U.S. patent application number 10/478018 was filed with the patent office on 2004-07-15 for portable multi-display device.
Invention is credited to Kim, Hyun Hee, Kim, Jang Ho, Kim, Si Han.
Application Number | 20040135738 10/478018 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27483525 |
Filed Date | 2004-07-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040135738 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kim, Si Han ; et
al. |
July 15, 2004 |
Portable multi-display device
Abstract
A separable portable multi-display device is provided. A
portable multi-display device includes a main body panel housing
having a first display, a sub-panel housing having a second
display, and a coupling device for coupling the main body panel
housing to the sub-panel housing such that at least one sides of
the first display and the second display can contact each other.
The panel housings are separable from and connectable to each
other, a range of a border between the displays when the panel
housings are interconnected being minimized so that the displays
can be shown as if it is driven as a single screen.
Inventors: |
Kim, Si Han; (Kyunggi-Do,
KR) ; Kim, Hyun Hee; (Kyunggi-Do, KR) ; Kim,
Jang Ho; (Kyunggi-Do, KR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BRUCE LONDA
NORRIS, MCLAUGHLIN & MARCUS, P.A.
220 EAST 42ND STREET, 30TH FLOOR
NEW YORK
NY
10017
US
|
Family ID: |
27483525 |
Appl. No.: |
10/478018 |
Filed: |
November 13, 2003 |
PCT Filed: |
August 24, 2002 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/KR02/01596 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
345/1.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10S 345/903 20130101;
G06F 2200/1634 20130101; G06F 1/1632 20130101; G06F 1/1624
20130101; G06F 1/1656 20130101; G06F 1/1633 20130101; Y10S 345/905
20130101; G06F 1/1641 20130101; G06F 1/1616 20130101; G06F 1/1654
20130101; G06F 1/1626 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/001.1 |
International
Class: |
G09G 005/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 25, 2001 |
KR |
2001/51506 |
Sep 5, 2001 |
KR |
2001/54462 |
Sep 12, 2001 |
KR |
2001/56112 |
Oct 22, 2001 |
KR |
2001/64988 |
Claims
1. A portable multi-display device comprising: a main body panel
housing having a first display; a sub-panel housing having a second
display; and coupling means for coupling the main body panel
housing to the sub-panel housing such that at least one sides of
the first display and the second display can contact each
other.
2. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein a side
portion of the main body panel housing and a side portion of the
first display are disposed on a same plane.
3. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein a separable
or foldable cover is formed on the main body panel housing.
4. A portable multi-display device of claim 3 wherein the cover is
provided with an input key.
5. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein when the main
body panel housing is coupled to the sub-panel housing, at least
one of the main and sub displays slides to be disposed adjacent to
another display.
6. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein the panel
housings comprise outer coupling means to which electronic devices
can be coupled.
7. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein the sub-panel
housing is coupled to and stacked on a front or rear side of the
main body panel housing.
8. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 further comprising
protecting means for protecting side portions of the displays,
which are exposed through side portions of the panel housings.
9. A portable multi-display device of claim 8 wherein the
protecting means comprises a foldable protecting cover.
10. A portable multi-display device of claim 8 wherein the panel
housings are provided with a cover receiving space in which the
protecting means is received.
11. A portable multi-display device of claim 8 further comprising a
sealing cap for protecting the coupling means of side portions of
the panel housings.
12. A portable multi-display device of claim 8 wherein when the
protecting means is folded, a height of the protecting means is
greater than the display.
13. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein the displays
are disposed on tops of side portions of the panel housings.
14. A portable multi-display device of claim 13 wherein an opening
is formed on a side portion of a joint portion of the panel
housings, and the displays are disposed on the side portion where
the opening is formed.
15. A portable multi-display device of claim 13 wherein the display
is fixed on the panel housing by a chassis enclosing the display
and a display drive circuit, and the chassis is provided with a
fixing member.
16. A portable multi-display device of claim 15 wherein the chassis
is formed in an integral type which encloses a side portion of the
display at the joint portion of the panel housing.
17. A portable multi-display device of claim 13 wherein the display
and the display drive circuit are mounted on a support, and the
support is mounted on the side portion of the joint portion of the
panel housing.
18. A portable multi-display device of claim 15 or 17 wherein a
distance from a display side portion of the joint portion to the
fixing member is identical to that from a panel housing side
portion of the joint portion to fixing member hooking means.
19. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein a
non-display area formed by two displays contacting each other at
their one side portion is less than 3.2 mm.
20. A portable multi-display device of claim 13 or 19 wherein the
display comprises upper and lower substrates and sealant for
sealing the upper and lower substrates, the sealant being disposed
adjacent to electrodes at the joint portion.
21. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 further comprising
coupling detecting means for detecting a coupling state of the
panel housings and a central process unit for selectively driving
the displays according to a signal from the coupling detecting
means or a mode selection signal.
22. A portable multi-display device of claim 21 wherein a cover is
mounted on at least one of the panel housings, and further
comprises a cover sensor for detecting a closing/opening state of
the cover.
23. A portable multi-display device of claim 22 further comprising
a sub-display controlled by the central process unit according to a
signal from the cover sensor.
24. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 further comprising
fixing means for securely maintaining the coupling state of the
panel housings.
25. A portable multi-display device of claim 24 wherein the fixing
means is provided with a locking device.
26. A portable multi-display device of claim 24 wherein the fixing
means is formed in an elevated wall.
27. A portable multi-display device of claim 24 wherein the fixing
means is a projection member.
28. A portable multi-display device of claim 24 wherein the fixing
means is a step formed on a coupling surface of the panel
housing.
29. A portable multi-display device of claim 9 and 24 wherein a
portion of the protecting cover is cut away so that the fixing
means can be located.
30. A portable multi-display device of claim 9 wherein the
protecting cover is spread inline.
31. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 further comprising
shock absorbing means formed on a coupling side of the panel
housing.
32. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein from a state
the displays are stacked one another, the displays slide from each
other to enlarge the screen with their one side portion contacting
each other, wherein a protecting cover is provided to cover a side
portion of a joint portion formed at a contacting portion of the
displays.
33. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein a sliding
movement of the displays is performed by a motor.
34. A portable multi-display device of claim 32 wherein when the
displays are stacked, the displays are not interconnected by a
circuit and when the displays are disposed to be adjacent to each
other at their one side portion, the displays are interconnected by
a circuit connector.
35. A portable multi-display device of claim 32 further comprising
an intermediate display stacked between the displays, wherein when
the displays are spread in opposite directions horizontally, an
enlarged single screen is realized.
36. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein an extended
portion is coupled to the main body.
37. A portable multi-display device of claim 36 wherein a memory,
an input device or a display is mounted on the extended
portion.
38. A portable multi-display device of claim 36 wherein the
extended portion is mounted on a front or rear portion of the main
body.
39. A portable multi-display device of claim 36 wherein another
extended portion is further mounted on both sides of the main
body.
40. A portable multi-display device of claim 1 wherein a display is
extended on both sides of the main body panel housing.
41. A method for driving a portable multi-display device,
comprising the steps of: coupling or separating at least two
displays by a circuit; detecting a coupling state of the displays
and transmitting a corresponding signal to a central process unit;
selecting one of a single display mode and a simple display mode
through an input device; and controlling the displays according to
the transmitted signal or the selected display mode in the central
process unit to display the single display mode or the simple
display mode.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a portable multi-display
device and, more particularly, to a portable multi-display device
having a main body panel housing and a sub-panel housing each
having a display, and coupling means, the panel housings being
separately interconnected by connecting means.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] A method for realizing a single large-sized screen by use of
at least two displays has been used for a large size display
device. Generally, a flat display is used for a portable display
device. An LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an FED (Field Emission
Display), a PDP (Plasma Display Panel), an EL (Electro Luminescent)
are well known as the flat display.
[0003] In recent years, since new functions such as a wireless
Internet have been added to the portable display device, a display
device having a large-sized screen has been required. However, such
a large-sized portable display has a problem of its mobility due to
its overall size. To overcome this problem, a foldable
multi-display device has been proposed.
[0004] In the foldable multi-display device, more than two displays
are interconnected to be foldable, but not separable. That is, the
separation and connection of the displays cannot be flexibly
realized. For example, it is impossible for a user to carry only
one display, deteriorating the mobility and convenience that are
the inherent properties of the portable display device.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in an effort
to solve the above-described problems.
[0006] It is an objective of the present invention to provide a
portable multi-display device having a main body panel housing and
a sub-panel housing each having a display, the panel housings being
designed to be separable from and connectable to each other, a
range of a border between the displays being minimized when the
panel housings are interconnected so that the displays can be shown
as if it is driven as a single screen.
[0007] To achieve the above objective, the present invention
provides a portable multi-display device comprising a main body
panel housing having a first display; a sub-panel housing having a
second display; and coupling means for coupling the main body panel
housing to the sub-panel housing such that at least one sides of
the first display and the second display can contact each
other.
[0008] A side portion of the main body panel housing and a side
portion of the first display are disposed on a same plane.
[0009] A separable cover is formed on the main body panel housing
and the cover is provided with an input key. The cover can be
formed in a foldable type.
[0010] When the main body panel housing is coupled to the sub-panel
housing, at least one of the main and sub displays slides to be
disposed adjacent to another display.
[0011] The sub-panel housing comprises outer coupling means to
which electronic devices can be coupled. The electronic devices
comprise a desktop monitor on which the sub-panel housing is
coupled by the outer coupling means.
[0012] The main body panel housing may further comprise an
auxiliary display that can be viewed even when the cover covers the
main body panel.
[0013] The sub-panel housing may stack on a front or rear portion
of the main body panel housing and the coupling means is formed on
the front or rear portion of the panel housings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is a view illustrating a portable multi-display
device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a view illustrating sub-panel housing to be
connectable;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a view of a portable multi-display device where
two panel housings are connected;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a view illustrating a portable display device of
the present invention is connected to other information device;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a view illustrating a separation structure of a
cover;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a view of a portable multi-display device
according to another embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a view of another example of a panel housing
connection state;
[0021] FIGS. 8a and 8b are views illustrating protecting means of a
main body panel housing;
[0022] FIGS. 9a and 9b are views illustrating protecting means of a
sub-panel housing;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a cover receiving space;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a sectional view of panel housings connected to
each other;
[0025] FIGS. 12a and 12b are views illustrating an end portion of a
protecting cover;
[0026] FIGS. 13a and 13b are views illustrating another example of
a coupling projection and a coupling groove of a protecting
cover;
[0027] FIGS. 14a and 14b are views illustrating another example of
protecting means;
[0028] FIGS. 15a and 15b are views illustrating another example of
protecting means;
[0029] FIG. 16 is a view illustrating a method for protecting
connecting means of the panel housings from moisture;
[0030] FIG. 17 is a view illustrating a main body panel housing
provided at its side portion with an opening;
[0031] FIG. 18 is a view illustrating a method for fixing a display
on a panel housing;
[0032] FIGS. 19a and 19b are views illustrating a display mounted
on a chassis;
[0033] FIG. 20 is a view illustrating another example of a display
mounting;
[0034] FIGS. 21a and 21b are views illustrating panel housings
provided with a side protecting film;
[0035] FIG. 22 is an upper view illustrating a state where a
display is fixed to a panel housing by a fixing member;
[0036] FIG. 23 is a sectional view illustrating a state where two
displays disposed adjacent to each other;
[0037] FIG. 24 is a block diagram illustrating a driving structure
of a display device of the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a process for drive
control of the display according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention;
[0039] FIGS. 26a and 26b are views illustrating a potable
multi-display device according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0040] FIG. 27 is a view illustrating a main body panel housing
provided with fixing means;
[0041] FIG. 28a is a view illustrating a sub-panel housing provided
with fixing means;
[0042] FIG. 28b is an enlarged view illustrating a locking device
of FIG. 28a;
[0043] FIGS. 29a and 29b are views illustrating another example of
fixing means;
[0044] FIGS. 30a and 30b are views illustrating projection type
fixing means;
[0045] FIGS. 31a and 31b are views illustrating step type fixing
means;
[0046] FIG. 32 is a view illustrating a portable multi-display
device according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0047] FIGS. 33a to 34 are views illustrating the enlargement of a
screen as displays slide;
[0048] FIGS. 35a and 35b are views illustrating an upper panel
housing and a lower panel housing;
[0049] FIGS. 36a and 36b are views illustrating another example of
sliding means;
[0050] FIGS. 37 to 39b are views illustrating a portable
multi-display device according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0051] FIGS. 40a and 40b are views illustrating an example of more
than 3 displays stacked one another;
[0052] FIG. 41 is a view illustrating a state before other expanded
devices are coupled to a main body panel housing;
[0053] FIGS. 42a and 42b are views illustrating a state where a
protecting cover and a side cover are unfolded;
[0054] FIG. 43 is a view illustrating a state where expanding
devices are coupled to a main body and a main body panel
housing;
[0055] FIG. 44 is a block diagram illustrating a state where the
expanding devices are coupled; and
[0056] FIGS. 45a and 45b are views illustrating an example of an
expanding device connected to a rear surface of a main body.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0057] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be
described hereinafter in conjunction with accompanying
drawings.
[0058] The present invention provides a portable multi-display
device having at least two flat displays connected to be adjacent
to each other so as to define a large-sized screen effect. As the
flat display panels, LCDs, FEDs, PDPs, electric papers and the like
can be used.
[0059] Embodiment 1
[0060] FIG. 1 shows a portable multi-display device of the present
invention.
[0061] As shown in the drawing, the inventive multi-display device
comprises a main body panel housing 20 and a display 2. An antenna
enabling transmitting and receiving information may be further
provided. The display 2 is designed expanding to one side end of
the main body panel housing 20.
[0062] In addition, the main body panel housing 20 is provided at
its one sidewall with a pair of coupling means 22 and 22'. The main
body panel housing 20 can be coupled to a sub-panel housing by the
coupling means.
[0063] The multi-display device further comprises a flip cover 100
for covering the display 2. The flip cover 100 is provided at its
outer surface with input keys 110 and a cover window 100a so that a
part of the display can be viewed through the cover window 100a
when the display 2 is covered by the flip cover 100. The flip cover
100 is designed to cover the sidewall of the display. A state where
the display is covered by the flip cover 100 is shown in a broken
line of FIG. 1.
[0064] FIG. 2 shows a sub-panel housing capable of coupling to the
main body panel housing.
[0065] As shown in the drawing, the sub-panel housing 40 capable of
coupling to the main body panel housing 20 is provided with a pair
of coupling means 44 and 44' for coupling to the main body panel
housing 20. The coupling means 44 and 44' is designed to be
projected out of and inserted in the panel housing 40 by a lever
42.
[0066] FIG. 3 shows a view where the main body panel housing is
coupled to the sub-panel housing.
[0067] As shown in the FIG. 3, when the main body panel housing 20
is coupled to the sub-panel housing 40, the first and second
displays 2 and 4 contact each other. As a result, the border
between the displays 2 and 4 is minimized, whereby the two displays
2 and 4 are driven as if one display.
[0068] In addition, cover coupling means for connecting the cover
100 to the main body panel housing 20 has a shaft formed in male
and female structures so that the cover 100 can be removable from
the main body panel housing 20.
[0069] The panel housing 40 may be further provided with outer
coupling means 33 for connecting to another information device. As
shown in FIG. 4, the display device of the present invention can be
coupled on a top of a monitor 300, which is another information
device, by the outer coupling means 33. Needless to say, provided
on the top of the monitor 300 is coupling means for detachably
coupling to the outer information device.
[0070] FIG. 5 shows a removing structure of the cover.
[0071] As shown in the drawing, the shaft for connecting the cover
100 to the panel housing 20 comprises a projection shaft 102 and a
cap shaft 101. To couple the cover 100 to the panel housing 20, the
cap shaft 101 is enfolded around the projection shaft 102. The cap
shaft 101 and the projection shaft 102 are designed in a circular
shape so that they can rotate when they are coupled.
[0072] FIG. 6 shows another example of the display device of the
present invention.
[0073] In this example, the portable display device comprises the
main panel housing 20 and the sub-panel housing 40. When the main
body and sub-panel housings 20 and 40 are coupled, one of the first
and second displays 2 and 4 slides such that the first and second
displays 2 and 4 disposed to be adjacent at their one sides. The
main body panel housing 20 is provided with a sliding groove 28,
and the first display 2 is provided with a projection (not shown)
so that the first display 2 can slides along the sliding groove
28.
[0074] FIG. 7 shows another example of a coupling state of the
panel hosing.
[0075] In this example, the sub-panel housing 40 is stacked on
front or rear surface of the main body panel housing 20. That is,
as shown in FIG. 7, formed on the front surface of the sub-panel
housing 40 is a coupling groove 48 by which the sub-panel housing
40 is coupled to the rear surface of the main body panel housing
20. Although omitted in the drawing for the descriptive
convenience, a coupling projection for coupling to the coupling
groove 48 of the sub-panel housing 40 is formed on the rear surface
of the main body panel housing 20.
[0076] Embodiment 2
[0077] As shown in FIG. 1, when the main body panel housing 20 and
the sub-panel housing 40 are disassembled, side portions of the
displays 2 and 4 are exposed at one side portions of the panel
housings 20 and 40. In this embodiment, to protect the exposed side
portions of the displays 2 and 4, protecting means is provided on
the side portions of the panel housings 20 and 40.
[0078] FIGS. 8a and 8b show the protecting means of the main body
panel housing 20, in which FIG. 8a shows a state in which the
protecting cover 23 is folded, and FIG. 8b shows a state in which
the protecting cover is unfolded. The protecting covers 23 and 43
are used in this embodiment as the protecting means.
[0079] The protecting cover 23 of the main body panel housing 20 is
designed to be foldable. The protecting cover 23 can be separated
in two shaft portions. A cover shaft 23a synchronizes with the
protecting cover 23 and a panel housing shaft 23b is fixed on the
panel housing 20.
[0080] A grip 26 formed in a stripe groove is formed on the
protecting cover 23 so that it is convenient to open and close the
protecting cover 23. In addition, when the protecting cover 23 is
unfolded on the main body panel housing 20, a coupling projection
25 of the protecting cover 23 is interlocked with a coupling groove
21 of the main body panel housing so that the protecting cover 23
can be securely coupled on the main body panel housing 20.
[0081] In addition, a cover receiving space 27 is defined on the
side portion of the main body panel housing 20 where the protecting
cover 23 is provided so as to receive the protecting cover 43 of
the sub-panel housing 40. Formed on the panel housing 20 is also
coupling means 22 and 22' for coupling to the sub-panel housing
40.
[0082] FIGS. 9a and 9b shows the protecting means of the sub-panel
housing 40, in which FIG. 9a is a state where the protecting cover
43 of the sub-panel housing 40 is unfolded, and FIG. 9b is a state
where the protecting cover 43 is folded.
[0083] The protecting cover 43 of the sub-panel housing 40 is also
provided with a groove-shaped grip 46, and the panel housing 40 is
provided with a coupling groove 41. In addition, formed on a lower
end of the sub-panel housing 40 is a cover receiving space 47 for
receiving the protecting cover 23 of the main body panel housing
20. A cover shaft 43a of the protecting cover 43 synchronizes with
the protecting cover 43, and a panel housing shaft 43b is fixed on
the panel housing 40.
[0084] FIG. 10 shows the cover receiving space more in detail.
[0085] The cover receiving space may be defined on a side portion
of the panel housing as shown in FIG. 8b or on a lower end of the
panel housing as shown in FIG. 10. The cover receiving space 47 is
provided with a guide rail 47a along which the protecting cover 23
of the main body panel housing 20 slides.
[0086] FIG. 11 shows a panel housing coupling state.
[0087] A variety of parts 29 and 49 such as a CPU and a circuit
board is provided in the panel housing.
[0088] The protecting cover 23 of the main body panel housing 20 is
received in the cover receiving space 47 defined on the sub-panel
housing 40, and the protecting cover 43 of the sub-panel housing 40
is received in the cover receiving space 27 of the main body panel
housing 20.
[0089] In addition, an example having two panel housings is
embodied in this embodiment, three or more panels housings can be
provided in a same concept.
[0090] FIGS. 12a and 12b show a section of the protecting covers 23
and 43, in which FIG. 12a is a state where the protecting cover is
folded and FIG. 12b is a state where the protecting cover is
unfolded.
[0091] In this example, there is provided a hooking means for
preventing the panel housings 20 and 40 from bending more than
90.degree. when the protecting covers 23 and 43 are unfolded. As
the hooking means, a section of one of the cover shafts 23a and 43a
is formed at a right angle. In addition, when the protecting covers
23 and 43 are folded, the protecting covers 23 and 43 are designed
to be higher than the surfaces of the displays 2 and 4 when the
protecting covers 23 and 43 are folded, thereby enhancing the
protecting efficiency for the displays 2 and 4.
[0092] FIGS. 13a and 13b shows another examples of the coupling
projection and the coupling groove of the protecting cover, in
which FIG. 13a shows the coupling projections 25 and 45 with a
concave structure, and FIG. 13b shows a locking device.
[0093] In this example, the coupling projections 25 and 45 are
designed to be the concave structure, and the locking devices 21a
and 41a are provided in the coupling grooves 21 and 41. The
coupling projections 25 and 45 are fixed by elastic force of the
locking devices 21a and 41a.
[0094] FIGS. 14a and 14b shows another example of the protecting
means. The protecting covers 23 and 43 is designed to, when they
are folded, protect the exposed side portions of the displays 2 and
4 and to, when they are unfolded, locate on a lower end of the
panel housings.
[0095] FIG. 14a shows a state where the protecting covers 23 and 43
are folded, and FIG. 14b shows a state unfolded. As shown in the
drawing, the protecting covers 23 and 43 are formed in a
drawer-type so that the protecting covers 23 and 43 can be
withdrawn out of and received in the lower end of the panel
housings.
[0096] The protecting covers 23 and 43 should be designed such that
they can be gently located on an inner portion of an extension line
of the side surface of the panel housings 20 and 40 when they are
received in the cover receiving spaces 27 and 47. That is, when two
panel housings are coupled with their adjacent side portions
contacting each other, the protecting covers 23 and 43 should not
affect on they coupling.
[0097] FIGS. 15a and 15b show another example of the protecting
means.
[0098] In this example, the protecting covers 23 and 43 pivots to
be located on a lower end of the panel housings. That is, the
protecting covers 23 and 43 are to be closely located on the lower
end the panel housing when they are unfolded. The protecting covers
23 and 43 are designed to be pivotable at more than 270.degree. so
that they can be attached on the lower end of the panel housings 20
and 40.
[0099] In addition, for the pivoting operation of the protecting
covers 23 and 43, there are provided panel housing shafts 23b and
43b connected to the panel housings and cover shafts 23a and 43a
connected to the protecting covers. When the protecting covers 23
and 43 are attached on lower ends of the panel housings, the
protecting covers 23 and 43 and the shafts are located on an inner
portion of the extension line of the side portions of the panel
housings 20 and 40.
[0100] FIG. 16 shows a method for protecting the coupling means of
the panel housing from moisture.
[0101] As shown in the drawing, elastic seal caps 22b and 22b' are
fitted in rectangular grooves of the coupling means 22 and 22'
provided on the main body panel housing 20. At this point, the
elastic seal caps 22b and 22b' are formed of elastic material such
as rubber. The elastic seal caps 22b and 22b' are fitted protruding
so that the seal effect can be enhanced while being reduced in its
volume. Accordingly, when the protecting cover 23 or the sub-panel
housing 40 is attached on a side portion of the main body panel
housing 20, a seal effect for protecting the coupling means from
moisture can be obtained. In addition, the seal caps 22b and 22b'
may be provided on the protecting cover 23 and can be provided on
the sub-panel housing 40 in an identical manner.
[0102] Embodiment 3
[0103] The portable multi-display device of the present invention
is provided at its side portion with an opening for mounting the
display in the panel housing. The display is mounted on the side
portion of the panel housing on which the opening is formed.
[0104] FIG. 17 shows a main body panel housing provided with the
opening.
[0105] As shown in the drawing, the panel cover 24 is detachably
coupled to an upper end of the main body panel housing 20. An
opening is formed on a side portion 20b of the main body panel
housing 20 provided with a joint portion 2'. The display 2 and the
display drive circuit 2a are disposed on the side portion 20b
provided with the opening. In addition, another side portion 20a of
the panel housing is provided with a display support 10 for fixedly
supporting the display 2. The main body panel housing 20 is
provided at its lower end with a lower support 12 for supporting a
main body circuit board 2b.
[0106] FIG. 18 shows a method for fixing the display on the panel
housing.
[0107] The display 2 is enclosed by a chassis 16 provided with a
fixing member 16b for fixing the chassis 16 and the display 2 on
the main body panel housing 20. When the chassis 16 is fixed, the
panel cover 24 covers a non-display area of the display 2. As a
result, the display 2 is mounted in the opening formed on the side
portion 20b of the panel housing 20 provided with the coupling
means 22 and 22', while being exposed through the opening.
[0108] FIGS. 19a and 19b show the display mounted on the
chassis.
[0109] As shown in FIG. 19a, the display 2 together with the
display drive circuit 2a is mounted inside the chassis 16. Although
omitted in the drawing, a backlight system may be mounted inside
the chassis 16.
[0110] FIG. 19b is a sectional view of FIG. 19a. A display assembly
having the display 2, the display drive circuit 2a and the
backlight system 2c is mounted inside the chassis 16. The
integrated chassis 16 encloses the display assembly. The integrated
chassis 16 is not a single body but divided into a body and a cover
that are assembled to each other by a screw so as to define a
single unit. The chassis 16 is made of a plastic, a metal plate, or
an aluminum plate.
[0111] In addition, a side portion of the display 2 is only
enclosed by the chassis 16 in a portion of the joint portion 2' so
as to minimize the joint portion when two displays is driven as if
a single display by contacting each other.
[0112] FIG. 20 shows another example of a display mounting.
[0113] In this example, the display 2 and the display drive circuit
2a are mounted on the plate type support 17 that is mounted on the
panel housing 20. The support 17 is provided with a fixing
projection 17b by which the panel housing 20 is fixed.
[0114] The support 17 is shown as a rectangular shape in FIG. 20,
not limiting the present invention. That is, the support 17 is not
limited to the rectangular shape.
[0115] FIGS. 21a and 21b show a panel housing provided with a side
protecting film.
[0116] FIG. 21a is a schematic view of the panel housing 20 having
the side protecting film 20c. For the convenience in the
description, other parts are omitted but only the panel housing 20
is illustrated. In FIG. 21a, the opening is depicted in a
dotted-line.
[0117] The side protecting film 20c is formed of a thin resin film,
a plastic film, or a thin metal plate which is different from that
of the panel housing 20. Preferably, the thickness of the side
protecting film 20c is less than 1 mm.
[0118] FIG. 21b is a sectional view of the panel housing 20 having
the side protecting film 20c. The side protecting film 20c is
provided on the joint side portion 20b of the panel housing 20 to
protect the display 2 exposed through the panel housing 20. A
variety of parts and a main body circuit board 29 is loaded in the
panel housing 20. In addition, the display assembly is loaded on
the support 17 and located on the upper end of the panel housing
side portion 20b having the joint portion 2'.
[0119] FIG. 22 shows an upper view of the panel housing to which
the display is fixed by the fixing projection. A manner for
disposing the joint portion 2' of the display 2 on an extension
line of the joint side portion 20b of the panel housing 20. The
extension line can be considered to be variable within a range of
.+-.1 mm.
[0120] In addition, a protecting plate or a protecting film may be
provided to protect the side portion of the display 2. Accordingly,
the side portion of the main body panel housing 20 and the side
portion of the protecting plate or film may be located on an
identical line.
[0121] As shown in FIG. 22, the display 2 may be removed away
through the opening of the panel housing 20. Therefore, in the
present invention, a fixing member 16b fixed on the hooking means
20d of the panel housing 20 is provided.
[0122] In FIG. 22, the fixing member 16b is formed in a projection
type, not limiting the present invention. That is, the fixing
member 16b can be formed in a screw type fixed on the panel housing
20. At this point, the hooking means is formed in a screw
groove.
[0123] As shown in FIG. 22, a distance k from the display side
portion of the joint portion 2' to the fixing member 16b is
identical to that from panel housing side portion 20b to the
hooking means 20d.
[0124] FIG. 23 is a sectional view illustrating two displays
contacting each other at their one side portion.
[0125] An LCD, which is one of the flat displays, comprises upper
and lower substrates 15 and 15a disposed opposing each other.
Transparent electrodes 19 are coated on the substrates 15 and 15a.
In addition, a liquid crystal layer 15b is disposed between the
transparent electrodes 19. Polarizers 15' and 15a' are attached on
the outer surfaces of the substrates 15 and 15a. When the flat
display is an EL, a single substrate may be provided.
[0126] As shown in FIG. 23, the upper and lower substrates 15 and
15a are assembled and sealed by sealants 24a and 24b. At this
point, the sealant 24a of the joint portion 2' is disposed adjacent
to a pixel electrode 19.
[0127] The sealant 24a of the joint portion 2' should be designed
having a minimized width less than, for example, about 0.8 mm. A
side portion protecting film 20c is attached around the joint
portion sealant 24a (when the display is enclosed by the chassis
16, the chassis 16 functions as the side portion protecting film
20c). At this point, the thickness of the side portion protecting
film 20c is preferably less than 0.8 mm. Accordingly, in the
present invention, when more than two displays realize a single
screen by being adjacent to each other, the joint portion which is
the non-display area becomes less than 3.2 mm, thereby providing an
effect of a single screen using two adjacent displays.
[0128] Embodiment 4
[0129] When the main body panel housing 20 is coupled to the
sub-panel housing 40, a coupling detecting sensor of the main body
panel housing 20 detects a projection sensor of the sub-panel
housing 40, and then the CPU disposed in the main body panel
housing 20 automatically detects the coupling state of the panel
housings 20 and 40.
[0130] FIG. 24 is a block diagram illustrating a display drive of
the display device of the present invention in a state where the
main body panel housing 20 and the sub-panel housing 40 are
coupled.
[0131] In the multi-display device of the present invention, a
storage device such as a memory is provided in the sub-panel
housing 40 to enhance the function of the main body panel housing
20. At this point, the storage device disposed in the sub-panel
housing 40 is coupled by a circuit to the CPU of the main body
panel housing 20.
[0132] In the drawing, the CPU 200 is control means for controlling
overall operation of the multi-display device of the present
invention. A ROM 210 controls the display operating program, a RAM
220 stores the data generated when the program is operated, and a
EEP ROM 230 stores the data which are required for the users, and
which are needed for processing that data.
[0133] An R/F part 240 is a radio frequency to synchronize with an
RF channel, amplify input sound signal, and convert the RF signal
received from the antenna into a medium frequency signal. An input
part 250 comprises numeric keys, menu keys, and selection keys.
That is, the button keys 110 in FIG. 1, the input keys 110 in FIG.
26b, and a touch panel that may be disposed on the display are
generally represented by the input part 250.
[0134] There are display drive circuits 2a and 4a for driving the
displays by the output of the CPU 200, and are first and second
displays 2 and 4 for displaying the information on a screen by an
output signal of the display drive circuits (the display disposed
on the main body panel housing 20 is a first display, and the
display disposed on the sub-panel housing 40 is a second display).
The second drive circuit 4a and the second display 4 are coupled to
the CPU 200 by coupling means 22 and 22'.
[0135] A coupling detecting sensor 22a detects if the main body
panel housing 20 is coupled to the sub-panel housing 40. When the
panel housings are coupled, the coupling detecting sensor 22a
detects the projection sensor 44a and transmits the detected signal
to the CPU 200. That is, in a circularly opened state, when the
coupling detecting sensor 22a contacts the projection sensor 44a,
it is circularly closed so as to realize the electric flow. As the
coupling detecting sensor 22a, a variety of sensors such as an
optical sensor can be selected.
[0136] FIG. 25 shows a flowchart illustrating a drive control
method for the display according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention. This flowchart shows a control process for
selectively driving the first and second displays 2 and 4
respectively provided on the main body panel housing 20 and the
sub-panel housing 40 as the main body panel housing 20 is coupled
to or separated from the sub-panel housing 40.
[0137] When a user turns the power switch on, the radio frequency
signal received from the antenna is transmitted to the CPU 200
through the R/F part 240. In addition, when a specific function is
set through the input part 250, the CPU 200 performs the specific
function and outputs a signal for driving the displays 2 and 4 to
the display drive circuits 2a and 4a. In addition, the coupling
detecting sensor 22a detects if the main body panel housing 20 is
coupled to the sub-panel housing 40 and transmits the corresponding
signal to the CPU 200.
[0138] The flowchart depicted in FIG. 25 will be described
hereinafter on the basis of the above-described circuit.
[0139] It is determined if the power switch is turned on (S310).
When the power switch is turned on, the CPU 200 uses the coupling
detecting sensor 22a to determine if the panel housings are coupled
(S312). That is, it is determined if the main body panel housing 20
is coupled to the sub-panel housing 40.
[0140] When the panel housings are coupled to each other, it is
determined if a single display mode or a simple mode is selected
(S314). The selection of the single display mode or the simple mode
is realized through the input part 250. That is, the single display
mode or the simple mode enables for the user to select one of the
first and second displays 2 and 4 when a simple function such as
calculation function and pocket function is required. In addition,
when a complex function such as Internet is performed, two displays
are required.
[0141] When one of the single display mode and the simple mode is
selected through the input part 250, the selection state is output
from the input part 250 to the CPU 200. When both of the single
display mode and the simple mode are not selected, all of the
displays are driven (S316).
[0142] In addition, when the CPU 200 detects that the panel
housings are not coupled to each other from the coupling detecting
sensor 22a, only the first display is driven. When only one of the
modes is selected, only the first display is driven (S318).
[0143] Here, the drive of the first display does not means that
simply only one display is driven but means that a display mode is
different from the case where two displays are all driven. For
example, a display mode for a simple pocket function or a
transmission of e-mail is different from a complex mode for
Internet or a graphic. That is, a display mode or a design is
different from that for driving two displays.
[0144] Although not illustrated in the block diagram, when the
display is an LCD, since the power source for the backlight system
can be selectively cut-off, the user can selectively supply the
power for the backlight system.
[0145] Embodiment 5
[0146] FIGS. 26a and 26b show another embodiment of the
multi-display device of the present invention.
[0147] As shown in FIG. 26a, a sub-display 2d is provided in the
main body panel housing 20. The sub-display 2d is viewed even when
the cover 100 is folded. That is, the cover 100 is provided with a
cover window 100a. In addition, the main body panel housing 20 is
provided with a cover sensor 100b so as to detect if the cover 100
is folded or not.
[0148] FIG. 26b shows the folded cover 100. The input key 110 is
formed on an outer surface of the cover 100 and even when the cover
100 is folded, the sub-display 2d is viewed through the cover
window 100a.
[0149] Accordingly, when the cover 100 is folded, the CPU 200
detects through the cover sensor 100b that the cover 100 is folded
to drive the sub-display 2d. This operation method is similar to
that depicted in FIGS. 24 and 25.
[0150] In this embodiment, although only two panel housings are
exampled for the convenience, the identical method can be applied
even when more than tree panel housings are provided.
[0151] Embodiment 6
[0152] When the panel housings 20 and 40 are coupled only by the
coupling means 22, 22', 44 and 44', the mechanical reliability
deteriorates. Therefore, in this embodiment, fixing means 30 and
30' formed in a projection member is provided on the panel housing
so as to enhance the mechanical coupling reliability.
[0153] FIG. 27 shows a main body panel housing provided with fixing
means.
[0154] The main body panel housing 20 is provided with fixing means
30 and 30' which are to be inserted into the sub-panel housing 40
to securely maintain the coupling state of the panel housings.
[0155] The fixing means 30 and 30' can be inserted into or
projected out of the main body panel housing 20 by a lever 42. That
is, the fixing means and the coupling means 22 are simultaneously
operated by the single lever 42. The fixing means 30' and the
coupling means 22' can be also inserted into or projected out of
the main body panel housing 20 by a single lever 42' (disposed on
an opposing side of the lever 42 and omitted in the drawing).
[0156] As shown in FIG. 27, the fixing means 30 and 30' are mounted
in a projected wall type on a peripheral sidewall of the main body
panel housing 20. In addition, the fixing means 30 and 30' are
provided with a locking groove 30a so as to function as a locking
device when the main body panel housing 20 is coupled to the
sub-panel housing 40.
[0157] In addition, protecting means 23 (see a broken line in the
drawing) is further provided. The protecting means 23 is provided
inside the fixing means 30 and 30' as shown in FIG. 27. That is,
the protecting means 23 is mounted on the panel housing 20 so as
not to cover and interfere the fixing means 30 and 30'.
[0158] FIG. 28a shows a sub-panel housing provided with fixing
means and FIG. 28b shows an enlarged view of a locking device of
FIG. 28a.
[0159] As shown in FIG. 28a, the sub-panel housing 40 is provided
with fixing grooves 50 and 50' in which the fixing means 30 and 30'
of the main body panel housing 20 are inserted.
[0160] The sub-panel housing 40 is further provided with a locking
device 51. As shown in FIG. 28b, the locking device 51 comprises a
locking button 51a, a locking lever 51b and a locking projection
51c. The fixing groove 30a of the main body panel housing 20 is
coupled to the locking projection 51c.
[0161] Accordingly, when the main body panel housing 20 and the
sub-panel housing 40 are coupled to each other, the locking
projection 51c is coupled to the locking groove 30a, thereby
realizing a locking structure. In addition, when the locking button
51a is pushed, the locking projection 51c moves upward on the basis
of the locking lever 51b. In addition, the locking device 51'
having an identical function to the locking device 51 is also
provided on an opposing side of the locking device 51. Therefore,
to completely separate the main body panel housing 20 and the
sub-panel housing 40 from each other, all of the buttons provided
on the locking devices 51 and 51' should be all pushed.
[0162] At this point, the main body panel housing 20 is pushed away
from the sub-panel housing 40 by elastic devices 52 and 52',
thereby releasing the coupling state between the main body panel
housing 20 and the sub-panel housing 40.
[0163] Likewise, protecting means for protecting the side portion
of the display exposed through the panel housing 40 can be also
provided (see broken line in the drawing).
[0164] FIGS. 29a and 29b show another example of the fixing
means.
[0165] As shown in FIG. 29a, a rectangular projection which is
fixing means 30 and 30', is formed around the coupling means 22 and
22' formed in a pin-shape. As shown in FIG. 29b, the sub-panel
housing 40 is provided at its side portion with groove type
coupling means 44 and 44'and fixing grooves 50 and 50'.
[0166] FIGS. 30a and 30b show the fixing means formed in a
projection type, in which FIG. 30a shows a main body panel housing
and FIG. 30b shows a sub-panel housing.
[0167] Four fixing means 30 and 30' are provided on the peripheral
portion for providing the stability. Four fixing grooves 50 and 50'
corresponding to the fixing means are also formed on a side
peripheral portion of the sub-panel housing 40.
[0168] In addition, the main body panel housing 20 is provided at
its coupling surface with shock absorbing means 31 for protecting
the display when the panel housing is coupled and separated. That
is, a longitudinal groove is formed on the side potion of the main
body panel housing 20, and the shock absorbing means 31 such as a
sponge is disposed in the longitudinal groove. The shock absorbing
means 31 is elevated from the surface of the panel housing 20, but
when outer force is applied thereto, it is reduced to a surface
identical to the surface of the panel housing. Therefore, the shock
absorbing means 31 is made of the sponge or rubber that is reduced
in its volume when being applied with pressure. In addition, the
shock absorbing means 31 can be provided all three exposed surfaces
of the display.
[0169] FIGS. 31a and 31b show another example of the fixing means,
which is formed in a step type. FIG. 31 shows the main body panel
housing and FIG. 31b shows the sub-panel housing.
[0170] In this example, the fixing means 30 and 30' that is formed
in a step type is formed on a peripheral portion of the coupling
surface of the panel housing. The step type fixing means 30 and 30'
are correspondingly formed to each other such that they can be
interlocked. As shown in FIG. 27, a locking device 51 may be
further provided to the fixing means 30 and 30'. Fixing grooves 50
and 50' are formed on the sub-panel housing 40. Locking projections
51c and 51c' are coupled to locking grooves 30a and 30a'. The
locking is released by locking buttons 51a and 51a'.
[0171] In this embodiment, although two panel housings are exampled
for the descriptive convenience, more than three panel housings can
be coupled in an identical manner.
[0172] Embodiment 7
[0173] FIG. 32 shows another embodiment of the portable
multi-display device of the present invention. At least two
displays are stacked. When the displays slide from each other to
enlarge the screen, a side portion of display joint portion where
the displays are disposed adjacent each other is protected by a
protecting cover.
[0174] As shown in the drawing, the upper panel housing 20 is
provided with the upper display 2, and the lower panel housing 40
is provided with the lower display 4 and connected to a main body
160 by a housing 55 and a connecting portion 6a. The main body 160
is provided with the menu keys and the button keys.
[0175] FIGS. 33a and 33b show the displays that slide from each
other to enlarge the screen.
[0176] As shown in FIG. 33a, the upper panel housing 20 having the
upper display 2 is stacked on the lower panel hosing 40 having the
lower display 4. The housing 55 fixes the upper and panel housings
20 and 40.
[0177] Using a grip 46 shown in FIG. 33a, when the user slides the
lower panel housing 40 in the arrow direction, as shown in FIG.
33b, the lower display is spread to enlarge the screen. At this
point, the protecting cover 43 is connected to the lower panel
housing 40 such that it can move together with the lower panel
housing 40.
[0178] In addition, when the user slides up the lower panel housing
40 in the arrow direction, as shown in FIG. 34, the lower and upper
displays 4 and 2 are disposed adjacent each other so as to provide
a single screen effect.
[0179] At this point, when the protecting cover 43 is pushed, it is
received in the lower panel housing 40. That is, when the upper and
lower displays 2 and 4 are spread, it can be possible to receive
the protecting cover 43 in the lower panel housing 40 as shown in
FIG. 32.
[0180] FIGS. 35a and 35b show the upper and lower panel
housings.
[0181] The housing 55 is provided at its inner side with a sliding
groove 55a along which the lower panel housing 40 slides
horizontally. Although omitted in the drawing, formed on the lower
panel housing 40 is a sling projection moving along the sliding
groove 55a.
[0182] In addition, the lower panel housing 40 slides vertically so
as to be finally coupled to the upper panel housing 20. At this
point, the coupling means 44 provided on the lower panel housing 20
is coupled to the coupling means 22 (shown in a broken line in the
drawing) provided on the upper panel housing 20.
[0183] In addition, the coupling means 44 of the lower panel
housing 40 is provided with a coupling slide groove 44i enabling
the lower panel housing 40 to slide vertically with respect to the
upper panel housing 20. The coupling means 22 of the upper panel
housing 20 is also provided with a slide projection moving along
the coupling slide groove 44i.
[0184] In addition, when the upper display 2 is stacked on the
lower display 2, the protecting cover 43 covers a side portion of
the joint portion 8' of the displays. When the upper displays 2 is
disposed adjacent to the lower display 4 on a same plan, the
protecting cover 43 does not cover the joint portion 8'.
[0185] That is, When the upper and lower displays 2 and 4 slide in
a state they are stacked, the protecting cover 43 is also moved not
to cover the joint portion 8'.
[0186] In addition, since a portion A of the housing 55 (see FIG.
35a) is blocked, the joint portion 8' of the lower display 4 can be
also covered when the upper and lower panel housings are
stacked.
[0187] When the coupling means 44 is coupled, the upper and lower
panel housings 20 and 40 are interconnected by a circuit by a
connecting pin 44b. That is, the connecting pin 44b functions a
circuit connector. Accordingly, the upper panel housing 20 is also
provided with a circuit connecting means corresponding to the
connecting pin 44b.
[0188] Accordingly, when the upper and lower panel housings 20 and
40 are stacked, they are not interconnected by a circuit, but when
being spread to be adjacent each other, they are interconnected by
the circuit by the circuit connecting means.
[0189] As shown in FIG. 33a, when the protecting cover 43 covers
the side portion of the joint portion 8', it is designed having a
symmetry structure to the opposite side to obtain the fine view
effect.
[0190] FIGS. 36a and 36b show another example of the sliding
means.
[0191] As shown in FIG. 36a, the coupling means 44 is provided with
a coupling gear 44c. As shown in FIG. 36b, an electric motor 44h, a
motor shaft 44e and a coupling belt 44d are provided in the
connecting portion 6a. The coupling bent 44d is engaged with the
coupling gear 44c so as to provide the sliding movement to the
lower panel housing 40 in a horizontal direction by the operation
of the motor 44h.
[0192] That is, in a state where the upper and lower panel housings
20 and 40 are stacked as shown in FIG. 33a, the panel housings
slide from each other by the power of the motor 44h, thereby the
panel housings are spread in the stepped structure as shown in FIG.
33b.
[0193] Embodiment 8
[0194] FIGS. 37 to 39b show another embodiment of the portable
multi-display device of the present invention.
[0195] FIG. 37 shows that the upper panel housing 20 is stacked on
the lower panel housing 40. At this point, when the upper panel
housing 20 slides horizontally, the upper and lower panel housings
20 and 40 are spread in a stepped structure as shown in FIG. 38.
The horizontal sliding movement is realized along a sliding groove
55a formed on the housing 55 on which the lower panel housing 40 is
mounted.
[0196] In a state where the upper and lower panel housings 20 and
40 are spread in the stepped structure, when the upper panel
housing 20 slides in the vertical direction, the upper and lower
displays 2 and 4 are disposed adjacent each other as shown in FIG.
39a, thereby providing an enlarged single screen.
[0197] At this point, the protecting cover 43 mounted on the lower
panel housing 40 covers the side portion of the joint portion 8' of
the upper display 2 when the lower and upper panel housings 40 and
20 are stacked. In addition, the protecting cover 23 provided on
the upper panel housing 20 covers the side portion of the joint
portion 8' of the lower display 4. The protecting cover does not
cover the side portion of the joint portion when the displays are
spread. The protecting cover 23 may be designed to cover the
coupling means 44.
[0198] As shown in FIG. 39b, the protecting cover 23 provided on
the upper panel housing 20 is located in a state where it is
folded, and the protecting cover 43 provided on the lower panel
housing 40 is received in the lower panel housing.
[0199] Embodiment 9
[0200] FIGS. 40a and 40b show another embodiment of the portable
multi-display device of the present invention, in which more than
three displays are stacked one another.
[0201] As shown in FIG. 40a, stacked between the upper and lower
panel housing 20 and 40 is an intermediate panel housing 60.
[0202] In addition, when the upper panel housing 20 is designed to
horizontally slide rightward in the drawing and the lower panel
housing 40 is horizontally designed to slide leftward in the
drawing, three displays 2, 4 and 6 are spread on the basis of the
intermediate display 6 provided on the intermediate panel housing
60. That is, as shown in FIG. 40, the displays 2, 4 and 6 are
spread in a stepped structure.
[0203] At this point, the protecting cover 43 of the lower panel
housing 40 covers the left joint portion 8' of the intermediate
display and the joint portion 8' of the upper display 2. In
addition, the protecting cover 23 of the upper panel housing 20
covers the right joint portion 8' of the intermediate display 6. In
addition, the joint portion 8' of the upper display 2 is covered by
the housing 55.
[0204] When the upper display 2 slides down to the intermediate
display 6 and the lower display 4 slides up to the intermediate
display 6, the upper and lower displays 2 and 4 and the
intermediate display 6 get to be adjacent each other, realizing the
enlarged single screen.
[0205] Embodiment 10
[0206] An input device or an I.C. can be separately coupled to the
main body 160 in an identical method to that for coupling the
displays 2 and 4.
[0207] FIG. 41 shows the main body panel housing and the main body
before other expanding devices are coupled thereto.
[0208] The main body panel housing 20 is connected to the main body
160 by the connecting portion 6a and is provided with the
protecting cover 23 and the grip 26. The main body 160 is provided
with the input keys 110 and the button keys 70. The main body 160
is further provided at its side portion with a side cover 103 and a
grip 106. In addition, the protecting cover 23 and the side cover
103 may be formed on both sides of the main body 160.
[0209] FIGS. 42a and 42b show a state where the protecting cover
and the side cover are opened.
[0210] As shown in FIG. 42a, the side cover 103 provided in the
main body 160 is designed to be closed and opened by a main body
shaft 103a. When the side cover 103 is opened, the main body
connecting portion 112 is exposed.
[0211] The protecting cover 23 of the main body panel housing can
be opened as shown in FIG. 42b. When the protecting 23 is opened,
the protecting cover 23 is spread inline, thereby exposing the
fixing means 30 and the coupling means 22. At this point, a part of
the protecting cover 23 is cut away so that the fixing means 30 can
be provided.
[0212] That is, when the protecting cover 23 is closed, the fixing
means 30 is located in the fixing means groove 38 and the cover
shaft 23a and the panel housing shaft 23b are projected. At this
point, since a shaft groove 43a' is provided on the main body panel
housing 20, when the main body panel housing 20 and the sub-panel
housing 40 are coupled to each other, the cover shaft 43a and the
panel housing shaft 43b are located in the shaft groove 43a'.
Likewise, the sub-panel housing 40 is also provided with a shaft
groove in which the cover shaft 23a and the panel housing shaft 23b
of the main body panel housing 20 are inserted.
[0213] FIG. 43 shows the main body and the main body panel housing
to which expanding devices care coupled.
[0214] Two displays 2 and 4 are coupled to be adjacent each other.
The input device 18 is coupled to the main body 160. The input
device 18 can be a digitizer or a touch panel. At this point,
another sub-display may be mounted on a lower end of the input
device 18.
[0215] The input device 18 is coupled through the main body
connecting portion 112. The extended portion 150 is also provided
with a connecting portion (not shown) connectable to the main body
connecting portion 112.
[0216] In addition, the extended portion 150 provided with the
input device 18 can be further provided with a memory device.
Accordingly, when the extended portion 150 is coupled, the function
of the main body 160 is improved.
[0217] In addition, displays can be further expanded by the
protecting cover 23 disposed on both sides of the main body panel
housing 20. Likewise, an extended portion 150 may be further
mounted through the side cover 103 provided on both sides of the
main body 160.
[0218] FIG. 44 shows a block diagram with the extended device. An
additional memory 270 and an additional input device 18 are
connected to the CPU 200 by the main body connecting portion
112.
[0219] FIGS. 45a and 45b show the main body, to a rear side of
which the extended device is connected.
[0220] Generally, on the rear side of the main body, a battery 130
is mounted. At this point, connecting grooves 120a, 120b and 120c
are provided on the rear portions of the main body and the battery
130 so that the extended portion 150 can be coupled to the
connecting grooves. At this point, the connecting grooves 120a and
120b are provided with circuit connecting means.
[0221] Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and
practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the
specification and examples be as exemplary only, with a true scope
of the invention being indicated by the following claims.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0222] As described above, the inventive portable multi-display
device comprises a main body panel housing and a sub-panel housing
each having a display. The panel housings are designed to be
separable from and connectable to each other, a range of a border
between the displays when the panel housings are interconnected
being minimized so that the displays can be shown as if it is
driven as a single screen. Therefore, it can provide a convenience
in use thereof.
* * * * *