GB2402293A - Handset for both cellular telephone and push-to-talk communications - Google Patents

Abstract

A communication device handset (100) enabled to effect cellular or mobile telephone communications and push-to-talk (PTT) communications is described. The handset (100) comprises a set of functional elements (113, 114, 115, 116) that is operable as at least part of a user interface for cellular telephone communications. The set of functional elements (113, 114, 115, 116) is also operable as a full user interface for PTT communications. By sharing a set of functional elements (113, 114, 115, 116) between two communication types in this manner, the total number of components required by the handset (100) may be reduced. Also disclosed is a method of operating a push-to-talk communications device.

Description

COMMUNICATION HANDSET

The present invention relates to a push-to-talk communication device handset, and to a s method of operating a push-to-talk communication device.

A conventional push-to-talk communication device is shown in EP-A21168777. The handset has front and rear faces, and left and right sides. The front face and left side carry functional elements for a digital radio telephone. The rear face and right side carry lo push-to-talk (PTT) functional elements. Specifically, the right side carries a push-to-talk switch, and the rear face carries centrally a group selector switch together with a push-to- talk microphone and a push-to-talk speaker.

A first problem with the user interface of EP-A2-1168777 is that it is not suited for is operation while the handset is carried in the hand. As a result, the device is carried in a cradle attached to a shoulder strap, particularly when operated in push-to-talk mode.

A second problem with the user interface of EP-A2-1168777 is that it is not convenient to operate the group selector switch with the hand which is carrying the handset.

A third problem with the user interface of EP-A2-1168777 is that it is not convenient to operate the group selector switch while the handset is being held adjacent to the head.

A fourth problem with the user interface of EP-A2-1168777 is that each of the two 2s modes of operation of the communication device, namely digital radio telephone operation and PTT operation, is operated using a set of functional elements that is distinct and separate from the set of functional elements that is used to operate the other mode of operation.

It is a preferred aim of this invention to at least partially alleviate some of these problems.

In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a push-to-talk communication device handset having front and rear faces, a display andlor keypad located on one of said faces, and side surfaces between the front and rear faces, a push s to-talk switch being located on or adjacent one of the side surfaces, and group selector means being located on or adjacent another of the side surfaces, each of said switch and said selector means being operable using a respective digit of a hand holding the handset.

Thus, the push-to-talk switch and group selector means may be easily operated by the lo hand which is holding the handset, as, for example, the thumb of the user will rest against the group selector means and at least one finger of the hand will rest against the PTT switch.

Preferably, the group selector means is mounted on the rear face adjacent to the side ] s surface opposite said one of the side surfaces.

Preferably, the group selector means protrudes at least partially beyond said another of said side surfaces.

Preferably, the handset comprises an opening on the rear face of the handset, wherein the group selector means is mounted in the opening. This provides a more slimline design than the design of EP-A2-168777.

Preferably, the opening is a seat having a first opening on the rear face of the handset, 2s and a second opening on said another of said side surfaces.

Preferably, the group selector means is a rotary switch. In this case the rotary switch may be operable to positively select a particular group when rotated. In an alternative embodiment, the group selector means may be a rotary dial, in which case a particular group may only be positively selected by activating the PTT button or another function key. In an alternative embodiment, the group selector means may be a push button switch.

Preferably, the push-to-talk switch is located on said one of the side surfaces.

Preferably, the push-to-talk switch is located on a side surface opposite to the side surface on which, or adjacent to which, the group selector means is located.

Preferably, the handset includes ergonomically profiled side surfaces.

Preferably, the push-to-talk switch follows the profile of said one of said side surfaces.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a push-to-talk communication device handset comprising first and second sides, the first side being is broader than the second side; a push-totalk switch; and group selector means mounted on or adjacent to the relatively narrow second side of the handset.

Thus, the group selector means may be operated while the first side of the handset is being held adjacent to the head of the user, to be close to the speaker and/or microphone.

Preferably, the first and second sides may be opposite sides (for instance, front and rear faces of the handset), but preferably are adjacent sides (such as a rear and left side of the handset).

The handset may not include a speaker and/or microphone. In this case, the speaker and/or microphone can be provided as a separate headset.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a push-to-talk communication device handset comprising front and rear faces, a microphone, a push-to talk speaker located on the front face of the handset, and group selector means located on or adjacent to the rear face of the handset.

Thus, the group selector switch may be operated easily while the broad side of the handset is being held in the palm of the hand.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of operating a push-to-talk communication device handset having front and rear faces, a display and/or keypad located on one of said faces, and side surfaces between the front lo and rear faces, a push-totalk switch being located on or adjacent one of the side surfaces, and group selector means being located on or adjacent another of the side surfaces, the method comprising holding the handset in one hand; and operating each of said switch and said selector means using a respective digit of the hand which is holding the handset.

Preferably, the group selector means is operated while the handset is being held in the palm of the hand.

Preferably, the group selector means is operated by one of a finger and a thumb of the hand which is carrying the handset.

Preferably, the group selector means is operated by a scrolling action of said one of a finger and a thumb against the switch.

Preferably, the push-to-talk switch is operated while the handset is being held in the palm of the hand.

Preferably, the push-to-talk switch is operated with the other of a finger and a thumb of the hand which is carrying the handset.

Preferably, the push-to-talk switch is operated with a thumb or an index finger of the hand which is carrying the handset.

In accordance with yet a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of s operating a push-to-talk communication device having front and rear faces, a microphone, a push-to-talk speaker located on the front face of the handset, and group selector means located on or adjacent to the rear face of the handset, the method comprising operating the group selector means while the handset is being held adjacent to the head. lo

In accordance with a broad further aspect of the invention there is provided a communication device handset enabled to effect first and second types of communication, the handset comprising a set of functional elements operable as at least part of a user interface for the first type of communication, wherein the set of functional is elements is also operable as a full user interface for the second type of communication.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is provided a communication device handset enabled to effect cellular telephone communications and e1 communications, the handset comprising a set of functional elements operable as at least part of a user interface for cellular telephone communications, wherein the set of functional elements is also operable as a full user interface for PTT communications.

The term "functional element" preferably includes, for example, useroperable controls (for example, push buttons, rotary switches, sliding switches and joysticks), audio 2s transducers (for example, microphones, loudspeakers and earphones) and visual transducers (for example, display screens, light emitting diodes, and cameras).

Preferably, the term "set of functional elements" is understood to mean one or more functional elements as hereinbefore described.

Preferably, the term "user interface" describes any means, including functional elements as described above, by which a user can interact with the handset or a particular type of communication that is enabled by the handset. The term "full user interface" preferably describes a set of functional elements through which the user can interact with all of the user-interactable functionality of the handset or a particular type of communication that is enabled by the handset.

The total number of components required by the handset may thus be reduced by sharing a set of functional elements between two communication types, such as cellular 0 telephony and PTT, that are supported by the handset. Reducing the number of components in the handset may reduce the cost, weight and size of the handset, and may also improve the reliability of the handset.

Sharing functional elements may also improve the ease of use of the handset. For example, by reducing the number of user-operable controls present on the handset, the risk of confusing or intimidating a user who is unfamiliar with the method of operation of the handset may be reduced. Furthermore, reducing the number of functional elements that are present on the surface of the handset may improve ease of use by allowing the size of these functional elements to be increased, whilst allowing the handset to maintain a compact overall size. For example, increasing the size of user-operable controls may facilitate their manipulation by a user.

Preferably, PTT communications are enabled by a cellular telephone network adapted to provide PTT services. For example, a Qualcomm Qchat_ system may be used to provide PTT functionality in a CDMA2000 telecommunications network. In another example, a Winphoria Networks Global Instant Rendezvous (GIRL) system may be used to provide PTT functionality in an existing cellular telecommunications network. Pin' communication may alternatively be enabled by a dedicated PTT telecommunications infrastructure that is separate from the communications network used for cellular so telephony.

Preferably, the user interface for cellular telephone communications comprises a functional element located on a first surface of the handset, and the user interface for PTT communications comprises a functional element located on or adjacent a second surface of the handset.

Preferably, if the handset comprises more than two surfaces, the user interface for cellular telephone communications and/or PTT communications may also include a functional element located on or adjacent a surface other than the first or second o surfaces.

Preferably, the user interface for PTT communications comprises a functional element located on a third surface of the handset.

Is Preferably, the second surface is disposed between the first and third surfaces.

Preferably, the second surface is orthogonal to both the first and third surfaces.

Preferably, the width of the second surface in the direction generally perpendicular to both the first and third surfaces is less than the width of the first and third surfaces in the direction generally perpendicular to the second surface. Thus, in an example in which the functional elements for use with both cellular telephone and PTT communications comprises a user-operable control located on or adjacent the second surface, the handset can be held such that the user-operable control is operable using a digit of a user's hand 2s when either the first or third surface is facing the palm of the user's hand. This may allow the user to interact with the handset in a comfortable and convenient manner, and may also facilitate operation of the handset using a single hand.

Locating those functional elements of the handset user interface that are particularly associated with cellular telephony (such as the numeric keypad, for example) on a surface opposite to that on which those functional elements of the handset user interface that are particularly associated with PTT (such as the loudspeaker, for example) are located may improve the ease of use of the handset, by creating a clear distinction between operation in cellular and PTT modes. In an example, the handset may be used s for cellular telephone communications by holding the handset such that the third surface faces the user's palm; to effect PTT communications, the orientation of the handset is optionally reversed, such that the first surface faces the user's palm. Thus, the user can easily select between the cellular and PTT modes of operation according to the way in which the handset is oriented during use. Furthermore, certain functional elements that lo are common to both cellular telephone communications and PTT communications may be conveniently accessible on or adjacent the side of the handset (for operation with a digit of the hand that is holding the handset) in both of the previously mentioned handset orientations. However, it should be emphasised that reversing the orientation of the handset to effect PTT communications is optional in this example, since the PTT is communications are possible even when the handset is held in the preferred orientation for cellular communications. In an example, a PTT button and/or a group select wheel are located on or adjacent the second surface.

In another example, the first, second and third surfaces are mutually orthogonal. This arrangement may also improve ease of use by creating a clear distinction between the cellular and PTT modes of operation of the handset.

Preferably, the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset. For example, the first surface may be the nominal "front" of the handset and the second 2s surface may be the nominal "rear" of the handset. Alternatively, the first surface may be the nominal "left side" of the handset and the second surface may be the nominal "right side" of the handset, or the first surface may be the nominal "top" of the handset when the second surface is the nominal "bottom" of the handset. This arrangement of functional elements may also improve the ease of use of the handset, by reinforcing the so functional distinction between the cellular and PTT operating modes. In examples in which the handset comprises more than two surfaces, the user interfaces for either cellular telephone communications and/or PIT communications may also comprise functional elements located on or adjacent surfaces other than the first and second surfaces.

Preferably, the set of functional elements comprises a speaker, a loudspeaker and a microphone comprising an aperture in communication with a transducer, wherein the relative positions of the speaker, loudspeaker and microphone aperture are such that the speaker and loudspeaker are located nearer to each other on the handset than to the o microphone aperture Preferably, the set of functional elements comprises a speaker located near a first end of the handset, and a microphone comprising an aperture in communication with a transducer, the aperture located near a second end of the handset, wherein the set of is functional elements further comprises a loudspeaker located near the first end of the handset.

Preferably, the speaker is an earphone.

Preferably, the transducer converts sound to an electrical signal.

Preferably, the aperture conveys sound waves generated outside the handset to the transducer.

2s Thus, in normal use the handset may be oriented such that both the speaker and loudspeaker are proximal to the user's ear when the aperture of the microphone is proximal to the user's mouth. This arrangement enables the use of a single microphone for both the first and second types of communication.

Preferably, the speaker is located on a first surface of the device and the loudspeaker is located on a second surface of the device.

Locating the speaker, which is primarily associated with cellular telephone s communications, on a different surface to the loudspeaker, which is primarily associated with PTT communications, may improve ease of use of the handset by creating a clear distinction between the two types of communication enabled by the handset.

Preferably, the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset. lo

Thus, a user can optionally reverse the orientation of the handset to choose between cellular and PTT modes of communication.

Preferably, the aperture is located between the first and second surfaces.

Preferably, the aperture is located substantially equidistant from the first and second surfaces.

Locating the aperture substantially equidistant from these two surfaces may allow a single aperture to be used when the handset is held in different orientations to effect cellular and PTT communications. In an alternative example, an aperture is provided on each of the first and second surfaces.

Preferably, the set of functional elements comprises a speaker located on a first surface 2s of the handset, a loudspeaker located on a second surface of the handset, and a microphone, wherein the microphone comprises a transducer located substantially equidistant from the first and second surfaces.

Locating the transducer distal from the surfaces of the handset may help to maximise the surface area of the handset that is available for other purposes. Thus, a greater number of l] user-operable controls may be placed on the surface of the handset; alternatively, an uncluttered appearance of the handset may be achieved.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a communication device s handset enabled to effect first and second types of voice-based communication, the first and second types of communication being enabled by different network infrastructures, and the handset comprising a set of functional elements operable as at least part of a user interface for the first type of communication, wherein the set of functional elements is also operable as a full user interface for the second type of communication. lo

In a first example, one type of communication is cellular telephony enabled by a cellular telecommunications network infrastructure, while the other type of communication is PTT enabled by a cellular telecommunications network comprising a PTT system (such as a QChat_ or GIR_ system, as previously described). is

In other examples, the first or second types of communication may be enabled by a dedicated PTT network infrastructure, a satellite telephony network infrastructure, a packet-switched wireless network infrastructure (such as an IEEE 802.1 1 network infrastructure), or a network infrastructure adapted to enable video conferencing.

In yet further examples, the different network infrastructures comprise a number of elements. Particular elements, such as base station transceivers or public switched telecommunications networks for example, may be shared between the different network infrastructures. However, either the first or second type of communication is enabled by 2s at least one element of a network infrastructure that is not required to enable the other type of communication.

Preferably, the user interface for the first type of communication comprises a functional element located on a first surface of the handset, and the user interface for second type of ]2 communication comprises a functional element located on or adjacent a second surface of the handset.

Preferably, the user interface for the second type of communication comprises a s functional element located on a third surface of the handset.

Preferably, the second surface is disposed between the first and third surfaces.

Preferably, the second surface is substantially orthogonal to both the first and third o surfaces.

Preferably, the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset.

Preferably, the set of functional elements comprises a speaker located near a first end of s the handset, and a microphone comprising an aperture in communication with a transducer, the aperture located near a second end of the handset, and the set of functional elements further comprises a loudspeaker located near the first end of the handset.

Preferably, the speaker is located on a first surface of the device and the loudspeaker is located on a second surface of the device.

Preferably, the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset.

2s Preferably, the aperture is located between the first and second surfaces.

Preferably, the aperture is located substantially equidistant from the first and second surfaces. ]3

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is provided a communication device handset enabled to effect first and second types of voice-based communication, the handset comprising a speaker located near a first end of the handset, and a microphone for use with both first and second types of communication, the microphone s comprising an aperture in communication with a transducer, the aperture located near a second end of the handset, wherein the handset further comprises a loudspeaker located near the first end of the handset.

Preferably, the speaker is located on a first surface of the device and the loudspeaker is l o located on a second surface of the device.

Preferably, the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset.

Preferably, the aperture is located between the first and second surfaces.

Preferably, the aperture is located substantially equidistant from the first and second surfaces.

Preferably, the transducer is located substantially equidistant from the first and second surfaces.

According to yet a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a communication device handset, the handset comprising a microphone, a speaker located on a first surface of the handset, and a loudspeaker located on a second surface of the handset, wherein the as microphone comprises a transducer located substantially equidistant from the first and second surfaces.

Preferably, the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset.

Preferably, the speaker and loudspeaker are located near a first end of the handset, and the microphone comprises an aperture in communication with the transducer, and the aperture is located near the second end of the handset.

Preferably, the handset is enabled to effect first and second types of voice-based communication, and the microphone is operable for use with both first and second types of communication.

Preferably, one of the first or second types of communication is cellular telephony. lo

Preferably, one of the first or second types of communication is PTT.

The invention also provides a computer program and a computer program product for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the ]5 apparatus features described herein, and a computer readable medium having stored thereon a program for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein.

The invention also provides a signal embodying a computer program for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein, a method of transmitting such a signal, and a computer product having an operating system which supports a computer program for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein.

The invention extends to methods and/or apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Any feature in one aspect of the invention may be applied to other aspects of the invention, in any appropriate combination. In particular, method aspects may be applied l5 to apparatus aspects, and vice versa.

Furthermore, features implemented in hardware may generally be implemented in software, and vice versa. Any reference to software and hardware features herein should s be construed accordingly.

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: o Figure 1 is a schematic front view of a radio telephone; Figure 2 is a schematic rear view of the radio telephone of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the radio telephone of Figure 1 from the rear is and left side; Figure 4A is a schematic front view of a handset; Figure 4B is a schematic rear view of the handset of Figure 4A; Figure 5 is a schematic diagram a radio telephone microphone arrangement; and Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a user interface manager for a handset.

as As shown in the drawings, a radio telephone handset 1 has a front side shown in Figure 1, a rear side shown in Figure 2; opposed left and right sides 5, 6; and opposed top and bottom sides 7, 8.

The handset shown in Figure 1 carries functional elements associated with a conventional digital or cellular radio telephone. These include a display 10, speaker 12, and keypad 13. The handset also includes a dummy microphone 11. The actual input to the microphone is via an opening in the bottom side 8 of the handset 1.

The handset also provides access to functional elements associated with a Push-To-Talk s telephone, including a second speaker in the form of a loudspeaker 21, group selector means in the form of a group select wheel 22 and push-to-talk button 23. The speaker output grill is on the rear side of the handset 1, the group select wheel 22 is on the left side 5, and the push-to-talk button 23 is on the right side 6.

lo The body of the handset is formed by a housing made of various parts which form a closed shell, for example, front part 9 and rear part 13. The rear part 13 is formed with a seat with a front wall 40, upper wall 41, lower wall 42, right wall 43, and open left and rear sides. The group select wheel 22 is partially recessed into the seat, with the deft side of the group select wheel 22 protruding slightly from the open left side of the seat. The rear face 24 of the group select wheel is fully recessed below the level of the rear face of the housing, but can be accessed through the open rear side of the seat. Thus the group select wheel 22 is easily accessible from the left side of the handset 1 and the rear face of the handset 1 which enables the group select wheel 22 to be operated as a rotary switch.

From Figure 2, it can be seen that the group select wheel 22 has been located in a readily accessible position on the side of the handset. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the group select wheel 22 may be located more centrally, as long as the wheel remains at least adjacent to one side of the rear face of the handset 1.

as The right side 6 of the handset has a projection formed by an upper ramp portion 30 and a lower ramp portion 31. The upper ramp portion 30 has a recess (not labelled) through I which the PTT button 23 protrudes slightly. The ramp portions 30,31 follow the profiled shape of the sides of the handset 1 and provide a profile which sits comfortably against the fingers of a right handed user, or the thumb of a left handed user, when the handset I so is held face up.

The handset 1 is also provided with a group select button 54, provided below the PTT button 23, and a speaker on/off switch 50 which selectively switches audio output from the speaker 12 to the loudspeaker 21.

In use, when the handset 1 is carried in the right hand of a user with the rear side engaging the palm, the index finger of the right hand rests over the PTT button 23 and the thumb of the right hand rests over the groupselect wheel 22. Thus the PTT button 23 and group select wheel 22 can be actuated by the index finger and thumb respectively of lo the same hand that is carrying the phone. Also, the PTT button 23 and group select wheel 22 are easily accessible from the left and right sides of the phone respectively.

This enables the PTT button 23 and group select wheel 22 to be operated easily whilst the handset 1 is held with speaker 12 near the ear of the user.

Similarly, when the handset 1 is carried in the left hand of a user with the rear side engaging the palm, the thumb of the left hand rests over the PTT button 23 and the index finger of the left hand rests over the group select wheel 22. Thus the PTT button 23 and group select wheel 22 can be actuated by the thumb and index fingers respectively of the same hand that is carrying the phone. Also, the PTT button 23 and group select wheel 22 can be operated easily whilst the handset 1 is held with speaker 12 near to the ear of the user.

The group select wheel 22 is used to select a group of devices that the user wishes to talk to. The user can switch between groups by rotating the wheel. Thus for example the user can talk/listen to a first group of devices with the wheel in a first rotary position, and to a second group of devices with the wheel in a second rotary position. I Pushing the PTT button 23 establishes a voice connection with other devices in the currently selected group.

In another example, the group select wheel 22 does not actually positively switch between different groups, and the PTT button 23 is used to positively switch to a particular group presently indicated by the group select wheel 22. In this case, the available groups may be indicated on the display 10 as the user scrolls the group select wheel 22.

In another example, a particular group may be positively selected using the group select button 54, which is conveniently located below the PTT button 23. Thus, a user can scroll between different groups using the group select wheel 22 and then select a group lo using the group select button 54, by pressing the group select button 54. A PTT connection is then established using the PTT button 23.

The user may receive PTT voice messages through the speaker 12, with the handset positioned adjacent the user's ear. Alternatively, the user can switch to the loudspeaker Is 21 using the speaker on/off switch 50. Thus, the handset 1 can be used while away from the ear of the user.

In another example, any or all of the functional elements associated with PTT communications that are located on or adjacent the left and right sides 5,6 of the handset I I can be operable when the handset is operating as a conventional digital radio telephone. The functionality of these functional elements is typically selected such that it I is appropriate to the current mode of operation of the handset 1. For example, when the handset is operating as a conventional digital radio telephone, the group select wheel 22 may be rotated to increase or decrease the volume of the speaker 12. In another example when the handset operates as a conventional digital radio telephone, the push-to- talk button 23 may be used to mute audio input to the microphone.

Similarly, functional elements associated with PTT communications that are located on the rear surface 62 of the handset 1 can be operable when the handset is operating as a conventional digital radio telephone. For example, the loudspeaker 21 may be used to l9 effect "hands free" operation of the handset 1, such that the user can conduct a conventional digital radio telephone call without holding the handset.

Further aspects of an example of a user interface for a communications device handset s enabled to effect two types of communication will now be described with reference to Figures 4A and 4B, which respectively show front and rear views of a handset. In the example shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the telephone handset 100 is enabled to effect both conventional digital cellular telephone communications and Push to Talk (PTT) communications. The handset 100 has a front surface 102, a rear surface 104, a bottom lo surface 107, a left surface 108 and a right surface 106. The handset 100 comprises functional elements including a display 110, a keypad 111, a speaker 112, a microphone 113, a push-to-talk/mute button 114, a group select/volume wheel 115, and a loudspeaker 116. In this example, the speaker 112 is an earpiece, and the microphone 113 includes an aperture in the bottom surface 107 of the handset 100, which is in communication with is an internal transducer. Furthermore, the push-to-talk/mute button 114 is located prominently on the left side surface 108 of the handset 100 and the group select/volume wheel 115 is located prominently adjacent the opposite side surface 106.

As shown in Figure 6 a user interface manager 200, which is implemented in software running on the handset 100 monitors a communication mode 202 status variable and determines, based on the status of the communications mode 202 status, whether the PT1 communications user interface 204 should be enabled or the conventional cellular communications user interface 206 should be enabled. Thus, based on certain predetermined events or operating conditions, the user interface manager 200 will either Is enable a conventional cellular telephone user interface 206 or a PTT communications user interface 204.

The user interface manager 200 provides the appropriate user interface by altering the functionality of particular functional elements of the handset 100.

Thus, when the user interface manager 200 enables the handset 100 to provide conventional cellular communications a conventional cellular user interface 206 is provided which comprises the functional elements illustrated by the reference numerals to 116. In this case, the push-totalk/mute button 114, functions as a mute button and s the group select/volume wheel 115 functions as a volume control.

Similarly, when the user interface manager 200 enables the handset 100 to provide PTT communications a PTT communications user interface 204 is provided which comprises the functional elements illustrated by the reference numerals 113 to 116. In this case, the 0 push-to-talk/mute button 114, functions as PTT button and the group select/volume wheel 115 functions as a group selector switch.

Thus, the set of functional elements that is required by the user interface for cellular telephone communications also comprises all of the functional elements that are required to provide a fully-functional user interface for PTT communications. The user interface for PTT communications does not require any dedicated functional elements, and all functional elements used to provide the PTT user interface also provide functionality associated with the cellular user interface.

Furthermore, some of the functional elements, such as the push-totalk/mute button 114, and the group select/volume wheel 115, which are used to provide both PTT and cellular functionality are located on the handset 100 such that they may be easily manipulated by the user, for example, single handed and/or without having to look at the handset 100.

Thus, a user can readily operate the handset in a PTT mode of communications by 2s navigating the tactile push-to-talk button 114, and the group select wheel 115, which are located on the handset 100 in tactilely distinctive positions. The user can also readily increase or decrease the volume using volume control 115, and mute the audio input to the microphone using the mute button 114 when operating in conventional cellular communications mode. so 2l

In the example of a handset shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the set of functional elements 110-113 that is most commonly used for cellular telephone communications is located on the front and bottom surfaces 102, 107 of the handset 100, and the set of functional elements 113-116 that constitute the user interface for PTT communications is located on s the side, rear and bottom surfaces 106, 108, 104, 107 of the handset lOO. Thus, in use, a user may hold the handset such that the front surface 102 faces towards him during cellular telephone communications, and can optionally reverse the handset such that the rear surface 104 faces towards him during PTT communications.

lo The user interface manager 200 enables either the conventional cellular telephone user interface or the PTT user interface depending on particular operating circumstances, reflected by the communications mode status 202. For example, the user may manually enable either cellular or PTT communications, in which case the user interface manager enables the appropriate user interface. Alternatively, certain events might automatically change the communications mode 202 status and thereby cause the user interface manager 200 to automatically enable an appropriate user interface. For example, when an element of the keypad l l 1 is depressed the communications mode 202 status may change from PTT to cellular and the user interface manager 200 will then enable the cellular communications user interface. Likewise, when the PTT button 114 or group select wheel 115 is actuated after a predetermined period of inactivity the communications mode 202 status may change and the user interface manager 200 will then enable the PTT user interface. The communications mode 202 status may also be altered in response to an incoming cellular or PTT call, in which case the user interface manager 200 selects the user interface required to answer and handle the incoming call 2s or message.

As shown in Figure 5, in one example, the handset 1 includes a microphone assembly 76 comprising an aperture 72 in the bottom surface 8 of the handset and a transducer 70.

The location of the dummy microphone 11 is also indicated. The transducer 70 converts so sound waves to an electrical signal and comprises, for example, a moving coil, a capacitive element or a piezoelectric element. The transducer 70 is typically located inside the closed shell formed by the front part 9 and rear part 13 of the handset 1. Sound waves generated outside the handset are conveyed from the aperture 72 to the transducer via a tube 72. In another example (not shown), sound waves are conveyed from the s aperture 72 to the transducer 70 via a hollow cavity.

The transducer 70 is located towards the bottom side of the phone in a position that is substantially equidistant from the front surface 60 and rear surface 62 of the handset.

This location of the aperture is suited to use of the handset 1 in both conventional radio lo telephone mode (when the front surface 60 of the handset is more proximal to the user's face than the rear surface 62) and push-to-talk mode (when the user may optionally hold the handset in a reverse orientation, such that rear surface 62 of the handset is more proximal to the user's face than the front surface 60).

]s Alternatively, an aperture may be provided in the front surface 60 of the handset 1 (such as the dummy microphone 11) and/or in the rear surface 62 of the handset. In an example, an aperture is provided in each of the front and rear surfaces 60, 62 of the handset 1 in order to facilitate the conveyance of sound to the transducer when the phone is operated in either of these two operating modes.

It will be understood that the present invention has been described above purely by way of example, and modifications of detail can be made within the scope of the invention.

Each feature disclosed in the description, and (where appropriate) the claims and drawings may be provided independently or in any appropriate combination.

Reference numerals appearing in the claims are by way of illustration only and shall have no limiting effect on the scope of the claims.

Claims (57)

1. A communication device handset enabled to effect cellular telephone communications and PTT communications, the handset comprising a set of functional s elements operable as at least part of a user interface for cellular telephone communications, wherein the set of functional elements is also operable as a full user interface for PTT communications.

2. A handset according to Claim 1, wherein the user interface for cellular telephone lo communications comprises a functional element located on a first surface of the handset, and the user interface for PTT communications comprises a functional element located on or adjacent a second surface of the handset.

3. A handset according to Claim 2, wherein the user interface for PTT communications comprises a functional element located on a third surface of the handset.

4. A handset according to Claim 3, wherein the second surface is disposed between the first and third surfaces.

5. A handset according to Claim 2 or Claim 3, wherein the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset.

6. A handset according to any of the preceding claims, the set of functional elements comprising a speaker, a loudspeaker and a microphone comprising an aperture in 2s communication with a transducer, wherein the relative positions of the speaker, loudspeaker and microphone aperture are such that the speaker and loudspeaker are located nearer to each other on the handset than to the microphone aperture.

7. A handset according to any of the preceding claims, the set of functional elements comprising a speaker located near a f rst end of the handset, and a microphone comprising an aperture in communication with a transducer, the aperture located near a second end of the handset, wherein the set of functional elements further comprises a loudspeaker located near the first end of the handset.

s

8. A handset according to Claim 6 or Claim 7, wherein the speaker is located on a first surface of the device and the loudspeaker is located on a second surface of the device.

9. A handset according to Claim 8, wherein the first and second surfaces define lo opposite sides of the handset.

10. A handset according to Claim 8 or Claim 9, wherein the aperture is located between the first and second surfaces.

] s

11. A handset according to any of the preceding claims, the set of functional elements comprising a speaker located on a first surface of the handset, a loudspeaker located on a second surface of the handset, and a microphone, wherein the microphone comprises a transducer located substantially equidistant from the first and second surfaces.

12. A communication device handset enabled to effect first and second types of voice-based communication, the first and second types of communication being enabled by different network infrastructures, and the handset comprising a set of functional elements operable as at least part of a user interface for the first type of communication, wherein the set of functional elements is also operable as a full user interface for the 2s second type of communication.

13. A handset according to Claim 12, wherein the user interface for the first type of communication comprises a functional element located on a first surface of the handset, and the user interface for second type of communication comprises a functional element located on or adjacent a second surface of the handset.

14. A handset according to Claim 13, wherein the user interface for the second type of communication comprises a functional element located on a third surface of the handset.

15. A handset according to Claim 14, wherein the second surface is disposed between the first and third surfaces.

16. A handset according to Claim 13 or Claim 14, wherein the first and second lo surfaces define opposite sides of the handset.

17. A handset according to any of Claims 12 to 16, the set of functional elements comprising a speaker, a loudspeaker and a microphone comprising an aperture in communication with a transducer, wherein the relative positions of the speaker, IS loudspeaker and microphone aperture are such that the speaker and loudspeaker are located nearer to each other on the handset than to the microphone aperture.

18. A handset according to any of Claims 12 to 17, the set of functional elements comprising a speaker located near a first end of the handset, and a microphone comprising an aperture in communication with a transducer, the aperture located near a second end of the handset, wherein the set of Functional elements further comprises a loudspeaker located near the first end of the handset.

19. A handset according to Claim 17 or Claim 18, wherein the speaker is located on a first surface of the device and the loudspeaker is located on a second surface of the device.

20. A handset according to Claim 19, wherein the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset.

21. A handset according to Claim 19 or Claim 20, wherein the aperture is located between the first and second surfaces.

22. A communications device handset enabled to effect first and second types of s voice-based communication, the handset comprising a speaker, a loudspeaker and a microphone, for use with both first and second types of communication, the microphone comprising an aperture in communication with a transducer, wherein the relative positions of the speaker, loudspeaker and microphone aperture are such that the speaker and loudspeaker are located nearer to each other on the handset than to the microphone 0 aperture.

23. A communication device handset enabled to effect first and second types of voice-based communication, the handset comprising a speaker located near a first end of the handset, and a microphone for use with both first and second types of is communication, the microphone comprising an aperture in communication with a transducer, the aperture located near a second end of the handset, wherein the handset further comprises a loudspeaker located near the first end of the handset.

24. A handset according to Claim 22 or Claim 23, wherein the speaker is located on a first surface of the device and the loudspeaker is located on a second surface of the device.

25. A handset according to Claim 24, wherein the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset. 2s

26. A handset according to any of Claims 22 to 25, wherein the aperture is located between the first and second surfaces.

27. A handset according to any of Claims 22 to 26, wherein the transducer is located substantially equidistant from the first and second surfaces.

28. A communication device handset, the handset comprising a microphone, a speaker located on a first surface of the handset, and a loudspeaker located on a second surface of the handset, wherein the microphone comprises a transducer located s substantially equidistant from the first and second surfaces.

29. A handset according to Claim 28, wherein the first and second surfaces define opposite sides of the handset.

lo

30. A handset according to Claim 28 or 29, the speaker and loudspeaker being located near a first end of the handset, and the microphone comprising an aperture in communication with the transducer, wherein the aperture is located near the second end of the handset.

is

31. A handset according to any of Claims 25 to 27, the handset being enabled to effect first and second types of voice-based communication, wherein the microphone is operable for use with both first and second types of communication.

32. A handset according to any of Claims 20 to 24 or Claim 28, wherein one of the first or second types of communication is cellular telephony.

33. A handset according to any of Claims 20 to 24, Claim 28 or Claim 29, wherein one of the first or second types of communication is P11.

2s

34. A push-to-talk communication device handset having front and rear faces, a display and/or keypad located on one of said faces, and side surfaces between the front and rear faces, a push-to-talk switch being located on or adjacent one of the side surfaces, and group selector means being located on or adjacent another of the side surfaces, each of said switch and said selector means being operable using a respective so digit of a hand holding the handset.

35. A handset according to claim 34, wherein the group selector means is mounted on the rear face adjacent to the side surface opposite said one of the side surfaces.

s

36. A handset according to Claim 34 or 35, wherein the group selector means protrudes at least partially beyond said another of said side surfaces.

37. A handset according to any of the Claims 34 to 36, comprising an opening on the rear face of the handset, wherein the group selector means is mounted in the opening. lo

38. A handset according to Claim 37 wherein the opening is a seat having a first opening on the rear face of the handset, and a second opening on said another of said side surfaces.

is

39. A handset according to any of Claims 34 to 38 wherein the group selector means is a rotary switch.

40. A handset according to any of Claims 34 to 39, wherein the push-totalk switch is located on said one of the side surfaces.

41. A handset according to any of Claims 34 to 40, wherein the push-totalk switch is located on a side surface opposite to the side surface on which, or adjacent to which, the group selector means is located.

2s

42. A handset according to any of Claims 34 to 41, wherein the handset includes ergonomically profiled side surfaces.

43. A handset according to any of Claims 34 to 42, wherein the push-totalk switch follows the profile of said one of said side surfaces.

44. A push-to-talk communication device handset comprising first and second sides, the first side being broader than the second side; a pushto-talk switch; and group selector means mounted on or adjacent to the relatively narrow second side of the handset. s

45. A handset according to Claim 44, wherein the first and second sides are adjacent sides.

46. A push-to-talk communication device handset comprising front and rear faces, a microphone, a push-to-talk speaker located on the front face of the handset, and a group selector means located on or adjacent to the rear face of the handset.

47. A method of operating a push-to-talk communication device handset having front and rear faces, a display and/or keypad located on one of said faces, and side surfaces between the front and rear faces, a push-totalk switch being located on or adjacent one À - ..

À. of the side surfaces, and group selector means being located on or adjacent another of the À-.e À. side surfaces, the method comprising holding the handset in one hand; and operating I each of said switch and said selector means using a respective digit of the hand which is À À- . holding the handset. Àe

: À .

48. A method according to Claim 47, wherein the group selector means is operated i Àe À À.: while the handset is being held in the palm of the hand. i

49. A method according to Claim 47 or 48, wherein the group selector means is operated by one of a finger and a thumb of the hand which is carrying the handset.

50. A method according to Claim 49 wherein the group selector switch is operated by a scrolling action of said one of a finger and a thumb against the switch.

51. A method according to any of Claims 47 to 50 wherein the push-to-talk switch is operated while the handset is being held in the palm of the hand.

52. A method according to Claim 51 wherein the push-to-talk switch is operated with the other one of a finger and a thumb of the hand which is carrying the handset.

53. A method according to Claim 52 wherein the push-to-talk switch is operated with a thumb or an index finger of the hand which is carrying the handset.

54. A method of operating a push-to-talk communication device having front and rear faces, a microphone, a push-to-talk speaker located on the front face of the handset, and group selector means located on or adjacent to the rear face of the handset, the method comprising operating the group selector means while the handset is being held adjacent to the head.

À'..

55. A communication device handset substantially as herein described and illustrated À.e À À. with reference to the accompanying drawings. À . À ..

56. A push-to-talk communication device handset substantially as herein described and illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. À. À . À ... À. .

À

57. A method of operating a push-to-talk communication device handset substantially as herein described and illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings.