Communications: radio wave antennas – Antennas – With radio cabinet
Reexamination Certificate
2001-02-28
2003-06-03
Le, Hoanganh (Department: 2821)
Communications: radio wave antennas
Antennas
With radio cabinet
C343S901000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06573868
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to electronic devices that allow wireless communication. More particularly, the present invention relates to a retractable antenna that requires a very small amount of space within an electronic device.
2. Description of Related Art
Computers are often connected to various communication systems to exchange data and transmit information. In particular, computers are frequently linked by communication systems or networks such as Local Area Networks (“LANs”), Wide Area Networks (“WANs”), Internet, Ethernet and conventional telephone networks. Computers are typically attached to these communication systems by telephone lines or other specialized wiring. In some locations, however, it is difficult if not impossible to be physically connected to a communication system. Additionally, these communication systems often cannot be used if the user is traveling or moving between locations.
Electronic communications cards are frequently used to connect computers to these communication systems or networks. Conventional communications cards are often in the form of modular cards that can be plugged into a slot or receiving port in the computer. These communications cards can be easily inserted and removed for use with different computers, and the cards allow communication with different networks or systems to be established. Conventional communications cards are often constructed according to the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (“PCMCIA”) standards that define card size, also referred to as “form factor,” for purposes of compatibility and wide use. Communications cards that conform to these standards are often referred to as PCMCIA or PC cards. These standards are set forth in the PC card standard, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
It is also known to use cellular telephones to connect computers to various communication systems and networks. Cellular telephone systems are particularly effective in allowing computers to communicate because the computers do not have to be physically connected to telephone lines or other specialized wiring. Instead, the computers are connected to the communication system by the cellular telephone network. Disadvantageously, cellular telephone systems require the use of a cellular phone, a connection to the cellular telephone network, various cables and interfaces to connect the telephone to the computer, and complicated circuitry to allow the computer and cellular phone to communicate.
Additionally, it is known to attach an antenna directly to a computer to allow wireless communication. Conventional antennas are typically placed external to the body of the computer because of noise, interference, obstruction and shielding caused by the various components of the computer. In addition, conventional antennas are generally rigid and protrude a relatively long distance from the body of the computer. These protruding antennas are often large, unwieldy, aesthetically unpleasing and they make the computer difficult to move and transport. In addition, these antennas are often bent, broken, knocked out of alignment or otherwise damaged because they can easily catch or strike objects such as people, walls, doors, etc. Further, these known antennas require a large support structure to secure the antenna to the housing of the computer and this support structure requires a considerable amount of space inside the body of the computer. This space is very valuable, especially in small, portable computers. Additionally, the support structure is often damaged when the antenna is accidentally moved or bumped.
The repair and replacement of conventional antennas is often difficult and costly because the antenna must be detached and removed from the computer. In fact, the entire antenna assembly is often removed and replaced instead of attempting to repair the antenna because the support structure is also often damaged or in need of repair. Thus, the repair of conventional antennas and the corresponding support structure is often expensive and time consuming.
In order to alleviate these problems, conventional antennas are often removed or detached from the computer before it is moved or transported. Additionally, conventional antennas must often be removed before the computer can be inserted into its carrying case. Disadvantageously, this requires additional time to remove and reattach the antenna whenever the computer is moved. Additionally, when the antenna is detached from the computer, it is often misplaced, lost, or damaged. Further, because the user often does not want to take the time and effort to remove the antenna, the computer is moved with the antenna still attached to the computer and this frequently results in the antenna being damaged or broken.
Another disadvantage of many known antenna systems is the antenna is always operable and ready for wireless communication. This may allow wireless communication when it is not desired or permitted, such as during an airline flight. Additionally, this may allow the antenna to transmit or receive signals while it is stored inside the computer, which may cause interference or otherwise disrupt the operation of the computer.
Yet another disadvantage of these known antenna systems is power is continually being drawn from the computer because the antenna system is always operating. This is a problem especially with portable or smaller-sized computers that use battery power. Because portable computers have a smaller battery with limited electrical storage capabilities, the continuous operation of the antenna system further decreases the amount of time that the computer can be used.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A need therefore exists for an antenna system that eliminates the above described disadvantages and problems.
One aspect of the present invention is an antenna system that is suitable for use with electronic devices. Preferably, the antenna system is operable with portable or relatively small sized electronic devices such as portable computers and electronic communications cards. Advantageously, because the antenna system requires only a small space, it is useful with relatively small electronic devices. In addition, because the associated support structure for the antenna has a small size and requires a relatively small space within the electronic device, it provides room for other components and structures.
Another aspect is an antenna system with a retractable antenna that is selectively moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, the antenna is disposed substantially outside of the housing of the electronic device and it is able to engage in wireless communication. In the retracted position, the antenna is disposed substantially within the electronic device. Significantly, the retracted position reduces the risk of damage to the antenna during storage or transport of the electronic device. Advantageously, the antenna is easily accessible and movable, which allows the user to quickly and easily move the antenna between the extended and retracted positions. Preferably, the antenna is only operable in the extended position and not the retracted position in order to conserve power and prevent electrical interference with other components in the electronic device.
Yet another aspect is an antenna system with an antenna that can be directionally oriented as desired by the user. This freedom of movement allows the antenna to maximize its wireless transmission and reception capability. Preferably, the antenna is flexible and includes a universal or swivel joint to allow the antenna to be placed in the desired position. Additionally, the antenna may include multiple radiating elements that may be positioned in the desired locations.
Another aspect is an antenna system that may be employed in a variety of electronic devices, including portable computers, personal digital assistants (“PDAs”), cellular phones, palm devices, communications cards, compact flash c
Johnson Thomas A.
Price Tim Urry
3Com Corporation
Le Hoang-anh
Workman & Nydegger & Seeley
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