MXPA97009444A - Electronic equipment system dosifies - Google Patents

Abstract

A conventional utility meter (410) has numerical information supplied to a display device (414). The utility meter (410) is modified by the addition of a module port (510) for a telecommunications module (31). The telecommunications module (31) receives the numerical information that is supplied to the display device (414), and communicates that numerical information as data signals to one of the plurality of standardized wireless telephone networks.

Description

"ELECTRONIC DOSING EQUIPMENT SYSTEM" REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUESTS This application is a continuation in part of the co-pending US Patent Application No. 08 / 353,966 filed on December 12, 1994, entitled "Modular Radio Communication System" by the inventor Per Stein; which is a continuation of the application of US Patent Number 08 / 026,478 filed March 4, 1993 (now abandoned); which have been assigned to the concessionaire of the present invention; and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety by reference thereto.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to modular electronic and telecommunication equipment systems and, more particularly, to a radio and / or modem transceiver for use in establishing a link to the wireless network for electronic equipment of the type not conventionally used for telecommunication.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED TECHNIQUE The fields of electronics, data processing and consumer telecommunications have experienced remarkable technological advances in recent years. Stereophonic cassettes, disc reproduction devices, and automotive AM / FM radios have become smaller and more efficient as well as the related consumer electronic hardware. The great advances in memory chips and miniaturization techniques have also allowed more and more electronic systems to be packaged in smaller and smaller spaces. The same is the case for industrial electronic equipment and personal computers. Like consumer electronic equipment, in general, personal computers are manufactured by many different providers around the world. An entire industry has subsequently developed to supply memory cards to improve the capacity of this large-scale personal computer. Recently, there has been a movement to normalize interconnection formats to be used in circuit boards for personal computers. In particular, the International PC and Memory Card Association (PCMCIA) was formed with the aim of activating the interchangeability of integrated circuit and memory cards between the computer and other types of electronic products. Towards this end, the PCMCIA has established certain physical and electrical standards to ensure that the cards are capable of being used in different pieces of equipment. Both data storage, that is, memory and peripheral expansion cards, ie, I / O constructed in accordance with the standards, must be capable of being used in any of the connectors also constructed in accordance with the standards. This standard is disclosed in a variety of documents including the PCMCIA Personal Computer Card Standard, Section 2.0, incorporated by reference herein. The standard discloses an exchange of 68 pins for type I / O circuit cards to be used in personal computers. Advances in wireless telecommunications have also moved rapidly in recent years. Several communication standards have been published around the world that define specific frequencies, data regimes, data formats, and the like for communications and data communications through radio links between base stations and mobile units. For example, specialized packet switching systems for mobile data communications have allowed laptops to directly link up data access in the landline data communication network. Similarly, conventional cellular talk radio systems, both analogue and digital versions, can receive data from laptops and transmit this data through the conventional telephone network to a remotely located data terminal. In addition, other systems such as radiolocation (both local and global), DECT (Digital European Wireless Telecommunications), Mobitex, CDPD (Digital Cellular Package Data), PCS (Personal Communications System) and the like have recently been put to use. Each of these wireless telecommunications formats and standards usually require separate software to provide data access to the wireless network as well as separate transmission / reception formats. This allows communication with radio base stations operating in different geographical areas as well as part of different networks. It has been determined that it is desirable, however, to pack the transceivers and / or radio modems in a modular manner so that the telecommunications terminal, such as a portable telephone or portable personal computer, can be adapted for communication with different systems by simply replacing the modular unit with one that is specially configured for the telecommunications network with which communication is desired. The advantages of these radio transducer packages, however, should not be limited to portable phones and laptops when other consumer and industrial electronic equipment can also be used with these packages. The use of card-mounted telecommunications interface equipment in a personal computer has been around for some time. In particular, modems are often mounted on an I / O card and plugged into the receiving receptacles inside the personal computer. The modem then allows the interface of a personal computer with normal telecommunication network lines and the transmission / reception of data for those lines. This is an extremely useful tool and maximizes the utility of the personal computer. Industrial and consumer electronic equipment, such as a cassette and disc reproduction devices have not yet been included in this technological integration with telecommunication to the extent of the personal computer.

It had an advantage, therefore, to provide a radio transceiver mounted on the normal PCMCIA card that was easily replaceable in the electronic equipment of the conventional industrial consumer such as tape reproduction apparatus, stereos and utility meters to communicate with the different networks in accordance with the different radio standards. The system of the present invention and the various components thereof provide these advantages.

COMPENDIUM OF THE INVENTION In one aspect, the present invention includes the combination of an electronic audio system with a module port, a module and a microphone. The electronic audio system includes at least one loudspeaker and a radio receiver or a recording medium reproducing apparatus or both, which supplies audio signals to the loudspeaker or loudspeakers. The module port includes a module connector, and the module includes a housing with a first end and a system connector at the first end that is adapted to couple the module connector. The module also includes a telecommunications transceiver that communicates with one of a plurality of standardized wireless networks and provides audio output signals to the loudspeaker or loudspeakers. The microphone provides audio input signals to the module's telecommunications transceiver. In one mode, the module port and the module conform to the PCMCIA standard. In another embodiment, the electronic audio equipment includes a battery power supply that provides electrical power to the module. In yet another embodiment, an external power supply provides electrical power to the module. In another embodiment, the electronic audio equipment includes the antenna that is coupled with the module for use by the transceiver. In still another embodiment, an antenna is coupled with a transceiver through a connector in the module housing. In another modality, the combination includes a means for fading audio signals sent to the loudspeaker or loudspeakers, and for providing a signal indicating that an incoming call is available for receipt. In another embodiment, the combination includes a numeric keypad to provide control signals to the telecommunications transceiver. In another modality, the microphone and the loudspeaker or loudspeakers are combined with a telephone helmet that is coupled with the electronic audio system. In a further embodiment, the headset is coupled to the electronic audio system by a cable. In an alternative additional mode, the headset is coupled to the electronic audio system via an infrared link. In another alternative embodiment, the headset is coupled to the electronic audio system via a radio link. In another aspect, the invention includes the combination of an electronic audio system with a numeric keypad, a module port and a module. The electronic audio system includes a display device, at least one loudspeaker and radio receiver or a recording medium reproducing apparatus or both, which provides an audio signal to the loudspeaker or loudspeakers, and functional information to the audio device. presentation. The module port includes a module connector and the module includes a housing with a first end and a system connector at the first end that is adapted to couple the module connector. The module also includes a telecommunications transceiver to communicate the data signals with one or a plurality of wireless networks and provides data signals to the display device. The numeric keypad provides data input signals to the telecommunications transceiver. In one mode, the module port and the module conform to a PCMCIA standard. In another embodiment, the electronic audio equipment includes a battery power supply that provides electrical power to the module. In yet another embodiment, an external power supply provides electrical power to the module. In another embodiment, the electronic audio equipment includes an antenna that is coupled with the module for use by the transceiver. In still another embodiment, an antenna is coupled with a transducer through a connector in the module housing. In another embodiment, the combination includes a means for fading the audio signals sent to the loudspeaker or loudspeakers and for providing a signal indicating that an incoming call is available for receipt. In another mode, the numeric keypad is a component of the electronic audio system. In another embodiment, the electronic keyboard is coupled to the electronic audio system by a cable. In another embodiment, the electronic keyboard is coupled to the electronic audio equipment via an infrared link. In another embodiment, the electronic key is coupled to the electronic audio system by means of a radio link. In still another aspect, the invention includes a utility meter of the type having numerical information supplied to a display device, combined with a module port having a module connector, and a telecommunications module having a housing, a connector of system for coupling the connector of the module port module, and a telecommunications transceiver for communicating the data signals with one of a plurality of normal wireless telecommunications networks. In a first mode, the module port and the module are of a PCMCIA standard. In another embodiment of the present invention, the utility meter includes a source of electrical power and the telecommunications transceiver of the module receives the energy from the electric power source of the utility meter. In yet another mode, the module port and the module are from a PCMCIA standard, and the module connector and the system connector are modified from the PCMCIA standard to include power contacts to transmit the electrical energy from the power source of the utility meter to the telecommunications transceiver. In still another embodiment of the present invention, the module includes an energy connector that is not inside the housing that receives power from an external power source for use by the telecommunications transceiver. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, an antenna is coupled to the telecommunications transceiver through the connector of the module system and the module connector of the module port. In still another embodiment of the present invention, the module port and the module are of a PCMCIA standard, the module connector and the system connector are modified from the PCMCIA standard to include at least one contact for coupling the antenna with the telecommunications transceiver. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, an antenna is coupled to the telecommunications transceiver through an antenna connector mounted in the module housing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a more complete understanding of the present invention and for the objects and additional advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a functional diagram which illustrates a total concept of telecommunications with electronic equipment; Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an electronic audio system of the prior art in the form of a personal radio / tape playback apparatus; Figure 3 is a top plan view of a modality of a modular telecommunications unit constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and having a normal PCMCIA card interconnectivity format; Figure 4 is a front elevation view of the modular unit of Figure 3, illustrating an interconnectivity format of the normal PCMCIA card; Figure 5 is a rear elevation view of the modular unit of Figure 3 illustrating an external antenna mounted thereon; Figure 6 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the modular unit of Figure 3 taken along line 6-6, illustrating the attachment of the antenna thereto; Figure 7 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a modular telecommunications unit constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and having a modified PCMCIA card interconnectivity format; Figure 8 is a front elevational view of the modular unit shown in Figure 7 illustrating the pin connections therewith; Figure 9 is a rear elevation view of the modular unit of Figure 7 illustrating one embodiment thereof without antenna or power connector thereon; Figure 10 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the modular unit of Figure 7, taken along lines 10--10 thereof. Figure 11 is a detailed perspective view of a modular unit of the type shown in Figure 7, in association with a receiver slot of the module in an electronic audio system in the form of a personal radio / tape playback apparatus; Figure 12 is a detailed perspective view of a modular unit of the type shown in Figure 3 in association with a receiving slot of the module in an electronic audio system in the form of a personal radio / tape playback apparatus; Figure 13 is a detailed perspective view of a modular unit of the type shown in Figure 3, in association with a module receiving slot in an electronic audio system in the form of the personal radio / tape playback apparatus; Figure 14 is a detailed perspective view of a modular unit of the type shown in Figure 3 or Figure 7, in association with a module receiving slot in an electronic audio system in the form of a portable tape playback apparatus -radio of A / Fm; Figure 15 is a detailed perspective view of the modular unit of Figure 7 which is inserted into an electronic audio system in the form of a stereo Am / FM car stereo playback apparatus; Figure 16 is a functional diagram illustrating a switching aspect of an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 17 is a functional diagram illustrating the functionality of the telephone with hands-free technology, used in a telephone transmission mode of the present invention; Figure 18 is a functional diagram illustrating the functionality of the data with hands-free technology, used in a data transmission mode of the present invention; Figure 19 is a functional diagram illustrating the telecommunications functionality with an RDS receiver (Radio Data System); and Figure 20 is a detailed perspective view of a modular unit constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, and illustrating its adaptability for use in a utility meter for transmitting information related to a meter's numerical information.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MODALITIES Referring first to Figure 1, a portable communications device is shown in the form of a data processing unit, such as a portable computer 11 per battery or notebook computer, book type and a portable telephone instrument 12. It is well established to allow personal computer 11 and telephone 12 to communicate with different wireless telecommunication networks as described more fully in US Patent Application Serial No. 08 / 026,478, described above. Each of the telecommunication networks, however, may include different telecommunication standards and / or require modems of different types as represented diagrammatically in blocks 13 to 17. The different telecommunication standards may include, for example, AMPS standards, D-AMPS, JDC, TACS, GSM, NMT-450, NMT-900, DECT, Mobitex and future Dispersion Spectrum as well, like many more.

Still referring to Figure 1, the instrument 12 of the portable telephone subscriber may include basic components for telecommunications with different wireless networks operating in accordance with the numerous telecommunications standards. For example, in the event that the telephone instrument 12 on-site for use in the United States, it should be capable of transmitting / receiving in a defined frequency band and in accordance with either analog or digital modulation techniques in use in the U.S. However, in case the telephone instrument 12 is needed for communication with the wireless system that exists in the United Kingdom or Continental Europe, it would have to be able to communicate on different frequencies and in accordance with somewhat different modulation techniques in order to be useful. Still referring to Figure 1, the portable computer 11 per battery may be needed for data communication with a number of different data networks that exist in a number of parts of the world. For example, there is a packet switched data network in the Scandinavian countries and several European countries and in the United States and Canada that operate using data packets of a designated size. The packet switched data network is constructed in accordance with a prescribed protocol and is provided as part of a service referred to by the trademark "MOBITEX" with which the concessionaire of the present invention is associated. Similarly, the portable computer 11 per battery may also be needed to communicate with the cellular radio network of the United States (either in an analog or digital format), with the European GSM digital cellular radio network or the CDPD network ( of Digital Cellular Package Data) from time to time. Thus, the broad concept of the system of the present invention includes providing radio transceivers and / or modems 13-17 that are adapted to be used in communication with the various networks in accordance with the various standards used therein. In addition, the term "transceiver" as used herein, comprises appropriate radio control logic of the type necessary to constitute a radio device that is capable of communicating with a wireless communication standard such as D-amps, GSM, etc. . For example, the transceiver may include a transmitter, receiver, and when the communication device is used for data transmission, the transceiver may also incorporate a data modem circuit. As will be described in detail below, a portable computer 11 per battery incorporates a means to generate user communication signals in the form of its keyboard. Other items of electronic equipment particularly adapted for consumer entertainment use do not necessarily include a means of signal generation. Still referring to Figure 1, modem 13 provides radio communication with the switched data network of MOBITEX package, while the modem 14 represents a modular unit that could be constructed to communicate with the conventional cellular radio network in the United States, either in an analogue or digital format. Similarly, the modem 15 could be adapted for radio communication with the European digital cellular radio network in accordance with the GSM standards adopted by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). The 16 modem could also allow telecommunications in accordance with the Digital European Wireless Telecommunications (DECT) Standard. Other modules 17 may be used which allow communication in a radiolocation network such as a local radiolocation system or a global communication in a PCS (Personal Communication System), or communication in any other such system. Personal computers can be converted into the following cellular generation systems by combining wide area networks and on-site networks for both data communication and conversation. Any of the modems 14-17 could be useful with either the portable computer 11 per battery or the telephone subscriber's instrument 12 while those units, as well as the MOBITEX package modem 13, could be used within the portable computer 11 per battery . In addition, the use of normal modems packed in a modular form in normal sizes would have great advantages in the future to provide flexibility within the telecommunication systems of both talk and data used throughout the world. Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown an example of a conventional electronic audio system in the form of a conventional personal radio / tape reproduction apparatus 18, which may be modified to utilize the principles of the present invention. Although the conventional electronic audio system illustrated herein for modification in accordance with the present invention is described as a personal radio / tape reproduction apparatus, it will be understood that the reference of the electronic audio systems is intended to encompass systems. electronic audio that has a radio receiver, or a media player or both. It should be understood that a radio receiver encompasses electronic devices of the type not conventionally used for telecommunications that receive radio transmissions and convert those transmissions for audio reproduction including devices such as AM radio or FM radio, an AM radio. FM, a television, a videotape recorder or a video cassette recorder (VCR), or the like. It will also be understood that a recording medium reproduction apparatus encompasses electronic devices of the type that are not conventionally used for telecommunications that reproduce audio signals recorded in a medium, including devices such as a tape playback apparatus, a reproduction apparatus of compact disk, a record reproduction apparatus, and a video tape playback apparatus or video cassette recorder (VCR) apparatus, or the like. Furthermore, it will be understood that a recording medium reproduction apparatus includes electronic devices that are capable of recording audio signals in a recording medium. The personal tape / radio playback apparatus 18 has a tape receiving compartment 19, a display 20 and the controls 21 and 22. A telephone headset 23, with loudspeakers 24 and 25, is connected to a connection 26 in the radio equipment. radio / personal tape playback 18 by a cable 27. The personal radio / tape playback apparatus 18 also has an antenna 28 and a source 30 of battery power, internally arranged. Referring now to the grouping of Figures 3 to 6 and 7 to 10, two versions of a telecommunications unit or module constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention are shown. Figures 3 to 6 (group one) illustrate a telecommunications unit 31 that is constructed to conform to an interconnectivity format of the normal PCMCIA card encompassed in the connector 33. Figures 7 to 10 (group two) illustrate a unit 131 that is constructed with a modified connector 133 that does not meet the existing PCMCIA standards due to modifications to the antenna and power connections that will be discussed below. Modules 31 and 131 are constructed in accordance with, and have the attributes of the teachings in the US Patent Application No. 08 / 026,478, filed on March 4, 1993, entitled "Modular Radio Telecommunications System" by the inventor Per. Stein, and assigned to the concessionaire of the present invention, which is incorporated by reference specifically herein. Modules 31 and 131 have also been designed to use the components of the host electronic equipment as will be discussed below. Each version of the telecommunications unit to which reference has been made above will now be discussed below. The group of a version of the telecommunications unit indicated above in particular to Figure 3 is shown as a top floor view of the modular unit 31. A radio transducer 36 and modem 37 are shown in the modular unit 31 by dotted lines that also define the telecommunications card 29. The modular unit 31 also has a mounting member 152 and connectors 151 and 154 that are also represented by dotted lines. The connector 151 comprises a coaxial antenna coupling that plugs into the antenna 138. The specific modular antenna structure of Figure 3 includes an antenna bar 140, which is pivotally mounted through the pivotal antenna assembly 141 to rotate around a base structure 142. The base 142 engages the module 31 with a conventional fastener, such as a threaded member 152a shown in dotted lines that engages the mounting member 152. The antenna connector 151 is also shown by dotted lines to illustrate a conventional coaxial connection therewith from the antenna 140. The antenna 140 can then be rotated to the most appropriate position to maximize the efficiency of use. Rotary antennas are of course conventional in this technological area. The use, however, of this modular antenna in a modular housing 31, adapted for applications described herein, is a remarkable advance in relation to the prior art. The power connector 154 is also shown by dotted lines in coincidence with the access opening 154a, which will be discussed below. Referring now to Figure 4 there is shown a front elevation view of the modular unit 31 of Figure 3, which more clearly illustrates the multi-pin connector 33. The multi-pin connector 33 is constructed in accordance with the normal PCMCIA card interconnectivity format. The contacts of the connector 33 of multiple connectors are connected in the circuit inside the telecommunications card 29. The connector 33 comprises a pair of contact rows 41a and 41b. No separate energy or antenna connectors are shown here due to the fact that this specific contact configuration conforms to the existing PCMCIA standard and the antenna and power connectors are presented in the rear portion 134a of the module 31 as described in FIG. the present.

Referring now to Figure 5, a rear elevation view of a modular telecommunications unit constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention is shown. In this embodiment, the modular unit 31 includes a rear portion 134a having a recess 134 in which the coaxial connector 151 is secured adjacent a mounting member 152 such as a threaded coupling. The coaxial connector 151 is mounted to be used for coupling the radio transceiver 36 within the module 31 with an antenna positioned either internally or externally of the specific electronic equipment where the unit 31 is connected. When an antenna is mounted directly on the module 31, the mounting member 152 provides a means for securing the antenna structure to the module 31, as will be described in greater detail below. Also shown is a connector 154. The connector 154 allows coupling of the external energy with the telecommunications card 29 inside the module 31. Referring now to Figure 6 there is shown a cross-sectional view in lateral elevation of the modular unit 31 of Figure 3 taken through lines 6-6 thereof. As shown in Figure 6, the module 31 includes a telecommunications card 29 comprising a printed circuit board 61 on the surface from which several strokes of the printed circuit board can be formed and several components can be assembled to form a transceiver. radio and a secured modem within the module 31. The circuit on the board 61 is selectively connected to the terminals of the connector 33 to couple the signals in and out of the circuit inside the module. An upper cover 62 covers the upper portion of the components mounted on the printed circuit board 61, while a lower cover 63 covers the lower surface of the board and coincides with the upper cover 62 to form a closed unit 31. In this specific view, an inner portion of the coaxial connector 151 is shown mounted on the board 61 and projecting through the rear portion 134a to connect with the modular board 138. The construction of the modular antenna 38 is as described above in relation to Figure 3. Referring now to Figures 7 to 10, the group of two versions of the telecommunication unit noted above, Figure 7 shows a top view of a modular telecommunications unit 131 constructed to conform to a normal PCMCIA card interconnectivity format. In particular, the modular unit 131 includes an external cover 32 that is generally flat and has a multi-pin connector 133 (which can be seen more clearly in Figure 8) having a plurality of contacts on a first end 33a. Individuals for coupling with a matching connector positioned within an article of the electronic equipment, such as a tape reproduction apparatus. It should be noted that even when reference is made to a tape reproduction apparatus, consumer or industrial electronic equipment could be intended and modified in accordance with the principles of the present invention to provide modular telecommunications thereof. In that regard, the opposite end 34a of the modular unit 131 includes a recessed region 34 in which the external power and antenna connectors can be mounted as described above with respect to Figures 3, 5 and 6. Still making Referring to Figure 7, as shown by dotted lines extending therethrough, the module 131 houses a telecommunications card 29 that includes a radio transceiver 36, which may include a modem section 37. The card 29 is shown by dotted lines as well as the transceiver and the modem sections 36 and 37. The power, controls, antenna, loudspeakers and microphone are coupled to the card 29 through selected contacts from the connector 133 of multiple pins, which will be described in greater detail below. Referring now to Figure 8 there is shown a front elevation view of the modular unit 131 of Figure 7, which more clearly illustrates the multi-pin connector 133. The contacts of the multi-pin connector 133 are connected to the circuit inside the telecommunications card 29. The connector 133 comprises a pair of contact rows 41a and 41b constructed in accordance with the normal PCMCIA format. In the system of the present invention, certain areas of training The contacts have been modified and the contacts have been provided in a different configuration and / or format to allow connection with the antenna and / or the power source for transmission of increased amounts of energy to the circuit of card 29. This connection it may be necessary when the power requirements of the transceiver 36 (and / or the modem 37) can not be handled adequately by the carrier contacots 41a-41b from the normal signal. The contacts 149a and 149b are therefore shown to illustrate this modified power pin configuration. The connector 149c illustrates an antenna coupling. It should be noted that other antenna and power connections can be provided in accordance with the principles of the present invention, and another specific modality will be described below. Referring now to Figure 9, the end 34a is formed with a recess 34 where the other motors can be mounted to be used to couple the radio transceiver 36 and the modem 37 within the module 131 to the external antenna. However, with the antenna connector 149c and the power connectors 149a and 149b provided along the connector 133, these external connectors are not necessary along the opposite end in the recess 34. Due to this reason, they are not shown connectors in this specific mode. Referring now to Figure 10, a cross-sectional side elevation view of the module 131. As shown more clearly in this view, the telecommunications card 29 includes a printed circuit board 61, on the surface of which they can form several strokes of the printed circuit board and several components for example, ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) which can be mounted to comprise the radio transceiver and the secured modem within the module 131. The circuit on the board 61 is connected selectively with the terminals 41a-41b on the connector 133 in order to couple the signals in and out of the circuit within the module. An upper cover 62 covers the upper portion of the components mounted on the board 61, while a lower cover 63 covers the lower surface of the board and coincides with the upper cover 62 to form a closed modular unit. Referring now to Figure 11, a conventional electronic audio system is shown, in the form of a conventional personal radio / tape production apparatus that has been modified as an embodiment of the present invention, illustrated as a radio reproduction apparatus. / personal tape 210. The tape reproduction apparatus 210 shown herein includes a conventional tape receiving compartment 211, a display board 212, and operation control knobs 213 and 214. The personal tape / radio playback apparatus 210 includes a conventional battery power source 215 and a conventional antenna 216. Still referring to Figure 11, the personal radio / tape reproduction apparatus 210 includes a mounting slot 311 for the installation of the modular unit 131. The mounting slot 311 is particularly adapted for receiving a connection to the module 131. The slot 311 is constructed with side walls 312 and a front opening 313. A matching connector 314 is positioned along the end 315 to match the connection with the connector 133 on the module 131. The battery power supply 215, the antenna 216, and the display device 212 on the battery playback apparatus. radio / personal tape 210 are connected to the module 131 via the connector 314 and the connector 133. Still referring to Figure 11, a conventional personal radio / tape reproduction apparatus will usually also include an electronic circuit for interconnecting with an earphone In one construction, the tape playback apparatus 210 can be of a conventional design that has been modified for both head phones 326 and 327, and a microphone 328 in the headset 325. Both head phones 326 and 327, and the 328 microphone can then be used through a cord 322 of the headset 325 to connect with the tape playback apparatus 210. The headset 325, as shown here, also includes a remote control board or keypad 323 having a control button array 324 for generating the necessary control signals for the telecommunication functions of the module 131. A connector 322 interconnects a connector 321 of the tape production apparatus 210 with the headset 325. The telephones head 326 and 327, the microphone 328, and the numeric board 323 are connected to the connector 133 of the module 131, through the connector 321 and the connector 314. Referring now to Figure 12, there is shown a personal radio / tape reproduction apparatus 220 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Similar to the personal radio / tape player apparatus 210 in Figure 11, the personal radio / tape player apparatus 220 has a conventional tape receiver compartment 221, and a display board 222 and operating control knobs 223 and 224. The personal radio / tape player apparatus 220 also includes a battery 225 of conventional internal battery power. Still referring to Figure 12, the personal radio / tape reproduction apparatus 220 includes a mounting slot 331 for installation of the modular unit 31. The mounting slot 331 is particularly adapted for connection receipt with the module 31. The slot 331 is constructed with side walls 332 and a front opening 333. A matching connector 334 is positioned along the end 335 to match the connection with the connector 33. The power supply 225 of the battery and the display device 222 on the personal radio / tape reset apparatus 220 are connected to the the module 31 through the connector 334 and the connector 33. The modular antenna structure 138 (described above) is also shown in position to be mounted to the end 134a of the unit 31. The connection end 134a, therefore it includes a recess 134 which houses the connectors 151 and 154. The preferential connector 151 is a coaxial connector adapted to be coupled to the antenna 138, while the connector 154 is constructed to connect the external power (if necessary) in the unit 31 modulate through the opening 154a which is in the structure 142 of the base of the antenna. In this regard, an AC / DC power supply (not shown) can provide power external to the module 31 from an external source. Still referring to Figure 12, the conventional tape player apparatus is also modified to obtain an infrared transmitter / receiver or a "short scale" radio link 341. In one construction, a headset 345 has a transmitter / receiver 343 that is adapted for bidirectional communication with the link 341 constructed in the tape playback apparatus 220. The headset 345 includes the headset 346 and 347, and a microphone 348 which extends from the headset 347. The headphones 346 and 347, and the microphone 348 is coupled to the link 341 in the tape playback apparatus 220, through the transmitter / receiver 343 of the headset 345. In one embodiment, the transmitter / receiver 343 of the headset 345 also includes a control board or numeric keypad (not shown) that is coupled with link 341. Headphones 346 and 347, microphone 348, and keypad (not shown) of headset 345 are connected to the connector 33 of the module 31 through the transmitter / receiver 343 of the headset, the link 341 and the connector 334. Referring now to Figures 11 and 12, still or the module port has been described as having walls and an open end, the module port can also have only one connector to receive the module. It should be noted that a headset containing a headset and / or a transmitter / receiver is a conventional article in the art of communication technology, but is not typically used with a conventional personal radio / tape playback apparatus. A headset having only one or a pair of ear plugs is typical for the conventional personal radio / tape reproduction apparatus. The incorporation of the microphone, even when conventional in other telecommunication equipment, is necessary in the present invention for generation of the consumer signal and bi-communication of conversation. further, the discovery of the combination of a telecommunications transceiver module with an electronic audio system having a radio receiver, a recording medium reproduction apparatus or both, is considered to be part of the present invention. Referring now to Figure 13, an alternative assembly of the modular unit 31 of Figure 3 and an alternative personal radio / tape player 230 is shown. As described above, the connector 33 of the module 31 is shown to connect coincidently with the slot connector 354 positioned at one end 355 of the slot 351. In this specific view, the modular unit 31 is being installed in a tape reproduction apparatus 230 constructed with a fin 356. The fin 356 it is provided in a configuration for closing above the unit 31 and direct coupling with the coaxial connector 151, while continuing to expose the external power connector 154. In this embodiment, an internal / external antenna 236 is specifically displayed within the tape playback apparatus 230, as is conventional for combinations of tape / radio playback apparatus. AM / FM consumer radios require an antenna that can be only internally or partially retractable to the tape playback apparatus 230 when the AM / FM radio is not being used. The antenna 236 (shown in silhouette) is connected by a cable 357 (shown partially in silhouette) to the fin connector pin 358 of the fin 356. The aperture 359 is placed in the fin 356 for alignment with the power connector 154 of the module 31 and is dimensioned to facilitate receipt of, and connection to connector 154, a plug or plug from and the external power source (not shown). In an alternative embodiment, which has not been specifically shown, an internal power supply of the tape playback apparatus 230 can be connected to the connector 154 of the module 31, coupling with an energy connecting pin located on the fin 356 instead of opening 359. Still referring to Figure 13, the headset and control board of Figures 11 or 12 are not shown in this specific view for reasons of clarity. The tape reproduction apparatus 230, however, includes a tape installation slot 231, a display screen 232, operation control knobs 233 and 234, as well as the antenna 236. Electronic audio systems such as the audio device, Radio playback / personal tape 230, are built in a variety of configurations. Although only one configuration of the equipment is shown in the present (showing specific amenities such as presentation screen 232), this is not intended to limit in any way the type of electronic audio system that may be used in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Referring now to Figure 14 there is shown an illustration of another article of electronic audio systems in the form of a portable tape-AM / FM radio playing apparatus which is of the conventional portable radio type which has been modified to use a modular telecommunications unit. The versatility and multiple uses possible with the modular units 31 and 131 of the present invention are also shown. As stated above, either module 31 or 131. can be used in these applications. As stated above, the modular units 31 and 131 provide a telecommunication technology capability to the host equipment. However, in fact, several technologies are on a single card within modular units 31 and 131. Still referring to Figure 14, the tape / radio playback apparatus 240 is of the conventional type of tape-radio playback apparatus that has been modified to use the telecommunications functions either in the module 31 or the module 131. The tape-radio playback apparatus 240 has the conventional features of an antenna 241, a display device 242, loudspeakers 243, and an internal power source (not shown). The tape-radio playback apparatus 240 also has connections to the head phone (not shown) that have been modified to use a headset 363 or 368 as will be described below. One of the modifications to the tape-radio reproduction apparatus of the conventional type for the present invention is the addition of the slot 361 adapted to receive and electrically connect with a module 31 or the module 131. A keyboard 362 has also been added to the apparatus conventional tape / radio player so that a user can control the telecommunications functions of either the module 31 or 131. Still referring to Figure 14, one of the modules 31 or 131 is received in the slot 361 in the apparatus of tape-radio playback 240. The module 31 or 131 uses the antenna 241 and the display device 242 which are the conventional elements of the tape-radio playback apparatus 240. The functions of the telecommunications module 31 or 131 are operated by means of the numeric keypad 362. The conversation communication of the telecommunications function is achieved with the head phones 364 and 365, and the microphone 366 of the headset 363. Alternatively, the conventional tape-radio playback apparatus can be modified with an infrared link or a "short range" radio link 367 with a headset 368. Referring now to Figures 11, 12, 13 and 14, even though the illustrated embodiments disclose the telecommunication features that are placed in the consumer's electronic audio systems, eg, the personal radio / tape playback apparatus 210, 220, 230, and the Portable tape playback apparatus-Am / Fm 240 radio, in another construction, telecommunications electronics from module 31 or module 131 are integrated into the consumer's electronic audio system, instead of being a separate detachable module such as the module 31 or the module 131. In another construction of the present invention, the numeric keypad for operating the telecommunication functions of the module 31 or the module 131, are placed in the consumer's electronic audio system, such as personal tape / radio playback apparatuses 210, 220, 230, or Am / Fm 240 portable-radio tape playback apparatus. It should also be noted that the module 31 and the module 131 can be of any analog or digital technology. Referring now to Figure 15, the installation of the modular unit 131 of Figure 7 is shown in an AM / FM car stereoscopic tape reproduction apparatus 250. The stereophonic apparatus 250 is a car stereophonic apparatus of the conventional type that has been modified in design to include a mounting slot 371 for receipt of the module 131. As stated above, this is a modification to the standard of the PCMCIA and the interconnectivity format. It can be seen that the modular unit 31 could have been selected for discussion purposes in view of the fact that both modular units 31 and 131 are equally functional for this application. A conventional car stereophonic apparatus has therefore been modified in design with respect to the automobile AM / FM stereophonic tape display apparatus which specifically accommodates the unit 131 and the advantages thereof. The stereophonic apparatus 250 could also be modified to specifically accommodate the unit 31 and the advantages thereof. Still referring to Figure 15, the car stereophonic apparatus 250 has the normal car stereophonic components of the loudspeakers 251 and 252, a display device 254, and a 255 number board. The loudspeakers 251 and 252, the display device 254, and the numeric board 255 are connected to the connector 133 of the module 131, through the connector 374. The car stereophonic apparatus 250 also has an antenna 256, and a power supply 253 (shown by dotted lines). The power supply 253 is connected via the power supply line 376 with the pins 375 and 377 of the specially adapted connector 374 which are positioned to match and in engagement with the appropriate power connection contacts 149a or 149b (shown in FIG. Figure 4). Likewise, the cable 378 of the antenna is shown by a dotted line to connect the connector pin 379 that is positioned coincident with and in matching coupling for the antenna connector 149c (shown in Figure 4). It will be seen in this specific embodiment that the advantages of both the communication antenna and the additional power supply are provided without the need for external connections from the end 34a. The module 131 can simply be plugged into the opening 373 of the slot whereby the connector 133 matches the connector 374, and the telecommunication system becomes functional. Still referring to Figure 15, as mentioned above, the stereophonic apparatus 250 may be a conventional car stereo apparatus that has been modified to include the modular telecommunication capabilities described herein. The stereophonic apparatus 250 is constructed with conventional loudspeakers 251 and 252. The loudspeakers are conventional in AM / FM radios to provide the sound they are intended for. The unit function and the tuning of the stereophonic apparatus 250 is indicated by the display device 254 with the control board 255 providing the means for this tuning and the related functions of the AM / FM radio. What is unconventional is the use of a modular unit 131 (or 31 as discussed above), together with a conventional car stereophonic apparatus as noted above to provide both entertainment and telecommunication functions. Also, the incorporation of a microphone 381 may not be conventional with automobile stereos but is used here for purposes of providing a user with the means to generate telecommunication signals within this equipment. A separate numeric keypad or keyboard 383 is shown here for use in carrying out the telecommunications functions of the module 31. The keyboard 383 is connected to the stereo apparatus 250 by a connector cord 384 while the microphone 381 is connected to the apparatus stereophonic 250 through the cable 385. Either or both of the keyboard 383 and the microphone 381 can be used and the display board 382 is also available to indicate the actuation of the signal thereof. In one construction, the present invention utilizes the control board 255 which operates the conventional features of the car stereophonic apparatus 250 to carry out the telecommunications functions of the module 31. Still referring to Figure 15, in a manner compatible with the principles of the present invention, electronic audio equipment such as the stereophonic apparatus 250 of the automobile are fully functional in their conventional capacity as a stereophonic apparatus, tape reproduction apparatus or the like, while the addition of the modular unit 131 provides advantages additional telecommunications of the same. Due to obvious reasons, modifications to the specific electronic audio equipment will have to be made to not only receive the modular unit 131, but also to generate user communication signals with it. In a construction of the present invention, the module 131 (or module 31) is a voice based telecommunications module providing cellular, digital or analogue technologies to the car stereo 250. In another construction of the present invention, the module 131 (or module 31) is a data communications card (such as Mobitex or the radiolocation format) that receives messages on the display device 254 and uses either the numeric keypad 255 or the keyboard 283 for recognition and data entry. If more than one display area is required, a larger display apparatus can be added to the car stereo 250, similar to adding the keyboard 383. Modules 31 or 131 must be modified to contain the correct software for resending the messages to display device 254. Referring now to Figure 16, a functional diagram illustrating a switching aspect of an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The electronic audio system 910 contains electronic audio components 920 such as a radio receiver or recording medium reproducing apparatus or both. The conventional electronic audio components 920 are connected with a switching means 930. A module 940 having a telecommunications transceiver 945 is also connected to the switching means 930. The telecommunications transceiver 945 of the module 940 is adapted to communicate with at least one of the plurality of standard wireless networks 950 in accordance with at least one preselected communication standard. Still referring to Figure 16, the switching means 930 is connected to the support components 960. The support components 960 are conventional electronic support components for the conventional electronic audio components 920, new electronic support components or both that are necessary to support the telecommunications functions of the module 940. The support components 960 may include but are not limited to loudspeakers, microphones, telephone headsets, keypads, keyboards, monitors, power sources or the like. In addition, some or all of the support components 960 may be placed internally in the electronic audio system 910, externally in the electronic audio system 910 or both. Referring to Figure 16, the switching means 930 switches the connection of the support components 960 between the conventional electronic audio components 920 and the module 940. In one embodiment, the switching means 930 is a conventional manual switch. In another embodiment, the switching means 930 is a device that uses telephone answering with hands-free technology. Examples of telephone answering with hands-free technology are illustrated in US Patent Number 4,591,661 entitled "Telephone Receiver - Portable Wireless Radio" and issued in favor of Benedetto et al. On May 27, 1986, and US Patent Number No. 4,993,061 entitled "Hi-Fi Portable Miniature Stereophonic Tape Radio Reproduction System - Wireless Telephone" and has been issued in favor of Hsieh on February 12, 1991, both of which are incorporated by reference herein specifically. Although the constestación of the telephone with the hands-free technology can be known, the discovery of the combination of the constestación of the telephone with technology of free manso with the other aspects of the present invention are considered as forming part of the present invention. Referring now to Figure 17 there is shown a flow diagram illustrating an example of a process used by the present invention for telephone answering with hands-free technology. The process begins by receiving an incoming call in step 610. The incoming call is sent from step 610 depending on the mode of the telephone or the electronic audio equipment. If the telephone or electronic audio equipment is in a disconnected mode, the incoming call is sent to step 622 for the conversation mail in step 630. If the telephone or electronic audio equipment is in a busy mode, ie, it is carrying out a call in progress, the incoming call is sent in step 624 to the conversation mail in step 630. If the telephone or audio equipment is in a standby mode, the call from input is sent to step 626 to a step 640. In step 640, the system sends a call signal through the loudspeakers or headset and the electronic audio equipment and fades the volume of the electronic audio equipment. If the incoming call is not answered in response to the call signal in step 640, that is, if the user does not "pick up" the telephone, the incoming call is sent to step 640 to the conversation mail in step 630. If a user answers the incoming call in response to the call signal in step 640, the incoming call is sent to step 640 to advance to "a call in progress" in step 650. Once it is complete the "call-up" in step 650, the user disconnects or "hangs up" the connection and the electronic audio equipment is returned to the standby condition and its normal volume and audio playback mode in step 660. now referring to Figure 18, there is shown a flow chart illustrating an example of the hands-free technology used in the present invention for data type functionality. The process begins with an incoming data call received in step 710. The incoming data call is sent from step 710 depending on the mode of the electronic audio equipment with the modem. If the electronic equipment is in a disconnected mode, the incoming call is sent to step 722 to a storage and dispatch mailbox in step 730. If the electronic audio equipment is in a busy mode, ie, it is operating in a current call in progress, the incoming call is sent to step 724 to the storage and sending mailbox in step 730. If the electronic audio equipment is in a standby mode, the incoming data call is sent in step 726 to a step 740. In step 740, a call signal is generated to indicate that there is an incoming data call. If the automatic connection or "lifting" of the modem is not activated, the incoming call is sent in step 740 to the storage mailbox and sent in step 730. If the modem survey is activated, the incoming data call is sends in step 740 to call-up mode at 750. After the call has ended, the modem disconnects or "hangs up" and the electronic audio equipment is brought back to the original volume and function and placed on the standby mode in step 760. Referring now to Figure 19, a flow chart is shown illustrating the process of receiving an incoming call in a Radio Data System (RDS), an electronic audio system. The process begins with a conversation call or entry data in step 810. The detection of an incoming call activates the RDS message in step 820 and the telecommunications unit receives the call. The sending of the incoming call is determined by the mode of the telecommunications unit. If the telecommunication unit is in a disconnected mode, the incoming call is sent in step 832 to the storage and dispatch mailbox of the conversation mail in step 840. If the telecommunications unit is in a busy mode, i.e. is running with a call in progress, the incoming call is sent in step 834 to the storage mailbox and sent conversation mail in step 840. If the telecommunication unit is in the standby mode, the incoming call is send in step 836 to step 850. In step 850, a call signal is generated and the electronic equipment RDS deactivates the volume of the electronic audio system. If the incoming call is not picked up, the incoming call is sent in step 850 to the storage and delivery mailbox of the conversation mail in step 840. If the incoming call is picked up or picked up, the incoming call becomes a call-in-progress at step 860. Once the ongoing call is over, the telecommunications unit is disconnected or "hung up" and the RDS electronic equipment activates the volume back to a normal condition and graduates the telecommunications unit to the standby mode in step 870. Referring now to Figure 20, an illustration of yet another aspect of the present invention is shown. The combination of the use of the modular unit 31 is thus illustrated with its placement within the utility meter 410. Utility meters register numerically the magnitude of items such as electricity, gas or the like. It should be noted that either module 31 or 131 could be used in this combination depending on the need for an external antenna. The reference to module 31 not to module 131, is for purposes of illustration only. The meter 410 includes a mounting slot 511 for the installation of the modular unit 31. The slot 511 is constructed with 512 side walls and a front opening 513. A matching connector 514 is positioned along the end 515 to match the connector 33 of the module 31. The meter 410 has a display device 414 for displaying the numerical information of the meter 410. A cable 418 connects the display device 414 with numerical information of the display device 414 to the pre-assigned carriers of the matching connector 514. Still referring to Figure 20, the connecting end 134A of the module 31 includes a recess 134 which houses the connectors 151 and 154. The connector 151 is preferably a coaxial connector adapted to be coupled to the antenna 138, while the connector 154 it is constructed to connect the external power (if necessary) with the modular unit 31. The modular antenna structure 138 is also shown in position to be mounted on the end 134A of the unit 31. An AC / DC power supply (not shown) provides electrical power external to the module 31 from an external source. In a construction of the present invention, the connector 33 of the module 31 can be modified to receive power from an internal power source 415 and the meter 410 through a cable 419 and the matching connector 514.

Still referring to Figure 20, in a construction using the module 131 instead of the module 31, the meter 410 includes a power supply 415 and an antenna 416. The power supply 415 is connected to the power contacts in the matching collector 514 by a cable 419. The power contacts in the matching connector 514 are adapted to be connected to contacts 149a and 149b of connector 133 (shown in Figure 4). The antenna 416 is connected to an antenna contact in the matching connector by a cable 417. The antenna contacts in the matching connector 514 are connected to the contact 149c of the connector 133 (shown in Figure 4). Still referring to Figure 20, although the present invention has been illustrated using the meter such as a utility meter, the present invention also be used with other equipment such as electric readers, gas meter readers, pipeline meters , traffic of containers or similar that produce numerical information or other information that needs to be transmitted to a central database. The present invention applies to both commercial and consumer applications. The discovery of the combination of a telecommunications transceiver module with a utility meter that provides numerical information is considered as forming part of the present invention. The users can receive the numerical data presented in the meter 410 by dialing the telecommunications module of the meter 410. This allows the user not only to capture the data from the meter 410 but also to carry out a remote supervision and administration of the site, of the apparatus of reading or other equipment. The use of a module 31 or 131 that operates with a packet switching technology such as Mobitex, provides a secure transmission of the data. The size of a radio modem in a module such as the PCMCIA module, allows maintenance and easy service by replacing the defective modules with a new module. < As described above it can be seen that modular units 31 and 131 have multiple uses. From a design perspective they can be relatively thick within the order of 10.5 millimeters and the specific electronic equipment will have to be modified appropriately in the design of the receipt. The edge 33 of the modular unit 31 may include a 3.0 mm normal PCMCIA card interconnect. In addition, as described above, the board connector 33 may include special pin recesses 149a and 149b for higher power connection and consumption in certain situations.

It can be seen in addition to the previous figures that the antenna connections, as well as the special power connections, allow the implementation of a modular unit with a minimum of special adaptations that are required for the individual installations of the systems or electronic equipment. In this way, the system of the present invention allows the construction of modular radio communication units for flexible adaptation to different standards and different circumstances but which can be incorporated into the slots of the normal card in a variety of electronic devices that are the market today. While it is believed that the operation and construction of the system of the present invention will be apparent from the foregoing description, the method of operation and system structure shown and described has been characterized as being preferred and changes and modifications can be made therein. obvious modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims (8)

CLAIMS:

1. In an electronic dosing system of the type wherein the numerical information is supplied to a display device, combination with: a module port having a module connector; and a module having: a system connector for coupling with the connector of the module port module; a telecommunications transceiver for communicating the data signals with one of the plurality of standardized wireless networks in accordance with at least one preselected communication standard; wherein the communication transceiver receives the numerical information of the display device through the connector of the module port system, and the connector of the module system, and wherein the telecommunications transceiver transmits the numerical information as data signals. .

2. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the module port and the module are of a PCMCIA standard.

3. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the combination includes a power source, and wherein the combination also includes the telecommunications transceiver of the module that receives the electrical energy from the power source through the system connector module and the module port module connector.

4. The combination according to claim 3, wherein the module port and the module are in a PCMCIA standard, and wherein the module connector and the system connector are modified from the PCMCIA standard to include PCMCIA contacts. energy to transmit the electrical energy from the power source to the telecommunications transceiver. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the combination further includes an external power source that provides electrical power to the telecommunications transceiver of the module through an energy connector mounted in the module housing. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the combination includes an antenna, and wherein the combination further includes the telecommunications transceiver of the module which is coupled to the antenna through the connector with the module system of the connector of the module port module, where the telecommunications transceiver communicates with the normalized network through the antenna. The combination according to claim 6, wherein the module and the module port are of a PCMCIA standard, and wherein the module connector and the system connector are modified from the PCMCIA standard to include minus one contact to couple the antenna with the telecommunications transceiver. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the combination further includes an antenna that is coupled to the telecommunications transducer of the module through an antenna connector mounted on the module housing.