U.S. patent application number 13/188432 was filed with the patent office on 2012-02-09 for magnetic fasteners.
This patent application is currently assigned to Apple Inc.. Invention is credited to Peter Arnold, Brett Bilbrey, Michael D. Hillman, Vijay Iyer, Jean Lee, Aleksandar Pance, David I. Simon, Bradley Spare, Gregory L. Tice.
Application Number | 20120032765 13/188432 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45493991 |
Filed Date | 2012-02-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120032765 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bilbrey; Brett ; et
al. |
February 9, 2012 |
MAGNETIC FASTENERS
Abstract
The various embodiment provide fastening devices, systems and
methods that utilize two or more maxels in respective correlated
magnetic structures provided in a first structure and at least one
second structure to fasten or repulse the first structure to or
from, as the case may be, the at least one second structure. In at
least one embodiment, each maxel is programmable and may vary
either or both the polarity and magnetic strength of the given
maxel. The variance of the polarity and/or magnetic strength of the
given maxel may be programmable and may be varied to attract or
repulse a second magnetic structure which desirably also contains
one or maxels forming a correlated magnetic structure.
Inventors: |
Bilbrey; Brett; (Sunnyvale,
CA) ; Pance; Aleksandar; (Saratoga, CA) ;
Arnold; Peter; (Cupertino, CA) ; Simon; David I.;
(San Francisco, CA) ; Lee; Jean; (San Jose,
CA) ; Hillman; Michael D.; (Los Altos, CA) ;
Tice; Gregory L.; (Los Altos, CA) ; Iyer; Vijay;
(Mountain View, CA) ; Spare; Bradley; (San Jose,
CA) |
Assignee: |
Apple Inc.
Cupertino
CA
|
Family ID: |
45493991 |
Appl. No.: |
13/188432 |
Filed: |
July 21, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61366466 |
Jul 21, 2010 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
335/306 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01R 13/641 20130101;
H01R 13/6205 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
335/306 |
International
Class: |
H01F 7/02 20060101
H01F007/02 |
Claims
1. A fastening device comprising: a first structure comprising at
least a first maxel and a second maxel, wherein each of the first
maxel and the second maxel has a polarity and a magnetic strength;
and a second structure comprising at least a third maxel and a
fourth maxel, wherein each of the third maxel and the fourth maxel
has a polarity and a magnetic strength; and wherein the polarity of
the first maxel, the second maxel, the third maxel and the fourth
maxel are configured so at to develop an attraction between at
least one of: (a) the first maxel with the third maxel or fourth
maxel; and (b) the second maxel with at least one of the third
maxel and the fourth maxel.
2. The fastening device of claim 1 wherein the first maxel further
comprises an electromagnetic structure whereby the polarity of the
first maxel can be varied by a change of current flow in the
electromagnetic structure.
3. The fastening device of claim 2, wherein each of the first maxel
and third maxel further comprise electromagnetic structures.
4. The fastening device of claim 3, wherein the attraction or
repulsion of the first maxel relative to the third maxel is
controlled by activating or deactivating the electromagnetic
structure in a least one of the first maxel and the third maxel
with a desired direction of electrical current flow.
5. The fastening device of claim 2, wherein the second maxel
further comprises an electromagnetic structure and the polarity of
the first maxel and the second maxel are uniquely programmable.
6. The fastening device of claim 2, wherein the magnetic strength
of the first maxel is variable.
7. The fastening device of claim 2, wherein the first maxel is
configured in a clutch of a laptop computer.
8. The fastening device of claim 2, wherein the first maxel is
configured in a spine of a rivet.
9. The fastening device of claim 2, wherein the first maxel is
configured in spine of a freewheel.
10. The fastening device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the
first maxel, the second maxel, the third maxel and the fourth maxel
is programmable.
11. A correlated magnetic structure comprising: at least one first
maxel and at least one second maxel.
12. The correlated magnetic structure of claim 11, wherein the at
least one first maxel further comprises an electromagnetic
structure.
13. The correlated magnetic structure of claim 12, wherein the
electromagnetic structure further comprises a variable current
structure, where by varying the current in a first direction a
first polarity of the at least one first maxel is created and by
varying the current in a second direction a second polarity of the
at least one first maxel is created.
14. The correlated magnetic structure of claim 11, wherein the at
least one first maxel is configured to correspond to and create an
attractive force between the at least one first maxel and a
corresponding at least one third maxel on a second correlated
magnetic structure and the at least one second maxel is configured
to correspond to and create a repulsive force between the at least
one second maxel and at least one fourth maxel on the second
correlated magnetic structure.
15. The correlated magnetic structure of claim 14, wherein the
attractive force created between the at least one first maxel and
the at least one third maxel is dominate across both the first
correlated magnetic structure and the second correlated magnetic
structure when the first correlated magnetic structure and the
second correlated magnetic structure are respectively oriented in a
first configuration and wherein the repulsive force created between
the at least one second maxel and the at least one fourth maxel is
dominate across both the first correlated magnetic structure and
the second correlated magnetic structure when the first correlated
magnetic structure and the second correlated magnetic structure are
respectively oriented in a second configuration.
16. A method for fastening a first structure to a second structure,
wherein each of the first structure and the second structure have
at least one magnetic property and wherein the second structure
includes a programmable correlated magnetic structure having two or
more maxels comprising: determining at least one magnetic property
of the first structure; and configuring the magnetic polarity of a
first maxel of the two or more maxels in the second structure;
whereby upon configuring the magnetic polarity of the first maxel
an attractive magnetic force is created between the configured
first maxel and the first structure.
17. The method of claim 16, comprising: configuring the magnetic
polarity of a second maxel of the two or more maxels in the second
structure; whereby upon configuring the magnetic polarity of the
second maxel a repulsive magnetic force is created between the
second maxel and the first structure.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the attractive magnetic force
is sensed by the second structure relative to the first structure
when the second structure approaches the first structure from a
first given attitude, and wherein the repulsive magnetic force is
sensed by the second structure relative to the first structure when
the second structure approaches the first structure from a second
given attitude.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein the repulsive magnetic force is
sensed by the second structure relative to the first structure when
the second structure is rotated about a common axis relative to the
first structure.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
119(e) to of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/366,466,
filed Jul. 21, 2010 and titled, "Applications of Programmable
Magnets," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein in
its entirety. This application is also related to U.S. patent
application Ser. No. ______, filed with Attorney Docket No.
P9757US1 (P217177.US.02) and titled "Alignment and Connection for
Devices," U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, filed with
Attorney Docket No. P9757US2 (P217177.US.03) and titled
"Magnetically-Implemented Security Devices" and U.S. patent
application Ser. No. ______, filed with Attorney Docket No.
P9757US4 (P217177.US.05) and titled "Programmable Magnetic
Connectors," all filed on the same day as this application and all
of whose disclosures are hereby incorporated herein in their
entireties.
INVENTIVE FIELD
[0002] The various embodiments described herein generally relate to
magnetic fasteners. More particularly, the various embodiments
described herein relate to apparatus, methods and systems for
utilizing programmable magnetic devices to fasten, or unfasten, two
or more components or devices.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Traditionally, various mechanical types of fasteners have
been utilized to facilitate a permanent, semi-permanent or
temporary coupling of the two or more devices. Examples of devices
utilized to accomplish such coupling include screws, rivets, nails,
bolts and nuts, non-programmable magnets, tape, wire binding,
soldering, and other fastening devices and techniques. While such
fasteners and techniques may provide for the desired coupling, they
commonly and collectively suffer from the inability to selectably
determine which two or more devices are too be coupled. Further,
such fastening devices and techniques often are deficient in that
the ability to provide a strong coupling also is commonly presented
with an inability or greater difficulty in removing such coupling
at a later time. As such a need exists for fastening devices,
systems, techniques, and tools for the same which enable selective
coupling at a desired retention and/or attractive strength while
also facilitating a ready disengagement of such coupled items at a
desired time.
SUMMARY
[0004] These and other limitations of existing apparatus, methods,
and systems for fastening two or more devices are overcome by the
various embodiments described herein.
[0005] In at least one first embodiment, a fastening device is
provided which includes a first structure comprising at least a
first maxel and a second maxel. Each of the first maxel and the
second maxel may have a polarity and a magnetic strength. A second
structure is also provided which may include at least one third
maxel and at least one fourth maxel. Each of the third maxel and
the fourth maxel may also have a polarity and a magnetic strength.
The polarity of the first maxel, the second maxel, the third maxel
and the fourth maxel may be configured to fasten the first
structure to the second structure by developing magnetic
attractions between one or more of the maxels on the first
structure with one or more of the maxels on the second structure,
for example, the first maxel with the third maxel and/or the second
maxel with the fourth maxel.
[0006] In at least one second embodiment, a correlated magnetic
structure is provided which may have two or more maxels. Either of
such maxels may be configured as an electromagnetic structure which
allows for programmability in desirably magnetic polarity and/or
magnetic field strength. Such programmability may be obtained, for
example, by inducing a the current in a first direction such that a
first polarity, creating an attractive force, is created in one of
the maxels and by reversing the current into a second direction
such that a second polarity is created in one more maxels which
results in a repulsive force arising between some or all of the
first structure with respect to the second structure.
[0007] In at least one third embodiment, a method for fastening a
first structure to a second structure is provided. According to
this method, each of the first structure and the second structure
have at least one magnetic property. Further, the second structure
may include a programmable correlated magnetic structure having two
or more maxels. The method entails the operations, in any sequence,
of determining at least one magnetic property of the first
structure; and configuring the magnetic polarity of a first maxel
of the two or more maxels in the second structure such that upon
being so configured the magnetic polarity of the first maxel
creates an attractive magnetic force with the first structure.
[0008] Additional features and advantages of the before mentioned
and other embodiments will be set forth in the description which
follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may
be learned by the practice of the embodiment(s). The features and
advantages of one or more of the various embodiments may be realize
and/or obtained by use and/or practice of the instruments,
combinations, systems, operations and/or methodologies particularly
pointed out in the appended claims and/or in any future arising
claim in this or a related application. These and other features of
the various embodiments will become more fully apparent from the
following description and appended claims, or may be learned by
practice of one or more embodiments as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0009] To further clarify the above and other advantages and
features of the various embodiments described hereinafter, a more
particular description of at least one of such embodiments will be
rendered by reference to specific implementations thereof which are
illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be appreciated that
these drawings depict only one or more embodiments and are
therefore not to be considered limiting of any embodiments scope.
The various embodiments will be described and explained with
additional specificity and detail through the use of the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0010] FIG. 1a depicts a prior art core magnetic structure with
emitting magnetic field lines propagating from a North pole to a
South pole.
[0011] FIG. 1b depicts a prior art magnetic field produced by an
electric current flowing through a conductive medium.
[0012] FIG. 2 depicts a planar view of a magnetic structure
utilized to form a correlated magnet in accordance with at least
one embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 3 depicts a planar view of a correlated magnetic
structure having specified magnetic properties in each of the
maxels forming such structure in accordance with at least one
embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 4a depicts a first exemplary embodiment of a correlated
magnet structure having a first top surface in accordance with at
least one embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 4b depicts the opposing surface of the correlated
magnetic structure shown in FIG. 4a in accordance with the first
exemplary embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 4c depicts a second exemplary embodiment of a
correlated magnet structure having a first top surface in
accordance with at least a second exemplary embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 4d depicts the opposing surface of the correlated
magnetic structure shown in FIG. 4b in accordance with the second
exemplary embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 4e depicts a third exemplary embodiment of a correlated
magnet structure having a first top surface in accordance with at
least a third exemplary embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 4f depicts the opposing surface of the correlated
magnetic structure shown in FIG. 4e in accordance with the third
exemplary embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 4g depicts the top surface of a correlated magnetic
structure configured into a screw in accordance with at least one
embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 4h depicts the head portion of a lag bolt or screw
having a correlated magnetic structure configured therein in
accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 5a is a pictorial representation of two correlated
magnetic structures having opposing magnetic field patterns which
prevent the magnetic fastening of the structures when the second
structure is oriented in a particular way with respect to the first
structure in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 5b is a pictorial representation of the two correlated
magnetic structures shown in the embodiment of FIG. 5a wherein a
shifting of the orientation of the second structure relative to the
first structure results in a magnetic attraction of the second
structure to the first structure along at least two maxels in
accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 5c is a pictorial representation of the two correlated
magnetic structures shown in the embodiment of FIG. 5a wherein a
rotation and re-orientation of the second structure relative to the
first structure results in a magnetic attraction of the second
structure to the first structure along at least five maxels in
accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 6a is a pictorial representation of two correlated
magnetic structures aligned so as to maximize the magnetic
attraction between the first structure and the second structure in
accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 6b is a pictorial representation of the two correlated
magnetic structures of FIG. 6a wherein a second structure has been
rotated relative to the first structure about one or more axis so
as to change the magnetic attractive and/or repulsive force
profiles exhibited collectively and individually by a plurality of
maxels on each of the respective first and second structures in
accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 6c is a pictorial representation of the two correlated
magnetic structures of FIG. 6a and FIG. 6b, wherein the second
structure has been further rotated beyond the rotation exhibited in
FIG. 6b and relative to the first structure about one or more axis
so as to change the magnetic attractive and/or repulsive force
profiles exhibited collectively and individually by the plurality
of maxels on each of the respective first and second structures in
accordance with at least one embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] The various of embodiments described herein generally relate
to apparatuses, systems and/or methods which utilize the properties
of magnetism to fasten or couple two or more items, components,
devices, or systems together. In at least one embodiment, one or
more "correlated magnets" are used to accomplish the before
mentioned fastening and/or coupling functions. As used herein, a
"correlated magnet" is a structure whose magnetic properties can be
specified by a combination of two or more individual magnetic
elements.
[0029] With reference to FIG. 1a, each magnetic element presents
itself as having a magnetic field and a magnitude, wherein the
density of the magnetic field lines pictorially represent the
magnitude of the magnetic field produced at any given time by the
magnetic element. When presented in a substrate, such as a
ferromagnetic structure like iron, magnetic field lines are
commonly represented by a dipole structure from which field lines
emanate and return. Such dipoles are commonly referred to as the
"N" or North and the "S" or south poles. The magnetic fields
emanate from one pole and return (but never actually end) in a
continuous loop, as represented by the respective arrows. Further,
when two dipole magnets are positioned relative to each other, the
common poles will repel (i.e., an "N" pole will repel an "N" pole),
and the opposing poles will attract (i.e., an "N" pole attracts an
"S" pole and vice versa). Similarly, with reference to FIG. 1B, it
is commonly known that a magnetic field is also produced when an
electrical current, lc, is produced through a conductor, such as a
wire, with the direction of the magnetic field being predicted by
the "right hand grip rule" as shown by the arrows. Just as common
magnetic poles repel and opposing magnetic poles attract, magnetic
fields produced by electrical current passing through a conductor
will also commonly or opposingly repel or attract, respectively.
For example, a magnetic field emanating in a counter-clockwise
condition, as shown in FIG. 1B, will oppose another wire having an
electrical current flowing in the same direction and thereby also
producing a counter-clockwise rotating magnetic field.
[0030] Further, it is well known that a current carrying wire and
configured into multiple loops (such as in the form of a solenoid),
when positioned about a ferromagnetic core (or similar substance)
can be used to create an electro-magnet. The strength and direction
of a magnetic field emanating there from can be controlled by
controlling the direction of flow and the volume of current flowing
through the wire of the solenoid. Based upon these well-known
principles of electricity and magnetism, a correlated magnet can be
configured, in accordance with at least one embodiment, by the
combination of multiple individual magnets in a given
configuration.
[0031] FIG. 2 represents one embodiment of a correlated magnet
consisting of sixteen (16) magnetic elements (201-216,
respectively). The correlated magnet may include any number of
magnetic elements (hereinafter "maxels"), provided that at least
two are utilized or are capable of being utilized at any given
time. Each maxel may be of a fixed polarity, as in the case of a
solid magnetic element, or varied based upon a direction of current
flow, as in the case of an electromagnetic element. Maxels may also
be utilized which produce no magnetic field at any given time, for
example, by the absence of electrical current being provided to an
electromagnetic structure forming the maxel. Likewise, it is to be
appreciated that the strength of each maxel may also be fixed,
reversible, or otherwise variable, as may be the case in a combined
solid and electro- magnetic element. That is, the direction and
strength of a correlated magnet may be programmed to pulse between
varying states (e.g., "N" polarity one second, then "S" polarity
for three seconds, then "N" polarity for two seconds, etc.). When
coupled with a correspondingly second structure having maxels that
correspondingly vary in polarity and strength, a fastening between
two correlated magnet structures can be created that is effectively
encrypted and unbreakable without know the pulse patterns used for
the maxels forming the corresponding correlated magnetic
structures. For example, such a system could be used to prevent the
breaking of a magnetically fastened latch (e.g., in a door) by
simply using a third magnet of sufficient opposing magnetic force.
The third magnet would desirably have to vary its magnetic force
properties across multiple, rand
[0032] It should be appreciated that the overall magnetic field of
the correlated magnet will depend on the arrangement and magnetic
field strength presented by each of the constituent maxels at any
given time. For example, certain correlated magnets may exert a
repulsive force at a first distance against an external magnetic or
ferrous surface, but an attractive force at a second distance.
Similarly, attractive and repulsive forces may be directionally
oriented with respect to any two surfaces, such that a second
surface approaching a first surface from an undesired angle,
direction and/or distance is repulsed. Such a coupling or
non-coupling of two structures might be important, for example,
when conductor pins corresponding in position to a farthest right
edge of the first structure must be aligned with those
corresponding to the right most edge of the second structure.
[0033] One embodiment of a correlated magnet may take the
configuration of FIG. 3, for example, in which maxels 201-204 and
213-216 are configured to emit a magnetic field such that the "S"
polarity of the field is presented on a top surface of the
structure 300, as viewed from above the drawing sheet. Also, maxels
206, 207, 210 and 211 are configured to emit a magnetic field such
that the "N" polarity is presented on the top surface of the
structure 300, as viewed from the same perspective at the same
given time. Maxels may also be configured, for example, when
configured as an electro-magnetic structure, to present a magnetic
force of any desired magnitude, including a force of zero (0)
magnetism, as represented by the "O" for maxels 205, 208, 209 and
212.
[0034] It should be appreciated that the overall magnetic field
strength of any given correlated magnet will depend on the
arrangement and magnetic field strength presented by each of the
constituent maxels at any given time. The overall magnetic field
strength may vary both in time, direction (e.g., "N" versus "S"
versus "O" pole, and right-hand versus left-hand direction) and
strength. For example, certain correlated magnets may exert a
repulsive force at a first distance against an external magnetic or
ferrous surface, but an attractive force at a second distance.
Similarly, attractive and repulsive forces, with respect to any
corresponding surface may be directionally oriented, such that a
second surface approaching a first surface from an undesired
attitude is repulsed.
[0035] As shown in FIG. 4a, a first correlated magnet structure 400
may be configured to have a top surface 414 and at least one side
surface 416. The structure 400 may also be configured to include
six maxels, 402, 404, 406, 408, 410 and 412. Each of these maxels
may be further configured to present a give magnetic pattern, such
as the N--N--S--N--O--S pattern (as read from right to left and top
to bottom, with the top surface 414 of the first structure 400
being parallel to the plane of the drawing sheet). It is to be
appreciated that the opposing surface 414' the structure at each
maxel 402', 404', 406', 408', 410' and 412', will have the opposite
polarity. For example, the opposing surface 414' of structure 400
for maxel 402 will have the "S" polarity, this opposing surface is
represented in FIG. 4b as element 402'.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 4c, a corresponding second correlated
magnet structure 418 having a top surface 420 and at least one side
surface 422, may also be configured to have six maxels, 424, 426,
428, 430, 432 and 434. Each of these maxels may be further
configured to present on a top surface 420 of the structure 418 a
pattern similar to the first correlated magnet structure, such as
SS--N--S--N--N pattern shown in FIG. 4c, an opposing surface 420'
pattern such as the S--N--N--S--S--N pattern shown in FIG. 4d, or
any other pattern, such as the N--S--N--N--N--O pattern shown in
FIG. 4e, with respect to third correlated magnet structure 436,
having a top surface 438, at least one side surface 440 and maxels
442, 444, 446, 448, 450 and 452. The magnetic pattern for the
opposing surface 438' of the third correlated magnet structure 436
is S--N--S--O--S--S, as shown in FIG. 4e. As used throughout this
description and in the drawing figures, maxel polarities emanating
from a top or first surface of a maxel in a correlated magnetic
structure are identified in bold, while maxel polarities appearing
on an opposing surface are underlined. It is to be appreciated,
however, that any reference to a top, first or opposing surface is
for purpose of explanation only and is not to be construed as a
limitation of any embodiments claimed or described herein and that
the designation of a surface as top or opposing is merely a matter
of perspective and orientation.
[0037] It is to be appreciated that by configuring each maxel in a
correlated magnetic structure, opposing structures can be attracted
or repulsed. Further such attraction or repulsion may vary over
time, distance and orientation. For example, as shown in FIG. 5a,
the first correlated magnet structure 400, when fixed in its
orientation on an x-y-z plane, where the z axis propagates out of
the surface of the page, has the maxel pattern shown in FIG. 4a,
namely, N--N--S--N--O--S on its top surface 414. Further, it may be
desirable, for whatever reason, for second correlated magnetic
structure 418 to become magnetically fastened to the first
structure 400. The second structure 418 has a pattern of maxels on
its top surface 420 of S--S--N--S--N--N and the opposite maxel
pattern on its opposing surface 420', namely N--N--S--N--S--S. That
is, the second structure's opposing surface 420' has a very similar
maxel pattern as the first structure's top surface 414, with only
maxels 410 and 432' being different. Hence, the magnetic field
patterns created, respectively, by the top surface of the first
structure 400 and the opposing surface 420' of the second structure
418 are opposing magnetic fields, as indicated by arrows 502 and
504, such that a force opposing the fastening of first structure to
the second structure is generated and the fastening of the two
structures in accordance with this orientation would be discouraged
(if not practically extraordinarily difficult or impossible), when
presented with opposing magnetic forces of a given strength.
[0038] However, if the second structure 418 is shifted two maxels
to the right relative to the first structure 400 in the "x"
direction, as shown in FIG. 5b, then the "S" poles of maxels 406
and 412 of the top surface 414 of the first structure 400 would
attract the "N" poles of maxels 424' and 430' on the opposing
surface 420' of the second structure 418. However, a combination of
the first structure 400 and the second structure 418 in this
orientation would result in only a two maxel overlap of maxels 406
with 424' and maxels 412 with 430'. In certain embodiments, such a
two maxel overlap may or may not present an optimal or desired bond
between the structures.
[0039] It is to be appreciated, however, if the second structure
418 is rotated 180 degrees about the "x" axis and oriented relative
to the first structure 400 as shown in FIG. 5c, maxels 402, 404,
406, 408 and 412 on the front surface 414 of the first structure
400 directly correspond to opposing maxels 428, 426, 424, 434 and
430 on the front surface 414 of the second structure 418 (which is
shown in FIG. 5c as being into the page). As such, an attractive
magnetic force is respectively created as each of these maxels
overlaps, resulting in a magnetic bond of five maxel's strength,
assuming for this example that each maxel creates a magnetic field,
regardless of orientation, of the same magnetic strength. Notably,
in this example, maxels 404 and 426, have respective "N" and "S"
polarities on their respective top surfaces. When configured and
oriented such that maxel 402 directly corresponds with maxel 428,
maxels 404 and 426 likewise attract and result in the structure
desirably being properly aligned in the "y" direction. However,
should the second structure 418 be shifted upwards (in the positive
"y" direction) relative to the first structure, while maintaining
the same respective orientations as shown in FIG. 5b such that
maxel 402 now corresponds to maxel 434 and maxel 406 corresponds to
maxel 403, then maxel 432, having an N polarity on its top surface
418 would be opposite maxel 404, which also has an N polarity on
its top surface 414. As such, maxels 404 and 432 would oppose each
other. It is to be appreciated that by tuning the opposing magnetic
field strengths of maxels 404 and 432 relative to the combined
attractive magnetic fields strengths resulting from the combination
of maxels 402 with 434 and 406 with 430, the improper alignment of
the first structure 400 relative to the second structure 418 can be
discouraged and if the opposing strength formed by maxel 404 and
432 are sufficiently great, fastening of the first structure with
the second structure in this particular orientation can be
prohibited. For example, if the combined opposing magnetic forces
created by the combination of maxels 404 and 432 are sufficient to
overcome the attractive magnetic forces of maxel combinations 404
with 430 and 406 with 434, then a misalignment of the first
structure 400 relative to the second structure, in the positive "y"
direction of one maxel can be prevented, while the maximum
attraction of five maxels can be obtained when the first structure
400 is aligned relative to the second structure such that the
following maxel pairs overlap, 402 with 428, 404 with 426, 406 with
424, 408 with 434 and 412 with 430.
[0040] It is likewise to be appreciated that just as an attraction
or repulsion of two correlated magnetic structures in the "y"
direction can be dictated by the polarities and respective magnetic
strengths of the maxels forming each correlated magnetic structure,
so too can the attraction or repulsion of two or more correlated
magnetic structures be dictated in the "x" and "z" directions. That
is, it is to be appreciated that a desired alignment of correlated
magnets in one structure with respect to a second structure can be
used to encourage or discourage the alignment left, right, up or
down (e.g., a movement to in an "x" or "y" direction in a two
dimensional plane x-y plane), a relative distance, height or
separation maintained with respect of one structure to another
(e.g., along the z axis of an x, y, z cartesian coordinate system),
or the pitch, roll or yaw of one structure relative to another
(i.e., a rotation about any of the x, y or z axis of a cartesian
coordinate system). Also, it is to be appreciated that similar
control of surfaces relative to another and their attractive or
repulsive properties relative to each other and/or other third
structures can also be controlled with correlated magnets emitting
circular magnetic fields, such as those created by a current
passing through a conductor.
[0041] The exact distances at which a correlated magnet may be
magnetically attractive or repulsive may also be configured and, in
certain embodiments, varied over time. The attractive or repulsive
force generally depends on the arrangement and strength of each
individual maxel at any given time. By properly positioning maxels
on a coded magnet surface, a force curve having particular
attractive and repulsive strengths at certain distances may be
created. It should likewise be noted that the force curve may
switch between attraction and repulsion more than once as the
separation distance between the correlated magnet and magnetic
surface increases or decreases. Such magnetic force emanated from
any given maxel may be fixed, as in the case of a ferromagnetic
structure, or varied, as in the case of a maxel configured as an
electromagnet. Correspondingly, the magnetic force characteristics
of any given correlated magnet may be fixed, or varied, as any
given embodiment or implementation of the inventive concepts set
forth herein so desires. For example, the magnetic or repulsive
force of a correlated magnet may increase as the sensed distance
between two objects decreases (or in the opposite, increases). Such
an embodiment may be desirable, for example, when a strong bond
between a cable (e.g., a power cable) and a corresponding socket is
desired after it is determined that the cable and socket are
properly aligned. Similarly, the desire for a strong magnetic bond
may decrease as the device containing the socket, for example, a
laptop personal computer, tablet computer, or other electronic
device, is powering down, thereby permitting the easy disengagement
of any cables (e.g., the before mentioned power cable) connected to
the electronic component.
[0042] Generally, the coding of a correlated magnetic surface (for
example, the placement of maxels having particular field strengths
and polarities) creates a particular two-dimensional pattern on the
surface and thus a three-dimensional magnetic field. The
three-dimensional magnetic field may serve to define the
aforementioned force curve, presuming that the external magnetic or
ferrous surface has a uniform magnetic field.
[0043] Further, the two-dimensional pattern of the correlated
magnetic surface generally has a complement or mirror. This
complement is the reversed maxel pattern of the correlated magnetic
surface. Thus, a complementary correlated magnetic surface may be
defined and created for any single correlated magnetic surface. A
correlated magnetic surface and its complement are generally
attractive across any reasonable distance, although as the
separation distance increases the attraction attenuates. With
respect to a uniform external magnetic or ferrous surface, the
force curve of a complementary correlated magnet is the inverse of
the original correlated magnet's force curve. The force curve
between two correlated magnets may be varied by misaligning pairs
of magnets, magnet strengths and the like, yielding the ability to
create highly variable, and tailorable, attractive and repulsive
force curves. Given that such force curves may also be programmable
when the maxels used in any given correlated magnet are constructed
of electromagnetic structures, key codes and other security
features may used to specify and control the magnetic forces
connecting any two given devices.
[0044] For example, each maxel may be specified as to its on/off
status, with such status being associated with a given code. In at
least one embodiment, a correlated magnet having four elements, may
be configured such that the number code 6-9-1-4 results in maxels
1-4 each being turned on and in an attractive state, with respect
to a second correspondingly coded correlated magnet, whereas an
opposite code of 1-4-6-9 results in all four maxels being turned on
and in a repulsive state, with respect to the second correlated
magnet. That is, the first code pattern creates attractive magnetic
forces with a correspondingly coded second correlated magnet
structure, whereas the second code creates repulsive magnetic
forces with the second structure. Similarly, a code of 0-0-0-0
could result in all four maxels being in an "off" status whereby
they are neither attractive nor repulsive. It is to be appreciated
that the magnitude of the attractive (or repulsive) force may also
be specified. For example, a code of "9" may result in a maximum
attractive force, with respect to the second magnet having a fixed
maxel, whereas a code of "4" results in a maximum repulsive force,
with respect to the same maxel for the second correlated magnet, as
represented below in Table 1. Other coding techniques may be
utilized for any given embodiment.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 PERCEIVED FORCE ATTRACTIVE REPULSIVE HIGHEST
9 4 MED-HIGH 8 3 MEDIUM 7 2 MED-LOW 6 1 LOWEST 5 0
[0045] Further, by using look-up tables, lists, correlation
matrices, encryption algorithms, or other methods of associating a
specified user code with a programmable or predetermined operative
code, each maxel in a programmable correlated magnet may be coded
as to its status and the desired magnitude of attractive/repulsive
force of each maxel. That is, a user may customize their code such
that, upon entry of a particular sequence, the desired level of
attractive or repulsive strength of any given maxel and/or group of
maxels may be specified or altered. As shown below in Table 2, a
four maxel correlated magnet may be specified, for example, as one
of sixteen possible permutations wherein each maxel (with respect
to a given second, fixed correlated magnet structure) may be
specified as ranging from a strong "N" polarity to a weak "S"
polarity, recognizing that a strong "S" next to a correspondingly
strong "N" might result in a cancelling magnetic force at the
boundary of such force fields. A sequence of maxel #1 having a weak
"S" force, maxel #2 having a strong "N" force, and maxels #3 and #4
each having a strong "S" force may be specified by the code
sequence 12-24-37-38. It is to be appreciated that the code
sequence applied to any cell in the table below may be randomized
so as to allow customization of code sequences for a correlated
magnet. For example, cell [12] could be identified by the code
[88]. It should be appreciated that "strong" and "weak" are
arbitrary and relative designations for attractive or repulsive
magnetic forces. It should likewise be appreciated that more than
two force states may exist and be employed by any embodiment.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Maxel # Strength 1 2 3 4 1 = strong "S" [11]
[21] [37] [38] 2 = weak "S" [12] [22] [36] [39] 3 = weak "N" [13]
[23] [35] [40] 4 = Strong "N" [14] [24] [34] [41]
[0046] Any given programmable correlated magnet may be matched with
a corresponding second programmable correlated magnet structure.
For example, in one embodiment, the frame for a bicycle could have
built into it or attached thereto a programmable correlated magnet
structure, that when paired with a bike rack having an opposing
programmable correlated magnet structure, creates a strong and
desirably inseparable and uniquely correlated magnetic bond between
the two structures, the bicycle and the rack. More specifically,
each bike rack's programmable correlated magnet could be configured
by a user using any of the predetermined code sequences (for
example, the sequence 12-24-37-38, as shown above) which is
specified as a user defined code sequence, for example,
88-72-11-46. This user defined maxel sequence and code sequence
could then be correspondingly programmed into the bike's
programmable correlated magnet structure, by the inputting both of
the rack's predetermined code sequence, i.e., 12-24-37-38 and the
user's unique code, i.e., 88-72-11-46. Upon entry of the code into
both structures, the bike and the rack, an attractive magnetic
force arising from multiple uniquely configured maxels is desirably
created and thereby results in the fastening of the bike to the
rack. In order to separate the bike from the rack, the user could
re-enter the user's code sequence into the bike's and/or the rack's
programmable correlated magnet structure, which would
correspondingly reverse the polarities and strengths of the maxels
in at least the bike or the rack to enable separation of the bike
from the rack. One or more switches encoded in the bike rack's
programmable correlated magnet structure could also be reset, which
upon being reset returns the rack's correlated magnet back to a
programmable state for use by a subsequent cyclist.
[0047] Since the maxel pattern of a correlated magnet varies in two
dimensions, rotational realignment of an external magnetic surface
(including a complementary correlated magnet) may relatively easily
disengage the correlated magnet from the external magnetic surface.
The exact force required to rotationally disengage two correlated
magnets, or a correlated magnet and a uniformly charged external
surface, may be much less than the force required to pull the two
apart. This is because rotational misalignment likewise misaligns
the maxels, thereby changing the overall magnetic interaction
between the two magnets.
[0048] For example, as shown in FIG. 6a, when a first correlated
magnet structure 600 is positioned directly above a corresponding
second correlated magnet structure 614, the "N" and "S" poles of
each maxel structure may be opposite each other, and thereby
attract. In this configuration, the magnetic coupling between the
each of the two correlated magnet structures, for example
structures 608' and 616, are at their greatest strength. However,
as one structure is rotated relative to the other, as shown in FIG.
6b, the magnetic coupling between each maxel pair, individually,
and all of the maxel pairs, collectively, decreases and the force
necessary to further so rotate likewise decreases. As shown in FIG.
6c, as the first structure 600 continues to rotate relative to the
second structure 614, the magnetic coupling between the structures
further decreases and desirably shifts from an attractive force, to
a neutral force and then to a repulsive force. For example, when
structure 600 has rotated 90 degrees clockwise relative to
structure 614 about the z axis (where the z axis is perpendicular
to the plane of the page), the "N" poles of maxels 608 and 602
(which are on the opposite side of structure 600 shown) oppose the
"N" poles of maxels 622 and 624. As to be appreciated, this
opposing force situation results in an repellant force arising
between the structures 600 and 616 that results in structure 600
being repelled away from structure 614 in a rotational manner and
away from the near side of structure 614 (as indicated by dashed
line 616).
[0049] Numerous types of rotational fasteners exist today. Examples
include, but are not limited to, Philips head screws, flat head
screws, lag bolts, lag screws, hex nuts, Allen bolts, and star
bolts (collectively, for purposes of concisenss only, hereinafter a
"Screw"). All Screws commonly rely upon a rotation in a given axis
to fasten one structure to another, while unfastening the
structures when rotated in the opposite direction. Various types of
tools and implements exist which fasten, by tightening, or unfasten
(by loosening) the Screw, examples of such tools include, but are
not limited to, Phillips headed screw drivers, torque wrenches,
plumber's wrenches, Allen keys, and drill bits (collectively, for
purposes of conciseness only, hereinafter a "Driver").
[0050] One application of such an embodiment of correlated magnets,
whereby a strong magnetic force is created when a first structure
is properly aligned with a second structure, while allowing some
degree of rotational float, in any direction, before structures are
repelled, may be in magnetic Screws and magnetic Drivers. As
described above with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 4a-4f,
correlated magnetic structures may be configured such that a strong
magnetic attraction, or fastening, occurs in one or more directions
but not in other directions. As applied to Screws and Drivers,
correlated magnetic structures can be configured in Screws, and
corresponding structures in Drivers, so as to provide maxels that
form a strong bond or fastening of the Driver to the Screw when a
rotation in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction is intended
of the Screw, and form a less strong attraction when a vertical
(up/down) or horizontal (laterally across a Screw's head) movement
is applied to a Driver relative to a surface of the Screw.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 4g, one embodiment of a correlated magnet
structure for use in a Screw may include a plurality of "star
figures" or other predetermined configurations. Such configurations
may be uniquely designed such that only specially configured
Drivers will correspond therewith. As shown for the embodiment in
FIG. 4g, the center of the Screw 460 presents an "N" polarity, a
first ring 462 presents an "S" polarity, a plurality of first star
tips 464, present an "N" polarity, a plurality of second star tips
466 present an "S" polarity, and a plurality of third zones 468
present no polarity, as represented by the symbol "O." In at least
one embodiment, the polarity of the maxels in the star tips on the
Screw and on the corresponding structures on the Driver are
configured to create a fastening of the Screw to the Driver of
sufficient strength to enable the Driver to rotate the Screw up to
a desired torque level, such that the fastening of two or more
structures by the Screw occur under any given maximum torque. The
torque may vary by application from infinitesimal to infinite. The
maxel configurations in the Screw and/or Driver are desirably
configured such that the rotational fastening of the Screw to the
Driver is broken whenever a torque above a desired maximum torque
is applied. It is to be appreciated that the maximum torque
permitted by any given Screw may be greater than that desired for a
given application of the Screw. As such, in at least one
embodiment, the maximum torque allowed for a given fastening
operation may be controlled by configuration of the maxels in the
Driver, while a standard configured Screw is used. More
specifically, the Driver may be configurable such that certain
maxels are energized or de-energized based upon a desired maximum
permitted torque for a given application. For example, by
de-energizing one-half (1/2) of the maxels in the Driver otherwise
corresponding to the "S" polarized start tips 466 in the Screw, the
maximum selective torque range for the Driver is reduced by
approximately one-quarter. That is, in at least one embodiment, the
maxels in the Driver corresponding to the center 460 may provide a
baseline minimum torque. The first ring 462 may provide an increase
in the permitted baseline torque, such an increase may be
incremental or multiplicative (e.g., 2.times., 3.times., etc.).
Each of the first star tips 464, second star tips 466, and third
zones may be individually or collectively energized to provide an
incremental or multiplicative increase in the maximum permitted
torque range specified by a Driver (providing the Screw also
supports the desired maximum permitted torque). Thus, the Driver
may be configured to support Screws of varying maximum torques for
applications requiring a torque that cannot be exceeded, and Screws
may have non-standardized activated maxel patterns, based upon a
common maxel layout.
[0052] In at least one embodiment, the fastening of the Screw to
the Driver in a desired and proper orientation (e.g., up/down and
left/right) is directed by the concentric maxel rings, 460 and 462,
which discourage a non-desired alignment of the Driver with the
Screw, such as an alignment which is off-center. By properly
configuring the maxels, a strong attraction sufficient to
temporarily fasten the Screw to the Driver can be accomplished with
the concentric maxel rings 460 and 462, while the outer star tips
464 and 466 can be configured to control the maximum torque
permitted upon the Screw by the Driver. Last, in at least one
embodiment, the neutral zones 468 desirably facilitate the removal
of the Driver from the Screw whenever the maximum torque is
exceeded, as upon entering such a configuration the "N" and "S"
maxels on the Screw no longer correspond with the opposing "S" and
"N" maxels on the Driver. The "S" and "N" maxels rotate, relative
to the Screw's maxels, so as to correspond with the "O" maxels in
the third zone, at which instance the fastening of the Screw to the
Driver is broken by the gyroscopic effect of a spinning head on the
Driver. While the double star configuration shown in FIG. 4 is one
possible embodiment of a magnetic screw and driver, it is to be
appreciated that other embodiments are possible.
[0053] For example, as shown in FIG. 4h, a correlated magnetic
Screw may also be configured as a lag bolt 470. The lag bolt 470
may include a top surface 472, which has an "N" polarity, and a
plurality of side surfaces 474-482 having varying polarities. For
such an embodiment, the side surfaces would correspond to a
compatible Driver (having a socket or similar configuration) while
providing a strong fastening of the lag bolt with the Driver along
the corresponding side surfaces and a weaker fastening of the lag
bolt with the Driver along the corresponding top surfaces 472.
[0054] A non-fastening of the Driver to the Screw may occur for any
embodiment of a magnetic correlated screw by using electromagnetic
maxels whose polarity can be reversed or neutralized by the
corresponding provision or absence of electricity to the maxels in
the Driver. Similarly, an assembly line process may be utilized
whereby electromagnetic maxels in a Driver are energized when
Screws are appropriately positioned relative the Driver and the
Driver is automatically de-energized when a desired torque or
fastening time, as desired or appropriate, is exceeded. The use of
magnetic screws and Drivers can also result in assembly processes
wherein a Screw is positioned beneath a top surface layer of a
structure, for example, a chassis of a consumer electronics device,
such that the screw is hidden from view. For such an embodiment,
positioning of the Driver relative to the screw and proper torque
control may be desirable and achieved by the corresponding
positioning of the maxels in the Screw and Driver.
[0055] In another embodiment of correlated magnets, the fastening
of various components to a device may be dictated by the presence
or absence of electricity to energize one or more correlated
magnetic structures. For example, a battery component for a
consumer electronic device may be configured such that the battery
compartment, when de-energized to a low energy level, exerts a
repulsive force upon a battery (configured for insertion into the
compartment) such that a contact between the electronic device and
the battery is interrupted so as to prevent draining of the energy
stored in the battery below a minimum level. Similarly, such a
configuration can be used to expel, partially or completely, the
battery from the battery compartment, open a battery compartment
cover, or otherwise signal to a user that recharging and/or
replacement of the battery is required. Similarly, correlated
magnetic structures may be used in ink-jet printers to indicate
when the quantity of ink in a given cartridge exceeds a minimum
threshold by partially or completely expelling the ink cartridge
from its compartment wherein each of the cartridge and its
compartment have a correlated magnetic structure. Likewise, the
quantity of ink in a given cartridge may be indicated when a
covering for an ink cartridge storage compartment is opened,
wherein each of the covering and the ink cartridge or ink cartridge
compartment have a correlated magnetic structure. Similarly,
correlated magnetic structures can be configured to exert a
retention force upon a battery when energized above a given level
and to exert a repulsion force when the battery falls below a
desired minimum level. Such an embodiment, for example, could be
used in home smoke detectors to automatically expel, for
replacement, a battery whose energy life has fallen below a desired
or determined threshold.
[0056] In another embodiment, "buttons" used on smart phones and
other electronic devices may be configured with correlated magnetic
structures, such that the buttons are elevated or recessed, as
desired, into a given surface as desired for any given application.
For example, a portion of an otherwise touch sensitive iPad screen
could be configured with a plurality of commonly recessed,
correlated magnetic structure "buttons", wherein the buttons
commonly reside below a flexible membrane portion of the touch
sensitive surface. In at least one embodiment, the buttons are
configured as a plurality of maxels in a flexible membrane that
also serve to accomplish touch sensitive capacitive coupling. Such
maxels, for example, may be configured with an "S" polarity.
Further, below the surface of each such button, one or more maxels
are configured so as to attract the button down into the device and
into a recessed position without requiring the use of any
electricity, and thereby conserve battery life. As desired, the
maxels corresponding to such buttons can be activated, so as to
change their polarity, or other maxels associated thereby, so that
upon being polarized, one or more of the buttons are repelled from
their otherwise common and recessed position. In at least one
embodiment, such repulsive forces result in the button presenting a
bump or other tactile feature in the flexible membrane that
continues to operate as a touch sensitive surface (typically by the
use of capacitive coupling). The height and lateral size of the
bump are desirably sufficient for tactile sensation. For example,
when using a spreadsheet application, a portion of an iPad screen
could be configured to have bumps appear on the touch sensitive
surface which represent the numbers and characters commonly
presented on a calculator. Desirably, the repulsive force of the
maxels on the underlying layer and those in the touch sensitive
surface are of sufficient force to present a sensation of a button
while also allowing the user to experience the sensation of the
button being depressed. Hence, the maxel configured bumps enable a
user of a product such as an iPad to obtain tactile feedback, when
desired, while also having all the characteristics of a touch
sensitive screen. In at least one embodiment, the maxel configured
bump structure may be applied across a substantial or entire
portion of a given touch sensitive screen and thereby facilitate
customization of where, on the screen, the tactile bumps are to
appear. Such customization can occur based upon user preference,
screen orientation and/or as specified for a given application.
Bumps may also appear dynamically, based upon any of the foregoing
or other factors. For example, a left handed user might desire for
the calculator bumps to appear on a left versus a standard right
portion of a touch screen of a given orientation (landscape or
portrait). Similarly, an application may desire for bumps to appear
in certain locations at certain times, but not others. A word
processing application might generate bumps corresponding to a
QWERTY keyboard along a bottom portion of a screen of a given
orientation, while a video application might position the bumps to
correspond to graphical control images (e.g., play, pause, FF, RWD)
appearing across a top or one or more side edges of the touch
sensitive control surface, which also functions as the video
presentation screen. In at least one embodiment, graphical images
may be presented so as to correspond directly or proximately with
such bumps. In at least one embodiment, capacitive coupling is
still utilized across the entirety of the flat panel, including in
situ with any bumps, to provide touch sensitive control features
and functions. The appearance or disappearance of a bump occurs
solely based upon principles of magnetism such that the user
control features of a touch sensitive control surface and/or screen
are not compromised and such that the bumps appear or recess
without requiring the use of any mechanical parts. Further, in at
least one alternative embodiments, maxels configured into a touch
sensitive screen or similar flexible membrane may be appropriately
attracted and/or repulsed so as to create, at any given time, a
recess or "well" instead of a bump, while at another given time
presenting a flat surface or a respective opposite surface (i.e., a
bump instead of a previously presented well). Further, it is to be
appreciated that the use of correlated magnetic structures to form
bumps or wells may be used in any device desiring such
characteristics including, but not limited to, any type of keypad,
keyboard, touch screen, or other control surface.
[0057] Another application of an embodiment of correlated magnets,
whereby a strong magnetic force is created when a first structure
is properly aligned with a second structure, while allowing some
degree of rotational and/or lateral position error before the
structures are repelled, may be in cycling pedals and their
respective shoes. As is commonly known, cycling shoes are desirably
attached, but releasable under a certain amount of force and after
a certain degree of rotation about the pedals top surface from
their corresponding pedals. Existing retention and release systems
rely upon a cleat attached to a shoe and a corresponding attachment
mechanism built into a pedal. Examples of the same include those
made by LOOK, SPEEDPLAY, TIME, SHIMANO, and others. By using
correlated magnetic structures in shoes and pedals, magnetic force
curves can be created which enable a shoe, sans cleat, to be
magnetically attached to a pedal when aligned in a desired
orientation relative to a bike frame and for the same pedal to be
neutral or even repelled from the pedal and away from the bike, for
example, so as to aid a cyclist in getting their foot properly
positioned to touch the ground at an optimal distance from the
bike's crank, wheel, and other components. Further, the amount of
rotation, or error can be customized to the needs of the individual
cyclist. For example, some riders may desire a large degree of
error of the pedal, while still retaining an adequate attractive
force for purposes of minimizing knee strain or ensuring proper
foot-to-pedal alignment. In contrast, some riders, typically
professionals, may desire maximal attractive force over a much
narrower error in angle so as to maximize the energy transfer from
leg/shoe to the pedal. For such an embodiment, a greater rotational
force might be required by the rider before a neutral or repulsive
magnetic force is created between the pedal and the cyclist's shoe.
Further customization of the shoe to pedal correlated magnet
profile can be accomplished by varying the magnetic force
directions and strengths of one or more maxels. Similar attachment
and release mechanisms for which strong correlated magnet
directional forces and weaker rotational forces can be utilized
include ski bindings, snowboard bindings, and other applications.
Further, it is to be appreciated that by the use of various other
rotational sensors, including speed, motion, and g-force sensors,
the attractive or repulsive force between a binding system and a
shoe, boot, or glove can be varied, when variable strength maxels
are utilized. For example, a binding system could be designed such
that a repulsive force is created when high g-forces are created in
rapidly varying directions, as might occur when a skier crashes
while skiing.
[0058] In another embodiment of a programmable correlated magnet, a
correlated magnetic structure could be built, for example, into the
top of a desk, a docking station, the opening or closing mechanism
for a laptop computer or other computing device, or a mounting
bracket configured for use therewith so as to secure the
positioning of a structure relative to the desk top. The structure
correspondingly having, for example built into a chassis (for
example, a laptop chassis), programmable correlated magnetic
structures for fastening the chassis/structure to the desktop or
docking station. Contrarily, opposing correlated magnets may be
provided in surfaces or structures and correspondingly in devices
to repel the attempted placement of an item, component, device or
structure on any given surface or into a given cavity. For example,
an MP3 music player could be configured such that the entrance of
the MP3 player is opposed by a magnetic force emitted by a basin,
such as a washing machine tub, sink, or toilet. Contrarily the MP 3
player and basin structure could be configured with correlated
magnetic structures such that a desired placement of the player
relative to the basin occurs. Similarly, the hinges of a laptop's
display screen could be configured with correlated magnets so as to
enable the positioning of the display screen at a distance from a
keyboard more suitable for a user's view, such as, on the back of
an airline seat.
[0059] Further, it is to be appreciated that the code structures
utilized to secure/release a programmable correlated magnet may use
any means of access and/or user identification. As described above,
one such means of access is a user provided code or PIN. Other
means of access/identification can include, but are not limited to,
key fobs, biometric scanners, bar code and matrix code scanner, and
thumb drives which upon insertion into a corresponding socket can
provide randomly generated code sets for each of the corresponding
programmable correlated magnets.
[0060] Correlated magnets may be programmed or reprogrammed
dynamically by using one or more electromagnetic maxels to form a
coded surface pattern. As current is applied to the electromagnetic
maxels, they will produce a magnetic field. When no voltage is
applied, these maxels would be magnetically inert. When the input
current is reversed, the polarity of the maxels likewise reverses.
Thus, the coding of the correlated magnet may be changed through
application of electricity. Further, any single electromagnetic
maxel yields many possible codings presuming all other maxels
remain constant: a first coding for the correlated magnetic surface
when the electromagnetic maxel is attractive, a second when the
current is reversed and the electromagnetic maxel is repulsive, and
a third when no current is applied and the electromagnetic maxel is
neutral. by varying the position of the maxel on the correlated
magnet and/or the current supplied to the maxel, even more
variations may be obtained. Given a correlated magnet having a
five-by-five maxel array (for example), the number of possible
codings if all maxels are electromagnets, held in a fixed position
and supplied with a fixed current is 3.sup.25, or 847,288,609,443
possible codes at any given moment. Since the coding of the surface
may be adjusted dynamically, certain embodiments discussed herein
may change their magnetic fields on the fly and thus their force
curves. Specific implementations of this concept are discussed
herein, although those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate
that variations and alternate embodiments will be apparent upon
reading this disclosure in its entirety.
[0061] Further, the two-dimensional pattern of the correlated
magnetic surface generally has a complement or mirror. This
complement is the reversed maxel pattern of the correlated magnetic
surface. Thus, a complementary coded magnetic surface may be
defined and created for any single correlated magnetic surface. A
correlated magnetic surface and its complement are generally
attractive across any reasonable distance, although as the
separation distance increases the attraction attenuates. With
respect to a uniform external magnetic or ferrous surface, the
force curve of a complementary correlated magnet is the inverse of
the original correlated magnet's force curve. The force curve
between two correlated magnets may be varied by misaligning pairs
of magnets, magnet strengths and the like, yielding the ability to
create highly variable, and thus tailorable, force curves.
[0062] Given the foregoing discussion of correlated magnets, it
should be appreciated that such magnetic surfaces may be
incorporated into a variety of devices, apparatuses, applications
and so on to create or enhance functionality of one sort or
another. Anything to which another thing is desirous of attaching
or staying in relative position thereto, may desirably, be so
affixed using correlated magnets.
[0063] It should be appreciated that the precise alignment and
"homing" that may be achieved with appropriately configured pairs
of correlated magnetic surfaces may provide useful functionality
for precision assembly of devices. As one example, a laptop
computer generally has precise tolerances and positions for all its
constituent elements within the laptop chassis. If one element is
misplaced, the laptop may not function properly or may not pass a
final assembly inspection.
[0064] Continuing this example, each element to be placed within a
laptop computer may have a correlated magnetic surface with a
unique magnetic code. A certain position within the laptop chassis
may have the complementary or attracting correlated magnetic
surface. Thus, when the element is near that position, it may
self-align at the position. Further, such alignment is not
necessarily limited to lateral motion but may include rotational
alignment as well. This precision alignment may facilitate
construction or assembly of fault-intolerant devices.
[0065] Another embodiment may take the form of an assembly tool
with a correlated magnetic surface that dynamically changes as
assembly of a device proceeds, such that the tool mates with the
next element to be placed in the assembly process. For a simplified
example, consider a screwdriver sized to accept multiple screws of
different lengths, head sizes and the like. As assembly of a device
proceeds, the screwdriver may receive a command from a computing
device overseeing the assembly process to dynamically change the
coding of a correlated magnet on the screwdriver tip. An operator
may lower the screwdriver into a container of screws and attract to
the tool only the screw that has an attractive correlated magnetic
surface. Thus, the screwdriver may attract only the proper screw
for the next assembly step.
[0066] This same concept may be applied to automated assembly
lines. Essentially, if the assembly tool (such as a robotic arm)
can receive feedback regarding the current state of the assembly
process, it may dynamically reprogram its correlated magnetic
surface to pick up the next piece for placement and put it in the
proper area, according to the foregoing disclosure.
[0067] Certain embodiments may take the form of a magnetic "rivet"
or fastener. The rivet may include multiple splines that are
magnetically locked to the rivet body in a withdrawn position. When
the rivet is inserted into or through a material, the insertion
tool may dynamically deactivate the electromagnetic magnets holding
the splines to the body. The splines may thus extend outward behind
the material in a fashion similar to an anchor bolt. In alternative
embodiments, the tool used to place the rivet may have a coded
magnetic surface that attracts the splines to the tool, thereby
keeping them flush against the barrel. When the tool is removed,
the splines extend. In this embodiment, the magnetic rivet may have
a bore into which the tool may fit in order to draw the splines
inward against the rivet body.
[0068] In addition to assembling devices through the use of coded
magnetic surfaces, devices held together by such surfaces may be
relatively easily disassembled. Degaussing the device may wipe the
coded magnetic surfaces, causing them to no longer attract one
another. Thus, at least certain portion of the device may easily
separate from one another for breakdown, recycling and the
like.
[0069] Certain embodiments may also take the form of a latch or
closing mechanism for an electronic device, box or other item that
may be opened and closed. One example of such a device is a laptop
computer. A first correlated magnet may be placed at a lip or edge
of a device enclosure, typically in a position abutting the top or
lid of the device when the device is in a closed position. A second
magnet may be located in the lid and generally adjacent the first
correlated magnet when the device is closed. The first and second
correlated magnets may be coded to attract one another when the
separation distance is below a threshold and repulse one another
when the separation distance exceeds the threshold. Thus, the
correlated magnets may assist in opening or closing the device,
depending on the separation distance. The magnets may have
sufficient attractive force below the separation threshold to
automatically pull the device closed in certain embodiments.
[0070] Another embodiment may place multiple coded magnets in the
clutch (e.g., hinge) of a laptop computer or similar device. One
coded magnet may be in the portion of the clutch engaged with the
base of the laptop and one on the clutch portion engaged with the
top of the laptop. The magnets may be coded to rotationally repulse
one another until a certain rotational alignment is achieved, at
which point the magnets may be coded to attract one another. In
this fashion, the circular coded magnets may act as a detent to
hold the device top open in a particular position with respect to
the device base. The coded magnets may have multiple such virtual
detents to permit a user a range of options for opening and/or
closing the device.
[0071] While several embodiments have been discussed, it will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications
and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and
scope of the disclosure set forth herein. For example, as the form
factor of correlated magnets decreases in size and the magnetic
force generated by any given maxel increases in strength, and/or
duration, it is to be appreciated that correlated magnets may be
utilized in practically any application, including everything
ranging from the building trades (e.g., to fasten structural
components), electronics, bio-medical (for example, used to guide
an instrument, treatment device, medicine, or the like containing a
programmable correlated magnet structure through one's body) and in
other fields and endeavors. Hence, the described embodiments are,
in all respects, to be considered only as illustrative and not
restrictive. The scope of the claimed subject matter is therefore
indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing
description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of
equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their
scope.
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