JP2003519937A - Wrist-worn communication device with multi-compartment keypad and antenna system - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract: A wrist-worn communication device (5) having a mobile phone mechanism (20) configured to transmit and receive communication signals. This device incorporates an antenna system (25) so that signals can be transmitted and received. The antenna system further comprises at least one antenna (25) extendable in a direction away from the horizontal plane of the communication device.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

【Technical field】

The present invention relates generally to mobile phone devices, and more particularly to wrist-worn mobile phone devices having a multi-compartment keypad and antenna system.

[0002]

[Background technology]

With recent advances in wireless communication technology, mobile phones have become very popular. Early models were large and heavy, which was inconvenient for users to carry, but recent models are steadily becoming smaller and lighter. The cell phones currently in use are very small and light, and can be stored in a clothing pocket or wallet.

While improving its portability, the new model has several drawbacks.
For example, because of its light weight and small size, it is rather easy to drop, damage, or simply misplace. In addition, when a mobile phone user receives a call, it takes time to find or locate the phone (for example, in your pocket, wallet, or briefcase). . In addition, it takes the user extra time to orient the phone when activating the answer mode.

In order to deal with such a drawback, a mobile phone that can be attached to a user's arm has also been developed. For some of such devices, US Patent Application No. 5
, 239, 521, 5, 274, 513, and 5, 224, 076, respectively. In all of these published documents, the phone usually takes the form of a wrist watch that is secured to the user's wrist by a band, in which case the phone mechanism is conventionally mounted at some location on the watch. The main components of the mobile phone mechanism such as the transceiver, the call originator, the keyboard, the voice recognition device, the display, and the battery power supply are
It is stored in a common case. The microphone and speaker are usually built into the band.

One of the problems that users experience with wrist-worn mobile phones in the prior art is that such mobile phones are difficult to operate. For example, some of the mobile phone devices according to the prior art make a call while the user keeps them attached to his or her arm. Therefore, when making a call, the user must hold the device on his wrist, press the keypad of the device, lift his wrist close to his ear to talk, and keep that state. Also, since the device's microphone and speaker are fixed in their default positions on the device, the user is almost always in an unfamiliar position in order to bring the microphone close to the mouth and the speaker close to the ear. I have to support. Alternatively, some of the prior art mobile phone devices are designed to be completely removed from the user's wrist, so the device must be removed from the user's wrist before making or receiving a call. I won't

Further, reducing the size of the telephone to a size that is not inconvenient to attach to a person's wrist usually results in a corresponding reduction in the overall size of the telephone keypad. Reducing the overall size of the keypad requires making the keys on the keypad smaller and / or bringing them closer together. It is difficult for the user to operate small keys that are closely spaced because it is possible to accidentally press different keys.

One challenge in the design of wrist-worn telephone technology is the antenna compartment. In general, the wrist-worn telephone device according to the prior art employs an antenna that is mounted at a position close to or in close contact with the skin of the user. In many cases, such antenna placement can result in unnecessary signal loss. In order to avoid such loss of signal, many users have some or all of the opportunity to call,
I notice that I have to remove the wrist-worn telephone device from my wrist. This hinders the achievement of these important goals of the phones.

Accordingly, there is a need for improved wrist technology and improved wrist-worn mobile phone devices.

[0009]

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

Thus, it is a main object of the present invention to provide a novel wrist-worn telephone device by eliminating the above-mentioned drawbacks and other drawbacks of the conventional wrist-worn portable telephone device.

Furthermore, it is another object of the present invention to provide such a device in which all of the major components of the cell phone mechanism are adapted to be attached to the user's wrist.

Thus, a wrist-worn telephone device to be attached to a user's wrist is provided according to one aspect of the present invention. According to one embodiment, the device includes a wrist band configured to attach to a user's wrist configured to support a cell phone mechanism. The device also has a keypad attached to the wristband and coupled to the cellphone mechanism to provide a signal to the cellphone mechanism. A keypad according to various embodiments of the present invention has a plurality of adjustable compartments.

The device also has a handset that is removably attached to either the wrist band or the keypad. The handset is
It has at least one compartment and also has a microphone and a speaker.
The handset requires minimal space when closed and has two or more compartments that are extendable or collapsible to allow easy connection to a wrist band or keypad. Has advantages. In the open state, the microphone is located at one end of the handset and the speaker is located at the other end so that the distance between the microphone and the speaker is approximately equal to the distance between the user's ear and mouth. The handset extends. The handset can be attached to the wrist band by wiring or wirelessly.

[0013] Preferably, the keypad preferably has a button that, when pressed, transmits a signal corresponding to the cell phone mechanism. In one embodiment of the invention, the keypad has a plurality of pressure sensitive switches employing pressure transducers to act as key elements of the keypad. Therefore, the keypad according to this embodiment of the present invention can be quite thin and yet extendable.

The keypad can have one or more compartments. In one embodiment, all keys on the keypad are located on the wrist band. In another embodiment, only some of the keys of the keypad are located on the wrist band and the remaining keys are located on the wrist band or at least one separate keypad compartment attached to the cell phone mechanism. The space between the keys is wide and it is easy to dial. In yet another embodiment, all the keys on the keypad are attached to a separate keypad compartment that is coupled to the cell phone mechanism.

Each keypad compartment may be connected to a wrist band or mobile phone mechanism by a hinge, or at least one rail guide may be used to connect to the wrist band or mobile phone mechanism so that it can be telescopically extended. It can be mounted slidably. In embodiments that employ multiple keypad compartments, the compartments of the keypads are joined together using hinges to fold or parallel guides mounted internally for telescopic extension. You can also do it.

When the second keypad compartment is rotated relative to the first keypad compartment and is in the closed state, the buttons of each of the first compartment and the second compartment are obscured. Advantageously, the additional keypad compartment is rotatably mounted on the first compartment. Further, preferably the second compartment is rotated relative to the first compartment to rotate the second compartment to the first compartment so that the keypad has a flat shape when in the open position. It is preferable to attach it as much as possible.

If possible, this device preferably incorporates a transceiver for transmitting and receiving wireless communication signals and an antenna that extends and contracts freely. The device may also have a display means coupled to the cell phone mechanism and responsive to the incoming call to inform the user that an incoming call has arrived. Preferably, the display means comprises a vibrator in the form of a mechanical assembly with reciprocating protrusions that stimulate the user's wrist.

The device can also have at least one data display panel.
If possible, this device preferably also has a timepiece unit. According to one embodiment, the timepiece unit, the minimum elements of the keypad or the elements of the telephone mechanism are arranged in diametrically opposite directions on the user's wrist.

The mobile phone mechanism is also extendable in the palm direction of the user and also has an earpiece that can be retracted into the area of the housing. If possible, this earpiece is preferably expandable and contractable along the axis of the user's arm. The earpiece is retractable through an inverted open cover means rotatably connected to the housing and can be further extended by at least one retractable or accordion-like section of the cover.

Furthermore, there is an advantage that the earpiece of the mobile phone mechanism can be attached to one end of a tube having a fixing mechanism that can be fixed to a user's finger. Releasing the locking mechanism causes the tube to be retracted into the housing by resilient biasing means connected to the tube edge.

The battery power source may be a single battery that extends circumferentially along at least a fairly large area of the user's wrist, or a plurality of batteries connected to each other, each extending circumferentially along the user's wrist. Can have a battery. It will be appreciated that any type of battery may be employed. The battery can be stored in the case in a removable manner.

When a plurality of batteries are adopted, each of the batteries can be housed in the case, and the cases are connected to each other. To that end, preferably the device preferably has an electrical circuit suitable for connecting the cell phone mechanism to a predetermined battery of the plurality of batteries.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the device incorporates a movable antenna extending outwardly from the device. Advantageously, a hinge or pivot mechanism is employed to allow the antenna to rotate away from the horizontal plane of the device. The antenna can have a plurality of stretchable sections, such as a section that employs a stretch mechanism.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, at least a first antenna and a second antenna are employed such that at least one antenna is movable away from the horizontal plane of the device. There is. By adjusting the position of the two antennas relative to each other during operation, the antennas can be provided with polarization diversity which allows the device to be insensitive to signals in that direction and not receive.

[0025]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

1A and 1B are diagrams of a wrist-worn communication device 5 according to one embodiment of the present invention. 1 (a) and 1 (b) show the device 5 when not in operation. Since the wrist-worn communication device 5 is slim and lightweight, there is an advantage in that the possibility of getting caught in the user's clothes or hindering the user's activities can be eliminated as much as possible. Specifically, FIG. 1A is a side view of a wrist-worn communication device 5 having a wrist band 10 and a handset 12. The wrist band 10 is preferably flexible so that it can be worn around the user's wrist, and is provided with fasteners at both ends to allow the device to be securely attached to the user's wrist. And there is an advantage.

FIG. 1B is a front view of the wrist-worn communication device 5. The device 5 may also have additional function buttons 44 located on the sides of the cell phone mechanism 20 along the edges of the wrist band 10. According to one embodiment, the buttons 44 allow the user to make and receive phone calls and navigate menus displayed by the display unit, which is described in further detail below.

FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are side views of the wrist-worn communication device 5. Figure 2 (
In a), when the handset 12 is detached from the wrist-worn communication device 5, the mobile phone mechanism 20 is exposed, but as shown, it can be placed anywhere on the wrist-worn communication device 5. it can. The mobile phone mechanism 20 may be left attached to the wrist-worn communication device 5 and may have other typical functions of a receiver, a display unit, and a mobile phone device, as described in detail below. In one embodiment, the mobile phone mechanism 20 includes a wireless application protocol (hereinafter “
It incorporates Internet browser technology (such as WAP) to make Internet applications available to users. In one embodiment, a battery is provided to power both the handset 12 and the cell phone mechanism 20. As mentioned previously, the battery of the cell phone mechanism 20 can be located anywhere on the wrist band 10. However, in one embodiment, the wrist-worn communication device 5 is configured so that the battery in the mobile phone mechanism 20 also supplies power to the battery of the handset 12 for charging or the like.

According to some embodiments, when the wrist band 10 is worn by a user, the keypad of the mobile phone mechanism 20 and each section of the display may be either on the palm side or the forearm side of the user's wrist. Can be placed in the crab. However, in the various drawings shown here, the mobile phone mechanism 20 is shown as one unit arranged only on one side of the user's wrist, but the present invention is limited in its scope in that respect. It is important to keep in mind that it is not done. Instead, various elements of the mobile phone mechanism 20, including batteries, transmitters, receivers, microprocessors, I / O units, antennas, etc., are placed around the wrist to maximize the space on the wrist band 10. It can also be placed in various positions.

According to various embodiments of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 2A, the handset 12 is wired to the mobile phone mechanism 20 via the electric wire 30 so that the communication signal can be transmitted and received. You can also In this embodiment, an antenna for receiving communication signals (shown in the figures described below) is located in the handset 12. Alternatively, it is possible to establish a wireless relationship between the handset 12 and the mobile phone mechanism 20 for transmitting a communication signal in a wireless manner as described in more detail below.

In the preferred embodiment, the wire 30 is retractable so that it does not sag when the handset 12 is mounted on the wrist band 10. In one embodiment, the line 30 not only transmits signals between the handset 12 and the cell phone mechanism 20, but also transmits external communication signals such as cell phone communication signals that are communicated with the base station. It can function as an antenna that is itself configured to transmit and receive.

The maximum distance between the handset and the wrist band depends on the length of the wire. If the handset 12 is wirelessly connected to the mobile phone mechanism 20, the user is not limited to that. Therefore, a wired connection may have the inconvenience that the user has to switch to the other hand during the call or hand the phone to another person who wants to make the call. A wireless connection between 20 and the handset 12 has advantages in this regard. However, for wireless connection, handset 12
The mobile phone mechanism 20 further includes another transceiver, which transmits and receives an external communication signal (for example, a signal generated by a mobile phone base station) by one transceiver and further an internal signal (that is, the mobile phone mechanism). The signal between 20 and the handset 12 must be able to be received by another transceiver.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the handset 12 is provided with two telescoping handset compartments 12a and 12b, which are very thin. The speaker unit 14 is attached to one end of the handset section 12a, and the microphone 16 is attached to the other end of the handset section 12b. The telescopic handset compartments 12a and 12b are moved between the open and closed states by moving along one or more guides 12d mounted in one of the compartments (parallel). Guides (such as guides and rail guides) interlock so that they can slide relative to each other. FIG. 2A shows the handset 12 in the closed state. In the closed state, the handset 12 has a short length and a small occupied space.
It can be easily stored on the wrist band 10 when not in use.

FIG. 2B shows the handset 12 in an open state. In the open state, the length of the handset 12 is longer than in the closed state. Thus, in the open position, the speaker 14 and microphone 16 are located very close to the ears and mouth of a typical user during use, although the invention is not limited in this respect. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2 (c) and 2 (d), the compartments 12a and 12b of the handset 12 can be folded around a straight hinge 13 to achieve the same extensibility, or It is also possible to rotate around the pivot 13b, as shown in 2 (e) and FIG. 2 (f). Still another embodiment of the present invention having another configuration of handset 12 is described below, but the present invention allows the compartments 12a and 12b to be extended by other means known in the art. I am considering to be able to do it.

Returning to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, another feature of the handset 12 is that the speaker unit 14 and the microphone 16 respectively have regions 32 a and 32 b that can be extended in the vertical direction of the handset 12. There is. When the handset 12 is open, the extended areas 32a and 32b hold the speaker unit 14 and microphone 16 close to the user's ear and mouth during use.
The extension areas 32a and 32b of the handset 12 interlock in corresponding mating areas of the wrist band 10 due to friction when the handset 12 is closed. Depending on the arrangement of the handsets 12, the speaker unit 14 and the microphone 16 may be arranged as shown in FIG.
As shown in (a) and FIG. 2 (b), it can be attached to the extension part in the vertical direction, or as shown in FIGS. 2 (c) and 2 (d), It can also be attached anywhere on the handset 12. In one embodiment of the invention, the handset 12 is hermetically sealed to protect it from drops and dust.

3 (a) and 3 (b) are different from FIG. 2 (a), except that FIGS. 3 (a) and 3 (b) are front views of the wrist-worn communication device 5. And the same as FIG. As in the case of FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b), a handset 12 having two telescoping handset sections 12a and 12b having a speaker 14 and a microphone 16, respectively, is shown in FIGS. It is also shown in 3 (b). In FIG. 3A, the handset 12 which is removed from the wrist-worn communication device 5 and is shown in the front part of the mobile phone mechanism 20 is shown. In this figure, other features of the mobile phone mechanism 20 are shown, such as the keypad compartment 18 and portions of the display unit 22. According to one embodiment of the invention, the keypad compartment 18 is folded over the cell phone mechanism 20 as shown in Figure 3 (a). Other embodiments in which the keypad 18 has multiple compartments are described in detail below.

As mentioned previously, FIG. 3 (a) shows the portion of the display 22 that is visible when the handset 12 is removed from the wrist band 10. A liquid crystal display can be adopted as the display 22. The display 22 is the number the user is dialing when making a call from the device, the remote telephone device making multiple incoming calls (if such an option is approved by the remote telephone owner). , Is configured to display date, time, etc.

As shown in FIG. 4A and other figures described below, it is preferable that the size of the display 22 is large, if possible. Therefore, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, preferably display 22 is large so as to display user selectable menus and Internet applications. In one embodiment, if an internet browser technology such as "WAP" is employed in the mobile phone mechanism 20, the display 22 will display data from the internet such as stock prices, weather forecasts, traffic information, driving instructions and the like. Is configured.

As shown in FIGS. 1 (b), 3 (a), and 4 (a) (and various other embodiments described below in part), the handset 12 is attached to the wrist band. 10
The display 22 can be completely covered by the handset 12 when attached to the. For example, in FIG. 1 (b), when the handset 12 is closed, no part of the display 22 can be seen. Similarly, in Figures 5 (a) -5 (c), which are described in detail below, the display portion 22b is only visible to the user when the keypad section 18b has been rotated and is in the open position. . The entire display, including the large area of the display portion 22, is only visible when the keypad section 18a is telescopically extended and is in the open position.

However, the present invention also contemplates embodiments in which the user is always able to see the portion of the display 22. For example, FIG. 14 is a diagram of one embodiment such that the display portion 22a is always visible to the user. The display portion 22 is shown relatively small in FIG. 14, but like the other embodiments,
It is also possible to employ a large-sized display 22 whose part or all can be seen by the user. According to various embodiments, if at least a part of the display 22 is always visible, the user can perform various functions without removing the handset 12 or use the wrist-worn communication device 5. It can be operated. For example, the date and time, the telephone number of the incoming call, the telephone number list, etc. can be displayed on the always visible portion of the display 22.

As described above, FIGS. 1B and 2A are front views showing the wrist-worn communication device 5 in a partially closed state. This device configuration corresponds to a device worn by a user but not in use. FIG. 4A shows the wrist-worn communication device 5 when the first section 18a of the keypad 18 connected to the mobile phone mechanism 20 is rotated around the hinge 21 and is in the open state. There is. Figure 4
(B) shows when the wrist-worn communication device 5 is in a completely open state, that is, when both the first section 18a and the second section 18b of the keypad 18 are in an open state. . Compartment 18b of keypad 18 is compartment 18a via hinge 23.
And is rotated about hinge 23 to a fully open condition (other methods such as sliding compartment 18b over compartment 18a are discussed further below). FIG. 4 (c) shows the same embodiment, but with the handset 12 removed for operation. FIG. 4D shows the handset 12 when it is detached from the wrist band 10 and extended to its full length.

As shown in FIG. 4 (b), when the wrist-worn communication device 5 is fully open, the keypad compartments 18 a and 18 b allow the user to easily operate the keys. To form a nearly flat surface. Buttons 42 are placed on the keypad 18 in a well-known manner, such as a regular telephone, and are mounted at a sufficient distance so that the user does not accidentally press a button that they do not intend to press. There is. Both the keypads 18a and 18b are provided with buttons 42 that the user presses to operate the wrist-worn communication device 5. Specifically, the keypad 18 is electrically connected to the mobile phone mechanism 20 of the device 5, and sends a signal corresponding to a button pressed by the user to the mobile phone mechanism 20.

FIG. 4 (b) also shows the handset 12 attached to the keypad compartment 18 a. As previously mentioned, the vertically extended regions 32a and 3 of the handset 12 are
2b is frictionally attached to the keypad compartment 18a. On the other hand, FIG.
4 (d) and FIG. 4 (d) show the handset 12 removed from the keypad compartment 18a for operation by the user.

Various other embodiments of the wrist-worn communication device 5 are possible. For example, the elements of the foldable wrist-worn communication device 5 could instead be retractable or adjustable by other means. Similarly, the elements of the retractable wrist-worn communication device 5 may alternatively be foldable (or otherwise adjustable).

Similarly, FIGS. 1-4 show a keypad compartment 18 a connected to the wrist band 10 via a hinge 21, in which case the keypad compartment 18 a is on the display 22. Can be folded. 5 (a), 5 (b), 5 (
c) and FIG. 5D are views of another embodiment in which the keypad 18 is elastically extended from the wrist band 10. According to this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5A, the keypad 18 is placed on the mobile phone mechanism 20 in the closed state. The keypad 18 moves along the parallel guides 28a and 28b of the mobile phone mechanism 20 so as to be in the open state as shown in FIG. 5 (b). Preferably, in this embodiment (and any other embodiment in which the two elements freely extend relative to each other), a predetermined amount of force is applied to return the keypad 18 to the closed state after the elements have been extended. It is preferable to employ a bias spring (not shown) so that it can be added.

Specifically, in FIGS. 5 (a), 5 (b) and 5 (c), the keypad 18 has two sections 18a and 18b. The keypad section 18a extends freely from the mobile phone mechanism 20. On the other hand, the keypad compartment 18b is provided with a hinge 23 so that the keypad compartment 18b can be folded over the keypad compartment 18a and the mobile phone mechanism 20 when the keypad compartment 18a is in the closed state. It is connected to the keypad compartment 18a. In this embodiment, the keypad compartment 1
8b can be folded into the keypad compartment 18a and the cell phone mechanism 20. In this embodiment, the retractable movement of the keypad compartment 18a is not constrained and the handset 12 is attached to the keypad compartment 18b so that the user can access the handset when the keypad compartment 18a is in the closed state. Removably mounted (such as by friction fit).

The present invention contemplates that the keypad compartment 18a is connected to the cell phone mechanism 20 via a hinge and the keypad compartment 18b is connected to the keypad compartment 18a via a retractable relationship. There is. The present invention, according to various embodiments, includes a keypad 1
It is also contemplated that 8 has compartments other than two compartments, each compartment being connected by any of the above means. For example, the wrist-worn communication device 5 may have only one keypad compartment that foldably or slidably connects to the device.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of another embodiment of the present invention having one keypad compartment 18a. In this case, all keys 42 are located in the keypad compartment 18a. Although the keys are close to each other and are difficult to operate, this configuration allows for a slimmer profile than the embodiment where the wrist-worn communication device 5 has more than one keypad compartment. Further, the handset 12 is removably mounted on the keypad compartment 18a for ease of operation.

Using a multi-compartment keypad, such as the keypads of FIGS. 5 (b) and 5 (c) above, does not increase the overall size of the device and allows the user to wear it on their wrists. Widen the spacing of the buttons on the keypad without making it difficult to wear,
There is an advantage that the size can be increased. A detailed description of the different configurations of multi-compartment keypads and the advantages afforded by each is as detailed as if set forth in its entirety, and is hereby incorporated by reference into Applicant's co-pending patent application. No. 09 / 330,728.

Generally, when a multi-compartment keypad is used, the size of the keypad is reduced when it is closed, so that the possibility of the keypad interfering with or injuring the user is minimized. You can In addition, a multi-compartment keypad hides the keypad buttons and protects them from water drops, dust, and the like. In the preferred embodiment, the buttons on each keypad compartment are arranged so that they do not touch each other when compartment 18a is closed on compartment 18b. In this embodiment, since the combined thickness of the compartments 18a and 18b is thin when closed, the wrist-worn communication device 5 is not bulky on the user's wrist and is not pushed when the device is in the closed state. , Button wear and damage is suppressed.

According to another embodiment, the multi-compartment keypad 18 is arranged as a thin film keypad. In this embodiment, the key element employs a touch-type switch formed on a thin film. The structure and operation of thin film keypads are well known and are described in, for example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 3,987,259 or patent application Ser. No. 4,489,302, incorporated herein by reference. In essence, a plurality of electrodes are arranged relative to each other while maintaining a spaced relationship. When any one of the key elements is pressed, a portion of the electrode establishes an electrical connection capable of emitting a signal indicative of the particular key element pressed. According to one embodiment of the invention, such a thin film keypad is made of a practically pliable material such as plastic.

As mentioned previously, the wrist-worn communication device 5, according to one embodiment of the present invention, is configured to establish a wireless connection between the handset 12 and the cell phone mechanism 20. You can also For example, FIGS. 7 (a), 7 (b) and 7 (c) are diagrams of another embodiment in which the handset 12 includes a retractable antenna 25. Figure 7
(A) shows the handset 12 that is detachably attached to the wrist-worn communication device 5 when the user is not operating the device. The width of the handset 12 is substantially the same as the width of the wrist band 10.

FIG. 7B shows the handset 12 removed from the device in the closed state. FIG. 7C shows the handset 12 in the open state. In the open state, the compartments 12a and 12b slide relative to each other, and the telescopic antenna 25 extends so as to transmit and receive communication signals from the outside. As previously mentioned, if the antenna 25 is configured to receive external communication signals, it is advantageous to wire the handset 12 to the wrist-worn communication device 5 to transmit signals between them. There is.

FIGS. 8 (a), 8 (b), and 8 (c) are diagrams of yet another embodiment in which the handset 12 is provided with a telescopic antenna 25. FIG. 8A shows the handset 12 that is detachably attached to the wrist-worn communication device 5 when the user operates the device. In this case, the width of the handset 12 is slightly wider than the width of the wrist band 10 so that the antenna housing 12c can be housed.
FIG. 8 (b) shows the handset 12 removed from the device in the closed state. FIG. 8C shows the handset 12 in the opened state. In the open state, the antenna section 25b and the section 25 are arranged so that transmission and reception of communication signals are improved.
The retractable antenna 25 extends to c. Of course, the antenna 25 can be mounted in either the handset compartment 12a or compartment 12b and can be extended in any direction depending on the handset configuration.

The configuration of the handset 12 of FIGS. 8 (a) -8 (c) can also be employed in the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 9 (a) -9 (e). FIG. 9A shows a wrist-worn communication device 5 having a keypad section 18a and a section 18b.
The keypad section 18 a extends and contracts on the display 22. The keypad section 18b is connected to the keypad 18a via a hinge. Handset 12
Are removably attached to the keypad 18b. The entire display 22 on the wrist-worn communication device 5 allows the user to refer to information such as the telephone number of the other party of the call, Internet data, and the like.

FIG. 9B is a diagram of the handset 12a removed from the keypad compartment 18b. Shown in this figure is a keypad compartment 18a configured to slide on the display 22 via parallel guides 34a and 34b. As can be seen, the keypad compartment 18a is not as wide as the cell phone mechanism 20. Therefore, part of the mobile phone mechanism 20, ie the display unit 22, remains uncovered. The width of the portion of the mobile phone mechanism 20 in the state where it is not covered when the keypad section 18a does not extend and contract elastically is the antenna housing 1 of the handset 12.
Matches the width of 2c. When the handset 12 is stored in the wrist band 10, the antenna housing 12c fits in the space not occupied by the keypad 18a, so that the wrist-worn communication device 5 can have a slim outer shape.

FIG. 9C shows a keypad section 18 b folded over the keypad section 18 a so that the size of the wrist-worn communication device 5 can be minimized. Figure 9 (d
) And FIG. 9 (e) also show the handset 12 in the closed and open states, respectively. FIG. 9 (e) shows the handset 12 with the retractable antenna 25 in the extended position. However, the antenna housing 12c can be arranged at any position on the handset 12, and is configured to be frictionally coupled to an area on the wrist band 10 that is not occupied by the additional function of the wrist-worn communication device 5. I will add that it is possible.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 10 (a) -10 (e). FIG. 10A shows the wrist-worn communication device 5 in the closed state. FIG. 10 (a) shows a very small handset 12. Handset 12
Are mounted next to the wire housing 38. In the illustrated embodiment, both the handset 12 and the housing 38 are located next to the cell phone mechanism 20, although the invention is not limited in this respect. Also shown in this figure is a microphone 16 similarly configured on the wrist band 10.
In this embodiment, the microphone 16 is a mobile phone mechanism 20 on the wrist band 10.
It is located on the opposite side of, but other positions are also contemplated.

FIG. 10 (b) shows the handset 12 removed from the wrist band 10, as seen when the user operates the device. The handset 12 includes a speaker unit 14 and is configured to be held between the user's fingers, such as between the user's thumb and forefinger. The handset 12 is connected to the mobile phone mechanism 2 by the electric wire 30.
0 has the advantage that it can be stored in the wire housing 38. As mentioned previously, the electrical wire 30 is configured to transmit a communication signal between the handset 12 and the cell phone mechanism 20.

To operate the device, the user removes the handset 12 from the wrist band 10 and grasps it between his fingers. That is, the wrist-worn communication device 5 is held on the same arm as that on which it is worn. Next, the user puts the handset 12 on his / her ear so that the other party's voice can be heard through the speaker unit 14. As described above, the electric wire 30 has a length sufficient to reach from the position of the wire housing 38 on the user's wrist to the user's fingertip, and is long enough to accommodate hands of various sizes. When bringing the handset 12 near the ear, the user moves his / her wrist so that the microphone 16 attached to the wrist band 10 is near the mouth.

FIGS. 10 (c)-10 (e) illustrate how the keypad 18 and display 22 are configured on the wrist band 10. For example, in FIG. 10 (c), the keypad 18 has two keypad compartments separated by a hinge 23, compartment 18a and compartment 18b, according to one embodiment of the invention. As with the previously described embodiment, the keypad 18 is configured to rotate the compartment 18b and form a flat keypad for the user to manipulate.

FIG. 10D shows the keypad 18 which is in a closed state but extends and contracts from the mobile phone mechanism 20. As mentioned earlier, the keypad 18
It is stretchably extended along the parallel guides 28a and 28b mounted on the mobile phone mechanism 20. When the keypad 18 is extended, the display unit 22 can be viewed by the user. Finally, FIG. 10E shows the display 22.
, The keypad section 18a extends and contracts, and the keypad section 18b rotates about the hinge 23 so that the keypad section 18b becomes a flat keypad. Is shown.

FIGS. 11 (a) and 11 (b) are diagrams of another embodiment of the present invention that integrates some of the features of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 10. For example, in FIG.
1 (a) and FIG. 11 (b) are diagrams of a handset 12 of approximately the same size as the handset shown in FIGS. At one end of the handset 12 is a speaker unit 14. The user removes the handset 12 from the wrist band 10 in the same manner as previously described so that the speaker 14 can be held in the ear. Furthermore, in FIG.
In a), the microphone 16 mounted on the wrist band 10 is shown, in this case in contact with the mobile phone mechanism 20. 10 (a) to 10 (e)
As described in connection with, when the handset 12 is brought close to the ear, the user moves the wrist so that the microphone 16 approaches the mouth.

According to other embodiments of the present invention, the wrist-worn communication device may be configured in other ways to minimize its thickness. For example, FIGS. 12 (a) -12 (e) are views of another embodiment in which the handset 12 is removably mounted along the side of the keypad compartment 18. Since the handset 12 is not mounted on the keypad compartment 18, the outer shape of the wrist-worn communication device 5 is slimmer than other embodiments.

FIG. 12 (a) shows the handset 12 mounted on the wrist band 10 next to the keypad 18. The handset 12 is properly held by the parallel guides 40a and 40b. FIG. 12 (b) is a view of the handset 12 sliding relative to the wrist band 12 so that it can be held by the user during operation. Handset 1
2 communicates with the wrist-worn communication device 5 as previously described, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 (d) shows the first sliding on the wrist band 10 from the mounting position.
The handset 12 is shown in the position. FIG. 12E shows the speaker unit 1.
The handset 12 has been rotated to represent four. Since the handset 12 is configured so that the speaker unit 14 is mounted on the wrist band 12 with the user's wrist facing, the present invention protects the speaker from water droplets and dust. Is not limited.

On the other hand, FIG. 12C shows a telescopic handset 12 which can be freely expanded and contracted. In this embodiment, the handset 12 is made up of four telescoping compartments, designated 12a-12d, but the present invention also contemplates that any number of compartments may be employed. In this case, the handset section 12a has a speaker 14, while the handset section 12d has a microphone 16. As mentioned previously, the handset 12 is extendable so that it takes up very little space when closed or attached to the wrist band 10 and is a more desirable configuration for operation when in the open position. The microphone 16 and the speaker 14 can be arranged in.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the wrist-worn communication device 5 further comprises a timepiece unit that operates independently of the mobile phone mechanism 20. For example, in FIG.
1 is a diagram of a wrist-worn communication device 5 having a watch unit 50 attached to a wrist band 10. FIG. Obviously, any means can be used to attach the watch unit 30 to the wrist band 10. For example, the watch 30 can be connected to the wrist band 10 by a hinge or the like on the housing, or can be attached integrally with the housing. When the user wears the wrist-worn communication device 5, the watch unit 50 is placed at an arbitrary position of the wrist band 10 on the opposite side of the user's wrist with respect to each part of the keypad 18 or the display unit 22 when worn by the user. Can be configured to be attached.

Referring to FIG. 13, the wrist-worn communication device can have a handset 12 that operates in the manner described in the previously described embodiments. In short, the handset 12 is preferably removable from the wrist band 10, preferably so that it is held by the user during use. FIG. 13 also shows an additional speaker unit 52 and a microphone 54. Additional speaker unit 52 and microphone 5
4 can be captured in several ways.

For example, as a loudspeaker, an additional speaker unit 52 according to one embodiment of the present invention is incorporated so that the user can hear the voice of the other party of the telephone without bringing the device 5 close to the ear. be able to. This is advantageous because the user can activate the “hands-free function” so that the user can operate the device 5 while performing other functions such as driving. In this case, the handset 12 remains attached to the wrist band 10,
The microphone 54 receives the voice of the user and transmits it to the user via the speaker unit 52 so that the voice of the other party of the telephone can be heard.

Further, the speaker unit 52 and the microphone 54 can be incorporated according to another embodiment of the present invention so that they can be operated when the handset 12 is damaged or lost. In this way, the wrist-worn communication device 5 is removed from the user's wrist, and the position like a normal telephone (that is, the speaker unit 52 is placed near the user's ear and the microphone 54 is placed near the user's mouth). Can be kept).

Each of the devices shown in the previously described figures can be used to operate the wrist-worn communication device 5 in a unique and improved manner. For example (especially)
The embodiment shown in FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a method in which the user operates the wrist-worn communication device 5 when a call is received from the other party. When a call is received, the user removes the handset 12 from the device 5 and answers the call. The present invention, according to various embodiments, allows a user to immediately remove the handset and enter the call without having to open the keypad 18 or first press a key on the keypad 18. To do. Of course, in one embodiment, where the display 22 is configured to display the incoming telephone number, the user first opens the keypad 18 and references the display 22, if desired. , And then the handset can be removed to answer the call.

On the other hand, (particularly) FIG. 4 (a) and FIG. 4 (b) show that when the user wants to make a phone call, the user wears the wrist-worn communication device 5 according to one embodiment of the present invention. It is the figure which showed the method of operating. In particular, FIGS. 4 (a) and 4 (b) show that the handset 12 is removably mounted on the keypad 18 while the keypad 1
8 is a view in which 8 is connected to the wrist band 10 via a hinge 21. FIG. In this way, the user opens the keypad 18 so that the keys 42 and display 22 are visible when making a call. This step is performed by the keypad 1 of the wrist-worn communication device 5.
8 with the handset 12 still attached. If the handset 12 is left attached during that time, the keypad will remain stable while the user is pressing the button, and the handset will hold the handset while dialing the telephone number. You don't have to have one. The user can remove the handset and enter the call after the button is pressed and the call is initiated. Of course, handset 1
The 2 is removably attached to the device so that if the user wants to remove the handset before operating the keypad, he can do so.

One of the advantages of the wrist-worn communication device of the present invention is that it is more comfortable to use than the wrist-worn communication device according to the prior art. This is because the removable handset allows the user to hold the handset 12 in the most comfortable position for him. Conversely, prior art wrist-worn communication devices in which a speaker and a microphone are mounted in a fixed position on the device force all users to the same hand position, which is not comfortable for all users.
As shown in some of the embodiments, the handset 12 has a shape that is comfortable for the user.

Another advantage of the present invention is that in some embodiments, the user can carry the handset 12 with another hand as needed without having to remove the device from the wrist. Similarly, the user may, in some embodiments, hand over to another person who wishes to talk to the calling party without removing the device from the wrist.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, an antenna extending from the user's wrist is employed. For example, a problem commonly experienced with wrist-worn communication devices is that the antenna approaches the user's body. The proximity of the antenna to the user's body means that the quality of the signals transmitted and received by the antenna deteriorates. When the wrist-worn communication device is worn, the antenna is usually in close contact with the user's body because of the slim outer shape of the device.

FIGS. 15 (a)-15 (e) are views of one embodiment of the present invention in which the antenna extends from the user's wrist to improve the quality of signals transmitted and received by the antenna. Is. FIG. 15A shows the wrist-worn communication device 5 in a closed state in which the handset 12 is detachably attached to the wrist band 10.
The present invention is not limited in scope in this respect. For example, in FIG.
The antenna system shown in e) can also be incorporated in other wrist-worn mobile phone devices. However, it should be noted that the wrist band 10 of the communication device 5 can be manufactured from various materials such as plastic, leather or metal. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the back cover of the handset 12 is made of the same material as the wrist band so that, in the closed state, the overall communication device 5 has a uniform integrated appearance. .

FIG. 15B is a diagram of the wrist-worn communication device 5 in a partially opened state. In this case, the keypad section 18b rotates about the hinge 21. Handset 1
2 is configured to fit on the keypad compartment 18b, such as by friction fit. The width of the keypad section 18a is configured to be smaller than the entire width of the communication device 5 so as to provide a space for mounting the antenna system 58. According to one embodiment of the invention, the antenna system 58 includes an antenna 56, which is preferably located near the keypad 18a, preferably adjacent thereto. The height of the antenna 56 in the closed state is preferably approximately the same as the height of the keypad section 18b, if possible.

The antenna system 60 includes a hinge or pivot mechanism 62 that allows the antenna 58 to open away from the horizontal plane of the wrist-worn communication device. The pivot mechanism 62, according to one embodiment of the present invention, allows the antenna 58 to rotate in any direction within the space above the horizontal plane of the wrist-worn communication device for optimal reception. 64 (FIG. 15 (g)).

FIG. 15C is a diagram of the antenna 58 in the stored position. As shown, the antenna 58 extends from the horizontal plane of the wrist-worn communication device. However, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the antenna 58 allows the biasing mechanism to release the antenna 58 to the desired position when the keypad 18b is removed from the keypad 18a without the user having to do so. Note that it is held in a closed state by a biasing mechanism such as a bias spring.

FIG. 15 (d) is a diagram of an antenna system 60 according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the extension antenna 66 is extendable and retractable from the antenna 58. According to one embodiment, the extension antenna 66 is extendable for better reception. In addition, the pivot or hinge mechanism 70 allows the extension antenna 66 to rotate about the antenna 58.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the extension antenna 66 and the antenna 58 are configured to operate independently as a diversity antenna. The operation of diversity antennas is well known and is described, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 5,564,082 issued Oct. 8, 1996, which is hereby incorporated by reference. Therefore, when the extension antenna 66 is rotated around the antenna 58, the two antennas are substantially uncoupled from each other, and the antennas are independent from each other.
For example, if the antenna is driven by orthogonal independent signals, the angular array provides polarization diversity. Antenna 5 of extension antenna 66
The relative arrangement with respect to 8 makes it possible to improve transmission and reception regardless of the position of the wrist-worn communication device 5.

Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the present invention, either antenna 58 or antenna 66 can be incorporated for transmission and the other for reception.

FIGS. 15D and 16A are diagrams of exemplary positions of the extension antenna 66, while FIG. 16B is an antenna system 60 including the antenna 58 and the antenna 66.
, Both of which are connected at one end thereof to a wrist-worn communication device 5. Both the antenna 58 and the antenna 66 can extend from the horizontal plane of the communication device 5.

17 (a) and 17 (b) are diagrams of another embodiment of an antenna system 60 in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The antenna system 60 has two antennas 74 and 76 mounted outside the keyboard area of the communication device 5.
Each of the antenna 74 and the antenna 76 can extend from the communication device 5 via the pivot mechanism 80. Antenna 74 and antenna 76 can be a single antenna element or can operate as two independent antennas, as described above for the diversity antenna array.

On the other hand, FIG. 17B is a diagram of the antenna 78 extending from the communication device 5 via the pivot mechanism 82. 18 (a) and 18 (b) are views of another embodiment of the present invention such that the antenna 78 is completely obscured when the handset 12 is in the closed state.

Finally, FIGS. 19 (a) and 19 (b) are views of another embodiment of the present invention in which the base region 84 is attached to the underside of the antenna 58.

In use, the antenna system 60 realizes an array in which the antenna for the wrist-worn communication device 5 extends away from the user's body and the transmission / reception capability is improved. further,
The advantage is that the antenna system is mounted near the keypad array and the handset array, enabling a user-friendly interface system where the LCD display, keyboard membrane, handset and antenna are conveniently located close to each other. However, the invention is not limited in scope in this respect.

Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, there is shown a device, generally designated 100, having a bracelet 102 type housing having two C-shaped portions 102a and 102b. The part 102a and the part 102b are the wrist 105 of the user.
Between the closed state of the bracelet 102 when attached to the wrist and the opened state for removing the bracelet from the user's wrist, one pair of the pair is rotatable relative to the other. It is always connected at one end by a hinge 103.
At the opposite ends, the portions 102a and 102b have a latch 104 on the inner joint 102c, for example, to fit into individual meshes that are configured at the interjoints (not shown) of the portion 102a. They are connected by a fastener mechanism of a known type, such as by construction. However, it will be appreciated that suitable means are provided such that the latch 104 can be easily removed by the user.

With the same purpose of providing a mechanical interlocking mechanism between the parts 102a and 102b, which on the one hand protects against accidental removal and on the other hand it can be adapted for easy removal by the user. It may also be appreciated that other linkages could be incorporated. For example, a magnetic joint mechanism could be used.

As shown in FIG. 21, the bracelet 102 includes all of the major components of a conventional cell phone mechanism, except the battery, on the wrist 10 such as the palm side.
5 is wrapped around the user's wrist in such a way that it is placed on one side 105a. Thus, the portion 102a is mounted on the outside with a conventional keypad 106 that is user-friendly. However, the keypad 106 need not be located outside the C-shaped portion 102a, as shown in FIG. 21, but instead as in the configuration shown in FIGS. It will be described in detail below), and it should be noted that it can be mounted on the device 100 according to various configurations.

The part 102a is attached to the outside together with the liquid crystal display 107. The display 107 can typically display the number the user is currently dialing when sending a call from the device 101, and if such an option is approved by the remote phone owner, The number of the remote telephone device making the incoming call can also be displayed.

A reversible open retractable cover is normally connected to the portion 102 a of the bracelet 102 at 108, and is composed of two hinged plates 109 and 110. The plate 110 is intermeshed, and the plate 10 is internally formed as in the conventional case.
It is slightly larger than the plate 109 so that it can accommodate the nine. To that end, the plate 110 has parallel spaced pairs of guides therein and extends along opposite sides of the plate 110 to support the plate 109. Since such a stretchable array is already known, it is not particularly shown. Thus, the plate 109 is modified so that when partly inserted into the plate 110 (FIG. 22), it slides between its folded position and the position fully extended and extended from the plate 110 (FIG. 21). To be done. One end 112 of the plate 109 is angled and the plate 109 is in the folded position, as shown in FIG.
It projects from 0 in a preferred form. The plate 110 is rotatable with respect to the portion 102a between the open and protruding condition shown in FIG. 21 and the closed and stored condition with the keypad 106 partially covered. So that part 102
It is connected to a by a hinge pair 11 at one end. The position where such a part is stored is as shown in FIG. Therefore, the cover 108 can be made of a material that is easily bendable. A two compartment magnetic bonding mechanism, typically located at 113, is properly housed on portion 102a and plate 110 to keep cover 108 closed.

The magnetic joining mechanism 113 may be provided by any other suitable means, such as a spring mechanism.
It will be understood that can be replaced. However, although not specifically shown here, the display 107 or a suitable additional display may also be plate 11
It should also be noted that it can be attached to either side of 0.

Further, a conventional antenna 114, which is a telescopic antenna mounted on a portion 22a on the opposite side of the display 107, is mounted. Antenna 11
4 can be supported on either end of either part of bracelet 102 in such a way that the axis of antenna 114 extends across the supported part so that it is parallel to the user's arm. . Further, the conventional microphone 115 (which constitutes the mouthpiece) mounted on the portion 102a and the angled end 1 of the plate 109.
A speaker unit 116 (constituting an earpiece) mounted on 12 is also provided.

As shown in FIG. 23a, one of the basic features of the present invention is to have a reciprocating protrusion 118 protruding from the portion 102a so that the incoming call can be made without disturbing others in the vicinity. Therefore, it is to provide a mini-vibrator 117 that responds to an incoming signal that stimulates the arm of the user. Small rubber disk washer 12
0 is attached to the protruding end of the protrusion 118, but in a manner that activates the mini-vibrator 117 which causes the reciprocating movement of the protrusion 118 when the latter is activated by an incoming call. (Not shown) at its opposite end. In the usual places where regular bells are in the way, this can be stopped, while incoming calls can still be kept visible to the user via the mini-vibrator 117. It is clear that the above structure actually requires a fairly small amount of power and does not vibrate the entire device 100 during operation.

Reference is now made to FIG. 23b, which illustrates another basic feature of the invention.
Shown is a battery 121 that fits in and out of portion 102b, which is shaped to form part of bracelet 102 and is typically hollow to serve as a battery holder element. To that end, a hollow portion 102 with a pair of peripheral slots or guides is provided to slide the battery in and out in a conventional manner.
b is provided internally. Although not specifically shown here, it will be appreciated that the battery 121 is electrically connected to the components of the cell phone mechanism contained in the portion 102a.

If desired, the part 102b can also be a two-part design, for example a curved compartment, designed to accommodate a battery in between. This configuration can be similar to that used for tapes for inserting and ejecting cassettes, except that it typically incorporates a spring arrangement that is actuated by a push button, except that It is known per se and does not require any specific explanation.

Alternatively, although not specifically shown here, the battery 121 itself comprises a known type of joining mechanism such that when it is mounted, for example, in the manner described above for portions 102a and 102b. , Forms the shape of the bracelet as a whole, thereby functioning as the central part 102b of the bracelet. In this configuration, the portion 102b, ie, the battery-related portion, is attached to the entire wrist, and the portion 102a, ie, the telephone mechanism-related portion, is suitably connected to the upper portion 102b. Obviously, instead of a single battery as described above, two or more batteries with suitable electrical circuit connectors can be employed.
Thus, the portion 102b can be formed by two or more connected compartments, such as by a hinge, short belt, etc., that supports the battery inside it or is itself a battery. It is also noted that any type of battery can be incorporated.

The device 100, which is a mobile phone device, is designed to incorporate the functions of a conventional mobile phone such as time, date, alarm clock, automatic dial mode, telephone directory, and the like. In addition, sensor means are also mounted so that when the cover plate 110 is rotated into the open position, or vice versa, the device automatically enters the operating mode. All such features are well known in their own right, so
It is not necessary to specifically describe here.

The user wears the mobile phone device 100 on his / her wrist 105 and, when using the device, brings the bracelet 102 close to his / her mouth and can support the hand on the face in a natural hand position. . Therefore, the microphone 105 built in the bracelet portion 102a approaches the mouth of the user, while the fingertip approaches the ear. Next, the speaker 116 built in the plate 109 with the cover extended can be held near the user's ear. Put your finger round to reduce background noise,
An external cavity resonator may also be provided at the same time to improve the quality of the sound heard from the speaker.

Next, FIGS. 24a, 24b and 24 illustrate three further embodiments of the present invention.
See c. As these are generally similar to the above embodiments, components that are the same in all embodiments have been identified using the same reference numbers. The mobile phone devices 200 and 300 are distinguished from each other and from the device 100 by a slightly different configuration of the flip open cover. Thus, as is clearly shown in FIG. 24a, the cover 208 is formed by two plates 209 and 210 pivotally connected by a set of hinges 211 and 212 mounting speakers on the plate 209. Has been done. It will be readily appreciated that the cover 208 is accordion foldable and extendable. Although not specifically shown in the drawing, the inner surface 20 of the plate 209 connecting the inner side 210a of the plate 210
On the 9a, a magnetic joining mechanism consisting of two elements is mounted in a conventional manner. Obviously, such a magnetic joining mechanism can be replaced by other means suitable for the same purpose. The cover 309 of the mobile phone device 300 is
A final plate 309 can be slidably inserted into the central plate 310, which further comprises the plate 3 in the manner described above with respect to FIGS.
An expandable cover consisting of three plates, as received by 11.

Returning to FIG. 24c, the cell phone device 400 is characterized by a thin flexible tube 409 without any cover and with a connection to a speaker 416 mounted on its free end 409a. The other end of the electrical connection section is connected to the audio output section of the mobile phone. As shown in the figure, the free end 409a of the electric wire 409 is attached to the index finger 410 of the user by means of the loop 411 (which constitutes the fixing means). Therefore, the user's hands are released so that the telephone device 400 can be sufficiently operated. A coil spring (not shown) is fixed to one end of the portion 102a,
It is fixed to the free end 409a of the tube 409 at the opposite end. As shown in FIG. 24c, when the tube 409 is retracted into the extended operating position, the coil spring is elastically biased as necessary to be automatically retracted by the coil spring of the tube 409.

Both of the two C-shaped portions of the bracelet 102 described in any of the preferred embodiments above are preferably sturdier on the user's wrist 105 to prevent unwanted movement of the bracelet 102. It is preferably formed with the inner surface covered.

Referring to FIGS. 25a and 25b, a mobile phone device similar to any of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, eg, device 100, and further having a clock unit 130 attached to portion 102b is illustrated. ing. To that end, a conventional bolt-and-nut assembly 132 is provided. For example, a threaded bolt 134 projects from the bottom of the watch unit 130 so that it can be screwed in by a nut 136 mounted in the portion 102b. Obviously, other means can be used for the same purpose. For example, the watch 130 can be mounted on a housing that can be connected to the bracelet 102 by a hinge or the like, or can be mounted integrally with the housing. This structure is
It is also noted that the same battery 121 for the mobile phone device 100 can be supplied with electric power.

As mentioned previously, the keypad 106 need not be located outside the C-shaped portion 102a in the configuration shown in FIG. 21, but according to various configurations, the device 1
00 can be placed on the bracelet portion. 26-28 are views of various embodiments of the present invention incorporating a multi-compartment keypad 106. By adopting a keypad with multiple compartments, the size of the keypad can be minimized when the mobile phone is not in use, and the size is large and easy to use when the mobile phone is open and in operating mode. Can be expanded.

For example, FIGS. 26 (a) and 26 (b) are views of a cell phone device 100 of the present invention with a two-compartment keypad 106 mounted on the bracelet portion 102a, but not the other of the present invention. Depending on the embodiment, this multi-compartment keypad can be attached to portion 102b of device 100, or to any other element of a wrist-mounted cell phone device. Further, the multi-compartment keypad 10 of the present invention.
It is also noted that 6 can be incorporated with a wrist-worn portable communication device regardless of the configuration of the mobile phone mechanism or the battery power source on the device.

In the illustrated embodiment, the keypad 106 has two compartments interconnected by a hinge 140, compartments 106a and 106b. Compartment 106a is directly connected to portion 102a of device 100 and compartment 102b
Is configured to be pivotable about the hinge 140 about the compartment 106a. Both compartments 106a and 106b are equipped with pressure sensitive buttons 142 that the user presses when operating a mobile phone. Specifically, the keypad 106 is connected to the mobile phone mechanism of the device 100 and sends a signal corresponding to the button pressed by the user to the mobile phone mechanism.

FIG. 26 (a) shows the device 100 in the open and operable state, so that the keypad 106 can be accessed to access the buttons 142 of the keypad 106.
Section 106b rotates around the hinge 140. There, if possible, the keypad 106 should be configured such that the compartments 106a and 106b form a substantially flat surface for ease of operation by the user when the compartment 102b is rotated open. Is preferred. The buttons 142 are arranged on the keypad 106 in a well-known manner as in the case of a regular telephone and are sufficiently spaced from each other to minimize the possibility of accidentally pressing a button that the user does not intend to press. Has been taken.

The keypad 106 is provided for maximum space between the buttons 142.
The device 100 is shown in FIGS. 106 (a) and 106 (b) with additional feature buttons 144 located on the side of the device along the width edges of the portion 102a. These buttons 144 allow the user to initiate a call, receive a call, operate a menu displayed by display 107, etc., according to one embodiment.

On the other hand, FIG. 26B shows that the button 142 of the keypad 106 is covered so as not to be pressed by mistake and to protect it from dust and water droplets.
The compartment 100b of the keypad 106 is shown rotating the hinge 100 about the device 100 in the closed rest position. In this embodiment, the keypad 106 requires only about half the space required for the open state as illustrated in Figure 26 (a).

The multi-compartment array of keypads 106 not only reduces the size of the keypad, but also the overall size of the device 100, as shown in FIGS. It is also possible to reduce. Typically, when a keypad is attached to a bracelet of a mobile phone device designed to be worn on the wrist, the width of the strap will be about the same width as the keypad. This prevents the edges of the keypad from extending beyond the bracelet, rubbing the user's wrist, and being damaged by the outer edges of the keypad coming into contact with other surfaces. Will also be lower. However, a wider bracelet makes the device bulkier and bulkier.

The invention allows the width of the bracelet of the device worn on the wrist to be approximately the width of the keypad, without the use of a wide bracelet which is uncomfortable to use. Specifically, when the keypad 106 is closed, its width is halved to the width of the compartment 106a. Accordingly, the corresponding width of the portion 102a of the device 100 can be designed using the narrow width of the compartment 106a as long as the bracelet is very wide and can support a fairly large battery power source. As mentioned previously, the design of the portion 102a of the device 100 that is the same width as the keypad 106 maximizes the aesthetic appearance of the device, while the keypad 106 allows movement of the user's wrist. It is possible to prevent the possibility of being hindered or injured when the user wears it.

As mentioned previously, FIG. 26 (b) shows the device 100 in the closed state with the button 142 obscured. In the preferred embodiment, compartment 106a is compartment 1
Buttons 142 are located on compartments 106a and 106b, respectively, so that they do not touch each other when approaching on 06b. In this embodiment, the device 100 is less bulky on the user's wrist because the overall thickness of the compartments 106a and 106b is reduced when closed. In addition, it prevents wear and tear on the button 142 as it is not pushed when the device is in the closed state.

For example, FIGS. 27 (a) and 27 (b) show that when the device 100 is in the closed state, the sections 106a and 1a prevent contact of the buttons of each section with each other.
It is a figure which shows the arrangement | sequence of the button 142 on 06b. FIG. 27 (a) shows a keypad compartment 106a having two columns of buttons 142, one along each of the regions 145 and 146, located along the outer edge region. In addition, in this figure, a row of buttons 1
A compartment 106b with 42 is shown. FIG. 27B shows the sections 106a and 10a.
When 6b is in the closed state, the regions 145, 146, and both regions 147 do not overlap each other, indicating that the buttons do not touch each other. However, Figure 2
The areas represented in FIGS. 7 (a) and 27 (b) are merely illustrative, and in the present invention, the keypad prevents the buttons 142 from touching each other when the device is in the closed state. Note that we are considering the configuration of the buttons on sections 106a and 106b.

28 (a) -28 (d) show a device 100 having a multi-compartment keypad 106.
2 shows another embodiment of the. For example, FIG. 28A shows a keypad 106 having three compartments. The central compartment 106b is connected to the compartments 106a and 106c on the opposite side by a hinge 140. In this embodiment, the closed keypad 106 requires only about one-third the space required by the open keypad 106. FIG. 28 (b) is a view of the same keypad as shown in FIG. 28 (a) with the buttons 142 fully open, with a significant gap between each.

FIG. 28 (c) is a diagram of another embodiment in which the keypad 106 has three compartments, two of which have a telescoping arrangement relative to each other. For example, compartment 106a is connected to compartment 106b by hinge 140. However, compartment 106b may include a pair of spaced parallel guides extending along opposite sides of compartment 106b to support compartment 106c. FIG. 28 (d) shows
FIG. 8 is a diagram of yet another embodiment, where the keypad 106 has three compartments, two of which have a telescoping arrangement relative to the third compartment. For example, compartment 106b supports two compartments 106a and 106c, thus compartment 106b
It contains two pairs of spaced parallel guides that extend along opposite sides of the. As previously described, each of the embodiments shown in FIGS.
Enables a multi-compartment keypad 106 that reduces the space required by the keypad 106 and improves the wrist-worn mobile phone device 100.

While specific features of the invention have been illustrated and described above, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
Many modifications, substitutions, changes or the like would be possible. Therefore, it is to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and alterations that are within the true spirit of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In order that the invention may be understood and what is actually carried out may be ascertained exactly by eye, a number of preferred embodiments will be described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1A and 1B are views of a wrist-worn communication device in a closed state, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

2A and 2B are side views of a wrist-worn communication device with a handset detached, according to one embodiment of the present invention. (C)-(f) are views of a handset for use in a wrist-worn communication device with the handset disconnected, according to various embodiments of the present invention.

3A and 3B are front views of a wrist-worn communication device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

4 (a), (b), (c) and (d) are views of a wrist worn communication device having a foldable multi-compartment keypad, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

5 (a), (b), (c) and (d) are views of a wrist-worn communication device having a retractable keypad according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a wrist worn communication device having one keypad compartment, according to one embodiment of the invention.

7 (a), (b) and (c) are views of a wrist worn communication device having a handset with a retractable antenna, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

8 (a), (b) and (c) are views of a wrist-worn communication device having a handset with a retractable antenna according to another embodiment of the present invention.

9 (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) are wrist worn with a handset with a retractable antenna according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Of a type communication device.

10 (a)-(e) are diagrams of a wrist-worn communication device having a compact detachable handset with a speaker and a microphone attached to a wrist band according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. .

11 (a) and (b) are diagrams of a wrist-worn communication device having a large removable handset with a speaker and a microphone attached to a wrist band according to another embodiment of the present invention.

12 (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) are wrist worn with the handset separated from the cell phone mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention. Of a type communication device.

FIG. 13 is a diagram of a wrist-worn communication device with the addition of a separate watch unit, speaker and microphone, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram of a wrist-worn communication device having a permanent display unit unit, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

15A to 15G are views of a wrist-worn communication device adopting an antenna system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

16 (a) and 16 (b) are views of a wrist-worn communication device that employs an antenna system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

17 (a) and 17 (b) are views of a wrist-worn communication device adopting an antenna system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

18A and 18B are views of a wrist-worn communication device that employs an antenna system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram of a wrist-worn communication device that employs an antenna system, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

20 is a diagram of a wrist worn communication device in a closed state, according to the embodiment shown in FIG.

FIG. 21 is a pictorial view of a wrist-mounted mobile phone device, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22   FIG. 22 is a pictorial view of the apparatus of FIG. 21, further illustrating the unlocked position.

23 a is a side view of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 22, illustrating a mini-vibrator in particular. b, the reverse open cover is stored and the battery is in the removed position,
FIG. 22 is a partially exploded view of the device of FIG. 21.

FIG. 24   FIGS. 3A to 3C are views of three further embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 25 a is a diagram of yet another embodiment of a wrist-worn mobile phone device with a wristwatch attached. 25b is a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 25a, specifically illustrating the coupling mechanism for attaching the wristwatch to the mobile phone device.

26 (a) and (b) are views of a mobile phone device having a two-compartment keypad on a bracelet portion, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

27 (a) and (b) show a keypad according to one embodiment of the present invention, which is devised so that the buttons do not touch each other when the mobile phone device is in a closed state. Button array diagram.

28 (a)-(d) show other configurations of a device 21 having a multi-compartment keypad 6 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── 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), OA (BF, BJ , CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, GM, K E, LS, MW, MZ, SD, SL, SZ, TZ, UG , ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AE, AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR, BY, CA, CH, C N, CR, CU, CZ, DE, DK, DM, EE, ES , FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IS, JP, KE, KG, KP, K R, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV , MA, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, S I, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, TZ, UA , UG, US, UZ, VN, YU, ZA, ZW F-term (reference) 5J021 AA02 AB02 HA05 HA06                 5J047 AB06 FA02 FA09                 5K011 AA02 AA06 AA07 AA09 JA01                       JA11                 5K023 AA07 BB02 BB03 BB11 EE02                       KK00 MM11

Claims (44)

[Claims] 1. A wrist-worn telephone device for attachment to a wearer's wrist, comprising a bracelet configured to be attached to a wearer's wrist, and attached to the bracelet to supply a signal to a mobile phone mechanism. And a keypad connected to the mobile phone mechanism such that the bracelet is configured to support the mobile phone mechanism housed in a housing and a battery power source connected to the housing. A wrist-worn telephone device, wherein the keypad has a plurality of adjustable compartments. 2.   The device of claim 1, wherein the keypad comprises buttons. 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the signal provided by the keypad corresponds to the button pressed by the wearer. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the keypad has two compartments. 5. The keypad further comprises a first compartment attached to the bracelet and a second compartment rotatably attached to the first compartment by a hinge. The device according to claim 4. 6. The second compartment attached to each of the first compartment and the second compartment when the second compartment is rotated relative to the first compartment into a closed state. 6. Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the second compartment is rotatably mounted on the first compartment so that the button can be obscured. 7. The second compartment is configured to rotate with respect to the first compartment to form a flat keypad when the second compartment is in an open condition. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the device is rotatably mounted in the compartment. 8. The first section of the keypad has a plurality of buttons in at least one area of the first section, and the second section of the keypad is of the second section. The wrist-worn mobile phone device according to claim 5, wherein a plurality of buttons are provided in at least one area. 9. The at least one region of the first compartment when the second compartment is rotated relative to the first compartment and comes to a closed position when the second compartment is in the second compartment. 9. Device according to claim 8, characterized in that it does not come into contact with at least one region. 10. The keypad further comprises a first compartment attached to the bracelet and a second compartment telescopically attached to the first compartment. 4. The device according to 4. 11.   The device of claim 1, wherein the keypad has three compartments. 12. The keypad further comprises a first compartment attached to the bracelet, and second and third compartments attached to the first compartment. Equipment 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one of the second and third compartments is rotatably mounted in the first compartment. 14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one of the second and third compartments is telescopically attached to the first compartment. 15. The device of claim 5, wherein the bracelet has a width substantially the same as the width of the first compartment attached to the bracelet. 16. A wrist-worn communication device, comprising: a mobile phone mechanism configured to send and receive communication signals; and an antenna system attached to the communication device for sending and receiving signals. The wrist-worn communication device, wherein the system further comprises at least one antenna extendable in a direction away from a horizontal plane of the communication device. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a hinge mechanism that connects one end of the antenna to the communication device using a hinge. 18. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a pivot mechanism that connects one end of the antenna to the communication device using a pivot. 19. The device of claim 16, wherein the communication device further comprises a keypad unit coupled to the telephone mechanism. 20. The device of claim 19, wherein the antenna is mounted at a location closest to the keypad unit. 21. The device of claim 16, wherein the antenna is loosely biased in the closed state. 22. The device of claim 16, wherein the antenna is extendable in the open state. 23. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising an extender antenna configured to rotate about the first antenna. 24. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising at least a second antenna configured to operate independently of the first antenna. 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the first and second antennas operate as diversity antennas. 26. One end of the first antenna is connected to the communication device, and the other end of the first antenna is rotatably connected to one end of the second antenna. 25. The device according to claim 24. 27. One end of the first and second antennas is rotatable relative to the communication device such that the first antenna and the second antenna are adjustable relative to one another to form an angle. 25. The device of claim 24, wherein the devices are so connected. 28. A wrist-worn communication device, a mobile phone mechanism configured to send and receive communication signals; a keypad unit attached to the mechanism to provide signals to the mechanism; A hand-worn communication device comprising: a handset detachably attached to the device, wherein the handset has a microphone and a speaker unit. 29. The device of claim 28, wherein the handset is wired to the cell phone mechanism. 30. The device of claim 28, wherein the handset further comprises a wireless connection to the cell phone mechanism. 31. The device of claim 28, wherein the handset has one or more compartments for extendability. 32. The device of claim 31, wherein the one or more handset compartments are extendable by expanding the handset using a hinge. 33. The one or more handset compartments are configured to telescopically extend such that the compartments are extendable by sliding the compartments relative to each other. 32. The apparatus according to claim 31, which comprises: 34. The handset according to claim 28, further comprising a telescopic antenna.
The described device. 35. The device of claim 28, wherein the wrist communication device further comprises a display unit. 36. The device of claim 28, wherein the wrist-worn communication device further comprises a watch unit. 37. The device of claim 28, wherein the keypad is located on the cell phone mechanism. 38. The device of claim 28, wherein the keypad has at least one keypad compartment to which buttons are attached. 39. A first keypad compartment is attached to the cell phone mechanism and a second keypad compartment is rotatably attached to the first compartment using a hinge. 39. The device according to claim 38. 40. The first keypad compartment and the second keypad compartment when the second keypad compartment is rotated relative to the first keypad compartment to a closed state. So that the buttons attached to each of the
40. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein a keypad compartment of the is rotatably mounted to the first keypad compartment. 41. The second keypad compartment is configured to form a flat keypad when the second keypad compartment is rotated into an open condition relative to the first keypad compartment. 40. The device of claim 39, wherein a keypad compartment is rotatably mounted on the first keypad compartment. 42. The first keypad compartment has a plurality of buttons in at least one region of the first keypad compartment, and the second keypad compartment is at least the second compartment. 41. The device according to claim 40, having a plurality of buttons in one area. 43. When the second compartment is rotated relative to the first compartment into a closed state, the at least one region of the first compartment includes the second compartment. 43. The device of claim 42, wherein the device does not contact the at least one region of. 44. The keypad has a first compartment attached to the device and a second compartment telescopically attached to the first compartment.
8. The device according to item 8.