The demand for smaller, more efficient, and cost-effective devices is increasing. At the heart of many of these devices are permanent magnets (PMs), which play a crucial role in their functionality. From smartphones and tablets to earbuds, magnets and electronics are inextricably linked. However, the integration of PMs comes with its own set of challenges, including determining the appropriate size and shape, selecting the right magnetic materials, and strategically placing them to avoid magnetic interference. To overcome these obstacles, innovative solutions leveraging simulation software have emerged, offering a new blueprint in the design and optimization of PMs in consumer electronics.
Challenge
Permanent magnets (PMs) are integral components in a wide array of consumer electronics such as smartphones, tablets, earbuds, VR devices, laptops, and wireless chargers. The key challenges in utilizing PMs in these devices include:
- Sizing and Shaping: Determining the appropriate size and shape for PMs to fulfill various electromagnetic functions while minimizing costs. Different shapes like bar magnets and sphere magnets might be considered for various applications.
- Material Selection: Choosing the right PM materials to achieve desired electromagnetic properties. Options like neodymium magnets (NdFeB), ferrite magnets, and samarium cobalt magnets (SmCo) are often evaluated based on their performance.
- Optimal Placement: Strategically placing PMs, hall sensors, and shields to prevent undesirable magnetic interference. Ensuring that the magnetic field does not damage electronics or interfere with integrated circuits is critical.
Solution
To address these challenges, an innovative approach leveraging AI and simulation technologies has been developed:
- Training Dataset: AI models of varying fidelities are created using tens to hundreds of accurate simulation results to predict magnetic field distribution and magnetic forces. This is achieved using tools like Maxwell and SimAI.
- Fast Evaluation: Each new design, whether it includes an NdFeB magnet or another type, can be evaluated in seconds using the AI model, which is 15 times faster than Maxwell 3D for a single permanent magnet.
- Accurate Predictions: The AI model facilitates accurate predictions of magnetic fields, aiding in the device-level design to place PMs, sensors, and shields effectively.
- High Accuracy: Post-processing ensures that the accuracy of the global coefficient for the magnetic moment exceeds 95%.
Benefits
- Reuse of Historical Data: Leveraging existing data generated during early design stages enhances the accuracy of the models and reduces simulation time in later stages.
- Faster Time to Market: This approach allows for rapid evaluation and visualization of magnetic designs, enabling extensive design space exploration, performance optimization, and ensuring electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) compliance.
Integrating permanent magnets in consumer electronics presents both challenges and opportunities. Through the use of advanced AI and simulation technologies, these challenges can be effectively addressed, leading to more efficient and cost-effective designs. By leveraging historical data and providing rapid, accurate evaluations, this approach not only enhances the design process but also accelerates time to market, ensuring that new products can meet the high demands of today’s consumers. As technology continues to advance, the strategic use of PMs, coupled with innovative solutions, will remain a cornerstone of progress in the consumer electronics industry.