The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
May. 30, 1995
Filed:
Dec. 15, 1993
SMK Corporation, Tokyo, JP;
Abstract
A portable audio unit has a main unit, such as a CD player or tape recorder. The main unit is connected to a control unit by a cable. Audio and control signals are transmitted by the cable. The control unit has a connector for an earphone. Audio signals are transmitted by the cable from the main unit, to the control unit and to a connected earphone. Control signals are transmitted from the control unit to the main unit for controlling functions such as volume, power, tape-play, etc. The main unit has a built-in winder that stores and retrieves the cable. The control unit may be attached to the main unit when the cord is wound up and stored. With the control unit attached and the cable stored in side the main unit, the portable audio unit may still be operated by the control unit which forms a built-in control panel. With the cable extended, the control unit may be used as a remote control permitting the main unit to be placed in a handbag or pocket. In a portable audio unit having a separate remote control, a control panel is included in the main unit. The present invention avoids the need for the control panel because the control unit doubles as a control panel. Cost, size and complexity of the portable audio unit are thereby reduced.