Sony Ericsson mobile phone design
Sony Ericsson have filed a patent that shows a new form design for mobile phone handsets. The new design shows a clamshell model with the screen part free to swivel within its outer frame.

Whereas existing clamshells cover up the main screen when closed, Sony Ericsson’s new design would enable the screen to be on display when closed, then flipped over in more traditional clamshell style when open.

This has the benefit of protecting the camera lens when the device is closed (assuming the camera is positioned on the reverse of the screen), as well as avoiding the need to add a smaller screen on the outside of the phone, as is currently the case with most clamshell designs. Removing the second screen obviously reduces the number of components in the phone, keeps costs down, and also leaves extra room for additional features (which mobile phones always need!).


More interestingly, the patent reveals Sony Ericsson has plans for this form factor beyond the mobile phone:

“The mobile terminal of the present invention is not so limited and may find utility in other electronics devices and applications…a Personal Communications System (PCS) terminal that may combine a cellular telephone with data processing, facsimile and data communications capabilities; internet/intranet access devices; organizers; a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) that can include a radiotelephone, pager, internet/intranet access, Web browser, organizer, calendar and/or a global positioning system (GPS) receiver; wristwatch keypad devices; and a conventional laptop and/or palmtop receiver or other computer system that includes a display.”

Read the complete Sony Ericsson mobile phone patent for yourselves

[Source: Pattoo, via MobileScraper]