U.S. patent application number 10/502363 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-02 for personal device fastening system.
Invention is credited to Johnson, Phillip L.
Application Number | 20050115999 10/502363 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27614012 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050115999 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Johnson, Phillip L |
June 2, 2005 |
Personal device fastening system
Abstract
The invention relates to a clip (300) for capturing at least one
capture member (401) within a capture zone (311). A gate (320)
blocks an opening (310a) of the capture zone to thereby capture the
capture member(s). The clip may be attached to a person by way of
an attachment member (350), such as an attachment hook. A personal
device such as a mobile phone (10) may be secured to the clip via a
capture member locatable within the capture zone. Accordingly, the
personal device is attachable to the person via the clip when worn
by the person. The invention also relates to a clasp (500) that is
capable of capturing a detention member (403) within a detention
zone (530).
Inventors: |
Johnson, Phillip L;
(Mullumbimby, AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Finn T Simmensen
Kleinberg & Lerner
Suite 1080
2049 Century Park East
Los Angeles
CA
90067
US
|
Family ID: |
27614012 |
Appl. No.: |
10/502363 |
Filed: |
July 21, 2004 |
PCT Filed: |
January 22, 2003 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/AU03/00064 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60350387 |
Jan 24, 2002 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
224/269 ;
224/669; 224/930 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 2005/006 20130101;
A45F 5/004 20130101; A45F 2200/0508 20130101; A45F 2005/026
20130101; A45F 2200/0516 20130101; A45F 2005/002 20130101; A45F
5/021 20130101; A45F 5/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/269 ;
224/669; 224/930 |
International
Class: |
A45F 005/00; A45C
001/04; F41C 033/02; F42B 039/02; A45F 003/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 17, 2002 |
AU |
2002952124 |
Claims
1. A clip comprising: a body; a capture zone comprising a first and
second opening, said capture zone being capable of capturing at
least one capture member; a first gate capable of blocking the
first opening; and a second gate capable of blocking the second
opening; wherein respective gates are capable of being opened to
enable at least one capture member to enter and exit the capture
zone and said respective gates are capable of being closed to
capture at least one capture member in the capture zone.
2. The clip of claim 1 wherein said first opening is an entrance
and said second opening is an exit.
3. The clip of claim 1 wherein said first gate is an entrance gate
and said second gate is an exit gate.
4. The clip of claim 1 wherein the capture zone is formed by a
recess that extends there through.
5. The clip of claim 1 wherein said capture zone comprises an
insertable liner that extends substantially a length of said
capture zone.
6. The clip of claim 1 wherein at least one gate is adepressible
member.
7. The clip of claim 6 wherein the depressible member is a
plate.
8. The clip of claim 7 wherein the depressible member is pivotally
attached to the body.
9. The clip of claim 8 wherein the depressible member is an
entrance gate.
10. The clip of claim 3 wherein the exit gate comprises an exit
member to allow the capture member(s) to be released from the
capture zone.
11. The clip of claim 10 wherein the exit member is an exit
pin.
12. The clip of claim 1 further comprising a locating channel that
tapers towards the first or second opening of the capture zone.
13. The clip of claim 1 wherein a backside of the body is adapted
to receive an attachment member.
14. The clip of claim 13 wherein the backside of the body comprises
at least one receiving aperture for receiving a fastener.
15. The clip of claim 14 wherein the receiving aperture(s) is an
adjustable aperture(s) biased to secure the fastener therein.
16. The clip of claim 15 wherein an attachment member is removably
attachable to the backside of the body by at least one fastener via
mating with the adjustable aperture(s).
17. The clip of claim 1 further comprising an attachment member
attached to the body.
18. The clip of claim 17 wherein the attachment member is selected
from the group consisting of: a loop, plate, clip and hook.
19. The clip of claim 17 further comprising a capture member
located in the capture zone.
20. The clip of claim 19 wherein the capture member is attached to
a device.
21-24. (canceled)
25. A clip comprising: a body; a linear capture zone capable of
capturing at least one capture member; and a gate located adjacent
the capture zone comprising one or more access notches located on
an external surface thereof; wherein said gate is movable from a
closed position retaining the capture member(s) within the capture
zone to an open position facilitating insertion and removal of the
capture member(s) from the capture zone, whereby said open position
is achieved by a respective access notch being aligned with the
capture zone.
26. The clip of claim 25 wherein said gate is movable in a
direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the capture
zone.
27. The clip of claim 25 wherein the gate comprises a pin.
28. A clasp comprising: a body comprising: a detention zone located
in the body and adapted, in use, to detain at least one detention
member; a track located in the body; and a carriage movable in the
track; whereby the carriage is movable in the track from a
detaining position facilitating detaining of the detention
member(s) within the detention zone to a position facilitating
insertion and removal of the detention member into and from the
detention zone; whereby the detention zone is aligned with the axis
of the track.
29. The clasp of claim 28 wherein the carriage is adapted to move
linearly relative to the body.
30. The clasp of claim 29 wherein the carriage is biased to be
positioned in the detaining position.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to a fastening system for
safeguarding personal devices and articles. The invention is
described with reference to its use with mobile phones. However, it
should be appreciated that the fastening system may be used for
safeguarding a variety of articles such as keys, security cards,
cameras, hand held video recorders, electronic organisers or
personal digital assistants (PDA), global positioning systems (GPS)
and like articles.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Mobiles phones are expensive items that have become an
essential tool of business and common means for personal
communication. Accordingly, they are transported with a user when
they travel from one location to another.
[0003] One way in which a mobile phone is carried is within a
pocket of a user. To use the phone, the user must retrieve the
phone from the pocket, which may cumbersome and is relatively
insecure. The mobile phone can be accidentally dislodged from the
pocket. This may cause the mobile phone to be lost and/or damaged.
Further, pickpockets can easily steal the mobile phone.
[0004] Another popular way in which a mobile phone is carried is
through the use of a belt clip. The belt clip is typically attached
directly to a mobile phone or attached to a casing that covers the
mobile phone. The belt clip is then clipped to the belt of a user.
Again, the mobile phone is readily accessible, but is bulky and
provides only limited movement of the phone when attached to the
user. A typical known belt clip with the phone attached is often
uncomfortable as the limited movement may cause the mobile phone to
dig into the user's leg and/or the phone may inadvertently unclip
due to the user's movement. Such known clips being attached
directly behind the phone results in projecting the phone outwardly
away from the user. Such an arrangement leads to the phone being
more exposed for possible damage by hitting objects when worn.
[0005] Yet another popular method of carrying a mobile phone is
carry it within a bag such as a handbag or rucksack. This increases
the security of the mobile phone, but reduces its accessibility.
The mobile phone may ring whist in the bag, yet a user must search
through the bag to locate the mobile phone. Often phone calls are
missed due to the time taken for a person to locate the mobile
phone.
[0006] Recent trends in mobile phones have lead to an increase in
"SMS text messages" or visual-type messages being displayed that do
not require audio-communication. Accordingly, it is not necessary
to always position the phone adjacent a user's head to communicate.
The abovementioned background art requires a user to remove the
phone either from a pocket or unclipping the phone from a stored
location to view the display or keypad. This is inconvenient and
increases a risk of dropping or losing the phone.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0007] It is an object of the invention to overcome and/or
alleviate the above disadvantages or provide the consumer with a
useful or commercial choice.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In a first aspect, the clip comprises:
[0009] a body;
[0010] a capture zone comprising a first and second opening, said
capture zone being capable of capturing at least one capture
member;
[0011] first gate capable of blocking the first opening; and
[0012] second gate capable of blocking the second opening;
[0013] wherein respective gates are capable of being opened to
enable at least one capture member to enter and exit the capture
zone and said respective gates are capable of being closed to
capture at least one capture member to exit the capture zone.
[0014] Preferably, the first opening is an entrance and the second
opening is an exit.
[0015] Preferably, the first gate is an entrance gate and the
second gate is an exit gate.
[0016] Preferably, each gate is capable of being opened
independently of the other gate.
[0017] The capture zone may be formed by a recess that extends
there through.
[0018] Preferably, the capture zone is linear.
[0019] The capture zone may include an insertable liner that
extends substantially a length of said capture zone.
[0020] The capture member may be a plug including a fixed plug,
pivotal plug, extendable plug and rotatable plug as described
herein.
[0021] At least one gate may be a depressible member.
[0022] The depressible member may be a plate.
[0023] The depressible member may be pivotally attached to the
body.
[0024] The depressible member is preferably the entrance gate.
[0025] The clip may further comprise a locating channel that tapers
towards the entrance of the capture zone.
[0026] The exit gate may comprise an exit member to allow the
capture member to be released from the capture zone.
[0027] Preferably, the exit member is an exit pin.
[0028] The exit pin may be located at an end of the capture zone
opposite to that of the depressible member.
[0029] In one form, the clip comprises an attachment member for
attaching the clip to an object.
[0030] A backside of the body of the clip may be adapted to receive
the attachment member.
[0031] The backside of the body may comprise at least one receiving
aperture for receiving a fastener.
[0032] Preferably, the attachment member is removably attachable to
the backside of the body by at least one fastener.
[0033] More preferably, the attachment member is removably
attachable to the backside of the body by said fastener(s) via
mating the receiving aperture(s).
[0034] The fastener(s) may be a screw, bolt, pin or other like
fastener.
[0035] In one form, the attachment member comprises at least one
pin having a conical head.
[0036] In another form, the attachment member comprises at least
one pin having a rounded head.
[0037] Preferably, the attachment member comprises two pins.
[0038] The fastener(s) may be adapted to engage a receiving
aperture located on the backside of the body.
[0039] The receiving aperture may be an adjustable aperture biased
to open for receiving the fastener and close to secure the
fastener.
[0040] The attachment member may include a loop, plate, clip, hook,
or other suitable member for securing the clip to an object.
[0041] The clip in one form comprises an attachment member attached
to the clip.
[0042] In one form of the invention, the clip preferably further
comprises a capture member attached to a device, whereby the
capture member when located in the capture zone of the clip
attaches the device to the clip.
[0043] Preferably, the capture member when located in the capture
zone allows the device to hang at least partially below the
clip.
[0044] The device may include a phone, electronic planner, camera,
keys, electronic organiser, global positioning system, cable
retractor or any other suitable device.
[0045] The device when attached to the clip via the capture member
may allow viewing of a display, screen, keypad or the like of the
device in a correct orientation without disconnecting the device
from the clip.
[0046] In a second aspect, although not necessarily the broadest or
only aspect, the invention resides in a clip comprising:
[0047] a body;
[0048] a capture zone comprising an opening, said capture zone
being capable of capturing at least one capture member;
[0049] a gate located at the opening of said capture zone, said
gate capable of blocking the opening; and
[0050] a locating channel that tapers towards the opening of the
capture zone;
[0051] wherein when said gate is open at least one capture member
is capable of entering and exiting the capture zone and when said
gate is closed said capture member(s) are captured within the
capture zone.
[0052] In a third aspect the invention resides in a clasp
comprising:
[0053] a first member having at least one track;
[0054] a second member having at least one carriage;
[0055] said carriage movable along said track such that the first
member is slideable with respect to said second member; and
[0056] a detention zone located between said first member and said
second member to accommodate a detention member;
[0057] wherein said first member is able to be moved relative to
said second member to a first position to allow said detention
member to be positioned within said detention zone and said first
member is able to be moved relative to said second member to a
second position to lock said detention member with said detention
zone.
[0058] The first member may be a base member whilst the second
member may be a slide member.
[0059] The slide member may be biased to be located in the second
position when not in use.
[0060] In a fourth aspect the invention relates to a retractor as
described herein that may be used separately or in combination with
the first, second and third aspects of the invention.
[0061] It will be appreciated that the clip may allow a phone (or
other suitable device), to be attached to the user via a capture
member so that the phone hangs at least partially below the clip,
thereby reducing an outwardly extending profile of the phone. This
may reduce damage to the phone by accidental contact by a passing
object and may also lead to improved comfort to the user wearing
the phone. The phone may also be viewed in a correct orientation,
i.e. so that the screen and numbers are right-side up while
attached to the user.
[0062] Further, in one form of the invention the features of the
clip allow for convenient attachment and release of the phone to
the clip by moving a capture member, (eg. a plug) attached to the
phone in a single direction through the capture zone. It will also
be appreciate that the clip and clasp as described above and herein
may be used in any suitable combination and in combination with
other suitable devices, eg. a retractor. These and other advantages
will be more apparent in light of the description provided
herein.
[0063] Throughout this specification unless the context requires
otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises"
or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of the
stated integers or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion
of any other integer or group of integers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0064] In order that the invention may be readily understood and
put into practical effect, preferred embodiments will now be
described by way of example with reference to the accompanying
drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts in
which:
[0065] FIG. 1A is a front view of a clip in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention.
[0066] FIG. 1B is a right side view of the clip of FIG. 1A.
[0067] FIG. 1C is a left side view of the clip of FIG. 1A.
[0068] FIG. 1D is an operational side view of the clip of FIG. 1A,
illustrating insertion of a capture member into the capture
zone.
[0069] FIG. 1E is a sectional end view of the clip of FIG. 1D.
[0070] FIG. 1F is a further operational side view of the clip of
FIG. 1A, illustrating exiting of the capture member from the
capture zone.
[0071] FIG. 1G is a sectional end view of the clip of FIG. 1F.
[0072] FIG. 1H is a perspective view of the clip attached to a
retractor via a plug.
[0073] FIG. 1I is a perspective view of the clip attached directly
to a mobile phone via a plug.
[0074] FIG. 1J is a perspective view of a clip in accordance with
another embodiment of the invention.
[0075] FIG. 1K is an exploded perspective view of the clip of FIG.
1J.
[0076] FIG. 1L is a front view of the clip of FIG. 1J.
[0077] FIG. 1M is a side view of the clip of FIG. 1J.
[0078] FIG. 1N is a rear view of the clip of FIG. 1J.
[0079] FIG. 1O is a further rear view of the clip of FIG. 1J.
[0080] FIG. 1P is a side view of a clip comprising an attachment
member having an adhesive strip.
[0081] FIG. 1Q is a side view of a clip comprising an attachment
member in a form of a clip.
[0082] FIG. 1R is a further side view of a clip comprising an
attachment member in a form of a pin.
[0083] FIG. 1S is a side view of a clip comprising an attachment
member in a form of a loop.
[0084] FIG. 2A is a rear view of a clip according to another
embodiment of the invention with a back plate removed and
adjustable attachment apertures in an open position.
[0085] FIG. 2B shows the clip shown in FIG. 2A with the adjustable
attachment apertures in a closed position.
[0086] FIG. 2C is a front view of a body of the clip shown in FIG.
2A.
[0087] FIG. 2D is a side view of the body of the clip shown in FIG.
2C.
[0088] FIG. 2E is a bottom view of the body of the clip shown in
FIG. 2C.
[0089] FIG. 2F is a top view of the body of the clip shown in FIG.
2C.
[0090] FIG. 2G is a rear view of the body of the clip shown in FIG.
2C.
[0091] FIG. 2H is a cut-away side cross section of the body shown
in FIG. 2C.
[0092] FIG. 2I is a cut-away transverse section of the body of the
clip shown in FIG. 2C.
[0093] FIG. 3A is a front view of a of a cover plate attachable to
the clip shown in FIGS. 2A-2I.
[0094] FIG. 3B is a side view of the cover plate of FIG. 3A.
[0095] FIG. 3C is a rear view of the cover plate of FIG. 3A.
[0096] FIG. 3D shows an expanded perspective view of the clip of
FIGS. 2A-2I, with the cover plate shown in FIGS. 3A-3C.
[0097] FIG. 4A is a rear view of a looped attachment member.
[0098] FIG. 4B is a side view of the looped attachment member of
FIG. 4A.
[0099] FIG. 4C is a plan view of a plate attachment member with
conical shaped pins.
[0100] FIG. 4D is a side view of the plate attachment member of
FIG. 4C.
[0101] FIG. 4E is a plan view of a plate attachment member with
rounded shaped pins.
[0102] FIG. 4F is a side view of the plate attachment member of
FIG. 4E.
[0103] FIG. 4G is a rear view of a clip attachment member.
[0104] FIG. 4H is a side view of the clip attachment member of FIG.
4G.
[0105] FIG. 4I is a top view of a clip attachment member of FIG.
4G.
[0106] FIG. 4J is a plan view of a hook attachment member.
[0107] FIG. 4K is a side view of the hook attachment member of FIG.
4J.
[0108] FIG. 4L shows the hook attachment member of FIGS. 4J and 4K
being attached to a backside of a clip.
[0109] FIG. 4M shows a plan view of the clip with the hook
attachment member attached to the backside of the clip.
[0110] FIG. 4N shows a side view of FIG. 4M.
[0111] FIG. 5A is a side view of a connecting pin.
[0112] FIG. 5B is a side view of a plug with the connecting pin of
FIG. 5A.
[0113] FIG. 5C is a further side view of the plug of FIG. 5B.
[0114] FIG. 5D is a still further side view of the plug of FIG.
5B.
[0115] FIG. 5E is a side view of another connecting pin.
[0116] FIG. 5F is a side view of a plug with the connecting pin of
FIG. 5E.
[0117] FIG. 5G is a further side view of the plug of FIG. 5F.
[0118] FIG. 5H is a still further side view of the plug of FIG.
5F.
[0119] FIG. 5I is a perspective view of the plug shown in FIG.
5B.
[0120] FIG. 5J is a perspective view of the plug attached to the
clip and retractor via a line member.
[0121] FIG. 6A is an exploded perspective view of an alternative
plug being attached to a mobile phone.
[0122] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the plug in FIG. 6A
attached to the mobile phone.
[0123] FIG. 6C is a perspective view of the plug attached to a clip
and mobile phone.
[0124] FIG. 6D is a side view of the plug attached to a clip and
mobile phone.
[0125] FIG. 6E is a further side view of the plug attached to a
clip and mobile phone.
[0126] FIG. 6F is a perspective view of the plug attached to a clip
wherein the plug is attached to a backside of a phone so that the
display and keypad may be viewed by a user in a correct
orientation.
[0127] FIG. 7A is a plan view of another plug attachable to a
mobile phone.
[0128] FIG. 7B is a side view of the plug in FIG. 7A.
[0129] FIG. 7C is a plan view of yet another plug attachable to a
mobile phone.
[0130] FIG. 7D is a side view of the plug in FIG. 7C.
[0131] FIG. 7E is a perspective view of a rotatable plug.
[0132] FIG. 7F is a plan view of the plug shown in FIG. 7E with a
pin shown in both an extended position and retracted position (in
phantom).
[0133] FIG. 7G is a side view of a body portion a bayonet-type
plug.
[0134] FIG. 7H is a partially cut-away plan view of the
bayonet-type plug with a pin retracted.
[0135] FIG. 7I is a view of the plug shown in FIG. 7H with the pin
extended.
[0136] FIG. 7J is a plan view of another embodiment of the plug
wherein the plug comprises a flat plate for attaching the plug to a
device.
[0137] FIG. 7K is a side view of the plug shown in FIG. 7J.
[0138] FIG 8A is a sectional side view of a fixed plug attached to
a line member.
[0139] FIG. 8B is a sectional side view of a fixed plug being
attached to a line member.
[0140] FIG. 8C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
fixed plug with components unassembled.
[0141] FIG. 8D is a perspective view of the plug shown in FIG. 8C
with a line member attached to an internal member.
[0142] FIG. 8E is a perspective view of the plug shown in FIG. 8C
with the internal member inserted within the plug.
[0143] FIG. 8F is a perspective view of the plug shown in FIG. 8C
fully assembled with the line member attached.
[0144] FIG. 8G is a perspective view of the plug shown in FIG. 8F
before attaching a securing ring.
[0145] FIG. 8H is a perspective view of the plug shown in FIG. 8G
with the securing ring attached.
[0146] FIG. 9A is side sectional view of a clasp.
[0147] FIG. 9B is a sectional top view of the clasp of FIG. 9A.
[0148] FIG. 9C is an exploded side sectional view of the clasp of
FIG. 9A.
[0149] FIG. 9D is a top sectional view of the clasp FIG. 9B.
[0150] FIG. 9E is a top view of one half of an embodiment of the
clasp of FIG. 9A.
[0151] FIG. 10A is a side sectional view of a fixed plug being
attached to a clasp.
[0152] FIG. 10B is a side sectional view of the fixed plug attached
to the clasp.
[0153] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the clip and clasp of
the invention attached to personal devices.
[0154] FIG. 12A is a plan sectional view of a retractor according
an embodiment of the invention.
[0155] FIG. 12B is a side sectional view of a retractor of FIG.
12A.
[0156] FIG. 12C is an exploded view of a retractor of FIG. 12A.
[0157] FIG. 12D is a partial exploded perspective view of the
retractor of FIG. 12A.
[0158] FIG. 12E is another partial exploded perspective view of the
retractor of FIG. 12A.
[0159] FIG. 13A is a perspective view of an attachment screw.
[0160] FIG. 13B is a further perspective view of the attachment
screw of FIG. 13A.
[0161] FIG. 13C is a perspective view of the retractor being
attached to a mobile phone using the attachment screw of FIGS. 13A
and 13B.
[0162] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of another attachment
screw.
[0163] FIG. 14B is a further perspective view of the attachment
screw of FIG. 14A.
[0164] FIG. 14C is a perspective view of the retractor being
attached to a mobile phone casing using the attachment screw of
FIGS. 14A and 14B.
[0165] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of an attachment pin.
[0166] FIG. 15B is a further perspective view of the attachment pin
of FIG. 15A.
[0167] FIG. 15C is a perspective view of a backing plate used with
the attachment pin of FIGS. 15A and 15B.
[0168] FIG. 15D is a perspective view of the retractor attached to
a garment using the attachment pin of FIGS. 15A and 15B.
[0169] FIG. 15E is an exploded perspective view of the retractor
being attached to a garment using the attachment pin of FIGS. 15A
and 15B.
[0170] FIG. 16A is a partial side sectional view of an alternative
housing of the retractor.
[0171] FIG. 16B is partial side sectional view of another
alternative housing of the retractor.
[0172] FIG. 16C is a perspective view of retractor inserts located
within a retractor.
[0173] FIG. 16D is a enlarged side view of a slot displacement
aperture.
[0174] FIG. 17A is a partial plan view of a karabiner in accordance
with an embodiment of the invention.
[0175] FIG. 17B is a plan view of the karabiner of FIG. 17A
attached to a retractor.
[0176] FIG. 17C is a side view of the karabiner and retractor of
FIG. 17B.
[0177] FIG. 17D is a plan view of the karabiner and retractor of
FIG. 17B attached to the mobile phone.
[0178] FIG. 18A plan view of a karabiner according to an embodiment
of the invention.
[0179] FIG. 18B is a plan view of the karabiner of FIG. 18A
attached to a retractor.
[0180] FIG. 18C is a front view of the karabiner and retractor of
FIG. 18B attached to a mobile phone.
[0181] FIG. 19A shows a plan view of an embodiment of the clip
comprising a capture zone having a single entrance.
[0182] FIG. 19B is a sectional side view of the clip in FIG.
19A.
[0183] FIG. 19C is a back view of the clip in FIG. 19A.
[0184] FIG. 19D is a partial sectional top view of the clip in FIG.
19A with the gate in a closed position.
[0185] FIG. 19E is a partial sectional top view of the clip in FIG.
19A with the gate in a transitional position from open and
closed.
[0186] FIG. 19F is a partial sectional top view of the clip in FIG.
19A with a gate in an open position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0187] Clip without Quick Release Mechanism
[0188] FIGS. 1A to 1I show a first embodiment of a clip (300). A
recess in the form of a canal (310) extends through part of body
(301) to form a capture zone (311). The capture zone (311) is
defined by a first opening (310a), e.g. top entrance, and a second
opening (310b), e.g. bottom exit, respectively blockable by first
gate (320), shown as an entrance gate, and second gate (330), shown
as an exit gate. The entrance gate is shown as depressible plate
(320) located adjacent opening (310a) of the canal (310) and the
second gate (330) is shown as an exit pin located adjacent second
opening (310b).
[0189] The depressible plate (320) is located within a tapered
locating channel (340) and is mounted to the body (301) via a first
screw (321). The locating channel (340) is tapered such that it
tapers toward the opening (310a). An attachment member is shown as
an attachment clip (350) attached to body (301) using first and
second screws (321, 322) locatable in threaded holes (321a, 322a).
Attachment clip (350) may be fastened to clip (300) via any
suitable fastener, eg. a screw, rivet, weld, glue, ect.
[0190] The exit pin (330) is biased via a spring (331) to close the
lower opening (310b) of the canal (310). A pin (366) is attachable
to exit pin (330) to retain and prevent rolling of the exit pin
(330) within hollow chamber (367) and pin (366) contacts spring 331
as shown in embodiments of FIGS. 1E and 1G. The exit pin (330) can
be depressed to cause an arcuate aperture (332) located within the
exit pin (330) to align with the opening (310b), opening the canal
(310) as shown in FIG. 1G.
[0191] A capture member, shown as a plug (400), is captured within
the capture zone (311) as shown in FIG. 1D. The term "captured"
used herein refers to retaining or securing a capture member within
the capture zone. When a gate is closed thereby blocking an opening
of the capture zone, a capture member is captured within the
capture zone. To enable the plug (400) to be captured, the plug
(400) is pressed against the depressible plate (320). This causes
the depressible plate (320) to be depressed and opens the upper end
or opening of the canal (310). The plug (400) is then moved toward
the opening (310a) of the canal (310) with the locating channel
(340) providing a guide for the plug (400). Once a head (401) of
the plug (400) passed into the canal (310), the depressible plate
(320) moves back to its starting position preventing the head of
the plug (400) from being removed thereby closing the gate. A stem
(402) of the plug (400) extends through the canal (310).
[0192] When the plug (400) is to be removed from the capture zone
(310), the exit pin (330) is depressed to open the exit gate (330)
and the plug (440) is slid from the canal (310) as show in FIG.
1F.
[0193] The above described features of the clip (300) allow for
passage of the plug (400) in a single direction for attaching and
releasing the plug (400) to the clip (300). The figures show the
single direction as downward, which provides a convenient and easy
means for attaching and releasing the phone. The downward release
of the plug and attached phone is assisted by gravity. It will be
appreciated, however, an alternative embodiment of the invention
includes gates that allow the capture member(s) to enter and exit
the capture zone at top and bottom openings thereof. For example, a
gate such as the exit gate (330) or gate (830) shown in FIGS.
19A-19F may be used at either or both openings (310a, 310b).
[0194] A length of canal (310) may be any suitable length. In one
embodiment, the canal (310) may accommodate several plugs (400) an
in another embodiment, the canal (310) is essentially a length just
long enough to retain a plug (400) so that there is little if any
sliding of the plug (400) within the capture zone (311). Although
the canal (310) is shown as linear, the canal (310) may also be
curved, saw toothed or otherwise shaped.
[0195] Plug (400) may include embodiments shown as plug (402) in
FIGS. 8A and 8B and plug (700) shown in FIGS. 8C-8H.
[0196] The features of clip (300) also result in the phone (10)
being able to hang substantially below the clip (300), as shown for
example in FIGS. 1H, 1I, 6C and 6F. It will be appreciated that
this arrangement minimises an outward profile of the phone when
attached to the clip. The clip allows for the phone to hang at
least partially below the clip so that the width of the clip does
not significantly add to the outwardly extending profile of the
phone, which is the case for typical mobile phone clips attached to
a backside of the phone. This arrangement also reduces a likelihood
that the phone will be damaged by accidental hitting against
objects. This may further add to the comfort of the user wearing
the clip and phone.
[0197] The clip (300) can be hooked onto a belt (12) via the
attachment clip (350) as show in FIGS. 1H and 1I. The clip (300)
can be used to secure anything the plug (400) can be attached to,
such as a retractor (100) or mobile phone (10) as shown in FIGS. 1H
and 1I.
[0198] Clip with Quick Release Mechanism for Single Pin
[0199] FIG. 1J to FIG. 1O show another embodiment of a clip (302)
comprising an adjustable aperture suitable for securing a pin of an
attachment member in a "quick release" manner as described herein.
The operation of the clip (302) for capturing a capture member is
the same as described above.
[0200] Two plates (360) and (361) are mounted to the rear of the
clip (302). Plate (360) is fixed whilst plate (361) is reciprocal
mounted and biased toward plate (360) by a helical spring (370).
Arcuate apertures (362, 363) are located in each plate forming an
adjustable aperture. A knob (364) forms part of plate (361) and is
accessible from a side of the clip (302).
[0201] A back cover plate (380) forms the rear of the clip (302).
Holes (381) and (382) are used to located screws (not shown) to
attach the cover plate (380) to the body at threaded holes (321a,
322a). Hole (383) is used for location of a pin (390) shown in FIG.
1K.
[0202] The pin (390) has a head (391) and a shaft (392). A channel
(393) is located on the shaft (392). The pin (390) is used to
attach the clip (302) to an object such as a garment or a belt.
[0203] The pin (390) is connected to the clip (302) by passing the
shaft (392) through the hole (383). The end of the shaft (392)
engages with the arcuate apertures (362, 363) and forces the plate
(361) away from plate (360). Plates (360, 361) then engage the
channel (393) to grip the pin (390). The pin (390) can be removed
by moving the knob (364) upwardly causing the plate (361) to be
moved away from plate (360) as shown in FIG. 1O. This causes the
arcuate apertures (362, 363) to release the channel (392) allowing
the pin (390) to be removed.
[0204] The clip may have a number of different means of attachment
to an object, such means including attachment members described
above and shown in FIGS. 1P-1S. FIG. 1P shows an embodiment of an
attachment member having an adhesive strip (305) attached to its
rear so that the clip (302) can be attached to a suitable flat
surface such as a wall. A removable protective cover (305a) covers
the adhesive strip (305) prior to use. FIG. 1Q shows an embodiment
of an attachment member as an attachment clip (350) attached to
clip (302). The attachment clip (350) comprises a pin (not shown)
similar to that shown in FIGS. 4G and 4H. FIG. 1R illustrates
insertion of an attachment member, shown as pin (390), to clip
(302). This is also shown in FIG. 1K. FIG. 1S shows an attachment
member as a loop (307) attached to the body (301) of clip (302).
The loop (307) can be placed on a belt so that the clip (307)
cannot be accidentally removed providing additional security. These
attachment members, or similar variations thereof, may be used with
other embodiments of the clip.
[0205] Clip with Quick Release Mechanism for Two Pins
[0206] FIGS. 2A-3D show another embodiment of a clip (600). The
operation of the clip (600) for capturing a capture member is
essentially the same as described above for the other forms of the
clip. Namely, a capture member may be located and captured within a
capture zone (311) and two independently operating gates are
located adjacent opposite openings (310a, 310b) of the capture zone
(311). A first gate is shown as an entrance gate in a form of a
depressible plate (612) and a second gate is shown as an exit gate
in a form of an exit pin (330). The clip (600) may also comprise a
locating channel (340) that tapers towards the entrance of the
capture zone to direct the capture member(s) towards the opening
(310a) of the capture zone (311) in a similar manner as for the
other forms of the clip.
[0207] Clip (600) differs from the previous forms by being adapted
to secure an attachment member by two pins using a "quick release"
mechanism as described hereinafter. Also, exit pin (330) of clip
(600) is biased by a spring (306) located at an end of exit pin
(330) that is inserted into hollow chamber (367). Exit pin (330) is
retained within hollow chamber (367) by pin (366) that attaches to
exit pin (330) and extends into oval shaped aperture (304) as
shown. A back cover plate (611) has also been modified as
described.
[0208] The capture zone (311) may further comprise an insert or
liner (311a), for example as shown in FIG. 3D. The liner is
essentially a tube with a continuous longitudinal slit cut through
one wall of the tube. The slit allows for passage of a neck portion
of a plug when the plug is located in the liner of the capture
zone. The liner may increase the durability of the channel as the
liner may be made of any suitable material, which may differ from
the body of the clip. For example, the liner may be stainless
steal, a material that reduces friction and wear caused by the
capture member moving within the capture zone, a material the same
as that of the capture zone or any other suitable material. The
liner may be used with any of the embodiments of the clip as
described herein.
[0209] As seen in FIGS. 2A and 2B, clip (600) comprises a body
(601) and two plates (602, 603) mounted to a rear of body (601).
Body (601) has threaded holes (617, 618, 619) for attaching a back
cover plate (611), treaded holes (620, 621) for attaching an
attachment member using screws and holes (608a, 609a) for locating
pins of an attachment member as described in more detail
hereinafter. An oval shaped aperture (304) connects to hollow
chamber (367) so that pin (366) may be located within aperture
(304) when attached to exit pin (330). A recess (665) is suitable
of retaining spring (610) as shown. Stops (666) limit inward
movement of plates (602, 603).
[0210] Each plate (602, 603) comprises an arcuate edge and a pair
of hook members extending therefrom. Plate (602) has hook members
(604, 605) and plate (603) has hook members (606, 607). Each plate
(602, 603) is slideably mounted relative to rear of body (601) of
clip (600) and are biased against each other by helical spring
(610). Tabs (602A, 603A) shown in FIG. 3D projecting from
respective plates (602, 603) are insertable into recess (665) shown
in FIG. 2G. Tabs (602A, 603A) stop outward movement of respective
plates (602, 603). Stops (666) limit forward movement of plates
(602, 603).
[0211] Respective adjustable apertures (608, 609) are formed by
respective hook members (604, 606) and (605, 607). As will be
discussed in more detail hereinafter, respective adjustable
apertures (608, 609) are suitable for repeatedly receiving and
retaining a fastener such as a pin for "quick release" and
attachment of an attachment member.
[0212] As shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, a back cover plate (611) is
attachable to rear of body (601) of the clip (600) by way of screws
(660, 661, 662) as shown in FIG. 3D. A depressible plate (612) is
contiguous with back plate (613) and is locatable within the
locating channel (340). Back plate (613) comprises holes (614, 615,
616) used to located screws (shown in FIG. 3D) to attach back cover
plate (611) to rear of body (601) of clip (600). Threaded holes
(617, 618, 619) located on rear of body (601) of clip (600) shown
in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2G align with respective holes (614, 615, 616)
of back plate (613) thereby allowing access of attachment screws
(660, 661, 662) shown in FIG. 3D to attach back cover plate (611)
to rear of body (601) of clip (600).
[0213] Holes (620a, 621a) of back cover plate (611) are used to
locate screws for mounting an attachment member, for example looped
attachment member (624) shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, to rear of body
(601) of clip (600) via respective screws threaded into threaded
holes (620, 621). The attachment members described herein for
"quick release" and attachment to the clip (600) may likewise be
attached to the clip (600) using screws.
[0214] Alternatively or in addition, attachment members may be
attached to the rear of body (601) of clip (600) via securing pins.
The securing pins may be conical or rounded as described
hereinafter. Holes (625, 626) of back cover plate (611) are used
for locating respective conical pins (627, 628) and rounded pins
(629, 630) that are respectively attached to plate attachment
member (635), plate attachment member (633), clip attachment member
(634) and hook attachment member (680) shown in FIGS. 4A-4N. The
respective attachment members (624, 633, 634, 635, 680) attached to
rear of body (601) of clip (600) using securing pins may be quickly
and easily attached and released (i.e. detached) in a "quick
release" manner as described herein.
[0215] Embodiments of attachment members (624, 633, 634, 635, 680)
suitable for use with the abovementioned embodiment of clip (600)
are similar for those described for embodiment of clip (302).
However, one noticeable difference is a pair of pins that are
removably insertable into respective adjustable apertures (608,
609). It will be appreciated that attachment members comprising two
or more pins have an advantage over a single pin in that two or
more pins prevents rotation of the attachment member relative to
the clip and also provides a more sturdy attachment.
[0216] As mentioned above, a pin may have a pointed or conical head
as shown in FIG. 4D for a plate attachment member (635) or a
rounded head as shown in FIGS. 4E and 4F for plate attachment
member (633), FIGS. 4G-4I for clip attachment member (634) and
FIGS. 4J-4N for hook attachment member (680).
[0217] Pins (627, 628) are shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D attached to an
oval base plate, each pin comprising a conical head (636) and
respective shaft (637). Channels (638, 639) are located on each
shaft (637) as shown to allow securing of the pin to clip (600) via
adjustable apertures (608, 609) by engaging within either channel
(638, 639) depending on a thickness of material the pin is passed
through.
[0218] Conical pins (627, 628) of plate attachment member (635) are
used to attach clip (600) to an object such as a garment, backpack,
belt or similar object. Conical pins (627, 628) may be inserted
through a garment, to sandwich the garment between rear of body
(601) of clip (600) and plate attachment member (635). Conical pins
(627, 628) are attached to clip (600) by passing respective heads
(636) and shafts (637) through respective holes (625, 626) of
attached back plate (611), into respective adjustable apertures
(608, 609) and into respective holes (608a, 609a) of rear of body
(601) of clip (600). Respective heads (636) of each pin (627, 628)
are received by and engage respective adjustable apertures (608,
609) and forces each plate (603, 602) away from each other thereby
opening each adjustable aperture (608, 609).
[0219] FIGS. 2A and 2B show adjustable apertures (608,609) formed
by respective pair of hook members (604, 606) and pair of hook
members (605, 607). FIG. 2A shows adjustable apertures (608, 609)
in an open position and FIG. 2B shows apertures (608, 609) in a
closed position. As plates (602, 603) are biased by spring (610),
hook members (604, 606) and hook members (605, 607) are also biased
so that adjustable apertures (608, 609) are in a closed position
suitable for engaging channels (638 or 639) to grip or secure each
pin (627, 628) within the channel of the pin.
[0220] Pins (627, 628) can be removed by applying a force on
arcuate ends of plates (602, 603) towards the centre of clip (600)
against biased helical spring (610). In doing so, adjustable
apertures (608, 609) each widen or open (see FIG. 2A), thereby
releasing respective channels (638 or 639) of respective pins
thereby allowing for release of the respective pins. In a preferred
embodiment shown, a force must be simultaneously applied on arcuate
ends of plates (602, 603) towards the centre of clip (600) to
release the pins. This prevents inadvertent release of the pins if
only one of the two arcuate ends of the plates is depressed, for
example by accidental hitting of an object.
[0221] Respective rounded pins (629, 630) shown in FIGS. 4E and 4F
for plate attachment member (633) and respective rounded pins (629,
630) shown in FIGS. 4G-4I for clip attachment member (634) are
similar to the conical pins shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, however, the
heads are rounded. Each rounded pin (629, 630) comprises a head
(640) and shaft (641) having a channel (642). Item numbers shown
for rounded pin (629) refer to like structures for rounded pin
(630), which are not numbered. A similar action as described above
for conical pins (627, 628) is used to insert and remove rounded
pins (629, 630) from clip (600).
[0222] A rounded head (640) may be desired when an attachment
member (633, 634) is not attached to an article of clothing or
piece of cloth; a conical pin may assist with passing the pin
through a cloth. A rounded head may avoid unwanted sharp contact
with an object or a user's skin that may inadvertently be damaged
or scraped.
[0223] Plate attachment member (633) shown in FIGS. 4E and 4F may
be used to secure clip (600) to a surface such as a dashboard of a
car or surface of a desk or wall. In this form, the attachment
member may be adhered to the dashboard by applying an adhesive to
back surface (643). Useful adhesives include clues, adhesive tapes
and an adhesive strip.
[0224] Clip attachment member (634) shown in FIGS. 4G-4I comprises
a plate (644) forming a clip that may be used for securing clip
(600) to a belt, pocket or other object. Clip attachment member
(634) is shown as a contiguous U-shaped plate (644). However, it
will be appreciated that the clip attachment member (634) may have
other suitable configurations, for example plate (644) may be
spring biased and may be comprised of a single or multiple pieces
hinged together.
[0225] Plate (644) has a retaining member (631) as shown to assist
with securing the clip attachment member (634) to the item. For
example, a belt may be located within a space (632) of the
attachment member (634). Clip attachment member (634) in another
embodiment may not comprise the retaining member (631).
[0226] Looped attachment member (624) shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B
comprises a loop (645) that may be used to secure the clip to a
belt or other strap. Looped attachment member (624) has holes (646,
647) for locating screws (622, 623) to attach the looped attachment
member (624) to the clip. The looped attachment member may also
comprise rounded pins similar to pins (629, 630) to attach to the
clip in a "quick release" manner as described herein, not shown.
Accordingly, looped attachment member (624) may be secured to the
clip by screws and/or pins. The other attachment members may
likewise be attached to the clip via screws and/or pins.
[0227] Hook attachment member (680) is shown in FIGS. 4J-4N as
comprising a body (681) and a hook end (682). Body (681) comprises
two rounded pins (683), however, other suitable number of pins may
be used and the pins need not necessarily be rounded, eg. may be
conical as described herein. Hook attachment member (680) attaches
to a rear of clip (600) in a similar manner as attachment members
shown in FIGS. 4C-4I. Namely, pins (683) are removably insertable
and retainable in adjustable securing apertures (608, 609) of clip
(600).
[0228] In the embodiment of hook attachment member (680) shown in
FIGS. 4J-4N, an opening (684) permits locating the hook attachment
member (680) onto a belt loop, ring, handbag or other item. There
is no need to close the opening (684) with a gate that is typically
associated with a standard karabiner, shown for example in FIGS.
17A-18C. Instead, when hook attachment member (680) is attached to
a rear of clip (600), the clip (600) covers the opening (684) as
shown more clearly in FIG. 4M. In this manner, clip (600) will
remain secure to the item it is attached to in a secure manner.
[0229] When the clip (600) is to be removed from the item, plates
(602, 603) are pressed inward to open adjustable securing apertures
(608, 609) thereby releasing pins (683) therefrom. When hook
attachment member (680) is released from the backside of clip
(600), opening (684) is exposed so that the item may be unhooked
from the hook attachment member (680).
[0230] Although a preferred embodiment is shown in FIGS. 4J-4N for
hook attachment member (680), other embodiments are contemplated.
For example although a gate is not shown, it will be appreciated
that a gate, biased or unbiased, may likewise be attached to a
backside of clip (600). Such an embodiment may resemble a more
typical karabiner with a biasing means to close the gate to thereby
secure the clip (600) to an item. Suitable types of karabiners
include those shown in FIGS. 17A-18C.
[0231] Hook attachment member (680) also permits movement of clip
(600), for example, when attached through a belt loop. When the
clip is attached to a phone, the phone may be moved and positioned
by the user by moving the clip. This additional movement may
further allow the user to easily view a display of the phone
without detaching the phone from the clip. This has advantages as
described above for view SMS text messages and the like.
[0232] It will be appreciated that the abovementioned attachment
members may be easily and quickly interchanged because of the use
of the pins and "quick release" locking mechanism of the clip. Each
attachment member when secured to the clip is firmly attached
thereto. Accordingly, unintentional detachment of the attachment
member is avoided or is unlikely even when brushed against objects
such as tables, walls and bushes. Also, each attachment member may
have any suitable shape, for example, round, square, rectangular,
etc. Although the figures show fasteners including screws and pins,
other fasteners may be used as selected by a skilled person. Other
fasteners include bolts, rivets, welds and the like.
[0233] An embodiment of the invention also includes an attachment
member that is permanently fixed to the clip and accordingly is not
interchangeable. Also, although two pins are shown for clip (600),
any suitable number of pins may be used, for example a single pin
or any number greater than two pins.
[0234] Clip Comprising Capture Zone with Single Opening
[0235] In another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS.
19A-19F wherein the clip (800) comprises a body (801), capture zone
(811) shown as a recess in a form of a canal, gate (830) shown as a
pin and locating channel (840). A liner (not shown) may also be
inserted into the capture zone (811) as describe above for other
forms of the invention.
[0236] The capture zone (811) comprises an opening (812), e.g. an
entrance, that allows the capture member(s) to enter and exit the
capture zone (811). At a bottom end (813), the capture zone (811)
is closed so that a capture member may not exit from the bottom end
of the capture zone.
[0237] The gate (830) is located at the entrance of the capture
zone and the gate capable of being opened to allow capture
member(s) to pass through the entrance to be located in the capture
zone (811) and removed therefrom. When the gate (830) is closed,
the capture member(s) are retained within the capture zone (811)
and thus captured therein. The gate (830) is opened by moving the
pin to align the entrance (812) with groove (831) as shown in FIG.
19F. The gate is closed by moving the pin so that groove (831) no
longer aligns with the entrance (812) and instead the entrance is
blocked by pin as shown in FIG. 19D. FIG. 19E shows transition of
gate (830) from an open and closed position. The gate (830) is
secured in an open or closed position by a retaining ball (834)
that is locatable in either groove (832) or groove (833). The
retaining ball (834) is biased by spring (835) towards the pin. It
will be appreciated that the gate may have other forms, for
example, the gate may be opened and closed by rotating a pin
comprising a groove so that the groove aligns with the entrance in
an open position and the pin can be rotated so that the groove no
longer aligns with the entrance.
[0238] The locating channel (840) is shown tapering towards the
entrance of the capture zone and may assist with directing the
capture member(s) towards the entrance (812).
[0239] A backside of the clip (800) is shown in FIG. 19C having
threaded holes (817, 818, 819) for attaching a back cover plate
(611) not shown. Threaded holes (819, 820) are for locating screws
for attaching an attachment member as described herein for other
forms of the clip. The backside of the clip (800) may be the same
as any of the other forms of the clip (300, 302, 600) as discussed
herein. Namely, an attachment member is attachable to the backside
by fasteners including screws and/or pin(s) via a quick release
mechanism as described herein. It will be appreciated that clips
comprising a similar backside configuration, e.g. same means for
attaching an attachment member, allows for sharing and quick
changing of attachment members to respective clips.
[0240] It will also be appreciated that the abovementioned clips
allow for insertion and removal of a capture member from the
capture zone using only a single hand. This is an improvement over
other clips.
[0241] This form of the clip (800) may be useful for example when
the clip is attached to a wall, car interior or side of a desk. For
example, a mobile phone attached to a capture member may
conveniently be placed within the capture zone with the gate
secured in an open position. Gravity will tend to keep the phone
within the capture zone at a location adjacent the closed bottom
end of the capture zone (811) when the clip is orientated with the
entrance upwards. With the gate (830) secured in an open position,
the phone may easily be repeatedly inserted and removed from the
capture zone (811). The gate (830) may be closed thereby capturing
the capture member and preventing inadvertent exiting from the
capture zone (811), but this may not be required or desired during
repeated use of the phone.
[0242] Capture Member/Detention Member
[0243] FIGS. 5A to 5J show an embodiment of a capture member in the
form of a plug (400). The plug (400) comprises a plug body (410)
and connecting pin (420). The connecting pin (420) is pivotally
mounted to the plug body (410) and includes a head (421) and a stem
(422). The connecting pin (420) is attached to body (410) by way of
a retaining bar (423) forming a hinged connection. The pivotal
movement of the connecting pin (420) relative to the plug body
(410) allows an object the plug is attached to be oriented in a
desired manner. For example, and as shown in FIG. 5J, the plug body
(410) is able to extend downwardly with respect to the capture zone
(311) as opposed to extending outwardly if the connecting pin (420)
was fixed to the plug body (410).
[0244] FIGS. 6A to 7K show plugs that are attachable directly to
the mobile phone (10). In FIGS. 6A to 6F the plug (401) is attached
to the phone using an adhesive tab (430). The tab (430) is adhered
to the mobile phone (10) and a cylinder (440) placed onto the tab
(430). A bracket (450) is located over the tab (430) with the edges
of the bracket (450) being adhered to tab (430). A connecting pin
(460) is attached to the cylinder (440) using an associated thread
hole (441) in the cylinder (440) and threaded stem (461) of the
connecting pin (460). A top plate (470) is placed over the
connecting pin (460) and onto the bracket (450) to complete
assembly of the plug (401).
[0245] A further adhesive cover (471) can be placed on the rear of
mobile phone to assist in protecting the mobile phone (10) from any
damage due to everyday use.
[0246] Plug (401) allows the mobile phone to move three
dimensionally so that the phone is able move both up and down, and
side to side, in a universal motion when located in the clip. As
shown in FIG. 6C, the pin and attached phone can move 180.degree.
up and down and also spin 360.degree. flat against the clip as well
as perpendicular to the clip. Embodiments are also contemplated
wherein up and down (hinge) movement is less than 180.degree., for
example 45.degree., 90.degree. and 105.degree.. Such an embodiment
my include a stopper to stop movement to less than 180.degree.
and/or a biasing means, for example a spring, to return pin (460)
to a position flush or nearly flush with a back side of a phone.
Further, a ratchet-like means may incrementally retain pin (460) as
a particular angle.
[0247] Alternatively, plug (401a) may be prefabricated as a hinged
pin with base (472) and connecting pin (460) as shown in FIGS. 7A
and 7B. A bottom side (473) of base (472) may be adhered to the
mobile phone. Connecting pin (460) is moveable as shown by the
arrow in FIG. 7B. The mobile phone (10) can then be attached to a
clip (300 or 600).
[0248] Like the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A-6F, the plug shown in
FIGS. 7A and 7B allows the pin and attached phone to be moved
180.degree. up and down or any angle therebetween and spin
360.degree. when located in the capture zone of a clip as described
herein.
[0249] The plug may also have other useful embodiments as shown in
FIGS. 7C-7KP. FIGS. 7C and 7D show an embodiment of a plug (490)
comprising a head (491), neck (492) and base (493) rigidly attached
to each other. Length of neck (492) may be any suitable length and
in one embodiment is relatively short (about 0.5 cm or less). A
fixed angle of connecting pin (492) to base (493) may be any
suitable angle, for example 90.degree. as shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D,
or 45.degree., or any other angle. Base (493) may be adhered to the
back of a mobile phone. This plug does not hinge, but when attached
to the clip as describe herein, the plug can rotate flat against
the clip 360.degree..
[0250] FIGS. 7E and 7F show a plug (650) comprising a body (654)
and pin (651) having a head (652) and a neck (653). The pin (651)
is rotatable 180.degree. or less about pivot point (655) of body
(654) as shown by an arrow in FIG. 7E. When plug (650) is attached
to a phone, the pin (651) is rotatable in a plane parallel to a
backside of the phone. When the pin (651) is used to attach the
phone to the clip or clasp of the invention, the pin (651) is
rotated outwardly so that the pin (651) extends beyond the body
(654) and typically beyond an outer end of the phone to which the
plug (650) is attached. The pin (651) can be rotated to a retracted
position and secured in groove (656) when not in use. The plug
(651) may also be biased and/or ratcheted so that pin (651) can be
fixed at a desired angle relative to the body (654). It will be
appreciated that although the pin (651) is shown rotatable
180.degree., other angles of rotation are contemplated for other
embodiments, for example embodiments of the plug providing rotation
of an angle between 0-360.degree. or freely rotatable about a fixed
pivot point. FIG. 7F shows a plan view of the plug (650) with the
pin (651) in both extended and retracted positions.
[0251] In another embodiment, plug (670) has a bayonet-type form as
shown in FIGS. 7G-7I. Plug (670) is extendable from a retracted
position shown in FIG. 7H to an extended position shown in FIG. 7I.
When extended, pin (671) may be easily located in the capture zone
of the clip or detention zone of the clasp. Pin (671) has a head
(672) and a T-shaped end (673). Head (672) is insertable into the
capture zone of the clip or detention zone of the clasp. The
T-shaped end (673) fits into a groove (674) when the pin (671) is
extended outward to thereby secure the pin as shown in a partially
cut-away plan view of body (672a) in FIG. 7I. The extended pin
(671) in another embodiment is hinged to allow additional
movement.
[0252] Another plug (675) shown in FIGS. 7J and 7K comprises a flat
plate (676), neck (677) and head (678). The plug (675) is attached
to a phone by adhering the flat plate (676) to a backside of the
phone. The length of neck (677) may be of any suitable length
selected by a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the neck is of
sufficient length to extend beyond an outer end of the phone. This
plug, like the other plugs, may be joined with the clip or clasp as
described herein, or with any other suitable device.
[0253] The abovementioned plugs and pins may be made of any
suitable material, but are preferably made of metal, more
preferably stainless steal. The abovementioned plugs may be joined
with any suitable partner, but are preferably joined with the clip
or clasp as described herein. Accordingly, any one of the plugs
described herein may fall within the definition of a "capture
member" and/or "detention member". Capture members and detention
members include other members not described herein that a skilled
person could select that are capable of being captured or detained
within the capture zone or detention zone.
[0254] A user wearing the clip with the phone attached via a plug
as described herein can sit down without the mobile phone digging
into the side of the user or damaging the clip. Further, the mobile
phone can be attached to the clip whilst a user is sitting. Also,
as shown in FIG. 7B for example, plug (401) is relatively thin in
comparison to a typical clip that attaches to a backside of the
phone. This reduces an outwardly extending profile of the phone
when attached to the clip. As seen for example in FIGS. 6C and 6F,
plug (401) allows the phone (10) to hang at least partially below
the clip (300) thereby minimising an outwardly extending profile of
the phone (10) when attached to clip (300). Minimising the
outwardly extending profile of the phone with clip may reduce
accidental damage by hitting or brushing against objects.
[0255] The plug may be attached to a phone so that a user can
simply view the phone in a correct orientation (ie. so that the
screen or display and numbers are orientated right-side up) to read
a display, screen, keypad, numbers and the like by lifting and/or
turning the phone at any angle relative to the clip. For example,
the plug may be attached at a bottom backside of the phone as shown
in FIG. 6F. Accordingly, in this manner, the phone can be viewed
without need to disconnect the phone from the clip. It will be
appreciated with recent trends in mobile phones there has been an
increase in SMS text messages or visual-type messages that are
visually displayed. Such messages do not require
audio-communication and accordingly, it is not necessary to
position the phone adjacent a user's head to communicate. In this
situation, the display of the phone may be viewed without removing
the phone from the clip of the invention. This is not only more
convenient, but also reduces a risk of dropping or losing the phone
in situations where the phone does not need to be held adjacent the
user's head.
[0256] The ability to universally rotate the phone relative to the
clip in the described embodiments further facilitates viewing the
phone while attached to the user. This is an advantage over the
known clips that require the phone to be unclipped from a stored
location, eg. a belt.
[0257] Universal movement of the phone also allows for the phone to
hang in a position such that an antenna of the phone is located
away from a user's body. The present invention by allowing the
phone to rotate such that the antenna is facing way from the user's
body reduces radiation exposure thereby reducing SAR (Specific
Absorption Rate). This reduces potential health risks associated
with exposure to SAR. Many phones typically have a built in antenna
located on a backside of the phone opposite a side having an ear
and mouthpiece. If the phone is attached using typical known clips
that attach to the backside of the phone, the antenna faces the
user's body. This needlessly exposes the user to an increased level
of potentially harmful radiation that may be avoided by using the
present invention.
[0258] In summary, embodiments of the plug described herein when
attached to the phone allow the phone to hang at least partially
below the clip, provides rotation of the phone so that the phone
may be viewed while attached to the clip and allows for an antenna
of the phone to be located away from the user's body.
[0259] FIGS. 8A and 8B show how one embodiment of a fixed plug
(402) is attached to a line member (150). An elongate opening (480)
forms part of the plug (402) where the line member (150) is
located. A crimp (481) is placed over the line member (150) and the
crimp (481) and line member (150) are located within the opening. A
screw (482) is taped trough the plug (402) and engages the crimp
(481) to hold the crimp (481) in place.
[0260] Attaching a Line Member to a Capture Member/Detention
Member
[0261] FIGS. 8C-8H show another embodiment of how a fixed plug
(700) is attached to a line member (150). In this embodiment, plug
(700) comprises a body (703) having a body cavity (702) and a
connecting pin (760) with ball-end (761). Connecting pin (760) and
ball-end (761) may be used to attach to a clip (302, 600) or clasp
(500) for example as described herein.
[0262] Internal member (701) is removably located within body
cavity (702) of body (703). Internal member (701) comprises two (2)
channels (704, 705) as shown for retaining respective ends of a
line member (150). Ends of line member (150) are respectively
placed within each channel (704, 705) so that each knotted end of
line member (150) is located on an outer end of internal member
(701) as shown in FIG. 8D. The knot prevents line member (150) from
slipping through respective channels (704, 705).
[0263] Internal member (701) with knotted ends of line member (150)
secured is inserted into body cavity (702) of body (703) so that
line member (150) passes through aperture (706). In this way, line
member (150) is attached to fixed plug (700) thereby forming a
looped line member (150). The fixed plug (700) is shown with a
rubber outer boot (707) for covering and additional securing of
internal member (701) within the cavity.
[0264] Fixed plug (700) may also have an aperture (770) located as
shown in FIGS. 8C-8H for attaching a fastener (771) shown as a
ring. Although a ring is shown, other fasteners may be used,
including for example, a string, lanyard, clip or the like. The
fastener (771) may be used for example for attaching plug (700) to
a phone by way of existing attachment apertures on the phone, (see
FIG. 11). Fastener (771) may be attached to any suitable item, for
example keys, camera and pocket-knife.
[0265] Other means for securing a line member within plug (700) are
contemplated including for example knotting both ends of the line
member together so that the knot is larger than aperture (706),
thereby preventing the knotted end of the line member from passing
therethrough. Also, a cord lock or crimp may be used to secure an
end of the line member within cavity (702).
[0266] Clasp
[0267] FIGS. 9A to 9D show a clasp (500) comprising a first member
shown as a base member (520) and a second member shown as a slide
member (510). The base member (520) has a T-shaped track (521) that
extends substantially the length of the base member (520). The
slide member (510) has a T-shaped carriage (511) that is located
substantially at the middle of the slide member (510).
[0268] The carriage (511) fits snugly within the track (521) so
that the slide member (510) is reciprocateable with respect to the
base member (520). A spring (501) is located within a spring recess
(502) located within the base member (520). The spring (501) abuts
against the carriage (511) to bias the slideable member (510). A
screw (503) is taped through the base member (520) at threaded
aperture (503a) and is positioned after the carriage (511) is
located within the track (521). The screw (503) limits the travel
of the carriage (511) within the track (521). A detention zone
(530) is formed in base member (520) and is covered by slideable
member (510).
[0269] FIG. 9E shows an embodiment of clasp (500) comprising a
means for attaching a line member (150) to the clasp (500). In this
embodiment, a line member may have either each respective end
knotted or both ends knotted together. As shown in FIG. 9E, base
member (520) comprises at an end opposite detention zone (530)
circular recesses (550, 551, 552) for retaining an end of a line
member (not shown), for example, a lanyard, string, chain, cable or
other similar type member.
[0270] Recesses (550, 551) may each receive a knotted end of a line
member thereby forming a loop. For example, one end of the knotted
line member may be located in recess (550) such that the string
passes through respective access channels (555, 553) and the
opposite end of the knotted line member may be located in recess
(551) such that the line member passes through access channels
(555, 554). Alternatively, an end of a knotted line member
comprising both ends of a string tied together, or cable or chain,
may pass through only access channel (555) to be located in recess
(552).
[0271] It will be appreciated that clasp (500) may have any
suitable external shape that may facilitate movement of the slide
member (510) relative to the base member (520).
[0272] FIGS. 10A and 10B show the operation of the clasp with a
detention member. To locate a detention member, shown as plug
(402), within the clasp (500), the slide member (510) is slid to a
first position so that a head (403) of the plug (402) can be
located within the detention zone (530) and the stem can be located
within the track (522). This causes the carriage (511) to compress
the spring (501). When the head (403) has been located within the
detention zone (530), then the slide member (510) is released
allowing the spring (501) to expand and act on the carriage (511).
This causes the slide member (510) to close over the detention zone
(530) detaining the plug (402) in a second position.
[0273] FIG. 11 shows a clip (600) attached to a belt. Clip (600)
secures a plug (700) which is attached to a phone (10) via a line
member shown as a lanyard (150). Plug (700) may also be attached
directly to the phone (10), for example by attaching a securing
ring to an existing attachment point on phone (10). FIG. 11 also
shows a camera (10A) attached to a belt loop via a plug (700)
attached to a clasp (500) that is attached to a belt loop via a
lanyard. Other combinations of clip, clasp and plug are
contemplated and such combinations would be ascertainable by a
person skilled in the art.
[0274] Retractor
[0275] FIGS. 12A to 18C show a retractor (100) according to an
embodiment of the invention. The retractor comprises a housing
(110), reel (120), coil spring (130), insert (140) and line member
(150).
[0276] The housing (1 10) is formed from a first housing part (111)
and a second housing part (112). The first housing part (111) and
second housing part (112) may be constructed from a variety of
materials such as common plastics or metal. Apertures (113) are
located around the periphery of the first housing part for
attachment of the retractor (100) to an article, for example a
karabiner as shown in FIGS. 17A-18C.
[0277] The first housing part (111) includes an axle (114) to which
the reel (120) is mounted. A threaded hole (115) extends
substantially the length of the axle (114). The second housing part
(112) includes an attachment hole (116) that is located such that
when the first housing part (111) and second housing part (112) are
connected, the attachment hole (116) is in alignment with the
thread hole (115). A screw (117) is located through the attachment
hole (116) and screwed into the threaded hole (115) to hold the
first housing part (111) and second housing part (112) together. It
will be appreciated that other means for holding together the first
housing part (111) and second housing part (112) are contemplated,
for example use of a rivet bolt or other suitable fastener. The
first housing part (111) and second housing part (112) may also be
snapped together in another embodiment.
[0278] The first housing part (111) also includes a recess (118)
into which the insert (140) is inserted. The insert (140) is
located within the recess (118) by pushing the insert (140) into
the recess (118). The insert (140) is held within the recess (118)
by an interference fit. Alternatively, as show in FIGS. 16A and
16B, the recess (118) and insert (140) may be configured
differently to hold the insert (140) within the recess (118). FIG.
16A shows that the insert (140) has a channel (140A) located around
its edge, whilst the recess (118) has a corresponding abutment
(118A) located around its edge. FIG. 16B shows that the edges of
both the insert (140) and recess (118) are angled. Although it is
preferable that insert (140) is removable from recess (118), other
suitable means for holding the insert (140) in recess (118) may
include for example applying an adhesive to bond the insert (140)
to the recess (118).
[0279] The insert (140) can contain advertising material, clock,
lights, compass or the like as shown in FIG. 16C and accordingly
does not add to the function of the retractor(100). Inserts (140)
can be interchanged using a slot (141) that is provided within the
first housing part (111) as shown in FIG. 16D. The slot (141)
allows an instrument, such as a screwdriver or knife, to access the
edge of the insert (140) to pry it lose from the recess (118).
[0280] The reel (120) includes two reel parts that are mechanically
joined together using a snap lock. The reel (120) has an inner
chamber (121) and outer channel (122). The coil spring (130) is
located within the inner chamber (121) and is connected to the axle
(114). The line member (150) is wrapped around the outer channel
(122) and is connected to the coil spring (130). Lubricating
washers (123) are located on both reel parts to allow the reel to
the rotate easily within the housing (110).
[0281] The line member (150) is made from a high strength material
that cannot be easily broken or cut. The line member (150) passed
through an exit hole (119) in the housing after passing through a
stop member (160) as shown in detail in FIGS. 12A, 12D and 12E.
[0282] The stop member (160) comprises a stop pin (161), casing
(162), abutment member (163) and helical spring (164). The stop pin
(161) is located within the casing (162) such that the stop pin
(161) is biased outwardly from the casing (162). A stop hole (165)
is provided with the stop pin (161) and the line member (150) is
fed through the stop hole (165). The line member (150) is forced to
abut against the abutment member (163) unless the stop pin (161) is
depressed. The stop pin (161) extends outwardly through the housing
(100) and can be depressed externally from the housing (110).
[0283] The retractor (100) is operated by pulling the line member
(150) from the retractor (100). This causes the reel (120) to be
rotated about the axle (114) and the spring (130) to tighten. The
line member (150) also causes the stop pin (161) to depress and
hence allows the line member (150) to passes through the stop hole
(165) when being pulled. However, the line member (150) is caused
to abut against the abutment member (163) when the line member
(150) is not being pulled, preventing the line member (150) from
being retracted. When it is desired that the line member (150) is
to be retracted, the stop pin (161) is depressed providing clear
passage of the line member (150) through the stop hole (165). The
spring (130) recoils the reel (120) causing the line member (150)
to be wrapped back around the outer channel (122).
[0284] FIGS. 13A to 13C show how the retractor can be attached
directly to a mobile phone. In this embodiment, an attachment screw
(180) is provided that has a flat head (181) onto which adhesive is
applied. A protective sheath (182) is removed to allow access to
the adhesive and the head (181) is placed onto a desired location
on the mobile phone (10). The attachment screw (180) is then
located through the attachment hole (116) and screwed into the
threaded hole (115) of the retractor (100).
[0285] FIG. 14A to 14C show another embodiment of the attachment
screw (180). In this embodiment, the screw is attachment to a
casing (11) that covers a mobile phone (10). The attachment screw
(180) is attached to the casing (11) using conventional means such
as sewing the attachment screw (180) into the casing (11). The
attachment screw (180), as described previously, is located through
the attachment hole (116) and screwed into the threaded hole (115)
of the retractor (100).
[0286] FIGS. 15A to 15E show how the retractor (100) can be
attached to a garment or the like article. In this embodiment, an
attachment pin (190) and a backing plate (191) are used. The
attachment pin has a screw thread (192) that is attached to the
retractor (100) as previously described. The attachment pin (190)
is then located through a garment (193) onto which the retractor
(100) is to be attached. The backing plate (191) is then placed
onto the attachment pin (190) to prevent removal of the attachment
pin (190) from the garment (193). FIG. 15D shows the phone (10)
attached to line member (150) via clasp (500) that is attached to
plug (400). Clasp (500) and plug (400) are described in detail
herein. Plug (400) may also be attached to clip (600) as described
herein, for example for embodiments shown in FIGS. 13C and 14C.
[0287] FIGS. 17A to 17D show a karabiner (200) that can be attached
to the retractor (100). The karabiner (200) has been modified so
that it has a series of spaced apart projections (201) located on
an arcuate portion of the karabiner (200). Two of the projections
are fixed whilst the other projection (201A) is adjustable.
[0288] The projections (201) are used to attach the retractor (100)
to the karabiner (200) by locating the projections (201) within the
apertures (1 13) on the periphery of the housing (110). The
retractor (100) is locked to the karabiner (200) by screwing the
adjustable projection (201A) inwardly with respect to the arcuate
portion of the karabiner (200), so that the adjustable projection
(201A) engages with the respective aperture (113). When this
occurs, the retractor (100) cannot be removed from the karabiner
(200). FIG. 17D shows the retractor (100) attached to karabiner
(200) and attached to a phone (10) via a plug (400) and clasp
(500).
[0289] FIGS. 18A to 18C show a further embodiment of a karabiner
(200). The retractor (100) is attached to the karabiner (200) in
the same manner as previously described. Other configurations of
karabiner (200) are possible as may be selected by a person skilled
in the art. Also, the karabiner (200) may be attached to the
retractor (100) using any suitable number of projections (201,
201A) as may be determined by a skilled person. Further, although
it is preferred that the karabiner (200) and retractor (100) are
able to be separated as described above, an embodiment wherein the
karabiner (200) and retractor (100) are not separable, eg. adhered
together, is contemplated.
[0290] It should be appreciated that various other changes and
modifications may be made to the embodiments described without
departing from the scope of the invention.
* * * * *