Headgear Patents (Class 455/575.2)
  • Patent number: 8374657
    Abstract: An apparatus having a loop device fastened to a communication unit that permits a user to securely hold the unit using one or more fingers inserted through a loop device for efficient and stable operation of a keyboard, touch screen, trackball or the like using the user's thumb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Rich Interdonato
    Inventor: Rich Interdonato
  • Patent number: 8374374
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a headset includes a body housing a pivot coupling, a speaker capsule operably coupled to the body, and an arm operably coupled to the body. The arm is capable of pivoting open and close about the pivot coupling for accessing a microphone at a free end of the arm. A method for accessing a headset microphone is also provided. Advantageously, the apparatus and method of the present disclosure provide for improved headset use and speech clarity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Plantronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Wales Zhou
  • Patent number: 8369908
    Abstract: A portable electronic device includes a main body, a fixed keypad, a driving module and a movable keypad. The main body defines a cavity inside and an opening in a sidewall thereof. The fixed keypad is mounted on the main body. The movable keypad stays in the cavity until being driven to move away from the main body through the opening when a button is pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Chi Mei Communication Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Ta-Chun Hsu
  • Patent number: 8363823
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for communicating between a user device, such as a mobile terminal, and a three wire headset assembly having two microphones coupled thereto. The methods provide two microphone uplink communication and stereo audio playback on a three wire headset assembly without requiring a fourth wire or the addition of a separate voice processor. The headset assembly includes a primary microphone and secondary microphone spaced some distance apart for applying techniques of noise reduction and suppression. The headset assembly includes two speakers. Controlled switches are also included in both the user device and headset assembly to achieve dual use for a single wire of the three wires. The three wire headset may advantageously support both stereo playback and two microphone voice processing. In some embodiments, two microphone noise suppression for a wired headset mode of the user device is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Audience, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Santos
  • Patent number: 8355755
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile terminal including, first and second bodies rotatably coupled to each other, and a driving unit configured to allow a relative rotation of the first and second bodies between a closed configuration and an open configuration, the first and second bodies being overlaid by each other in the closed configuration and rotated away from each other in the open configuration, wherein the driving unit includes rotation motion units connected to each of the first and second bodies and configured to generate the relative rotation, and slide motion units cooperatively operating with the rotation motion unit and configured to relatively slide the first and second bodies with respect to the driving unit between the closed configuration and the open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Ha-Yong Kim, Yong-Duck Cha, Jong-Hwan Kim, Tae-Wan Kim
  • Patent number: 8355515
    Abstract: An audio headset may comprise a case, near field microphone and far field microphone. A speaker, processor, memory, battery, charging interface and cradle detection circuit may be mounted to the case. Processor-executable instructions embodied in the memory, may be configured to implement a battery charging method. The headset may be shut off in response to placement of the headset in a charging cradle. The far-field microphone is turned on but not the near-field microphone. The battery may then be charged from the cradle. A headset having near-field and far-field microphones may be used to distinguish between user speech and competing sounds by generating signals from the sounds detected by each microphone and comparing the strengths of the signals. The signals may be processed as user speech if they are of comparable strength. Otherwise, the near-field signal may be processed as user speech and the far-field signal as competing sounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Xiadong Mao, Ruxin Chen, Seth C. H. Luisi
  • Patent number: 8355761
    Abstract: A mobile terminal comprises at last a first casing (7) and a second casing (8). First casing (7) and second casing (8) are coupled together in a manner such that the combined configuration of the first and second casings can be varied. First casing (7) has at least a radio circuit (5) and a first antenna (1) connected to the radio circuit, and second casing (8) has at least a second antenna (3). First casing (7) has a feed element (2) connected to the radio circuit. When the combined configuration of the first and second casings is a predetermined configuration, feed element (2) of the first casing and the second antenna of second casing (8) are close to each other to be capacitively coupled together, so that second antenna is connected with radio circuit through feed element via high-frequency waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Takashi Harada
  • Patent number: 8356062
    Abstract: A memory system is constituted of a file storage flash memory storing a control program required for a control portion and a large amount of data, and a random access memory storing a program used by the control portion and functioning as a buffer memory for received data. Thus, a memory system for a portable telephone capable of storing a large amount of received data at high-speed and allowing reading of the stored data at high-speed is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Renesas Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Takayuki Shinohara, Masatoshi Kimura
  • Patent number: 8351999
    Abstract: A wireless headset system including a switching unit having a detection circuit coupled to a wireless adapter. The detection circuit provides a first output signal to the wireless adapter upon detection of a triggering event, such as activation of a manual switch or detection of voltage of an audio output signal from a mobile communications device. The first output signal causes the wireless adapter to enter into an active audio channel mode. The detection circuit also provides a second output signal to the wireless adapter when no triggering event is detected, and the second output signal causes the wireless adapter to enter into a standby mode. Placing at least the wireless adapter in a standby mode saves battery life of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Stealthwear, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Crestol
  • Patent number: 8346317
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an electronic device having rotary input members. The device includes a substantially cylindrical main body, at least one hollow rotary input member rotatably connected to the main body, at least one pair of pads including two pads spaced from each other, arranged on the main body and beneath the at least one rotary input member, at least one selection contact arranged on an internal surface of the at least one rotary input member, and a processing unit. When a closed loop includes a pair of pads, a selection contact and the processing unit is formed, the processing unit determines input characters according to a relationship table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ting-Kai Wang, Jing-Jing Yang
  • Patent number: 8346322
    Abstract: A terminal may include a first body, a second body connected to the first body, and a sliding apparatus to operate the first body and the second body between a first position in which the second body is disposed on the first body, and a second position in which the second body is inclined with respect to the first body. The sliding apparatus may include a connection body having a first end connected to the first body and a second end connected to the second body, and an operator to semi-automatically operate the second body relative to the first body between the first position and the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Pantech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hyoung Chul Yoon
  • Patent number: 8340729
    Abstract: Switching signals between a mobile communications device and a wireless headset can include setting a switch in a first position; connecting, through the switch, signals received from a mobile communications device to a wireless adapter for transmission to a wireless headset; and repositioning the switch, in response to input, to a second position, wherein signals received by the wireless adapter from the wireless headset are connected through the switch to the mobile communications device. Further, signals can be transmitted from the wireless adapter to the wireless headset using a short-range radio frequency protocol. Additionally, the input in response to which the switch is repositioned can be received from a hand-held trigger switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Stealthwear, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Crestol
  • Patent number: 8340731
    Abstract: A wireless headset has a body, an ear clip, and at least two devices for converting at least two different sources of energy into electrical power. The body includes an RF integrated circuit in electrical communication with an antenna and a baseband circuit, the baseband circuit being in electrical communication with a microphone and a speaker. The at least two devices for converting at least two different sources of energy into electrical power are in electrical communication with the RF integrated circuit and the baseband circuit. The ear clip is engaged to the body. The at least two sources of energy are selected from the group consisting of solar energy, thermoelectric energy, piezoelectric energy, and vibration energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventors: Braden Kroll, Mark W. Kroll
  • Patent number: 8325935
    Abstract: A wireless system including a first speaker and a second speaker, where the first and second speakers communicate with each other over a wireless link. In some configurations, the first speaker includes both a primary wireless interface for receiving audio from an audio source and a secondary wireless interface transmitting a portion of the audio to the second speaker. The speaker can incorporate Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to provide the wireless link between each other. The wireless system can be configured to synchronize audio output at the speakers, and can also include a second-speaker detection mechanism that permits the first speaker to be used in either a stand-alone mode, with audio output at only the first speaker, or full-headset mode, with audio output at both speakers when the second speaker is detected within wireless range of the first speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: QUALCOMM Incorporated
    Inventor: Phillip Rutschman
  • Patent number: 8326379
    Abstract: An electronic headset for a user, the headset including a housing; a first microphone to receive a first audio input provided by the user; a second microphone to receive a second audio input provided by one or more audio sources other than the user; a controller converting the first audio input into a first electronic signal when the controller operates in a first operational mode and converting the second audio input into a second electronic signal when the controller operates in a second operational mode; a first output system active in the first operational mode to communicate the first electronic signal to a second electronic device; a second output system active in the second operational mode and including a sound generator to convert the second electronic signal into an audio signal; and a mode control for setting the controller into one of the operational modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Richard S. Slevin
  • Patent number: 8326383
    Abstract: Devices, methods and systems are directed to a top protection portion and a bottom protection portion to protect a front exterior and a back exterior, respectively, of a mobile communication. The top protection portion and the bottom protection portion may each include one or more adhesive members. The adhesive members may be designed to allow a user to remove and apply the top protection portion and the bottom protection portion as desired (e.g., to access a concealed battery of the mobile communication device) without losing their adhesive property.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Superior Communications
    Inventors: Shraddha Patel, Charlie LaColla, Vivian Chou
  • Patent number: 8320954
    Abstract: A system and method are provided that enable a mobile device when out-of-coverage and thus unable to send or receive messages to rely on other mobile devices which are also out-of-coverage as “hosts” for their outgoing messages such that when one of the hosts comes back into coverage the host mobile device (HMD) can send the outgoing messages on behalf of the originating or “source” mobile device (SMD). The system and method may comprise a pairing procedure to determine the suitability of a mobile device being an HMD according to criteria such as battery power, memory availability and whether the device is also out of coverage. When coming back into coverage, information is obtained from the data communication system to determine whether others have already sent messages that have been provided to host mobile devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventors: Aaron J. Cryderman, Sherif Abdel-Kader
  • Patent number: 8306578
    Abstract: Sound quality is enhanced in a sound system including handsets and headsets. Handset sound enhancing algorithms are implemented in a handset. The handset automatically determines which, if any, of a plurality of headset sound enhancing algorithms are active in a headset in communication with the handset. The handset determines how to use the handset sound enhancing algorithms in a sound processing channel based on which of the headset sound enhancing algorithms are active in the headset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Clarity Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond W. Gunn, Michael A. Hayes
  • Patent number: 8300416
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a cover, a body, and two sliding members. The body includes a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and two sliding slots. Each sliding slot extends along the first surface to the second surface. The two sliding members are pivotally coupled to the cover. The cover is rotatably and slidably coupled to the body by the two sliding members engaging with the two sliding slots, and is capable of sliding along the two sliding slots from the first surface to the second surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xin Yang, Wei Wu, Hua Zhang
  • Patent number: 8295889
    Abstract: There is provided an assembly for a sound reproduction apparatus included with a communications apparatus. The assembly includes an ear bud earphone that anchors to an ear of a user; a cable of the ear bud earphone, a portion of the cable being attached to a reel axle onto which the cable is windable, the reel axle being connected to a revolution counter which tracks a number of revolutions of the reel axle in a first direction, the revolution counter being reset to zero when the cable is fully wound onto the reel axle; with a first end of the cable being functionally connected to the communications apparatus to enable sound signals to be reproduced in the ear bud earphone. The functional connection to the communications apparatus may be either via a solder joint or a detachable connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Creative Technology Ltd
    Inventor: Wong Hoo Sim
  • Patent number: 8295897
    Abstract: The application is directed at a mobile communication device comprising a body; and a sliding element, slidable longitudinally along the body; wherein the sliding element is slidable between a first and a second position, such that when said sliding element is in one of said first or second positions, an added device functionality is revealed to the user; and wherein when the sliding element is in the first or second position, a footprint of the mobile communication device is not changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventor: Jason Griffin
  • Publication number: 20120264492
    Abstract: A cellular phone holding device designed to allow the practitioner to conduct conversations on the phone with limited physical interaction with the phone during activities or while performing manual tasks. The device holds the cellular phone in a pocket portion that attaches to a hat and properly aligns with the ear and cheek to facilitate communication. The device may involve hats of any style, shape, color or size. Further, the pocket portion of the device affixes to the inside or the outside of the hat depending on the need of the practitioner. In an alternative embodiment, the device is a pocket style holder for a cellular phone that removeably affixes to a hat or headpiece of any style, size or design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Anthony Stewart
  • Patent number: 8290545
    Abstract: This includes systems and methods for accelerometer usage in a wireless headset. An accelerometer can be used to determine the location of a wireless headset. The determined location can be used to control and improve a noise cancellation system. In some embodiments, the determined location can be used in controlling the functions of buttons of the wireless headset. In some embodiments, the accelerometer can further be used to determine when the system is in use. If the system has not been in use for a predetermined amount of time, at least a portion of the wireless headset can be turned off to save power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Terlizzi
  • Patent number: 8289941
    Abstract: A method, mobile electronic device and system for synchronizing hand-off of a voice media session between a WAN/cellular network and a WLAN network. When a hand-off occurs, the connection with both networks is temporarily maintained and the voice data on both connections compared to determine differences in the delays experienced over both connections. The timing of one or both voice streams is adjusted to synchronize the voice streams, and then the handoff is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventor: Vytautas Robertas Kezys
  • Patent number: 8290543
    Abstract: A system and methods are provided whereby a user of a mobile device can adaptively switch the mobile device from speakerphone mode to handset mode without needing to look at the mobile device or without the need to activate a button or key sequence. In a preferred embodiment, modules are provided in the mobile device which allow for the detection of a voice conversation, the sampling of the user's voice and the switching between the two modes of operation. If the user's voice volume is above a certain threshold the mobile device operates in handset mode. If the user's voice volume is below a certain threshold the mobile device operates in handset mode. Through the inclusion of the embodiments described herein, a mobile device can allow a user to safely and quickly switch from one mode of operation to the other without a requirement for additional hardware in the mobile device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventors: Jeffrey Emery, Nicholas Wilson
  • Patent number: 8285343
    Abstract: A wireless headset has improved immunity to RF electromagnetic interference produced from wireless communications devices. A headset body is adapted to be worn by a user and includes a microphone and earpiece. An antenna receives wireless communication signals and passes them to RF and audio circuitry mounted within the headset body. The RF and audio circuitry include a Bluetooth module operatively connected to the antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless communication signals, an audio CODEC connected to the Bluetooth module, and audio connection lines connected between the CODEC and the earpiece and between the CODEC and the microphone. A filter is connected into each of the audio connection lines at the earpiece and microphone and operative for reducing the RF coupling from a mobile wireless communications device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventors: Lizhong Zhu, George Mankaruse, Michael Corrigan
  • Patent number: 8285208
    Abstract: This includes systems and methods for noise cancellation and power management in a wireless headset. The wireless headset can perform noise cancellation by using two or more omni-directional microphones to generate a noise canceling “cone.” Audio signals received outside of the cone can be filtered out. An accelerometer can be used to determine the location of the wireless headset and the system can then properly position the cone to face the user's voice and filter out other audio signals. Additionally, by monitoring the ambient noise, the system can save power by turning off the noise cancellation system when the amount of ambient noise is below a threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Terlizzi
  • Patent number: 8280462
    Abstract: Sound quality is enhanced in a sound system including handsets and headsets. Handset sound enhancing algorithms are implemented in a handset. The handset automatically determines which, if any, of a plurality of headset sound enhancing algorithms are active in a headset in communication with the handset. The handset determines how to use the handset sound enhancing algorithms in a sound processing channel based on which of the headset sound enhancing algorithms are active in the headset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Clarity Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond W. Gunn, Michael A. Hayes
  • Patent number: 8275165
    Abstract: A communication device comprises a housing with a housing wall encapsulating a housing interior. A microphone is arranged in the housing interior and communicates via an audio passage with the outside of the housing. An electrical socket is adapted to receive an electrical plug through a socket opening, which is accessible from the outside of the housing. The audio passage comprises the socket opening and the electrical socket includes a socket casing which surrounds the socket opening and extends in the insertion direction of the electrical plug. The socket casing includes through-going holes which form a part of the audio passage. The electrical plug is adapted to be removably inserted in the electrical socket and is provided with latching protrusions, which are adapted to be received in the through-going holes in the socket casing, when the electrical plug is inserted in the electrical socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: GN Netcom A/S
    Inventors: Ole Birch, Anthony Nesbitt
  • Patent number: 8265709
    Abstract: A unique input mechanism for controlling several operations of an electronic device is provided. Using the unique input mechanism, which may be the single input mechanism for providing user inputs to the electronic device, a user may provide different inputs or combinations of inputs to control different operations based on the current mode or capacity of the electronic device. For example, a single, short click of a button may control a media operation (e.g., play/pause) in a media mode, and the same input may control a telephony operation (e.g., initiate/terminate call) in a telephony mode. In some embodiments, different inputs may be associated with different types of operations. The unique input mechanism may include, for example, a button, a switch, a key, or an actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Scott Forstall
  • Patent number: 8260380
    Abstract: A headset phone for use with an audio system. A conventional 4-tap, combo phone connector is provided that has a sleeve tap, a tip tap, a first ring tap, and a second ring tap. A first speaker element is connected across the sleeve and tip taps and a second speaker element is connected across the sleeve and first ring taps. A microphone is connected across the sleeve and second ring tap. At least one control unit, other than a mute control, is also connected across the sleeve and second ring taps, such that operation of any control unit changes the impedance across the sleeve and second ring tap that is seen by the audio system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Nvidia Corporation
    Inventor: Jason Seung-Min Kim
  • Patent number: 8259458
    Abstract: A battery cover assembly for a portable electronic device includes a housing, a battery cover, and a pivot member. The housing forms a first latch portion and a second latch portion, the first latch portion and the second latch portion being arranged at a circle. The battery cover forms a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion engaging with the first latch portion and a second latch portion to allow the battery cover to releasably latch to the housing. The pivot member rotatably connects the battery cover to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Mu-Wen Yang, Chih-Chiang Chang
  • Patent number: 8248808
    Abstract: A portable electronic device includes a housing, a printed circuit board, a flexible printed circuit board, and a clip. The printed circuit board is attached to one side of the housing. The flexible printed circuit board is attached to another side of the housing. The clip is attached to the housing. The clip includes at least one arcuate portion, and the arcuate portion elastically presses the flexible printed circuit board to the printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignees: Shenzhen Futaihong Precision Industry Co., Ltd., FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Xiao-Liang Wei, Zhi-Yun Shen
  • Patent number: 8249672
    Abstract: A transmission plug for a complex earphone is disclosed. The complex earphone is capable of receiving a broadcast signal and sending out an audio signal. The transmission plug includes a first metal ring for providing an audio grounding, a first insulation layer formed inside the first metal ring, a second metal ring formed inside the first insulation layer for transmitting the audio signal, a second insulation layer formed inside the second metal ring, and a radio-frequency transmission stick formed inside the second insulation layer for transmitting the broadcast signal, wherein a shape of the transmission plug conforms to an international standard audio plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Wistron NeWeb Corporation
    Inventors: Shih-Hong Chen, Chieh-Sheng Hsu
  • Patent number: 8249675
    Abstract: A slide type electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a base; a sliding member slidably connected to the base; a release assisting mechanism includes an angled groove and a resilient member, the angled groove includes a first groove and a second groove, the first groove and the second groove extend to form an angle and meet at an intersection, the resilient member includes a protrusion received in the angled groove; when the sliding member slides relative to the base, the resilient member moves with the sliding member and the protrusion is guided to move along the angled groove, which causes the resilient member to bend elastically; after the protrusion passes the intersection, the protrusion engages one of the first groove and the second groove, which facilitates the sliding of the sliding member via the restoration of the resilient member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jin-Shi Lai
  • Patent number: 8244308
    Abstract: A helmet communication device is composed primarily of a first communication device, a second communication device and a switching circuit device, such that when a motorcycle driver is driving the motorcycle, the driver can choose to use the first communication device to answer a cellular phone with a wired or blue-tooth technology, or to converse with a back seat passenger through the second communication device, by a control of the switching circuit device, so as to improve driving safety and to improve convenience in answering the cellular phone or dialoging with the back seat passenger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventors: Jian-Ming Chen, Mei-Ling Kuo
  • Patent number: 8238978
    Abstract: A portable apparatus includes a first case portion including a full keyboard, a second case portion superposed on the first case portion, a slide connection member connecting the first case portion to the second case portion in such a manner that the first case portion is slidable in a direction perpendicular to a length direction of the full keyboard, and a display screen unit directly or indirectly disposed on a front surface of the second case portion, wherein the first and second case portions have a hiding mechanism with which a part of the slide connection member is prevented from being exposed to the outside when the first case portion is maximally slid out with respect to the second case portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Sony Mobile Communications Japan, Inc.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Taniguchi, Takashi Arai
  • Patent number: 8237856
    Abstract: A video recording camera system configured to record video to a non-volatile memory configured as a circular video recording buffer. In an embodiment, the video recording camera system includes a non-volatile storage medium and a processor is configured to manage at least a portion of the non-volatile storage medium as a circular buffer, replacing recorded video data stored in a subset of memory addresses corresponding to an older recorded video frame with the data corresponding to a newer video frame. In further embodiments, clip files may be partitioned from the circular buffer to prevent logical portion of the recorded video from being overwritten upon reaching a capacity of the circular recorded video buffer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Looxcie, Inc.
    Inventors: Justin Boland, Romulus Pereira, Narayan Mohanran
  • Patent number: 8238969
    Abstract: A mobile device includes a trigger having a rod-like body fixed at one end. A housing has a first hole into which the body is inserted. A sensor detects that the trigger has been operated in the direction in which the body is pulled from the hole. A buzzer is activated in response to the sensor's having detected the operation of the trigger. A second hole is formed in a firmly fitted member. The body is inserted in the second hole so as to be freely slid forward or backward against the hole. The fitted member is fitted firmly in the entrance portion of the first hole; and a sealing member contacts the internal wall of the first hole and the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Hiroaki Matsuda, Tatsuhito Araki, Yoshiya Matsumoto, Manabu Sotodate, Wataru Murata, Ken Shoji, Ryo Hattori
  • Patent number: 8233947
    Abstract: A neckpad communications system for a helmet includes a neckpad body that includes coupling members for detachably coupling the neckpad body to a surface of the helmet. The system includes a communications unit having a first part that is disposed within and covered by the neckpad body and is configured to permit audio communication with another remote device and a second part including audio transducers located at least partially outside the neckpad body. The audio transducers are operatively connected to the communications unit and can include at least one speaker and a microphone. The neckpad body includes cushioning to allow it to be worn against a user's body and includes controls associated with the communications unit that are accessible exteriorly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Cardo Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Avraham Kushnirov
  • Patent number: 8229515
    Abstract: A wireless communication device has a docking cavity, a short-range transceiver, and a long-range transceiver for long-range wireless communication with a wireless network. A wireless communication module includes a speaker and a microphone, and a short-range transceiver for short-range wireless communication with the device's short-range transceiver. The module is configured to operate in first and second modes. In the first mode, the module is separated from the communication device. In the second mode, the module is mounted in the cavity. In both modes, communication between a user and the network is conducted through the module's microphone and speaker, both short-range transceivers and the long-range transceiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventors: Jason Tyler Griffin, Mihal Lazaridis, James Carl Infanti, Peter J. Edmonson
  • Patent number: 8229514
    Abstract: The present invention provides a DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunication) wireless hands-free communication apparatus which includes a DECT host and a DECT earphone, wherein the DECT host is coupled with the Public Switch Telephone Network (PSTN) and configures an earphone receiving recess, which configures with a magnetic device mounted on the DECT host. The DECT earphone wirelessly communicates with the DECT host via the digital enhanced cordless telecommunication technique and the DECT earphone is detachable while it is attached to the earphone receiving recess The DECT earphone configures a magnetic conductive device, wherein the magnetic conductive device magnetically attracts to the magnetic device while the DECT earphone is close to the earphone receiving recess, whereby the DECT earphone electrically connects with the DECT host.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Sure Best Limited
    Inventor: Pi-Fen Lin
  • Patent number: 8229521
    Abstract: A head set device includes an antenna housing, a speaker housing connected to the antenna housing while protruding from one face of the antenna housing, and a hinge device for rotatably combining the speaker housing to the antenna housing. The speaker housing rotates with respect to a rotation axis that extends outwardly from one face of the antenna housing. The antenna housing and the speaker housing are rotatably connected together using a hinge device, thereby allowing the user to selectively wear the head set device on either ear and thus facilitating the use of the head set device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hyo-Sung Kang, Sung-Sun Park, Young-Jun Jung, Yeong-Moo Ryu
  • Patent number: 8208978
    Abstract: A miniaturized attachment mechanism for attaching a lanyard to a cell phone, MP3 player or other portable device having a hole in its outer casing is disclosed. The miniaturized attachment mechanism can have one end permanently fastened to a lanyard, and can include a spring-loaded ball detent within a hollow shaft. The hollow shaft diameter can be about 3 millimeters or less, while the diameter of the ball within the hollow shaft can be about 2 millimeters or less. The hollow shaft can be inserted into the casing hole such that the ball detent secures the mechanism to the casing until a pin release is used. In another embodiment, the miniaturized attachment mechanism can include a 1 millimeter shaft having a groove at an insertable end, while the casing encloses a two hole E-ring mechanism adapted to lock onto the groove when the shaft is inserted into the casing hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt Stiehl, Karen Cheng
  • Patent number: 8201274
    Abstract: The present invention provides a communication device for use in coaching and sports events. The invention includes, in one embodiment, a waterproof radio receiver embodied in a helmet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Mark Ellis
  • Patent number: 8204549
    Abstract: A portable terminal including a terminal body having an earpiece mounting portion, and an earpiece detachably mounted at the earpiece mounting portion. The earpiece includes an earpiece body configured to communicate with the terminal body, and a speaker portion configured to output sound transmitted from the earpiece body, the speaker portion having a controllable length so as to reduce a thickness of the earpiece when the earpiece is detachably mounted at the earpiece mounting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Young-Joong Kim, Won-Seok Joo
  • Patent number: 8200295
    Abstract: A communications system may include at least one mobile wireless communications device, and a wireless communications network for sending text messages thereto. More particularly, the at least one mobile wireless communications device may include a wireless transceiver and a controller for cooperating therewith for receiving text messages from the wireless communications network. It may further include a headset output connected to the controller. The controller may be for switching between a normal message mode and an audio message mode based upon a connection between the headset output and a headset. Moreover, when in the audio message mode, the controller may output at least one audio message including speech generated from at least one of the received text messages via the headset output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventors: Darrell Reginald May, Alain R. Gagne
  • Patent number: 8195243
    Abstract: A terminal including a first body, a second body connected to the first body, a first display disposed on the first body, a second display disposed on the second body and having a transparency such that information displayed on the first display can be seen though the second display having the transparency when the first and second displays overlap each other, and a controller configured to control a movement of a displayable object between the first and second displays based on an opening and closing of the first and second bodies of the terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jong-Hwan Kim, Nam-Yong Park
  • Patent number: 8195253
    Abstract: A communications system for a vehicle user is provided. The system comprises a portable receiver which the vehicle user can easily carry on his or her person. The portable receiver is capable of receiving coded transmissions from a vehicle-mounted transmitter which is capable of activating a function in a portable transceiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Pinnacle Peak Holding Corporation
    Inventors: James Roberts, David Fettig
  • Patent number: 8195129
    Abstract: A vehicle telematics unit or other electronic hardware in a vehicle authenticates an incoming SMS message and provides additional security features above and beyond those inherent to the SMS protocol. A call center uses a mathematical function to derive a security code, and then sends an SMS message to the vehicle. The telematics unit can utilize the transmitted information to authenticate the sender of the SMS message and/or its contents. One group of suitable mathematical functions utilizes keyed-hash message authentication codes (HMACs).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: General Motors LLC
    Inventors: Elizabeth Chesnutt, Ki Hak Yi, Anthony J. Sumcad, Kevin R. Krause