Patent ID: 6812896
Filing Date: 2004-11-02
Classification: H01Q

Abstract:
A selectively coupled two-piece antenna for use in a mobile phone having a casing and radio frequency (RF) communications circuitry, the antenna comprising:a composite radiator that is selectively extendable from and retractable into the casing, said composite radiator having a) a first radiating element, b) a connecting element comprising a conductor portion and an insulator portion, wherein said conductor portion is electrically connected to said first radiating element; c) a second radiating element having first and second contact portions that are electrically connected, wherein said first contact portion contacts said conductor portion of said connecting element when said composite radiator is extended, and wherein said first contact portion contacts said insulator portion of said connecting element when said composite radiator is retracted; and a communications interface attached to the casing, wherein said communications interface is electrically coupled to said second contact portion when said composite radiator is extended and is electrically coupled to said conductor portion of said connected element when said composite radiator is retracted; whereby said first and second radiating elements are electrically connected to the RF communications circuitry when said composite radiator is extended, and said second radiating element is electrically disconnected from the RF communications circuitry when said composite radiator is retracted; wherein said second radiating element comprises a conductive locking mechanism attached to said first contact portion; and wherein said connecting element comprises: an isolation detent formed on said insulator portion that engages with said locking mechanism when said composite radiator is retracted, thereby electrically isolating said first and second radiating elements, and a connection detent formed on said conductor portion that engages with said locking mechanism when said composite radiator is extended, thereby electrically connecting said first and second radiating elements.