U.S. patent application number 13/958767 was filed with the patent office on 2014-02-06 for friction pad on dashboard for portable handheld electronic device.
This patent application is currently assigned to American Covers, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is American Covers, Inc.. Invention is credited to Bryce Craig, Alan J. Wheatley.
Application Number | 20140037867 13/958767 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48999701 |
Filed Date | 2014-02-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140037867 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wheatley; Alan J. ; et
al. |
February 6, 2014 |
Friction Pad on Dashboard for Portable Handheld Electronic
Device
Abstract
A frictional pad device adhered to an upward facing support
surface and upon which a handheld electronic device is selectively
disposed and held in a non-adhesive, non-slip, tacky fashion by the
frictional pad. The frictional pad has a repositionable adhesive
film releasably and repositionably adhered to the upward facing
support surface. A squat dome is affixed to the upward facing
support surface by the repositionable adhesive film. The squat dome
has a continuous outward facing surface facing and contacting the
handheld electronic device. A majority of the outward facing
surface is continuous, smooth and parallel with the repositionable
adhesive film
Inventors: |
Wheatley; Alan J.; (Draper,
UT) ; Craig; Bryce; (Alpine, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
American Covers, Inc. |
Draper |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
American Covers, Inc.
Draper
UT
|
Family ID: |
48999701 |
Appl. No.: |
13/958767 |
Filed: |
August 5, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12979690 |
Dec 28, 2010 |
8501294 |
|
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13958767 |
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61290615 |
Dec 29, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
428/29 ;
29/592.1; 362/186; 428/157; 428/172 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 428/14 20150115;
B60R 7/08 20130101; Y10T 428/24612 20150115; B32B 3/30 20130101;
B32B 27/40 20130101; Y10T 428/1486 20150115; B32B 7/12 20130101;
F21L 4/00 20130101; Y10T 428/21 20150115; Y10T 29/49002 20150115;
B60R 11/02 20130101; B60R 2011/0005 20130101; B60R 2011/0077
20130101; Y10T 428/31551 20150401; Y10T 428/24488 20150115; Y10T
428/24512 20150115; Y10T 428/28 20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
428/29 ; 428/172;
428/157; 362/186; 29/592.1 |
International
Class: |
B32B 7/12 20060101
B32B007/12; B32B 3/30 20060101 B32B003/30; F21L 4/00 20060101
F21L004/00; B32B 27/40 20060101 B32B027/40 |
Claims
1. A frictional pad device configured to be adhered to an upward
facing support surface and configured to receive a handheld
electronic device selectively disposed thereon and held in a
non-adhesive, non-slip, tacky fashion by the frictional pad device,
the frictional pad device comprising: a) a repositionable adhesive
film configured to releasably and repositionably adhere to the
upward facing support surface; b) a squat dome configured to be
affixed to the upward facing support surface by the repositionable
adhesive film; c) the squat dome having a continuous outward facing
surface configured to face and contact the handheld electronic
device with a majority being continuous, smooth and parallel with
the repositionable adhesive film; d) the squat dome being a
polyurethane dome; and e) the polyurethane dome being formed by
polyol and catalyst in a ratio of between 0.63 and 0.85.
2. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the dome has a
hardness between 10 and 35 Shore D.
3. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the frictional
pad further comprising: a rib protruding from the continuous
outward facing surface adjacent a perimeter thereof, a top of the
rib and a portion of the continuous outward facing surface
configured to form only two points of contact between the handheld
electronic device and the frictional holding pad with a majority of
the handheld electronic device elevated off of the continuous
outward facing surface by the rib.
4. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the outward
facing surface of the dome has a coefficient of friction of between
0.3 and 0.1 in accordance with ASTM D 1894.
5. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the dome is
translucent or transparent; and further comprising a graphic layer
disposed between the adhesive film and the dome and visible through
the dome.
6. The device in accordance with claim 5, further comprising: a
film with the adhesive film on one side; and the graphic layer
printed on the other side.
7. The device in accordance with claim 5, further comprising: a
substrate with the adhesive film on one side and the graphic layer
printed on the other side; and the substrate is translucent or
transparent so that the entire pad except for the graphic layer is
translucent or transparent and the support surface is visible
therethrough.
8. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the pad has a
thickness between the outward facing surface and the adhesive film
of between 1-4 mm.
9. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the dome includes
a scented material permeable through a polyurethane material of the
dome.
10. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the pad forms a
flexible, self-supporting layer.
11. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein all of the
outward facing surface is smooth and flat between a radius
perimeter.
12. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein a strength of an
adhesive bond between the adhesive film of the pad and the upward
facing support surface is greater than a tacky bond between the
outward facing surface of the pad and the handheld electronic
device.
13. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein a contact
surface between the adhesive layer of the pad and the upward facing
support surface is greater than the outward facing surface of the
pad contacting the handheld electronic device.
14. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein a contact
surface between the adhesive layer of the pad has a perimeter
greater than and circumscribing a perimeter of the outward facing
surface of the pad contacting the handheld electronic device.
15. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the graphic
layer further comprises an etched metallic layer.
16. The device in accordance with claim 1, further comprising: an
LED and a battery power source embedded within the polyurethane
dome.
17. The device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the graphic
layer includes a hologram.
18. A method for using the device in accordance with claim 1,
comprising: selectively placing the frictional holding pad on the
upward facing support surface of a dashboard or consol of a
vehicle; selectively placing the handheld electronic device on the
outward facing surface of the frictional holding pad; and removing
the handheld electronic device from the outward facing surface of
the frictional holding pad while the frictional holding pad remains
on the upward facing support surface of the dashboard or consol of
the vehicle.
19. A frictional pad device configured to be adhered to an upward
facing support surface of a dashboard or consol of a vehicle and
configured to receive a cell phone, GPS or digital music player
selectively disposed thereon and held in a non-adhesive, non-slip,
tacky fashion by the frictional pad device, the frictional pad
device comprising: a) a repositionable adhesive film configured to
releasably and repositionably adhere to the upward facing support
surface of the dashboard or consol of the vehicle; b) a
polyurethane squat dome configured to be affixed to the upward
facing support surface by the repositionable adhesive film; c) the
dome having a continuous outward facing surface configured to face
and contact the cell phone, GPS or digital music player, with a
majority being continuous, smooth and parallel with the
repositionable adhesive film; d) the polyurethane dome includes a
polyurethane material being formed by a polyol and a catalyst in a
ratio of 0.63 to 0.85; e) the dome being translucent or
transparent; and f) a graphic layer disposed between the adhesive
film and the dome and visible through the dome.
20. A frictional pad device, comprising: a) a repositionable
adhesive film configured to releasably and repositionably adhere to
a support surface; b) a squat dome secured to the repositionable
adhesive film; c) the squat dome having a continuous outward facing
surface with a majority being continuous, smooth and parallel with
the repositionable adhesive film; d) the squat dome being a
polyurethane dome; and e) the polyurethane dome being formed by
polyol and catalyst in a ratio of between 0.63 and 0.85.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/979,690, filed Dec. 28, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,501,294; which
claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.
No.61/371,853, filed Aug. 9, 2010; and U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/290,615, filed Dec. 29, 2009; which are
hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Related Patent(s)/Application(s)
[0002] This is related to U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,673,409; 7,125,602; and
7,252,867; and US Patent Publication Nos. 2009-0004420;
2006-0121250 and 2010-0001151; which are hereby incorporated herein
by reference in their entirety.
[0003] This is also related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/979,601, filed Dec. 28, 2010, which is hereby incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention relates generally to a frictional pad
to be repositionably adhered to an upwardly facing support surface,
such as a vehicle dashboard or console, and to receive a portable
handheld electronic device, such as a cell phone, GPS or digital
music player, thereon to substantially retain the portable handheld
device on the upwardly facing support surface.
[0006] 2. Related Art
[0007] Frictional holding pads have been developed for placing on a
horizontal surface to hold and retain a handheld item. Some pads
are simply a sheet of rubber or rubber-like material. Others are
simply a sheet of rubber-like material with a matrix of apertures
therethrough. Other pads are tacky with a contoured surface and can
cling to a dashboard and hand held device by mechanical or specific
adhesion. For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,673,409; 7,125,602 and
7,252,867; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009-0004420. Other
devices provide a tray or container for receiving items. For
example, see the Max Grip.TM. Dash Tray.
[0008] Other pads have been developed for placing on the handheld
item itself. For example, see egrips.RTM. anti-skid silicon skins
or appliques; GripNStay.RTM. adhesive grips; Grip-It-Strips.RTM.
slip resistant textured strips with self adhesive backing; US
Patent Publication Nos. 2006-0198978; 2006-0154029; 2005-0271847;
and U.S. Pat. No. 6,117,526. See also US Patent Nos. 4,986,496;
5,508,084; 6,372,323 and 6,610,382. Stickers or decals have been
developed that can be applied to cell phones. For example, see
CellGells.TM. adhesive decals. Another pad has been developed that
is tacky and clings to the handheld item. For example, see Gadget
Grips.RTM. frictional pads by HandStands.RTM. and US Patent
Publication No. 2006-0121250.
[0009] Still other devices have been developed to secure items,
such as a GPS, in a vehicle. The GPS navigation systems are often
provided with a mount so hold the system, which has a viewing
screen, in a suitable position for viewing while driving. Various
mounting systems have been proposed, including a suction cup that
holds by suction to the windshield or dash. In some locals it is
illegal to mount object to the windshield. In addition, such
mounting can interfere with normal vision through the windshield.
It is also possible to mount the suction cup on the vehicle
dashboard or consol, but such surfaces are often contoured or
provided with functional and decorative items that interfere with
the operation of the suction cup. An adhesive plate is also
sometimes provided that can be adhesively applied to the dash, and
that can receive the suction cup. It may, however, be undesirable
to us an adhesive on the dashboard as such adhesive can leave a
residue or remove dash covering. Another option is a device that
holds a plate in place by use of several weighted ballasts. Such
devices can be bulky and unsightly. Still other devices can provide
a plate or other mount secured to the dash by specific or
mechanical adhesion. See for example Sticky Pad GPS Dash Mount from
HandStands.RTM. and US Patent Publication No. 2010-0001151.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] It has been recognized that it would be advantageous to
develop a frictional holding pad to selectively secure an item,
such as a handheld electronic device (e.g. a cell phone, GPS or
digital music player) to a support surface (e.g. a dashboard or
console of a vehicle) to secure the item in the vehicle, even
during movement of the vehicle. In addition, it has been recognized
that it would be advantageous to secure the item in such a way as
to resist marring or damage or alteration to the support surface.
Furthermore, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous
to secure the item in such a way without modifying the item. In
addition, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous to
secure the item with the pad such that the pad remains on the
support surface while the item is releasably held or secured to the
pad.
[0011] The invention provides a frictional pad device configured to
be adhered to an upward facing support surface and configured to
receive a handheld electronic device selectively disposed thereon
and held in a non-adhesive, non-slip, tacky fashion by the
frictional pad device. The frictional pad device includes a
repositionable adhesive film configured to be releasably and
repositionably adhered to the upward facing support surface. A
squat dome is configured to be affixed to the upward facing support
surface by the repositionable adhesive film. The squat dome has a
continuous outward facing surface configured to face and contact
the handheld electronic device. A majority of the outward facing
surface is continuous, smooth and parallel with the repositionable
adhesive film. The squat dome is a polyurethane dome. The
polyurethane dome includes polyol and catalyst in a ratio of
between 0.63 and 0.85.
[0012] In accordance with a more detailed aspect of the present
invention, the pad or dome can further include a rib protruding
from the continuous outward facing surface adjacent a perimeter
thereof. A top of the rib and a portion of the continuous outward
facing surface can form only two points of contact between the
handheld electronic device and the frictional holding pad. A
majority of the handheld electronic device can be elevated off of
the continuous outward facing surface by the rib.
[0013] In addition, the invention provides a frictional pad device
configured to be adhered to an upward facing support surface of a
dashboard or consol of a vehicle and configured to receive a cell
phone, GPS or digital music player selectively disposed thereon and
held in a non-adhesive, non-slip, tacky fashion by the frictional
pad device. The frictional pad device includes a repositionable
adhesive film configured to be releasably and repositionably
adhered to the upward facing support surface of the dashboard or
consol of the vehicle. A polyurethane squat dome is configured to
be affixed to the upward facing support surface by the
repositionable adhesive film. The dome has a continuous outward
facing surface configured to face and contact the cell phone, GPS
or digital music player. A majority of the outward facing surface
is continuous, smooth and parallel with the repositionable adhesive
film. The polyurethane dome includes a polyurethane material with a
polyol and a catalyst in a ratio of 0.63 to 0.85. The dome is
translucent or transparent. A graphic layer is disposed between the
adhesive film and the dome and visible through the dome.
[0014] Furthermore, the invention provides a frictional pad
comprising a repositionable adhesive film configured to releasably
and repositionably adhere to a support surface. A squat dome is
secured to the repositionable adhesive film. The squat dome has a
continuous outward facing surface with a majority being continuous,
smooth and parallel with the repositionable adhesive film. The
squat dome is a polyurethane dome formed by polyol and catalyst in
a ratio of between 0.63 and 0.85.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the detailed description which follows, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which together
illustrate, by way of example, features of the invention; and,
wherein:
[0016] FIG. 1a is a top view of a frictional holding pad in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 1b is a top view of the frictional holding pad of FIG.
1a with an electronic device shown on an upward or outwardly facing
surface of the pad
[0018] FIG. 2a is a side view of the frictional holding pad of FIG.
1a with an electronic device thereon and disposed on an upward
facing support surface, such as a dashboard or console of a
vehicle;
[0019] FIG. 2b is a side view of the frictional pad on the upward
facing support surface of FIG. 1a shown with the electronic device
being removed from or placed on the upward or outward facing
surface;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the frictional holding pad
of FIG. 1 a shown with the electronic device being removed or
placed thereon;
[0021] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the frictional
holding pad of FIG. 1a;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the frictional
holding pad of FIG. 1a;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of another
frictional holding pad in accordance with another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of another
frictional holding pad in accordance with another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of another
frictional holding pad in accordance with another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0026] FIG. 9a is a side view of a frictional holding pad with an
electronic device thereon and disposed on an upward facing support
surface, such as a dashboard on console of a vehicle, in accordance
with another embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 9b is a side view of the frictional pad on the upward
facing support surface of FIG. 9a shown with the electronic device
being removed from or placed on the upward or outward facing
surface;
[0028] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the frictional
holding pad of FIG. 9a;
[0029] FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of the frictional
holding pad of FIG. 9a;
[0030] FIG. 12a is a top view of another frictional holding pad in
accordance with another embodiment of the present invention shown
with an electronic device disposed thereon;
[0031] FIG. 12b is a top view of another frictional holding pad in
accordance with another embodiment of the present invention shown
with an electronic device disposed thereon;
[0032] FIG. 13 is a side view of the frictional pad and electronic
device of FIG. 9a shown with the pad and device in a different
orientation; and
[0033] FIG. 14 is a side view of the frictional pad and electronic
device of FIG. 9a shown with the pad in a different orientation and
the device in a different position and orientation.
[0034] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments
illustrated, and specific language will be used herein to describe
the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of
the scope of the invention is thereby intended.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENT(S)
[0035] As illustrated in FIGS. 1a-5, a frictional holding pad,
indicated generally at 10, in an example implementation in
accordance with the invention is shown disposed/adhered on an
upwardly facing support surface 18, such as a dashboard or console
or armrest of a vehicle, and upon which a handheld portable
electronic device 14, such as a cell phone, GPS (global positioning
system) or digital music player (MP3 player, iPod.RTM. or the like)
is selectively disposed and held in a non-adhesive, non-slip, tacky
fashion to retain the device thereon. The handheld portable
electronic device 14 can be a cell phone; an MP3 player (iPod.RTM.
or the like) or other digital music player; a gaming device
(Nintendo.RTM. DS; PSP.RTM.; etc.); a camera; a global positioning
system (GPS) system; a remote control; a personal digital assistant
(PDA); a radio; a two-way radio; a citizens band radio; a
walkie-talkie; a video recorder; a cassette player and/or recorder;
a mini-cassette recorder; a DVD player; a portable television; a
digital camera; a video camera; a portable computer (laptop
computer, iPad.RTM., or the like); a radar detector; an e-book or
e-reader (Kindle.RTM., Nook.RTM., iPad.RTM., Sony Reader.TM., or
the like), etc. Other items may also be retained on the frictional
pad, such as writing implements, glasses, sun glasses, change, note
pad, etc. The upwardly facing surface 18 can be a dashboard or
console or armrest of a vehicle.
[0036] The upwardly facing surface faces generally upwardly, and
can be inclined or horizontal, and can be flat or curved in one or
more directions. The upwardly facing surface can be mobile or
displaceable, and subject to acceleration (and deceleration and/or
centripetal), and/or impact or bumps, such as a vehicle surface.
Movement, momentum and/or acceleration or changes therein can be
transferred from the upwardly facing surface to the handheld
portable electronic device through the frictional pad. The pad 10
can be adhered to the upward facing support surface 18 and can
receive the electronic device thereon. The support surface 18 can
be arcuate in one (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) or more directions,
or it can be flat and straight.
[0037] The frictional pad 10 can include an adhesive film 22
adhered to the upward facing support surface 18. The adhesive can
be selected to provide sufficient adhesion between the pad and the
support surface without un-deliberately separating, or with only
deliberately separating by the user. The adhesive can also be
selected so that the pad can be removed if desired. Thus, the
adhesive film can include a releasable and repositionable adhesive,
as opposed to a permanent adhesive. The adhesive film can use a
chemical adhesive, and can be a repositionable adhesive film 22
(such as Controltac.TM. adhesive film by 3M.TM.) that releasably
and repositionably adheres to the upward facing support surface.
Furthermore, the adhesive and/or the adhesive film can be
substantially transparent, or at least translucent, so that the
surface of the device can be visible through the pad. The adhesive
and/or adhesive layer can be a removable 3M Controltac.TM.
adhesive.
[0038] The adhesive film 22 can be disposed on a substrate 26. The
substrate 26 can also be a film. In one aspect, the substrate can
be substantially non-absorbent. The substrate can provide a
surface, such as an upper surface opposite the adhesive that can be
printable. In addition, the substrate can be substantially
transparent, or at least translucent, so that the support surface
can be visible through the pad. The substrate can be a printed 3M
Graphics Vinyl. Alternatively, the substrate can be a polyester
film. The substrate can be any laminated (non-porous) substrate,
including: PP, PVC, PET, ABS, polyester, regular sticker paper,
vinyl, or tin metal (foil). Alternatively, the substrate can be
other films with other characteristics, such as reflective, metal
shine, textured, etc.
[0039] A dome 30 is adhered to the upward facing support surface 18
by the adhesive film 22. The dome 30 is secured to the adhesive
film 22 and/or substrate 26. The dome can have a broad, flat, squat
shape with an upward facing or outward facing or outfacing surface
34 that faces and contacts the handheld electronic device 14. A
majority, or essentially all, of the upward facing surface can be
continuous and smooth and parallel with the repositionable adhesive
film, and thus the upward facing surface. In addition, the upward
facing surface can be flat or substantially flat. Furthermore, the
upward facing surface can be surrounded by a radius perimeter.
Thus, the perimeter of the upward facing surface curves toward the
adhesive layer and support surface. In one aspect, all of the
outfacing surface 34 can be flat and smooth and continuous between
the radiused perimeter. The dome, pad and/or upward facing surface
can be tacky to cling to the electronic device, such as by
mechanical or specific adhesion. Furthermore, the pad can be
substantially transparent, or at least translucent, so that the
upward facing support surface can be visible through the pad. The
dome can be formed of polyurethane. In one aspect, the pad and/or
dome can have a perimeter rib, elevated strip, or anti-friction bar
extending therefrom, as described below.
[0040] The dome 30 or the upward facing surface 34 thereof (and the
rib) provide a non-slip surface or contact points that can engage
the electronic device 14 and retain it on the upward facing surface
of the pad (and the rib). Thus, the upward facing surface 34 (and
rib) can be sufficiently tacky to cling to the electronic device
14. The tackiness of the upward surface (and rib) can be obtained
through various factors, which can include material,
hardness/softness, and coefficient of friction. As described above,
the dome (and rib) can be formed of polyurethane. The polyurethane
can be formed by combining a polyol with a catalyst or hardener. In
one aspect, the ratio of polyol to catalyst can be between 0.63 to
0.85 in one aspect, and between 0.63 to 0.75 in another aspect, so
that there is more polyol than catalyst. Typical polyurethane is
obtained by mixing polyol and catalyst in a 1:1 ratio. In addition,
in one aspect, the upward facing surface 34 or dome 30 (and rib)
can have a hardness between 10 and 35 Shore D. In another aspect,
the outfacing surface 34 or dome 30 (and rib) can have a hardness
between 12 and 21 Shore D. In another aspect, the outfacing surface
34 or dome 30 (and rib) can have a hardness between 12 and 18 Shore
D. Other non-tacky stickers or decals typically can have a hardness
of 60 Shore D or harder. Furthermore, the outfacing surface 34 (and
rib) can have a coefficient of friction of between 0.3 and 0.1 in
accordance with ASTM D 1894.
[0041] A strength of the adhesive bond between the adhesive film
and the upward facing support surface can be greater than a tacky
cling between the upward facing surface of the pad and the
electronic device. Thus, the pad remains on the support surface
while the device is removed from the pad and support surface. In
addition, the contact surface between the adhesive layer of the pad
and the support surface can be greater than the upward facing
surface of the pad contacting the electronic device to further
retain the pad on the support surface as the device is removed from
the pad and support surface. Furthermore, the contact surface
between the adhesive layer of the pad can have a perimeter 35
greater than and circumscribing a perimeter 37 of the upward facing
surface of the pad that contacts the electronic device.
[0042] A graphic layer 38 can be disposed between the adhesive film
22 and the dome 30, or between the substrate 26 and the dome 30.
The graphic layer can include ink disposed on or printed on the
substrate. For example, the graphic layer can be an aqueous based
inkjet ink. The graphic layer can include indicia, such as a logo,
a picture, etc. In addition, the graphic layer can include
directions for use, orientation, care, etc. Furthermore, the
graphic layer can be or can include other inclusions, as described
in greater detail below. The graphic layer 38 can be visible
through the dome 30. The graphic layer and/or inclusion can be
smaller or can have a smaller size than the substrate and dome such
that the graphic layer and inclusion are surrounded by a perimeter
of the dome and substrate.
[0043] The pad 10 can have a rectangular shape with rounded
corners, as shown. Alternatively, other shapes are possible, such
as circular or scripted (i.e. shaped-like letters). In one aspect,
the pad can be larger than the electronic device in one or both
directions, as shown in FIGS. 1a-5. In another aspect, the pad can
be smaller than the electronic device in one or both directions, as
shown in FIGS. 9a and 9b. In addition, the pad 10 can have a
thickness between 1-4 mm in one aspect. The thickness of the pad is
dimensionally stable so that the pad is not generally compressible.
The pad can have a stiffness with a self-supporting flat layer, yet
can be flexible enough to be bent to conform to a curvature of the
upward facing support surface. The adhesive layer can be sufficient
to overcome the stiffness of the pad and maintain the curved or
bent nature of the pad when adhered to the surface. In addition,
the pad can be elastic to return to its self-supporting flat layer.
The pad and the upward facing surface can be substantially solid,
flat, continuous and/or smooth.
[0044] As indicated above, the graphic layer 38 can be or can
include an inclusion. The inclusions can be embedded in the dome.
For example, the graphic layer can be an etched metallic layer 42.
The metallic layer can be etched to form the indicia. Other
inclusions can be an LED (or other light source) and a battery
power source; a hologram or lenticular artwork; an RFID computer
chip or tag; a mirror; one or more gems; etc. For example,
referring to FIG. 6, another frictional pad 10b as described above
is shown with an LED 42 electrically coupled to a battery 46. The
LED may remain continuously activated or lit. Alternatively, the
LED may be activated, or the leads for the LED selectively
contacted by the battery, such as by pressure applied to the pad.
Alternatively, a light sensor can be electrically coupled between
the battery and the LED to activate the LED in low light
conditions. Other electronics can be included for special effects,
such as flashing, etc. It will be appreciated that multiple lights
or LEDs or one or more color can be included or embedded in the
dome. As another example, referring to FIG. 7, another frictional
pad 10c as described above is shown with a gem or faux gem 50
embedded in the dome. The inclusion(s) can be disposed on the
adhesive film and/or substrate, and surrounded by the material of
the dome so that the inclusion projects into the dome. Thus, the
inclusions can be inclusions for the dome and/or the graphics
layer.
[0045] The dome can also include inclusions embedded therein. For
example, the dome can include a scented material, such as a scented
oil, that is permeable through the polyurethane material of the
dome. In addition, the dome can be colored and translucent.
Furthermore, the dome can include a florescent material, or a
glowing material.
[0046] Referring to FIG. 8, another frictional pad 10d which is
similar in many respects to those described above, can have an
opaque dome 30d with a graphic layer 38d, such as printing, on the
outfacing surface 34. The opaque dome 30d can have a color to match
or complement the support surface.
[0047] As mentioned above, the pad can have any shape. In addition,
the pad can be "scripted," i.e. shaped as particular letters,
symbols, etc.; which can be interconnected or can be one or more
separate and discrete portions.
[0048] As indicated above and referring to FIGS. 9a-11, the pad 10e
can have a rib 16, raised or elevated strip, or antifriction bar,
that can protrude from the upward facing surface adjacent a
perimeter thereof. A top of the rib and a portion of the upward
facing surface form only two separate and discrete points of
contact 20 and 24 between the handheld electronic device 14 and the
frictional holding pad 10e, as shown in FIG. 9a, with a majority of
the handheld electronic device 14 elevated off of the upward facing
surface 34 by the rib 16.
[0049] The rib 16 or anti-friction bar can protrude from the pad or
upward facing surface 34 adjacent a perimeter of the pad or
surface. A majority of the perimeter of the pad or surface can be
continuous or flush with the flat upward facing surface. In one
aspect, the rib or bar can be formed along a single edge of the pad
or surface, such as along only one of four edges. In another
aspect, the rib or bar can be formed along only one of 3 to 10
sides or edges. The sides or edges can be discrete or separate from
one another, and can be linear or curved. In another aspect, the
pad can be circular or curved, and the rib or bar can be curved to
match the curvature of the pad. In another aspect, the rib or bar
can be formed along less than 50% of the perimeter edge. In another
aspect, the rib or bar can be formed along less than 25% of the
perimeter edge. In another aspect, the rib or bar can be formed
along less than 17% of the perimeter edge. Limiting the length of
the bar or rib while maintaining a majority of the perimeter edge
flush with the surface 34 allows the two points of contact to be
formed between the device 14 and the pad, even if the device has a
dimension longer than the pad. Thus, the perimeter is not enclosed
or substantially enclosed by the rib or bar to resist interference
with placing the device on the pad that might occur with a
perimeter wall extending around all or a majority of the
perimeter.
[0050] In one aspect, the rib 16 can extend approximately 0.5-2.5
mm above the upward facing surface. In another aspect, the rib can
extend approximately 0.8-1.2 mm above the upward facing surface. In
another aspect, the rib can extend approximately 1 mm above the
upward facing surface. In one aspect, the pad outside the rib can
have a thickness between approximately 1-4 mm. In another aspect,
the pad outside the rib can have a thickness between approximately
2.4-2.8 mm. In one aspect, the pad and rib together can have a
thickness of approximately 2.9-6.5 mm. In another aspect, the pad
and rib together can have a thickness of approximately 3.4-3.8 mm.
The thickness of the pad, along with the material makeup thereof,
are selected to be flexible but self supporting. The thickness or
height of the rib is selected to create two separate and discrete
contact points.
[0051] In one aspect, the rib or bar can be oriented horizontally
and can be positioned at the top of the pad. In another aspect the
rib or bar can be positioned at the bottom of the pad. The rib or
bar 16 extending above the upward surface 34 can also angle or
incline the handheld device 14 with respect to the support surface
18 to position the handheld device in a better viewing angle. For
example, with the pad positioned on a dashboard angled and/or
curved downward and backward, and with the rib or bar positioned at
the bottom of the pad, a device or item, such as a radar detector
or camera, can be disposed on the pad and rib and oriented level,
or more level, or horizontal, or more horizontal, so the radar
detector or camera can be properly focused and/or oriented (See
FIG. 13). As another example, with the pad positioned on a
dashboard angled and/or curved downward and backward, and with the
rib or bar positioned at the top of the pad, a device or item, such
as a cell phone or digital music player (MP3 or iPod.RTM.) can be
disposed on the pad and rib and oriented at an angle or incline to
face towards the user or driver for improved visibility of a
display associated therewith (See FIG. 9a). As another example,
with the pad positioned on a dashboard angled and/or curved
downward and backward, and with the rib or bar positioned at the
bottom of the pad, a device or item, such as cell phone or digital
music player (MP3 or iPod.RTM.) can be disposed on the pad and
abutting to a side of the rib (so that the rib acts as a shelf),
and oriented at an angle or incline to face towards the user or
driver for improved visibility of a display associated therewith
(See FIG. 14). The rib or bar acting as a shelf can be useful for
sever or steeply inclined dashboards. Furthermore, a slot can be
formed in the rib or bar, transverse to a longitudinal axis or long
length thereof, to receive a power and/or data cord associated with
the cell phone or digital music player. As stated above, limiting
the rib or bar to a single side of the pad allows the pad to
accommodate devices or items that may be longer or larger than the
pad in at least one direction.
[0052] In one aspect, the rib 16 can be linear with a flat and
continuous upper surface, as shown in FIGS. 9a-11. In another
aspect, the rib 16b can be an effective rib formed by a plurality
of stiff raised fingers 50, as shown in FIG. 12a. In another
aspect, the rib 16c can have a plurality of separate and distinct
indentations 54 formed in an otherwise flat and continuous top
surface, as shown in FIG. 12b. The fingers and/or indentations can
be circular, or have a circular cross-section, and can be arrayed
in a matrix. The fingers or holes can reduce the surface area of
the contact point to facilitate removal of the device from the bar.
In another aspect, the rib can have a single, long indentation or
half-pipe oriented parallel with the rib and formed in the upper
surface thereof; and that can receive a pencil, pen or the like. In
another aspect, a slot can be formed in the rib or bar, transverse
to a length thereof; and can receive a cord, such as a power cord,
data cord or the like. The rib can also be formed of polyurethane
along with the dome, and can be transparent or at least
translucent.
[0053] As discussed above, the dome or outfacing surface can have a
radius perimeter. The pad can be made by pouring the polyurethane
material on top of the substrate and graphic layer to form the dome
and rib. Thus, the radius perimeter is obtained by individual
pouring each pad or dome, without stamping or cutting the pads from
a continuous layer. The graphic layer can be printed on the
substrate having the adhesive film opposite the graphic layer. The
graphic layer can be a discrete graphic contained within the pad or
dome, as opposed to a continuous graphic.
[0054] In use, the adhesive film of the pad can be adhered to the
support surface in a desired location. The electronic device can be
placed on the upward facing surface (and rib) of the pad with the
upward facing surface (and rib) contacting the device. The
electronic device can be removed from the pad while the pad remains
on the support surface. The frictional holding pad can be
selectively placed on the upward facing support surface of a
dashboard or consol of a vehicle. The handheld electronic device
can be selectively placed on the upward facing surface (and rib) of
the frictional holding pad. The handheld electronic device can be
removed from the upward facing surface of the frictional holding
pad while the frictional holding pad remains on the upward facing
support surface of the dashboard or consol of the vehicle.
[0055] In other aspects, the rib or anti-friction bar can be or can
include: curved, such as to hold a pen or other writing implement;
curved or slotted, such as to hold electrical or data cords, such
as phone charger cords; slotted to hold a parking card, credit
card, access card, security card, or the like or other thin (paper
thin to credit card thin) item with indicia or information thereof
for ready access; high ridges to limit to 2 contact points on the
surface of the substrate; a graphic arrow molded into bar to show
placement direction on dash; a location for an embedded company
logo; glow in dark bar or other so that the user can see location
of sticky pad on dashboard at night; put radar detector at optimal
angle for signal; a raised rubber or other non-stick area to
protect cell phone battery cover from getting stuck (or limiting
cling); change material to a "Super High Stick" (gum-like) and use
it as location for items to be more permanently secured; scent the
plastic bar or pad for slight aroma ("scent spot"); insert a
thermometer into plastic bar or pad to indicate temperature;
embedded a "fast pass" electronic signal toll pass or other
electrical indicator for access or recording purposes; a coin or
token holder; a button to hold a micro fiber bag; a place for a
statuette to mount to; a fastener for an air freshener; etc.
[0056] Furthermore, the pad can be use to: hold guitar picks on a
guitar or strap; hold books on a shelf (to stop them from
slipping); placed on a treadmill, exercise bike, or the like to
hold electronics or reading material (book or magazine or
e-reader); larger versions for iPad/e-readers; incorporate into a
case as a non-slip accessory (such as a dot to a leather case or
other type case); hold scrapbook supplies on table (pins, beads,
needles, etc.); hold sewing tools and implements on a table or
sewing machine; place on computer, fridge, or other location to
stick paper notes; hold baby trays/plates to the high-chair or
table; hold items to airplane tray-tables; hold computers in place
inside of a case (to resist sliding around); add a piece of this to
a nylon strap for extra security when tying something down (4
wheeler, tools, etc); place layer in tool box to stop tools from
sliding around; place dot of material directly on tool or work
glove to hold small items like nails, screws; raise computer or
portion thereof; sticky note holder; luggage tags; holds a door
closed (tacky hold); locker ID; or hold tools on a workbench or
tool chest.
[0057] In another aspect, the adhesive between the support surface
or dashboard and the dome or pad can be a permanent adhesive or
more permanent adhesive.
[0058] While the forgoing examples are illustrative of the
principles of the present invention in one or more particular
applications, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art that numerous modifications in form, usage and details of
implementation can be made without the exercise of inventive
faculty, and without departing from the principles and concepts of
the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention
be limited, except as by the claims set forth below.
* * * * *