Antenna system for a wrist communication device

A wrist-mounted communication device comprising a cellular phone mechanism configured to transmit and receive communication signals. The device includes an antenna system so as to transmit and receive signals. The antenna system further comprisesat least one antenna extendable away from the horizontal plane of the communication device.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to portable cellular telephone devices, and more particularly to an antenna system for wrist communication systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Thanks to the recent advances in wireless communication technology, cellular telephones enjoy enormous popularity. While early models were large and 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 several drawbacks. For instance, their light weight and small size renders the telephones prone to falling, breaking, or simply being forgotten. Additionally, when a 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. Pat. 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 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 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 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 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 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 connected thereto.

Preferably, the keypad comprises buttons, which when pressed, send corresponding signals to the cellular phone mechanism. In one embodiment of the 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 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.

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.

In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the device includes a moveable antenna that extends outwardly from the device. Advantageously a 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 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.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIGS.1(a) and (b) illustrate a wrist worn communication device5, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS.1(a) and (b) show device5when device5is not being operated. Wrist communication device5is 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, FIG.1(a) shows a side view of wrist communication device5, which comprises wristband10and handset12. Wristband10is 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.

FIG.1(b) shows a front view of wrist communication device5. Device5may also comprise additional function buttons44positioned on the side of cellular phone mechanism20and along the edge of wristband10. Buttons44may, 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.

FIGS.2(a) and (b) illustrate side view s of wrist communication device5. In FIG.2(a), handset12is removed from wrist communication device5, expo sing cellular phone mechanism20, which is noted may be positioned anywhere on wrist communication device5. Cellular phone mechanism20remains attached to wrist communication device5and 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 mechanism20is equipped with Internet browser technology, such as the Wireless Application Protocol (also referred to as “WAP”), so as to enable a wearer to use Internet applications. In one embodiment, both handset12and cellular phone mechanism20have batteries which supply power thereto. As previously mentioned, the battery of cellular phone mechanism20may be located anywhere on wristband10. However, in one embodiment, wrist communication device5is configured such that a battery in cellular phone mechanism20also supplies power to the battery of handset12, such as for charging purposes.

According to some embodiments, when wristband10is worn by a user, keypad and display sections of cellular phone mechanism20may 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 mechanism20as 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 mechanism20, 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 wristband10.

According to various embodiments of the invention and as shown in FIG.2(a), handset12may be wired to cellular phone mechanism20via wire30so 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) is located on handset12. Alternatively, handset12and cellular phone mechanism20may have a wireless relationship whereby communication signals are transmitted therebetween via radio waves, as will be further discussed below.

In a preferred embodiment, wire30is retractable so that it does not hang loose when handset12is mounted on wrist band10. In one embodiment, in addition to transmitting signals between handset12and cellular phone mechanism20, wire30may 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 handset12is wirelessly connected to cellular phone mechanism20, the user will not be so restricted. Thus, a wireless connection between cellular phone mechanism20and handset12is 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 handset12and cellular phone mechanism20have 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 mechanism20and handset12) can be received by another.

According to one embodiment of the invention, handset12has two telescopically extendable handset sections,12aand12b, part of which have a very small thickness. A speaker unit14is disposed on one end of handset section12a, while a microphone16is disposed on an opposite end of handset section12b. Telescopically extendable handset sections12aand12bslidably 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 guides12dprovided internal to one of the sections. In FIG.2(a), handset12is shown in the closed position. In the closed position, handset12has a small length, and occupies a small amount of space, thus rendering it easy to store between uses on wristband10.

In FIG.2(b), handset12is shown in an open position. In the open position, handset12has a longer length than in the closed position. Thus, in the open position, speaker14and microphone16are 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 FIGS.2(c) and (d), sections12aand12bof handset12may also fold around a linear hinge13in order to achieve the same extendability, or else, as shown in FIGS.2(e) and (f), may rotate around pivot13b. Still other embodiments of the invention, having different configurations of handset12, are discussed below, and the present invention contemplates that sections12aand12bmay be extended by other means known in the art.

Returning to FIGS.2(a) and2(b), an additional feature of handset12is the perpendicular extension region32aand32bof handset12at speaker unit14and microphone16, respectively. When handset12is in the open position, extended regions32aand32benable speaker unit14and microphone16to be held closer to the user's ear and mouth during operation. Extended regions32aand32bof handset12are also configured such that, when handset12is in the closed position, the extensions frictionally engage a corresponding mating region on wristband10. Depending on the arrangement of handset12, speaker unit14and microphone16may be disposed on these perpendicular extensions, as shown in FIGS.2(a) and2(b), or may be disposed elsewhere on handset12, as shown in FIGS.2(c) and2(d). In one embodiment of the invention, handset12is hermetically sealed to provide protection from water, dust, etc.

FIGS.3(a) and (b) are similar to FIGS.2(a) and (b), except that FIGS.3(a) and (b) illustrate front views of wrist communication device5. As in FIGS.2(a) and (b), handset12is shown in FIGS.3(a) and (b) to have two telescopically extendable handset sections,12aand12b, comprising speaker14and microphone16, respectively. In FIG.3(a), handset12is shown removed from wrist communication device5, exposing portions of cellular phone mechanism20. In this view, additional features of cellular phone mechanism20are shown, such as keypad section18, and portions of display unit22. According to one embodiment of the invention, keypad section18folds over cellular phone mechanism20, as shown in FIG.3(a). Additional embodiments in which keypad18has a plurality of sections are discussed in detail below.

As previously mentioned, FIG.3(a) also shows a portion of display22, which can be viewed when handset12is detached from wristband10. Display22may be a liquid crystal display. Advantageously, display22is 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 FIG.4(a) and in other figures which will be explained below, display22is large in size. Thus, according to other embodiments of the present invention, display unit22is large enough to display a menu for selection by a user or to display Internet applications. In one embodiment, when cellular phone mechanism20is equipped with Internet browser technology, such as “WAP”, display22is configured to display data from the Internet, such as stock prices, weather and traffic reports, driving directions, etc.

As illustrated in FIGS.11(b),3(a) and4(a) (and various other embodiments, some of which are discussed below) display22may be covered in its entirety by handset12when handset12is mounted on wristband10. For instance, in FIG.1(b), no part of display22is visible when handset12is in the closed position. Similarly, in FIGS.5(a) through5(c), which will be explained in greater detail below, display portion22bis only visible to a user when keypad section18bis rotated into the open position. The full display, including the larger region of display portion22, is only visible when keypad section18ais telescopically extended into the open position.

The present invention, however, also contemplates embodiments in which a portion of display22is permanently visible to the user. For instance,FIG. 14illustrates one embodiment in which display portion22ais permanently visible to the user. While display portion22is shown as being relatively small inFIG. 14, other embodiments may employ a larger display22, some or all of which is visible to the user. According to various embodiments, having at least a portion of display22permanently visible enables a user to perform various functions without removing handset12or otherwise manipulating wrist communication device5. For instance, the permanently visible portion of display22may display the date and time, the telephone number of an incoming call, a telephone number directory, etc.

As previously mentioned, FIGS.1(b) and2(a) are front views which show wrist communication device5in a partially-closed position. This configuration is likely to be worn by the user when the device is not in operation. FIG.4(a) shows wrist communication device5when a first section18aof keypad18, which is coupled to cellular phone mechanism20, has been rotated around hinge21and is in an open position. FIG.4(b) shows wrist communication device5in a fully open position, i.e.—when both first section18aand second section18bof keypad18are in open positions. Section18bof keypad18is coupled to section18avia hinge23, and rotates around hinge23in order to be in the fully opened position (other methods, such as sliding section18bover section18a, are further discussed below). FIG.4(c) shows the same embodiment with handset12detached for operation. FIG.4(d) shows handset12detached from wristband10and extended to its full length.

As shown in FIG.4(b), when wrist communication device5is in a fully open position, keypad sections18aand18bform a substantially flat surface for easy manipulation of the keys by the user. Buttons42are arranged on keypad18in 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 sections18aand18bboth have disposed thereon buttons42which the user presses in order to operate the wrist communication device5. Specifically, keypad18is electrically coupled to cellular phone mechanism20of device5and sends signals to cellular phone mechanism20corresponding to the buttons which are pressed by the user.

FIG.4(b) also shows handset12mounted to keypad section18a. As previously mentioned, the perpendicularly extended regions32aand32bof handset12frictionally mount onto keypad section18a. FIGS.4(c) and4(d), on the other hand, shows handset12detached from keypad section18afor operation by the user.

Various other embodiments of wrist communication device5are also possible. For instance, those elements of wrist communication device5which are foldable may instead be telescopically extendable, or may be adjustable by any other means. Similarly, those elements of wrist communication device5which are telescopically extendable may be foldable instead (or otherwise adjustable).

Similarly,FIGS. 1 through 4show keypad section18acoupled to wristband10via hinge21, such that keypad section18amay be folded over display22. FIGS.5(a), (b), (c) and (d) illustrate another embodiment, in which keypad18extends telescopically from wristband10. According to this embodiment, in a closed position, keypad18is disposed on cellular phone mechanism20, as is shown in FIG.5(a). Keypad18travels along parallel guides28aand28b, as shown in FIG.5(b), of cellular phone mechanism20to 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 keypad18to the closed position after the element has been extended.

Specifically, in FIGS.5(a), (b) and (c), keypad18comprises two sections,18aand18b. Keypad section18aextends telescopically out from cellular phone mechanism20. Keypad section18b, on the other hand, is coupled to keypad section18avia hinge23, such that when keypad section18ais in the closed position, keypad section18bcan be folded over onto keypad section18aand cellular phone mechanism20. In this embodiment, handset12is removably mounted (such as by a friction fit) to keypad section18bso as not to restrict the telescopic movement of keypad section18aand so that handset12is accessible to the user while keypad section18ais in the closed position.

The present invention also contemplates that keypad section18ais coupled to cellular phone mechanism20via a hinge and that keypad section18bis coupled to keypad section18avia a telescopically extendable relationship. The present invention, according to various embodiments, also contemplates that keypad18comprises other than two sections, wherein each section is coupled by any of the above-described means. For instance, wrist communication device5may comprise only one keypad section, which is either foldably or slidably connected to the device.

FIG. 6illustrates another embodiment of the present invention which has a single keypad section18a. In this case, all of the keys42are disposed on keypad section18a. Although the keys are closer together, and therefore are more difficult to operate, this configuration permits wrist communication device5to have a slimmer profile than embodiments having two or more keypad sections. Again, handset12is removably mounted on keypad section18afor ease of operation.

The use of a multi-sectioned keypad, such as the keypads of FIGS.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 multi-sectioned keypad, and a detailed explanation of the advantages afforded by each, are described in detail in Applicant's co-pending application Ser. No. 09/330,728, which is incorporated by reference herein as fully as if set forth in its entirety.

Generally, the use of a multi-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 embodiment, the buttons on each keypad section are positioned so as not to contact each other when section18ais closed over section18b. This embodiment decreases the combined thickness of sections18aand18bwhen closed, thus rendering wrist communication device5less 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, multi-sectioned keypad18is 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 U.S. Pat. No. 3,987,259 or U.S. Pat. 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 device5may also be configured, according to one embodiment of the invention, to have a wireless connection between handset12and cellular phone mechanism20. For instance, FIGS.7(a), (b) and (c) illustrate another embodiment in which handset12has a telescopically extendable antenna25. FIG.7(a) shows handset12removably mounted to wrist communication device5, such as when the device is not being operated by a user. The width of handset12is approximately the same as the width of wristband10.

FIG.7(b) shows handset12detached from the device, in the closed position. FIG.7(c) shows handset12in the open position. In the open position, sections12aand12bslide relative to each other, and telescopically extendable antenna25is extended in order to receive and transmit external communication signals. As previously mentioned, if antenna25is configured to receive external communication signals, handset12is advantageously wired to wrist communication device5to transmit signals therebetween.

FIGS.8(a), (b) and (c) illustrate still another embodiment in which handset12has a telescopically extendable antenna25. FIG.8(a) shows handset12removably mounted to wrist communication device5, such as when the device is not being operated by a user. In this case, the width of handset12is slightly wider than the width of wristband10, in order to accomodate an antenna housing12c. FIG.8(b) shows handset12detached from the device, in the closed position. FIG.8(c) shows handset12in the open position. In the open position, telescopically extendable antenna25extends into antenna sections25band25c, in order to provide improved reception and transmission of the communication signals. Of course, antenna25may be attached to either handset section12aor12b, and may extend in any direction depending on the handset's configuration.

The configuration of handset12in FIGS.8(a) through (c) may also be employed in the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.9(a) through (e). FIG.9(a) shows wrist communication device5having keypad sections18aand18b. Keypad section18ais telescopically extended over display22. Keypad section18bis coupled to keypad18avia a hinge. Removably mounted to keypad18bis handset12. A full display22on wrist communication device5enables the user to view information such as the telephone number of the other party to the call, Internet data, etc.

FIG.9(b) illustrates handset12aremoved from keypad section18b. It also shows keypad section18awhich is configured to slide over display22via parallel guides34aand34b. As shown, keypad section18ais not as wide as cellular phone mechanism20. Thus, a portion of cellular phone mechanism20, i.e.—display unit22, remains uncovered. The width of the portion of cellular phone mechanism20left uncovered by when keypad section18ais not telescopically extended corresponds to the width of antenna housing12cof handset12. When handset12is stored on wristband10, antenna housing12cfits into the space not occupied by keypad18a, and thus enables wrist communication device5to have a slimmer profile.

FIG.9(c) shows keypad section18bwhich has been folded over keypad section18ain order to minimize the size of the wrist communication device5. FIGS.9(d) and (e) also shows handset12in the closed and open positions, respectively. In FIG.9(e), handset12is shown having telescopically extendable antenna25in an extended position. It is noted that antenna housing12cmay be located at any position on handset12and may be configured to frictionally mate with regions on wristband10that are unoccupied by additional features of wrist communication device5.

Still another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.10(a) through10(e). FIG.10(a) shows wrist communication device5in a closed position. FIG.10(a) shows handset12which is very small in size. Handset12is mounted next to wire housing38. In the embodiment shown, both handset12and housing38are positioned next to cellular phone mechanism20, although the invention is not limited in scope in this respect. The figure also shows microphone16, which is similarly configured on wristband10. In this embodiment, microphone16is positioned on an opposite side of cellular phone mechanism20on wristband10, though other positions are also contemplated.

FIG.10(b) shows handset12detached from wristband10, as a user would do when operating the device. Handset12comprises speaker unit14, and is configured to be held between the user's fingers, such as between the user's thumb and forefinger. Handset12is connected to cellular phone mechanism20by wire30, which advantageously retracts into wire housing38. As previously discussed, wire30is configured to transmit communication signals between handset12and cellular phone mechanism20.

To operate the device, a user detaches handset12from wristband10and holds it between his fingers, i.e.—with the same hand on which wrist communication device5is worn. The user then holds handset12up to his ear, so that the user can hear via speaker unit14. Thus, wire30is long enough to reach from the position of wire housing38on 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 handset12positioned near his ear, the user then positions his wrist so that microphone16, which is located on wristband10, is near his mouth.

FIGS.10(c) through10(e) illustrate how keypad18and display22are configured on wrist band10. For instance, FIG.10(c) shows that, according to one embodiment of the invention, keypad18comprises two keypad sections18aand18b, which are separated by hinge23. As in the previously described embodiments, keypad18is configured such that section18bcan be rotated and forms a flat keypad for the user to operate.

FIG.10(d) shows keypad18in the closed position, but extended telescopically from cellular phone mechanism20. As previously described, keypad18extends telescopically along parallel guides28aand28bdisposed on cellular phone mechanism20. When keypad18is extended, display unit22can be viewed by the user. Finally, FIG.10(e) shows cellular phone mechanism20in a fully opened position, such that keypad section18ais telescopically extended to allow display22to be viewed, and keypad section18bis rotated around hinge23to provide a flat keypad.

FIGS.11(a) and (b) illustrate another embodiment of the invention, which combines some of the features of the embodiments shown inFIGS. 1 and 10. For instance, FIGS.11(a) and (b) illustrates handset12, which is approximately the same size as the handset shown inFIGS. 1 through 10. At one end of handset12is speaker unit14. A user detaches handset12from wristband10in the same manner as previously described so as to hold speaker14to his ear. In addition, FIG.11(a) shows microphone16located on wristband10, in this case contiguous with cellular phone mechanism20. As described in connection with FIGS.10(a) through (e), with handset12positioned near his ear, a user then positions his wrist so that microphone16is near his mouth.

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, FIGS.12(a) through12(e) illustrate an additional embodiment in which handset12is detachably mounted along side of keypad section18. Since handset12is not mounted on keypad section18, wrist communication device5has a slimmer profile than is possible in other embodiments.

FIG.12(a) shows handset12mounted on wristband10next to keypad18. Handset12is held in place by parallel guides40aand40b. FIG.12(b) illustrates handset12which slides relative to wristband12in order to be held by a user during operation. Handset12communicates, according to one embodiment of the invention, with wrist communication device5as previously discussed. FIG.12(d) shows handset12in a first position, having just been slid out from its mounting location on wristband10. FIG.12(e) shows handset12rotated to show speaker unit14. Advantageously, handset12is configured to be mounted on wristband12so that speaker unit14faces towards the user's wrist, thereby protecting the speaker from water, dust, etc., although the present invention is not limited in this regard.

FIG.12(c), on the other hand, shows handset12which is telescopically extended. In this embodiment, handset12is comprised of four telescopically extendable sections, designated as12athrough12d, although the present invention contemplates that any number of sections may be employed. In this case, handset section12acomprises speaker14, while handset section12dcomprises microphone16. As previously mentioned, the extendability of handset12enables it to occupy less space when closed and mounted on wristband10, while positioning microphone16and speaker14in a more desirable configuration for operation when in the open position.

According to another embodiment of the invention, wrist communication device5further comprises a watch unit that operates independently from cellular phone mechanism20. For instance,FIG. 13illustrates wrist communication device5comprising watch unit50mounted on wristband10. Obviously, any means may be used to attach watch unit30to wristband10. For example, the watch30may be mounted on, or integrally formed with, its housing which, in turn, may be coupled to wristband10by hinges or the like. Wrist communication device5may be configured to have watch unit50at any portion of wristband10, such as, when worn by a user, on diametrically opposite sides of the user's wrist, in relation with portions of keypad18or display unit22.

Referring toFIG. 13, wrist communication device may comprise handset12, which operates in a manner discussed in the previously described embodiments. In other words, handset12is preferably detachable from wristband10in order to be held by a user during operation.FIG. 13also shows additional speaker unit52and microphone54. Additional speaker unit52and microphone54may be employed in several ways.

For instance, additional speaker unit52may 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 device5to his ear. Advantageously, a user can activate a “hands-free” mode of operation so that the user can operate device5while performing other functions, such as driving. In this case, handset12remains mounted to wristband10while microphone54receives the user's voice and the voice of the other party to the call is audibly conveyed to the user via speaker unit52.

Alternatively, speaker unit52and microphone54may be employed, according to another embodiment of the invention, to operate when handset12is broken or lost. In this way, wrist communication device5may be removed from the user's wrist and held in position (i.e.—with speaker unit52held in position near the user's ear and microphone54held in position near the user's mouth) like an ordinary phone.

Each of the devices shown in the previously described figures permit wrist communication device5to be operated in a unique and improved manner. For instance, the embodiment in FIG.3(a) (among others) illustrates how a user may operate wrist communication device5when a call is received from another party. When a call is received, the user detaches handset12from device5and 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 keypad18or otherwise manipulate any keys on keypad18first. Of course, in one embodiment in which display22is configured to display the telephone number of an incoming call, the user may, if desired, first open keypad18to view display22, and then detach the handset to answer the call.

On the other hand, FIGS.4(a) and (b) (among others), illustrate how the user may operate wrist communication device5when the user desires to initiate a call, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIGS.4(a) and (b) illustrates that handset12is removably mounted onto keypad18, while keypad18is coupled to wristband10via hinge21. In this manner, when a user initiates a call, the user opens keypad18to expose keys42and display22. This step is performed with handset12still mounted to keypad18of wrist communication device5. In addition to stabilizing the keypad while the user presses the buttons, having handset12remain 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 the call has been initiated does the user detach the handset and begin speaking. Of course, handset12is removably mounted to the device so that, if the user desires to 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 handset12in 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, handset12has a shape which is comfortable for users.

Another advantage of the present invention is the ability of a user, in several embodiments, to switch handset12to 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 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.

FIGS.15(a) through15(e) illustrate one embodiment of the invention 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. FIG.15(a) shows wrist communication device5in a closed position, wherein handset12is detachably mounted on wristband10, 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 band10of communication device5may 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 handset12is made of the same material as the wrist band so that when it is in the closed position, the entire communication device5appears in a uniformly integrated arrangement.

FIG.15(b) illustrates wrist communication device5in a partially open position. In this case, keypad section18bis rotated around hinge21. Handset12is configured to fit on keypad section18b, such as by a friction fit. The width of keypad section18ais configured to be smaller than the entire width of communication device5so as to allow space for an antenna system58. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, antenna system58includes an antenna56, which is disposed near keypad18a, and preferably adjacent to it. Preferably, the height of antenna56in its closed position is substantially the same as the height of keypad section18b.

Antenna system60includes a hinge or pivot mechanism62, so as to allow antenna58to open in a direction away from the horizontal plane of the wrist communication device. Pivot mechanism62, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, includes a spherical pivot64(FIG.15(g)), which allows antenna58to rotate in any direction in a space above the horizontal plane of the wrist communication device for optimum reception.

FIG.15(c) illustrates antenna58in a retrieved position. As illustrated, antenna58extends away from the horizontal plane of the wrist communication device. It is noted that in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, antenna58is held in its closed position by a biasing mechanism, such as a spring bias, such that when keypad18bis removed from keypad18a, the biasing mechanism releases antenna58in a desired position, without the need for the user to do so.

FIG.15(d), illustrates antenna system60in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. As shown, an extension antenna66is telescopically extendable from antenna58. In accordance with one embodiment, extension antenna66may be extended for better reception. Additionally, a pivot or hinge mechanism70allows extension antenna66to rotate about antenna58.

In accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention, extension antenna66and antenna58are configured to operate independently as a diversity antenna. The operation of diversity antennas is well known, and is described for example in U.S. Pat. No. 5,564,082, issued Oct. 8, 1996, and incorporated herein by reference. Thus, when extension antenna66is rotated about antenna58, the 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 antenna66in relation with antenna58improves transmission and reception, regardless of the position of wrist communication device5.

Furthermore, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, one of the antennas58or66may be employed for transmission, while the other one is employed for reception.

FIGS.15(d) and16(a) illustrate exemplary positions of extension antenna66, while FIG.16(b) illustrate an antenna system60comprising antennas58and66, which are both coupled to wrist communication device5at one of their ends. Antennas58and66are both extendable away from the horizontal plane of communication device5.

FIGS.17(a) and17(b) illustrate another embodiment of antenna system60, in accordance with the principle of the present invention. Antenna system60comprises two antennas74and76which are attached outside the keyboard area of communication device5. Each of the antennas74and76are extendable away from communication device5via pivot mechanism80. Antennas74and76may 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 antenna78, which extends away from communication device5via a pivot mechanism82. FIGS.18(a) and18(b) illustrates another embodiment of the invention, wherein handset12completely covers antenna78when it is in a closed position.

Finally, FIGS.19(a) and19(b) illustrate another embodiment of the invention, wherein a base area84is disposed underneath antenna58.

During operation, antenna system60provides for an arrangement wherein the antenna for the wrist communication device5are 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.