U.S. patent application number 12/011146 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-17 for protective devices for a mobile terminal.
This patent application is currently assigned to Nokia Corporation. Invention is credited to Valtteri Eroma, Dicky Wong, Joseph Wood, Jamie Yung.
Application Number | 20090312058 12/011146 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34840535 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090312058 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Wood; Joseph ; et
al. |
December 17, 2009 |
Protective devices for a mobile terminal
Abstract
This invention describes a protective device and associated
method for protecting (including the protection from water and
dust) a mobile terminal whether or not the terminal is in use, and
for providing a hands-free operation of the mobile terminal,
wherein the mobile terminal can be a mobile phone, a personal
digital assistant (PDA), a pager, a MP3 player, or any similar
portable communication device or a mobile electronic device.
Inventors: |
Wood; Joseph; (Burlington,
MA) ; Eroma; Valtteri; (Helsinki, FI) ; Yung;
Jamie; (Hong Kong, CN) ; Wong; Dicky; (Hong
Kong, CN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WARE FRESSOLA VAN DER SLUYS & ADOLPHSON, LLP
BRADFORD GREEN, BUILDING 5, 755 MAIN STREET, P O BOX 224
MONROE
CT
06468
US
|
Assignee: |
Nokia Corporation
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20080132289 A1 |
June 5, 2008 |
|
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Family ID: |
34840535 |
Appl. No.: |
12/011146 |
Filed: |
January 25, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11046556 |
Jan 28, 2005 |
7400917 |
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12011146 |
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10881898 |
Jun 30, 2004 |
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11046556 |
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60540899 |
Jan 30, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
455/566 ;
455/569.1; 455/575.8 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04M 1/6066 20130101;
H04M 1/605 20130101; H04B 1/3888 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
455/566 ;
455/575.8; 455/569.1 |
International
Class: |
H04M 1/05 20060101
H04M001/05; H04M 1/00 20060101 H04M001/00 |
Claims
1. A protective device for encapsulating a mobile terminal,
comprising: a housing adapted to define an opened position for
receiving a mobile terminal and further adapted to define a closed
position for securing the mobile terminal therein, said housing is
comprised at least partially of a waterproof material and being
sealed in the closed position so as to protect the mobile terminal
from an incursion of water and dust; at least one of: an input
component carried by said housing for receiving an input from a
user of said mobile terminal, and an output component carried by
said housing for providing an output to said user; and a signal
processor carried by said housing for converting at least one of:
said input received by said input component to at least one signal
for providing said at least one signal to the mobile terminal for
processing, and at least one further signal received from the
mobile terminal to at least one additional signal that said output
component is configured to process for providing said output to
said user.
2. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said signal processor
is configured to transmit to and receive from the mobile terminal
radio frequency signals.
3. The protective device of claim 1, further comprising an
electrical connection between said signal processor and the mobile
terminal, wherein said electrical connection is for transmitting
signals from said signal processor to the mobile terminal and from
the mobile terminal to said signal processor.
4. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said input component
is comprised of at least one of: a microphone, and a keypad having
at least one key.
5. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said output component
is comprised of at least one of: a speaker, and a visual
display.
6. The protective device of claim 1, further comprising a fastener
for securing the mobile terminal within the protective device.
7. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said housing is
comprised of at least two portions mechanically coupled to each
other and, when in said closed position, said two portions are
firmly secured relative to each other.
8. The protective device of claim 7, wherein said housing comprises
all waterproof materials and further comprises at least one gasket
between said at least two portions of said housing to create a
hermetic seal and secure a waterproof operation in said closed
position.
9. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said housing is at
least partially comprised of a transparent material.
10. The protective device of claim 1, further comprising a power
supply carried by said housing for providing power to said input
component, said output component and said signal processor.
11. The protective device of claim 1, further comprising a strap
attached to the housing for carrying the protective device.
12. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said input and output
components and said signal processor are removable from said
housing while still being capable of communicating with the mobile
terminal secured within the protective device.
13. The protective device of claim 12, wherein said input
component, said output component and said processor form a headset,
and wherein transmitting signals between the headset and the mobile
terminal comprises transmitting radio frequency signals or
electrical signals between the headset and the mobile terminal.
14. The protective device of claim 1, wherein said input component
is a microphone and said output component is a speaker for
providing a hands-free operation of the terminal device.
15. The protective device of claim 1, wherein the housing is
buoyant with the mobile terminal secured therein while in the
closed position.
16. The protective device of the claim 1, wherein at least one
operational function of said mobile terminal inserted into said
protective device is actuated using at least one corresponding
button or at least one corresponding key of said protective
device.
17. A mobile terminal assembly comprising: a mobile terminal; and a
protective device in which said mobile terminal is removably
disposed; said protective device comprises: a housing adapted to
define an opened position for receiving a mobile terminal and
further adapted to define a closed position for securing the mobile
terminal therein, said housing is comprised at least partially of a
waterproof material and being sealed in the closed position so as
to protect the mobile terminal from an incursion of water and dust;
at least one of: an input component carried by said housing for
receiving an input from a user of said mobile terminal, and an
output component carried by said housing for providing an output to
said user; and a signal processor carried by said housing for
converting at least one of: said input received by said input
component to at least one signal for providing said at least one
signal to the mobile terminal for processing, and at least one
further signal received from the mobile terminal to at least one
additional signal that said output component is configured to
process for providing said output to said user.
18. A method, comprising: securing a mobile terminal in a housing
of a protective device, wherein said housing is adapted to define
an opened position for receiving the mobile terminal and further
adapted to define a closed position for said securing the mobile
terminal therein, said housing is comprised at least partially of a
waterproof material and being sealed in the closed position for
protecting the mobile terminal from an incursion of water and dust;
receiving an input from a user of said mobile terminal by an input
component carried by said housing or providing an output to said
user by an output component carried by said housing; and converting
by a signal processor carried by said housing at least one of: said
input received by said input component to at least one signal for
providing said at least one signal to the mobile terminal for
processing, and at least one further signal received from the
mobile terminal to at least one additional signal that said output
component is configured to process for providing said output to
said user.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein said signal processor is
configured to transmit to and receive from the mobile terminal
radio frequency signals.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein transmitting signals from said
signal processor to the mobile terminal and from the mobile
terminal to said signal processor is provided using an electrical
connection between said signal processor and the mobile
terminal.
21. The method of claim 18, wherein said securing of the mobile
terminal within the protective device is provided using a
fastener.
22. The method of claim 18, wherein said housing comprises at least
two portions mechanically coupled to each other and, when in said
closed position, said two portions are firmly secured relative to
each other for providing said protecting.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein said housing comprises all
waterproof materials and further comprises at least one gasket
between said at least two portions of said housing to create a
hermetic seal and secure a waterproof operation in said closed
position for providing said protecting.
24. (canceled)
25. (canceled)
26. (canceled)
27. The method of claim 26, wherein said input component, said
output component and said processor form a headset, and wherein
transmitting signals between the headset and the mobile terminal
comprises transmitting radio frequency signals or electrical
signals between the headset and the mobile terminal.
28. The method of claim 27, further comprising: removing the mobile
terminal and the headset from the housing such that the mobile
terminal and the headset are configured to be utilized apart from
the housing.
29-35. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/540,899, filed Jan. 30, 2004 and
from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/881,898 filed on Jun. 30,
2004. This application is a divisional application of and claims
priority from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/046,556, filed
Jan. 28, 2005.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to protective enclosures for
mobile terminals (e.g., mobile phones), and more specifically to
protective devices for mobile terminals that allow using the mobile
terminals while they are protected within the sealed enclosure of
the protective device including the protection from water and
dust.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] Wireless communication has advanced significantly over the
past few decades. Today, mobile terminals (such as mobile phones,
pagers, personal digital assistants, and similar devices) play an
important role in society. An increasingly large percentage of the
population carries some sort of mobile terminal. People of all ages
and walks of life use these mobile terminals to communicate, access
the internet, play games, store information, and organize their
calendars. People often rely on having easy access to their mobile
terminals at all times.
[0004] One of the most important characteristics of a mobile
terminal is its portability. Consumers constantly demand smaller
and lighter mobile terminals that are easier to carry around on a
day-to-day basis. In response to consumer demand, today's mobile
terminals are often designed to be easily carried in a pocket or
handbag or attached to a belt. To achieve smaller sizes and
weights, today's mobile devices often lack any kind of significant
protection from the elements. Most of the mobile terminals today
are highly susceptible to water, dust, and dirt, and few have any
significant shock protection.
[0005] As consumers increasingly rely on their mobile terminals,
they desire to take their mobile terminals everywhere they go and
have access to them at any time of day. As a result, today's mobile
devices are frequently used in environments hostile to the mobile
terminal's electronics. For example, a person who takes a cell
phone, PDA, or similar device, to the beach risks harming the
device by getting the device sandy or wet. Likewise, someone who
works outdoors and is exposed to the elements may desire to have a
mobile terminal that is water, dirt, and shock resistant. Even,
sitting by the pool or on a boat talking on a mobile phone could be
disastrous if the phone is splashed or accidentally dropped in the
water. Countless other situations exist, like jogging, hiking,
camping, or attending sporting events, where a person may desire to
have their mobile device handy but at the same time may not wish to
risk exposing the device to potentially harmful environments.
[0006] Since a mobile terminal is often a significant investment
for the user and would, at the least, be inconvenient to replace, a
means of adequately protecting the terminal is needed. Typical
protective cases that are currently available consist of flexible
leather or plastic jackets that fit snuggly over the terminal. In
order for the mobile terminal to be useable with these protective
covers in place, these covers generally have cutouts that expose
the input and output components of the terminal, such as the
keypads, speakers, and microphones. As a result, such covers
provide little protection from water, sand, and dirt, and provide
almost no added shock protection if the terminal is dropped.
[0007] Hard plastic cases that exist in the art, such as that
described by U.S. Pat. No. 6,456,487, are generally not waterproof
and may require covers to be sealed against the elements. Also,
some cases require that the terminal be removed from the case prior
to use. Similarly, a person could wrap their terminal in a
waterproof plastic bag, but again this would require removal of the
terminal prior to use. As a result, cases that require the terminal
to be removed for use provide no protection to the terminal during
use, when the terminal is often most vulnerable.
[0008] Wireless headsets can be used to access a mobile phone while
the phone is stored in a secure location. These headsets generally
communicate with the mobile terminal using BLUETOOTH wireless
technology. BLUETOOTH wireless technology enables cable-free
connections by using radio frequency signals to communicate with
the mobile terminal. For the headsets to work, the mobile terminal
must be in close proximity to the headset. As a result, the mobile
terminal must typically be with the user anyway and, therefore,
will still need some means of protection. The small size of the
headset limits the input, output, and power components that can be
placed on the headset. Furthermore, a person using a headset with a
mobile phone while the phone is protected in a handbag or backpack
cannot see the display on the phone. To see the phone, the person
would have to take it out of the bag, thus exposing it to the harsh
environment from which the person was protecting it. Finally, these
headsets are not waterproof themselves.
[0009] Accordingly, a device is needed that allows consumers the
ability to use their small, lightweight, mobile terminals in all
kinds of environments without worrying about harming or destroying
the terminal. Ideally, the protective device should be waterproof,
buoyant, and able to absorb the shock associated with dropping the
mobile terminal. At the same time, it would be beneficial to be
able to easily use a mobile device and enjoy much of its rich
functionality while it is protected.
[0010] The mobile telephone is the most commonly used mobile
terminal. Mobile telephones are in every day use in many different
settings including home, automobiles, bicycles, carried on the
person in pocket, and in various recreational activities, many of
which are outdoors. Some of these outdoor activities can involve
proximity to the beach and other water-related activities such as
boating, water skiing, etc. Other outdoor activities may involve
proximity to dirt and dust and from which it may be desirable to
protect one's mobile, phone. It is also desirable in some outdoor
activities to be able to carry the mobile phone on the person
without having to use one's hands so that operation may be
conducted in a "hands-free" manner. Mobile phones are now equipped
with many different functionalities and may include functions
beyond simple voice telephony. Such may include music downloads,
radio, multimedia messaging, etc. It would be desirable to have a
means for protecting a mobile phone in harsh outdoor environments
while still being able to use the phone in a hand-free manner and
utilize many of the new functionalities besides voice
telephony.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The object of the present invention is to provide a
protective device and associated method, for environmentally
protecting (including the protection from water and dust) a mobile
terminal whether or not the terminal is in use, and to provide a
hands-free operation of the mobile terminal, wherein the mobile
terminal can be a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA),
a pager, a MP3 player, or any similar portable communication device
or a mobile electronic device.
[0012] According to a first aspect of the invention, a protective
device for encapsulating a mobile terminal, comprises: a housing
adapted to define an opened position for receiving a mobile
terminal and further adapted to define a closed position for
securing the mobile terminal therein, the housing comprised at
least partially of a waterproof material and being sealed in the
closed position so as to protect the mobile terminal from an
incursion of water and dust; at least one of: an input component
carried by the housing for receiving user input from a user of the
mobile terminal and an output component carried by the housing for
providing output to the user; and a signal processor carried by the
housing for converting at least one of: (i) the input received by
the input component to at least one signal that the mobile terminal
is capable of processing prior to provision of the at least one
signal to the mobile terminal, and (ii) at least one further signal
received from the mobile terminal to at least one additional signal
that the output component is capable of processing prior to
presentation to the output component for providing the output to
the user.
[0013] According further to the first aspect of the invention, the
signal processor may be capable of transmitting radio frequency
signals to the mobile terminal and the signal processor may be
further capable of receiving radio frequency signals from the
mobile terminal.
[0014] Further according to the first aspect of the invention, the
protective device may further comprise an electrical connection
between the signal processor and the mobile terminal, the
electrical connection may be capable of transmitting signals from
the signal processor to the mobile terminal and from the mobile
terminal to the signal processor.
[0015] Still further according to the first aspect of the
invention, the input component may comprise of at least one of a
microphone and a keypad having at least one key.
[0016] According further to the first aspect of the invention, the
output component may comprise of at least one of a speaker and a
visual display.
[0017] According still further to the first aspect of the
invention, the protective device may comprise: a fastener for
securing the mobile terminal within the protective device, wherein
optionally the fastener may comprise of at least one strap for at
least partially encircling the mobile terminal.
[0018] According further still to the first aspect of the
invention, the housing may comprise of at least two portions
mechanically coupled to each other and, when in the closed
position, the two portions may be firmly secured relative to each
other.
[0019] According yet further still to the first aspect of the
invention, the housing may comprise of all waterproof materials and
further may comprise at least one gasket between the portions of
the housing to create a hermetic seal and secure a waterproof
operation in the closed position.
[0020] Yet still further according to the first aspect of the
invention, the housing may be at least partially comprised of an at
least partially transparent material.
[0021] Still yet further according to the first aspect of the
invention, the protective device may comprise: a power supply
carried by the housing for providing power to the input/output
component and signal processor.
[0022] Still further still according to the first aspect of the
invention, the protective device may further comprise: a strap
attached to the housing to aid in the carrying of the protective
device.
[0023] Further according to the first aspect of the invention, the
input and output components and the signal processor may be
removable from the housing while still being capable of
communicating with the mobile terminal. Still further, the input
component, the output component and the processor may form a
headset, and wherein transmitting signals between the headset and
the mobile terminal may comprise transmitting radio frequency
signals between the headset and the mobile terminal or wherein
transmitting signals between the headset and the mobile terminal
may comprise transmitting electrical signals between the headset
and the mobile terminal.
[0024] According still further to the first aspect of the
invention, the input component may be a microphone and the output
component may be a speaker to provide a hands-free operation of the
terminal device.
[0025] According further still to the first aspect of the
invention, the housing may be buoyant with the mobile terminal
secured therein while in the closed position.
[0026] According yet further still to the first aspect of the
invention, at least one operational function of the mobile terminal
inserted into the protective device may be actuated using at least
one corresponding button or at least one corresponding key of the
protective device.
[0027] According to a second aspect of the invention, a mobile
terminal assembly comprises: a mobile terminal; and a protective
device in which the mobile terminal is removably disposed; the
protective device comprises: a housing adapted to define an opened
position for receiving a mobile terminal and further adapted to
define a closed position for securing the mobile terminal therein,
the housing comprised at least partially of a waterproof material
and being sealed in the closed position so as to protect the mobile
terminal from an incursion of water and dust; at least one of: an
input component carried by the housing for receiving user input
from a user of the mobile terminal and an output component carried
by the housing for providing output to the user; and a signal
processor carried by the housing for converting at least one of:
(i) the input received by the input component to at least one
signal that the mobile terminal is capable of processing prior to
provision of the at least one signal to the mobile terminal, and
(ii) at least one further signal received from the mobile terminal
to at least one additional signal that the output component is
capable of processing prior to presentation to the output component
for providing the output to the user.
[0028] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for
using a protective device with a mobile terminal, comprises the
steps of: securing the mobile terminal with a housing of the
protective device; receiving input from a user of the mobile
terminal by an input component carried by the housing or providing
output to the user by an output component carried by the housing;
and converting by a signal processor carried by the housing at
least one of: (i) the input received by the input component to at
least one signal that the mobile terminal is capable of processing
prior to provision of the at least one signal to the mobile
terminal, and (ii) at least one further signal received from the
mobile terminal to at least one additional signal that the output
component is capable of processing prior to presentation to the
output component for providing the output to the user.
[0029] According further to the third aspect of the invention, the
signal processor may be capable of transmitting radio frequency
signals to the mobile terminal and the signal processor may be
further capable of receiving radio frequency signals from the
mobile terminal.
[0030] Further according to the third aspect of the invention,
there may be an electrical connection between the signal processor
and the mobile terminal, the electrical connection being capable of
transmitting signals from the signal processor to the mobile
terminal and from the mobile terminal to the signal processor.
[0031] Still further according to the third aspect of the
invention, the protective device may further comprise: a fastener
for securing the mobile terminal within the protective device,
wherein optionally the fastener may comprise of at least one strap
for at least partially encircling the mobile terminal.
[0032] According further to the third aspect of the invention, the
housing may be comprised of at least two portions mechanically
coupled to each other and, when in the closed position, the two
portions may be firmly secured relative to each other.
[0033] According still further to the third aspect of the
invention, the housing may comprise of all waterproof materials and
further may comprise at least one gasket between the portions of
the housing to create a hermetic seal and secure a waterproof
operation in the closed position.
[0034] According yet further still to the third aspect of the
invention, the housing may be at least partially comprised of an at
least partially transparent material.
[0035] According further still to the third aspect of the
invention, the protective device may further comprise: a power
supply carried by the housing for providing power to the
input/output component and signal processor.
[0036] Yet still further according to the third aspect of the
invention, the input and output components and the signal processor
may be removable from the housing while still being capable of
communicating with the mobile terminal.
[0037] Still yet further according to the third aspect of the
invention, the input component, the output component and the
processor may form a headset, and wherein transmitting signals
between the headset and the mobile terminal may comprise
transmitting radio frequency signals between the headset and the
mobile terminal or wherein transmitting signals between the headset
and the mobile terminal may comprise transmitting electrical
signals between the headset and the mobile terminal. Further, the
invention may further comprise the step of: removing the mobile
terminal and the headset from the housing such that the mobile
terminal and the headset are capable of subsequently being utilized
apart from the housing.
[0038] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a protective
device for use with a mobile phone, comprises: a housing for a
mobile phone within which the mobile phone is insertable and
protected against water splash and dust when the housing is in a
closed position; and a microphone and a speaker built-in to the
housing to enable hands-free operation of the mobile phone when
inserted in the housing.
[0039] According further to the fourth aspect of the invention, the
housing may have a transparent window and at least one key of the
mobile phone inserted into the protective device may be actuated by
a user of the mobile phone by pressing the at least one key through
the transparent window.
[0040] Further according to the fourth aspect of the invention, the
mobile phone inserted into the protective device may be
electrically charged using a corresponding jack port of the
protective device without interrupting a normal operation of the
mobile phone.
[0041] Still further according to the fourth aspect of the
invention, at least one operational function of the mobile phone
inserted into the protective device may be actuated using at least
one corresponding button or at least one key of the protective
device.
[0042] According further to the fourth aspect of the invention, the
protective device may have a build-in flashlight.
[0043] According still further to the fourth aspect of the
invention, the mobile phone inserted into the protective device may
be connected to the protective device using a corresponding
electrical connector.
[0044] According further still to the fourth aspect of the
invention, the mobile phone inserted into the protective device may
be switched using the protective device between a hands-free
operation utilizing the speaker of the protective device and a
privacy mode with a reduced auto gain of the speaker.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0045] For a better understanding of the nature and objects of the
present invention, reference is made to the following detailed
description taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in
which:
[0046] FIG. 1 is a three-view diagram of the exterior of a
protective device, according to the present invention;
[0047] FIG. 2 is a diagram of the opened protective device,
according to the present invention;
[0048] FIG. 3 is a diagram of an opened protective device with a
mobile terminal secured therein, according to the present
invention;
[0049] FIG. 4 is a diagram of the back view of an opened protective
device showing the electronic, input, and output components of the
case, according to the present invention;
[0050] FIG. 5 is a diagram of the front view of the case without
the mobile terminal showing electronic, input, and output
components of the protective device, according to the present
invention;
[0051] FIG. 6 is a front view of a mobile phone protective device,
according to the present invention;
[0052] FIG. 7 is a back view of the device of FIG. 6, according to
the present invention;
[0053] FIG. 8 is a side view of the device of FIGS. 6 and 7,
according to the present invention;
[0054] FIG. 9 is another side view of the device of FIGS. 6 and 7,
according to the present invention;
[0055] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the device of FIGS. 6 and 7,
according to the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 11 is a top view of the device of FIGS. 6 and 7 with
the flashlight feature shown, according to the present
invention;
[0057] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the device of FIG. 11
with a lid in the open position and showing one end of the cavity
in detail, according to the present invention;
[0058] FIG. 13 shows another perspective view of the device of FIG.
11, top view showing the lid open and showing the other end of the
cavity in detail, according to the present invention;
[0059] FIG. 14 shows a top perspective view looking down on the
device of FIG. 11 with the lid open and showing the entire cavity
in detail, according to the present invention;
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0060] The present invention provides a protective device, a mobile
terminal assembly, and associated method for protecting (including
the protection from water and dust) a mobile terminal whether or
not the terminal is in use, and for providing a hands-free
operation of the mobile terminal, wherein the mobile terminal can
be a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a pager, a
MP3 player, or any similar portable communication device or a
mobile electronic device.
[0061] The present invention is directed to a protective device
designed to protect a mobile terminal therein. The protective
device comprises a housing adapted to define an opened position for
receiving a mobile terminal and a closed position for securing the
mobile terminal therein. Advantageously, the housing is preferably
formed of a waterproof material and is sealed in the closed
position so as to protect the mobile terminal from the incursion of
water or other environmental contaminants. The housing may carry
input component(s), such as a microphone and/or keypad, for
receiving user input (or the input from a user of said protective
device). The housing also carries a signal processor which converts
the user input received by the input components to signals that the
mobile terminal is capable of processing. Similarly, the housing
may carry output component(s), such as a speaker, for providing
user output (or the output to the user of said protective device).
The signal processor converts signals received from the mobile
terminal to signals that the output component is capable of
processing.
[0062] The present inventions now will be described more fully
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
some, but not all embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed,
these inventions may be embodied in many different forms and should
not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein;
rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will
satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like
elements throughout.
[0063] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, an exemplary embodiment
(among other possible scenarios) of a mobile terminal protective
case (also called here a "protective device") 1 is shown. FIG. 1
shows three views of the protective device 1: the front plan view,
top, and side views. FIG. 2 shows a view of the basic protective
device 1 in the opened position ready to receive the mobile
terminal. As shown, the protective device 1 includes a housing 9
designed to house a mobile terminal therein. The housing 9 may be
made of any suitable material. In one embodiment, the housing is
comprised of a substantially rigid material to physically protect
the mobile terminal from an impact, such as if the protective
device 1 is dropped. In addition, the housing may be formed of a
waterproof material to protect the mobile terminal from water and
other liquids. Moreover, the housing may be formed of a material
that is buoyant so as to aid in the floatation of the protective
device 1, even with the mobile terminal secured therein. As such,
the mobile terminal may be protected from damage otherwise
attributable to moisture or other contaminants while in the
protective device 1. In one embodiment, for example, the housing is
formed of a polycarbonate material.
[0064] The material that forms the housing, such as polycarbonate,
may be selected to be at least partially transparent to enable the
user to view the mobile terminal and any display of the mobile
terminal while it is secured within the housing. It should be
understood, however, that the housing 9 does not have to be made of
a polycarbonate material, nor does the protective device 1 have to
be clear. The protective device 1 could be partially transparent so
that only portions of the mobile terminal or the interior
components of the protective device 1 are visible from the outside.
For example, the housing could provide a window through which the
mobile terminal's display can be seen. Such a design may be
desirable if the protective device 1 is to carry a decorative
design or if the protective device 1 is designed to be a reflective
color to protect the mobile terminal from the sun. Alternatively,
for some uses or mobile terminals, the housing may not be
transparent at all and is opaque instead.
[0065] The housing may be comprised of at least two portions. In
the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, the housing 9
is comprised of two portions 10 and 11. In this embodiment, the two
portions 10 and 11 are connected by a hinge coupling 16 that allows
the housing to be opened to receive the mobile terminal and closed
to secure the terminal therein. The hinge coupling 16 could be a
separate hinge coupling the portions of the housing together, or,
alternatively, the hinge coupling 16 could be integral with the
portions themselves. A latch 15 may secure the housing in a closed
position. It should be understood, however, that the housing 9
could be comprised of a single portion or any number of multiple
portions. Likewise, the portions need not be joined and secured
using a hinge and latch system. For example, the portions could
slide together, latch together, or could simply be held together
using a strap or rubber band.
[0066] The embodiment of the protective device 1 shown further
comprises a backing 12 and a fastener, such as one or more straps
13, for securing the mobile terminal within the housing 9. In the
preferred embodiment, the backing comprises soft foam and is
applied to the interior of the back portion 11 of the housing.
While three straps 13 are shown in the FIGS. 1 and 2, any number of
straps could be used to secure the mobile terminal within the
protective device 1. In alternative embodiments, straps may not be
used at all. For example, the mobile terminal could be secured
within the protective device 1 using Velcro, tape, latches, screws,
buttons, elastic bands, or any similar fastening device. In yet
another embodiment, the foam backing 12 could be designed so that
the mobile terminal fits snuggly within a cutout in the foam. In
such a case fasteners 13 may not be necessary.
[0067] The embodiment of the protective device 1 shown in FIGS. 1
and 2 further comprises a gasket 14, typically formed of rubber,
that lines the rims of one or both of the portions 10 and 11 of the
housing. When the housing is in a closed position, the gaskets 14
provide a seal capable of preventing liquid, dust, dirt, and sand
from getting inside the protective device 1, thereby protecting the
mobile terminal. In one embodiment, the protective device 1 is
designed to be buoyant and to float with the mobile terminal
secured within. This buoyancy is primarily achieved by selecting a
relatively lightweight material, such as polycarbonate, to form the
housing and sealing the housing in an airtight manner by means of
the gasket. Thus, even if dropped in water, the protective device 1
carrying the mobile terminal can be recovered without damaging the
mobile terminal.
[0068] Although not shown in the figures, alternative embodiments
of the protective device 1 would have components designed to aid in
the carrying of the protective device 1. In one embodiment, the
protective device 1 would have a loop formed into the housing to
allow a line, cord, carabineer, or similar item to be attached to
the protective device 1 for securing it to other items, such as a
wrist, belt, bag, or chair. Alternative embodiments may have belt
loops, clips, or other fasteners attached to or formed in the
housing.
[0069] FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a mobile terminal assembly,
with the case (or protective device) 1 in an opened position with
the mobile terminal 20 secured to the backing 12 using straps 13.
Although the figure depicts a mobile phone secured in the
protective device 1, the mobile terminal could alternatively be a
pager, PDA, portable MP3 player, or similar portable electronic
device. It should also be noted that the case 1 could be designed
and manufactured in a single one-size-fits-all form, in several
sizes (e.g., small, medium, large), or custom fit for the
particular model of mobile terminal.
[0070] Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, an exemplary embodiment of
the input, output, and electronic components of the protective
device 1 is shown. It is noted that, as used herein, input/output
components refers to any one or more of the input components and/or
any one or more of the output components. FIG. 4 shows the back
view of case (protective device) 1 in an opened position. FIG. 5
shows the front view of case (protective device) 1 in the opened
position. Typically, most of the input, output, and electronic
components of the protective device 1 are carried by the back
portion 11 of the protective device 1 so that the front portion 10
of the protective device 1 is kept clear for viewing the mobile
terminal and its display in embodiments in which the front portion
of the protective device 1 is at least partially transparent. The
embodiment shown by the figures is designed for a mobile phone, and
therefore the input and output components correspond to some or all
of the input and output components of the mobile phone secured
therein. The placement, orientation, size, and selection of the
components are for illustrative purposes only. The protective
device 1 could be designed and manufactured to contain any number
and type of input and output components in any arrangement. For
example, other types of input/output components not shown in the
figures may include LCDs, touch-screen displays, or devices
designed to vibrate the protective device 1. Preferably the
selection and positioning of input and output components is
tailored to the type of mobile terminal to be secured within the
protective device 1.
[0071] The input components of the embodiment shown by FIG. 4 are
comprised of a microphone 40, an answer/end key 41, volume keys 42,
and a power key 43. The output components are comprised of LED 30,
and speaker 31. In this embodiment, the speaker 31 and the
microphone 40 allow a conversation to take place. In some
embodiments the speaker may be substantially larger than the mobile
terminal's speaker to allow the speaker volume to be audible in a
noisy environment. If the mobile terminal is capable of receiving
voice commands, such as voice dialing, then the microphone 40 can
be used for those purposes also. In the shown embodiment, the
answer/end key 41 allows the user to answer, hang up, or use voice
dialing to place a call. The LEDs 30 provide visual output to the
user. For example, the LED may show the state of the connection
between the case electronics and the mobile terminal secured
therein. An LED may also display an incoming call, missed call, or
voicemail message by, for example, blinking brightly.
[0072] The input/output components generally extend through and are
accessible via corresponding apertures defined by the housing 9,
such as the back portion of the housing 11. To protect the mobile
terminal from the incursion of water and other contaminants,
gaskets may also line the apertures defined by the housing so as to
form a waterproof seal with the input/output component disposed
therein. Additionally or alternatively, the apertures and the
input/output components disposed therein may be covered by a thin,
typically flexible waterproof material, such as plastic or rubber.
Preferably, the speaker is waterproof and the microphone exterior
is water-resistant. Additionally, all of the buttons, keys, or
keypads on the exterior of the protective device 1 are typically
waterproof or, at least, water-resistant.
[0073] The protective device 1 also carries electronics 50. The
electronics contains a signal processor, such as a microprocessor
or other computing device for communicating between the mobile
terminal and the input/output components carried by the protective
device 1. The signal processor may be capable of converting signals
received by the input components carried by the housing to signals
that the mobile terminal is capable of processing. The signal
processor would then be capable of transmitting these converted
signals from the protective device 1 to the mobile terminal
therein. Additionally or alternatively, the signal processor may be
capable of receiving signals from the mobile terminal secured
within the housing. The signal processor could then convert these
received signals to signals that the output components carried by
the housing are capable of processing.
[0074] In one embodiment, the signal processor may communicate with
the mobile terminal therein using radio frequency signals. In such
an embodiment the signal processor would generally include an
antenna for transmitting and/or receiving radio frequency signals
to and/or from the mobile terminal secured within the housing. The
signal processor may use BLUETOOTH wireless technology to
communicate with the mobile terminal. BLUETOOTH is an open
radio-frequency standard that enables cable-free voice and data
communication between devices through short-range two-way radio (in
the radio frequency range of 2.45 gigahertz). Many mobile
electronic devices are already BLUETOOTH enabled.
[0075] In an alternative embodiment the mobile terminal may be
hardwired to the protective device 1 so that the protective device
1 and the mobile terminal can communicate using electronic signals.
The electronic connection between the mobile terminal and the
signal processor can comprise an electrical wire, fiber optic
cable, a pin, or a direct serial or parallel connection. It should
be noted, however, that the present invention is not limited to any
specific type of link or frequency for communicating between the
signal processor and the mobile terminal secured within the
housing. For example, in another embodiment of the present
invention, beams of light, such as infrared waves, could also be
used to communicate between the mobile terminal and the case
components.
[0076] The present invention may also contain a power supply, such
as a battery 51, carried by the protective device 1, for powering
the case electronics and input/output components. In particular,
the battery could be useful for providing power sufficient to
amplify the output signals provided by the output component(s) so
that the output signals are more perceptible in noisy, bright,
dark, or other harsh environments. Additionally or alternatively, a
battery carried by the protective device 1 could provide power to
the mobile terminal secured within the protective device 1 so as to
run the mobile terminal or extend the life of the mobile terminal
battery. The protective device 1 may also contain a power port 52
for connecting a power cable for charging the case's battery 51 or
powering the case electronics 50 and input/output components. The
power port could be located inside the housing, as shown in FIG. 5,
or the power port could be located on the exterior of the
protective device 1. If located on the exterior of the protective
device 1, the power port would preferably be waterproof or
water-resistant like the other input/output components. For
example, a removable rubber plug could be inserted into the port
when the port is not in use.
[0077] In one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the
input/output components and the signal processor carried by the
protective device 1 are removable from the protective device 1
while still being capable of communicating with the mobile terminal
secured within the protective device 1. For example, in one
embodiment of the present invention, a protective device 1 designed
for a mobile phone has a removable speaker, microphone, and signal
processor. The speaker, microphone, and signal processor form a
wireless headset that can be used to communicate to the mobile
terminal, both while secured within the protective housing and once
the headset and the mobile terminal have been removed from the
housing. In order to protect the mobile terminal and the headset,
such as in instances in which the mobile terminal is to be used
near water, the mobile terminal and the headset could be inserted
into the protective housing and the protective housing sealed, with
the microphone and speaker positioned within respective apertures
defined by the protective device 1 so as to permit two-way
communication with the user. Thereafter, the protective device 1
may be opened and the mobile terminal and the headset removed
therefrom to permit use of the mobile terminal and the headset
apart from the protective device 1 in a conventional manner. Such
an embodiment would provide for a particularly economical
protective device 1 by allowing the user to use a wireless headset
both as a hands-free device and as input/output and electronic
components of the protective device 1.
[0078] As was pointed out above, the mobile telephone is the most
commonly used mobile terminal. In an alternative embodiment of the
present invention among others, the protective device can be
specifically designed for the mobile telephone. FIGS. 6 through 14
demonstrate such an example among many other possible
scenarios.
[0079] Referring first to FIG. 6, a splash and dust proof carrying
case device (also called here a "protective device") 1a for a
mobile phone is shown according to the present invention. A housing
71 of said protective device 1a has a built-in microphone and a
speaker so that the mobile phone stored within the protective
device 1a of FIG. 6 can be used as a hands-free device,
particularly in an outdoor or harsh environment where splash and
dust-proof protection is important. Thus the protective device 1a
of FIG. 6 includes a loudspeaker (speaker) 62 as shown on the front
view of FIG. 6. A lid 64 of said housing 71 can be opened by
operating a latch mechanism 16 to expose a cavity within the device
1a for receiving a mobile phone and storing it within so with the
lid 64 in the closed position as to provide the desired splash and
dust protection.
[0080] FIG. 7 is a rear view of the protective device 1a and shows
a mounting structure 68 which may be used for instance to insert
the user's belt so as to enable the protective device 1a to be
carried outdoors on the user's hip in a harsh environment where
dust or splash protection is desired. The structure 68 will be
shown in more detail below as will the lid 64 of FIG. 6 but it
should be realized that other mounting structures and lid
arrangements may be used in accordance with the present invention.
For instance, the structure 68 may itself be a lid which could be
used in an open position for insertion within a receptacle for
securing the device 1a in a vehicle or bicycle or some such other
vehicle within or on which the user is riding. The protective
device 1a can be worn on the user's belt, could be easily mountable
on a bike (using a special fixture similar to the device 68 but not
shown in FIG. 7) or in a car and has a great merit for outdoor
use.
[0081] Referring to both FIGS. 6 and 7, the profile of side push
buttons 70 and 72 (build-in within housing 71) are shown along the
edges of the protective device 1a and which are shown in more
detail in FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG. 8 shows the push buttons 72 on the
right hand side (from the top perspective of FIG. 6) of the
protective device 1a. These may include telephony functions such as
answering a telephone call or ending a telephone call (a send/end
button 72b), increasing or decreasing the volume (buttons 72a and
72c), etc. A port 74 may be used for instance as a DC jack with
cover. Another embodiment would be to turn on and turn off power to
the protective device 1a which may be powered by batteries such as
three AAA batteries. The push buttons 70 as shown in FIG. 9 may
have various functions including those symbolically shown in the
drawing i.e., from top to bottom: a flashlight 70a (for actuating a
flashlight 78 shown in FIG. 11), PoC (push to talk over cellular)
button 70b to a PTT (push to talk) feature and a privacy button 70c
(to switch between a hands-free "speaker-phone" mode and a privacy
mode where the protective device 1a has to be held up to the user's
ear).
[0082] FIG. 10 shows a bottom view of the protective device 1a in
order to show the latch 66 which when operated will allow the lid
64 to open. A microphone 76 is also shown.
[0083] FIG. 11 shows the other end of the protective device 1a from
the perspective of the flashlight 78 (build-in within housing 71)
provided at that end of the protective device 1a and powered, e.g.,
by the batteries. The top push button 70a shown in FIG. 9 may be
provided for controlling the flashlight 78 pressing the button 70a
will turn the flashlight 78 on and pressing the button 70a again
will turn the flashlight 78 off.
[0084] FIG. 12 shows another perspective view of the device 1a with
the lid 64 in an open position. In FIG. 12, the bottom portion of
the cavity is shown in more detail, a spring loaded tongue
mechanism 80 is shown in a raised position. When a mobile phone is
inserted in the cavity 82, the tongue mechanism 80 is depressed and
the phone held up against the lid in the closed position. Or, the
phone could be slid under a lip on the edge of the cavity to hold
the phone in place under the lip. One feature of the present
invention can be to make the case or lid transparent or give it a
"soft" cover so that the user can see through the cover and see the
display and perhaps even access the keypad of the mobile phone
(e.g., by pressing on the phone's keytop through the transparent
window) through the soft cover. Such an embodiment is shown as a
transparent window 64a of the lid 64 in FIG. 1 (said transparent
window is also seen in FIGS. 6, 9 and 13).
[0085] FIG. 13 shows yet another perspective view of the protective
device 1a with the lid 64 in the open position, more particularly
showing the top part of the cavity in perspective. A battery
compartment resides below a battery compartment cover 82 within
which a battery or multiple battery cells may be inserted. For
instance, three AAA batteries may be aligned under the battery
compartment cover 83 for supplying power to the protective device
1a including all of its internal components, such as the loud
speaker and its amplifier, the microphone and its amplifier, etc. A
cylindrical charging plug connector 84 is shown extending into the
cavity for connection to a receptacle on the mobile phone. This
connector or plug 84 may convey information and/or power to the
protective device 1a for the purposes of its various functions such
as receiving voice as spoken into the microphone or amplifying an
incoming audio signal for output on the speaker 62. Underneath the
top of the speaker grill there may be provided a red LED (not shown
in FIG. 13) to indicate a low battery condition. As seen from FIG.
13, the cavity of the protective device 1a might include a PopPort
connector 73 for connecting signals of the mobile telephone to the
protective device 1a and vice versa.
[0086] FIG. 14 shows yet another view of the protective device 1a
from the same perspective as FIG. 6 except with the lid 64 in an
open position and with the cavity shown in full top view.
[0087] Regarding the battery compartment shown in FIGS. 13 and 14,
it is realized that the protective device 1a of the present
invention described in FIGS. 6-14 is powered by batteries and the
battery compartment is under the phone compartment having it's own
door shown as the battery compartment cover 82. There is a clear
indication about the battery polarities within the battery
compartment for the user to put in the batteries. It will of course
be understood that the device of the present invention in a
preferred embodiment is not powered by the mobile telephone
inserted within but is powered by its own batteries or by an
external DC power source, e.g., inserted into the DC jack 74.
[0088] The protective device of the present invention shown in
FIGS. 6 through 14 provides a useful device for persons enjoying
outdoor activities who want to use their mobile telephones in such
environments while at the same time possibly listening to
radio/music while outdoors together with friends or family or in
situations where there is a need to have one's hands-free, but in
which use of a headset is not desired. The device of the present
invention can be used for basic call handling such as answering an
incoming call, ending a call, setting the volume level. A built-in
microphone and speaker allows the user to use the device in a
hands-free manner or to share voice call communications with other
people.
[0089] The protective device 1a of the present invention shown in
FIGS. 6 through 14 may be made of materials and use mechanisms to
protect the phone against splash and dust. These materials can be
waterproof or alternatively can be not necessarily completely
waterproof but enough to protect against water splash and dust. The
protective device 1a is suitable for outdoor activity and acts as a
carrying case for the phone.
[0090] The weight of the protective device 1a can be made very
light, for instance on the order of 160 grams excluding fixtures
and without batteries. The length might be on the order of 200
millimeters and its width e.g. around 70 millimeters. A good
thickness might be 42 millimeters for example. With suitable
battery power an operation time of 41/2 hours would be suitable but
this can of course vary depending on availability of batteries,
weight, size, etc. An operating temperature of -30 degrees C. to
+70 degrees C. would be appropriate.
[0091] The device's own operation voltage can be regulated from the
battery voltage. When the protective device 1a is connected to the
phone without a battery, the phone will not recognize the
accessory. After the batteries are inserted in the device 1a will
be recognized as a hand-free device. In case the battery becomes
drained, the main-parts of the electronics are switched off and the
connection to the phone is disabled. When the protective device 1a
is recognized and is operating, the user can adjust the speaker
volume by the up and down button 72c and 72a. While making a call,
using a tuner or MP3-playback-function the uplink and downlink will
be established, otherwise all the amplifiers in the protective
device 1a are muted or in a shutdown mode.
[0092] A built-in FM-antenna (not shown in FIGS. 6-14) may allow
one to use a tuner-function of phones through the speaker, i.e.,
without earphones. The protective device 1a will provide hands-free
audio with good quality and the unit is easy to install and be
removed by the end-user.
[0093] A short description of usage of the phone with the
protective device 1a presented in FIGS. 6-14 will now follow and it
is to be understood that in order to carry out the functions it
requires that the phone be powered on already and the phone must be
connected to the protective device 1a of the present invention,
e.g., through the Pop-Port connector 85 shown in FIG. 13 and
described in detail below.
[0094] To answer a call, where automatic call answering is
disabled, the user will see the incoming call information on the
phone display through the transparent window 64a. The user can
press the send/end button 72b on the outside of the case to pick up
the call. The user can also press on the phone's keypad through the
transparent window 64a. The carrying case device of the present
invention will then provide hands-free service. Of course, if
automatic call answering is enabled, there is no need to press any
key and the call is picked up automatically. To end a call, a user
can press the send/end button 72b. If the phone supports voice
dialing, the user can hold the send/end button 72b to initiate
voice dialing. This serves as a short cut to initiate voice
dialing, and the user can follow normal voice dialing procedures,
thus providing hands-free service. The volume up and down buttons
72c and 72c, respectively control the audio gain of the carrying
case only, which means it only increases the volume of the speaker
62 and does not effect the volume setting in the mobile phone
itself.
[0095] If a user is listening to the radio, pressing the send/end
button 72b once will change the radio to the next preset radio
channel. The skipping is done in the circular way and if it has
reached the end of the preset radio channel list, it will loop back
to the first one on the list. If the user has not saved any radio
channel, a default channel frequency will be used. To skip to a
next music track if a user is listening to the music player,
pressing the send/end button 72b once will skip the music to the
next track. The skipping is done in a circular way and if it has
reached the end of the music track list, it will loop back to the
first one in the list. The skipping only has effect when there is
more than one music track.
[0096] Whenever the carrying case 1a of the present invention is
connected with a phone in use, it will provide a hands-free
feature, and the audio can be heard within an open area. Sometimes
the user might want to have a private conversation and a privacy
mode can be selected or deselected by pressing the privacy button
70c shown in FIG. 9. The user will hold the carrying case 1a close
to the ear instead of taking it out of the phone compartment. In
the privacy mode the audio gain for the speaker 62 is reduced,
meaning that only the speaker 62 is reduced and the volume setting
in the phone itself is not affected at all. The speaker volume will
escalate in 5 seconds from the privacy mode to the normal
hands-free to avoid damage to the ear.
[0097] The phone can be charged even if it is connected to the
protective device 1a of the present invention. There is a DC jack
74 provided on the side of the protective device 1a as shown in
FIG. 8 to plug in the normal phone charger. The DC connector is
connected internally to the Pop-Port connection area in the phone
compartment 82 of the protective case 1a. Charging of the phone is
independent of other operations with the phone. The charging status
of the phone is reflected on the phone display.
[0098] The Pop-Port connector 85 is a primary interface connector
for use particularly in future phones. It has been designed for the
mobile environment and supports advance functionalities such as
digital accessory identification, stereo audio or fast data
connectivity with compatible devices. Pop-Port.TM. is a trademark
of the Assignee hereof. The main functionalities of the Pop-Port
connector 85 are: digital enhancement identification, stereo audio,
fast data connectivity, power output for enhancement. ("Power
output support" means enhancements can utilize the phone's
battery). Some of the mechanical properties of the Pop-Port
connector 85 are different from current interfaces. The charger
connector interfaces are the same as the current Nokia 3.5
millimeter DC plug.
[0099] It is to be understood that the above-described arrangements
are only illustrative of the application of the principles of the
present invention. Numerous modifications and alternative
arrangements may be devised by those skilled in the art without
departing from the scope of the present invention, and the appended
claims are intended to cover such modifications and
arrangements.
* * * * *