Abstract: A stationary interface control knob includes a body having a fixed substantially-cylindrical surface with a first axis, and a flexible touch panel sensor having a sensor surface at least partially in cylindrical form with a spaced relationship from the fixed substantially-cylindrical surface. The sensor surface has a second axis coinciding with the first axis. The flexible touch panel sensor senses a user interaction with the fixed substantially-cylindrical surface and generates an interface signal in response thereto. Also discloses are method of controlling the stationary interface control knob.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing tactile feedback to a rotary knob is provided herein. During operation a rotary knob will have a surface pattern that will change smoothly from one pattern to another based on device functions currently being controlled by the rotary knob. So, for example, when the rotary knob is controlling a volume function, the surface will have a first textured pattern, and when the rotary knob is controlling a channel function, the surface will have a second, differing, textured pattern.

Abstract: A stationary interface control knob includes a body having a fixed substantially-cylindrical surface with a first axis, and a flexible touch panel sensor having a sensor surface at least partially in cylindrical form with a spaced relationship from the fixed substantially-cylindrical surface. The sensor surface has a second axis coinciding with the first axis. The flexible touch panel sensor senses a user interaction with the fixed substantially-cylindrical surface and generates an interface signal in response thereto. Also discloses are method of controlling the stationary interface control knob.

Abstract: A portable communications device having a panel movable between a first position and a second position, a receiver to receive incoming audio messages, a memory and an electronic processor. The electronic processor determines whether the panel is in a first position or a second position. The electronic processor converts an audio portion of the incoming audio message to a visual message and displays the visual message on a display of the portable communications device.

Abstract: A portable radio includes a display component configured to display information on a top section of the portable radio. The display component also includes a housing, wherein a top section of the housing is coupled to a bottom section of at least one of an antenna and a knob. The portable radio also includes an interface connector having a top section coupled to a bottom section of the housing of the display component. A bottom section of the interface connector is coupled to a hardware attachment on the top section of the portable radio.

Abstract: A portable radio includes a display component configured to display information on a top section of the portable radio. The display component also includes a housing, wherein a top section of the housing is coupled to a bottom section of at least one of an antenna and a knob. The portable radio also includes an interface connector having a top section coupled to a bottom section of the housing of the display component. A bottom section of the interface connector is coupled to a hardware attachment on the top section of the portable radio.