WO2006041270A1

WO2006041270A1 - Opening and closing mechanism for a mobile terminal

Info

Publication number: WO2006041270A1
Application number: PCT/KR2005/003451
Authority: WO
Inventors: Weon-Jae Park; Ki-Hyun Keum
Original assignee: Khvatec Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2004-10-15
Filing date: 2005-10-15
Publication date: 2006-04-20

Abstract

Disclosed are a opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal. The opening and closing mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present invention comprises the first mounting portion fixed to the first body, the fitting portion connected detachably to said first mounting portion, the second mounting portion fixed to the second body, and the rotation portion which is connected detachably to said second mounting portion and is connected rotatively to said fitting portion. The opening and closing mechanism as described above so simple in configuration that it save the elements thereof and costs, and thereby can increase the productivity. The opening and closing mechanism according to the second embodiment of the present invention comprises a housing formed with a hollow and fixed to the first body, a fixed cam inside which the first rumpled surface consisting of peak portions and valley portions is provided circumferentially, a rotation cam inside which the second rumpled surface corresponding to the first rumpled surface is provided, a part of which is protruded from the housing and is connected to the second body, and a plate spring applying the elastic force to adhere closely the fixed cam to the rotation cam. This opening and closing mechanism can be miniaturized. The opening and closing mechanism according to the third embodiment of the present invention comprises a base plate connected to the first body, a slide plate which is connected to the second body and is connected slidably to the base plate, and a friction dampening member which is installed on contact parts of the base plate and the slide plate and is connected to one side of the base plate and the slide plate, and point-contacts the other to dampen the friction force. This opening and closing mechanism can minimize the friction force in connection parts such that the operations of opening and closing are to be performed smoothly and increase the reliability. The opening and closing mechanism according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention comprises the first hinge portion which is connected rotatively to the first body such that the second body is rotated in the first direction in which one side of the second body is to be raised from the first body, and the second hinge portion one end of which is connected rotatively to the first hinge portion and the other end of which is fixed to the second body such that the second body is rotated in the second direction in which the other side of the second body is to be raised from the first body and which is at right angle to the first direction. This opening and closing mechanism can open or close the mobile communication terminal in desired direction depending on the circumstances or user's tendency.

Description

OPENING AND CLOSING MECHANISM FOR A MOBILE

TERMINAL

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to a opening and closing mechanism for a mobile terminal for opening and closing the mobile terminal. Background Art

[2] Recently, due to the increased rate at which mobile terminals are spreading, with regard to the mobile terminal, not only the inherent function of wireless commu¬ nications, but also the additional functions in opening and closing it are in demand. Disclosure of Invention

Technical Problem

[3] An example of an opening and closing mechanism for a mobile terminal according to the prior art is illustrated in FIG. 37.

[4] Referring to the above drawing, a housing 22 is fixed to a folder 20 and an opening and closing mechanism is inserted into the housing 22 to brake the movement of the folder 20 during opening and closing. An inserting hole 24 is provided on one side end of the housing 22 and the opening and closing mechanism is inserted and fixed thereinto, and a rotation shaft 26 is provided with protrusion on the opposing side end.

[5] The opening and closing mechanism described above comprises a casing 30 which is inserted into the inserting hole 24 and fixed thereinto, a rotation cam 32 which can be rotatively inserted into the casing 30, a fixed cam 36 which is elastically in contact with the rotation cam 32 and is non-rotatively inserted into the casing 30, and a compression spring 38 which elastically supports the fixed cam 36 toward the rotation cam 32.

[6] Meanwhile, a first supporting portion 12 to which the rotation cam 32 is fixed and a second supporting portion 16 for rotatively supporting the one side end of the housing 22 are provided on a body 10.

[7] A hole 14 into which a connection shaft 34 is fixed (hereinafter referred to as " fixing hole") is provided on the first supporting portion 12, and a hole 18 into which the rotation shaft 26 is rotatively connected(hereinafter referred to as "rotation hole") is provided on the second supporting portion 16.

[8] A folder 20 of a mobile communication terminal having the opening and closing mechanism as described above is rotated about a shaft of the housing 22 connected to the folder 20 from the body 10, and the first supporting portion 12 and the second supporting portion 16 shaft-support the housing 22 and the opening and closing mechanism connected to the housing 22.

[9] The opening and closing mechanism applies a predetermined braking force to the housing 22 such that unnecessary movement of the folder 20 is avoided where the folder 20 is closed to the body 10 and opened at an angle for use in conversation.

[10] Also, as the opening and closing mechanism as mentioned above is configured to be inserted into the housing 22 after it is assembled by connecting the housing 22 to the folder 20, the first supporting portion 402 and the second supporting portion 406 to support the housing 22 have to be processed onto the body 10.

[11] Therefore, there arises a drawback in the above opening and closing mechanism, in that it is so complicated in configurations that many elements are necessary, and the procedures for fabricating it is not simplified and the productivity are to be lowered.

[12] In addition, there arises another problem in miniaturization of it because the compression spring 38 has to be elongated to secure enough contact between the fixed cam 36 and rotation cam 32.

[13] Meanwhile, as an example of an opening and closing mechanism different from the opening and closing mechanism as described above, a slider type opening and closing mechanism adapted to a mobile communication terminal is disclosed in Utility Model application No. 2003-0000136.

[14] In the mobile terminal disclosed in the above document, a guide slit is longi¬ tudinally formed on both end side of the main body as a guide means for guiding the sub-body on the main body and, a guide rib connected slidably to the guide slit is formed on the slide plate.

[15] In this type of mobile terminal, as the guide rib is slid along the guide slit, the slide plate and the sub-body are opened and closed from the slide plate and the main body, respectively.

[16] However, in relation to this opening and closing mechanism of the mobile com¬ munication terminal, as the guide slit and the guide rib have to be strong enough to maintain the durability even if it is used for a long period, they are practically composed of metal material.

[17] Also, as the guide slit of the main plate and the guide rib of the slide plate are area- contacted on a wide area, the sliding action of the sub-body becomes difficult due to the strong friction force induced thereon. Therefore, to reduce the friction force, the guide slit and the surface of the guide rib are metal-coated, but it increases the manu¬ facturing cost due to the complicated processing.

[18] In addition, there arises a problem in reliability in this type of opening and closing mechanism because when the coating peels off, noise is created and the friction force is increased.

[19] Accordingly, demand has arisen for reducing the friction force on the connection parts of the opening and closing mechanism in this slidable type of mobile com¬ munication terminal.

[20] Meanwhile, users often feel comfortable in rotating the folder laterally and opening it depending on the habit or the way they currently holding the terminal.

[21] However, in conventional opening and closing mechanisms of mobile com¬ munication terminals from the general bar type to the flip type, the flip up type and the folder type, there has arisen a drawback that users are not able to conveniently use the mobile terminal depending on their preference due to the one directional opening and closing. Technical Solution

[22] The present invention has been contrived to solve the above problems, and the first object of the present invention is to provide an opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal as a folder type and simplify its configuration.

[23] In addition, the second object of the present invention is to provide an opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal as a folder type and miniaturize it.

[24] Meanwhile, the third objective of the present invention is to provide an opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal as a sliding type, and minimize the friction force on connection parts and thereby increase the reliability of the opening and closing mechanism.

[25] Finally, the fourth objective of the present invention is to provide an opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal by which the mobile com¬ munication terminal can be opened and closed in two directions and thereby provide convenience for users.

[26] To achieve the first objective, the present invention is to provide an opening and clos ing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal comprising:

[27] the first mounting portion fixed to the first body;

[28] the fitting portion connected detachably to the first mounting portion;

[29] the second mounting portion fixed to the second body; and

[30] the rotation portion which is connected detachably to the second mounting portion and is connected rotatively to the fitting portion.

[31] The first connection hole into which the fitting portion is inserted is provided on the first mounting portion, the first compressed portion and the second protrudent portion are provided on the inner surface of the first connection hole toward the fitting portion, and the second compressed portion and the second protruding portion, corresponding to said first protruding portion and said first compressed portion, are provided on the fitting portion. The first fastening means for fixing the fitting portion to the first mounting portion is provided.

[32] The first fastening means comprises: the first support plate; and the first bolt which passes through said first support plate and fastens the first mounting portion to the fitting portion.

[33] The second connection hole into which the rotation portion is inserted is provided on the second mounting portion, the third compressed portion and the third protruding portion are formed on the inner surface of the second connection hole toward the rotation portion, and the fourth compressed portion and the fourth protruding portion connected to the third protruding portion and the third compressed portion are formed on the rotation portion. The fastening means for fixing the rotation portion to the second mounting portion is provided.

[34] The second fastening means comprises: the second support plate; and the second bolt which passes through said second support plate and fastens said second mounting portion to said rotation portion.

[35] The passage through which the signal lines connected from said first body to said second body pass is provided on said fitting portion and said rotation portion.

[36] The circular body with decrease in outer circumferences is provided in the connection part between the fitting portion and the rotation portion, and the signal line is wound thereon.

[37] The opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal further comprises a clutch means which is provided between the fitting portion and the rotation portion, and brakes the rotation of the rotation portion such that a pre¬ determined angle is maintained, whether or not the rotation portion is rotated.

[38] The clutch means is fixed to the fitting portion, and it comprises: the first cam having the first rumpled surface consisting of peak portions and valley portions; the second cam which is not rotated with respect to the rotation portion, connected movably toward the first cam, and provided with the second rumpled surface cor¬ responding to the first rumpled surface; and an elastic means for attaching closely the first cam to the second cam.

[39] The clutch means further comprises a central shaft which is connected through the middles of the first cam and the second cam, and functions as the rotation axis while said first cam and second cam are rotated relatively.

[40] The central shaft connects the fitting portion to the rotation portion, and becomes the rotation axis.

[41] The central shaft is avoided being separated since one end of it is fixed to one of the fitting portions and the rotation portion by the third bolt and the other end of it rotatively penetrates through the other fitting portion and the rotation portion, and is fastened by the third fastening means. [42] To achieve the second objective of the present invention, the present invention is to provide an opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal comprising:

[43] a housing provided with a hollow and fixed to the first body;

[44] the fixed cam inside which the first rumpled surface consisting of peak portions and valley portions is provided circumferentially, and which is inserted into the hollow while not being rotated but being moved straight therein; [45] a rotation cam inside which the second rumpled surface corresponding to the first rumpled surface is provided, some parts of which are inserted into the hollow to be rotated and moved in a straight line therein, and the other parts of which protrude from the housing and connected to the second body; and [46] a plate spring applying the elastic force to attach closely the fixed cam to the rotation cam. [47] The angular protrusion is provided in the rotation cam, an angular home connected to the angular protrusion is provided on the second body and an angular home and an angular protrusion are connected each not to be rotated. [48] The plate spring is configured so that a plurality of the elastic plates are arranged in a line and the neighboring elastic plates are connected by welding. [49] The opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal further comprises the central shaft which is connected slidably to the rotation cam, the fixed cam and the middle of the plate spring, and which guides the rotation cam, the fixed cam and the plate spring to be moved linearly in a straight line. [50] The angular hole is provided in the rotation cam, and the angular portion which is connected to the angular hole and is avoided being rotated is provided on the central shaft. [51] The ring-shaped home is provided on the parts of the central shaft which passes through the rotation cam, the fixed cam, the plate spring and the housing, and protrudes therefrom, and the washer and the snap ring are connected to the ring-shaped home and thereby avoid the separation of the central shaft. [52] To achieve the fourth objective of the present invention, the present invention is to provide an opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal comprising:

[53] a base plate connected to the first body;

[54] a slide plate which is connected to the second body and is connected slidably to the base plate; and [55] a friction dampening member which is installed on contact parts of the base plate and the slide plate, and is connected to one side of the base plate and the slide plate, and point-contacts the other side to dampen the friction force. [56] The friction dampening member comprises the ball which is rotated when said base plate and said slide plate are moved relative to each other. [57] A pair of the guide rail formed with the guide home opened outwardly is fixed parallel to both sides of said slide plate, the guide rib connected slidably to said guide home is fixed parallel to both sides of the base plate, and said friction dampening member some part of which is inserted and some part of which is protruded is contact with the guide home. [58] Each said guide rail consists of a stainless steel plate, and is fixed to said slide plate by welding. [59] As one alternative example, each said guide rail is provided integrally on the slide plate and the surface with which the friction dampening member is in contact with is coated for improved sliding. [60] As another alternative example, each said guide rail is provided integrally with the base plate and the surface with which the friction dampening member is in contact with hard plated. [61] The embossing into which a part of the friction dampening member is inserted is provided on said each guide rail to provide a click feeling. [62] The dampers which are in contact with both ends of the guide rib and thereby reduce the impact force, are installed on both ends of each guide rail. [63] The damper consists of silicon, urethane and rubber material.

[64] More than two friction dampening members are installed on more than one of the surfaces-top, side, and bottom-, among the guide rib, with which said guide rail i si contact. [65] The globular home is formed where the ball is installed, and said ball is inserted rotativley into the globular home. [66] The wear resistant retainer is inserted into the globular home to support the bottom surfaces for ensuring improved rolling of the ball. [67] Said retainer consists of a dish-shaped metal plate to support elastically the bottom surface of the ball.

[68] As one alternative example, said retainer consists of acetalic plastic.

[69] As another alternative example, said retainer consists of rubina plastic.

[70] The opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal further comprises elastic members which applly the elastic force in the direction of closing when the slide plate is in the direction of closing with respect to the inflection point on the base plate, and applies the elastic force in the direction of opening when the slide plate is in the direction of opening with respect to the inflection point on the base plate. [71] According to one alternative example, the guide rails formed with the recessed home which is to guide the edges of the slide plate on the top surfaces, side surfaces and bottom surfaces is installed parallel to both sides of the base plate, and the friction dampening member is installed on more than one of the top surface, side surface and bottom surface of the recessed home. [72] The surface of said slide plate with which the friction dampening member is in contact with is coated for improved sliding. [73] As an alternative example, the surface of said slide plate with which the friction dampening member is in contact is hard plated to increase surface hardness. [74] To achieve the fourth objective of the present invention, the present invention is to provide an opening and closing mechanism for the second body having the second surface is in contact with the first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body comprising: [75] the first hinge portion which is connected rotatively to the first body such that the second body is rotated in the first direction in which one side of the second body is to be raised from the first body; and [76] the second hinge portion, one end of which is connected rotatively to the first hinge portion and the other end of which is fixed to the second body such that the second body is rotated in the second direction in which the other side of the second body is to be raised from the first body and which is at a right angle to the first direction. [77] The first hinge portion is connected rotatively to the first body and comprises the first rotation shaft to which said second hinge portion fixed. [78] The first hinge potion comprises the first clutch means for braking the rotation of the first rotation shaft in order to either fix the first rotation shaft if it is not rotated in the first direction or maintain a predetermined angle if it is rotated. [79] The first clutch means comprises:

[80] the first cam which has the first rumpled surface consisting of radially formed peak portions and valley portion and is connected to the shaft holder; [81] the second cam which has the second rumpled surface corresponding to the first rumpled surface and is connected to the first rotation shaft; and [82] the first compression spring to apply the elastic force for attaching closely the first rumpled surface to the second rumples surface, and wherein more than one of the first cam and the second cam are installed to be moved in a straight line to be closer each other. [83] The second hinge portion comprises the second rotation shaft, one end of which is fixed to the second body and the other end of which is connected rotatively in the second direction to the first hinge portion.

[84] The second hinge portion comprises the second clutch means for applying the pre¬ determined braking force to the second rotation shaft at an predetermined angle in the second direction. [85] The second clutch means comprises:

[86] the ball which is installed to be moved forward to or reward from the second rotation shaft on the first hinge portion and a part of which is connected selectively to more than one of the globular homes provided on the second rotation shaft; and

[87] the second compression spring for pushing the ball toward the second rotation shaft.

[88] The washer is inserted between the ball and the second compression spring to reduce the friction therebetween.

[89] The first hinge passes through the center and is fixed to the first body to be rotated in the first direction, and the recess into which a part of the side surface of the second rotation shaft is inserted is formed, and the central shaft formed with the guide home in the second direction is provided on the recess, and a hook is provided on the outer surface of the second rotation shaft such that the hook is to be connected to the guide home if the second rotation shaft has been rotated in the second direction, hence the second rotation shaft and the first hinge portion are avoided being rotated in the first direction, and the hook is not to be connected to the guide home on the state that the first rotation shaft has been rotated in the first direction, and hence the second shaft is avoided being rotated in the second direction.

Advantageous Effects

[90] As described above, according to the embodiment to achieve the first objective of the present invention, the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile com¬ munication terminal is so simple in configuration that it saves the elements thereof and costs, and can thereby increase the productivity.

[91] In addition, according to the embodiment to achieve the second objective of the present invention, the opening and closing mechanism for the mobile communication terminal can be miniaturized.

[92] In addition, according to the embodiment to achieve the third objective of the present invention, the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal can minimize the friction force in connection parts such that the operations of opening and closing can be performed smoothly and with increased reliability.

[93] In addition, according to the embodiment to achieve the fourth objective of the present invention, the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal can open or close the mobile communication terminal in the desired direction depending on the circumstances or the user's tendency.

[94] Additional advantages, objectives, and features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows and in part will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following or may be learned from practice with the invention. The objective and other advantages of the invention may be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written de¬ scription and claims as well as the appended drawings. Brief Description of the Drawings

[95] The accompanying drawings, which are included to aid in understanding the invention and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this application, illustrate embodiment(s) of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings: [96] FIG. 1 is a view showing schematically the disassembled mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism of the first embodiment of the present invention; [97] FIG. 2 is a view showing schematically the disassembled opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 1 ; [98] FIG. 3 is a lateral view showing the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG.

1 in assembled and opened states; [99] FIG. 4 is a front view showing the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG.

1; [100] FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the mobile communication terminal taken on line A-A in FIG. 4; [101] FIG. 6 is a view showing schematically the disassembled mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism of the second embodiment of the present invention; [102] FIG. 7 is a view showing schematically the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 1 with partially cut; [103] FIG. 8 is a view showing schematically the disassembled opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 6; [104] FIG. 9 is a view, from a different angle, showing schematically the disassembled opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG.

8; [105] FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken on line B-B in FIG. 8 showing the assembled state of the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal; [106] FIG. 11 is a view in its using state of the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 10; [107] FIG. 12 is a view showing schematically the disassembled opening and closing mechanism of the third embodiment of the present invention; [108] FIG. 13 is a view showing schematically the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 12 in its assembled state; [109] FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken on line C-C in FIG. 13; [110] FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken on line D-D in FIG 13;

[111] FIG 16 is a partially enlarged view of parts shown in FIG. 15;

[112] FIG. 17 is a view on state of using the opening and closing mechanism

[113] shown in FIG. 13;

[114] FIG 18 a view showing schematically the disassembled mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism of the third embodiment of the present invention; [115] FIG. 19 is a view schematically showing the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 18 in its using state; [116] FIG. 20 is a view showing schematically the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal in the alternative embodiment from the third embodiment of the present invention; [117] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the assembled state of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 20; [118] FIG. 22 is a sectional view of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG 21 taken on line E-E; [119] FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG.

21 taken on line F-F;

[120] FIG. 24 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. 23;

[121] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG.

21 on using state; [122] FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention; [123] FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view from different angle of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 26; [124] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the second rotation shaft and the central shaft of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 26; [125] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the assembled state of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 26; [126] FIG. 30 is a partially cut perspective view of the second rotation shaft which is rotated in one direction; [127] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism according to the fourth embodiment; [128] FIG. 32 is a sectional view taken on line G-G in FIG. 31 ;

[129] FIG 33 is a perspective view of the opened state in the first direction of the second body of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 31 ; [130] FIG 34 is a sectional view taken on line H-H; [131] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the opened state in the second direction of the second body of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 31 ;

[132] FIG. 36 is a sectional view taken on line I-I; and

[133] FIG 37 is a perspective view of the conventional opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal. Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[134] The following Examples are given for the purpose of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of this invention.

[135] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. Here, when one element is connected to another element, one element may be not only directly connected to another element but also indirectly connected to another element via another element. Further, irrelative elements are omitted for clarity. Also, like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[136] The first embodiment of the present invention according to the first aspect will be described as folio wings.

[137] As described in the brief descriptions of the drawings, FIG. 1 is a view showing schematically the disassembled mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism of the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a view showing schematically the disassembled opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 3 is a lateral view showing the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 1 in its assembled and opened states, FIG. 4 is a front view showing the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the mobile communication terminal taken on line A-A in FIG. 4.

[138] As described in drawings, a main board is embedded into the first body 100 of the mobile communication terminal, and a key pad 102 including various buttons for controlling the main board is mounted on the surface of the first body 100. The second body 110 is provided to be rotated from the first body 100 and thereby opened or closed, and the liquid crystal picture 112 is provided on the surface in contact with the key pad 102.

[139] In this mobile communication terminal, the opening and closing mechanism 200 is provided for opening the second body 110 from the first body 100 or closing the same to the first body 100. The opening and closing mechanism 200 comprises: the first hollow mounting portion 104 provided integrally with the first body 100; a fitting portion 210 which can be inserted and fixed detachably into the first mounting portion 104; the second hollow mounting portion 114 provided integrally with the second body 110; and a rotation portion 220 which can be inserted detachably and connected rotatively to the fitting portion 210.

[140] The first mounting hole 106 is provided inside the first mounting portion 104 and the fitting portion 210 is to be inserted thereinto. The first compressed portion( not shown, but referring to "second compressed portion 228") and the first protruding portion (not shown, but referring to "second protruding portion 226") are provided inside the first mounting hole 106 toward the fitting portion 210, and in the fitting portion 210 the second compressed portion 228 and the second protruding portion 226 mating with the first protruding portion and the first compressed portion, respectively, are provided. The first fastening means for fixing the fitting portion 210 to the first mounting portion 104 is provided. The first protruding portion, the second compressed portion, the second compressed portion 228 and the second protruding portion 226 help the fitting portion 210 not to be rotated in the first mounting hole 106.

[141] The first fastening means includes the first support plate 270 and the first bolt 272 which penetrates through the first support plate 270 and fastens the first mounting portion 104 and the fitting portion 210.

[142] Meanwhile, the second mounting hole 116 is provided inside the second mounting portion 114 and the rotation portion 220 is to be inserted thereinto. The third compressed portion( not shown, but referring to "second protruding portion 226") and the third protruding portion(not shown, but referring to "second compressed portion 228") are provided inside the second mounting hole 116 toward the rotation portion 220, and in the rotation portion 220, the fourth compressed portion(not shown, but referring to "second compressed portion 228") and the fourth protruding portion(not shown, but referring to "second protruding portion 226") mating with the third protruding portion and the third compressed portion, respectively, are provided. The second fastening means for fixing the rotation portion 220 to the second mounting portion 114 is provided. The third protruding portion, the third compressed portion, the fourth compressed portion and the fourth protruding portion help the rotation portion 220 not to be rotated in the second mounting hole 116. The second fastening means includes the second support plate 280 and the second bolt 282 which penetrates the second support plate 280 and fastens the second mounting portion 114 and the rotation portion 220.

[143] A passage 224 for a signal line running from the first body 100 to the second body

110 is provided in the fitting portion 210 and the rotation portion 220.

[144] A circular body 222 with a decreased outer circumference is provided in the connection part between the fitting portion 210 and the rotation portion 220, and the signal line is wound thereon. Hence, the signal line running from the first body 100 to the second body 110 is passed through the fitting portion 210 and smoothly wound on the circular body 222 of the rotation portion 220, and then passed along the passage 224 of the rotation portion 200 to the folder. Since the signal line is smoothly wound on the circular body 222, it is not damaged even though the first body 100 is rotated.

[145] Furthermore, a clutch means is provided between the fitting portion 210 and the rotation portion 220. This clutch means brakes the rotation of the rotation portion 220 such that either rotation portion 220 is fixed, if it is not rotated, or rotated at pre¬ determined angle which is maintained constant

[146] The clutch means as described above is fixed to the fitting portion 210, and it comprises: the first cam 230 having the first rumpled surface 232 consisting of peak portions and valley portions; the second cam 240 which is not rotated with respect to the rotation portion 220, connected movably toward the first cam 230 and provided with the second rumpled surface 242 corresponding to the first rumpled surface 232; and an elastic means for attaching closely the first cam 230 and the second cam 240. The numbers of peak portions and valley portions are chosen to correspond to the numbers of phases to provide properly the braking force.

[147] A central shaft 260 connected through the middles of the first cam 230 and the second cam 240 is provided in the clutch means. This central shaft 260 functions as the rotation axis to induce the relative rotations of the first cam 230 and the second cam 240, and connect the fitting portion 210 to the rotation portion 220.

[148] In addition, one end of the central shaft 260 is fixed to the fitting portion 210 by the third bolt 264, the opposing end of it rotatively penetrates the rotation portion 220 , and is fastened by the third fastening means and thereby avoided separating. The third fastening means includes a washer 266 and snap ring 268 which are connected to the ring-shaped home 262 provided on the central shaft 260.

[149] Hereinafter, the operation of the opening and closing mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present invention are as configured above.

[150] Referring to the states in which the opening and closing mechanism is mounted on the mobile communication terminal, the fitting portion 210 is inserted into the first mounting hole 106 of the first mounting portion 104 and then is fastened by the first fastening means, the rotation portion 220 is inserted into the second mounting hole 116 of the second mounting portion 114 and then is fastened by the second fastening means. The central shaft 260 is inserted inside of the fitting portion 210 and the rotation portion 220.

[151] The rotation portion 220 is not separated from the fitting portion 210 with the central shaft 260, and thereby the second body 110 supported by the rotation portion 220 is connected rotatively to the first body 100.

[152] In this state, when the second body is rotated, it causes the second mounting portion 114 to be rotated together with the rotation portion 220. At this time, since the central shaft 260 is fastened to the fitting portion 210 by the third bolt 264, the rotation portion 220 is rotated with respect to the central shaft 260.

[153] Meanwhile, when before the second body 110 is rotated, the elastic forces of the compression spring 250 brake the states on which the rumpled surface 232 of the first cam 230 is connected to the second rumpled surface 242 of the second cam 240.

[154] As soon as the second body 110 is rotated, the first rumpled surface 232 of the first cam 230 is separated from the second rumpled surface 242 of the second cam 240, and the compression spring 250 is pressed.

[155] Next, when the second body 110 is rotated completely and opened, the first rumpled surface 232 of the first cam 230 is mated again with the second rumpled surface 242 of the second cam 240 and the above states are braked.

[156] Hereinafter, the second embodiment of the present invention according to the second aspect will be described.

[157] FIG. 6 is a view showing schematically the disassembled mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism of the second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a view showing schematically the mobile com¬ munication terminal shown in FIG. 1 with partially cut, FIG. 8 is a view showing schematically the disassembled opening and closing mechanism of the mobile com¬ munication terminal shown in FIG. 6, FIG. 9 is a view, from a different angle, showing schematically the disassembled opening and closing mechanism of the mobile com¬ munication terminal shown in FIG. 8, FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken on line B-B in FIG. 8 showing the assembled sate of the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal, FIG. 11 is a view in its using state of closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 10.

[158] As described in the drawings, a main board is embedded into the first body 120 of the mobile communication terminal, and a key pad 122 including various buttons for controlling the main board is mounted on the surface of the first body 120. The second body 150 is provided to be rotated from the first body 120 and thereby opened or closed, and the liquid crystal picture 132 is provided on the surface is contact with the key pad 122.

[159] The opening and closing body 124 is provided integrally on the first body 120, and the opening and closing shaft 126 is inserted into one side end of the opening and closing body 124 and thereby supports rotatively one side end of the second body 130. The opening and closing mechanism 300 is inserted into the opening and closing body 124 and supports rotatively the opposing side end of the second body 130. The opening and closing mechanism 300 brakes the rotation of the second body 130 such that the second body 130 maintain it in a closed state or opened at an angle for communication. [160] The opening and closing mechanism 300 as described above comprises: a housing

352 provided inside a hollow 352 and fixed to the first body 120; the fixed cam 320 inside which the first rumpled surface 322 consisting of peak portions and valley portions is provided, and which is inserted into the hollow 352 and is not to be rotated but to be moved in a straight line therein; a rotation cam 310 inside which the second rumpled surface 312 corresponding to the first rumpled surface 322 is provided, a part of which is inserted into the hollow 352 to be rotated and moved in a straight line therein, and the other part of which protrudes from the housing 350 and is connected to the second body 130; and a plate spring 330 inducing the elastic force to adhere closely the fixed cam 320 to the rotation cam 310.

[161] An angular protrusion 314 is provided in the rotation cam 310, an angular home connected to the angular protrusion 314 is provided on the second body 130 and an angular home and an angular protrusion are connected ,each not to be rotated.

[162] The cycles of the peak portions and the valley portions making the first rumpled surface 322 and the second rumpled surface 312 are chosen such that they brake the states of the first body 120 and the second body 130 respectively which are closed(folded) or rotated at an angle of 160 which is estimated as an angle for com¬ munication.

[163] The plate spring 330 is configured that two elastic plates 332 are connected together, parts of the edges of which are welded and the middles of which get wider. The incision parts 334, 336 are provided on the edges and the middles of the respective elastic plate 332 such that increased flexibility of operation is obtained. The elastic plate 332 consists of the metal plate which has excellent elastic force and strength of stability.

[164] A number of the plate springs 330 are arranged in a line, and the neighboring plates

332 are connected by welding.

[165] Meanwhile, the central shaft 340 is provided so that it passes through the rotation cam 310, the fixed cam 320 and the middle of the plate spring 330, and is connected slidably, and guides the rotation cam 310, the fixed cam 320 and the plate spring 330 to be moved in a straight line. The second central hole 316 is provided in the rotation cam 310 and the first central hole 324 is provided in the fixed cam 320, and the third central hole 338 is provided in the plate spring 330. The central shaft 340 passes all of the central holes as described above.

[166] The angular hole 318 is provided in the rotation cam 310, and the angular portion

342 which is connected to the angular hole 318 and is avoided being rotated is provided on the central shaft 340. The ring-shaped home 344 is provided on one side end of the central shaft 340 which passes through the rotation cam 310, the fixed cam 320, plate spring 330 and the housing 350, and protrudes therefrom. The washer 360 and the snap ring 362 are connected to the ring-shaped home 344 and thereby avoid the separation of the central shaft 340.

[167] Referring to the opening and closing mechanism mounted in the mobile com¬ munication terminal, the rotation cam 310 and the fixed cam 320 are connected in the state in which they are to be rotated about the central shaft 340, the second rumpled surface 312 of the rotation cam 310 and the first rumpled surface 322 of the fixed cam 320 are adhered closely in the state in which they are to be rotated and moved slidably, and the plate spring 330 presses the fixed cam 320 toward the rotation cam 310.

[168] The central shaft 340 passes through the rotation cam 310, the fixed cam 320 and the middle of the plate spring 330, and the one end of said shaft is fastened by the washer 360 and the snap ring 362 outside the housing 350, and thereby it functions to connect the rotation cam 320, the fixed cam 320 and the housing 350 not to be separated.

[169] The housing 350 is inserted non-rotatively into the opening and closing body 124 provided on the first body 120, and the fixed cam 320 is inserted non-rotatively into the housing 350, and thereby the rotation is prohibited. At this times, the fixed cam 320 is rotated together with the second body 130 by connection of the angular protruding- protruding 14 to the angular home of the second body 130.

[170] Hereinafter, the operations of the second embodiment of the present invention having the configuration as described above.

[171] FIG. 10 is a view of the sections of the opening and closing mechanism taken on line B-B in FIG. 8 showing the state when the second body 130 is closed or opened at an angle for use in communication, FIG. 11 is a view of the sections of the opening and closing mechanism taken on line B-B where the second body 130 is opening or closing.

[172] As described in FIG. 10, when the second body 130 is closed to the first body 120, the peak portions of the first rumpled surface 322 in the fixed cam 320 mates with the valley portions of the second rumpled surface 312 in the rotation cam 310, and the valley portions of the first rumpled surface 322 mates with the peak portions of the second rumpled surface 312. Hence, the states in which the second body 130 is closed to the first body 120 is braked.

[173] In this state, when the second body 130 is lifted up, the rotation cam 310 fixed to the second body 130 is rotated with it. The rotation cam 310 is crossed to the fixed cam 320 which is not permitted to rotate by the first body 120.

[174] As described in FIG. 11, when the second body 130 is rotated at an angle of about

80° from the first body 120, the peak portions of the first rumpled surface 322 depart from the valley portions of the second rumpled surface 312 and rotate, and then compress the plate spring 330 most strongly. [175] Next, the same as in FIG. 10, when the rotation of the second body 130 to 160 which is an angle for use in communication has been completed, the peak portions of the first rumpled surface 322 depart from the valley portions of the second rumpled surface 312 and connected to the valley portions, and the plate spring 330 supports elastically the fixed cam 320 toward the rotation cam 310 and thereby avoids the rotation of the second body 130.

[176] In this operation, the central shaft 340 is in the state in which it penetrates the rotation cam 310, the fixed cam 320 and the middle of the plate spring 300 such that the rotation cam 310, the fixed cam 320 and the plate spring 330 is aligned in a straight line.

[177] On the other hands, when the state of the second body 130 is changed from the opened state to the closed state, the opening and closing mechanism 300 performs reit- eratively the procedures as described above.

[178] When the rotation of the second body 130 to the first body 120 has been completed and closed, the plate spring 330 supports elastically the fixed cam 320 toward the rotation cam 310 and thereby avoids the rotation of the second body 130.

[179] Hereinafter, the third embodiment of the present invention according to the third aspect will be described.

[180] FIG. 12 a view showing schematically the disassembled opening and closing mechanism of the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a view showing schematically the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 12 in assembled state, FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken on line C-C in FIG. 13, FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken on line D-D in FIG 13, FIG 16 is a partially enlarged view of parts shown in FIG. 15, FIG. 17 is a view in its using of using the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 13, FIG 18 a view showing schematically the disassembled mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism of the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 19 is a view schematically showing the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 18 in its using state.

[181] As illustrated in the drawings, the key pad 402 is mounted on the surface of the first body 400 in the mobile communication terminal, and a main board performing various functions is embedded inside the body 400. The liquid crystal picture 422 is provided on the second body 420, and the second body 420 and the first body 400 are electrically connected through the flexible printed circuit board.

[182] In the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal according to the third embodiment, the first body 400 is opened from or closed to the second body 420 with the sliding method. The above mechanism comprises: a base plate 430 connected to the first body 400; a slide plate 450 which is connected to the second body 420 and is connected slidably to the base plate 430; and a friction dampening member which is provided on contact parts of the base plate and the slide plate, and is connected to either the base plate 430 or the slide plate 450, and point- contacts the other to dampen the friction force.

[183] A pair of the guide rails 460 which are parallel to each other and are provided with guide homes 462 opened outwardly, is installed on both sides of the slide plate 450, guide ribs 432 which are connected slidably to the guide homes 462 and are parallel to each other are installed on both side of the base plate 430, the friction dampening member is a plurality of balls 440 some part of which is inserted and some part of which is protruded and thereby in contact with the guide home 462 and rolled.

[184] The base plate 430 is fixed to the body plate 410 which forms the first body 400 by the screw 412, and the slide plate 450 is fixed to the second body 420 by the screw 412.

[185] The ball 440 consists of metal material, and each guide rail 460 consists of stainless still plate and is fixed to the slide plate 450 by welding.

[186] In an alternative example, each guide rail 460 is provided integrally with the slide plate 450, the surface of the slide plate 450 with which the ball 440 contacts is hard plated to increase the surface hardness.

[187] Dampers 470 are installed to be contacted with both ends of the guide rib 432 and thereby to reduce the impact force on both ends of each guide rail 460. This damper 470 consists of rubber material. The material of the damper 432 includes silicon, urethane or rubber.

[188] Two globular homes 434 are provided on the top surfaces, side surfaces and bottom surfaces of the each rib 432 which are contact with the guide rail 460, and the ball 440 is inserted into the globular home 434.

[189] A retainer 442 is inserted into the globular home 434 to support the bottom surfaces of the rib for ensuring the preferable rolling of the ball 440. This retainer 442 consists of material which has excellent slide and wear resistant. This retainer 442 consists of dish-shaped metal, acetalic plastics or rubina plastics.

[190] When the retainer 442 consists of dish-shaped metal, the ball 440 is to be under elastic force such that the spaces from the slide home 462 of the guide rail 460 is eliminated.

[191] Meanwhile, elastic members are installed between the slide plate 450 and the base plate 430. When the slide plate 450 is in the direction of closing on standard of the inflection point on the base plate 430, the elastic member applies the elastic force in the direction of closing, and when the slide plate 450 is in the direction of opening on standard of inflection point on the base plate 450, the elastic member applies the elastic force in the direction of opening.

[192] The elastic member consists of the torsion spring one end of which is supported on the slide plate 450 and the other end of which is supported on the base plate 430.

[193] A protrusion 464 into which a part of ball 440 is inserted may be provided on each guide rail 460 to provide the braking force. In this case, when the protrusion 464 is provided as the inflection point which demarcates whether the slide plate 450 is in the closing position or opening position on the base plate 430, the slide plate 450 is braked on the guide rail 460 without the torsion spring 480.

[194] Hereinafter, the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[195] At first, as described in FIGs. 13 and 18, the second body 420 provided with the liquid crystal pictures 422 is folded to the first body 400. At this times, since the base plate connected to the second body 420 is under the elastic force of the torsion spring 480 in the direction toward which the slide plate is closed, it keeps the mobile com¬ munication terminal closed.

[196] In this state, when the second body 420 is pushed with hands to open the mobile communication terminal, it is slid together with the base plate 430. During these procedures, the guide rib 432 fixed to the base plate 430 is slid in the guide home 462 of the guide rail 460 fixed to the slide plate 450, and thereby the preferable straight movement of the slide plate 450 is induced. Since the ball inserted into the globular home 434 of the guide rib 432 is contact with the top surface, side surface and bottom surface of the guide rail 460 and is rolled, the friction between the guide rib 432 and the guide rail 460 is reduced. Therefore, when users push the second body 420, they feel that the mobile communication terminal is opened smoothly.

[197] During the opening procedures of the base plate 430, at first, a user has to push in¬ tensively the second body 420 to open, but when it has passed the deflection point of the torsion spring 480 where the direction of the elastic force is to be changed, the base plate 430 is to be pushed toward the opening direction. Therefore, after the direction of elastic force of the torsion spring is changed, the slide plate 450 is moved auto¬ matically to the opening position without applying pushing force to the second body 420 by the user.

[198] As described in FIGs. 17 and 19, when the second body is opened completely, the base plate 430 is kept the opening state with the pushing force of the torsion spring 480.

[199] When the second body 420 is opened and thereby the key pad 402 on the first body

400 is opened, user can touch the keys for inherent functions of the mobile com¬ munication terminal.

[200] In addition, to change the opening state of the second body 420 to the closing date, the user has to push the second body 420 with his hands in the direction opposed to the direction of opening. The closing procedures of the second body 420 is performed in reverse order of opening. [201] Hereinafter, the alternative example of the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[202] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the disassembled opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal in the alternative example from the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the assembled state of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 20, FIG. 22 is a sectional view of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG 21 taken on line E-E, FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 21 taken on line F-F, FIG. 24 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. 23, and FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 21 on using state.

[203] With respect to the use state of the mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism according to the alternative example of the third embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIGs. 18 and 19, it is as same as the mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism in the third embodiment.

[204] As described in drawings, the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile com¬ munication terminal according to the alternative example in the third embodiment of the present invention comprises: a base plate 430 connected to the first body 400; a slide plate 450 which is connected to the second body 420 and is connected slidably to the base plate 430; and a friction dampening member which is provided on contact parts of the base plate and the slide plate, and is connected one of the base plate 430 and the slide plate 450, and point-contacts the other to dampen the friction force.

[205] The guide rails 436 provided with recessed home 438 which is to guide the slide plate 450 on the top surfaces, side surfaces and bottom surfaces are installed parallel to each other on both sides of the base plate 430.

[206] The friction dampening member consists of a plurality of ball 440 some part of which is inserted into the globular home 439 provided in the top surface, side surface and bottom surface of the recessed home 439 and some part of which is protruded therefrom, and thereby it is contact with the slide plate and rolled.

[207] The balls consist of metal, and the surface of the slide plate 450 with which the ball

440 contacts is hard plated to increase the surface hardness.

[208] A retainer 442 is inserted into the globular home 434 to support the bottom surfaces of the rib for ensuring the preferable rolling of the ball 440.

[209] This retainer 442 consists of material which has excellent slide and wear resistant.

This retainer 442 consists of dish-shaped metal, acetalic plastics, or rubina plastics.

[210] When the retainer 442 consists of dish-shaped metal, the ball 440 is to be under elastic force such that the spaces from the slide home 462 of the guide rail 460 is eliminated.

[211] Meanwhile, elastic members are installed between the slide plate 450 and the base plate 430. When the slide plate 450 is in the direction of closing on standard of the inflection point on the base plate 430, the elastic member applies the elastic force in the direction of closing, and when the slide plate 450 is in the direction of opening on standard of inflection point on the base plate 450, the elastic member applies the elastic force in the direction of opening.

[212] The elastic member consists of the torsion spring one end of which is supported on the slide plate 450 and the other end of which is supported on the base plate 430.

[213] Hereinafter, the operation of the alternative example of the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[214] At first, as described in FIGs. 18 and 21, the second body 420 provided with the liquid crystal pictures 422 is folded to the first body 400. At this times, since the base plate 430 connected to the second body 420 is under the elastic force of the torsion spring 480 in the direction toward which the slide plate is closed, it keeps the mobile communication terminal closed.

[215] In this state, when the second body 420 is pushed with hands to open the mobile communication terminal, it is slid together with the base plate 430. During these procedures, the guide rail 436 fixed to the base plate 430 is slid along the edge of the slide plate 450, and thereby the preferable straight movement of the slide plate 450 is induced. Since the ball inserted into the globular home 434 of the guide rail 436 is contact with the top surface, side surface and bottom surface of the slide plate 450 and is rolled, the friction between the slide plate 450 and the guide rail 436 is reduced. Therefore, when users push the second body 420, they feel that the mobile com¬ munication terminal is opened smoothly.

[216] During the opening procedures of the base plate 430, at first, a user has to push in¬ tensively the second body 420 to open, but when it has passed the deflection point of the torsion spring 480 where the direction of the elastic force is to be changed, the base plate 430 is to be pushed toward the opening direction. Therefore, after the direction of elastic force of the torsion spring is changed, the slide plate 450 is moved auto¬ matically to the opening position without applying pushing force to the second body 420 by the user.

[217] As described in FIGs. 19 and 25, when the second body is opened completely, the base plate 430 is kept the opening state with the pushing force of the torsion spring 480.

[218] When the second body 420 is opened and thereby the key pad 402 on the first body

400 is opened, user can touch the keys for inherent functions of the mobile com¬ munication terminal. [219] In addition, to change the opened state of the second body 420 to the closed date, the user has to push the second body 420 with his hands in the direction opposed to the direction of opening. The closing procedures of the second body 420 is performed in reverse order of opening.

[220] Hereinafter, the fourth embodiment according to the fourth aspect of the present invention will be described.

[221] FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile communication terminal according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view from different angle of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 26, FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the second rotation shaft and the central shaft of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 26, FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the assembled state of the opening and closing mechanism shown in FIG. 26, FIG. 30 is a partially cut perspective view of the second rotation shaft which is rotated in one direction, FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism according to the fourth embodiment, and FIG. 32 is a sectional view taken on line G-G in FIG. 31.

[222] As described in drawings, the body of the mobile communication terminal consists of the first body 500, and a board and chips are embedded into the body 500. The key pads for controlling the various functions are installed on one surface of the first body 500.

[223] The second body 600 is provided as a folder which is to be opened from or closed to the first body 500, and a liquid crystal picture is installed on the surface contacted with the first body 500.

[224] The opening and closing mechanism for opening or closing the second body of the mobile communication terminal comprises: the first hinge portion for one end surface of the second body 600 to be opened from the first body 500 and to be rotated in the first direction , and which is connected rotatively to the first body 500; and the second hinge portion for the other end surface of the second body 600 to be opened from the first body 500 and to be rotated in the direction at right angle to the first direction, and one end of which is connected rotatively to the first hinge portion and the other end of which is fixed to the second body 600.

[225] The first hinge portion is connected rotatively to the shaft holder 510 fixed to the first body 500, and consists of the first rotation shaft 700 to which the second hinge portion is fixed.

[226] The first hinge portion as described above comprises the first clutch means for braking the rotation of the first rotation shaft 700 in order to keep the states on which the first rotaion shaft 700 is not rotated in the first direction or rotated at predetermined angle.

[227] The first clutch means consists of the first cam 710 having the first rumpled surface

712 consisting of peak portions and valley portion which is connected to the shaft holder 510 and provided radially, the second cam 720 having the second rumpled surface 722 corresponding to the first rumpled surface 712 and connected to the first rotation shaft 700, and the first compression spring 730 to apply the elastic force for adhering closely the first rumpled surface 712 to the second rumples surface 722.

[228] The first cam 710 and the second cam 720 are installed such that more than one of two cams is to be moved in straight line toward close position.

[229] The second hinge portion consists of the second rotation shaft 800 one end of which is fixed to the second body 600 and the other end of which is connected rotatively in the second direction to the first hinge portion.

[230] The second hinge portion as described above comprised the second clutch means for applying the predetermined braking force to the second rotation shaft 800 at an pre¬ determined angle in the second direction.

[231] The second clutch means consists of the ball 820 which is installed to be moved forwardly to or rewardly from the second rotation shaft 800 on the first hinge portion and a part of which is connected selectively to two globular home 820 provided on the second rotation shaft 800, and the second compression spring 830 for pushing the ball 820 toward the second rotation shaft 800.

[232] The second bracket 850 for the second compression spring 830 to be separated outwardly is fastened to the first rotation shaft 700 by the screw 852.

[233] A washer 840 is inserted between the ball 820 and the second compression spring

830 to reduce the friction therebetween.

[234] The first hinge passes through the hollow 702 provided on the center and is fixed the first body 500 to be rotated in the first direction. The recess 752 is provided into which a part of side surface of the second rotation shaft 800 is inserted, and the central shaft 750 provided with the guide home 754 in the second direction is provided on the recess 752. This central shaft 750 is fixed to the first body 500 with the screw 760.

[235] A hook 804 is provided on the outer surface of the second rotation shaft 800. The hook 804 is to be connected to the guide home 754 on the state that the second rotation shaft 800 has been rotated in the second direction such that the second rotation shaft 800 and the first hinge portion is avoided being rotated in the first direction. And also, the hook 804 is not connected to the guide home 754 on the state that the first rotation shaft 700 has been rotated in the first direction such that the second shaft 800 is avoided being rotated in the second direction.

[236] The second rotation shaft 800 is connected rotatively to the rotation hole 704 of the first rotation shaft 700 and the angular shaft 810 is provided on the part of the second rotation shaft is passed through the rotation hole 704. After the second shaft 800 is connected to the rotation hole 704, a pin 706 is inserted into the first rotation shaft 700 such that the second shaft 800 is avoided being separated.

[237] The first bracket 610 having the angular hole 612 into which the angular shaft 810 is inserted is connected to the second housing.

[238] Hereinafter, the operation of the fourth embodiment of the present invention as configured above will be described.

[239] Referring to the FIGs. 31 and 32, the mobile communication terminal adapted with the opening and closing mechanism according to the fourth embodiment will be described.

[240] At first, the state of which the second body 600 is closed to the first body 500 is the state of which the second cam 720 of the first clutch means is adhered closely to the first cam 710 under the elastic force from the first compression spring 730. Hence, the peak portions and the valley portions of the firs rumpled surface 712 provided in the first cam 710 is contact with the peak portions and the valley portions of the second rumpled surface provided in the second cam 720 such that the predetermined braking force is created on the first rotation shaft 700. Accordingly, the second rotation shaft 800 and the second body 600 connected to the first rotation shaft 700 are avoided being rotated in the first direction.

[241] In addition, the ball 820 of the second clutch means is inserted into the globular home 802 provided on the second shaft 800 under the elastic force from the second compression spring 830 such that the predetermined braking force is created on the second rotation shaft 800. Accordingly, the first bracket 610 and the second body 600 installed on the second rotation shaft 800 are avoided being rotated.

[242] The state of which the second body 600 is closed to the first body 500 is the state of which the hook 804 of the second rotation shaft 800 is departed from the guide home 754 of the central shaft 750 and thereby the second body 600 is able to be rotated in the first and the second direction.

[243] Meanwhile, the case in which the second body 600 is to be opened from the first body 500 in the second direction of the right and left direction will be described.

[244] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the opened state in the second direction of the second body of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 31, and FIG. 36 is a sectional view taken on line I-I.

[245] When the left end of the second body 600 is raised, the second body 600 is rotated above the second rotation shaft 800 and is opened in the second direction.

[246] On the initial state of the operation in opening the mobile communication terminal, the ball 820 of the second clutch means is departed from the globular home 802. When the second body 600 is opened completely, the ball 820 is inserted again into the globular home 802, and thereby the predetermined braking force is to be created on the second rotation shaft 800. Therefore, the state on which the second body 600 is opened in the second direction is to be kept.

[247] In addition, when the second body 600 is to be opened in the second direction, the hook 804 of the second rotation shaft 800 is inserted into the guide home 754 of the central shaft 804 and thereby the second rotation shaft 800 is to be avoided being rotated in the first direction. Hence, the second body 600 which is to be fixed to the second rotation shaft 800 and once has been rotated in the second direction is to be avoided being rotated in the first direction.

[248] The procedures of closing the second body 600 in the second direction is to be performed in reverse order of the above procedures.

[249] In addition, the stated on which the second body 600 is to be opened from the first body 500 in the first direction of the up and down direction will be described.

[250] FIG 33 is a perspective view of the opened state in the first direction of the second body of the mobile communication terminal shown in FIG. 31, and FIG 34 is a sectional view taken on line H-H.

[251] When the bottom of the second body 600 is raised , the second body 600 is to be rotated above the first rotation shaft 700 and to be opened in the first direction.

[252] On the initial state of the operation in opening the mobile communication terminal, while the resistant force is created during procedures in which the peak portions of the first rumpled surface 712 provided on the first cam 710 of the first clutch means is departed from the valley portions of the second rumpled surface 722 provided on the second cam 720, the elastic force to push the first rotation shaft 700 in the opening direction is to be created when the peak portions of the first rumpled surface 712 passes over the peak portion of the second rumpled surface 722.

[253] Accordingly, the second body 600 is opened rapidly, and when the second body

600 is opened completely, the peak portions and valley portions of the first rumpled surface 712 provided on the first cam 710 is contact again with the valley portions and the peak portions of the second rumpled surface 722 of the second cam 720, and the predetermined braking force is created on the rotation shaft. Hence, the state on which the second body is opened in the first direction is to be kept.

[254] During these procedures, the central shaft 750 becomes the rotation center of the first rotation shaft 700.

[255] Meanwhile, when the second body 600 is opened in the first direction, the hook 804 of the second rotation shaft 800 is departed from the guide home 754 of the central shaft 750 and the second rotation shaft 800 is avoided being rotated in the second direction. Accordingly, when the second body 600 fixed to the second rotation shaft 800 is once rotated in the first direction, it is avoided being rotated in the second direction. [256] The procedures of closing the second body 600 in the first direction is to be performed in reverse order of the above procedures. [257] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

[1] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal comprising: the first mounting portion (104) formed integrally on the first body (100); the fitting portion (210) inserted detachably into said first mounting portion (104); the second mounting portion (114) formed integrally on the second body (110); and the rotation portion (220) which is inserted detachably into said second mounting portion (114) and is connected rotatively to said fitting portion (210), and, further comprising: the first fastening means for fixing said fitting portion (210) to said first mounting portion (104); and the second fastening means for fixing said rotation portion (220) to said second mounting portion (114).

[2] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 1, wherein the first connection hole (106) for receiving said fitting portion (210) is formed on said first mounting portion (104), the first compressed portion and the first protrudent portion are formed on radial inner surface of said first connection hole (106), and the second compressed portion and the second protrudent portion corresponding to said first protrudent portion and said first compressed portion are formed on radial outer surface of said fitting (210).

[3] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 1, wherein said first fastening means comprises: the first support plate (270); and the first volt (272) which passes through said first support plate (270) and fastens said first mounting portion (104) to said fitting portion (210).

[4] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 1, wherein the second connection hole (116) into which said rotation portion (220) is inserted is formed on said second mounting portion (114), the third compressed portion and the third protrudent portion are formed on radial inner surface of said second connection hole (116), and the fourth compressed portion and the fourth protrudent portion corresponding to said third protrudent portion and said third compressed portion are formed on radial outer surface of said rotation portion (220).

[5] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 1, wherein said second fastening means comprises: the second support plate (280); and the second volt (282) which passes through said second support plate (280) and fastens said second mounting portion (114) to said rotation portion (220).

[6] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 1, wherein the passage (224) through which the signal lines connected from said first body (100) to said second body (110) pass is formed on said fitting portion (210) and said rotation portion (220).

[7] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 6, wherein the circular body (222) with decrease in outer cir¬ cumferences is provided in the connection part between the fitting portion (210) and the rotation portion (220), and the signal line is wound thereon.

[8] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 1, further comprising a clutch means which is provided between the fitting portion (210) and the rotation portion (220), and brakes the rotation of the rotation portion (220) such that the states on which the rotation portion (220) is not rotated or rotated at predetermined angle is to be kept.

[9] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 8, wherein said clutch means is fixed to the fitting portion (210), and it comprises: the first cam (230) having the first rumpled surface (232) consisting of peak portions and valley portions; the second cam (240) which is not rotated with respect to the rotation portion (220), connected movably toward the first cam (230) and provided with the second rumpled surface (242) cor¬ responding to the first rumpled surface (232); and an elastic means for adhering closely the first cam (230) and the second cam (240).

[10] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 9, wherein said clutch means further comprises a central shaft (260) which is connected through the middles of the first cam (230) and the second cam (240) and functions as the rotation center while said first cam (230) and second cam (240) are rotated relatively.

[11] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 10, wherein said central shaft (260) connects the fitting portion (210) to the rotation portion (220) and becomes the rotation center.

[12] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 11, wherein said central shaft (260) is avoided being separated since one end of which is fixed to one of the fitting portion (210) and the rotation portion (220) by the third bolt (264) and the other end of which rotatively penetrates through the other of the fitting portion (210) and the rotation portion (220), and is fastened by the third fastening means.

[13] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal comprising: a housing (350) formed with a hollow (352) and fixed to the first body (120); the fixed cam (320) inside which the first rumpled surface (322) consisting of peak portions and valley portions is provided, and which is inserted into the hollow (352) on the state of not being rotated but being moved in straight therein; a rotation cam (310) inside which the second rumpled surface (312) cor¬ responding to the first rumpled surface (322) is provided, a part of which is inserted into the hollow (352) to be rotated and moved in straight therein, and the other parts of which protrudes from the housing (350) and is connected to the second body (130); and a plate spring (330) inducing the elastic force to adhere closely the fixed cam (320) to the rotation cam (310).

[14] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 13, wherein an angular protrusion (314) is provided in the rotation cam (310), an angular home connected to the angular protrusion (314) is provided on the second body (130) and an angular home and an angular protrusion are connected each not to be rotated.

[15] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 13, wherein the plate spring (330) is configured that a plurality of the elastic plates (332) are arranged in a line and the neighbored elastic plates (332) are connected by welding.

[16] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 15, wherein each said elastic plate (332) is formed with curved surfaces, parts of the edges of the elastic plate are welded, the elastic plates are connected on the state of the middles of it getting wider, and the incision parts (334, 336) are provided on the edges and the middles of the respective elastic plate (332).

[17] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 13, further comprising the central shaft (340) which passes through the rotation cam (310), the fixed cam (320) and the middle of the plate spring (330), and is connected slidably, and which guides the rotation cam (310), the fixed cam (320) and the plate spring (330) to be moved linearly in a straight line.

[18] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 17, wherein the angular hole (318) is formed in the rotation cam (310), and the angular portion (342) which is connected to the angular hole (318) and is avoided being rotated is formed on the central shaft (340).

[19] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 17, wherein the ring-shaped home (344) is provided on the parts of the central shaft (340) which passes through the rotation cam (310), the fixed cam (320), the plate spring (330) and the housing (350), and protrudes therefrom, and the washer (360) and the snap ring (362) are connected to the ring-shaped home (344) and thereby avoids the separation of the central shaft (340).

[20] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal comprising: a base plate (430) connected to the first body (400); a slide plate (450) which is connected to the second body (420) and is connected slidably to the base plate (430); and a friction dampening member which is installed on contact parts of the base plate (430) and the slide plate (450) and is connected to one side of the base plate (430) and the slide plate (450), and point-contacts the other to dampen the friction force.

[21] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 20, wherein said friction dampening member comprises the ball (440) which is rotated when said base plate (430) and said slide plate (450) are moved relatively.

[22] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claims 20 or 21, wherein a pair of the guide rail (460) formed with the guide home (462) opened outwardly is fixed parallel to both sides of said slide plate (450), the guide rib (432) connected slidably to said guide home (462) is fixed parallel to both sides of the base plate (430), said friction dampening member some part of which is inserted and some part of which is protruded is contact with the guide home (462).

[23] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 22, wherein said each guide rail (460) consists of the stainless steel plate, and is fixed to said slide plate (450) by welding.

[24] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 22, wherein said each guide rail (460) is formed integrally with the slide plate (450) and the surface with which the friction dampening member contacts is treated to be coated for preferable sliding.

[25] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 22, wherein said each guide rail (460) is formed integrally with the slide plate (450) and the surface with which the friction dampening member contacts is treated to be hard plated.

[26] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 22, wherein a protrusion (464) into which a part of the friction dampening member is inserted formed on said each guide rail (460) to provide the braking force.

[27] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 22, wherein the dampers 470 which is to be contacted with both ends of the guide rib (432) and thereby to reduce the impact force are installed on both ends of each guide rail (460).

[28] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 22, wherein said friction dampening member is installed on one of the top surface, side surface and bottom surface, among the guide rib (432), with which said guide rail (460) contacts.

[29] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 21, wherein the globular home (434) are formed where the ball (440) is installed, and said ball 440 is inserted rotativley into the globular home (434).

[30] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 29, wherein a wear resistant retainer (442) is inserted into the globular home (434) to support the bottom surfaces for ensuring the preferable rolling of the ball (440).

[31] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 30, wherein said retainer (442) consists of dish-shaped metal plate to support elastically the bottom surface of the ball (440).

[32] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 30, wherein said retainer (442) consists ofacetalic plastics.

[33] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claim 30, wherein said retainer (442) consists of rubina plastics.

[34] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claims 20 or 21, wherein the guide rails (436) formed with recessed home (438) which is to guide the edges of the slide plate (450) on the top surfaces, side surfaces and bottom surfaces is installed parallel on both sides of the base plate (430).

[35] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claims 34, wherein the surface of said slide plate (450) with which the friction dampening member contacts is treated to be coated for preferable sliding.

[36] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claims 34, wherein the surface of said slide plate (450) with which the friction dampening member contacts is treated to be hard plated to increase surface hardness.

[37] A opening and closing mechanism for a mobile communication terminal according to claims 20, further comprising the elastic members which applies the elastic force in the direction of closing when the slide plate (450) is in the direction of closing on standard of the inflection point on the base plate (430), and applies the elastic force in the direction of opening when the slide plate (450) is in the direction of opening on standard of inflection point on the base plate (450).

[38] A opening and closing mechanism for the second body (600) having the second surface contacted with first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body (500) comprising: the first hinge portion which is connected rotatively to the first body (500) such that the second body (600) is rotated in the first direction in which one side of the second body (600) is to be raised from the first body (500); and the second hinge portion one end of which is connected rotatively to the first hinge portion and the other end of which is fixed to the second body (600) such that the second body (600) is rotated in the second direction in which the other side of the second body (600) is to be raised from the first body (500) and which is at right angle to the first direction.

[39] A opening and closing mechanism for the second body (600) having the second surface contacted with first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body (500) according to claims 38, wherein the first hinge portion is connected rotatively to the first body (500) and comprises the first rotation shaft (700) to which said second hinge portion fixed.

[40] A opening and closing mechanism for the second body (600) having the second surface contacted with first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body (500) according to claims 39, wherein the first hinge portion comprises the first clutch means for braking the rotation of the first rotation shaft (700) in order to keep the states on which the first rotaion shaft (700) is not rotated in the first direction or rotated at predetermined angle.

[41] A opening and closing mechanism for the second body (600) having the second surface contacted with first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body (500) according to claims 40, wherein said first clutch means comprises the first cam (710) which has the first rumpled surface (712) consisting of radially formed peak portions and valley portion and is connected to the shaft holder (510); the second cam (720) which has the second rumpled surface (722) corresponding to the first rumpled surface (712) and is connected to the first rotation shaft (700); and the first compression spring (730) to apply the elastic force for adhering closely the first rumpled surface (712 )to the second rumples surface (722), and wherein more than one of the first cam (710) and the second cam (720) are installed to be moved in straight line toward closer direction.

[42] A opening and closing mechanism for the second body (600) having the second surface contacted with first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body (500) according to claims 39, wherein the second hinge portion comprises the second rotation shaft (800) one end of which is fixed to the second body (600) and the other end of which is connected rotatively in the second direction to the first hinge portion.

[43] A opening and closing mechanism for the second body (600) having the second surface contacted with first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body (500) according to claims 42, wherein the second hinge portion comprises the second clutch means for applying the predetermined braking force to the second rotation shaft (800) at an predetermined angle in the second direction.

[44] A opening and closing mechanism for the second body (600) having the second surface contacted with first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body (500) according to claims 43, wherein the second clutch means comprises the ball (820) which is installed to be moved forwardly to or rewardly from the second rotation shaft (800) on the first hinge portion and a part of which is connected selectively to more than one of globular home (820) provided on the second rotation shaft (800); and the second compression spring (830) for pushing the ball (820) toward the second rotation shaft (800).

[45] A opening and closing mechanism for the second body (600) having the second surface contacted with first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body (500) according to claims 44, wherein a washer (840) is inserted between the ball (820) and the second compression spring (830) to reduce the friction therebetween.

[46] A opening and closing mechanism for the second body (600) having the second surface contacted with first surface of the first body to be opened from and be closed to the first body (500) according to claims 42, wherein the first hinge passes through the center and is fixed to the first body (500) to be rotated in the first direction, and the recess into which a part of side surface of the second rotation shaft (800) is inserted is formed, and the central shaft (750) formed with the guide home (754) in the second direction is provided on the recess (752), and a hook (804) is provided on the outer surface of the second rotation shaft (800) such that the hook (804) is to be connected to the guide home (754) on the state that the second rotation shaft (800) has been rotated in the second direction, hence the second rotation shaft (800) and the first hinge portion are avoided being rotated in the first direction, and the hook (804) is not to be connected to the guide home (754) on the state that the first rotation shaft (700) has been rotated in the first direction, hence the second shaft (800) is avoided being rotated in the second direction.