Abstract: When half depression of a camera key is detected, a narrow pulse voltage is applied to a piezoelectric element such that the AF gear meshes with a gear provided on the lens frame. Then, a wide pulse voltage opposite in polarity is applied to the piezoelectric element such that the AF gear moves away from the gear provided on the lens frame with the AF gear meshing with a drive gear of the AF motor, and then meshes with a shutter gear. Rotation of the drive gear of the AF motor is transmitted to the AF gear and the gear provided on the lens frame while turning the shutter blade.

Abstract: A portable information appliance includes a first case having a display, a second case and a hinge coupling the cases together so the cases are foldable relative to each other. The second case covers the display of the first case in the folded condition. The hinge hasa pivotally-rotating unit which contains at least one electronic component. When the cases are in an opened position, the pivotally-rotating unit moves from an initial position in which the electronic component faces a direction that is either the same as or opposite to a direction along which the display faces, to a position at which the electronic component faces along an opposite direction than when the pivotally-rotating unit is returned to the initial position when the cases are folded. Opening of the cases does not move the pivotally-rotating unit from the initial position.

Abstract: When half depression of a camera key is detected, a narrow pulse voltage is applied to a piezoelectric element such that the AF gear meshes with a gear provided on the lens frame. Then, a wide pulse voltage opposite in polarity is applied to the piezoelectric element such that the AF gear moves away from the gear provided on the lens frame with the AF gear meshing with a drive gear of the AF motor, and then meshes with a shutter gear. Rotation of the drive gear of the AF motor is transmitted to the AF gear and the gear provided on the lens frame while turning the shutter blade.

Abstract: A folding type portable information appliance capable of properly arranging an electronic component (camera, microphone, speaker etc.) at a desirable position in response to a use condition is provided, while operation of the folding type portable information appliance can be simplified and use operability thereof can be improved.

Abstract: A receiver includes a first case to which an integrated circuit controlling component of the receiver is mounted, and a second case pivotally mounted to the first case and having an antenna mounted thereto. The integrated circuit and the antenna are thus mounted in different cases so as to be separated from each other, and the receiver receives a radio wave with less noise from the integrated circuit. An LCD is mounted to one of the cases such that the LCD is interposed between the antenna and integrated circuit, to substantially shield the antenna from the integrated circuit, when the cases are closed together.