Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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A WRIST COMMUNICATION DEVICE HAVING MULTI-SECTIONED
KEYPAD AND ANTENNA SYSTEM
RELATED DATA
This application claims the benefit of priority of the filing date of U.S.
Patent Application Serial No. 09/330,728 filed on June 11, 1999, currently
pending,
and U.S. Application Serial No. 09/428,228 filed on October 27, 1999,
currently
pending.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention generally relates to portable cellular telephone
devices,
and more particularly to wrist-worn cellular telephone device having a multi-
sectioned
keypad and an antenna system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Thanks to the recent advances in wireless communication technology,
cellular telephones enjoy enormous popularity. While early models were large
and
2 0 heavy, and therefore difficult for a user to carry comfortably, newer
models have
steadily decreased in size and weight. The cellular telephones which are in
use today
are compact enough to fit a person's pocket or purse.
While the new models enjoy increased portability, they do suffer from
2 5 several drawbacks. For instance. their light weight and small size renders
the
telephones prone to falling, breaking, or simply being forgotten.
Additionally, when a
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cellular telephone user receives a call, a time loss is experienced while the
user locates
and retrieves the telephone (which may be in her pocket, purse, brief case,
etc.). An
additional time loss is experienced when the user must adjust the phone's
orientation to
actuate an answer mode.
In order to overcome these drawbacks, cellular telephones which can be
worn on the wrist of a user have also been developed. Some of these devices
are
described in U.S. Patents Nos. 5,239,521; 5,274,513; 5,224,076. In all these
disclosures
a telephone device is typically in the form of a wristwatch fastened to the
user's wrist
via a strap, wherein a cellular phone mechanism replaces that of a watch in
its
conventional location. The main components of a cellular phone mechanism, such
as
transceiver, telephone call initiating means, a keyboard, a voice recognition
device, a
display, etc., as well as a battery power source, are accommodated within a
common
case. A microphone and a speaker are usually incorporated within the strap.
One of the problems which is experienced by the wrist-mounted cellular
phones in the prior art is that they are difficult for a user to operate. For
instance, some
of the cellular telephone devices of the prior art remain attached to the
user's wrist
while the user is conducting a conversation. Thus, a user initiates a call by
pressing the
2 0 keypad of the device while the device is mounted to a wrist, then holds
her wrist next to
her ear in order to carry on a conversation. Because the microphone and
speaker of the
devices are fixed in a predetermined location on the device, the user is often
required to
hold his or her arm in an unusual position in order to line up the microphone
and
speaker with his or her mouth and ear, respectively. Alternatively, some of
the cellular
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telephone devices of the prior art detach entirely from the wrist of a user,
thus requiring
that the device be removed from the user's wrist prior to initiating or
receiving a
telephone call.
In addition, the decrease in size of the cellular phone to that which can
comfortably be worn on a person's wrist typically results in a corresponding
decrease in
the overall size of the keypad of the cellular phone. The small overall size
of the
keypad in turn requires that the keys of the keypad be smaller and/or closer
in
proximity. The small, closely-spaced keys are difficult for a user to operate,
in that the
wrong keys may be inadvertently pressed.
A challenging aspect of wrist phone technology design is the antenna
section. Typically, prior art wrist phone systems employ an antenna that is
located
adjacent or very close to the user's skin. In many instances the location of
such
antennas may lead to unnecessary signal losses. In order to avoid such losses,
many
users find out that for some or all of their calls they need to remove the
wrist phone
system from their wrist area: defeating an important purpose of such phones.
Thus, a need exists for an improved wrist-worn cellular telephone
2 0 device, with improved antenna technology.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is thus a major object of the invention to eliminate the above listed and
other disadvantages of conventional wrist-mounted cellular telephone devices
and
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provide a novel wrist-mounted telephone device.
It is a further object of the invention to provide such a device wherein all
main components of a cellular phone mechanism are configured to be attached to
the
user's wrist.
There is thus provided according to one aspect of the present invention a
wrist-mounted telephone device for attaching to a wearer's wrist. According to
one
embodiment, the device comprises a wristband configured to be attached to a
wearer's
wrist, wherein the wristband is configured to support a cellular phone
mechanism. The
device also comprises a keypad attached to the wristband and coupled to the
cellular
phone mechanism so as to provide signals to the cellular phone mechanism. The
keypad, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention, has a
plurality of
adjustable sections.
The device also comprises a handset, which is removably mounted to
either the wristband or the keypad. The handset comprises at least one
section, and has
a microphone and a speaker. Advantageously, the handset comprises two or more
sections which extend telescopically or fold so that, in a closed position,
the handset
2 0 requires a minimum of space and can easily be connected to the wristband
or keypad.
In the open position, the handset expands so that the microphone is disposed
on one end
of the handset while the speaker is disposed on the other end, and the
distance between
the microphone and speaker is approximately the same as the distance between a
user's
ear and mouth. The handset may be either wired to the wristband or may be
wirelessly
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connected thereto.
Preferably, the keypad comprises buttons, which when pressed, send
corresponding signals to the cellular phone mechanism. In one embodiment of
the
5 invention, the keypad comprises a plurality of pressure sensitive switches
that employ
pressure transducers so as to operate as key elements of a keypad. As a
result, the
keypad in accordance with this embodiment of the invention can be made
substantially
thin and flexible.
The keypad may comprise one or more sections. In one embodiment, all
of the keys of the keypad are located on the wristband. In another embodiment,
only
some of the keys of the keypad are located on the wristband, and the remaining
keys are
disposed on at least one additional keypad section which is attached to the
wristband or
cellular phone mechanism, enabling additional space to be provided between
keys for
easier dialing. In still another embodiment, all of the keys of the keypad are
located on
additional keypad sections which are coupled to the cellular phone mechanism.
Each keypad section may be attached to the wristband or cellular phone
mechanism by a hinge or may be slidably attached to the wristband or cellular
phone
2 0 mechanism via at least one rail guide so as to extend telescopically
therefrom. In those
embodiments in which more than one keypad section are employed, sections of
the
keypad may also be coupled together by hinge so as to fold or by internal
disposed
parallel guides so as to extend telescopically.
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Advantageously, additional keypad sections are rotatably attached to the
first keypad section so as to conceal the buttons on each of the first and
second sections
when the second section is pivoted relative to the first section into a closed
position. It
is also preferred that the second section is pivotably attached to the first
section so as to
form a flat keypad when the second section is pivoted relative to the first
section into an
open position.
Preferably, the device also includes a transceiver for transmitting and
receiving wireless communication signals, and an antenna, which may be
telescopically
extendable. The device may also comprise an indication means responsively
coupled to
the cellular phone mechanism for alerting, the wearer of an incoming call. The
indication means preferably comprises a vibrator in the form of a mechanical
assembly
including a reciprocating prong for prodding the wearer's wrist.
The device may also comprise at least one data display panel.
Preferably, the device also comprises a watch unit. According to one
embodiment, the
watch unit, at least portions of the keypad or portions of the phone mechanism
are
disposed in a diametrically opposite relationship on the wearer's wrist.
2 0 The cellular phone mechanism comprises an ear piece extendable
towards a region of a palm of the wearer and retractable to a region of the
housing.
Preferably, the ear piece is extendable along an axis of the wearer's arm. The
ear piece
may be extended by means of a flip open cover pivotally coupled to the housing
and
may be further extended by at least one telescopic, or accordion like segment
of the
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cover. Alternatively, the ear piece of the cellular telephone mechanism may be
mounted
at an end of a tube having a securing arrangement for securing to a wearer's
finger.
Upon release of the securing arrangement. the tube is retracted into the
housing by
means of a resilient biasing means coupled to the end of the tube.
The battery power source may comprise a single battery
circumferentially extending along at least a substantial portion of the
wearer's wrist, or a
plurality of batteries coupled to each other and each circuinferentially
extending along
the wearer's wrist. It is understood that a battery of any kind may be
employed. The
battery may be removably accommodated within a case.
If the plurality of batteries is employed, each of them may be
accommodated within its case and the cases are coupled to each other. To this
end, the
device, preferably, comprises an electric circuit adapted for selectively
connecting the
cellular phone mechanism to a preset one of the plurality of batteries.
In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the device
includes a moveable antenna that extends outwardly from the device.
Advantageously a
2 0 hinge or pivot mechanism is employed that allows the antenna to rotate in
a direction
away from the horizontal plane of the device. The antenna may have multiple
expandable sections, such as those employing telescopic mechanisms.
In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, at least a first
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and second antenna are employed, wherein at least one of the antennas is
moveable in a
direction away from the horizontal plane of the device. During operation, the
position
of the two antennas with respect to each other is adjusted so that the
antennas provide
polarization diversity that allows the reception of signals by the device to
be insensitive
to its orientation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In order to understand the invention and to see how the same may be
carried out in practice, several preferred embodiments will now be described,
by way of
example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figures 1 (a) and (b) illustrate a wrist-worn communication device in a
closed position, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 2(a) and (b) illustrate side views of a wrist communication
device with a detached handset, in accordance with one embodiment of the
present
invention;
Figures 2(c) through (f) illustrate a handset for use with a wrist
2 0 communication device with a detached handset, in accordance with various
embodiments of the present invention;
Figures 3(a) and (b) illustrate front views of a wrist communication
device. in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
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Figures 4(a), (b), (c) and (d) show a wrist communication device having
a foldable, mufti-sectioned keypad, in accordance with one embodiment of the
present
invention;
Figures 5(a). (b) (c) and (d) illustrate a wrist communication device with
a telescopically extendable keypad, in accordance with one embodiment of the
present
invention;
Figure 6 illustrates a wrist communication device with one keypad
section, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 7(a), (b) and (c) illustrate a wrist communication device having a
handset with a telescopically extendable antenna, in accordance with one
embodiment
of the present invention;
Figures 8(a), (b) and (c) illustrate a wrist communication device having a
handset with a telescopically extendable antenna, in accordance with another
embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 9(a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) illustrate a wrist communication device
having a handset with a telescopically extendable antenna, in accordance with
still
another embodiment of the present invention;
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Figures 10(a) through 10(e) illustrate a wrist communication device
having a small detachable handset with a speaker and a microphone mounted on
the
wristband, in accordance with still another embodiment of the present
invention;
5 Figures 11(a) and (b) illustrates a wrist communication device having a
larger detachable handset with a speaker and a microphone mounted on the
wristband,
in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 12(a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) illustrate a wrist communication
10 device wherein a handset is mounted separate from the cellular phone
mechanism, in
accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 13 illustrates a wrist communication device with an independent
watch unit and an additional speaker and microphone, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 14 illustrates a wrist communication device having a portion of a
display unit which is permanently visible, in accordance with one embodiment
of the
present invention.
2G
Figs. 15(a)-15(g) illustrate a wrist communication device employing an
antenna system in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
Figs. 16(a)-16(b) illustrate a wrist communication device employing an
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antenna system in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
Figs. 17(a)-17(b) illustrate a wrist communication device employing an
antenna system in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention.
Figs. 18(a)-18(b) illustrate a wrist communication device employing an
antenna system in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 19 illustrates a wrist communication device employing an antenna
system in still another embodiment of the invention;
Figure 20 illustrates a wrist communication device in the closed
position, according to the embodiment shown in Figure 19;
Fig. 21 is a pictorial illustration of a wrist-mounted cellular phone device
according to one embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 22 is a pictorial view of the device of Fig. 21 more specifically
illustrating an unlocked position thereof;
Fig. 23a is a side view of the portion of the device of Fig. 22, more
specifically illustrating a mini-vibrator;
Fig. 23b is a partly exploded view of the device of Fig. 21 with a
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retracted flip open cover and a battery in its removed position;
Figs. 24a to 24c illustrate three more embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 25a illustrates still another embodiment of a wrist-mounted cellular
phone device having a wrist-watch mounted thereon;
Fig. 25b is a cross-section of the device of Fig. 25a, more specifically
illustrating a coupling means for mounting the wrist-watch on to the cellular
phone
device;
Figures 26(a) and 26(b) illustrate a cellular phone device having a two-
sectioned keypad provided on a bracelet portion, according to one embodiment
of the
present invention;
Figures 27(a) and 27(b) illustrate an arrangement of buttons on a keypad
which prevents the buttons from contacting each other when the cellular phone
device
is in the closed position, according to one embodiment of the present
invention; and
2 0 Figures 28(a) through 28(d) show additional configurations of device 21
having multi-sectioned keypads 6, according to other embodiments of the
present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
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Figures 1 (a) and (b) illustrate a wrist worn communication device 5, in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 1 (a) and (b)
show
device 5 when device 5 is not being operated. Wrist communication device 5 is
advantageously slim and lightweight, so as to minimize the likelihood that it
will get
caught on the user's clothing or otherwise interfere with the user's
activities.
Specifically, Figure 1 (a) shows a side view of wrist communication device 5,
which
comprises wristband 10 and handset 12. Wristband 10 is preferably flexible so
as to be
worn around a user's wrist and advantageously has a fastening device at each
end so as
to securedly attach the device to the user's wrist.
Figure 1 (b) shows a front view of wrist communication device 5.
Device 5 may also comprise additional function buttons 44 positioned on the
side of
cellular phone mechanism 20 and along the edge of wristband 10. Buttons 44
may,
according to one embodiment, enable the user to initiate a call. terminate a
call, operate
a menu displayed by a display unit, etc, as will be further displayed below.
Figures 2(a) and (b) illustrate side views of wrist communication device
5. In Figure 2(a), handset 12 is removed from wrist communication device 5,
exposing
cellular phone mechanism 20, which is noted may be positioned anywhere on
wrist
2 0 communication device 5. Cellular phone mechanism 20 remains attached to
wrist
communication device 5 and may comprise a transceiver, display unit and other
typical
features of a cellular telephone device, as will be discussed in greater
detail below. In
one embodiment, cellular phone mechanism 20 is equipped with Internet browser
technology, such as the Wireless Application Protocol (also referred to as
"WAP"), so
2 5 as to enable a wearer to use Internet applications. In one embodiment,
both handset 12
and cellular phone mechanism 20 have batteries which supply power thereto. As
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previously mentioned, the battery of cellular phone mechanism 20 may be
located
anywhere on v~~ristband 10. However, in one embodiment, wrist communication
device
is configured such that a battery in cellular phone mechanism 20 also supplies
power
to the battery of handset 12, such as for charging purposes.
5
According to some embodiments, when wristband 10 is worn by a user,
keypad and display sections of cellular phone mechanism 20 may be located on
either
the palm or the forearm sides of the user's wrists. It is important to note,
however, that
while various figures herein show cellular phone mechanism 20 as a single unit
which
is disposed on only one side of the user's wrist, the present invention is not
limited in
scope in that regard. Various portions of cellular phone mechanism 20, which
includes
the battery, transmitters, receivers, microprocessors, I/O units, antennas,
etc., may
instead be disposed at various locations around the wrist so as to maximize
the usage of
space on wristband 10.
According to various embodiments of the invention and as shown in
Figure 2(a), handset 12 may be wired to cellular phone mechanism 20 via wire
30 so as
to transmit and receive communication signals thereto. In this embodiment, an
antenna
for receiving communication signals (which will be shown in figures discussed
below)
2 0 is located on handset 12. Alternatively, handset 12 and cellular phone
mechanism 20
may have a wireless relationship whereby communication signals are transmitted
therebetween via radio waves, as will be further discussed below.
In a preferred embodiment, wire 30 is retractable so that it does not hang
2 5 loose when handset 12 is mounted on wrist band 10. In one embodiment, in
addition to
transmitting signals between handset 12 and cellular phone mechanism 20, wire
30 may
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itself function as an antenna which is configured to receive and transmit
external
communication signals, such as cellular communication signals to and from a
base
station.
The length of the wire determines the maximum distance between the
handset and the wrist band. If handset 12 is wirelessly connected to cellular
phone
mechanism 20, the user will not be so restricted. Thus, a wireless connection
between
cellular phone mechanism 20 and handset 12 is advantageous in this respect,
since a
wired connection may render it awkward for the user to switch hands while
speaking or
to hand the phone to another person who desires to speak. However, the
wireless
connection has the requirement that handset 12 and cellular phone mechanism 20
have
an additional transceiver, so that external communication signals (for
example, the
signals generated by a cellular base station) can be transmitted and received
by one
transceiver and internal signals (i.e.- the signals between cellular phone
mechanism 20
and handset 12) can be received by another.
According to one embodiment of the invention, handset 12 has two
telescopically extendable handset sections. 12a and 12b, part of which have a
very
small thickness. A speaker unit 14 is disposed on one end of handset section
12a, while
2 0 a microphone 16 is disposed on an opposite end of handset section 12b.
Telescopically
extendable handset sections 12a and 12b slidably engage relative to each other
via
guides (such as parallel guides or a rail guide) between an open position and
a closed
position, such as by traveling along one or more guides 12d provided internal
to one of
the sections. In Figure 2(a), handset 12 is shown in the closed position. In
the closed
2 5 position. handset 12 has a small length, and occupies a small amount of
space, thus
rendering it easy to store between uses on wristband 10.
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In Figure 2(b), handset 12 is shown in an open position. In the open
position, handset 12 has a longer length than in the closed position. Thus, in
the open
position, speaker 14 and microphone 16 are in closer proximity to the typical
user's ear
and mouth during usage, although the invention is not limited in scope in this
regard.
For example, as shown in Figure 2(c) and (d), sections 12a and 12b of handset
12 may
also fold around a linear hinge 13 in order to achieve the same extendability,
or else, as
shown in Figures 2(e) and (f), may rotate around pivot 13b. Still other
embodiments of
the invention, having different configurations of handset 12, are discussed
below, and
the present invention contemplates that sections 12a and 12b may be extended
by other
means known in the art.
Returning to Figures 2(a) and 2(b), an additional feature of handset 12 is
the perpendicular extension region 32a and 32b of handset 12 at speaker unit
14 and
microphone 16, respectively. When handset 12 is in the open position, extended
regions 32a and 32b enable speaker unit 14 and microphone 16 to be held closer
to the
user's ear and mouth during operation. Extended regions 32a and 32b of handset
12 are
also configured such that, when handset 12 is in the closed position, the
extensions
frictionally engage a corresponding mating region on wristband 10. Depending
on the
arrangement of handset 12, speaker unit 14 and microphone 16 may be disposed
on
2 0 these perpendicular extensions, as shown in Figure 2(a) and 2(b), or may
be disposed
elsewhere on handset 12, as shown in Figures 2(c) and 2(d). In one embodiment
of the
invention, handset 12 is hermetically sealed to provide protection from water,
dust, etc.
Figures 3(a) and (b) are similar to Figures 2(a) and (b), except that
Figures 3(a) and (b) illustrate front views of wrist communication device 5.
As in
Figures 2(a) and (b), handset 12 is shown in Figure 3(a) and (b) to have two
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telescopically extendable handset sections, 12a and 12b, comprising speaker 14
and
microphone 16, respectively. In Figure 3(a), handset 12 is shown removed from
wrist
communication device 5, exposing portions of cellular phone mechanism 20. In
this
view, additional features of cellular phone mechanism 20 are shown, such as
keypad
section 18, and portions of display unit 22. According to one embodiment of
the
invention, keypad section 18 folds over cellular phone mechanism 20, as shown
in
Figure 3(a). Additional embodiments in which keypad 18 has a plurality of
sections are
discussed in detail below.
As previously mentioned, Figure 3(a) also shows a portion of display 22.
which can be viewed when handset 12 is detached from wristband 10. Display 22
may
be a liquid crystal display. Advantageously, display 22 is configured to
display a
number currently dialed by the user when transmitting an outgoing call from
the device,
a number of a remote telephone device generating an incoming call (if such
option is
authorized by an owner of the remote telephone), a date or time, etc.
Preferably, and as shown in Figures 4(a) and in other figures which will
be explained below, display 22 is large in size. Thus, according to other
embodiments
of the present invention, display unit 22 is large enough to display a menu
for selection
2 0 by a user or to display Internet applications. In one embodiment, when
cellular phone
mechanism 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.
2 5 As illustrated in Figures 1 (b), 3(a) and 4(a) (and various other
embodiments, some of which are discussed below) display 22 may be covered in
its
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entirety by handset 12 when handset 12 is mounted on wristband 10. For
instance, in
Figure 1 (b), no part of display 22 is visible when handset 12 is in the
closed position.
Similarly, in Figures 5(a) through 5(c), which will be explained in greater
detail below.
display portion 22b is only visible to a user when keypad section 18b is
rotated into the
open position. The full display, including the larger region of display
portion 22, is
only visible when keypad section 18a is telescopically extended into the open
position.
The present invention, however, also contemplates embodiments in
which a portion of display 22 is permanently visible to the user. For
instance, Figure 14
illustrates one embodiment in which display portion 22a is permanently visible
to the
user. While display portion 22 is shown as being relatively small in Figure
14, other
embodiments may employ a larger display 22, some or all of which is visible to
the
user. According to various embodiments, having at least a portion of display
22
permanently visible enables a user to perform various functions without
removing
handset 12 or otherwise manipulating wrist communication device 5. For
instance, the
permanently visible portion of display 22 may display the date and time, the
telephone
number of an incoming call, a telephone number directory, etc.
As previously mentioned, Figures 1 (b) and 2(a) are front views which
2 0 show wrist communication device 5 in a partially-closed position. This
configuration is
likely to be worn by the user when the device is not in operation. Figure 4(a)
shows
wrist communication device 5 when a first section 18a of keypad 18, which is
coupled
to cellular phone mechanism 20, has been rotated around hinge 21 and is in an
open
position. Figure 4(b) shows wrist communication device 5 in a fully open
position, i.e.-
2 5 when both first section 18a and second section 18b of keypad 18 are in
open positions.
Section 18b of keypad 18 is coupled to section 18a via hinge 23, and rotates
around
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hinge 23 in order to be in the fully opened position (other methods, such as
sliding
section 18b over section 18a, are further discussed below). Figure 4(c) shows
the same
embodiment with handset 12 detached for operation. Figure 4(d) shows handset
12
detached from wristband 10 and extended to its full length.
As shown in Figure 4(b), when wrist communication device 5 is in a
fully open position, keypad sections 18a and 18b form a substantially flat
surface for
easy manipulation of the keys by the user. Buttons 42 are arranged on keypad
18 in a
well-known manner, such as on an ordinary telephone, and are spaced
sufficiently far
apart so as to minimize the likelihood of the user inadvertently pressing
buttons which
the user does not intend to press. Keypad sections 18a and 18b both have
disposed
thereon buttons 42 which the user presses in order to operate the wrist
communication
device 5. Specifically, keypad 18 is electrically coupled to cellular phone
mechanism
of device 5 and sends signals to cellular phone mechanism 20 corresponding to
the
15 buttons which are pressed by the user.
Figure 4(b) also shows handset 12 mounted to keypad section 18a. As
previously mentioned, the perpendicularly extended regions 32a and 32b of
handset 12
frictionally mount onto keypad section 18a. Figures 4(c) and 4(d), on the
other hand,
2 0 shows handset 12 detached from keypad section 18a for operation by the
user.
Various other embodiments of wrist communication device 5 are also
possible. For instance, those elements of wrist communication device 5 which
are
foldable may instead be telescopically extendable, or may be adjustable by any
other
2 5 means. Similarly, those elements of wrist communication device 5 which are
telescopically extendable may be foldable instead (or otherwise adjustable).
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Similarly, Figures 1 through 4 show keypad section 18a coupled to
wristband 10 via hinge 21, such that keypad section 18a may be folded over
display 22.
Figures 5(a), (b), (c) and (d) illustrate another embodiment, in which keypad
18 extends
telescopically from wristband 10. According to this embodiment, in a closed
position,
keypad 18 is disposed on cellular phone mechanism 20, as is shown in Figure
5(a).
Keypad 18 travels along parallel guides 28a and 28b, as shown in Figure 5(b),
of
cellular phone mechanism 20 to an open position. Preferably, in this
embodiment (and
any other embodiment in which two elements extend telescopically relative to
each
other) a bias spring (not shown) is employed so that a predetermined amount of
force
must be applied in order to return keypad 18 to the closed position after the
element has
been extended.
Specifically, in Figures 5(a), (b) and (c), keypad 18 comprises two
sections, 18a and 18b. Keypad section 18a extends telescopically out from
cellular
phone mechanism 20. Keypad section 18b, on the other hand, is coupled to
keypad
section 18a via hinge 23, such that when keypad section 18a is in the closed
position,
keypad section 18b can be folded over onto keypad section 18a and cellular
phone
mechanism 20. In this embodiment, handset 12 is removably mounted (such as by
a
friction fit) to keypad section 18b so as not to restrict the telescopic
movement of
2 0 keypad section 18a and so that handset 12 is accessible to the user while
keypad section
18a is in the closed position.
The present invention also contemplates that keypad section 18a is
coupled to cellular phone mechanism 20 via a hinge and that keypad section 18b
is
2 5 coupled to keypad section 18a via a telescopically extendable
relationship. The present
invention. according to various embodiments, also contemplates that keypad 18
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comprises other than two sections, wherein each section is coupled by any of
the above-
described means. For instance, wrist communication device 5 may comprise only
one
keypad section, which is either foldably or slidably connected to the device.
Figure 6 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention which
has a single keypad section 18a. In this case, all of the keys 42 are disposed
on keypad
section 18a. Although the keys are closer together, and therefore are more
difficult to
operate, this configuration permits wrist communication device 5 to have a
slimmer
profile than embodiments having two or more keypad sections. Again, handset 12
is
removably mounted on keypad section 18a for ease of operation.
The use of a mufti-sectioned keypad, such as the keypads of Figures 5(b)
and (c) described above, have the advantage of permitting the buttons on the
keypad to
be spaced further apart, or to be larger in size, without increasing the
overall size of the
device and renedering it cumbersome for a user to wear on his or her wrist.
Additional
configurations of the mufti-sectioned keypad, and a detailed explanation of
the
advantages afforded by each, are described in detail in Applicant's co-pending
application Serial No. 09/330,728, which is incorporated by reference herein
as fully as
if set forth in its entirety.
Generally, the use of a mufti-sectioned keypad enables the size of the
keypad when closed to be decreased so as to minimize the likelihood that the
keypad
will interfere with the user or be damaged. Additionally, multisectioned
keypads
conceal the keypad buttons and protect them from water, dust, etc. In a
preferred
2 5 embodiment, the buttons on each keypad section are positioned so as not to
contact
each other when section 18a is closed over section 18b. This embodiment
decreases the
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combined thickness of sections 18a and 18b when closed, thus rendering wrist
communication device 5 less bulky on a user's wrist, and limits the wear and
tear on the
buttons since they will not be pressed down upon when the device is in the
closed
position.
According to another embodiment, mufti-sectioned keypad 18 is
arranged as a membrane keypad. In this embodiment, the key elements employ
touch
actuated switches formed on a membrane. The structure and operation of
membrane
keypads are well-known and described for example in United States Patent No.
3,987,259 or Patent No. 4,489,302, which are incorporated herein by reference.
Briefly.
a plurality of electrodes are disposed over each other in a spaced-apart
relationship.
When any of the key elements are pressed, some of the electrodes establish an
electrical
connection that can result in a signal indicating the particular key element
that has been
pressed. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, such membrane
keypads
are made of substantially flexible material, such as plastic.
As previously mentioned, wrist communication device 5 may also be
configured, according to one embodiment of the invention, to have a wireless
connection between handset 12 and cellular phone mechanism 20. For instance,
2 0 Figures 7(a), (b) and (c) illustrate another embodiment in which handset
12 has a
telescopically extendable antenna 25. Figure 7(a) shows handset 12 removably
mounted to wrist communication device 5, such as when the device is not being
operated by a user. The width of handset 12 is approximately the same as the
width of
wristband 10.
Figure 7(b) shows handset 12 detached from the device, in the closed
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position. Figure 7(c) shows handset 12 in the open position. In the open
position,
sections 12a and 12b slide relative to each other, and telescopically
extendable antenna
25 is extended in order to receive and transmit external communication
signals. As
previously mentioned, if antenna 25 is configured to receive external
communication
signals, handset 12 is advantageously wired to wrist communication device 5 to
transmit signals therebetween.
Figures 8(a), (b) and (c) illustrate still another embodiment in which
handset 12 has a telescopically extendable antenna 25. Figure 8(a) shows
handset 12
removably mounted to wrist communication device 5, such as when the device is
not
being operated by a user. In this case, the width of handset 12 is slightly
wider than the
width of wristband 10, in order to accomodate an antenna housing 12c . Figure
8(b)
shows handset 12 detached from the device, in the closed position. Figure 8(c)
shows
handset 12 in the open position. In the open position, telescopically
extendable antenna
25 extends into antenna sections 25b and 25c, in order to provide improved
reception
and transmission of the communication signals. Of course, antenna 25 may be
attached
to either handset section 12a or 12b, and may extend in any direction
depending on the
handset's configuration.
2 0 The configuration of handset 12 in Figures 8(a) through (c) may also be
employed in the embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 9(a)
through (e).
Figure 9(a) shows wrist communication device 5 having keypad sections 18a and
18b.
Keypad section 18a is telescopically extended over display 22. Keypad section
18b is
coupled to keypad 18a via a hinge. Removably mounted to keypad 18b is handset
12.
2 5 A full display 22 on wrist communication device 5 enables the user to view
information
such as the telephone number of the other party to the call, Internet data,
etc.
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Figure 9(b) illustrates handset 12a removed from keypad section 18b. It
also shows keypad section 18a which is configured to slide over display 22 via
parallel
guides 34a and 34b. As shown, keypad section 18a is not as wide as cellular
phone
mechanism 20. Thus, a portion of cellular phone mechanism 20, i.e.- display
unit 22.
remains uncovered. The width of the portion of cellular phone mechanism 20
left
uncovered by when keypad section 18a is not telescopically extended
corresponds to
the width of antenna housing 12c of handset 12. When handset 12 is stored on
wristband 10, antenna housing 12c fits into the space not occupied by keypad
18a, and
thus enables wrist communication device 5 to have a slimmer profile.
Figure 9(c) shows keypad section 18b which has been folded over
keypad section 18a in order to minimize the size of the wrist communication
device 5.
Figures 9(d) and (e) also shows handset 12 in the closed and open positions,
respectively. In Figure 9(e), handset 12 is shown having telescopically
extendable
antenna 25 in an extended position. It is noted that antenna housing 12c may
be located
at any position on handset 12 and may be configured to frictionally mate with
regions
on wristband 10 that are unoccupied by additional features of wrist
communication
device 5.
2 0 Still another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in
Figures 10(a) through 10 (e). Figure 10(a) shows wrist communication device 5
in a
closed position. Figure 10(a) shows handset 12 which is very small in size.
Handset 12
is mounted next to wire housing 38. In the embodiment shown, both handset 12
and
housing 38 are positioned next to cellular phone mechanism 20. although the
invention
2 5 is not limited in scope in this respect. The figure also shows microphone
16, which is
similarly configured on wristband 10. In this embodiment, microphone 16 is
positioned
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on an opposite side of cellular phone mechanism 20 on wristband 10, though
other
positions are also contemplated.
Figure 10(b) shows handset 12 detached from wristband 10, as a user
would do when operating the device. Handset 12 comprises speaker unit 14, and
is
configured to be held between the user's fingers, such as between the user's
thumb and
forefinger. Handset 12 is connected to cellular phone mechanism 20 by wire 30,
which
advantageously retracts into wire housing 38. As previously discussed, wire 30
is
configured to transmit communication signals between handset 12 and cellular
phone
mechanism 20.
To operate the device, a user detaches handset 12 from wristband 10 and
holds it between his fingers, i.e.- with the same hand on which wrist
communication
device ~ is worn. The user then holds handset 12 up to his ear, so that the
user can hear
via speaker unit 14. Thus, wire 30 is long enough to reach from the position
of wire
housing 38 on the user's wrist to the tips of the user's fingers, and should
be long
enough to accomodate various different sizes of hands. With handset 12
positioned
near his ear, the user then positions his wrist so that microphone 16, which
is located on
wristband 10, is near his mouth.
Figures 10(c) through 10(e) illustrate how keypad 18 and display 22 are
configured on wrist band 10. For instance, Figure 10(c) shows that, according
to one
embodiment of the invention, keypad 18 comprises two keypad sections 18a and
18b,
which are separated by hinge 23. As in the previously described embodiments,
keypad
2 5 18 is configured such that section 18b can be rotated and forms a flat
keypad for the
user to operate.
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Figure 10(d) shows keypad 18 in the closed position, but extended
telescopically from cellular phone mechanism 20. As previously described,
keypad 18
extends telescopically along parallel guides 28a and 28b disposed on cellular
phone
mechanism 20. When keypad 18 is extended, display unit 22 can be viewed by the
user. Finally, Figure 10(e) shows cellular phone mechanism 20 in a fully
opened
position, such that keypad section 18a is telescopically extended to allow
display 22 to
be viewed, and keypad section 18b is rotated around hinge 23 to provide a flat
keypad.
Figures 11 (a) and (b) illustrate another embodiment of the invention.
which combines some of the features of the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and
10.
For instance, Figures 11(a) and (b) illustrates handset 12, which is
approximately the
same size as the handset shown in Figures 1 through 10. At one end of handset
12 is
speaker unit 14. A user detaches handset 12 from wristband 10 in the same
manner as
previously described so as to hold speaker 14 to his ear. In addition, Figure
11 (a)
shows microphone 16 located on wristband 10, in this case contiguous with
cellular
phone mechanism 20. As described in connection with Figures 10(a) through (e),
with
handset 12 positioned near his ear, a user then positions his wrist so that
microphone 16
is near his mouth.
2 0 In accordance with other embodiments of the invention, wrist
communication device may also be configured in other ways to minimize the
thickness
of the wrist device. For instance, Figures 12(a) through 12(e) illustrate an
additional
embodiment in which handset 12 is detachably mounted along side of keypad
section
18. Since handset 12 is not mounted on keypad section 18, wrist communication
device
2 5 5 has a slimmer profile than is possible in other embodiments.
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Figure 12(a) shows handset 12 mounted on wristband 10 next to keypad
18. Handset 12 is held in place by parallel guides 40a and 40b. Figure 12(b)
illustrates
handset 12 which slides relative to wristband 12 in order to be held by a user
during
operation. Handset 12 communicates, according to one embodiment of the
invention,
with wrist communication device 5 as previously discussed. Figure 12(d) shows
handset 12 in a first position, having just been slid out from its mounting
location on
wristband 10. Figure 12(e) shows handset 12 rotated to show speaker unit 14.
Advantageously, handset 12 is configured to be mounted on wristband 12 so that
speaker unit 14 faces towards the user's wrist, thereby protecting the speaker
from
water, dust, etc., although the present invention is not limited in this
regard.
Figure 12(c), on the other hand, shows handset 12 which is
telescopically extended. In this embodiment, handset 12 is comprised of four
telescopically extendable sections, designated as 12a through 12d, although
the present
invention contemplates that any number of sections may be employed. In this
case.
handset section 12a comprises speaker 14, while handset section 12d comprises
microphone 16. As previously mentioned, the extendability of handset 12
enables it to
occupy less space when closed and mounted on wristband 10, while positioning
microphone 16 and speaker 14 in a more desirable configuration for operation
when in
2 0 the open position.
According to another embodiment of the invention, wrist
communication device 5 further comprises a watch unit that operates
independently
from cellular phone mechanism 20. For instance, Figure 13 illustrates wrist
2 5 communication device 5 comprising watch unit 50 mounted on wristband 10.
Obviously, any means may be used to attach watch unit 30 to wristband 10. For
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example, the watch 30 may be mounted on, or integrally formed with, its
housing
which, in turn, may be coupled to wristband 10 by hinges or the like. Wrist
communication device 5 may be configured to have watch unit 50 at any portion
of
wristband 10, such as, when worn by a user, on diametrically opposite sides of
the
user's wrist, in relation with portions of keypad 18 or display unit 22.
Referring to Figure 13, wrist communication device may comprise
handset 12, which operates in a manner discussed in the previously described
embodiments. In other words, handset 12 is preferably detachable from
wristband 10 in
order to be held by a user during operation. Figure 13 also shows additional
speaker
unit 52 and microphone 54. Additional speaker unit 52 and microphone 54 may be
employed in several ways.
For instance, additional speaker unit 52 may be employed, according to
one embodiment of the invention, as a loud speaker, so that a user can listen
to the other
party of the call without placing device 5 to his ear. Advantageously, a user
can
activate a "hands-free'' mode of operation so that the user can operate device
5 while
performing other functions, such as driving. In this case, handset 12 remains
mounted
to wristband 10 while microphone 54 receives the user's voice and the voice of
the
2 0 other party to the call is audibly conveyed to the user via speaker unit
52.
Alternatively, speaker unit ~2 and microphone 54 may be employed,
according to another embodiment of the invention, to operate when handset 12
is
broken or lost. In this way, wrist communication device 5 may be removed from
the
2 5 user's wrist and held in position (i.e.- with speaker unit 52 held in
position near the
user's ear and microphone 54 held in position near the user's mouth) like an
ordinary
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phone.
Each of the devices shown in the previously described figures permit
wrist communication device 5 to be operated in a unique and improved manner.
For
instance. the embodiment in Figure 3(a) (among others) illustrates how a user
may
operate wrist communication device 5 when a call is received from another
party.
When a call is received, the user detaches handset 12 from device 5 and
answers the
call. The present invention, in accordance with various embodiments, enables
the user
to quickly detach the handset and speak into it without requiring the user to
unfold
keypad 18 or otherwise manipulate any keys on keypad 18 first. Of course, in
one
embodiment in which display 22 is configured to display the telephone number
of an
incoming call, the user may, if desired, first open keypad 18 to view display
22, and
then detach the handset to answer the call.
On the other hand, Figures 4(a) and (b) (among others), illustrate how
the user may operate wrist communication device 5 when the user desires to
initiate a
call, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically,
Figures 4(a)
and (b) illustrates that handset 12 is removably mounted onto keypad 18, while
keypad
18 is coupled to wristband 10 via hinge 21. In this manner, when a user
initiates a call,
2 0 the user opens keypad 18 to expose keys 42 and display 22. This step is
performed with
handset 12 still mounted to keypad 18 of wrist communication device 5. In
addition to
stabilizing the keypad while the user presses the buttons, having handset 12
remain
mounted during this step eliminates the need for the user to hold the handset
in his or
her hand while trying to dial the phone. Only after the buttons have been
pressed and
2 5 the call has been initiated does the user detach the handset and begin
speaking. Of
course. handset 12 is removably mounted to the device so that, if the user
desires to
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detach the handset prior to 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 comfortable to use than wrist communication
devices of the
prior art. This follows because the detachable handset allows the user to hold
handset
12 in a position which is the most comfortable for him or her. By contrast,
wrist
communication devices of the prior art, which have the speaker and microphones
in a
fixed location on the device, force every user to adopt the same hand
position, which
may not be comfortable for all users. As shown in several of the embodiments,
handset
12 has a shape which is comfortable for users.
Another advantage of the present invention is the ability of a user, in
several embodiments, to switch handset 12 to a different hand if desired,
without
removing the device from his wrist. Similarly, the user has the ability, in
several
embodiments, to hand the telephone to a different person who wishes to speak
to the
caller, also without removing the device from his wrist.
Still another embodiment of the invention employs an antenna which
extends away from the user's wrist. For instance, a problem which is typically
2 0 experienced by 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
causes the quality of the signals which are transmitted and received by the
antenna to
decrease. When a wrist mounted communication device is worn, its antenna is
typically very close to the user's body due to the device's slim profile.
Figures 15(a) through 15(e) illustrate one embodiment of the invention
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in which the antenna is extended away from the user's wrist in order to
improve the
quality of the signals which are transmitted and received by the antenna.
Figure 15(a)
shows wrist communication device 5 in a closed position, wherein handset 12 is
detachably mounted on wristband 10, although the invention is not limited in
scope in
that respect. For example, the antenna system illustrated in Figs. 15(a) -
15(e) may be
employed in other wrist phone communication devices as well. It is noted that
wrist
band 10 of communication device 5 may be made from a variety of materials,
such as
plastic, leather or metal. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention,
the back
cover of handset 12 is made of the same material as the wrist band so that
when it is in
the closed position, the entire communication device 5 appears in a uniformly
integrated arrangement.
Figure I 5(b) illustrates wrist communication device 5 in a partially open
position. In this case, keypad section 18b is rotated around hinge 21. Handset
12 is
configured to fit on keypad section 18b, such as by a friction fit. The width
of keypad
section 18a is configured to be smaller than the entire width of communication
device ~
so as to allow space for an antenna system 58. In accordance with one
embodiment of
the invention, antenna system 58 includes an antenna 56, which is disposed
near
keypad 18a, and preferably adjacent to it. Preferably, the height of antenna
56 in its
2 0 closed position is substantially the same as the height of keypad section
18b.
Antenna system 60 includes a hinge or pivot mechanism 62, so as to
allow antenna 58 to open in a direction away from the horizontal plane of the
wrist
communication device. Pivot mechanism 62. in accordance with one embodiment of
2 5 the invention, includes a spherical pivot 64 (Fig. 15(g)), which allows
antenna 58 to
rotate in any direction in a space above the horizontal plane of the wrist
communication
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device for optimum reception.
Fig. 15(c) illustrates antenna 58 in a retrieved position. As illustrated,
antenna 58 extends away from the horizontal plane of the wrist communication
device.
It is noted that in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. antenna
58 is held
in its closed position by a biasing mechanism, such as a spring bias, such
that when
keypad 18b is removed from keypad 18a, the biasing mechanism releases antenna
58 in
a desired position, without the need for the user to do so.
Fig. 15(d), illustrates antenna system 60 in accordance with another
embodiment of the invention. As shown, an extension antenna 66 is
telescopically
extendable from antenna 58. In accordance with one embodiment, extension
antenna
66 may be extended for better reception. Additionally, a pivot or hinge
mechanism 70
allows extension antenna 66 to rotate about antenna 58.
In accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention. extension
antenna 66 and antenna 58 are configured to operate independently as a
diversity
antenna. The operation of diversity antennas is well known, and is described
for
example in United States Patent 5.564,082, issued October 8, 1996, and
incorporated
herein by reference. Thus, when extension antenna 66 is rotated about antenna
58, the
2 0 two antennas may be substantially uncoupled and independent of one
another. If the
antennas are driven with for example, orthogonally independent signals, the
angular
arrangement provides polarization diversity. The arrangement of extension
antenna 66
in relation with antenna 58 improves transmission and reception, regardless of
the
position of wrist communication device 5.
Furthermore, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention,
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one of the antennas 58 or 66 may be employed for transmission, while the other
one is
employed for reception.
Figs. 15(d) and 16(a) illustrate exemplary positions of extension antenna
66, while Fig. 16(b) illustrate an antenna system 60 comprising antennas 58
and 66,
which are both coupled to wrist communication device 5 at one of their ends.
Antennas
58 and 66 are both extendable away from the horizontal plane of communication
device
5.
Figs. 17(a) and 17(b) illustrate another embodiment of antenna system
60, in accordance with the principle of the present invention. Antenna system
60
comprises two antennas 74 and 76 which are attached outside the keyboard area
of
communication device 5. Each of the antennas 74 and 76 are extendable away
from
communication device 5 via pivot mechanism 80. Antennas 74 and 76 may be part
of
one antenna, or may operate as two independent antennas as discussed above in
reference with diversity antenna arrangement.
Fig. 17(b), on the other hand, illustrates antenna 78, which extends away
from communication device 5 via a pivot mechanism 82. Figs. 18(a) and 18(b)
2 0 illustrates another embodiment of the invention, wherein handset 12
completely covers
antenna 78 when it is in a closed position.
Finally, Figs. 19(a) and 19(b) illustrate another embodiment of the
invention, wherein a base area 84 is disposed underneath antenna 58.
During operation, antenna system 60 provides for an arrangement
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wherein the antenna for the wrist communication device ~ are extended away
from the
user's body, allowing an enhanced transmission and reception ability.
Furthermore, the
location of the antenna system advantageously near the keypad arrangement and
the
handset arrangement provides for a user friendly interface system, wherein the
LCD
display, the keyboard members, the handset and the antenna are conveniently
located
near each other, although the invention is not limited in scope in that
respect.
Referring to Figs. 21 and 22 there is shown a device generally
designated 100 which comprises a housing in the form of a bracelet 102 having
two
C-shaped portions 102a and 102b. The portions 102a and 102b are at one end
permanently coupled by a pair of hinges 103 so as to be pivotal one relative
to the other
between a closed state of the bracelet 102 when being worn on a wrist 105 of
the user,
and an open state for removing the bracelet from the user's wrist. The
portions 102a and
102b at an opposite end are interlocked by a clasp mechanism of known type,
for
example having a latch 104 made on an inside butt end 102c to engage a
respective
recess made in an interfacing butt end (not shown) of the portion 102a. It is
understood
that appropriate means are provided for easily unlocking the latch 104 by the
user's
hand.
2 0 It is also appreciated that any other coupling mechanism may be
employed for the same purpose of providing such a mechanical engagement
between
the portions 102a and 102b that, on the one hand, is insured against
accidental
unlocking, and, on the other hand, is adapted to be easily unlocked by the
user. For
example, a magnetic clasp mechanism may be used.
As shown in Fig. 21, the bracelet 102 wraps around the user's wrist 105
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in such a manner that all main components of a conventional cellular phone
mechanism, except for the battery, are disposed at one- side l OSa of the
wrist 1 O5, for
example, a palm side. Thus, the portion 102a is provided on the outside
thereof with a
conventional keypad 106 easily available for the user. It is noted, however,
that keypad
6 need not be disposed on the outside of C-shaped portion 102a as shown in
Figure 21.
but may instead be disposed on device 100 according to various different
configurations, such as those shown in Figures 26 through 28 (described in
detail
below).
Portion 102a is also provided on the outside with a liquid crystal display
107. The display 107 is typically capable of displaying a number currently
dialed by the
user when transmitting an outgoing call from the device 101, and also a number
of a
remote telephone device generating an incoming call, if such option is
authorized by an
owner of the remote telephone.
Coupled to the portion 102a of the bracelet 102 is a flip open telescopic
cover, generally at 108, formed of two hinged plates 109 and 110. The plate
110 is
recessed and slightly larger than the plate 109 so as to receive the latter
thereinside in a
conventional manner. To this end, the plate 110 may be provided internally
with a pair
2 0 of spaced parallel guides, extending along opposite sides of the plate 110
for supporting
the plate 109. Such a telescopic arrangement is well known and, therefore, is
not
specifically illustrated. Hence, the plate 109 is adapted for sliding movement
between a
folded position thereof when being partly inserted into the plate 110 (Fig.
22) and an
extracted position completely projecting from the plate 110 (Fig. 21 ). An end
112 of the
2 5 plate 109 is angled and, when in the folded position of the plate 109,
protrudes from the
plate 110, as better shown in Fig. 22. The plate 110 is at its one end
connected by a pair
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of hinges 111 to the portion 102a, so, as to be rotatable relative to the
portion 102a
between an open, extracted position of the plate shown in Fig. 21, and a
closed,
retracted position, when it partly covers the keypad 106. Such a partly
retracted position
is shown in Fig. 22. To this end, the cover 108 may be formed of a flexible
material. A
two-segment magnetic clasp, generally at 113, is suitably accommodated on the
portion
102a and the plate 110, to keep the cover 108 closed.
It is appreciated that the magnetic clasp 113 may be replaced by any
other suitable means, for example, a spring mechanism. It should be noted,
although not
specifically shown, that the display 107, or an additional suitable display
may be
located on either side of the plate 110.
Further provided is a conventional antenna 114 which may be a
telescopic antenna, mounted on the portion 22a opposite to the display 107.
The
antenna 114 may be supported on either end of either portion of the bracelet
102 in a
manner to extend across the supported portion, so that an axis of the antenna
114 is
parallel to the user's arm. Also provided are a conventional microphone 115
(constituting a mouth piece) mounted on the portion 102a and a speaker unit
116
(constituting an ear piece) located on the angled end 112 of the plate 109.
As illustrated in Fig. 23a, one of the essential feature of the present
invention is the provision of a mini-vibrator 117 having a reciprocating prong
118
projecting from the portion 102a and responsive to a ring signal for prodding
the user's
wrist so as to inform him/her of an incoming call without disturbing others in
the
vicinity. A miniature, rubber, disk-shaped washer 120 is attached to a
projecting end of
the prong 118, which is connected at its opposite end to a conventional
cellular phone
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ringer (not shown) in such a manner that the latter, when actuated by an
incoming call,
actuates the mini-vibrator 117 causing the reciprocation of the prong 118. In
public
places where the regular audible ring would disturb, it may be de-actuated,
whilst still
allowing the user to be informed, via the mini-vibrator 117, of an incoming
call. It is
evident that the above construction requires substantially small amount of
power and
does not cause, when in operation, vibrations of the whole device 100.
Reference is now made to Fig. 23b, illustrating another essential feature
of the present invention. A battery 121 is illustrated being shaped like a
part of the
bracelet 102 and being dimensioned so as to be fit into and removed out of the
portion
102b which is generally hollow and functions as a battery holder member. To
this end,
the hollow portion 102b is provided internally with a pair of peripheral
slots, or guides,
so as to allow the battery to be slid in and out in a conventional manner. It
is
understood, although not specifically shown, that the battery 121 is
electrically
connected to the respective components of the phone mechanism accommodated in
the
portion 102a. To this end, electric wires are appropriately located inside the
portions
102a and 102b.
If desired, the portion 102b may be of two parts construction both parts
2 0 being, for example, curved-shaped sections designed so as to accommodate a
battery
therebetween. The construction may be similar to that used in tapes for
inserting and
removing cassettes, which is known per se and therefore need not be
specifically
described except to note that it usually includes a spring arrangement
actuated by a
press button.
Alternatively, although not specifically shown, the battery 121 itself may
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be provided with a clasp mechanism of a known type and, when attached, for
example.
in the manner described above with respect to the portions 102a and 102b,
completes
the overall bracelet shape, thus functioning as an integral portion 102b of
the bracelet.
The construction may be such that the portion 102b, i.e. associated with the
battery,
wraps around the whole wrist and the portion 102a, i.e. associated with the
phone
mechanism, is appropriately coupled to the portion 102b thereabove. Obviously,
instead
of single battery as described above, two or more batteries having appropriate
electric
circuit connectors may be employed. For this purpose, the portion 102b may be
formed
of two or more segments connected by hinges, short belts or the like, each
either
carrying a battery thereinside or itself being a battery. In the case of short
belts, they are
short enough so as not to occupy a significant portion of the wearer's wrist.
It should be
specifically noted that any kind of battery may be employed.
The device 100 being a cellular phone device is designed to include such
features of conventional cellular phones as time, date, alarm clock, automatic
dialing
mode, a phone book, etc. Additionally, a sensor means is provided for
automatically
putting the device into an operative mode when the plate 110 of the cover is
rotated into
its open position. and vice versa. All these functions are well known per se
and,
therefore, need not be specifically described.
The user wears the cellular phone device 100 on his wrist 105, and when
using the device, holds his hand to the side of his face in a natural hand
position with
the bracelet 102 near a region of his mouth. The microphone 115 in the
bracelet portion
102a is thereby proximate the user's mouth, whilst the tips of his fingers are
close to his
2 5 ear. The speaker 116 in the extended plate 109 of the cover may now be
held near to the
user's ear. Cupping of the fingers serves to filter out background noise, and
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simultaneously provide a resonant external cavity for improving the audio
quality of the
sound emanating from the speaker.
Reference is now made to Figs. 24a, 24b and 24c illustrating three more
embodiments of the present invention, which are in general similar to the
above
described embodiment and, therefore, those components which are identical in
all
embodiments are identified by the same reference numerals. Cellular phone
devices 200
and 300 are distinguished from each other and from the device 100 by somewhat
different constructions of a flip open cover. Thus, as clearly shown in Fig.
24a, a cover
208 is formed of two plates 209 and 210 pivotally coupled by a pair of hinges
21 I and
212, wherein the speaker is mounted on the plate 209. It will be readily
understood that
the cover 208 is foldable and extendable like an accordion. An additional two-
part
magnetic clasp is provided in a conventional manner on an inner surface 209a
of the
plate 209 interfacing an inner side 210a of the plate 210, which is not
specifically
shown. Obviously, such magnetic clasp may be replaced by any other means
suitable
for the same purpose. A cover 309 of the cellular phone device 300 is a three-
plate
telescopic cover, wherein a last plate 309 is slidingly insertable into a
center plate 310
which, in turn, is receivable by a plate 311 in a manner described above with
reference
to Figs. 21 - 23.
Turning now to Fig. 24c, the cellular phone device 400 has no cover at
all and is characterized by a flexible thin tube 409 containing connections to
the speaker
416 mounted on its free end 409a. The other ends of the electrical connections
are
connected to an audio output of the cellular phone. As shown, the free end
409a of the
2 5 wire 409 is attached to a forefinger 410 of
the user by means of a loop 411 (constituting a securing means). Thus, the
user's hands
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are substantially free for operating the phone device 400. A coil spring (not
shown) is
fixed at one end to the portion 102a and is fixed at an opposite end to the
free end 409a
of the tube 409. When the tube 409 is drawn into the extended operated
position as
shown in Fig. 24c, the coil spring is resiliently biased so as to allow for
automatic
retraction by the coil spring of the tube 409 when required.
It should be noted that both of the C-shaped portions of the bracelet 102
in any of the preferred embodiments described above are preferably formed with
rough
inner surfaces overlying the user's wrist 105 for preventing undesirable
movement of
the bracelet 102.
Referring to Figs. 25a and 25b, there is illustrated a cellular phone
device which is similar to any of the preferred embodiments of the invention,
for
example the device 100, and additionally comprises a watch unit 130 mounted on
the
portion 102b. To this end, a conventional bolt-and-nut assembly 132 is
provided. For
example. a screw-threaded bolt 134 projects from a bottom side of the watch
unit 130
so as to be received by a nut 136 made in the portion 102b. Obviously. any
other means
may be used for the same purpose. For example, the watch 130 may be mounted
on, or
integrally formed with, its housing which, in turn, may be coupled to the
bracelet 102
2 0 by hinges or the like. It should be noted that the construction may be
such that the same
battery 121 of the cellular phone device 100 supplies power to the watch 130.
As previously mentioned, keypad 106 need not be disposed on the
outside of C-shaped portion 102a in the configuration shown in Figure 21, but
may
2 5 instead be disposed on the bracelet portion of device 100 according to
various different
configurations. Figures 26 through 28 illustrate various embodiments of the
present
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invention which employ a multi-sectioned keypad 106. By employing a keypad
having
more than one section, the size of the keypad can be minimized when the
cellular phone
is not in use, and can be increased to a larger, easier-to-use size when the
cellular phone
is in an open, operating mode.
For instance, Figures 26(a) and 26(b) illustrate the cellular phone device
100 of the present invention having a two-sectioned keypad 106 provided on
bracelet
portion 102a, although it is noted that the mufti-sectioned keypad may be
provided on
portion 102b of device 100, or on any other part of a wrist-worn cellular
phone device,
according to other embodiments of the invention. It is also noted that the
multi-
sectioned keypad 106 of the present invention may be employed with any wrist-
worn
cellular communication device, regardless of the configuration of the cellular
phone
mechanism and the battery power source on the device.
In the embodiment shown, keypad 106 has two sections, sections 106a
and 106b, which are attached to each other by hinge 140. Section 106a is
attached
directly to portion 102a of device 100 and section 102b is configured to
pivotably rotate
relative to section 106a around hinge 140. Sections 106a and 106b both have
disposed
thereon pressure sensitive buttons 142 which the user presses in order to
operate the
2 0 cellular phone. Specifically, keypad 106 is coupled to the cellular phone
mechanism of
device 100 and sends signals to the cellular phone mechanism corresponding to
the
buttons which are pressed by the user.
Figure 26(a) shows device 100 in an opened, operable position, wherein
2 5 section 106b of keypad 106 is pivoted around hinge 140 so as to provide
access to
buttons 142 of keypad 106. Preferably, keypad 106 is configured such that,
when
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section 102b is pivoted into the open position, sections 106a and 106b form a
substantially flat surface for easy manipulation by the user. Buttons 142 are
arranged
on keypad 106 in a well-known manner, such as on an ordinary telephone, and
are
spaced sufficiently far apart so as to minimize the likelihood of the user
inadvertently
pressing buttons which the user does not intend to press.
In order to provide still greater space between buttons 142, device 100 is
shown in Figures 106(a) and 106(b) as having additional function buttons 144
positioned on the side of keypad 106 and along the edge of portion 102a's
width. These
buttons 144 may, according to one embodiment, enable the user to initiate a
call,
terminate a call, operate a menu displayed by display 107, etc.
Figure 26(b) on the other hand shows device 100 in a closed, inoperable
position, wherein section 106b of keypad 106 is pivoted around hinge 140 so as
to
conceal buttons 142 of keypad 106, i.e.- to prevent buttons 142 from being
inadvertently pressed or to protect them from dust, water, etc. In this
embodiment,
keypad 106 requires only about half the space it required in the open position
illustrated
in Figure 26(a).
2 0 In addition to decreasing the size of the keypad as illustrated by Figures
26(a) and 26(b), a multi-sectioned arrangement of keypad 106 may also enable
the
overall size of device 100 to be decreased. Typically. when a keypad is
disposed on the
bracelet of a cellular phone device designed to be worn on the wrist, the
strap is
substantially the same width of the keypad. This insures that the edges of the
keypad do
2 5 not extend past the bracelet and rub the wrist of the user, and also
decreases the
likelihood that the outer edges of the keypad will be damaged by contact with
other
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surfaces. However, the wider bracelet adds to the size and weight of the
device,
causing it to be too bulky and heavy.
The present invention enables the width of the bracelet of the wrist-worn
device to be substantially the same as the keypad , without requiring an
uncomfortably
wide bracelet. Specifically, when keypad 106 is in the closed position, its
width is
decreased by half. to the width of section 106a. Consequently, the
corresponding width
of portion 102a of device 100 may be designed with the narrower width of
section 106a,
so long as the bracelet is wide enough to support a sufficiently large battery
power
source. As previously mentioned, the design of portion 102a of device 100
having the
same width as keypad 106 maximizes the aesthetic appeal of the device and
minimizes
the likelihood that keypad 106 will interfere with the mobility of the user's
wrist or be
damaged when worn by the user.
As previously mentioned, Figure 26(b) shows device 100 when it is
closed and conceals buttons 142. In a preferred embodiment. buttons 142 are
positioned on sections 106a and 106b, respectively, so as not to contact each
other
when section 106a is closed over section 106b. This embodiment decreases the
combined thickness of sections 106a and 106b when closed, thus rendering
device 100
2 0 less bulky on a user's wrist. In addition, it limits the wear and tear on
buttons 142 since
they will not be pressed down upon when the device is in the closed position.
For instance, Figures 27(a) and 27(b) illustrate an arrangement of
buttons 142 on sections 106a and 106b which prevents the buttons of each
section from
2 5 contacting each other when the device 100 is in the closed position.
Figure 27(a) shows
keypad section 106a having two columns of buttons 142, one column in each of
regions
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145 and 146, which are located along its outer edge regions. In addition, the
figure
shows section 106b having one row of buttons 142 in region 147, which is
located in its
middle. Figure 27(b) shows that, when section 106a and 106b are brought into
the
closed position, regions 145, 146 and 147 do not overlap, and thus the buttons
do not
contact each other. It is noted, however, that the regions shown in Figures
27(a) and
27(b) are merely illustrative, and that the present invention contemplates any
configuration of buttons on keypad sections 106a and 106b which prevents
buttons 142
from contacting each other when the device is in the closed position.
Figures 28(a) through 28(d) show additional embodiments of device 100
having mufti-sectioned keypads 106. For instance, Figure 28(a) shows keypad
106
having three sections. A middle section 106b is connected on opposite sides to
sections
106a and 106c by hinges 140. In this embodiment, the space required by keypad
106 in
the closed position is only approximately one third of the space required by
keypad 106
in the open position. Figure 28(b) illustrates the same keypad as illustrated
in Figure
28(a) in the fully opened position, having a substantial space between each of
buttons
142.
Figure 28(c) illustrates another embodiment in which keypad 106
2 0 comprises three sections, wherein two of the sections are provided having
a telescopic
arrangement relative to each other. For instance, section 106a is connected to
section
106b by hinge 140. However, section 106b is also provided internally with a
pair of
spaced parallel guides extending along opposite sides of section 106b for
supporting
section 106c. Figure 28(d) illustrates still another embodiment in which
keypad 106
2 5 comprises three sections, wherein two of the sections are provided having
a telescopic
arrangement relative to the third section. For instance, section 106b is
provided
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internally with a two pairs of spaced parallel guides extending along opposite
sides of
section 106b for supporting both sections 106a and 106c. As previously
explained,
each of the embodiment shown in Figures 26 through 28 provide for a multi-
sectioned
keypad 106, which decreases the space required by keypad 106 and improves
wrist-
worn cellular phone device 100.
While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and
described herein, many modifications, substitutions. changes or equivalents
will now
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 that fall
within the true
spirit of the invention.
