CN1433624A - Wrist communication device with multi-segment keypad and antenna system - Google Patents

Abstract

A wrist-mounted communication device includes a cellular telephone mechanism configured to transmit and receive communication signals. The apparatus includes an antenna system for transmitting and receiving signals. The antenna system further comprises at least one antenna extendable in a horizontal plane away from said communication device.

Description

Wrist communication device with multi-segment keypad and antenna system

technical field

FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates generally to portable cellular telephone devices, and more particularly to wrist cellular telephone devices having a multi-segment keypad and antenna system.

Background technique

Due to recent advances in wireless communication technology, cellular telephones are becoming more and more popular. Early cellular phones were large and heavy, making them inconvenient for users to carry, and newer cellular phones continue to decrease in size and weight. Cell phones in use today are small enough to fit in a pocket or purse.

While the portability of new cellular telephones continues to increase, they do suffer from several drawbacks. For example, their light weight and small size make them easy to drop, break or be forgotten. Additionally, when a cell phone user receives a call, time is wasted when the user finds and retrieves the cell phone (which may be in her pocket, purse, briefcase, etc.). Time is also wasted when the user must adjust the orientation of the phone to activate answer mode.

In order to overcome these drawbacks, cellular phones have been developed which can be worn on the user's wrist. Some such devices are described in US Patent Nos. 5,239,521; 5,274,513; 5,224,076. In all of these publications, the telephone generally takes the form of a watch secured by a strap to the user's wrist, with the cellular phone mechanism replacing the watch mechanism in its traditional place. The main components of the cellular phone mechanism, such as the transceiver, phone call initiating device, keypad, voice recognition device, display, etc., and battery power are housed in the common housing. A microphone and speakers are usually included with the strap.

One of the problems with prior art wrist-worn cellular phones is that they are difficult for the user to operate. For example, some prior art cellular telephone devices remain attached to the user's wrist while the user is engaged in a conversation. Thus, when the cellular telephone device is mounted on the wrist, the user initiates a call by pressing the keypad of the cellular telephone device, and then holds his wrist near his ear for conversation. Since the microphone and speaker of the cellular telephone device are fixed at predetermined positions on the cellular telephone device, the user is often required to fix his or her arm in an unusual position so that the microphone and speaker are aimed at his or her mouth and speaker, respectively. ear. On the other hand, some prior art cellular telephone devices are completely detached from the user's wrist, requiring the cellular telephone device to be removed from the user's wrist before initiating or receiving a telephone call.

In addition, reducing the size of the cell phone to the point where it can be comfortably worn on the wrist often results in a reduction in the overall size of the cell phone's keypad. The smaller overall size of the keypad requires the keys of the keypad to be smaller and/or closer to each other. Small, tightly packed keys can be difficult for a user to operate since the user may inadvertently press the wrong key.

A complex aspect of wrist phone technology design is the antenna assembly. Typically, prior art wrist phone systems employ antennas that are close or very close to the user's skin. In many cases, this antenna location can lead to unwanted signal loss. To avoid this loss, many users find that for some or all calls they need to remove the wrist phone system from their wrist: thereby eliminating an important purpose of such wrist phones.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved wrist-worn cellular telephone device with improved antenna technology.

Contents of the invention

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The primary object of the present invention is to overcome the above and other disadvantages of conventional wrist-mounted cellular telephone devices and to provide a novel wrist-worn cellular telephone device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a device in which all major components of the cellular telephone mechanism are configured to be secured on the user's wrist.

Thus in accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a wrist mounted telephone device secured to a wearer's wrist. According to one embodiment, the device includes a wrist strap configured to be secured to a wearer's wrist, wherein the wrist strap is configured to support a cellular telephone mechanism. The device also includes a keypad secured to the wristband and coupled to the cellular telephone mechanism to provide signals to the cellular telephone mechanism. According to various embodiments of the invention, the keypad has several adjustable sections.

The device also includes a handset that is detachably mounted on the wristband or keypad. The earpiece includes at least one part and has a microphone and a speaker. Advantageously, the earpiece comprises two or more parts that extend or fold telescopically so that in the closed position the earpiece requires minimal space and is easily attached to a wrist strap or keypad. In the open state, the earpiece unfolds so that the microphone is positioned at one end of the earpiece and the speaker is positioned at the other end of the earpiece at a distance approximately equal to the distance between the user's ear and mouth. The handset can be connected to the wristband via a wire or wirelessly.

Preferably, the keypad includes keys which, when pressed, send corresponding signals to the cellular telephone mechanism. In one embodiment of the invention, the keypad comprises pressure sensitive switches employing pressure sensors in order to function as keys of the keypad. Thus, the keypad according to this embodiment of the invention can be made relatively thin and highly flexible.

A keypad may include one or more sections. In one embodiment, all keys of the keypad are located on the wristband. In another embodiment, only some of the keypad keys are located on the wristband and the rest of the keys are arranged on at least one further keypad part fixed to the wristband or to the cell phone mechanism, This enables extra spacing between keys and facilitates dialing. In yet another embodiment, all keys of the keypad are located on an additional keypad portion coupled to the cellular telephone mechanism.

The individual keypad sections may be hinged to, or may be slidably secured to, the wrist strap or cell phone body by means of at least one rail for telescoping out of the wrist strap or cell phone body stick out. In those embodiments employing more than one keypad section, the keypad sections may also be hinged together for folding, or may be linked together by built-in parallel rails for telescoping.

Advantageously, the additional keypad portion is rotatably secured to the first keypad portion so as to conceal the first and second keypad portions when the second keypad portion is pivoted relative to the first keypad portion to a closed position. Keys on the keyboard section. The second keypad part is preferably pivotally fixed to the first keypad part so that when the second keypad part is pivoted to the open position relative to the first keypad part, a flat keypad is formed. keyboard.

The cellular telephone device preferably includes a transceiver for transmitting and receiving wireless communication signals and a telescopable antenna. The cellular telephone device may also include indicating means sensitively coupled to the cellular telephone mechanism for notifying the wearer of an incoming call. Preferably said indicating means comprises a vibrator in the form of a mechanical assembly comprising a reciprocating prong which stimulates the wearer's wrist.

The cellular telephone device may also include at least one data display panel. The cellular telephone device preferably also includes a wrist watch. According to one embodiment of the invention, the watch and at least parts of the keypad or parts of the telephone mechanism are arranged on opposite sides of the wearer's wrist.

The cellular phone mechanism includes earpieces that extend toward the wearer's palm and retract into the housing. The earpiece preferably extends along the wearer's arm. The lugs are extendable by a trigger-open cover pivotally coupled to the housing, and further extendable by at least one telescoping, accordion-like portion of the cover. On the other hand, the earpiece of the cell phone mechanism may be mounted on one end of a tube having fastening means for fastening to the wearer's finger. When the securing means is released, the tube is retracted into the housing by means of resilient biasing means coupled to one end of the tube.

The battery power source may comprise a single battery extending around at least a substantial portion of the wearer's wrist, or a plurality of batteries interconnected and all extending around the wearer's wrist. The battery is detachably housed in the case.

If multiple batteries are used, each battery may be housed in its own housing, and the housings may be interconnected. To this end, the cellular telephone device preferably includes circuitry adapted to selectively connect the cellular telephone mechanism to a predetermined one of said plurality of batteries.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a cellular telephone device includes a movable antenna extending outwardly from said cellular telephone device. A hinge or pivot mechanism that allows the antenna to rotate away from the horizontal plane of the cellular telephone device is preferably employed. The antenna may have multiple deployable sections, such as those employing a telescoping mechanism.

According to another embodiment of the invention, at least first and second antennas are used, wherein at least one of the two antennas is movable in a direction away from the horizontal plane of the cellular telephone device. During operation, the positions of the two antennas are adjusted relative to each other so that the antennas provide polarization diversity that enables signal reception by the cellular telephone independent of its orientation.

Description of drawings

In order to understand the present invention and to see how it can be carried out in practice, several preferred embodiments are illustrated below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figures 1(a) and (b) illustrate a wrist-worn communication device in a closed state according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 2(a) and (b) illustrate side views of a wrist communication device with the earpiece removed according to one embodiment of the present invention;

2(c)-(f) illustrate earpieces for use with a wrist communication device having separate earpieces, according to various embodiments of the invention;

Figures 3(a) and (b) illustrate front views of a wrist communication device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 4(a), (b), (c) and (d) show a wrist communication device with a foldable multi-segment keypad according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 5(a), (b), (c) and (d) illustrate a wrist communication device with a telescoping keypad according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 illustrates a wrist communication device having a keypad portion according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 7(a), (b) and (c) illustrate a wrist communication device having an earpiece with a telescopable extending antenna, according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 8(a), (b) and (c) illustrate a wrist communication device having an earpiece with a telescopable extending antenna according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 9(a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) illustrate a wrist communication device having an earpiece with a telescopable extending antenna according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 10(a)-10(e) illustrate a wrist communication device with a small detachable earpiece and a speaker and microphone mounted on a wristband, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 11(a) and (b) illustrate a wrist communication device with a larger detachable earpiece and a speaker and microphone mounted on the wristband, according to another embodiment of the present invention;

12(a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) illustrate a wrist communication device according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the handset is mounted away from the cell phone mechanism;

Figure 13 illustrates a wrist communication device with a separate watch and auxiliary speaker and microphone according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 14 illustrates a wrist communication device with a portion of the display always visible, according to one embodiment of the invention;

15(a)-15(g) illustrate a wrist communication device employing an antenna system according to another embodiment of the present invention;

16(a)-16(b) illustrate a wrist communication device employing an antenna system according to another embodiment of the present invention;

17(a)-17(b) illustrate a wrist communication device employing an antenna system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

18(a)-18(b) illustrate a wrist communication device employing an antenna system according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 19 illustrates a wrist communication device employing an antenna system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 20 illustrates the wrist communication device in a closed state, according to the embodiment shown in Figure 19;

Figure 21 is an illustration of a cellular telephone worn on the wrist in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of the cellular phone of FIG. 21, more specifically illustrating the unlocked state of the cellular phone of FIG. 21;

Figure 23a is a side view of a portion of the cellular telephone of Figure 22, more particularly illustrating the micro vibrator;

Fig. 23b is a partially exploded view of the cellular phone of Fig. 21 with the trigger-open cover in the retracted state and the battery in the removed state;

Figures 24a-24c illustrate three other embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 25a illustrates another embodiment of a wrist-worn cellular telephone with a watch mounted thereon;

Figure 25b is a cross-sectional view of the cellular telephone of Figure 25a, more particularly illustrating the coupling means for mounting the watch on the cellular telephone;

Figures 26(a)-26(b) illustrate a cellular telephone having a two-section keypad disposed on the cuff portion according to one embodiment of the present invention;

27(a) and 27(b) illustrate the layout of the keys on the keypad according to one embodiment of the present invention, which prevents the keys from touching each other when the cellular telephone is in the closed state;

28(a)-28(d) illustrate other configurations of device 21 having a multi-segment keypad according to other embodiments of the present invention.

Detailed ways

Figures 1 (a) and (b) illustrate a wrist-worn communication device 5 according to one embodiment of the present invention. 1( a ) and ( b ) show the device 5 when the user is not operating the device 5 . The wrist communication device 5 is slim and lightweight, thereby minimizing the possibility of the communication device 5 catching on the user's clothing or interfering with the user's activities. Specifically, FIG. 1( a ) shows a side view of a wrist communication device 5 comprising a wristband 10 and a handset 12 . The wristband 10 is preferably soft so that it can be worn on the user's wrist, and has fastening means at both ends to firmly fix the communication device 5 on the user's wrist.

FIG. 1( b ) shows a front view of the communication device 5 . The communication device 5 may include an auxiliary function button 44 disposed on the side of the cell phone mechanism 20 along the edge of the wristband 10 . According to one embodiment, the button 44 enables the user to place a call, terminate a call, operate a menu displayed on the display, etc., as further described below.

2( a ) and ( b ) illustrate side views of the wrist communication device 5 . In FIG. 2( a ), the handset 12 is removed from the wrist communication device 5 , exposing the cellular phone mechanism 20 , noting that the cellular phone mechanism 20 may be located anywhere on the wrist communication device 5 . The cellular phone mechanism 20 remains fixed to the wrist communication device 5 and may include a transceiver, display and other typical functional components of a cellular phone device, as will be described in more detail below. In one embodiment, the cellular telephone mechanism 20 is equipped with Internet browser technology, such as Wireless Application Protocol (also referred to as "WAP"), thereby enabling the wearer to use Internet applications. In one embodiment, both handset 12 and cellular telephone mechanism 20 have batteries powering them. As previously mentioned, the battery for the cellular phone mechanism 20 may be located anywhere on the wristband 10 . However, in one embodiment the wrist communication device 5 is configured such that the battery in the cellular telephone mechanism 20 also supplies power to the battery of the handset 12, eg for charging purposes.

According to some embodiments, when the wristband 10 is worn by the user, the keypad and display components of the cellular telephone mechanism 20 may be located on the palm or side of the forearm of the user's wrist. However, it is important to point out that although the various figures herein show the cellular telephone mechanism 20 as a single device disposed on only one side of the user's wrist, the scope of the present invention is not so limited. The various parts of the cellular phone mechanism 20, including batteries, transmitters, receivers, microprocessors, I/O devices, antennas, etc., can be arranged in various positions near the wrist to maximize the utilization of space on the wristband 10. to reach maximum.

According to various embodiments of the present invention, and as shown in FIG. Component 20 receives the communication signal. In this embodiment, an antenna for receiving communication signals (the antenna will be shown in the drawings described below) is located on the earpiece 12 . Alternatively, handset 12 and cellular telephone mechanism 20 may be in a wireless relationship such that communication signals are transmitted between them by means of radio waves, as will be discussed further below.

In a preferred embodiment, the wire 30 is retractable so that when the earpiece 12 is mounted on the wristband 10, the wire 30 does not dangle randomly. In one embodiment, in addition to transmitting signals between the handset 12 and the cellular telephone mechanism 20, the wire 30 itself may function as an antenna configured to transmit external communication signals, such as cellular communication signals, to the base station and receiving external communication signals, such as cellular communication signals, from the base station.

The length of the wire determines the maximum distance between the earpiece and the wristband. If the handset 12 were wirelessly connected to the cellular telephone mechanism 20, the user would not be subject to such limitations. Thus, a wireless connection between the cellular phone mechanism 20 and the handset 12 is beneficial in this regard, since a wired connection would make it difficult for the user to change hands while talking, or to hand the phone over to another person wishing to talk. However, a wireless connection requires that the handset 12 and cellular telephone mechanism 20 have additional transceivers so that one transceiver can transmit and receive external communication signals (e.g., signals generated by a cellular base station) and the other transceiver can receive internal signals (i.e. , the signal between the cellular communication device 20 and the handset 12).

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the earpiece 12 has two telescoping earpiece parts 12a and 12b, the thickness of which parts is very small. The speaker 14 is arranged at one end of the earpiece part 12a, and the microphone 16 is arranged at the opposite end of the earpiece 12b. The telescoping earpiece parts 12a and 12b are slidably engaged with each other by means of guides (such as parallel guides or slide rails) between the open position and the closed position, for example along one or more guide rails provided in one of the parts. 12d move. In Fig. 12(a), the earpiece 12 is shown in the closed state. In the closed state, earpiece 12 is relatively small in length and takes up a small amount of space, making it easy to fit between the various applications on wristband 10 .

In FIG. 2(b), the earpiece 12 is shown in an open state. In the open state, the length of the earpiece 12 is greater than in the closed state. Thus, in the open state, the speaker 14 and microphone 16 are closer to the ear and mouth of a typical user during use, although the scope of the invention is not limited thereto. For example, as shown in Figure 2(c) and (d), parts 12a and 12b of the earpiece 12 can also be folded around the linear hinge 13 to achieve the same extensibility, or as shown in Figure 2(e) and ( As shown in f), it can rotate around the pivot 13b. Other embodiments of the present invention having earpiece 12 of different configurations are discussed below, and the present invention contemplates that members 12a and 12b may be extended using other methods known in the art.

Returning to Figures 2(a) and 2(b), another functional part of the earpiece is the vertically extending regions 32a and 32b of the earpiece located at the speaker 14 and microphone 16, respectively. The extensions 32a and 32b allow the speaker 14 and microphone 16 to be brought closer to the user's ear and mouth during operation when the earpiece 12 is in the open state. The extensions 32a and 32b of the earpiece 12 are also configured such that the extensions frictionally engage corresponding mating areas on the wristband 10 when the earpiece 12 is in the closed state. Depending on the construction of the earpiece, the loudspeaker 14 and microphone 16 may be arranged in these vertical extensions, as shown in Figures 2(a) and 2(b), or elsewhere on the earpiece 12, as shown in Figures 2(c) and ( d) as shown. In one embodiment of the invention, the earpiece is sealed against water, dust and the like.

FIGS. 3( a ) and ( b ) are similar to FIGS. 2( a ) and ( b ), except that FIGS. 3( a ) and ( b ) illustrate a front view of the wrist communication device 5 . As in Figures 2(a) and (b), in Figures 3(a) and (b) the earpiece 12 is shown as having two telescoping earpiece parts 12a containing a speaker 14 and a microphone 16, respectively and 12b. In FIG. 3( a ), the handset 12 is shown detached from the wrist communication device 5 exposing various parts of the cellular telephone mechanism 20 . In this view, other functional components of the cellular telephone mechanism 20, such as keypad 18 and various portions of display 22, are shown. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the keypad 18 folds over the cellular telephone body 20, as shown in FIG. 3(a). Other embodiments in which the keypad 18 has several parts are discussed in detail below.

As previously mentioned, FIG. 3( a ) also shows a portion of the display 22 which is visible when the earpiece 12 is detached from the wristband 10 . Display 22 may be a liquid crystal display. Advantageously, the display is configured to display the number currently dialed by the user when placing a call from said communication device, the number of the remote telephone device that originated the incoming call (if such option is approved by the owner of the remote telephone), the date or time and so on.

Preferably, as shown in FIG. 4(a) and other figures described below, the display 22 is relatively large in size. Thus, according to other embodiments of the present invention, display 22 is large enough to display menus for user selection or to display Internet applications. In one embodiment, when cellular telephone unit 20 is equipped with Internet browser technology, such as "WAP," display 22 is configured to display data from the Internet, such as stock prices, weather and traffic reports, driving directions, etc. .

As shown in Figures 1(b), 3(a) and 4(a) (and various other embodiments, some of which are discussed below), when the handset is placed on the wristband 10, the display 22 can be entirely The earpiece 12 is covered. For example, in FIG. 1( b ), no part of the display 22 is visible when the earpiece 12 is in the closed state. Similarly, in FIGS. 5(a)-5(c), which will be described in detail below, the user can see the display portion 22b only when the keypad portion 18b is rotated to the open position. Only when the keypad portion 18a is telescopically extended to the open position can the complete display, including most of the display portion 22, be seen.

However, the present invention also contemplates embodiments where a portion of the display 22 is always visible to the user. For example, FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment in which the user can always see the display portion 22a. Although in FIG. 14 the display portion 22 is shown as being relatively small, other embodiments may employ a larger display 22, part or all of which is viewable by the user. According to various embodiments, keeping at least a portion of the display visible at all times allows the user to perform various functions without moving the handset 12 or manipulating the wrist communication device 5 . For example, the always visible portion of the display 22 may display the date and time, incoming phone numbers, a phone book, and the like.

As previously mentioned, Figures 1(b) and 2(a) are front views showing the wrist communication device 5 in a partially closed state. This configuration is likely to be worn by the user when the wrist communication device is not active. Figure 4(a) shows the wrist communication device 5 when the first section 18a of the keypad 18 coupled to the cellular phone mechanism 20 has been rotated about the hinge 21 and is in an open position. Figure 4(b) shows the wrist communicator 5 in a fully open state, ie when both the first segment 18a and the second segment 18b of the keypad 18 are in the open state. The second section 18b of the keypad 18 is coupled to the first section 18a by a hinge 23, and rotates around the hinge 23 so as to be in a fully open position (other methods will be further discussed below, such as sliding the second section over the first section 18a). 18b method). Figure 4(c) shows the same embodiment for operation with the handset removed. Figure 4(d) shows the earpiece 12 detached from the wristband 10 and extended to its maximum length.

As shown in FIG. 4(b), when the wrist communicator 5 is fully open, the keypad portions 18a and 18b form a substantially flat surface for easy manipulation of the keys by the user. The keys 42 are arranged on the keypad 18 in a well-known manner, for example in the form of keys on an ordinary telephone, and are spaced far enough apart to minimize the possibility of the user inadvertently pressing a key that the user did not intend to press. . Both the keypad sections 18 a and 18 b have arranged thereon keys 42 which are pressed by the user to operate the wrist communication device 5 . In particular, the keypad 18 is electrically connected to the cellular telephone mechanism 20 of the device 5 and sends signals to the cellular telephone mechanism 20 corresponding to keys pressed by the user.

Figure 4(b) also shows the handset 12 mounted on the keypad portion 18a. As before, the vertically extending regions 32a and 32b of the earpiece 12 are frictionally mounted on the keypad portion 18a. On the other hand, Figures 4(c) and 4(d) show the handset 12 detached from the keypad portion 18a for easy manipulation by the user.

Various other embodiments of the wrist communication device 5 are also possible. For example, those foldable components in the wrist communication device 5 may also be telescopic and extendable components, or components that can be adjusted by other means. Similarly, those telescoping extensions of the wrist communication device 5 may be foldable (or adjustable) components.

Similarly, FIGS. 1-4 show keypad portion 18a coupled by hinge 21 to wristband 10 so as to be foldable over display 22 . FIGS. 5( a ), ( b ), ( c ) and ( d ) illustrate another embodiment in which the keypad 18 extends telescopically from the wristband 10 . According to this embodiment, in the closed state, the keypad 18 is arranged on the cellular phone mechanism 20, as shown in FIG. 5(a). The keypad 18 moves to the open position along parallel rails 28a and 28b of the cell phone mechanism 20 (as shown in FIG. 5(b)). In this embodiment (and any other embodiment where the two parts are telescopically extended relative to each other), it is preferred to use a biasing spring (not shown) so that after the keypad 18 has been extended, in order to make it To return to the closed state, a predetermined force must be applied.

In particular, in Figures 5(a), (b) and (c), keypad 18 includes two segments, namely 18a and 18b. The keypad portion 18a telescopically extends from the cellular telephone mechanism 20 . Keypad portion 18b, on the other hand, is coupled to keypad portion 18a by hinge 23 so that keypad portion 18b is foldable over keypad portion 18a and cellular phone mechanism 20 when keypad 18a is in the closed position. In this embodiment, earpiece 12 is detachably mounted (e.g., by friction fit) on keypad portion 18b so as not to restrict the telescopic movement of keypad portion 18a, so that the user can use the earpiece when keypad portion 18a is in the closed state. 12.

The present invention also contemplates coupling keypad portion 18a to cellular telephone mechanism 20 via a hinge, and coupling keypad portion 18b to keypad portion 18a via a telescoping relationship. According to various embodiments, the present invention also contemplates that the keypad 18 comprises other than two-segment keypads, wherein the keypad segments are coupled by any of the means described above. For example, the wrist communication device 5 may only comprise a keypad part, and the one keypad part is folded or slidably connected to the wrist communication device 5 .

Figure 6 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention having a single keypad portion 18a. In this case, all keys 42 are arranged on the keypad portion 18a. This configuration enables the wrist communicator 5 to have a smaller profile than a wrist communicator having two or more keypad sections, although the keys are closer together and thus more difficult to manipulate. Likewise, earpiece 12 is removably mounted on keypad portion 18a for ease of operation.

The advantage of using a multi-segment keypad, such as that of Figures 5(b) and (c) above, is that it can be used without increasing the overall size of the communication device and without causing inconvenience for the user to wear the communication device on his wrist. to make the keys on the keypad more spaced, or to make the key size larger. Other configurations of multi-segment keypads, and a detailed explanation of the advantages conferred by each of said other configurations, are specified in Applicant's co-pending application, Serial No. 09/330728, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety included here.

In general, the use of a multi-segment keypad reduces the size of the keypad when closed, thereby minimizing the possibility of the keypad interfering with the user or being damaged. Additionally, the multi-segment keypad hides the keypad keys and protects the keypad keys from water, dust, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the keys on each segment of the keypad are arranged so that when part 18a is closed onto part 18b, the keys arranged thereon do not touch each other. This embodiment reduces the combined thickness of portions 18a and 18b when closed, so that the wrist communication device 5 does not appear unwieldy on the user's wrist and reduces wear and tear on the keys since the keys are closed when the communication device is in the closed state. will not be pressed.

According to another embodiment, the multi-segment keypad 18 is arranged as a membrane keypad. In this embodiment, the key unit is a touch-actuated switch formed on the diaphragm. The structure and operation of membrane keypads are well known and are described, for example, in US Patent No. 3,987,259 or Patent No. 4,489,302, which are incorporated herein by reference. Briefly, several electrodes overlap each other at a distance from each other. When any one of the key elements is pressed, some electrodes form an electrical connection that generates a signal indicating that the particular key element has been pressed. According to one embodiment of the invention, the membrane keypad is made of a flexible material, such as plastic.

As previously mentioned, the wrist communication device 5 is also configured to have a wireless connection between the handset 12 and the cellular telephone mechanism 20 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figures 7(a), (b) and (c) illustrate another embodiment of the handset 12 having an antenna 25 that extends telescopingly. Fig. 7(a) shows the earpiece 12 detachably mounted on the wrist communication device 5, for example when the user is not using the wrist communication device. The width of the earpiece 12 is substantially the same as that of the wristband 10 .

Figure 7(b) shows the handset 12 detached from the communication device in the closed state. Figure 7(c) shows the earpiece 12 in an open state. In the open state, the parts 12a and 12b move relative to each other and extend the telescopically extendable antenna 25 for receiving and transmitting external communication signals. As previously stated, if antenna 25 is configured to receive external communication signals, earpiece 12 is preferably wired to wrist communication device 5 for transmission of signals therebetween.

Figures 8(a), (b) and (c) illustrate another embodiment of the handset 12 having an antenna 25 that extends telescopically. Figure 8(a) shows the handset 12 detachably mounted on the wrist communication device 5, for example when the user is not using the wrist communication device. In this case, the earpiece 12 is slightly wider than the wristband 10 in order to accommodate the radome 12c. Figure 8(b) shows the handset 12 detached from the communication device in the closed state. Fig. 8(c) shows the earpiece 12 in an open state. In the open state, the telescoping antenna 25 extends to the antenna elements 25b and 25c for improved reception and transmission of communication signals. Of course, the antenna 25 could be attached to the earpiece portion 12a or 12b and could extend in any direction depending on the configuration of the earpiece.

The configuration of the handset 12 in Figures 8(a)-(c) may also be employed in the embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 9(a)-(e). Figure 9(a) shows the wrist communication device 5 having keypad portions 18a and 18b. The keypad portion 18a telescopically extends over the display 22 . Keypad portion 18b is hingedly coupled to keypad 18a. The handset 12 is detachably mounted on the keypad 18b. The integrated display 22 on the wrist communication device 5 enables the user to view information such as the telephone number of the other party to call, Internet data and the like.

Figure 9(b) illustrates the handset 12a detached from the keypad portion 18b. Also shown is keypad portion 18a configured to slide over display 22 via parallel rails 34a and 34b. As shown, the keypad portion 18a and the cell phone mechanism 20 are of different widths. Thus, a part of the cellular phone mechanism 20, that is, the display 22 remains exposed. When the keypad portion 18a is not telescopically extended, a portion of the cellular phone mechanism 20 having a width corresponding to the width of the radome 12c of the handset 12 remains exposed. When the handset 12 is placed into the wristband 10, the radome 12c fits into the space not occupied by the keypad 18a, thereby enabling the wrist communication device 5 to have a smaller profile.

Figure 9(c) shows the keypad portion 18b which has been folded over the keypad portion 18a to minimize the size of the wrist communication device 5. Figures 9(d) and (e) also show the handset in the closed and open states, respectively. In Figure 9(e), the handset 12 is shown with the telescoping antenna 25 in the extended state. Note that the radome 12c can be located anywhere on the earpiece 12, and can be configured to fit snugly by friction with areas of the wristband 10 not occupied by auxiliary features of the wrist communication device 5.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figures 10(a)-10(e). Figure 10(a) shows the wrist communication device 5 in a closed state. Figure 10(a) shows the earpiece 12 having a very small size. The handset 12 is mounted adjacent to the lead box 38 . In the illustrated embodiment, both handset 12 and lead box 38 are disposed adjacent cellular telephone mechanism 20, although the scope of the present invention is not so limited. FIG. 10 also shows a microphone 16 similarly arranged on wristband 10 . In the present embodiment, the microphone 16 is arranged on the opposite side of the wristband 10 from the cell phone mechanism 20, although other locations are also contemplated.

Figure 10(b) shows the handset 12 detached from the wristband 10 when the user is using the wrist communication device. Earpiece 12 includes a speaker 14 and is configured to be held between the user's fingers, such as between the user's thumb and index finger. The handset 12 is connected to the cellular telephone mechanism 20 by wires 30 which are preferably retracted into a wire compartment 38 . As previously mentioned, the wires 30 are configured to carry communication signals between the handset 12 and the cellular telephone mechanism 20 .

To use the wrist communication device, the user removes the earpiece 12 from the wristband 10 and holds the earpiece 12 between his fingers, ie with the same hand that wears the wrist communication device 5 . The user then lifts the earpiece 12 to his ear so that the user can listen through the speaker 14 . Thus, the leads 30 are long enough to travel from the lead housing 38 on the user's wrist to the user's fingertips, and should be long enough to accommodate hands of various sizes. With the earpiece 12 positioned near the user's ear, the user then positions his wrist so that the microphone 16 on the wristband 10 is positioned near the user's mouth.

10(c)-10(e) illustrate how the keypad 18 and display 22 are configured on the wristband 10. FIG. For example, Figure 10(c) shows keypad 18 comprising two sections of keypad 18a and 18b separated by hinge 23, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As in the previous embodiments, the keypad 18 is configured such that the keypad portion 18b is rotatable and capable of forming a flat keypad for the user to operate.

FIG. 10( d ) shows the keypad 18 in the closed position, but telescopically unfolded from the cell phone mechanism 20 . As previously mentioned, the keypad 18 telescopically deploys along parallel rails 28a and 28b disposed on the cellular phone mechanism 20 . When keypad 18 is unfolded, display 22 is visible to the user. Finally, Figure 10(e) shows the cellular phone mechanism 20 in a fully open position so that the keypad portion 18a is telescopically unfolded to allow the display 22 to be seen and the keypad 18b to pivot about the hinge 23 to form a flat Straight keypad.

Figures 11 (a) and (b) illustrate another embodiment of the invention which combines some of the features of the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 10 . For example, Figures 11(a) and (b) illustrate an earpiece 12 that is substantially the same size as that shown in Figures 1-10. A speaker 14 is located at one end of the earpiece 12 . The user removes the earpiece 12 from the wristband 10 in the manner previously described in order to bring the speaker 14 close to his ear. Additionally, FIG. 11( a ) shows the microphone 16 located on the wristband 10 , which in this case is adjacent to the cell phone mechanism 20 . As described in connection with Figures 10(a)-(e), with the earpiece 12 positioned near his ear, the user then positions his wrist so that the microphone 16 is positioned next to his mouth.

According to other embodiments of the present invention, the wrist communication device may also be configured in other ways to minimize the thickness of the wrist communication device. For example, FIGS. 12( a )-12( e ) illustrate another embodiment in which earpiece 12 is removably mounted along the side of keypad portion 18 . Since the handset 12 is not mounted on the keypad 18, the wrist communication device 5 has a smaller profile than other embodiments.

FIG. 12( a ) shows the handset 12 mounted on the wrist 10 near the keypad 18 . The handset 12 is held in place by parallel rails 40a and 40b. Figure 12(b) illustrates the earpiece 12 sliding relative to the wristband 10 so as to be held by the user during use. According to one embodiment of the invention, earpiece 12 communicates with wrist communication device 5 as previously described. Figure 12(d) shows the earpiece 12 in the first position just slid out of its mounting position on the wristband 10. Figure 12(e) shows the earpiece 12 rotated to reveal the speaker 14. Earpiece 12 is preferably configured to mount on wristband 10 with speaker 14 facing the user's wrist, thereby protecting the speaker from water, dust, etc., although the invention is not limited thereto.

Figure 12(c), on the other hand, shows the earpiece 12 telescopically deployed. In the present embodiment, earpiece 12 is comprised of four telescoping sections, designated 14a-14d, although any number of sections is contemplated by the present invention. In this case, earpiece portion 12a includes a speaker 14, while earpiece portion 14d includes a microphone. As previously mentioned, the expandability of the earpiece 12 enables the earpiece 12 to take up less space when closed and mounted on the wristband 10, while allowing the speaker 14 of the microphone 16 to be placed in the open position. Arranged in a configuration more in line with operational requirements.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the wrist communication device 5 also includes a wristwatch that works independently of the cellular phone mechanism 20 . For example, FIG. 13 illustrates a wrist communication device 5 comprising a watch 50 mounted on a wristband 10 . Obviously, any method may be used to secure the watch 30 to the wristband 10. For example, watch 30 may be mounted on its case, or may be integrally formed with its case, which in turn may be connected to wristband 10 by a hinge or the like. Wrist communication device 5 may be configured such that watch 50 is located on any part of wristband 10, for example on the opposite side of the user's wrist relative to portions of keypad 18 or display 22 when worn by the user.

Referring to Figure 13, the wrist communication device may include a handset 12 that operates in the manner described in the previous embodiments. In other words, the handset is preferably detachable from the wrist 10 so as to be held by the user during operation. FIG. 13 also shows auxiliary speaker 52 and microphone 54 . Auxiliary speaker 52 and microphone 54 can be employed in several ways.

For example, according to one embodiment of the invention, the auxiliary speaker can be used as a loudspeaker so that the user can hear the other party on the call without having to put the wrist communication device 5 to his ear. Advantageously, the user can enable a "hands-free" mode whereby the user can operate the wrist communication device 5 while performing other tasks, such as driving. In this case, the earpiece 12 remains mounted on the wristband 10, while the microphone 54 receives the user's voice and, by means of the speaker 52, audibly transmits the voice of the other party to the call to the user.

On the other hand, according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the earpiece 12 is damaged or lost, the speaker 52 and the microphone 54 can be used to work. In this way, the wrist communication device 5 can be removed from the user's wrist and held in place like a normal telephone (ie with the speaker 52 near the user's ear and the microphone 54 near the user's mouth).

Each of the wrist communicators shown in the preceding figures allows the wrist communicator 5 to be used in a unique and improved manner. For example, the embodiment in Figure 3(a) (which is only one of them) illustrates how a user uses the wrist communication device 5 when receiving a call from another party. When a call is received, the user removes the handset 12 from the wrist communication device 5 and answers the call. According to various embodiments of the present invention, the present invention enables a user to quickly remove the handset and speak into it without requiring the user to first open keypad 18 or manipulate any keys on keypad 18 . Of course, in an embodiment where the display 22 is configured to display the incoming call number, the user can first open the keypad 18 to view the display 22, if desired, and then remove the handset to answer the call.

On the other hand, Figures 4(a) and (b) (which is only one of them) illustrate how the user uses the wrist communication device 5 when the user wishes to place a call, according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIGS. 4( a ) and ( b ) illustrate that earpiece 12 is removably mounted on keypad 18 , and keypad 18 is connected to wristband 10 by hinge 21 . In this manner, when the user places a call, the user opens keypad 18 to expose keys 42 and display 22 . This step is done with the handset 12 still mounted on the keypad 18 of the wrist communication device 5 . In addition to stabilizing the keypad as the user presses keys, leaving handset 12 installed during this step avoids requiring the user to hold the handset in his or her hand when dialing. Only after the button has been pressed and the call has been placed does the user take off the handset and start speaking. Of course, the earpiece 12 is removably mounted on the wrist communication device so that if the user wishes to remove the earpiece before operating the keypad, the user may do so.

One of the advantages of the wrist communication device of the present invention is that it is more convenient to use than prior art wrist communication devices. This is because the detachable earpiece allows the user to secure the earpiece 12 in a position that is more comfortable for him or her. In contrast, prior art wrist communication devices with fixed-position speakers and microphones force each user to adopt the same hand posture, which may not be comfortable for all users. As shown in several embodiments, earpiece 12 has a shape that is comfortable for the user.

Another advantage of the present invention is that, in several embodiments, the user can turn the handset 12 to the other hand, if desired, without having to remove the communication device from his or her wrist. Similarly, in several embodiments, the user may also hand the phone over to another person wishing to speak to the calling party without having to remove the communication device from his or her wrist.

Another embodiment of the invention employs an antenna extending outward from the user's wrist. For example, a common problem with wrist-mounted communication devices is the close proximity of the antenna to the user's body. The close proximity of the antenna to the user's body degrades the quality of the signal transmitted and received by the antenna. When wearing a wrist-mounted communication device, its antenna is usually very close to the user's body due to the small size of the communication device.

Figures 15(a)-15(e) illustrate an embodiment of the present invention in which the antenna extends outwardly from the user's wrist in order to improve the quality of the signal transmitted and received by the antenna. Fig. 15(a) shows the wrist communication device 5 in a closed state, wherein the earpiece 12 is detachably mounted on the wristband 10, although the scope of the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the antenna system illustrated in Figures 15(a)-15(e) may also be employed in other wrist phone communication devices. Note that the wristband 10 of the communication device 5 can be made of various materials such as plastic, leather and metal. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the back cover of the handset 12 is made of the same material as the wristband, so that when the back cover is in a closed state, the entire communication device 5 appears to be a complete and unified structure.

Figure 15(b) illustrates the wrist communication device 5 in a partially open state. In this case, the keypad portion 18b pivots about the hinge 21 . Earpiece 12 is configured to be mounted on keypad portion 18b, for example by means of a friction fit. The width of the keypad portion 18a is less than the overall width of the communication device 5 in order to provide space for the antenna system 58 . According to one embodiment of the present invention, antenna system 58 includes antenna 56 disposed adjacent to, and preferably adjacent to, keypad 18a. In the closed position, the height of the antenna 56 is preferably substantially the same as the height of the keypad portion 18b.

Antenna system 60 includes a hinge or pivot mechanism 62 to enable opening of antenna 58 in a direction away from the horizontal plane of the wrist communication device. According to one embodiment of the invention, the pivot mechanism 62 includes a spherical pivot 65 (FIG. 15(g)), a spherical pivot 64 that enables the antenna 58 to be rotated in any direction in the space above the level of the wrist communication device so that for the best reception.

Figure 15(c) illustrates the antenna 58 in the retracted state. As shown, the antenna 58 projects outwardly from the horizontal plane of the wrist communication device. Note that according to one embodiment of the present invention, the antenna 58 is held closed by a biasing mechanism, such as a biasing spring, so that when the keypad portion 18b is removed from the keypad 18a, the biasing mechanism releases the antenna 58. to the desired location without requiring the user to do the work described.

Figure 15(d) illustrates an antenna system 60 according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the elongated antenna 66 can telescopically extend from the antenna 58 . According to an embodiment of the present invention, the extended antenna 66 can be extended to obtain better reception effect. Additionally, a pivot or hinge mechanism 70 allows the elongated antenna 66 to rotate about the antenna 58 .

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, elongated antenna 66 and antenna 58 are configured to independently function as diversity antennas. The operation of diversity antennas is well known and described, for example, in US Patent 5,564,082, issued October 8, 1996, which is incorporated herein by reference. Thus, when the elongated antenna 66 is rotated about the antenna 58, the two antennas are substantially separated and independent of each other. The angular arrangement provides polarization diversity if the two antennas are driven with eg orthogonal independent signals. The arrangement of the elongated antenna 66 relative to the antenna 58 increases the transmission and reception effect, regardless of the position of the wrist communication device 5 .

Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the present invention, one of the antennas 58 or 66 may be used for transmitting signals while the other antenna is used for receiving signals.

Figures 15(d) and 16(a) illustrate exemplary locations for the elongated antenna 66, while Figure 16(b) illustrates the antenna system 60 including antennas 58 and 66, both at one end of them Connect with the wrist communication device 5. Both antennas 58 and 66 can project outwardly from the horizontal plane of communication device 5 .

Figures 17(a) and 17(b) illustrate another embodiment of an antenna system 60 in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Antenna system 60 includes antennas 74 and 76 attached to the outside of the keypad area of communication device 5 . Both antennas 74 and 76 can extend outwardly from communication device 5 by means of pivot mechanism 80 . Antennas 74 and 76 may be part of one antenna, or may function as two separate antennas as described above with reference to the diversity antenna configuration.

FIG. 17( b ), on the other hand, illustrates the antenna 78 extending outwardly from the communication device 5 via the pivot mechanism 82 . Figures 18(a) and 18(b) illustrate another embodiment of the invention wherein the earpiece 12 completely covers the antenna 78 when the earpiece is in the closed state.

Finally, FIGS. 19( a ) and 19 ( b ) illustrate another embodiment of the invention in which a down-mounted antenna 58 is arranged on the bottom region 84 .

During use, the antenna system 60 provides a structure in which the antenna of the wrist communication device 5 protrudes outwardly away from the user's body, facilitating enhanced transmission and reception capabilities. In addition, the location of the antenna system is preferably near the keypad structure, and the earpiece structure provides a user friendly interface system wherein the LCD display, keyboard structure, earpiece and antenna are close to each other, although the invention is not limited thereto.

Referring to Figures 21 and 22, there is shown a device 100 comprising a housing in the form of a cuff 102 having two C-shaped portions 102a and 102b. One end of the C-shaped portions 102a and 102b are permanently joined by a pair of hinges 103 to provide a gap between a closed position when the cuff is worn on the user's wrist 105 and an open position when the cuff is removed from the user's wrist. , the C-shaped portions 102a and 102b pivot relative to each other. The other ends of the C-shaped portions 102a and 102b are interlocked by known types of fastening means, such as having a button formed on the inner butt end 102c for engaging a corresponding button formed in the butt end of the C-shaped portion 102a. The fastening mechanism of the hook 104 of the groove (not shown in the figure). It will be appreciated that suitable means are provided to facilitate the release of the hook 104 by the user.

It will also be appreciated that any other coupling mechanism may be used to provide a mechanical engagement between the C-shaped portions 102a and 102b that on the one hand prevents accidental disengagement and on the other hand is easily disengaged by the user. For example, magnetic fastening mechanisms may be used.

As shown in FIG. 21 , the cuff 102 embraces the user's wrist 105 in such a way that, with the exception of the battery, all major components of a conventional cellular phone mechanism are placed on one side 105a of the wrist 105, such as the palm side . Thus, a conventional keypad 106 is provided on the outside of the C-shaped portion 102a for user convenience. It will be noted, however, that the keypad 6 need not be arranged outside the C-shaped portion 102a as shown in FIG. detailed description), arranged on the device 100.

A liquid crystal display 107 is also provided on the outside of the C-shaped portion 102a. Typically, when a call is placed from the device 101, the display 107 can show the number the user is currently dialing, and the display 107 can also show the number of the remote phone that made the call (if the owner of the remote phone has approved this option) .

Coupled to the C-shaped portion 102a of the cuff 102 is a trigger-open telescopic cover formed generally at 108 by two hinge plates 109 and 110 . Hinge plate 110 is recessed and slightly larger than hinge plate 109 to accommodate hinge plate 109 therein in a conventional manner. To this end, the hinge plate 110 incorporates a pair of spaced apart parallel rails extending along opposite sides of the hinge plate 110 for supporting the chain plate 109 . Such a telescoping structure is well known and therefore will not be described in detail. Here, the hinge plate 109 is adapted to move between a folded state ( FIG. 22 ) when it is partially inserted into the hinge plate 110 and an extracted state ( FIG. 21 ) when it is fully extended from the hinge plate 110 . One end 112 of the hinge plate 109 is angled and protrudes from the hinge plate 110 when in the folded state of the hinge plate 109 as shown in FIG. 22 . At one end of the hinge plate 110, a pair of hinges 111 are used to link the hinge plate 110 with the C-shaped portion 102a, so that the hinge plate shown in FIG. The hinge plate 110 is rotated between closed and retracted states when the keypad 106 is partially covered. This partially retracted state is shown in FIG. 22 . To this end, the cover plate 108 may be formed from a flexible material. A two-part magnetic clasp mechanism 113 is adapted to be disposed on the C-shaped portion 102a and the hinge plate 110 to hold the cover plate 108 closed.

It will be appreciated that the magnetic fastening mechanism 113 may be replaced by any other suitable means, such as a spring mechanism. Although not specifically shown, it is noted that display 107 or another suitable display may be located on either side of hinge plate 110 .

Also provided is a conventional antenna 114, which may be a telescoping antenna, mounted on the portion 22a opposite the display 107. Antenna 114 may be supported at either end of any portion of cuff 102 in a manner that passes through the support portion such that the axis of antenna 114 is parallel to the user's arm. Also provided are a conventional microphone 115 mounted on the C-shaped portion 102a (forming a mouthpiece) and a speaker 116 at the angled end 112 of the hinge plate 109 (forming an earpiece).

As shown in Figure 23a, one of the basic features of the present invention is to provide a micro-vibrator 117 which has a protruding from the C-shaped portion 102a and which responds to a ringing signal to stimulate the user's wrist, thus without disturbing the movement of other people nearby. Notify his/her reciprocating prong 118 of the incoming call. A miniature disc-shaped rubber washer 120 is secured to the protruding end of the prong 118, which at its other end is connected to a conventional cellular telephone ringer (not shown) in such a manner that When the ringer is activated by an incoming power, the ringer drives a micro-vibrator 117 causing a reciprocating motion of the prong 118 . In public places where normal audible ringtones can disturb others, the ringer may not be activated, and the user can still be notified of an incoming call by using the micro vibrator 117 . It is clear that the structure described above requires a relatively small amount of power and, when in operation, does not cause the entire device 100 to vibrate.

Reference is now made to Figure 23b, which illustrates another essential feature of the present invention. The battery 121 is machined as if part of the cuff 102 and is sized to fit in and out of the C-shaped portion 102b which is generally hollow and serves as a battery holder. To this end, hollow portion 102b incorporates a pair of peripheral slots or rails so that the battery can be slid in and out in a conventional manner. Although not specifically shown, it is understood that the battery 121 is electrically connected to corresponding components of the phone mechanism housed in the C-shaped portion 102a. For this purpose, the wires are properly arranged in the C-shaped portions 102a and 102b.

If desired, the C-shaped portion 102b may be a two-part structure that is, for example, an arcuate portion designed to accommodate a battery therebetween. The structure may be similar to that used in magnetic tapes for inserting and removing cassettes, which is known per se, so no need is required except to point out that it usually includes a spring mechanism actuated by a key Describe it in detail.

On the other hand, although not specifically shown, the battery 121 itself may be provided with known types of fastening means and, when secured relative to the C-shaped portions 102a and 102b in the manner previously described, completes the overall cuff shape, thereby providing The role of the components of the hoop. The structure may be such that the C-shaped portion 102b, i.e. the C-shaped portion 102b associated with the battery embraces the entire wrist, and the C-shaped portion 102a, i.e. the C-shaped portion 102a associated with the phone mechanism is properly coupled to the C-shaped portion 102b superior. Obviously, instead of a single battery as described above, two or more batteries with appropriate electrical connectors could be used. To this end, the C-shaped portion 102b may consist of two or more segments connected by hinges, short belts, etc., each segment either having a battery located therein or being a battery itself. Where a short strap is used, it should be short enough so as not to occupy a substantial portion of the wearer's wrist. In particular, any type of battery may be used.

Device 100 is a cellular telephone designed to include the functions of a conventional cellular telephone, such as time, date, alarm clock, auto-dial mode, phone book, and the like. In addition, a sensing device is provided that automatically enables the device to enter the working mode when the hinge plate 110 of the cover is rotated to its open position, and automatically causes the device to enter the closed mode when the hinge plate 110 is rotated to its closed position. All these functions are known per se and need not be explained in detail.

The user wears the cellular phone 100 on his wrist 105, and when using the cellular phone 100, holds his hand at the side of his face with the cuff 102 close to his mouth in a natural hand position. Thus, the microphone in the cuff portion 102a is close to the user's mouth, and the user's fingertips are close to his ears. The speaker in the extended hinge plate 109 of the cover can now be kept close to the user's ear. Cupping the fingers filters out background noise and at the same time provides a resonant outer cavity for improving the sound quality of the sound coming from the speaker.

Referring now to Figures 24a, 24b and 24c which illustrate three further embodiments of the present invention which are similar to the ones described above, such that those components which are the same in all embodiments are identified by the same reference numerals . Cellular phones 200 and 300 differ from each other, and also from cellular phone 100, in that the mechanism for triggering the opening of the cover is slightly different. As shown in Figure 24a, the cover plate 208 consists of two plates 209 and 210 pivotally coupled by a pair of hinges 211 and 212, with the loudspeaker mounted on the plate 209. It is easy to understand that the cover 208 is foldable and expandable like an accordion. On the inner surface 209a of the panel 209 which abuts the inner surface 210a of the panel 210, an auxiliary two-part magnetic fastening mechanism is conventionally provided, not specifically shown in the drawings. Obviously, this magnetic fastening mechanism can be replaced by any other device suitable for the same purpose. The cover 309 of the cellular telephone 300 is a telescoping cover consisting of three plates, the last of which 309 is slidably inserted into the middle plate 310 which in turn can be moved in the manner described with reference to FIGS. 21-23. Placed in the flat plate 311.

Referring now to Figure 24c, the cellular telephone 400 has no cover at all and features a thin flexible tube 409 containing a connection to a speaker 416 mounted at its free end 409a. The other end of the electrical connector is connected with the audio output end of the cellular phone. As shown, the free end 409a of the thin tube 409 is secured to the index finger 410 of the user by means of a ring 411 (constituting a fastening means). Thus, the user's hand can basically freely manipulate the telephone set 400 . One end of a coil spring (not shown in the drawing) is fixed to the C-shaped portion 102 a, and the other end is fixed to the free end 409 a of the thin tube 409 . When the thin tube 409 is drawn to the extended working position as shown in Fig. 24c, the coil spring is elastically biased so as to be automatically retracted by the coil spring of the thin tube 409 when required.

It should be noted that both C-shaped portions of the cuff 102 in any of the preferred embodiments described above preferably have a rough inner surface that rests on the user's wrist 105 in order to prevent undesired movement of the cuff 102 .

Referring to Figures 25a and 25b, there is illustrated a cellular telephone similar to any preferred embodiment of the present invention, such as cellular telephone 100, which also includes a watch 130 mounted on C-shaped portion 102b. To this end, a conventional bolt and nut assembly 132 is provided. For example, a threaded bolt 134 protrudes from the bottom surface of the watch 130 for insertion into a nut 136 formed in the C-shaped portion 102b. Obviously, any other means to achieve the same purpose may be used. For example, watch 130 may be mounted on, or integrally formed with, its case, which in turn may be coupled to cuff 102 by a hinge or the like. It should be noted that the configuration could also be such that the same battery of the cellular telephone 100 provides power to the watch 130 .

As previously mentioned, in the configuration shown in FIG. 21, the keypad 106 needs to be arranged outside the C-shaped portion 102a, but according to various configurations, the keypad can also be arranged on the band of the cellular phone 100. cover part. 26-28 illustrate various embodiments of the present invention employing a multi-segment keypad 106 . By using a keypad with more than one segment, the size of the keypad can be minimized when the cell phone is not in use and can be increased to a larger size when the cell phone is in an open operating mode easy-to-use size.

For example, Figures 26(a) and 26(b) illustrate a cellular telephone 100 of the present invention having a two-section keypad 106 disposed on a cuff portion 102a, although it is noted that other embodiments according to the present invention Alternatively, the multi-segment keypad may be provided on the C-shaped portion 102b of the cellular telephone 100, or on any other portion of the cellular communication device worn on the wrist. It should also be noted that the multi-segment keypad 106 of the present invention can be used with any wrist-worn cellular communication device, regardless of the configuration of the cellular phone mechanism and battery power source on the cellular communication device.

In the illustrated embodiment, the keypad 106 is divided into two parts, namely parts 106 a and 106 b interconnected by a hinge 140 . Portion 106a is secured directly to portion 102a of cellular telephone 100 and portion 102b is configured to pivot about hinge 140 relative to portion 106a. Both portions 106a and 106b have pressure sensitive keys 142 disposed thereon that the user presses to operate the cellular telephone. Specifically, the keypad 106 is coupled to the cellular phone mechanism of the cellular phone 100 and sends signals to the cellular phone mechanism corresponding to keys pressed by the user.

FIG. 26( a ) shows the cellular telephone 100 in an open operable state, wherein the portion 106b of the keypad 106 is pivoted about the hinge 140 to enable access to the keys 142 of the keypad 106 . Keypad 106 is preferably configured such that when section 102 is pivoted to the open position, sections 106a and 106b form a substantially flat surface for easy manipulation by the user. Keys 142 are arranged on keypad 106 in a well-known manner, such as that found on conventional telephones, and are spaced far enough apart to minimize the possibility of the user accidentally pressing keys he did not intend to press.

In order to provide greater spacing between keys 142, in Figures 106(a) and 106(b), cellular telephone 100 is shown with auxiliary function keys on the sides of keypad 106 along the edges of the width of portion 102a 144. These keys enable the user to initiate a call, terminate a call, operate menus displayed on the display 107, etc., according to one embodiment of the present invention.

On the other hand, FIG. 26(b) shows the cellular phone 100 in a closed non-operable state, wherein the keypad portion 106b of the keypad 106 is pivoted around the hinge so as to hide the keys 142 of the keypad 106, i.e. prevent inadvertent The key 142 is pressed or the key 142 is protected from dust, water, or the like. In this embodiment, the keypad 106 requires only about half the space required in the open state illustrated in FIG. 26(a).

In addition to reducing the size of the keypad as shown in FIGS. 26(a) and 26(b), the multi-segment structure of the keypad 106 enables the overall size of the cellular phone 100 to be reduced. Typically, when the keypad is placed on a cuff of a cellular phone designed to be worn on the wrist, the width of the cuff is substantially the same as the width of the keypad. This ensures that the edge of the keypad does not stick out of the cuff and chafe the user's hand cavity, and also reduces the possibility of damage to the outer edge of the keypad due to contact with other surfaces. However, wider ferrules increase the size and weight of the cellular telephone, making it unwieldy.

The present invention allows the wrist-worn cellular phone to have a cuff that is substantially the same width as the keypad without requiring an uncomfortably excessive cuff. Specifically, when keypad 106 is in the closed state, its width is halved to the width of keypad portion 106a. Thus, the corresponding width of portion 102a of cellular telephone 100 can be designed to be the minimum width of keypad portion 106a, as long as the cuff is wide enough to support a sufficiently large battery power source. As previously mentioned, designing the cellular phone portion 102a to have the same width as the keypad 106 maximizes the aesthetic appeal of the cellular phone and makes the keypad 106 interfere when the user wears the cellular phone on the wrist. The possibility of user wrist mobility or keypad 106 being damaged is minimized.

As previously mentioned, FIG. 26(b) shows the cellular telephone 100 closed and the key 142 hidden. In a preferred embodiment, keys 142 are arranged on keypad portions 106a and 106b, respectively, such that keys 142 do not contact each other when keypad portion 106a is closed onto keypad portion 106b. This embodiment reduces the combined thickness of the enclosed keypad portions 106a and 106b, thereby making the cellular telephone 100 appear smaller on the user's wrist. Additionally, wear and tear on the key 142 is limited because the key 142 is not depressed when the cellular phone is in the off state.

For example, Figures 27(a) and 27(b) illustrate an arrangement of keys 142 located on keypad sections 106a and 106b that prevents mutual interaction of the keys of the various keypad sections when the cellular telephone is in the closed state. touch. Figure 27(a) shows a keypad portion 106a having two columns of keys 142 located in regions 145 and 146, respectively, which are arranged along the outer edge region of the keypad portion 106a. Additionally, the figure shows the keypad portion 106b having a column of keys 142 located in an area 147 located in the middle of the keypad portion 106b. Figure 27(b) also shows that when the keypad portions 106a and 106b are closed, the regions 145, 146 and 147 do not overlap so that the keys do not touch each other. However, it should be pointed out that the regions shown in Figures 27(a) and 27(b) are illustrative only, and the present invention contemplates that the keys 142 on the keypad portions 106a and 106b are prevented from interacting with each other when the cellular phone is in the closed state. Arbitrary key configurations for contact.

Other embodiments of cellular telephones having a multi-segment keypad 106 are shown in FIGS. 28(a)-28(d). For example, Figure 28(a) shows a keypad 106 divided into three segments. Central keypad portion 106b is connected by hinges 140 to keypad portions 106a and 106c on opposite sides. In this embodiment, the space required by the keypad 106 in the closed state is only about one third of the space required by the keypad 106 in the open state. FIG. 28( b ) illustrates a keypad identical to that illustrated in FIG. 28( a ) and in a fully open position, with considerable space between the individual keys 142 .

Figure 28(c) illustrates another embodiment where the keypad 106 comprises three sections, where two keypad sections have a telescoping configuration relative to each other. For example, keypad portion 106a is connected to keypad 106b by hinge 140 . However, keypad portion 106b also incorporates a pair of spaced parallel rails extending along opposite sides of keypad portion 106b for supporting keypad portion 106c. Figure 28(d) illustrates another embodiment where the keypad 106 comprises three sections, where two keypad sections have a telescoping configuration relative to each other. For example, keypad portion 106b incorporates two pairs of spaced parallel rails extending along opposite sides of keypad portion 106b for supporting keypad portions 106a and 106c. As previously mentioned, the various embodiments shown in FIGS. 26-28 provide a multi-segment keypad 106 that reduces the space required for the keypad 106 and improves wrist-worn cellular telephone 100. .

While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, numerous modifications, substitutions, changes or equivalents will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the scope of the invention.

Claims (44)

CLAIMS 1. A wrist-mounted telephone device secured to a wearer's wrist, said device comprising: a cuff configured to be secured to a wearer's wrist, the cuff configured to support a cellular telephone mechanism housed in a housing and a battery power source coupled to the housing; A keypad secured to said cuff and coupled to said cellular telephone mechanism for providing signals to said cellular telephone mechanism, said keypad having adjustable portions. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the keypad includes keys. 3. The device of claim 2, wherein said signal provided by said keypad corresponds to said key pressed by said wearer. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein said keypad comprises two parts. 5. The device of claim 4, wherein said keypad further comprises: a first portion secured to said ferrule; and A second part is pivotally connected to the first part by means of a hinge. 6. Apparatus according to claim 5, wherein said second part is pivotally connected to said first part so that when said second part is pivoted relative to said first part to close In the state, the buttons on the first and second parts are hidden. 7. Apparatus according to claim 5, wherein said second portion is pivotally connected to said first portion so that when said second portion is pivoted relative to said first portion to open In the state, a straight keypad is formed. 8. The device of claim 5, wherein said first portion of said keypad has a plurality of keys located in at least one area of said first portion, and said second portion of said keypad has a plurality of keys located in at least one area of said first portion. A plurality of keys in at least one area of the second portion. 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein said at least one region of said first portion does not abut said second portion when said second portion is pivoted relative to said first portion to a closed position The at least one area of . 10. The device of claim 4, wherein said keypad further comprises: a first portion coupled to the cuff; and A second portion telescopically coupled to the first portion. 11. The device of claim 1, wherein said keypad comprises three sections. 12. The device of claim 10, wherein said keypad further comprises: a first portion coupled to the cuff; and Second and third parts coupled to said first part. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein said at least one of said second and third sections is pivotally coupled to said first section. 14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein said at least one of said second and third sections is telescopically coupled to said first section. 15. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said cuff has a width substantially equal to the width of said first portion coupled to said cuff. 16. A wrist-mounted communication device comprising: Cellular telephone mechanism configured to transmit and receive communication signals; An antenna system coupled to the communication device for transmitting and receiving signals, the antenna system further comprising at least one antenna extendable in a direction away from the horizontal plane of the communication device. 17. The device of claim 16, further comprising a hinge mechanism for hingedly connecting one end of said antenna to said communication device. 18. The device of claim 16, further comprising a pivot mechanism pivotally coupling one end of said antenna to said communication device. 19. The device of claim 16, wherein said communication device further comprises a keypad coupled to said cellular telephone mechanism. 20. The device of claim 19, wherein said antenna is disposed proximate to said keypad. 21. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein in the closed state, the antenna is releasably biased. 22. The device of claim 16, wherein said antenna is deployable in its open state. 23. The device of claim 22, further comprising a telescoping antenna configured to rotate about the first antenna. 24. The device of claim 16, further comprising at least a second antenna configured to operate independently of the first antenna. 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein said first and second antennas function as diversity antennas. 26. The device of claim 24, wherein one end of the first antenna is coupled to the communication device, and the other end of the first antenna is rotatably coupled to one end of the second antenna. 27. The device according to claim 24, wherein one end of said first and second antennas is rotatably coupled to said communications device, so that said first and second antennas are adjustable to form a an angle. 28. A wrist-mounted communication device comprising: Cellular telephone mechanism configured to transmit and receive communication signals; a keypad connected to the mechanism to provide signals to the mechanism; and An earpiece is removably mounted on the device, the earpiece includes a microphone and a speaker. 29. The device of claim 28, wherein said handset is wired to said cellular telephone mechanism. 30. The device of claim 28, wherein said handset further comprises a wireless connection to said cellular telephone mechanism. 31. The device of claim 28, wherein said earpiece includes more than one portion so as to be expandable. 32. The device of claim 31, wherein said more than one earpiece portion is expandable by unfolding said earpiece via a hinge. 33. The device of claim 31, wherein the one or more earpiece portions are configured to extend telescopically such that the respective portions are expandable by sliding the respective portions relative to each other. 34. The device of claim 28, wherein said earpiece further comprises a telescopically extendable antenna. 35. The device of claim 28, wherein said wrist communication device further comprises a display. 36. The device of claim 28, wherein said wrist communication device further comprises a wrist watch. 37. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein said keypad is located on said cellular telephone mechanism. 38. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein said keypad includes at least one keypad portion having keys. 39. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein a first keypad portion is connected to said cellular telephone mechanism and a second keypad portion is pivotally connected to said first portion by a hinge. 40. The apparatus according to claim 39, wherein said second keypad portion is pivotally connected to said first keypad portion such that when pivoted relative to said first keypad portion The second keypad portion hides the keys on the first and second keypad portions when rotated to the closed position. 41. The apparatus according to claim 39, wherein said second keypad portion is pivotally connected to said first keypad portion such that when pivoted relative to said first keypad portion The second keypad portion forms a flat keypad when rotated to the open position. 42. The device according to claim 40, wherein said first keypad portion has a plurality of keys located in at least one area of said first keypad portion, and said second keypad portion has a plurality of keys located in said first keypad portion. A plurality of keys in at least one zone of the second keypad portion. 43. The apparatus of claim 42, wherein when said second keypad portion is pivoted relative to said first keypad portion to a closed position, said at least A region is not adjacent to said at least one region of said second keypad portion. 44. The device of claim 28, wherein said keypad portion further comprises a first part connected to said device and a second part telescopically connected to said first part.

Images