WO2022086529A1

WO2022086529A1 - Magnetic flux-controlled antenna

Info

Publication number: WO2022086529A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/056762
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ju-Hung Chen; Chin-Hung Ma; Kun-Jung Wu
Original assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
Priority date: 2020-10-22
Filing date: 2020-10-22
Publication date: 2022-04-28

Abstract

An example device comprises: a chassis; a magnetic flux sensor incorporated into the chassis, the magnetic flux sensor to detect magnetic flux; an antenna having a first radiating frequency; and a switch in communication with the magnetic flux sensor. The switch is to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna to a second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the magnetic flux.

Description

Magnetic Flux-controlled Antennas

BACKGROUND

[0001] Laptop computers, and the like often include antennas.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] Reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0003] Figure 1 is a schematic view of an example device including a magnetic flux-controlled antenna.

[0004] Figure 2 is a schematic view of another example device including a magnetic flux-controlled antenna.

[0005] Figure 3 is a schematic view of another example device including a magnetic flux-controlled antenna with two magnetic flux sensors.

[0006] Figure 4 is a schematic view of another example device including a magnetic flux-controlled antenna with two magnetic flux sensors showing an example arrangement of wiring between components.

[0007] Figure 5 is a schematic view of another example device including a magnetic flux-controlled antenna with two magnetic flux sensors showing another example arrangement of wiring between components.

[0008] Figure 6 is a schematic view of another example device including a magnetic flux-controlled antenna with two magnetic flux sensors showing example electrical components of a switch.

[0009] Figure 7 is a schematic view of an example device including two magnetic flux-controlled antennas. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] In consumer electronics, and the like, providing covers for laptop computers, notebook computers, tablet computers, etc., may be challenging as such covers tend to attach to portions of such devices where antennas are located. Such antennas are generally for communicating with wireless networks, including, but not limited to wireless local area networks (WLANs), wireless wide area networks (WWAN) and the like. For example, such covers have dielectric constants which may affect and/or interfere with the antennas for example by changing a radiating frequency and/or radiating length of the antennas.

[0011] Hence, provided herein are devices that include a magnetic flux sensor incorporated into a chassis of the devices, the magnetic flux sensor to detect magnetic flux, for example of a magnet incorporated into a cover attachable to the chassis. Hence, the positions of the magnetic flux sensor and the magnet of the cover are selected such that the magnetic flux sensor detects the magnet when the cover is attached to the chassis. The devices include a switch in communication with the magnetic flux sensor, the switch to change a first radiating frequency of an antenna to a second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the magnetic flux. For example, the switch may be electrically coupled to the antenna such that, when electrical components of the switch are changed between states, for example in response to receiving an electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor, the electrical components cause the first radiating frequency of the antenna to the change to the second radiating frequency. Furthermore, the states of the electrical components may be selected such that the change of the antenna from the first radiating frequency to the second radiating frequency generally compensates for attachment of the cover to the chassis.

[0012] In some examples, more than one cover may be provided that may attach to the chassis, though only one cover at a time is understood to attach to the chassis. The different covers may have different dielectric constants and hence the different covers may interfere with the antenna to different degrees.

[0013] Hence, in some examples, the different covers may be provided with respective magnets that generate different respective magnetic flux densities. The magnetic flux sensor may detect the different magnetic flux densities and generate corresponding electrical signals of different strengths, and the like. Hence, when a first cover of a first dielectric constant is attached to the device, the magnetic flux sensor may detect a first magnetic flux density from a first magnet of the first cover and generate a first corresponding electrical signal. The switch may receive the first corresponding electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor and the electrical components may change to a first state to change the radiating frequency of the antenna to compensate for the dielectric constant of a first cover. When the first cover is removed from the device, a second cover of a second dielectric constant may be attached to the device, the second cover including a second magnet of a second magnetic flux density different from the first magnetic flux density. The magnetic flux sensor may detect the second magnetic flux density from the second magnet and generate a second electrical signal different from the first electrical signal. The switch may receive the second electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor and the electrical components may change to a second state, different from the first state, to compensate for the second dielectric constant of the second cover. Hence, in general, the magnetic flux densities of the magnets of the covers are selected such that, when the magnetic flux sensor detects a given magnetic flux density, the switch changes the radiating frequency of the antenna accordingly to compensate for a specific cover.

[0014] In other examples, a device may be provided with a plurality of magnetic flux sensors at the chassis, separated by distances such that respective detection regions of the magnetic flux sensors are distinct from each other and/or do not overlap. Similarly, the different covers may have magnets located in different respective locations, a given location of a given cover corresponding to a location of one of the magnetic flux sensors. Hence, a first magnetic flux sensor of the device may detect a magnet of a first cover, but not a second cover, and a second magnetic flux sensor of the device may detect a magnet of a second cover, but not the first cover. In these examples, the switch may change the radiating frequency of the antennas depending on which of the two magnetic flux sensors detects a magnet of an attached cover, with the change in the radiating frequency for a given magnetic sensor being selected to compensate for a respective cover.

[0015] An aspect of the present specification provides a device comprising: a chassis; a magnetic flux sensor incorporated into the chassis, the magnetic flux sensor to detect magnetic flux; an antenna having a first radiating frequency; and a switch in communication with the magnetic flux sensor, the switch to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna to a second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the magnetic flux.

[0016] Another aspect of the specification provides a device comprising: chassis to removably receive a cover which includes a magnet; a magnetic flux sensor incorporated into the chassis, the magnetic flux sensor located to detect magnetic flux from the magnet of the cover; an antenna having a first radiating frequency; and a switch in communication with the magnetic flux sensor, the switch to: change the first radiating frequency of the antenna to a second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the magnet of the cover when attached to the chassis.

[0017] Another aspect of the specification provides a device comprising: a chassis; a first magnetic flux sensor incorporated into the chassis at a first location of the chassis, the first magnetic flux sensor to detect a first magnetic flux at the first location; a second magnetic flux sensor incorporated into the chassis at a second location of the chassis, the second magnetic flux sensor to detect a second magnetic flux at the second location, wherein the first location and the second location are separated by a distance such that a detection region of the first magnetic flux sensor is distinct from a respective detection region of the second magnetic flux sensor; an antenna having an initial radiating frequency; and a switch in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor and the second magnetic flux sensor, the switch to: change the initial radiating frequency of the antenna to a first radiating frequency in response to the first magnetic flux sensor detecting the first magnetic flux at the first location; and change the initial radiating frequency of the antenna to a second radiating frequency in response to the second magnetic flux sensor detecting the second magnetic flux at the second location, the second radiating frequency different from the first radiating frequency.

[0018] Attention is next directed to FIG. 1 which depicts a device 100 that includes a magnetic flux-controlled antenna. The device 100 may include, but is not limited to, a laptop device, a notebook device, a tablet device, a portable device, combinations thereof (e.g., a laptop device with a foldable keyboard to transform the laptop device into a tablet device), and the like. While details of non-antenna related components of the device 100 are not depicted (e.g., a display screen, input devices such as a keyboard, etc.), it is understood that the device 100 may include any suitable combination of components to provide the device 100 with any suitable functionality.

[0019] As depicted, the device 100 includes: a chassis 102; a magnetic flux sensor 104 incorporated into the chassis 102, the magnetic flux sensor 104 to detect magnetic flux; an antenna 106 having a first radiating frequency; and a switch 108 in communication with the magnetic flux sensor 104, the switch 108 to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to a second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor 104 detecting the magnetic flux.

[0020] While not depicted, it is understood that the device 100 includes an antenna feed, a transceiver, and the like, the antenna feed connecting the transceiver to the antenna 106, as well as a power source, such as a battery, and the like. Such a power source generally powers components of the device 100 including, but not limited to the magnetic flux sensor 104 and the switch 108.

[0021] The chassis 102 is generally adapted to receive a cover, which includes a magnet positioned at a location of the cover corresponding the location of magnetic flux sensor 104 at the chassis 102, such that the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects magnetic flux from the magnet of the cover when attached to the chassis 102. The chassis 102 may be constructed of any suitable material including, but not limited to, metal and/or conducting material, and/or plastic and/or non-conducting material. While not depicted, the chassis 102 and/or the cover may include additional magnets for attaching the cover to the chassis 102 magnetically; alternatively, the chassis 102 and/or the cover may include any suitable combination of attachment mechanisms for attaching the cover to the chassis 102 including, but not limited to, mechanical fasteners, clips, loop and hook devices, and the like.

[0022] The magnetic flux sensor 104 may generally comprise a Hall sensor, and the like, and/or any other suitable magnetometer to detect a magnetic field, for example of a magnet of a cover attached to the chassis 102.

[0023] The magnetic flux sensor 104 is generally positioned at chassis 102, for example at an interior side of the chassis 102, at a location which corresponds to a magnet of a cover when attached to the chassis 102.

[0024] The magnetic flux sensor 104 may be further to generate an electrical signal in response to response to detecting magnetic flux. The magnetic flux sensor 104 may further include an amplifier, and the like, for amplifying an electrical signal generated when the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects a magnetic field. Components of the magnetic flux sensor 104, such as an amplifier, may be powered by a power source of the device 100.

[0025] However, when the magnetic flux sensor 104 does not detect a magnetic flux, no electrical signal may be generated. Put another way, in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting an absence of a magnetic flux, no electrical signal may be generated. Such an electrical signal may comprise a voltage and/or a change in voltage, though such an electrical signal may be provided as power and/or current.

[0026] In general, an electrical signal generated by the magnetic flux sensor 104 are provided to the switch 108, via an electrical connection (e.g. as shown in FIG. 1 via a line between the magnetic flux sensor 104 and the switch 108, as described in more detail below). In general, the electrical signal controls the switch 108 and hence the electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor 104 may alternatively be referred to as a control signal. [0027] Furthermore, whether, or not, the magnetic flux sensor 104 provides an electrical signal to the switch 108 may be threshold based.

[0028] For example, when a detected magnetic flux is below a threshold magnetic flux, the magnetic flux sensor 104 may not provide an electrical signal to the switch 108. Similarly, when a detected magnetic flux is above a threshold magnetic flux, the magnetic flux sensor 104 may provide an electrical signal to the switch 108. In these examples, magnetic flux sensor 104 is understood to include additional components, such as a microprocessor and/or an electrical circuit and/or mechanical components, to determine whether, or not, a detected magnetic flux is above a threshold magnetic flux, and cause a generated electrical signal to be provided, or not, to the switch 108, accordingly.

[0029] In some examples, the electrical signal may be dependent on a detected magnetic flux. Put another way, the magnetic flux sensor 104 may be further to detect different magnetic flux densities of a detected magnetic flux. For examples, it is understood that a strength of magnetic flux varies with magnetic flux density (e.g. magnetic flux density is an indicator of a strength of magnetic flux). As such, the magnetic flux sensor 104 may detect a magnetic flux based on a magnetic flux density thereof. As such, hereafter, the magnetic flux sensor 104 may interchangeably be referred to as detecting magnetic flux and/or detecting magnetic flux density.

[0030] For example, when the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects a first magnetic flux (e.g. of a first magnetic flux density), a first electrical signal may be generated and, when the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects a second magnetic flux (e.g. of a second magnetic flux density) larger than the first magnetic flux, a second electrical signal may be generated that is larger than the first electrical signal. Hence, the electrical signal may increase, for example in voltage, as the detected magnetic flux increases. However, the electrical signal may change in any suitable manner as the detected magnetic flux changes.

[0031] Furthermore, when the magnetic flux sensor 104 is to detect different magnetic flux densities of magnetic flux, detection of different flux densities may also be threshold based. For example, when the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects a first magnetic flux (e.g. of a first magnetic flux density), a first electrical signal may be generated when the first magnetic flux is between a first threshold magnetic flux and a second threshold magnetic flux greater than the first threshold magnetic flux. Similarly, when the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects a second magnetic flux (e.g. of a second magnetic flux density) larger than the first magnetic flux, a second electrical signal may be generated when the second magnetic flux is between a third threshold magnetic flux and a fourth threshold magnetic flux greater than the third threshold magnetic flux; the third threshold magnetic flux is understood to be larger than the second threshold magnetic flux.

[0032] However, in other examples, a combination of threshold magnetic fluxes may be used such that, when the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects a first magnetic flux (e.g. of a first magnetic flux density) greater than a first threshold magnetic flux a first electrical signal may be generated, and when the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects a second magnetic flux (e.g. of a second magnetic flux density) greater than a second threshold magnetic flux, greater than the first threshold magnetic flux, a second electrical signal may be generated. Indeed, any suitable number of threshold magnetic fluxes may be used, which may correspond to a corresponding number of different covers, with respective magnets generating different magnetic flux densities.

[0033] Regardless, the electrical signal generated by the magnetic flux sensor 104 may increase (e.g. in voltage) and/or change in any suitable manner, as the detected magnetic flux increases and/or changes.

[0034] The antenna 106 may comprise any suitable antenna type including, but not limited to, a slot antenna (e.g. including, but not limited to, an open slot antenna, a closed slot antenna, and the like), a planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA), a monopole antenna, and/or any other suitable antenna type that may be used with the device 100 and/or laptop devices and/or notebook devices and/or tablet devices and/or portable devices, and the like. Furthermore, the antenna 106 may include, but is not limited to, combinations of antennas, such as two slot antennas, a slot antenna and a PIFA, and the like, for example which radiate at different respective bandwidths. When the antenna 106 comprise two antennas (or more antennas), the antennas may be arranged end to end, perpendicular to each other, stacked onto each other, and/or arranged in any suitable manner.

[0035] Furthermore, the dimensions (e.g. such as a length) of the antenna 106 (and/or dimensions of combination of antennas) may be selected to cover any suitable bandwidth regions, including, but not limited to, a WiFi bandwidth region, a WiFi-6E bandwidth region, etc.

[0036] Hence, in general, the antenna 106 is of a particular physical length, which may be the same, or different from, an effective radiating length corresponding to a radiating frequency. Furthermore, while not depicted, it is understood that the antenna 106 electrically connects to a transceiver of the device 100 via an antenna feed which may be located at an end of the antenna 106. In general, the device 100 communicates wirelessly via the transceiver and the antenna 106.

[0037] The switch 108 may comprise any suitable number of inputs and any suitable number of electrical components, of any suitable type, in any suitable arrangement, for changing a radiating frequency and/or radiating length of the antenna 106.

[0038] For example, as depicted, the switch 108 comprise four inputs, depicted in Figure 1 as short lines at a side of the switch 108 opposite the antenna 106, however, the inputs may be arranged in any suitable manner at the switch 108, and furthermore the switch may include any suitable number of inputs. For example, the switch 108 may include: a voltage input to connect to a power source to power electrical components of the switch 108; a ground input to connect the electrical components of the switch to a ground of the device 100 (which may, or may not be utilized); and a control input which, as depicted, is electrically connected to the magnetic flux sensor 104, the control input to receive an electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor 104 to control electrical components of the switch 108. As depicted, a fourth input may be optional and may be used to connect a second magnetic flux sensor, described in more detail below, and/or the fourth input may not be used and/or may be omitted in some examples.

[0039] Electrical components of the switch 108 may include, but is not limited to, an inductor-capacitor (LC) network (e.g. a combination of inductors and capacitors) which may be controlled to different states based on electrical signal received from the magnetic flux sensor 104. Such an LC network may further include resistors and/or any other suitable electrical components.

[0040] However, the switch 108 may include any suitable electrical components that change a radiating frequency and/or radiating length of the antenna 106, for example, depending on a state thereof in response to receiving an electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor 104. The electrical components may alternatively be referred to as lumped components.

[0041] As depicted, the switch 108 further comprises an electrical connection to the antenna 106, depicted as an arm extending from the switch 108 across the antenna 106. In general, such an electrical connection (e.g. interchangeably referred to hereafter as the arm) connects the electrical components of the switch 108 to the antenna 106 and when the electrical components, and the like, change state (e.g. due to an electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor 104) the electrical connection causes the change in state to be translated to the antenna 106 to change the radiating frequency thereof, for example from a first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to a second radiating frequency.

[0042] In one given example, the arm of the switch 108 at the antenna 106 may be located a given distance from an antenna feed that is less than a total length of the antenna 106. In the given example, when no electrical signal is received from the magnetic flux sensor 104, the electrical components of the switch 108 be in a first state in which the switch 108 has no effect on the antenna 106, such that the antenna 106 operates according to a radiating length of the antenna 106 that may correspond to a distance between the antenna feed and an opposite end of the antenna 106 and/or a total length of the antenna 106. As such, when no electrical signal is received at the switch 108, from the magnetic flux sensor 104, the antenna 106 may operate according to a first radiating frequency which corresponds to the radiating length of the antenna 106.

[0043] However, in the given example, when an electrical signal is received from the magnetic flux sensor 104 (e.g. when the cover is attached to the device 100), the electrical components of the switch 108 may change to a second state that causes the radiating length of the antenna 106 to shorten based, for example, on a position of the arm at the antenna 106, and hence change the first radiating frequency to a second radiating frequency.

[0044] In a more specific example, the radiating length of the antenna 106 may shorten to a distance from the antenna feed of the antenna 106 to the arm, for example by the electrical components of the switch 108 grounding the arm (e.g. via the ground input, and the like). As such, when an electrical signal is received at the switch 108, from the magnetic flux sensor 104, the antenna 106 may operate according to a second radiating frequency which corresponds to a shortened radiating length of the antenna 106. In this example, the electrical components of the switch 108 may comprise an electrical switch which may be open when no electrical signal is received at the switch 108 from the magnetic flux sensor 104, and which may be closed to electrically connect the arm to the ground input when an electrical signal is received at the switch 108 from the magnetic flux sensor 104.

[0045] Similarly, when the electrical signal is no longer received from the magnetic flux sensor 104 (e.g. when the cover is removed from the device 100), the electrical components may change back to the first state such that the antenna 106 according to the first radiating frequency.

[0046] Hence, it is generally understood that the switch 108 is to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to a second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor 104 detecting magnetic flux (e.g. when a cover with a magnet is attached to the chassis 102). For example, as has already been described, the switch 108 comprises electrical components to receive an electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor 104 and the switch 108 is further to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to a second radiating frequency in response to the electrical components changing state in response to receiving the electrical signal.

[0047] It is further understood that the switch 108 is further to change the second radiating frequency of the antenna 106 back to the first radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor 104 detecting absence of magnetic flux (e.g. when a cover with a magnet is removed from the chassis 102).

[0048] In examples where the magnetic flux sensor 104 is further to detect different magnetic flux densities of magnetic flux, the switch 108 and/or the electrical components thereof, may be adapted such that the switch 108 is further to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to different respective radiating frequencies in response to the magnetic flux sensor 104 detecting the different magnetic flux densities of the magnetic flux (e.g. when covers having magnets of different magnetic flux densities are individually attached to the chassis 102).

[0049] For example, as the electrical signal changes and/or increases in voltage, the electrical components of the switch 108 may change to different respective states such that the switch 108 is further to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to different respective radiating frequencies in response to the magnetic flux sensor 104 detecting the different magnetic flux densities of magnetic flux. For example, the switch 108 may include a plurality of electrical connections and/or arms which connect to the antenna 106 at different positions and, as the electrical signal changes, different combinations of the electrical components may turn on, and/or off, to ground different arms to change the radiating length of the antenna 106 and/or change a radiating frequency of the antenna 106. Alternatively, the switch 108 may include one arm, as depicted, and as the electrical signal changes, different combinations of the electrical components (e.g. inductors and/or capacitors of an LC network) may turn on, and/or off, and/or may be tuned, to change an electrical state of the arm (e.g. to generate an electrical field at the arm, and the like) to change a radiating frequency of the antenna 106.

[0050] As has already been described, the electrical signal may change based on a threshold magnetic flux and/or threshold magnetic fluxes and/or threshold magnetic flux densities. However, in some examples, the magnetic flux sensor 104 may not perform a comparison of detected magnetic flux to a threshold magnetic flux. Rather, the switch 108 may be adapted to include components for comparing a voltage of an electrical signal (which may depend on detected magnetic flux) to threshold voltages and/or threshold powers which correspond to the above described threshold magnetic fluxes.

[0051] Hence, for example, when the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects a first magnetic flux (e.g. of a first magnetic flux density) a first electrical signal may be generated, and when the magnetic flux sensor 104 detects a second magnetic flux (e.g. of a second magnetic flux density) a second electrical signal that may be greater than (e.g. in voltage) than the first electrical signal. The switch 108 may comprise electrical components (e.g. such as a voltmeter, and the like) to determine a voltage of an electrical signal received from magnetic flux sensor 104, as well as components, such as a microprocessor and/or circuits, and the like, to compare the voltage of the electrical signal to threshold voltages (and/or threshold powers) which are selected to correspond to voltages of electrical signals generated by the magnetic flux sensor 104 when detecting magnets of different covers. In these examples, in response to the switch 108 determining that a voltage of a received first electrical signal is above a first threshold voltage , the switch 108 may change the first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to the second radiating frequency (e.g. in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the first magnetic flux) as described above. Similarly, in response to the switch 108 determining that a voltage of a received second electrical signal is above a second threshold voltage , which is greater than the first threshold voltage , the switch 108 may change the first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to a third radiating frequency (e.g. in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the second magnetic flux) as described above.

[0052] In some examples, both the magnetic flux sensor 104 and the switch 108 may compare, respectively, measured magnetic flux density of magnetic flux, and measured voltage of electrical signals, to respective thresholds; such an example may provide redundancy in the device 100 for determining when to change a first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to another radiating frequency, in response to the magnetic flux sensor 104 detecting magnetic flux

[0053] Regardless of whether respective suitable thresholds are implemented at the magnetic flux sensor 104 and/or the switch 108, it is understood that the switch 108 may be further to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna 106 to a second radiating frequency based on thresholds (e.g. in response to the magnetic flux sensor 104 detecting that magnetic flux is above a threshold magnetic flux, and the like).

[0054] Attention is next directed to Figure 2 which depicts a rear perspective view of another example device 200 with a magnetic flux-controlled antenna. The device 200 is similar to the device 100 with like components having like numbers, however in a “200” series rather than a “100” series, however the device 200 is specifically provided in the form of a laptop computer, and the like.

[0055] Hence, for example, the device 200 comprises a chassis 202 to removably receive a cover which includes a magnet; a magnetic flux sensor 204 incorporated into the chassis 202, the magnetic flux sensor 204 located to detect magnetic flux from the magnet of the cover; an antenna 206 having a first radiating frequency; and a switch 208 in communication with the magnetic flux sensor 204, the switch 208 to: change the first radiating frequency of the antenna 206 to a second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor 204 detecting the magnet of the cover when attached to the chassis 202.

[0056] As depicted, the magnetic flux sensor 204, the antenna 206 and the switch 208, as well as wiring therebetween, is shown on the outside of the chassis 202 to shown example locations; however, it is understood that the magnetic flux sensor 204, the antenna 206 and the switch 208, as well as wiring therebetween, is located at an interior side the chassis 202 (e.g. within the device 200).

[0057] As depicted, the device 200 further comprises a cover 210 (e.g. a first cover 210) which includes a magnet 212 (e.g. a first magnet 212). While as depicted, the cover 210 is detached from the chassis 202, it is understood and the cover 210 is attachable to the chassis 202, as described in more detail below. The cover 210 may be sold with the device 200 and/or purchased and/or provided for use with the device 200 after the rest of the device 200 is purchased and/or provided (e.g. a user may purchase, and/or be provided with, a laptop computer as shown in Figure 2 and later purchase, and/or be provided with, the cover 210). As such, the cover 210 and the magnet 212 may alternatively be referred to, respectively, as a first cover 210 and a first magnet 212) as two covers, or more than two covers, may be available for purchase and/or may be provided with the device 200, as described in more detail below.

[0058] As depicted, the magnet 212, is shown on an outside surface of the cover 210 to show an example location of the magnet 212, it is understood that the magnet 212 may be located at an interior side the cover 210 (e.g. a side, opposite to the depicted side, that interfaces with the chassis 202 when the cover 210 is attached thereto) and/or the magnet 212 may be located inside the cover 210.

[0059] In particular, the respective locations of the magnetic flux sensor 204 and the magnet 212 are selected such that, when the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202 the magnet 212 is in a location relative to the magnetic flux sensor 204 where the magnetic flux sensor 204 detects magnetic flux from the magnet 212. Hence, in some examples, as depicted, the respective locations of the magnetic flux sensor 204 and the magnet 212 may be selected such that, when the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202 the magnet 212 and the magnetic flux sensor 204 align, as indicated by the dashed lines 214.

[0060] However, it is understood that the magnetic flux sensor 204 may have a detection region 216 that extends beyond the physical boundaries of the magnetic flux sensor 204, such that when the magnet 212, and/or a suitable portion thereof, is located within the detection region 216, the magnetic flux sensor 204 detects magnetic flux of the magnet 212. Hence, in some examples, as depicted, the respective locations of the magnetic flux sensor 204 and the magnet 212 may be selected such that, when the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202 the magnet 212 is within the detection region 216 of the magnetic flux sensor 204. However, it is understood that the poorer the alignment between the magnetic flux sensor 204 and the magnet 212, the lower the magnetic flux of the magnet 212 that may be detected by the magnetic flux sensor 204; as such, in examples where magnetic flux sensor 204 and the magnet 212 are not aligned, but the magnet 212 is within the detection region 216 of the magnetic flux sensor 204, any thresholds of the magnetic flux sensor 204 and/or the switch 208 may be adjusted accordingly to account for lower magnetic flux from the magnet 212 at magnetic flux sensor 204 and/or a lower electrical signal generated by the magnetic flux sensor 204.

[0061] As mentioned previously, the cover 210 is removably attachable from the chassis 202 using any suitable mechanism. In some examples, the magnet 212 interacting with the magnetic flux sensor 204 may be at least partially used to removably attach the cover 210 to the chassis 202, the magnet 212 may generally be attracted to materials of the magnetic flux sensor 204.

[0062] Alternatively, as depicted, depicted the cover 210 may comprises additional magnets 218 (e.g. first additional magnets 218) which may attach to respective ferromagnetic regions of the chassis 202 (e.g. not depicted, but integrated into the chassis 202 and/or at an interior side of the chassis 202, and the like), to attach the cover to the chassis 202. As depicted, locations of the additional magnets 218 at the cover 210 may be selected so as to not interfere with the operation and/or radiating frequencies of the antenna 206 when the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202. However, the additional magnets 218, when present, may be located in any suitable location. Alternatively, the cover 210 may include additional magnets to attach to the additional magnets 218 and/or ferromagnetic regions of the cover 210.

[0063] As depicted, the device 200 comprises a keyboard portion 220 that attaches to the chassis 202 via a hinge 222, and the like. While the device 200 is hence depicted with a keyboard, the device 200 may comprise any suitable input devices. The chassis 202 (e.g. where the magnetic flux sensor 204 and the antenna 206 are located) is understood to include a display screen on a side opposite that of the depicted side. As such, the device 200 is understood to comprise a laptop device and/or a hybrid device where the keyboard portion 220 folds up against the depicted portion of the chassis 202 (e.g. to convert to a tablet device, presuming the display screen comprises a touch screen).

[0064] While as depicted the cover 210 is of a size and dimensions where the cover 210 attaches to the chassis 202 at a side opposite that of a display screen, in other examples the cover 210 may be of a size and dimensions where the cover 210 attaches to the chassis 202 as well as around the hinge 222 and under the keyboard portion 220.

[0065] Furthermore, the cover 210 may comprise any suitable materials including, but not limited to, plastic, leather, and the like, and/or any other suitable material. Regardless of material, it is understood that the cover 210 has a dielectric constant and, when the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202, the cover 210 interferes with the antenna 206. It is further understood, as described above, that the magnetic flux sensor 204 may detect when the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202 via detection of the magnetic flux of the magnet 212, and responsively generate an electric signal which is provided to the switch 208. The switch 208 responsively changes the radiating frequency of the antenna 206 to compensate for the cover 210 interfering with the antenna 206.

[0066] While the antenna 206 is depicted as extending along a top edge of the chassis 202 (e.g. at a bezel of a display screen of the device 200), the antenna 206 may be located in any suitable position. However, in general, the antenna 206 is understood to be located such that a dielectric constant of the cover 210 results in a change in operation of the antenna 206 when attached to the chassis 202, and the switch 208 changing the first radiating frequency of the antenna 206 to a second radiating frequency is understood to compensate for the change in operation of the antenna 206.

[0067] As depicted, the switch 208 comprises electrical components 224 in electrical communication with an electrically conducting arm 226 that extends to the antenna 206 (e.g. and/or any suitable electrical connection to the antenna 206)

[0068] When the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202, the dielectric constant of the cover 210 may decrease the radiating frequency of the antenna 206 (e.g. effectively increase the radiating length). Hence a location of the arm 226 of the switch 208 at the antenna 206, and a state to which electrical components 224 of the switch 208 (e.g. an LC network, an electrical switch, and the like) are controlled when the electrical signal is received from the magnetic flux sensor 204, are selected to maintain the radiating frequency of the antenna 206 to within a given bandwidth when the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202. Put another way, a location of the arm 226 (e.g. an electrical connection) of the switch 208, at the antenna 206, and a state to which the electrical components 224 of the switch 208 are controlled when the electrical signal is received from the magnetic flux sensor 204, are selected to compensate for interference of the cover 210 with the antenna 206. In particular, the location of the arm 226, and the state to which the electrical components 224 of the switch 208 are controlled when the electrical signal is received from the magnetic flux sensor 204, are selected such that the effective radiating frequency of the antenna 206, and/or a bandwidth of the antenna 206, may be the same, or similar, with the cover 210 removed from the chassis 202, and with the cover 210 attached to the chassis 202.

[0069] For example, as depicted the device 200 further comprises an antenna feed 228 located at an end of the antenna 206 that is understood to be in electrical communication with a transceiver of the device 200 (not depicted). An arrow represents a radiating length 230 of the antenna 206, with no cover attached, that extends from the antenna feed 228 to an opposite end of the antenna 206. When the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202, the radiating length 230 may be effectively extended such that a radiating frequency is decreased and the bandwidth of the antenna 206 is altered. The location of the arm 226 at the antenna 206, located at a distance 232 (also represented by an arrow) from the antenna feed 228, and the state to which the electrical components 224 are controlled when the electrical signal is received from the magnetic flux sensor 204 (e.g. when the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202), is selected to reduce an effective radiating length of the antenna 206 back to the radiating length 230 such that a radiating frequency of the antenna 206 is returned to the radiating frequency of the antenna 206 without the cover 210 attached to the chassis 202.

[0070] For completeness, inputs 234-1 , 234-2, 236, 238 of the switch 208 are also indicated, which may be provided in the form of pins, and the like. For example, the inputs 234-1 , 234-2 (e.g. interchangeably referred to hereafter, collectively, as the inputs 234 and, generically, as an input 234) may be used to connect the switch 208 to two magnetic flux sensors. For example, while as depicted the device 200 includes only one magnetic flux sensor 204 in electrical communication with the input 234-1 , in other examples, the device 200 may include a second magnetic flux sensor in communication with the input 234-2; such examples will be described in more detail below. The inputs 234 may alternatively be referred to control inputs as the electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor 204 may comprise a control signal which controls a state of the electrical components 224; hence, while not depicted, at least the input 234-1 is electrically connected to the electrical components 224.

[0071] While not depicted, the input 236 may be to receive voltage and/or power from a power source of the device 200, to power the electrical components 224, and may alternatively be referred to as a voltage pin.

[0072] It is further understood, however, that as the electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor 204 may comprise a voltage, in other examples, the electrical components 224 may be powered by the electrical signal from the magnetic flux sensor 204 and hence the input 236 may alternatively be shorted to the input 234-1 . Such an example generally reduces wiring in the device 200; for example, wiring from a power source, such as a battery, may be through the hinge 222 and using voltage from the magnetic flux sensor 204 to power the switch 208 may reduce wiring through the hinge 222. For example, the magnetic flux sensor 204 may also be powered via wiring to a power source via the hinge 222; hence, in these examples, wiring through the hinge 222 may be reduced by about half, as compared to when the magnetic flux sensor 204 and the switch 208 are both powered by a power source of the device 200.

[0073] Similarly, while not depicted, the input 238 may be (e.g. optionally) to connect the electrical components 224 to a ground of the device 200 (e.g. a ground plane and/or an internal chassis of the device 200), and may alternatively be referred to as a ground pin.

[0074] However, when the device 200 comprises a second magnetic flux sensor connected to the input 234-2, the input 238 may not be connected to a ground of the device 200, but may be shorted to the input 234-2 to alternatively power the electrical components 224 of the switch 208 when a control signal and/or electrical signal is received from the second magnetic flux sensor.

[0075] In particular, the device 200 may be adapted to detect different covers having different dielectric constants. In some examples, described below with respect to Figure 3, such detection of different covers having different dielectric constants occurs via two magnetic flux sensors. However, in the example depicted in Figure 2, detection of different covers having different dielectric constants occurs the magnetic flux sensor 204, as will next be described.

[0076] For example, as depicted, the device 200 may be provided with a second cover 240 which comprises a second magnet 242 and second additional magnets 248 at same and/or similar locations, respectively, as the first magnet 212 and the first additional magnets 218, with a size and dimensions of the second cover 240 being the same as, and/or similar to, the first cover 210. The second cover 240 may be sold with the device 200 and/or provided with the device 200 in place of the cover 210, and/or purchased and/or provided as an alternative to the cover 210.

[0077] Hence, the second cover 240 is hence understood to be substantially similar to the first cover 210, however the second cover 240 may have a second dielectric constant different from a first dielectric constant of the first cover 210; as such, the second cover 240 may generally interfere with the antenna 206 in a manner that is different from the first cover 210.

[0078] As such, a magnet flux density of the second magnet 242 may be selected to be larger than (and/or different from) a magnet flux density of the first magnet 212. Such a larger (and/or different) magnet flux density is represented in Figure 2 by the magnets 212, 242 being shown in different line widths. [0079] In these examples, when the magnetic flux sensor 204 detects the second magnetic flux density of the second magnet 242, the switch 208 may be controlled (e.g. the electrical components 224 may be controlled) to compensate for the second cover 240. In particular, as has already been explained, magnetic flux sensors and/or switches may be adapted to detect different magnetic flux densities, and/or different electrical signals caused by different magnetic flux densities, using thresholds, and the like. As such, the magnetic flux sensor 204 and/or the switch 208 may be similarly adapted. For example, when an electrical signal generated by the magnetic flux sensor 204, due to detection of the second magnet 242 is received (e.g. as the second cover 240 is attached to the chassis 202), the electrical components 224 of the switch 208 may be controlled to change the antenna 206 to a radiating frequency that compensates for the influence of the second dielectric constant of the second cover 240 on the antenna 206.

[0080] For example, an LC network of the electrical components 224 may be controlled to a state particular to a respective electrical signal generated by the magnetic flux sensor 204, due to detection of the second magnet 242, which is different from a respective state particular to a respective electrical signal generated by the magnetic flux sensor 204, due to detection of the first magnet 212. Alternatively, the switch 208 may comprise a second arm at a location different from a location of the arm 226, the location of the second arm selected to change the radiating length of the antenna 206 (and hence a radiating frequency thereof) to compensate for the second cover 240; an electrical switch of the electrical components 224 may ground the second arm (e.g. and not ground the arm 226) when a respective electrical signal is received at the switch 208, generated by the magnetic flux sensor 204, due to detection of the second magnet 242.

[0081] Furthermore, the device 200 may be provided with more than two covers and/or more than two covers may be available with different dielectric constants, with the magnetic flux sensor 204 and/or the switch 208 adapted accordingly to control the electrical components 224 of the switch 208 to respective states that compensate for a respective cover. [0082] Put another way, the magnetic flux sensor 204 may be further to detect different respective magnetic flux densities of respective magnets of other covers (e.g. when attached to the chassis in place of the cover 210), the switch 208 being further to change a first radiating frequency of the antenna to different respective radiating frequencies, different from the first radiating frequency and a second radiating frequency (e.g. to which the first radiating frequency is changed, when the cover 210 is attached to the chassis 202), in response to the magnetic flux sensor 204 detecting the different respective magnetic flux densities of respective magnets of the other covers when attached to the chassis 202.

[0083] In particular, various states to which the electrical components 224 are controlled, when different covers are attached to the chassis 202 may be determined based on respective dielectric constants of the different covers, for example in a laboratory setting, and the like. The different covers are understood to have magnets with different magnetic flux densities that may be selected to coordinate with the dielectric constants (e.g. two covers having a same and/or similar dielectric constant may have magnets of a same and/or similar magnetic flux density).

[0084] Furthermore, size and/or strength of the magnetic flux densities of magnets of the different covers, detected by the magnetic flux sensor 204, and/or respective electrical signals generated by the magnetic flux sensor 204 in response, may also be determined in a laboratory setting, and the like, and the switch 208 may be configured to control the electrical components 224 to corresponding states. Hence, when a user of the device 200 purchases, and/or is provided with, a new cover with a magnet having a given magnetic flux density, the user may attach the new cover to the chassis 202. When the magnetic flux sensor 204 detects the respective magnetic flux of the magnet of the new cover, the switch 208 may automatically control the antenna 206 to compensate for the effect of the new cover on the antenna 206, as described above.

[0085] Attention is next directed to Figure 3 which depicts a rear perspective view of another example device 300 with a magnetic flux-controlled antenna. The device 300 is similar to the device 200 with like components having like numbers, however in a “300” series rather than a “200” series. However, as will presently be explained, the device 300 comprises two magnetic flux sensors rather than one magnetic flux sensor.

[0086] For example, the device 300 comprises: a chassis 302; a first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 incorporated into the chassis 302 at a first location of the chassis 302, the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 to detect a first magnetic flux at the first location; and a second magnetic flux sensor 304-2 incorporated into the chassis 302 at a second location of the chassis 302, the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2 to detect a second magnetic flux at the second location. The magnetic flux sensors 304-1 , 304-2 are interchangeably referred to hereafter, collectively, as the magnetic flux sensors 304 and, generically, as a magnetic flux sensor 304. The relative locations of the magnetic flux sensors 304 are described in more detail below.

[0087] The device 300 further comprises: an antenna 306 having an initial radiating frequency; and a switch 308 in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 and the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2, the switch 308 to: change the initial radiating frequency of the antenna 306 to a first radiating frequency in response to the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 detecting the first magnetic flux at the first location; and change the initial radiating frequency of the antenna 306 to a second radiating frequency in response to the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2 detecting the second magnetic flux at the second location, the second radiating frequency different from the first radiating frequency.

[0088] For example, as depicted, the device 200 may be provided with a first cover 310 having a first magnet 312 at a location corresponding to a location of the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 such that, when the first cover 310 is attached to the chassis 302, the first magnet 312 is within a detection region 316-1 of the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1. As depicted, the cover 310 includes additional magnets 318 to attach the cover 310 to the chassis 302. As depicted, the device 300 further includes a keyboard portion 320 and a hinge 322, and the cover 310 may alternatively wrap around the chassis 302, the hinge 322 and the keyboard portion 320.

[0089] Hence, similar to the device 200, when the cover 310 is attached to the chassis 302, the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 may detect the first magnet 312 and provide an electrical signal to the switch 308, and electrical components 324 of the switch 308 may be controlled to change the initial radiating frequency of the antenna 306 to a first radiating frequency to compensate for a dielectric constant of the first cover 310, as described above.

[0090] In particular, the antenna 306 is understood to have an effective radiating length (e.g. represented by a distance 330) without the cover 310 attached. The switch 308 may comprise an arm 326 (e.g. an electrical connection to the antenna 306) at a distance 332, relative to an antenna feed 328 of the antenna 306 which is selected, along with a respective state of the electrical components 324, to compensate for the cover 310 when attached to the chassis 302, as described above.

[0091] As depicted, the switch comprises control inputs 334-1 , 334-2 (e.g. interchangeably referred to hereafter, collectively, as the inputs 334 and, generically, as an input 334), a voltage input 336 (and/or voltage pin) and a ground input 338 (and/or ground pin). As depicted, the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 is in electrical communication with a first control input 334-1 , and the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2 is in electrical communication with a second control input 334-2.

[0092] In particular, the device 300 may be provided with a second cover 340 having a second magnet 342 which may be attached to the chassis 302 (e.g. (e.g. via second additional magnets 348) in place of the first cover 310. The cover 310, 340 are understood to have different respective dielectric constants. In particular, the second magnet 342 is at a location corresponding to a location of the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2 such that, when the second cover 340 is attached to the chassis 302, the second magnet 342 is within a detection region 316-2 of the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2. The magnet 312, 342 may have similar, or different magnetic flux densities.

[0093] Hence, in contrast to the device 200, the device 300 detects different covers via different magnetic flux sensors 304 and otherwise operates similar to the device 200.

[0094] However, the device 300 is further adapted to avoid interference between the magnetic flux sensors 304 and the magnets 312, 342. For example, the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 is located such that the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 detects the first magnet 312 when the first cover 310 is attached to the chassis 302, but does not detect the second magnet 342 when the second cover 340 is attached to the chassis 302. Similarly, the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2 is located such that the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2 detects the second magnet 342 when the second cover 340 is attached to the chassis 302, but does not detect the first magnet 312 when the first cover 310 is attached to the chassis 302.

[0095] In particular, a first location 350-1 of the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 and a second location 350-2of the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2 may be separated by a distance 352 (e.g. represented by a center-to-center arrow between the magnetic flux sensors 304) such that a first detection region 316-1 of the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 is distinct from, and/or does not overlap with, a respective second detection region 316-2 of the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2. While the distance 352 is depicted as being a center-to-center distance between the magnetic flux sensors 304, the distance 352 may be any suitable distance.

[0096] Furthermore, the magnetic flux sensors 304 are in electrical communication with different respective inputs 334 which receive respective electrical signals from the magnetic flux sensors 304.

[0097] For example, the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 and the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2 are further to generate respective electrical signals in response to respectively detecting a first magnetic flux of the first magnet 312, and a second magnetic flux of the second magnet 342. The switch 308 may be further to change an initial radiating frequency of the antenna 306 to a first radiating frequency or a second radiating frequency in response to respectively receiving, at the first input 334-1 or the second input 334-2, respective electrical signals from the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 or the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2.

[0098] Put another way, the inputs 334 are in one-to-one communication with the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 and the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2. Furthermore, the electrical components 324 of the switch 308 are understood to be communication with the inputs 334, such that the switch 308 changes an initial radiating frequency of the antenna 306 to a first radiating frequency or a second radiating frequency in response to the electrical components 324 changing states in response to receiving, at the inputs 334, respective electrical signals from the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 or the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2.

[0099] Furthermore, when more than two covers with different dielectric constants and respective magnets are provided, the switch 308 may be adapted (and/or a new switch selected) to include a number of control inputs 334 corresponding to a given number of the covers provided, for example in a one- to-one correspondence. Similarly, the device 300 may be adapted to include a number of magnetic flux sensors corresponding to the given number of the covers provided also in a one-to-one correspondence. Respective magnetic sensors may be electrically connected to respective control inputs 334 of the switch 308, and the magnetic flux sensors may be separated by distances such that their respective detection regions do not overlap, so that one magnetic flux sensor detects one cover with magnet in a corresponding position, and not another cover with a magnet in a non-corresponding position.

[00100] Put another way, in these examples, the device 300 may comprise a plurality of magnetic flux sensors 304 (e.g., which may include, but is not limited to, the first magnetic flux sensor 304-1 and/or the second magnetic flux sensor 304-2), the plurality of magnetic flux sensors 304 located at different respective locations of the chassis 302 to detect respective magnets of a plurality of covers when attached to the chassis 302 one at a time (e.g., the plurality of covers may include, but is not limited to, the first cover 310 and/or the second cover 340). Respective magnets of the plurality of covers are understood to be located in different locations corresponding to the different respective locations of the plurality of magnetic flux sensors 304, such that the plurality of magnetic flux sensors 304 detect the respective magnets of the plurality of covers at the different respective locations. As mentioned above, respective locations of the plurality of magnetic flux sensors 304 are separated by respective distances such that respective detections region of the plurality of magnetic flux sensors 304 are distinct from each other and/or do not overlap.

[00101] Attention is next directed to Figure 4 which depicts wiring of a device 400 that is similar to the device 300, with like components having like numbers, but in a “400” series rather than a “300” series. The device 400 comprises: a chassis 402; a first magnetic flux sensor 404-1 incorporated into the chassis 402 at a first location of the chassis 402, the first magnetic flux sensor 404-1 to detect a first magnetic flux at the first location; and a second magnetic flux sensor 404-2 incorporated into the chassis 402 at a second location of the chassis 402, the second magnetic flux sensor 404-2 to detect a second magnetic flux at the second location; an antenna 406 having an initial radiating frequency; and a switch 408 in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor 404-1 and the second magnetic flux sensor 404-2, which operates similar to the switch 308.

[00102] The magnetic flux sensors 404-1 , 404-2 are interchangeably referred to hereafter, collectively, as the magnetic flux sensors 404 and, generically, as a magnetic flux sensor 404. While other components of the device 400 are not depicted (e.g. detection regions of the magnetic flux sensors 404, electrical components of the switch 408, a display screen, a keyboards and/or other input devices, covers etc.), such components under understood to be present at the device 400.

[00103] However, Figure 4 further depicts electrical components 424 and an arm 426 (e.g. an electrical connection to the antenna 406) of the switch 408, as well as inputs 434-1 , 434-2 of the switch 408 (e.g. interchangeably referred to hereafter, collectively, as the inputs 434 and, generically, as an input 434), a voltage input and/or voltage pin 436 of the switch 408, and a ground input and/or ground pin 438 of the switch 408. The magnetic flux sensors 404-1 , 404- 2 are respectively electrically connected to the inputs 434-1 , 434-2.

[00104] Figure 4 further depicts a power source 460, such as a battery, and the like, which powers the magnetic flux sensors 404 and the switch 408 via electrical connections to the magnetic flux sensors 404 and the voltage pin 436.

[00105] Hence, in these examples, the switch 408 is understood to comprise: a first control input pin 434-1 in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor 404-1 ; a second control input pin 434-2 in communication with the second magnetic flux sensor 404-2; a voltage pin 436 connected to a power source 460; a ground pin 438; and the electrical components 424 (and any other suitable components of the switch 408) powered by the power source via the voltage pin 436. As depicted, however, the ground pin 438 may not be in use, however the ground pin 438 may alternatively be connected to a ground plane of the device 400.

[00106] When the power source 460 is located in a region of the device 400 that requires wiring from the power source 460 through a hinge of the device 400 to the magnetic flux sensors 404 and the switch 408, it is understood that three wiring connections may be through such a hinge (e.g. one, respectively, for both magnetic flux sensors 404, and the switch 408).

[00107] To reduce the wiring in the device 400 and/or through a hinge, the voltage pin 436 may be connected and/or shorted to the first control input pin 434-1 , and the ground pin 438 may be connected and/or shorted to the second control input pin 434-2 such that power from electrical signals of the magnetic flux sensors 404 power the electrical components 424 of the switch 408.

[00108] For example, attention is next directed to Figure 5 which depicts wiring of a device 500 that is similar to the device 400, with like components having like numbers, but in a “500” series rather than a “400” series. The device 500 comprises: a chassis 502; a first magnetic flux sensor 504-1 incorporated into the chassis 502 at a first location of the chassis 502, the first magnetic flux sensor 504-1 to detect a first magnetic flux at the first location; and a second magnetic flux sensor 504-2 incorporated into the chassis 502 at a second location of the chassis 502, the second magnetic flux sensor 504-2 to detect a second magnetic flux at the second location; an antenna 506 having an initial radiating frequency; and a switch 508 in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor 504-1 and the second magnetic flux sensor 504-2, which operates similar to the switch 308.

[00109] The magnetic flux sensors 504-1 , 504-2 are interchangeably referred to hereafter, collectively, as the magnetic flux sensors 504 and, generically, as a magnetic flux sensor 504. While other components of the device 500 are not depicted (e.g. detection regions of the magnetic flux sensors 504, electrical components of the switch 508, a display screen, a keyboards and/or other input devices, covers etc.), such components under understood to be present at the device 500.

[00110] Figure 5 further depicts electrical components 524 and an arm 526 (e.g. an electrical connection to the antenna 506) of the switch 508, as well as inputs 534-1 , 534-2 of the switch 508 (e.g. interchangeably referred to hereafter, collectively, as the inputs 534 and, generically, as an input 534), a voltage input and/or voltage pin 536 of the switch 508, and a ground input and/or ground pin 538 of the switch 508. The magnetic flux sensors 504-1 , 504-2 are respectively electrically connected to the inputs 534-1 , 534-2.

[00111] Figure 5 further depicts a power source 560, such as a battery, and the like, which powers the magnetic flux sensors 504 via electrical connections to the magnetic flux sensors 504. However, in contrast to the device 400, the power source 560 is not connected to the voltage pin 536.

[00112] Rather, the voltage pin 536 is connected and/or shorted to the first control input pin 534-1 , and the ground pin 538 is connected and/or shorted to the second control input pin 534-2 such that power from electrical signals of the magnetic flux sensors 504 power the electrical components 524 of the switch 508. Put another way, the voltage pin 536 receives power from electrical signals of the first magnetic flux sensor 504-1 and the ground pin 538 receives power from electrical signals of the second magnetic flux sensor 504-2.

[00113] Hence, wiring from the ground pin 538 to the electrical components 524 of the switch 508 is adapted, in these examples, to power the electrical components 524 similar to the voltage pin 536. While not depicted, in these examples, the switch 508 may comprise any suitable circuit to electrically isolate voltages of the voltage pin 536 from the ground pin 538, and vice versa, to reduce cross-talk therebetween.

[00114] Hence, in these examples, the switch 508 is understood to comprise a first control input pin 554-1 in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor 504-1 ; a second control input pin 554-2 in communication with the second magnetic flux sensor 504-2; a voltage pin 536 connected to the first control input pin 554-1 ; a ground pin 538 connected to the second control input pin 554-2; and electrical components 524 powered by respective electrical signals from the first magnetic flux sensor 504-1 or the second magnetic flux sensor 504-2 received via the voltage pin 536 or the ground pin 538.

[00115] Hence, when the power source 560 is located in a region of the device 500 that requires wiring from the power source 560 through a hinge of the device 500, it is understood that two wiring connections may be through such a hinge (e.g. for both magnetic flux sensors 504) which is a reduction in wiring as compared to the device 400.

[00116] Wiring of the device 100 and/or the device 200 may be similarly adapted.

[00117] Attention is next directed to Figure 6 which depicts another device 600 having an example device that includes a magnetic flux-controlled antenna. The device 600 is similar to the device 400 and/or the device 500, with like components having like numbers, but in a “600” series rather than a “400” series and/or a “500” series.

[00118] The device 600 comprises: a chassis 602; a first magnetic flux sensor 604-1 incorporated into the chassis 602 at a first location of the chassis 602, the first magnetic flux sensor 604-1 to detect a first magnetic flux at the first location; and a second magnetic flux sensor 604-2 incorporated into the chassis 602 at a second location of the chassis 602, the second magnetic flux sensor 604-2 to detect a second magnetic flux at the second location; an antenna 606 having an initial radiating frequency; and a switch 608 in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor 604-1 and the second magnetic flux sensor 604-2, which operates similar to the switch 308.

[00119] The magnetic flux sensors 604-1 , 604-2 are interchangeably referred to hereafter, collectively, as the magnetic flux sensors 604 and, generically, as a magnetic flux sensor 604. While other components of the device 600 are not depicted (e.g. detection regions of the magnetic flux sensors 604, electrical components of the switch 608, a display screen, a keyboards and/or other input devices, covers, a power source, etc.), such components under understood to be present at the device 600. Similarly, while wiring of a power source to components of the device 400 are not depicted, wiring may be similar to the device 400 or the device 500.

[00120] Also shown in Figure 6, in outline, is a magnet 612, for example of a cover (not depicted) attached to the chassis 602 located at the first magnetic flux sensor 604, such that the first magnetic flux sensor 604 detects the magnet 612 and provides an electrical signal to the switch

[00121] As depicted, switch 608 comprises electrical components 624 in the form of a first electrical switch 624-1 and a second electrical switch 624-2, and the switch 608 further comprises a first arm 626-1 , 626-2 located at different positions at the antenna 606. The magnetic flux sensors 604-1 , 604-2 are respectively connected to control inputs 634-1 , 634-2, and the electrical switches 624-1 , 624-2 respectively connect a ground pin 638 of the switch 608, and to a respective arm 626-1 , 626-2 when a respective switch 624-1 , 624-2 is closed.

[00122] When no cover is attached, both electric switch 624-1 , 624-2 are understood to be open and hence the antenna 606 operates according to an initial radiating frequency.

[00123] However, as depicted, the electric switch 624-1 is closed as the first magnetic flux sensor 604-1 detects the magnet 612. As such, the first magnetic flux sensor 604-1 sends a signal to a control input 634-1 of the switch 608 which causes the electrical switch 624-1 to close. As such, the first arm 626-1 grounds an end of the antenna 606 to reduce a radiating length thereof (and increase a radiating frequency) to compensate for a dielectric constant of a cover to which the magnet 612 is attached. The second electrical switch 624-2 remains open, however, as no magnet is at the second magnetic flux sensor 604-1 .

[00124] Similarly, when a second cover is attached is attached to the chassis 602, with a magnet that is detected by the second magnetic flux sensor 604-2, the second magnetic flux sensor 604-2 sends a signal to a control input 634-2 of the switch 608 which causes the electrical switch 624-2 to close, while first electrical switch 624-1 remains open (e.g. as it is understood the magnet 612 is not present in such an example). As such, the second arm 626-2 grounds an end of the antenna 606 to reduce a radiating length thereof (and increase a radiating frequency) to compensate for a dielectric constant of the second cover. As such, the locations of the arms 626-1 , 626-2 are selected to compensate for the dielectric constants of respective covers and the arms 626-1 , 626-2 change the radiating frequency of the antenna 606 differently due to the different locations of the arms 626-1 , 626-2.

[00125] The device 100 and/or the device 200 may be similarly adapted, however, as has already been described, such electrical switches may be replaced with, and/or may be adapted to include an LC network and the like, and similarly, two arms, and the like, may be replaced with one arm and an LC network, and/or switches may include an arm per magnetic sensor and/or an arm per cover with which a device is adapted to receive (e.g. the device 200 may include two arms, one for each cover 210, 240, similar to the device 600).

[00126] Attention is next directed to FIG. 7 which depicts a device 100 that includes a magnetic flux-controlled antenna. The device 700 is similar to the device 100, with like components having like numbers, but in a “700” series rather than a “100” series. However, rather than one antenna, the device 700 comprises two antennas. [00127] As depicted, the device 100 includes: a chassis 702; a magnetic flux sensor 704 incorporated into the chassis 702, the magnetic flux sensor 704 to detect magnetic flux; a first antenna 706-1 and a second antenna 706-2 having respective first radiating frequencies; and a switch 708 in communication with the magnetic flux sensor 704, the switch 708 to change the first respective radiating frequencies of the antennas 706-1 , 706-2 to respective second radiating frequencies in response to the magnetic flux sensor 704 detecting the magnetic flux.

[00128] The antennas 706-1 , 706-2 are interchangeably referred to hereafter, collectively, as the antennas 706 and, generically, as an antenna 706. While other components of the device 700 are not depicted (e.g. a detection region of the magnetic flux sensor 704, a display screen, a keyboards and/or other input devices, covers, a power source, etc.), such components under understood to be present at the device 700. Similarly, while wiring of a power source to components of the device 700 are not depicted, wiring may be similar to the device 400 or the device 500 (however adapted for one magnetic flux sensor 724).

[00129] Furthermore while the device 700 has only one magnetic flux sensor, 704, the device 700 may be adapted to include two magnetic flux sensors similar to the devices 300, 400, 500, 600, etc.

[00130] As depicted, the antennas 706-1 , 706-2 respectively comprise an open slot antenna and a closed slot antenna of different lengths, and hence the antennas 706 may have different radiating lengths and different radiating frequencies, for example to adapt the device 700 to operate at different bandwidths and/or over a wider bandwidth (e.g. as compared to the device 700). However, the antennas 706 may comprise any suitable antennas as has previously been described. Regardless, with a cover attached, such radiating frequencies of the antennas 706-1 , 706-2 will again be affected as has previously described.

[00131] Hence, the switch 708 includes electrical components 724 in communication with two arms 726-1 , 726-2 (e.g. electrical connections), one to each of the antennas 706-1 , 706-2, to adjust their radiating length in response to the switch 708 receiving an electrical signal from the magnetic sensor 704, as has already been described. Respective locations of the arms 726-1 , 726-2 at the antennas 706, as well as states of the electrical components 724, are selected to adjust the respective radiating frequencies of the antennas 706 to compensate for an attached cover as described throughout the present specification. Respective locations of the arms 726-1 , 726-2 at the antennas 706 may be the same, or different, from each other, depending on the effect of a cover on the respective antennas 706. Furthermore the electrical components 724 may comprise respective LC networks, one per an antenna 706, however the electrical components 724 may be adapted for two antennas 706 in any suitable manner.

[00132] It should be recognized that features and aspects of the various examples provided above may be combined into further examples that also fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

35 CLAIMS

1 . A device comprising: a chassis; a magnetic flux sensor incorporated into the chassis, the magnetic flux sensor to detect magnetic flux; an antenna having a first radiating frequency; and a switch in communication with the magnetic flux sensor, the switch to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna to a second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the magnetic flux.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the switch is further to change the second radiating frequency of the antenna back to the first radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting an absence of the magnetic flux.

3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic flux sensor is further to detect different magnetic flux densities of the magnetic flux, and the switch is further to change the first radiating frequency to different respective radiating frequencies in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the different magnetic flux densities of the magnetic flux.

4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic flux sensor is further to generate an electrical signal in response to detecting the magnetic flux, and the switch comprises electrical components to receive the electrical signal, wherein the switch is to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna to the second radiating frequency in response to the electrical components changing state in response to receiving the electrical signal.

5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the switch is further to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna to the second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting that the magnetic flux is above a threshold magnetic flux. 36

6. A device comprising: a chassis; a first magnetic flux sensor incorporated into the chassis at a first location of the chassis, the first magnetic flux sensor to detect a first magnetic flux at the first location; a second magnetic flux sensor incorporated into the chassis at a second location of the chassis, the second magnetic flux sensor to detect a second magnetic flux at the second location, wherein the first location and the second location are separated by a distance such that a detection region of the first magnetic flux sensor is distinct from a respective detection region of the second magnetic flux sensor; an antenna having an initial radiating frequency; and a switch in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor and the second magnetic flux sensor, the switch to: change the initial radiating frequency of the antenna to a first radiating frequency in response to the first magnetic flux sensor detecting the first magnetic flux at the first location; and change the initial radiating frequency of the antenna to a second radiating frequency in response to the second magnetic flux sensor detecting the second magnetic flux at the second location, the second radiating frequency different from the first radiating frequency.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein: the first magnetic flux sensor and the second magnetic flux sensor are further to generate respective electrical signals in response to respectively detecting the first magnetic flux and the second magnetic flux, the switch comprises a first input in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor; and a second input in communication with the second magnetic flux sensor, and the switch is further to change the initial radiating frequency of the antenna to the first radiating frequency or the second radiating frequency in response to respectively receiving, at the first input or the second input, the respective electrical signals from the first magnetic flux sensor or the second magnetic flux sensor.

8. The device of claim 6, wherein the switch comprises: inputs in respective one-to-one communication with the first magnetic flux sensor and the second magnetic flux sensor; and electrical components in communication with the inputs, such that the switch changes the initial radiating frequency of the antenna to the first radiating frequency or the second radiating frequency in response to the electrical components changing states in response to receiving, at the inputs, respective electrical signals from the first magnetic flux sensor or the second magnetic flux sensor.

9. The device of claim 6, wherein the switch comprises: a first control input pin in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor; a second control input pin in communication with the second magnetic flux sensor; a voltage pin connected to a power source; a ground pin; and electrical components powered by the power source via the voltage pin.

10. The device of claim 6, wherein the switch comprises: a first control input pin in communication with the first magnetic flux sensor; a second control input pin in communication with the second magnetic flux sensor; a voltage pin connected to the first control input pin; a ground pin connected to the second control input pin; and electrical components powered by respective electrical signals from the first magnetic flux sensor or the second magnetic flux sensor received via the voltage pin or the ground pin.

11. A device comprising: a chassis to removably receive a cover which includes a magnet; a magnetic flux sensor incorporated into the chassis, the magnetic flux sensor located to detect magnetic flux from the magnet of the cover; an antenna having a first radiating frequency; and a switch in communication with the magnetic flux sensor, the switch to: change the first radiating frequency of the antenna to a second radiating frequency in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the magnet of the cover when attached to the chassis.

12. The device of claim 11 , further comprising a plurality of magnetic flux sensors, including the magnetic flux sensor, the plurality of magnetic flux sensors located at different respective locations of the chassis to detect respective magnets of a plurality of covers when attached to the chassis one at a time, the plurality of covers including the cover, wherein the respective magnets of the plurality of covers are located in different locations corresponding to the different respective locations of the plurality of magnetic flux sensors, such that the plurality of magnetic flux sensors detect the respective magnets of the plurality of covers at the different respective locations.

13. The device of claim 11 , wherein the magnetic flux sensor is further to detect different respective magnetic flux densities of respective magnets of other covers when attached to the chassis in place of the cover, the switch further to change the first radiating frequency of the antenna to different respective radiating frequencies, different from the first radiating frequency and the second radiating frequency, in response to the magnetic flux sensor detecting the different respective magnetic flux densities of respective magnets of the other covers when attached to the chassis.

14. The device of claim 11 , wherein the antenna is located such that a dielectric constant of the cover results in a change in operation of the antenna 39 when attached to the chassis, and the switch changing the first radiating frequency to the second radiating frequency compensates for the change in operation of the antenna.

15. The device of claim 11 , wherein the cover is attachable to the chassis via the magnet or additional magnets.