JP2003515304A - Electronic system with variable functions - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract Modular communication and entertainment systems provide wireless communication and entertainment capabilities through a base unit. The system includes at least one module that connects to the base unit and provides a function to the base unit. This system allows the development of independent base units and portable modules.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION Modular electronic systems are said to combine the electronic functions of discrete components. The system includes at least one portable module that coordinates with the base unit to combine or increase the basic functionality of the portable module and the base unit. This system allows the base unit and the portable module to be independent of each other.

[0002]

[Prior art]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Consumer electronic products are in widespread use. Television, radio, cassette player, compact disk player, mobile phone,
Products such as home phones, video cameras and computers are purchased in large numbers each year. Consumers generally purchase products to achieve a limited range of functions or special functions. Each product has many components that are common to other products, such as speakers, microphones, input devices and displays, so individual products are purchased and purchased for the basic functionality of the product. People to buy and carry duplicate elements.

In recent years, the use of both radio products, receiver products and transceiver products has increased significantly. Examples of receiver products are televisions, AM, FM, SW
, Radios including MB and GPS, walkie talkies, transceiver products such as mobile phones and CBs, and VHF radios.

In addition, the use of swipe devices for credit and / or debit cards and smart cards have rapidly become widespread in the private sector as a form of introducing both wireline and wireless financial transactions of vending terminals. It was

It is well known that certain electronic products such as mobile phones are required to completely replace mobile phones as a change in technology with respect to communication technology, and become rapidly obsolete. For example, the mobile phone industry has a dual-mode AMPS / CDMA AMP.
Similar to the introduction of S / TDMA or Trimode AMPS / CDMA / GSM,
We are recently seeing a move from AMPS (analog) to digital CDMA / TDMA / GSM (USA) / GSM (Europe). This ever-changing mobile phone technology results in many mobile phones being replaced in the short term, often within a year in many cases. As such, consumers are obliged to replace complete phones in order to moderately increase the performance or functionality of mobile phones.

With the advancement of communication technology, in particular, miniaturization of electronic processors and addition of processor functions can be achieved without a meaningful increase in processor capacity or output requirements.

Therefore, there has been a demand for a system that solves the problem of increasing or changing the functions of electronic products, and particularly for a system having a special wireless communication or other function in a mobile module, or in a base unit. There was a need for a system that allowed the selective integration of the portable modules of

Further, especially with respect to mobile phones, mobile phones provide the user with high convenience and high efficiency communication modes that allow the user to talk from almost anywhere within the mobile phone network. Mobile phones are generally used as business tools for the convenience and maintenance of business people or individuals.

[0009] In recent years, with the progress of miniaturization of mobile phones, the use of telephones has been greatly increased as the phones have become smaller, more portable (portable), and cheaper. At present, the more popular phones on the market are the overall size, length
It is a hand-held type with a width of 15.24 cm (6 inches), a width of 7.62 cm (3 inches) and a thickness of 2.54 cm (1 inch). These phones are generally equipped with a rechargeable battery pack to provide the power needed for carrying.

These advances in miniaturization have also led to the use of specialized mobile phones, such as special-purpose designs for vehicles, as wider convenience to consumers is achieved with a complete portable unit. Reduced. Similar trends towards miniaturization include radio, stereo, computer,
It is also found in other electronic devices, including phones and the like.

While individual electronic products are made smaller, there are inherent inefficiencies with this hardware. It is because the various electronic systems, if appropriate, cannot influence each other and share common features. This, in the end, results in duplication of hardware and the consumer purchases separate parts that perform the same function.

For example, as cell phones continue to be made smaller, certain inconveniences remain in their construction and application. Primarily, mobile phones require unique power packs, display screens, keypads and operating antennas that are installed and required to operate according to special standards associated with individual manufacturers. For example, a power pack developed for use in one mobile phone system cannot be used in another mobile phone system. Moreover, mobile phone power packs can usually only be charged by connection to a special manufacturer's charging unit. Similarly, portable computer, portable cassette player, and portable compact disc player power packs are not compatible.

In the business world, in addition to mobile phones, businessmen
It will carry with it additional hardware that forms the Virtual Office, such as paging units and dictation machines. For each piece of hardware, a spare power pack or charger is needed in addition to the full capacity and weight of the business hardware, and various charging hardware peripherals fit neatly in a briefcase It is required to be in a state. And the requirement for multiple parts of the peripheral hardware impairs the portability of all of the hardware, and because of the inconvenience of carrying a spare power pack or charger on the desired hardware parts. Or, the power supply may be inoperative due to lack of output because it is not available from other components in a device such as a portable computer.

In a personal use setting, the user is most likely in his or her car, while walking,
Or request a cell phone while exercising. Moreover, mobile phones are generally not adapted for in-vehicle use, and in-vehicle use of mobile phones is inefficient, endangering the user's attention to driving. Moreover, people who are walking or exercising want to use not only mobile phones but also portable compact disc or cassette players. However, because the parts are separate, one or other parts of the device may be misplaced.

In addition, in the setting of business or personal use, many auxiliary hardware parts are required for portability, and since the auxiliary hardware is inconvenient, the user should carry a mobile phone around. decide.

Another problem caused by duplicate hardware is the need for duplicate security. A business person or other individual may need a user identification number, password, access code, or a combination of the above to use a cell phone, in-car phone, voice mail system, or other communication tool. Generally, such tools are independent pieces of hardware that operate with different identification numbers or access codes. Therefore, individuals who have to use some communication tools have the inconvenience of having to remember many numbers and codes. If the identification number or code of a personal device is forgotten or incompletely stored, the device will not work. If a user writes down the number or code they need, the written information is misplaced, lost, or stolen, while the target device is not accessible to the rogue user, but accessible to the rogue user. . Even if the same identification number or access code is used for all of a user's devices, security is jeopardized because an unauthorized person finding the identification number or access code can access many devices without being a genuine user. Exposed.

[0017]

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

Therefore, a mobile phone has been required in many environments, and there has been a need for a communication system that solves the above problems due to compatibility with hardware that can be used together or used at the same time.

In particular, it provides the convenience of a standard battery output to a mobile phone, such as a computer system including a portable computer and a personal computer, a radio including a car radio, a home stereo system, a portable compact disc or a portable device such as a cassette type player. Radios, standard and wireless telephone systems,
There has been a demand for mobile phone systems that conveniently and efficiently adapt to other hardware, such as video displays and financial transaction terminals. Past systems have created special requirements for cards that adapt to various devices. It proposes the use of thin cards with electronic circuits. However, the use of specially sized cards to increase the functionality of a given device has several drawbacks.

First, adapting an existing electronic device to receive a card requires an appropriate volume for receiving the card inside the device without interfering with other functional components of the device. Requires a meaningful modification of. In the past, devices have been very specially sized and shaped and have been modified to include slots (elongated holes) with a particular volume. The slot also requires a special arrangement and card-locking mechanism.

Furthermore, the slot for receiving the card is generally very narrow, so that the insertion of the card into the applied device requires a relatively high level of accuracy and agility. Then, the insertion of the card recognizes the individual differences with a low-level visual sensation or insufficient adjustment.

Similarly, removal of the card from the slot, which either activates a mechanical or electro-mechanical mechanism or pulls on the small end of the card that is extruded from the host device, is cumbersome. is there. Furthermore, mechanical or electro-mechanical mechanisms are
If the card is used in a different device or removed for required repairs, it can become inoperable.

In addition, the connector on the host part of the device is typically hidden within a narrow slot. If you try to connect the card and the problem occurs, the contact is in the case and invisible for inspection. They are not easily accessible due to cleaning to improve the contact surface. It is also not convenient for undertaking minor repairs.

Furthermore, the requirement that the card be made according to the standard size of the slot is very demanding. The card has a standard shape, reducing the manufacturer's choice for the placement of the electronic components within the card and also the individual design to distinguish the competitor's card from his own card by the external design of the card. Excludes the ability of the manufacturer. Rather, if the manufacturer wants to make a card with more parts than fits a standard size card, the only option is to increase the length of the card so that it extends out of the slot. Similarly, manufacturers who want to provide optional components to increase or upgrade the functionality of their cards, such cards are typically very thin and are made large in only one direction. So that option is severely limited due to the extra connections that are added to the card.

Besides, especially if the card is protruding from the host device, the thinness of such a card makes the card itself fragile and easily damaged. Thicker standard card sizes may be employed, while thicker card sizes will require larger variants of the host device to accommodate wider internal slots. The required connector would be located on the outer surface of the external device, but such a connector is disadvantageous because it loses the stability created by the walls of the inner slot. In addition, attention is paid to both compactness and the aesthetic appearance of the overall system, and the card is bluntly protruding from the host device.

Thin cards are more susceptible to damage when removed from the host device. Past systems have also proposed securing peripheral accessories for mobile phones. Typically, the connection is to attach the auxiliary component to the base of the cell phone with a simple plug. While this design offers flexibility in size and shape, such a system lacks internal stability and is subject to rotational or axial loading, which often leads to damage to both ancillary equipment and mobile phones. become. Moreover, these older systems allow operation of auxiliary devices only through the standard interface of the phone body. After all, when an auxiliary protocol is needed to integrate the functionality of an auxiliary device, the auxiliary device developer cannot get the associated keyboard or screen protocol.

Accordingly, there is a need for a communication system in which a portable communication module can be selectively and safely integrated into the body of an audio device or base unit, for example, by a stabilizing clip-on or snap-on connection for stabilization. there were. In particular, there has been a need for a system that utilizes a miniaturized battery that allows the coupling of a battery auxiliary function module such that it can be integrated into a base unit or cell phone body.

Further, there has been a demand for a communication system in which a portable communication module can be enlarged in at least one direction and can be manufactured in a large shape and size. Prior art reviews indicate that no such system has been developed.

US Pat. No. 5,550,861 discloses a computer peripheral that combines the functionality of numerous devices, including pagers, fax machines, and data modems. This patent describes a PCMCI that includes modem circuitry and telephone interface circuitry that connects to either a portable computer or the modular components of a pager.
A format card is disclosed. This patent also describes circuitry that allows selective communication between a computer and a fax / modem or pager. This patent does not describe a system that enables wireless telephone communication via multiple different audio devices.

US Pat. No. 5,512,886 has a selective call receiver with a computer interface capable of receiving at least one message, and also at least one to an electronic information processing device and a proposed standardized communication interface. It describes a paging system that conveys messages. This patent does not disclose a system that allows wireless telephone communication via a plurality of different audio devices.

US Pat. No. 5,537,558 describes a device that enables communication between a personal computer and another device having the same or different operating protocol via a PCMCIA interface. This patent does not disclose a system that enables wireless telephone communication via multiple different audio devices.

British Patent No. 2,264,613 describes a vehicle telephone system including a portable telephone unit that is used independently or applied to conventional vehicle entertainment systems. This patent does not disclose a system that enables wireless telephone communication via multiple different audio devices.

British Patent No. 2,289,555 describes a device for personal communication, data collection and data processing (network computer), capable of receiving a PCMCIA radio module enabling telephone communication in all cellular mobile telephone systems. is doing. This patent does not disclose a system that enables wireless telephone communication via multiple different audio devices.

International patent application WO 96/39751 describes a modular telephone communication system including a wireless transceiver and a modem module selectively fixedly applied in an electronic audio device. This patent discloses a radiotelephone communication module that can be selectively and stably mounted on the outside of an audio device, and can be increased in size in at least two directions, and can be manufactured in a large shape and size. Not disclosed.

[0034]

[Means for Solving the Problems]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to an embodiment of the present invention, a financial transaction terminal device attached to a mobile phone or a base station to operate has a user interface for inputting and displaying financial transaction data. A main body for selectively and operably attaching to the mobile phone or base station via an electrical connector, and at least one magnetic card provided on the main body for reading card information necessary for financial transactions It has a reading device or a card reading device, and when the main body is connected to the mobile phone, the shape of the main body enables the mobile phone to operate independently.

In another embodiment, the body is a credit card / debit card magnetic card reader and one or two smart card readers / writers, and / or a computer or printer via a wireless communication system. Such peripherals include wireless communication systems for financial transaction processing data.

In another embodiment, the present invention is an electronic system for combining the functions of individual electronic devices, comprising a base unit having a first electronic function and a portable module having a second electronic function. And a portable module coupled to and operating with the base unit via a coupling interface, the base unit having a base unit coupling system to engage and operably couple with the coupling system of the portable module. When the portable module is connected to the base unit, the base unit, the base unit coupling system, and the portable module coupling system enable the base unit to operate independently.

In a more specific embodiment, the base unit coupling system and the portable module coupling system have a base unit coupling plate and a portable module coupling plate, respectively, and the portable module and the base unit include a portable module on the base unit. And a wireless interface for interlocking.

In yet another embodiment, the base unit is a mobile phone having an auxiliary connector and a battery coupling plate, the mobile module includes a corresponding connector, and the electronic system includes the auxiliary connector and the corresponding connector. It further includes a communication plug for connecting between and.

In a further embodiment, the base unit comprises a first module coupling plate and a transceiver coupling plate, or a first module coupling plate and an interface coupling plate, or a first module coupling plate, a transceiver coupling plate and an interface coupling plate. It is the mobile phone body that it has.

In one embodiment, the mobile module includes a battery that powers either one or both of the base unit and the mobile module. Mobile phone, walkie-talkie, high frequency (VHF), civil band (CB), amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), marine band (MB), shortwave (SW), and wide area positioning systems in terms of portable module functionality. Any one of the functions of the wireless transceiver and the wireless receiver selected from any one of (GPS) or a combination thereof, and any one of a cassette tape player, a CD player, and a mini disk player. It includes an entertainment function selected from one or a combination thereof, or a magnetic card function.

Further, the functions of the portable module include a magnetic card reader including a scanner, fax, computer, calculator, fingerprint recognition device, bar code scanner, credit card, cash card or smart card reader, digital camera, video camera. , Memory stick, cordless phone, video display, personal data assistant, pager, game pad, or alarm clock function, or any combination thereof.

In a special embodiment, the handheld module is a magnetic card reader capable of financial transactions including any one or a combination of credit card, debit card, or smart card transactions.

In another special embodiment, the mobile module includes two smart card readers that enable smart card transactions with smart cards. In other embodiments, the mobile module has a control interface that controls the functionality of the mobile module.

With respect to the base unit, the base unit may include an interface docking board, the system including an interface module, an interface module including a touch screen, a voice recognition system or a keyboard or touch screen recognition, a voice recognition system and Includes keypad.

In another form of the invention, the invention provides a portable module having a first electronic function,
A coupling system for coupling to a base unit having a second electronic function, comprising:
A portable module coupling device including a first surface of the portable module and disposed adjacent to the base unit, and an electronic device between the portable module and the base unit, the portable module being attachable to the base unit in a reverse direction. A connection device for achieving a physical connection, wherein the connection structure of the first surface and the connection device does not interfere with the outer surface of the portable module to prevent the operation of the second function of the base unit. And

[0046]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings, there is shown a modular electronic system including a base unit and at least one portable module. The base unit and the handheld module can achieve different communication, entertainment, financial, or other functions using the base unit when the handheld module is connected to the base unit.

A typical mobile phone 2 is shown in FIGS. 1a-1f. This mobile phone has a battery pack 1, which can be attached to the mobile phone in order to power it. Further, the battery pack 1 has an engaging portion 4 and a locking device 13 for fixing the battery pack 1 to the mobile phone body 2,
The user can remove the battery pack for recharging. As shown in FIG. 1e, the engaging portion and the locking device have a lower pin terminal 13 and a spring fixture 4 for attaching to the mobile phone body 2. This allows the user to selectively attach and detach the battery pack 1 from the mobile phone 2.

The battery pack 1 comprises a coupling surface 1 on a mobile phone body 2, as shown in FIG. 1d.
Engage 0. The coupling surface 10 has slots 14 and 12 for receiving the lower pin terminal 13 and the spring fixture 4, and removably secures the battery pack 1 to the mobile phone 2. The mating surfaces 10 and 1 of the battery pack 1 and the mobile phone 2
0a has a corresponding power input 11 / output pin 11a and can supply power between the battery pack 1 and the telephone body 2 as shown in FIGS. 1d and 1e.

Referring to FIG. 1 b, a typical mobile phone 2 includes a microphone 3, a speaker 5, a screen or touch screen 6, a microphone 7, a keypad 8 and a power switch 55. Furthermore, a general mobile phone has an auxiliary port 9 (
1c), including transceiver, keypad, screen, and cell phone 2
Includes audio input and output for input and output. A typical mobile phone 2 also includes an integrated transceiver with suitable circuitry, which allows
Mobile phones can call up and call down over mobile phone networks. Common mobile phone standards are 800/800 MHz AMPS format / digital, or CDMA transceiver operation that operates at 1900 MHz or all three, 800/800 MHz AMPS format / TDMA transceiver operation that operates at digital, or 900/900 MHz AMPS format / It includes, but is not limited to, any one or a combination of digital, GSM transceiver operations operating at 1900 MHz, 1800 MHz.

The mobile phone 2 has a headset access port 52 (see FIG. 1) of the headset 60.
f) is included. The headset preferably includes one or two earphones 44, a microphone 46, a coupling plug 45, and optionally an auxiliary antenna 47 as described below.

According to the invention, as will be explained below, base units and modules which can be adapted to each other are described. 2-4, the module is integrated into the body of the base unit and has communication, entertainment, or other functions. 5 and 6
In, an electronic financial transaction terminal device is shown to enable wireless or wired financial transactions.

FIG. 2 shows a first embodiment of the module. In this embodiment, the module includes the appropriate electronics to tie to a cell phone with an integrated mobile transceiver. Therefore, the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 shows a module in which a mobile phone is provided with auxiliary functions. These electronic devices are functionally equipped with, for example, a wireless transceiver (including a mobile phone, a portable wireless phone (walkie talkie), VHF or citizen band), a wireless receiver (AM / FM / MB / SW / GPS, etc.). , Scanners, fax machines, computers, calculators, tape players, CD players, minidiscs, fingerprint recognition devices, barcode scanners, and card readers, including credit card, cash card and smart card readers, digital It has a camera, video camera, memory stick, cordless phone, video display, personal data assistant, pager, game pad, alarm clock and / or battery function.

In FIG. 2 a, the top and bottom parts of the module 33 are shown. The module 33 is similar to existing battery packs as a coupling device and is used to connect the module 33 on the body of a mobile phone. In this embodiment, the functionality of the module 33 is activated via the cell phone keyboard 8 and / or the screen 6 (ie a touch screen or voice recognition device).

The electronic equipment of the module 33 is connected to the mobile phone 2 via a direct hard link provided by the communication plug 35, as shown in FIGS. 2d, 2g, 2h, 2i and 2j. This communication plug includes a latching and connection system that connects and operates the module 33 to the mobile phone body 2. Preferably, the module 33 is dimensioned to allow the communication port 35 to be inserted into the module connection area of the mobile phone body 2 using the holding port 9 provided on the mobile phone 2. Figure 2
As shown in d, 2g, and 2h, the connection communication plug 35 connects between the auxiliary port 9 and the data port 51 of the mobile phone.

The battery can be provided within the module 33 or can include a connector that delivers power from another battery (not shown) located elsewhere.

In FIG. 2b, another embodiment of the electronic module 40 is shown. In this embodiment, the module includes special function electronics that are connected to the cell phone, as described above. These electronic devices include electronic devices selected from the electronic system, as described above. In this embodiment, the module 40
It includes an auxiliary screen 39 (ie a touch screen or voice recognition device) and / or a keyboard 57, as well as a card reader 48, whereby the functions of the module 40 are activated via the auxiliary keyboard 57 or the screen 39. Module 40 includes a separate power switch 54.

In another embodiment, the function of the module 40 can also be activated via the keyboard 8 of the mobile phone. In Figure 2c, a further embodiment of the electronic module 41 is shown. In this embodiment, the module 41 has an alternative keyboard 58 and a screen 43 (ie a touch screen or voice recognizer) that can be selected for a particular electronic system.

In addition, the module can include a headset audio input / output port 49, which can connect the module to the headset directly or wirelessly, as shown in FIG. 2d. This is preferably such that the audio input / output cannot be connected when the mobile phone 2 is in transmission / reception or in a "call" via a communication plug or a wireless link.

2d, 2g, 2h show side views of different modules 33, 40, 41,
These modules have different thicknesses for mobile phones. As shown, the modules 40, 41 can include a card reader or minidisc player 78 with a slot 48, while the module 33 can include entertainment features.

In a further embodiment, certain software and / or hardware may be used to suspend the functionality of the module when it is needed or between the cell phone and the module when the cell phone is not in operation. Can be enhanced in functionality and can be activated or deactivated. In certain embodiments, the inclusion of an RF detector (see FIG. 7) in the module allows the functional operation of the module to be withheld during the "call" process of a cell phone and when the call is completed the module Can be activated again.

In a further embodiment, a dual plug headset 61 (FIG. 2f) can be used to access both the cell phone accelerator port 52 and the module access port 49. The dual plug headset has two plugs 53,
It includes two earphones 62, a microphone 63, and a selectable auxiliary antenna 64. The auxiliary antenna is required for the functionality of the particular radio receiver / transceiver module.

A further embodiment is shown in FIGS. In these embodiments, the base unit 50 includes the speaker 5, antenna 3, power on / off switch 66, screen or touch screen 6, and keypad 8 as described above.
, Access connector 9, microphone 7, and headset input / output point 6
Includes 5. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG.
0 is substantially similar to the mobile phone body 2 described in FIGS. 1 and 2.

The embodiment of FIG. 3, unlike the one described above, comprises a second module coupling plate 21 on the base unit 50 for connecting and operating the mobile transceiver module 17 to the base unit 50. . The coupling plate of the second module comprises a separate mounting device on the base unit 50, which has corresponding connectors 20, 15, 18, 16 and which has a base unit 50.
Keyboard / screen / required between the transceiver and the transceiver module 17
Corresponding contact 19 for connecting antenna / audio input / output interface,
28. The mobile transceiver module includes suitable mobile transceiver electronics as described above. In this embodiment, a particular base unit 50 may be developed to connect and operate the mobile transceiver module with the base unit 50 like any other module.

FIG. 3 a shows a back view of one embodiment of the base unit 50. The base unit 50 has dimensions of a general mobile phone. In this figure, both the first and second modules have been removed. There are two rows of electronic connectors 11 and 22 on the first coupling plate 10, and the electronic device of the first module is connected to the base unit 50 having a power connector and a data connector to operate. Similarly, the second coupling plate 21 has a series of electronic connectors 19 for connecting and operating the electronic equipment of the second module to the base unit 50. FIG. 3 b shows the front of the base unit 50. FIG. 3 c shows the back side of the base unit 50, which has two modules 17, 1 which mate with the base unit 50. 3d and 3e show the respective upper surfaces of the first and second modules 17, 1 separated from the base unit 50. 3f and 3g show the bottom of the module 17,1 detached from the base unit 50, showing the corresponding connectors 29,28 which are fitted into the connectors 11,19 on the base unit 50.
FIG. 3g shows a set of modules 1, which in this embodiment of module 1,
The module 1 supplies power only to the base unit 50.

As shown in FIGS. 3h, 3i and 3j, the dual module coupling function of the base unit 50 allows the modules 1, 25, 26 and 30 of different sizes to be mounted on the base unit 50 without any modification to the base unit 50. Can be combined.

4a, 4b, a further embodiment of the base unit 50 is shown. 4c-4f show a further embodiment of the particular module 69,70.
The base unit 50 differs from the base unit 50 described above by the third coupling plate 77. The third coupling plate 77 and its associated modules are provided with customized additional functions to allow the utilization of a specific interface formed on the base unit and the desired function of the specific module to be coupled plate 10 or. 21 is formed. For example, by forming a specific interface on the base unit 50, it can be used as a device utilizing a barcode scanner, a fingerprinting device, a digital camera, a video camera, or other device. Suitable interfaces for such systems may include bar code readers, touch screens, voice recognition devices, or camera input devices.

More particularly, FIGS. 4 a and 4 b show the front side of the base unit 50 with a third coupling plate 77, which is suitable for a suitable electrical connector 1.
1 and 22. FIG. 4 b shows a module 69 connected to the base unit 50.
Indicates. 4c and 4d show the front and back of the module 69. The module 69 is a general mobile phone keypad, which includes electrical connectors 31 and 27 and is connected to the corresponding connectors 11 and 22 of the base unit 50. 4e and 4f show another interface module 70, which is
A touch screen is provided for inputting data or commands to the base unit 50. Similarly, for other embodiments, module 70 may include base unit 5
0 has connectors 67 and 68 for connecting to connectors 11 and 22, respectively.

In another embodiment, this module includes a suitable latching and coupling device 7.
1, 72 and 75, 76, the modules 69, 70 can be coupled to the base unit 50 for operation.

(Structure of Coupling System) As described above, the base unit 50 includes at least one coupling plate 10.
, 21, 77 for connecting the module to the base unit 50 or the mobile phone 2. In particular, depending on the configuration of the mobile module and each coupling plate on the base unit, a mobile module having different dimensions is mounted on the base unit and the mobile module is provided to hold a common coupling plate mechanism. That is, the configuration of the coupling plate allows the size of the mobile module to be changed in at least one dimension (eg, thickness), and allows the mobile module to be connected to the base unit. Thus, the system can provide the functionality of the mobile module to be modified without making any changes to the base unit. In addition, the coupling plates provide a secure and stable interface connection that minimizes the risk of twisting or rotational movement relative to each other and reduces damage.

It is also possible to extend the dimensions of a particular module in three dimensions, involving a mating connector between the module and the base unit. That is, the module can be wider than the base unit or can be wrapped around the base unit.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is conceivable that a wireless infrared or RF link could be used between the module and the base unit. Accordingly, the module and the base unit are configured to include a wireless data link, an accessory connecting the module to the base unit, and data exchange between the module and the base unit can be accomplished or performed wirelessly.

Base Unit In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4, this base unit is generally shown to correspond to the base unit of a mobile phone. However, this base unit, although capable of having its main function, is not strictly related to the functionality added to the base unit via the mobile module. For example, the base unit may be an active cell phone, a computer (portable and non-portable), a mini disc player, a cassette player, and / or a recorder, a compact disc player, a DVD player, a digital camera, a video camera, or other electronic device. Can be

(Portable Module) The portable module formed in the base unit is a wireless transceiver (including, for example, AM / FM / MB / SW / GPS), scanner, fax, computer, calculator, tape player, CD player, mini. Cards, including discs, fingerprint recognition devices, bar code scanners, credit cards, cash cards, and smart card readers, digital cameras, video cameras, memory sticks, cordless phones, video displays, personal data assistants, pagers, games It has a pad, alarm clock and / or battery function. Particular modules can combine the above functionality.

In one example specific to the functionality of a wireless transceiver, by attaching a suitable handheld module to the base unit, the base unit can be operated by a user to couple to a two-way wireless communication. For example, the walkie-talkie module forms one base unit, which allows the use of a base unit such as a cell phone body like a walkie-talkie. Similarly, another class of base unit, such as a portable video camera, is formed using a walkie-talkie module, which can act as a walkie-talkie to operate a video camera.

In a specific example of the functionality of a wireless receiver, a suitable handheld module can be attached to the base unit and the base unit activated to allow the user to select and listen to a radio station and display. GPS information can be received.

In an example of the terminal device for financial transaction, the card reading / transceiver module 20 is used.
Alternatively, a separate card reading and transceiver module can be formed on the base unit, which can wirelessly transmit transaction data to or receive transaction data from the financial institution. The card reader module can use the read slot to read and write to smart cards and / or David / credit cards. Optionally, the card reading module has an integrated printer and can print a record of transactions (not shown). Specific embodiments of financial transaction terminals are described in more detail below.

Other specific modules provide useful functionality between different base units and modules. For example, the module can be provided with a mute button to mute the radio from interrupting an incoming call. Similarly, when the radio receiver forms the base unit, the user tunes to a radio station via the mobile phone to hear the sound. In this case, the handheld module would have additional functionality and, if the user received a cellphone call, the user would choose to maintain a connection with the caller.

(Electronic Financial Transaction Terminal Device EFTT) With reference to FIGS. 5 to 5 f and 6 to 6 e, an electronic EFT which is a further embodiment.
T80 is illustrated. The EFTT in FIGS. 5 to 5f is a mobile module attached to a mobile phone. The back surface 90 of the EFTT has a surface having a shape corresponding to the outer back surface of the mobile phone. The back side of the EFTT also includes a mating surface 91 corresponding to the end of the cell phone. EFTT has a serial connector 92, which is
A male and female coupling device and a locking mechanism for fixing the mobile phone to the EFTT device are used to couple with the corresponding connector of the mobile phone. The locking mechanism is best seen in Figures 6b-6e, where a spring loaded clip 100 is used to bias the cell phone against the EFTT serial connector 92.

The connection of the cell phone to the EFTT is such that the user inserts the spring loaded clip into the appropriate receiving area of the cell phone and then the cell phone is loaded with the spring loaded clip 100.
Achieved by biasing against. As a result, it is possible to separate the end of the mobile phone from the EFTT serial connector. By releasing the EFTT's serial connector 92, the cell phone can rotate relative to the back side 90 of the EFTT, and by sliding the cell phone against the EFTT, the EFTT and each connector of the cell phone can be interlocked. Is formed.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 5-5f includes a smart card reader / writer 93 on one side of the EFTT and a card reader 94 on the end of the EFTT for smart card and credit / debit transactions. Both can be generated via EFTT and mobile phones.

As shown in FIGS. 5a and 5e, the system also includes a keypad 96 and screen 95 for the entry and display of financial transaction data. As shown, the EFTT also includes a wireless data port 98, as well as a port 97 for charging the battery for the EFTT, which stores and stores data related to a particular transaction to retain the data. And / or send data to a peripheral device such as a computer or printer (not shown) for printing. The transmission of wireless data to peripheral devices is accomplished by various standards including infrared and / or radio frequencies such as blue-tooth.

Therefore, during wireless transmission using EFTT, peripheral devices such as printers are
A hard copy of the transaction may be provided to either or both of the seller and the buyer when connected directly to or near (RF) the site side (infrared). Alternatively, a peripheral device such as a computer can be used to store transaction data in a particular format.

In particular, the EFTT, which enables various financial transactions, includes incurred David card transactions, credit card transactions, and smart card transactions. For smart cards, EFTT can act as a cash machine by activating a fund to be downloaded to the smart card.

Read Card / Dual Smart Reader Another embodiment, EFTT 110, is shown with reference to FIG. 6, which has a single read card reader and dual smart card read / write slots 102.
Thus, in this embodiment, credit card / debit card transactions, as well as credit card / debit card-to-smart card transactions that can be done via EFTT,
Enables both smart card-to-smart card transactions. In the case of smart card-to-smart card transactions, mobile phone system support does not need to decouple the transaction, so mobile module 110 can be used independently of mobile phone 80.

FIG. 6e also shows another embodiment of the base station, in which the mobile module is formed. In this embodiment, the base station 120 has a function of a wireless phone and is provided with an interface 122 that connects the EFTT and the financial clear house by wire. Base station 120 may also include other base stations having the functionality described above.

Furthermore, if the engineering specifications of the base units are not valid, the developers of the modules can connect existing base units to these modules to guide specific functions. For example, in the case of mobile phones, the keyboard and screen protocols are unknown to the module developer, who may include specific functionality in the module and use the module while the mobile phone is not in use. And also shuts down the module in the situation where the call is received by the mobile phone. As an example, a broadband RF detector circuit as shown in FIG. 7 can be included in the handheld module to detect incoming calls. In this case, the circuit can provide an output signal to deactivate the module to determine the RF operation of the cell phone. In particular, the RF signal received by the antenna is half-wave rectified by the diode D1. The DC voltage generated across D1 causes the diode D2 to charge the capacitor C2.
The forward cutoff voltage of is exceeded. D2, C2 and R5 form a voltage peak detection circuit having a decay period controlled by the ratio of resistors R5 and C2.

The detector voltage developed across C5 represents the negative input of the comparator. The voltage between C2 is V +
, R1, R2 above the threshold voltage, the output of the comparator will change from high voltage to 0 volts.

Identification for recognizing a desired RF signal within the general RF environment is accomplished in two aspects. In essence, the length of an antenna stub in a cell phone provides a level of frequency discrimination due to the resonant length of the antenna. Second, the bandwidth of D1, the voltage drop of D2, the frequency response of the peak detector of the comparator, and the threshold level of the comparator provide the sensitivity of the overall circuit. Further, improved frequency discrimination is achieved by including a bandpass filter between the antenna and D1.

[Brief description of drawings]

1a is a rear view of a normal mobile phone without a battery part, FIG. 1b is a front view of a normal mobile phone, FIG. 1c is an end view of a normal mobile phone, and FIG. 1d is a battery. 1e is a back view of a conventional mobile phone with parts attached, FIG. 1e is a back view showing a normal battery part for a mobile phone, and FIG. 1f is a side view of a normal mobile phone with a battery part.

FIG. 2a is a top view and a bottom view showing a first embodiment of a module attached to a mobile phone, and FIG. 2b is a top view and a bottom view showing a second embodiment of a module attached to a mobile phone. Is a top view and a bottom view showing a third embodiment of a module mounted on a mobile phone; FIG. 2d is a side view of a mobile phone mounted with the module of FIG. 2c;
2e is a schematic view of the first embodiment of the headset, and FIG. 2f is a second view of the headset.
Fig. 2g is a side view of the mobile phone with the module of Fig. 2b attached, Fig. 2h is a side view of the mobile phone with the module of Fig. 2a attached, and Fig. 2i is an end view of the communication plug. 2j is a bottom view of the communication plug, and FIG. 2k is an end view of the module.

3a is a back view of a base unit having two docking plates, FIG. 3b.
Is a front view of the base unit, FIG. 3c is a rear view of the base unit having two docking plates with two modules mating with the base unit, FIG. 3d is a top view of the portable transceiver module, and FIG. 3e is a base unit. 3f is a top view of the first module mounted on the base module, FIG. 3f is a bottom view of the mobile transceiver module, and FIGS. 3h, 3i, 3j are side views of the base unit having different mobile transceivers and the first module mounted on the base unit. It is a figure.

4a and 4b are a front view of a base unit having a detachable interface module which is detachable from the base unit, and FIGS. 4c and 4d are front views showing a first embodiment of the interface module. The back view and FIGS. 4e and 4f are a front view and a back view showing a second embodiment of the interface module.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the financial transaction terminal device according to the present invention as seen from below, and FIG.
FIG. 5b is a bottom perspective view of the financial transaction terminal device according to the present invention with a mobile phone attached; FIG. 5b is a bottom perspective view of the financial transaction terminal device according to the present invention with a mobile telephone attached; 5c is a top view of the financial transaction terminal device according to the present invention with a mobile phone attached, FIG. 5d is a bottom view of the financial transaction terminal device according to the present invention with a mobile phone attached, and FIG. Fig. 5f is a side view of the financial transaction terminal device according to the present invention.

FIG. 6a is a schematic end view of a financial transaction terminal according to the invention with a read / write slot for dual smart cards, and FIG. 6b shows details of the latching mechanism. 6c is a schematic side view of the financial transaction terminal device according to the embodiment.
FIG. 6d is a schematic side view of a financial transaction terminal device according to an embodiment of the present invention showing a state in which a mobile phone is attached to a latching mechanism. FIG. 6e is a schematic side view of the financial transaction terminal device according to the embodiment, and FIG. 6e is a schematic side view of the financial transaction terminal device according to the embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which the wireline base station is attached to the latching mechanism.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a wideband RF detector circuit.

[Procedure for Amendment] Submission for translation of Article 34 Amendment of Patent Cooperation Treaty

[Submission date] December 21, 2001 (2001.12.21)

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be amended] Claims

[Correction method] Change

[Contents of correction]

[Claims]

Wherein said base unit, the auxiliary connector, a cellular telephone with a battery coupling plate, said portable module includes a corresponding connector, wherein the electronic system, coupled between the auxiliary connector and the corresponding connector 9. The electronic system according to claim 7 or 8 , further comprising a communication plug that operates.

Wherein said base unit, an electronic system according to claim 7, characterized in that the portable telephone body having a first module coupling plate and a transceiver coupled plates.

Wherein said base unit, an electronic system according to claim 7, characterized in that the portable telephone body having a first module coupling plate and an interface coupling plate.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the base unit, an electronic system according to claim 7, characterized in that the portable telephone body having first module coupling plate, a transceiver coupling plate, and an interface coupling plate.

Wherein said portable module, mobile telephone, walkie-talkie, radio frequency (VHF), citizens band (CB), amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), Marine Band (MB), short wave (SW
), And one or a combination of functions of a wireless transceiver and a wireless receiver selected from any one or a combination of global positioning systems (GPS), and further a cassette tape player, a CD player, or a mini. 8. The electronic system according to claim 7, wherein the electronic system includes an entertainment function selected from any one of the disk players or a combination thereof, or a magnetic card function.

14. The portable module includes a magnetic card reader or scanner including a scanner, fax, computer, calculator, fingerprint recognition device, barcode scanner, credit card, cash card, smart card reader, digital camera, video camera, 8. The electronic system of claim 7, including a function selected from one or a combination of a memory stick, a cordless phone, a video display, a personal data assistant, a pager, a gamepad, or an alarm clock function.

15. The mobile module, claims, characterized in that a credit card, a debit card or smart card magnetic card reader capable financial transactions that include any one or combination of the transaction, 7. The electronic system according to 7.

16. The mobile module enables smart card transactions with a smart card. 2
The electronic system of claim 15 , including one smart card reader.

17. The base unit includes an interface coupling plate, the electronic system includes an interface module, and the interface module includes:
8. An electronic system as claimed in claim 7, including any one of a touch screen, a voice recognition device, a keypad, or a combination thereof.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the base unit is a mobile phone, the portable module comprises a RF identification circuit for detecting the use of mobile phones, when the RF identification circuit detects a phone call signal incoming 8. An electronic system according to claim 7, including means for deactivating the portable module.

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    (81) Designated countries EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, I T, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE, TR), OA (BF , BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, G M, KE, LS, MW, MZ, SD, SL, SZ, TZ , UG, ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AE, AG, AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR, BY, B Z, CA, CH, CN, CR, CU, CZ, DE, DK , DM, DZ, EE, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IS, J P, KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR , LS, LT, LU, LV, MA, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, MZ, NO, NZ, PL, PT, R O, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ , TM, TR, TT, TZ, UA, UG, US, UZ, VN, YU, ZA, ZW (72) Inventor Keishley Dusty             Canada Alberta Tea 0 M 1 Bi             -0 Irikanna Pee. Oh. box               43 F term (reference) 3E040 BA01 CB01 FH02 FJ02 FJ05                       FK01                 5K067 AA34 BB04 DD51 EE02 EE16                       FF02                 5K101 KK00 LL12 NN04 NN05 NN08                       NN11 NN21

Claims (22)

[Claims] 1. A financial transaction terminal device which is attached to a mobile phone or a base station to operate, and which has a user interface for inputting and displaying financial transaction data,
A body for selectively and operably attaching to the mobile phone or base station via an electrical connector, and at least one magnetic card reader for reading card information required for financial transactions provided on the body. And a card reading device, wherein when the main body is connected to the mobile phone, the shape of the main body enables the mobile phone to operate independently, and the financial transaction terminal device. . 2. The financial transaction terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the main body includes a credit card / debit card magnetic card reader and a smart card reader / writer. 3. The main body comprises a magnetic card reader for reading credit / debit cards and two smart card readers / writers for direct fund transfer between two smart cards. Item 1. A terminal device for financial transaction according to item 1. 4. The terminal device for financial transactions according to claim 1, wherein the main body includes a wireless communication system for communicating financial transaction data to peripheral devices. 5. The financial transaction terminal according to claim 1, wherein the financial transaction terminal device includes means for communicating with either or both of a computer and a printer via a wireless communication system. Terminal device. 6. A financial transaction terminal device deactivates a module when a radio frequency identification circuit for detecting the use of a mobile phone and an incoming telephone call signal is detected by the radio frequency identification circuit. The financial transaction terminal device according to claim 1, further comprising means. 7. An electronic system for combining functions of individual electronic devices, the system including a base unit having a first electronic function and a portable module having a second electronic function, the portable module being a combined interface. The base unit has a base unit coupling system, and the base unit is operably coupled to the coupling system of the portable module by engaging with the coupling system of the portable module. An electronic system, wherein when coupled to a unit, the base unit, the base unit coupling system, and the portable module coupling system enable the base unit to operate independently. 8. The electronic system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the base unit coupling system and the portable module coupling system have a base unit coupling plate and a portable module coupling plate, respectively. 9. The portable module and the base unit may include a wireless interface for connecting and operating the portable module to a base unit selected from one or both of radio frequency and infrared. The electronic system according to claim 7 or claim 8. 10. The base unit is a mobile phone having an auxiliary connector and a battery coupling plate, the mobile module includes a corresponding connector, and the electronic system connects between the auxiliary connector and the corresponding connector. The electronic system according to any one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising a communication plug that operates. 11. The electronic system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the base unit is a mobile phone body having a first module coupling plate and a transceiver coupling plate. 12. The electronic system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the base unit is a mobile phone body having a first module coupling plate and an interface coupling plate. 13. The electronic system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the base unit is a mobile phone body having a first module coupling plate, a transceiver coupling plate, and an interface coupling plate. 14. The mobile module is one of the base unit and the mobile module.
8. The electronic system of claim 7, including a battery to power one or both. 15. The portable module is a mobile phone, a walkie-talkie, a high frequency (VHF), a civil band (CB), an amplitude modulation (AM), a frequency modulation (FM), a marine band (MB), a short wave (SW).
), And one or a combination of functions of a wireless transceiver and a wireless receiver selected from any one or a combination of global positioning systems (GPS), and further a cassette tape player, a CD player, or a mini. 8. The electronic system according to claim 7, wherein the electronic system includes an entertainment function selected from any one of the disk players or a combination thereof, or a magnetic card function. 16. The portable module includes a magnetic card reader including a scanner, a fax machine, a computer, a calculator, a fingerprint recognition device, a barcode scanner, a credit card, a cash card, or a smart card reader, a digital camera, a video camera, 8. The electronic system of claim 7, including a function selected from one or a combination of a memory stick, a cordless phone, a video display, a personal data assistant, a pager, a gamepad, or an alarm clock function. 17. The mobile module is a magnetic card reader capable of performing financial transactions including any one or a combination of credit card, debit card, smart card transactions, and the like. 7. The electronic system according to 7. 18. The mobile module enables smart card transactions with a smart card.
18. The electronic system of claim 17, including one smart card reader. 19. The electronic system according to claim 7, wherein the portable module has a control interface for controlling the function of the portable module. 20. The base unit includes an interface coupling plate, the electronic system includes an interface module, and the interface module includes:
8. An electronic system as claimed in claim 7, including any one of a touch screen, a voice recognition device, a keypad, or a combination thereof. 21. The base unit is a mobile phone, and the mobile module detects an RF identification circuit for detecting the use of the mobile phone and an incoming telephone call signal when the RF identification circuit is detected. 8. An electronic system according to claim 7, including means for deactivating the portable module. 22. A coupling system for connecting a mobile module having a first electronic function to a base unit having a second electronic function, the system including a first surface of the mobile module and adjacent to the base unit. A portable module coupling device that is disposed as a unit, and a connection device that can attach the portable module to the base unit in a reverse direction and that achieves an electronic coupling between the portable module and the base unit, the first surface; The coupling system, wherein the coupling structure with the connecting device does not interfere with the outer surface of the portable module to prevent the operation of the second function of the base unit.