. 7 show describe in detail to confirm from hall effect sensor to the process flow diagram of over cap with respect to the process of the indication of the state of electronic installation.

Fig. 8 shows detailed description ambient light sensor (ALS) is used in combination with hall effect sensor to confirm that over cap is with respect to the process flow diagram of the process of the state of electronic installation.

Fig. 9 shows detailed description camera is used in combination with hall effect sensor to confirm that over cap is with respect to the process flow diagram of the process of the state of electronic installation.

Figure 10 shows the magnetometer that detailed description will have the compass form and is used in combination with hall effect sensor to confirm that over cap is with respect to the process flow diagram of the process of the state of electronic installation.

Figure 11 shows detailed description multiple point touching (MT) sensing surface is used in combination with hall effect sensor to confirm that over cap is with respect to the process flow diagram of the process of the state of electronic installation.

Figure 12 shows detailed description the RFID device is used in combination with hall effect sensor to confirm that over cap is with respect to the process flow diagram of the process of the state of electronic installation.

Figure 13 show the dynamic model that describe in detail to use magnetic field determine over cap with respect to the state of electronic installation with the process flow diagram of confirmation over cap with respect to the process of the state of electronic installation.

Figure 14 shows the block diagram that is suitable for the electronic installation that uses with described embodiment.

Embodiment

Describe illustrative representative embodiment in the accompanying drawing below in detail.Should be appreciated that following description is not intended to embodiment is limited to a preferred embodiment.On the contrary, be intended to contain replacement in the spirit and scope that can be included in described embodiment, revise and be equal to, as defined by the appended claims.

Below describe to relate generally to and can be used for confirming accessories apparatus with respect to the mechanism of the state of the host apparatus that is associated, this host apparatus that is associated has the mode of operation with the state consistency of accessories apparatus.More particularly, when accessories apparatus is when having the over cap of the size and dimension that meets electronic installation, this over cap can have the articulated section and be attached to the capping of this articulated section pivotally.Capping can be around the articulated section along a direction rotation so that be sealed on and contact electronic installation in the closed configuration basically.Conversely, capping can pivot along another direction around hinge assembly and expose electronic installation to open in the configuration.In one embodiment, when over cap is detected as when being in closed configuration, electronic installation can be operated under the closing lid pattern; And open when configuration when over cap is detected as to be in, electronic installation can be operated opening under the cover mold formula.Over cap can provide the protection to some aspect (such as display) of electronic installation, promotes overall appearance and the sensation of electronic installation simultaneously.Over cap can comprise the articulated section at least.The magnetic attachment structure can be used in the articulated section and magnetic is attached to electronic installation.The articulated section can pivot and be connected to capping, and this capping can place on the part that will protect of electronic installation.Over cap can comprise the electronic circuit that can cooperate with the electronic component in the electronic installation or other element (passive or active).As the part of this cooperation, signal can transmit between over cap and electronic installation, and these signals can be used for revising operation, the electronic circuit of over cap or the operation of other element of electronic installation, etc.

Electronic installation can comprise the magnetometer circuit, and this magnetometer circuit can be used for detecting the directivity size of external magnetic field.In this, magnetometer can be as the compass of the orientation (directional bearing) that is set to indicate the external magnetic field and size.Like this, can infer that electronic installation is with respect to the orientation (directional heading) of external magnetic field.For example, when the external magnetic field came down to the magnetic field of the earth, plate carried compass and can provide the indication of electronic installation with respect to the orientation of terrestrial magnetic pole.In one embodiment, over cap comprises the capping with magnetic element.Magnetic element can comprise for the attached magnetic element of magnetic and be used for triggering the magnetic element of Hall effect (HFX) sensor of electronic installation.In the case, can use plate to carry compass carries the influence detection capping of compass to plate based on magnetic element existence.

For example, plate carries compass and can detect capping based on first static-magnetic skew (being also referred to as the Hard Magnetic skew) and be attached to electronic installation by magnetic.First static-magnetic skew can the capping based on over cap in included being used for trigger the existence of magnetic element of HFX sensor and the existence that is used for the magnetic element of the attached capping of magnetic and electronic installation.In another embodiment, compass can detect when capping dynamic magnetic displacement along with the motion of magnetic element during around the rotation of the pivot of hinge assembly.Can use the dynamic magnetic displacement to determine whether capping is carried compass with respect to plate and be kept in motion.In one embodiment, can be according to the relative displacement of inferring capping and electronic installation from the data of accelerometer and the real-time reception of gyroscope.Can be relevant with the dimensional orientation of electronic installation from accelerometer and gyrostatic data.Can use these dimensional orientation data and whether determine magnetic element in the capping with respect to the electronic installation motion from the magnetic reading that plate carries compass, to provide capping around the indication of the pivot axis rotation of hinge assembly.

In one embodiment, electronic installation can have touch sensitive surface, and this touch sensitive surface can be reacted to a plurality of conducting elements that are attached to the internal layer place of close over cap in the over cap.When over cap was attached to electronic installation by magnetic, described a plurality of conducting elements can be grounded.In one embodiment, conducting element can be by predetermined thereby be discernible patterned arrangement.Like this, comprise that can be with the mutual element of touch sensitive surface the time, these elements can be arranged by predetermined pattern, detect the current location of over cap to help electronic installation when the internal layer of over cap.For example, in one embodiment, touch sensitive surface can be capacitive in nature, and in this case, the embedding element in the over cap can be formed by conductive material (metal such as aluminium).Conducting element can ground connection, in order to increase the capacitive signals noise ratio by the mutual signal that generates between capacitive touch-sensitive surface and the capacitive character embedding element.

Magnetic element in the capping portion can be mutual with the magnetosensitive circuit that is attached in the electronic installation.In one embodiment, the magnetosensitive circuit can adopt the form of HFX sensor, and the existence in external (extrinsic) magnetic field that is provided by the magnetic element in the over cap can be provided this HFX sensor.But, should be noted that detected magnetic field must make the HFX sensor saturated in order to trigger the HFX sensor.Reduced the HFX sensor like this, greatly the possibility that over cap is sealed the mistake indication of electronic installation is provided.For example, triggers so that the HFX sensor is saturated with relative weak magnetic field intensity deficiency that the magnetic field of the earth is associated the mistake of over cap state is indicated.

When the HFX sensor was exposed to saturation magnetic field (that is, having the magnetic field that is enough to make the saturated magnetic field intensity of HFX sensor), the HFX sensor can (that is, ON/OFF) signal comes this saturation magnetic field is responded by generating scale-of-two.One of advantage that (beyond the possibility that reduces wrong lid state indication) uses the HFX sensor is that the required electric power amount of operation HFX sensor is less relatively, therefore can not cause excessive power consumption at electronic installation.Under any circumstance, when the HFX sensor was exposed to saturation magnetic field, the HFX sensor can send signal.This signal can be received by processing unit, and is used to change the mode of operation of electronic installation.But, should be noted that as the additional of HFX sensor or substitute, can use any suitable sensing apparatus to detect over cap with respect to the state of electronic installation.For example, can use magnetometer (its a kind of form can be used as compass) to replace the HFX sensor.Compare with the HFX sensor, magnetometer is more responsive to external magnetic field, therefore will respond by more continuous (simulation) signal that the expression exterior magnetic field is provided, thereby needs bigger electric power amount.Therefore, can be by periodically the signal from magnetometer being sampled, the cause magnetometer detects dynamic magnetic activity (for example, the relative motion of indication magnetometer and magnetic source).For example, can use the data of sampling to provide magnetic element in the over cap with respect to the relative position of the magnetometer in the electronic installation.

Therefore, over cap can comprise the magnetic element such as permanent magnet, and the magnetic field of this magnetic element can make the HFX sensor generate signal.Magnetic element can be placed on the such position on the over cap, that is, this position places on the surface of electronic installation or triggers the HFX sensor during near electronic installation surperficial at lid and generates signal.This signal can indicate over cap to be in precalculated position with respect to electronic installation, and this precalculated position can cause the change of the mode of operation of electronic installation.For example, under the situation of the part with magnetic element near the HFX sensor of over cap, can make the HFX sensor generate signal from the magnetic field of magnetic element.Then can use this signal that mode of operation is changed to the state capped consistent with the part of electronic installation.For example, when electronic installation comprised display, over cap can be used for covering display, therefore display can not be watched, thereby can forbid display.On the other hand, when the part with magnetic element of over cap is removed when making the position that the HFX sensor no longer responds to the magnetic field of magnetic element, the HFX sensor then can generate another signal.This another signal can cause electronic equipment to enter capped with at least a portion of display and can watch thereby can show another different mode of operation that vision content is consistent.

Yet the HFX sensor can be enough to make the saturated magnetic field of HFX sensor to be triggered by any intensity, and the mistake indication to the existence of over cap may be provided thus.Therefore, for fear of this wrong indication, when the HFX sensor is triggered, can inquire additional sensor, the over cap that is provided by the HFX sensor for confirmation is in the indication of closed configuration.In one embodiment, the trigger event that the indication at HFX sensor place lid is in closed configuration can also make electronic installation inquire another sensor at least, the closed configuration by the indication of HFX sensor for confirmation.

In one embodiment, electronic installation can be inquired ambient light sensor (ALS).ALS can comprise photosensitive circuit (such as photodiode), and this photosensitive circuit can respond to different incident light (typical form is surround lighting) level.In one embodiment, ALS can ambient light.Yet ALS can be configured to respond detecting surround lighting in many ways.For example, ALS can respond by just providing signal as long as the photosensitive circuit in the ALS detects the amount of ambient light bigger than specific environment light quantity (that is, ambient light intensity).In other words, the threshold value amount of ambient light can be the threshold level of regulation.For example, the threshold quantity of " x " lumen can be represented to be in the consistent amount of ambient light of closed configuration with over cap, and wherein, value " x " has been considered the light that bleeds from the edge of over cap.Certainly, the threshold value amount of ambient light can be set to any suitable amount that is considered to.For example, be under some situation on (such as daytime) in the bright light environments at electronic installation, the light leak amount may be more much higher than the expection light leak amount under darker condition.Therefore, may be much bigger along the light leak amount at over cap edge, be in the consistent threshold value light quantity of closed configuration with over cap and can increase that this fact is taken into account.

In another embodiment, threshold quantity can be with consistent by the differential variation of the detected surround lighting of photosensitive circuit among the ALS.For example, be at electronic installation under the situation of bright light environments (such as daytime outdoor), when over cap in fact is closed, sizable light leak amount may be arranged also.Yet in order to reduce the uncertainty relevant with how many light leaks are really arranged, ALS can be configured to provide signal based on the differential variation by the detected light quantity of photosensitive circuit in the ALS.For example, when over cap was opened, ALS can detect by " y ₁" light quantity represented of lumen.Yet, when over cap is closed, can be from " y by the detected light quantity of the photosensitive circuit among the ALS ₁" lumen becomes " y ₂" lumen.Only at poor (that is Δ y=abs (y, of detected light quantity ₁– y ₂)) under the situation greater than predetermined value, ALS just can provide the indication over cap to be in the appropriate signals of closed configuration.The advantage of this method is the following fact: the light leak value is difficult to infer, therefore, by depending on the variation of clearly defined institute ambient light, can obtains the indication of over cap with respect to the more accurate and robust of the state of electronic installation.

Therefore, by using ALS, the indication to the state of over cap that provided by the HFX sensor can be provided electronic installation.Like this, if ALS is in the consistent indication that confirms from the HFX sensor of closed configuration by detecting amount of ambient light with over cap, then electronic installation can be accepted the indication from the HFX sensor, and correspondingly changes the mode of operation of electronic installation.Yet; if amount of ambient light is inconsistent with the signal that is in closed configuration from the indication over cap of HFX sensor; then electronic installation can inquire another sensor will be for assessment of another data point from the signal of HFX sensor in order to obtain; perhaps more simply; can ignore the indication from the HFX sensor fully; overlay electronic device is fully covered in supposition thus, and therefore, the mode of operation of electronic installation will not be modified to being covered consistent mode of operation fully with electronic installation.Yet, if ALS detects the light quantity that has confirmed from the indication of hall effect sensor, electronic installation can accept from the HFX sensor be in the indication of closed configuration about over cap, and can respond accordingly thus.

In another embodiment, camera can be activated, and the type of the image of catching based on camera, and camera can be used for confirming the indication that the HFX sensor provides is closed about lid.For example, when lid was closed, camera can be caught the image of basic black (perhaps low-down lumen value).Yet, if electronic installation is positioned at dark situation (such as dark room, at night and have seldom or moonless or other external light source outdoor, etc.) in, only exterior lighting (such as from display) can be provided for catching the sufficient light (for example, the terminal user on the face) of image for camera.In one embodiment, the image of catching can characterize with overall lumen value or lumen histogram, and this can be used for determining that lid is complete closure or part closure.For example, even lid is also had some light leaks by closed fully, this can be caught by camera, thereby causes the image of catching of low lumen.Yet in another embodiment, camera can be regulated by this way, that is, unless the image capture apparatus in camera has enough light, otherwise camera not can based on for example the regulation the light leak specification and document image.Yet; if camera has been caught image, then by assessing the overall lumen value (for example, less than threshold value lumen value) of the image of catching; can estimate the position of over cap, and utilize the position of estimated over cap to confirm (or not confirming) from the indication of HFX sensor.

In another embodiment, can type of service be magnetometer that plate carries compass detect be embedded in over cap in magnetic element be positioned at the existence of the consistent Hard Magnetic skew of HFX sensor place or near correct position.In this embodiment, the indication about the closing lid state from the HFX sensor is confirmed in the existence that can utilize Hard Magnetic to be offset.On the other hand, what electronic installation can utilize Hard Magnetic skew does not exist to judge the misregister about the state of over cap from the HFX sensor, thereby can be left in the basket, and perhaps can take other action, such as another sensor of inquiry.

Shall also be noted that the magnetic material that comprises in the over cap may influence the performance of magnetometer (carrying compass as plate).Especially, the plate basic operation (being implemented as the instruction that can be carried out by processor or other appropriate circuitry) of carrying compass may be modified owing to the existence of magnetic material in over cap.Especially, the motion of over cap may be carried compass by plate and be detected variation for magnetic field intensity and direction, and this can cause " mistake ", will experience dynamic deflection based on the change in location of over cap because plate carries compass.For example; when lid from opening configuration when becoming closed configuration; the dynamic deflection that plate carries the compass place may increase because of the following fact: the magnetic element in the over cap is mobile near magnetometer; therefore cause that plate carries the bigger off-set value of compass reading (certainly; become when opening from closure at the lid state, situation is just opposite).

May be caused by the change in location of magnetic element in the over cap, the plate difference of carrying peak excursion that compass experiences or compass azimuth is to carry with plate that Magnetic Sensor that compass the is associated amplitude in detected magnetic field when the change in location of over cap changes and the function of the horizontal intensity of external magnetic field.For to by over cap (more particularly; magnetic element in the over cap) skew that motion causes compensates, and plate carries compass and can utilize and plate is carried maximum that compass can detected magnetic field amplitude change this model of function as the variation of covering the position.Like this; by using maximum with magnetic field amplitude to change as the model of the function of lid position and the current estimation of amplitude of using the horizontal component of external magnetic field, electronic installation can estimate to be changed with respect to the relative position of electronic installation by over cap the maximum variation of the compass azimuth that causes.

Correspondingly, the accelerometer and the gyroscope that are combined in the electronic installation can be used in combination with compass, assess the dynamic magnetic variation characteristic (signature) of detected external magnetic field.Accelerometer and gyroscope can provide locus and the rotation of electronic installation in real time, and compass can provide the indication that changes about the external magnetic field in real time.The reading of accelerometer and gyroscope and compass can use together, and compares with the model of magnetic element with respect to the motion of electronic installation, is used for assessing the possibility (passing through compass) that lid exists and moving with respect to electronic installation thus.

Below with reference to Fig. 1 to 15 discussion these and other embodiment.Yet, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the detailed description that provides with reference to these accompanying drawings only is used for task of explanation here, and should not be interpreted as restrictive.For the remainder of this discussion, suitably be configured to magnetic respectively according to described embodiment and be attached to each other first object and second object describing.Yet, should be pointed out that object that the quilt of any amount and type suitably disposes can be attached to each other by mode magnetic accurately and repeatably.Especially, for the purpose of simplification and knowing, for the remainder of this discussion, suppose that first object adopts the form of electronic installation, adopts the form of hand-hold electronic device particularly.

Electronic installation can adopt many forms.For the remainder of this discussion, with the handheld portable calculation element electronic installation is described.Therefore, Fig. 1 shows the top perspective view according to the electronic installation 10 of described embodiment.Electronic installation 10 can deal with data, more specifically, can processing media data, such as audio frequency, video, image etc.For example, the device that can work corresponding to can be used as smart phone, music player, game machine, video player, PDA(Personal Digital Assistant), panel computer etc. usually of electronic installation 10.Electronic installation 10 also can be handed.About hand-held, electronic installation 10 can be held in the hand, simultaneously by another manual manipulation (that is, not need such as the reference surface of desktop).Therefore, electronic installation 10 can be held in the hand, can provide the operation input command by the another hand simultaneously.The operation input command can comprise operation volume switch, maintained switch, perhaps provides input to touch sensitive surface (such as touch-sensitive display device or touch pad).

Electronic installation 10 can comprise housing 12.In certain embodiments, housing 12 can adopt by any amount ofly can be forged, molded or otherwise form the form of the single-piece housing that the material (as plastics or nonmagnetic metal) of desirable shape forms.Have metal shell and have under the situation based on the function of radio frequency (RF) at electronic installation 10, the part of housing 12 can comprise the radio material transparent, as pottery or plastics.Housing 12 can be configured to surround a plurality of internal parts.For example, housing 12 can surround and support various structure members and electric parts (comprising integrated circuit (IC) chip), in order to provide calculating operation for electronic installation 10.Integrated circuit can adopt the form of chip, chipset or module, and any in these chips, chipset or the module can be surface mounted to printed circuit board (PCB) (PCB) or other supporting structure.For example, on the main logic plate (MLB) integrated circuit can be installed, this integrated circuit can comprise microprocessor, semiconductor memory (as flash memory) and various support circuit etc. at least.Housing 12 can comprise for the opening 14 of placing internal part, and its size can be designed as the display module that holds be used to presenting vision content in case of necessity, and this display module is covered and protection by over cap 16.In some cases, display module can be touch-sensitive, thereby allowing to be used for provides the sense of touch of control signal to import to electronic installation 10.In some cases, display module can be big and significant viewing area, and this viewing area has covered most of area in the front of electronic installation.

Electronic installation 10 can comprise the magnetic attachment system, and this magnetic attachment system can be used for electronic installation 10 magnetic are attached at least one other object that suitably disposes.The magnetic attachment system can comprise a plurality of magnetic attachment structures (feature) that are distributed in the housing 12 and are connected to housing 12 in some cases.For example, the magnetic attachment system can comprise the first magnetic attachment structure 18 and the second magnetic attachment structure 20 of the not homonymy that is positioned at electronic installation 10.Especially, the first magnetic attachment structure 18 can be near the sidewall 12a of housing 12.The second magnetic attachment structure 20 can be positioned at the sidewall 12b of opening 14, close housing 12.Have among the embodiment of the cover glass that fills up opening 14 substantially at electronic installation 10 included displays, second attachment structure 20 can be positioned at the cap rock below.

Place sidewall 12a magnetic attachment structure 18 easy to use electronic installation 10 magnetic to be attached to another suitably object of configuration the first magnetic attachment structure 18, such as another electronic installation or accessories apparatus.Therefore, under the situation of not losing versatility, below will call device attachment structure 18 to the first magnetic attachment structure 18.On the other hand, the placement of the second magnetic attachment structure 20 can the second magnetic attachment structure, the 20 firm each side that are attached to another device of electronic installation 10 by means of device attachment structure 18 easy to use.Like this, and only carry out attached comparing by first attachment structure 18, whole attached between this another device and the electronic installation 10 can be more firm.Therefore, same under the situation of not losing versatility, below will call firm attachment structure 20 to the second magnetic attachment structure 20.Firm attachment structure 20 can comprise one or more magnetic elements 22.When using a plurality of magnetic element, arranging of these a plurality of magnetic elements can vary widely, and the cooperative structures that can install with another is carried out magnetic interaction.In one embodiment, a plurality of magnetic elements that are associated with robust structure 20 can help firm at least a portion that otherwise is attached to another device of electronic installation 10 by means of device attachment structure 18.Electronic installation 10 can also comprise that hall effect sensor 24 and form are the magnetometer circuit 26 that plate carries compass 26.

The remainder of this discussion will be described the specific embodiment of the device that can use the magnetic attachment system.Especially, Fig. 2 A and Fig. 2 B show the electronic installation 100 that presents with board device 100, and accessories apparatus 200 is shown as over cap 200, and these all illustrate with top perspective.These parts can be in general manner corresponding to any parts of describing in front.Especially, Fig. 2 A and 2B show and are in the board device 100 of opening configuration and two stereographic maps of over cap 200.For example, Fig. 2 A shows the relation of the device attachment structure 108 that comprises in the board device 100 and this device attachment structure 108 and board device 100.On the other hand, Fig. 2 B is that the view that will present among Fig. 2 A rotates about 180 °, so that attachment structure 202 and this attachment structure 202 another view with the relation of over cap 200 to be provided.

The form of board device 100 can be dull and stereotyped calculation element, such as Cupertino, and the iPad that the Apple of CA makes ^TMReferring now to Fig. 2 A, board device 100 can comprise housing 102, and housing 102 can surround and fulcrum arrangement attachment structure 108.For the magnetic field that countermeasure set attachment structure not 108 produces, can being formed by any amount of nonmagnetic substance (such as plastics, perhaps the nonmagnetic metal such as aluminium) with device attachment structure 108 immediate parts at least of housing 102.Housing 102 can also surround and at the various structure members of interior support and electric parts (comprising integrated circuit (IC) chip and other circuit), in order to provide calculating operation for board device 100.Housing 102 can comprise for the opening 104 of placing internal part, and its size can be designed as the system that holds display module or be suitable for for example providing at least for the user via display vision content.In some cases, display module can comprise the touch-sensitive ability, and this makes the user can utilize the touch input to come to provide the sense of touch input to board device 100.Display module can form by a plurality of layers, and these layers comprise top layer, and the form of this top layer is the transparent cover glass 106 that is formed by polycarbonate or other suitable plastics or press polished glass.Use press polished glass, cover glass 106 can fill up opening 104 substantially.

Although not shown, the display module below cover glass 106 can be used for utilizing any appropriate display technology (such as LCD, LED, OLED, electric ink (being e-ink) etc.) to show image.Can use various mechanism display module to be placed and is fixed on cavity.In one embodiment, display module is fastened in the cavity.It can be set to adjacent housing parts and flush.Like this, display can present vision content, this vision content can comprise video, rest image and icon, such as can information (for example, text, object, figure) being provided and receiving the graphic user interface (GUI) of the input that the user provides to the user.In some cases, shown icon can move on the display position more easily by the user.

In certain embodiments, display cover (mask) can be applied to or be attached in the cover glass 106 or the below.Display cover can be used for highlighting the not shade part that is used for presenting vision content of device, and can be used for making device attachment structure 108 more not obvious with firm attachment structure 20.Board device 100 can comprise can be used between board device 100 and external environment condition the various port of the information of transmitting.Especially, FPDP 109 can be so that transmission data and electric power, and loudspeaker 110 can be used for the output audio content." Home " button 112 can be used to provide can be by the input signal of the processor use that comprises in the board device 100.Processor can use the mode of operation of changing board device 100 from the signal of " Home " button 112.For example, " Home " button can be used for the current active page of resetting and being presented by display module.Board device 100 can also comprise photomoduel 114, and this photomoduel 114 is set to catch image.Board device 100 can also comprise the ambient light sensor 116(ALS of ambient light level).In one embodiment, ALS116 can be used for arranging the luminance level of display module.For example, in having the darker environment of surround lighting seldom, can make the processor in the board device 100 dim display module from the reading of ALS116.In brighter environment, it is brighter that display module can become.Board device can also comprise detecting the compass 118 of external magnetic field, and this can help to determine the position of board device 100.Board device 100 can also comprise hall effect sensor 120, and this hall effect sensor 120 can be used for detecting the existence of magnetic element when lid 200 is placed on the board device 100 that is in closed configuration.Accelerometer and gyroscope (not shown) can be determined position and directed any dynamic change of board device 100 in real time.

Over cap 200 can have to board device 100 the look and feel of replenishing of the look and feel, it has increased overall appearance and the sensation of board device 100.Fig. 2 A and 2B show over cap 200 and are attached to and are in the board device 100 of opening configuration, and wherein, cover glass 106 fully as seen.Over cap 200 can comprise capping 202.In one embodiment, capping 202 can have the size and dimension that meets cover glass 106.Capping 202 can pivot by hinge assembly 206 and be connected to annex attachment structure 204, and wherein hinge assembly 206 and annex attachment structure 204 are all shown in Fig. 2 B.Like this, capping 202 can be around pivotal axis 211 rotations.Magnetic attachment forces between attachment structure 204 and the device attachment structure 108 can keep over cap 200 and board device 100 has correct directed and layout with respect to capping 202 and cover glass 106.Correct orientation means that over cap 200 can only correctly be attached to board device 100 under the situation of capping 202 and cover glass 106 pairing joint ground alignment.Pairing between cover glass 106 and the capping 202 arranges it is to make to be placed as when contacting with cover glass 106 when capping 202, the whole substantially cover glass 106 of capping 202 coverings, as shown in Figure 3A.

Capping 202 can pivot and be connected to hinge assembly 206, and hinge assembly 206 can be connected to attachment structure 204 again.Hinge assembly 206 can be couple to electronic installation 100 by annex attachment structure 204 again.Like this, capping 202 can be with the over cap of doing the each side (such as display cover 106) of electronic installation 100 is protected.Capping 202 can be formed by various materials (such as plastics, fabric etc.).Capping 202 segmentation in such a way, that is, a segmentation of capping can be lifted to expose the counterpart of display.Capping 202 can also comprise the function element that can cooperate with the corresponding function element in the electronic installation 100.Like this, operation capping 202 can cause the change of the operation of electronic installation 100.

Capping 202 can comprise magnetic material.For example, magnetic element 207 can be used for magnetic and be attached to corresponding magnetic attachment structure 20, and magnetic element 209 activates hall effect sensor 120 can be used for appropriate location above capping 202 is positioned at cover glass 106 time.Like this, hall effect sensor 120 can respond by generating signal, and the signal that generates can be used for changing the mode of operation of electronic installation 100.The housing that can easily directly be attached to board device owing to lid need not securing member, so capping 202 can meet the shape of electronic installation 100 basically.Like this, lid 200 will can not weaken or otherwise cover the look and feel of electronic installation 100.Capping 202 can also comprise the capacitive element 208 of patterned arrangement in accordance with regulations.Capacitive element 208 can be used for activating multiple point touching (MT) sensitive layer that comprises in the display module.When capping 202 placed on the cover glass 106, the MT sensitive layer can come the existence of capacitive element 208 is responded by producing the touch mode consistent with this predetermined pattern.Like this, can confirm that indication from hall effect sensor 120 is in the signal of existence of the capping 202 of closed configuration.When confirming, board device 100 can accept from hall effect sensor 120 be in the indication of closed configuration about capping 202, and react accordingly.

In one embodiment, capping 202 can comprise RFID device 210, and this RFID device 210 can be used for identification protecting lid 200.Especially, when over cap 200 was in closed configuration, capping 202 can contact cover glass 106, allowed the RFID sensor in the board device 100 " to read " RFID device 210 thus.Like this, not only can confirm the indication from hall effect sensor 120, but also can carry out the identification to over cap 200.

Fig. 3 A and 3B show attached over cap 200 and the board device 100 of magnetic each other.Fig. 3 A shows closed configuration, and wherein cover glass 106 capped 202 covers fully and contacts with capping 202.Over cap 200 can pivot around hinge assembly 206, becomes the configuration of opening of Fig. 3 B with the closed configuration from Fig. 3 A.In closed configuration, the internal layer of capping 202 can directly contact with cover glass 106.Like this, capacitive element 208 can by place in the display module the MT electric circuit inspection below cover glass 106 to.And the MT circuit can detect the pattern corresponding with the pattern of capacitive element 208 or feature.Like this, to the detection of pattern can confirm from hall effect sensor 120 about capping 202 and cover glass 106 contacted indications.If do not detect pattern, then board device 100 can be ignored the indication (perhaps if possible, using another sensor, such as ALS116, as further inspection) from hall effect sensor 120.

To open configuration in order being converted to from closed configuration, can to apply release force F to capping 202 _ReleaseRelease force F _ReleaseCan overcome attachment structure 207 in the capping 202 and the magnetic attraction between the attachment structure 110 in the board device 100.Therefore, over cap 200 can be fixed to board device 100, up to capping 202 is applied release force F _ReleaseTill.Like this, capping 202 can be used for over cap glass 106.For example, over cap 200 can be attached to board device 100 by magnetic.Capping 202 can place subsequently that magnetic is fixed to cover glass 106 on the cover glass 106 and by the magnetic interaction between magnetic attachment structure 20 and 207.Can be by directly applying release force F to capping 202 _ReleaseAnd capping 202 is unclamped from cover glass 106.Release force F _ReleaseCan overcome the magnetic attachment between magnetic attachment structure 20 and 207.Therefore, capping 202 can unhinderedly be removed from cover glass 106 subsequently.

Fig. 4 shows the vertical view of a specific embodiment of over cap 200 that form is the lid 300 of segmentation.The lid 300 of segmentation can comprise body 302.Body 302 can have the size and dimension that meets board device 100.Body 302 can be by single-piece collapsible or flexible material form.Body 302 also can be divided into a plurality of sections that are separated from each other by the fold domain.Like this, these sections can be folded relative to each other at the place, fold domain.In one embodiment, body 302 a plurality of material layers that can form rhythmo structure by being attached to one another form.Each layer can adopt the form of from one piece, and this from one piece can have the size and dimension that meets body 302.Each layer also can have only corresponding with the part of body 302 size and dimension.For example, having the rigidity of roughly the same size and dimension or semi-rigid material layer with section can be attached to this section or otherwise be associated with this section.

In another example, have the rigidity of the size and dimension that meets body 302 or semi-rigid material layer and can be used for providing as a whole with elastic substrates the lid 300 of segmentation.Should be pointed out that these layers all can be formed by the material of the attribute with expectation.For example, the contacted layer of the lid 300 and friable surface such as glass of segmentation can be formed by the soft material that can not damage or destroy this friable surface.In another embodiment, can use the material such as microfibril, it can clean friable surface passively.On the other hand, be exposed to external environment condition the layer can be formed by more coarse and durable material (as plastics or leather).In another embodiment, capacitive element 208 can be incorporated in the rhythmo structure of cap assemblies 300.

In a specific embodiment, the body 302 of segmentation can be divided into a plurality of sections 304-310, is distributed with narrower foldable portion 312 between these sections 304-310.Among these sections 304-310 each can comprise the one or more emboluss that are placed in one.For example, these sections can comprise the bag zone that wherein can place embolus, perhaps replacedly, embolus can the section of being embedded in (for example, inserts moulding (insert molding)).If used bag, then the bag zone can have the size and dimension that holds corresponding embolus.These emboluss can have different shape, but the most typically are shaped as the overall appearance (for example, rectangle) of the body 302 that meets segmentation.Embolus can be used to provide the support structure to the body 302 of segmentation.That is, embolus can provide hardness to cap assemblies.In some cases, embolus can be called as stiffened member (stiffener).Therefore, except outside the narrower foldable area place that does not comprise embolus (for example, allow folding), cap assemblies is relatively harder, makes the lid 300 more healthy and stronger and easier operations of segmentation.In one embodiment, section 304,306 and 310 dimension scales with respect to section 308 can be about 0.72 to 1, about 72% of the width of the section of this means 304,306 and 310 the width dimensions section of being 308.Like this, can form triangle with suitable angle (that is, as described below, be approximately 75 ° for the display seat, be approximately 11 ° for keyboard base and be used for keyboard region).

The section 306,308 and 310 can comprise respectively embolus 314,316 and 318(illustrate with the dash line form).Embolus 314-318 can be by being that body 302 increases flexible rigidity or semi-rigid material forms.The example of operable material comprises plastics, glass fibre, carbon fiber composite, metal etc.Section 304 can comprise embolus 320, this embolus 320 also can be formed by resilient material (as plastics), and be set to hold magnetic element 322, some in these magnetic elements 322 can with board device 100 in magnetic element (attachment structure 110 more specifically) interact.Embolus 314-318 also can hold capacitive element 208, and this capacitive element 208 can be by the responsive part of the MT institute sensing of the display of board device 100.

Because the body 302 of segmentation can fold, more particularly, because each section can be folded relative to each other, so the major part in the magnetic element 322 can be used for and magnetic interaction take place for the active embolus 324 of magnetic that is embedded in the embolus 318.By with active embolus 324 and the binding of magnetic element 322 magnetic, can form various supporting structures, some in these supporting structures can be triangular shaped.The triangle supporting structure can help the use of board device 100.For example, can use a triangle supporting structure to come bearing flat plate device 100 in such a way, that is, making can be by with respect to the horizontal plane becoming about 75 ° hope visual angle to present vision content.Yet, in order suitably to fold the lid 300 of segmentation, section 308 can be designed to dimensionally the section of being a bit larger tham 304,306 and 310(these have same size usually).Like this, these sections can form has two equilateral and triangles than the 3rd long limit, and this triangle has an about interior angle of 75 °.

Cap assemblies 300 can be attached to annex attachment structure 202 pivotally by hinge assembly.Hinge assembly can provide one or more pivots to fold on the device to allow lid, and cap assemblies is attached to device by magnet simultaneously.In illustrated embodiment, hinge assembly can comprise first articulated section (being also referred to as the first end lug (lug)) 328 and with second articulated section (or second end lug) 330 of the first end lug positioned opposite.The first end lug 328 can be by being attached to segmentation the pipe portion of body 302 in connecting link 332(illustrate with dashed line form) be rigidly connected to the second end lug 330.The longitudinal axis of connecting link 332 can be used as pivotal axis 333, and the body of segmentation can pivot with respect to hinge assembly around pivotal axis 333.Connecting link 332 can be enough to metal or plastics that non-yielding prop cap assemblies 300 and magnetic is attached to any object (as board device 100) of magnetic attachment structure 202 by intensity and form.

In order to prevent metal and Metal Contact, the first end lug 328 and the second end lug 330 all can have the

protective seam

336 and 338 that is attached to them respectively.Protective seam (being also referred to as bolster) 336 and 338 can prevent direct contact the between the first end lug 328 and the second end lug 330 and the housing 102.This end lug 328,330 and housing 102 be even more important when being formed by metal.Bolster 336 and 338 existence can be prevented metal and the Metal Contact between not-go-end lug and the housing 102, eliminate thus at the contact point place may deterioration board device 100 overall appearance and the risk of the essence wearing and tearing of sensation.

The first end lug 328 and the second end lug 330 can be attached to electronic installation by hinged cross bar (hinge span) 340 magnetic, and this hinged cross bar 340 is configured to pivot with respect to the end lug.This pivot can utilize its part of pivot pin 342(to expose) realize.Pivot pin 342 can rotatably be fixed to hinged cross bar 340 the first end lug 328 and the second end lug 330.Hinged cross bar 340 can comprise magnetic element.These magnetic elements can be set to hinged cross bar 340 magnetic are attached to the magnetic attachment structure of the magnetic element layout that has coupling in the electronic installation.For these magnetic elements being fixed on the correct position in the hinged cross bar 340, can use pivot pin 342 to fix the magnetic element at the two ends that are positioned at hinged cross bar 340, move and may interrupt the attached possibility of magnetic between the magnetic attachment structure in hinged cross bar 340 and the electronic installation thereby reduce magnetic element in the hinged cross bar 340.

Fig. 5 A and 5B illustration plate carry representational magnetic interaction between the

magnetic element

207 and 209 in compass 118 and the capping 202.For the remainder of this discussion, for the sake of clarity,

magnetic element

207 and 209 is assumed that the composite magnetic element ME that carries compass 118 distance r with plate.In opening configuration, be fixed range R apart from r _Open, and in closed configuration, be fixed range R apart from r _ClosedTherefore, plate carries compass 118 and can detect the magnetic flux density M that sends from composite magnetic element ME according to formula (1):

M (r)=B _ME/ r ²Formula (1)

Wherein:

B _MEBe the magnetic flux density (tesla) of composite magnetic element ME, and

R is that composite magnetic element ME and plate carry the distance between the compass 118.

Therefore, in opening configuration, plate carries compass 118 can detect magnetic flux density according to formula (2):

M _Open=B _ME/ R _Open ²Formula (2)

And in closed configuration, plate carries compass 118 can detect magnetic flux density according to formula (3):

M _Closed=B _ME/ R _Closed ²Formula (3)

Yet, because composite magnetic element ME and plate carry changing with angle of pivot Θ apart from r between the compass 118, so the variation of carrying compass 118 detected magnetic flux density M by plate can provide the estimation of capping 202 around the motion of pivotal axis 211.Like this, by capping 202 is carried out modeling around the motion of pivotal axis 211, can infer the motion of capping 202 by assess the variation by the magnetic flux density M of compass 118 detected composite magnetic element ME according to formula (4):

M (Θ)=B _ME/ r (Θ) ²Formula (4)

Wherein: 0≤Θ≤π.

Because board device 100 can not directly detect angle of pivot Θ, so can utilize the accelerometer and the gyroscope (not shown) that comprise in the board device 100 to obtain indirect determining.Accelerometer and gyroscope can provide the dimensional orientation of board device 100, and carrying compass 118, plate can detect total magnetic flux density (comprising the magnetic deflection shown in Fig. 6 A and the 6B), whether this total magnetic flux density can compare with dynamic model, rotating around pivotal axis 211 to infer capping 202.

Fig. 6 A and 6B with graphical illustration can be carried the various magnetic deflections that compass 118 detects by plate.For example, the magnetic element in the magnetic attachment structure 204 can produce magnetic deflection M1.Magnetic deflection M1 can provide the indication that is attached to board device 100 about over cap 200 magnetic.For example, detect the variation of magnetic flux density if plate carries compass 118 according to magnetic deflection M1, then plate carries compass 118 and can provide corresponding signal to the processor in the board device 100.Processor can use this signal infer over cap 200 magnetic be attached to board device 100.

Fig. 7 show describe in detail to confirm from hall effect sensor to the process flow diagram of over cap with respect to the process 700 of the indication of the state of electronic installation.Process 700 can start from 702, detects the stimulation of the first kind at this first sensor place in electronic installation.704, receive first signal according to aforementioned detection, this first signal indication accessories apparatus is with respect to first state of electronic installation.706, the stimulation of second type is detected at the second sensor place in electronic installation.708, receive the secondary signal according to aforementioned detection, this secondary signal indication accessories apparatus is with respect to second state of electronic installation.710, if first state is identical with second state, then accept first signal 712, and process 700 finishes.Otherwise, 714, determine whether to receive the signal from another sensor.If determine to receive another signal from another sensor, then forward control to 706; Otherwise, ignore first signal 716, and process 700 finishes.

Fig. 8 shows detailed description as the process flow diagram of the process 800 of an embodiment of the step 702 of process 700, and wherein, first sensor is Hall effect (HFX) sensor.More specifically, process 800 starts from 802, is in closed indication at this state about lid that receives from the HFX sensor.804, activate ambient light sensor (ALS).806, determine whether ALS detects the amount of ambient light bigger than surround lighting threshold value.If detected amount of ambient light is greater than threshold value, then do not confirm from the HFX sensor be in closed indication about lid, and ignore this 808 and be in closed indication from the HFX sensor about lid; Otherwise, accept this from the indication of HFX sensor at 810 electronic installations.

Fig. 9 shows detailed description as the process flow diagram of the process 900 of an embodiment of the step 702 of process 700, and wherein, first sensor is Hall effect (HFX) sensor.More specifically, process 900 starts from 902, is in closed indication at this state about lid that receives from the HFX sensor.904, activate camera, and 906, determine whether camera has caught image.If determine that 906 cameras do not capture image, then accept to be in closed indication from the HFX sensor about lid 908.On the other hand, if determine that 906 cameras have captured image, then from being in closed indication about the lid state and not being proved of HFX sensor, and ignore this from the indication of HFX sensor 910 by electronic installation.

Figure 10 shows detailed description as the process flow diagram of the process 1000 of an embodiment of the step 702 of process 700, and wherein, first sensor is Hall effect (HFX) sensor.More specifically, process 1000 starts from 1002, is in closed indication at this state about lid that receives from the HFX sensor.1004, detect magnetic field at the compass place, then 1006, determine that the Hard Magnetic skew that whether causes with the existence of the magnetic element of Yin Gainei in detected magnetic field is consistent.If determine not detect hard skew 1006, then from being in closed indication about lid and not being proved of HFX sensor, and ignore this from the indication of HFX sensor at 1008 electronic installations.On the other hand, if determine to detect hard skew 1006, then confirmed from the HFX sensor be in closed indication about the lid state, and accept this from the indication of HFX sensor 1010 by electronic installation.

Figure 11 shows detailed description as the process flow diagram of the process 1100 of an embodiment of the step 702 of process 700, and wherein, first sensor is Hall effect (HFX) sensor.More specifically, process 1100 starts from 1102, is in closed indication at this state about lid that receives from the HFX sensor.1104, detect the MT event at the MT sensing surface.1106, whether determine the MT event and be in closed consistent MT characteristic matching with the lid state.If it is closed consistent to determine that MT feature and lid state are in, then 1108, electronic installation is accepted the indication from the HFX sensor.On the other hand, if MT event and MT feature do not match, then ignore indication from the HFX sensor at 1110 electronic installations, and process 1100 finishes.

Figure 12 shows detailed description as the process flow diagram of the process 1200 of an embodiment of the step 702 of process 700, and wherein, first sensor is Hall effect (HFX) sensor.More specifically, process 1200 starts from 1202, is in closed indication at this state about lid that receives from the HFX sensor.1204, detect the RFID feature.1206, whether determine detected RFID feature and the RFID characteristic matching consistent with lid.If determine that the RFID feature is consistent with lid, then 1208, electronic installation is accepted the indication from the HFX sensor.On the other hand, if the RFID feature is inconsistent with lid, then ignore indication from the HFX sensor at 1210 electronic installations, and process 1200 finishes.

Figure 13 shows the process flow diagram of detailed description process 1300.More specifically, process 1300 starts from 1302, uses current locus and the rotation of accelerometer and the real-time detection. electronics of gyroscope at this.1304, detect exterior magnetic field by magnetometer (form is compass).1306, provide the dynamic magnetic field of gained in real time based on accelerometer and gyroscope reading and compass reading, wherein the dynamic magnetic field of gained is the clean magnetic field of all exterior magnetic fields of recording at the compass place.Based on current locus and the clean magnetic field of rotation real-time update of electronic installation, so that dynamic gained magnetic field to be provided, follow the reference data of the dynamic magnetic field consistent with there not being lid to compare in this dynamic gained magnetic field 1308.1310, determine measured dynamic magnetic field and the deviation of reference data.If less than the threshold deviation value, then there is not lid in this deviation, and ignore indication from the HFX sensor at 1312 electronic installations.On the other hand, if greater than the threshold deviation value, then there is lid in this deviation, and in the indication of 1314 electronic installations acceptance from the HFX sensor.

Figure 14 is the block diagram that is suitable for the electronic installation 1450 that uses with described embodiment.Electronic installation 1450 illustrations the circuit of representational calculation element.Electronic installation 1450 comprises processor 1452, and processor 1452 relates to microprocessor or the controller for the overall operation of control electronic installation 1450.Electronic installation 1450 is the storage media data relevant with media item in file system 1454 and high-speed cache 1456.File system 1454 is memory disc or a plurality of dish normally.File system 1454 is generally electronic installation 1450 high capacity storage capability is provided.Yet, since longer relatively to the access time of file system 1454, so electronic installation 1450 can also comprise high-speed cache 1456.High-speed cache 1456 for example is the random-access memory (ram) that is provided by semiconductor memory.Relative access time of high-speed cache 1456 is shorter than access time to file system 1454 greatly.Yet high-speed cache 1456 does not have the large storage capacity of file system 1454.And file system 1454 power than high-speed cache 1456 consumption when activity is many.When electronic installation 1450 was portable media device by battery 1474 power supply, power consumption usually became problem.Electronic installation 1450 also can comprise RAM1470 and ROM (read-only memory) (ROM) 1472.ROM1472 can store program, instrument (utility) or the process that will carry out in non-volatile mode.RAM1470 provides the volatile data storage that for example is used for high-speed cache 1456.

Electronic installation 1450 also comprises user input apparatus 1458, and this user input apparatus 1458 allows user and the electronic installation 1450 of electronic installation 1450 mutual.For example, user input apparatus 1458 can be taked various forms, catches the input of input interface, sensing data form etc. as button, keypad, dial, touch-screen, audio input interface, video.And electronic installation 1450 comprises and can be controlled to show the display 1460(screen display of information to the user by processor 1452).Data bus 1466 can be so that carrying out data transmission between file system 1454, high-speed cache 1456, processor 1452 and the CODEC1463 at least.

In one embodiment, electronic installation 1450 is used for storing a plurality of media item (for example, song, blog etc.) in file system 1454.When the user wishes to play certain media items with electronic installation, show the tabulation of available media items at display 1460.Subsequently, the user can use user input apparatus 1458 to select one in available media items.After the selection that receives certain media items, processor 1452 offers encoder/decoder (CODEC) 1463 with the media data (for example, audio file) of this certain media items.CODEC1463 generates the analog output signal at loudspeaker 1464 subsequently.Loudspeaker 1464 can be the loudspeaker in electronic installation 1450 inside, or at the loudspeaker of electronic installation 1450 outsides.For example, headphone or the receiver that is connected to electronic installation 1450 is considered to external loudspeaker.

Electronic installation 1450 also comprises the network/bus interface 1461 that is couple to data link 1462.Data link 1462 makes electronic installation 1450 can be couple to host computer or is couple to accessories apparatus.Data link 1462 can provide by wired connection or wireless connections.For the situation of wireless connections, network/bus interface 1461 can comprise transceiver.Media item (media asset) can relate to one or more dissimilar media contents.In one embodiment, media item is audio-frequency music (for example, song, audio books and blog).In another embodiment, media item is image (for example, photo).Yet in other embodiments, media item can be any combination of audio frequency, figure or vision content.Sensor 1476 can adopt the form for detection of the circuit of any amount of stimulation.For example, sensor 1476 can comprise hall effect sensor that the external magnetic field is responded, audio sensor, optical sensor (as photometer) etc.

The various aspects of described embodiment, embodiment, embodiment or feature can be used separately or be used in combination by any.The various aspects of described embodiment can realize by the combination of software, hardware or hardware and software.Described embodiment also may be implemented as the computer-readable code on the non-transient state computer-readable medium.Computer-readable medium is defined as any data storage device that can store data, and wherein these data subsequently can be by computer system reads.The example of computer-readable medium comprises ROM (read-only memory), random access memory, CD-ROM, DVD, tape and optical data storage device.Computer-readable medium also can be distributed on the computer system by network coupling, thereby with distribution mode storage and computer readable code executed.

More than the description made for explanation use particular term that thorough understanding to described embodiment is provided.Yet it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that to putting into practice described embodiment does not need these specific details.Therefore, to the above description of specific embodiment as described herein for illustration and explanation.They are not intended to limit or these embodiment are limited to disclosed precise forms.It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that according to above instruction and can make many modifications and modification.

The advantage of described embodiment is a lot.Different aspects, embodiment or embodiment can bring one or more in the following advantage.To know according to written description and therefore, to be intended to many feature and advantage of these embodiment contain all these feature and advantage of the present invention by claims.In addition because those skilled in the art will understand numerous modifications and change easily, so embodiment should be not limited to as illustrated in and accurate structure and the operation described.Therefore, all suitable modifications and equivalent can be regarded as falling within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. electronic installation comprises:

Display module, this display module comprises the top protective seam;

Magnetometer is configured to detect propagate and passes the external magnetic field of top protective seam and first detection signal is provided, and this external magnetic field is provided by the external magnetic element;

Be used for to determine electronic installation with respect to inertial reference system when front space towards mechanism; And

The processor of communicating by letter with described mechanism with described magnetometer, this processor is configured to assess first detection signal at static magnetic field component and dynamic magnetic field component, and utilize current towards the current location of described external magnetic element with respect to electronic installation is provided in conjunction with electronic installation of the assessment of first detection signal

Wherein, described processor also is configured to according to the mode of operation of described magnetic element with respect to the current location change electronic installation of electronic installation.

2. electronic installation as claimed in claim 1, wherein said processor is configured to, and when the current location of determining described magnetic element is first precalculated position, the mode of operation of electronic installation is changed to first mode of operation.

3. electronic installation as claimed in claim 2, wherein said external magnetic arrangements of elements are in flexible capping, and this flexibility capping is couple to electronic installation pivotally around axle parallel and next-door neighbour's electronic installation first side.

4. electronic installation as claimed in claim 3 also comprises:

Ambient light sensor (ALS), this ALS next-door neighbour display module arrange, and the amount when the detected light of ALS of being configured to drops to predetermined threshold and provide second detection signal to processor when following,

Wherein, second detection signal that described processor is configured to utilize ALS to provide confirms the current location of described magnetic element, described light drops to and shows below the described predetermined threshold that magnetic element is in second precalculated position that wherein flexible capping covers ALS, and wherein, it is that second precalculated position and the detected light of ALS drop to described predetermined threshold when following that described processor only is configured in the current location that provides, just according to the mode of operation of second precalculated position change electronic installation.

5. electronic installation as claimed in claim 3, wherein said flexible capping also are included on the surface of flexible capping a plurality of capacitive elements with first patterned arrangement.

6. electronic installation as claimed in claim 5, wherein when described magnetic element is in the 3rd precalculated position, the capacitive element next-door neighbour display module of flexible capping, this display module also comprises the multiple point touching circuit, and this multiple point touching circuit is configured to first pattern of identification capacitive element when magnetic element is in the 3rd precalculated position.

7. electronic installation as claimed in claim 6, wherein said processor only are configured to when the multiple point touching circuit identifies first pattern of capacitive element, just according to the mode of operation of the 3rd precalculated position change electronic installation.

8. consumption electronic product comprises:

Electronic installation, this electronic installation comprises: processor; Display module with top protective seam is configured to the magnetometer that detects magnetic field and first detection signal is provided; And be used for to determine electronic installation with respect to inertial reference system when front space towards mechanism; And

First end that flexible capping, this flexibility are sealed on this flexibility capping is couple to the first side of electronic installation pivotally, and this flexibility capping comprises the magnetic element of second end layout that be close to this flexibility capping, and wherein this second end is relative with first end,

Wherein, described processor is communicated by letter with described mechanism with described magnetometer, and be configured to assess first detection signal at static magnetic field component and dynamic magnetic field component, and utilize current towards the current location of external magnetic element with respect to electronic installation is provided in conjunction with electronic installation of the assessment of first detection signal, and wherein, the mode of operation according to the current location change electronic installation of the magnetic element that provides also is provided described processor.

9. consumption electronic product as claimed in claim 8, wherein first end of flexible capping comprises the articulated section that is couple to electronic installation separatably, this articulated section comprises a plurality of magnetic elements that this articulated section are couple to the electronic installation first side.

10. consumption electronic product as claimed in claim 9, wherein said processor also is configured to when existing of a plurality of magnets of first detection signal and articulated section is consistent electronic installation be placed first mode of operation, and is configured to when existing of first detection signal and described a plurality of magnets is inconsistent electronic installation be placed second mode of operation.

11. consumption electronic product as claimed in claim 8, wherein said magnetometer is compass.

12. consumption electronic product as claimed in claim 8, wherein second end of flexible capping comprises a plurality of magnets, these a plurality of magnets are configured to the second end magnetic of flexible capping is couple to the part of next-door neighbour's electronic installation second side of electronic installation, and the second side of electronic installation is relative with the first side.

13. consumption electronic product as claimed in claim 12, wherein said electronic installation also comprises Hall effect (HFX) sensor, this HFX sensor is disposed in the electronic installation, so that described magnetic element is close to this HFX sensor when flexible capping magnetic is couple to described second end, and wherein, described processor is configured to compare to confirm by the current location of information that the HFX sensor is received and determined magnetic element the current location of determined magnetic element.

14. consumption electronic product as claimed in claim 8, wherein said mechanism comprises gyroscope.

15. a method of being carried out by the processor of electronic installation in comprising the consumption electronic product of electronic installation comprises:

By the gyroscope detection. electronics with respect to the space of inertial reference system towards;

Detect first magnetic field by magnetometer;

Receive at the processor place from gyrostatic first signal and from the secondary signal of magnetometer the two;

Assess detected magnetic field at static magnetic field component and dynamic magnetic field component;

At the processor place, utilize to the assessment in magnetic field in conjunction with detected space towards, determine to have the flexible capping of at least one magnetic element with respect to the current angle of pivot of electronic installation; And

According to the current angle of pivot of flexible capping, change the mode of operation of electronic installation.

16. method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the detected space of gyroscope is towards being improved by accelerometer, described first signal comprise improved electronic installation space towards.

17. method as claimed in claim 15 determines that wherein angle of pivot also comprises: with detected magnetic field and space towards comparing with the dynamic magnetic field model that is stored on the electronic installation.

18. method as claimed in claim 15 also comprises:

The multiple point touching circuit of the display of active electron device comes the pattern of the capacitive element of detection arrangement on the first surface of flexible capping whether to be close to display; And

When the multiple point touching electric circuit inspection of display arrives the capacitive element of flexible capping, confirm the current angle of pivot of flexible capping.

19. method as claimed in claim 18, wherein when flexible capping was not confirmed as the display of overlay electronic device, described operation was configured such that the demonstration of enabling vision content.

20. method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the assessment to static and dynamic magnetic field component comprises: determine whether to exist in the determined angle of pivot mistake that is causing with respect to the motion of magnetometer owing to flexible capping.