Title of Invention

MOBILE TERMINAL AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING COMMUNICATION DATA TRANSMISSION AND COMMUNICATION LIST DISPLAY THEREIN

Abstract A mobile terminal including at least a first identity module and a second identity module; a wireless communication unit configured to transceive communication data; a touchscreen configured to receive a touch input on a predetermined touch area for selecting one of the first and second identity modules; and a controller configured to control the wireless communication unit to transmit the communication data using the one of the first and second identity modules based on the touch input performed on the predetermined touch area.
Full Text MOBILE TERMINAL AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING COMMUNICATION DATA
TRANSMISSION AND COMMUNICATION LIST DISPLAY THEREIN
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention relates to a mobile terminal and
corresponding method for controlling particular identity modules
of the mobile terminal to be used based on a predetermined
touching action.
Discussion of the Related Art
[0002] Generally, terminals can be classified into
mobile/portable terminals and stationary terminals. Mobile
terminals can also be classified into handheld terminals and
vehicle mounted terminals. Mobile terminals also now include a
variety of different functions such as photographing of photos or
moving pictures, playing music or moving picture files, playing
games, receiving broadcasts, etc. and thus operate as multimedia
players. However, the mobile terminal is still limited in the
amount of services available.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Accordingly, one object of the present invention is
directed to a mobile terminal and corresponding method that
substantially obviate one or more problems due to limitations and
disadvantages of the related art.
[0004] Another object of the present invention is to provide
a mobile terminal and corresponding method for allowing a user to
easily select an identity module used in transmitting
communication data.
[0005] Yet another object of the present invention is to
provide a mobile terminal and corresponding method for displaying
identity module information concerning received and/or sent
messages, calls, etc.
[0006] To achieve these objects and other advantages and in
accordance with the purpose of the invention, as embodied and
broadly described herein, the present invention provides in one
aspect a mobile terminal including at least a first identity
module and a second identity module; a wireless communication
unit configured to transceive communication data; a touchscreen
configured to receive a touch input en a predetermined touch area
for selecting one of the first and second identity modules; and a
controller configured to control the wireless communication unit
to transmit the communication data using the one of the first and
second identity modules based on the touch input performed on the
predetermined touch area.
[0007] In another aspect, the present invention provides a
method of controlling a mobile terminal including at least a
first identity module and a second identity module. The method
includes allowing, via a wireless communication unit,
transceiving of communication data using one of the first and
second identity modules; receiving, via a touchscreen, a touch
input on a predetermined touch area of the touchscreen for
selecting one of the first and second identity modules; and
controlling, via a controller, the wireless communication unit to
transmit the communication data using said one of the first and
second identity modules based on the touch input performed on the
predetermined touch area.
[0008] Further scope of applicability of the present
invention will become apparent from the detailed description
given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the
detailed description and specific examples, while indicating
preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by illustration
only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit
and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled
in the art from this detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are included to
provide a further understanding of the invention and are
incorporated in and constitute a part of this application,
illustrate embodiment(s) of the invention and together with the
description serve to explain the principle of the invention. In
the drawings:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a mobile terminal
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0011] FIGs. 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating a plurality
of identity modules detachably loaded in a mobile terminal
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0012] FIGs. 3A and 33 are diagrams of screen configurations
displaying a send key zone on a touchscreen of a mobile terminal
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method of
controlling communication data transmission in a mobile terminal
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] FIGs. 5A and 5B are diagrams of pictures displaying a
configuration setting of an identity module according to one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIGs. 6A to 10C are diagrams of screen configurations
for transmitting a call using an identity module indicated by a

touch pattern of a touch action performed on a send key zone
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIGs. 11A to 11C are diagrams of screen configurations
for sending a message using an identity module indicated by a
touch pattern of a touch action performed on a send key zone
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIGs. 12A and 12B are diagrams of screen-
configurations displaying second identity information on a send
key zone if a first identity module, which is a priority identity
module, is in a poor communication state according to one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIGs. 13A to 14C are diagrams of screen configurations
for ending a call using an identity module indicated by a touch
pattern of a touch action performed on an end key zone if first
and second calls are connected using first and second identity
modules according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIGs. 15A and 15B are diagrams of screen
configurations displaying second identity information on a send
key zone when receiving a call using a second identity module
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method of
displaying a communication list in a mobile terminal according to
one embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] FIGs. 17A to 17C are diagrams of screen configurations
displaying a communication list constructed with counterpart
information including identity information of a corresponding
identity module according to one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0022] FIGs. 18A to 18D are diagrams of screen configurations
for transmitting a call to a specific counterpart terminal using
an identity module indicated by a touch pattern of a touch action
performed on a send key zone included in specific counterpart
information according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] FIGs. 19A to 19C are diagrams of screen configurations
for sending a message to a specific counterpart terminal using an
identity module indicated by a touch pattern of a touch action
performed on a send key zone included in specific counterpart
information according to one embodiment of the present invention;
and
[0024] FIGs. 20A to 20C are diagrams of screen configurations
for displaying identity information of a corresponding identity
module when specific counterpart information is selected
according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] In the following detailed description, reference is
made to the accompanying drawing figures which form a part hereof,
and which show by way of illustration specific embodiments of the
invention. It is to be understood by those of ordinary skill in
this technological field that other embodiments may be utilized,
and structural, electrical, as well as procedural changes may be
made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used
throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts.
[0026] First of all, mobile terminals described in this
disclosure can include a mobile phone, a smart phone, a laptop
computer, a digital broadcast terminal, a PDA (personal digital
assistants), a PMP (portable multimedia player), a navigation
system and the like. The configurations according to an
embodiment described in this disclosure may also be applied to a
stationary terminal such as a digital TV, a desktop computer and
the like.
[0027] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a mobile terminal 100
according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring
to FIG. 1, the mobile terminal 100 includes a wireless
communication unit 110, an A/V (audio/video) input unit 120, a
user input unit 130, a sensing unit 140, an output unit 150, a
memory 160, an interface unit 170, a controller 180, a power
supply 190 and the like. FIG. 1 shows the mobile terminal 100
having various components, but it is understood that implementing
all of the illustrated components is not a requirement. Greater
or fewer components may alternatively be implemented.
[0028] The wireless communication unit 110 includes one or
more components which permits wireless communication between the
mobile terminal 100 and a wireless communication system or
network within which the mobile terminal 100 is located. For
instance, and as shown in FIG. 1, the wireless communication unit
110 can include a broadcast receiving module 111, a mobile
communication module 112, a wireless Internet module 113, a
short-range communication module 114, a position-location module
115 and the like.
[0029] The broadcast receiving module 111 receives a
broadcast signal and/or broadcast associated information from an
external broadcast managing server via a broadcast channel. The
broadcast channel may include a satellite channel and a
terrestrial channel. Further, the broadcast managing server
generally refers to a server which generates and transmits a
broadcast signal and/or broadcast associated information or a
server which is provided with a previously generated broadcast
signal and/or broadcast associated information and then transmits
the provided signal or information to a terminal. The broadcast
signal may also be implemented as a TV broadcast signal, a radio
broadcast signal, and a data broadcast signal, among others. The
broadcast signal may further include a broadcast signal combined
with a TV or radio broadcast signal.
[0030] The broadcast associated information includes
information associated with a broadcast channel, a broadcast
program, a broadcast service provider, etc. In addition, the
broadcast associated information can be provided via a mobile
communication network, and in this instance, the broadcast
associated information can be received by the mobile
communication module 112.
[0031] Further, the broadcast associated information can be
implemented in various forms. For instance, broadcast associated
information may include an electronic program guide (EPG) of the
digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) system and electronic
service guide (ESG) of the digital video broadcast-handheld (DVB-
PI) system.
[0032] The broadcast receiving module 111 may also be
configured to receive broadcast signals transmitted from various
types of broadcast systems. In a non-limiting example, such
broadcasting systems include the digital multimedia broadcasting-
terrestrial (DMB-T) system, the digital multimedia broadcasting-
satellite (DMB-S) system, the digital video broadcast-handheld
(DVB-H) system, the data broadcasting system known as media
forward link only (MediaFLO®) and the integrated services digital
broadcast-terrestrial (ISDB-T) system. The broadcast receiving
module 111 can also be configured suitable for other broadcasting
systems as well as the above-explained digital broadcasting
systems. Further, the broadcast signal and/or broadcast
associated information received by the broadcast receiving module
111 may be stored in a suitable device, such as the memory 160.
[0033] In addition, the mobile communication module 112
transmits/receives wireless signals to/from one or more network
entities (e.g., base station, external terminal, server, etc.).
Such wireless signals may represent audio, video, and data
according to text/multimedia message transmission/receptions,
among others. Further, the wireless Internet module 113 supports
Internet access for the mobile terminal 100, and may be
internally or externally coupled to the mobile terminal 100. In
this instance, the wireless Internet technology can include WLAN
(Wireless LAN) (Wi-Fi), Wibro (Wireless broadband), Wimax (World
Interoperability for Microwave Access), HSDPA (High Speed
Downlink Packet Access), etc.
[0034] Further, the short-range communication module 114
facilitates relatively short-range communications. Suitable
technologies for implementing this module include radio frequency
identification (RFID), infrared data association (IrDA), ultra-
wideband (UW3) , as well at the networking technologies commonly
referred to as Bluetooth and ZigBee, to name a few. In addition,
the position-location module 115 identifies or otherwise obtains
the location of the mobile terminal 100, and may be implemented
with a global positioning system (GPS) module.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 1, the audio/video (A/V) input unit
120 is configured to provide audio or video signal input to the
mobile terminal 100. As shown, the A/V input unit 120 includes a
camera 121 and a microphone 122. The camera 121 receives and
processes image frames of still pictures or video, which are
obtained by an image sensor in a video call mode or a
photographing mode. The processed image frames can then be
displayed on the display 151.
[0036] Further, the image frames processed by the camera 121
can be stored in the memory 160 or can be externally transmitted
via the wireless communication unit 110. Optionally, at least two
cameras 121 can be provided to the mobile terminal 100. In
addition, the microphone 122 receives an external audio signal
while the mobile terminal or portable device is in a particular
mode, such as phone call mode, recording mode and voice
recognition. The audio signal is processed and converted into
electric audio data, and the processed audio data is transformed
into a format transmittable to a mobile communication base
station via the mobile communication module 112 for a call mode.
The microphone 122 also can include assorted noise removing
algorithms to remove noise generated in the course of receiving
the external audio signal.
[0037] In addition, the user input unit 130 generates input
data responsive to user manipulation of an associated input
device or devices. Examples of such devices include a keypad, a
dome switch, a touchpad (e.g., static pressure/capacitance), a
jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Further, the sensing unit 140
provides sensing signals for controlling operations of the mobile
terminal 100 using status measurements of various aspects of the
mobile terminal 100. For instance, the sensing unit 140 can
detect an open/close status of the mobile terminal 100, relative
positioning of components (e.g., a display and keypad) of the
mobile terminal 100, a change of position of the mobile terminal
100 or a component of the mobile terminal 100, a presence or
absence of user contact with the mobile terminal 100, an
orientation or acceleration/deceleration of the mobile terminal
100.
[0038] As an example, consider the mobile terminal 100 being
configured as a slide-type mobile terminal. In this configuration,
the sensing unit 14 0 can sense whether a sliding portion of the
mobile terminal 100 is opened or closed. Other examples include
the sensing unit 140 sensing the presence or absence of power
provided by the power supply 190, the presence or absence of a
coupling or other connection between the interface unit 170 and
an external device. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the
sensing unit 140 also includes a proximity sensor 141.
[0039] Further, the output unit 150 generates outputs
relevant to the senses of sight, hearing, touch and the like. In
FIG. 1, the output unit 150 includes the display 151, an audio
output module 152, an alarm unit 153, a haptic module 154 and the
like. In more detail, the display 151 visually displays (outputs)
information associated with the mobile terminal 100. For
instance, if the mobile terminal is operating in a phone call
mode, the display can provide a user interface (UI) or graphical
user interface (GUI) which includes information associated with
placing, conducting, and terminating a phone call. As another
example, if the mobile terminal 100 is in a video call mode or a
photographing mode, the display 151 can additionally or
alternatively display images which are associated with these
modes, the "JI or the GUI.
[0040] In addition, the display 151 can be implemented using
display technologies including, for example, a liquid crystal
display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display
(TFT-LCD), an organic light-emitting diode display (OLED) , a
flexible display and a three-dimensional display. The mobile
terminal 100 may also include one or more of such displays. Some
of the above displays can also be implemented in a transparent or
optical transmittive type, which is called a transparent display.
A TOLED (transparent OLED) or the like is a representative
example for the transparent display. A rear configuration of the
display 151 can also be implemented in the optical transmittive
type as well. In this configuration, a user can see an object in
rear of a terminal body via the area occupied by the display 151
of the terminal body.
[0041] At least two displays 151 can also be provided to the
mobile terminal 100 in accordance with the implemented
configuration of the mobile terminal 100. For instance, a
plurality of displays can be arranged on a single face of the
mobile terminal 100 in a manner of being spaced apart from each
other or being built in one body. Alternatively, a plurality of
displays can be arranged on different faces of the mobile
terminal 100.
[0042] In addition, when the display 151 and a sensor for
detecting a touch action (hereinafter called xtouch sensor')
configures a mutual layered structure (hereinafter called
'touchscreen'), the display 151 can be used as an input device as
well as an output device. In this instance, the touch sensor can
be configured as a touch film, a touch sheet, a touchpad or the
like. Further, the touch sensor can be configured to convert a
pressure applied to a specific portion of the display 151 or a
variation of a capacitance generated from a specific portion of
the display 151 to an electric input signal. Moreover, the touch
sensor can detect a pressure of a touch as well as a touched
position or size.
[0043] Further, if a touch input is made to the touch sensor,
signal(s) corresponding to the touch is transferred to a touch
controller. The touch controller then processes the signal(s) and
transfers the processed signal (s) to the controller 180.
Therefore, the controller 180 can determine or know whether a
prescribed portion of the display 151 is touched.
[0044] Referring again to FIG. 1, the proximity sensor 141
can be provided to an internal area of the mobile terminal 100
enclosed by the touchscreen or around the touchscreen. The
proximity sensor 141 is also a sensor that detects a presence or
non-presence of an object approaching a prescribed detecting
surface or an object existing around the proximity sensor 141
using an electromagnetic field strength or infrared ray without
mechanical contact. Hence, the proximity sensor 141 has a
durability longer than that of a contact type sensor and also has
a utility wider than that of the contact type sensor.
[0045] Further, the proximity sensor 141 can include one of a
transmittive photoelectric sensor, a direct reflective
photoelectric sensor, a mirror reflective photoelectric sensor, a
radio frequency oscillation proximity sensor, an electrostatic
capacity proximity sensor, a magnetic proximity sensor, an
infrared proximity sensor and the like. When the touchscreen
includes the electrostatic capacity proximity sensor, the sensor
can detect the proximity of a pointer using a variation of
electric field according to the proximity of the pointer. In this
instance, the touchscreen (touch sensor) can be classified as the
proximity sensor.
[0046] In the following description, for clarity, an action
that a pointer approaches without contacting with the touchscreen
to be recognized as located on the touchscreen is named a
'proximity touch/ . Also, an action that a pointer actually
touches the touchscreen is named 'contact touch' . The meaning of
the position on the touchscreen proximity-touched by the pointer
means the position of the pointer which vertically opposes the
touchscreen when the pointer performs the proximity touch.
[0047] The proximity sensor 141 also detects a proximity
touch and a proximity touch pattern (e.g., a proximity touch
distance, a proximity touch duration, a proximity touch position,
a proximity touch shift state, etc.). Information corresponding
to the detected proximity touch action and the detected proximity
touch pattern can also be output to the touchscreen.
[0048] In addition, the audio output module 152 functions in
various modes including a call-receiving mode, a call-placing
mode, a recording mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcast
reception mode and the like to output audio data which is
received from the wireless communication unit 110 or is stored in
the memory 160. During operation, the audio output module 152
outputs audio relating to a particular function (e.g., call
received, message received, etc.). The audio output module 152 is
often implemented using one or more speakers, buzzers, other
audio producing devices, and combinations thereof.
[0049] Further, the alarm unit: 153 can output a signal for
announcing the occurrence of a particular event associated with
the mobile terminal 100. Typical events include a call received
event, a message received event and a touch input received event.
The alarm unit 153 can also output a signal for announcing the
event occurrence using vibration as well as video or audio signal
The video or audio signal can also be output via the display 151
or the audio output unit 152. Hence, the display 151 or the audio
output module 152 can be regarded as a part of the alarm unit 153
[0050] In addition, the haptic module 154 generates various
tactile effects that can be sensed by a user. Vibration is a
representative one of the tactile effects generated by the haptic
module 154. A strength and pattern of the vibration generated by
the haptic module 154 can also be controlled. For instance,
different vibrations can be output in a manner of being
synthesized together or can be output in sequence.
[0051] The haptic module 154 can also generate various
tactile effects as well as vibration. For instance, the haptic
module 154 generates the effect attributed to the arrangement of
pins vertically moving against a contact skin surface, the effect
attributed to the injection/suction power of air though an
injection/suction hole, the effect attributed to the skim over a
skin surface, the effect attributed to the contact with electrode,
the effect attributed to the electrostatic force, the effect
attributed to the representation of hold/cold sense using an
endothermic or exothermic device and the like.
[0052] The haptic module 154 can also be implemented to
enable a user to sense the tactile effect through a muscle sense
of finger, arm or the like as well as to transfer the tactile
effect through a direct contact. Optionally, at least two haptic
modules 154 can be provided to the mobile terminal 100 in
accordance with the corresponding configuration type of the
mobile terminal 100.
[0053] Further, the memory 160 can store various types of
data to support the processing, control, and storage requirements
of the mobile terminal 100. Examples of such data include
program instructions for applications operating on the mobile
terminal 100, contact data, phonebook data, messages, audio,
still pictures, moving pictures, etc. In addition, a recent use
history or a cumulative use frequency of each data (e.g., use
frequency for each phonebook, each message or each multimedia)
can be stored in the memory 160. Moreover, data for various
patterns of vibration and/or sound output for a touch input to
the touchscreen can be stored in the memory 160.
[0054] The memory 160 may be implemented using any type or
combination of suitable volatile and non-volatile memory or
storage devices including hard disk, random access memory (RAM),
static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable
programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable
read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM),
read-only memory (ROM), magnetic memory, flash memory, magnetic
or optical disk, multimedia card micro type memory, card-type
memory (e.g., SD memory, XD memory, etc.), or other similar
memory or data storage device. And, the mobile terminal 100 is
able to operate in association with a web storage for performing
a storage function of the memory 160 on Internet.
[0055] In addition, the interface unit 170 can be used to
couple the mobile terminal 100 with external devices. The
interface unit 170 also receives data from the external devices
or is supplied with the power and then transfers the data or
power to the respective elements of the mobile terminal 100 or
enables data within the mobile terminal 100 to be transferred to
the external devices. The interface unit 170 may also be
configured using a wired/wireless headset port, an external
charger pert, a wired/wireless data port, a memory card port, a
port for coupling to a device having an identity module, audio
input/output ports, video input/output ports, an earphone port
and/or the like.
[0056] In addition, the identity module is a chip for storing
various kinds of information for authenticating a use authority
of the mobile terminal 100 and can include a User Identify Module
(UIM), Subscriber Identify Module (SIM), Universal Subscriber
Identity Module (U3IM) and/or the like. A device having the
identity module (hereinafter called 'identity device') can be
manufactured as a smart card. Therefore, the identity device is
connectible to the mobile terminal 100 via the corresponding port
[0057] Further, when the mobile terminal 110 is connected to
an external cradle, the interface unit 170 becomes a passage for
supplying the mobile terminal 100 with a power from the cradle or
a passage for delivering various command signals input from the
cradle by a user to the mobile terminal 100. Each of the various
command signals input from the cradle or the power can operate as
a signal enabling the mobile terminal 100 to recognize that it is
correctly loaded in the cradle.
[0058] In addition, the controller 180 controls the overall
operations of the mobile terminal 100. For example, the
controller 180 performs the control and processing associated
with voice calls, data communications, video calls, etc. In the
embodiment in FIG. 1, the controller 180 also includes a
multimedia module 181 that provides multimedia playback. The
multimedia module 181 may also be configured as part of the
controller 180, or implemented as a separate component. Moreover,
the controller 180 can perform a pattern recognizing process for
recognizing a writing input and a picture drawing input carried
out on the touchscreen as characters or images, respectively. In
addition, the power supply 190 provides power required by the
various components for the mobile terminal 100. The power may be
internal power, external power, or combinations thereof.
[0059] Various embodiments described herein may also be
implemented in a computer-readable medium using, for example,
computer software, hardware, or some combination thereof. For a
hardware implementation, the embodiments described herein may be
implemented within one or mere application specific integrated
circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital
signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices
(PLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors,
controllers, micro-controllers, microprocessors, other electronic
units designed to perform the functions described herein, or a
selective combination thereof. Such embodiments may also be
implemented by the controller 180.
[0060] For a software implementation, the embodiments
described herein may be implemented with separate software
modules, such as procedures and functions, each of which perform
one or more of the functions and operations described herein.
The software codes can be implemented with a software application
written in any suitable programming language and may be stored in
memory such as the memory 160, and executed by a controller or
processor, such as the controller 180.
[0061] A mobile terminal mentioned in this disclosure can
include at least one of the components shown in FIG. 1, and
preferably includes a touchscreen configured to receive an input
of a touch action from a user. Since the touchscreen is one
example of the display 151, the Touchscreen will be indicated by
the same reference number 151 in the following description.
[0062] In addition, communication data mentioned in this
disclosure can include an audio call, a video call, a short text
message, a long text message, a multimedia message, an email, and
the like, for example. Of course, the communication data can
include all types of communication data transmittable/receivable
to/from a counterpart terminal as well as the examples of the
communication data.
[0063] According to one embodiment of the present invention,
the mobile terminal 100 can include a plurality of identity
modules such as a first identity module, a second identity module
and the like. Also, each of the first and second identity modules
can be detachably provided to the mobile terminal 100.
[0064] Configurations of the mobile terminal 100 provided
with a plurality of identity modules will now be explained in
more detail with reference to FIGs. 2A and 23. For clarity and
convenience of the following description, the plurality of the
identity modules is assumed to include a first identity module
210 and a second identity module 220.
[0065] Referring to FIGs. 2A and 2B, the first identity
module 210 and the second identity module 220 can be detachably
provided to a prescribed portion of the mobile terminal 100, and
more particularly, to a backside of the mobile terminal 100. In
addition, each of the first and second identity modules 210 and
220 has user authentication information stored therein and also
has an individual phone number set therefor. Thus, because two
phone numbers are set for the mobile terminal 100, a user can be
substantially provided with an effect of using a pair of
terminals.
[0066] For instance, one phone number '010-111-1111' can be
set for the first identity module 210, while the other phone
number '010-123-1234' can be set for the second identity module
220. The mobile terminal 100 can also transceive communication
data corresponding to the first identity module 210 and
communication data corresponding to the second identity module
220 simultaneously or at different timing points, using the first
and second identity modules 210 and 220.
[0067] Also, as mentioned in the foregoing description, an
identity module can include one of USIM, SIM and the like. In
addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention,
the mobile terminal 100 displays a send key zone on the
touchscreen 151 and can then receive an input of a user touch
action performed on the send key zone. The send key zone is a
predetermined touch area for selecting one of the first and
second identity modules.
[0068] In more detail, the send key zone is a key
zone/predetermined area configured to receive an input of a
transmission command of communication data from a user and is
able to receive an input of a transmission command in a manner of
discriminating the first identity module 210 and the second
identity module 220, which shall be described in more detail
later with reference to FIGs. 6A to 10C.
[0069] Next, FIGs. 3A and 3B are diagrams of screen
configurations for displaying a send key zone/predetermined touch
area on a touchscreen of a mobile Terminal according to one
embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 3A, a send
key zone 310 is provided to a lower end portion of a screen. When
receiving an input of a touch & drag action in a direction ® ,
the send key zone 310 receives a transmission command of
communication data using the first identity module 210. Also,
when receiving an input of a touch & drag action in a direction
2 , the send key zone 310 receives a transmission command of
communication data using the second identity module 220.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 33, the send key zone 310 is again
provided to a lower end portion of a screen. In this example,
when receiving an input of a touch & drag action performed on a
prescribed point, the send key zone 310 receives a transmission
command of communication data using the first identity module 210.
Also, when receiving an input of a touch & drag action in a
direction (D , the send key zone 310 receives a transmission
command of communication data using the second identity module
220. Specifically, FIG. 3B shows the first identity module 210 is
designated as a basic identity module or a priority identity
module.
[0071] Next, a method of controlling communication data
transmission in a mobile terminal according to an embodiment of
the present invention will be explained with reference to FIGs. 4
to 15B. In more detail, FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a
method of controlling communication data transmission in a mobile
terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 4, the mobile terminal 100 receives
input information of a counterpart terminal via the user input
unit 130 from a user (S410). That is, the counterpart terminal is
at least one other terminal that will communicate with the mobile
terminal 100. Also, because the display includes the touchscreen
151, the user can use the touchscreen 151 as one example for the
user input unit 130.
[0073] For example, the touchscreen 151 can display a virtual
keypad that the user can use to input the counterpart information
Of course, the user can input the counterpart information using a
physical keypad (e.g., a button type keypad) on the mobile
terminal 100. In addition, the user can directly input the
counterpart information, or can select specific counterpart
information from counterpart information stored in the memory 160.
For instance, the counterpart information stored in the memory
160 can be linked to a phonebook related application or
counterpart information corresponding to recently-transceived
communication data. Specifically, the counterpart information
linked to the phonebook related application can include a
counterpart title/name, a counterpart phone number and the like.
[0074] Next, the controller 180 displays a send key zone on a
prescribed portion of a screen displayed on the touchscreen 151
(S420) . The send key zone is a predetermined touch area on the
touchscreen 151 and can be displayed using a soft-touch button,
or by simply designated a particular area of the touchscreen 151.
The user can also designate a desired portion of the touchscreen
151 to be used as the send key zone by drawing the-predetermined
area with their finger, for example, and using the appropriate
menu options on the terminal 100.
[0075] In addition, the send key zone can always be displayed
in a standby picture or a background picture. Alternatively, the
send key zone can be displayed only if the counterpart
information for a counterpart terminal that is to be communicated
with is entirely or partially input. Further, when one of the
first and second identity modules 210 and 220 is designated as a
priority identity module, the mobile terminal 100 can display
identity information indicating which of the identity modules is
designated as the priority identity module on the send key zone.
[0076] Further, the priority identity module can be the
identity module that will preferentially transmit or receive
communication data among a plurality of the identity modules
provided to the mobile terminal 100. Therefore, communication
data can be transmitted using the priority identity module unless
the user requests another identity module be used. In addition,
the identity information indicates a corresponding identity
module and can be represented as a numeral, symbol, icon, image,
text or the like.
[0077] Next, a method of setting a configuration of an
identity module will be explained with reference to FIGs. 5A and
53. For clarity and convenience of the following description, the
identity module is assumed to be a SIM, and include two identity
modules SIM 1 and SIM 2.
[0078] Referring to FIG. 5A, when the user enters a SIM
configuration setting mode, the user can set a particular SIM to
perform a particular function. For example, the user can set a
call priority SIM and a messaging priority SIM to the SIM 1.
Thus, calls and messages will be performed by the SIM 1 as a
default unless the user overrides this selection.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 5B, the mobile terminal 100 or user
can set identity information for each of the SIM 1 and the SIM 2.
For instance, if the user selects an identifier SIM 1 503, the
controller 180 displays a user interface for inputting setting
identity information for the SIM 1 as shown in FIG. 5B(a). If the
user selects an identifier SIM 2 504, the controller 180 displays
setting identity information for the SIM 2 as shown in FIG. 5B(b).
[0080] In particular, referring to FIG. 5B(a), the identify
information for the SIM 1 is set using a color (Blue) and shape
(©). Referring to FIG. 5B(b), the identify information for the
SIM 2 is set using a color (Red) and shape (©) . Referring again
to FIG. 4, the user performs a touch action on the send key zone
displayed in the displaying step S420 (S430). For example, the
touch action can include a touch to a prescribed point, a touch &
drag action in a prescribed direction, etc.
[0081] Further, the mobile terminal can receive the user's
touch action when transmitting an audio or video call, sending a
written message, etc. For instance, when transmitting an audic or
video call, the user can first input counterpart information cf a
counterpart terminal that is to receive the audio or video cal.
Similarly, when sending a written message, the user can input the
message and the counterpart information input.
[0082] The controller 180 then determines whether the user's
touch action on the send key is for selecting the SIM1 (210) or
the SIM 2 (220) (S440). Further, when the input touch action is a
touch & drag, the touch pattern can include at least one of a
touch & drag direction, a touch & drag distance and a touch &
drag speed. For instance, when the touch & drag direction is a
left direction, the controller 180 can determine the touch
pattern is the transmission command for the first identity module
210. Also, when the touch & drag direction is a right direction,
the controller 180 can determine that the touch pattern is the
transmission command for the second identity module 220.
[0083] Moreover, if the input touch action is a touch to a
prescribed point, the touch pattern can include at least one cf a
touch count, a touch pressure, a touch size, a touch point and a
proximity touch distance. For instance, if the touch count is 1,
the controller 180 can determine that the touch pattern is the
transmission command for the first identity module 210. If the
touch count is 2, the controller 180 can determine that the touch
pattern is the transmission command for the second identity
module 220.

[0084] In addition, when the first identity module 210 is
designated as the priority identity module (the second identity
module 220 can alternatively be designated as the priority
identity module), and if the touch pattern is the touch to a
prescribed point, the controller 180 can determine that the touch
pattern is the transmission command for the first identity module
210. If the touch pattern is the touch & drag in one direction,
the controller 180 can determine that the touch pattern is the
transmission command for the second identity module 220.
[0085] Furthermore, the controller 180 can display either the
first identity module 210 or the second identity module 220,
which corresponds to the identity module indicated by the touch
pattern, on the send key zone. In addition, when the first
identity module 210 is designated as the priority identity module,
the controller 180 can display the identity information of the
first identity module 210 on the send key zone. Also, when
receiving an input of the touch action of the touch pattern
indicating the second identity module 220, the controller 180 can
display the identity information of the second identity module
220 on the send key zone.
[0086] Further, the controller 180 transmits the
communication data to the counterpart terminal corresponding to
the counterpart information input in the inputting step S410
using either the first identity module 210 or the second identity
module 220, which is indicated by the touch pattern corresponding
to the result of the determination made in the determining step
S440 (S450). Also, the transmitting step S450 can be performed by
the wireless communication unit 110.
[0087] Thus, the mobile terminal can transmit an audio or
video call to the counterpart terminal or send a message to the
counterpart terminal using the identity module indicated by the
touch pattern. Also, when the user releases the touch action from
the send key zone or retouches the send key zone after the
release of the touch action, the mobile terminal 100 can transmit
the communication data to the counterpart terminal using the
identity module indicated by the touch pattern. Moreover, a touch
pattern of the touch action (hereinafter named a first touch
action) input in the inputting step S430 may be different from
that of a retouch action (hereinafter named a second touch
action). For instance, the first touch action includes a touch &
drag, while the second touch action includes a touch to a
prescribed point of the send key zone.
[0088] Next, FIGs. 6A to 10C are diagrams of screen
configurations for transmitting a call using an identity module
indicated by a touch pattern of a touch action performed on a
send key zone according to an embodiment of the present invention
That is, the communication data is an audio call. For clarity and
convenience of the following description, the user has already
input the counterpart information (e.g., telephone number) of the
counterpart terminal that will receive an audio call. Also, the
first and second identity modules 210 and 220 include the SIM 1
and SIM 2, respectively.
[0089] Referring to FIGs. 6A to 6C, the controller 180 can
select either the SIM 1 or SIM 2 to use for the audio call
transmission according to a direction of a touch & drag performed
on a send key zone 310. For instance, when receiving an input of
a touch & drag action 1 in a left direction of the send key zone
313, the mobile terminal 100 can transmit the audio call using
the SIM 1 and display identity information '1' 311 of the SIM 1
on the send key zone 310 as shown in FIG. 6B. Moreover, when
receiving an input of a touch & drag action 2 in a right
direction of the send key zone 310, the mobile terminal 100 can
transmit an audio call using the SIM 2 and display identity
information '2' 312 of the SIM 2 on the send key zone 310 as
shown in FIG. 6C. Further, a drag direction per identity module
can be designated by the user or be preset by the mobile terminal
100.
[0090] Referring to FIGs. 7A to 7C, the controller 180 can
select either the SIM 1 or SIM 2 to use for an audio call
transmission according to a distance cf a touch & drag performed
on the send key zone 310. For instance, when receiving an input
of a touch & drag action ® in a first distance dl in one
direction of the send key zone 310, the mobile terminal 100 can
transmit an audio call using the SIM 1 and display identity
information 'SIM 1' 311 of the SIM 1 on the send key zone 310 as
shown in FIG. 7B.
[0091] Moreover, when receiving an input of a touch & drag
action © in a second distance d2 in one direction of the send
key zone 310, the mobile terminal 100 can transmit an audio call
using the SIM 2 and display identity information 'SIM 2' 312 of
the SIM 2 on the send key zone 310 as shown in FIG. 7C. Further,
a drag distance per identity module can be designated by the user
or be preset by the mobile terminal 100.
[0092] Referring to FIGs. 8A to 8C, the controller 180 can
select either SIM 1 or SIM 2 to use for an audio call
transmission according to a count or number of touch actions
performed on a send key zone 310. For instance, when receiving an
input of one touch to the send key zone 310, the mobile terminal
100 can transmit an audio call using the SIM 1 and display
identity information '1' 311 of the SIM 1 on the send key zone
310 as shown in FIG. 8B.
[0093] Moreover, when receiving an input of two touches to
the send key zone 310, the mobile terminal 100 can transmit an
audio call using the SIM 2 and display identity information '2'
312 of the SIM 2 on the send key zone 310 as shown in FIG. EC.
Further, a touch count per identity module can be designated by
the user or be preset by the mobile terminal 100.
[0094] Next, referring to FIGs. 9A to 9C, a first point 310-1
corresponding to the SIM 1 and a second point 310-2 corresponding
to the SIM 2 are included on the send key zone 310 of the mobile
terminal 100. The controller 180 can then select either the SIM 1
or SIM 2 to use for an audio call transmission according tc a
point selected by a user. For instance, when receiving an input
of a touch to the first point 310-1 of the send key zone 310, the
mobile terminal 100 can transmit an audio call using the SIM 1 as
shown in FIG. 93.
[0095] Moreover, when receiving an input of a touch to the
second point 310-2 of the send key zone 310, the mobile terminal
100 can transmit an audio call using the SIM 2 as shown in FIG.
9C. Also, a point per identity module can be designated by the
user or be preset by the mobile terminal 100.
[0096] Referring to FIGs. 10A to 10C, when the SIM 1 is
designated as a priority identity module, the mobile terminal 100
can display identity information ' 1 ' 311 of the SIM 1 on the
send key zone 310 before receiving an input of a touch action
from the user as shown in FIG. 10A. For instance, when receiving
an input of a touch action performed on one point of the send key
zone 310, the mobile terminal 100 can transmit an audio call
using the SIM 1 as shown in FIG. 103.
[0097] Moreover, when receiving an input of a touch & drag
action in one direction of the send key zone 310, the mobile
terminal 100 can transmit an audio call using the SIM 2 and
display identity information ' 1 ' 312 of the SIM 2 on the send
key zone 310 as shown in FIG. 100. In addition, the priority
identity module can be designated by the user or be preset by the
mobile terminal 100.
[0098] Next, FIGs. 11A to 11C are diagrams of screen
configurations for sending a message using an identity module
indicated by a touch pattern of a touch action performed on a
send key zone according to an embodiment of the present invention
In this example, the communication data is a message. For clarity
and convenience of the following description, the user has
already input the message content and counterpart information of
a message receiving side. The first and second identity modules
210 and 220 also include the SIM 1 and SIM 2, respectively.
[0099] Referring to FIGs. 11A to 11c, the controller 180 can
select either the SIM 1 or SIM 2 to use for a message
transmission according to a direction of a touch & drag perforrried
on a send key zone 310. For instance, when receiving an input of
a touch & drag action 1 in a left direction of the send key zone
310, the mobile terminal 100 can transmit a message using the SIM
1 and display identity information '1' 311 of the SIM 1 on the
send key zone 310 as shown in FIG. 11B. Moreover, when receiving
an input of a touch & drag action © in a right direction of ;;he
send key zone 310, the mobile terminal 100 can transmit a message
using the SIM 2 and display identity information '1' 312 of the
SIM 2 on the send key zone 310 as shown in FIG. 11C.
[00100] Further, the former embodiments for the touch action
input for the send key zone 310 and the corresponding selection
of the identity module shown in FIGs. 6A to 10C are also
applicable to this message transmission. In addition, the
controller 180 can select a SIM to use for an audio call
transmission or a message transmission in accordance with a speed
of a touch & drag action performed on the send key zone 310. For
instance, if the touch & drag action speed is 10 cm/s, the mobile
terminal 100 can select the SIM 1, and if the touch & drag action-
speed is 20 cm/s, the mobile terminal 100 can select the SIM 2.
[00101] Further, when a touch pressure or size for the send
key zone 310 is smaller than a first reference, the mobile
terminal 100 can select the SIM 1, and when a touch pressure or
size for the send key zone 310 is equal to or greater than a
first reference, the mobile terminal 100 can select the SIM 2.
Also, when a proximity touch distance for the send key zone 310
is a first distance, the mobile terminal 100 can select the SIM 1,
and when a proximity touch distance for the send key zone 310 is
a second distance, the mobile terminal 100 can select the SIM 2.
[00102] Also, according to an embodiment of the present
invention, if a priority identity module corresponding to the
first identity module 210 or the second identity module 220 is in
a poor communication state, the mobile terminal 100 can display
identity information on the first: or second identity module,
which is not the priority identity module, on the send key zone
310.
[00103] In more detail, FIGs. 12A and 12B are diagrams of
screen configurations for displaying second identity information
on a send key zone if a first identity module, which is a
priority identity module, is in a poor communication state
according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to
FIG. 12A, if a communication state of the SIM 1 (i.e., the
priority identity module) is poor, the mobile terminal 100 can
display a window 1210 for enabling a user to select whether to
change the priority identity module.
[00104] Referring to FIG. 12B, if the user selects 'change
priority identity module' in FIG. 12A, the controller 180 changes
the priority identity module to be set to the SIM 2 from the SIM
1 and displays identity information '2' 312 of the SIM 2 on the
send key zone 310 instead of identity information '1' 311 of the
SIM 1 as shown in FIG. 12B.
[00105] Alternatively, if a communication state of the SIM 1
(i.e., the priority identity module) is poor, the mobile terminal
100 can automatically change the priority identity module to be
set to the SIM 2 from the SIM 1 irrespective of a selection made
by a user. In addition, if the communication state corresponding
to the SIM 1 is restored, the mobile terminal 100 can set the
priority identity module to the SIM 1 again or can keep setting
the priority identity module to the SIM 2 according to a
selection made by a user or terminal.
[00106] Also, according to an embodiment of the present
invention, when connecting a first call and a second call using
the first and second identity modules 210 and 220, the controller
180 can display an end key zone on a prescribed region of a
touchscreen and receives an input of a touch action performed on
the end key zone from the user. For instance, when connecting a
first call and a second call, the mobile terminal 100 can output
an audio signal or a video signal (for a video call) transceived
via either the first call or the second call.
[00107] The controller 180 also determines whether a touch
pattern of the input touch action indicates an end command for
the first call or an end command for the second call. The
controller 180 also controls the wireless communication unit 110
to end either the first call or the second call indicated by the
touch pattern according to a result of the determination.
[00108] A process for inputting a touch action performed on an
end key zone and ending a call using an identity module indicated
by a touch pattern will now be explained with reference to FIGs.
13A to 14C. In more detail, FIGs. 13A to 14C are diagrams of
screen configurations for ending a call using an identity module
indicated by a touch pattern of a touch action performed on an
end key zone when the first and second calls are connected using
the first and second identity modules according to an embodiment
of the present invention.
[00109] Referring to FIGs. 13A and 13B, while a first cal and
a second call are connected, the mobile terminal 100 displays
information (e.g., counterpart phone number, call duration, etc.)
1310 on the first call and information (e.g., counterpart phone
number, call duration, etc.) 1320 on the second call and also
displays an end key zone 320 on a prescribed region of the screen
[00110] Also, referring to FIG. 13B, if the SIM 1 is set . to
the priority identity module, and when, an audio signal according
to the first call is output or the information 1310 on the first
call is selected, the controller 180 displays identity
information '1' 321 of the SIM 1 on the end key zone 320.
Referring to FIG. 13C, if the SIM 2 is set as the priority
identity module, when an audio signal according to the second
call is output or the information 1320 on the second call is
selected, the controller 180 displays identity information '2'
322 of the SIM 2 on the end key zone 320.
[00111] Referring to FIGs. 13C and 13D, while the identity
information 321 of the SIM 1 is displayed on the end key zone 320
(see FIG. 13C) , and when receiving an input of a touch & drag
action performed on the end key zone 320, the controller 180 ends
the second call by displaying the identity information 322 on the
SIM 2 on the end key zone 320 (see FIG. 13D) .
[00112] Referring to FIGs. 14A to 14C, the mobile terminal 100
can selectively end the first call or the second call according
to a direction of a touch & drag operation performed on the end
key zone 320. For instance, when receiving a touch & drag action
1 in a left direction of the end key zone 320, the mobile
terminal 100 ends the first call using the SIM 1 and displays the
identity information '1' 321 of the SIM 1 on the end key zone
320 as shown in FIG. 14B. In another example, when receiving a
touch & drag action 2 in a right direction of the end key zone
320, the mobile terminal 100 ends the second call using the SIM 2
and displays the identity information '2' 322 of the SIM 2 on
the end key zone 320 as shown in FIG. 14C.
[00113] Further, if a touch & drag distance is equal to or
greater than a predetermined reference, a touch action is removed
or a retouch action is performed on the end key zone 320 after
removal of the touch action, the mobile terminal 100 ends the
corresponding call. Moreover, the former embodiments for the
touch action input to the end key zone 310 and the corresponding
identity module selection regarding the audio call transmission
(shown in FIGs. 6A to 10C) are also applicable to the end call
operation.
[00114] Thus, according to an embodiment of the present
invention, when receiving communication data using a specific one
of the first identity module 210 and the second identity module
220, the controller 180 displays identity information of the
specific identity module on a send key zone. Further, a user cf a
counterpart terminal can designate a terminal on a communication
data receiving side by inputting a phone number corresponding to
the specific identity module. This embodiment will now be
exolained in more detail with reference to FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B.

[00115] In particular, FIGs. 15A and 15B are diagrams of
screen configurations for displaying second identity information
on a send key zone when receiving a call using a second identity
module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 15A, the mobile terminal 100 displays the send
key zone 310 on a standby picture. Also, when receiving a call
using the SIM 2, the mobile terminal 100 displays identity
information '2' 312 of the SIM 2 on the send key zone 310 as
shown in FIG. 15B.
[00116] A method of controlling a communication list display
in a mobile terminal will now be explained with reference to FIGs.
16 to 20C. In particular, FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a
method of displaying a communication list in a mobile terminal
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[00117] Referring to FIG. 16, the controller 180 of the mobile
terminal 100 transceives communication data with at least one
counterpart (other) terminal using at least one of the first
identity module 210 and the second identity module 220 (S1610).
Further, the transceiving step S1610 can be performed by the
wireless communication unit 110.
[00118] The controller 180 then displays a communication list
including counterpart information of the at least one counterpart
terminal having transceived the communication data in the
transceiving step S1610 on the touchscreen (S1620). In this
instance, the counterpart information is included in the
communication list per communication data transceived or can be
included in the communication list per counterpart terminal. In
the latter case, even if the communication data are transceived
with a specific counterpart terminal plural times, one
counterpart information can be included in the communication list.
[00119] Moreover, the counterpart information can include a
phone number of a corresponding counterpart terminal, a
title/name of a corresponding counterpart terminal linked to a
phonebook related application, a corresponding call duration, a
corresponding call date/hours (or a corresponding message
transceived hour) and the like. In addition, the mobile terminal
100 can also display identity information on a corresponding
identity module having transceived the corresponding
communication data as counterpart information included in the
communication list.
[00120] For instance, when the counterpart information
included in the communication list is generated per communication
data transceived with a counterpart terminal, the mobile terminal
100 can display identity information of a corresponding identity
module used in transceiving the corresponding communication data
for each counterpart information as the counterpart information.
In another instance, when the counterpart information included in
the communication list is generated per counterpart terminal, the
mobile terminal 100 can display identity information of an
identity module used in transceiving the last communication data
with the corresponding counterpart terminal as the counterpart
information.
[00121] In still another instance, the mobile terminal 100 car-
display a send key zone (hereinafter named an individual send key
zone) for displaying identity information of a corresponding
identity module for each counterpart information included in the
communication list. In this instance, the corresponding identity
module can include an identity module used in transceiving
communication data with a counterpart terminal corresponding to
the counterpart information (when generating counterpart
information per communication data). Alternatively, the
corresponding identity module can include an identity module used
in transceiving last communication data with a counterpart
terminal corresponding to the counterpart information (when
generating counterpart information per counterpart terminal).
[00122] The mobile terminal 100 also displays a representative
send key zone on a prescribed region of a screen and displays
identity information of an identity module having transceived
communication data corresponding to specific counterpart
information selected from the communication list on the
representative send key zone. Therefore, the identity information
displayed on the send key zone can be changed according to what
kind of counterpart information is selected from the
communication list.
[00123] A communication list display will now be explained in
more detail with reference to FIGs. 17A to 17C. In this example,
the counterpart information included in the communication list is
generated per transceived communication data. In more detail,
FIGs. 17A to 17C are diagrams of screen configurations for
displaying a communication list constructed with counterpart
information including identity information of a corresponding
identity module according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[00124] Referring to FIG. 17A, the mobile terminal 100
displays a communication list including a plurality of
counterpart informations 1710 to 1740. In particular, each of the
counterpart informations can include a communication data type
(e.g., a presence or non-presence of an audio call_, a presence
or non-presence of a video call, a presence or non-presence of a
text message, a presence or non-presence of a multimedia message,
etc.), a presence or non-presence of transceiving (e.g.,
transmit_?, receive_? etc.), identity information (SIM 1 1,
SIM 2_ 2 ) of a corresponding identity module, a corresponding
counterpart name, a corresponding communication data transceived
time (hour/min etc.), and the like.
[00125] Each of the counterpart informations can also include
a corresponding one of individual send key zones 1711 to 1741.
Further, identity information 1711-1, 1721-2, 1731-1 and 1741-2
of the SIM used in transceiving the corresponding communication
data can be displayed on the individual send key zones 1711 to
1741, respectively.
[00126] Referring to FIG. 17B, the mobile terminal 100
displays a communication list including counterpart information
1710 and 1730 corresponding to the communication data transceived
using the SIM 1 only. In particular, when the indicator SIM 1
1751 is selected in FIG. 17A or FIG. 17C, the communication list
shown in FIG. 173 is displayed.
[00127] Referring to FIG. 17C, the mobile terminal 100
displays a communication list including counterpart information
1720 and 1740 corresponding to the communication data transceived
using the SIM 2 only. In particular, when the indicator SIM 2
1752 is selected in FIGs. 17A or 17B, the communication list
shown in FIG. 17C can be displayed. Also, if the indicator 'All'
1753 is selected in FIGs. 17B or 17C, the mobile terminal 100
returns to the state shown in FIG. 17A.
[00128] Referring again to FIG. 16, the mobile terminal 100
receives an input of a touch action performed on the individual
send key zone (S1630). Regarding the touch action input in the
inputting step S1630 and a touch pattern of the input touch
action, the descriptions of the former inputting step S430 and
the former determining step S440 in FIG. 3 are used.
[00129] The controller 180 also determines whether the touch
pattern of the input touch action is a command (hereinafter named
a first transmission command) for transmitting communication data
using a corresponding identity module or a command (hereinafter
named a second transmission command) for transmitting
communication data using another identity module different from
the corresponding identity module.
[00130] For instance, if the touch pattern is a single touch
to a prescribed point of an individual send key zone less than a
predetermined duration, the mobile terminal 100 determines that
the touch pattern is the first transmission command. If the touch
pattern is a touch & drag operation to a prescribed point of an
individual send key zone, multiple touches to a prescribed point
or a touch to a prescribed point greater or equal tc a
predetermined duration, the mobile terminal 100 determines that
the touch pattern is the second transmission command.
[00131] According to the determination result, the controller
180 transmits the communication data to the corresponding
counterpart terminal using the first identity module 210 when the
first transmission command is used. When the second transmission
command is used, the controller 180 transmits the communication
data to the corresponding counterpart terminal using the second
identity module 220 (S1640) . Further, the transmitting step S1640
can be performed by the wireless communication unit 110.
[00132] In addition, the corresponding counterpart terminal
can include a counterpart terminal corresponding to the
counterpart information including the individual send key zone to
which the touch action was input. Moreover, the communication
data transmitted in the transmitting step S640 can have the same
type of the communication data corresponding to the counterpart
information including the individual send key zone to which the
touch action was input. Communication data of a different type
according to a user selection can also be transmitted as well.
[00133] An input of a touch action performed on an individual
send key zone and a corresponding communication data transmitting
operation will now be described. In more detail, FIGs. 18A to
18D are diagrams of screen configurations for transmitting a call
to a specific counterpart terminal using an identity module
indicated by a touch pattern of a touch action performed on a
send key zone included in specific counterpart information
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[00134] Referring to FIG. 18A, the mobile terminal 100
receives an input of a touch action performed on a first
individual send key zone 1711 included in a first counterpart
information 1710. In this instance, because the identity module
corresponding to the first counterpart information 1710 is the
SIM 1, the mobile terminal 100 displays an identity information
1711-1 of the SIM 1 on the first individual send key zone 1711.
[00135] Also, when a touch 1 to a prescribed point of the
first individual send key zone 1711 is input in FIG. 18A [1],
the mobile terminal 100 transmits an audio call to a counterpart
terminal corresponding to the first counterpart information 1710
using the SIM 1 as shown in FIG. 183. Also, when a touch & drag
operation 2 from a prescribed point of the first individual send
key zone 1711 is input in FIG. 18A, the mobile terminal 100
transmits an audio call to a counterpart terminal corresponding
to the first counterpart information 1710 using the SIM 2 as
shown in FIG. 18C.
[00136] Also, because communication data corresponding to the
first counterpart information 1710 is an audio call, the mobile
terminal 100 transmits an audio call to a counterpart terminal,
as shown in FIGs. 183 or 18C. The mobile terminal 100 can also
transmit communication data of a type different from the former
communication data corresponding to the first counterpart
information 1710 according to a user selection.
[00137] In addition, when receiving an input of a check
command of the first counterpart information 1710 in FIG. 18A,
the mobile terminal 100 displays detailed information
corresponding to the first counterpart information 1710 on the
screen as shown in FIG. 18D. That is, the mobile terminal 100
displays a send key zone 1810, which is marked with an identity
information '1' 1811 of the identity module (SIM 1) corresponding
to the first counterpart information 1710 on a prescribed region
of the screen.
[00138] Next, FIGs. 19A to 19C are diagrams of screen
configurations for sending a message to a specific counterpart
terminal using an identity module indicated by a touch pattern of
a touch action performed on a send key zone included in specific
counterpart information according to an embodiment of the present
invention. In this example, the communication data includes a
message.
[00139] Referring to FIG. 19A, the mobile terminal 100
receives an input of a touch action performed on a fourth
individual send key zone 17 41 included in a fourth counterpart
information 1740. Further, because an identity module
corresponding to the fourth counterpart information 1740 is the
SIM 2, the mobile terminal 100 displays an identity information
1741-2 of the SIM 2 on the fourth individual send key zone 1741.
[00140] In addition, if a touch 1 to a prescribed point of
the fourth individual send key zone 1741 is input in FIG. 19A,
the mobile terminal 100 enters a writing state of a message to
send to a counterpart terminal corresponding to the fourth
counterpart information 1740 and displays a send key zone 1910
marked with the identity information 1912 of the SIM 2 on a
prescribed region of the screen as shown in FIG. 19B.
[00141] Further, using the SIM 2 for receiving an input of a
touch to a prescribed point of the send key zone 1910 shown in
FIG. 19B or using the SIM I for receiving an input of a touch &
drag, the mobile terminal 100 can send the written message to the
counterpart terminal corresponding to the fourth counterpart
information 1740.
[00142] If a touch & drag operation 2 from a prescribed point
of the fourth individual send key zone 17 41 is input in FIG. 19A,
the mobile terminal 100 enters a writing state of a message to
send to a counterpart terminal corresponding to the fourth
counterpart information 1740 and displays a send key zone 1910
marked with the identity information 1911 of the SIM 1 on a
prescribed region of the screen as shown in FIG. 19C. Further,
using the SIM 1 for receiving an input of a touch to a prescribed
point of the send key zone 1910 shown in FIG. 19C or using the
SIM 2 for receiving an input of a touch & drag, the mobile
terminal 100 can send the written message to the counterpart
terminal corresponding to the fourth counterpart information 1740.
[00143] Next, FIGs. 20A to 20C are diagrams of screen
configurations for displaying identity information of a
corresponding identity module when the user selects that specific
counterpart information according to an embodiment of the present
invention. Referring to FIG. 20A, the mobile terminal 100
displays a communication list including a plurality of
counterpart information 1710 to 1740 and also displays a
representative send key zone 2010 on a prescribed region of the
screen.
[00144] Referring to FIG. 203, if the user selects a first
counterpart information 1710 from the communication list, the
mobile terminal 100 displays an identity information 2011 of an
identity module (i.e., SIM 1) corresponding to the first
counterpart information 1710 on the representative send key zone
2010.
[00145] Also, using the SIM 1 when receiving an input of a
touch to a prescribed point of the representative send key zone
2010 shown in FIG. 20B or using the SIM 2 when receiving an input
of a touch & drag, the mobile terminal 100 can send an audio call
to the counterpart terminal corresponding to the first
counterpart information 1710.
[00146] Referring to FIG. 20C, if a fourth counterpart
information 1740 is selected from the communication list, the
mobile terminal 100 can display an identity information 2022 of
an identity module (i.e., SIM 2) corresponding to the fourth
counterpart information 1740 on the representative send key zone
2020.
[00147] Moreover, using the SIM 2 when receiving an input of a
touch to a prescribed point of the representative send key zone
2020 shown in FIG. 20C or using the SIM 1 when receiving an input
of a touch & drag, the mobile terminal 100 can set a state for
sending a message to the counterpart terminal corresponding to
the fourth counterpart information 1740.
[00148] According to an embodiment of the present invention,
the mobile terminal 100 can display a communication state
information on a first identity module 210 and a communication
state information on a second identity module 220. For instance,
the mobile terminal can display an indicator indicating a signal
strength of a communication via the first identity module 210 and
an indicator indicating a signal strength of a communication via
the second identity module 220.
[00149] Also, according to an embodiment of the present
invention, when receiving an input of a touch & drag action
operation performed on a send key zone (or an end key zone), the
mobile terminal 100 can shift the send key zone to correspond to
a touch & drag distance and direction. Further, even if a touch &
drag action is input, the send key zone can be set not to move to
correspond to the touch & drag distance and direction.
[00150] In addition, when a corresponding communication data
is an audio call or a video call, a send key region mentioned in
the foregoing description of the present invention can display
information indicating the audio call or the video call. If a
corresponding communication data is a message, the send key zone
can display information indicating that message. The send or end
key zone mentioned in the foregoing description of the present
invention can also be set to differ in its functionality only in
the same key zone for a call related operation.
[00151] Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention
provide several advantages. First of all, an embodiment of the
present invention can select a specific identity module to
transmit communication data from a plurality of identity modules
by determining a touch pattern of a touch action performed on a
send key zone, thereby quickly performing a transmission command
signal input and an identity module selection even though a
plurality of the identity modules are provided.
[00152] Secondly, an embodiment of the present invention can
display identity information of a corresponding identity module
on a send key zone, thereby providing a user with information
indicating which identity module will be used in transmitting
communication data in a current status using the send key zone.
[00153] Thirdly, an embodiment of the present invention
displays identity information of a corresponding identity module
for each counterpart information on a communication list, thereby
providing a user wirh information indicating which module has
transceived communication data corresponding to specific
counterpart information.
[00154] Finally, an embodiment of the present invention
displays an individual send key zone, on which identity
information of a corresponding identity module is displayed, for
each counterpart information on a communication list, thereby
transmitting communication data to a corresponding counterpart
terminal according to an input of a touch action to the
individual send key zone for each counterpart information.
[00155] Further, according to one embodiment of the present
invention, the above-described methods can be implemented in a
program recorded medium as computer-readable codes. The computer-
readable media include all kinds of recording devices in which
data readable by a computer system are stored. The computer-
readable media include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tapes, floppy
discs, optical data storage devices, and the like for example and
also include carrier-wave type implementations (e.g.,
transmission via the Internet).
[00156] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that
various modifications and variations can be made in a mobile
terminal and method of controlling communication data
transmission and communication list display therein according to
the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope
of the inventions. Thus, it is intended that the present
invention covers the modifications and variations of this
invention provided they come within the scope of the appended
claims and their equivalents. For instance, the respective
configurations disclosed in the aforesaid embodiments of the
present invention can be used by those skilled in the art in a
manner of being combined with one another entirely or selectively
in part.
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A mobile terminal, comprising:
at least a first identity module and a second identity
module;
a wireless communication unit configured to transceive
communication data;
a touchscreen configured to receive a touch input on a
predetermined touch area for selecting one of the first and
second identity modules; and
a controller configured to control the wireless
communication unit to transmit the communication dara using said
one of the first and second identity modules based on the touch
input performed on the predetermined touch area.
2. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the
predetermined touch area is a touch icon for transmitting the
communication data to at least one other terminal.
3. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the
communication data comprises at least one of an audio call, a
video call, a text message, an email and a multimedia message.
4. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the touch
input on the predetermined touch area includes one of a touch &
drag operation and a touch operation to a prescribed point on the
predetermined touch area.
5. The mobile terminal of claim 4, wherein the controller
is further configured to select said one of the first and second
identity modules to be used to transmit the communication data
based on at least one of a touch & drag direction, a touch & drag
distance and a touch & drag speed of the touch & drag operation,
and to select said one of the first and second identity modules
to be used to transmit the communication data based on at least
one of a touch count, a touch pressure, a touch size, a touch
point and a proximity touch distance of the touch operation to
the prescribed point.
6. The mobile terminal of claim 4, wherein the controller
is further configured to designate the first identity module as a
priority identity module, and to select the first identity module
to be used to transmit the communication data when the touch
operation to the prescribed point is a single touch action, and
to select the second identity module to be used to transmit the

communication data when the touch operation to the prescribed
point is a double touch action.
7. The mobile terminal of claim 4, wherein the controller
is further configured to designate the first identity module as a
priority identity module, and to select the first identity module
to be used to transmit the communication data when the touch
input is the touch operation to the prescribed point, and to
select the second identity module to be used to transmit the
communication data when the touch input is the touch & drag
operation.
8. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the controller
is further configured to display indication information on the
predetermined touch area indicating which of the first and second
identity modules is selected.
9. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the controller
is further configured to display state information indicating a
current communication state of the first and/or second identity
modules and to prompt a user to change a currently selected
identity module to another identity module.
10. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the controller
is further configured to display, on the touchscreen, call
information concerning first and second calls performed
simultaneously using the first and second identity modules,
respectively, and to display a predetermined soft key that can be
touched in a predefined manner to cancel the call to either one
of the first or second calls.
11. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the controller
is further configured to display, on the touchscreen, a
communication log including communications performed using at
least one of the first and second identity modules and
information about which of the first and second identity modules
was used for the respective communications.
12. A method of controlling a mobile terminal including at
least a first identity module and a second identity module, the
method comprising:
allowing, via a wireless communication unit, transceiving of
communication data using one of the first and second identity
modules;
receiving, via a touchscreen, a touch input on a
predetermined touch area of the touchscreen for selecting one of
the first and second identity modules; and
controlling, via a controller, the wireless communication
unit to transmit the communication data using said one of the
first and second identity modules based on the touch input
performed on the predetermined touch area.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the predetermined touch
area is a touch icon for transmitting the communication data to
at least one other terminal, and
wherein the communication data comprises at least one of an
audio call, a video call, a text message, an email and a
multimedia message.
14. The method of claim 12, wherein the touch input on the
predetermined touch area includes one of a touch & drag operation
and a touch operation to a prescribed point on the predetermined
touch area.
15. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
selecting, via the controller, said one of the first and
second identity modules to be used to transmit the communication
data based on at least one of a touch & drag direction, a touch &
drag distance and a touch & drag speed of the touch & drag
operation; and
selecting, via the controller, said one of the first and
second identity modules to be used to transmit the communication
data based on at least one of a touch count, a touch pressure, a
touch size, a touch point and a proximity touch distance of the
touch operation to the prescribed point.
16. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
designating, via the controller, the first identity module
as a priority identity module;
selecting, via the controller, the first identity module to
be used to transmit the communication data when the touch
operation to the prescribed point is a single touch action; and
selecting, via the controller, the second identity module to
be used to transmit the communication data when the touch
operation to the prescribed point is a double touch action.
17. The method of claim 14, further comprising:
designating, via the controller, the first identity module
as a priority identity module;
selecting, via the controller, the first identity module to
be used to transmit the communication data when the touch input
is the touch operation to the prescribed point; and
selecting, via the controller, the second identity module to
be used to transmit the communication data when the touch input
is the touch & drag operation.
18. The method of claim 12, further comprising:
displaying indication information on the predetermined touch
area indicating which of the first and second identity modules is
selected.
19. The method of claim 12, further comprising:
displaying state information indicating a current
communication state of the first and/or second identity modules;
and
prompting a user to change a currently selected identity
module to another identity module.
20. The method of claim 12, further comprising:
displaying, on the touchscreen, call information concerning
first and second calls performed simultaneously using the first
and second identity modules, respectively, and displaying a
predetermined soft key that can be touched in a predefined manner
to cancel the call to either one of the first or second calls.
21. The method of claim 12, further comprising:
displaying, on the touchscreen, a communication log
including communications performed using at least one of the
first and second identity modules and information about which of
the first and second identity modules was used for the respective
communications.

A mobile terminal including at least a first identity module
and a second identity module; a wireless communication unit
configured to transceive communication data; a touchscreen
configured to receive a touch input on a predetermined touch area
for selecting one of the first and second identity modules; and a
controller configured to control the wireless communication unit
to transmit the communication data using the one of the first and
second identity modules based on the touch input performed on the
predetermined touch area.

Documents:

http://ipindiaonline.gov.in/patentsearch/GrantedSearch/viewdoc.aspx?id=ifQD7d57WYoeyS2U+SqCwA==&loc=wDBSZCsAt7zoiVrqcFJsRw==


Patent Number 279079
Indian Patent Application Number 1004/KOL/2010
PG Journal Number 02/2017
Publication Date 13-Jan-2017
Grant Date 10-Jan-2017
Date of Filing 10-Sep-2010
Name of Patentee LG ELECTRONICS INC.
Applicant Address 20, YEOUIDO-DONG, YEONGDEUNGPO-GU, SEOUL 150-721 REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Inventors:
# Inventor's Name Inventor's Address
1 CHAE, BYUNG KEE LG ELECTRONICS INC. IP GROUP 60-39 KASAN-DONG KUMCHONGU, SEOUL 153-801 REPUBLIC OF KOREA
PCT International Classification Number H04W4/00
PCT International Application Number N/A
PCT International Filing date
PCT Conventions:
# PCT Application Number Date of Convention Priority Country
1 10-2010-0058985 2010-06-22 Republic of Korea