PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-12019470-B2
Application Number: US-202318231725-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Electronic device with magnetic field sensor design for detection of multiple accessories

Abstract:
An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device includes a device magnet designed to magnetically couple with an accessory device magnet. The electronic device further includes a display assembly and a magnetic field sensor configured to detect the accessory device magnet, thereby providing an indication that the accessory device is covering the display assembly. The electronic device further includes a shunt assembly designed to reduce the magnitude of the magnetic field of the device magnet, as determined by the magnetic field sensor, while allowing the magnetic field from the accessory device to sufficiently reach the magnetic field sensor. As such, the magnetic field sensor can be placed near the device magnet without triggering the magnetic field sensor. The electronic device may further include a microphone. Communication between the microphone and an integrated circuit can cease based on the magnetic field sensor detecting the accessory device magnet.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electronic device, comprising:
 a magnetic field sensor configured to detect a presence of a magnetic field; 
 processing circuitry; 
 a microphone configured to:
 convert audible sound to an electrical signal, and 
 provide the electrical signal to the processing circuitry; and 
 
 a switching circuit, wherein in response to detection of the presence of the magnetic field, the switching circuit opens a circuit between the microphone and the processing circuitry, thereby preventing the processing circuitry from receiving the electrical signal. 
 
     
     
       2. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein in response to the magnetic field sensor detecting the magnetic field generated externally with respect to the electronic device, the switching circuit opens the circuit. 
     
     
       3. The electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 an enclosure; and 
 a device magnet located in the enclosure, the device magnet configured to secure with an accessory device, wherein the magnetic field sensor is configured to detect the presence of another magnetic field not generated by the device magnet. 
 
     
     
       4. The electronic device of  claim 3 , wherein:
 the enclosure comprises a sidewall, and 
 the device magnet is located along the sidewall. 
 
     
     
       5. The electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising a display, wherein the magnetic field sensor is configured to detect the presence of the magnetic field from a magnet in an accessory device covering the display. 
     
     
       6. The electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising a second magnetic field sensor configured to detect a presence of a second magnetic field, wherein in response to a detection of the second magnetic field by second magnetic field sensor, the switching circuit opens the circuit. 
     
     
       7. The electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising a shunt assembly, wherein the magnetic field sensor is positioned on the shunt assembly. 
     
     
       8. An electronic device, comprising:
 a magnetic field sensor configured to detect a presence of a magnetic field; 
 processing circuitry; 
 a microphone configured to convert audible sound to an electrical signal; 
 a power supply; and 
 a switching circuit, wherein in response to detection of the presence of the magnetic field, the switching circuit opens a circuit between the microphone and the power supply. 
 
     
     
       9. The electronic device of  claim 8 , wherein in response to opening the circuit, the switching circuit renders the microphone inoperable. 
     
     
       10. The electronic device of  claim 8 , wherein in response to the magnetic field sensor detecting the magnetic field generated externally with respect to the electronic device, the switching circuit opens the circuit. 
     
     
       11. The electronic device of  claim 8 , further comprising:
 an enclosure; and 
 a device magnet located in the enclosure, the device magnet configured to secure with an accessory device, wherein the magnetic field sensor is configured to detect the presence of a magnetic field not generated by the device magnet. 
 
     
     
       12. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein:
 the enclosure comprises a sidewall, and 
 the device magnet is located along the sidewall. 
 
     
     
       13. The electronic device of  claim 8 , further comprising a display, wherein the magnetic field sensor is configured to detect the presence of the magnetic field from a magnet in an accessory device covering the display. 
     
     
       14. The electronic device of  claim 8 , further comprising a second magnetic field sensor configured to detect a presence of a second magnetic field, wherein in response to a detection of the second magnetic field by second magnetic field sensor, the switching circuit opens the circuit. 
     
     
       15. A method claim for managing a microphone in an electronic device, the method comprising:
 detecting, by a magnetic field sensor, a magnetic field; 
 in response to detecting the magnetic field, opening a circuit between the microphone and a component; and 
 preventing, based on opening the circuit, audible signals to the electronic device via the microphone. 
 
     
     
       16. The method of  claim 15 , wherein opening the circuit between the microphone and the component comprises opening the circuit between the microphone and a power supply. 
     
     
       17. The method of  claim 15 , wherein opening the circuit between the microphone and the component comprises opening the circuit between the microphone and a processing circuit. 
     
     
       18. The method of  claim 15 , wherein detecting the magnetic field comprises detecting, from a magnet external to the electronic device, the magnetic field. 
     
     
       19. The method of  claim 15 , wherein detecting the magnetic field comprises detecting, from a magnet located in an accessory device, the magnetic field in response to the accessory device covering a display of the electronic device. 
     
     
       20. The method of  claim 15 , wherein opening the circuit comprises rendering the microphone inoperable to receive the audible signals.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation of U.S. non-provisional application Ser. No. 17/027,605, entitled “ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH MAGNETIC FIELD SENSOR DESIGN FOR DETECTION OF MULTIPLE ACCESSORIES,” filed Sep. 21, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/003,881, entitled “ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH MAGNETIC FIELD SENSOR DESIGN FOR DETECTION OF MULTIPLE ACCESSORIES,” filed Apr. 1, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/041,075, entitled “ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH MAGNETIC FIELD SENSOR DESIGN FOR DETECTION OF MULTIPLE ACCESSORIES,” filed Jun. 18, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The following description relates to electronic devices. In particular, the following description relates to electronic devices, including portable electronic devices, with modifications designed to limit or prevent transmission of magnetic flux using a shunt assembly so as to prevent detection of the magnetic flux by a magnetic field sensor. However, while the shunt assembly limits transmission of magnetic flux by some magnets, the shunt assembly can allow or enhance transmission of magnetic flux by other magnets so as to promote detection of magnetic flux by the magnetic field sensor. Regarding the latter, the shunt assembly can promote compatibility of multiple accessory devices with the electronic device. Further, the magnetic field sensor can be used as an input to prevent communication by a microphone as an input to an integrated circuit. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Electronic devices use sensors to detect the presence of an accessory device. For example, an electronic device may use a sensor to determine whether a display of the electronic device is covered by the accessory device, and the electronic device can determine whether to activate or deactivate the display based upon whether the display is uncovered or covered, respectively. Additionally, in order to render multiple accessory devices compatible with the electronic device, the electronic device includes multiple sensors, with some sensors positioned in a particular location (of the electronic device) to detect a particular accessory device. 
     However, additional design modifications to electronic device can create certain drawbacks. For example, some electronic device with increased battery dimensions (offering longer device usage times) can limit the number of locations for a sensor. Further, when the sensor is a magnetic field sensor used to detect a magnet in an accessory device, the magnetic field sensor should not be placed in proximity to magnets within the electronic device for risk of the magnetic field sensor detecting the magnets within the electronics device. By limiting the location of the magnetic field sensor, similar corresponding limitations must be placed on the magnets (used as targets) in the accessory devices. Accordingly, without additional modifications, a magnetic field sensor within the electronic device has considerable limits. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include a display assembly. The electronic device may further include an enclosure coupled with the display assembly. The enclosure can define an internal volume that carries components. The components may include a device magnet that emits a first magnetic field. The components may further include a magnetic field sensor configured to generate a switching signal based upon detection of at least a threshold magnetic field. The components may further include a shunt assembly that alters the first magnetic field below the threshold magnetic field at the magnetic field sensor. In some embodiments, the magnetic field sensor provides the switching signal based upon detection of a second magnetic field from a magnet external to the enclosure and the display assembly. 
     In another aspect, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include a display assembly. The electronic device may further include an enclosure coupled with the display assembly. The enclosure can define an internal volume that carries components. The components may include a device magnet that emits a magnetic field. The components may further include a magnetic field sensor configured to provide a switching signal when an external magnetic field provided by an external magnet is detected. The components may further include an integrated circuit. The components may further include a microphone electrically coupled with the integrated circuit. The components may further include a switching circuit that forms a circuit with the microphone and the integrated circuit. In some embodiments, the switching circuit opens the circuit when the magnetic field sensor provides the switching signal. The components may further include a shunt assembly that at least partially absorbs the magnetic field by the device magnet such that the magnetic field sensor does not detect the magnetic field. 
     In another aspect, an electronic device is described. The electronic device may include a display assembly. The electronic device may further include an enclosure coupled with the display assembly. The enclosure can define an internal volume that carries components. The components may include a microphone. The components may further include an integrated circuit. The components may further include a magnetic field sensor configured to provide an electrical signal based upon detection of a threshold magnetic field. In some embodiments, the microphone is deactivated when the integrated circuit receives the electrical signal. The components may further include a device magnet that emits a first magnetic field greater than the threshold magnetic field. The components may further include a shunt assembly that alters that at least partially absorbs the first magnetic field, thereby reducing the first magnetic field to a second magnetic field at the magnetic field sensor. The second magnetic field may be less than the threshold magnetic field. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG.  1    illustrates a front isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device; 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a rear isometric view of the electronic device shown in  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a plan view of the electronic device, showing various internal features of the electronic device; 
         FIG.  4    illustrates an isometric view of the electronic device, showing the layout of several magnets and the shunt assembly; 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a side view of the shunt assembly and the sensor; 
         FIG.  6    illustrates a plan view of the electronic device, showing the shunt assembly altering the magnetic flux provided by the magnet; 
         FIG.  7    illustrates an isometric view of the electronic device and an accessory device suitable for use with the electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a side view of the electronic device and the accessory device shown in  FIG.  7   , showing the accessory device covering the electronic device; 
         FIG.  9    illustrates a plan view of the electronic device and the accessory device in the closed position (shown in  FIG.  8   ), showing the relationship between the magnet of the accessory device and the sensor of the electronic device; 
         FIG.  10    illustrates a side view of the electronic device and the accessory device in the closed position (shown in  FIG.  8   ), showing the sensor detecting the magnet in the accessory device; 
         FIG.  11    illustrates an isometric view of the electronic device and an alternate embodiment of an accessory device suitable for use with the electronic device; 
         FIG.  12    illustrates a plan view of the electronic device and the accessory device in a closed position, showing the relationship between the magnet of the accessory device and the sensor of the electronic device; 
         FIG.  13    illustrates an isometric view of the electronic device and an alternate embodiment of an accessory device suitable for use with the electronic device; 
         FIG.  14    illustrates a plan view of the electronic device and the accessory device in a closed position, showing the relationship between the magnet of the accessory device and the sensor of the electronic device; 
         FIG.  15    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device, showing an alternate layout of a shunt assembly; 
         FIG.  16    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device, showing an alternate layout of a shunt assembly; 
         FIG.  17    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device, showing an alternate layout of a shunt assembly; 
         FIG.  18    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device, showing an alternate layout of a shunt assembly; 
         FIG.  19    illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an electronic device and an accessory device; 
         FIG.  20    illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device and an accessory device; 
         FIG.  21    illustrates a flowchart showing a method for deactivating a component of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; and 
         FIG.  22    illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     The following disclosure relates to electronic devices, such as mobile wireless computing devices (including smartphones and tablet computing devices). In particular, the electronic devices described herein includes modifications and enhancements that allow an electronic device to rely upon a magnetic field sensor to detect a magnet in different accessory devices, despite the varying location of the magnet in the respective accessory devices. By detecting the magnet in the accessory device, the magnetic field sensor can signal to the electronic device that a display assembly (of the electronic device) is covered by the accessory device, and the electronic device can subsequently deactivate the display assembly. In order for the magnetic field sensor to detect magnets in different (relative) positions in different accessory devices, the location of the magnetic field sensor can be relocated within the electronic device. However, the relocated magnetic field sensor may be positioned in proximity to a magnet within the electronic device. 
     In order to prevent unwanted detection of the magnet(s) within the electronic device, electronic devices described herein may include a shunt assembly. A shunt assembly described herein may include one or more magnetic shunts designed to prevent the magnetic field from detection by the magnetic field sensor. For example, the shunt assembly can redirect, or divert, the magnetic field generated by a magnet(s) within the electronic device, and as a result, the magnetic field sensor does not detect the magnetic field. Alternatively, the shunt assembly may minimize the magnetic field generated by the magnet(s) such that the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor is below a threshold magnetic field required trigger the magnetic field sensor and generate an electrical (indicating the presence of a magnet). 
     While shielding the magnetic field sensor from a magnetic field from magnets within the electronic device, the shunt assembly may allow detection of magnetic fields by magnets external to the electronic device. Moreover, the shunt assembly may direct a magnetic field from a magnet within accessory devices to the magnetic field sensor. As a result, the magnetic field sensor can detect the magnetic field while the magnet in the accessory devices is not directly aligned with the magnetic field sensor. In other words, the magnet in the accessory device may be offset with respect to the magnetic field sensor. This allows the magnetic field sensor to detect a magnet positioned in different locations, with the differing locations being a function of different accessory devices that are compatible with the electronic device. 
     Additionally, electronic devices described herein may include various input modules designed to capture user-generated information. For example, an electronic device may include a microphone designed to capture audible sound and provide electrical signals in accordance with the audible sound. In order to enhance privacy, the microphone can be deactivated when the magnetic field sensor detects the magnet in the accessory device. In some exemplary embodiments, the electrical signal generated by the magnetic field sensor (in response to detecting the magnet) can be used to disable the microphone, rendering the microphone unable to communicate with an integrated circuit, such as a system-on-chip (“SOC”), used to process the electrical signals provided by the microphone. As a result, the microphone is disabled and unable to communicate with the integrated circuit. 
     Moreover, the electrical signal provided by the magnetic field sensor can deactivate the microphone without intervening processes and/or controls by the integrated circuit. For example, the electronic device may include a switching circuit that forms a circuit with the microphone and the integrated circuit. When the switching circuit receives the electrical signal from the magnetic field sensor, the switching circuit opens a circuit, thereby preventing the microphone from communicating with the integrated circuit. The switching circuitry is designed to operate without a control signal(s) from the integrated circuit. Further, in some exemplary embodiments, the integrated circuit is unaware the microphone is unable to provide an input (in the form of electrical signals corresponding to audible sounds received by the microphone). In this manner, the integrated circuit does not monitor the microphone with respect to the ability of the microphone to communicate with the integrated circuit in an intended/desired manner. As a result, electronic devices described herein may include a disabling mechanism for preventing communication between the microphone and the integrated circuit without providing notification to the integrated circuit, with the disabling event triggered by the magnetic field sensor detecting a magnet, which corresponds to an accessory device covering the display of the electronic device. This feature may enhance a user&#39;s privacy as the electronic device will not “listen” to the user, i.e., the microphone will not relay audible sound (from the user) to the integrated circuit for further processing and/or memory storage. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 22   . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG.  1    illustrates a front isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device  100 . In some embodiments, electronic device  100  is a laptop computing device or a desktop computing device. In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1   , electronic device  100  is a mobile wireless communication device, such as a smartphone or a tablet computing device. 
     As shown, electronic device  100  may include an enclosure  102 , or housing, that provides a protective body as well as defines an internal volume, or cavity, that receives several components, such as processing circuitry, memory circuitry, batteries, speaker modules, microphones, cameras, antennae, and flexible circuits that electrically couples together the various components. Enclosure  102  may include a metal, such as aluminum, steel (including stainless steel), or a metal alloy that includes the aforementioned metals (as non-limiting examples). Alternatively, enclosure  102  may include non-metals, such as plastic or glass (as non-limiting examples). 
     Electronic device  100  may further include a display assembly  104 . Display assembly  104  may include a touchscreen with capacitive touch input capabilities designed to receive user inputs and gestures. Electronic device  100  may further include a protective layer  106  that covers/overlays display assembly  104 . Protective layer  106  can be formed from a transparent material, such as glass, plastic, or sapphire (as non-limiting examples). In order to receive additional inputs, electronic device  100  may further include a button  108   a  and a button  108   b  (each protruding through a respective opening of enclosure  102 ). Buttons  108   a  and  108   b  may be depressed to actuate a respective switch (not shown in  FIG.  1   ) of electronic device  100 . 
     Electronic device  100  may include a port  112  designed to electrically couple with an external source (not shown in  FIG.  1   ), which may include an external data source and/or an external power source. Electronic device  100  may further include openings  114   a  and openings  114   b , both formed in enclosure  102 . Openings  114   a  and  114   b  may allow for acoustical energy transmission, in the form of audible sound, through enclosure  102 . In this manner, electronic device  100  may include audio speakers and microphones (not shown in  FIG.  1   ) that communicate with the external environment. Additionally, electronic device  100  may include a camera module  116   a  designed to capture still images and motion (video) images. 
       FIG.  2    illustrates a rear isometric view of electronic device  100  shown in  FIG.  1   . As shown, electronic device  100  includes a camera assembly  115 , which includes a camera module  116   b  and a camera module  116   c . Camera modules  116   b  and  116   c  may provide any features described for camera module  116   a  (shown in  FIG.  1   ), as well as additional resolution and zoom capabilities. Camera assembly  115  may further include a flash module  118  used to provide additional lighting during an image capture event by camera module  116   b  and/or camera module  116   c . Electronic device  100  may further include a non-metal component  120  that defines a radio frequency (“RF”) window. Non-metal component  120  may include plastic, glass, and/or resin. In this manner, non-metal component  120  allows RF transmission to and from antennae (not shown in  FIG.  2   ) of electronic device  100 . Electronic device  100  may further include a switch  122  that can be toggled by a user to change a configuration of electronic device  100 , such as muting the audio speakers of electronic device  100 . Also, electronic device  100  may include contacts  123 . Contacts  123  may define electrical contacts designed to electrically couple electronic device  100  with an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  2   ). 
       FIG.  3    illustrates a plan view of electronic device  100  shown in  FIG.  1   , showing various internal components of electronic device  100 . For purposes of simplicity and illustration, display assembly  104  and protective layer  106  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) are removed. Also, several additional components, such as flexible circuitry, are not shown. Electronic device  100  may include several speaker modules, such as a speaker module  124   a , a speaker module  124   b , a speaker module  124   c , and a speaker module  124   d . Although not shown in  FIG.  3   , electronic device  100  may include additional speaker modules. Further, electronic device  100  may include a microphone  125 , or audio transducer, designed to receive audible sound and transmit information, in the form electrical signals, in accordance with the audible sound. In order for microphone  125  to receive audible sound external to electronic device  100 , enclosure  102  may include an opening  127 . 
     Electronic device  100  may include a power supply  126  (or battery) that provides electrical energy to operational components of electronic device  100 . Electronic device  100  may further include a circuit board  128  that carries several components, such as processing circuits, memory circuits, integrated circuits (including application-specific integrated circuits, a central processing unit, system-on-chip (“SOC”), and a graphics processing unit, as non-limiting examples). As shown, an integrated circuit  129  is electrically coupled to circuit board  128 . Integrated circuit  129  may include a SOC, as a non-limiting example, electrically coupled to microphone  125  (as well as additional microphones of the electronic device). In this regard, microphone  125  provides an input, in the form of electrical signals, to integrated circuit  129 . 
     Electronic device  100  may further include an antenna  130  for wireless communication. Antenna  130  (representative of one or more antennae) may include an antenna that supports BLUETOOTH® or WI-FI® communication. Although not shown, electronic device  100  may include additional antennae in other locations, and as a result, electronic device  100  can support not only BLUETOOTH® and WI-FI® communication, but also cellular network communication. 
     Electronic device  100  may further include several magnets designed to magnetically couple with magnets in accessory devices (not shown in  FIG.  3   ) that are compatible with electronic device  100 . For example, electronic device  100  includes a magnet  132   a  and a magnet  134   a , each of which are representative of additional magnets, designed to secure an accessory device to a sidewall  103 , which defines an edge region of enclosure  102 . Additionally, electronic device  100  includes a magnet  136   a  and a magnet  138   a , each of which are representative of additional magnets, designed to secure an accessory device to a bottom wall  105 , which defines rear or back wall of enclosure  102 . The magnets located within, or carried by, electronic device  100 , may be referred to as device magnets. 
     Some accessory devices are designed to cover electronic device  100 , and in particular, display assembly  104  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). As a result, when display assembly  104  is covered by an accessory device (shown later), it is generally advantageous to deactivate (i.e., disable or turn off) display assembly  104 . In this regard, electronic device  100  may include a sensor  140   a  and a sensor  140   b . In some embodiments, sensors  140   a  and  140   b  are magnetic field sensors, which may include a Hall Effect sensor or an anisotropic magneto-resistive (“AMR”) sensor (as non-limiting examples). When sensors  140   a  and  140   b  are magnetic field sensors, sensors  140   a  and  140   b  can each detect a magnetic field through display assembly  104  from a magnet located in an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  3   ) that covers display assembly  104 . Further, sensors  140   a  and  140   b  can be triggered by either polarity, i.e., either a North Pole or South Pole. Sensors  140   a  and  140   b  can subsequently provide a switching signal to integrated circuit  129 . Based on the programming logic, when integrated circuit  129  receives an electrical signal from sensors  140   a  and  140   b , integrated circuit  129  can provide a command to deactivate display assembly  104 . When integrated circuit  129  no longer receives a respective electrical signal from sensors  140   a  and  140   b , integrated circuit  129  can provide a command to activate display assembly  104 . 
     Ideally, sensors  140   a  and  140   b  are sufficiently displaced from magnets within electronic device  100  so as to prevent sensor  140   a  and/or sensor  140   b  from false triggering, i.e., detecting magnetic fields from magnets within electronic device  100 . While sensor  140   b  is sufficiently displaced from magnets within electronic device  100 , sensor  140   a  is within proximity of magnet  132   a  such that a magnetic field (not shown in  FIG.  3   ) emanating from magnet  132   a  can be detected by sensor  140   a . However, electronic device  100  includes a shunt assembly  150  designed to prevent or limit the magnetic field generated by magnet  132   a  (as well as any other nearby magnet) from detection by sensor  140   a . Shunt assembly  150  includes a size and shape, as well as a position within the electronic device, that reduces the magnetic field such that magnet  132   a  (as well as any other nearby magnet) does not provide a threshold magnetic field at sensor  140   a . Furthermore, shunt assembly  150  does not prevent sensor  140   a  from detecting a magnetic field from a magnet external to electronic device  100 , such as a magnet in an accessory device. This will be shown and described below. 
     Shunt assembly  150 , also referred to as a magnetic shunt assembly, may include a shunt element  152   a  and a shunt element  152   b , also referred to as a first shunt element and a second shunt element, respectively, or a first magnetic shunt and a second magnetic shunt, respectively. The components of shunt assembly  150  may include a metal, such as stainless steel (as a non-limiting example). As shown, sensor  140   a  is located on shunt element  152   b . While a particular location is shown for the placement of sensor  140   a  on a surface shunt element  152   b , sensor  140   a  can generally be placed anywhere on the surface of shunt element  152   b.    
     Additionally, when sensor  140   a  detects the magnetic field, the electrical signal initiated by sensor  140   a  can be used to open a circuit between integrated circuit  129  and microphone  125  (as well as any additional microphones). In this regard, the electronic device  100  may further include a switching circuit  141 . Switching circuit  141  may include a 2-, 3-, or 4-wire switch (as non-limiting examples), including a solid-state 2-, a 3-, or 4-wire switch. Switching circuit  141  is electrically coupled to sensor  140   a , microphone  125 , and integrated circuit  129 . When sensor  140   a  detects a magnetic field (at or greater than a threshold magnetic field) and generates the electrical signal in accordance with the detected magnetic field, switching circuit  141  receives the electrical signal provided by sensor  140   a  and opens the circuit between microphone  125  and integrated circuit  129 . As a result, integrated circuit  129  does not receive communication/input electrical signals provided by microphone  125 . 
     Additionally, the electrical signal provided by sensor  140   a  need not be initially processed by integrated circuit  129  in order to open the circuit between microphone  125  and integrated circuit  129 . Moreover, based the aforementioned design logic, integrated circuit  129  is not provided with information related to the open circuit caused by switching circuit  141 , and thus does not actively monitor whether microphone  125  is operating in accordance with the desired function of detecting audible sound. As a result, a user of electronic device  100  may enjoy enhanced privacy as integrated circuit  129  cannot receive and process electrical signals from the microphone, nor is integrated circuit  129  provided with information that switching circuit  141  has opened the circuit and ceased communication between microphone  125  and integrated circuit  129 . When switching circuit  141  no longer receives the electrical signal from the sensor  140   a , the switching circuit  141  closes, thereby allowing microphone  125  to again communicate with the integrated circuit  129 . 
       FIG.  4    illustrates an isometric view of electronic device  100 , showing the layout of several magnets and shunt assembly  150 . In addition to magnet  132   a , electronic device  100  includes a magnet  132   b  and a magnet  132   c  used to secure electronic device  100  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  5   ) along sidewall  103  of enclosure  102 . Further, in addition to magnet  136   a , electronic device  100  includes a magnet  136   b , a magnet  136   c , and a magnet  136   d  used to secure electronic device  100  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  5   ) along bottom wall  105  of enclosure  102 . 
     As shown, sensor  140   a  is positioned in proximity to magnet  132   a , and would otherwise detect the magnetic field from magnet  132   a . In other words, magnet  132   a  can generate a magnetic field capable of triggering sensor  140   a , i.e., magnet  132   a  can provide a magnetic field at or above a threshold magnetic field required to trigger sensor  140   a . However, shunt assembly  150  sufficiently minimizes the magnetic field from magnet  132   a  (as well as other magnets in electronic device  100  that could be detected by sensor  140   a ) such that the magnitude of the magnetic field is below a threshold magnetic field required to trigger sensor  140   a.    
       FIG.  5    illustrates a side view of shunt assembly  150  and sensor  140   a , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, shunt elements  152   a  and  152   b  are separated by a gap  154 . Gap  154  may be approximately in the range of 0.10 to 0.25 millimeters (“mm”). In some embodiments, gap  154  is 0.15 mm. Gap  154  provides resistance against magnetic flux provided by a magnet, such as magnet  132   a  (shown in  FIG.  4   ). In this manner, any magnetic flux provided by a magnet is not only reduced by shunt element  152   a , but also by the air space defined by gap  154 . 
     Also, shunt assembly  150  (defined by the shunt element  152   a  and the shunt element  152   b ) may include a dimension  156 , or thickness. Dimension  156  may be approximately in the range of 0.50 to 2.0 mm. Shunt assembly  150 , having dimension  156 , provides a relatively decreased reluctance (as compared to shunts having a dimension less than dimension  156 ). In this manner, magnetic flux from a magnet external to electronic device  100  (shown in  FIG.  4   ) can more readily pass through shunt element  152   b , thereby placing magnetic field in proximity to sensor  140   a  so that sensor  140   a  can more easily detect the magnetic field. This will be shown below. 
       FIG.  6    illustrates a plan view of electronic device  100 , showing shunt assembly  150  altering the magnetic flux provided by magnet  132   a . A dotted line  133  defines a boundary to which the magnetic flux of magnet  132   a  extends. Based on the location of shunt assembly  150  and the placement of the sensor  140   a  on shunt assembly  150 , the magnetic flux provided by magnet  132   a  does not reach the sensor  140   a . In other words, the threshold magnetic field required for sensor  140   a  to detect a magnet is not met. This is due in part to the position of shunt element  152   a  between magnet  132   a  and sensor  140   a , as well as gap  154  (labeled in  FIG.  5   ). 
       FIG.  7    illustrates an isometric view of electronic device  100  and an accessory device  200  suitable for use with electronic device  100 , in accordance with some described embodiments. Accessory device  200  is designed as a complementary device for electronic device  100 . As shown, accessory device  200  may include a first section  202   a  and a second section  202   b  rotationally connected to first section  202   a  by a hinge  204   a . First section  202   a  defines a receiving surface for electronic device  100 . First section  202   a  includes a first segment  206   a  and a second segment  206   b  rotationally connected to first segment  206   a  by a hinge  204   b . In order to secure electronic device  100  with accessory device  200  at first section  202   a , electronic device  100  includes a magnet  136   a  and a magnet  136   b  that magnetically couple with a magnet  236   a  (in the first segment  206   a ) and a magnet  236   b  (in second segment  206   b ), respectively. Further, first section  202   a  includes an opening  207  to enable camera assembly  115  to capture images through first section  202   a.    
     Second section  202   b  may include a keyboard  208  that includes several keys (not labeled) arranged in a QWERTY configuration, as a non-limiting example. In order for electronic device  100  to communicate with keyboard  208 , first section  202   a  includes contacts  223  that electrically couple with contacts  123  of electronic device  100 . Also, second section  202   b  may further include one or more channels designed to provide sub-flush regions to receive electronic device  100 . For example, second section  202   b  may include a first channel  212   a  and a second channel  212   b , each of which is designed to receive electronic device  100  (or a portion of electronic device  100 ) in order to position electronic device  100  in a manner such that electronic device  100  (and in particular, display assembly  104 ) can be used with keyboard  208 . In order to maintain electronic device  100  within first channel  212   a  or the second channel  212   b , several magnets (not shown in  FIG.  7   ) are embedded in second section  202   b  and magnetically couple with magnets  132   a ,  132   b ,  132   c , as well as a magnet  132   d , a magnet  132   e , and a magnet  132   f  of electronic device  100 . 
     Second section  202   b  can rotate relative to first section  202   a  and cover display assembly  104 . In order to remain secured over display assembly  104 , second section  202   b  may include additional magnets (not shown in  FIG.  7   ) designed to magnetically couple with additional magnets (not shown in  FIG.  7   ) in electronic device  100 . Moreover, in order for electronic device  100  to determine whether second section  202   b  of accessory device  200  is covering display assembly  104 , the sensors  140   a  and  140   b  can detect a magnet  238   a  and a magnet  238   b , respectively, when second section  202   b  covers/overlays display assembly  104 . While shunt assembly  150  reduces (or prevents) the magnetic flux from magnet  132   a  from being detected by sensor  140   a , shunt assembly  150  does not prohibit the magnetic flux from magnet  238   a  from reaching the sensor  140   a . As a result, magnet  238   a  provides a magnetic field (at sensor  140   a ) that is at or above the threshold magnetic field required to trigger the sensor  140   a . In this manner, sensor  140   a  generates an electrical signal indicating magnet  238   a  is detected. When each of sensors  140   a  and  140   b  generates an electrical signal, electronic device  100  uses the respective electrical signals to determine display assembly  104  is covered by second section  202   b  of accessory device  200 , and deactivates display assembly  104 . Furthermore, electronic device  100  can disable microphone  125  based on the electrical signals provided by sensor  140   a . This will be shown and described below. 
       FIG.  8    illustrates a side view of electronic device  100  and accessory device  200  shown in  FIG.  7   , showing accessory device  200  covering electronic device  100 . As shown, first section  202   a  covers a rear portion of electronic device  100 , while second section  202   b  covers a front portion of electronic device  100 . When electronic device  100  is covered by accessory device  200 , accessory device  200  may define a closed position. In the closed position, the magnetic field from magnet  238   a  in second section  202   b  is detected by sensor  140   a , and the magnetic field from magnet  238   b  in second section  202   b  can be detected by sensor  140   b . Further, shunt element  152   b  of shunt assembly  150  does not impede the magnetic flux from magnet  238   a  in accessory device  200 , while shunt element  152   a  of shunt assembly  150  impedes the magnetic flux from magnet  132   a  in electronic device  100 . 
       FIG.  9    illustrates a plan view of electronic device  100  and accessory device  200  in the closed position (shown in  FIG.  8   ), showing the relationship between magnet  238   a  of accessory device  200  and sensor  140   a  of electronic device  100 . As shown, second section  202   b  is covering the front portion of electronic device  100 . Generally, second section  202   b  is directly over electronic device  100 . However, magnet  238   a  is offset (or not directly over) sensor  140   a . Magnet  238   a  is nonetheless detected by sensor  140   a , due in part to shunt assembly  150 . 
       FIG.  10    illustrates a side view of electronic device  100  and accessory device  200  in the closed position (shown in  FIG.  8   ), showing sensor  140   a  detecting magnet  238   a  in accessory device  200 . As shown, shunt assembly  150  facilitates the magnetic flux of magnet  238   a  by allowing the magnet flux to pass through shunt element  152   b  in a manner in which sensor  140   a  can detect the magnetic flux. Conversely, shunt assembly  150  impedes the magnetic flux of magnet  132   a  by absorbing, through shunt element  152   a , and providing, by gap  154 , additional resistance to the magnetic flux. Accordingly, sensor  140   a  can distinguish between magnet  238   a  and magnet  132   a . In particular, sensor  140   a  can distinguish between the magnetic field provided by magnet  238   a  and the magnetic field provided by magnet  132   a  such that sensor  140   a  is only triggered by the magnetic field provided by magnet  238   a . Accordingly, the magnitude, as determined by sensor  140   a , of the magnetic field of magnet  238   a  is greater than that of magnet  132   a . In other words, the magnitude of the magnetic field of magnet  238   a  is greater than that of magnet  132   a  at a location corresponding to the location of sensor  140   a . It should be noted that the position of sensor  140   a  relative to magnet  132   a  would otherwise allow sensor  140   a  to detect the magnetic field from magnet  132   a  without the integration of shunt assembly  150 . 
     Shunt assembly  150  can act as a filter, including a magnetic field filter, for sensor  140   a , by reducing the magnetic flux from magnet  132   a , thereby increasing the signal-to-noise ratio (“SNR”) and increasing the likelihood of proper detection of a magnetic field by sensor  140   a . Moreover, the facilitation by shunt assembly  150  of magnetic flux from magnet  238   a  to sensor  140   a  may also increase the SNR. Accordingly, the reduction of the magnetic flux from magnet  132   a  coupled with the facilitation of the magnet flux from magnet  238   a  can also improve the SNR. In this manner, the difference between the lowest trigger value (corresponding to the lowest magnitude of magnetic field detected by sensor  140   a ) and the greatest non-triggering value (corresponding to the highest magnitude of magnetic field that is not detected by sensor  140   a ) is greater, corresponding to an increase in the likelihood of less “false triggers,” i.e., detection of magnetic fields by sensor  140   a  other than the desired magnetic field. 
       FIG.  11    illustrates an isometric view of electronic device  100  and an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  300  suitable for use with electronic device  100 . Accessory device  300  is designed as yet another complementary device for electronic device  100 . As shown, accessory device  300  includes a first section  302   a  rotationally coupled to a second section  302   b  by a hinge  304 . First section  302   a  may define a back cover or back panel for electronic device  100 . Also, first section  302   a  may define a receiving surface  306  that receives a rear portion of electronic device  100 . In order to secure electronic device  100  with accessory device  300  at first section  302   a , electronic device  100  includes a magnet  136   a  and a magnet  136   b  that magnetically couple with a magnet  336   a  and a magnet  336   b , respectively, of first section  302   a . Further, first section  302   a  includes an opening  307  to enable camera assembly  115  to capture images through first section  302   a.    
     Second section  302   b  is designed to wrap around and cover electronic device  100 , including display assembly  104 . In this manner, second section  302   b  may be referred to as a front panel or front cover. Second section  302   b  may include multiple segments. For example, second section  302   b  may include a first segment  308   a , a second segment  308   b , and a third segment  308   c . Each segment is rotatable or moveable with respect to the remaining segments. Also, while a discrete number of segments are shown, the number of segments may vary in other embodiments. 
     In order to remain secured over display assembly  104 , second section  302   b  may include additional magnets (not shown in  FIG.  11   ) designed to magnetically couple with additional magnets (not shown in  FIG.  11   ) in electronic device  100 . Moreover, in order for electronic device  100  to determine whether second section  302   b  of accessory device  300  is covering display assembly  104 , sensors  140   a  and sensor  140   b  can detect a magnet  338   a  and a magnet  338   b , respectively, when second section  302   b  covers/overlays display assembly  104 . In a manner similar to a prior embodiment, shunt assembly  150  reduces (or prevents) the magnetic flux from magnet  132   a  from being detected by sensor  140   a , but does not prohibit the magnetic flux from magnet  338   a  from reaching sensor  140   a . As a result, magnet  338   a  provides a magnetic field (at sensor  140   a ) that is at or above the threshold magnetic field required to trigger sensor  140   a . Also, when each of sensors  140   a  and  140   b  generates an electrical signal, electronic device  100  uses the respective electrical signals to determine display assembly  104  is covered by second section  302   b  of accessory device  300 , and deactivates display assembly  104 . 
       FIG.  12    illustrates a plan view of electronic device  100  and accessory device  300  in the closed position, showing the relationship between magnet  338   a  of accessory device  300  and sensor  140   a  of electronic device  100 . The “closed position” refers to a position similar to what is shown in  FIG.  8   . As shown, second section  302   b  is covering the front portion of electronic device  100 . Generally, second section  302   b  is directly over electronic device  100 . However, magnet  338   a  is offset (or not directly over) sensor  140   a . Moreover, the offset position is different from the offset position shown in  FIG.  9    between magnet  238   a  and sensor  140   a . Magnet  338   a  is nonetheless detected by sensor  140   a , due in part to shunt assembly  150 . 
       FIG.  13    illustrates an isometric view of electronic device  100  and an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  400  suitable for use with electronic device  100 . Accessory device  400  is designed as yet another complementary device for electronic device  100 . As shown, accessory device  400  includes a first section  402   a  and a second section  402   b  rotationally coupled to first second by a hinge  404   a . First section  402   a  includes a first segment  406   a  and a second segment  406   b  rotationally coupled to first segment  406   a  by a hinge  404   b . In order to secure electronic device  100  with accessory device  400  at first section  402   a , electronic device  100  includes a magnet  136   a  and a magnet  136   b  that magnetically couple with a magnet  436   a  (in first segment  406   a ) and a magnet  436   b  (in second segment  406   b ), respectively. Further, first section  202   a  includes an opening  407  to enable camera assembly  115  to capture images through first section  402   a.    
     Second section  402   b  may include a keyboard  408  that includes several keys (not labeled) arranged in a QWERTY configuration, as a non-limiting example. In order for electronic device  100  to communicate with keyboard  408 , first section  402   a  includes contacts  423  that electrically couple with contacts  123  of electronic device  100 . Also, first section  402   a  is designed to provide a support structure that carries, supports, and suspends electronic device  100  so that electronic device  100  is not in contact with second section  402   b , and electronic device  100  and keyboard  408  are both viewable by a user. Additionally, in order to charge electronic device  100 , accessory device  400  includes a port  410  designed to receive a connector (not shown in  FIG.  13   ) that provides electrical energy to electronic device  100 , via contacts  423  and contacts  123 , to charge a power supply (not shown in  FIG.  13   ) of electronic device  100 . 
     In an alternate configuration, second section  402   b  can rotate relative to first section  402   a  and cover display assembly  104 . In order to remain secured over display assembly  104 , second section  402   b  may include additional magnets (not shown in  FIG.  13   ) designed to magnetically couple with additional magnets (not shown in  FIG.  13   ) in electronic device  100 . In a manner similar to prior embodiments, shunt assembly  150  reduces (or prevents) the magnetic flux from magnet  132   a  from being detected by sensor  140   a , shunt assembly  150  reduces (or prevents) the magnetic flux from magnet  132   a  from being detected by sensor  140   a , but does not prohibit the magnetic flux from magnet  438   a  from reaching sensor  140   a . As a result, magnet  438   a  provides a magnetic field (at sensor  140   a ) that is at or above the threshold magnetic field required to trigger sensor  140   a . Also, when each of sensors  140   a  and  140   b  generates an electrical signal, electronic device  100  uses the respective electrical signals to determine display assembly  104  is covered by second section  402   b  of accessory device  400 , and deactivates display assembly  104 . 
       FIG.  14    illustrates a plan view of electronic device  100  and accessory device  400  in the closed position, showing the relationship between magnet  438   a  of accessory device  400  and sensor  140   a  of electronic device  100 . The “closed position” refers to a position similar to what is shown in  FIG.  8   . As shown, second section  402   b  is covering the front portion of electronic device  100 . Generally, second section  402   b  is directly over electronic device  100 . However, magnet  438   a  is offset (or not directly over) sensor  140   a . Moreover, the offset position is different from the offset position shown in  FIG.  9    between magnet  438   a  and sensor  140   a , and also different from the offset position shown in  FIG.  12    between magnet  338   a  and sensor  140   a . Magnet  438   a  may nonetheless be detected by sensor  140   a.    
     The foregoing embodiments show that based on the integration of shunt assembly  150 , sensor  140   a  need not be directly aligned along a particular axis with respect to a magnet to be detected by sensor  140   a . As a result, electronic device  100  is compatible with at least three accessory devices, each with a magnet that can be detected by sensor  140   a , while these magnets are in different offset positions. It should be noted, however, that sensor  140   a  can detect magnets in direct alignment (i.e., along a single axis) with respect to sensor  140   a.    
     Also, the aforementioned accessory devices include a magnet, or triggering magnet, designed to trigger a sensor (e.g., magnetic field sensor) in electronic device  100 . Based on empirical data, the lowest magnitude (in absolute value) of the magnetic flux that triggered the sensor  140   a  ranged from 23.7 Millitesla (“mT”) to 68.9 mT, while the greatest release value (or un-triggering value) ranged from 8.1 mT to 0.1 mT. When compared to data in which a shunt assembly was not used, the difference between the lowest magnitude that triggered the sensor and the greatest release value was significantly less. Accordingly, the shunt assembly provides a virtual hysteresis that can prevent the sensor from false triggering. 
       FIGS.  15 - 18    show and describe various modifications to shunt assemblies. The shunt assemblies shown and described in  FIGS.  15 - 18    may substitute for shunt assembly  150  (previously shown). 
       FIG.  15    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device  500 , showing an alternate layout of a shunt assembly  550 . Electronic device  500  may include several features previously shown and described for electronic device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). As shown, electronic device  500  includes a magnet  532  (representative of additional, unlabeled magnets) used to secure electronic device  500  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  15   ) along a sidewall  503  of enclosure  502 . Further, electronic device  500  may include a magnet  536  (representative of additional, unlabeled magnets) used to secure electronic device  500  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  15   ) along a bottom wall  505  of enclosure  502 . 
     Shunt assembly  550  includes a shunt element  552   a  and a shunt element  552   b  separated by a gap (not labeled; similar to gap  154  shown in  FIG.  5   ). Shunt element  552   a  may include a dimension (i.e., major length) that is the same as, or substantially similar to, a dimension (i.e., major length) of magnet  532 . For example, as shown, magnet  532  and shunt element  552   a  includes the same or similar dimension along the Y-axis. Additionally, magnet  532  and shunt element  552   a  includes the same or similar dimension along the Z-axis. This may facilitate installation of magnet  532  and shunt element  552   a  in electronic device  500 . Further, magnet  532  and shunt element  552   a  may be secured together by an adhesive, as a non-limiting example. 
     As shown, sensor  540  is positioned in proximity to magnet  532 , and would otherwise detect the magnetic field from magnet  532 . However, shunt assembly  550  sufficiently minimizes the magnetic field from magnet  532  (as well as other magnets in electronic device  500  that could potentially be detected by sensor  540 ) such that magnet  532  (as well as any other magnet in electronic device  500 ) does not provide a magnetic field at or above the threshold magnetic field required to trigger sensor  540 . 
       FIG.  16    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device  600 , showing an alternate layout of a shunt assembly  650 . Electronic device  600  may include several features previously shown and described for electronic device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). As shown, electronic device  600  includes a magnet  632  (representative of additional, unlabeled magnets) used to secure electronic device  600  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  16   ) along a sidewall  603  of the enclosure  602 . Further, electronic device  600  may include a magnet  636  (representative of additional, unlabeled magnets) used to secure electronic device  600  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  16   ) along a bottom wall  605  of enclosure  602 . 
     Shunt assembly  650  includes a shunt element  652   a  and a shunt element  652   b  separated by a gap (not labeled; similar to gap  154  shown in  FIG.  5   ). Shunt element  652   a  may include a dimension (i.e., major length) that is the same as, or substantially similar to, a dimension (i.e., major length) of magnet  632 . For example, as shown, magnet  632  and shunt element  652   a  includes the same or similar dimension along the Y-axis. Additionally, magnet  632  and shunt element  652   a  includes the same or similar dimension along the Z-axis. This may facilitate installation of magnet  632  and shunt element  652   a . Further, magnet  632  and shunt element  652   a  may be secured together by an adhesive, as a non-limiting example. Shunt element  652   b  may include a stepped structure, which may include a single, monolithic piece or two pieces secured together. Shunt element  652   b  can direct the magnetic field in a certain desired manner. For example, shunt element  652   b  may direct the magnetic field in a relatively uniform manner, thereby providing increased predictability as to the location of the magnetic field as directed by shunt element  652   b.    
     As shown, sensor  640  is positioned in proximity to magnet  632 , and would otherwise detect the magnetic field from magnet  632 . However, shunt assembly  650  sufficiently minimizes the magnetic field from the magnet  632  (as well as other magnets in electronic device  600  that could potentially be detected by sensor  640 ) such that magnet  632  (as well as any other magnet in electronic device  600 ) does not provide a magnetic field at or above the threshold magnetic field required to trigger sensor  640 . 
       FIG.  17    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device  700 , showing an alternate layout of a shunt assembly  750 . Electronic device  700  may include several features previously shown and described for electronic device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). As shown, electronic device  700  includes a magnet  732  (representative of additional, unlabeled magnets) used to secure electronic device  700  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  17   ) along a sidewall  703  of enclosure  702 . Further, electronic device  700  may include a magnet  736  (representative of additional, unlabeled magnets) used to secure electronic device  700  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  17   ) along a bottom wall  705  of enclosure  702 . 
     Shunt assembly  750  includes a shunt element  752   a  and a shunt element  752   b  separated by a gap (not labeled). Shunt element  752   a  may include a dimension (i.e., major length) that is the same as, or substantially similar to, a dimension (i.e., major length) of magnet  732 . For example, as shown, magnet  732  and shunt element  752   a  includes the same or similar dimension along the Y-axis. Additionally, magnet  732  and shunt element  752   a  includes the same or similar dimension along the Z-axis. This may facilitate installation of magnet  732  and shunt element  752   a . Further, magnet  732  and shunt element  752   a  may be secured together by an adhesive, as a non-limiting example. Shunt element  752   b  may include a stepped structure, which may include two pieces separated by a gap. The gap may be defined by an adhesive, as a non-limiting example. Accordingly, shunt element  752   b  may be referred to as a shunt sub-assembly. Also, the gap between the two pieces of shunt element  752   b  may limit or prevent magnetic flux from passing through the lower shunt part to the upper shunt part (on which sensor  740  is located). 
     As shown, sensor  740  is positioned in proximity to magnet  732 , and would otherwise detect the magnetic field from magnet  732 . However, shunt assembly  750  sufficiently minimizes the magnetic field from magnet  732  (as well as other magnets in electronic device  700  that could potentially be detected by sensor  740 ) such that magnet  732  (as well as any other magnet in electronic device  700 ) does not provide a magnetic field at or above the threshold magnetic field required to trigger sensor  740 . 
       FIG.  18    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device  800 , showing an alternate layout of a shunt assembly  850 . Electronic device  800  may include several features previously shown and described for electronic device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). As shown, electronic device  800  includes a magnet  832  (representative of additional, unlabeled magnets) used to secure electronic device  800  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  18   ) along a sidewall  803  of enclosure  802 . Further, electronic device  800  may include a magnet  836  (representative of additional, unlabeled magnets) used to secure electronic device  800  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  18   ) along a bottom wall  805  of enclosure  802 . 
     Shunt assembly  850  includes a shunt element  852   a  stacked over a shunt element  852   b . Shunt element  852   a  is separated from shunt element  852   b  by a gap (not labeled). The gap may be defined by an adhesive, as a non-limiting example. Shunt elements  852   a  and  852   b  may generally include the same size and shape. Optionally, shunt assembly  850  may include a shunt element  852   c  (shown as a dotted line). Shunt element  852   c  may include a dimension (i.e., major length) that is the same as, or substantially similar to, a dimension (i.e., major length) of magnet  832  along the Y-axis. 
     As shown, sensor  840  is positioned in proximity to magnet  832 , and would otherwise detect the magnetic field from magnet  832 . However, shunt assembly  850  sufficiently minimizes the magnetic field from magnet  832  (as well as other magnets in electronic device  800  that could potentially be detected by sensor  840 ) such that magnet  832  (as well as any other magnet in electronic device  800 ) does not provide a magnetic field at or above the threshold magnetic field required to trigger sensor  840 . 
       FIG.  19    illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an electronic device  900  and an accessory device  1000 . Electronic devices and accessory devices shown and described in the foregoing detailed description may incorporate the features shown for electronic device  900  and accessory device  1000 , respectively. Electronic device  900  and accessory device  1000  may include several features previously shown and described for electronic devices and accessory devices, respectively. 
     As shown, electronic device  900  includes an integrated circuit  929  designed perform one or more functions. Integrated circuit  929  may include a SOC, as a non-limiting example. Integrated circuit  929  is electrically coupled with a display assembly  904 , which may include touch input display assembly. Electronic device  900  further includes a power supply  926 , or battery, designed to provide electrical energy to operational components of electronic device  900 . 
     Electronic device  900  further includes a sensor  940   a  and a sensor  940   b , each of which may include a magnetic field sensor (e.g., Hall Effect sensor or AMR sensor). Sensors  940   a  and  940   b  can detect a magnet  1038   a  and a magnet  1038   b , respectively, of accessory device  1000 , and subsequently generate and provide electrical signals to integrated circuit  929 . Integrated circuit  929  uses the electrical signals to determine accessory device  1000  is covering display assembly  904 , and can subsequently deactivate display assembly  904 . Also, sensor  940   a  may be positioned on a shunt assembly  950  designed to minimize magnetic fields from magnets (not shown in  FIG.  19   ) within electronic device  900 , while allowing (and in some instances, enhancing) the magnetic field provided by magnet  1038   a.    
     Additionally, electronic device  900  includes a microphone  925  designed to capture audible sound generated externally to electronic device  900 , and provide electrical signals, in accordance with the audible sound, to integrated circuit  929 . Electronic device  900  further includes a switching circuit  941  that forms part of circuit with microphone  925  and integrated circuit  929 . Switching circuit  941  may include any features previously described for a switching circuit. 
     In order to enhance user privacy, the transmission of electrical signals provided by microphone  925  to integrated circuit  929  can be terminated based on an input from sensor  940   a  to switching circuit  941 . For example, when sensor  940   a  detects the magnetic field from magnet  1038   a , the electrical signal initiated by sensor  940   a  is further provided to switching circuit  941 , causing switching circuit  941  to open the circuit between integrated circuit  929  and microphone  925  (as well as any additional microphones). As a result, microphone  925  is unable to transmit communication (i.e., electrical signals) to integrated circuit  929 . Moreover, the electrical signal provided by sensor  940   a  need not be initially processed by integrated circuit  929  in order for switching circuit  941  to open the circuit between microphone  925  and integrated circuit  929 . Also, based the aforementioned design logic, integrated circuit  929  is not provided with information related to the open circuit, based on switching circuit  941 , and thus does not actively monitor whether microphone  925  is operating in accordance with the desired function of providing electrical signals in accordance with detected audible sound. As a result, a user of electronic device  900  may enjoy enhanced privacy as integrated circuit  929  cannot receive and process electrical signals from microphone  925  in accordance with detected audible sound, nor is integrated circuit  929  provided with information that switching circuit  941  has opened the circuit between microphone  925  and integrated circuit  929 . 
       FIG.  20    illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an electronic device  1100  and an accessory device  1200 . Electronic devices and accessory devices shown and described in the foregoing detailed description may incorporate the features shown for electronic device  1100  and accessory device  1200 , respectively. Electronic device  1100  and accessory device  1200  may include several features previously shown and described for electronic devices and accessory devices, respectively. 
     As shown, electronic device  1100  includes an integrated circuit  1129  designed perform one or more functions. Integrated circuit  1129  may include a SOC, as a non-limiting example. Integrated circuit  1129  is electrically coupled with a display assembly  1104 , which may include touch input display assembly. Electronic device  1100  further includes a power supply  1126 , or battery, designed to provide electrical energy to operational components of electronic device  1100 . 
     Electronic device  1100  further includes a sensor  1140   a  and a sensor  1140   b , each of which may include a magnetic field sensor (e.g., Hall Effect sensor or AMR sensor). Sensors  1140   a  and  1140   b  can detect a magnetic field from a magnet  1238   a  and a magnet  1238   b , respectively, of accessory device  1200 , and subsequently generate and provide electrical signals to integrated circuit  1129 . Integrated circuit  1129  uses the electrical signals to determine accessory device  1200  is covering display assembly  1104 , and can subsequently deactivate display assembly  1104 . Also, sensor  1140   a  may be positioned on a shunt assembly  1150  designed to minimize magnetic fields from magnets (not shown in  FIG.  20   ) within electronic device  1100 , while allowing (and in some instances, enhancing) the magnetic field provided by magnet  1238   a.    
     Additionally, electronic device  1100  includes a microphone  1125  designed to capture audible sound generated externally to electronic device  1100 , and provide electrical signals, in accordance with the audible sound, to integrated circuit  1129 . Electronic device  1100  further includes a switching circuit  1141  that forms part of circuit with microphone  1125  and integrated circuit  1129 . Switching circuit  1141  may include any features previously described for a switching circuit. 
     In order to enhance user privacy, the transmission of electrical signals provided by microphone  1125  to integrated circuit  1129  can be terminated based on an input from sensor  1140   a  to switching circuit  1141 . For example, when sensor  1140   a  detects the magnetic field from the magnet  1238   a , the electrical signal initiated by sensor  1140   a  is further provided to switching circuit  1141 . However, in contrast to the prior embodiment (shown in  FIG.  19   ), switching circuit  1141  can subsequently open the circuit between microphone  1125  and power supply  1126 , thereby powering down microphone  1125  (as well as any additional microphones). As a result, microphone  1125  is deactivated and will not be provide electrical signals (in accordance with detected audible sounds) to integrated circuit  1129 , as microphone  1125  is off. Moreover, the electrical signal provided by sensor  1140   a  need not be initially processed by integrated circuit  1129  in order for switching circuit  1141  to open the circuit between microphone  1125  and power supply  1126 . Also, based the aforementioned design logic, integrated circuit  1129  is not provided with information related to the open circuit, based on switching circuit  1141 , and thus does not actively monitor whether microphone  1125  is operating in accordance with the desired function of providing electrical signals in accordance with detected audible sound. As a result, a user of electronic device  1100  may enjoy enhanced privacy as integrated circuit  1129  cannot receive and process electrical signals from microphone  1125  in accordance with detected audible sound, nor is integrated circuit  1129  provided with information that switching circuit  1141  has opened the circuit between microphone  1125  and power supply  1126 . 
       FIG.  21    illustrates a flowchart showing a method  1300  for deactivating a component of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. Electronic devices described herein may perform the steps of method  1300 . 
     In step  1302 , a magnetic field from a magnet external to the electronic device is detected by a magnetic field sensor. The magnetic field sensor may include a Hall Effect sensor or an AMR sensor, as non-limiting examples. Also, the magnet may include a magnet located in an accessory device that is compatible with the electronic device. 
     In step  1304 , an input is provided by the magnetic field sensor to an integrated circuit of the electronic device. The integrated circuit may include an integrated circuit, such as a SOC (as a non-limiting example). The input may include an electrical signal that is generated by the magnetic field sensor based on detection of the magnetic field by the magnetic field sensor. Once the input is provided to the processing circuity, the integrated circuit deactivates a display assembly of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the electronic device includes a second magnetic field sensor, and the integrated circuits deactivates the display assembly once both magnetic fields sensors provide an electrical signal. 
     In step  1306 , the input is further provided by the magnetic field sensor to switching circuit of the electronic device. The switching circuit may include any features previously described for a switching circuit. 
     In step  1308 , the switching circuit opens a circuit between a microphone and the integrated circuit. As a result of the open circuit, there is no transmission of electrical signals from the microphone to the integrated circuit, and accordingly, the integrated circuit is prevented from receiving the electrical signals associated with detected audible sound by the microphone. 
     The electrical signal sent by the magnetic field sensor need not be processed by the integrated circuit prior to the switching circuit opening the circuit. Despite the microphone being “on” or operational, the integrated circuit is unaware of the open circuit, as the integrated circuit is not provided with any indication that the microphone is inoperable to transmit electrical signals in accordance with the audible sound. As a result, the processing circuit is not actively monitoring the functionality of the microphone for errors related to the open circuit, and does not provide any output or other functionality in accordance with the open circuit between the microphone and the processing circuity. In this regard, the user of the electronic device may enjoy enhanced privacy, as the microphone is not transmitting electrical signals to the integrated circuit in accordance with the user&#39;s audible sound (i.e., the user&#39;s voice). 
       FIG.  22    illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device  1400 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The features in electronic device  1400  may be present in other electronic devices described herein. Electronic device  1400  may include one or more processors  1410  for executing functions of electronic device  1400 . One or more processors  1410  can refer to at least one of a central processing unit (CPU) and at least one microcontroller for performing dedicated functions. Also, one or more processors  1410  can refer to application specific integrated circuits. 
     According to some embodiments, electronic device  1400  can include a display unit  1420 . Display unit  1420  is capable of presenting a user interface that includes icons (representing software applications), textual images, and/or motion images. In some examples, each icon can be associated with a respective function that can be executed by one or more processors  1410 . In some cases, display unit  1420  includes a display layer (not illustrated), which can include a liquid-crystal display (LCD), light-emitting diode display (LED), or the like. According to some embodiments, display unit  1420  includes a touch input detection component and/or a force detection component that can be configured to detect changes in an electrical parameter (e.g., electrical capacitance value) when the user&#39;s appendage (acting as a capacitor) comes into proximity with display unit  1420  (or in contact with a transparent layer that covers display unit  1420 ). Display unit  1420  is connected to one or more processors  1410  via one or more connection cables  1422 . 
     According to some embodiments, electronic device  1400  can include one or more sensors  1430  capable of provide an input to one or more processors  1410  of electronic device  1400 . One or more sensors  1430  may include a temperature sensor, a capacitive sensor, and magnetic field sensors, as a non-limiting example. One or more sensors  1430  is/are connected to one or more processors  1410  via one or more connection cables  1432 . 
     According to some embodiments, electronic device  1400  can include one or more input/output components  1440 . In some cases, one or more input/output components  1440  can refer to a button or a switch that is capable of actuation by the user. When one or more input/output components  1440  are used, one or more input/output components  1440  can generate an electrical signal that is provided to one or more processors  1410  via one or more connection cables  1442 . 
     According to some embodiments, electronic device  1400  can include a power supply  1450  that is capable of providing energy to the operational components of electronic device  1400 . In some examples, power supply  1450  can refer to a rechargeable battery. Power supply  1450  can be connected to one or more processors  1410  via one or more connection cables  1452 . Power supply  1450  can be directly connected to other devices of electronic device  1400 , such as one or more input/output components  1440 . In some examples, electronic device  1400  can receive power from another power sources (e.g., an external charging device) not shown in  FIG.  22   . 
     According to some embodiments, electronic device  1400  can include memory  1460 , which can include a single disk or multiple disks (e.g., hard drives), and includes a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within memory  1460 . In some cases, memory  1460  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. Memory  1460  can also include a Random Access Memory (“RAM”) and a Read-Only Memory (“ROM”). The ROM can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM can provide volatile data storage, and stores instructions related to the operation of the electronic device  1400 . In some embodiments, memory  1460  refers to a non-transitory computer readable medium. One or more processors  1410  can also be used to execute software applications. In some embodiments, a data bus  1462  can facilitate data transfer between memory  1460  and one or more processors  1410 . 
     According to some embodiments, electronic device  1400  can include wireless communications components  1470 . A network/bus interface  1472  can couple wireless communications components  1470  to one or more processors  1410 . The wireless communications components  1470  can communicate with other electronic devices via any number of wireless communication protocols, including at least one of a global network (e.g., the Internet), a wide area network, a local area network, a wireless personal area network (WPAN), or the like. In some examples, wireless communications components  1470  can communicate using NFC protocol, BLUETOOTH® protocol, or WIFI® protocol. 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature 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 in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20230808
Publication Date: 20240625
Grant Date: 20240625
Priority Date: 20200401
Inventors: PINCIUC, Christopher M.
ZHANG, ZHEN
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01F7/06", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/096", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/07", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/0047", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0204", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0017", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/0029", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/096", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/07", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/0076", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/0058", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1607", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1669", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1607", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0204", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0017", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01F7/06", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/096", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/07", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01R33/0047", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1607", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 77922582