U.S. patent application number 15/362716 was filed with the patent office on 2017-03-16 for mobile terminal having multi-function executing capability and executing method thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to LG ELECTRONICS INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is LG ELECTRONICS INC.. Invention is credited to Hye-Youn CHO, Kye-Sook JEONG, Eun-Young LEE, Hye-Eun SHIN.
Application Number | 20170075537 15/362716 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40523716 |
Filed Date | 2017-03-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170075537 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LEE; Eun-Young ; et
al. |
March 16, 2017 |
MOBILE TERMINAL HAVING MULTI-FUNCTION EXECUTING CAPABILITY AND
EXECUTING METHOD THEREOF
Abstract
A mobile terminal having a touch function is provided. The
mobile terminal includes a display module and a controller. The
display module displays content lists in a content list screen. The
controller is configured to divide a predetermined region of the
content list screen into a first region and a second region and to
execute different functions according to whether a content list in
the content list screen is dragged to the first region or to the
second region.
Inventors: |
LEE; Eun-Young; (Seoul,
KR) ; JEONG; Kye-Sook; (Seoul, KR) ; CHO;
Hye-Youn; (Seoul, KR) ; SHIN; Hye-Eun;
(Gyeonggi-Do, KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LG ELECTRONICS INC. |
Seoul |
|
KR |
|
|
Assignee: |
LG ELECTRONICS INC.
Seoul
KR
|
Family ID: |
40523716 |
Appl. No.: |
15/362716 |
Filed: |
November 28, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14329300 |
Jul 11, 2014 |
9535592 |
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15362716 |
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12245883 |
Oct 6, 2008 |
8812058 |
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14329300 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/0482 20130101;
H04M 1/2747 20200101; H04M 1/72583 20130101; G06F 3/0486 20130101;
G06F 3/0488 20130101; H04M 2250/22 20130101; G06F 3/04817 20130101;
G06F 3/04883 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 3/0486 20060101
G06F003/0486; H04M 1/725 20060101 H04M001/725; G06F 3/0482 20060101
G06F003/0482; H04M 1/2745 20060101 H04M001/2745; G06F 3/0488
20060101 G06F003/0488; G06F 3/0481 20060101 G06F003/0481 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 5, 2007 |
KR |
10-2007-0100565 |
Claims
1. A mobile terminal, comprising: a touchscreen; and a controller
configured to: cause the touchscreen to display a list including a
plurality of items; cause one item among the plurality of items to
move in response to a drag input applied to the one item; and
execute one of a first function or a second function based on the
drag input applied to the one item, wherein the first function is
executed when the one item is moved by a first distance through the
drag input and the second function is executed when the one item is
moved by a second distance through the drag input.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(a), this application claims
the benefit of earlier filing date and right of priority to Korean
Application No. 10-2007-0100565, filed on Oct. 5, 2007, the
contents of which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a mobile terminal having a
touch function capable of displaying and executing a multi-function
by a minimum touch input, and an executing method thereof.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0003] A mobile terminal is a device which may be configured to
perform various functions. Examples of such functions include data
and voice communications, capturing images and video via a camera,
recording audio, playing music files via a speaker system, and
displaying images and video on a display. Some terminals include
additional functionality which supports game playing, while other
terminals are configured as multimedia players.
[0004] Efforts are ongoing to support and increase the
functionality of mobile terminals. Such efforts include software
and hardware improvements, as well as changes and improvements in
the structural components which form the mobile terminal. For
instance, a user interface to allow a user to easily and
conveniently search or select a function is provided. As the mobile
terminal is regarded as a person's belonging to express the owner's
personality, various functions are required.
[0005] The mobile terminal has various functions and is regarded as
a multimedia player. A user can obtain various information through
the mobile terminal. For example, the user can search corresponding
information by selecting a specific menu from option menus or a
command from a selected menu.
[0006] However, the conventional mobile terminal has the following
problems. When one or more contents in list form are selected, or
messages in a list are deleted by using a command from an option
menu, menu search has to be performed through multiple steps. The
problem is worse when the selection and deletion are simultaneously
performed, as the number of steps for menu search increases. Having
multiple menu search steps is an inconvenience to a user when
searching and using information.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] A mobile terminal having a touch function and which is
capable of displaying and executing a multi-function by a minimum
touch input is provided. A method for executing the multi-function
of the mobile terminal is also provided.
[0008] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a
mobile terminal having a touch function is provided. The mobile
terminal includes a display module and a controller. The display
module displays content lists in a content list screen. The
controller is configured to divide a predetermined region of the
content list screen into a first region and a second region and to
execute different functions according to whether a content list in
the content list screen is dragged to the first region or to the
second region.
[0009] In one embodiment, the controller executes a first function
when the content list is dragged to the first region, and executes
a second function when the content list is dragged to the second
region through the first region.
[0010] In one embodiment, the first function displays a selection
window for each content list in the content list screen and the
second function displays a trash box icon.
[0011] In one embodiment, when the content list is dragged, other
content lists are simultaneously moved.
[0012] In one embodiment, when the content list is dragged through
the first region and the second region, the controller deletes the
content list.
[0013] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a
mobile terminal having a touch function is provided. The mobile
terminal includes a display module and a controller. The display
module displays content lists in a content list screen. The
controller is configured to display a selection window for each
content list in the content list screen when a content list is
dragged to a first region and to display a trash box icon when the
content list is dragged to a second region through the first
region.
[0014] In one embodiment, when the content list is dragged through
the trash box icon, the controller deletes the content list.
[0015] In one embodiment, when the content list is dragged to the
first region, other content lists are simultaneously moved.
[0016] In one embodiment, once the content list passes through the
first region, said other content lists are restored to their
original positions.
[0017] In one embodiment, the trash box icon is displayed at a side
of the content list screen when the content list approaches said
side of the content list screen.
[0018] In one embodiment, if the content list is not deleted after
passing through the trash box icon before a predetermined time
period lapses, the content list is restored to its original
position.
[0019] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a
method for executing a multi-function of a mobile terminal having a
touch function is provided. At least one content list is displayed
on a content list screen. Different functions are executed when a
content list of said at least one content list is sequentially
dragged to a first region and to a second region.
[0020] In one embodiment, when the content list is dragged to the
first region, a selection window for each content list in said at
least one content list is displayed, and when the content list is
dragged to the second region through the first region, a trash box
icon is displayed.
[0021] In one embodiment, the content list is deleted when dragged
through the second region.
[0022] In one embodiment, when the content list is dragged to the
first region, other content lists in said at least one content list
are simultaneously moved.
[0023] In one embodiment, once the content list passes through the
first region, said other content lists are restored to their
original positions.
[0024] In one embodiment, the trash box icon is displayed at a side
of the content list screen when the content list approaches said
side of the content list screen.
[0025] In one embodiment, if the content list is not deleted after
passing through the trash box icon before a predetermined time
period lapses, the content list is restored to its original
position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a
further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of
the invention and together with the description serve to explain
the principles of the invention.
[0027] In the drawings:
[0028] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a mobile terminal
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a front side of a mobile
terminal in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0030] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a rear side of a mobile
terminal in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0031] FIG. 4 is a view showing a method for executing a
multi-function in a mobile terminal according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are views showing a method for executing a
multi-function in a mobile terminal according to another exemplary
embodiment of the present invention; and
[0033] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a method for executing a
multi-function of a mobile terminal according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary
embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, a mobile
terminal in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will
be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0035] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a mobile terminal 100
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The
mobile terminal 100 may be implemented using a variety of different
types of terminals. Examples of such terminals include mobile
phones, smart phones, notebook computers, digital broadcast
terminals, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA), Portable Multimedia
Players (PMP), and navigators.
[0036] The mobile terminal 100 of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention will now be described from its functional
perspective with reference to FIG. 1. The mobile terminal 100 may
include components, such as a wireless communication unit 110, an
Audio/Video (NV) input unit 120, a user input unit 130, a sensing
unit 140, an output unit 150, a memory 160, an interface unit 170,
a controller 180, a power supply 190, and the like.
[0037] FIG. 1 shows the mobile terminal 100 having various
components, but it is understood that implementing all of the
illustrated components is not a requirement. Greater or fewer
components may alternatively be implemented.
[0038] The wireless communication unit 110 may typically include
one or more components which permit wireless communications between
the mobile terminal 100 and a wireless communication system or
between the mobile terminal 100 and a network within which the
mobile terminal 100 is located. For example, the wireless
communication unit 110 may include at least one of a broadcast
receiving module 111, a mobile communication module 112, a wireless
internet module 113, a short-range communication module 114, and a
GPS module 115.
[0039] The broadcast receiving module 111 receives a broadcast
signal and/or broadcast associated information from an external
broadcast managing entity via a broadcast channel. The broadcast
channel may include a satellite channel and a terrestrial channel.
The broadcast managing entity may indicate a server which generates
and transmits a broadcast signal and/or broadcast associated
information or a server which receives a pre-generated broadcast
signal and/or broadcast associated information and sends the
information to the mobile terminal.
[0040] Examples of broadcast associated information may include
information associated with a broadcast channel, a broadcast
program, and a broadcast service provider. The broadcast signal may
be implemented as a TV broadcast signal, a radio broadcast signal,
or a data broadcast signal. The broadcast signal may further
include a data broadcast signal combined with a TV or radio
broadcast signal. The broadcast associated information may be
provided via a mobile communication network, and received by the
mobile communication module 112.
[0041] The broadcast associated information may be implemented in
various formats. For instance, broadcast associated information may
include Electronic Program Guide (EPG) of Digital Multimedia
Broadcasting (DMB), and Electronic Service Guide (ESG) of Digital
Video Broadcast-Handheld (DVB-H).
[0042] The broadcast receiving module 111 may be configured to
receive digital broadcast signals transmitted from various types of
broadcast systems. Such broadcast systems may include Digital
Multimedia Broadcasting-Terrestrial (DMB-T), Digital Multimedia
Broadcasting-Satellite (DMB-S), Media Forward Link Only
(MediaFLO.TM.), Digital Video Broadcast-Handheld (DVB-H), and
Integrated Services Digital Broadcast-Terrestrial (ISDB-T).
[0043] The broadcast receiving module 111 may be configured to be
suitable for every broadcast system transmitting broadcast signals
as well as digital broadcasting systems. Broadcast signals and/or
broadcast associated information received via the broadcast
receiving module 111 may be stored in a suitable device, such as a
memory 160.
[0044] The mobile communication module 112 transmits/receives
wireless signals to/from at least one network entity (e.g., base
station, an external mobile terminal, a server) in a mobile
communication network. The wireless signals may include audio call
signal, video call signal, or various formats of data according to
transmission/reception of text/multimedia messages.
[0045] The wireless Internet module 113 supports wireless Internet
access for the mobile terminal. This module may be internally or
externally coupled to the mobile terminal 100.
[0046] The short-range communication module 114 denotes a module
for short-range communications. Suitable technologies for
implementing this module may include Bluetooth.TM., Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA),
Ultra-WideBand (UWB), and ZigBee.TM..
[0047] The GPS module 115 denotes a module for detecting or
calculating a position of a mobile terminal 100. An example of the
GPS module 115 may include a position-location module. The GPS
module may receive position information in cooperation with
associated multiple satellites. The position information may
include coordinates information represented by latitude and
longitude.
[0048] For example, the GPS module can measure accurate time and
distance respectively from more than three satellites so as to
accurately calculate a current position of the mobile terminal
based on three different distances according to a triangulation
scheme. A scheme may be used to obtain time information and
distance information from three satellites and correct error by one
satellite. Specifically, the GPS module can further obtain
three-dimensional speed information and an accurate time, as well
as position on latitude, longitude and altitude, from the position
information received from the satellites.
[0049] The A/V input unit 120 is configured to provide audio or
video signal input to the mobile terminal 100. The A/V input unit
120 may include a camera 121 and a microphone 122. The camera 121
receives and processes image frames of still pictures or video
obtained by image sensors in a video call mode or a capturing mode.
The processed image frames may be displayed on a display 151.
[0050] The image frames processed by the camera 121 may be stored
in the memory 160 or transmitted externally via the wireless
communication unit 110. Two or more cameras 121 may be provided
according to the configuration of the mobile terminal.
[0051] The microphone 122 may receive an external audio signal
while the mobile terminal 100 is in a particular mode, such as a
phone call mode, a recording mode, or a voice recognition mode.
This audio signal is processed into digital data. The processed
digital data is converted for output in a format transmittable to a
mobile communication base station via the mobile communication
module 112 of the phone call mode. The microphone 122 may include
assorted noise removing algorithms to remove noise generated while
receiving the external audio signal.
[0052] The user input unit 130 may receive data input by a user to
control the operation of the mobile terminal 100. The user input
unit 130 may include a keypad, a dome switch, a touch pad (e.g.,
static pressure/capacitance), a jog wheel, or a jog switch. The
touch pad may be layered with the display 151 so as to be in
cooperation with the display 151. Such a configuration is referred
to as a touch screen.
[0053] The sensing unit 140 provides status measurements of various
aspects of the mobile terminal 100. For instance, the sensing unit
140 may detect an open/close status of the mobile terminal 100, a
change in a location of the mobile terminal 100, a presence or
absence of user contact with the mobile terminal 100, and
acceleration/deceleration of the mobile terminal 100, in order to
generate a sensing signal for controlling the operation of the
mobile terminal 100.
[0054] For example, in a slide-type mobile terminal, the sensing
unit 140 may sense whether a sliding portion of the mobile terminal
100 is open or closed. Other examples include sensing functions,
such as the presence or absence of power provided by the power
supply 190, the presence or absence of a coupling or other
connection between the interface unit 170 and an external
device.
[0055] The interface unit 170 is generally implemented to couple
the mobile terminal 100 to external devices. The interface unit 170
may include wired/wireless headset ports, external charger ports,
wired/wireless data ports, memory card ports, ports for coupling
devices having an identification module, audio Input/Output (I/O)
ports, video I/O ports, or earphone ports.
[0056] The identification module may be configured as a chip for
storing various information required to authenticate an authority
to use the mobile terminal 100. The mobile terminal 100 may include
a User Identity Module (UIM), a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM),
or a Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM). A device having
an identification module (hereinafter, referred to as
`identification device`) may be implemented in a type of smart
card. Hence, an identification device can be coupled to the mobile
terminal 100 via a port.
[0057] The interface unit 170 may receive data from an external
device or receive power and transfer the received data or power to
each component within the mobile terminal 100 or transfer data of
the mobile terminal 100 to an external device.
[0058] The output unit 150 is configured to output an audio signal,
a video signal or an alarm signal. The output unit 150 may include
a display 151, an audio output module 152, or an alarm 153.
[0059] The display 151 may output information processed in the
mobile terminal 100. For example, when the mobile terminal 100 is
operating in a phone call mode, the display 151 will provide a user
interface (UI) or a graphical user interface (GUI) which includes
information associated with the call. As another example, if the
mobile terminal is in a video call mode or a capturing mode, the
display 151 may additionally or alternatively display images
captured and/or received through a UI or a GUI.
[0060] As mentioned previously, a touch screen can be configured
including a display 151 layered with a touch pad to work in
cooperation with each other. This configuration permits the display
151 to function both as an input device and an output device. The
display 151 may be implemented using, for example, a Liquid Crystal
Display (LCD), a Thin Film Transistor-Liquid Crystal Display
(TFT-LCD), an Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED), a flexible
display, a three-dimensional (3D) display, or Transparent OLED
(TOLED).
[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the mobile terminal 100 may
include two or more of such displays 151. For example, the mobile
terminal 100 may simultaneously include an external display (not
shown) and an internal display (not shown).
[0062] The audio output module 152 may output audio data which is
stored in the memory 160 or received from the wireless
communication unit 110 in various modes including call-receiving
mode, call-placing mode, recording mode, voice recognition mode,
and broadcast reception mode. The audio output module 152 may
output an audio signal relating to a particular function (e.g.,
call received, message received, etc.) performed in the mobile
terminal 100. The audio output module 152 may be implemented using
a speaker, a buzzer, or the like.
[0063] The alarm 153 may output a signal to inform a user of an
event associated with the mobile terminal 100. Typical events may
include call received, message received, and user input
received.
[0064] In addition to outputting an audio or video signal, the
alarm 153 may inform a user of the event in different manners, such
as by providing tactile sensations (e.g., vibration) to a user. The
alarm 153 may also be configured to vibrate in response to the
mobile terminal receiving a call or message. As another example,
vibration is provided by the alarm 153 in response to receiving
user input at the mobile terminal, thus providing a tactile
feedback mechanism. Such vibration can also be provided to make a
user recognize the event. The signal informing the event may be
output in a video signal via the display 151 or in an audio signal
via the audio output module 152.
[0065] The memory 160 may store a program for the processing and
control of the controller 180. Alternatively, the memory 160 may
temporarily store input/output data (e.g., phonebook data,
messages, still images, and video). The memory 160 may be
implemented using any type of suitable storage medium including a
flash memory, a hard disk, a multimedia micro card, a memory card
(e.g., SD or DX memory), Random Access Memory (RAM), Static Random
Access Memory (SRAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable
Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), Programmable Read-Only
Memory (PROM), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk.
The mobile terminal 100 may operate a web storage which performs
the storage function of the memory 160 on the Internet.
[0066] The controller 180 typically controls the overall operations
of the mobile terminal 100. For example, the controller 180
performs the control and processing associated with voice calls,
data communications, and video calls. The controller 180 may
include a multimedia module 181 which provides multimedia playback.
The multimedia module 181 may be configured as part of the
controller 180 or as a separate component.
[0067] The power supply 190 provides power required by various
components under the control of the controller 180. The provided
power may be internal power, external power, or a combination
thereof.
[0068] Various exemplary embodiments described herein may be
implemented in a computer-readable medium using, for example,
software, hardware, or some combination thereof.
[0069] For a hardware implementation, the exemplary embodiments
described herein may be implemented within one or more Application
Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Digital Signal Processors
(DSPs), Digital Signal Processing Devices (DSPDs), Programmable
Logic Devices (PLDs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs),
processors, controllers, micro-controllers, microprocessors, other
electronic units designed to perform the functions described
herein, or a selective combination thereof. In some cases, such
exemplary embodiments are implemented by the controller 180.
[0070] For a software implementation, procedures and functions may
be implemented together with separate software modules each of
which performs at least one of the functions and operations. The
software codes can be implemented with a software application
written in any suitable programming language. Also, the software
codes may be stored in the memory 160 and executed by the
controller 180.
[0071] As mentioned above, the internal components of the mobile
terminal 100 related to the present invention have been described
from the perspective of their functions. Hereinafter, external
components of the mobile terminal related to the present invention
will be described from the perspective of their functions with
reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3.
[0072] The mobile terminal 100 may be implemented in a variety of
different configurations. Examples of configurations include
folder-type, slide-type, bar-type, rotational-type, or swing-type.
Further disclosure will primarily relate to a slide-type mobile
terminal. However, the present invention is not limited to the
slide-type mobile terminal, but includes other types of terminals
including the aforesaid types of terminals.
[0073] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a front side of a mobile
terminal 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. The mobile terminal 100 may include a first body
100A, and a second body 1008 configured to slidably cooperate with
the first body 100A in at least one direction. For a folder-type
mobile terminal, the mobile terminal 100 may include the first body
100A, and the second body 1008 configured to have at least one side
folded or unfolded with respect to the first body.
[0074] The first body 100A is positioned over the second body 1008
such that the second body 1008 is obscured by the first body 100A.
This state can be referred to as a closed configuration/position.
As illustrated in FIG. 2, the state where the first body 100A
exposes at least part of the second body 1008 can be referred to as
an open configuration/position.
[0075] The mobile terminal 100 may be operable in a standby mode
when in the closed configuration, but this mode can be released by
the user's manipulation. The mobile terminal 100 may typically be
operable in an active (phone call) mode in the open configuration.
In the open configuration, the mode may be changed into the standby
mode according to the user's manipulation or after a certain time
elapses.
[0076] A case (housing, casing, cover, etc.) forming the outside of
the first body 100A is formed by a first front case 100A-1 and a
first rear case 100A-2. Various electronic components may be
located in a space between the first front case 100A-1 and the
first rear case 100A-2. One or more intermediate cases may
additionally be disposed between the first front case 100A-1 and
the first rear case 100A-2. The cases can be formed of resin
through injection molding or can be formed using metallic materials
such as stainless steel (STS) and titanium (Ti).
[0077] A display 151, a first audio output module 152-1, a first
camera module 121-1 or a first user input unit 130-1 may be
disposed at the first front case 100A-1 of the first body 100A.
[0078] The display module 151 may include LCD or OLED, which can
visibly display information. The display 151 and a touch pad can be
layered with each other such that the display 151 can be configured
to function as a touch screen to allow a user to input information
in a touching manner.
[0079] The first audio output module 152-1 may be implemented as a
speaker or a receiver. The first camera module 121-1 may be
implemented to be suitable for a user to capture still images
and/or moving images. The first user input unit 130-1 receives
commands input for multi-selection and deletion in a touch
manner.
[0080] A case configuring the outside of the second body 100B may
be formed by a second front case 100B-1 and a second rear case
100B-2.
[0081] A second user input unit 130-2 may be located in the second
body 100B, or specifically, at a front surface of the second front
case 100B-1. A third user input unit 130-3, a microphone 122 and an
interface unit 170 may be located at either the second front case
100B-1 or the second rear case 100B-2.
[0082] The first to third user input units 130-1, 130-2 and 130-3
may be called user input units (manipulation portions) 130. The
user input unit 130 can be implemented for inputting information by
a user in a tactile manner. For example, the user input unit 130
can be implemented as a dome switch or touch pad via which a user
can input information in a pushing or touching manner, or
implemented using a wheel, a jog, or a joystick to rotate keys.
[0083] The first user input unit 130-1 is used for inputting
commands such as START, END, or SCROLL, and the second user input
unit 130-2 is used for inputting numbers, characters, or symbols.
The third user input unit 130-3 can be operated as a hot key for
activating a specific function within the mobile terminal. The
microphone 122 may be implemented for receiving a user's voice or
various sounds.
[0084] The interface unit 170 may be used as a passage through
which the mobile terminal 100 can exchange data with an external
device. For example, the interface unit 170 may be implemented as a
wired/wireless connection port for connecting an earphone to the
mobile terminal, a port for short-range communications (e.g., an
Infrared Data Association (IrDA) port, a Bluetooth port, a wireless
LAN port), or power supply ports for providing power to the mobile
terminal.
[0085] The interface unit 170 can be a card socket for receiving an
external card, such as a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), a User
Identity Module (UIM), or a memory card for storing
information.
[0086] A power supply 190 may be disposed at a side of the second
rear case 100B-2 to provide power to the mobile terminal. The power
supply 190 may be a rechargeable battery, which is capable of being
attached/detached for charging.
[0087] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the mobile terminal 100 according
to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated
in FIG. 3, a second camera module 121-2 may be located at a rear
face of the second rear case 100B-2 of the second body 1008. The
second camera module 121-2 faces a direction which is opposite to a
direction faced by the first camera module 121-1, and may have
different pixels from those of the first camera module 121-1.
[0088] For example, the first camera module 121-1 may operate with
relatively lower pixels (lower resolution). Thus, the first camera
module 121-1 may be useful when a user can capture an image of his
face and send the image to another party during a video call. On
the other hand, the second camera module 121-2 may operate with a
relatively higher pixels (higher resolution) such that it can be
useful for a user to obtain higher quality pictures for later
use.
[0089] A flash 121-3 and a mirror 121-4 may additionally be
disposed adjacent to the second camera module 121-2. The flash
121-3 provides light to a subject to be captured when taking a
picture using the second camera module 121-2. The mirror 121-4 can
cooperate with the second camera module 121-2 to allow a user to
photograph himself in a self-portrait mode.
[0090] The second rear case 100B-2 may further include a second
audio output module 152-2. The second audio output module 152-2 can
cooperate with the first audio output module 152-1 to provide
stereo output. Also, the second audio output module 152-2 may be
configured to operate as a speakerphone.
[0091] A broadcast signal receiving antenna 111-1 may be disposed
at one side of the second rear case 100B-2, in addition to an
antenna for communications. The antenna 111-1 can be configured to
retract into the second body 100B-2.
[0092] One portion of a slide module 100C which allows the first
body 100A to be slidably coupled to the second body 100B may be
disposed at the first rear case 100A-2 of the first body 100A. The
other portion of the slide module 100C may be disposed at the
second front case 100B-1 of the second body 1008, such that it may
not be exposed to the exterior as illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0093] The second camera module 121-2 has been described as being
located at the second body 1008. However, embodiments of the
present invention may not be limited to the configuration.
[0094] For example, it is also possible that one or more of those
components (e.g., 111-1, 121-2 to 121-3, 152-2), which have been
described to be implemented on the second rear case 100B-2, such as
the second camera module 121-2, can be implemented on the first
body 100A, particularly, on the first rear case 100A-2. In this
configuration, the component(s) disposed on the first rear case
100A-2 can be protected by the second body 1008 in a closed
position of the mobile terminal 100. In addition, without the
second camera module 121-2, the first camera module 121-1 can be
implemented to be rotatable so as to rotate up to a direction which
the second camera module 121-2 faces.
[0095] Referring back to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the user input unit 130
generates key input data to be input by a user in order to control
the operation of the mobile terminal 100, and generates key input
data for setting and moving contents. The user input unit 130 may
be implemented as a key pad dome switch, a touch pad, a jog wheel,
or a jog switch. When the touch pad has a reciprocal layered
structure with the display module 151, the user input unit 130 is
implemented as a touch screen.
[0096] The output unit 150 may include the display module 151, the
audio output module 152, and the alarm 153. The display module 151
displays information processed by the mobile terminal 100.
[0097] For example, when the mobile terminal is in a call mode, the
display module 151 displays a UI or a GUI relating to a call. The
display module 151 also displays various types of contents for
multi-selection on a touch screen, such as SMS and music
information in list form.
[0098] The memory 160 may store a program to be processed and
controlled by the controller 180, and may temporarily store
input/output data (e.g., messages, stationary images, moving
images). The memory 160 may include at least one type of storage
medium such as a flash memory, a hard disk, a multimedia micro
card, a card memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM, and ROM. The
mobile terminal 100 may operate a web storage to perform a storage
function by the memory 160 on the Internet.
[0099] The controller 180 controls the entire operation of the
mobile terminal 100. For instance, the controller 180 performs
controls and processes such as a voice call, a data communication,
and a video call. Besides the general operation control, the
controller 180 controls operations relating to multi-selection
and/or deletion.
[0100] For example, when a content list is dragged to a first
region from a predetermined region, a first function is executed.
The first function is a multi-selection function. However, when the
content list is dragged to a second region through the first
region, a second function is executed. The second function is a
function to delete the corresponding content list. Specifically,
the controller displays and executes different functions according
to a distance that a content list is dragged.
[0101] A method for executing a multi-function of a mobile terminal
by dragging a content list according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention will be explained in more detail with
reference to the attached drawings.
[0102] FIG. 4 is a view showing a method for executing a
multi-function in a mobile terminal according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. In a mobile terminal having a
touch function, a first function is set at a predetermined region,
and a content list screen that covers the first function is moved
in a drag manner to expose the first function such that the first
function is executed as a user drags a content list to a first
region.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 4, when a content list is dragged to the
first region from the left to the right on the content list screen,
the first function, such as selection windows 10 for content lists
for multi-selection, is displayed. The content list may include an
SMS or a music file.
[0104] A user selects a desired content list from a plurality of
content lists by touching each selection window 10. The selected
content list may then be integrally deleted, transferred, and
reproduced for music by a soft key.
[0105] In an exemplary embodiment, when one content list is dragged
to the first region, other content lists are simultaneously moved.
However, when one content list is further moved through the first
region, only a corresponding content list is moved. When the
specific content list is moved through the first region, other
content lists may be restored to the original positions.
[0106] FIG. 5 is a view showing a method for executing a
multi-function in a mobile terminal according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. The method of FIG. 5 is the
same as the method of FIG. 4 in that each list is considered as a
block and each list is moved and deleted in a drag manner. The
method of FIG. 5 is different from the method of FIG. 4 in that
when a user drags a content list to a second region, a second
function is executed.
[0107] Referring to FIG. 5, when a specific content list is touched
(press & hold) on a content list screen, an edge 11 is
displayed at the touched point. The edge 11 may have variable
shapes and may be implemented in various forms. Specifically, any
shapes or colors may be implemented as long as a selection for a
corresponding content list in a touch manner can be indicated.
[0108] In an exemplary embodiment, when a content list is dragged,
the content list is moved in the right or left direction.
Specifically, the content list may be movable from the right to the
left, or from the left to the right.
[0109] In an exemplary embodiment, when the content list is moved
to a second region, a second function, such as a trash box icon 12
is displayed (slide-out). The trash box icon 12 may have any shape
or color as long as it can be recognized by a user.
[0110] As shown in FIG. 6, when the moved content list is dragged
out of the trash box icon 12, the corresponding content list is
deleted. By repeatedly performing this operation, unnecessary
content lists may be deleted without searching for additional
menus. Content lists not discarded through the trash box icon are
restored to the original position.
[0111] The method of FIG. 5 may be used together with the method of
FIG. 4. In the mobile terminal having a touch function, a
predetermined region is divided into a first region and a second
region. Once a content list is dragged to a first region, a first
function is executed, and when the content list is dragged to a
second region through the first region, a second function is
executed.
[0112] Once one content list is dragged to the first region, a
plurality of content lists are displayed to allow a user to select
a desired content list. In addition, once a corresponding content
list is dragged to the second region through the first region, the
trash box icon 12 is displayed to allow the corresponding content
list to be deleted.
[0113] This is different from FIG. 4, where the corresponding
content list is selected from the selection window 10 and is
deleted by using a soft key, since the corresponding content list
is deleted by using the trash box icon 12. Accordingly, when the
two methods are executed, a multi-selection and a specific
selection for desired content lists may be simultaneously performed
on a touch screen without using an additional soft key.
[0114] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a method for executing a
multi-function of a mobile terminal according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention, which shows that the two
methods of FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are simultaneously executed. As shown
in FIG. 7, once a user drags a content list to the first region
from the left side to the right side on a content list screen
(S10), the controller 180 displays the selection window 10 for each
content list for multi-selection. Specifically, the controller 180
displays the first function on a predetermined region on the
content list screen by controlling the display module 151
(S11).
[0115] In an exemplary embodiment, the selection window 10 is
positioned at an area where the content list is moved. Accordingly,
a user can select a desired content list by touching the selection
window 10 for each content list.
[0116] When the user moves the corresponding content list to the
second region through the first region (S12), the controller 180
detects approach of the content list, and displays a second
function. For the second function, the controller 180 slides-out
the trash box icon 12 at a right side of the content list screen in
line with the dragged content list and slides the trash box icon 12
in a direction that the content list is dragged (S13). Accordingly,
the user drags the content list out of the trash box icon 12,
thereby deleting the content list from the content list screen.
[0117] In an exemplary embodiment, once the content list is dragged
out of the trash box icon 12, the content list is deleted. In
another exemplary embodiment, the content list is deleted only
after the content list is dragged out of the trash box icon 12 and
the user depresses the touch pad. Content lists not deleted after
passing through the trash box icon are restored to their original
positions after a predetermined time period lapses. Thus, in this
embodiment, if a user drags a content list out of the trash box
icon 12 and continues to touch the keypad longer than the
predetermined time period, the dragged content list is restored to
its original position.
[0118] Various embodiments described herein may be implemented in a
computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may use
software, hardware, or some combination thereof.
[0119] For a hardware implementation, the embodiments described
herein may be implemented within one or more Application Specific
Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Digital Signal Processors (DSPs),
Digital Signal Processing Devices (DSPDs), Programmable Logic
Devices (PLDs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), processors,
controllers, micro-controllers, microprocessors, other electronic
units designed to perform the functions described herein, or a
selective combination thereof. In some cases, such embodiments are
implemented by the controller 180.
[0120] For a software implementation, procedures and functions may
be implemented together with separate software modules each of
which performs at least one of the functions and operations. The
software codes can be implemented with a software application
written in any suitable programming language. Also, the software
codes may be stored in the memory 160 and executed by the
controller 180.
[0121] The foregoing embodiments and advantages are merely
exemplary and are not to be construed as limiting the present
invention. The present teachings can be readily applied to other
types of apparatuses. This description is intended to be
illustrative, and not to limit the scope of the claims.
[0122] Many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be
apparent to those skilled in the art. The features, structures,
methods, and other characteristics of the exemplary embodiments
described herein may be combined in various ways to obtain
additional and/or alternative exemplary embodiments.
[0123] As the present features may be embodied in several forms
without departing from the characteristics thereof, it should also
be understood that the above-described embodiments are not limited
by any of the details of the foregoing description, unless
otherwise specified, but rather should be construed broadly within
its scope as defined in the appended claims. Therefore, all changes
and modifications that fall within the metes and bounds of the
claims, or equivalents of such metes and bounds are therefore
intended to be embraced by the appended claims.
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