KR20130076874A - Sensor fusion - Google Patents

Abstract

Accurate and reliable techniques for determining the current state of an accessory device in relation to an electronic device are described.

Description

Sensor Fusion {SENSOR FUSION}

In general, the described embodiments relate to portable electronic devices. In particular, the present embodiments describe the use of multiple sensors in combination with verifying the status of an accessory device associated with the electronic device.

Recent advances in portable computing include the introduction of handheld electronic devices and computing platforms that follow the lines of the iPad ^™ tablet manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, California. These handheld computing devices may be configured such that a significant portion of the electronic device takes the form of a display used to provide visual content, leaving little space available for attachment mechanisms that can be used to attach accessory devices. Can be.

When the accessory device takes the form of a cover, the handheld computing device may be operable in modes consistent with the presence of the cover. For example, if the handheld computing device has a display, the presence of the cover may render the display invisible. To save power, the invisible display may be temporarily inoperable until the cover is moved or otherwise repositioned to expose the display.

Accordingly, accurate and reliable techniques for determining the current state of an accessory device relative to the electronic device to which the accessory device is connected are desired.

This disclosure describes various embodiments of systems, methods, and apparatus for releasably attaching an accessory to an electronic device.

The consumer electronic product includes at least one electronic device. In the described embodiment, the electronic device includes at least a processor and a first sensor in communication with the processor and configured to detect a first type of stimulus. The first sensor responds to the first type of stimulus by providing a processor with a first signal indicative of a first state of an accessory device associated with the electronic device. The electronic device also includes at least a second sensor in communication with the processor and configured to detect a second type of stimulus. The second sensor responds to the second type of stimulus by providing a processor with a second signal indicative of a second state of the accessory device associated with the electronic device. In the described embodiment, when the processor receives the first signal from the first sensor, the processor compares the first state indicated by the first signal with the second state indicated by the second signal and the processor is in the first state. And if it is determined that the indications of the second state are the same, the processor accepts the first signal; otherwise, the processor ignores the first signal.

In one aspect of the described embodiment, the accessory device is a protective cover with a flap incorporating a magnetic element and the first sensor is a Hall Effect sensor (HFX) sensor. The protective cover is pivotally attached to the electronic device such that the magnetic element in the flap in the closed configuration provides a first magnetic pole in the form of a saturated magnetic field that is detected by the HFX sensor only when the flap is in the closed configuration with respect to the electronic device. do. The second sensor is at least any of an ambient light sensor, a camera, a magnetometer, a multi-touch sensitive surface, an RFID device and a second HFX sensor.

In another embodiment, the consumer electronic product includes at least an electronic device and an accessory unit. In the described embodiment, the electronic product includes a processor and an HFX sensor configured to communicate with the processor, detect a saturation magnetic field, and provide a signal to the processor in response to the detected saturation magnetic field, the processor utilizing the signal. To change the operation state of the electronic device. The electronic device also includes a second sensor separate from the HFX sensor. The accessory unit includes a body portion pivotally attachable to the electronic device and having at least a magnetic element. When the accessory unit is in the closed configuration, the inner surface of the body portion is located proximate the protective top layer, allowing the magnetic element to provide a saturated magnetic field to the HFX sensor. When the processor receives a signal from the HFX sensor indicating the presence of a saturation magnetic field, the processor queries the second sensor to verify that the signal received from the HFX sensor matches the cover in a closed configuration, and the processor queries from the HFX sensor. Accept the signal, otherwise the processor ignores the signal from the HFX sensor.

In yet another embodiment, in a consumer electronic product including an electronic device, a method performed by a processor in the electronic device is described. The method includes detecting a first type of stimulus at a first sensor in communication with the processor, receiving at the processor a first signal indicating a first state of an accessory unit for the electronic device from the first sensor, the processor and Detecting a second type of stimulus at a second sensor in communication, receiving at the processor a second signal indicative of a second state of an accessory unit for the electronic device from the second sensor, an indication of the first state by the processor Comparing the display of the second state with the display of the second state, and accepting the first signal by the processor only if the comparison determines that the display of the first state is identical to the display of the second state. Can be.

In another embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable medium storing program code executable by a processor to detect a state of a protective cover for an electronic device having a processor and at least a first sensor and a second sensor. The computer readable medium includes computer code for receiving a signal from the first sensor indicating that the protective cover is in a closed configuration for the electronic device, computer code for querying the second sensor, receiving information from the second sensor. And computer code for ignoring the signal from the first sensor if the information from the second sensor does not corroborate the signal from the first sensor and otherwise accepting the signal from the first sensor. do.

In one form of the described embodiment, the protective cover comprises a flap incorporating a magnetic element, and the first sensor is a hall effect sensor. The protective cover pivotally attaches to the electronic device such that the magnetic element of the flap in the closed configuration provides a first stimulus in the form of a saturated magnetic field detected by the HFX sensor only if the flap is in a closed configuration relative to the electronic device. do. The second sensor is at least one of an ambient light sensor, a camera, a magnetometer, a multi-touch sensing surface, an RFID device and a second hall effect sensor.

Other forms and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate by way of example the principles of the described embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will be readily understood by the following detailed description of the accompanying drawings in which like elements are designated by like reference numerals.
1 shows a top perspective view of an electronic device in accordance with the described embodiments.
FIG. 2A shows a first perspective view of an electronic device in the form of a tablet device and an accessory device in the form of a protective cover.
2B shows a second perspective view of an electronic device in the form of a tablet device and an accessory device in the form of a protective cover.
FIG. 3A shows a closed configuration of the cooperative system formed by the tablet device and protective cover shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B.
FIG. 3B shows an open configuration of the cooperative system shown in FIG. 3A.
4 shows a top view of an embodiment of a divided cover assembly.
5A and 5B show representative assembly interaction between the onboard compass and magnetic elements in a flap that is part of an accessory unit.
6A and 6B detail the various magnetic offsets that can be detected by the onboard compass.
7 shows a process detailed flowchart for confirming an indication of the state of the protective cover for the electronic device from the hall effect sensor.
8 shows a process detailed flow chart for confirming the state of a protective cover for an electronic device using an ambient light sensor (ALS) in conjunction with a Hall effect sensor.
9 shows a process detailed flowchart for confirming the state of a protective cover for an electronic device using a camera with a hall effect sensor.
10 shows a process detailed flow chart for confirming the state of a protective cover for an electronic device using a magnetometer in the form of a compass with a Hall effect sensor.
FIG. 11 shows a process detailed flow diagram using a multi-touch (MT) sensing surface with a Hall Effect sensor to confirm the state of a protective cover in relation to an electronic device.
12 shows a process detailed flow diagram of using an RFID device with a hall effect sensor to confirm the state of a protective cover in relation to an electronic device.
13 shows a process detailed flow diagram for determining the state of a protective cover with respect to the electronic device using a dynamic model of the magnetic field to confirm the state of the protective cover with respect to the electronic device.
14 is a block diagram of a suitable electronic device for using the above-described embodiments.

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. Rather, as defined by the appended claims, alternatives, modifications, and equivalents are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the foregoing embodiments.

The following description generally relates to a mechanism used to verify the state of an accessory device with respect to an associated host device having operating states that match the accessory device state. More specifically, when the accessory device is a protective cover having a size and shape according to the electronic device, the protective cover can have a hinge portion and a flap pivotally attached to the hinge portion. . The flap can rotate in one direction around the hinge portion, causing the flap to substantially contact the electronic device in a closed configuration. In contrast, the flap may pivot in a different direction around the hinge assembly, exposing the electronic device in an open configuration. In one embodiment, when it is detected that the protective cover is in the closed configuration, the electronic device may operate in the closed cover mode and when it is detected that the protective cover is in the open configuration, the electronic device may operate in the open cover mode. . The protective cover can enhance the overall look and feel of the electronic device while providing protection in certain aspects of the electronic device (such as a display). The protective cover may comprise at least a hinge portion. The hinge portion may be attached to the electronic device as an assembly using a magnetic attachment feature. The hinge portion can be pivotally connected to a flap that can be disposed over the portion of the electronic device to be protected. The protective cover can include electronic circuits or other elements (passive or active) that can cooperate with the electronic element of the electronic device. As part of such collaboration, signals can be communicated between the protective cover and the electronic device, eg, to modify the operations of the electronic device, the operations of the electronic circuits or elements of the protective cover, and the like.

The electronic device can include magnetometer circuits that can be used to detect the directional magnitude of an external magnetic field. In this regard, the magnetometer may function as a compass configured to indicate the directional orientation and magnitude of the external magnetic field. In this way, the heading of the electronic device relative to the external magnetic field can be inferred. For example, if the external magnetic field is essentially the earth's magnetic field, the onboard compass can provide an indication of the directional orientation of the electronic device with respect to the earth's stimulus. In one embodiment, the protective cover includes a flap having a magnetic element. The magnetic element may include magnetic elements used for magnetic attachment and magnetic elements used to trigger a Hall Effect (HFX) sensor in an electronic device. In this situation, the onboard compass can be used to detect the presence of the flap based on the effect of the magnetic element on the onboard compass.

For example, an onboard compass detects that the flap is magnetically attached to the electronic device based on a first static magnetic deviation, also referred to as a hard magnetic offset. can do. The first static magnetic deviation may be based on the presence of magnetic elements included in the flap of the protective cover used to operate the HFX sensor as well as the magnetic elements used to attach the flap and the electronic device to the assembly. In another embodiment, when the flap rotates about the pivot axis of the hinge assembly, the compass can detect dynamic magnetic displacement as the magnetic elements move in the flap. Dynamic magnetic displacement can be used to determine whether the flap is in motion relative to the onboard compass. In one embodiment, the relative displacement of the flap and the electronic device can be estimated from data received in real time from an accelerometer and a gyroscope. Data from accelerometers and gyroscopes can be related to the spatial orientation of the electronic device. Spatial direction data and magnetic readings from the onboard compass provide an indication that the magnetic elements of the flap are rotating about the central axis of the hinge assembly, indicating that the flap is moving relative to the electronic device. Can be used to determine.

In one embodiment, the electronic device may have a touch sensitive surface capable of reacting to a plurality of conductive elements integrated into the protective cover close to the inner layer of the protective cover. The plurality of conductive elements can be grounded when the protective cover is magnetically attached to the electronic device. In one embodiment, the conductive elements can be configured in a predetermined and thus recognizable pattern. In this way, when the inner layer of the protective cover includes elements that can interact with the touch sensitive surface, the elements can be configured in a predetermined pattern to assist the electronic device in detecting the current position of the protective cover. . For example, in one embodiment, the touch sensitive surface may be capacitive in nature, in which case the elements embedded in the protective cover may be formed of a conductive material, such as a metal along the lines of aluminum. The conductive elements can be grounded to increase the capacitive signal to noise ratio of the signal generated by the interaction between the capacitive touch sensitive surface and the capacitive embedded elements.

Magnetic elements of the flap portion may interact with a magnetically sensitive circuit integrated in the electronic device. The magnetic sensing circuit can in the form of an HFX sensor capable of detecting the presence of an external magnetic field provided by the magnetic element of the protective cover in one embodiment. However, it should be noted that in order to operate the HFX sensor, the detected magnetic field must saturate the HFX sensor. In this way, the possibility that the HFX sensor misrepresents that the protective cover surrounds the electronic device is significantly reduced. For example, the relatively weak magnetic field strength associated with the earth's magnetic field is insufficient to saturate the HFX sensor, thereby operating to misrepresent the state of the protective cover.

When the HFX sensor is exposed to a saturation magnetic field (ie, one of magnetic strength sufficient to saturate the HFX sensor), the HFX sensor can respond to the saturation magnetic field by generating a binary (ie on / off) signal. One of the advantages of using an HFX sensor is that the amount of power required to operate the HFX sensor is relatively small (except to reduce the likelihood of misrepresenting the cover state) and therefore does not require excessive power drain to the electronic device. . In either case, when the HFX sensor is exposed to a saturation magnetic field, the HFX sensor can issue a signal. The signal can be received by the processing unit and used to change the operating state of the electronic device. However, it should be noted that any suitable sensing device added to or replacing the HFX sensor may be used to detect the state of the protective cover in relation to the electronic device. For example, a magnetometer (of a type that can be used as a compass) can be used in place of the HFX sensor. In contrast to HFX sensors, the magnetometer is substantially more sensitive to external magnetic fields and will therefore respond by providing a more continuous (analog) signal representing an external magnetic field that requires a greater amount of power. Thus, dynamic magnetic activity can be detected by a magnetometer (e.g., representing relative movement of the magnetometer and the magnet source) by periodically sampling the signal from the magnetometer. The sampled data can be used, for example, to provide a relative position of the magnetic elements in the protective cover with respect to the magnetometer in the electronic device.

Thus, the protective cover may include a magnetic element such as a permanent magnet having a magnetic field that can cause the HFX sensor to generate a signal. The magnetic element may be located on the protective cover in a position that triggers the HFX sensor to generate a signal when the cover is positioned on or in proximity to the surface of the electronic device. The signal may indicate whether the protective cover is in a predetermined position relative to the electronic device, which may cause a change in the operating state of the electronic device. For example, when a portion of the protective cover with the magnetic element is in proximity to the HFX sensor, the magnetic field from the magnetic element may cause the HFX sensor to generate a signal. The signal can then be used to change the operating state to a state consistent with the portion of the electronic device that is covered. For example, when the electronic device includes a display, a protective cover can be used to cover the display and thus make it invisible and thus the display can be disabled. On the other hand, if a portion of the protective cover with the magnetic element is moved to a point where the HFX sensor no longer responds to the magnetic field of the magnetic element, the HFX sensor can generate another signal. The other signal may cause the electronic device to enter another, different, operational state that matches at least a portion of the display that is uncovered and thus may be enabled to display visual content.

However, the HFX sensor can be triggered by any magnetic field strong enough to saturate the HFX sensor, potentially providing a false indication of the presence of the protective cover. Thus, to avoid these false indications, additional sensors may be queried to confirm the indication provided by the HFX sensor that the protective cover is in the closed configuration when the HFX sensor is triggered. In one embodiment, the triggering event at the HFX sensor indicating that the cover is in the closed configuration can also cause the electronic device to query at least another sensor to confirm the closed configuration indicated by the HFX sensor.

In one embodiment, the ambient light sensor ALS may be queried by the electronic device. The ALS may include a light sensitive circuit (eg, a photodiode) that may respond to various levels of incident light, typically in the form of ambient light. In one embodiment, the ALS can detect ambient light. However, ALS can be configured to respond to detection of ambient light in a variety of ways. For example, the ALS can respond by providing a signal whenever the light sensitive circuitry within the ALS detects an amount of ambient light (ie, intensity) that is greater than a predefined amount of ambient light. That is, the threshold amount of ambient light may be a defined threshold level. For example, the threshold amount of “x” lumens may represent the amount of ambient light that matches the protective cover in a closed configuration when the value “x” considers light leaking from near the edges of the protective cover. Of course, the threshold amount of ambient light can be set to any amount deemed appropriate. For example, in some cases where the electronic device is in a bright environment such as daylight, the amount of light leakage can be much higher than expected in darker conditions. Therefore, the amount of light leaking near the edges of the protective cover can be substantially larger, so that the threshold amount of light coinciding with the protective cover in the closed configuration can be increased in view of this fact.

In another embodiment, the threshold amount may coincide with different changes in ambient light detected by the light sensitive circuitry of the ALS. For example, in those cases where the electronic device is in a bright environment (such as daytime outdoors), there may be a significant amount of light leakage when the protective cover is in fact closed. However, to reduce the uncertainty as to how much light leakage is actually present, the ALS can be configured to provide a signal based on a differential change in the amount of light detected by the light sensitive circuitry within the ALS. For example, when the protective cover is open, the ALS can detect the amount of light represented by the "y ₁ " lumens. However, when the protective cover is closed, the amount of light detected by the light sensitive circuit of the ALS may vary from "y ₁ " lumens to "y ₂ " lumens. Only in those cases where the difference in the amount of light detected (ie, Δy = abs (y ₁ -y ₂ )) is greater than a predetermined value, the ALS will provide an appropriate signal indicating that the protective cover is in the closed configuration. The advantage of this approach lies in the fact that light leakage values are difficult to infer and can therefore be followed by a more accurate and robust indication of the state of the protective cover with respect to the electronic device by relying on a well defined change in the detected ambient light.

Thus, using ALS, the electronic device can confirm the indication of the state of the protective cover provided by the HFX sensor. In this way, if the ALS confirms the indication from the HFX sensor by detecting the amount of ambient light that matches the protective cover in the closed configuration, the electronic device can accept the indication from the HFX sensor and change the operating state of the electronic device accordingly. However, if the amount of ambient light does not match the signal from the HFX sensor indicating that the protective cover is closed, the electronic device may query another sensor to obtain another data point to be used to evaluate the signal from the HFX sensor or More simply, it can be assumed that the cover does not cover the electronic device sufficiently, ignoring all of the display from the HFX sensor, so that the operating state of the electronic device will not change to match that of the fully covered electronic device. However, if the ALS detects an amount of light confirming the indication from the hall effect, the electronic device can accept the indication from the HFX sensor that the protective cover is in the closed configuration and respond accordingly.

In another embodiment, the camera may be activated based on the type of image captured by the camera and used to confirm the indication provided by the HFX sensor that the cover is closed. For example, if the cover is closed, the camera can capture an image that is essentially black (or very low in brightness). However, if the electronic device is placed in a dark environment, such as at night outdoors, in a dark room, with little or no moonlight or other external light sources, and there is any small external light (eg from a display) (eg, the user In front of the camera) can provide sufficient light to capture the image. In one embodiment, the captured image can be characterized for an overall luminance value or luminance histogram that can be used to determine whether the cover is fully closed or partially closed. For example, even if the cover is sufficiently closed, the brightness of the captured image is low because there may be some light leakage that can be captured by the camera. However, in another embodiment, the camera can be adjusted in such a way that if there is not enough light on the image capture device in the camera, there will be no image registered by the camera, for example based on defined specifications for light leakage. However, if the image is captured by the camera by evaluating the overall luminance value of the captured image (e.g., less than the threshold luminance value), the position of the protective cover is to provide (or not provide) an indication from the HFX sensor. Can be estimated and used.

In another embodiment, an onboard compass type magnetometer can be used to detect the presence of a hard magnetic offset that matches a magnetic element embedded in a protective cover located at or near the HFX sensor. In this embodiment, the presence of the hard magnetic offset can be used to confirm the indication from the HFX sensor for the closed cover state. On the other hand, the absence of a hard magnetic offset can be ignored by the electronic device that the indication from the HFX sensor can be ignored because it is inaccurate with respect to the state of the protective cover, or can undertake other actions such as querying another sensor. Can be used for

It should also be noted that the magnetic material contained within the protective cover may affect the performance of a magnetometer, such as an onboard compass. In particular, the basic operations of the onboard compass (implemented as instructions executable by a processor or other suitable circuitry) can be altered by the presence of magnetic materials in the protective cover. In particular, the movement of the protective cover can be detected by the onboard compass as a change in magnetic field strength and direction that can result in an "error" because the onboard compass will experience a dynamic offset based on the position change of the protective cover. For example, if the cover goes from an open configuration to a closed configuration, the dynamic offset in the onboard compass increases due to the fact that the magnetic elements in the protective cover move closer to the magnetometer, leading to a larger offset value during reading of the onboard compass. (Of course, the opposite is true if the cover state changes from closed to open).

The maximum offset, or differential, in the compass direction experienced by the onboard compass, which can be induced by the change of the position of the magnetic element within the protective cover, is associated with the onboard compass when the position of the protective cover changes, as well as the horizontal strength of the external magnetic field. It is a function of the magnitude change of the magnetic field seen by the magnetic sensor. To compensate for the offset induced by the movement of the protective cover (more specifically the magnetic elements in the protective cover), the onboard compass models a maximum change in magnetic field size that the onboard compass can detect as a function of cover position change. It is available. In this way, by using both the current estimation of the horizontal component size of the external magnetic field and the maximum change model of the magnetic field size as a function of the cover position, the electronic device is a compass that is likely to be induced by the relative position change of the protective cover in relation to the electronic device. The maximum change in direction can be estimated.

Thus, the accelerometer and gyroscope included in the electronic device can be used with a compass to evaluate the dynamic magnetic signature of changes in the detected external magnetic field. Accelerometers and gyroscopes can provide spatial positioning and rotation of electronic devices in real time, and compasses can also provide real-time indications of changes in external magnetic fields. Readings from accelerometers and gyroscopes and compasses can be used together to compare a model of the movement of magnetic elements with respect to the electronic device and then evaluate the likelihood of a cover being present and movement relative to the electronic device (with a compass).

These and other embodiments are described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 15. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the detailed description disclosed herein in connection with these drawings is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. As the remainder of this discussion, each of the first and second objects suitably configured to magnetically attach to each other in accordance with the described embodiments is described. However, it should be noted that any number and any type of properly constructed objects may be magnetically attached to each other in a precise and repeatable manner. In particular, for simplicity and clarity, as the remainder of this discussion, the first object is considered to take the form of an electronic device and in particular a handheld electronic device.

The electronic device can take a number of forms. As the remainder of this discussion, electronic devices are described with respect to handheld portable computing devices. 1 shows a top perspective view of an electronic device 10 according to the described embodiments. The electronic device 10 may process data, more specifically media data such as audio, visuals, images, and the like. By way of example, the electronic device 10 may generally correspond to a device that may be performed as a smartphone, music player, game player, visual player, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, or the like. Electronic device 10 may also be handheld. With respect to the handheld, the electronic device 10 can be operated with one hand while holding the electronic device 10 with one hand (ie no reference plane such as a desktop is required). Thus, it is possible to issue motion input commands with the other hand while holding the electronic device 10 with one hand. The operation input commands may include operating a volume switch, a hold switch, or providing inputs to a touch sensitive surface, such as a touch sensitive display device or touch pad.

The electronic device 10 can include a housing 12. In some embodiments, housing 12 may take the form of a single housing formed of any number of materials, such as nonmagnetic metal or plastic, which may be forged, molded or otherwise formed into a desired shape. . In cases where the electronic device 10 has a metal housing and includes radio frequency (RF) based functionality, the portion of the housing 12 may include radio transmitting materials, such as ceramic, or plastic. Housing 12 may be configured to enclose a plurality of internal components. For example, housing 12 may surround and support electrical components of various structures (including integrated circuit chips) that provide computing operations to electronic device 10. Integrated circuits may take the form of chips, chipsets, or printed circuit boards, or any modules that may be surface mounted to a PCB, or other support structure. For example, a main logic board (MLB) may have integrated circuits mounted thereon, which may include at least a microprocessor, semiconductor memory (such as FLASH), various support circuits, and the like. The housing 12 may include an opening 14 for placing internal components, and may be sized to receive a display assembly for providing visual content as needed, and the display assembly may include a cover layer 16 Covered and protected). In some cases, the display assembly can be touch sensitive to allow tactile inputs that can be used to provide control signals to the electronic device 10. In some cases, the display assembly may be a very important display area that covers most of the real estate on the front of the electronic device.

Electronic device 10 can include a magnetic attachment system that can be used to magnetically attach electronic device 10 to at least one other suitably configured object. The magnetic attachment system may include a number of magnetic attachment features distributed in the housing 12 and in some cases connected. For example, the magnetic attachment system may include a first magnetic attachment feature 18 and a second magnetic attachment feature 20 located on different sides of the electronic device 10. Specifically, the first magnetic attachment feature 18 may be located proximate to the sidewall 12a of the housing 12. The second magnetic attachment feature 20 can be located in the opening 14 near the side wall 12b of the housing 12. In embodiments where the electronic device 10 includes a display having a cover glass that substantially covers the opening 14, the second attachment feature 20 may be disposed below the cover layer.

The placement of the first magnetic attachment feature 18 at the sidewall 12a is the use of the magnetic attachment feature 18 to magnetically attach the electronic device 10 to another suitably configured object, such as another electronic device or an accessory device. Can be facilitated. Thus, without losing generality, here first magnetic attachment feature 18 will be referred to as device attachment feature 18. On the other hand, the placement of the second magnetic attachment feature 20 will facilitate the use of the second magnetic attachment feature 20 to secure the sides of another device attached to the electronic device 10 by the device attachment feature 18. Can be. In this way, the overall attachment between the other device and the electronic device 10 can be more fixed than when attached only through the first attachment feature 18. Thus, again, without losing generality, the second attachment feature 20 will be referred to as a fixed attachment feature 20. Fixed attachment feature 20 may include one or more magnetic elements 22. When a plurality of magnetic elements are used, the configuration of the plurality of magnetic elements can vary greatly and can magnetically interact with cooperative features on other devices. In one embodiment, the plurality of magnetic elements associated with the fixed feature 20 may assist in securing at least a portion of another device that is otherwise attached to the electronic device 10 by the device attachment feature 18. The electronic device 10 may also include a magnetometer circuit 26 in the form of a hall effect sensor 24 and an onboard compass 26.

The remainder of this discussion will describe certain embodiments of devices that may use a magnetic attachment system. Specifically, FIGS. 2A and 2B show the electronic device 100 shown with respect to the tablet device 100 and the accessory device 200 is each shown with a protective cover 200 in a top view. These elements may generally correspond to any of those previously mentioned. Specifically, FIGS. 2A and 2B show two perspective views of tablet device 100 and protective cover 200 in an open configuration. For example, FIG. 2A may illustrate a relationship with device attachment feature 108 and tablet device 100 included in tablet device 100. FIG. 2B, on the other hand, is a view rotated about 180 degrees of FIG. 2A to provide a relationship with the protective cover 200 and the second view of the attachment feature 202.

Tablet device 100 takes the form of a tablet computing device, such as iPAD ^™ manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, California. Referring to FIG. 2A, the tablet device 100 may include a housing 102 that may cover and support the device attachment feature 108. In order not to interfere with the magnetic field generated by the device attachment feature 108, at least a portion of the housing 102 closest to the device attachment feature 108 may be a non-magnetic material such as a certain number of plastics or a non-magnetic metal such as aluminum. It can be formed as. Housing 102 may also support and cover various structural electrical components (including integrated circuit chips and other circuits) therein to provide computing operations for tablet device 100. The housing 102 includes an opening 104 for placing internal components, and may be sized to receive a display assembly or system suitable for providing at least visual content to a user, for example, via a display. In some cases, the display assembly may include a touch sensing capability that provides the user with the ability to provide tactile input to the tablet device 100 using touch input. The display assembly may be formed of multiple layers including the top layer taking the form of a transparent cover glass 106 made of polycarbonate or other suitable plastic or high gloss glass. Using high gloss glass, cover glass 106 may substantially fill opening 104.

Although not shown, a display assembly under cover glass 106 may be used to display an image using any suitable display technology such as LCD, LED, OLED, electronics or e-inks, and the like. The display assembly can be placed and secured in the cavity using a variety of mechanisms. In one embodiment, the display assembly is snapped into the cavity. It may be arranged at the same height as the adjacent part of the housing. In this way, the display may include visual, still images, as well as icons such as a graphical user interface (GUI) that can provide information (eg, text, objects, graphics) to the user and receive input provided to the user. Can provide visual content. In some cases, the displayed icon may be moved by the user to a more convenient location on the display.

In some embodiments, the display mask may be applied or integrated within or under the cover glass 106. The display mask can be used to highlight the unmasked portion of the display used to provide visual content, and can be used to create less transparent device attachment features 108 and fixed attachment features 20. The tablet device 100 may include several ports that may be used to pass information between the tablet device 100 and the external environment. In particular, the data port 109 facilitates the transfer of data and power, while the speaker 110 can be used to output audio content. The home button 112 is used to provide an input signal that can be used by a processor included in the tablet device 100. The processor may use the signal from the home button 112 to change the operating state of the tablet device 100. For example, the home button 112 can be used to reset the currently active page presented by the display assembly. Tablet device 100 may also include a camera assembly 114 configured to capture an image or images. Tablet device 100 may also include an ambient light sensor (ALS) 116 used to detect the level of ambient light. In one embodiment, ALS 116 can be used to set the brightness level of the display assembly. For example, in a darker environment with little ambient light, a processor within tablet device 100 may dim the display assembly depending on the reading from ALS 116. In a brighter environment, the display assembly can be brighter. The tablet device may also include a compass 118 that is used to detect an external magnetic field that may help determine the location of the tablet device 100. Tablet device 100 may also include a hall effect sensor 120 that may be used to detect the presence of a magnetic element when cover 200 is placed on top of tablet device 100 in a closed configuration. The accelerometer and gyroscope (not shown) may determine in real time any dynamic changes in the location and orientation of the tablet device 100.

The protective cover 200 may have a look and feel that complements the look and feel of the tablet device 100 in addition to the overall look and feel of the tablet device 100. The protective cover 200 is attached to the tablet device 100 in an open configuration where the cover glass 106 can be seen completely, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The protective cover 200 may include a flap 202. In one embodiment, the flap 202 may have a size and shape according to the cover glass 106. Flap 202 may be pivotally fastened to accessory attachment feature 204 by hinge assembly 206, each of which is shown in FIG. 2B. In this manner, flap 202 can rotate around pivot line 211. Magnetic attachment between the attachment feature 204 and the device attachment feature 108 may maintain the protective cover 200 and the tablet device 100 in the proper orientation and position with respect to the flap 202 and the cover glass 106. By proper orientation, it is meant that the protective cover 200 can be properly attached to the tablet device 100 while merely aligning the flap 202 and the cover glass 106 in a mating engagement. The mating engagement between the cover glass 106 and the flap 202 is to substantially cover the entire cover glass 106 when the flap 202 is positioned in contact with the cover glass 106 as shown in FIG. 3A. .

Flap 202 may be pivotally fastened to hinge assembly 206, which may be fastened to attachment feature 204. Hinge assembly 206 may be coupled to electronic device 100 by accessory attachment feature 204. In this manner, the flap 202 can be used as a protective cover to protect the appearance of the electronic device 100, such as the display cover 106. The flap 202 can be formed from various materials, such as plastic, cloth, and the like. The flap 202 may be segmented in such a way that the segments of the flap are lifted to expose the corresponding portion of the display. The flap 202 can also include functional elements that can collaborate with corresponding functional elements in the electronic device 100. In this manner, the manipulation flap 202 can bring about a change in the operation of the electronic device 100.

Flap 202 may comprise a magnetic material. For example, magnetic element 207 may be used to magnetically attach to corresponding magnetic attachment feature 20, while magnetic element 209 may have flap 202 at a position above cover glass 106. When used to activate the Hall effect sensor 120. In this manner, the hall effect sensor 120 can respond by generating a signal that can be used to change the operating state of the electronic device 100. Since the cover can be easily attached directly to the housing of the tablet device without a fastener, the flap 202 can basically follow the shape of the electronic device 100. In this manner, the cover 200 will not damage or obscure the appearance and feel of the electronic device 100. Flap 202 may also include capacitive element 208 configured in a defined pattern. Capacitive element 208 can be used to activate a multi-touch (MT) sensing layer through the display assembly. When flap 202 is positioned on cover glass 106, the MT sensing layer may respond to the presence of capacitive element 208 by generating a touch pattern that matches a defined pattern. In this manner, a signal from hall effect sensor 120 indicating the presence of flap 202 in a closed configuration can be identified. Once confirmed, the tablet device 100 may accept the indication from the hall effect sensor 120 that the flap 202 is in a closed configuration and respond appropriately.

In one embodiment, the flap 202 can include an RFID device 210 that can be used to identify the protective cover 200. In particular, when the protective cover 200 is in a closed configuration, the flap 202 is in contact with the cover glass 106, whereby an RFID sensor in the tablet device 100 can "read" the RFID device 210. You can do that. In this manner, not only the indication from the hall effect sensor 120 can be confirmed, but also the identification of the protective cover 200 can be performed.

3A and 3B show protective cover 200 and tablet device 100 magnetically attached to each other. 3A shows a closed configuration in which cover glass 106 is completely covered by flap 202 and in contact with flap 202. The protective cover 200 can pivot around the hinge assembly 206 from the closed configuration of FIG. 3A to the open configuration of FIG. 3B. In a closed configuration, the inner layer of flap 202 may be in direct contact with cover glass 106. In this way, capacitive elements 208 can be detected by an MT circuit disposed in the display assembly under the cover glass 106. The MT circuit can also detect the signature and pattern corresponding to the pattern of capacitive elements 208. In this way, the detection of the pattern can provide an indication from the hall effect sensor 120 where the flap 202 is in contact with the cover glass 106. If the pattern is not detected, the tablet device 100 may ignore the indication from the hall effect sensor 120 (or may use another sensor such as ALS 116 as an additional check).

For switching from a closed configuration to an open configuration, loosening the force F _release can be applied to the flap 202. _{Loosening the} force F _release can overcome the magnetic suction force between the attachment feature 207 at the flap 202 and the attachment feature 110 at the tablet device 100. Therefore, the protective cover 200 can be secured to the tablet device 100 until the _release of the force F _release is applied to the flap 202. In this way, the flap 202 can be used to protect the cover glass 106. For example, the protective cover 200 may be magnetically attached to the tablet device 100. The flap 202 may then be disposed over and magnetically fixed to the cover glass 106 by magnetic interaction between the magnetic attachment features 20 and 207. The flap 202 can be separated from the cover glass 106 by releasing the force F _release directly to the flap 202. _{Loosening the} force F _release can overcome magnetic suction between the magnetic attachment features 20 and 207. Thus, the flap 202 can move away from the cover glass 106 without any restrictions.

4 shows a front view of a specific embodiment of a protective cover 200 in the form of a segmented cover 300. Segmented cover 300 may include a body 302. Body 302 may have a size and shape according to tablet device 100. Body 302 may be collapsible or formed from a single piece of flexible material. In addition, the body 302 may be divided into attachment features separated from one another by a folding area. In this way, the attachment features can be folded relative to one another in the folding areas. In one embodiment, the body 302 may be formed of layers of materials that form a laminated structure and adhere to each other. Each layer may take the form of a single portion of material that may have a size and shape that conforms to body 302. In addition, each layer may have a size and shape corresponding to only one portion of the body 302. For example, a layer of rigid or semi-rigid material of approximately the same size and shape as the segment may be attached to or associated with the segment.

In another example, a rigid or semi-rigid material layer having a size and shape according to body 302 may be used to provide segmented cover 300 as a whole to the elastic substructure. It should be noted that each of these layers may be formed of materials with desired properties. For example, the layer of segmented cover 300 in contact with delicate surfaces such as glass may be formed of a soft material that will not ruin or damage the delicate surface. In other embodiments, materials such as fine fibers can be used that can manually clean delicate surfaces. On the other hand, the layer exposed to the external environment may be formed of a more durable and durable material such as plastic or leather. In yet another embodiment, capacitive elements 208 may be integrated into the stack structure of cover assembly 300.

In a particular embodiment, the segmented body 302 may be divided into a number of segments 304-310 disposed with thinner and collapsible portions 312. Each of the attachment features 304-310 may include one or more inserts disposed therein. By way of example, the attachment feature may comprise a pocket area in which the inserts are placed or alternatively the inserts may be embedded within the attachment feature (eg insert molding). If pockets are used, the pocket area can be sized and shaped to accommodate the corresponding inserts. These inserts can have a variety of shapes, but most typically conform to the overall appearance of the segmented body 302 (eg, rectangular). Inserts may be used to provide structural support to the segmented body 302. That is, the inserts can provide rigidity to the cover assembly. In some cases, the inserts may be referred to as stiffeners. As such, the cover assembly is relatively hard except for collapsible regions that are thinner and do not include inserts (eg, allow folding) so that the segmented cover 300 is more robust and easier to handle. In one embodiment, segments 304, 306, and 310 may relate to segment 308 in size at a ratio of about .72 to 1, where segments 304, 306, and 310 may be associated with segment 308. That means the width is about 72% of the width. In this way, a triangle with suitable angles can be formed (ie, about 75 ° for the display stand and about 11 ° for the keyboard stand, as described below).

Segments 306, 308, and 310 may include inserts 314, 316, and 318, respectively (as shown in the form of dashed lines). Inserts 314-318 may be formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material that adds elasticity to body 302. Examples of materials that can be used include plastics, fiberglass, carbon fiber composites, metals, and the like. Segment 304 is also formed of a resilient material, such as plastic, but also part of which may interact with the magnetic elements of tablet device 1100, more particularly with attachment feature 110. Insert 320 configured to receive 322. Inserts 314-318 may also include capacitive elements 208 that can be sensed by the MT sensing portion of the display of tablet device 100.

Due to the ability of the segmented body 302 to be folded, more specifically the various segments to be folded relative to each other, most of the magnetic elements 322 have a magnetically active insert embedded in the insert 318 ( 324 can be used to magnetically interact. By magnetically coupling both the active insert 324 and the magnetic elements 322, various support structures can be formed, some of which may be triangular. Triangular support structures can assist in the use of the tablet device 1100. For example, one triangular support structure can be used to support the tablet device 1100 in such a way that visual content can be displayed at a preferred viewing angle of about 75 ° from horizontal. However, in order to be able to fold the segmented cover 300 properly, the segment 308 may have a size somewhat larger than the segments 304, 306 and 310 (generally the same size). In this way, the segments can form a triangle having two identical sides and a longer third side, the triangle having an internal angle of about 75 °.

The cover assembly 300 can be attached to rotate to an accessory attachment feature 202 via a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly can provide one or more pivots to allow the cover to be folded on the device while the cover assembly is attached to the device via a magnet. In the described embodiment, the hinge assembly includes a first hinge portion (also referred to as a first end lug) 328 and a second hinge portion (or second end) disposed opposite the first end lug. Protrusion 330). The first distal protrusion 328 may be securely connected to the second distal protrusion 330 via a connecting rod 332 (shown in dashed form) included in the tube portion of the segmented body 302. have. The longitudinal axis of the connecting rod 332 can operate as a pivot line 1333 in which the segmented body can rotate relative to the hinge assembly. The connecting rod 332 may be formed of a metal or plastic that is strong enough to firmly support any object, such as the tablet device 1100, which is magnetically attached to the cover assembly 300 as well as the magnetic attachment feature 202. Can be.

To prevent the metal from contacting over the metal, the first end protrusion 328 and the second end protrusion 330 may have protective layers 336 and 338, respectively, attached thereto. Protective layers (also referred to as bumpers) 336 and 338 may prevent direct contact between the first end protrusion 328 and the second end protrusion 330 to the housing 102. This is particularly important when the distal protrusions 328, 330 and the housing 102 are formed of metal. The presence of bumpers 336 and 338 may prevent metal to metal contact between the distal protrusions and the housing 102, thereby reducing the overall appearance and feel of the tablet device 1100. The chance of substantial wear and break at the point can be eliminated.

The first distal protrusion 328 and the second distal protrusion 330 may be magnetically connected to the electronic device through a hinge span 340 configured to pivot about the distal protrusions. The rotation can be accomplished using hinge posts 342 (where some of them can be exposed). The hinge posts 342 may rotatably fix the hinge span 340 to both the first end protrusion 328 and the second end protrusion 330. Hinge span 340 may include magnetic elements. The magnetic elements may be arranged to magnetically attach hinge span 340 to a magnetic attachment feature having a configuration that matches the magnetic elements of the electronic device. The possibility that the magnetic elements of the hinge span 340 move relative to having the possibility of preventing magnetic attachment between the magnetic attachment feature of the electronic device and the hinge span 340 to secure the magnetic elements in the space within the hinge span 340. Hinged posts 342 can be used to reduce the pressure to secure magnetic elements located at both ends of hinge span 340.

5A and 5B show representative magnetic interactions between the onboard compass 118 and the magnetic elements 207 and 209 of the flap 202. For the remainder of this discussion, for the sake of clarity, the magnetic elements 207 and 209 are considered as a combined magnetic element ME located by a distance r from the onboard compass 118. In an open arrangement, the distance r is a fixed distance R _open , whereas in a closed arrangement, the distance r is a fixed distance R _closed . Accordingly, the onboard compass 118 may detect the magnetic flux density M coming from the combined magnetic element ME according to Equation 1.

Where B _ME is the magnetic flux density of the coupled magnetic element ME (Tesla);

r is the distance between the coupled magnetic element ME and the onboard compass 118).

Therefore, in the open configuration, the onboard compass 118 can detect the magnetic flux density in accordance with Equation 2 below.

On the other hand, in the closed configuration, the onboard compass 118 can detect the magnetic flux density according to Equation 3 below.

에 따라 변하므로, 온보드 나침반(118)에 의해 검출된 자속 밀도 M의 변화는 피봇 라인(211) 주위의 플랩(202)의 이동의 추정을 제공할 수 있다. 이런 방식으로, 피봇 라인(211) 주의의 플랩(202)의 움직임을 모델링하는 것에 의해, 플랩(202)의 움직임은 아래 수학식 4에 따라 나침반(118)에 의해 검출된 결합된 자기 엘리먼트 ME의 자속 밀도 M의 변화를 평가함으로써 추론될 수 있다. However, the distance r between the combined magnetic element ME and the onboard compass 118 is the pivot angle.

The change in magnetic flux density M detected by the onboard compass 118 may provide an estimate of the movement of the flap 202 around the pivot line 211. In this way, by modeling the movement of the flap 202 of the pivot line 211 attention, the movement of the flap 202 is determined by the combined magnetic element ME detected by the compass 118 according to Equation 4 below. It can be inferred by evaluating the change in magnetic flux density M.

)(here,

)

를 직접적으로 검출할 수 없으므로, 태블릿 디바이스(100) 내에 포함된 가속도계 및 자이로스코프(미도시)를 이용하여 간접적인 판정을 얻을 수 있다. 가속도계 및 자이로스코프는 태블릿 디바이스(100)의 공간적 배향을 제공할 수 있고, 온보드 나침반(118)는, 플랩(202)이 피봇 라인(211) 주위를 회전하고 있는 지를 추론하기 위한 동적 모델에 비교될 수 있는 (도 6a 및 도 6b에 도시된 자기 오프셋들을 포함하는) 전체 자속 밀도를 검출할 수 있다.The tablet device 100 is pivoted

May not be directly detected, and an indirect determination may be obtained using an accelerometer and a gyroscope (not shown) included in the tablet device 100. The accelerometer and gyroscope can provide the spatial orientation of the tablet device 100, and the onboard compass 118 can be compared to a dynamic model to infer whether the flap 202 is rotating around the pivot line 211. The total magnetic flux density can be detected (including the magnetic offsets shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B).

6A and 6B schematically illustrate various magnetic offsets that may be detected by the onboard compass 118. For example, magnetic elements in magnetic attachment feature 204 can generate magnetic offset M1. The magnetic offset M1 can provide an indication that the protective cover 200 is magnetically attached to the tablet device 100. For example, when the onboard compass 118 detects a change in magnetic flux density along the lines of the magnetic offset M1, the onboard compass 118 may provide a corresponding signal to the processor in the tablet device 100. The processor may use that signal to infer that the protective cover 200 is magnetically attached to the tablet device 100.

7 shows a flowchart detailing a process 700 for confirming an indication of the state of a protective cover with respect to an electronic device from a Hall Effect sensor. Process 700 begins at step 702 and detects a first type of stimulus at a first sensor in an electronic device. In step 704, a first signal is received upon detecting a first signal indicative of a first state of an accessory device with respect to the electronic device. In step 706, a second type of stimulus is detected at a second sensor in the electronic device. In step 708, a second signal is received in accordance with the detection, the second signal representing a second state of the accessory device with respect to the electronic device. In step 710, if the first and second states are the same, in step 712 the first signal is accepted and process 700 ends. Otherwise, at step 714, a determination is made whether a signal from another sensor will be received. If it is determined that a different signal is to be received from the other sensor, then control is returned to step 706, otherwise, at step 716, the first signal is ignored and the process 700 ends.

8 shows a flowchart detailing process 800 as one embodiment of step 702 of process 700, wherein the first sensor is a Hall Effect (HFX) sensor. More specifically, process 800 begins at step 802 and receives an indication from the HFX sensor that the cover is closed. In step 804, the ambient light sensor is activated. In step 806, a determination is made whether the ALS has detected an amount of ambient light that is greater than the threshold of ambient light. If the amount of ambient light detected is greater than the threshold, in step 808 the indication from the HFX sensor that the cover is closed is not confirmed and the indication from the HFX sensor that the cover is closed is ignored, otherwise, in step 810, The electronic device receives the indication from the HFX sensor.

9 shows a flowchart detailing process 900 as one embodiment of step 702 of process 700, wherein the first sensor is a Hall Effect (HFX) sensor. More specifically, process 900 begins at step 902 and receives an indication from the HFX sensor that the cover is closed. In step 904, the camera is activated, and in step 906, a determination is made as to whether the image was captured by the camera. If at step 906 it is determined that the camera failed to capture an image, at step 908 an indication from the HFX sensor is accepted that the cover is closed. On the other hand, when it is determined in step 906 that the camera has captured an image, in step 910 the indication from the HFX sensor that the cover is closed is not confirmed and the indication from the HFX sensor is ignored by the electronic device.

FIG. 10 shows a flow chart detailing process 1000 as one embodiment of step 702 of process 700, wherein the first sensor is a Hall Effect (HFX) sensor. More specifically, process 1000 begins at 1002 by receiving an indication from the HFX sensor that the state of the cover is closed. At 1004, a magnetic field is detected at the compass, and at 1006, a determination is made whether the sensed magnetic field coincides with a hard magnetic offset resulting from the presence of magnetic elements in the cover. If at 1006 it is determined that there is no detected hard offset, the indication from the HFX that the cover is closed is not confirmed, and the electronic device ignores the indication from the HFX at 1008. On the other hand, if at 1006 it is determined that a hard offset is detected, the indication from the HFX that the cover state is closed is confirmed, and the electronic device accepts the indication from the HFX sensor at 1010.

FIG. 11 shows a flowchart detailing process 1100 as one embodiment of step 702 of process 700, wherein the first sensor is an HFX sensor. More specifically, process 1100 begins at 1102 by receiving an indication from the HFX sensor that the state of the cover is closed. At 1104, an MT event is detected at the MT sensing surface. At 1106, a determination is made whether the MT event matches an MT signature that matches a closed cover state. If the MT signature is determined to match the closed cover state, the electronic device accepts an indication from the HFX sensor at 1108. On the other hand, if the MT event does not match the MT signature, the electronic device ignores the indication from the HFX sensor at 1110 and process 1100 ends.

12 shows a flowchart detailing process 1200 as one embodiment of step 702 of process 700, wherein the first sensor is an HFX sensor. More specifically, process 1200 begins at 1202 by receiving an indication from the HFX sensor that the state of the cover is closed. The RFID signature is detected at 1204. A determination is made at 1206 as to whether the RFID signature matches an RFID signature that matches the cover. If the RFID signature is determined to match the cover, the electronic device accepts an indication from the HFX sensor at 1208. On the other hand, if the RFID signature does not match the cover, the electronic device ignores the indication from the HFX sensor at 1210 and process 1200 ends.

13 shows a flowchart detailing a process 1300. More specifically, process 1300 begins at 1302 using an accelerometer and gyroscope to sense in real time the current spatial position and rotation of the electronic device. At 1304, an external magnetic field is sensed by the magnetometer (in the form of a compass). At 1306, the final dynamic magnetic field is provided in real time based on the accelerometer and gyroscope readings, and the final magnetic field, the net magnetic field of the total external magnetic field, is measured at the compass. The net magnetic field is updated in real time based on the current spatial position and rotation of the electronic device to provide a dynamic final magnetism that is compared to a datum of the dynamic magnetic field that matches the uncovered at 1308. At 1310, the deviation of the measured dynamic magnetic field and the reference data is determined. If the deviation is less than the threshold deviation value, there is no cover and the electronic device ignores the indication from the HFX sensor at 1312. On the other hand, if the deviation is greater than the threshold deviation value, the cover is present and the electronic device accepts the indication from the HFX sensor at 1314.

14 is a block diagram of an electronic device 1450 suitable for use with the described embodiments. Electronic device 1450 illustrates the circuitry of an exemplary computing device. Electronic device 1450 includes a processor 1452 associated with a microprocessor or controller for controlling the overall operation of electronic device 1450. Electronic device 1450 stores media data associated with media items in file system 1454 and cache 1456. File system 1454 is typically a storage disk or a plurality of disks. File system 1454 typically provides high capacity storage capability for electronic device 1450. However, because the access time to the file system 1454 is relatively slow, the electronic device 1450 may also include a cache 1456. The cache 1456 is, for example, a random-access memory (RAM) provided by a semiconductor memory. The relative access time for cache 1456 is substantially shorter than file system 1454. However, cache 1456 does not have the large storage capacity of file system 1454. File system 1454 also consumes more power than cache 1456 when active. Power consumption is often considered when the electronic device 1450 is a portable media device powered by a battery 1474. In addition, the electronic device 1450 may include a RAM 1470 and a read-only memory (ROM) 1472. ROM 1472 may store programs, utilities, or processes that execute in a nonvolatile manner. RAM 1470 provides volatile data storage, such as cache 1456.

Electronic device 1450 also includes a user input device 1458 that allows a user of electronic device 1450 to interact with electronic device 1450. For example, the user input device 1458 can take various forms such as a button, keypad, dial, touch screen, audio input interface, visual / image capture input interface, input in the form of sensor data, and the like. In addition, the electronic device 1450 includes a display 1460 (screen display) that can be controlled by the processor 1452 to display information to a user. The data bus 1466 may facilitate data transfer between at least the file system 1454, the cache 1456, the processor 1452, and the CODEC 1463.

In one embodiment, the electronic device 1450 is responsible for storing a plurality of media items (eg, songs, podcasts, etc.) in the file system 1454. If the user wants the electronic device to play a particular media item, a list of available media items is displayed on the display 1460. The user can then select one of the available media items using the user input device 1458. Upon receiving the selection of the particular media item, the processor 1452 supplies media data (eg, an audio file) for the particular media item to the coder / decoder (CODEC) 1463. CODEC 1463 then produces analog output signals for speaker 1464. The speaker 1464 may be a speaker embedded in the electronic device 1450 or may be a speaker outside the electronic device 1450. For example, external speakers may include headphones or earphones that connect to the electronic device 1450.

Electronic device 1450 also includes a network / bus interface 1541 connected to data link 1462. Data link 1462 connects electronic device 1450 to a host computer or accessory devices. The data link 1462 may be provided via a wired connection or a wireless connection. In the case of a wireless connection, the network / bus interface 1541 may include a wireless transceiver. Media items (media assets) may belong to one or more different types of media content. In one embodiment, the media items are audio tracks (eg, songs, audio books, and podcasts). In another embodiment, the media items are images (eg, photos). However, in other embodiments, the media items can be any combination of audio, graphic or visual content. Sensor 1476 may take the form of circuitry for detecting any number of stimuli. For example, sensor 1476 may include a Hall Effect sensor responsive to an external magnetic field, an audio sensor, a light sensor such as a photometer, and the like.

Various aspects, embodiments, implementations, or features of the described embodiments may be used individually or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a non-transitory computer readable medium. Computer readable media is defined as any data storage device capable of storing data, where the data can be read by a computer system after it is stored. Examples of computer readable media include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, DVD, magnetic tape, and optical data storage diabis. The computer readable medium can also be distributed among computer systems connected to a network such that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.

In the foregoing description, for the purposes of explanation, specific terminology has been used to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required to realize the described embodiments. Accordingly, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. These descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings.

The advantages of the described embodiments are enormous. Different aspects, embodiments or implementations may achieve one or more of the accompanying advantages. Many features and advantages of embodiments of the invention will be apparent from the written description, and therefore, it is intended to embrace all such features and advantages of the invention by the appended claims. In addition, because numerous modifications and variations will be readily made to those skilled in the art, the embodiments should not be limited to the precise configuration and operation shown and described. Accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents are considered to be within the scope of this invention.

Claims (27)

As consumer electronics,
Electronic devices
Lt; / RTI >
The electronic device,
A processor;
display;
A first sensor configured to detect a first type of stimulus and in communication with the processor, the first sensor responding to the first type of stimulus by providing a first signal to the processor, the first signal Indicates a first state of an accessory device associated with the electronic device; And
A second sensor configured to detect a second type of stimulus and in communication with the processor
Lt; / RTI >
The second sensor is responsive to the second type of stimulus by providing a second signal to the processor, the second signal representing a second state of an accessory device associated with the electronic device, wherein the processor is configured to provide the first sensor. When receiving the first signal from the processor, the processor compares the first state represented by the first signal with the second state represented by the second signal, and wherein the processor correlates the first state and the second state. The processor accepts the first signal if it determines that it is determined, and the processor ignores the first signal if it determines that it does not correlate. The method of claim 1,
The accessory device is a protective cover,
The accessory device,
A pivot assembly configured to pivotally attach the protective cover and the electronic device together; And
Flaps that are sized and shaped according to the display and are pivotally attached to the pivot assembly
/ RTI >
The flap includes a magnetic element configured to provide a magnetic signal. The method of claim 2,
The magnetic signal is a saturation magnetic field, the first sensor is a Hall Effect sensor (HFX sensor) configured to detect the saturation magnetic field, and the HFX sensor is configured such that the flap is closed with respect to the display of the electronic device. And detect the saturation magnetic field and respond to the saturation magnetic field only when the magnetic element in the flap is in proximity to the HFX sensor. 4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The second sensor is configured to detect at least an ambient light sensor configured to detect ambient light, a camera configured to capture an image, a magnetometer configured to detect an external magnetic field, and a pattern of capacitive elements included in the flap. Any one of a configured multi-touch sensing surface, an RFID circuit configured to detect an RFIC chip included in the flap, and a second Hall effect sensor configured to detect a second magnetic element within the flap. 5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The first sensor is at least one of an ambient light sensor, a camera, a magnetometer, a multi-touch sensing surface, an RFID device. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The consumer electronic product further comprises a third sensor. The method according to claim 6,
The third sensor comprises at least an ambient light sensor configured to detect ambient light, a camera configured to capture an image, a magnetometer configured to detect an external magnetic field, and a multi-touch sensing configured to detect a pattern of capacitive elements included in the flap. A consumer electronic, wherein the sensor is any one of a surface, an RFID circuit configured to detect an RFIC chip included in the flap, and a second Hall effect sensor configured to detect a second magnetic element within the flap, the second sensor being a Hall effect sensor. product. As consumer electronics,
Electronic devices
Lt; / RTI >
The electronic device,
Display, the display comprising a protective top layer and a display device disposed below the protective top layer;
A processor;
Hall Effect sensor in communication with the processor, wherein the Hall effect sensor is configured to detect a saturation magnetic field and provide a first signal to the processor in response to the detected saturation magnetic field, wherein the processor is configured to provide the first signal. Change an operating state of the electronic device in a first manner using a signal;
Detect a second type of stimulus and respond to a corresponding second signal used by the processor to change the operating state of the electronic device in a second manner, separate from and different from the HFX sensor. A second sensor; And
Accessory Unit-The accessory unit includes a body portion pivotally attached to the electronic device, the body portion having at least a magnetic element and, when the accessory unit is in a closed configuration, The inner surface of the body portion contacts the protective top layer such that the HFX sensor detects and responds to the saturation magnetic field by providing the first signal to the processor, and the processor detects the presence of the saturation magnetic field. When receiving a first signal to display from the HFX sensor, the processor determines whether the second sensor generates the second signal in response to the second stimulus, and the processor determines the first signal and the second signal. Comparing the signals so that the first signal received from the HFX sensor is in a closed configuration relative to the display. Corroborate with the accessory unit, and if the second sensor confirms that the cover is in the closed configuration, the processor receives the first signal from the HFX sensor and operates accordingly; The processor ignores the first signal from the HFX sensor.
Including, consumer electronics. 9. The method of claim 8,
The second sensor is an ambient light sensor (ALS), wherein the ALS generates a second signal confirming the first signal from the HFX sensor by detecting ambient light below a threshold level. 9. The method of claim 8,
Wherein said second sensor is a camera, said camera generating a second signal corroborating said first signal from said HFX sensor by detecting and capturing an image. 9. The method of claim 8,
The second sensor is a compass, the compass generating a second signal corroborating the first signal from the HFX sensor by detecting a hard magnetic offset. 9. The method of claim 8,
The second sensor is a compass, the third sensor is an accelerometer and gyroscope, the compass and the accelerometer and gyroscope provide a dynamic resulting magnetic field, and the processor is a reference datum. And the dynamic final magnetic field, and if the deviation from the reference data is greater than a predetermined value, the processor accepts the first signal from the HFX sensor. 9. The method of claim 8,
The flap further comprises a plurality of capacitive elements configured in a defined pattern. The method of claim 13,
The second sensor is a multi-touch sensor, the MT sensor generating a second signal corroborating the first signal from the HFX sensor by detecting the pattern from capacitive elements of the flap; Consumer electronic products. A method performed by a processor in an electronic device in a consumer electronic product comprising the electronic device, the method comprising:
Detecting a first type of stimulus at a first sensor in communication with the processor;
Receiving a first signal from the first sensor at the processor, the first signal indicating a first state of an accessory device associated with the electronic device;
Detecting a second type of stimulus at a second sensor in communication with the processor;
Receiving a second signal from the second sensor at the processor, the second signal indicating a second state of the accessory device associated with the electronic device;
Comparing, by the processor, an indication of the first state and an indication of the second state; And
Accepting the first signal by the processor only if the comparing step indicates that the indications of the first state and the second state are the same
/ RTI > 16. The method of claim 15,
The accessory device is a protective cover,
The accessory device,
A magnetic hinge assembly configured to magnetically attach the protective cover and the electronic device together; And
A flap sized and shaped according to the electronic device, the flap pivotally attached to the magnetic hinge assembly, the flap including a magnetic element configured to provide a magnetic element saturating magnetic field
Including, method. 17. The method of claim 16,
The first sensor is a Hall Effect (HFX) sensor configured to detect a saturation magnetic field, wherein the saturation magnetic field detected by the HFX sensor saturates the magnetic element only when the flap is in a closed configuration with respect to the electronic device. Way of letting go. 18. The method of claim 17,
The second sensor includes at least an ambient light sensor configured to detect ambient light, a camera configured to capture an image, a magnetometer configured to detect an external magnetic field, a multi-touch sensing surface configured to detect a pattern of capacitive elements contained within the flap, A RFID circuit configured to detect an RFID chip included in the flap, and a second Hall effect sensor configured to detect a second magnetic element in the flap. 17. The method of claim 16,
The first sensor is at least one of an ambient light sensor, a camera, a magnetometer, a multi-touch sensitive surface, an RFID device. 20. The method of claim 19,
And the second sensor is a hall effect sensor. 18. The method of claim 17,
The flap further comprises a plurality of capacitive elements configured in a defined pattern. The method of claim 21,
The second sensor is a multi-touch sensor and the MT sensor confirms the signal from the HFX sensor by detecting a pattern from capacitive elements in the flap. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing program code executable by a processor for detecting a state of a protective cover associated with a processor and an electronic device having at least a first sensor and a second sensor, the method comprising:
Computer code for receiving a signal from a first sensor indicating that the protective cover is in a closed configuration with respect to the electronic device;
Computer code for querying the second sensor;
Computer code for receiving information from the second sensor; And
Computer code for ignoring the signal from the first sensor if the information from the second sensor does not corroborate the signal from the first sensor, otherwise accepting the signal from the first sensor
Readable medium. The computer readable medium of claim 22, wherein the first sensor is a Hall Effect sensor. 25. The computer readable medium of claim 24, wherein the second sensor is an ambient light sensor (ALS) and the ALS corroborates a signal from the HFX sensor by detecting ambient light below a threshold level. 25. The computer readable medium of claim 24, wherein the second sensor is a camera, the camera corroborating a signal from the HFX sensor by detecting and capturing an image. 25. The computer readable medium of claim 24, wherein the second sensor is a compass and the compass corroborates a signal from the HFX sensor by detecting a hard magnetic offset.

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