Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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MODULAR UNIT HEADSET
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation-in-part of
copending United States Patent 5,628,055 entitled "MODULAR
RADIO COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM" filed on December 12, 1994 by
co-inventor Per Stein; which is a continuation of United
States patent. This application is also a continuation-in-
part of copending United States Patent 6,016,432 entitled
"ELECTRONIC METERING EQUIPMENT SYSTEM", copending United
States Patent 5,963,872 entitled "ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
AUDIO SYSTEM", and copending United States Patent
5,905,947, entitled "ELECTRONIC AUDIO SYSTEM CAPABLE OF
COMMUNICATING DATA SIGNALS OVER WIRELESS NETWORKS", all
having been filed on June 6, 1995 by co-inventor Per Stein,
which are all a continuation-in-part of copending United
States Patent 5,628,055 entitled "MODULAR RADIO
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM" filed on December 12, 1994 by co-
inventor Per Stein.
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BACKGRO]ND OF THE I NTION
Pield of the invention
The present invention relates to electronic equipment
and, more particularly, to a modular unit for use in
establishing a link between electronic equipment and a
headset.
Description of Related A=
The fields of consumer electronics, data processing,
and telecommunications have experienced marked techno-
logical advances in recent years. Personal stereo
cassettes, disc players, and automobile AM/FM radios have
become smaller and more efficient, as has related consumer
electronic hardware. The great advances in memory chips
and miniaturization techniques have also enabled more and
more electronic'systems to 'be packaged in smaller and
smaller spaces. The same is true for industrial
electronic equipment and for personal computers.
Like consumer electronic equipment in general,
personal computers are manufactured by many different
suppliers around the world. An entire industry has
subsequently developed in supplying memory cards for
enhancing the capacity of this wide variety of personal
computers. Recently, there has been a movement toward
standardizing the interconnection formats for use in
circuit cards for personal computers. In particular, the
PC and Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) was
formed with the goal of promoting the interchangeability
of integrated circuit and memory cards among computer and
other types of electronic products. Toward this end, the
PCMCIA has promulgated certain physical and electrical
standards to ensure that cards will be able to be used in
different pieces of equipment.. Both data storage, i.e.
memory, and peripheral expansion, i.e. I/O, card types
constructed in accordance with these standards should be
able to be used in any receiving device also constructed
in accordance with the standards. Such a standard is set
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forth in a variety of documents including the PCMCIA PC
Card Standard, Release 2Ø The standard sets forth a
68 pin interchange for I/O type circuit cards for use in
PC's.
Advances in wireless telecommunications have also
moved rapidly in recent years. Various communication
standards have been promulgated around the world defining
specific frequencies, data rates, data formats, and the
like for both voice and data communications by radio links
between base stations and mobile units. For example,
specialized packet switching systems for mobile data
communications have enabled portable computers to directly
uplink data access into the landline data communication
network. Similarly, conventional voice based cellular
radio systems, both analog and digital versions, can
receive data from portable computers and transmit that
data through the conventional telephone network to a
remotely located data terminal. In addition, other
systems such as paging (both local and global), DECT
(Digital European Cordless Telecommunications), Mobitex,
CDPD (Cellular Digital Packet Data), PCS (Personal
Communications System) and the like have come into recent
use. Each of these wireless telecommunications formats
and standards generally require separate software to
provide a gateway for data into the wireless network as
well as separate transmission/reception formats. This
allows communication with radio base stations operating
in different geographic areas as well as parts of
different networks. It has been determined to be
desirable, however, to package radio transceivers and/or
modems in a modular manner so that a telecommunications
terminal, such as a portable telephone or a portable
personal computer, could be adapted for communication with
different systems by simply replacing the modular unit
with one which was especially configured for the
telecommunications network with which communication was
desired. The advantages of such radio transceiver
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packages should not, however, be limited to portable
telephones and portable computers when other consumer and
industrial electronic equipment can also be used with such
packages.
The use of card mounted telecommunications interface
equipment in a PC has existed for some time. In
particular, modems are frequeiztly mounted on an I/O card
and plugged into receiving receptacles within the PC. The
modem then enables the interface of a PC with standard
telecommunication network lines and the
transmission/reception of data for those lines. This=is
an extremely useful tool and maximizes the usefulness of
the PC. Industrial and consumer and electronic equipment,
such as radio or tape players, have not yet been included
in this technological integration with telecommunication
to the extent of the PC. It would be an advantage
therefor to provide a modular mounted radio transceiver,
such as a standard PCMCIA card, which is readily
replaceable in conventional coiisumer and industrial audio
electronic equipment such as tape player and stereos to
communicate with various networks in accordance with
various radio standards.
Many conventional consumer and industrial audio
electronic equipment have no headset with earphones, or
have headsets connected by a cable. Headsets connected
by cables to the audio electronic equipment limit the
motion of a user. Therefore, it would be an advantage to
provide a system which provides a headset for audio
electronic equipment without a headset, and provides a
connection between the audio e]Lectronic equipment and the
headset which does not limit the movement of a user to the
extent movement is limited by a cable.
SUMMP,R.Y OF THE INVENTION
In one aspect, the present invention includes a host
electronic system, a modular uriit electronically connected
to the host electronic system, a headset, and means for
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communicating between the modular unit and the headset.
In a further embodiment, the means for communicating
between the modular unit and the headset includes a first
short-range radio transceiver :Located in the modular unit,
and a second short-range radio transceiver located in the
headset and for communicating with the first short-range
radio transceiver. In another further embodiment, the
means for communicating between the modular unit and the
headset includes a first infra=-red transceiver located in
the modular unit, and a sec:ond infra-red transceiver
,located in the headset for communicating with the first
infra-red transceiver. In yet another further embodiment,
the modular unit is of a PCMCIA standard.
In another aspect, the present invention includes a
host electronic system connected to a telephone network,
a modular unit electrically connected to the host
electronic system and having a telecommunications
component for establishing a telecommunications link with
the telephone network, a headset, and means for
communicating between the telec:ommunications component of
the modular unit and the headset. In a further
embodiment, the host electronic system is connected to the
telephone network through a Local Area Network. In
another further embodiment, the host electronic system
includes an electronic audio component, and the modular
unit includes a switch for electrically switching the
means for communicating between an electrical connection
with the telecommunications component of the module and
an electrical connection with the electronic audio
component of the host electronic system. In yet even a
further embodiment, the switch comprises means for fading
out audio signals from the e:Lectronic component of the
host electronic system, and transmitting a signal
indicating that an incoming call is available, upon
sensing an incoming call to the telecommunications
component of the modular unit.
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In another aspect, the present invention includes a
host electronic system having a module port with a module
connector, and an electronic audio component electrically
connected to the module connector; a module unit having
a housing with a first end, a system connector disposed
on the first end of the housing for engagement with the
module connector of the host electronic system, a
telecommunications transceiver for communicating input
signals and output signals with one of a polarity of
standardized wireless networks in accordance with at least
one preselected communication standard, and a switch
having a first input electrically connected to the
telecommunications transceiver, a second input
electrically connected to the electronic audio component
of the host electronic system through the module connector
and the system connector, and an output, wherein the
output is selectively connectible to the first input or
the second input; a headset having a speaker and a
microphone; and means for communicating between the output
of the switch in the modular unit and the speaker and the
microphone of the headset. in a further embodiment, the
module port and the modular unit are of a PCMCIA standard.
In another further embodiment, the headset includes a
keypad which provides control signals to the
telecommunications transceiver of the modular unit through
the means for communicating. In yet another further
embodiment, the means for communicating includes a cable
extending between the modular unit and the headset. In
yet another further embodiment, the means for
communicating includes a first infra-red transceiver in
the modular unit and a second infra-red transceiver in the
headset, wherein the first infra-red transceiver
communicates with the second infra-red transceiver. In
yet another further embodiment, the means for
communicating includes a first short-range radio
transceiver in the modular unit and a second short-range
radio transceiver in the headset, wherein the first short-
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range radio transceiver comrnunicates with the second
short-range radio transceiver. In yet another further
embodiment, the host electronic system includes a battery
supply, and the telecommunications transceiver of the
modular unit receives electrical power from the battery
power supply through the module connector of the host
electronic system and the system connector of the modular
unit. In yet even a further embodiment, the module
connector of the module port and the system connector of
the modular unit are of a modified PCMCIA standard which
,includes power contacts for transmitting the electrical
power from the battery power supply to the
telecommunications transceiver. . In another further
embodiment, the system includes an external power source
for providing electrical power to the telecommunications
transceiver of the modular unit through a power connector
mounted on the housing of tlhe modular unit. In yet
another further embodiment, the host electronic system
includes an antenna connected to the telecommunications
transceiver of the module through the module connector of
the host electronic system and the system connector of the
modular unit, and the telecommunication transceiver
communicates with the standardized network through the
antenna. In yet even a furtl-ier embodiment, the module
connector of the module port and the system connector of
the modular unit are of a modified PCMCIA standard which
includes at least one contact for coupling the antenna
with the telecommunications transceiver. In yet another
further embodiment, the systein includes an antenna for
being coupled to the telecommunications transceiver of the
modular unit through an antenna connector mounted on the
housing of the modular unit. In another further
embodiment, the switch includes means for fading out the
audio signals from the electronic audio component to the
speaker and emitting a signal indicating that an incoming
call is available, upon sensing an incoming call to the
telecommunication transceiver. In yet a further
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embodiment, the host electronic system includes a display
for displaying the functional information of the host
electronic system, wherein the telecommunications
transceiver of the modular unit provides data signals to
the display through the system connector of the modular
unit and the modular connector of the host electronic
system, and wherein the display displays functional
information of the telecommunications transceiver. In
another further embodiment, the host electronic system
includes a keypad for providing control signals to the
host electronic system, and wherein the keypad provides
control signals to the telecommunications transceiver of
the modular unit through the module connector of the host
electronic system and the system connector of the modular
unit.
In one aspect, the invention provides a system
comprising a host electronics system connected to a
telephone network a telecommunications component for
establishing a telecommunications link with the
telephone network, a modular unit for electrically
connecting to the host electronic system and for
electrically connecting to the telecommunications
link, a headset, and means for communicating between
the telecommunications component of the modular unit
and the headset, wherein the host electronic system
inFludes an electronic audio component, and wherein
the modular unit includes a switch for selectively
electrically connecting the means for communicating
with the telecommunications.component of the modular
unit or the electronic audio component of the host
electronics system.
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In another aspect, the invention provides a system
comprising a host electronic system having a module port
with a module connector, and an electronic audio
component being electrically connected to the module
connector, a modular unit having a housing with a first
end, a system connector disposed on the first end of the
housing for engagement with the module connector of the
host electronic system, a telecommunications transceiver
for communicating input signals and output signals with
one of a plurality of standardized wireless networks in
accordance with at least one preselected communication
standard, and a switch having a first input electrically
connected to the telecommunications transceiver, a
second input electrically connected to the electronic
audio component of the host electronic system through
the module connector and the system connector, and an
output, wherein the output is selectively connectable to
the first input or the second input, and a headset
having a speaker, a microphone; and means for
communicating between the output of the switch in the
modular unit and the speaker and the microphone of the
headset.
BRIEF DESC'RTpTTnN O TH D A6dTNC'~
For a more complete understanding of the present
invention and for further objects and advantages thereof,
reference may now be had to the following description
taken in conjunction with accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a modular unit
constructed in accordance with the principles of the
present invention and having a standard PCMCIA card
interconnectivity format;
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FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the modular
unit of FIG. 1, illustrating a standard PCMCIA card
interconnectivity format;
FIG. 3 is a rear elevational view of the modular uriit
of FIG. 1, illustrating a window in the rear of the
modular unit;
FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the modular
unit of FIG. 1 taken along section lines 4-4 thereof;
FIG. 5 is an exploded, perspective view of a modular
unit of the type shown in FIG. 1 and its mounting in a
computer;
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FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment
of the present invention having a telecommunications
component and a headset link;
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a prior art
electronic system in the forni of a personal radio/tape
player;
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an overall
concept of telecommunications with electronic equipment;
FIG. 9 is a top plan view of another modular unit
constructed in accordance with the principles of the
present invention and having a standard PCMCIA card
'interconnectivity format;
FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of the modular
unit of FIG. 9 illustrating a standard PCMCIA card
interconnectivity format;
FIG. 11 is a rear elevational view of the modular
unit of FIG. 9 illustrating an external antenna mounted
thereon;
FIG. 12 is a side elevational, cross-sectional view
of the modular unit of FIG. 9 taken along the lines 12-12,
illustrating the attachment of the antenna thereto;
FIG. 13 is a top plan view of yet another embodiment
of a modular unit constructed in accordance with the
principles of the present inven.tion and having a modified
PCMCIA card interconnectivity format;
FIG. 14 is a front elevational view of the modular
unit shown in FIG. 13 illustrating the pin connections
thereto;
FIG. 15 is a rear elevational view of the modular
unit of FIG. 13 illustrating one embodiment thereof with
no antenna or power connector thereon;
FIG. 16 is a side elevational, cross-sectional view
of the modular unit of FIG. 13 takeri along the lines 16-16
thereof ;
FIG. 17 is an exploded, perspective view of a modular
unit of the type shown in FIG. 13 in association with a
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module receiving slot in an electronic system in the form
of a personal radio/tape player;
FIG. 18 is an exploded, perspective view of a modular
unit of the type shown in FIG. 9 in association with a
module rpceiving slot in an electronic system in the form
of a personal radio/tape player;
FIG. 19 is an exploded, perspective view of a modular
unit of the type shown in FIG. 9 in association with a
module receiving slot in an electronic system in the form
of a personal radio/tape player;
FIG. 20 is an exploded, perspective view of a modular
unit of the type shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 9, or FIG. 13, in
association with a module receiving slot in an electronic
system in the form of a Portab:Le Tape Player-AM/FM Radio;
FIG. 21 is a block diagraim, illustrating yet another
embodiment of the present invention having a headset link,
a telecommunications transceiver, a modem, and a switching
component;
FIG. 22 is a block diagram illustrating phone
functionality with hands free technology utilized in a
phone transmission embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 23 is a block ciiagram illustrating data
functionality with hands free technology utilized in a
data transmission embodiment of' the present invention; and
FIG. 24 is a block diagram illustrating
telecommunications functionalit:y with a Radio Data System
(RDS) radio receiver.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBOD37MENTS
Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a top plan
view of the modular unit 31, constructed in accordance
with the principles of the present invention. The modular
unit 31 is constructed to conf'orm with a standard PCMCIA
card interconnectivity format embodied in connector 33.
The modular unit 31 has been designed to have
telecommunications capabilities and to communicate with
a headset, as will be discussed below. The modular unit
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31 includes an outer shell 32 which is generally flat and
has located at a first end 33a a multiple pin connector
33 (seen most clearly in FIG. 2) having a plurality of
individual contacts for engagement with a mating connector
located within an item of electronic equipment. The
opposite end 34a of the modular unit 31 includes a
recessed region 34 where external connectors may be
mounted, similar to the external connectors illustrated
in FIGS 9, 11, and 12.
Still referring to FIG. 1, the modular unit 31
contains a telecommunications circuitry 35 and headset
link circuitry 39 mounted on a card 29. The
telecommunications circuitry 35 and the headset link
circuitry 39 are shown in the modular unit 31 by dotted
lines, which also define the card 29. The headset link 39
can be a short range radio transmitter/receiver, an infra-
red transmitter/receiver, or the like. A window 40 in the
modular unit 31 permits radio or infra-red signals to be
emitted and received by the headset link 39 within the
modular unit 31. Power, controls, and the
telecommunications interface are coupled to the card 29
through select contacts in the multipin connector 33.
Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a front
elevational view of the modular unit 31 of FIG. 1,
illustrating more clearly the m[ultipin connector 33. The
multipin connector 33 is constructed in accordance with
the current standard PCMCIA card interconnectivity format.
The connector 33 comprises a pair of rows of contacts 41a
and 41b. The contacts 41a and 41b of the multipin
connector 33 are connected to the circuitry within the
card 29 in FIG. 1. A person of ordinary skill. in the art
will understand that the present invention includes
embodiments with the connector modified to accommodate
power pins, antenna connectors, or the like, as
illustrated in FIG. 14.
Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a rear
elevational view of the modular unit 31 from FIG. 1. The
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end 34a of the module 31 is formed with a recess 34,
wherein a window 40 permits the headset link 39 (shown in
FIG. 1) to transmit and receive a linking signal. Other
connectors may be mounted in the recess 34 of the end 34a
for use in coupling the card 29 (shown in FIG. 1) to other
external connections for iterns such as an antenna or a
power supply.
Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a side
elevational, cross sectional view of the module 31. As
most clearly shown in this view, the card 29 of the module
31 includes a printed circuit board 61 which various
printed circuit card traces are formed and various
components, for example ASICs (Application Specific
Integrated Circuits), may be: mounted to comprise the
telecommunications circuitry 35 and the headset link
circuitry 39. The circuitry on the board 61 is
selectively connected to the terminals 41a-41b on the
connector 33 to couple signals into and out of the
circuitry within the modular unit 31. An upper shell 62
covers the upper portion of the: components mounted on the
board 61, while a lower shell 63 covers the lower surface
of the board 61 and mates with the upper shell 62 to form
the enclosed outer shell 32 of the modular unit 31. In
this particular view, the window 40 in the recess 34 is
shown with a transmitter/receiver 41 of the headset link
.39 directly behind the window 40, so that the
transmitter/receiver 41 can send and receive signals
through the window 40.
Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown an
installation of the modular uiZit 31 into a computer 200
which has been modified in design to include a mounting
slot 201. The mounting lot 201 is particularly adapted
for receipt of and connection to module 31. The mounting
slot 201 is constructed with side walls 202 and a frontal
opening 203. A mating connector 204 is disposed along end
205 for mating connection with connector 33.
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Still referring to FIG. 5, the computer 200 is
connected to a telecommunications line by either a direct
connection, over a Local Area Network (LAN), or the like.
The computer connects the telecommunications line with the
telecommunications component 35 (shown in FIG. 1) of the
modular unit 31 through the mating connector 204 of the
computer 200, and the module connector 33 of the modular
unit 31. Other components of the computer 200, such as
the power supply, keyboard, display, or the like, can also
be connected to the modular unit 31 through the mating
connector 204 and the module connector 33.
Referring still to FIG. 5, the headset 345 includes
earphones 346 and 347, and a microphone 348 extending from
the earphone 347. The earphones 346 and 347, and the
microphone 348, are coupled to the headset link 39 in the
module 31 through the transmitter/receiver 343 of the
headset 345. In one embodiment, the headset 345 also
includes a keypad or control panel (not shown) which is
coupled to the transmitter/receiver 343. The headset link
39 (shown in FIG. 1) of the module 31 transmits and
receives a linking signal 341 through the window 40 to
establish communication with the. receiver/transmitter 343
of the headset 345. The earphones 346 and 347, the
microphone 348, and the keypad (not shown) of the headset
345 communicate with the telecommunications component 35
of the module 31 through the transmitter/receiver 343 of
the headset 345, and through t:he headset link 39 of the
module 31.
Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a block
diagram of the embodiment of the present invention shown
in FIG. S. Although the host electronic system depicted
in FIG. 5 is described as the computer 200, it is to be
understood that the present invention is not to be limited
to computers, and that a person of ordinary skill in the
art will understand that the principles of the present
invention can be applied to many types of electronic
systems. A host electronic system 510 is connected to a
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telecommunications system 520 by a direct connection, over
a LAN, or the like. A modular unit 530 is connected to
the host electronic device 510. The modular unit 530
contains a telecommunications functionality component 540
which communicates with the telecommunication system 520
through the host electronic device 510. A headset link
550 in the modular unit 530 communicates with the
telecommunications functionality component 540.
Still referring to FIG. 6, a headset 560 has a module
link 570 which communicates with the headset link 550 of
the modular unit 530. The headset 560 also includes
earphones or a speaker 582, a niicrophone 584, and a keypad
or control 586, which are all connected to the module link
570 of the headset 560. It can be seen that the speaker
582, the microphone 584, and the keypad 586 communicate
with the telecommunications contponent 540, in the modular
unit 530 through the module link 570 in the headset 560,
and through the headset link 550 in the modular unit 530.
In this manner, the headset 560 can utilize the
telecommunications functionality component 540 to place
and receive calls over the telecommunications system 520.
Referring still to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, the
telecommunications component 540 is located within the
host electronic system 510 instead of the modular unit 31.
In another embodiment, the telecommunications component
540 resides in another modular unit (not shown) which is
connected to the host electronic system, and is connected
to the headset link 560 of the modular unit 530 through
the host electronic system 510. In yet another
embodiment, the telecommunications component 540 resides
in another modular unit (not shown) which connects
directly to the modular unit 530. In yet another
embodiment, the telecommunications component 540 is
located remotely from the host electronic system 510, with
the telecommunications component 540 being connected to
the host electronic system 510 by a direct connection,
over a LAN, or the like, and with the headset link 550 of
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the modular unit 530 connecting to the telecommunications
component 540 via the host electronic.system.510.
Referring next to FIG. 7, there is shown an example
of a conventional electronic system in the form of a
conventional personal radio/tape player 18, which may be
modified to utilize the principles of the present
invention. Although the conventional electronic system
depicted herein for modification according to the present
invention is described as being a personal radio/tape
player, it is to be understood that the reference to an
electronic system is not meant to be limited to a personal
radio/tape player,. and that a person of ordinary skill
will understand that the principles of' the present
.invention can be applied to many different types of
electronic systems. The personal radio/tape player 18
.shown herein includes a conventional tape receiving
compartment 19, a display panel 20, and control knobs 21
and 22. The personal radio/tape player 18 also has an
antenna 28 and a battery power source 30 disposed
internally. The personal radio/tape player 18 serids an
audio signal to the speakers 24 and 25 of a headset 23
through a connection 26 and a cable 27.
Referring next to FIG. 8, there is shown portable
communications devices in the form of a data processing
unit, such as a laptop or notebook computer 11 and a
portable telephone instrument 12. It is well established.
to, allow the PC 11 and telephone 12 to communicate with
various wireless telecommunication networks as most fully
c.as=ibed in U.S. patent 5,E28,055 described alaue. Fach of the
teleoamuiimticn
networks may, however, include different telecommunication
standards and/or require modems of different types as
represented diagrammatically in blocks 13-17. The various
telecommunication standards may include, for example,
AMPS, D-AMPS, JDC, TACS, GSM, NMT-450, NMT-900, DECT,
Mobitex and future Spread Spectrum standards, as well as
many more.
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Still referring to FIG. 8, the portable telephone
subscriber instrument 12 may include basic components for
telecommunications with various wireless networks
operating in accordance with numerous telecommunications
standards. For example, should the telephone instrument
12 be needed for use in the United States, it must be
capable of transmitting/receiving on a defined frequency
band and in accordance with either the analog or digital
modulation techniques in use in the United States.
However, should the telephone instrument 12 be needed for
communication with the wireless system which exists in the
U.K. or Continental Europe, it would have to be capable
of communicating on different frequencies and in
accordance with somewhat different modulation techniques
in order to be useful.
Referring still to FIG. 8,, the laptop computer 11 may
be needed for data communication with a number of
different data networks which exist in a number of parts
of the world. For example, a package switched data
network exists in the Scandinavian and several European
countries, and in the United States and Canada, which
functions utilizing data packets of a prescribed size.
The package switched data network is constructed in
accordance with a prescribed protocol and provided as part
of a service referred to by the trademark "MOBITEX" with
which the assignee of the present invention is associated.
Similarly, the laptop computer 11 may also be needed for
communication with the United States cellular radio
network (either in analog or digital format), with the
European GSM digital cellular radio network, or the CDPD
(Cellular Digital Package Data) network from time to time.
Thus, the broad concept of the system of the present
invention includes providing radio transceivers, and/or
modems 13-17 which are adapted for use in communication
with the various networks in accordance with various
standards used therein. Additionally, the term
"transceiver" as used herein comprises appropriate radio
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control logic of the type necessary to make up a radio
device that is capable of communicating with a wireless
communication standard such as D-amps, GSM, etc. For
example, the transceiver may include a transmitter,
receiver, and when the communications device is used for
data transmission, the transceiver may also incorporate
data modem circuitry. As described in more detail below,
a laptop computer 11 incorporates means for generating
user communication signals in the form of its keyboard.
Other items of electronic equipment particularly adapted
for consumer use do not necessarily include signal
generation means.
Still referring to FIG. 8, the modem 13 provides for
radio communication with the MOBITEX packet data switched
network, while modem 14 represents a modular unit which
could be constructed to communicate with the conventional
cellular radio network in the United States, either in
analog or digital format. Similarly, the modem 15 might
be adapted for radio communication with the European
digital cellular radio network in accordance with the GSM
standards adopted by the European Telecommunications
Standards Institute (ETSI). iModem 16 could, likewise,
permit telecommunications in accordance with the Digital
European Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) standard.
Other modems 17 can be used which permit communication on
a paging network such as a local or a global paging
system, communication on a PCS (Personal Communication
System), or communication on any other like systems. The
PCS may become the next generation of cellular systems
combining wide area networks anc3 on-site networks for both
data and voice communication. Any of modems 14-17 might
be useful within either the laptop computer 11 or the
telephone subscriber instrument: 12 while those units, as
well as the MOBITEX data packet modem 13, could be used
within the laptop computer 11. Moreover, the use of
standard modems packaged in a modular form in standard
sizes, would have great advantages in the future in
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providing flexibility within both voice and data
telecommunication systems used throughout the world.
Referring now to.the grouping of FIGS. 9-12 and 1.3-
16, there are shown two versions of a modular unit
constructed in accordance with the principles of the
present invention. FIGS. 9-12 (group one). illustrate a
modular unit 131a which is constructed to conform with a
standard PCMCIA card interconnect ivity format embodied in
connector 33. FIGS. 13-16 (group two) illustrate a unit
131b which is constructed with a modified connector 133
which does not comply with existing PCMCIA standards due
to modifications in antenna and power connections
discussed below. The modules 131a and 131b are
constructed in accordance with, and having the attributes
of, the teachings in U.S. patent 5,628,055, filed December 13, 1994,
entitled "Modular Radio Communications System" by-co-
inventor Per Stein, and assigned to the assignee of the
present invention, which is hereby specifically
incorporated by reference. The modules 131a and 131b have
also been designed to communicate with a headset and the
host electronic equipment, as will be discuss.ed below.
Each version of the above-referenced modular units will
now be discussed below.
Referring now to FIGS. 9-12, the group one version
of the modular unit outlined above, and in particular to
FIG. 9 there is shown a top plan view of the modular unit
131a. A radio transceiver 36, a modem 37, a switching
circuit 38, and a headset link 39 are shown in the modular
unit 131a by dotted lines, which also define the
telecommunications card 29. The headset link 39 can be
a short range radio transmitter receiver, an infra-red
transmitter/receiver, or the like. A window 40 in the
modular unit 131a permits radio or infra-red signals to
be transmitted and received by the headset link 39 in the
modular unit 131a.
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Still referring to FIG. 9, the modular unit 131a also
has a mounting member 152 and connectors 151 and 154 which
are also represented by dotted lines. The connector 151
comprises a coaxial antenna coupling which is plugged into
the antenna 138. The particular modular antenna structure
of FIG. 9 includes an antenna bar 140, which is pivotally
mounted through pivot antenna mount 141 to rotate about
a base structure 142. Base 142 is coupled to the module
131a with a conventional fastener, such as a threaded
member 152a shown in dotted lin.es engaging mounting member
152. Antenna connector 151 is also shown by dotted lines
to illustrate a conventional coaxial connection thereto
from antenna 140. The antenna 140 may then be rotated
into the most appropriate position for maximizing
effectiveness of use. Rotatable antennas are, of course,
conventional in this technological area. The use,
however, of such a modular an'tenna on a modular housing
131a, adapted for the applications described herein, is
a marked advance over the prior art. Power connector 154
is also shown by dotted lines in registry with access
aperture 154a, which will be discussed below.
Referring now to FIG. 10 there is shown a front
elevational view of the modular unit 131a of FIG. 9,
illustrating more clearly the n-ultipin connector 33. The
multipin connector 33 is constructed in accordance with
the current standard PCMCIA card interconnectivity format.
The connector 33 comprises a pair of rows of contacts 41a
and 41b. No separate power or antenna connectors are
shown herein due to the fact tY:iat this particular contact
configuration conforms with the existing PCMCIA standard
and the antenna and power connectors are presented in the
rear portion 134a of module 131a as described herein. The
contacts 41a and 41b of the multipin connector 33 are
connected to the circuitry within the card 29 (shown in
FIG. 9 ) .
Referring now to FIG. 11 there is shown a rear
elevational view of the modular unit 131a constructed in
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accordance with the principles of the present invention.
In this embodiment, the modula:r unit 131a includes a rear
portion 134a having a recess 1:34 wherein coaxial connector
151 is secured adjacent a mouinting member 152 such as a
threaded coupling. The coaxial connector 151 is mounted
for use in coupling the radio. transceiver 36 within the
module 131a to an antenna disposed either internally or
externally of the particular electronic equipment in which
the unit 131a is connected. When an antenna is mounted
directly to the module 131a, mounting member 152 provides
a means for securement of the antenna structure to module
131a, as will be described in more detail below. A
connector 154 and a window 40 are also disposed in the
recess 134 of the modular unit 131a. The connector 154
enables coupling of external power to the
telecommunications card 29 within the module 131a. The
window 40 permits the headset link 39 to transmit and
receive a linking signal from inside the enclosed outer
shell 32 modular unit 131a.
Referring now to FIG. 12 there is shown a side
elevational, cross-sectional view of the modular unit 131a
of FIG. 9 taken along the section lines 12-12 thereof.
As shown in FIG. 12, the module 131a includes a card 29
comprising a printed circuit board 61 onto the surface of
which various printed circuit card traces may be formed
and various components may be mounted to comprise the
radio transceiver 36, the modem 37, the switching circuit
38 and the headset link 39 within the module 131a (shown
in FIG. 9). The circuitry on board 61, is selectively
connected to the terminals of connector 33 to couple
signals into and out of the circuitry within the module
131a. An upper shell 62 covers the upper portion of the
components mounted on the printed circuit board 61, while
a lower shell 63 covers the lower surface of the board and
mates with upper shell 62 to form an enclosed outer shell
32 of the unit 131a. In this ;particular view the window
is shown with a transmitter/receiver 41 of the headset
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link 39 directly behind the window 40, so that the
transmitter/receiver 41 can send and receive signals
through the window 40. The construction of modular
antenna 138 is as described above in connection with FIG.
9.
Referring now to FIGS. 13-16', the group two version
of the modular unit outlined above, there is shown in FIG.
13 a top plan view of a modular unit 131b constructed to
conform with modified PCMCIA card interconnectivity
format. In particular, the modular unit 131b includes an
'outer shell 32 which is generally flat and has located at
a first end 33a a multipin connector 133 (seen most
clearly in FIG. 14) having a plurality of individual
contacts for engagement with a mating connector located
within an item of electronic equipment. The opposite end
34a of the modular unit 131b includes a recessed region
34 where external power and antenna connectors may be
mounted, as described above with regard to FIGS. 9, 11,
and 12.
Still referring to FIG. 1:3, as shown by dotted lines
extending there across, the module 131b houses a card 29
including a radio transceiver 36, a modem 37, a switching
circuit 38, and a headset linl: 39.. The card 29 is shown
by dotted lines as are transceiver section 36, the modem
section 37, the switching circuit section 38, and the
headset link section 39. Power, controls, antenna,
speakers, and microphone are coupled into the card 29
through selected contacts from the multipin connector 133,
describe in more detail below,.
Referring now to FIG. 14, there is shown a front
elevational view of the modular unit 131b of FIG. 13,
illustrating more clearly the nlultipin connector 133. The
contacts of multipin connector 133 are connected to
circuitry within the card 29 (shown in FIG. 13). The
connector 133 comprises a pair of rows of contacts 41a and
41b constructed in accordance with the standard PCMCIA
format. In the system of the present invention, certain
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areas of the contact array have been modified and the
contacts provided in a different configuration and/or
format to allow connection to an antenna and/or power
source for transmission of increased amounts of power
into the circuitry of the card 29. Such connection may
be necessary when the power requirements of the modular
unit 131b cannot be adequately handled by the normal
signal carrying contacts 41a-41b. Contacts 149a and 149b
are thus shown to illustrate such a modified power pin
configuration. Connector 149c illustrates an antenna
coupling. It should be noted that other antenna and power
connections may be provided in accordance with the
principles of the present invention.
Referring now to FIG. 15, the modular unit 131b has
an end 34a which is formed with a recess 34, wherein a
window 40 permits the headset link 39 (shown in FIG. 13)
to transmit and receive a linking signal. Other
connectors may be mounted in the recess 34 of the end 34a
for use in coupling the card 29 within the module 131b to
other external connections for items such as an antenna
or a power supply. However, with the antenna connector
149c and power connectors 149a and 149b provided along
connector 133, such external connectors are not necessary
along the opposite end in recess 34. For this reason, no
connectors are shown in this particular embodiment.
Referring now to FIG. 16, there is shown a side
elevational, cross sectional view of the module 131b. As
most clearly shown in this v:Lew, the card 29 of module
131b includes a printed circuit board 61 on the surface,
on which various printed circuit card traces may be formed
and various components, for example ASICs, may be mounted
to comprise the radio transceiver 36, the modem 37, the
switching circuit 38, and the headset link 39 within the
module 131b. The circuitry on the board 61 is selectively
connected to the contacts in t.he connector 133 to couple
signals into and out of the circuitry within said module
131b. An upper shell 62 covers the upper portion of the
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components mounted on the board 61, while a lower shell
63 covers the lower surface of the board and mates with
the upper shell 62 to form an enclosed outer shell 32 of
the modular unit 131b. In this particular view, the
window 40 is shown in the recess 34 with a
transmitter/receiver 41 of the headset link 39 directly
behind the window 40, so that the transmitter/receiver 41
can send and receive signals through the window 40.
Referring now to FIG. 9-16 in combination, although
the modular unit 131a and the cnodular unit 131b have been
,illustrated as having the radio transceiver 36, the modem
37, the switching circuit 38, and the headset link 39, in
one construction of the present invention the modular unit
131a and the modular unit 131.b do not include the radio
transceiver 36, the modem 37, or the switching circuit 38.
In another construction, the modular unit 131a and the
modular unit 131b do not include the modem 37.
Referring now to FIG. 17 there is shown a
conventional electronic system, in the form of a
conventional personal radio/tape player which has been
modified as an embodiment of the present invention,
illustrated as a personal radio/tape player 210. The tape
player 210 shown herein includes a conventional tape
receiving compartment 211, a display panel 212, and
operation control knobs 213 and 214. The personal
radio/tape player 210 also inc:ludes a conventional battery
power source 215 and a convenitional antenna 216.
Still referring to FIG. :L7, the personal radio/tape
player 210 includes a mounting slot 311 for the
installation of the modular unit 131b. The mounting slot
311 is particularly adapted fo:r receipt of and connection
to module 131b. The slot 311 is constructed with side
walls 312 and a frontal openiiag 313. A mating connector
314 is disposed along end 315 for mating connection with
connector 133 of the module 131b. The audio signal of the
personal radio/tape player 210 is connected to the module
131b through the connector 31.4 and the connector 133 of
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the module 131b. The battery power supply 215, antenna
216, and the display 212 in the personal radio/tape player
210 are also connected to the module 131b through the
connector 314 and the connector 133.
Still referring to FIG. 17, the module 131b transmits
and receives a linking signa7. 341 through the window 40
to establish communication with the transmitter/receiver
343 of the headset 345. The earphones 346 and 347, and
the microphone 348, are coupled to the
transmitter/receiver 343 of the headset 345. In one
embodiment, the headset 345 also includes a keypad or
.control panel (not shown) which is coupled to the
transmitter/receiver 343 of the headset 345. The
earphones 346 and 347, the microphone 348, and the keypad
(not shown) of the headset 345 communicate with the
switching component 38 of the module 131b through the
transmitter/receiver 343 of t.he headset 345 and through
the headset link 39 of.the module 131b.
Referring now to FIG. 18,, there is shown a personal
radio/tape player 220 according to another embodiment of
the present invention. Similai: to the personal radio/tape
player 210 in FIG. 15, the personal radio/tape player 220
has a conventional tape receiving compartment 221, a
display panel 222, and operation control knobs 223 and
224. The personal radio/tape player 220 also includes a
conventional battery power source 225 disposed internally.
Still referring to FIG. 3.8,. the personal radio/tape
player 220 includes a mounting slot 331 for the
installation of the modular unit 131a. The mounting slot
331 is particularly adapted for receipt of and connection
to module 131a. The slot 33:L is constructed with side
walls 332 and a frontal openir.Lg 333. A mating connector
334 is disposed along end 335 for mating connection with
connector 33. The audio signal, of the personal radio/tape
player 220 is connected to the switching component 38 of
the module 131a through the connector 334 and the
connector 33. The battery power supply 225 and the
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display 222 in the personal rac3io/tape player 220 are also
connected to the module 131a through the connector 334 and
the connector 33. The modular antenna structure 138
(described above) is also shown in position for mounting
to the end 134a of unit 131a. The fastener 152a engages
the mounting member 152 and secures the antenna 138 to the
module 131a. Connecting end 134a thus includes recess 134
which houses connectors 151 zand 154. Connector 151 is
preferably a coaxial connector adapted for coupling to
antenna 138, while connector 154 is constructed for
,connecting external power (if necessary) to the modular
unit 131a through aperture 154a found in antenna base
structure 142. In that regard, an AC/DC power supply (not
shown) can provide external pocver to the module 131a from
an external source.
Still referring to FIG. 18, the module 131a transmits
and receives a linking signal 341 through the window 40
to establish communication with the transmitter/receiver
343 of the headset 345. The earphones 346 and 347, the
microphone 348, and the keypad (not shown) of the headset
345 communicate with the headset link 39 of the module
131a through the transmitter/receiver 343 of the headset.
Referring now to FIG. 19 there is shown an
alternative mounting of the modular unit 131a of FIG. 9
and an alternative personal radio/tape player 230. As
described above, connector 33 of module 131a is shown to
matingly connect with slot cor.Lnector 354 disposed on end
355 of slot 351. In this particular view, the modular
unit 131a is being installed in a tape player 230
constructed with a flap 356. The flap 356 is provided in
a configuration for closure over the unit 131a and direct
coupling with coaxial connector 151, while continuing to
expose the window 40, and while continuing to expose
external power connector 154. Aperture 340 is positioned
in flap 356 for alignment with the window 40 of the module ti
131a, and is size to allow the headset link 39 of the
module 131a to communicate with the headset 345 (not
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shown) In this embodiment, an internal/external antenna
236 is specifically shown within the tape player 230, as
is conventional for tape player/radio combinations.
Consumer AM/FM radios require an antenna which may be
solely internal or partially retractable into the tape
player 230 when the AM/FM radio.is not being used. The
antenna 236 (shown in phantom) is connected by a cable 357
(partly shown in phantom) to flap connector pin 358 of
flap 356. Aperture 359 is positioned in flap 356 for
alignment with power connector 154 of module 131a and
sized to facilitate receipt of, and connection into
connector 154, of a plug frorn and external power source
(not shown). In an alternative embodiment, not
specifically shown, an internal power supply from the tape
player 230 may be connected to the connector 154 of module
131a by coupling to a power connection pin disposed on the
flap 356 in place of the aperture 359.
Referring still to FIG. 19, the headset 345 of FIGS.
17 and 18 is not shown in this particular view for
purposes of clarity. The tape player 230 does, however,
include a tape installation slot 231, a display screen
232, operation control knobs :233 and 234, as well as the
antenna 236. Electronic systems, such as the personal
radio/tape player 230, are constructed in a variety of
configurations. Although only a single equipment
configuration is shown herein (showing particular
amenities such as display screen 232), this is not meant
to limit in any way the type of electronic system that may
be utilized in accordance with the principles of the
present invention.
Referring now to FIG. 20 there is shown an
illustration of another item o:E electronic systems in the
form of a portable tape player--AM/FM Radio which is of the
conventional type of portable radio that has been modified
for utilizing the module 31, the module 131a, or the
module 131b. Also shown is the versatility and multiple
uses possible with the modular units 31, 131a, and 131b
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of the present invention. As stated above, any one of the
module 31, 131a, or 131b may be used in such applications.
As previously stated, the modular units 31, 131a, or 131b
provide a headset link and telecommunication technology
capability to the host equi;pment. However, several
technologies may, in fact, reside on a single card within
the modular units 31, 131a, or 131b.
Still referring to FIG. 20, the tape player/radio 240
is of the conventional type tape player-radio which has
been modified to utilize the functions of any one of
module 31, module 131a, or module 131b. The tape player-
radio 240 has the conventional features of an antenna 241,
a display 242, speakers 243, and an internal power source
(not shown). One of the modifications to the conventional
type tape player-radio for the present invention is the
addition of the slot 361 adapted to receive and
electrically connect with one of the modules 31, 131a, or
131b. A keypad 362 has also been added to the
conventional tape player-radio so that a user can control
the telecommunications functions of any one of the
modules 31, 131a, or 131b.
Still referring to FIG. 20, one of the modules 31,
131a, or 131b is received in the slot 361 in the tape
player-radio 240. The auciio signal of the tape
player/radio 240 is supplied t:o the module 31, 131a, or
131b through the electrical connections of the slot 361.
The antenna 241, the display 242, the speakers 243, the
keypad 362 and the internal power source of the tape
player/radio 240 are also connected to the module 31,
131a, or 131b through the electrical connections of the
slot 361. The functions of the telecommunications module
31, 131a, or 131b can be operated by the keypad 362.
Referring still to FIG. 20, the module 31, 131a, or
131b transmits and receives the linking signal 341 to and
from the headset 345. Voice communication of the
telecommunications function is accomplished with the
earphones 346 and 347, and the microphone 348 of the
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headset 345. The earphones 346 and 347, the microphone
348, and the keypad (not shown) of the headset 345 connect
with the tape player-radio 240 through the headset
receiver/transmitter 343, and through the module 31, 131a,
or 131b.
Referring now to FIGS. 17, 18, 19, and 20, although
the illustrated embodiments disclose the telecommunication
features being located in a detachable module, such as the
module 31, the module 131a, or the module 131b, in another
construction, the telecommunications electronics are
integrated into the consumer electronic audio system, e.g.
the personal radio/tape players 210, 220, 230, and the
portable tape player-AM/FM Radio 240, instead of being a
part of the separate detachable module. In yet another
construction, the telecommuriications electronics are
within a second module that connects to the modular unit
31, 131a, or 131b through thehost electronic system.
In yet another construction, the telecommunications
electronics are within a second module that connects
directly to the module unit 31, 131a, or 131b. Although
the module ports of the host electronic systems have been
described as having walls and an open end, the module port
can also be only a connector for receiving the module. It
should also be noted that the module 31, the module 131a,
and the module 131b can be any analog or digital
technology.
Referring now to FIG. 21, there is shown a block
diagram of the embodiment of the present invention
illustrated in FIGS. 17, 18, and 19. A host electronic
system 910 contains converitional electronic audio
components 920, such as a radio receiver, a recording
medium player, or the like. The conventional electronic
audio components 920 electrically connect to a modular
electronic component 930. A switching unit 940 in the
modular unit 930 is connected to the conventional
electronic audio components 920 of the host electronic
system 910. A telecommunications transceiver 950 in the
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modular unit 930 is also connected to the switching means
940. The telecommunications transceiver 950 is adapted
for communicating with at least one of a plurality of
standardized wireless networks 960 in accordance with at
least one pre-selected communication standard.
Still referring to FIG. 21, the switching means 940
is also connected to a headset link 970 in the modular
unit 930. The headset link 970 in the modular unit 930
communicates with a module link 990 in a headset 980. The
headset link 970 and the module link 990 can be infra-red,
short range radio, or the like. In one embodiment, the
headset link 970 and the module link 990 are replaced by
a cable which provides a direct electrical connection
between the switching means 940 and the module 980. The
headset includes earphones or a speaker 982, a microphone
984, and a keypad or control panel 986. The speaker 982,
the microphone 984, and the control panel 986 are
electrically connected to the module link 990. In this
manner, the headset 980 communicates the various audio and
control signals between the user and the headset link 970
in the modular unit 930.
Referring still to FIG. 21, the switching means 940
switches connection of the headset link 970 in the modular
unit 930 between the conventional electronic audio
components 920 and the telecommunications transceiver 950.
In one embodiment, the switching means 940, is a
conventional manual switch. In another embodiment, the
switching means 940 is a device utilizing hands free
technology phone answering. Examples of hands free
technology phone answering are illustrated by U.S. Patent
No. 4,591,661 titled "Portable Cordless Telephone- Radio
Receiver" and issued to Benedetto et al. May 27, 1986, and
U.S. Patent No..4,993,061 titled "Portable Miniature High
Fidelity Stereo Tape Player and Cordless Radio Telephone
System" and issued to Hsieh on February 12, 1991.
Although hands-free technology, phone answering may be
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known, the discovery of the combination of the hands-free
technology phone answering with the other aspects of the
present invention are considered to be part of the present
invention.
Referring now to FIG. 22, there is shown a flow
diagram illustrating one example of a process used by the
present invention for hanc3s free technology phone
answering. The process begins by the receiving of an
incoming call at step 610. '.rhe incoming call is routed
from step 610 depending upor.i the mode of the phone or
electronic audio equipment. If the phone or electronic
audio equipment is in an off mode, the incoming call is
routed at step 622 to voice mail at step 630. If the
phone or electronic audio equipment is in a busy mode,
i.e. operating on a call in progress, the incoming call
is routed at step 624 to the voice mail at step 630. if
the phone or electronic audio equipment is in a standby
mode, the incoming call is routed at step 626 to a step
640. In step 640, the system sends a ring signal through
the speakers or headset of the electronic audio equipment,
and fades the volume of the electronic audio equipment
out. If the incoming call is not answered in response to
the ring signal in step 640, i.e. the user does not "pick
up" the phone, the incoming ca:Ll is routed at step 640 to
the voice mail in step 630,. If a user answers the
incoming call in response to t:he ring signal in step 640,
the incoming call is routed at step 640 to progress into
a "call in progress" at step 650. Once the "call in
progress" is completed in step 650, the user disconnects
or "hangs up" the connection and the electronic audio
equipment is returned to standby condition and its normal
volume and audio play mode at step 660.
Referring now to FIG. 23, there is shown a flow
diagram illustrating one examp:Le of hands free technology
used in the present invention for data type functionality.
The process begins with an incoming data call received at
step 710. The incoming data call is routed from step 710
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depending on the mode of the electronic audio equipment
with the modem. If the electronic equipment is in an off
mode, the incoming call is routed at step 722 to a store
and forward mailbox at step 730. If the electronic audio
equipment is in a busy mode, i.e. operating on a current
call in progress, the incoming call is routed at step 724
to the store and forward mailbox in step 730. If the
electronic audio equipment is in a standby mode, the
incoming data call is routed at step 726 to a step 740.
In step 740, a ring signal is generated for indicating
that an incoming data call exists. If the automatic
connection or "pick up" of the nlodem is not activated, the
incoming call is routed at step 740 to the store and
forward mailbox at step 730. If the modem pick up is
activated, the incoming data call is routed at step 740
to the call in progress mode at 750. After the call in
progress has terminated, the modem disconnects or "hangs
up" and the electronic audio equipment is returned to the
original volume and function, and is placed into the
standby mode at step 760.
Referring now to FIG. 24, there is shown a flow
diagram illustrating the process of receiving an incoming
call on a Radio Data System (RDS) electronic audio system.
The process begins with an incoming voice or data call at
the step of 810. Sensing of an incoming call activates
the RDS message at step 820 and the telecommunications
unit receives the call. The re-uting of the incoming call
is determined by the mode of the telecommunications unit.
If the telecommunications unit is in an off mode, the
incoming call is routed at step 832 to voice mail storage
and forwarding mail box att step 840. If the
telecommunications unit is in a busy mode, i.e. operating
with a call in progress, the incoming call is routed at
step 834 to the voice mail storage and forwarding mail box
at step 840. If the telecommunications unit is in a
standby mode, the incoming call is routed at step 836 to
step 850. In step 850, a ring signal is generated and the
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RDS electronic equipment deactivates the volume of the
electronic audio system. I:E the incoming call is not
picked up, the incoming call is routed at step 850 to the
voice mail storage and forwarding mail box at step 840.
If the incoming call is picked up, the incoming call is
converted to a call in progress at step 860. Once the
call in progress has terminated, the telecommunications
unit is disconnected or "hanged up" and the RDS electronic
equipment activates the volume back to a normal condition
and sets the telecommunications unit to a standby mode in
,step 870.
As described above it msty be seen that the modular
units 31, 131a, and 131b have multiple uses. From a
design perspective, they may :be relatively thick, on the
order of 10.5mm and the particular electronic equipment
will have to be appropriately modified in design for
receipt thereof. The edge 33 or 133 of the modular unit
31, 131a, or 131b may include a standard PCMCIA 3.0mm card
interconnection. Moreover, as described above the card
edge connector 33 or 133 may include special pin outs 149a
and 149b for higher power connection and consumption in
certain situations.
It may further be seen f:rom the figures above that
antenna connections, as well ais special power connections,
enable the implementation of a modular unit with a minimum
of special adaptations required for individual
installations in electronic systems or equipment. In this
way, the system of the present invention enables the
construction of modular radio communications units for
flexible adaptation to different standards and different
circumstances but which can be incorporated into a
standard card slots in a variety of electronic devices
that are on the market today.
While it is believed that the operation and
construction of the system of the present invention will
be apparent from the foregoing description, the method of
operation and structure of the system shown and described
CA 02223580 1997-12-03
i . . , . .
WO 96/41426 PCT/SE96/00717
-33-
has been characterized as being preferred and obvious
changes and modifications may be made therein without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as
defined in the following claims.
~ _,.-..~.
