Abstract: The method of assembling an antenna and over-molding the same with a thermoplastic material is described which ensures that the elongated rod of the antenna is centrally positioned in its molding material and ensures that the helical spring of the antenna is also centrally positioned in the molding material. A sub-assembly is first created by connecting a helical spring to one end of an elongated metal rod and then inserting a threaded location mandrel in the spring. The assembled sub-assembly is then placed in an injection molding tool and is over-molded with a thermoplastic material. During the initial molding process, the metal rod and helical spring are centered in their respective cavities. The molded sub-assembly is then removed from the injection tool and placed in a second injection tool wherein the interior of the helical spring is filled with a thermoplastic material at the same time as an end cap is created. At the same time, the exposed end of the metal rod is also over-molded.

Abstract: A retractable antenna for use with a cellular telephone wherein the retractable antenna is removably mounted on the upper end of the telephone. The retractable antenna includes an antenna housing which extends upwardly from the upper end of the telephone and which has a matching circuit provided therein. A helical radiator is positioned in the antenna housing and has its lower end operatively connected to the matching circuit. An elongated radiator is selectively vertically movably positioned in the antenna housing and the telephone and is movable between extended and retracted positions with respect to the antenna housing and the telephone housing. The lower end of the elongated radiator is electrically connected to the upper end of the helical radiator when the elongated radiator is in its extended position. The elongated radiator is electrically disconnected from the helical radiator when the elongated radiator is in its retracted position.