Patent ID: 8044817
Filing Date: 2011-10-25
Classification: G01L,H04M

Abstract:
1. A portable electronics distress detection system to detect an external load imposed on a portable electronic device and provide a warning of impending mechanical failure due to the external load, the portable electronic device having a housing with an inner surface, the system comprises: at least one strain gage adapted to be mounted to and extend longitudinally on the inner surface of the portable electronic device housing; at least one strain gage adapted to be mounted to and extend laterally on the inner surface of the portable electronic device housing; and an alarm circuit adapted to control a user interface of the portable electronic device, the alarm circuit including a Wheatstone bridge associated with each strain gage, each strain gage providing a resistance input to an arm of the associated Wheatstone bridge; whereby a mechanical stress imposed on the strain gage changes the resistance input to the arm of the associated Wheatstone bridge, producing a nonzero voltage output from the Wheatstone bridge, the alarm circuit activating the portable electronic device user interface if the Wheatstone bridge voltage output exceeds a predetermined set point.