WO2009038371A2

WO2009038371A2 - Spring device, sliding module therewith and mobile device therewith

Info

Publication number: WO2009038371A2
Application number: PCT/KR2008/005529
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jung Min Park
Original assignee: Jung Min Park
Priority date: 2007-09-18
Filing date: 2008-09-18
Publication date: 2009-03-26
Also published as: WO2009038371A3

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to a spring device, a sliding module equipped with the spring device, and a mobile device equipped with the sliding module, and more specifically, to a spring device, a sliding module equipped with the spring device, and a mobile device equipped with the sliding module for applying tension to a main slider and a sub slider for connecting a calling part with a receiving part of a cellular phone in sliding manner.

Description

SPRING DEVICE, SLIDING MODULE THEREWITH AND MOBILE DEVICE THEREWITH

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to a spring device, a sliding module equipped with the spring device, and a mobile device equipped with the sliding module, and more specifically, to a spring device, a sliding module equipped with the spring device, and a mobile device equipped with the sliding module for applying tension to each of a main slider and a sub slider that connect a calling part with a receiving part of a cellular phone in sliding manner. Background Art

[2] Various types of elastic members are used for apparatuses or devices which require elastic power. The elastic members which provide elastic power are mainly used for sliding modules, and representative examples of such sliding modules are sliding-type portable phones.

[3] The portable phones for receiving wireless communication services have become necessary articles of people, and the above portable phones are manufactured in various types(ex, bar, flip and folder types, etc.) according to people's preference.

[4] However, bar-type portable phones expose their keypads to the outside, causing a problem that the keypads are easily damaged. Flip-type portable phones suggested to solve such a problem have figured out the disadvantage of the bar-type portable phones by covering keypads with flips to protect the keypads. But, the above flip-type portable phones have long bodies, which are inconvenient for the user to carry them.

[5] In order to reduce the length of the bodies of the bar-type and flip-type portable phones, folder-type portable phones have been suggested. The folder-type portable phones are in a structure of opening/closing the folder during call or while being carried, causing hinge parts for connecting the upper folder with the lower folder to be easily damaged.

[6] To solve such a problem of the folder-type portable phones, sliding-type portable phones have been suggested. The existing sliding-type portable phone has a structure that a sliding module is installed between a receiving part equipped with an LCD screen and a calling part equipped with a keypad.

[7] The existing cellular phone is in a structure that a hinge is installed between a receiving part equipped with an LCD screen and a calling part equipped with key buttons in order to make a call.

[8] Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating one example of a conventional sliding-type cellular phone. Referring to Fig. 1, the conventional sliding-type cellular phone comprises a receiving part(l) equipped with an LCD screen and a calling part(5) equipped with number keys of the cellular phone.

[9] Recently, like the Sky Cellular Phone of SK Telecom Co., Ltd., a cellular phone(sliding-type cellular phone) which a user pushes the receiving part(l) equipped with the LCD screen to make a call has started to develop. However, the above method of pushing the receiving part in the conventional cellular phone has the following problem: since pigtail-shaped torsion springs are embedded inside, the receiving part(l) equipped with an LCD may be suddenly pushed up by tension of the springs if the receiving part(l) of the cellular phone is pushed up, which gives impact of a certain load to the LCD screen whenever it happens. Consequently, the LCD of the cellular phone may malfunction or duration of the cellular phone itself can be shortened owing to continuous impact.

[10] In addition, the torsion springs may easily break down caused by deterioration of product durability. Once the torsion springs get out of order, the torsion springs are disconnected, which gives damage to an FPCB inside the cellular phone, thereby easily resulting in an apparatus defect of the cellular phone. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[11] In a sliding module comprising a main slider and a sub slider installed in a sliding- type cellular phone, it is an object of a first embodiment of the present invention to provide a spring device which applies power to make the main slider and the sub slider slide, a sliding module equipped with the spring device, and a mobile device equipped with the sliding module.

[12] The spring device in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention can further obtain reception spaces of coil springs (32) as 'A' on opposite parts of inserting units of rods(35,45) on a body(40) of a spring device(30), thus it is possible to use the coil springs(32) which get larger as 'A'. So, much tension can be applied to the respective right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30).

[13] In a sliding module comprising a main slider and a sub slider installed in a sliding- type cellular phone, it is an object of a second embodiment of the present invention to provide a spring device which applies power to make the main slider and the sub slider slide, a sliding module equipped with the spring device, and a mobile device equipped with the sliding module.

[14] The spring device used in the second embodiment of the present invention has enhanced elastic power and restoring power by adopting a mechanical spring as improving durability of a product. [15] In an elastic member used for a conventional sliding module, it is an object of a third embodiment and a fourth embodiment of the present invention to provide an elastic member for a sliding module capable of solving a problem that a lot of time is taken for processing the elastic member and some problems that assembling processes and assembling expenses are increased due to an increase of components which constitute the elastic member, and that thickness and length of the elastic member are expanded after assembling, which can cause augmentation of thickness and length of the sliding module that employs the elastic member as well as limitation on slimness of a product.

[16] In an elastic member used for a conventional sliding module, it is an object of a fifth embodiment of the present invention to provide an elastic member for a sliding module capable of solving a problem that a lot of time is taken for processing the elastic member and a problem that assembling processes and assembling expenses are increased. In an elastic member used for a conventional sliding module, it is an object of the present invention to provide an elastic member for a sliding module capable of solving a problem that there is a restriction on using spaces occupied by springs by compressing the springs used for the elastic member from the outside, and a problem that performance of the elastic member deteriorates owing to an increase of stress of the springs in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member.

[17] In an elastic member used for a conventional sliding module, it is an object of a sixth embodiment of the present invention to provide an elastic member for a sliding module capable of solving a problem that a sliding action of the sliding module stops by balance of power applied to upper/lower sliders of the sliding module by the elastic member at a spot where the elastic member is maximally compressed. In the elastic member used for the conventional sliding module, it is an object of the sixth embodiment of the present invention to provide an elastic member for a sliding module capable of solving a problem that a lot of time is taken for processing the elastic member and a problem that assembling processes and assembling expenses are increased owing to an increase of components which constitute the elastic member. As a spring device for applying elastic power to enable sliding modules, which are individually attached to a calling part and a receiving part on a sliding-type cellular phone where the calling part and the receiving part of the cellular phone mutually slide, to slide together, it is an object of a seventh embodiment of the present invention to provide a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone, the sliding module mounted with the spring device, and the cellular phone, where a sliding range of the sliding module can get expanded since one pair of metal spring rods is fixed to a body in insert-injection type to make horizontal length of the body smaller and it is possible to maximally compress within a compression range where restoration of the spring rods is possible. [18] As a multistage elastic member for realizing higher reliability by dividing stress of springs to enable a receiving part equipped with an LCD part to smoothly slide in case of a cellular phone having a long stroke in a tendency to increase up/down length, that is, a stroke of the current cellular phone, it is an object of an eighth embodiment of the present invention to provide a multistage elastic member capable of allowing a receiving part equipped with an LCD to slide as more farther maintaining elastic power when being applied to a sliding-type cellular phone whose up/down length is expanded, since overall length of springs can remarkably get increased when the springs are restored after being maximally compressed, because the 3-stage springs are disposed as conducting compression and restoration on each stage.

[19] It is an object of a ninth embodiment of the present invention to provide a spring device for a sliding module applicable as providing sufficient elastic power even when sliding length of a cellular phone gets larger by increasing a restorable compression range of road units by minimizing horizontal length of a case unit, as enabling a case where torsion springs are received to be easily assembled and disassembled, stably fixing/supporting one pair of the torsion springs through insertion receiving grooves formed on the case and fixing ends protruded from the utmost inner sides of the torsion springs, improving durability by ensuring stable elastic motion of the springs through a configuration that the one pair of the torsion springs is put on the case for combination while forming a layer structure having a slight height difference instead of on the same plane, and as preventing frictional noise.

[20]

Technical Solution

[21] In order to accomplish the above object, a spring device in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention comprises: right/left rods(35,45); and a body(40) where the right/left rods(35,45) are received by being inserted thereinto; and wherein the body(40) comprises each guide unit which is a length-directional path where the respective right/left rods do straight motion by being inserted into inner sides; and springs for applying tension to the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are individually formed in mutually opposite directions in opposite sections of parts inserted into the body(40) by the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein receiving spaces for coil springs(32) as lengths corresponding to diameters of the cylinder-shaped rotative projections(37,47) are further obtained in insertion units' opposite parts of the respective rods(35,45) on the body(40) of the spring device(30), thus it is possible to use the coil springs(32) which get longer as many as the diameters of the rotative projections(37,47), thereby applying much tension to the respective right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30). [22] In order to achieve the above object, a sliding module equipped with the spring device in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main slider; a sub slider; and a spring device, and wherein the spring device comprises: right/left rods(35,45); and a body(40) where the right/left rods(35,45) are received by being inserted thereinto; and wherein the body(40) comprises: each guide unit which is a length-directional path where the respective right/left rods(35,45) do straight motion by being inserted into inner sides; and springs for applying tension to the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein cylinder-shaped rotative projections(37,47) are individually formed in mutually opposite directions in opposite sections of parts inserted into the body(40) by the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein receiving spaces for coil springs(32) as lengths corresponding to diameters of the cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are further obtained in insertion units' opposite parts of the respective rods(35,45) on the body(40) of the spring device(30), thus it is possible to use the coil springs (32) which get longer as many as the diameters of the rotative projections(37,47), thereby applying much tension to the respective right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30).

[23] In order to accomplish the above object, in a sliding-type mobile device, the mobile device equipped with a sliding module having a spring device in accordance with the present invention comprises: a main slider; a sub slider; and a spring device, and wherein the spring device comprises: right/left rods(35,45); and a body(40) where the right/left rods(35,45) are received by being inserted thereinto; and wherein the body (40) comprises: each guide unit which is a length-directional path where the respective right/left rods(35,45) do straight motion by being inserted into inner sides; and springs for applying tension to the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are individually formed in mutually opposite directions in opposite sections of parts inserted into the body(40) by the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein receiving spaces for coil springs(32) as lengths corresponding to diameters of the cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are further obtained in insertion units' opposite parts of the respective rods(35,45) on the body(40) of the spring device(30), thus it is possible to use the coil springs(32) which get longer as many as the diameters of the rotative projections(37,47), thereby applying much tension to the respective right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30), and the mobile device refers to a cellular phone.

[24] In order to achieve the above object, a spring device in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention comprises: a spoon-shaped upper body(35); a spoon-shaped lower body(45) symmetrical to the upper body; and a mechanical spring(40) for applying certain tension to the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) by being positioned on an inner side between the coupled upper body(35) and lower body(45).

[25] In order to accomplish the above object, a sliding module equipped with a spring device in accordance with the present invention comprises: a main slider; a sub slider; and a spring device, and wherein the spring device comprises: a spoon-shaped upper body(35); a spoon-shaped lower body(45) symmetrical to the upper body; and a mechanical spring(40) for applying certain tension to the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) by being positioned on an inner side between the coupled upper body(35) and lower body(45).

[26] In order to achieve the above object, in a mobile device equipped with a sliding module having a spring device in accordance with the present invention, the sliding- type mobile device comprises: a main slider; a sub slider; and a spring device, and wherein the spring device comprises: a spoon-shaped upper body(35); a spoon-shaped lower body(45) symmetrical to the upper body; and a mechanical spring(40) for applying certain tension to the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) by being positioned on an inner side between the coupled upper body(35) and lower body(45).

[27] In order to accomplish the above object, an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the third and fourth embodiments of the present invention comprises: rods(34,35) individually moving in width directions when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, by being individually positioned on both right/left sides of the elastic member; a plurality of guide shafts (40,41) attached by being individually fixed to the rods(34,35); a plurality of springs(50,51) for providing elastic power when the rods(34,35) move in width directions, by being individually inserted into the guide shafts (40,41); a body unit(32) equipped with a plurality of first insertion holes pierced in width directions to allow the guide shafts(40,41) attached to the rods(34,35) to slide in right/left width directions by being individually combined; and pin shafts(60,61) for coupling the respective rods(34,35) with the body unit(32) by being individually inserted into right/left sides of the body unit(32), and wherein the rods(34,35) are in flat plate shape, and the plurality of the insertion holes pierced in width directions are installed to make the pin shafts(60,61) inserted thereinto, and wherein the body unit(32) is in flat plate shape, and a plurality of second insertion holes pierced in width directions are installed to allow the pin shafts(60,61) to be inserted in both extension lines of the insertion holes formed on the rods(34,35), and wherein the pin shafts(60,61) are inserted by piercing through the second insertion holes formed in the body unit(32) and the insertion holes formed on the rods(34,35).

[28] In order to accomplish the above object, an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention comprises: a rod(34) moving in width directions when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, by being positioned on one side of the elastic member; a plurality of springs(36) inserted into the rod(34), and providing elastic power when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed; and a body unit(32) formed with a space where the rod(34) is positioned inside when the elastic member is contracted, and wherein the rod(34) comprises a transfer support for forming a flat plate shape and a plurality of spring insertion bars(40) for forming long bar shapes, and wherein the springs(36) are individually inserted into the plurality of the spring insertion bars (40) formed on the rod(34), and the body unit(32) is in flat plate shape and comprises a space for locating the transfer support formed on the rod(34) inside and a plurality of insertion holes for locating the spring insertion bars(40).

[29] A spring device for a sliding module in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention is an elastic member for a sliding module whose length is varied by elastic power, comprising: a rod(34) moving in width direction when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, by being positioned on one side of the elastic member; a plurality of springs(36) for providing elastic power when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed; and a body unit(32) combined with the rod(34) and equipped with a space where the rod(34) is inserted or protruded when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, and wherein the rod(34) comprises a transfer support for forming a flat plate shape and a plurality of spring insertion bars (40) for forming long bar shapes, and wherein the springs(36) are individually inserted into the plurality of the spring insertion bars (40) formed on the rod(34), and the body unit(32) is in flat plate shape and comprises a space for locating the transfer support formed on the rod(34) inside and a plurality of insertion holes for locating the spring insertion bars (40), and wherein on the transfer support between the plurality of the spring insertion bars (40) formed on the rod(34), grooves are individually formed and assembled into the body unit(32), so that the rod(34) can be contracted or relaxed in side direction, and coupling units(38) formed as hooks are disposed on both sides of the transfer support formed on the rod(34), and wherein suspending ends are formed on each one side inside the body unit(32) adjacent to the rod(34) so as to prevent the rod(34) from being fully separated from the body unit(32) during relaxation of the elastic member, and the rod(34) comprises a fixed projection(44) protruded from a plane or a lower side, and the body unit(32) comprises a fixed projection(42) protruded from a plane or a lower side in opposite direction to the fixed projection(44) formed on the rod(34).

[30] In order to accomplish the above object, an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the sixth embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first rod(40) and a second rod(45) individually moving in width directions when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, by being positioned on both right/left sides of the elastic member for the sliding module; a plurality of springs(50,55) for providing elastic power in case of movement in width directions of the first rod(40) and the second rod(45); and a body unit(60) consisting of a first guide unit and a second guide unit caved inside to allow the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) to move by being inserted thereinto, and wherein the respective rods(40,45) are equipped with a plurality of spring insertion bars(41,46) which form long bar shapes on each one side, and the springs(50,55) are individually inserted into the spring insertion bars(41,46), and the body unit(60) is in flat plate shape, then the first guide unit and the second guide unit are diagonally disposed not to run parallel with each other.

[31] In order to achieve the above object, a spring device in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention is a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone, comprising: one pair of spring rods(10,12) made of conventional spring rods while some parts thereof are bent in semicircular shape; a body(20) where each one section of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12) is fixed through insert injection; and cylinder- shaped rivets(30,32) fixed to the other sections of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12), and wherein the spring rods(10,12) are insert- injected into the body(20) as being mutually connected into one, and parts of the spring rods, which are bent in the semicircular shape, are bent in semicircular shape to mutually indicate the same direction, then the parts of the spring rods(10,12), which are bent in the semicircular shape, are bent in semicircular shape to mutually indicate opposite directions.

[32] In order to accomplish the above object, a sliding module equipped with a spring device in accordance with the seventh embodiment comprises: a main slider(l 10); a sub slider(120) for allowing both sides of the main slider(l 10) to be inserted to move up and down; one pair of spring rods(10,12) made of conventional spring rods while some parts thereof are bent in semicircular shape; a body(20) where each one section of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12) is fixed through insert injection; and cylinder- shaped rivets(30,32) fixed to the other sections of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12). A cellular phone equipped with a sliding module in accordance with the seventh embodiment comprises: a main slider(l 10); a sub slider(120) for allowing both sides of the main slider(l 10) to be inserted to move up and down; one pair of spring rods(10,12) made of conventional spring rods while some parts thereof are bent in semicircular shape; a body(20) where each one section of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12) is fixed through insert injection; and cylinder- shaped rivets(30,32) fixed to the other sections of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12).

[33] A multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention is a multistage elastic member(30) for a sliding module, comprising: one pair of rods(300) individually moving in width directions by being positioned on right and left sides of the elastic member(30); and wherein the respective rods(300) are equipped with one pair of shafts(310) in a central part and supports(332) having fixed projections(334) on both sides; springs(320) for providing elastic power when the rods(300) move in width directions, by being individually inserted into the respective shafts(310); one pair of body units(330) individually combined with the respective rods(300) including the shafts(310); and wherein the one pair of the body units(330) comprises guide grooves(336) where the supports(300) and the shafts(310) of the respective rods(300) are pierced by being inserted thereinto, and wherein the support(332) having a fixed projection coupled by being inserted to mutually pierce with the other body unit(330), the support(332) having a fixed projection of the other body unit(330) and the shafts(310), and the guide grooves(336) where the shafts (310) are inserted to pierce therethrough are configured, and the body units(330) are made of plastic materials.

[34] A spring device for a sliding module in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention comprises: one pair of torsion springs for allowing a slider combined with a receiving part to do sliding motion in up/down directions on a frame combined with a calling part, through elastic power by the distortion moment; and a case where the torsion springs are combined and fixed thereto.

[35] The torsion springs comprise: driving units formed by being wound many times as forming spiral shapes in clockwise(counterclockwise) direction toward inner sides on the same plane by being bent on each one end of the torsion springs, and wherein parts(hereinafter, fixed ends) wound on the utmost inner sides of the spirals are stretched out as forming accumulated types while being overlapped with the plane by being separated from the plane formed by the spirals wound many times; rod units for enabling semiautomatic sliding actions of a cellular phone by changing a winding degree of the driving units, as members formed to stretch out by being extended from a spot where the utmost outer spirals of the driving units end; and connecting units formed in sections of the rod units to connect the one pair of the torsion springs with the frame and the slider, respectively, and being configured in rotatable shape.

[36] The case comprises: bodies where the one pair of the torsion springs is coupled/fixed; and covers for covering the bodies, and wherein receiving grooves configured as forming the same concavo-convex shape as the fixed ends are formed on the bodies to receive the fixed ends. Brief Description of the Drawings

[37] The advantages of the invention wil become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment when considered in the light of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[38] Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating one example of a conventional sliding-type cellular phone; [39] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a spring device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, which is seen from the outside; [40] Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view for showing that components of a spring device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention are disassembled; [41] Fig. 4 is an internal format diagram illustrating an internal configuration in order to explain advantages of a spring device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention; [42] Fig. 5 illustrates a figure that a spring device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on a slider; [43] Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view for showing that components of a spring device of another embodiment in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention are disassembled; [44] Fig. 7 is an internal format diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a spring device of another embodiment in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention; [45] Fig. 8 is a plane diagram of a spring device of another embodiment in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention; [46] Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view for showing that components of a spring device in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention are disassembled; [47] Fig. 10 illustrates a mechanical spring and a figure of a spring device in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, which is seen from a front side, a plane side, and a lateral side; [48] Fig. 11 illustrates a figure that a spring device in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on a slider; [49] Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view for showing each component of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention; [50] Fig. 13 illustrates a figure that each rod is assembled into a body unit in an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention; [51] Fig. 14 is a perspective view for showing a figure that an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention is relaxed; [52] Fig. 15 (a) and (b) are plane and side diagrams for showing an overall figure of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention; [53] Fig. 16 is a plane diagram for showing an overall figure of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with another embodiment of a third embodiment of the present invention; [54] Fig. 17 is an exploded perspective view for showing each component of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention; [55] Fig. 18(a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and rods are combined together when an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed; [56] Fig. 19(a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and rods are combined together when an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with another embodiment of a fourth embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed; [57] Fig. 20 is a perspective view for showing an overall figure of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention; [58] Fig. 21(a), (b), and (c) are plane diagrams for showing a figure that an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on the sliding module; [59] Fig. 22 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention; [60] Fig. 23 is a perspective view for showing a figure that an elastic member of another embodiment illustrated in Fig. 22 is combined; [61] Fig. 24 is an exploded perspective view for showing each component of an elastic member used for a conventional sliding module; [62] Fig. 25 is an exploded perspective view for showing components of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention; [63] Fig. 26(a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and rods are combined when an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed; [64] Fig. 27 is a side sectional view of a spring device for a sliding module in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention and the prior art; [65] Fig. 28(a), (b), and (c) are plane diagrams for showing a figure that an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on the sliding module; [66] Fig. 29 is an exploded perspective view for showing components of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention; [67] Fig. 30(a) and (b) are plane diagrams for showing a direction of power applied by each rod according to a figure that each guide unit formed on a body unit of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a sixth embodiment is disposed; [68] Fig. 31 (a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and each rod are combined together when an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed; [69] Fig. 32(a), (b), and (c) are plane diagrams for showing a figure that an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on the sliding module; [70] Fig. 33 is a perspective view of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention; [71] Fig. 34 illustrates a figure that each spring rod is installed on a body of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention; [72] Fig. 35 illustrates another embodiment that each spring rod is installed on a body of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention; [73] Fig. 36 illustrates a transformed example of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention; [74] Fig. 37 illustrates a figure that a spring device for a sliding module in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention is operated by being mounted on the sliding module; [75] Fig. 38 is an exploded perspective view for showing each component of a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention; [76] Fig. 39(a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and rods are combined together when a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed; [77] Fig. 40 is a perspective view for showing an overall figure of a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention; [78] Fig. 41 is a plane diagram for showing a figure that a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention is compressed; [79] Fig. 42(a), (b), and (c) are plane diagrams for showing a figure that a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on the sliding module; [80] Fig. 43 is an exploded perspective view for showing a configuration of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention; [81] Fig. 44 is another embodiment of connecting units of torsion springs in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention; [82] Fig. 45(a) is a sectional view of a conventional torsion spring, and Fig. 45(b) is a sectional view for showing a shape of a section of a torsion spring in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention; [83] Fig. 46 is an exploded perspective view of a case in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention; [84] Fig. 47(a) and (b) are plane and side diagrams of a spring device for a sliding module for showing a state that torsion springs, bodies, and covers in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention are finally assembled; [85] Fig. 48(a), (b), and (c) are operation diagrams for showing a figure that a spring device for a sliding module in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being mounted on a cellular phone; [86] Fig. 49 is an exploded perspective view for showing a configuration of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with another embodiment of a ninth embodiment of the present invention; [87] Fig. 50 is a perspective view of the spring device for the sliding module of Fig. 49;

[88] Fig. 51 (a), (b), and (c) are plane, front, and lateral side diagrams of a spring device for a sliding module for showing a state that torsion springs, bodies, and covers of the spring device for the sliding module of Fig. 49 are finally assembled; and [89] Fig. 52 is a plane diagram of a spring device in accordance with another embodiment of a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention [90] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. [91] Fig. 2 to Fig. 8 illustrate a first embodiment in accordance with the present invention. [92] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a spring device in accordance with the present invention, which is seen from the outside. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view for showing that components of a spring device in accordance with the present invention are disassembled. [93] Referring to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the spring device in accordance with the present invention comprises a square can-shaped body(40) whose internal space is empty, right/left rods(35,45) inserted into right/left sides of the body(40), and coil springs(32) inserted into parts which are put into the body(40) of the right/left rods(35,45), so as to apply tension to the right/left rods(35,45) when the right/left rods(35,45) are inserted into the body(40).

[94] Cylinder-shaped rotative projections(37,47) are individually formed in mutually opposite directions in opposite sections of the parts inserted into the body(40) on the right/left rods(35,45) in accordance with the present invention.

[95] Features of the spring device in accordance with the present invention will be described as follows by referring to illustration of Fig. 2(b) and Fig. 3.

[96] In case of the body(40) in accordance with the present invention, when the right/left rods(35,45) are fully inserted into the body(40), they cannot be inserted into the body(40) as many as lengths corresponding to diameters of the rotative projections(37,47) in overall length of the right/left rods(35,45) because of the rotative projections(37,47).

[97] Opposite lengths of each part of the body(40) into which the right/left rods(35,45) are inserted are configured to be larger as 'A', respectively. Therefore, if the right/left rods(35,45) are fully inserted into the body(40) like shown in Fig. 2, the coil springs (32) can get longer as the 'A' parts because the opposite lengths of the parts of the body(40) into which the right/left rods(35,45) are inserted become larger as 'A', thereby applying much stronger tension to the right/left rods(35,45).

[98] The cylinder-shaped rotative projections(37,47) installed on the right/left rods(35,45) in accordance with the present invention can be configured to view different directions or the same direction.

[99] Fig. 4 is an internal format diagram illustrating an internal configuration in order to explain advantages of a spring device in accordance with the present invention.

[100] Fig. 4(a) is a sectional view for showing a case where right/left rods(35,45) are fully inserted into a body(40), so that springs are maximally compressed, Fig. 4(b) is a sectional view for showing a case where right/left rods(35,45) are maximally expanded to the outside of a body (40), and Fig. 4(c) is a sectional view of a spring device(30) for explaining disadvantages when protruding units are not configured as 'A'.

[101] Referring to Fig. 4(a) and (b), when the right/left rods(35,45) are fully inserted into the body(40), insertion of the right/left rods(35,45) is not possible any more due to cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47), and as 'A' lengths which are almost similar lengths to diameters of the cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47), lengths of opposite configurations of insertion units of the rods(35,45) become larger on the body. [102] Owing to the above configuration features, coil springs(32) can be configured to be longer as 'A'.

[103] Since opposite configurations of each rod insertion unit are not protruded to be longer as 'A' in the spring device of Fig. 4(c), overall lengths of coil springs (32) are smaller than coil springs of a spring device(30) in accordance with the present invention. Due to such a configuration, tension applied to the right/left rods(35,45) is smaller than that of the spring device in accordance with the present invention.

[104] Fig. 5 illustrates a figure that a spring device in accordance with the present invention is operated by being installed on a slider.

[105] Referring to Fig. 5, Fig. 5(a) illustrates a figure that a main slider(lθ) slides downward on a sub slider(20) by being inserted into the sub slider(20). In this case, right/left rods(35,45) of a spring device(30) receive the smallest tension.

[106] One of two rotative projections(37,47) of the spring device(30) in accordance with the present invention is inserted into a circular rotative projection groove(50) of the main slider, and the other is inserted into a circular rotative projection groove(55) of the sub slider.

[107] Fig. 5(b) illustrates a figure that a main slider(lθ) upward slides as 1/2 of overall lengths of the main slider(lθ) on a sub slider(20).

[108] In this case, the right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30) receive the largest tension.

[109] Fig. 5(c) illustrates a figure that a main slider(lθ) upward slides as overall lengths of the main slider(lθ) on a sub slider(20). On this occasion, like Fig. 5 (a), the right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30) receive the smallest tension, respectively.

[110] Generally, in a sliding-type cellular phone, a display unit composed of an LCD and a receiving part which is a speaker is combined with the main slider(lθ), while a button unit composed of number keys and a calling part which is a microphone is combined with the sub slider(20). The reverse is also possible.

[I l l] In the present invention, receiving spaces for the coil springs (32) as 'A' can be further obtained on opposite sides of insertion units of the rods(35,45) on the body(40) of the spring device(30), thereby applying much tension to the right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30). Consequently, it is possible to apply sufficient tension even though length(L) of a sliding direction of the main slider(lθ) is set to be larger.

[112] That is to say, it is available to configure a spring device having larger pushing power than a spring device which is not equipped with coil spring receiving parts as 'A'.

[113] In addition, since coil spring receiving parts corresponding to 'A' are expanded, length of a direction in which the rods(35,45) of the body(40) of the spring device(30) move can be reduced as much as 2 x A, while the respective coil springs (32) are in certain length. Thus, the main slider(lθ) can slide on the sub slider(20) as applying the same tension as the spring device which is not equipped with the coil spring receiving parts as 'A' even though width(S) of the main slider(lθ) is reduced as much as 2 x A.

[114] Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view for showing that components of a spring device of another embodiment in accordance with the present invention are disassembled. Fig. 7 is an internal format diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a spring device of another embodiment in accordance with the present invention. Fig. 8 is a plane diagram of a spring device of another embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

[115] Referring to Fig. 6 to Fig. 8, a body(40) in accordance with the present invention is equipped with rod setting units(42) sunken to the inside of the body(40) in parts where rods(35,45) are inserted. Due to configuration of the sunken-in rod setting units(42) in accordance with the present invention, the respective rods(35,45) can be more deeply inserted than a body configuration which does not have the rod setting units(42) on the body(40).

[116] Moreover, because guide bars(33) of the respective rods(35,45) are short and ends of springs(32) are inserted into end parts only of the guide bars(33), the springs(32) installable inside the body(40) can be maximally extended. So, since the longer springs (32) can be usable compared to the embodiment of Fig. 3, intensity of tension applied to the rods(35,45) is increased.

[117] Protruded stoppers(41) are disposed on ends of the respective rods(35,45) inserted into the body(40) of the present invention, and the stoppers(41) of the rods are mutually engaged with the projections of the body(40), thereby preventing the rods(35,45) from being separated from the body(40).

[118] The respective rods(35,45) move within guides(42) of the body(40).

[119] Since the 'A' parts shown in the embodiment of Fig. 3 are not configured in another embodiment of the present invention shown in Fig. 6 to Fig. 8, overall length of the body(40) can be smaller than the embodiment shown in Fig. 3. Also, it is possible to use the longer springs(32) installed within the body(40) by making the guide bars(33) of the rods(35,45) shorter, thus more excellent tension can be obtained.

[120] Fig. 9 to Fig. 11 illustrate a second embodiment of the present invention.

[121] Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view for showing that components of a spring device in accordance with the present invention are disassembled.

[122] Referring to Fig. 9, the spring device in accordance with the present invention comprises a spoon-shaped upper body(35), a lower body(45), and a mechanical spring(40) for applying certain tension to the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) by being installed on an inner side between the coupled upper body(35) and lower body(45), when the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) are coupled together. [123] A rotative shaft projection(36) is slightly protruded from a part corresponding to a rotative center on the upper body(35) in accordance with the present invention. And, a rotative shaft groove(46) is formed on the lower body(45) to allow the upper/lower bodies(35,45) to rotate by tension of the mechanical spring(40), by inserting the rotative shaft projection(36) of the upper body(35) into a part corresponding to a rotative center of the lower body.

[124] The mechanical spring(40) in accordance with the present invention is formed as being rolled in circular shape toward the outside from the inside, and in a starting part of the mechanical spring(40), there is a second fixing metal(44) bent in sickle shape, and a first fixing metal(42) bent in sickle shape is also formed in an ending part of the mechanical spring(40).

[125] The first fixing metal(42) of the mechanical spring(40) in accordance with the present invention is inserted into a first fixing groove(39) of the upper body(35), and the second fixing metal(44) is inserted into a second fixing groove(47) of the lower body(45), applying tension to the upper body(35) and the lower body(45).

[126] On inner sides of the upper/lower bodies(35,45) coupled to make the mechanical spring(40) in accordance with the present invention set thereon, there are mechanical spring setting units(38,48) protruded as much as some height to receive the mechanical spring(40) around the circumference by centering around the rotative shaft projection(36) and the rotative shaft groove(46).

[127] A cylinder- shaped rotative projection(37) is formed in a section of an opposite side of the mechanical spring setting unit(38) of the upper body(35) in accordance with the present invention, and a cylinder-shaped rotative projection(49) is also disposed in a section of an opposite side of the mechanical spring setting unit(48) of the lower body(45).

[128] The cylinder-shaped rotative projections(37,49) installed on outer ends of the upper and lower bodies(35,45) in accordance with the present invention can be configured to view different directions or the same direction.

[129] Fig. 10 illustrates a mechanical spring and a figure of a spring device in accordance with the present invention, which is seen from a front side, a plane side, and a lateral side.

[130] Referring to Fig. 10, a figure that the spring device is configured by combining an upper body(35) with a lower body(45) is illustrated.

[131] On the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) of the spring device in accordance with the present invention, after a rotative shaft projection(36) of the upper body is combined by being inserted into a rotative shaft groove(46) of the lower body, the rotative shaft projection(36) of the upper body does rotative motion in the rotative shaft groove(46) of the lower body. At this time, the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) of the spring device receive certain tension by the mechanical spring(40) installed inside the coupled upper body(35) and lower body(45), that is, within the mechanical spring setting units(38,48).

[132] The mechanical spring(40) in accordance with the present invention is manufactured as a conventional leaf spring, and can be made of metal or plastic for making a conventional mechanical spring.

[133] Fig. 11 illustrates a figure that a spring device in accordance with the present invention is operated by being installed on a slider.

[134] Referring to Fig. 11, Fig. 1 l(a) illustrates a figure that a main slider(lθ) is downward opened on a sub slider(20) by being inserted into the sub slider(20). In this case, upper/ lower bodies(35,45) of a spring device(30) receive the smallest tension by a mechanical spring(40). The mechanical spring is in released state.

[135] One of two rotative projections(37,39) of the spring device(30) in accordance with the present invention is inserted into a circular rotative projection groove(50) of the main slider while the other is inserted into a circular rotative projection groove(55) of the sub slider.

[136] Fig. 1 l(b) illustrates a figure that a main slider(lθ) upward slides as 1/2 of overall length of the main slider(lθ) on a sub slider(20). Fig. 4(c) and (d) illustrate Fig. 4(b) seen from a front side and a lateral side.

[137] On this occasion, the respective upper/lower bodies(35,45) of the spring device(30) receive the largest tension by the mechanical spring(40). It is because the mechanical spring(40) is in the most rolled state.

[138] Fig. 1 l(e) illustrates a figure that a main slider(lθ) upward slides as much as overall length of the main slider(lθ) on a sub slider(20). In this case, like shown in Fig. 1 l(a), the respective upper/lower bodies(35,45) of the spring device(30) receive the smallest tension by the mechanical spring(40). The mechanical spring(40) becomes in released state by being restored. Generally, in a sliding-type cellular phone, a display unit composed of an LCD and a receiving part which is a speaker is combined with the main slider(lθ), while a button unit composed of number keys and a calling part which is a microphone is combined with the sub slider. The reverse is also possible.

[139] Fig. 12 to Fig. 16 illustrate a third embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

[140] Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view for showing each component of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention.

[141] Referring to Fig. 12, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention comprises rods(34,35) individually moving in width directions when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed by being positioned on both right/left sides of the elastic member, a plurality of guide shafts(40,41) attached by being individually fixed to the rods(34,35), a plurality of springs(50,51) for providing elastic power when the rods(34,35) move in width directions by being individually inserted into the guide shafts(40,41), a body unit(32) equipped with a plurality of insertion holes pierced in width directions to allow the guide shafts (40,41) attached to the rods(34,35) to slide in right/left width directions by being individually combined together, and pin shafts(60,61) for coupling the respective rods(34,35) with the body unit(32) by being individually inserted into right/left sides of the body unit(32).

[142] The rods(34,35) in accordance with the present invention are located on right/left sides of the elastic member for the sliding module, respectively, and individually move in width directions when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed by width-directional external power applied to the elastic member for the sliding module. Suspending ends protruded to the outside to prevent separation from the body unit(32) during movement in width directions are formed on each one end of the rods(34,35) in accordance with the present invention, and insertion holes for inserting the pin shafts(60,61) for minimizing shaking during movement of the rods(34,35) in width directions are disposed on the suspending ends formed on the rods(34,35).

[143] The suspending ends formed on the rods(34,35) in accordance with the present invention prevent the rods(34,35) located on both right/left sides of the elastic member from being fully separated from the body unit(32) when the rods individually move in width directions. The suspending ends formed on the rods(34,35) are engaged with suspending ends formed on one side of the body unit(32) during relaxation of the elastic member for the sliding module, thereby preventing the rods(34,35) from being fully separated from the body unit(32) by elastic power of the springs(50,51) included in the elastic member.

[144] The insertion holes for inserting the pin shafts(60,61) for minimizing shaking during movement of the rods(34,35) in width directions are formed on the suspending ends disposed on the rods in accordance with the present invention. Also, with regards to a surface where the rods(34,35) and the body unit(32) are contacted together in case of movement of the rods(34,35) in width directions, it is possible to minimize shaking during movement of the rods(34,35) by allowing each one side of the rods(34,35) to be protruded and one side of the body unit(32) contacted therewith to be caved in, or by enabling each one side of the rods(34,35) to be caved in and one side of the body unit(32) contacted therewith to be protruded.

[145] The rods(34,35) in accordance with the present invention are equipped with fixed projections(70,71) so as to easily attach the sliding module to each one side of the rods(34,35). The fixed projections(70,71) are selectively protruded from planes or lower sides of the respective rods(34,35) according to an embodiment type applied with the elastic member, and desirably, the respective fixed projections(34,35) are disposed in opposite directions while horizontal sections thereof form circular shapes.

[146] As for the rods(34,35) in accordance with the present invention, the rod(35) located on a left side and the rod(34) located on a right side are disposed in different extension lines instead of in the same extension line in width directions.

[147] Like shown in Fig. 2, by vertically separating the rod(35) located on the left side from the rod(34) located on the right side and disposing the rods in the different extension lines, it is available to reduce overall length of the elastic member.

[148] Each one section of the guide shafts(40,41) in accordance with the present invention is attached by being fixed to the rods(34,35). More specifically, each one section of the two guide shafts(41) is attached by being fixed to one side of the rod(35) located on the left side, and each one section of the two guide shafts (40) is attached by being fixed to one side of the rod(34) located on the right side.

[149] The guide shafts(40,41) made of metal are attached by being fixed to the rods(34,35) made of plastic through insert injection. The insert injection refers to a method of in- tegratedly molding plastic with metal within a mold. By the insert injection method, each one section of the guide shafts(40,41) is attached by being fixed to the rods(34,35), and the guide shafts(40,41) attached to the rods(34,35) also move in width directions when the rods(34,35) move in width directions.

[150] Though it is drawn in the diagram that the two guide shafts(40,41) are attached by being individually fixed to the respective rods(34,35) located on both sides of the elastic member, it is available to plurally form the number of the guide shafts(40,41) attached to the rods(34,35) in accordance with the present invention, and to increase the number of the springs(50,51) inserted into the guide shafts(40,41) as the number of the guide shafts (40,41) gets larger, thereby enhancing elastic power.

[151] The springs(50,51) in accordance with the present invention provide elastic power when the rods(34,35) move in width directions by being inserted into the respective guide shafts(40,41) attached by being fixed to the rods(34,35) located on both sides of the elastic member. If more than two guide shafts(40,41) are equipped, the springs(50,51) should be also equipped as many as the number of the guide shafts(40,41) and be mounted on the respective guide shafts(40,41). Therefore, when the rods(34,35) slide in right/left width directions along the guide shafts(40,41), a distance between the rods(34,35) and the body unit(32) is decreased or increased, offering elastic power as each of the springs(50,51) is contracted or relaxed.

[152] The body unit(32) in accordance with the present invention is in flat plate shape, and includes a plurality of insertion holes pierced in width directions, in order that the plurality of the guide shafts(40,41) attached by being fixed to the rods(34,35) can slide in right/left width directions by combining together. [153] On both sides of the body unit(32) in accordance with the present invention, there are suspending ends to be engaged with the suspending ends formed on the rods(34,35) individually located on right/left sides in case of relaxation of the elastic member, so as to prevent the rods(34,35) from being fully separated from the body unit(32). Furthermore, when the respective rods(34,35) are combined on both sides of the body unit(32), the insertion holes are formed on the body unit(32) located in both extension lines of insertion holes formed on the suspending ends of the respective rods(34,35), so that the pin shafts(60,61) are inserted by piercing through the rods(34,35) and the body unit(32).

[154] From now on, the insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) to insert the plurality of the guide shafts(40,41) will be explained as first insertion holes, while the insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) to insert the pin shafts(60,61) will be explained as second insertion holes for explanatory convenience.

[155] The pin shafts(60,61) in accordance with the present invention are inserted into both right/left sides of the body unit(32), respectively, in order to couple the body unit(32) with the rods(34,35) located on both right/left sides of the elastic member for the sliding module. More specifically, the left-sided pin shaft(61) is inserted by piercing through the insertion hole formed on the rod(35) located on the left side of the elastic member and the second insertion hole formed on the left side of the body unit(32), while the right-sided pin shaft(60) is inserted by piercing through the insertion hole formed on the rod(34) located on the right side of the elastic member and the second insertion hole formed on the right side of the body unit(32).

[156] The pin shafts(60,61) in accordance with the present invention are located to make both ends thereof fixed on the body unit(32), and the rods(34,35) located on the right/ left sides of the elastic member move in width directions along the pin shafts(60,61), respectively.

[157] The pin shafts(60,61) in accordance with the present invention couple the rods(34,35) with the body unit(32) to minimize shaking when the rods(34,35) located on both right/left sides of the elastic member slide in width directions. So, the rods(34,35) located on both right/left sides of the elastic member are supported by the pin shafts(60,61) and the guide shafts(40,41), thereby moving as minimizing shaking in right/left width directions, respectively.

[158] In Fig. 12, it is drawn the embodiment that the guide shafts(40,41) and the springs(50,51) inserted into the guide shafts(40,41) are equipped by two while the pin shafts(60,61) are equipped by one, but it is also possible to variously change configurations and the number of the guide shafts(40,41), the springs(50,51), and the pin shafts(60,61) according to strength of essential elastic power or usage purposes of the elastic member for the sliding module. [159] Fig. 13 illustrates a figure that each rod is assembled into a body unit in an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention.

[160] Referring to Fig. 13, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention attaches a plurality of guide shafts(40,41) by fixing the guide shafts to rods(34,35) located on both right/left sides of the elastic member, through insert injection. The insert injection refers to a method for integratedly molding plastic with metal within a mold. By the insert injection method, each one section of the guide shafts(40,41) is attached by being fixed to the rods(34,35), and the guide shafts(40,41) attached to the rods(34,35) also move in width directions when the rods(34,35) move in width directions.

[161] After fixing/attaching the plurality of the guide shafts (40,41) on each one side of the rods(34,35) in accordance with the present invention through the insert injection method, springs for individually providing elastic power are inserted into the plurality of the guide shafts(40,41) though they are not shown in the drawing. The springs offer elastic power to the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention by being contracted or relaxed between a body unit(32) and the rods(34,35) along width-directional movement of the rods(34,35).

[ 162] The right/left rods(34,35) attached with the plurality of the guide shafts(40,41 ) into which the respective springs in accordance with the present invention are inserted are put into first insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) to insert the guide shafts(40,41), and suspending ends formed on each one side of the rods(34,35) are assembled on both sides of the body unit(32) in order to be engaged with suspending ends formed on one side of the body unit(32). To prevent the guide shafts(40,41) from being fully separated to the outside of the first insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) in case of relaxation of the elastic member, the suspending ends formed on the body unit(32) and the rods(34,35) are engaged together such that a portion of the guide shafts (40,41) can be inserted into the first insertion holes while the elastic member is in maximally relaxed state.

[163] In the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, the rods(34,35) are individually assembled on right/left sides of the body unit(32), and pin shafts(60,61) are individually inserted by piercing through second insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) and the insertion holes formed on the suspending ends of the rods(34,35). The inserted pin shafts(60,61) are located such that both ends thereof can be fixed to the body unit(32), and the rods(34,35) located on right/left sides of the elastic member move in width directions along the pin shafts(60,61), respectively.

[164] The pin shafts(60,61) in accordance with the present invention are installed to minimize shaking in case of movement of the rods(34,35). In addition, with regards to a surface where the rods(34,35) and the body unit(32) are contacted together, it is possible to minimize shaking during movement of the rods(34,35) by allowing each one side of the rods(34,35) to be protruded and one side of the body unit(32) contacted therewith to be caved in, or by enabling each one side of the rods(34,35) to be caved in and one side of the body unit(32) contacted therewith to be protruded.

[165] Fig. 14 is a perspective view for showing a figure that an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention is relaxed.

[166] Referring to Fig. 14, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention comprises a rod(35) moving in right/left width directions by compression or relaxation of springs(51) located on a left side of a body unit(32), and a rod(34) moving in right/left width directions by compression or relaxation of springs (50) located on a right side of the body unit(32), so that length can be varied as providing elastic power by movement of the respective rods(34,35).

[167] When external power is applied in right/left width directions to the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, the rod(35) located on the left side of the body unit(32) moves to a right side along a pin shaft(61) inserted into the left side of the body unit(32), and the rod(34) located on the right side of the body unit(32) moves to a left side along a pin shaft(60) inserted into the right side of the body unit(32). Thus, the respective rods(34,35) compress the springs(50,51) inserted into a plurality of guide shafts(40,41) attached to the respective rods(34,35) by width-directional movement, thereby reducing overall length of the elastic member.

[168] If external power for contracting the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is not applied any more in right/left width directions, the rod(35) located on the left side of the body unit(32) moves to the left side along the pin shaft(61) inserted into the left side of the body unit(32), and the rod(34) located on the right side of the body unit(32) moves to the right side along the pin shaft(60) inserted into the right side of the body unit(32). Accordingly, the respective guide shafts(40,41) inserted inside a plurality of first insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) are pushed outside by restoration power of the springs(50,51).

[169] In order to prevent the guide shafts (40,41) from being fully separated by being pushed outside the first insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) in case of relaxation of the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, suspending ends are equipped on each one side of the rods(34,35) and the body unit(32). Therefore, the suspending ends formed on each one side of the rods(34,35) and the body unit(32) are engaged together in case of relaxation of the elastic member, thereby preventing the plurality of the guide shafts (40,41) attached to the rods(34,35) from being fully separated outside the first insertion holes formed on the body unit(32).

[170] Fig. 15 (a) and (b) are plane and side diagrams for showing an overall figure of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention.

[171] Referring to Fig. 15, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention comprises rods(34,35) individually moving in width directions in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member by being positioned on both right/left sides of the elastic member, a plurality of guide shafts(40,41) attached by being individually fixed to the rods(34,35), a plurality of springs(50,51) for providing elastic power when the rods(34,35) move in width directions by being individually inserted into the guide shafts(40,41), a body unit(32) equipped with a plurality of insertion holes pierced in width directions to allow the guide shafts(40,41) attached to the rods(34,35) to be combined together and slide in right/left width directions, and pin shafts(60,61) for coupling the body unit(32) with the respective rods(34,35) by being individually inserted into right/left sides of the body unit(32).

[172] The elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention has a structure that the springs(50,51) equipped on the elastic member are protruded to the outside without being inserted inside the elastic member. Accordingly, length of the body unit(32) and the rods(34,35) can be smaller than that of diameters of the springs(50,51), minimizing overall length of the elastic member.

[173] Also, the elastic member in accordance with the present invention comprises fixed projections(70,71) on planes or lower sides of the rods(34,35) located on both right/left sides of the elastic member. The fixed projections (70,71) are equipped to easily mount the elastic member on the sliding module. Thus, on the sliding module mounted with the elastic member, fixed grooves pierced/caved to insert the fixed projections(70,71) of the elastic member thereinto are formed as opposing each other, respectively, and it is desirable to form the fixed grooves and the fixed projections(70,71) in circular shape such that the fixed projections(70,71) of the elastic member combined with the fixed grooves formed on the sliding module can be individually rotated during sliding motion.

[174] Fig. 16 is a plane diagram for showing an overall figure of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with another embodiment of the third embodiment of the present invention.

[175] Referring to Fig. 16, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention comprises rods(34,35) individually moving in width directions in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member by being located on both right/left sides of the elastic member, a plurality of guide shafts(40,41) attached by being individually fixed to the rods(34,35), a plurality of springs(50,51) for providing elastic power when the rods(34,35) move in width directions by being individually inserted into the guide shafts(40,41), a body unit(32) equipped with a plurality of insertion holes pierced in width directions to allow the guide shafts(40,41) attached to the rods(34,35) to be combined together and slide in right/left width directions, pin shafts(60,61) for coupling the body unit(32) with the respective rods(34,35) by being individually inserted into right/left sides of the body unit(32), and protectors(80,81) individually attached to a front side and a rear side of the elastic member.

[176] The elastic member for the sliding module is used by being attached to a narrow space on the aspect of features of the sliding module, and if the elastic member for the sliding module is used for a sliding-type portable phone, it is attached in contact with a circuit board such as an FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Board). As a result, a problem of deteriorating performance of the elastic member can be produced because foreign substance may be attached to springs equipped in the elastic member when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, and if the springs made of metal are contacted with the FPCB, electric interference may occur to deteriorate performance of a device where the elastic member is used.

[177] The protectors(80,81) in accordance with the present invention are individually attached to a front side and a rear side of the body unit(32). In order to minimize influence on overall size of the elastic member due to attachment of the protectors(80,81) to the body unit(32), the protectors(80,81) are in long bar shape. Moreover, the protectors(80,81) are attached to the front and rear sides of the body unit(32) included in the elastic member, that is, the outside of the springs(50,51), respectively, and the elastic member is longer than the springs(50,51) being in relaxed state, thereby avoiding attachment of foreign substance on the springs(50,51) equipped in the elastic member.

[178] The protectors(80,81) in accordance with the present invention are made of insulating members, desirably, plastic, thereby solving a problem of electric interference caused when the springs(50,51) made of conductive materials, mainly metal, are contacted with the FPCB, if the elastic member for the sliding module is attached in contact with an FPCB of a device where the elastic member is used.

[179] Fig. 17 to Fig. 23 illustrate a fourth embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

[180] Fig. 17 is an exploded perspective view for showing each component of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[181] Referring to Fig. 17, the elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention comprises rods (300) individually moving in width directions by being located on right/left sides of the elastic member(30), a plurality of shafts(310) attached to the rods(300), springs(320) for providing elastic power when the rods(300) move in width directions by being individually inserted into the shafts(310), and a body unit(330) equipped with guides(332) coupled with the rods(300) to which the shafts (310) are attached.

[182] The rods(300) of the present invention are configuration parts for applying external power to the elastic member(30), making the shafts(310) move at the same time along with width-directional movement of the rods (300) by fixing/attaching the shafts (310). The rods(300) are located on right/left sides of the elastic member(30), respectively, and are disposed in different extension lines instead of in the same extension line in width directions, thereby moving in width directions when the elastic member(30) is contracted or relaxed.

[183] On both ends of the rods(300) of the present invention, there are guide grooves for moving as supporting the guides(332) formed on the body unit(330). Since the rods(300) move in right/left width directions when the elastic member(30) is contracted or relaxed, the guide grooves formed on the rods(300) move along the guides(332) as supporting the guides(332) formed on the body unit(330) in case of movement of the rods(300).

[184] The rods(300) of the present invention are equipped with fixed projections(305) to easily attach the sliding module on each one side of the rods (300). The fixed projections(305) are selectively protruded from planes or lower sides of each rod(300) according to an embodiment to which the elastic member is applied, and desirably, each of the fixed projections(305) is disposed in mutually opposite directions while horizontal sections thereof form circular shapes.

[185] The shafts(310) of the present invention are attached by fixing each one section of the shafts(310) between the guide grooves located on both ends of the rods(300). The shafts(310) attached to the rods(300) can be formed in plural, and as the number of the shafts(310) is increased, the number of the springs(320) inserted into the shafts(310) is increased as well, thereby augmenting or diminishing elastic power.

[186] The shafts(310) move by sliding in right/left width directions along insertion holes pierced on the body unit(330) in case of movement of the rods(300) by being attached to the rods(300) located on both right/left sides of the elastic member(30). At this moment, it is needless to say that the rods(300) attached with the shafts(310) of the right/left sides of the body unit(330) are disposed in different extension lines instead of the same extension line in width directions.

[187] The springs(320) of the present invention provide elastic power when the rods(300) move in width directions, by being inserted into the respective shafts(310) attached to the rods(300). If there exist more than two shafts(310), the springs(320) are also equipped as many as the number of the shafts(310), and are mounted on the respective shafts(310). So, when the rods(300) slide in right/left width directions along the guides(332) formed on the body unit(330), a distance between the rods(300) and the body unit(330) is decreased or increased, thereby providing elastic power as each spring(320) is contracted and relaxed.

[188] The body unit(330) of the present invention is in flat plate shape, and the guides(332) connected with the rods(300) are formed on right/left sides of the body unit(330). The plurality of the insertion holes pierced in width directions are formed on the body unit(330) of the present invention, so that the plurality of the shafts(310) attached to the rods(300) can be individually combined to slide in right/left width directions.

[189] The guides(332) formed on the body unit(330) of the present invention are lengthily formed in thin bar shape so as to be combined with the rods(300). The two guides(332) coupled with the guide grooves formed on both ends of the rod(300) located on the left side are disposed on the left side of the body unit(330), and the two guides(332) coupled with the guide grooves formed on both ends of the rod(300) located on the right side are disposed on the right side of the body unit(330), respectively.

[190] In order to realize overall slim thickness of the elastic member(30) by combining with the guide grooves formed on the rods(300), the guides(332) formed on one side of the body unit(330) is installed in an upper part of the one side of the body unit(330) while the guides(332) formed on the other side of the body unit(330) are installed in a lower part of the other side of the body unit(330). Therefore, the guides(332) formed in the upper part of the side of the body unit(330) are coupled with the rods(300) by locating the guide grooves formed on the rods(300) in an upper part, and the guides(332) formed in the lower part of the side of the body unit(330) are coupled with the rods(300) by locating the guide grooves formed on the rods(300) in a lower part, thereby minimizing overall thickness of the elastic member(30).

[191] Coupling units(334) are formed in sections of the guides(332) formed on the side of the body unit(330) in accordance with the present invention. The coupling units(334) are configured to prevent the shafts(310) attached to the rods(300) from being separated by elastic power of the springs (320) when the elastic member(30) is relaxed. The coupling units(334) are formed in arrow shape where hooks are formed on both sides while end parts are pointed, such that the guides(332) formed on the side of the body unit(330) can be assembled by being inserted into the guide grooves disposed on the rods(300).

[192] The elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is formed by attaching the plurality of the shafts(310) to the respective rods(300) located on both sides of the body unit(330), and by inserting the springs(320) as many as the number of the shafts(310) into the shafts(310) attached to the rods(300) to combine with the body unit(330). Since the rods(300) and the body unit(330) are combined by pushing the guides(332) formed on the side of the body unit(330) in the guide grooves formed on the rods(300), it is economical thanks to simplification of assembling processes and reduction in assembling costs.

[193] In Fig. 17, it is drawn the embodiment that the shafts(310) and the number of the springs(320) inserted into the shafts(310) are equipped by three, but it is also possible to variously change configurations and the number of the shafts(310) and the springs(320) according to strength of essential elastic power or usage purposes of the elastic member(30).

[194] Fig. 18 (a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and rods are combined together when an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed.

[195] Referring to Fig. 18(a) and (b), specifically, Fig. 18(a) is a sectional view for showing a figure that the elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is contracted, and Fig. 18(b) is a sectional view for showing a figure that the elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is relaxed.

[196] When external power is applied to contract rods(300) located on right/left sides of the elastic member(30) of the present invention, the rods(300) move in directions toward a body unit(330) along guides(332) formed on both sides of the body unit(330), and shafts(310) attached to the rods(300) are pushed inside insertion holes formed on the body unit(330) to compress springs(320), reducing overall length of the elastic member(30)(Fig. 18(a)).

[197] If external power for contracting the rods(300) located on the right/left sides of the elastic member(30) of the present invention is not applied any more, the rods(300) move in outer directions of the body unit(330) along the guides(332) formed on both sides of the body unit(330), and the shafts(310) inserted into the inside of the insertion holes formed on the body unit(330) are pushed out by restoration power of the springs(330)(Fig. 18(b)).

[198] In order to prevent the shafts(310) from being fully separated as being pushed outside the insertion holes in case of relaxation of the elastic member(30), coupling units(334) are equipped in end sections of the guides(332) formed on both sides of the body unit(330), and the coupling units(334) are in arrow shape where hooks protruded to both sides are equipped and end parts are pointed. Accordingly, because the coupling units(334) have the hooks on both sides, coupling power can be improved, and convex stoppers on which the hooks of the coupling units(334) are suspended are configured on guide rails which are paths where the guides formed on the respective rods(300) move, thereby preventing the respective rods(300) from being separated from the body unit(330).

[199] Fig. 19(a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and rods are combined together when an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed.

[200] Referring to Fig. 19(a) and (b), the elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is configured by comprising coupling units(336) equipped with hooks on each one side of guides(332) as having pointed end parts in sections of the guides(332) formed on sides of a body unit(330).

[201] When external power is applied to contract rods(300) located on right/left sides of the elastic member(30) by another embodiment of the present invention, the rods(300) move in directions toward the body unit(330) along the guides(332) formed on both sides of the body unit(330), and shafts(310) attached to the rods(300) are pushed inside insertion holes formed on the body unit(330) to compress springs(320), thereby reducing overall length of the elastic member(30)(Fig. 19(a)).

[202] If external power for contracting the rods(300) located on the right/left sides of the elastic member(30) by another embodiment of the present invention is not applied any more, the rods(300) move in outer directions of the body unit(330) along the guides(332) formed on both sides of the body unit(330), and shafts(310) inserted into the inside of the insertion holes formed on the body unit(330) are pushed outside by restoration power of the springs(330)(Fig. 19(b)).

[203] Coupling units(336) formed in sections of the guides(332) formed on both sides of the body unit(330) of the elastic member(30) by another embodiment of the present invention have pointed end parts, and are equipped with hooks which are disposed on each one side only of the guides(332). Thus, if the rods(300) located on the right/left sides of the body unit(330) move in width directions along the guides(332), the other sides of the guides(332) where the hooks are not installed move to contact with guide grooves formed on the rods (300).

[204] If the coupling units(336) are configured by forming the hooks on each one side only of sections of the guides(332), the other sides of the guides(332) where the hooks are not disposed move to contact with the guide grooves formed on the rods(300), thereby minimizing separation in case of contraction and relaxation of the elastic member(30) along with width-directional movement of the rods(300) located on the right/left sides of the body unit(330). As a result, since the hooks are only formed on each one side of the sections of the guides(332), it can minimize separation between the guides(332) and the guide grooves as maintaining coupling power, and prevent shaking when the rods(300) move in width directions along the guides(332).

[205] Fig. 20 is a perspective view for showing an overall figure of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the present invention.

[206] Referring to Fig. 20, the elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention comprises rods (300) individually moving in width directions by being located on right/left sides of the elastic member(30), a plurality of shafts(310) attached to the rods(300), springs(320) for providing elastic power when the rods(300) move in width directions by being individually inserted into the shafts(310), and a body unit(330) equipped with guides(332) coupled with the rods(300) to which the shafts (310) are attached.

[207] The elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention has a structure that the springs(320) are protruded to the outside without being included inside the elastic member(30). So, length of the rods(300) and the body unit(330) of the elastic member(30) can be smaller in less than length of the springs (320), thereby minimizing overall length of the elastic member(30).

[208] Moreover, the guides(332) formed on one side of the body unit(330) are formed in an upper part of the one side of the body unit(330), and the guides(332) formed on the other side of the body unit(330) is formed in a lower part of the other side of the body unit(330). Therefore, the guides(332) formed in the upper part of the side of the body unit(330) are combined with the rods(300) to make guide grooves located in an upper part, and the guides(332) formed in the lower part of the side of the body unit(330) are combined with the rods (300) to make the guide grooves located in a lower part, minimizing overall thickness of the elastic member(30).

[209] The rods(300) attached with the shafts(310) on right/left sides of the body unit(330) of the elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention are disposed in different extension lines instead of in the same extension line in width directions. Accordingly, by separating the rods(300) from surfaces where insertion holes are located between the two guides(332) formed on one side of the body unit(330), it is possible to obtain spaces of the springs(320) located between the rods(300) and the body unit(330) when the elastic member(30) is contracted or relaxed. So, since the spaces of the springs(320) can be obtained without changing overall length of the elastic member(30), it is prevented that the springs(320) are compressed more than when it needs.

[210] The elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention has the guides(332) formed on a side of the body unit(330) right and left the springs(320). Since the guides(332) are located right and left the springs(320), it is possible to prevent foreign substance from being attached to the springs(320) in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member(30), thereby improving performance of the elastic member(30).

[211] Furthermore, the springs(320) used for the elastic member(30) are made of metal which is conductor. Thus, by forming the body unit(330) including the guides(332) with an insulating member, desirably, plastic, it can prevent electric interference upon the springs, an FPCB(Flexible Printed Circuit Board), and an apparatus coupled with the elastic member(30), when the elastic member(30) of the present invention is used for a communication apparatus such as a sliding portable phone.

[212] Fig. 21 (a), (b), and (c) are plane diagrams for showing a figure that an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on the sliding module.

[213] Referring to Fig. 21, specifically, Fig. 21 (a) is a plane diagram for showing a state that an upper slider(20) is lifted up, Fig. 21(b) is a plane diagram for showing a state that an upper slider(20) is located in the middle of a lower slider(lθ), and Fig. 21(c) is a plane diagram for showing a state that an upper slider(20) is lifted down. Operation of the elastic member(30) in accordance with operation of the sliding module will be described as follows by referring to Fig. 21 (a) to Fig. 21(c).

[214] The sliding module is a device for opening/closing by vertically moving a receiving part, by being installed between the receiving part equipped with a voice output unit and an LCD screen of a sliding portable phone and a calling part equipped with a voice input unit and key buttons. The sliding module comprises the lower slider(lθ) being in flat plate shape, the upper slider(20) sliding up and down along the lower slider(lθ) by being mounted on the lower slider(lθ), and an elastic member(30) for supporting up/ down sliding actions of the upper slider(20) by enabling both sections thereof to be individually mounted on the lower slider (10) and the upper slider (20).

[215] The lower slider(lθ) of the sliding module is combined with the receiving part of the sliding portable phone, while the upper slider(20) is combined with the calling part of the sliding portable phone. So, Fig. 21 (a) shows a closed state of the calling part by pushing down the receiving part of the sliding portable phone, and Fig. 21(c) shows an opened state of the calling part by pushing up the receiving part. Meanwhile, rail shafts (not shown) are mounted on both right/left sides of the lower slider (10), such that the upper slider(20) can smoothly move up and down as being combined with the lower slider(lθ).

[216] Likewise, fixed grooves pierced/caved to insert fixed projections(305) of the elastic member(30) thereinto are formed as opposing each other on inner sides at a predetermined distance from one of right/left sides of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20), and it is desirable to form the fixed grooves and the fixed projections(305) in circular shape so that the fixed projections(305) of the elastic member(30) coupled with the fixed grooves can be individually rotated along with movement of the upper slider(20).

[217] Operation of the elastic member in accordance with operation of the sliding module will be described below.

[218] If a user pushes up the receiving part while the sliding portable phone is in closed state(Fig. 21 (a)), the upper slider(20) goes down along the lower slider(lθ), narrowing a distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider (10) and the upper slider (20) as compressing rods(300) located on both sides of the elastic member(30). Accordingly, the rods(300) located right and left a body unit(330) slide in width directions along guides(332) formed on a side of the body unit(330), thereby narrowing a distance between the rods(300) and the body unit(330). Consequently, springs(320) are compressed.

[219] The distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) is the narrowest when both of the fixed grooves are located on the same horizon(Fig. 21(b)), and the springs(320) are compressed to the maximum. However, if the upper slider(20) further goes down, the distance between both of the fixed grooves gradually gets farther, thereby reducing external power applied to the rods (300) located on both sides of the elastic member(30). As a result, the rods (300) located right and left the body unit(330) slide in opposite directions along the guides(332) formed on sides of the body unit(330) by restoration power of the springs(320). Thus, as length of the elastic member(30) gets larger, the receiving part is opened by fully pushing down the upper slider(20)(Fig. 21(c)).

[220] Likewise, if the user pushes down the receiving part to close the receiving part while the receiving part is in opened state, the distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) gets narrower as the upper slider(20) moves upward, such that the rods(300) located right and left the body unit(330) slide along the guides(332) formed on the sides of the body unit(330) while the springs(320) are compressed.

[221] Also, if the receiving part is continuously pushed down, the upper slider(20) goes upward to make the distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider (10) and the upper slider(20) far away from each other, thereby reducing strength of external power, then the rods(300) located right and left the body unit(330) slide in opposite directions along the guides(332) formed on the sides of the body unit(330) by restoration power of the springs(320). Therefore, as length of the elastic member(30) gets larger, the upper slider(20) is fully lifted up to close the receiving part.

[222] Fig. 21 (a) to Fig. 21(c) illustrate one embodiment to which the elastic member(30) in accordance with the present invention can be applied, and the elastic member(30) in accordance with the present invention can be applicable to any apparatuses/devices which need a member having elastic power without separate limitations.

[223] Fig. 22 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 23 is a perspective view for showing a figure that an elastic member of another embodiment illustrated in Fig. 22 is combined.

[224] Referring to Fig. 22 and Fig. 23, one guide(301) among two guides is formed on a rod(300), and other guides(331,332) are equipped on a body unit(330).

[225] A rail(302) where the guide(301) formed on the rod(300) in accordance with the present invention moves is disposed on the body unit(330), and rails where the guides(331,332) configured on the body unit(330) move are installed on rods(300). Other components are the same as the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 17. Coupling units equipped with hooks protruded to prevent the respective rods(300) from being separated are configured on ends of the respective guides(301,331,332), and a stopper is formed on the rail(302) which is a path where the guides formed on the body unit(330) and the rods(300) move so as to prevent separation of the guides(301, 331,332), thus the protruded hooks formed on the ends of the guides(301, 331,332) are suspended thereon.

[226] Fig. 24 to Fig. 28 illustrate a fifth embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

[227] Fig. 24 is an exploded perspective view for showing each component of an elastic member used for a conventional sliding module.

[228] Referring to Fig. 24, the elastic member used for the conventional sliding module comprises a cam(18) moving in width direction by being positioned on one side of the elastic member, a plurality of plungers(lβ) attached to one side of the cam, springs(14) individually located on each one end of the plungers and providing elastic power by being contracted or relaxed when the cam(18) attached with the plungers moves in width direction, pipes(12) pierced to include the springs(14) therein, and a body unit(l 1) equipped with a plurality of insertion holes to locate the pipes(12) therein.

[229] The body unit(l 1) of the elastic member used for the conventional sliding module has the plurality of the insertion holes pierced in width direction inside. The pipes(12) whose inner parts are in pierced can shape are individually inserted into the plurality of the insertion holes equipped on the body unit(l 1) in order to prevent shaking from occurring in case the springs (14) are contracted or relaxed and to lower stress of the springs. The springs(14) are inserted into the inside of the pipes(12) to provide elastic power to the elastic member.

[230] The elastic member used for the conventional sliding module provides elastic power by locating the pipes (12) into the plurality of the insertion holes formed on the body unit(l 1), respectively, and by individually compressing the springs(14) located inside the pipes(12) with the plurality of the plungers(lβ) attached to the cam(18). Length of diameters of sections of the plungers(lβ) contacted with the springs(14) is larger than that of diameters of the springs(14), and is smaller than that of diameters inside the pipes (12), thereby compressing the springs (14) by applying external power to each one end of the springs(14) in the inside of the pipes(12). The cam(18) for fixing the plurality of the plungers (16) is attached to sections which are not contacted with the springs(14) of each plunger(lβ) for compressing the plurality of the springs(14).

[231] Also, in order to prevent the plurality of the plungers(lβ) attached to the cam(18) from being fully separated to the outside of the respective pipes (12), the elastic member used for the conventional sliding module has coupling units formed as suspending projections in sections of the respective plungers(lβ) inserted into the pipes (12), and suspending ends are disposed in each one section inside the respective pipes(12) so that the suspending projections formed on the plungers(lβ) can be suspended thereon.

[232] Fig. 25 is an exploded perspective view for showing components of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[233] Referring to Fig. 25, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention comprises rods (34) moving in width directions in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member by being positioned on one side of the elastic member, a plurality of springs(36) for providing elastic power in case of width- directional movement of the rods(34), and a body unit(32) combined with the rods(34) and equipped with spaces where the rods (34) are inserted or protruded in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member.

[234] The rods(34) in accordance with the present invention are located on the one side of the elastic member for the sliding module, and move in right/left width directions by width-directional external power applied to the elastic member. Hereinafter, for explanatory convenience, parts protruded to insert the springs(36) thereinto by being formed on the rods(34) will be called spring insertion bars(40) and surfaces being in flat plate shape except the spring insertion bars(40) formed on the rods(34) will be called transfer supports.

[235] The transfer supports of the rods(34) in accordance with the present invention are in the flat plate shape, and each one section of the transfer supports adjacent to the spring insertion bars (40) has a wider surface than sections of the spring insertion bars (40), supporting each one section of the springs(36) as contracting or relaxing the springs(36) in case of width-directional movement of the rods(34).

[236] Grooves are individually installed on the transfer supports between the plurality of the spring insertion bars(40) formed on the rods(34) in accordance with the present invention. The grooves formed on the transfer supports provide spaces where the rods(34) are contracted in side directions, in order to easily insert the rods(34) into the inside of the body unit(32) when the elastic member in accordance with the present invention is assembled.

[237] So, it is possible to assemble the elastic member in accordance with the present invention in one-touch manner by forming the grooves on the transfer supports.

[238] A fixed projection(44) is formed on one side of the transfer supports of the rods(34) in accordance with the present invention so as to easily attach the sliding module. The fixed projection(44) is selectively protruded from planes or lower sides of the rods(34) according to an embodiment to which the elastic member is applied, and desirably, a horizontal section of the fixed projection(44) is in circular shape while the fixed projection is disposed in opposite direction to a fixed projection(42) formed on the body unit(32).

[239] Coupling units(38) are formed on right/left sides of the transfer supports of the rods(34) in accordance with the present invention. The coupling units(38) are configured to prevent the rods(34) from being separated from the body unit(32) by elastic power of the springs(36) in case of relaxation of the elastic member.

[240] The coupling units(38) are equipped with hooks on the right/left sides of the transfer supports of the rods(34), thereby easily assembling the elastic member as increasing coupling power. Desirably, the coupling units(38) are formed on a side of a surface where the transfer supports and the spring insertion bars (40) are contacted together, to increase length of the elastic member being contracted or relaxed.

[241] The plurality of the spring insertion bars(40) for inserting the springs(36) thereinto are located on each one end of the rods (34) in accordance with the present invention. Portions of the springs(36) are inserted into the spring insertion bars(40), and the spring insertion bars(40) are located inside the springs(36), thereby lowering stress of the springs(36), which is generated in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member.

[242] The springs(36) in accordance with the present invention provide elastic power when the rods(34) move in width directions, by being inserted into the respective spring insertion bars(40) formed on the rods(34). If more than two spring insertion bars(40) are installed on the rods(34), the springs(36) are also equipped as many as the number of the spring insertion bars (40) and mounted on the respective spring insertion bars(40). Therefore, elastic power can be provided as the springs(36) are contracted or relaxed, when the rods (34) slide in right/left width directions inside the body unit(32).

[243] The body unit(32) in accordance with the present invention is in flat plate shape.

Inside the body unit(32), there are spaces where the rods(34) consisting of the transfer supports and the spring insertion bars(40) can be located by being inserted thereinto. In detail, inside the body unit(32), there exist the spaces for locating the transfer supports of the rods(34) by inserting the rods(34) thereinto in case of contraction of the elastic member, and a plurality of insertion holes for locating the spring insertion bars(40) of the rods(34). Moreover, suspending ends are equipped inside the body unit(32) to prevent the rods(34) from being fully separated outside the body unit(32) in case of relaxation of the elastic member.

[244] The body unit(32) in accordance with the present invention comprises the fixed projection(42) to easily install the elastic member(30) of the present invention on the sliding module. The fixed projection(42) is selectively protruded from a plane or a lower side of the body unit(32) according to an embodiment to which the elastic member is applied, and desirably, a horizontal section of the fixed projection(42) is in circular shape while the fixed projection(42) is disposed in opposite direction to the fixed projection(44) formed on the rods(34).

[245] In Fig. 25, it is drawn the embodiment that the spring insertion bars(40) formed on the rods(34) and the number of the springs(36) inserted into the spring insertion bars(40) are equipped by three, but it is also possible to variously change configurations and the number of the springs(36) and the spring insertion bars(40) formed on the rods(34) according to strength of essential elastic power or usage purposes of the elastic member.

[246] Fig. 26(a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and rods are combined when an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed.

[247] Specifically, Fig. 26(a) is a sectional view for showing a figure that the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is relaxed, and Fig. 26(b) is a sectional view for showing a figure that the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is contracted.

[248] Referring to Fig. 26(a) and (b), the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention locates portions of springs(36) into a plurality of insertion holes formed on a body unit(32), and inserts spring insertion bars (40) formed on rods(34) into the inside of the springs(36), so that portions of the spring insertion bars (40) are located inside the insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) in case of relaxation of the elastic member.

[249] In addition, inside the body unit(32), there exist spaces for locating the rods(34) consisting of the spring insertion bars(40) and transfer supports, and the rods(34) are inserted or protruded inside/outside the body unit(32) when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed owing to width-directional external power.

[250] When external power is applied in right/left width directions to the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, the rods(34) move to the inside of the body unit(32), and the spring insertion bars(40) into which the springs(36) are inserted by being formed on the rods(34) are pushed inside the insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) to compress the springs(36), thereby reducing overall length of the elastic member(Fig. 26(b)).

[251] If external power for contracting the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is not applied any more in the right/left width directions, the transfer supports formed on the rods(34) move to be protruded outside the body unit(32), and the spring insertion bars(40) inserted into the inside of the insertion holes formed on the body unit(32) are pushed outside by restoration power of the springs(36)(Fig. 26(a)).

[252] In order to prevent the rods (34) from being fully separated as moving to be protruded to the outside of the body unit(32) in case of relaxation of the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, coupling units(38) are formed on right/left sides of the transfer supports formed on the rods(34). The coupling units(38) are configured as hooks on the right/left sides of the transfer supports of the rods(34), thereby easily asssembling the elastic member as increasing coupling power.

[253] Fig. 27 is a side sectional view of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the present invention and the prior art. Specifically, Fig. 27 (a) is a sectional view for showing a figure of a side section of the elastic member used for the prior sliding module, and Fig. 27 (b) is a sectional view for showing a figure of a side section of the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[254] Referring to Fig. 27 (a), the elastic member used for the prior sliding module is configured by inserting a pipe(12) for reducing stress of a spring(14) as preventing shaking of the spring(14) inside an insertion hole formed on a body unit(l 1), and by inserting the spring(14) into the inside of the pipe(12). A portion of a plunger(lβ) is inserted into the inside of the pipe(12). And, the plunger(lβ) is combined not to be fully separated from the pipe(12) in case of relaxation of the elastic member by using a coupling units (17) consisting of a suspending projection formed on one end of the plunger(lβ) and a suspending end formed on the pipe(12).

[255] Referring to Fig. 27 (b), in the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, a portion of a spring(36) is inserted into a plurality of insertion holes formed in some parts inside a body unit(32), and a spring insertion bar(40) formed on a rod(34) is inserted into the inside of the spring(36).

[256] Also, coupling units(38) formed as hooks are equipped on right/left sides of a transfer support formed on the rod(34).

[257] The elastic member used for the prior sliding module locates the plunger(lβ) outside one end of the spring(14) to compress the spring(14) from the outside of the spring(14). Thus, there is a restriction on a space for using the spring(14) included in the inside of the body unit(l 1), and stress of the spring(14) may increase in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member, deteriorating performance of the elastic member. Furthermore, if the pipe(12) is equipped inside the body unit(l 1) to reduce the stress of the spring(14), the number of components which constitutes the elastic member is augmented, resulting in an increase of overall length of the elastic member.

[258] The elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is configured by inserting the spring insertion bar(40) formed on the rod(34) into a portion inside the spring(36), and by forming the coupling units(38) for preventing separation of the rod(34) from the body unit(32) on the sides of the transfer support. Therefore, compared to the prior elastic member, a space for using the spring(36) is increased as much as length of the spring insertion bar, and stress of the spring(36) can be lowered during contraction or relaxation of the elastic member in accordance with the present invention since the spring insertion bar(40) is located inside the spring(36), thereby improving performance of the elastic member.

[259] Besides, the elastic member used for the prior sliding module is configured by comprising the body unit(l 1), the pipes(12) inserted into the insertion holes formed on the body unit(l 1), the springs (14) inserted into the inside of the pipes (12), the plungers(lβ) for compressing the springs(14), and the cam(18) for fixing the plurality of the plungers(lβ), but the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is configured by comprising the body unit(32), the spring(36) inserted into the inside of the insertion hole formed on the body unit(32), and the rod(34) combined with the body unit(32), thereby reducing the number of components used for the elastic member. Consequently, assembling processes and assembling costs can be saved.

[260] Fig. 28 (a), (b), and (c) are plane diagrams for showing a figure that an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on the sliding module.

[261] Referring to Fig. 28, specifically, Fig. 28 (a) is a plane diagram showing that an upper slider(20) is lifted up, Fig. 28(b) is a plane diagram showing that an upper slider(20) is located in the middle of a lower slider(lθ), and Fig. 28 (c) is a plane diagram showing that an upper slider(20) is lifted down. Operation of an elastic member(30) in accordance with operation of the sliding module will be described as follows by referring to Fig. 28 (a) to Fig. 28 (c).

[262] The sliding module in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention is a device for opening/closing by moving a receiving part up and down, by being installed between the receiving part equipped with a voice output unit and an LCD screen of a sliding portable phone and a calling part equipped with a voice input unit and key buttons. The sliding module comprises the lower slider(lθ) being in flat plate shape, the upper slider(20) sliding up and down along the lower slider(lθ) by being mounted on the lower slider(lθ), and an elastic member(30) supporting sliding actions in up/down directions of the upper slider(20) by enabling both sections thereof to be individually mounted on the upper slider (20) and the lower slider (10).

[263] The lower slider(lθ) of the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is combined with the receiving part of the sliding portable phone, while the upper slider(20) is combined with the calling part of the sliding portable phone. So, Fig. 28 (a) shows that the calling part is closed by pushing down the receiving part of the sliding portable phone, and Fig. 28 (c) shows that the calling part is opened by pushing up the receiving part. Meanwhile, rail shafts(not shown) are mounted on both right/left sides of the lower slider(lθ), so that the upper slider(20) can smoothly move up and down while being combined with the lower slider(lθ).

[264] Likewise, fixed grooves pierced/caved to insert fixed projections (42,44) of the elastic member(30) thereinto are formed as opposing each other on inner sides at a predetermined distance from one of right/left sides of the upper slider(20) and the lower slider(lθ), and it is desirable to form the fixed grooves and the fixed projections(42,44) in circular shape so that the fixed projections(42,44) of the elastic member(30) coupled with the fixed grooves can be individually rotated along with movement of the upper slider(20).

[265] Operation of the elastic member in accordance with operation of the sliding module by the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[266] If a user pushes up the receiving part while the sliding portable phone is in closed state(Fig. 28 (a)) in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention, the upper slider(20) goes down along the lower slider(lθ), narrowing a distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) as applying external power in right/left width directions of the elastic member(30). Accordingly, the rods(34) are pushed inside the body unit(32), and transfer supports formed on the rods(34) apply external power to each one section of the springs(36) to compress the springs(36).

[267] The distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider (10) and the upper slider(20) is the narrowest when both of the fixed grooves are located on the same horizon(Fig. 28(b)), and the springs(36) are compressed to the maximum. However, if the upper slider(20) further goes down, the distance between both of the fixed grooves gradually gets farther, thereby reducing the external power of the elastic member(30) applied in width directions, so that the rods(34) move to be protruded outside the body unit(32) by restoration power of the springs(36). Accordingly, as the length of the elastic member(30) gets larger, the upper slider(20) is fully lifted down to open the receiving part(Fig. 28(c)).

[268] Likewise, if the user pushes down the receiving part to close the receiving part while the receiving part is in opened state, the distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) gets narrower as the upper slider(20) moves upward, such that the rods(34) are pushed inside the body unit(32) while transfer supports formed on the rods (34) apply external power to each one section of the springs(36) to compress the springs(36).

[269] Furthermore, if the receiving part is continuously pushed down, the upper slider(20) goes upward to make the distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) far away from each other, thereby reducing strength of external power, then the rods(34) move to be protruded outside the body unit(32) by restoration power of the springs(36). Therefore, as length of the elastic member(30) gets larger, the upper slider(20) is fully lifted up to close the receiving part.

[270] Fig. 28 (a) to Fig. 28 (c) illustrate one embodiment to which the elastic member(30) in accordance with the present invention can be applied, and the elastic member(30) in accordance with the present invention can be applicable to any apparatuses/devices which need a member having elastic power without separate limitations.

[271] Fig. 29 to Fig. 32 illustrate a sixth embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

[272] Fig. 29 is an exploded perspective view for showing components of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[273] Referring to Fig. 29, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention comprises a first rod(40) and a second rod(45) individually moving in width directions in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member for the sliding module by being positioned on both right/left sides of the elastic member, a plurality of springs(50,55) for providing elastic power when the respective rods(40,45) move in width directions, and a body unit(60) equipped with two guide units caved inside to make the respective rods(40,45) move by being inserted thereinto.

[274] The rods(40,45) in accordance with the present invention are located on both right/ left sides of the elastic member for the sliding module, and the respective rods(40,45) individually move as receiving elastic power in right/left width directions by width- directional external power applied to the elastic member. Hereinafter, for explanatory convenience, a rod located on the left side of the elastic member is called the first rod(40) and a rod located on the right side of the elastic member is called the second rod(45).

[275] The first rod(40) in accordance with the present invention is located on the left side of the elastic member, and the second rod(45) is located on the right side of the elastic member. The first rod(40) and the second rod(45) have the mutually same shape, and the respective rods(40,45) are disposed in not-parallel state without being disposed in a parallel line. [276] The first rod(40) and the second rod(45) in accordance with the present invention individually move right and left as the elastic member is contracted or relaxed. In this case, the respective rods(40,45) are configured by being inserted from both sides of the body unit(60) while a mobile path of the first rod(40) and a mobile path of the second rod(45) do not form a parallel state.

[277] The rods(40,45) in accordance with the present invention are in flat plate shape, and long stick-shaped spring insertion bars(41,46) corresponding to the number of the springs are formed on each one end of the rods(40,45), such that the springs(50,55) can be inserted thereinto, respectively. Besides, grooves are formed on a surface between the spring insertion bars(41,46) formed on each one end of the rods(40,45).

[278] The plurality of the spring insertion bars(41,46) for inserting the springs(50,55) thereinto are installed on each one end of the rods(40,45) in accordance with the present invention. Portions of the springs(50,55) are inserted into the spring insertion bars(41,46), and by making the spring insertion bars(50,55) inserted into the inside of the springs(50,55), the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention can lower stress of the springs(50,55) caused during contraction or relaxation.

[279] The grooves formed on the surface between the spring insertion bars (41,46) in accordance with the present invention provide spaces where the rods(40,45) are contracted, in order that the rods(40,45) of the body unit(60) can be easily inserted when the elastic member in accordance with the present invention is assembled. So, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention can be assembled in one-touch manner by forming the grooves on the surface between the spring insertion bars(41,46).

[280] Coupling units(42,47) are formed on right/left sides of the respective rods(40,45) in accordance with the present invention. The coupling units(42,47) prevent the rods(40,45) from being separated from the body unit(60) by elastic power of the springs(50,55) when the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is relaxed.

[281] The coupling units(42,47) in accordance with the present invention are formed as hooks on right/left sides of the respective rods(40,45), thereby easily assembling the elastic member as increasing coupling power. Desirably, since the coupling units(42,47) are formed on the right/left sides of the rods(40,45) by being separated as much as length of the spring insertion bars (41,46) from each one section of the respective rods(40,45) equipped with the spring insertion bars(41,46), it is possible to extend length of the elastic member being contracted or relaxed.

[282] Cylinder-shaped fixed projections(43,48) for easily attaching to the sliding module are formed in each section of the respective rods(40,45) in accordance with the present invention. The fixed projections(43,48) are selectively protruded from upper or lower sides of the respective rods(40,45) according to an embodiment to which the elastic member is applied. As an embodiment, if the fixed projection(43) is formed on the upper side of the first rod(40), the fixed projection(48) is formed on the lower side of the second rod(45). And, if the fixed projection(43) is formed on the lower side of the first rod(40), the fixed projection(48) is formed on a plane of the second rod(45). It is also possible to configure the projections on the same surface.

[283] Desirably, horizontal sections of the respective fixed projections(43,48) form circular shapes. Since the horizontal sections of the fixed projections(43,48) disposed on the rods(40,45) form the circular shapes, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention can allow the fixed projections(43,48) of the elastic member combined with fixed grooves formed on a slider to be rotated as the slider of the sliding module mounted with the elastic member moves.

[284] The springs(50,55) in accordance with the present invention provide elastic power when the rods(40,45) move in width directions by being individually inserted into the spring insertion bars(40) formed on the rods(40,45). If more than two spring insertion bars(41,46) are formed on the rods(40,45), the springs(50,55) are also equipped as many as the number of the spring insertion bars (41,46) and mounted on the respective spring insertion bars(41,46). Therefore, when the rods(40,45) slide in right/left width directions inside the body unit(60), the springs(50,55) provide elastic power to the elastic member as being contracted or relaxed.

[285] The body unit(60) in accordance with the present invention is in flat plate shape, and two guide units caved to move by inserting the rods(40,45) located on both sides of the body unit(60) thereinto are disposed inside the body unit(60). Each guide unit is formed in reversed phase shape of the first and second rods(40,45) inserted into the body unit(60), and the springs(50,55) are individually disposed in areas of the guide units corresponding to the spring insertion bars (41,46) formed on the first and second rods(40,45).

[286] Hereinafter, for explanatory convenience, the areas of the guide units corresponding to the spring insertion bars(41,46) formed on the first and second rods(40,45) will be called insertion holes, and a guide unit formed on the body unit(60) to insert the first rod thereinto is called a first guide unit, and a guide unit formed on the body unit(60) to insert the second rod(45) thereinto is called a second guide unit.

[287] The first rod(40) and the second rod(45) in accordance with the present invention are disposed by crossing each other instead of being in a parallel line. Thus, each guide unit formed on the body unit(60) is also disposed by crossing each other without being disposed in a parallel line. Because each guide unit is not located in parallel, mobile paths of the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) are also disposed without being parallel to each other during contraction or relaxation of the elastic member.

[288] When the first guide unit into which the first rod(40) is inserted is formed on a left side, the second guide unit into which the second rod(45) is inserted is formed on a right side, remarkably reducing overall length of the body unit(60) compared to a type that each guide unit is disposed in a parallel line. Moreover, since the body unit(60) in accordance with the present invention allows the first guide unit and the second guide unit to be obliquely disposed without being parallel to each other, if the elastic member(30) for the sliding module is mounted on the sliding module, the sliding module moves up and down not to balance forces applied to the sliders by the first rod(40) on forces applied to the sliders by the second rod(45), so it can prevent a spot where the sliding module stops.

[289] So as to prevent the respective rods(40,45) from being separated from the body unit(60) by elastic power of the springs(50,55) in a part where the body unit(60) and the first and second rods(40,45) are combined together, the body unit(60) in accordance with the present invention has suspending ends (not shown) inside such that the suspending ends can be engaged with the coupling units(42,47) formed on both sides of the rods(40,45). Thus, since the coupling units(42,47) formed on the rods(40,45) are engaged with the suspending ends formed inside the body unit(60) in case of relaxation of the elastic member, it can prevent the respective rods(40,45) from being separated from the body unit(60).

[290] In Fig. 29, it is drawn the embodiment that the spring insertion bars(41,46) formed on the rods(40,45) and the number of the springs(50,55) inserted into the spring insertion bars (41,46) are equipped by two, but it is also possible to variously change configurations and the number of the springs(50,55) and the spring insertion bars(41,46) formed on the rods(40,45) according to strength of essential elastic power or usage purposes of the elastic member.

[291] Fig. 30(a) and (b) are plane diagrams for showing a direction of power applied by each rod according to a figure that each guide unit formed on a body unit of an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a sixth embodiment is disposed.

[292] Fig. 30(a) is a plane diagram showing a figure of the elastic member for the sliding module where a first guide unit and a second guide unit formed on a body unit(60) are disposed in parallel, and Fig. 30(b) is a plane diagram showing a figure of the elastic member for the sliding module where a first guide unit and a second guide unit formed on a body unit(60) are obliquely disposed not to be parallel to each other.

[293] Referring to Fig. 30(a), a first rod(40) of the elastic member for the sliding module moves right and left along the first guide unit formed on the body unit(65), and a second rod(45) moves right and left along the second guide unit formed on the body unit(65). Since the first guide unit and the second guide unit are disposed in parallel, the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) move in parallel along the first guide unit and the second guide unit.

[294] If the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) individually move as an elastic member(30) is contracted or relaxed by being mounted on the sliding module, the respective rods(40,45) apply power to upper/lower sliders of the sliding module like directions of parallel arrows illustrated in Fig. 30(a) at a spot where the elastic member is contracted to the maximum. At the spot where the elastic member mounted on the sliding module is contracted to the maximum, forces applied to the sliders by the first rod(40) are balanced with forces applied to the sliders by the second rod(45), and it creates a spot right-angled to sliding directions, resulting in a spot where forces of the elastic member(30) are not applied in length direction where the sliding module slides.

[295] So, in case of the elastic member for the sliding module where the first guide unit and the second guide unit formed on the body unit(65) are disposed in parallel, there is a problem that a spot where the sliding module stops without doing a sliding action is created, because the forces applied to the sliders by the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) are mutually balanced and directions of the forces are right-angled to the sliding directions during the sliding action at the spot where the elastic member is contracted to the maximum.

[296] Referring to Fig. 30(b), the first guide unit and the second guide unit which are mobile paths of the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) are obliquely disposed not to be parallel to each other. The first rod(40) in accordance with the present invention moves right and left along the first guide unit, and the second rod(45) moves right and left along the second guide unit. If the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) individually move right and left as the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is contracted or relaxed by being mounted on the sliding module, the respective rods(40,45) of the elastic member apply forces to the upper/lower sliders of the sliding module mounted with the elastic member in arrow directions illustrated in Fig. 30(b) not to be parallel to each other.

[297] Since the first guide unit and the second guide unit formed on the body unit(60) are not parallel to each other in the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, forces applied to the sliders by the first rod(40) are not balanced with forces applied to the sliders by the second rod(45) at the spot where the elastic member is contracted to the maximum. As a result, in the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, it is possible to apply forces to the sliders in one direction even at the spot where the elastic member is contracted to the maximum, thereby solving a problem that the sliding module stops without doing the sliding action.

[298] Fig. 31 (a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and each rod are combined together when an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the sixth embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed.

[299] Specifically, Fig. 31 (a) is a sectional view showing a figure that the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is relaxed, and Fig. 31(b) is a sectional view showing a figure that the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is contracted.

[300] Referring to Fig. 31 (a) and (b), the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention disposes springs(50,55) in insertion holes of a first guide unit and a second guide unit formed on a body unit(60), respectively, and individually inserts spring insertion bars (41,46) formed on a first rod(40) and a second rod(45) into the inside of the springs(50,55).

[301] Accordingly, in case of the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) are inserted or protruded inside/outside the body unit(60) along the first and second guide units formed on the body unit(60) when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed owing to width- directional external power applied to the elastic member.

[302] When external power is applied in right/left width directions to the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) move to the inside of the body unit(60), and the spring insertion bars(41,46) for inserting the springs(50,55) thereinto by being formed on the respective rods(40,45) are pushed inside along the insertion holes of the guide units formed inside the body unit(60), reducing overall length of the elastic member by compressing the springs(50,55)(Fig. 31(b)).

[303] If external power for contracting the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is not applied any more in right/left width directions, the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) move to be protruded outside the body unit(60). Therefore, the spring insertion bars(41,46) inserted into the inside of the insertion holes of the guide units formed on the body unit(60) are pushed outside by restoration power of the springs(50,55)(Fig. 31 (a)).

[304] In order to prevent the first and second rods(40,45) from being fully separated as moving to be protruded outside the body unit(60) in case of relaxation of the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, coupling units(42,47) are formed on right/left sides of the respective rods(40,45).

[305] The coupling units(42,47) formed on the right/left sides of the first and second rods(40,45) are formed as hooks, being engaged with suspending ends formed inside the body unit(60) when the elastic member is relaxed to the maximum, as preventing the respective rods(40,45) from being fully separated from the body unit(60).

[306] It is available to make included angles formed within the body unit(60) of the first rod(40)(the first guide unit) and the second rod(45)(the second guide unit) up to 90 degrees by mutually exceeding 0 degree.

[307] Fig. 32(a), (b), and (c) are plane diagrams for showing a figure that an elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the sixth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on the sliding module.

[308] Referring to Fig. 32, specifically, Fig. 32(a) is a plane diagram showing that an upper slider(20) is lifted up, Fig. 32(b) is a plane diagram showing that an upper slider(20) is located in the middle of a lower slider(lθ), and Fig. 32(c) is a plane diagram showing that an upper slider(20) is lifted down. Operation of an elastic member(30) in accordance with operation of the sliding module will be described as follows by referring to Fig. 32(a) to Fig. 32(c).

[309] The sliding module in accordance with the present invention is a device for opening/ closing by moving a receiving part up and down, by being installed between the receiving part equipped with a voice output unit and an LCD screen of a sliding portable phone and a calling part equipped with a voice input unit and key buttons. The sliding module comprises the lower slider(lθ) being in flat plate shape, the upper slider(20) sliding up and down along the lower slider(lθ) by being mounted on the lower slider(lθ), and an elastic member(30) supporting sliding actions in up/down directions of the upper slider(20) by enabling both sections thereof to be individually mounted on the upper slider (20) and the lower slider (10).

[310] The elastic member(30) is installed between the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20)(Though it appears that the elastic member(30) is installed on top of the upper slider(20) in Fig. 32, it is just to fully show movement of the elastic member(30), and in fact, the elastic member is installed between the upper slider(20) and the lower slider(lθ), which is under the upper slider(20)).

[311] The lower slider(lθ) of the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is combined with the receiving part of the sliding portable phone while the upper slider(20) is combined with the calling part of the sliding portable phone. The reverse is also possible according to a type of a cellular phone.

[312] So, Fig. 32(a) shows that the calling part is closed by pushing down the receiving part of the sliding portable phone, and Fig. 32(c) shows that the calling part is opened by pushing up the receiving part. Meanwhile, rail shafts(not shown) are mounted on both right/left sides of the lower slider(lθ), so that the upper slider(20) can smoothly move up and down while being combined with the lower slider (10).

[313] Besides, fixed grooves pierced/caved to insert fixed projections(43,48) of the elastic member(30) thereinto are formed as opposing each other on inner sides at a predetermined distance from one of right/left sides of the upper slider(20) and the lower slider(lθ), and it is desirable to form the fixed grooves and the fixed projections(43,48) in circular shape so that the fixed projections(43,48) of the elastic member(30) coupled with the fixed grooves can be individually rotated along with movement of the upper slider(20).

[314] Operation of the elastic member in accordance with operation of the sliding module of the present invention will be described below.

[315] If a user pushes up the receiving part while the sliding portable phone in accordance with the present invention is in closed state(Fig. 32(a)), the upper slider(20) goes down along the lower slider(lθ), narrowing a distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) as applying external power in right/left width directions of the elastic member(30). Accordingly, the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) loated on both sides of the elastic member are pushed inside a body unit(60), and compress springs(50,55) inserted into spring insertion bars(41,46) formed on the respective rods(40,45), reducing length of the elastic member.

[316] Besides, because the user receives resistance when pushing up the receiver as much as elastic power of the springs(50,55), the elastic power of the springs(50,55) can prevent the upper slider(20) from suddenly moving. A distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider (10) and the upper slider (20) is the narrowest at an intermediate spot, that is, when both of the fixed grooves are located on the same horizon, and at this time, the springs(50,55) are compressed to the maximum(Fig. 32(b)).

[317] In the elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, a first guide unit and a second guide unit formed on the body unit(60) are obliquely disposed not to be parallel to each other, thus forces applied to the upper/ lower sliders (10,20) by the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) are not balanced at a spot where the springs(50,55) are compressed to the maximum. So, at the spot where the elastic member(30) is compressed to the maximum, directions of forces applied by the two rods(40,45) of the elastic member(30) are right-angled to a direction in which the upper slider(20) slides along the lower slider(lθ), which makes it difficult to create a spot where a sliding action of the sliding module stops.

[318] And, in case of the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, the distance between both of the fixed grooves gets far away if the upper slider(20) further goes down, thereby reducing external power applied in width directions of the elastic member(30). Consequently, the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) move to be protruded outside the body unit(60) by restoration power of the springs(50,55). So, as length of the elastic member(30) gets larger, the upper slider(20) is fully pushed down to open the receiving part(Fig. 32(c)).

[319] Besides, if the user pushes down the receiving part to close the receiving part while the receiving part is in opened state, the distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) gets narrower as the upper slider(20) moves upward, such that the rods(34) are pushed inside the body unit(32) while transfer supports formed on the rods (34) apply external power to each one section of the springs(36) to compress the springs(36).

[320] Furthermore, if the user pushes down the receiving part to close the receiving part while the receiving part is opened, the distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) gets narrower as the upper slider(20) moves upward, such that the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) are pushed inside the body unit(60) to compress the springs(50,55) inserted into the spring insertion bars(41,46) formed on the respective rods(40,45), reducing length of the elastic member.

[321] Also, if the receiving part is continuously pushed down, the upper slider(20) goes upward to make the distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider (10) and the upper slider(20) far away from each other, thereby reducing strength of external power, then the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) move to be protruded outside the body unit(60) by restoration power of the springs(50,55). Therefore, as length of the elastic member(30) gets larger, the upper slider(20) is fully lifted up to close the receiving part.

[322] Fig. 32(a) to Fig. 32(c) illustrate one embodiment to which the elastic member(30) in accordance with the present invention can be applied, and the elastic member(30) in accordance with the present invention can be applicable to any apparatuses/devices which need a member having elastic power without separate limitations.

[323] Fig. 33 to Fig. 37 illustrate a seventh embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

[324] Fig. 33 is a perspective view of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[325] Referring to Fig. 33, the spring device for the sliding module mounted on the sliding- type cellular phone in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention comprises one pair of spring rods (10, 12) made of conventional spring rods while portions thereof are bent in semicircular shape, a body(20) where each one section of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12) is fixed through insert injection, and cylinder- shaped rivets(30,32) fixed to the other sections of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12).

[326] Driving units (18, 19) of the spring device in accordance with the present invention are bent in semicircular shape on the respective spring rods(10,12), and are transformed by receiving power mainly from the respective spring rods (10, 12) when moving by receiving power in a direction toward the body(20) from the respective rivets(30,32), then the transformed driving units are restored. [327] The body(20) in accordance with the present invention is made of a plastic(resin) material, and is insert- injected such that the spring rods(10,12) made of metal materials are fixed into the body (20). Since the body (20) only performs a role of fixing the spring rods(10,12) thereto, it is not necessary to make a width(21), a length(22), and thickness of the body large. Thus, the body can be configured in that degree of the width(21), the length(22), and the thickness in which the spring rods(10,12) can be fixed thereto through insert injection.

[328] Accordingly, length of the width(21) of the body in accordance with the present invention does not have to be larger than when it is necessary to fix the spring rods(10,12) to the body(20) through insert injection, so compression ranges(24,25) of the respective rods (10, 12) toward the body (20) in accordance with the present invention can be configured in sufficient length.

[329] The spring device in accordance with the present invention having such a configuration is characterized that the restorable compression ranges(24,25) of the spring rods(10,12) get longer by minimizing the length of the width(21) of the body.

[330] Fig. 34 illustrates a figure that each spring rod is installed on a body of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[331] Referring to Fig. 34, cylinder- shaped rivets(30,32) are fixed to each one section of spring rods(10,12), and other sections(15,16) of the spring rods(10,12) are individually configured in semicircular shape as being insert-injected to be fixed to a body(20).

[332] Like shown in the drawing, sections(13) of the spring rods(10,12) in accordance with the present invention are configured in circular, rectangular, and rounded-edge rectangular shapes.

[333] Fig. 35 illustrates another embodiment that each spring rod is installed on a body of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Fig. 35, unlike the embodiment of Fig. 33, a spring rod(lθ) is insert-injected as being fixed by being buried in a body (20) together with the body (20), while the spring rod(lθ) is connected into one without being disconnected.

[334] Fig. 36 illustrates a transformed example of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[335] Referring to Fig. 36, one spring body(lθ) of spring rods(10,12) in accordance with the present invention is insert-injected to be fixed to a body(20) in opposite direction to the embodiment of Fig. 33.

[336] Fig. 37 illustrates a figure that a spring device for a sliding module in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention is operated by being mounted on the sliding module.

[337] Referring to Fig. 37, Fig. 37(a) shows that a main slider(lOO) slides upward on a sub slider(l 10), and Fig. 37(b) shows that a main slider(lOO) slides downward on a sub slider(l lθ).

[338] Circular- shaped coupling grooves(120,121) rotatable by being inserted into cylinder- shaped rivets(30,31) from each spring device are formed on the main slider(lOO) and the sub slider(l 10). In a state that the one-sided rivet(30) of the spring device in accordance with the present invention is inserted into the coupling groove(120) of the main slider(lOO) and the other-sided rivet(31) is inserted into the coupling groove(121) of the sub slider(l 10), certain tension is applied to the main slider(lOO) and the sub slider(l 10) while the main slider(lOO) slides in up/down directions on the sub slider(l lθ).

[339] Since spring rods(10,12) have only to be fixed as being insert-injected together with a body(20), it is not necessary to make the body(20) of the spring device in accordance with the present invention thicker. Also, it is sufficient if length of a width(21) can fix/ support the spring rods(10,12), thus the length does not have to be larger than when it is necessary. Therefore, even though a vertical length of the main slider(lOO), that is, a sliding length is larger than that of a conventional spring device, it is possible to provide sufficient elastic power.

[340] Fig. 38 to Fig. 42 illustrate an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[341] Fig. 38 is an exploded perspective view for showing each component of a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[342] Referring to Fig. 38, a multistage elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention comprises one pair of rods (300) individually moving in width directions by being located right and left the elastic member(30), and wherein the respective rods(300) are equipped with one pair of shafts(310) in the central part and supports(332) having fixed projections(334) on ends of both sides, springs(320) for providing elastic power when the rods(300) move in width directions by being individually inserted into the respective shafts (310), and one pair of body units(330) separately combined with the respective rods(300) including the shafts(310).

[343] The one pair of the body units(330) comprises guide grooves(336) where the supports(332) and the shafts(310) of the rods(300) are pierced therethrough by being inserted to match together, and guide holes(336) where shafts(310) mounted with springs(320) and supports(332) having fixed projections combined by being inserted to pierce together with the other body unit(330) as well as shafts(310) and supports(332) having fixed projections installed on the other body unit(330) are inserted to pierce therethrough.

[344] The one pair of the body units(330) in accordance with the present invention is not separated from each other after being combined together, since the shafts(310) inserted with the springs(320) and the respective supports(332) are suspended by fixed projections(334) after being inserted into the guide grooves(336) equipped with protruded parts(335) of the other-sided body unit(330).

[345] The rods(300) of the present invention are configuration parts for directly applying external power to the elastic member(30), and as the shafts(310) inserted with the springs(320) move in width directions of the rods(300) by being integratedly configured, the shafts(310) are inserted into the guide grooves(336) of the body units(330) while the springs(320) are compressed accordingly.

[346] The respective rods(300) of the present invention have rotative projections(305) rotatable by being inserted into a lower slider(lθ) and an upper slider(20). The rotative projections(305) are selectively protruded in cylinder shape on planes or lower sides of the respective rods (300) according to embodiment types.

[347] Sections of the guide grooves(336) formed on the body units(330) of the present invention are in the same shape as sections of the supports(332) and the shafts(310) to insert the supports(332) and the shafts(310) of the body units(330) or the rods(300).

[348] Because the springs(320) of the multistage elastic member in accordance with the present invention are configured in 3 stages, overall length of the elastic member when the respective springs(320) of the elastic member are compressed to the maximum is remarkably reduced, compared to overall length before compression of the elastic member in accordance with the present invention. Namely, displacement ranges before compression and after compression between the rotative projection(305) of the onesided rod(300) and the rotative projection(305) of the other-sided rod(300) tremendously get larger.

[349] Moreover, it is drawn the embodiment of the present invention that the shafts(310) and the number of the springs (320) inserted into the shafts (310) are equipped by two, but it is also possible to variously change configurations and the number of the springs(320) and the shafts(310) according to strength of essential elastic power or usage purposes of the elastic member(30).

[350] Fig. 39(a) and (b) are sectional views for showing a figure that a body unit and rods are combined together when a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention is contracted or relaxed.

[351] Referring to Fig. 39(a) and (b), Fig. 39(a) is a sectional view showing that a multistage elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is contracted, and Fig. 39(b) is a sectional view showing that a multistage elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is relaxed.

[352] When external power is applied to compress each rod(300) located on right/left sides of the multistage elastic member(30) of the present invention, supports(332) and shafts(310) formed on the rods(300) are pushed inside guide grooves(336) formed on body units(330), reducing overall length of the elastic member(30) by compressing springs (320).

[353] If external power for contracting the rods(300) located on the right/left sides of the multistage elastic member(30) of the present invention is not applied any more, the supports(332) and the shafts(310) of the rods(300) inserted into the inside of the guide grooves(336) formed on the body units(330) are pushed outside by restoration power of the springs(320).

[354] In order to prevent the rods(300) from being separated from the body units(330) as the supports(332) and the shafts(310) are pushed outside in opposite direction along the guide grooves(336) in case of relaxation of the elastic member(30), fixed projections(334) are disposed in end sections of the supports(332) formed on both sides of the body units(330), and the fixed projections(334) are configured in arrow shape equipped with hooks on both sides of the supports(332).

[355] Since the hook-shaped fixed projections(334) are formed on both sides of the supports(332), it is possible to prevent the rods(300) from being separated from the body units(330) in case of contraction or relaxation of the rods(300), through engagement with protruded parts(335) formed in the guide grooves(336).

[356] Besides, the supports(332) equipped with the fixed projections(334) and the shafts(310) formed on the one-sided body unit(330) are combined with the guide grooves(336) of the body unit(330) into which the supports(332) and the shafts(310) formed on the other-sided body unit(330) are individually inserted, and the supports(332) equipped with the fixed projections(334) and the shafts(310) formed on the other-sided body unit(330) are combined with the guide grooves(336) into which the supports(332) and the shafts(310) formed on the one-sided body unit(330) are individually inserted.

[357] By forming the hook-shaped fixed projections(334) on the supports(332) in accordance with the present invention, it can prevent the one-sided body unit(330) from being separated from the other-sided body unit(330) when the one pair of the body units(330) is mutually contracted or relaxed by being engaged with the protruded parts(335) formed in the guide grooves(336).

[358] Fig. 40 is a perspective view for showing an overall figure of a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention. [359] Referring to Fig. 40, a multistage elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention comprises two rods(300) individually moving in width directions as being located right and left in the utmost end parts of the elastic member(30), one pair of supports(332) formed on both sides of the respective rods(300), springs(320) for providing elastic power when the respective rods(300) are compressed in width directions by being individually inserted into shafts(310), and two body units(330) equipped with guide grooves(336) which are paths where the supports(332) and the shafts(310) of the respective rods(300) move by being inserted thereinto.

[360] In the multistage elastic member(30) for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention, the springs (320) are located outside without being disposed inside the body units(330). Thus, by configuring thickness of the rods(300) and the body units(330) of the elastic member(30) to be less than circular diameters of the coil springs(320), overall thickness of the elastic member(30) can be minimized.

[361] Since the rods(300) and the body units(330) are configured to be excavated inside to obtain spaces where springs(320) are located and compressed between the rods(300) and the body units(330) and between the body units(330) in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member(30), it is available to obtain the spaces of the springs (320) without changing overall length of the elastic member(30), thereby preventing the springs(320) from being compressed in more than when it is necessary.

[362] The springs(320) used for the elastic member(30) are made of metal materials which are conductors. And, the body units(330) and the rods(300) including the supports(332) are made of insulating members, and desirably, made of plastic materials. So, when the elastic member(30) of the present invention is applied to a communication apparatus such as a sliding-type portable phone, it is possible to avoid electric interference on the springs (320), an FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Board), and an apparatus material combined with the elastic member(30).

[363] Fig. 41 is a plane diagram for showing a figure that a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention is compressed.

[364] Referring to Fig. 41, when the multistage elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention is compressed to the maximum, compressed springs(320) are located in compressed state between sunken parts of body units(330) and sunken parts of rods(300), and shafts(310) and supports(332) are protruded outside the body units(330) by piercing through guide grooves(336) of the body units(330).

[365] Both of one pair of rotative projections(305) coupled to be rotatable on a lower slider(lθ) and an upper slider(20) in accordance with the present invention can be located on upper sides or lower sides of the respective rods(300) or be located on crossed sides.

[366] Fig. 42(a), (b), and (c) are plane diagrams for showing a figure that a multistage elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being installed on the sliding module.

[367] More specifically, Fig. 42(a) is a plane diagram showing that a lower slider(lθ) is lifted down on an upper slider(20), Fig. 42(b) is a plane diagram showing that a lower slider(lθ) is located in the middle on an upper slider(20), and Fig. 42(c) is a plane diagram showing that a lower slider(lθ) is lifted up on an upper slider(20). Operation of a multistage elastic member(30) in accordance with operation of the sliding module will be described as follows by referring to Fig. 42(a) to Fig. 42(c).

[368] The sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention is a device for opening/closing by moving a receiving part(l) up and down, by being installed between the receiving part(l) equipped with a voice output unit and an LCD screen of a sliding portable phone and a calling part(5) equipped with a voice input unit and key buttons. The sliding module comprises the lower slider(lθ) being in flat plate shape, the upper slider(20) sliding up and down along the lower slider(lθ) by being mounted on both sides of the lower slider(lθ), and an elastic member(30) for providing elastic power such that the upper slider(20) slides in up/down directions along the lower slider(lθ) by being individually mounted on the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20).

[369] The lower slider(lθ) of the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is combined with the receiving part(l) of the sliding portable phone, and the upper slider(20) is combined with the calling part(5) of the sliding portable phone. Fig. 42(a) shows that the calling part(5) is closed by pushing down the receiving part(l) of the sliding portable phone, and Fig. 42(c) shows that the calling part(5) is opened by pushing up the receiving part(l).

[370] Besides, on inner sides at a predetermined distance from one of right/left sides of the upper slider(20) and the lower slider(lθ), circular-shaped fixed grooves( 12,22) pierced or caved to insert rotative projections(305) of the elastic member(30) are disposed, respectively.

[371] It is desirable to form the fixed grooves (12,22) and the rotative projections(305) in circular shape, so that the rotative projections(305) of the elastic member(30) combined with the circular- shaped fixed grooves( 12,22) can be individually rotated along with movement of the upper slider(20) in accordance with the present invention.

[372] Operation of the elastic member in accordance with operation of the sliding module by the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. An example that the lower slider(lθ) is attached to the receiving part(l) and the upper slider(20) is attached to the calling part(5) will be described.

[373] If a user pushes up the receiving part(l) while the sliding portable phone is in closed state(Fig. 42(a)), the lower slider(lθ) goes down along the upper slider(20), narrowing a distance between the fixed grooves (12,22) of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) as compressing one pair of body units(330) and one pair of rods(300) located on both sides of the elastic member(30).

[374] The distance between the respective fixed grooves( 12,22) of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) is the narrowest when both of the fixed grooves( 12,22) are located on the same horizon(Fig. 42(b)), and all of the springs(320) are compressed to the maximum. However, if the lower slider(lθ) further goes up, the distance between both of the fixed grooves( 12,22) gradually gets farther, thereby reducing the external power applied to the rods (300) located on both sides of the elastic member(30), so that the rods(300) located right and left and the respective body units(330) slide in opposite directions by restoration power of the springs(320). And, as the length of the elastic member(30) gets larger, the lower slider(lθ) is fully lifted up to open the receiving part(l)(Fig. 42(c)).

[375] Likewise, if the user pushes down the receiving part(l) to close the receiving part(l) while the receiving part(l) is in opened state, the distance between the fixed grooves (12,22) of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) gets narrower as the lower slider(lθ) moves downward, such that the rods (300) located right and left the body units(330) and the body units(330) compress the springs(320).

[376] Also, if the receiving part(l) is continuously pushed down, the lower slider(lθ) goes downward to make the distance between the fixed grooves of the lower slider(lθ) and the upper slider(20) far away from each other again, thereby reducing strength of compression power of the springs(320). Then, as the length of the elastic member(30) gets larger, the lower slider(lθ) is fully pushed down to close the receiving part(l).

[377] As another embodiment, the lower slider(lθ) in accordance with the present invention can be attached to the calling part(5) while the upper slider(20) can be attached to the receiving part(l).

[378] Fig. 42(a) to Fig. 42(c) illustrate one embodiment to which the elastic member(30) in accordance with the present invention can be applied, and the elastic member(30) in accordance with the present invention can be applicable to any apparatuses/devices which need a member having elastic power without separate limitations.

[379] Fig. 43 to Fig. 52 illustrate a ninth embodiment in accordance with the present invention.

[380] A spring device for a sliding module in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention comprises: one pair of torsion springs(10a,10b) for enabling a slider(l 10) combined with a receiving part to do sliding motion in up/down directions on a frame(lOO), through elastic power by distortion moment; a case(20) where the torsion springs (10a, 10b) are fixed by being combined together; and covers(40a,40b) of the case(20).

[381] Fig. 43 is an exploded perspective view for showing a configuration of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[382] Like shown in Fig. 43, the spring device for the sliding module is configured by comprising the one pair of the torsion springs (10a, 10b), and the respective torsion springs (10a, 10b) consist of rod units( 14a, 14b) and driving units(l Ia, l ib) by being made of metal materials.

[383] The driving units(l la,l Ib) of the torsion springs(10a,10b) in accordance with the present invention are formed as being wound many times in spiral shape, by being bent from each one end extended from the rod units(14a,14b), and refer to parts transformed and restored by receiving power mainly from the respective rod units (14a, 14b) when moving by power applied in a direction toward the case(20) from the respective rod units(14a,14b).

[384] Also, the driving units(l la,l Ib) of the torsion springs(10a,10b) in accordance with the present invention have the following structural features.

[385] The spiral shape of the driving units(l la,l Ib) turns towards the inner side on the same horizonal plane, and is formed through winding many times in clockwise(counterclockwise) direction, and final winding parts of the driving units(l Ia, 1 Ib), that is, spirals wound on the utmost inner side of the driving units(l Ia, 1 Ib) are configured to stretch out as being accumulated on the horizontal plane by being separated from the horizontal plane constituted by the driving units(l la,l lb)(hereinafter, the spiral parts of the stretched areas separated from the horizontal plane constituted by the driving units(l la,l Ib) will be called "fixed ends(12a,12b)").

[386] The case(20) in accordance with the present invention is made of a plastic(resin) material, and receiving grooves(32a,32b) for allowing the fixed ends(12a,12b) of the driving units(l la,l Ib) to be combined with/fixed to the case(20) are disposed inside the case(20).

[387] The receiving grooves(32a,32b) are configured in the same concavo-convex shape as the fixed ends(12a,12b), and the entire driving units(l Ia, 1 Ib) are supported/fixed on the case(20) through a method of the fixed ends (12a, 12b) being inserted into the receiving grooves (32a,32b).

[388] By a method of fixing the driving units(l la,l Ib) to the case(20) with the fixed ends(12a,12b) and the receiving grooves (32a,32b), the torsion springs (10a, 10b) can be combined/fixed as being stably supported on the case(20), and as the areas (receiving grooves(32a,32b) in the present invention) which have to substantially tolerate external power applied during compression/transformation processes of the driving units(l Ia, 1 Ib) get widened, the external power concentrated on the areas can be distributed.

[389] So, it can minimize damage to the areas (receiving grooves(32a,32b) in the present invention) caused by repeated sliding actions, thereby improving durability of the spring device.

[390] The rod units(14a,14b) in accordance with the present invention are members stretched out from the case(20) by being extended from spots where the utmost outer spirals of the driving units(l Ia, 1 Ib) end, changing winding degrees of the driving units(l Ia, 1 Ib) as rotating within a predetermined angular range through elastic restoration power by the driving units(l Ia, 1 Ib) and external power applied by a user, consequently, semiautomatic sliding actions of a cellular phone can be possible.

[391] In sections of the rod units(14a,14b), there exist connection units configured in rotatable shape as individually connecting the one pair of the torsion springs (10a, 10b) of the spring device in accordance with the present invention with the frame(lOO) and the slider(l lθ).

[392] The connection units can be made in ring shapes(18a and 18b in Fig. 44) by bending the sections of the rod units(14a,14b) in circular shape, or can be equipped with cylinder- shaped rivets (16a, 16b) by inserting them thereinto.

[393] Fig. 45(a) is a sectional view of conventional torsion springs, and Fig. 45(b) is a sectional view for showing a sectional figure of torsion springs in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[394] Referring to Fig. 45 (a), the the conventional torsion springs (10a, 10b) of the spring device are made into spring rods generally having circular sections. However, the torsion springs (10a, 10b) having the circular sections may distribute power applied to the rods in various directions during operation of the springs, resulting in bending of the spring rods owing to frequent motions of the torsion springs (10a, 10b).

[395] But, like shown in Fig. 45(b), the torsion springs(10a,10b) in accordance with the present invention are configured by forming square-shaped sections. Thus, power influenced on the spring rods can be balanced during sliding actions of the cellular phone, preventing a problem that the rods of the torsion springs (10a, 10b) are bent in upper or lower side. Accordingly, it can extend duration of the springs.

[396] Fig. 46 is an exploded perspective view of a case in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[397] Referring to Fig. 46, a case(20) in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention comprises bodies(30a,30b) and covers (40a,40b).

[398] The bodies(30a,30b) and the covers(40a,40b) are configured to be coupled in sliding manner through the following structural features.

[399] One pair of torsion springs(10a,10b) is combined with the bodies(30a,30b), and a part combined with one side of the torsion springs (10a, 10b) is called the first body (30a) while a part combined with the other of the torsion springs (10a, 10b) is called the second body (30b).

[400] The first body(30a) and the second body(30b) in accordance with the present invention are in symmetrical shape where the bodies are turned over, that is, are in shape where the first body(30a) being in 'square without left and bottom sides' shape and the second body (30b) being in 'square without upper and right sides' shape are contacted together for connection, and on the whole, one member is configured.

[401] Due to the above structural features, the spring device in accordance with the present invention can extend restorable compression ranges of one pair of rod units(14a,14b) by minimizing a horizontal length(Ll) of the case(20) where the one pair of the torsion springs (10a, 10b) is received.

[402] The first body (30a) in accordance with the present invention comprises: receiving grooves(32a,32b) where fixed ends(12a,12b) of the first torsion springs(10a,10b) are inserted; suspending parts(34a,34b) where the second cover(40b) is to be coupled with the second body(30b); separation preventive hooks(38a,38b) for preventing separation of the first cover(40a) coupled with the suspending parts(34a,34b); and guide lines(36a,36b) for guiding sliding paths of the first cover(40a).

[403] The guide lines(36a,36b) and the separation preventive hooks(38a,38b) for making the first cover(40a) coupled with the first body(30a) are formed on the bottom of the first body(30a), but the suspending parts(34a,34b) for making the first cover(40a) coupled with the first body(30a) are formed on an opposite side to a surface where the separation preventive hooks(38a,38b) and the guide lines(36a,36b) are formed, that is, are formed on the bottom of the second body (30b).

[404] The covers(40a,40b) in accordance with the present invention comprise: coupling grooves (46a,46b) for coupling with the suspending parts(34a,34b); and supporting hands(42a,42b) being in 'square without left and bottom sides' sectional shape for supporting the covers(40a,40b) such that the covers(40a,40b) are fixed to/combined with the bodies(30a,30b), and wherein hook receiving grooves(44a,44b) for receiving the separation preventive hooks(38a,38b) are disposed on the supporting hands(42a,42b).

[405] In addition, on the edge of the covers(40a,40b), there should be opening units(L2) to allow rotation of the rod units(14a,14b) for sliding actions of the cellular phone.

[406] Fig. 47 (a) and (b) are plane and side diagrams of a spring device for a sliding module for showing a state that torsion springs, bodies, and covers in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention are finally assembled. [407] Referring to Fig. 47 (a), a first body(30a) and a second body(30b) of a case(20) in accordance with the present invention are coupled with a first cover(40a) and a second cover(40b), respectively, through a sliding coupling method, and specifically, driving units(l la,l Ib) of one pair of torsion springs(10a,10b) are covered as being individually sealed, then rod units (14a, 14b) only are exposed to the outside, respectively.

[408] Like above, since the external case where the torsion springs (10a, 10b) are fixed and supported is configured through the sliding coupling method for separating into the two covers(40a,40b), assembling processes can be simplified to improve production efficiency of a product. Furthermore, if elastic power deteriorates owing to repeated actions of the torsion springs(10a,10b), only the case(20) equipped with the torsion springs (10a, 10b) can be easily disassembled for replacement. And, since the first body(30a) and the second body(30b) of the case(20) for receiving the one pair of the torsion springs (10a, 10b) are in symmetrical structure by being mutually turned over, it can minimize the horizontal length(Ll) of the case(20) to increase the restorable compression ranges of the rod units(14a,14b), thereby being applicable as providing sufficient elastic power even though sliding length of the cellular phone is further extended.

[409] Besides, like shown in Fig. 47 (b), the spring device in accordance with the present invention is configured by allowing the torsion springs (10a, 10b) received in the first body (30a) and the torsion springs (10a, 10b) received in the second body (30b) to be in layered structure having slight height differences (H -H ) without being disposed on the same plane.

[410] The torsion springs(10a,10b) located in higher parts do rotative operation as being parallel to a slider(l 10) in connection with the the slider(l 10) of a receiving part, while the torsion springs(10a,10b) located in lower parts do rotative operation as being parallel to a frame(lOO) in connection with the frame of a calling part.

[411] Thus, it can prevent frictional noise as well as spring distortion caused during sliding actions of the conventional torsion springs (10a, 10b).

[412] Fig. 48 (a), (b), and (c) are operation diagrams for showing a figure that a spring device for a sliding module in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention is operated by being mounted on a cellular phone.

[413] Fig. 48(a) shows before the sliding module slides, that is, a closed state of a cellular phone, and wherein a frame(lOO) coupled with a calling part of the cellular phone is located in a lower section on the diagram of a slider(l 10) combined with a receiving part, and coupling units being in rotatable circular shape by inserting connection units of the first torsion springs(10a,10b) and the second torsion springs(10a,10b) thereinto are formed on the frame(lOO) and the slider(l 10), respectively.

[414] In case the connection units are formed as rings(18a,18b), the coupling units are protruded in column shape, and if the connection units are rivets(16a,16b), the coupling units are configured as cylinder- shaped coupling grooves(46a,46b).

[415] If external power is applied to the slider(l 10) to push up the slider in the above state, rotation is performed at certain angle as applying power to rod units(14a,14b). Accordingly, winding degrees of driving units(l la,l Ib) are changed to accumulate elastic restoration power by distortion moment corresponding to the winding degrees.

[416] Fig. 48 (b) shows a case where a slider(l 10) slides as much as predetermined length on a frame(lOO), illustrating that external power applied to the driving units(l la,l Ib) is balanced with the elastic restoration power.

[417] If the external power disappears when the slider (110) further moves in upper direction in the above state, the slider(l lθ) automatically slides by the elastic restoration power, thereby finally completing slide opening of the cellular phone like shown in Fig. 48(c), and a process of closing an opened slide is progressed in an opposite way to the above.

[418] Fig. 49 is an exploded perspective view for showing a configuration of a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with another embodiment of the ninth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 50 is a perspective view of the spring device for the sliding module of Fig. 49. Fig. 51 (a), (b), and (c) are plane, front, and lateral side diagrams of the spring device for showing a state that torsion springs, bodies, and covers of the spring device for the sliding module of Fig. 49 are finally assembled.

[419] Referring to Fig. 49 to Fig. 51, grooves(72) are individually formed on both rear sides of a first body and a second body of a case(20) in accordance with the present invention, and rear supporting hands(70) being in 'square without left and bottom sides' shape as being coupled with the respective grooves(72) formed on both rear sides of the case(20) in accordance with the present invention are installed on rear sides of case covers (40a,40b).

[420] Fig. 52 is a plane diagram of a spring device in accordance with another embodiment of the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[421] Referring to Fig. 52, central parts of each of torsion springs (10a, 10b) show fixed configurations by being welded into a case(20) in accordance with the present invention. Desirably, the central parts of the respective torsion springs(10a,10b) are welded to be fixed to the case(20) made of a metal material, with the use of conventional laser welding technology.

[422] Reference numerals 52 show welding points caused by the laser welding. Fig. 52 illustrates that 3 points of inner central parts of the respective torsion springs(10a,10b) are laser- welded to fix the respective torsion springs(10a,10b) to the metal case(20).

[423] Industrial Applicability

[424] In a first embodiment of the present invention, a spring device used for a sliding module of a cellular phone is very small with an overall length of approximately 2 to 3cm. In order to apply much tension to a main slider and a sub slider in the spring device of such a small size, it is very important to further extend spaces for receiving coil springs to receive much longer coil springs. Since a receiving part equipped with an LCD and a calling part equipped with key buttons are installed together on the main slider and the sub slider, which results in a considerable weight, it is very important to make the spring device have restoration power of more than a certain level so as to slide the receiving part or the calling part.

[425] In the spring device in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention, spaces for receiving the coil springs(32) are further obtained as 'A' on opposite sides of insertion units of the respective rods(35,45) on the body(40) of the spring device(30), thereby using the coil springs(32) which are longer as 'A'. Therefore, it is possible to apply much tension to the right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30), respectively.

[426] Because the cylinder-shaped rotative projections(37,47) are installed at the end of outer sides of the respective rods(35,45) of the spring device(30) in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention so as to be connected by being individually inserted into the main slider(lθ) and the sub slider(20), spaces for receiving the coil springs (32) can be further obtained on the opposite sides of the insertion units of the respective rods(35,45) as 'A' which is length corresponding to diameters of the rotative projections(37,47). As a result, opposite spaces of the insertion units of the respective rods(35,45), which are spaces that are not used when the respective rods(35,45) are fully compressed into the body(40), can be further extended, thereby receiving much longer coil springs (32). By extending the unused spaces in the present invention, it is possible to receive the springs which are longer as 'A', so restoration power restored when the respective rods(35,45) of the spring device are compressed to the maximum gets larger. Consequently, it can easily slide the heavier main slider(lθ), the sub slider(20), and the receiving part and the calling part individually combined therewith.

[427] A spring device for applying tension to a main slider and a sub slider for connecting, in sliding manner, a calling part with a receiving part of a cellular phone in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, can stably support up/down directional sliding actions of the main slider(lθ) on the sub slider(20), so that the receiving part of the cellular phone can smoothly slide.

[428] The spring device in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention uses mechanical springs. So, while the main slider slides along the sub slider, power transmission of the springs such as the coil springs is right-angled to a sliding direction of the main slider, thus there is almost no dead point where power for sliding the main slider up and down is minimized. It is because the mechanical springs continuously receive power of restoration as being wound up. Also, it is because, if the sub slider(20) is located in the middle of the main slider(lθ) like shown in Fig. 4(b), directions of receiving power in the rotative projections(37,49) which are end parts of the upper and lower bodies(35,45) of the spring device in accordance with the present invention are out of a right angle instead of being right-angled to the sliding direction of the main slider(lθ).

[429] If the directions of receiving the power in the rotative projections(37,49) which are the end parts of the upper and lower bodies(35,45) of the spring device in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention are right-angled to the sliding direction of the main slider(lθ), it may easily cause a dead point where power of sliding the main slider up and down is minimized. The present invention has solved this problem. Generally, in case the conventional torsion springs or coil springs are used for the sliding module, most power of the springs is delivered right and left when the main slider is pushed up in approximately 1/2 of overall length, and there is a spot where power delivered in length direction that the main slider moves up and down is minimized. It is called the dead point. Since rolled-type mechanical springs(leaf springs) are used in the spring device in accordance with the present invention, the springs tend to be unrolled. Thus, the dead point may be minimized when the main slider slides in approximately 1/2 of the overall length like shown in Fig. 4(b). Likewise, because the spring device in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention uses the mechanical springs which are leaf springs, it can ensure longer duration than the conventional coil springs.

[430] An elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention can remarkably shorten a time taken for producing the elastic member by assembling components, through simplification of the number of the components, thereby saving production costs as increasing production efficiency and minimizing overall length of the elastic member after assembling. Consequently, it can cope with the trend of slimness of a sliding-type portable phone where the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is used.

[431] The elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention forms rods(34,35) and a body unit(32) of components by using insulating members, desirably, plastic materials. Therefore, if the elastic member is used for the sliding module such as a sliding portable phone, it can solve a problem such as electric interference on an FPCB, improving product reliability.

[432] Besides, since protectors(80,81) are additionally equipped on outer sides of springs(50,51) disposed on the elastic member, it is available to prevent foreign substance from being attached to the springs(50,51) in case of sliding actions by attaching the elastic member in accordance with the present invention to the sliding module, and desirably, since the protectors(80,81) are made of plastic materials, a problem such as electric interference on an FPCB of a sliding-type portable phone can be solved, thereby tremendously enhancing product reliability.

[433] An elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention has the same effect as the third embodiment.

[434] An elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention comprises rods(34) moving in width directions in case of contraction or relaxation of the elastic member by being located on each one side of the elastic member, a plurality of springs(36) for providing elastic power in case of width-directional movement of the rods(34), and a body unit(32) combined with the rods(34) and having spaces where the rods(34) are inserted or protruded during contraction or relaxation of the elastic member. Accordingly, it can simplify the number of components to save assembling processes and assembling costs, thus it is economical. Furthermore, it can cope with the trend of slimness of a portable phone. And, the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention inserts spring insertion bars(40) formed on the rods(34) into the inside of the plurality of the springs(36) equipped on the elastic member, respectively, thereby increasing spaces for using the springs(36) as length of the spring insertion bars(40). And, since the spring insertion bars(40) are located inside the springs(36), stress of the springs(36) can be lowered during contraction or relaxation of the elastic member, increasing reliability of a product to which the elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the present invention is applied.

[435] An elastic member for a sliding module in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention obliquely disposes a first guide unit and a second guide unit formed on a body unit(60), which are paths where each of rods(40,45) moves, without the guide units being parallel to each other. Thus, power applied to upper/lower sliders (10,20) of the sliding module by the elastic member is not balanced at a spot where the elastic member is compressed to the maximum. As a result, it can prevent a spot where operation of the upper slider stops when power direction of the elastic member is right-angled to a sliding direction of the sliding module.

[436] A spring device in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention is economically beneficial thanks to simple assembling processes as accomplishing considerable productivity in a short time, and satisfies slimness and simplification of components which are the trend of long strokes and slimness of the current cellular phone in the cellular phone markets. Also, since there is no need for the spring rods(10,12) to produce friction each other, power of the springs is delivered as it is, improving quality of cellular phone products. Driving units(18,19) of the spring rods(10,12) exist outside a body(20), so a space occupied when the spring device is installed on the sliding module is reduced, such that interference is not exerted on an FPCB of a terminal, resulting in little restrictions on size and thickness of the FPCB.

[437] A multistage elastic member in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention has been developed to cope with the trends that size of an LCD unit of a cellular phone communication terminal gets bigger and strokes of a cellular phone are extended. When realizing long strokes, higher product reliability and long strokes can be guaranteed by dividing stress of springs through realization of a multistage spring device consisting of the 3-stage springs.

[438] The elastic member for the sliding module in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention is in a structure that springs are protruded to the outside without being included inside the elastic member. Therefore, lengths of rods and a body unit of the elastic member are configured in less than lengths of circular diameters of the springs, minimizing overall length of the elastic member. Accordingly, it is matched with slimness trends of a sliding-type portable phone where the multistage elastic member for the sliding module is used.

[439] Besides, since supports are disposed on right/left sides of shafts into which the springs are inserted, it can prevent foreign substance from being attached to the springs during contraction or relaxation of the elastic member. Other components except the springs are made of plastic materials which are insulating members, thus when the multistage elastic member of the present invention is used for a communication apparatus such as the sliding portable phone, electric interference on an apparatus material combined with the elastic member and an FPCB is prevented, thereby improving reliability and quality of the sliding-type portable phone where the elastic member of the present invention is used.

[440] According to a spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention, torsion springs can be combined/fixed by being stably supported on a case by a method of inserting fixed ends of the torsion springs in accordance with the present invention into concavo-convex type receiving grooves. Moreover, as size of areas (receiving grooves) which have to substantially tolerate external power applied during compression/ transformation processes of driving units is wider, the external power concentrated on the areas can be distributed. Accordingly, damage to the receiving grooves caused by repeated sliding actions can be minimized to improve durability of the spring device.

[441] Likewise, the spring device in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention is configured by allowing one pair of torsion springs coupled with a case unit to be in layered structure having slight height differences without being located on the same plane, respectively. So, the torsion springs located in higher parts are operated as being parallel to a slider in connection with the the slider of a receiving part, while the torsion springs located in lower parts are operated as being almost parallel to a frame in connection with the frame of a calling part. Therefore, it can tremendously avoid frictional noise and spring distortion caused during sliding actions of conventional torsion springs. In addition, because a case for receiving the torsion springs is configured in sliding manner, assembling can be simplified, thereby increasing production efficiency of a product. And, it is possible to easily disassemble covers only of the case where the torsion springs are located to replace the covers when elastic power deteriorates owing to repeated operation of the torsion springs. At the same time, since a first body and a second body of a case for receiving the one pair of the torsion springs are in symmetrical structure where the bodies are turned over, horizontal length of the case can be minimized to increase restorable compression ranges of the rod units. Thus, even though sliding length of a cellular phone is larger, it can be applicable as providing sufficient elastic power. Moreover, since the torsion springs have square-shaped sections, power exerted on the spring rods during sliding actions of the cellular phone is balanced, preventing bending problems of the rods caused by repeated operation of the torsion springs.

Claims

[1] A spring device, comprising: right/left rods(35,45); and a body(40) where the right/left rods(35,45) are received by being inserted thereinto; and wherein the body, comprising: each guide unit which is a length-directional path where the respective right/left rods(35,45) do straight motion by being inserted into inner sides; and springs for applying tension to the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are individually formed in mutually opposite directions in opposite sections of parts inserted into the body(40) by the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein receiving spaces for coil springs (32) as lengths corresponding to diameters of the cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are further obtained in insertion units' opposite parts of the respective rods(35,45) on the body(40) of the spring device(30), thus it is possible to use the coil springs(32) which get longer as many as the diameters of the rotative projections(37,47), thereby applying much tension to the respective right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30).

[2] A sliding module equipped with a spring device comprises: a main slider; a sub slider; and the spring device, and the spring device, comprising: right/left rods(35,45); and a body(40) where the right/left rods(35,45) are received by being inserted thereinto; and wherein the body(40) comprises: each guide unit which is a length-directional path where the respective right/left rods(35,45) do straight motion by being inserted into inner sides; and springs for applying tension to the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are individually formed in mutually opposite directions in opposite sections of parts inserted into the body(40) by the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein receiving spaces for coil springs (32) as lengths corresponding to diameters of the cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are further obtained in insertion units' opposite parts of the respective rods(35,45) on the body(40) of the spring device(30), thus it is possible to use the coil springs(32) which get longer as many as the diameters of the rotative projections(37,47), thereby applying much tension to the respective right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30).

[3] In a mobile device equipped with a sliding module having a spring device, the sliding-type mobile device comprises: a main slider; a sub slider; and the spring device, and wherein the spring device comprises: right/left rods(35,45); and a body(40) where the right/left rods(35,45) are received by being inserted thereinto; and wherein the body(40) comprises: each guide unit which is a length-directional path where the respective right/left rods(35,45) do straight motion by being inserted into inner sides; and springs for applying tension to the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are individually formed in mutually opposite directions in opposite sections of parts inserted into the body(40) by the right/left rods(35,45), and wherein receiving spaces for coil springs (32) as lengths corresponding to diameters of the cylinder- shaped rotative projections(37,47) are further obtained in insertion units' opposite parts of the respective rods(35,45) on the body(40) of the spring device(30), thus it is possible to use the coil springs(32) which get longer as many as the diameters of the rotative projections(37,47), thereby applying much tension to the respective right/left rods(35,45) of the spring device(30).

[4] The mobile device of claim 3, wherein the mobile device refers to a cellular phone.

[5] A spring device, comprising: a spoon-shaped upper body(35); a spoon-shaped lower body(45) symmetrical to the upper body; and a mechanical spring(40) for applying certain tension to the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) by being positioned on an inner side between the coupled upper body(35) and lower body(45) when the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) are coupled together.

[6] A sliding module equipped with a spring device comprises: a main slider; a sub slider; and the spring device, and wherein the spring device, comprising: a spoon-shaped upper body(35); a spoon-shaped lower body(45) symmetrical to the upper body; and a mechanical spring(40) for applying certain tension to the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) by being positioned on an inner side between the coupled upper body(35) and lower body(45) when the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) are coupled together.

[7] In a mobile device equipped with a sliding module having a spring device, the sliding-type mobile device comprises: a main slider; a sub slider; and the spring device, and wherein the spring device comprises: a spoon-shaped upper body(35); a spoon-shaped lower body(45) symmetrical to the upper body; and a mechanical spring(40) for applying certain tension to the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) by being positioned on an inner side between the coupled upper body(35) and lower body(45) when the upper body(35) and the lower body(45) are coupled together.

[8] The mobile device of claim 7, wherein the mobile device refers to a cellular phone.

[9] In a spring device for a sliding module, an elastic member for the sliding module whose length is varied by elastic power, comprising: rods(34,35) individually moving in width directions when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, by being positioned on both right/left sides of the elastic member; a plurality of guide shafts (40,41) attached by being individually fixed to the rods(34,35); a plurality of springs(36) for providing elastic power when the rods(34,35) move in width directions, by being individually inserted into the guide shafts(40,41); a body unit(32) equipped with a plurality of first insertion holes pierced in width directions to allow the guide shafts(40,41) attached to the rods(34,35) to slide in right/left width directions by being individually combined; and pin shafts(60,61) for coupling the respective rods(34,35) with the body unit(32) by being individually inserted into right/left sides of the body unit(32), and wherein the rods(34,35) are in flat plate shape, and the plurality of the insertion holes pierced in width directions are installed to make the pin shafts(60,61) inserted thereinto, and wherein the body unit(32) is in flat plate shape, and a plurality of second insertion holes pierced in width directions are installed to allow the pin shafts(60,61) to be inserted in both extension lines of the insertion holes formed on the rods(34,35), and wherein the pin shafts(60,61) are inserted by piercing through the second insertion holes formed in the body unit(32) and the insertion holes formed on the rods(34,35).

[10] The spring device of claim 9, wherein suspending ends protruded to the outside are formed on each one side of the rods(34,35), and suspending ends are formed on both sides of the body unit(32) so as to be engaged with the suspending ends formed on the rods(34,35), thereby preventing the respective rods(34,35) from being fully separated from the body unit(32) in case of relaxation of the elastic member.

[11] The spring device of claim 9, wherein the rods(34,35) comprise fixed projections(70,71) protruded from planes or lower sides.

[12] The spring device of claim 9, wherein each one section of the plurality of the guide shafts(40,41) is attached by being fixed to each one side of the rods(34,35) through insert injection.

[13] The spring device of claim 9, wherein the elastic member for the sliding module further comprises protectors(80,81) attached to front and rear sides of the body unit(32), respectively.

[14] The spring device of claim 13, wherein the protectors(80,81) are in long bar shape, and are made of plastic materials.

[15] In a spring device for a sliding module, an elastic member(30) for the sliding module whose length is varied by elastic power, comprising: rods (300) individually moving in width directions by being positioned right and left the elastic member(30); a plurality of shafts(310) attached to the rods(300); a plurality of springs(320) for providing elastic power when the rods(300) move in width directions, by being individually inserted into the shafts(310); and body units(330) combined with the rods(300) attached with the shafts(310) by forming guides(330) on sides, and wherein the rods(300) have guide grooves for moving as supporting the guides(332) formed on the body units(330) on both ends thereof, and wherein the body units(330) are in flat plate shape, and have a plurality of insertion holes pierced in width directions to allow the plurality of the shafts (310) to slide in width directions by being combined together, and wherein the two thin bar-shaped guides(332) combined with the guide grooves of the rods (300) are individually disposed in an upper part of each one side of the body units(330), and the two thin bar-shaped guides(332) combined with the guide grooves of the rods (300) are individually disposed in a lower part of the other sides of the body units(330), and the guides(332) formed in a side upper part of the body units(330) are combined with the rods(300) by locating the guide grooves formed on the rods in the upper part, while the guides(332) formed in a side lower part of the body units(330) are combined with the rods (300) by locating the guide grooves formed on the rods (300) in the lower part.

[16] The spring device of claim 15, wherein the rods(300) comprise fixed projections(305) protruded from planes or lower sides.

[17] The spring device of claim 15, wherein the body units(330) are made of plastic materials.

[18] The spring device of claim 15, wherein coupling units(334,336) for preventing separation of the shafts(310) in case of relaxation of the elastic member(30) are formed in sections of the guides(332) formed on both sides of the body units(330).

[19] The spring device of claim 18, wherein the coupling units(334) have pointed ends to easily assemble the elastic member(30), and hooks are installed on both ends of the coupling units(334).

[20] The spring device of claim 18, wherein the coupling units(336) have pointed ends to easily assemble the elastic member(30), and hooks are installed on each one end of the coupling units(334), so that surfaces where the hooks are not formed can move in contact with the guide grooves formed on the rods(300).

[21] The spring device of claim 15, wherein the rods(300) are disposed in different extension lines in width directions, and the body units(330) separate surfaces, where the insertion holes are located between the two guides(332) formed on each one side thereof, from the rods(300) in order to obtain spaces not to compress the springs(320) more than when it is necessary.

[22] In a spring device for a sliding module, an elastic member for the sliding module whose length is varied by elastic power, comprising: a rod(34) moving in width direction when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, by being positioned on one side of the elastic member; a plurality of springs(36) for providing elastic power when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed; and a body unit(32) combined with the rod(34) and equipped with a space where the rod(34) is inserted or protruded when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, and wherein the rod(34) comprises a transfer support for forming a flat plate shape and a plurality of spring insertion bars(40) for forming long bar shapes, and wherein the springs(36) are individually inserted into the plurality of the spring insertion bars (40) formed on the rod(34), and the body unit(32) is in flat plate shape and comprises a space for locating the transfer support formed on the rod(34) inside and a plurality of insertion holes for locating the spring insertion bars (40).

[23] The spring device of claim 22, wherein on the transfer support between the plurality of the spring insertion bars(40) formed on the rod(34), grooves are individually formed and assembled into the body unit(32), so that the rod(34) can be contracted or relaxed in side direction.

[24] The spring device of claim 22, wherein coupling units(38) formed as hooks are disposed on both sides of the transfer support formed on the rod(34), and wherein suspending ends are formed on each one side inside the body unit(32) adjacent to the rod(34) so as to prevent the rod(34) from being fully separated from the body unit(32) during relaxation of the elastic member.

[25] The spring device of claim 22, wherein the rod(34) comprises a fixed projection(44) protruded from a plane or a lower side, and the body unit(32) comprises a fixed projection(42) protruded from a plane or a lower side in opposite direction to the fixed projection(44) formed on the rod(34).

[26] In a spring device for a sliding module, an elastic member for the sliding module whose length is varied by elastic power, comprising: a first rod(40) and a second rod(45) individually moving in width directions when the elastic member is contracted or relaxed, by being positioned on both right/left sides of the elastic member for the sliding module; a plurality of springs(50,55) for providing elastic power in case of movement in width directions of the first rod(40) and the second rod(45); and a body unit(60) consisting of a first guide unit and a second guide unit caved inside to allow the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) to move by being inserted thereinto, and wherein the respective rods(40,45) are equipped with a plurality of spring insertion bars(41,46) which form long bar shapes on each one side, and the springs(50,55) are individually inserted into the spring insertion bars(41,46), and the body unit(60) is in flat plate shape, then the first guide unit and the second guide unit are diagonally disposed not to run parallel with each other.

[27] The spring device of claim 26, wherein the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) are individually equipped with grooves to allow the respective rods(40,45) to be contracted or relaxed in side directions on a surface between the plurality of the spring insertion bars(41,46), so that the rods(40,45) can be easily assembled into the body unit(60).

[28] The spring device of claim 26, wherein coupling units(42,47) formed as hooks are disposed on both sides of the first rod(40) and the second rod(45), and suspending ends are installed inside the body unit(60) combined with the respective rods(40,45), such that the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) are not fully separated from the body unit(60) when the elastic member for the sliding module is relaxed.

[29] The spring device of claim 26, wherein the first rod(40) and the second rod(45) individually comprise fixed projections(43,48) protruded from planes or lower sides, and the respective fixed projections(43,48) have circular horizontal sections, and are disposed in opposite directions.

[30] A spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone, comprising: one pair of spring rods (10, 12) made of conventional spring rods while portions thereof are bent in semicircular shape; a body(20) where each one section of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12) is fixed through insert injection; and cylinder- shaped rivets(30,32) fixed to the other sections of the one pair of the spring rods (10, 12).

[31] The spring device of claim 30, wherein the spring rods(10,12) are insert-injected into the body(20) in a state of being connected into one.

[32] The spring device of claim 30, wherein the portions of the spring rods(10,12) bent in semicircular shape are bent in the semicircular shape so as to indicate the same direction.

[33] The spring device of claim 30, wherein the portions of the spring rods(10,12) bent in semicircular shape are bent in the semicircular shape so as to indicate mutually opposite directions.

[34] A sliding module equipped with a spring device, comprising: a main slider(l lθ); a sub slider(120) moving up and down by making both sides of the main slider inserted thereinto; and the spring device consisting of: one pair of spring rods(10,12) made of conventional spring rods while portions thereof are bent in semicircular shape; a body(20) where each one section of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12) is fixed through insert injection; and cylinder- shaped rivets(30,32) fixed to the other sections of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12).

[35] A spring device for a sliding module, comprising: a main slider(l lθ); a sub slider(120) moving up and down by making both sides of the main slider inserted thereinto; and the spring device consisting of: one pair of spring rods(10,12) made of conventional spring rods while portions thereof are bent in semicircular shape; a body(20) where each one section of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12) is fixed through insert injection; and cylinder- shaped rivets(30,32) fixed to the other sections of the one pair of the spring rods(10,12).

[36] A multistage spring device(30) for a sliding module, comprising: one pair of rods(300) individually moving in width directions by being positioned on right and left sides of the elastic member(30); and wherein the respective rods(300) are equipped with one pair of shafts(310) in a central part and supports(332) having fixed projections(334) on both sides; springs(320) for providing elastic power when the rods(300) move in width directions, by being individually inserted into the respective shafts(310); one pair of body units(330) individually combined with the respective rods(300) including the shafts (310); and wherein the one pair of the body units(330) comprises guide grooves(336) where the supports(300) and the shafts(310) of the respective rods(300) are pierced by being inserted thereinto, and wherein the support(332) having a fixed projection coupled by being inserted to mutually pierce with the other body unit(330), the support(332) having a fixed projection of the other body unit(330) and the shafts(310), and the guide grooves(336) where the shafts(310) are inserted to pierce therethrough are configured.

[37] The spring device of claim 36, wherein the body units(330) are made of plastic materials.

[38] A spring device for a sliding module mounted on a sliding-type cellular phone, comprising: one pair of torsion springs (10a, 10b) for allowing a slider(l 10) combined with a receiving part to do sliding motion in up/down directions on a frame(lOO) combined with a calling part, through elastic power by the distortion moment; and a case where the torsion springs (10a, 10b) are combined and fixed thereto, and wherein the torsion springs, comprising: driving units(l la,l Ib) formed by being wound many times as forming spiral shapes in clockwise(counterclockwise) direction toward inner sides on the same plane by being bent on each one end of the torsion springs(10a,10b), and wherein parts (hereinafter, fixed ends(12a,12b)) wound on the utmost inner sides of the spirals are stretched out as forming accumulated types while being overlapped with the plane by being separated from the plane formed by the spirals wound many times; rod units (14a, 14b) for enabling semiautomatic sliding actions of a cellular phone by changing a winding degree of the driving units(l Ia, 1 Ib), as members formed to stretch out by being extended from a spot where the utmost outer spirals of the driving units(l la,l Ib) end; and connecting units formed in sections of the rod units (14a, 14b) to connect the one pair of the torsion springs (10a, 10b) with the frame(lOO) and the slider(l 10), respectively, and being configured in rotatable shape, and wherein the case(20) comprises bodies (30a,30b) where the one pair of the torsion springs (10a, 10b) is received, and covers (40a,40b) for covering the bodies(30a,30b), and wherein receiving grooves(32a,32b) configured as forming the same concavo-convex shape as the fixed ends(12a,12b) are formed on the bodies(30a,30b) to receive the fixed ends (12a, 12b).

[39] The spring device of claim 38, wherein the torsion springs(10a,10b) are configured to have square-shaped sections.

[40] The spring device of claim 38, wherein the connecting units are made in ring shapes(18a,18b) by bending the sections of the rod units (14a, 14b) in circular shape, or equipped with cylinder-shaped rivets(16a,16b) by inserting them thereinto.

[41] The spring device of claim 38, wherein the bodies(30a,30b) comprise: suspending parts (34a,34b) where the covers(40a,40b) are to be coupled with the bodies(30a,30b); separation preventive hooks(38a,38b) for preventing separation of the covers(40a,40b) coupled with the suspending parts(34a,34b); and guide lines(36a,36b) for guiding sliding paths of the covers(40a,40b), and wherein the covers(40a,40b) comprise: coupling grooves (46a,46b) for coupling with the suspending parts (34a,34b); and supporting hands(42a,42b) being in 'square without left and bottom sides' sectional shape to support the covers(40a,40b) such that the covers (40a, 40b) can be fixed to or combined with the bodies(30a,30b) as doing sliding motion along the guide lines(36a,36b), and wherein hook receiving grooves (44a, 44b) for receiving the separation preventive hooks(38a,38b) are formed on the supporting hands(42a,42b), then opening units are formed at the edge of the covers(40a,40b) to allow rotation of the rod units (14a, 14b) for sliding actions of a portable phone.

[42] The spring device of claim 41, wherein the bodies(30a,30b) consist of the first body(30a) for receiving the one-sided torsion spring(lθa) and the second body(30b) for receiving the other-sided torsion spring(lθb), and wherein the first body(30a) and the second body(30b) are in symmetrical shape where the bodies are turned over, that is, are in shape where the first body(30a) being in 'square without left and bottom sides' shape and the second body (30b) being in 'square without upper and right sides' shape are contacted together for connection, and on the whole, one member is configured.

[43] The spring device of claim 42, wherein the torsion spring(lθa) received in the first body(30a) and the torsion spring(lθb) received in the second body(30b) are in layered structure having slight height differences(H -H ) without being disposed on the same plane, and are individually combined with the first body (30a) and the second body (30b).