U.S. patent application number 15/175942 was filed with the patent office on 2016-10-06 for particle removal device and method of using the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to Belkin International, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Belkin International, Inc.. Invention is credited to Steven Lane.
Application Number | 20160288458 15/175942 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52825131 |
Filed Date | 2016-10-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160288458 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lane; Steven |
October 6, 2016 |
Particle Removal Device and Method of Using the Same
Abstract
A particle removal device including a particle removal sticker.
The particle removal sticker including a top side and a bottom
side. The bottom side of the particle removal sticker includes an
adhesive configured to removably adhere to a screen of an
electronic device. The particle removal device also includes a
sticker release liner. The sticker release liner includes a top
side removably attached to the bottom side of the particle removal
sticker. The sticker release liner is configured to be removed from
the bottom side of the particle removal sticker to expose the
adhesive and to adhere the particle removal sticker to the screen.
The particle removal sticker is configured to remove particles as
the particle removal sticker is removed from the screen. Other
embodiments are provided.
Inventors: |
Lane; Steven; (Orange,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Belkin International, Inc. |
Playa Vista |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Belkin International, Inc.
Playa Vista
CA
|
Family ID: |
52825131 |
Appl. No.: |
15/175942 |
Filed: |
June 7, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14579488 |
Dec 22, 2014 |
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15175942 |
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14513043 |
Oct 13, 2014 |
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14579488 |
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14455700 |
Aug 8, 2014 |
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14513043 |
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14455700 |
Aug 8, 2014 |
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14513043 |
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PCT/US2014/071767 |
Dec 20, 2014 |
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14455700 |
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61863895 |
Aug 8, 2013 |
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61871864 |
Aug 29, 2013 |
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61890271 |
Oct 13, 2013 |
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61890271 |
Oct 13, 2013 |
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61919433 |
Dec 20, 2013 |
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61919433 |
Dec 20, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B32B 37/003 20130101;
B32B 7/06 20130101; B29C 63/02 20130101; B29L 2031/3475 20130101;
B32B 37/26 20130101; B32B 38/1833 20130101; B29C 66/861 20130101;
B29C 63/0047 20130101; B29C 65/7808 20130101; B29C 66/342 20130101;
B32B 37/10 20130101; B29L 2031/3437 20130101; Y10T 156/1702
20150115; B29C 2063/0008 20130101; B32B 2367/00 20130101; Y10T
156/17 20150115; B32B 2457/20 20130101; B29C 63/0004 20130101; B32B
37/0046 20130101; B32B 2037/268 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B32B 7/06 20060101
B32B007/06; B32B 37/10 20060101 B32B037/10; B32B 38/18 20060101
B32B038/18; B32B 37/00 20060101 B32B037/00 |
Claims
1. A particle removal device, comprising: a particle removal
sticker, the particle removal sticker including a top side and a
bottom side, wherein the bottom side of the particle removal
sticker includes an adhesive configured to removably adhere to a
screen of an electronic device; and a sticker release liner,
wherein the sticker release liner includes a top side removably
attached to the bottom side of the particle removal sticker,
wherein the sticker release liner is configured to be removed from
the bottom side of the particle removal sticker to expose the
adhesive and to adhere the particle removal sticker to the screen,
and wherein the particle removal sticker is configured to remove
particles as the particle removal sticker is removed from the
screen.
2. The particle removal device of claim 1, wherein the sticker
release liner includes an end portion and a device portion, wherein
the end portion extends beyond a first end of the screen, and
wherein the device portion extends from the end portion to a second
end of the screen.
3. The particle removal device of claim 2, wherein the device
portion is configured to be removed to expose a portion of the
adhesive for being adhered to the screen.
4. The particle removal device of claim 2, wherein the end portion
is configured to be folded over the particle removal sticker to
expose the end portion of the release liner, and wherein the end
portion of the release liner is configured to be removed from the
particle removal sticker to expose an end portion of the
adhesive.
5. The particle removal device of claim 2, wherein the end portion
of the release liner is configured to be removed from the particle
removal sticker to expose an end portion of the adhesive, wherein
when the end portion is removed from the particle removal sticker
to expose the end portion of the adhesive, the end portion of the
adhesive is configured to be adhered to a pull tab of an overlay
applicator, and wherein the pull tab is configured to be pulled to
remove the particle removal sticker from the screen and to remove
an adhesive release liner of the overlay applicator from a bottom
side of an overlay layer to expose an adhesive of the overlay layer
to the screen.
6. The particle removal device of claim 1, wherein an end portion
of the adhesive is configured to be adhered to a pull tab of an
overlay applicator, wherein the overlay applicator includes an
alignment tab including an alignment mechanism, and wherein the
alignment mechanism is configured to align the overlay applicator
with the screen of the electronic device as the overlay layer is
adhered to the screen.
7. A method, comprising: removing a sticker release liner from a
bottom side of a particle removal sticker to expose an adhesive on
the bottom side of the particle removal sticker, wherein the
adhesive is configured to removably adhere to a screen of an
electronic device; applying the particle removal sticker to a
screen of an electronic device; and removing the particle removal
sticker from the screen of the electronic device, wherein removal
of the particle removal sticker removes particles as the particle
removal sticker is removed from the screen.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the sticker release liner
includes an end portion and a device portion, wherein the end
portion extends beyond a first end of the screen, and wherein the
device portion extends from the end portion to a second end of the
screen.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising removing the device
portion to expose a portion of the adhesive for being adhered to
the screen.
10. The method of claim 8, further comprising: folding the end
portion over the particle removal sticker to expose the end portion
of the release liner; and removing the end portion of the release
liner from the particle removal sticker to expose an end portion of
the adhesive.
11. The method of claim 8, further comprising: removing the end
portion of the release liner from the particle removal sticker to
expose an end portion of the adhesive; and adhering the end portion
of the adhesive to a pull tab of an overlay applicator; and pulling
the pull tab to remove the particle removal sticker from the screen
and to remove an adhesive release liner of the overlay applicator
from a bottom side of an overlay layer to expose an adhesive of the
overlay layer to the screen.
12. The method of claim 7, further comprising: adhering an end
portion of the adhesive to a pull tab of an overlay applicator,
wherein the overlay applicator includes an alignment tab including
an alignment mechanism, and wherein the alignment mechanism is
configured to align the overlay applicator with the screen of the
electronic device as the overlay layer is adhered to the screen.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/579,488, filed Dec. 22, 2014, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
14/513,043, filed Oct. 13, 2014, and U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 14/455,700, filed Aug. 8, 2014. U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 14/513,043 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 14/455,700, filed Aug. 8, 2014. U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 14/455,700 claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/863,895, filed Aug. 8, 2013; U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/871,864, filed Aug. 29, 2013; and U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/890,271, filed Oct. 13, 2013. U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/513,043 claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/890,271, filed Oct. 13, 2013, and
U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/919,433, filed Dec. 20, 2013.
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/579,488 also claims the benefit
of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/919,433, filed Dec. 20,
2013. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/579,488 also is a
continuation of International Application No. PCT/US2014/71767,
filed Dec. 20, 2014. U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 14/579,488,
14/455,770, and 14/513,043; International Application No.
PCT/US2014/71767; and U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 61/863,895,
61/871,864, 61/890,271, and 61/919,433 are incorporated herein by
reference in their entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to overlays, and relates
more particularly to overlay applicators and related machines and
cradles for applying overlays to electronic devices.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablet computing
devices, media players, etc., have gained widespread popularity.
These devices generally have screens, and many of these devices
have touchscreens, such as capacitive touchscreens. To protect
these screens, many manufacturers now produce clear film overlays,
which can be applied to the screens to keep the screens clear and
protect against damage, such as accidental scratching. Many of
these films include a self-wetting adhesive to adhere to the
screens of the electronic devices. Oftentimes, application of an
overlay to the screen of a device results in misalignment of the
overlay on the device, air bubbles between the overlay and the
screen of the device, and/or dirt (such as dust, fingerprints, oil,
and/or other particulates) between the overlay and the screen of
the device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the
following drawings are provided in which:
[0005] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded isometric view of an overlay
applicator, according to an embodiment;
[0006] FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a system for using
the overlay applicator of FIG. 1 to apply an overlay to a device
with a frame, according to another embodiment;
[0007] FIG. 3 illustrates an isometric view of a system for using
the overlay applicator of FIG. 1 to apply an overlay to a device
with a cradle, according to another embodiment;
[0008] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded isometric view of an overlay
applicator, according to another embodiment;
[0009] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the overlay applicator of
FIG. 4;
[0010] FIG. 6 illustrates an isometric view of an overlay
applicator, according to another embodiment;
[0011] FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded isometric view of an overlay
applicator, according to another embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of a machine for using
an overlay applicator to apply an overlay to a device, according to
another embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of the machine of FIG. 8;
[0014] FIG. 10 illustrates an isometric view of the machine of FIG.
8, with a handle assembly not extended, and showing an outline of
the overlay applicator of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric view of the machine of FIG.
8, with the handle assembly partially extended;
[0016] FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of the machine of FIG. 8,
with the handle assembly partially extended;
[0017] FIG. 13 illustrates an isometric view of the machine of FIG.
8, with the handle assembly fully extended;
[0018] FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of the machine of FIG. 8,
with the handle assembly fully extended;
[0019] FIG. 15 illustrates an exploded isometric view of an overlay
applicator, according to another embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 16 illustrates an isometric view of an machine in a
first configuration, according to another embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 17 illustrates a top view of the machine of FIG. 16 in
a second configuration;
[0022] FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of the machine of FIG. 16 in
a second configuration;
[0023] FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of the machine of FIG. 16 in
a third configuration;
[0024] FIG. 20 illustrates an isometric view of a machine for using
an overlay applicator to apply an overlay to a device, showing an
overlay cover extended, according to another embodiment;
[0025] FIG. 21 illustrates an isometric view of the machine of FIG.
20 with the overlay cover engaged and the roller pressing against a
tongue of the overlay cover;
[0026] FIG. 22 illustrates an isometric view of the machine of FIG.
20 with the overlay cover engaged and the roller disengaged from
the overlay cover;
[0027] FIG. 23 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing
an overlay applicator, according to another embodiment;
[0028] FIG. 24 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a
machine, according to another embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 25 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a
machine, according to another embodiment;
[0030] FIG. 26 illustrates a flow chart for a method of using an
overlay applicator to apply an overlay to a screen of an electronic
device, according to another embodiment;
[0031] FIG. 27 illustrates a perspective view of components of an
overlay applicator, according to the embodiment of FIG. 30;
[0032] FIG. 28 illustrates a perspective view of components of the
overlay applicator of FIG. 30;
[0033] FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of components of the
overlay applicator of FIG. 30;
[0034] FIG. 30 illustrates a perspective view of an overlay
applicator, according to an embodiment;
[0035] FIG. 31 illustrates a perspective view of a cradle,
according to an embodiment;
[0036] FIG. 32 illustrates a top view of the cradle of FIG. 31
being used with an overlay applicator;
[0037] FIG. 33 illustrates a side view of the cradle of FIG. 31
being used with an overlay applicator;
[0038] FIG. 34 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the
cradle of FIG. 31 being use with an overlay applicator;
[0039] FIG. 35 illustrates a perspective view of a machine and an
overlay applicator, according to an embodiment;
[0040] FIG. 36 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 36 with a slider being used to apply pressure to an
overlay;
[0041] FIG. 37 illustrates a system for using an overlay applicator
to apply an overlay to a device, according to an embodiment;
[0042] FIG. 38 illustrates a top side view of a cradle, according
to the embodiment of FIG. 37;
[0043] FIG. 39 illustrates a top side view of a cradle frame,
according to the embodiment of FIG. 37;
[0044] FIG. 40 illustrates a bottom side view of the cradle frame
of FIG. 39;
[0045] FIG. 41 illustrates a left side view of a machine in an open
configuration, according to the embodiment of FIG. 37;
[0046] FIG. 42 illustrates the system of FIG. 37 with the device
placed in the cradle;
[0047] FIG. 43 illustrates the system of FIG. 37 with the cradle
placed in the machine;
[0048] FIG. 44 illustrates the system of FIG. 37 with the machine
in a closed configuration;
[0049] FIG. 45 illustrates the system of FIG. 37 with the machine
in an open configuration;
[0050] FIG. 46 illustrates a perspective view of a machine in a
closed configuration, according to another embodiment;
[0051] FIG. 47 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 46 in an open configuration;
[0052] FIG. 48 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 46 in an open configuration with a device in the cradle and an
overlay applicator above the device on the cradle;
[0053] FIG. 49 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 46 in a closed configuration with the pull tab of the overlay
applicator being pulled;
[0054] FIG. 50 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 46 in an open configuration with portions of the overlay
applicator remaining on the device;
[0055] FIG. 51 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing
an overlay applicator, according to another embodiment;
[0056] FIG. 52 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a
cradle, according to another embodiment;
[0057] FIG. 53 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a
machine, according to another embodiment;
[0058] FIG. 54 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a
machine, according to another embodiment;
[0059] FIG. 55 illustrates an exploded view of a dust sticker
assembly, according to another embodiment;
[0060] FIG. 56 illustrates a bottom perspective view the dust
sticker assembly of FIG. 55 and a device;
[0061] FIG. 57 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 35, the dust sticker assembly of FIG. 55, and the device of
FIG. 56;
[0062] FIG. 58 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
machine of FIG. 35 and the dust sticker assembly of FIG. 55;
[0063] FIG. 59 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
machine of FIG. 35 and the dust sticker assembly of FIG. 55, with
an end portion of a release liner being peeled away from a dust
removal sticker of the dust sticker assembly of FIG. 55;
[0064] FIG. 60 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 35, the dust sticker assembly of FIG. 55, and an overlay
applicator;
[0065] FIG. 61 illustrates a side elevational view of a portion of
the dust sticker assembly of FIG. 55 as attached to the device of
FIG. 56 and the overlay applicator of FIG. 60;
[0066] FIG. 62 illustrates a perspective view of a wiper, according
to another embodiment;
[0067] FIG. 63 illustrates a perspective view of a wiper, according
to another embodiment;
[0068] FIG. 64 illustrates a top side view of a set of cradles,
according to another embodiment;
[0069] FIG. 65 illustrates a perspective view of the overlay
applicator of FIG. 35 being utilized with one of the cradles of the
set of cradles of FIG. 64, the cradle holding a device;
[0070] FIG. 66 illustrates a perspective view of the overlay
applicator of FIG. 35 being utilized with the cradle of FIG. 65,
which is holding the device of FIG. 65;
[0071] FIG. 67 illustrates a perspective view of the set of cradles
of FIG. 64 in a stacked configuration;
[0072] FIG. 68 illustrates a side view of the set of cradles of
FIG. 64 in a stacked configuration;
[0073] FIG. 69 illustrates a perspective view of a machine,
according to another embodiment;
[0074] FIG. 70 illustrates a perspective view of a clamshell frame
of the machine of FIG. 69;
[0075] FIG. 71 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 69 in an open configuration while holding a device;
[0076] FIG. 72 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 69 in a closed configuration while holding the device of FIG.
71;
[0077] FIG. 73 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 69 in an open configuration with the overlay applicator of
FIG. 30 placed on a cradle of the machine;
[0078] FIG. 74 illustrates a perspective view of the machine of
FIG. 69 in a closed configuration holding the overlay applicator of
FIG. 30 and the device of FIG. 71, with a pull tab of the overlay
applicator being pulled
[0079] FIG. 75 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a
machine, according to another embodiment;
[0080] FIG. 76 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a
cradle, according to another embodiment;
[0081] FIG. 77 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a
set of cradles, according to another embodiment;
[0082] FIG. 78 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing
an overlay applicator, according to another embodiment; and
[0083] FIG. 79 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a
system, according to another embodiment.
[0084] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing
figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and
descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may
be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure.
Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily
drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements
in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to
help improve understanding of embodiments of the present
disclosure. The same reference numerals in different figures denote
the same elements.
[0085] The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and the like
in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for
distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for
describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to
be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under
appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described
herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other
than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore,
the terms "include," and "have," and any variations thereof, are
intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process,
method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list
of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may
include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such
process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.
[0086] The terms "left," "right," "front," "back," "top," "bottom,"
"over," "under," and the like in the description and in the claims,
if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for
describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood
that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate
circumstances such that the embodiments of the apparatus, methods,
and/or articles of manufacture described herein are, for example,
capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated
or otherwise described herein.
[0087] The terms "couple," "coupled," "couples," "coupling," and
the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two
or more elements mechanically and/or otherwise. Two or more
electrical elements may be electrically coupled together, but not
be mechanically or otherwise coupled together. Coupling may be for
any length of time, e.g., permanent or semi-permanent or only for
an instant. "Electrical coupling" and the like should be broadly
understood and include electrical coupling of all types. The
absence of the word "removably," "removable," and the like near the
word "coupled," and the like does not mean that the coupling, etc.
in question is or is not removable. "Mechanical coupling" and the
like should be broadly understood and include mechanical coupling
of all types.
[0088] The absence of the word "removably," "removable," and the
like near the word "coupled," and the like does not mean that the
coupling, etc. in question is or is not removable.
[0089] As defined herein, two or more elements are "integral" if
they are comprised of the same piece of material. As defined
herein, two or more elements are "non-integral" if each is
comprised of a different piece of material.
[0090] As defined herein, "approximately" can, in some embodiments,
mean within plus or minus ten percent of the stated value. In other
embodiments, "approximately" can mean within plus or minus five
percent of the stated value. In further embodiments,
"approximately" can mean within plus or minus three percent of the
stated value. In yet other embodiments, "approximately" can mean
within plus or minus one percent of the stated value.
DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF EMBODIMENTS
[0091] Various embodiments include an overlay applicator. The
overlay applicator can include an overlay. The overlay can include
a top side and a bottom side. The bottom side can include an
adhesive agent configured to adhere to a screen of an electronic
device. The overlay applicator also can include an adhesive release
liner. The adhesive release liner can include a top side and a
bottom side. The top side of the adhesive release liner can be
removably attached to the bottom side of the overlay. The adhesive
release liner can be configured to protect the adhesive agent at
the bottom side of the overlay from contaminants. The overlay
applicator further can include a protective film removably attached
to the top side of the overlay. The overlay applicator also can
include an alignment tab. The alignment tab can include an
alignment mechanism. The overlay applicator further can include a
pull tab. The pull can include a wiper. The pull tab, including the
wiper, and the adhesive release liner can be configured such that
the pull tab can be folded across the bottom side of the adhesive
release liner and can be pulled to remove the adhesive release
liner from the bottom side of the overlay to expose the adhesive
agent. The pull tab, including the wiper, and the adhesive release
liner can be configured such that, when the pull tab is pulled, the
wiper can be configured to wipe across and clean the screen of the
electronic device.
[0092] A number of embodiments can include a method of providing an
overlay applicator. The method can include providing an overlay.
The overlay can include a top side and a bottom side. The bottom
side can include an adhesive agent configured to adhere to a screen
of an electronic device. The method also can include providing an
adhesive release liner. The adhesive release liner can include a
top side and a bottom side. The top side of the adhesive release
liner can be removably attached to the bottom side of the overlay.
The adhesive release liner can be configured to protect the
adhesive agent at the bottom side of the overlay from contaminants.
The method further can include providing a protective film
removably attached to the top side of the overlay. The method also
can include providing an alignment tab. The alignment tab can
include an alignment mechanism. The method further can include
providing a pull tab. The pull tab can include a wiper. The pull
tab, including the wiper, and the adhesive release liner can be
configured such that the pull tab can be folded across the bottom
side of the adhesive release liner and can be pulled to remove the
adhesive release liner from the bottom side of the overlay to
expose the adhesive agent. The pull tab, including the wiper, and
the adhesive release liner can be configured such that, when the
pull tab is pulled, the wiper can be configured to wipe across and
clean the screen of the electronic device.
[0093] Some embodiments include a machine. The machine can include
a base. The machine also can include a carriage. The carriage can
include a first cradle configured to securely hold a first
electronic device. The carriage also can include an alignment base
configured to engage with an alignment mechanism of an overlay
applicator. The machine further can include a handle assembly. The
handle assemble can include a handle and a pulling mechanism
configured to engage with a pull tab of the overlay applicator. The
machine can be configured such that the handle assembly can be
pulled in a first direction relative to the base from a first
handle position to a second handle position. The machine can be
configured such that when the handle assembly is moved from the
first handle position to the second handle position, the carriage
can move in a second direction relative to the base from a first
carriage position to a second carriage position. The second
direction can be opposite the first direction. The machine can be
configured such that when (a) the alignment base is engaged with
the alignment mechanism of the overlay applicator, (b) the pulling
mechanism is engaged with the pull tab of the overlay applicator,
(c) the first cradle is holding the first electronic device, and
(d) the handle assembly is pulled in the first direction relative
to the base from the first handle position to the second handle
position, an adhesive release liner of the overlay applicator can
be removed from an overlay of the overlay applicator starting at a
leading edge of the overlay and continuing to a trailing edge of
the overlay to expose an adhesive agent of the overlay to a screen
of the first electronic device.
[0094] Many embodiments include a method of providing a machine.
The method can include providing a base. The method also can
include providing a carriage. The carriage can include a first
cradle configured to securely hold a first electronic device. The
carriage also can include an alignment base configured to engage
with an alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The method
further can include providing a handle assembly. The handle
assembly can include a handle and a pulling mechanism configured to
engage with a pull tab of the overlay applicator. The machine can
be configured such that the handle assembly can be pulled in a
first direction relative to the base from a first handle position
to a second handle position. The machine can be configured such
that when the handle assembly is moved from the first handle
position to the second handle position, the carriage can move in a
second direction relative to the base from a first carriage
position to a second carriage position. The second direction can be
opposite the first direction. The machine can be configured such
that when (a) the alignment base is engaged with the alignment
mechanism of the overlay applicator, (b) the pulling mechanism is
engaged with the pull tab of the overlay applicator, (c) the first
cradle is holding the first electronic device, and (d) the handle
assembly is pulled in the first direction relative to the base from
the first handle position to the second handle position, an
adhesive release liner of the overlay applicator can be removed
from an overlay of the overlay applicator starting at a leading
edge of the overlay and continuing to a trailing edge of the
overlay to expose an adhesive agent of the overlay of the overlay
applicator to a screen of the first electronic device.
[0095] Several embodiments include a machine. The machine can
include a base. The machine also can include a cradle configured to
securely hold a first electronic device. The machine further can
include an alignment piece hingedly attached to the base. The
alignment piece can include an alignment base configured to engage
with an alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The machine
also can include a pulling piece hingedly attached to the base. The
pulling piece can include a pulling mechanism configured to engage
with a pull tab of the overlay applicator. The machine can be
configured such that the pulling piece can be rotated relative to
the base in a first direction from a first pulling piece position
to a second pulling piece position. The first pulling piece
position can be proximate to the cradle. The machine can be
configured such that the alignment piece can be rotated relative to
the base in the first direction from a first alignment piece
position to a second alignment piece position. The second alignment
piece position can be proximate to the cradle. The machine can be
configured such that when (a) the alignment base is engaged with
the alignment mechanism of the overlay applicator, (b) the pulling
mechanism is engaged with the pull tab of the overlay applicator,
(c) the cradle is holding the first electronic device, and (d) the
pulling piece is rotated relative to the base in the first
direction from the first pulling piece position to the second
pulling piece position, the alignment piece can be rotated relative
to the base in the first direction from the first alignment piece
position to the second alignment piece position, and an adhesive
release liner of the overlay applicator can be removed from an
overlay of the overlay applicator to expose an adhesive agent of an
overlay to a screen of the first electronic device.
[0096] Further embodiments include a method of providing a machine.
The method can include providing a base. The method also can
include providing a cradle configured to securely hold a first
electronic device. The method further can include providing an
alignment piece hingedly attached to the base. The alignment piece
can include an alignment base configured to engage with an
alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The method also can
include providing a pulling piece hingedly attached to the base.
The pulling piece can include a pulling mechanism configured to
engage with a pull tab of the overlay applicator. The machine can
be configured such that the pulling piece can be rotated relative
to the base in a first direction from a first pulling piece
position to a second pulling piece position. The first pulling
piece position can be proximate to the cradle. The machine can be
configured such that the alignment piece can be rotated relative to
the base in the first direction from a first alignment piece
position to a second alignment piece position. The second alignment
piece position can be proximate to the cradle. The machine can be
configured such that when (a) the alignment base is engaged with
the alignment mechanism of the overlay applicator, (b) the pulling
mechanism is engaged with the pull tab of the overlay applicator,
(c) the cradle is holding the first electronic device, and (d) the
pulling piece is rotated relative to the base in the first
direction from the first pulling piece position to the second
pulling piece position, the alignment piece can be rotated relative
to the base in the first direction from the first alignment piece
position to the second alignment piece position to pull the pull
tab of the overlay applicator, and an adhesive release liner of the
overlay applicator can be removed from an overlay of the overlay
applicator to expose an adhesive agent of an overlay to a screen of
the first electronic device.
[0097] Yet further embodiments include a method of using an overlay
applicator to apply an overlay to a screen of an electronic device.
The method can include attaching the overlay applicator to a first
apparatus securely holding the electronic device. The overlay
applicator can include an overlay. The overlay can include a top
side and a bottom side. The bottom side can include an adhesive
agent configured to adhere to the screen of the electronic device.
The overlay applicator also can include an adhesive release liner.
The adhesive release liner can include a top side and a bottom
side. The top side of the adhesive release liner can be removably
attached to the bottom side of the overlay. The adhesive release
liner can be configured to protect the adhesive agent at the bottom
side of the overlay from contaminants. The overlay applicator
further can include protective film removably attached to the top
side of the overlay. The overlay applicator also can include an
alignment tab. The alignment tab can include an alignment mechanism
configured to engage with an alignment base of the first apparatus.
The overlay applicator further can include a pull tab. The pull can
include a wiper. The method also can include pulling the pull tab
across the bottom side of the adhesive release liner to remove the
adhesive release liner from the bottom side of the overlay to
expose the adhesive agent to the screen of the electronic
device.
[0098] Still further embodiments include a method of providing an
overlay applicator. The method can include providing an adhesive
release liner including a top side and a bottom side. The method
also can include providing a pull tab including a top side and a
bottom side. The method further can include attaching a wiper to
the top side of the pull tab. The method additionally can include
providing an overlay layer including a top side and a bottom side.
The bottom side can include an adhesive agent configured to adhere
to a screen of an electronic device. The method further can include
attaching the bottom side of the overlay layer to the top side of
the adhesive release liner. The method additionally can include
providing a protective film layer including a top side and a bottom
side. The method further can include attaching the bottom side of
the protective film layer to the top side of the overlay layer. The
method additionally can include cutting the protective film layer
and the overlay layer to create an interface slit between an
alignment tab and a device portion, and to create a tail slit
between a tail portion and the device portion. The method further
can include attaching a sticker to the top side of the protective
film. The sticker can span the interface slit between the device
portion and the alignment tab. The device portion of the overlay
layer can be configured to adhere to a screen of an electronic
device. The device portion can have dimensions approximately the
same as dimensions of the screen of the electronic device.
[0099] Additional embodiments include a cradle. The cradle can
include a base. The cradle also can include an alignment base
configured to engage with an alignment mechanism of an overlay
applicator. The cradle further can include one or more frame pieces
configured to securely hold an electronic device in a device slot
in a fixed position with respect to the alignment base. The base,
the alignment base, and the one or more frame pieces can be
configured to hold the overlay applicator between the base and a
screen of the electronic device when the screen of the electronic
device is facing toward the base; and facilitate applying an
overlay of the overlay applicator to the screen of the electronic
device.
[0100] Further embodiments include a method of providing a cradle.
The method can include providing a base. The method also can
include providing an alignment base configured to engage with an
alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The method further
can include providing one or more frame pieces configured to
securely hold an electronic device in a device slot in a fixed
position with respect to the alignment base. The base, the
alignment base, and the one or more frame pieces can be configured
to hold the overlay applicator between the base and a screen of the
electronic device when the screen of the electronic device is
facing toward the base; and facilitate applying an overlay of the
overlay applicator to the screen of the electronic device.
[0101] Still further embodiments include a machine. The machine can
include a base. The base can include a first end and a second end.
The base also can include an alignment base configured to engage
with an alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The overlay
applicator can include a first alignment tab and a second alignment
tab. The first alignment tab can include a first portion of the
alignment mechanism. The second alignment tab can include a second
portion of the alignment mechanism. The alignment base can include
a first side proximate the first end of the base. The first side
can be configured to engage with the first portion of the alignment
mechanism of the overlay applicator. The alignment base also can
include a second side proximate the second end of the base. The
second side can be configured to engage with the second portion of
the alignment mechanism of the overlay applicator. The base further
can include a pull slot. The machine further can include a cradle
located between the first side of the alignment base and the second
side of the alignment base. The cradle can be configured to
securely hold an electronic device. The machine additionally can
include a slider configured to move between the first and second
ends of the base. The slider can include a bar. The bar can be
configured to press an overlay of the overlay applicator toward a
screen of the electronic device when the slider is moved between
the first and second ends of the base.
[0102] Yet further embodiments can include a method of providing a
machine. The method can include providing a base. The base can
include a first end and a second end. The base also can include an
alignment base configured to engage with an alignment mechanism of
an overlay applicator. The overlay applicator can include a first
alignment tab and a second alignment tab. The first alignment tab
can include a first portion of the alignment mechanism. The second
alignment tab can include a second portion of the alignment
mechanism. The alignment base can include a first side proximate
the first end of the base. The first side can be configured to
engage with the first portion of the alignment mechanism of the
overlay applicator. The alignment base also can include a second
side proximate the second end of the base. The second side can be
configured to engage with the second portion of the alignment
mechanism of the overlay applicator. The base further can include a
pull slot. The method further can include providing a cradle
located between the first side of the alignment base and the second
side of the alignment base. The cradle can be configured to
securely hold an electronic device. The method additionally can
include providing a slider configured to move between the first and
second ends of the base. The slider can include a bar. The bar can
be configured to press an overlay of the overlay applicator toward
a screen of the electronic device when the slider is moved between
the first and second ends of the base.
[0103] Additional embodiments can include a machine. The machine
can include a base. The machine also can include a cradle
configured to securely hold an electronic device. The cradle can
include an alignment base configured to engage with an alignment
mechanism of an overlay applicator. The machine further can include
an arm. The arm can include an expandable bladder and a pumping
mechanism configured to inflate the expandable bladder. The arm can
be configured to be hingedly rotated between an open configuration
and a closed configuration. The machine can be configured such that
when the arm is in the closed configuration and the expandable
bladder is inflated, the expandable bladder can press an overlay of
the overlay applicator toward a screen of the electronic device to
adhere an adhesive side of the overlay to the screen of the
electronic device.
[0104] Further embodiments can include a method of providing a
machine. The method can include providing a base. The method also
can include providing a cradle configured to securely hold an
electronic device. The cradle can include an alignment base
configured to engage with an alignment mechanism of an overlay
applicator. The method further can include providing an arm. The
arm can include an expandable bladder and a pumping mechanism
configured to inflate the expandable bladder. The arm can be
configured to be hingedly rotated between an open configuration and
a closed configuration. The machine can be configured such that
when the arm is in the closed configuration and the expandable
bladder is inflated, the expandable bladder can press an overlay of
the overlay applicator toward a screen of the electronic device to
adhere an adhesive side of the overlay to the screen of the
electronic device.
[0105] Additional embodiments can include a machine. The machine
can include a support base. The machine also can include a first
cradle configured to hold a first electronic device. The machine
further can include an alignment base configured to engage with an
alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The overlay
applicator can include an overlay configured to be applied to a
screen of the first electronic device. The machine also can include
a lid hingedly attached to the support base. The machine can be
configured such that the lid can be rotated with respect to the
support base between an open configuration and a closed
configuration. The machine can be configured in the closed
configuration to facilitate applying the overlay of the overlay
applicator to the screen of the first electronic device.
[0106] Further embodiments can include a method of providing a
machine. The method can include providing a support base. The
method also can include providing a first cradle configured to hold
a first electronic device. The method further can include providing
an alignment base configured to engage with an alignment mechanism
of an overlay applicator. The overlay applicator can include an
overlay configured to be applied to a screen of the first
electronic device. The method also can include providing a lid
hingedly attached to the support base. The machine can be
configured such that the lid can be rotated with respect to the
support base between an open configuration and a closed
configuration. The machine can be configured in the closed
configuration to facilitate applying the overlay of the overlay
applicator to the screen of the first electronic device.
[0107] Still further embodiments can include a cradle. The cradle
can include a device slot configured to securely hold an electronic
device. The cradle also can include an alignment base configured to
engage with an alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The
overlay applicator can include a first alignment tab and a second
alignment tab. The first alignment tab can include a first portion
of the alignment mechanism, The second alignment tab can include a
second portion of the alignment mechanism. The alignment base can
include a first side configured to engage with the first portion of
the alignment mechanism of the overlay applicator. The alignment
base also can include a second side configured to engage with the
second portion of the alignment mechanism of the overlay
applicator. The cradle further can include a pull slot disposed
between the device slot and the second side of the alignment
base.
[0108] Yet further embodiments can include a method of providing a
cradle. The method can include providing a device slot configured
to securely hold an electronic device. The method also can include
providing an alignment base configured to engage with an alignment
mechanism of an overlay applicator. The overlay applicator can
include a first alignment tab and a second alignment tab. The first
alignment tab can include a first portion of the alignment
mechanism. The second alignment tab can include a second portion of
the alignment mechanism. The alignment base can include a first
side configured to engage with the first portion of the alignment
mechanism of the overlay applicator. The alignment base also can
include a second side configured to engage with the second portion
of the alignment mechanism of the overlay applicator. The method
further can include providing a pull slot disposed between the
device slot and the second side of the alignment base.
[0109] Additional embodiments can include a set of cradles. The set
of cradles can include a first cradle. The first cradle can include
a first device slot including first dimensions and configured to
securely hold a first electronic device. The first cradle also can
include a first alignment base configured to engage with an
alignment mechanism of a first overlay applicator. The first
overlay applicator can include an overlay configured to be applied
to a screen of the first electronic device. The set of cradles also
can include a second cradle. The second cradle can include a second
device slot including second dimensions and configured to securely
hold a second electronic device. The second cradle also can include
a second alignment base configured to engage with an alignment
mechanism of a second overlay applicator. The second overlay
applicator can include an overlay configured to be applied to a
screen of the second electronic device. The first dimensions of the
first device slot of the first cradle can be different from the
second dimensions of the second device slot of the second cradle.
The first cradle and the second cradle can be configured to be
stacked in a first coterminous configuration.
[0110] Further embodiments can include a method of providing a set
of cradles. The method can include providing a first cradle. The
first cradle can include a first device slot including first
dimensions and configured to securely hold a first electronic
device. The first cradle also can include a first alignment base
configured to engage with an alignment mechanism of a first overlay
applicator. The first overlay applicator can include an overlay
configured to be applied to a screen of the first electronic
device. The method also can include providing a second cradle. The
second cradle can include a second device slot including second
dimensions and configured to securely hold a second electronic
device. The second cradle also can include a second alignment base
configured to engage with an alignment mechanism of a second
overlay applicator. The second overlay applicator can include an
overlay configured to be applied to a screen of the second
electronic device. The first dimensions of the first device slot of
the first cradle can be different from the second dimensions of the
second device slot of the second cradle. The first cradle and the
second cradle can be configured to be stacked in a first
coterminous configuration.
[0111] Still further embodiments can include an overlay applicator.
The overlay applicator can include an overlay including a top side
and a bottom side. The bottom side can include an adhesive agent
configured to adhere to a screen of an electronic device. The
overlay applicator also can include an adhesive release liner
including a top side and a bottom side. The top side of the
adhesive release liner can be removably attached to the bottom side
of the overlay. The adhesive release liner can be configured to
protect the adhesive agent at the bottom side of the overlay from
contaminants. The overlay applicator further can include an
alignment tab including an alignment mechanism. The overlay
applicator also can include a pull tab. The overlay applicator
further can include a wiper. The wiper can include a surface and a
first slot extending at least partially through the surface of the
wiper. The wiper can be attached to the pull tab. The pull tab, the
wiper, and the adhesive release liner can be configured such that
the pull tab can be folded across the bottom side of the adhesive
release liner and can be pulled to remove the adhesive release
liner from the bottom side of the overlay to expose the adhesive
agent. The pull tab, the wiper, and the adhesive release liner can
be configured such that, when the pull tab is pulled, the wiper can
wipe across and clean the screen of the electronic device.
[0112] Yet further embodiments can include a method of providing an
overlay applicator. The method can include providing an overlay
comprising a top side and a bottom side. The bottom side can
include an adhesive agent configured to adhere to a screen of an
electronic device. The method also can include providing an
adhesive release liner comprising a top side and a bottom side. The
top side of the adhesive release liner can be removably attached to
the bottom side of the overlay. The adhesive release liner can be
configured to protect the adhesive agent at the bottom side of the
overlay from contaminants. The method further can include providing
an alignment tab including an alignment mechanism. The method also
can include providing a pull tab. The method further can include
providing a wiper. The wiper can include a surface and a first slot
extending at least partially through the surface of the wiper. The
method also can include attaching the wiper to the pull tab. The
pull tab, the wiper, and the adhesive release liner can be
configured such that the pull tab can be folded across the bottom
side of the adhesive release liner and can be pulled to remove the
adhesive release liner from the bottom side of the overlay to
expose the adhesive agent. The pull tab, the wiper, and the
adhesive release liner can be configured such that, when the pull
tab is pulled, the wiper can wipe across and clean the screen of
the electronic device.
[0113] Additional embodiments can include a system. The system can
include an overlay applicator. The overlay applicator can include
an overlay including a top side and a bottom side. The bottom side
can include a first adhesive agent configured to adhere to a screen
of an electronic device. The overlay applicator also can include an
adhesive release liner including a top side and a bottom side. The
top side of the adhesive release liner can be removably attached to
the bottom side of the overlay. The adhesive release liner can be
configured to protect the first adhesive agent at the bottom side
of the overlay from contaminants. The overlay applicator further
can include a protective film removably attached to the top side of
the overlay. The overlay applicator also can include an alignment
tab including an alignment mechanism. The overlay applicator also
can include a pull tab. The system also can include a sticker
assembly. The sticker assembly can include a sticker including a
top side and a bottom side and an end portion. The bottom side can
include a second adhesive agent configured to removably adhere to
the screen of the electronic device. The sticker assembly also can
include a release liner removably attached to the bottom side of
the sticker. The release liner can include a device portion and an
end portion. The end portion of the release liner can be removably
attached to the end portion of the sticker. The sticker assembly
can be configured such that, when the device portion of the release
liner is removed to expose the second adhesive agent, the second
adhesive agent of the bottom side of the sticker can be adhered to
the screen of the electronic device, and the end portion of the
sticker can be folded back over the top side of the sticker to
expose the end portion of the release liner. The pull tab and the
adhesive release liner can be configured such that the pull tab can
be folded across the bottom side of the adhesive release liner. The
sticker assembly can be configured such that, when the end portion
of the sticker is folded back over the top side of the sticker and
the end portion of the release liner is removed from the sticker to
expose the second adhesive agent, the end portion of the sticker
can be adhered to the pull tab while the pull tab is folded across
the bottom side of the adhesive release liner. The overlay
applicator and sticker assembly can be configured such that, when
the end portion of the sticker is adhered to the pull tab, the pull
tab can be pulled to remove the sticker from the screen of the
electronic device and to remove the adhesive release liner from the
bottom side of the overlay to expose the first adhesive agent to
the screen of the device. The sticker can be configured to remove
dust from the screen of the electronic device when the sticker is
removed from the screen of the electronic device.
[0114] Further embodiments include a method. The method can include
providing an overlay applicator. The overlay applicator can include
an overlay including a top side and a bottom side. The bottom side
can include a first adhesive agent configured to adhere to a screen
of an electronic device. The overlay applicator also can include an
adhesive release liner including a top side and a bottom side. The
top side of the adhesive release liner can be removably attached to
the bottom side of the overlay. The adhesive release liner can be
configured to protect the first adhesive agent at the bottom side
of the overlay from contaminants. The overlay applicator further
can include a protective film removably attached to the top side of
the overlay. The overlay applicator also can include an alignment
tab including an alignment mechanism. The overlay applicator also
can include a pull tab. The method also can include providing a
sticker assembly. The sticker assembly can include a sticker
including a top side and a bottom side and an end portion. The
bottom side can include a second adhesive agent configured to
removably adhere to the screen of the electronic device. The
sticker assembly also can include a release liner removably
attached to the bottom side of the sticker. The release liner can
include a device portion and an end portion. The end portion of the
release liner can be removably attached to the end portion of the
sticker. The sticker assembly can be configured such that, when the
device portion of the release liner is removed to expose the second
adhesive agent, the second adhesive agent of the bottom side of the
sticker can be adhered to the screen of the electronic device, and
the end portion of the sticker can be folded back over the top side
of the sticker to expose the end portion of the release liner. The
pull tab and the adhesive release liner can be configured such that
the pull tab can be folded across the bottom side of the adhesive
release liner. The sticker assembly can be configured such that,
when the end portion of the sticker is folded back over the top
side of the sticker and the end portion of the release liner is
removed from the sticker to expose the second adhesive agent, the
end portion of the sticker can be adhered to the pull tab while the
pull tab is folded across the bottom side of the adhesive release
liner. The overlay applicator and sticker assembly can be
configured such that, when the end portion of the sticker is
adhered to the pull tab, the pull tab can be pulled to remove the
sticker from the screen of the electronic device and to remove the
adhesive release liner from the bottom side of the overlay to
expose the first adhesive agent to the screen of the device. The
sticker can be configured to remove dust from the screen of the
electronic device when the sticker is removed from the screen of
the electronic device.
[0115] Additional embodiments include a particle removal device.
The particle removal device includes a particle removal sticker.
The particle removal sticker including a top side and a bottom
side. The bottom side of the particle removal sticker includes an
adhesive configured to removably adhere to a screen of an
electronic device. The particle removal device also includes a
sticker release liner. The sticker release liner includes a top
side removably attached to the bottom side of the particle removal
sticker. The sticker release liner is configured to be removed from
the bottom side of the particle removal sticker to expose the
adhesive and to adhere the particle removal sticker to the screen.
The particle removal sticker is configured to remove particles as
the particle removal sticker is removed from the screen.
[0116] Further embodiments include a method. The method includes
removing a sticker release liner from a bottom side of a particle
removal sticker to expose an adhesive on the bottom side of the
particle removal sticker. The adhesive is configured to removably
adhere to a screen of an electronic device. The method also
includes applying the particle removal sticker to a screen of an
electronic device. The method additionally includes removing the
particle removal sticker from the screen of the electronic device.
Removal of the particle removal sticker removes particles as the
particle removal sticker is removed from the screen.
[0117] Embodiments of an overlay applicator can be configured to
facilitate application of an overlay on the screen of a device. In
some embodiments, the overlay applicator can be configured to
facilitate removing dust from the screen of the device immediately
before application. In certain embodiments, the overlay applicator
can facilitate keeping dust and fingerprints from coming into
contact with adhesive on the overlay. In various embodiments, the
overlay applicator can be configured to facilitate alignment of the
overlay with the screen of the device during application.
[0118] Turning to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view
showing various elements of an overlay applicator 100. Overlay
applicator 100 is merely exemplary and embodiments of the overlay
applicator are not limited to embodiments presented herein. The
overlay applicator can be employed in many different embodiments or
examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In a number
of embodiments, overlay applicator 100 can include an alignment tab
110, a protective film 120, an overlay 130, an adhesive release
liner 140, and/or a pull tab 150. Overlay 130 can be a protective
film for protecting the screen of an electronic device, such as a
mobile phone, a tablet computer, or a smart phone, such as an
iPhone, developed and sold by Apple, Inc., of Cupertino, Calif.,
among other devices. Overlay 130 can be made of polyethylene
terephthalate (PET) or another suitable material. Overlay 130 can
have dimensions such that it partially or fully covers the screen
of the electronic device. In some embodiments, overlay 130 can have
one or more holes, slots, or apertures. For example, overlay 130
can include a speaker slot 133, which can allow sound from a
speaker on the device to pass through overlay 130. Overlay 130 can
include a button slot 134, which can allow a user to push a button
on the face of the device without touching, stretching, or
otherwise affecting overlay 130. Overlay 130 can include a top side
131 and a bottom side 132. In some embodiments, top side 131 can
include a hard coating. In certain embodiments, top side 131 can
include an optical coating. In many embodiments, bottom side 132
can include an adhesive agent to adhere overlay 130 to the screen
of the device.
[0119] In a number of embodiments, protective film 120 can be
attached to top side 131 of overlay 130. In many embodiments,
protective film 120 can have dimensions substantially similar to
the dimensions of overlay 130. Protective film 120 can have a first
side 129 and a second side 128. Protective film 120 can provide
protection for the hard coating or optical coating on overlay 130
during installation of overlay 130 on the device. In some
embodiments, protective film 120 can be a thick flexible film and
can have a thickness of approximately 0.1 to approximately 0.4
millimeters (mm), for example. In many embodiments, protective film
120 does not stretch or distort, which can advantageously
facilitate alignment of overlay 130 on the device. In a number of
embodiments, protective film 120 can be made of a suitable plastic
or paper, or another suitable material. Protective film 120 can be
configured such that it can be peeled away from top side 131 of
overlay 130. In certain embodiments, protective film 120 can
include one of more holes, slots, or apertures. For example,
protective film 120 can include a speaker slot 123 and a button
slot 124, which can be aligned with speaker slot 133 and button
slot 134 when protective film 120 is attached to overlay 130.
[0120] In some embodiments, protective film 120 can include an
adhesive region 121, which can be adhered to alignment tab 110 at
an adhesive region 112. In many embodiments, protective film 120
can be removably attached to top side 131 of overlay 130. In
certain embodiments, adhesive region 121 of protective film 120 can
be adhered to adhesive region 112 of alignment tab 110 using an
adhesive agent. In some embodiments, protective film 120 can be
attached to alignment tab 110 using a suitable fastening mechanism,
such as one or more rivets or hook and loop tape, as examples. When
alignment tab 110 is attached to protective film 120, alignment tab
110 can extend beyond protective film 120, in some embodiments,
such that a portion of alignment tab 110 is not adhered to or
touching protective film 120. In some embodiments, alignment tab
110 can include an alignment mechanism 115 at the portion of
alignment tab 110 that is not adhered to or touching protective
film 120. Alignment mechanism 115 can facilitate aligning alignment
tab 110, protective film 120, and overlay 130 with various features
of the device during application of overlay 130. Alignment
mechanism 115 can be one or more holes, slots, or other suitable
alignment aid features. In some embodiments, alignment tab 110 does
not stretch or distort, which can help facilitate accurate
alignment of overlay 130 on the device. Alignment tab 110 can be
made of plastic or cardboard, and can be thicker than protective
film 120. In certain embodiments, protective film 120 and at least
at portion of alignment tab 110 can be integral, or in other words,
made of the same piece of material. In such embodiments, protective
film 120 can be made of a thicker material, such as alignment tab
110, so as to provide sufficient structural support for alignment
mechanism 115.
[0121] In a number of embodiments, adhesive release liner 140 can
be attached to bottom side 132 of overlay 130. In many embodiments,
adhesive release liner 140 can have dimensions substantially
similar to the dimensions of overlay 130. Adhesive release liner
140 can have a first side 149 and a second side 148. By being
attached to bottom side 132 of overlay 130, adhesive release liner
140 can keep the adhesive agent on bottom side 132 covered and
protected until the overlay 130 is ready to be adhered to the
screen of the device. In many embodiments, a top side of adhesive
release liner 140 can be removably attached to bottom side 132 of
overlay 130, and/or can be configured to protect the adhesive agent
on bottom side 132 of overlay 130 from contaminants. In some
embodiments, adhesive release liner 140 can be a thin flexible film
and can have a thickness of approximately 0.1 mm to approximately
0.25 mm. In certain embodiments, adhesive release liner 140 can be
made of a material that can stretch and/or distort. In certain
other embodiments, adhesive release liner 140 can be made of a
material that does not stretch or distort. In a number of
embodiments, adhesive release liner 140 can be made of a suitable
thin plastic film or paper, or another suitable material. Adhesive
release liner 140 can be configured such that it can be peeled away
from bottom side 132 of overlay 130. In certain embodiments,
adhesive release liner 140 can include one of more holes, slots, or
apertures. For example, adhesive release liner 140 can include a
speaker slot 143 and a button slot 144, which can be aligned with
speaker slot 133 and button slot 134 when adhesive release liner
140 is attached to overlay 130.
[0122] In some embodiments, pull tab 150 can facilitate removal of
adhesive release liner 140. Pull tab 150 can include a first side
159 and a second side 158. In some embodiments, adhesive release
liner 140 can include an adhesive region 142 at second side 148,
which can be adhered to pull tab 150 at an adhesive region 151 at
first side 159. In certain embodiments, adhesive region 142 of
adhesive release liner 140 can be adhered to adhesive region 151 of
pull tab 150 using an adhesive agent. In other embodiments,
adhesive release liner 140 can be attached to pull tab 150 using
another suitable fastening mechanism, such as rivets or hook and
loop tape. When pull tab 150 is attached to adhesive release liner
140, alignment tab 110 can extend beyond adhesive release liner
140, such that a portion of pull tab 150 is not adhered to or
touching adhesive release liner 140. In a number of embodiments,
pull tab 150 can have a dimension such that a distance from first
side 159 to second side 158 of pull tab 150 is longer than a
dimension from first side 149 to second side 148 of adhesive
release liner 140. In many embodiments, when pull tab 150 is
attached to adhesive release liner 140, pull tab 150 can be folded
back near first side 159 and can extend across the length of and
beyond first side 149 of adhesive release liner 140. In a number of
embodiments, pull tab 150 can be folded across the bottom side of
adhesive release liner 140 and pulled to remove adhesive release
liner 140 from bottom side 132 of overlay 130 to expose the
adhesive agent. Pull tab 150 can be made of a flexible plastic or
paper, or another suitable material. In certain embodiments,
adhesive release liner 140 and pull tab 150 can be integral. In
such embodiments, adhesive release liner 140 can be made of a
thicker material, pull tab 150, so as to provide sufficient
structural support for pulling on adhesive release liner 140.
[0123] In some embodiments, pull tab 150 can include a pulling aid
156. Pulling aid 156 can facilitate pulling pull tab 150, and can
be or include one or more holes, slots, grooves, ridges, channels,
etc. For example, pulling aid 156 can be two holes in which a user
can place two fingers to assist in pulling pull tab 150 or in which
an applicator machine can insert tabs to engage with pull tab 150.
Pulling aid 156 can also assist a user in differentiating the ends
of pull tab 150 and in knowing which end to pull when installing
overlay 130 on the device.
[0124] In many embodiments, overlay applicator 100 and/or pull tab
150 can include a wiper 157. Wiper 157 can remove dust from the
screen of the device and can facilitate application of overlay 130
to the screen of the device without dust between overlay 130 and
the screen. In a number of embodiments, wiper 157 can be adhered to
a top side of pull tab 150. Wiper 157 can be made of microfiber
cloth, soft silicone, an extruded rubber profile wiper blade,
and/or other suitable materials. In various embodiments, wiper 157
can be a solid block, a row of fins, or of another suitable form
for cleaning the screen of the device. In many embodiments, wiper
157 can be configured such that when pull tab 150 is pulled, wiper
157 can wipe across and clean the screen of the device, as
described below in further detail. In a number of embodiments, the
wiper can be configured to wipe across a length of the screen of
the device. In some embodiments, the length of the screen of the
device can be greater than a width of the screen of the device.
[0125] In many embodiments, overlay applicator 100 can be
manufactured such that protective film 120, overlay 130, and
adhesive release liner 140 are each attached and are coterminous
with each other. For example, protective film 120, overlay 130, and
adhesive release liner 140 can be attached and then cut, such that
the sides and other features of protective film 120, overlay 130,
and adhesive release liner 140 are aligned. Alignment tab 110 can
then be adhered to protective film 120, and pull tab 150 can be
adhered to adhesive release liner 140. In certain embodiments, as
described above, protective film 120 and at least a portion of
alignment tab 110 can be integral. For example, adhesive release
liner 140 can be adhered to overlay 130 and overlay can be adhered
to protective film 120, and overlay 130 and adhesive release liner
140 can be cut to size without cutting protective film 120.
[0126] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 2 illustrates a system
200 for using overlay applicator 100 to apply overlay 130 to a
device. System 200 is merely exemplary and embodiments of the
system are not limited to embodiments presented herein. The system
can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not
specifically depicted or described herein. System 200 can include
overlay applicator 100, a frame 210, and a device 220 (e.g., a
smart phone). Frame 210 can include a hole 211 in which device 220
can be placed with the screen of device 220 facing upwards or away
from frame 210. In some embodiments, hole 211 is conformal with
device 220. In other embodiments, hole 211 can have dimensions
large enough that it can fit around a several different electronic
devices. Frame 210 can have a height substantially similar to the
height of device 220. In many embodiments, frame 210 can include an
alignment base 212, which can engage with alignment mechanism 115.
In some embodiments, alignment base 212 can be one or more
protrusions that can fit inside the one or more slots of alignment
mechanism 115. Alignment base 212 and alignment mechanism 115 can
be configured and positioned such that when alignment mechanism 115
is engaged with alignment base 212, overlay 130 can be positioned
directly above the screen of the device, and aligned such that
overlay 130 will be adhered in an accurate position on the screen
when adhesive release liner 140 is removed.
[0127] In some embodiments, overlay applicator 100 can be used to
apply overlay 130 to device 220 in frame 210. Pull tab 150 can be
folded such that second side 158 of pull tab 150 is pulled under
adhesive release liner 140 from second side 148 to first side 149,
as shown in FIG. 2. Overlay applicator 100 can be placed on frame
210 such that alignment mechanism 115 engages with alignment base
212. Frame 210 can be placed over device 220 with the screen of
device 220 facing up. In many embodiments, by placing frame 210
over device 200, wiper 157 can come in contact with the screen of
device 220. While holding frame 210, a user can pull on pull tab
150, e.g., by using pulling aid 156, such that wiper 157 is pulled
across the screen of device 220, which can remove dust or other
particles from the screen of device 220. In a number of
embodiments, as pull tab 150 is pulled, adhesive release liner 140
is removed from bottom side 132 (FIG. 1) of overlay 130, and
overlay 130 adheres to the screen of device 220 in an accurately
aligned position. After overlay 130 is adhered to the screen of
device 220, the user can smooth overlay 130 on device 220 to remove
any bubbles between overlay 130 and the screen of device 220.
Protective film 120 can be removed from overlay 130. In some
embodiments, protective film can be removed by lifting and/or
pulling alignment tab 110. In many embodiments, protective film 120
is removed after smoothing out any bubbles, so that protective film
120 can prevent damage to overlay 130 from forceful pushing or
rubbing involved in smoothing the bubbles. For example, optical
coated overlays can be damaged by objects, such as credit cards,
being used to smooth out bubbles. Device 220 can be removed from
frame 210 with overlay 130 installed.
[0128] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 3 illustrates a system
300 for using overlay applicator 100 to apply overlay 130 to a
device. System 300 is merely exemplary and embodiments of the
system are not limited to embodiments presented herein. The system
can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not
specifically depicted or described herein. System 300 can include
overlay applicator 100, a cradle 310, and a device 320 (e.g., a
smart phone). Cradle 310 can include a slot 311 in which device 320
can be placed with screen facing upwards or away from cradle 310.
In some embodiments, slot 311 is conformal with device 320. In
other embodiments, slot 311 can have dimensions large enough that
several different electronic devices can fit within it. Slot 311
can have sides and a bottom, and cradle 310 can have a height
greater than the height of device 320. In many embodiments, cradle
310 can include an alignment base 312, which can engage with
alignment mechanism 115. In some embodiments, alignment base 312
can be one or more protrusions that can fit inside the one or more
slots of alignment mechanism 115. Alignment base 312 and alignment
mechanism 115 can be configured and positioned such that when
alignment mechanism 115 is engaged with alignment base 312, overlay
130 can be positioned directly above the screen of the device, and
aligned such that overlay 130 will be adhered in an accurate
position on the screen when adhesive release liner 140 is
removed.
[0129] In some embodiments, overlay applicator 100 can be used to
apply overlay 130 to device 320 in cradle 310. Pull tab 150 can be
folded such that second side 158 of pull tab 150 is pulled under
adhesive release liner 140 from second side 148 to first side 149,
as shown in FIG. 3. Device 320 can be placed in cradle 310, with
the screen of device 320 facing up. Overlay applicator 100 can be
placed on cradle 310 such that alignment mechanism 115 engages with
alignment base 312. In many embodiments, by placing overlay
applicator 110 on cradle 210, wiper 157 can come in contact with
the screen of device 320. While holding cradle 310, a user can pull
on pull tab 150, e.g., by using pulling aid 156, such that wiper
157 is pulled across the screen of device 320, which can remove
dust or other particles from the screen of device 320. In a number
of embodiments, as pull tab 150 is pulled, adhesive release liner
140 is removed from bottom side 132 (FIG. 1) of overlay 130, and
overlay 130 adheres to the screen of device 320 in an accurately
aligned position. After overlay 130 is adhered to the screen of
device 320, the user can smooth overlay 130 on device 320 to remove
any bubbles between overlay 130 and the screen of device 320.
Protective film 120 can be removed from overlay 130. In some
embodiments, protective film 120 can be removed by lifting and/or
pulling alignment tab 110. In many embodiments, protective film 120
is removed after smoothing out any bubbles, so that protective film
120 can prevent damage to overlay 130 from forceful pushing or
rubbing involved in smoothing the bubbles, as explained above.
Device 320 can be removed from cradle 310 with overlay 130
installed.
[0130] In yet other embodiments, overlay applicator 100 can be used
with a machine, such as the machine shown in FIGS. 8-14 and 16-20,
and described below, which can semi-automatically align overlay
applicator 100 with a device and engage with pull tab 150 and/or
alignment tab 110 to install overlay 130 on the device.
[0131] Advantageously, overlay applicator 100 can be used to
install overlay 130 without dust or particles between overlay 130
and the screen of the device. Frame 210 (FIG. 2) or frame 310 (FIG.
3) can be used with overlay applicator 100 to accurately position
overlay 130 relative to features of the device. Advantageously, by
wiping the screen of the device immediately before applying overlay
130, overlay applicator 100 can clean any dust or particles on the
screen. Beneficially, by removing adhesive release liner 140
immediately before applying overlay 130 minimizes exposure of the
adhesive agent on bottom side 132, which can prevent dust or other
particles from coming in contact with the adhesive agent. As
another advantage, by using pull tab 150 to remove adhesive release
liner 140 and/or by holding overlay 130 in position by using
alignment tab 110, a user does not need to hold the sides of
overlay 130, which can prevent the user from inadvertent contact
with the adhesive agent on bottom side 132 of overlay 130.
[0132] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 4 illustrates an
isometric view of an overlay applicator 400. FIG. 5 illustrates a
side view of overlay applicator 400. Overlay applicator 400 is
merely exemplary and embodiments of the overlay applicator are not
limited to embodiments presented herein. The overlay applicator can
be employed in many different embodiments or examples not
specifically depicted or described herein. Overlay applicator 400
can be similar to overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), and various
components and/or constructions of overlay applicator 400 can be
substantially identical or similar to various components of overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1). Overlay applicator 400 can include a
protective film 420, an overlay 430, an adhesive release liner 440,
and/or a pull tab 450. Protective film 420 can be similar to
protective film 120 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 can be similar to overlay
130 (FIG. 1), adhesive release liner 440 can be similar to adhesive
release liner 140 (FIG. 1), and/or pull tab 450 can be similar to
pull tab 150 (FIG. 1).
[0133] In some embodiments, overlay applicator can include a
speaker slot 423 and/or a button slot 424. Speaker slot 423 and/or
button slot 424 can extend through protective film 420, overlay
430, and adhesive release liner 440. In a number of embodiments,
overlay applicator 400 can include a device portion 470 and an
alignment tab 410. Alignment tab 410 can be similar to alignment
tab 110 (FIG. 1). In some embodiments, device portion 470 and
alignment tab 410 can be made of the layers used for protective
film 420, overlay 430, and adhesive release liner 440. Alignment
tab 410 can include alignment mechanism 415. Alignment mechanism
415 can be one or more holes, slots, or other suitable alignment
aid features, which can facilitate aligning alignment tab 410,
protective film 420, overlay 430, and adhesive release liner 440
with various features of the device during application of overlay
430.
[0134] In many embodiments, construction of overlay applicator 400
can include adhering and/or attaching layers of material for
protective film 420, overlay 430, and adhesive release liner 440.
After attaching the layers, protective film 420, overlay 430, and
adhesive release liner 440 can be cut to predetermined dimensions
of device portion 470 and alignment tab 410. In some embodiments,
the cutting of device portion 470 and alignment tab 410 to size can
include cutting speaker slot 423, button slot 424, and/or alignment
mechanism 415. As a result of the cut, device portion 470 and
alignment tab 410 can be adjoined and integral on all three layers
of protective film 420, overlay 430, and adhesive release liner
440, and can extend from first side 429 to second side 428.
Construction of overlay applicator 400 also can include a die cut
between alignment tab 410 and device portion 470 to create an
interface slit 460. The die cut can be a kiss cut through adhesive
release liner 440 and overlay 430, but not protective film 420. In
a number of embodiments, alignment tab 410 can include a top layer
that is integral with the protective film, a middle layer attached
to the top layer, and/or a bottom layer attached to the middle
layer. In some embodiments, overlay applicator 400 can include a
cut between the middle layer of alignment tab 410 and overlay 530,
and a cut between the bottom layer of alignment tab 410 and
adhesive release liner 440. As a result of the kiss cut, the
dimensions of device portion 470 at overlay 430 and adhesive
release liner 440 can be equal to the dimensions of the screen of
the device. The process of cutting the layers (protective film 420,
overlay 430, and adhesive release liner 440) to size, cutting
alignment mechanism 415, and other feature slots (e.g., speaker
slot 423 and button slot 424), and kiss cutting to create interface
slit 460 can advantageously provide a simpler method of
constructing overlay applicator 400, and/or can provide overlay
applicator 400 with a very accurate alignment of alignment
mechanism 415 with respect to overlay 430 and its features.
[0135] In a number of embodiments, after kiss cutting alignment tab
410 and device portion 470 to size, pull tab 450 can be attached to
adhesive release liner 440. Pull tab 450 can be substantially
similar or identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), and various
components or constructions of pull tab 450 can be the same as
various components of pull tab 150 (FIG. 1). Pull tab 450 can
facilitate removal of adhesive release liner 440. Construction of
overlay applicator 400 can include adhering pull tab 450 to
adhesive release liner 440. Pull tab can include a first side 459
and a second side 458. Pull tab 450 can include an adhesive region
451 at or near first side 459. Adhesive release liner 440 can
include an adhesive region 442 at device portion 470 next to
interface slit 460. Adhesive region 451 can be adhered to adhesive
region 442 to attach pull tab 450 to adhesive release liner 440.
Pull tab 450 can include a wiper 457, which can remove dust from
the screen of the device, and can be similar to wiper 157 (FIG. 1).
Pull tab 450 can include a pulling aid 156 at or near second side
458, which can assist a user and/or an applicator machine in
engaging with and pulling pull tab 450, as describe above in
connection with pull tab 150 (FIG. 1). After pull tab 450 is
attached to adhesive release liner 440, a user and/or machine can
pull on pull tab 450 to peel back and remove adhesive release liner
440 starting at interface slit 460 and peeling back to first side
429.
[0136] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 6 illustrates an
isometric view of an overlay applicator 600. Overlay applicator 600
is merely exemplary and embodiments of the overlay applicator are
not limited to embodiments presented herein. The overlay applicator
can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not
specifically depicted or described herein. Overlay applicator 600
can be similar to overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1) and/or overlay
applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5), and various components and/or
constructions of overlay applicator 600 can be substantially
identical or similar to various components of overlay applicator
100 (FIG. 1) and/or overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5). Overlay
applicator 600 can include a protective film 620, an overlay 630,
an adhesive release liner 640, and/or a pull tab 650. Protective
film 620 can be similar to protective film 120 (FIG. 1) and/or
protective film 420 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay 630 can be similar to
overlay 130 (FIG. 1) and/or overlay 430 (FIGS. 4-5), adhesive
release liner 640 can be similar to adhesive release liner 140
(FIG. 1) and/or adhesive release liner 440 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or pull
tab 650 can be similar to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1) and/or pull tab 450
(FIGS. 4-5).
[0137] In a number of embodiments, overlay applicator 600 can
include a device portion 670 and an alignment tab 610. Alignment
tab 610 can be similar to alignment tab 110 (FIG. 1) and/or
alignment tab 410 (FIG. 4). Device portion 670 can be similar to
device portion 470 (FIGS. 4-5). In some embodiments, device portion
670 and alignment tab 610 can be made of the layers used for
protective film 620, overlay 630, and adhesive release liner 640.
Alignment tab 610 can include an alignment mechanism 615, which can
be similar to alignment mechanism 115 (FIG. 1) and/or alignment
mechanism 415 (FIGS. 4-5), and which can facilitate aligning
alignment tab 610, protective film 620, overlay 630, and adhesive
release liner 640 with various features of the device during
application of overlay 630. Pull tab 650 can be integral with
release liner 640 and can be a single layer of material, such as
plastic, paper, or another suitable liner film. Pull tab 450 can
facilitate removal of adhesive release liner 440.
[0138] In many embodiments, construction of overlay applicator 600
can include adhering and/or attaching layers of material for
protective film 620, overlay 630, and adhesive release liner 640.
After attaching the layers, protective film 620 and overlay 630 can
be kiss cut to predetermined dimensions of device portion 670 and
alignment tab 610, without cutting adhesive release liner 640
and/or pull tab 650. Excess material from the layers for protective
film 620 and overlay 630 can be removed. In some embodiments, the
kiss cutting of device portion 670 and alignment tab 610 to size at
the layers of protective film 620 and overlay 630 can include
cutting a speaker slot 623, a button slot 624, and/or alignment
mechanism 615. The kiss cutting can also include cutting an
interface slit 660 between alignment tab 610 and device portion 670
through the layers of protective film 620 and overlay 630, but not
adhesive release liner 640. As a result of the kiss cut, the
dimensions of device portion 670 at overlay 630 and protective film
620 can be equal to the dimensions of the screen of the device. In
many embodiments, alignment tab 610 can include a top layer and a
bottom layer attached to the top layer, and overlay applicator 600
can include a cut between the top layer of alignment tab 610 and
protective film 620, and a cut between the bottom layer of the
alignment tab and overlay 630.
[0139] In a number of embodiments, after kiss cutting alignment tab
610 and device portion 670 to size at the layers of protective film
620 and overlay 630, and cutting interface slit 660, construction
of overlay applicator 600 can include adhering a joining sticker
680 on the top the layer of protective film 620 to span interface
slit 660 and join device portion 670 of protective film 620 with
the top layer of alignment tab 610. Joining sticker 680 can help
maintain alignment between alignment tab 610 and device portion
670. In many embodiments, joining sticker 680 does not stretch or
distort, which can advantageously facilitate alignment of alignment
mechanism 615 with overlay 630, such that overlay 630 can be
accurately positioned on the screen of the device.
[0140] In a number of embodiments, after kiss cutting alignment tab
610 and device portion 670 to size, a wiper 657 can be attached to
pull tab 650. Wiper 657 can remove dust from the screen of the
device, and can be similar to wiper 157 (FIG. 1) and/or wiper 457
(FIGS. 4-5). In certain embodiments, after joining sticker 680 has
been attached between alignment tab 610 and device portion 670,
pull tab 650 can be folded back, such that a second side 658 is
folded beneath release liner 640 to a first side 659. Pull tab 650
and release liner 640 can be peeled back off of a portion of
alignment tab 610, such that alignment mechanism 615 is uncovered
by release liner 640, allowing alignment mechanism to engage with
an alignment base, such as alignment base 212 (FIG. 2) or alignment
base 312 (FIG. 3). The process of kiss cutting the layers at
protective film 620 and overlay 630 can advantageously provide a
simpler method of constructing overlay applicator 600, and/or can
provide overlay applicator 600 with a very accurate alignment of
alignment mechanism 615 with respect to overlay 630 and its
features.
[0141] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 7 illustrates an
exploded isometric view of an overlay applicator 700. Overlay
applicator 700 is merely exemplary and embodiments of the overlay
applicator are not limited to embodiments presented herein. The
overlay applicator can be employed in many different embodiments or
examples not specifically depicted or described herein. Overlay
applicator 700 can be similar to overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1),
overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or overlay applicator 600
(FIG. 6), and various components and/or constructions of overlay
applicator 700 can be substantially identical or similar to various
components of overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator
400 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6). Overlay
applicator 700 can include a protective film 720, an overlay 730,
an adhesive release liner 740, and/or a pull tab 750. Protective
film 720 can be similar to protective film 120 (FIG. 1), protective
film 420 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or protective film 620 (FIG. 6); overlay
730 can be similar to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS.
4-5), and/or overlay 630 (FIG. 6); adhesive release liner 740 can
be similar to adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1), adhesive release
liner 440 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or adhesive release liner 640 (FIG. 6);
and/or pull tab 750 can be similar to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull
tab 450 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or pull tab 650 (FIG. 6).
[0142] In many embodiments, protective film 720 can include an
alignment frame 710 extending around each side of overlay 730.
Alignment frame 710 can be similar to alignment tab 110 (FIGS.
1-3), alignment tab 410 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or alignment tab 610 (FIG.
6). In many embodiments, alignment frame 710 can be integral with
protective film 720. Alignment frame 710 can include an alignment
mechanism 715. In some embodiments, alignment mechanism 715 can
include multiple holes surrounding overlay 730. For example, as
shown in FIG. 7, alignment mechanism 715 can include six holes
spaced relatively evenly around alignment frame 710, surrounding
overlay 730. In other embodiments, alignment mechanism 715 can
include more or fewer holes than six. Alignment mechanism 715 can
engage with an alignment base (e.g., similar to alignment base 212
(FIG. 2), and/or alignment base 312 (FIG. 3)). For example, overlay
700 can be used on a cradle, similar to cradle 310, which has
alignment base pins configured to engage with alignment mechanism
715. Alignment frame 710 can provide alignment at multiple points
around the overlay and the device, which can advantageously provide
accurate alignment and help reduce distortion.
[0143] In some embodiments, construction of overlay applicator 700
can include adhering and/or attaching layers of material for
protective film 720 and overlay 730. After attaching the layers of
material for protective film 720 and overlay 730, constructing
overlay applicator 700 can include cutting the layers for
protective film 720 and overlay 730 to the appropriate dimensions
of protective film 720. Such cutting can include cutting a button
hole 724 and/or a speaker hole 723. Construction of overlay
applicator 700 also can include kiss cutting through the layer of
material for overlay 730 to cut overlay 730 to its appropriate
dimension, i.e., to the size of the screen of the device. In many
embodiments, the kiss cut through the layer of material for overlay
730 does not extend into protective film 720.
[0144] In a number of embodiments, after kiss cutting overlay 730,
overlay 700 can be constructed by adhering adhesive release liner
740 and pull tab 750 to overlay 730. Pull tab 750 can be integral
with release liner 740 and can be a single layer of material, such
as plastic, paper, or another suitable liner film. Pull tab 750 can
facilitate removal of adhesive release liner 740. Pull tab 750 can
include a pulling aid 756, which can be a tab that allows a user
and/or machine to pull on pull tab 750 and peel back adhesive
release liner 740 from overlay 730. Pull tab 750 also can include a
wiper 757. Wiper 757 can remove dust from the screen of the device,
and can be similar to wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457 (FIG. 4-5),
and/or wiper 657 (FIG. 6).
[0145] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 8 illustrates an
isometric view of a machine 800 for using an overlay applicator to
apply an overlay to a device. FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of
machine 800. FIG. 10 illustrates an isometric view of machine 800,
with a handle assembly not extended, and showing an outline of
overlay applicator 100. FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric view of
machine 800 with the handle assembly partially extended. FIG. 12
illustrates a top view of machine 800 with the handle assembly
partially extended. FIG. 13 illustrates an isometric view of
machine 800 with the handle assembly fully extended. FIG. 14
illustrates a top view of machine 800 with the handle assembly
fully extended. Machine 800 is merely exemplary and embodiments of
the machine are not limited to embodiments presented herein. The
machine can be employed in many different embodiments or examples
not specifically depicted or described herein. Machine 800 can be
used with overlay applicator 100 to apply overlay 130 (not shown)
to the device. Machine 800 also can be used with other overlay
applicators (e.g., overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5), or overlay
applicator 600 (FIG. 6)). In many embodiments, machine 800 can
include a base 810, a carriage 830, and a handle assembly 850. In
some embodiments, base 810 can extend from a first side 819 to a
second side 818. Base 810 can include a gear 911 (FIGS. 9 and
12-14), a carriage rail 913 (FIGS. 9 and 11-14), and a handle rail
915 (FIGS. 9 and 12-14). Carriage rail 913 and handle rail 915 can
extend partially or fully across base 810 in the direction from
first side 819 to second side 818.
[0146] In certain embodiments, handle assembly 850 can include a
handle sliding mechanism 851, which can engage with handle rail 915
to attach handle assembly 850 to base 810 and to allow handle
assembly 850 to slide back and forth along base 810 along the
direction of handle rail 915. In several embodiments, handle
assembly 850 can include a handle extender 852 and a handle base
854. In some embodiments, handle extender 852 can extend parallel
to handle rail 915 and handle base 854 can be substantially
perpendicular to handle extender 852. Handle extender 852 can
include handle gear teeth 853, which can engage with gear 911 of
base 810. Handle base 854 can include a handle 855, which a user
can use to pull handle assembly 850 and extend handle assembly 850
with respect to base 810. In several embodiments, handle base 854
can include a pulling mechanism 856. In certain embodiments,
pulling mechanism 856 can be one or more knobs or pins, which can
engage with pulling aid 156 of pull tab 150 on overlay applicator
100, as shown in FIG. 9.
[0147] In some embodiments, carriage 830 can include a carriage
sliding mechanism (not shown), which can engage with carriage rail
913 to attach carriage 830 to base 810 and to allow carriage 830 to
slide back and forth along base 810 along the direction of carriage
rail 913. In many embodiments, carriage 830 can include carriage
gear teeth 1139 (FIGS. 11-14), which can engage with gear 911 of
base 810. In a number of embodiments, carriage 830 can include one
or more carriage slots 831 and/or a cradle 832. In some
embodiments, cradle 832 can include one or more cradle tabs 833
that can engage in carriage slots 831 to hold cradle 832 in
position. In some embodiments, carriage 830 can be used with
multiple different sizes of cradles, which can be used for
different devices. Carriage slots 831 and cradle tabs 833 can
advantageously allow carriage 830 to removably hold cradle 832,
which can allow machine 800 to be used to apply overlays to
multiple different types of devices. For example, carriage 830 can
be configured to hold one or more additional cradles that are
different than cradle 832. The one or more additional cradles can
be configured to securely hold one or more devices having one or
more different dimensions than the device that fits in cradle 832.
In some embodiments, cradle 832 can be integral with carriage 830.
Cradle 832 can include a recess 834 in which a device can be placed
with screen facing upwards or away from cradle 832. Recess 834 can
have sides and a bottom, and cradle 832 can have a height greater
than the height of the device. In many embodiments, recess 834 is
conformal with the device.
[0148] In some embodiments, cradle 832 can include an alignment
base 835, which can engage with alignment mechanism 115, as shown
in FIG. 10. In the same or other embodiments, carriage 830 can
include alignment base 835. In some embodiments, alignment base 835
can be one or more protrusions that can fit inside the one or more
slots of alignment mechanism 115. Alignment base can be configured
to engage with alignment mechanism 115. Alignment base 835 and
alignment mechanism 115 can be configured and positioned such that
when alignment mechanism 115 is engaged with alignment base 835,
overlay 130 (FIG. 1) can be positioned directly above the screen of
the device, and aligned such that overlay 130 (FIG. 1) will be
adhered in an accurate position on the screen when adhesive release
liner 140 (FIG. 1) is removed.
[0149] In many embodiments, cradle 832 can include an overlay cover
836. In some embodiments, overlay cover 836 can partially cover
overlay applicator 100 and can hold overlay applicator 100 to
cradle 832. As shown in FIGS. 8-9, overlay cover 836 can cover
alignment mechanism 115 and hold overlay applicator 100 to
alignment base 835 when alignment mechanism 115 is engaged with
alignment base 835. In various embodiments, overlay cover 836 can
be removably attached to carriage 830 and/or cradle 832. In other
embodiments, overlay cover 836 can be hingedly attached to carriage
830 and/or cradle 832. In some embodiments, overlay cover 836 can
snap onto cradle 832 and/or alignment base 835. In other
embodiments, overlay cover 836 can be attached to cradle 832
through a spring hinge, which can allow overlay cover 836 to be
removably placed over overlay applicator 100 and to hold overlay
applicator 100 close to cradle 832, and/or to retain alignment
mechanism 115 on alignment base 835. In some embodiments, overlay
cover 836 can have a trapezoidal shape or curved shape, so as to
allow one or more rollers (described below) to roll over overlay
cover 836.
[0150] In many embodiments, the device can be placed in cradle 832,
with the screen of the device facing up. Overlay applicator 100 can
be placed on cradle 832, as described above, and as shown in FIG.
9, such that alignment mechanism 115 engages with alignment base
835. Overlay cover 836 can be placed over overlay applicator
100.
[0151] In many embodiments, when handle assembly 850 is not
extended, as shown in FIGS. 8-10, carriage 830 can be located at a
first side 819 of base 810. As a user pulls handle assembly 855 and
extends handle assembly 855 with respect to base 810, as shown in
FIGS. 11-14, handle gear teeth 853 move toward first side 819,
which can result in gear 911 rotating clockwise, and can further
result in carriage gear teeth 1139 and carriage 830 moving toward
second side 818. As handle assembly 850 moves away from carriage
830, pulling mechanism 856 can pull on pull tab 150, which can pull
wiper 157 across the screen of the device and remove dust or other
particles from the screen of the device, and which can peel away
adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1) to expose the adhesive agent on
bottom side 132 (FIG. 1) to the screen of the device. In many
embodiments, handle assembly 850 can be pulled in a direction from
second side 818 to first side 819. For example, handle assembly 850
can be pulled from a first handle position, such as shown in FIGS.
8-10, to a second handle position, such as shown in FIGS. 13-14. In
several embodiments, when handle assembly 850 is moved from the
first handle position, such as shown in FIGS. 8-10, to the second
handle position, such as shown in FIGS. 13-14, carriage 830 can
move in a second direction from first side 819 to second side 818,
which is opposite from the first direction of movement by handle
assembly 850. For example, carriage 830 can move from a first
carriage position, such as shown in FIGS. 8-10, to a second
carriage position, such as shown in FIGS. 13-14. In a number of
embodiments, machine 800 can be configured such that when alignment
base 835 is engaged with alignment mechanism 115, pulling mechanism
856 is engaged with pull tab 150, cradle 832 is holding the device,
and handle assembly 850 is pulled in the first direction from the
first handle position to the second handle position, adhesive
release liner 140 (FIG. 1) of overlay applicator 100 can be removed
from overlay 130 (FIG. 1) starting at a leading edge of overlay 130
(FIG. 1) (e.g., proximate to alignment mechanism 115) and
continuing to a trailing edge of overlay 130 (FIG. 1) to expose the
adhesive agent of overlay 130 (FIG. 1) to the screen of the
device.
[0152] In a number of embodiments, base 810 can include a roller
assembly 820. In some embodiments, roller assembly 820 can include
roller assembly supports 823, a first roller assembly 821, and/or a
second roller assembly 822. Roller assembly supports 823 can be
attached to base 810 and extend upward or away from base 810 to
provide support for first roller assembly 821 and/or second roller
assembly 822. Roller assembly supports 823 can be configured such
that carriage 830 can slide back and forth between roller assembly
supports 823 and under first roller assembly 821 and/or second
roller assembly 822. First roller assembly 821 can be attached to
roller assembly supports 823 at axle 824. First roller assembly 821
can include a first roller axle 925 (FIGS. 9 and 12), which can
have a first roller surface (not shown) with a width at least equal
to the width of the device. In some embodiments, axle 824 can be
spring-loaded to provide downward pressure for first roller axle
925 as it rolls over overlay applicator 100.
[0153] Second roller assembly 822 can be attached to first roller
assembly 821 at axle 826. Second roller assembly 822 can include a
second roller axle 827, which can have a second roller surface 828.
The width of second roller surface 828 can be less than the width
of the device. In some embodiments, axle 826 can be spring-loaded
to provide downward pressure for second roller axle 827 as is rolls
over overlay applicator 100. The width of second roller surface 828
can be less than the width of the first roller surface (not shown).
In many embodiments, roller assembly 820 can include one or more
rollers, such as first roller axle 925 and/or second roller axle
827. In some embodiments, the width of the second roller surface
828 can be half the width of the device, and second roller surface
828 can be centered over the device as carriage 830 moves through
roller assembly 820 from first side 819 to second side 818. As
carriage 830 moves from first side 819 to second side 818, and as
release liner 140 (FIG. 1) is removed, second roller surface 828
can roll along the middle of the top surface of protective film 120
(FIG. 1) to adhere overlay 130 (FIG. 1) to the screen of the
device. Second roller surface 828 can roll along over the top
surface of protective film 120 before first roller surface (not
shown) rolls over the top surface of protective film 120 (FIG. 1)
when carriage 830 moves from a first carriage position, such as
shown in FIGS. 8-10, to a second carriage position, such as shown
in FIGS. 13-14. In some embodiments, when carriage 830 moves from
the first carriage position to the second carriage position, the
first roller surface (not shown) and second roller surface 828 can
roll over and press downward on overlay applicator 100 to adhere
the exposed adhesive agent of overlay 130 (FIG. 1) to the screen of
the device. In various embodiments, when carriage 830 moves from
the first carriage position to the second carriage position, one or
more of the rollers, such as the first roller surface (not shown)
and/or second roller surface 828 can roll fully over a length of
the screen of the device. By rolling over protective film 120 (FIG.
1) with second roller surface 828 before rolling over protective
film 120 (FIG. 1) (having the wider first roller surface (not
shown)), roller assembly 820 can advantageously apply overlay 130
(FIG. 1) to the screen of the device with fewer air bubbles, as air
bubbles in the middle can be initially pushed outward by second
roller surface 828.
[0154] In many embodiments, as a user pulls handle 855 and pull tab
150 is pulled, adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1) is peeled back
from bottom side 132 (FIG. 1) of overlay 130 (FIG. 1) at the same
rate as cradle 832 rolls through roller assembly 820, which can
advantageously adhere overlay 130 (FIG. 1) to the screen of the
device very shortly after it is exposed from the peeling of
adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1), which can keep dust from
adhering to overlay 130 (FIG. 1). In many embodiments, carriage 830
can move away from handle 855 at twice the rate that carriage 830
moves through roller assembly 820, which can advantageously allow
pull tab 150 and adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1) to be fully
peeled from off of overlay 130 (FIG. 1).
[0155] After overlay 130 (FIG. 1) is adhered to the screen of the
device, the user can smooth overlay 130 (FIG. 1) on the device to
remove bubbles, if there are any, between overlay 130 (FIG. 1) and
the screen of the device. Protective film 120 (FIG. 1) can be
removed from overlay 130 (FIG. 1). In some embodiments, protective
film 120 (FIG. 1) can be removed by lifting and/or pulling
alignment tab 110. In many embodiments, protective film 120 (FIG.
1) is removed after smoothing out any bubbles, so that protective
film 120 (FIG. 1) can prevent damage to overlay 130 (FIG. 1) from
forceful pushing or rubbing involved in smoothing the bubbles, as
explained above. The device can be removed from cradle 832 with
overlay 130 (FIG. 1) installed.
[0156] In some embodiments, overlay cover 836 can have a dimension
such that it can fully cover protective cover 120 (FIG. 1). Overlay
cover 836 can hold overlay applicator 100 close and/or securely to
alignment base 835 and/or the device, such that, as handle 855 is
extended, as pulling mechanism 856 pulls pulling aid 156, and as
wiper 157 is pulled across the device, wiper 157 is held close to
the device to remove any dust or other particles from the device.
In some embodiments, overlay cover 836 can be a slightly flexible
material that is rigid enough to hold overlay applicator 100 close
to the device, but is flexible enough to allow second roller
surface 828 and/or first roller surface (not shown) to provide
local downward pressure through overlay cover 836 to adhere overlay
130 (FIG. 1) to the device and facilitate removing any air bubbles.
For example, overlay cover 836 can be a clear plastic material
having a thickness of approximately 1 mm to approximately 2 mm.
Clear plastic can advantageously allow the user to see through
overlay cover 836 to ensure alignment and proper operation of
machine 800.
[0157] In other embodiments, machine 800 does not include roller
assembly 820, overlay cover 836 can have a dimension such that it
can fully cover protective cover 120 (FIG. 1). Overlay cover 836
can be rigid, and can be hinged to cradle 832 and/or carriage 830.
Overlay cover 836 can include a snap or other attachment mechanism
on the side opposite the hinge, which can hold overlay cover 836 at
a predetermined distance from the device screen and facilitate
wiping of the device screen by wiper 157. In another embodiment,
the hinge connecting overlay cover 836 to cradle 832 and/or
carriage 830 can be spring-loaded to hold overlay cover 836 close
to overlay applicator 100.
[0158] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 15 illustrates an
exploded isometric view of an overlay applicator 1500. Overlay
applicator 1500 is merely exemplary and embodiments of the overlay
applicator are not limited to embodiments presented herein. The
overlay applicator can be employed in many different embodiments or
examples not specifically depicted or described herein. Overlay
applicator 1500 can be similar to overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1),
overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG.
6), and/or overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7), and various components
and/or constructions of overlay applicator 1500 can be
substantially identical or similar to various components of overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), and/or overlay applicator 700
(FIG. 7). Overlay applicator 1500 can include a protective film
1520, an overlay 1530, an adhesive release liner 1540, and/or a
pull tab 1550. Protective film 1520 can be similar to protective
film 120 (FIG. 1), protective film 420 (FIGS. 4-5), protective film
620 (FIG. 6), and/or protective film 720 (FIG. 7); overlay 1530 can
be similar to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay 630 (FIG. 6), and/or overlay 730 (FIG. 7); adhesive release
liner 1540 can be similar to adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1),
adhesive release liner 440 (FIGS. 4-5), adhesive release liner 640
(FIG. 6), and/or adhesive release liner 740 (FIG. 7); and/or pull
tab 1550 can be similar to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450
(FIGS. 4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6), and/or pull tab 750 (FIG. 7).
In some embodiments, protective film 1520, overlay 1530, and
adhesive release liner 1540 can be attached to each other, and pull
tab 1550 can be adhered to adhesive release liner 1540, similarly
as shown above in FIG. 1, described above.
[0159] In many embodiments, protective film 1520 can include an
alignment flaps 1510 extending at each corner of overlay 1530.
Alignment flaps 1510 can be similar to alignment tab 110 (FIGS.
1-3), alignment tab 410 (FIGS. 4-5), alignment tab 610 (FIG. 6),
and/or alignment frame 710 (FIG. 7). In a number of embodiments,
alignment flaps 1510 can be integral with protective film 1520.
Alignment flaps 1510 can include an alignment mechanism 1515. In
some embodiments, alignment mechanism 1515 can include multiple
holes surrounding overlay 1530. For example, as shown in FIG. 15,
alignment mechanism 1515 can include a hole at each of alignment
flaps 1510, at each corner surrounding overlay 1530. Alignment
flaps 1510 can provide alignment at multiple points around overlay
1530, which can advantageously provide accurate alignment and help
reduce distortion. In some embodiments, pull tab 1550 can include
pulling aid 1556, which can be similar to pulling aid 156 (FIG. 1)
and/or pulling aid 456 (FIGS. 4-5).
[0160] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 16 illustrates an
isometric view of an machine 1600 in a first configuration. FIG. 17
illustrates a top view of machine 1600 in a second configuration.
FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of machine 1600 in a second
configuration. FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of machine 1600 in a
third configuration. Machine 1600 is merely exemplary and
embodiments of the machine are not limited to embodiments presented
herein. The machine can be employed in many different embodiments
or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some
embodiment, machine 1600 can include a base 1610, a cradle 1620, a
first frame 1630, and/or a second frame 1640. In some embodiments
first frame 1630 can be an alignment piece hingedly attached to
base 1610. In a number of embodiments, second frame 1640 can be a
pulling piece hingedly attached to base 1610. Cradle 1620 can
include a slot 1621 in which a device 1650 (e.g., a smart phone)
can be placed with the screen facing upwards or away from cradle
1620. Cradle 1620 can also include recesses 1622 surrounding slot
1621 to allow a user to remove the device from cradle 1620. In some
embodiments, slot 1621 is conformal with device 1650. In some
embodiments, cradle 1620 can be integral with base 1610. In other
embodiments, cradle 1620 can be removable from base 1610. For
example, base 1610 can be configured to hold one or more additional
cradles that are different than cradle 1620. The one or more
additional cradles can be configured to securely hold one or more
devices having one or more different dimensions than the device
that fits in cradle 1620.
[0161] In several embodiments, first frame 1630 can be attached to
base 1610 at first hinge 1631, and can rotate around first hinge
1631. For example, first frame 1630 can be rotated relative to base
1610 in a first direction from a first position, such as shown in
FIGS. 16-18, to a second position proximate to cradle 1620, such as
shown in FIG. 19. In many embodiments, second frame 1640 can be
attached to base 1610 at second hinge 1641, and can rotate around
second hinge 1641. For example, second frame 1640 can be rotated
relative to base 1610 in the first direction from a first position
proximate to cradle 1620, such as shown in FIGS. 17-18, to a second
position, such as shown in FIG. 16. First frame 1630 can include an
alignment base 1632, which can engage with alignment mechanism 1515
to secure overlay applicator 1500 to first frame 1630. In certain
embodiments, when machine 1600 is in a first configuration with
cradle 1620 uncovered, as shown in FIG. 16, device 1650 can be
placed in slot 1621, and overlay applicator 1500 can be attached to
first frame 1630, with overlay applicator 1500 oriented with
protective film 1520 facing first frame 1630 and adhesive release
liner 1540 facing upward or away from first frame 1630. In some
embodiments, first frame 1630 can include an aperture or window
1633, and/or second frame 1640 can include an aperture or window
1643. Aperture or window 1633 and/or aperture or window 1643 can
allow a user to reach through and/or see through first frame 1630
and second frame 1640.
[0162] When machine 1600 is in a second position with second frame
1640 covering cradle 1620, as shown in FIGS. 17-18, pull tab 1550
can be attached to second frame 1640 at the same time as overlay
applicator 1500 is attached to first frame 1630. Second frame 1640
can include a pulling mechanism 1741, which can engage with pulling
aid 1556 of pull tab 1550. Pulling mechanism 1741 can be a
protrusion or other suitable attachment mechanism. In a number of
embodiments, machine 1600 can be configured such that when
alignment base 1632 is engaged with alignment mechanism (such as
alignment flaps 1510), pulling mechanism 1741 is engaged with pull
tab 1550, cradle 1620 is holding the device, and second frame 1640
is rotated relative to base 1610 in the first direction from the
first position proximate, such as shown in FIGS. 17-18, to the
second position, such as shown in FIG. 16, first frame 1630 can be
rotated relative to base 1610 in the first direction from the first
position, such as shown in FIGS. 16-18, to the second position,
such as shown in FIG. 19, and adhesive release liner 1540 can be
removed from overlay 1530 (FIG. 15) to expose the adhesive agent of
overlay 1530 (FIG. 15) to the screen of the device.
[0163] To illustrate, for example, after pull tab 1550 is attached
to second frame 1640, a user can lift second frame 1640, which can
pull on pull tab 1550 and begin to peel adhesive release liner 1540
from overlay 1530 (FIG. 15). Raising second frame 1640 from base
1610 and pulling on pull tab 1550, can result in first frame 1630
being raised from base 1610, around first hinge 1631, as shown in
FIG. 19. Continuing to rotate second frame 1640 around second hinge
1641 can result in adhesive release liner 1540 being peeling away
from overlay 1530 (FIG. 15), exposing the adhesive agent on the
bottom of overlay 1530 (FIG. 15). In many embodiments, second frame
1640 can be raised and rotated sufficiently around second hinge
1641 while pulling on pull tab 1550 and removing adhesive release
liner 1540 to allow first frame 1630 to be further rotated around
first hinge 1631 and lowered toward device 1650. When second frame
1640 has rotated fully around second hinge 1641, adhesive release
liner 1540 can be completely removed from overlay 1530 (FIG. 15),
and first frame can be lowered completely onto device 1650. After
overlay 1530 (FIG. 15) is adhered to the screen of device 1650, the
user can reach through aperture 1633 to smooth overlay 1530 (FIG.
15) on device 1650 to remove any bubbles between overlay 1530 (FIG.
15) and the screen of device 1650. First frame 1630 can be lifted
and removed from protective film 1520. Protective film 1520 can be
removed from overlay 1530 (FIG. 15). In some embodiments,
protective film 1520 can be removed by lifting and/or pulling
alignment flaps 1510. In many embodiments, protective film 1520 is
removed after smoothing out any bubbles, so that protective film
1520 can prevent damage to overlay 1530 (FIG. 15) from forceful
pushing or rubbing involved in smoothing the bubbles, as explained
above. Device 1650 can be removed from cradle 1620 with overlay
1530 (FIG. 15) installed. In many embodiments, machine 1600 can be
lightweight and easily portable, for example, such that it can be
carried around by a sales associate.
[0164] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 20 illustrates an
isometric view of a machine 2000 for using an overlay applicator to
apply an overlay to a device, showing the overlay cover extended.
FIG. 21 illustrates an isometric view of machine 2000 with the
overlay cover engaged and the roller pressing against the tongue of
the overlay cover. FIG. 22 illustrates an isometric view of machine
2000 with the overlay cover engaged and the roller disengaged from
the overlay cover. Machine 2000 is merely exemplary and embodiments
of the machine are not limited to embodiments presented herein. The
machine can be employed in many different embodiments or examples
not specifically depicted or described herein. Machine 2000 can be
used with an overlay applicator, such as overlay applicator 100
(FIG. 1), to apply an overlay, such as overlay 130 (FIG. 1), to the
device. Machine 2000 also can be used with other overlay
applicators (e.g., overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6). Machine 2000 can be similar to
machine 800 (FIGS. 8-14) and various components or constructions of
machine 2000 can be substantially identical or similar to various
components of machine 800 (FIGS. 8-14), but can include variations
in the roller assembly and the overlay cover. The operation of
machine 2000 can be similar to the operation of machine 800 (FIGS.
8-14).
[0165] In many embodiments, machine 2000 can include a base 2010, a
carriage 2030, and a handle assembly 2050, and can operate in a
substantially similar manner to the operation of base 810, carriage
830 and handle assembly 850, respectively, of machine 800 (FIGS.
8-14). Base 2010 can extend from a first side 2019 to a second side
2018. Carriage 2030 can be configured to hold a cradle 2032, which
can be substantially similar to cradle 832 (FIGS. 8-14). Carriage
2030 can be used with various different cradles, which can be
configured for different devices. Cradle 2032 can include an
alignment base 2035, which can engage with alignment mechanism 115
(FIG. 1).
[0166] Carriage 2030 can include an overlay cover 2036, which can
cover overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1) and can hold overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1) to cradle 2032. In many embodiments, the
device can be placed in cradle 2032, with the screen of the device
facing up, as shown in FIGS. 20-22. Overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1)
can be placed on cradle 2032, such that alignment mechanism 115
(FIG. 1) engages with alignment base 2035. Overlay cover 2036 can
be placed over overlay applicator 100. Overlay cover 2036 can be
attached to carriage 2030 at an end of carriage 2030 closer to
first end 2019, and/or can be attached with a hinge 2037. In other
embodiments, overlay cover 2036 can be attached instead to cradle
2032. In many embodiments, hinge 2037 can be a spring-loaded hinge,
which can bias overlay cover to cover overlay applicator 100 (FIG.
1). In other embodiments, overlay cover 2036 can include a snap or
other attachment mechanism on the side opposite hinge 2037. Overlay
cover 2036 can hold overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1) within a
predetermined distance from the device screen and can provide
sufficient pressure to wiper 157 (FIG. 1) as it is pulled in order
to clean the screen of the device.
[0167] Overlay cover 2036 can include a frame 2071 extending around
a cover sheet 2072. Frame 2071 and/or cover sheet 2072 can be
substantially rectangular. In many embodiments, cover sheet 2072
can be a piece of flexible or semi-flexible plastic. Cover sheet
2072 can be configured to press wiper 157 (FIG. 1) downward toward
the screen of the device as wiper 157 (FIG. 1) moves across the
screen of the device. In a number of embodiments, cover sheet 2072
can to secure overlay 130 (FIG. 1) proximate to the screen of the
device. Cover sheet 2072 can be approximately 1.5 mm. In a number
of embodiments, cover sheet 2072 can include a tongue 2073, which
can be formed by two slits 2074 through the thickness of cover
sheet 2072. In some embodiments, cover sheet 2072 can be attached
to frame 2071 around the entire perimeter of frame 2071 except at a
tongue interface 2075 in which tongue 2073 contacts frame 2071.
Tongue 2073 can be centered between the sides of cover sheet 2072
and/or can extend through cover sheet 2072 from the side of
opposite hinge 2037 partially toward of hinge 2037. Tongue 2073 can
be configured to cover overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1) proximate to
the leading edge of overlay 130 (FIG. 3), near alignment mechanism
115 (FIG. 1). Tongue 2073 can include a central pad 2076. Central
pad 2076 can be made of foam or an elastomeric material.
[0168] Base 2010 can include a roller assembly 2020. Roller
assembly 2020 can be similar to roller assembly 820 (FIGS. 8-14).
Roller assembly 2020 can include roller assembly supports 2023
and/or a roller cross support 2021. Roller assembly supports 2023
can be attached to base 2010 and extend upward or away from base
2010 to provide support for roller cross support 2021. Roller
assembly supports 2023 can be configured such that carriage 2030
can slide back and forth between roller assembly supports 2023 and
under roller cross support 2021. Roller cross support 2021 can be
attached to roller assembly supports 2023 at axle 2024. Roller
cross support 2021 can include a roller 2025, which can have a
central roller surface 2026 with a width less than or equal to the
width of tongue 2073 and can roll across the center between the two
sides of overlay cover 2036. Roller 2025 can include one or more
side rollers surfaces 2027, which can roll along the sides of frame
2071. In some embodiments, axle 2024 can be spring-loaded to
provide downward pressure for roller 2025 as central roller surface
2026 rolls over overlay cover 2036.
[0169] In some embodiments, as handle assembly 2050 is extended and
carriage 2030 moves from first side 2019 to second side 2018,
central roller surface 2026 can roll along the central top side of
overlay cover 2036. In many embodiments, as handle assembly 2050 is
extended and pull tab 150 is pulled, wiper 157 (FIG. 1) is pulled
away from the leading edge of overlay cover 2036 opposite hinge
2037, such that wiper 157 (FIG. 1) can be beyond the region near
tongue interface 2075 when central roller surface 2026 first
contacts tongue 2073 at tongue interface 2075. In many embodiments,
as central roller surface 2026 rolls over tongue 2073, as shown in
FIG. 21, it can provide sufficient pressure to depress tongue 2073
to adhere the exposed adhesive of overlay 130 (FIG. 1) to the
surface of the device and push out air bubbles. Central pad 2076
can distribute the pressure to and provide a controlled pressure at
the leading edge of overlay 130 (FIG. 1) near tongue interface
2075. By providing a solid adherence between overlay 130 (FIG. 1)
and the screen of the device in the middle, the adhesive of overlay
130 (FIG. 1) can wet out to adhere toward the edges of overlay 130
(FIG. 1).
[0170] In many embodiments, one or both sides of frame 2071 can
include a cam 2077. In some embodiments, cam 2077 can be configured
to raise roller 2025, such as by side rollers 2027 rolling over the
ramp and raised portions of cam 2077, so as to prevent central
roller surface 2026 from pressing down on overlay cover 2036. In
many embodiments, after central roller surface 2026 rolls over the
length of tongue 2073, cam 2077 can raise roller 2025, which can
disengage roller surface 2026 from overlay cover 2036 and allow
machine 2000 to more easily pull away adhesive release liner 140
(FIG. 1) under the portion of overlay cover 2036 near hinge 2037,
as shown in FIG. 22. Cam 2077 can be located proximate to the
trailing edge of overlay 130 opposite from alignment mechanism 115
(FIG. 1).
[0171] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 23 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 2300 of providing an overlay
applicator. Method 2300 is merely exemplary and is not limited to
the embodiments presented herein. Method 2300 can be employed in
many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 2300 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 2300 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 2300 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
overlay applicator can be similar or identical to overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7),
and/or overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15).
[0172] Referring to FIG. 23, method 2300 can include a block 2301
of providing an overlay. In many embodiments, the overlay can be
similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS.
4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay
1530 (FIG. 15). In a number of embodiments, the overlay can have a
top side and a bottom side. The top side of the overlay can be
similar or identical to top side 131 (FIG. 1) of overlay 130 (FIG.
1). The bottom side of the overlay can be similar or identical to
bottom side 132 (FIG. 1) of overlay 130 (FIG. 1). In various
embodiments, the bottom side can include an adhesive agent
configured to adhere to a screen of an electronic device.
[0173] In some embodiments, method 2300 can include a block 2302 of
providing an adhesive release liner. The adhesive release liner can
be similar or identical to adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1),
adhesive release liner 440 (FIGS. 4-5), adhesive release liner 640
(FIG. 6), adhesive release liner 740 (FIG. 7); and/or adhesive
release liner 1540 (FIG. 15). In a number of embodiments, the
adhesive release liner can have a top side and a bottom side. The
top side of the adhesive release liner can be removably attached to
the bottom side of the overlay. In some embodiments, the adhesive
release liner can be configured to protect the adhesive agent at
the bottom side of the overlay from contaminants.
[0174] In a number of embodiments, method 2300 can include a block
2303 of providing a protective film. In some embodiments, the
protective film can be similar or identical to protective film 120
(FIG. 1), protective film 420 (FIGS. 4-5), protective film 620
(FIG. 6), protective film 720 (FIG. 7), and/or protective film 1520
(FIG. 15). In many embodiments, the protective film can be
removably attached to the top side of the overlay.
[0175] In many embodiments, method 2300 can include a block 2304 of
providing an alignment tab. In some embodiments, the alignment tab
can be similar or identical to alignment tab 110 (FIG. 1),
alignment tab 410 (FIGS. 4-5), alignment tab 610 (FIG. 6),
alignment frame 710 (FIG. 7), and/or alignment flaps 1510 (FIG.
15). In many embodiments, the alignment tab can include an
alignment mechanism. The alignment mechanism can be similar or
identical to alignment mechanism 115 (FIG. 1), alignment mechanism
415 (FIG. 4), alignment mechanism 615 (FIG. 6), alignment mechanism
715 (FIG. 7), and/or alignment mechanism 1515 (FIG. 15). In various
embodiments, the alignment mechanism of the alignment tab can be
configured to engage with an alignment base, such as alignment base
212 (FIG. 2), alignment base 312 (FIG. 3), alignment base 835
(FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base 1632 (FIGS. 16-19), and/or
alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20), to align the overlay with the screen
of the electronic device.
[0176] In a number of embodiments, the alignment tab can include a
top layer that is integral with the protective film, a middle layer
attached to the top layer; and a bottom layer attached to the
middle layer. In some embodiments, method 2300 of providing the
overlay applicator can include providing a cut between the middle
layer of the alignment tab and the overlay, and between the bottom
layer of the alignment tab and the adhesive release liner.
[0177] In various embodiments, the alignment tab can include a top
layer and a bottom layer attached to the top layer. In some
embodiments, method 2300 of providing the overlay applicator can
include providing a cut between the top layer of the alignment tab
and the protective film, and between the bottom layer of the
alignment tab and the overlay. In certain embodiments, method 2300
of providing the overlay applicator can include providing a sticker
attached to and spanning the cut between the protective film and
the top layer of the alignment tab.
[0178] In some embodiments, the alignment tab can include an
alignment frame extending around each side of the overlay. In
several embodiments, the alignment frame can be integral with the
protective film. In a number of embodiments, the alignment frame
can include the alignment mechanism. In various embodiments, the
alignment mechanism can include at least six holes.
[0179] In a number of embodiments, the alignment tab can include
alignment flaps extending at each corner of the overlay. In certain
embodiments, the alignment flaps can be integral with the
protective film. In various embodiments, the alignment flaps can
include alignment mechanism.
[0180] In several embodiments, method 2300 can include a block 2305
of providing a pull tab. In some embodiments, the pull tab can be
similar or identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450 (FIGS.
4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIG. 7), and/or pull tab
1550 (FIG. 15). In many embodiments, the pull tab can include a
wiper. The wiper can be similar or identical to wiper 157 (FIG. 1),
wiper 457 (FIG. 4), wiper 657 (FIG. 6), and/or wiper 757 (FIG. 7).
In certain embodiments, the pull tab can be integral with the
adhesive release liner. In many embodiments, the pull tab,
including the wiper, and the adhesive release liner can be
configured such that the pull tab can be folded across the bottom
side of the adhesive release liner and be pulled to remove the
adhesive release liner from the bottom side of the overlay to
expose the adhesive agent. In several embodiments, the pull tab,
including the wiper, and the adhesive release liner can be
configured such that when the pull tab is pulled, the wiper can be
configured to wipe across and clean the screen of the electronic
device. In several embodiments the pull tab, including the wiper,
and the adhesive release liner can be configured such that when the
pull tab is pulled, the wiper can be configured to wipe across a
length of the screen of the electronic device that is greater than
a width of the screen of the electronic device.
[0181] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 24 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 2400 of providing a machine.
Method 2400 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 2400 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 2400 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 2400 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 2400 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
machine can be similar or identical to machine 800 (FIGS. 8-14)
and/or machine 2000 (FIGS. 20-22).
[0182] Referring to FIG. 24, method 2400 can include a block 2401
of providing a base. In many embodiments, the base can be similar
or identical to base 810 (FIGS. 8-14) and/or base 2010 (FIGS.
20-22). In various embodiments, the base can include a roller
assembly. The roller assembly can be similar or identical to roller
assembly 820 (FIGS. 8-14) and or roller assembly 2020 (FIGS.
20-22). The roller assembly can include one or more rollers, such
as the first roller surface or second roller surface 828 (FIGS. 8,
11, 13), central roller surface 2026 (FIGS. 20-22), and/or side
roller surfaces 2027 (FIGS. 20-22).
[0183] In some embodiments, method 2400 can include a block 2402 of
providing a carriage. The carriage can be similar or identical to
carriage 830 (FIGS. 8-14) and/or carriage 2030 (FIGS. 20-22). In a
number of embodiments, the carriage can include a first cradle. The
first cradle can be similar or identical to cradle 832 (FIGS. 8-9,
12-14) and/or cradle 2032 (FIG. 20). The first cradle can be
configured to securely hold a first electronic device. In many
embodiments, the carriage can include an alignment base. The
alignment base can be similar or identical to alignment base 212
(FIG. 2), alignment base 312 (FIG. 3), alignment base 835 (FIGS.
8-9, 13-14), alignment base 1632 (FIGS. 16-19), and/or alignment
base 2035 (FIG. 20). The alignment base can be configured to engage
with an alignment mechanism, such as alignment mechanism 115 (FIG.
1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIG. 4), alignment mechanism 615 (FIG.
6), alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7), and/or alignment mechanism
1515 (FIG. 15), of an overlay applicator, such as overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7),
and/or overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15).
[0184] In a number of embodiments, method 2400 can include a block
2403 of providing a handle assembly. The handle assembly can be
similar or identical to handle assembly 850 (FIGS. 8-14) and/or
handle assembly 2050 (FIGS. 20-22). In some embodiments, the handle
assembly can include a handle. The handle can be similar or
identical to handle 855 (FIGS. 8-9, 11-14). In several embodiments,
the handle assembly can include a pulling mechanism. The pulling
mechanism can be similar or identical to pulling mechanism 856
(FIGS. 8-9, 11-14) and/or pulling mechanism 1741 (FIGS. 17, 19). In
a number of embodiments, the pulling mechanism can be configured to
engage with a pull tab, such as pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450
(FIGS. 4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIG. 7), and/or
pull tab 1550 (FIG. 15), of the overlay applicator.
[0185] In many embodiments, the machine can be configured such that
the handle assembly can be pulled in a first direction relative to
the base from a first handle position to a second handle position.
In many embodiments, the machine can be configured such that when
the handle assembly is moved from the first handle position to the
second handle position, the carriage can move in a second direction
relative to the base from a first carriage position to a second
carriage position. The second direction can be opposite the first
direction. In several embodiments, the machine can be configured
such that when the alignment base is engaged with the alignment
mechanism of the overlay applicator, the pulling mechanism is
engaged with the pull tab of the overlay applicator, the first
cradle is holding the first electronic device, and the handle
assembly is pulled in the first direction relative to the base from
the first handle position to the second handle position, an
adhesive release liner of the overlay applicator can be removed
from an overlay of the overlay applicator starting at a leading
edge of the overlay and continuing to a trailing edge of the
overlay to expose an adhesive agent of the overlay of the overlay
applicator to a screen of the first electronic device.
[0186] In some embodiments, the machine can be configured such that
when the carriage moves from the first carriage position to the
second carriage position, the one or more rollers can be configured
to roll over and press downward on the overlay applicator to adhere
the exposed adhesive agent of the overlay to the screen of the
first electronic device. In a number of embodiments, method 2400
can include providing an overlay cover. The overlay cover can be
similar or identical to overlay cover 836 (FIGS. 8-9, 12-14) and/or
overlay cover 2036 (FIGS. 20-22). In various embodiments, the
overlay cover can be configured to secure the overlay applicator to
the alignment base when the alignment mechanism of the overlay
applicator is engaged with the alignment base.
[0187] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 25 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 2500 of providing a machine.
Method 2500 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 2500 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 2500 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 2500 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 2500 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
machine can be similar or identical to machine 1600 (FIGS.
16-19).
[0188] Referring to FIG. 25, method 2500 can include a block 2501
of providing a base. In many embodiments, the base can be similar
or identical to base 1610 (FIGS. 16-19).
[0189] In some embodiments, method 2500 can include a block 2502 of
providing a cradle. The cradle can be similar or identical to
cradle 1620 (FIG. 16). The cradle can be configured to securely
hold a first electronic device.
[0190] In a number of embodiments, method 2500 can include a block
2503 of providing an alignment piece. The alignment piece can be
similar or identical to first frame 1630 (FIGS. 16-19). In many
embodiments, the alignment piece can be hingedly attached to the
base. In several embodiments, the alignment piece can include an
alignment base. The alignment base can be similar or identical to
alignment base 212 (FIG. 2), alignment base 312 (FIG. 3), alignment
base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base 1632 (FIGS. 16-19),
and/or alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20). The alignment base can be
configured to engage with an alignment mechanism, such as alignment
mechanism 115 (FIG. 1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIG. 4), alignment
mechanism 615 (FIG. 6), alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7), and/or
alignment mechanism 1515 (FIG. 15), of an overlay applicator, such
as overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS.
4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG.
7), and/or overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15).
[0191] In a number of embodiments, method 2500 can include a block
2504 of providing a pulling piece. The puling piece can be similar
or identical to second frame 1640 (FIGS. 16-19). In many
embodiments, the pulling piece can be hingedly attached to the
base. In several embodiments, the pulling piece can include a
pulling mechanism. The pulling mechanism can be similar or
identical to pulling mechanism 856 (FIGS. 8-9, 11-14) and/or
pulling mechanism 1741 (FIGS. 17, 19). In a number of embodiments,
the pulling mechanism can be configured to engage with a pull tab,
such as pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450 (FIGS. 4-5), pull tab
650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIG. 7), and/or pull tab 1550 (FIG.
15), of the overlay applicator.
[0192] In some embodiments, the machine can be configured such that
the pulling piece can be rotated relative to the base in a first
direction from a first pulling piece position to a second pulling
piece position. The first pulling piece position can be proximate
to the cradle. In many embodiments, the machine can be configured
such that the alignment piece can be rotated relative to the base
in the first direction from a first alignment piece position to a
second alignment piece position. The second alignment piece
position can be proximate to the cradle. In many embodiments, the
machine can be configured such that when the alignment base is
engaged with the alignment mechanism of the overlay applicator, the
pulling mechanism is engaged with the pull tab of the overlay
applicator, the cradle is holding the first electronic device, and
the pulling piece is rotated relative to the base in the first
direction from the first pulling piece position to the second
pulling piece position, the alignment piece can be rotated relative
to the base in the first direction from the first alignment piece
position to the second alignment piece position to pull the pull
tab of the overlay applicator, and an adhesive release liner of the
overlay applicator can be removed from an overlay of the overlay
applicator to expose an adhesive agent of an overlay to a screen of
the first electronic device.
[0193] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 26 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 2600 of using an overlay
applicator to apply an overlay to a screen of an electronic device.
Method 2600 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 2600 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 2600 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 2600 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 2600 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
overlay applicator can be similar or identical to overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7),
and/or overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15). In many embodiments, the
overlay can be similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1),
overlay 430 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG.
7), and/or overlay 1530 (FIG. 15).
[0194] Referring to FIG. 26, method 2600 can include a block 2601
of attaching the overlay applicator to a first apparatus. In some
embodiments, the first apparatus can be a frame. The frame can be
similar or identical to frame 210 (FIG. 2). In many embodiments,
the first apparatus can be a cradle. The cradle can be similar or
identical to cradle 310 (FIG. 3), cradle 832 (FIGS. 8-9, 12-14)
and/or cradle 2032 (FIG. 20). In several embodiments, the first
apparatus can be a machine. The machine can be similar or identical
to machine 800 (FIGS. 8-14), machine 1600 (FIGS. 16-19), and/or
machine 2000 (FIGS. 20-22). In many embodiments, the first
apparatus can securely hold the electronic device.
[0195] In many embodiments, the overlay applicator can include an
overlay. In many embodiments, the overlay can be similar or
identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay
630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay 1530 (FIG. 15).
In a number of embodiments, the overlay can have a top side and a
bottom side. The top side of the overlay can be similar or
identical to top side 131 (FIG. 1) of overlay 130 (FIG. 1). The
bottom side of the overlay can be similar or identical to bottom
side 132 (FIG. 1) of overlay 130 (FIG. 1). In various embodiments,
the bottom side can include an adhesive agent configured to adhere
to the screen of the electronic device.
[0196] In a number of embodiments, the overlay applicator can
include an adhesive release liner. The adhesive release liner can
be similar or identical to adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1),
adhesive release liner 440 (FIGS. 4-5), adhesive release liner 640
(FIG. 6), adhesive release liner 740 (FIG. 7); and/or adhesive
release liner 1540 (FIG. 15). In a number of embodiments, the
adhesive release liner can have a top side and a bottom side. The
top side of the adhesive release liner can be removably attached to
the bottom side of the overlay. In some embodiments, the adhesive
release liner can be configured to protect the adhesive agent at
the bottom side of the overlay from contaminants.
[0197] In several embodiments, the overlay applicator can include a
protective film. In some embodiments, the protective film can be
similar or identical to protective film 120 (FIG. 1), protective
film 420 (FIGS. 4-5), protective film 620 (FIG. 6), protective film
720 (FIG. 7), and/or protective film 1520 (FIG. 15). In many
embodiments, the protective film can be removably attached to the
top side of the overlay.
[0198] In various embodiments, the overlay applicator can include
an alignment tab. In some embodiments, the alignment tab can be
similar or identical to alignment tab 110 (FIG. 1), alignment tab
410 (FIGS. 4-5), alignment tab 610 (FIG. 6), alignment frame 710
(FIG. 7), and/or alignment flaps 1510 (FIG. 15). In many
embodiments, the alignment tab can include an alignment mechanism.
The alignment mechanism can be similar or identical to alignment
mechanism 115 (FIG. 1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIG. 4), alignment
mechanism 615 (FIG. 6), alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7), and/or
alignment mechanism 1515 (FIG. 15). In various embodiments, the
alignment mechanism of the alignment tab can be configured to
engage with an alignment base, such as alignment base 212 (FIG. 2),
alignment base 312 (FIG. 3), alignment base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14),
alignment base 1632 (FIGS. 16-19), and/or alignment base 2035 (FIG.
20), of the first apparatus.
[0199] In several embodiments, the overlay applicator can include a
pull tab. In some embodiments, the pull tab can be similar or
identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450 (FIGS. 4-5), pull
tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIG. 7), and/or pull tab 1550 (FIG.
15). In many embodiments, the pull tab can include a wiper. The
wiper can be similar or identical to wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457
(FIG. 4), wiper 657 (FIG. 6), and/or wiper 757 (FIG. 7).
[0200] In some embodiments, method 2600 can include a block 2602 of
pulling the pull tab across the bottom side of the adhesive release
liner to remove the adhesive release liner from the bottom side of
the overlay to expose the adhesive agent to the screen of the
electronic device.
[0201] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGS. 27-30 illustrate a
perspective view of components of an overlay applicator 3000, which
is shown in its entirety in FIG. 30, and illustrate a method of
constructing overlay applicator 3000. Overlay applicator 3000 is
merely exemplary and embodiments of the overlay applicator are not
limited to embodiments presented herein. The overlay applicator can
be employed in many different embodiments or examples not
specifically depicted or described herein. Overlay applicator 3000
can be similar to overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay
applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6),
overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay applicator 1500
(FIG. 15), and various components and/or constructions of overlay
applicator 3000 can be substantially identical or similar to
various components of overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay
applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6),
overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay applicator 1500
(FIG. 15).
[0202] As shown in FIG. 27, overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30) can
be constructed to include an adhesive release liner 2740 and a pull
tab 2750. In some embodiments, pull tab 2750 can be integral with
release liner 2740 and can be a single layer of material, such as
plastic, paper, or another suitable liner film. Pull tab 2750 can
facilitate removal of adhesive release liner 2740. Pull tab 2750
can be at a second side 2758 of the material and adhesive release
liner 2740 can be at a first side 2759. Pull tab 2750 can include a
pulling aid 2756, which can be similar to pulling aid 156 (FIG. 1),
pulling aid 456 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or pulling aid 1556 (FIG. 15).
Release liner 2740 also can include a speaker slot 2723, a button
slot 2724, and/or one or more other slots for a front side camera,
a camera flash, a status indicator, etc. Pull tab 2750 and adhesive
release liner 2740 can be cut as one piece of material, and pulling
aid 2756, speaker slot 2723, button slot 2724, etc., can be cut out
from pull tab 2750 and adhesive release liner 2740.
[0203] In a number of embodiments, after cutting pull tab 2750 and
adhesive release liner 2740, such as shown in FIG. 27, a wiper 2857
can be added to pull tab 2750, as shown in FIG. 28. Wiper 2857 can
remove dust from the screen of the device, and can be similar to
wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457 (FIGS. 4-5), wiper 657 (FIG. 6),
and/or wiper 757 (FIG. 7).
[0204] In various embodiments, after adhering or otherwise
attaching wiper 2857 to pull tab 2750, construction of overlay
applicator 3000 (FIG. 30) can include adhering and/or attaching
layers of material for overlay 2930 and protective film 2920, as
shown in FIG. 29. Protective film 2920 can be similar to protective
film 120 (FIG. 1), protective film 420 (FIGS. 4-5), protective film
620 (FIG. 6), protective film 720 (FIG. 7) and/or protective film
1520 (FIG. 15). Overlay 2930 can be similar to overlay 130 (FIG.
1), overlay 430 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730
(FIG. 7), and/or overlay 1530 (FIG. 15). In a number of
embodiments, overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30) can include an
alignment tab 2910, a device portion 2970 and/or a tail portion
2990. Alignment tab 2910 can be similar to alignment tab 110 (FIG.
1), alignment tab 410 (FIG. 4), and/or alignment tab 610 (FIG. 6).
Device portion 2970 can be similar to device portion 470 (FIGS.
4-5) and/or device portion 670 (FIG. 6). In some embodiments,
device portion 2970 and alignment tab 2910 can be made of the
layers used for protective film 2920, overlay 2930, and adhesive
release liner 2740. Alignment tab 2910 can include an alignment
mechanism 2915, which can be similar to alignment mechanism 115
(FIG. 1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIGS. 4-5), and/or alignment
mechanism 615 (FIG. 6), and which can facilitate aligning alignment
tab 2910, protective film 2920, overlay 2930, and adhesive release
liner 2740 with various features of the device during application
of overlay 2930.
[0205] After attaching the layers, protective film 2920 and overlay
2930 can be kiss cut to predetermined dimensions of alignment tab
2910, device portion 2970, and/or tail portion 2990, without
cutting adhesive release liner 2740 and/or pull tab 2750. In some
embodiments, excess material from the layers for protective film
2920 and overlay 2930 can be removed. In various embodiments, the
kiss cutting of device portion 2970, alignment tab 2910, and tail
portion 2990 to size at the layers of protective film 2920 and
overlay 2930 can include cutting speaker slot 2723, button slot
2724, and other slots, as described above, and/or cutting alignment
mechanism 2915. The kiss cutting can also include cutting an
interface slit 2960 between alignment tab 2910 and device portion
2970, and/or cutting a tail slit 2991 between device portion 2970
and tail portion 2990, such that the kiss cutting is through the
layers of protective film 2920 and overlay 2930, but not through
adhesive release liner 2740. As a result of the kiss cut, the
dimensions of device portion 2970 at overlay 2930 and protective
film 2920 can be approximately equal or similar to the dimensions
of the screen of the device.
[0206] As shown in FIG. 30, in a number of embodiments, after kiss
cutting alignment tab 2910, device portion 2970, and tail portion
2990 to size at the layers of protective film 2920 and overlay
2930, and cutting interface slit 2960 and tail slit 2991,
construction of overlay applicator 3000 can include adhering a
joining sticker 3080 on top of the layer of protective film 2920 to
span interface slit 2960 and join device portion 2970 of protective
film 2920 with the top layer of alignment tab 2910, as shown in
FIG. 30. Joining sticker 3080 can help maintain alignment between
alignment tab 2910 and device portion 2970, which can
advantageously maintain alignment during application of overlay
2930. In many embodiments, joining sticker 3080 does not stretch or
distort, which can advantageously facilitate alignment of alignment
mechanism 2915 with overlay 2930, such that overlay 2930 can be
accurately positioned on the screen of the device.
[0207] In certain embodiments, after joining sticker 3080 has been
attached between alignment tab 2910 and device portion 2970, pull
tab 2750 can be folded back, such that second side 2758 is folded
beneath adhesive release liner 2740 to first side 2759. Pull tab
2750 and adhesive release liner 2740 can be peeled back off of at
least a portion of alignment tab 2910, such that alignment
mechanism 2915 is uncovered by adhesive release liner 2740,
allowing alignment mechanism to engage with an alignment base, such
as alignment base 212 (FIG. 2) or alignment base 312 (FIG. 3),
alignment base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base 1632 (FIGS.
16-19), alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20) and/or alignment base 3112
(FIG. 31, described below). The process of kiss cutting the layers
at protective film 2920 and overlay 2930 can advantageously provide
a simpler method of constructing overlay applicator 3000, and/or
can provide overlay applicator 3000 with a very accurate alignment
of alignment mechanism 2915 with respect to overlay 2930 and its
features.
[0208] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 31 illustrates a
perspective view of a cradle 3100 that can be used with an overlay
applicator, such as overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30), to apply an
overlay, such as overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30), to a device. FIG. 32
illustrates a top view of cradle 3100 being used with overlay
applicator 3000. FIG. 33 illustrates a side view of cradle 3100
being used with overlay applicator 3000. FIG. 34 illustrates a
partial cross-sectional view of cradle 3100 being used with overlay
applicator 3000 and a device. Cradle 3100 is merely exemplary and
embodiments of the cradle are not limited to embodiments presented
herein. The cradle can be employed in many different embodiments or
examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In many
embodiments, cradle 3100 can include an alignment base 3112, which
can engage with alignment mechanism 2915, as shown in FIG. 32. In
some embodiments, alignment base 3112 can be one or more
protrusions that can fit inside the one or more slots of alignment
mechanism 2915. Alignment base 3112 and alignment mechanism 2915
can be configured and positioned such that when alignment mechanism
2915 is engaged with alignment base 3112, overlay 2930 (FIGS.
29-30) can be positioned directly above the screen of the device
held by cradle 3100, and aligned such that overlay 2930 (FIGS.
29-30) will be adhered in an accurate position on the screen when
adhesive release liner 2740 is removed, as described below.
[0209] In many embodiments, cradle 3100 can include a bottom frame
3110, side frames 3120, corner frames 3130, and/or an end frame
3140. Side frames 3120, corner frames 3130, and/or end frame 3140
can provide a device slot 3111 for a device by partially or fully
providing support along the sides and/or ends of the device, and
can be positioned so as to provide a snug fit for the device to
prevent movement of the device with respect to other portions of
cradle 3100.
[0210] In certain embodiments, corner frames 3130 can provide a
corner support for the device, and can be attached to bottom frame
3110. In many embodiments, each corner frame 3130 can include a
corner end 3132 that can be configured to extend around an end of
the device, and can provide a corner slot 3131 between corner end
3132 and bottom frame 3110. Corner slots 3131 can allow overlay
applicator 3000 to extend under and be secured by corner end 3132,
as shown in FIGS. 32-33.
[0211] In a number of embodiments, end frame 3140 can provide
corner supports for the device, and can be attached to bottom frame
3110 at end frame attachments 3143. In some embodiments, end frame
3140 can include an end bar 3142, which can provide an end slot
3141 between end bar 3142 and bottom frame 3110. End slot 3141 can
allow overlay applicator to 3000 to extend under and be secured by
end bar 3142, as shown in FIGS. 32-33. In a number of embodiments,
end frame attachments 3143 can provide side supports for overlay
applicator 3000, which can help to keep overlay applicator 3000
within end slot 3141 and properly aligned with respect to the
device held by cradle 3100.
[0212] In some embodiments, cradle 3100 can include a central
support 3150, which can be positioned between the sides of cradle
3100 and can extend from one end to the other end of the device
when the device is held by cradle 3100 in device slot 3111. Central
support 3150 can be made of foam or an elastomeric material.
Central support 3150 can provide support for overlay applicator
3000 and press overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) against the screen of the
device as adhesive release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) is peeled away
from overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30), as described below.
[0213] As shown in FIGS. 32-33, overlay applicator 3000 can be
placed on cradle 3100 such that alignment base 3112 can engage with
alignment mechanism 2915. Overlay applicator 3000 can extend
through corner slots 3131 and end slot 3141. Overlay applicator
3000 can be positioned on cradle 3100 such that protective film
2920 is placed against central support 3150, and adhesive release
liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) and pull tab 2750 are above protective
film 2920. Pull tab 2750 can be folded back across adhesive release
liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30), such that alignment tab 2910 is partially
or fully uncovered and wiper 2857 is face up. When overlay
applicator 3000 is placed on cradle 3100, central support 3150
(FIG. 31) can support overlay applicator 3000 above bottom frame
3110 of cradle 3100. Joining sticker 3080 can be positioned near
the region of corner slots 3131. Device portion 2970 can be
positioned between corner frames 3130 and end frame 3140, and tail
portion 2990 can extend through, be supported within, and/or be
positioned within end slot 3141. In a number of embodiments, pull
tab 2750 can extend past the end of tail portion 2990, which can
allow a user to pull on pull tab 2750 to remove adhesive release
liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30).
[0214] As shown in the cross-section cut-out in FIG. 34, after
overlap applicator 3000 is placed on cradle 3100, a device, such as
device 3401, can be placed on overlay applicator 3000 within slot
3111 of cradle 3100, with the screen of device 3401 facing downward
against pull tab 2750. Device 3401 can be cradled within slot 3111.
As shown in FIG. 34, central support 3150 can support overlay
applicator 3000 above bottom frame 3110 of cradle 3100. Side frames
3120 can each include a beveled edge 3421, which can support device
3401 above bottom frame 3110. The inner width between each of side
frames 3120 be wider than overlay applicator 3000, as shown in FIG.
34, but can be narrower than the width of device 3401.
[0215] After device 3401 is secured within slot 3111 above overlay
applicator 3000, as shown in FIG. 34, pull tab 2750 can be pulled
to pull wiper 2857 (FIG. 28-30) across the screen of device 3401
and to remove adhesive release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30). Central
support 3150 can provide pressure against protective film 2920
(FIGS. 29-30) to press wiper 2857 against the screen of device 3401
as it is wiped across the screen of device 3401. As adhesive
release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) is pulled, it can be folded across
itself, can move along the screen of device 3401, and can expose
the adhesive on overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) to the screen of device
3401. Central support 3150 can be depressed slightly as the fold in
adhesive release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) moves from one end to the
other end of device 3401, and can rebound to provide pressure
against protective film 2920 (FIGS. 29-30) to press the overlay
2930 (FIGS. 29-30) against the screen of device 3401 as it is
exposed. Central support 3150 can advantageously allow the center
of overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) to be adhered and can facilitate
removing any air bubbles at the center of overlay 2930 (FIGS.
29-30). Beginning the adhesion of overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) to
device 3401 at the center can advantageously allow the remainder of
overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) to be accurately adhered to the screen
of device 3401 without wrinkles and/or with minimal or no
bubbles.
[0216] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 35 illustrates a
perspective view of a machine 3500 that can be used with an overlay
applicator 3550 to apply an overlay to a device. FIG. 36
illustrates a perspective view of machine 3500 with the slider
being used to apply pressure to the overlay. Machine 3500 is merely
exemplary and embodiments of the machine are not limited to
embodiments presented herein. The machine can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. Overlay applicator 3550 is merely exemplary and
embodiments of the overlay applicator are not limited to
embodiments presented herein. The overlay applicator can be
employed in many different embodiment or examples not specifically
depicted or described herein. Overlay applicator 3550 can be
similar to overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400
(FIGS. 4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator
700 (FIG. 7), overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay
applicator 3000 (FIG. 30), and various components and/or
constructions of overlay applicator 3550 can be substantially
identical or similar to various components of overlay applicator
100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay
applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7), overlay
applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay applicator 3000 (FIG.
30).
[0217] In some embodiments, overlay applicator 3550 can include an
adhesive release liner (not shown), a pull tab 3555, an overlay
(not shown), and/or a protective film 3552. In some embodiments,
pull tab 3555 can be integral with the adhesive release liner and
can be a single layer of material, such as plastic, paper, or
another suitable liner film. Pull tab 3555 can facilitate removal
of the adhesive release liner from the overlay. In a number of
embodiments, overlay applicator 3550 can include alignment tabs
3556. Alignment tabs 3556 can be located at each end of overlay
applicator 3550 and/or can be located at each end of a device
portion 3560 of overlay applicator 3550. Device portion 3560 can be
similar to device portion 470 (FIGS. 4-5), device portion 670 (FIG.
6), and/or device portion 2970 (FIGS. 29-30). In some embodiments,
device portion 3560 and alignment tabs 3556 can be made of the
layers used for protective film 3552, the overlay, and/or the
adhesive release liner. Each of alignment tabs 3556 can include an
alignment mechanism 3557, which can be similar to alignment
mechanism 115 (FIG. 1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIGS. 4-5),
alignment mechanism 615 (FIG. 6), and/or alignment mechanism 2915
(FIGS. 29-30), and which can facilitate aligning alignment tab
3556, protective film 3552, the overlay, and the adhesive release
liner with various features of the device during application of the
overlay.
[0218] Protective film 3552 and the overlay can be kiss cut to
predetermined dimensions of alignment tabs 3556 and device portion
3560, without cutting the adhesive release liner and/or pull tab
3555. In some embodiments, excess material from the layers for
protective film 3552 and the overlay can be removed. In some
embodiments, the kiss cutting of device portion 3560 and alignment
tabs 3556 to size at the layers of protective film 3552 and the
overlay can include cutting speaker slots, button slots, and/or
other slots, as described above, and/or cutting alignment mechanism
3557. The kiss cutting can also include cutting interface slits
3558 between alignment tabs 3556 and device portion 3560, such that
the cutting is through the layers of protective film 3552 and the
overlay, but not the adhesive release liner. As a result of the
kiss cut, the dimensions of device portion 3560 at the overlay and
protective film 3552 can be approximately equal or similar to the
dimensions of the screen of the device.
[0219] In a number of embodiments, after the kiss cutting,
construction of overlay applicator 3550 can include adhering
joining stickers 3559 on the top the layer of protective film 3552
to span interface slits 3558 and join device portion 3560 of
protective film 3552 with the top layer of alignment tabs 3556, as
shown in FIG. 35. Joining stickers 3559 can help maintain alignment
between alignment tabs 3556 and device portion 3560, which can
advantageously maintain alignment during application of the
overlay. In many embodiments, joining stickers 3559 does not
stretch or distort, which can advantageously facilitate alignment
of alignment mechanisms 3557 with the overlay, such that the
overlay can be accurately positioned on the screen of the device.
In certain embodiments, after joining stickers 3559 have been
attached between alignment tabs 3556 and device portion 3560, pull
tab 3555 can be folded back beneath the adhesive release liner, as
described above in other embodiments.
[0220] In many embodiments, machine 3500 can include a base 3510, a
cradle 3520, and a slider 3530. Base 3510 can extend from a first
end 3511 to a second end 3512. In some embodiments, base 3510 can
be used with multiple different cradles, which can be used for
different devices. Cradle 3520 can include a recess 3521 in which a
device can be placed with screen facing upwards or away from recess
3521. Recess 3521 can have sides and a bottom, and cradle 3520 can
have a thickness greater than the thickness of the device. In many
embodiments, recess 3521 is conformal with the device.
[0221] In some embodiments, base 3510 can include an alignment base
3514. In many embodiments, alignment base 3514 can be one or more
protrusions that can secure overlay applicator to base 3510, such
as by engaging with alignment mechanisms 3557. In some embodiments,
such as shown in FIGS. 35-36, alignment base 3514 can be located on
base 3510 beyond the each end of cradle 3520. In other embodiments,
alignment base 3514 can be located on cradle 3520, such as at each
end of cradle 3520. In a number of embodiments, the lines of
support between each side of alignment base 3514 can be in line
with and within overlay applicator 3550. Alignment base 3514 and
alignment mechanism 3557 can be configured and positioned such that
when alignment mechanism 3557 is engaged with alignment base 3514,
the overlay can be positioned directly above the screen of the
device. In a number of embodiments, alignment base 3514 can be
configured to secure overlay applicator 3550 slightly above the
screen of the device.
[0222] In a number of embodiments, base 3510 can include a pull
slot 3515. In many embodiments, pull slot 3515 is below one side of
alignment base 3514. In many embodiments, pull tab 3555 can be
inserted through pull slot 3515, which can allow pull tab 3555 to
be pulled while overlay applicator 3550 is secured on alignment
base 3514.
[0223] In some embodiments, overlay applicator 3550 can include a
wiper (not shown), which can be similar to wiper 157 (FIG. 1),
wiper 457 (FIGS. 4-5), wiper 657 (FIG. 6), wiper 757 (FIG. 7),
and/or wiper 2857 (FIG. 28). The wiper can remove dust from the
screen of the device. In other embodiments, after inserting the
device in cradle 3520, a cloth (not shown), such as a microfiber
cloth or another suitable cleaning cloth, which can have dimensions
similar to pull tab 3555, can be draped across the screen of the
device between the screen of the device and overlay applicator
3550. One end of the cloth can be inserted through pull slot 3515.
In some embodiments, pull tab 3555 and the cloth can be inserted
together through pull slot 3515, and as pull tab 3555 and the cloth
are pulled, the cloth can remove dust from the screen of the
device.
[0224] In many embodiments, pull tab 3555 can be pulled through
pull slot 3515, and, in certain embodiments, along with a wiper,
cloth, or sticker to clean the screen of the device, and the
adhesive release liner can be removed to expose the adhesive on the
overlay. In a number of embodiments, after the adhesive release
liner is removed and the adhesive of the overlay is exposed, the
overlay can be secured slightly above the screen of the device,
such that adhesion between the overlay and the screen of the device
does not occur. In other embodiments, the overlay can be secured at
the screen of the device, such that adhesion can begin to occur
upon removal of the adhesive release liner.
[0225] In some embodiments, base can include a track 3513 on each
side, which can allow slider 3530 to move between first end 3511 to
second end 3512. In many embodiments, slider 3530 can include
slider side supports 3531. In a number of embodiments, slider side
supports 3531 can include pins (not shown) that can engage in
tracks 3513 and allow slider side supports 3531 to slide along
tracks 3513. Slider side supports 3531 can be connected and/or held
within tracks 3513 by a slider cross support 3532. In some
embodiments, slider 3530 can include a handle 3533, which can be
used to move slider 3530 back and forth between first end 3511 and
second end 3512. Slider 3530 can include a pressure bar support
3534 on each side of a pressure bar 3535. Pressure bar supports
3534 can be spring loaded or elastically attached to slider cross
support 3532 and/or slider side supports 3531 such that pressure
bar 3535 can provide downward pressure. In various embodiments,
base 3510 can include cams 3516 in the regions near alignment base
3514, which can raise pressure bar 3535 such that slider 3530 can
move back and forth from first side 3511 to second side 3512
without interference from alignment base 3514.
[0226] In many embodiments, after pull tab 3555 is pulled and the
adhesive release liner is partially or fully removed from the
overlay, slider 3530 can be moved from first side 3511 partially or
fully toward second side 3512 such that pressure bar 3535 provides
downward pressure on protective film 3552 to adhere the overlay to
the screen of the device, as shown in FIG. 36. Pressure bar 3535
can provide sufficient pressure to prevent and/or remove any air
bubbles. In a number of embodiments, pressure bar 3535 can be a
roller. In other embodiments, pressure bar 3535 can be a fixed bar
that slides along the top of overlay applicator 3550. Machine 3500
can thus advantageously be used to accurately align the overlay on
the screen of the device without dust or air bubbles.
[0227] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 37 illustrates a system
3700 for using an overlay applicator, such as overlay applicator
700 (FIG. 7), to apply an overlay, such as overlay 730 (FIG. 7), to
a device. System 3700 is merely exemplary and embodiments of the
system are not limited to embodiments presented herein. The system
can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not
specifically depicted or described herein. System 3700 can include
overlay applicator 700, a cradle 3710, a device 3720 (e.g., a smart
phone), a cradle frame 3730, and a machine 3740. Cradle 3710 can be
similar to cradle 310 (FIG. 3), and various components and/or
constructions of cradle 3710 can be substantially identical or
similar to various components of cradle 300 (FIG. 3).
[0228] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 38 illustrates a top
side view of cradle 3710. Cradle 3710 is merely exemplary and
embodiments of the cradle are not limited to embodiments presented
herein. The cradle can be employed in many different embodiments or
examples not specifically depicted or described herein. Cradle 3710
can include a slot 3811 in which device 3720 (FIG. 37) can be
placed with the screen of device 3720 (FIG. 37) facing upwards or
away from slot 3811. In some embodiments, slot 3811 is conformal
with device 3720 (FIG. 37). Slot 3811 can have sides 3812 and a
bottom 3813. Cradle 3710 can have a thickness greater than the
thickness of device 3720 (FIG. 37). In many embodiments, cradle
3710 can include an alignment base 3814, which can engage with
alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7). In some embodiments, alignment
base 3814 can be one or more protrusions that can fit inside the
one or more slots of alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7). For example,
as shown in FIG. 7, alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7) can include
six holes spaced relatively evenly around alignment frame 710 (FIG.
7). Alignment base 3814 can include six protrusions configured to
engage with the six holes of alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7). In
some embodiments, the protrusions of alignment base 3814 can be
spring loaded. Alignment base 3814 and alignment mechanism 715
(FIG. 7) can be configured and positioned such that when alignment
mechanism 715 (FIG. 7) is engaged with alignment base 3814, overlay
730 (FIG. 7) can be positioned directly above the screen of device
3720 (FIG. 37) in slot 3811, and aligned such that overlay 730
(FIG. 7) will be adhered in an accurate position on the screen when
adhesive release liner 740 (FIG. 7) is removed. In certain
embodiments, cradle 3710 can include a bottom aperture 3815, which
can facilitate removal of device 3720 (FIG. 37) from cradle
3710.
[0229] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 39 illustrates a top
side view of cradle frame 3730. FIG. 40 illustrates a bottom side
view of cradle frame 3730. Cradle frame 3730 is merely exemplary
and embodiments of the cradle frame are not limited to embodiments
presented herein. The cradle frame can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, cradle frame 3730 can
include side frames 3910, which can include alignment holes 3911
that can engage with alignment base 3814 (FIG. 38). Cradle frame
3730 can include a bottom plate 3912, which can be bent at a crease
3913 midway between the two sides and extending partially or fully
from one end to the other end of cradle frame 3730. Bottom plate
3912 can be made of a flexible or semi-flexible plastic. In various
embodiments, the bend in bottom plate 3912 at crease 3913 can be
maintained by end caps 3914, which can be centered at each end of
cradle frame 3730. End caps 3914 can be made of a rigid material,
such as a rigid metal or polycarbonate (PC). In many embodiments,
cradle frame 3730 can include end frames 3915 extending at each end
of cradle frame 3730 between side frames 3910. In certain
embodiments, end frame 3915 can be less thick than side frames
3710, which can allow flexibility for bottom plate 3912 to be
depressed and semi-flexibly bent downward, such as in the region of
crease 3913. In a number of embodiments, cradle frame 3730 can
include a recess 3916 between side frames 3910 and end frames 3915,
and bounded at the bottom by bottom plate 3912. Recess 3916 can
have dimensions substantially similar to overlay 730 (FIG. 7)
and/or the screen of device 3720 (FIG. 37).
[0230] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 41 illustrates a left
side view of machine 3740 with the arm in a raised configuration.
Machine 3740 is merely exemplary and embodiments of the machine are
not limited to embodiments presented herein. The machine can be
employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically
depicted or described herein. In many embodiments, machine 3740 can
include a base 4110, a cradle support 4120, a stand 4130, a hinge
assembly 3740, and an arm 4150. In many embodiments, base 4110 can
provide a sturdy support base for machine 3740. In certain
embodiments, base 4110 can include feet 4111 made from an
elastomeric material for non-slip, cushioned, and/or balanced
support. In some embodiments, cradle support 4120 can be a recess
in base 4110, as shown in FIG. 41. Cradle support 4120 can be
configured to hold a cradle, such as cradle 3710 (FIGS. 37-38).
Cradle support 4120 can be used with various different cradles,
which can be configured for different devices.
[0231] In many embodiments, stand 4130 can provide support for arm
4150. In certain embodiments, stand 4130 can extend upright from
base 4110, and, in some embodiments, can be substantially
perpendicular to base 4110. Stand 4130 can be connected to arm 4150
at hinge assembly 4140. In many embodiments, hinge assembly 4140
can include a hinge axis 4141. In some embodiments, hinge assembly
4140 can include a hinge track 4142 to allow arm 4150 to move along
a predetermined arc. In a number of embodiments, hinge assembly
4140 can include a hinge clamp 4143, which can allow arm 4150 to be
secured at desired and/or predetermined positions. For example, arm
4150 can be raised to a raised configuration, as shown in FIG. 41,
or lowered to a lowered position, as shown in FIG. 44, described
below. When arm 4150 is raised, cradle 3710 (FIGS. 37-38) can be
inserted or removed from cradle support 4120. When arm 4150 is
lowered, overlay applicator 700 (FIGS. 7, 37) can be used apply
overlay 730 (FIG. 7), as described below. In some embodiments,
stand 4130 can include a positioning piece 4131, which can prevent
arm 4150 from lowering below a predetermined position.
[0232] In certain embodiments, arm 4150 can include a handle 4154,
which can be used to assist in raising and/or lowering arm 4150
when hinge assembly 4140 is unclamped. In some embodiments, arm
4150 can include an expandable bladder 4151, such as an air
bladder. In many embodiments, expandable bladder 4151 can be
connected to a pumping mechanism 4152, which can fill expandable
bladder 4151 with air, as shown in FIG. 44, described below. In
certain embodiments, expandable bladder 4151 and/or pumping
mechanism 4152 can be a part of a portable (e.g., battery powered)
blood pressure monitor and cuff, which can include a microprocessor
and a start/stop button 4153 to initiate or terminate the inflation
and/or deflation of expandable bladder 4151 with air.
[0233] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGS. 42-45 illustrate using
system 3700 with machine 3740, cradle 3710, overlay applicator 700,
and cradle frame 3730 to apply overlay 730 (FIG. 7) to device 3720.
FIG. 42 illustrates machine 3740, cradle frame 3730, device 3720
located in cradle 3710, and overlay applicator 700 located on
cradle 3710 above device 3720. In many embodiments, device 3720 can
be placed in slot 3811 in cradle 3710 with the screen facing
upwards or away from slot 3811, as shown in FIG. 42. After placing
device 3720 in cradle 3710, overlay applicator 700 can be placed on
cradle 3710 above device 3720 (FIG. 37), with protective film 720
facing up and above overlay 730 (FIG. 7), adhesive release liner
740 (FIG. 7), and pull tab 750. In many embodiments, pull tab 750
and wiper 757 can be facing downward, and resting upon or proximate
to the screen of device 3720 (FIG. 37). In some embodiments,
overlay applicator 700 can be secured to cradle 3710 by alignment
base 3814 engaging with alignment mechanism 715.
[0234] FIG. 43 illustrates cradle 3710 located in cradle support
4120 of machine 3740, with cradle frame 3730 upon cradle 3710.
Cradle frame 3730 can be placed upon cradle 3710 above overlay
applicator 700 and device 3720 (FIG. 37). In some embodiments,
bottom plate 3912 (FIGS. 39-40) can protrude slightly downward
toward overlay applicator 700. In various embodiments, alignment
holes 3911 (FIGS. 39-40) can engage with alignment base 3814 (FIG.
38) to secure cradle frame 3730 to cradle 3710. Cradle 3710, along
with device 3720 (FIG. 37), overlay applicator 700, and cradle
frame 3730, as assembled as described above, can be placed in
cradle support 4120 of machine 3740. In many embodiments, arm 4150
of machine 3740 can be in a raised position to facilitate insertion
of cradle 3710 in cradle support 4120.
[0235] FIG. 44 illustrates machine 3740 with arm 4150 in a lowered
position and expandable bladder 4151 filled, and with pull tab 750
and adhesive release liner 740 removed. In many embodiments, arm
3850 can be lowered to a lowered position, as shown in FIG. 44. In
many embodiments, hinge clamp 4143 can be disengaged to allow arm
4150 to rotate along hinge track 4142 around hinge axis 4141 to the
lowered position, and then reengaged at the lowered position. In
several embodiments, handle 4154 can be used to assist lowering arm
4150. In various embodiments when arm 4150 is in a lowered
position, expandable bladder 4151 can rest upon cradle frame 3730,
and, in some embodiments, can rest within recess 3916 (FIG.
39).
[0236] In some embodiments, pull tab 750 can be pulled to remove
adhesive release liner 740 from the adhesive side of overlay 730
(FIG. 7). In many embodiments, as pull tab 750 is pulled, wiper 757
can wipe across the screen of device 3720 (FIG. 37) to remove any
dust. In some embodiments, bottom plate 3912 (FIG. 39) of cradle
frame 3730 can be positioned so as to provide enough pressure on
wiper 757 such that wiper 757 can stay in contact with the screen
of device 3720 (FIG. 37) and effectively clean off any dust. In
many embodiments, after pull tab 750 has been pulled out and
adhesive release liner 740 has been removed from covering overlay
730 (FIG. 7), overlay 730 (FIG. 7) can be secured such that it
remains above and does not adhere to the screen of device 3720
(FIG. 37).
[0237] In many embodiments, pumping mechanism 4152 can be activated
to fill expandable bladder 4151. In many embodiments, start/stop
button 4153 can be activated to fill expandable bladder 4151 with
air. As shown in FIG. 44, expandable bladder 4151 can expand as it
fills with air. In some embodiments, the expansion of expandable
bladder 4151 can provide downward force on bottom plate 3912 (FIG.
39). Crease 3913 (FIG. 39) can push down on overlay applicator 700
(FIG. 7) such that overlay 730 (FIG. 7) can begin to adhere to the
screen of device 3720 (FIG. 37) along the center line between the
sides of device 3720 (FIG. 37). As expandable bladder 4151
continues to inflate, other regions of bottom plate 3912 (FIG. 39)
can press down on overlay 730 (FIG. 7), extending outward from the
center. Beginning the adhesion of overlay 730 (FIG. 7) to device
3720 (FIG. 37) at the center of device 3720 (FIG. 37) can
advantageously allow the remainder of overlay 730 (FIG. 7) to be
accurately adhered to the screen of device 3720 (FIG. 37) without
wrinkles and/or with minimal or no bubbles.
[0238] FIG. 45 illustrates machine 3740 with arm 4150 in a raised
position, with cradle 3710 removed from cradle support 4120, with
cradle frame 3730 removed off of cradle 3710, and with pull tab 750
and adhesive release liner 740 removed. In many embodiments,
pumping mechanism 4152 can be deactivated to stop the inflation of
expandable bladder 4151 and/or to begin the deflation of expandable
bladder 4151. In many embodiments, start/stop button 4153 can be
deactivated to deflate expandable bladder 4151. In other
embodiments, pumping mechanism 4152 can be pre-programmed to stop
the inflation of expandable bladder 4151 and to begin the deflation
of expandable bladder 4151 after expandable bladder reaches a
predetermined level of inflation.
[0239] In several embodiments, arm 4150 can be raised to a raised
position. In many embodiments, hinge clamp 4143 can be disengaged
to allow arm 4150 to rotate along hinge track 4142 around hinge
axis 4141 to the raised position, and then reengaged at the raised
position. In many embodiments, handle 4154 can help facilitate
moving arm 4150. Arm 4150 of machine 3740 can be in a raised
position to facilitate removal of cradle 3710 from cradle support
3720 of machine 3740.
[0240] In a number of embodiments, cradle 3710 can be removed,
along with device 3720, overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7), and cradle
frame 3730 from cradle support 4120 of machine 3740. In several
embodiments, cradle frame 3730 can next be removed from cradle 3710
to uncover protective film 720 and alignment frame 710, which in
many embodiments can be integral with protective film 720, as
described above. In some embodiments, device 3720, along with the
protective film 720, alignment frame 710, and overlay 730, can be
removed from cradle 3710. In many embodiments, removal of device
3720 can be accomplished by manually reaching through bottom
aperture 3815 (FIG. 38) of cradle 3710 to push upward or away from
bottom aperture 3815 on device 3720. In a number of embodiments,
alignment frame 710 and protective film 720 can be peeled away from
overlay 730, which is adhered to device 3720. After alignment frame
710 and protective film 720 have been peeled away from overlay 730,
application of overlay 730 to the screen of device 3720 can be
complete.
[0241] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 46 illustrates a
perspective view of a machine 4600 in a closed configuration. FIG.
47 illustrates a perspective view of machine 4600 in an open
configuration. Machine 4600 can be used with an overlay applicator
to apply an overlay to a device. Machine 4600 is merely exemplary
and embodiments of the machine are not limited to the embodiments
presented herein. The machine can be employed in many different
embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described
herein. In various embodiments, machine 4600 can include a base
4610, a cradle support 4620, a cradle 4630, a hinge assembly 4640,
an arm 4650.
[0242] In many embodiments, base 4610 can provide a sturdy support
base for machine 4600. In some embodiments, cradle support 4620 can
be a recess in base 4610. In a number of embodiments, base 4610 can
include an indented region 4611, which can extend partially along a
side of base 4610 and/or cradle support 4620, and which can
facilitate removal of cradle 4630 from cradle support 4620. Cradle
support 4620 can be configured to hold a cradle, such as cradle
4630. In various embodiments, cradle support 4620 can be used
interchangeably with various different cradles, such as cradles
configured for various different devices.
[0243] Cradle 4630 can be similar to cradle 3710 (FIGS. 37-38), and
various components and/or constructions of cradle 4630 can be
substantially identical or similar to various components of cradle
3710 (FIGS. 37-38). Cradle 4630 can be configured to be used with
an overlay applicator, such as overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7). As
shown in FIG. 47, cradle 4630 can include a slot 4731 in which a
device can be placed with the screen of the device facing upwards
or away from slot 4731. In some embodiments, slot 4731 can be
conformal with the device. Cradle 4630 can have a thickness greater
than the thickness of the device. In many embodiments, cradle 4630
can include an alignment base 4734, which can engage with an
alignment mechanism, such as alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7), of
an overlay applicator, such as overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7). In
some embodiments, alignment base 4734 can be one or more
protrusions that can fit inside the one or more slots of alignment
mechanism 715 (FIG. 7). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, alignment
mechanism 715 (FIG. 7) can include six holes spaced relatively
evenly around alignment frame 710 (FIG. 7). Alignment base 4734 can
include six protrusions configured to engage with the six holes of
alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7). In some embodiments, the
protrusions of alignment base 4734 can be spring loaded. Alignment
base 4734 and alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7) can be configured
and positioned such that when alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7) is
engaged with alignment base 4734, overlay 730 (FIG. 7) can be
positioned directly above the screen of the device in slot 4731,
and aligned such that overlay 730 (FIG. 7) will be adhered in an
correct position on the screen when adhesive release liner 740
(FIG. 7) is removed. In certain embodiments, cradle 4630 can
include a bottom aperture 4735, which can facilitate removal of the
device from cradle 4630.
[0244] In many embodiments, base 4610 can be connected to arm 4650
at hinge assembly 4640. In many embodiments, hinge assembly 4640
can allow arm 4650 to rotate relative to base 4610. In some
embodiments, hinge assembly 4640 can lock in two positions, which
can allow arm to be held at a raised position and at a lowered
position. Hinge assembly 4640 can include a hinge axle 4641, which
can connect a hinge central member 4642 to side supports 4643
through a hinge axis of rotation. In several embodiments, hinge
side supports 4643 can include notches 4644, and hinge central
member 4642 can include a locking rod 4645, which can engage in
notches 4644 to lock hinge assembly 4640 such that arm 4650 can be
held at a raised position and/or at a lowered position. In many
embodiments, locking rod 4645 can have a spring-loaded bias to
remain in notches 4644. Arm 4650 can be raised to a raised
configuration, as shown in FIG. 47, or lowered to a lowered
position, as shown in FIG. 46. When arm 4650 is raised, cradle 4630
can be inserted or removed from cradle support 4620. When arm 4650
is lowered, overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7) can be used apply
overlay 730 (FIG. 7), as described below.
[0245] In certain embodiments, arm 4650 can include a handle 4654,
which can be used to assist in raising and/or lowering arm 4650
with respect to base 4610 about hinge assembly 4640. In some
embodiments, arm 4650 can include an expandable bladder 4651, such
as an air bladder. In many embodiments, expandable bladder 4651 can
be connected to a pumping mechanism 4652, which can fill expandable
bladder 4651 with air. Pumping mechanism 4652 can be similar or
identical to pumping mechanism 4152 (FIG. 41), and/or expandable
bladder 4651 can be similar or identical to expandable bladder 4151
(FIG. 41). In certain embodiments, expandable bladder 4651 and/or
pumping mechanism 4652 can be a part of a portable (e.g., battery
powered) blood pressure monitor and cuff, which can include a
microprocessor and a start/stop button 4653 to initiate or
terminate the inflation and/or deflation of expandable bladder 4651
with air.
[0246] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGS. 48-50 illustrate using
machine 4600 to apply overlay 730 (FIG. 7) to the screen of a
device. FIG. 48 illustrates a perspective view of a machine 4600 in
an open configuration, with a device in cradle 4630, and an overlay
applicator 700 above the device on cradle 4630. As shown in FIG.
48, a device 4800 can be placed in slot 4731 (FIG. 47) of cradle
4630 with the screen of device 4800 facing upwards or away from
cradle 4630. In some embodiments, cradle 4630 can be placed in
cradle support 4620 (FIGS. 46-47) prior to inserting device 4800 in
cradle 4630. In other embodiments, cradle 4630 can be placed in
cradle support 4620 (FIGS. 46-47) after inserting device 4800 in
cradle 4630. In many embodiments, arm 4650 of machine 4600 can be
in a raised position to facilitate insertion of cradle 4630 in
cradle support 4620 (FIGS. 46-47) and/or insertion of device 4800
in cradle 4630.
[0247] In a number of embodiments, overlay applicator 700 can be
placed on cradle 4630 above device 4800, with protective film 720
facing up and above overlay 730 (FIG. 7), adhesive release liner
740 (FIG. 7), and pull tab 750. In many embodiments, pull tab 750
and wiper 757 (FIG. 7) can be facing downward, and resting upon or
proximate to the screen of device 4800. In some embodiments,
overlay applicator 700 can be secured to cradle 4630 by alignment
base 4734 engaging with alignment mechanism 715.
[0248] FIG. 49 illustrates a perspective view of a machine 4600 in
a closed configuration, with pull tab 750 of overlay applicator 700
being pulled. In several embodiments, arm 4650 can next be lowered
to a lowered position, as shown in FIG. 49. In many embodiments,
hinge central member 4642 can rotate with respect to hinge side
supports 4643, and locking rod 4645 (FIGS. 46-47) can disengage
with one or more of notches 4644 (FIGS. 46-47) and reengage with a
different one or more of notches 4644 (FIGS. 46-47). In various
embodiments when arm 4650 is in a lowered position, expandable
bladder 4651 can rest upon overlay applicator 700.
[0249] In several embodiments, pull tab 750 can be pulled to remove
adhesive release liner 740 (FIG. 7) from the adhesive side of
overlay 730 (FIG. 7). In many embodiments, as pull tab 750 is
pulled, wiper 757 (FIG. 7) can wipe across the screen of device
4800 (FIG. 48) to remove any dust from the screen of device 4800
(FIG. 48). In many embodiments, after pull tab 750 has been pulled
out and adhesive release liner 740 (FIG. 7) has been removed from
covering overlay 730 (FIG. 7), overlay 730 (FIG. 7) can be secured
such that it remains above and does not adhere to the screen of
device 4800 (FIG. 48). In some embodiments, pulling on pull tab 750
to remove adhesive release liner 740 (FIG. 7) from the adhesive
side of overlay 730 (FIG. 7) can occur before lowing arm 4650 to a
lowered position.
[0250] In some embodiments, pumping mechanism 4652 can next be
activated to fill expandable bladder 4651. In many embodiments,
start/stop button 4653 can be activated to fill expandable bladder
4651 with air. Expandable bladder 4651 can expand as it fills with
air. In some embodiments, the expansion of expandable bladder 4651
can provide downward force on protective film 720 (FIG. 7) such
that overlay 730 (FIG. 7) can begin to adhere to the screen of
device 4800 (FIG. 48). Adhering overlay 730 (FIG. 7) to device 4800
(FIG. 48) by applying pressure with expandable bladder 4651 can
advantageously allow the overlay 730 (FIG. 7) to be accurately
adhered to the screen of device 4800 (FIG. 48) without wrinkles
and/or with minimal or no bubbles. In certain embodiments,
expandable bladder 4651 can be configured to begin inflation at the
center of expandable bladder 4651 and continue inflating out to the
perimeter regions of expandable bladder 4651, which can adhere
overlay 730 (FIG. 7) beginning at the center of the screen of
device 4800 (FIG. 48), and continue the adhesion out to the
perimeter regions of the screen of device 4800 (FIG. 48), which can
advantageously cause overlay 730 (FIG. 7) to be adhered to the
screen of device 4800 (FIG. 48) with minimal or no air bubbles.
[0251] In many embodiments, pumping mechanism 4652 can be
deactivated to stop the inflation of expandable bladder 4651 and/or
to begin the deflation of expandable bladder 4651. In many
embodiments, start/stop button 4653 can be pressed to deactivate
pumping mechanism 4652 to deflate expandable bladder 4651. In other
embodiments, pumping mechanism 4652 can be pre-programmed to stop
the inflation of expandable bladder 4651 and to begin the deflation
of expandable bladder 4651 after expandable bladder reaches a
predetermined level of inflation.
[0252] FIG. 50 illustrates a perspective view of a machine 4600 in
an open configuration, with portions of overlay applicator 700
remaining on device 4800. In a number of embodiments, arm 4650 can
be raised to a raised position, as shown in FIG. 50. In many
embodiments, hinge central member 4642 can rotate with respect to
hinge side supports 4643, and locking rod 4645 (FIGS. 46-47) can
disengage with one or more of notches 4644 (FIGS. 46-47) and
reengage with a different one or more of notches 4644 (FIGS.
46-47). In many embodiments, handle 4654 can help facilitate
lifting and/or moving arm 4650. Arm 4650 of machine 4600 can be in
a raised position to facilitate removal of cradle 4630 from cradle
support 4620, and/or removal of device 4800 from cradle 4630.
[0253] In several embodiments, cradle 4630, along with device 4800
and overlay applicator 700, can next be removed from cradle support
4620 of machine 4600. In a number of embodiments, device 4800,
along with the protective film 720, alignment frame 710, and
overlay 730, can be removed from cradle 4630. In many embodiments,
removal of device 4800 can be accomplished by manually reaching
through bottom aperture 4735 (FIG. 47) of cradle 4630 to push
upward (or away from bottom aperture 4735) on device 4800. In
several embodiments, alignment frame 710 and protective film 720,
which can be integral, can be peeled away from overlay 730, which
is adhered to device 4800. After alignment frame 710 and protective
film 720 have been peeled away from overlay 730, application of
overlay 730 to the screen of device 4800 can be complete.
[0254] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 51 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 5100 of providing an overlay
applicator. Method 5100 is merely exemplary and is not limited to
the embodiments presented herein. Method 5100 can be employed in
many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 5100 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 5100 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 5100 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
overlay applicator can be similar or identical to overlay
applicator 3000 (FIG. 30).
[0255] Referring to FIG. 51, method 5100 can include a block 5101
of providing an adhesive release liner. In many embodiments, the
adhesive release liner layer can be similar or identical to
adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1), adhesive release liner 440
(FIGS. 4-5), adhesive release liner 640 (FIG. 6), adhesive release
liner 740 (FIG. 7); adhesive release liner 1540 (FIG. 15), and/or
adhesive release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30). In a number of
embodiments, the adhesive release liner can include a top side and
a bottom side.
[0256] In some embodiments, method 5100 can include a block 5102 of
providing a pull tab. In various embodiments, the pull tab can be
similar or identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450 (FIGS.
4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIG. 7), pull tab 1550
(FIG. 15), and/or pull tab 2750 (FIGS. 27-30). In some embodiments,
the pull tab can include a top side and a bottom side. In various
embodiments, the adhesive release liner can be integral with the
pull tab. In a number of embodiments, method 5100 can include
adhering the adhesive release liner to the pull tab.
[0257] In a number of embodiments, method 5100 can include a block
5103 of attaching a wiper to the top side of the pull tab. In
several embodiments, the wiper can be similar or identical to wiper
157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457 (FIG. 4), wiper 657 (FIG. 6), wiper 757
(FIG. 7), and/or wiper 2857 (FIGS. 28-30).
[0258] In various embodiments, method 5100 can include a block 5104
of providing an overlay layer. The overlay layer can be similar or
identical to the layer of material for overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30).
In a number of embodiments, the overlay layer can include a top
side and a bottom side. In some embodiments, the bottom side can
include an adhesive agent configured to adhere to the top side of
the adhesive release liner.
[0259] In many embodiments, method 5100 can include a block 5105 of
attaching the bottom side of the overlay layer to the top side of
the adhesive release liner.
[0260] In some embodiments, method 5100 can include a block of 5106
of providing a protective film layer. In a number of embodiments,
the protective film layer can be similar or identical to the layer
of material for protective film layer 2920 (FIGS. 29-30). In
various embodiments, the protective film layer can include a top
side and a bottom side.
[0261] In several embodiments, method 5100 can include a block 5107
of attaching the bottom side of the protective film layer to the
top side of the overlay layer.
[0262] In various embodiments, method 5100 can include a block 5108
of cutting the protective film layer and the overlay layer to
create an interface slit between an alignment tab and a device
portion, and to create a tail slit between a tail portion and the
device portion. In some embodiments, the interface slit can be
similar or identical to interface slit 2960 (FIGS. 29-30). In a
number of embodiments, the tail slit can be similar or identical to
tail slit 2991 (FIGS. 29-30). In some embodiments, the alignment
tab can be similar or identical to alignment tab 110 (FIG. 1),
alignment tab 410 (FIGS. 4-5), alignment tab 610 (FIG. 6), and/or
alignment tab 2910 (FIGS. 29-30). In many embodiments, the device
portion can be similar or identical to device portion 470 (FIGS.
4-5), device portion 670 (FIG. 6), device portion 2970 (FIGS.
29-30), and/or device portion 3560 (FIG. 35). In some embodiments,
the tail portion can be similar or identical to tail portion 2990
(FIGS. 29-30). In several embodiments, the alignment tab can be
configured to engage with an alignment base to align the overlay
with the screen of the device.
[0263] In many embodiments, method 5100 can include a block 5109 of
attaching a sticker to the top side of the protective film. In
several embodiments, the sticker can be similar or identical to
joining sticker 680 (FIG. 6), joining sticker 3080 (FIG. 30),
and/or joining stickers 3559 (FIG. 35). In some embodiments, the
sticker can span the interface slit between the device portion and
the alignment tab. In a number of embodiments, the sticker can
include a non-stretching material.
[0264] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 52 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 5200 of providing a cradle.
Method 5200 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 5200 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 5200 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 5200 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 5200 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
cradle can be similar or identical to cradle 3100 (FIGS.
31-34).
[0265] Referring to FIG. 52, method 5200 can include a block 5201
of providing a base. In a number of embodiments, the base can be
similar or identical to bottom frame 3110 (FIG. 31).
[0266] In many embodiments, method 5200 can include a block 5202 of
providing an alignment base. In several embodiments, the alignment
base can be similar or identical to alignment base, such as
alignment base 212 (FIG. 2) or alignment base 312 (FIG. 3),
alignment base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base 1632 (FIGS.
16-19), alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20) and/or alignment base 3112
(FIG. 31). In various embodiments, the alignment base can be
configured to engage with an alignment mechanism of an overlay
applicator. The overlay applicator can be similar or identical to
overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS.
4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), and/or overlay applicator
3000 (FIG. 30). In a number of embodiments, the alignment mechanism
can be similar or identical to alignment mechanism 115 (FIG. 1),
alignment mechanism 415 (FIGS. 4-5), alignment mechanism 615 (FIG.
6), and/or alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30).
[0267] In some embodiments, method 5200 can include a block 5203 of
providing one or more frame pieces. In several embodiments, the one
or more frame pieces can include two corner frames located at a
first end of the base proximate to the alignment base. The corner
frames can be similar or identical to corner frames 3130 (FIG. 31).
In many embodiments, the one or more frame pieces can include an
end frame located at a second end of the base opposite the first
end. The end frame can be similar or identical to end frame 3140
(FIG. 31). In several embodiments, the one or more frame pieces can
include two side frames located at each side of the base between
the first end and the second end. The side frames can be similar or
identical to side frames 3120 (FIG. 31).
[0268] In some embodiments, the frame pieces can be configured to
securely hold an electronic device in a device slot in a fixed
position with respect to the alignment base. The device slot can be
similar or identical to device slot 3111 (FIG. 31) In various
embodiments, the base, the alignment base, and the one or more
frame pieces can be configured to hold the overlay applicator
between the base and a screen of the electronic device when the
screen of the electronic device is facing toward the base. In a
number of embodiments, the base, the alignment base, and the one or
more frame pieces can be configured to facilitate applying an
overlay of the overlay applicator to the screen of the electronic
device. The overlay can be similar or identical to overlay 130
(FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay
730 (FIG. 7), overlay 1530 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay 2930 (FIGS.
29-30). In many embodiments, the one or more frame pieces can be
configured to align the overlay applicator as the overlay of the
overlay applicator is applied to the screen of the electronic
device.
[0269] In several embodiments, the one or more frame pieces can
include a pull tab slot configured to allow a pull tab of the
overlay applicator to extend beyond the device slot. The pull tab
slot can be similar or identical to end slot 3141 (FIG. 31). The
pull tab can be similar or identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull
tab 450 (FIGS. 4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6), and/or pull tab 2750
(FIGS. 27-30). For example, the pull tab can extend beyond the
device slot as shown in FIGS. 32-33.
[0270] In a number of embodiments, the base can include a support
piece extending in a first direction. The support piece can be
similar or identical to central support 3150 (FIG. 31). In some
embodiments, the support piece can be configured to press an
adhesive side of the overlay of the overlay applicator toward the
screen of the electronic device when the screen of the electronic
device is facing toward the support piece and the pull tab of the
overlay applicator is pulled in the first direction to remove an
adhesive release liner of the overlay applicator and expose the
adhesive side of the overlay to the screen of the electronic
device. In a number of embodiments, the support piece can include
an elastomeric material. In various embodiments, the support piece
can be configured to press the adhesive side of the overlay against
the screen of the electronic device when the adhesive release liner
of the overlay applicator is removed to expose the adhesive side of
the overlay. In various embodiments, the support piece can be
configured to press a wiper of the pull tab toward the screen of
the electronic device as the wiper moves across the screen of the
electronic device in the first direction. The wiper can be similar
or identical to wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457 (FIG. 4), wiper 657
(FIG. 6), wiper 757 (FIG. 7), and/or wiper 2857 (FIGS. 28-30).
[0271] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 53 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 5300 of providing a machine.
Method 5300 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 5300 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 5300 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 5300 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 5300 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
machine can be similar or identical to machine 3500 (FIGS.
35-36).
[0272] Referring to FIG. 53, method 5300 can include a block 5301
of providing a base. In a number of embodiments, the base can be
similar or identical to base 3510 (FIGS. 35-36). In several
embodiments, the base can include a first end. The first end can be
similar or identical to first end 3511 (FIGS. 35-36). In many
embodiments, the base can include a second end. The second end can
be similar or identical to second end 3512 (FIGS. 35-36). In some
embodiments, the base can include an alignment base. The alignment
base can be similar or identical to alignment base 3514 (FIGS.
35-36). In many embodiments, the alignment base can be configured
to engage with an alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The
alignment mechanism can be similar or identical to alignment
mechanism 3557 (FIGS. 35-36). The overlay applicator can be similar
or identical to overlay applicator 3550 (FIGS. 35-36).
[0273] In a number of embodiments, the overlay applicator can
include a first alignment tab and a second alignment tab. The first
and second alignment tabs can be similar or identical to alignment
tabs 3556 (FIGS. 35-36). In several embodiments, the first
alignment tab can include a first portion of the alignment
mechanism, and the second alignment tab comprising a second portion
of the alignment mechanism. In many embodiments, the alignment base
can include a first side proximate the first end of the base. In a
number of embodiments, the first side can be configured to engage
with the first portion of the alignment mechanism of the overlay
applicator. In many embodiments, a second side proximate the second
end of the base, the second side can be configured to engage with
the second portion of the alignment mechanism of the overlay
applicator.
[0274] In a number of embodiments, the base can include a pull
slot. The pull slot can be similar or identical to pull slot 3515
(FIGS. 35-36). In some embodiments, the pull slot can be located
between the cradle and the second side of the alignment base.
[0275] In many embodiments, method 5300 can include a block 5302 of
providing a cradle. The cradle can be similar or identical to
cradle 3520 (FIGS. 35-36). In several embodiments, the cradle can
be located between the first side of the alignment base and the
second side of the alignment base. In some embodiments, the cradle
can be configured to securely hold an electronic device. In various
embodiments, the cradle can be integral with the base. In many
embodiments, the cradle can be removably coupled to the base.
[0276] In some embodiments, method 5300 can include a block 5303 of
providing a slider configured to move between the first and second
ends of the base. The slider can be similar or identical to slider
3530 (FIGS. 35-36). In a number of embodiments, the slider can
include a bar. The bar can be similar or identical to pressure bar
3535 (FIGS. 35-36). In many embodiments, the bar can be configured
to press an overlay of the overlay applicator toward a screen of
the electronic device when the slider is moved between the first
and second ends of the base. The overlay can be similar or
identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay
630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), overlay 1530 (FIG. 15), and/or
overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30). In several embodiments, the bar can be
spring-loaded to press downward toward the base. In a number of
embodiments, the base can include one or more tracks configured to
engage with the slider and allow the slider to move between the
first and second ends of the base. The tracks can be similar or
identical to track 3513 (FIGS. 35-36).
[0277] In several embodiments, the base can include one or more
first cams at the first end of the base and one or more second cams
at the second end of the base. In first and second cams can be
similar or identical to cams 3516. In many embodiments, the one or
more first cams can be configured to prevent the bar from
contacting the first side of the alignment base when the slider is
moved between the first and second ends of the base. the one or
more second cams can be configured to prevent the bar from
contacting the second side of the alignment base when the slider is
moved between the first end and second ends of the base.
[0278] In many embodiments, the machine can be configured such that
when the alignment base is engaged with the alignment mechanism of
the overlay applicator and the cradle is holding the electronic
device, a pull tab of the overlay applicator can be pulled through
the pull slot to remove an adhesive release liner of the overlay
applicator and expose an adhesive side of the overlay to the screen
of the electronic device. The pull tab be similar or identical to
pull tab 3555 (FIG. 35). In various embodiments, the machine can be
further configured such that when the adhesive release liner of the
overlay applicator is removed to expose the adhesive side of the
overlay to the screen of the electronic device and the slider is
moved between the first and second ends of the base, the bar can be
configured to press the adhesive side of the overlay against the
screen of the electronic device.
[0279] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 54 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 5400 of providing a machine.
Method 5400 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 5400 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 5400 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 5400 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 5400 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
machine can be similar or identical to machine 3700 (FIGS. 37,
41-45) and/or machine 4600 (FIGS. 46-50).
[0280] Referring to FIG. 54, method 5400 can include a block 5401
of providing a base. In a number of embodiments, the base can be
similar or identical to base 4110 (FIG. 41) and/or base 4610 (FIG.
46).
[0281] In many embodiments, method 5400 can include a block 5402 of
providing a cradle configured to securely hold an electronic
device. The cradle can be similar or identical to cradle 3710
(FIGS. 37-38) and/or cradle 4630 (FIGS. 46-50). The electronic
device can be similar or identical to device 3720 (FIG. 37) and/or
device 4800 (FIG. 48). in several embodiments, the cradle can
include an alignment base configured to engage with an alignment
mechanism of an overlay applicator. The alignment base can be
similar or identical to alignment base 3814 (FIG. 38) and/or
alignment base 4734 (FIG. 47). The alignment mechanism can be
similar or identical to alignment mechanism 715 (FIGS. 7, 48). In
several embodiments, the alignment base can include six protrusions
configured to engage with an alignment frame of the overlay
applicator. In some embodiments, the cradle can be integral with
the base. In many embodiments, the base can include a cradle
support configured to removably hold the cradle. The cradle support
can be similar or identical to cradle support cradle support 4120
(FIG. 41) and/or cradle support 4620 (FIG. 46).
[0282] In some embodiments, method 5400 can include a block 5403 of
providing an arm. The arm can be similar or identical to arm 4150
(FIG. 41) and/or arm 4650 (FIG. 46). In several embodiments, the
arm can include an expandable bladder. The expandable bladder can
be similar or identical to expandable bladder 4151 (FIG. 41) and/or
expandable bladder 4651 (FIG. 46). In a number of embodiments, the
arm can include a pumping mechanism configured to inflate the
expandable bladder. The pumping mechanism can be similar or
identical to pumping mechanism 4152 (FIG. 41) and/or pumping
mechanism 4652 (FIG. 46). In some embodiments, the arm can include
a handle. The handle can be similar or identical to handle 4154
(FIG. 41) and/or handle 4654 (FIG. 46). In various embodiments, the
arm can be configured to be hingedly rotated between an open
configuration and a closed configuration. The open configuration
can be similar or identical to the configuration shown in FIGS.
41-43 and 45 for machine 4100, and/or the configuration shown in
FIGS. 47-48 and 50 for machine 4600. The closed configuration can
be similar or identical to the configuration shown in FIG. 44 for
machine 4100 and/or the configuration shown in FIGS. 46 and 49 for
machine 4600. In some embodiments, the pumping mechanism can
include a button configured to control inflation of the expandable
bladder. The button can be similar or identical to start/stop
button 4153 (FIG. 41, 44-45) and/or start/stop button 4653 (FIG.
46, 49). In various embodiments, the arm can be hingedly attached
to the base, such as in shown in FIGS. 46-50 for machine 4600. In a
number of embodiments, method 5400 can include the providing a
stand attached to the base and hingedly attached to the arm. The
stand can be similar or identical to stand 4130 (FIG. 41).
[0283] In various embodiments, the machine can be configured such
that when the arm is in the closed configuration and the expandable
bladder is inflated, the expandable bladder can press an overlay of
the overlay applicator toward a screen of the electronic device to
adhere an adhesive side of the overlay to the screen of the
electronic device. The overlay can be similar or identical to
overlay 730 (FIGS. 7, 45, 50). In some embodiments, the machine can
be further configured such that when (a) the arm is in the closed
configuration, (b) a pull tab of the overlay applicator is pulled
to remove an adhesive release liner and expose the adhesive side of
the overlay to the screen of the electronic device, and (c) the
expandable bladder is inflated, the expandable bladder can be
configured to press the adhesive side of the overlay against the
screen of the electronic device. The pull tab can be similar or
identical to pull tab 750 (FIGS. 7, 42, 44-45, 48-49).
[0284] In some embodiments, method 5400 can include providing a
cradle frame configured to engage with the cradle and secure the
overlay applicator to the cradle. The cradle frame can be similar
or identical to cradle frame 3730 (FIGS. 37, 39-40). In a number of
embodiments, the cradle frame can include a bottom plate. The
bottom plate can be similar or identical to bottom plate 3912
(FIGS. 39-40). In many embodiments, the bottom plate can include a
crease configured to press downward on the overlay applicator to
adhere the adhesive side of the overlay to the screen of the
electronic device. The crease can be similar or identical to crease
3913 (FIGS. 39-40). In several embodiments, the cradle frame can
include a recess. The recess can be similar or identical to recess
3916 (FIG. 39). In various embodiments, the expandable bladder can
be configured to be positioned within the recess of the cradle
frame when the arm is in the closed configuration. In several
embodiments, the cradle frame can include alignment holes
configured to engage with alignment base. The alignment holes can
be similar or identical to alignment holes 3911 (FIGS. 39-40).
[0285] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 55 illustrates an
exploded view of a dust sticker assembly 5500. Dust sticker
assembly 5500 is merely exemplary and embodiments of the dust
sticker assembly are not limited to embodiments presented herein.
The dust sticker assembly can be employed in many different
embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described
herein. In many embodiments, dust sticker assembly 5500 can include
a dust removal sticker 5510 and/or a release liner 5520. In many
embodiments, a bottom side of dust removal sticker 5510 can include
an adhesive. In many embodiments, release liner 5520 can attached
to the bottom side of dust removal sticker 5510 and/or can cover
the adhesive on the bottom side of dust removal sticker 5510. In a
number of embodiments, release liner 5520 can include a device
portion 5521 and an end portion 5522. Device portion 5521 and end
portion 5522 can be separated at a fold line 5523. In many
embodiments, fold line 5523 can be formed by a cut through release
liner 5520 to form device portion 5521 and end portion 5522.
[0286] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 56 illustrates a bottom
perspective view of dust sticker assembly 5500 and a device 5600.
In a number of embodiments, dust removal sticker 5510 can be
applied to device 5600 by peeling off device portion 5521 from the
bottom of dust removal sticker 5510 and adhering dust removal
sticker 5510 to cover the screen of device 5600. In a number of
embodiments, after dust removal sticker 5510 is adhered to the
screen of device 5600, end portion 5522 can extend beyond an end of
the screen of device 5600.
[0287] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 57 illustrates a
perspective view of machine 3500 (as shown in FIGS. 35-36 and
described above) and dust sticker assembly 5500, which can be used
together to remove dust from the screen of device 5600 (FIG. 56).
Device 5600 (FIG. 56) can be placed in recess 3521 of cradle 3520.
In many embodiments, dust removal sticker 5510 can be adhered to
the screen of device 5600 (FIG. 56) before placing device 5600
(FIG. 56) in cradle 3520. In other embodiments, dust removal
sticker 5510 can be adhered to the screen of device 5600 (FIG. 56)
after placing device 5600 (FIG. 56) in cradle 3520.
[0288] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 58 illustrates a
perspective view of a portion of machine 3500 and dust sticker
assembly 5500. FIG. 59 illustrates a perspective view of a portion
of machine 3500 and dust sticker assembly 5500, with end portion of
release liner 5520 being peeled away from dust removal sticker
5510. In a number of embodiments, end portion 5522 and a portion of
dust removal sticker 5510 attached to end portion 5522 can be
folded back at fold line 5523, as shown in FIG. 58, such that end
portion 5522 of release liner 5520 (FIG. 55) can be exposed. With
end portion 5522 folded back, end portion 5522 of release liner
5520 (FIG. 55) can be peeled away from dust removal sticker 5510,
as shown in FIG. 59, to expose an adhesive end region 5922 of dust
removal sticker 5510.
[0289] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 60 illustrates a
perspective view of machine 3500, dust sticker assembly 5500, and
an overlay applicator 6050. Overlay applicator 6050 can be similar
to overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS.
4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG.
7), overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), overlay applicator 3000
(FIG. 30) and/or overlay applicator 3550 (FIG. 35), and various
components and/or constructions of overlay applicator 6050 can be
substantially identical or similar to various components of overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7),
overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), overlay applicator 3000 (FIG.
30), and/or overlay applicator 3550 (FIG. 35). In some embodiments,
overlay applicator 6050 can include an adhesive release liner (not
shown), a pull tab 6055, an overlay (not shown), a protective film
6052, and/or alignment tabs 6056.
[0290] In some embodiments, alignment tabs 6056 can be similar to
alignment tabs 3556 (FIG. 35), and can include an alignment
mechanism 6057, which can engage with alignment base 3514 to
position overlay applicator 6050 so that the overlay is positioned
directly above the screen of device 5600 (FIG. 56). In many
embodiments, when overlay applicator 6050 is lowered onto alignment
base 3514, adhesive end region 5922 can be attached to pull tab
6055, as shown in FIG. 61, described below. In some embodiments,
pull tab 6055 can be integral with the adhesive release liner and
can be a single layer of material, such as plastic, paper, or
another suitable liner film. In many embodiments, pull tab 6055 can
be inserted through pull slot 3515, which can allow pull tab 6055
to be pulled while overlay applicator 6050 is secured to machine
3500 on alignment base 3514. As pull tab 6055 is pulled, such as
through pull slot 3515, adhesive end region 5922 can be pulled
along with pull tab 6055, which can peel off dust removal sticker
5510 from the screen of device 5600 (FIG. 56). As dust removal
sticker 5510 is peel off the screen of device 5600 (FIG. 56), dust,
dirt, and/or finger smudges can be removed from the screen of
device 5600 (FIG. 56). As dust removal sticker 5510 is peeled off
the screen of device 5600 (FIG. 56), the bottom, adhesive side of
dust removal sticker 5510 can be folded over to face and/or attach
to pull tab 6055 and/or the adhesive release liner.
[0291] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 61 illustrates a side
elevational view of a portion of dust sticker assembly 5500 as
attached to device 5600 and overlay applicator 6050. Dust removal
sticker 5510 can be adhered to the screen of device 5600, and
adhesive end region 5922 can be folded back at fold line 5523 and
exposed such that it can be adhered to pull tab 6055, which is
folded back along an adhesive release liner 6153 of overlay
applicator 6050. In many embodiments, adhesive end region 5922 can
be adhered to pull tab 6055 after end portion 5522 (FIG. 55) of
release liner 5520 (FIG. 55) is removed from adhesive end region
5922 of dust removal sticker 5510.
[0292] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 62 illustrates a
perspective view of a wiper 6200. Wiper 6200 is merely exemplary
and embodiments of the wiper are not limited to embodiments
presented herein. The wiper can be employed in many different
embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described
herein. Wiper 6200 can be similar to wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457
(FIGS. 4-5), wiper 657 (FIG. 6), wiper 757 (FIG. 7), and/or wiper
2857 (FIG. 28), and various components and/or constructions of
wiper 6200 can be substantially identical or similar to various
components of wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457 (FIGS. 4-5), wiper 657
(FIG. 6), wiper 757 (FIG. 7), and/or wiper 2857 (FIG. 28). In many
embodiments, wiper 6200 can be used with an overlay applicator,
such as overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400
(FIGS. 4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator
700 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30) to remove
dust, dirt, smudges, etc., from the screen of a device prior to
adhering an overlay to the screen of the device. In many
embodiments, wiper 6200 can be attached to a pull tab, such as pull
tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450 (FIGS. 4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6),
pull tab 750 (FIG. 7), and/or pull tab 2750 (FIGS. 27-30).
[0293] In a number of embodiments, wiper 6200 can include a wiper
support 6210 and a wiper surface 6220 at a top side of wiper
support 6210. In various embodiments, an opposite bottom side of
wiper support 6210 can be configured to attach to the pull tab. In
many embodiments, wiper support 6210 can be made of foam or an
elastomeric material. Wiper support 6210 can have sufficient
thickness to ensure a close contact and/or pressure between wiper
surface 6220 and the screen of the device when wiper surface 6220
is pulled across the screen of the device. In many embodiments,
wiper surface 6220 can be made of a fabric (e.g., a microfiber
cloth), soft silicone, an extruded rubber, or another suitable
material. In a number of embodiments, wiper surface 6220 can
include a slot 6230. In some embodiments, slot 6230 can extend
partially or fully through the thickness of wiper surface 6220. In
some embodiments, slot 6230 can be debossed in wiper surface 6220.
In certain embodiments, wiper surface 6220 can be as long as, or
slightly longer than, the width of the screen of the device. In
some embodiments, slot 6230 can be as long as the width of the
screen of the device, and wiper surface 6220 can extend an
additional approximately 2 mm on each side of slot 6220. In a
number of embodiments, wiper surface 6220 can have a width of
approximately 10 mm, slot 6230 can have a width of approximately 2
mm, and wiper surface 6220 can extend 4 mm on each side of slot
6230.
[0294] In many embodiments, as wiper 6200 is pulled across the
screen of the device, the leading edge and/or the material of wiper
surface 6220 can intercept dust particles. Slot 6230 can intercept
dust particles that are not intercepted by the leading edge or the
material of wiper surface 6220, such as a rounded dirt particle
that rolls across wiper surface 6220. In a number of embodiments,
including slot 6230 in wiper surface 6220 can advantageously
decrease the surface area of wiper surface 6220, which can
advantageously increase the pressure of the remaining surface of
wiper surface 6220 on the screen of the device during wiping and
forestall dust and/or dirt particles from rolling past the leading
edge of wiper surface 6220 or slot 6230.
[0295] Other embodiments of wipers, such as wiper 6200, can have
additional slots. For example, FIG. 63 illustrates a perspective
view of a wiper 6300. Wiper 6300 is merely exemplary and
embodiments of the wiper are not limited to embodiments presented
herein. The wiper can be employed in many different embodiments or
examples not specifically depicted or described herein. Wiper 6300
can be similar to wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457 (FIGS. 4-5), wiper
657 (FIG. 6), wiper 757 (FIG. 7), wiper 2857 (FIG. 28), and/or
wiper 6200 (FIG. 62), and various components and/or constructions
of wiper 6200 can be substantially identical or similar to various
components of wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457 (FIGS. 4-5), wiper 657
(FIG. 6), wiper 757 (FIG. 7), wiper 2857 (FIG. 28), and/or wiper
6200 (FIG. 62). In many embodiments, wiper 6300 can include wiper
support 6210 and a wiper surface 6320 at the top side of wiper
support 6210. The bottom side of wiper support 6210 can be
configured to attach to a pull tab, as described above.
[0296] In a number of embodiments, wiper surface 6320 can include a
slot 6330 and slot 6340. In some embodiments, slots 6330 and 6340
can extend partially across the length of wiper surface 6320. In a
number of embodiments, slot 6330 can extend across one half of the
length of wiper surface 6320 and slot 6340 can extend across the
other half of the length of wiper surface 6320. In certain
embodiments, slots 6330 and 6340 can each extend into an overlap
region 6350. In some embodiments, overlap region 6350 can extend
approximately 4 mm. Overlap region can advantageously provide
sufficient overlap in the wiping paths of slots 6330 and 6340 as
slots 6330 and 6340 wipe across the screen of the device to ensure
rolling dust particles roll in either slot 6330 or slot 6340. In
other embodiments, slots 6330 and 6340 can each extend across the
length of wiper surface 6320 and/or the width of the screen of the
device, such that rolling dust particles could be intercepted by
two slots. In yet additional embodiments, slots 6330 and 6250 can
be positioned in another suitable configuration and/or wiper 6300
can include additional slots.
[0297] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 64 illustrates a top
side view of a set of cradles 6400. Set of cradles 6400 can include
a cradle 6410 for a first device, a cradle 6420 for a second
device, and cradle 6430 for a third device. Cradles 6410, 6420, and
6430 are merely exemplary and embodiments of the cradles are not
limited to embodiments presented herein. The cradles can be
employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically
depicted or described herein. Cradles 6410, 6420, and/or 6430 can
be similar to cradle 310 (FIG. 3), cradle 832 (FIG. 8), cradle 1620
(FIG. 16), cradle 2032 (FIG. 20), cradle 3100 (FIG. 31), cradle
3520 (FIG. 35), cradle 3710 (FIGS. 37-38) and/or cradle 4630 (FIGS.
46-50), and various components and/or constructions of cradles
6410, 6420, and/or 6430 can be substantially identical or similar
to various components of cradle 310 (FIG. 3), cradle 832 (FIG. 8),
cradle 1620 (FIG. 16), cradle 2032 (FIG. 20), cradle 3100 (FIG.
31), cradle 3520 (FIG. 35), cradle 3710 (FIGS. 37-38) and/or cradle
4630 (FIGS. 46-50). Cradles 6410, 6420, and/or 6430 can be used
with an overlay applicator, e.g., overlay applicator 3550 (FIG.
35), to apply an overlay to the screen of the device.
[0298] Cradle 6410 can include a device slot 6411 in which a first
device can be placed with the screen of the first device facing
upwards or away from device slot 6411. In some embodiments, device
slot 6411 is conformal with the first device. Device slot 6411 can
have sides 6412 and a bottom 6413. Cradle 6410 can have a thickness
greater than the thickness of device slot 6411 and/or the first
device. Similarly, cradle 6420 can include a device slot 6421,
which can include sides 6422 and a bottom 6423, and/or cradle 6430
can include a device slot 6431, which can include sides 6432 and a
bottom 6433. Device slot 6421 can be configured to hold a second
device with the screen of the second device facing upwards or away
from device slot 6421, and/or device slot 6431 can be configured to
hold a third device with the screen of the third device facing
upwards or away from device slot 6431. Device slot 6421 can be
conformal with the second device, and/or device slot 6431 can be
conformal with the third device. Cradle 6420 can have a thickness
greater than the thickness of device slot 6421 and/or the second
device, and cradle 6430 can have a thickness greater than the
thickness of device slot 6431 and/or the third device.
[0299] In many embodiments, cradle 6410 can include an alignment
base 6414, which can engage with an alignment mechanism of the
overlay applicator, such as alignment mechanism 3557 (FIG. 35) on
overlay applicator 3550 (FIG. 35). In some embodiments, alignment
base 6414 can be one or more protrusions that can fit inside the
one or more slots of alignment mechanism 3557 (FIG. 35). For
example, as shown in FIG. 35, alignment mechanism 3557 can include
two holes on each of alignment tabs 3556 at each end of overlay
applicator 3550. Alignment base 6414 can include two protrusions at
each end of cradle 6410 configured to engage with the two holes at
each end of alignment mechanism 3557 (FIG. 35). Alignment base 6414
and alignment mechanism 3557 (FIG. 35) can be configured and
positioned such that when alignment mechanism 3557 (FIG. 35) is
engaged with alignment base 6414, the overlay can be positioned
directly above the screen of the first device in device slot 6411,
and aligned such that the overlay will be adhered in an accurate
position on the screen when the adhesive release liner is removed.
In certain embodiments, cradle 6410 can include one or more bottom
apertures 6415, which can facilitate removal of the first device
from cradle 6410.
[0300] In various embodiments, cradle 6410 can include a pull slot
6416. Pull slot 6416 can be similar to pull slot 3515 (FIG. 35). In
many embodiments, pull slot 6416 can be located between device slot
6411 and one side of alignment base 6414 and can extend to the
bottom and/or side of cradle 6410. In many embodiments, a pull tab,
such as pull tab 3555 (FIG. 35) can be inserted through pull slot
6416, which can allow pull tab 3555 (FIG. 35) to be pulled while
overlay applicator 3550 (FIG. 35) is secured at both ends of
alignment base 6414.
[0301] Cradle 6420 can include an alignment base 6424, and/or
cradle 6430 can include an alignment base 6434. Alignment base 6424
and/or alignment base 6434 can be similar or identical to alignment
base 6414. Cradle 6420 can include one or more bottom apertures
6425, and/or cradle 6430 can include one or more bottom apertures
6435. Bottom apertures 6425 and/or bottom apertures 6435 can be
similar or identical to bottom apertures 6415. Cradle 6420 can
include a pull slot 6426, and/or cradle 6430 can include a pull
slot 6436. Pull slot 6426 and/or pull slot 6436 can be similar or
identical to pull slot 6416.
[0302] Set of cradles 6400 can be used with overlay applicators,
such as overlay applicator 3550 (FIG. 35), to apply overlays to
various different devices. For example, cradle 6410 can be
configured to apply an overlay on the first device (e.g., a Samsung
Galaxy S.RTM.4), cradle 6420 can be configured to apply an overlay
on the second device (e.g., an Apple iPhone.RTM. 5), and cradle
6430 can be configured to apply an overlay on the third device
(e.g., an Apple iPhone.RTM. 4). In other embodiments, set of
cradles 6400 can include fewer or additional cradles, and/or can
include cradles configured to be used with overlay applicator 3550
(FIG. 35) to apply overlays on additional devices.
[0303] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 65 illustrates a
perspective view of overlay applicator 3550 being utilized with
cradle 6410, which is holding a device 6550. As shown in FIG. 65,
device 6550 can be inserted in device slot 6411 with the screen of
device 6550 facing upwards or away from device slot 6411. Next,
pull tab 3555 can be inserted in and/or lowered through pull slot
6416 until device portion 3560 of overlay applicator 3550 is
positioned over the screen of device 6550.
[0304] FIG. 66 illustrates a perspective view of overlay applicator
3550 being utilized with cradle 6410, which is holding a device
6550. As shown in FIG. 66, overlay applicator 3550 can be secured
to cradle 6410 by engaging alignment mechanism 3557 on alignment
tabs 3556 with alignment base 6414. After overlay applicator 3550
is secured to cradle 6410, pull tab 3555 can be pulled to remove
the adhesive release liner from the bottom of the overlay and
expose the adhesive on the bottom of the overlay to the screen of
device 6550 (FIG. 65). As the adhesive release liner is removed, or
alternatively, after the adhesive release liner is partially or
fully removed, from the overlay, the overlay can be adhered to the
screen of device 6550 (FIG. 65). In some embodiments, the overlay
can be secured at the screen of device 6550 (FIG. 65), such that
adhesion can begin to occur upon removal of the adhesive release
liner. After the overlay is adhered to the screen of device 6550
(FIG. 65), device 6550 (FIG. 65) can be removed from cradle 6410
and protective film 3552 (FIG. 35) can be peeled off of the
overlay.
[0305] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 67 illustrates a
perspective view of set of cradles 6400, with cradles 6410, 6420,
and 6430 in a stacked configuration. FIG. 68 illustrates a side
view of set of cradles 6400 in a stacked configuration. In a number
of embodiments, each cradle in set of cradles 6400 can be stackable
with the other cradles in set of cradles 6400. In various
embodiments, each cradle of set of cradles 6400 can include
stacking slots (not shown) at each end on the bottom side of the
cradle (e.g., 6410, 6420, 6430), which can engage with an alignment
base (e.g., 6414, 6424, 6434) of the next lower cradle in the
stacked set of cradles 6400. For example, as shown in FIGS. 67-68,
alignment base 6414 of cradle 6410 can engage with stacking slots
(not shown) on cradle 6420 to secure cradle 6420 above cradle 6410,
and alignment base 6424 of cradle 6420 can engage with stacking
slots (not shown) on cradle 6430 to secure cradle 6430 above cradle
6420, such that cradle 6410, cradle 6420, and cradle 6430 are
stacked in a coterminous configuration. Stacking each cradle of set
of cradles 6400 can advantageously save table space and allow set
of cradles to be kept in a stable compact arrangement.
[0306] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 69 illustrates a
perspective view of a machine 6900, which can be used with an
overlay applicator, such as overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30), to
apply an overlay, such as overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) to the screen
of a device. Machine 6900 is merely exemplary and embodiments of
the machine are not limited to the embodiments presented herein.
The machine can be employed in many different embodiments or
examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In various
embodiments, machine 6900 can include a clamshell frame 6910 and a
cradle 6950. In a number of embodiments, clamshell frame 6910 can
include a support base 6920, a lid 6930, and a hinge mechanism
6940. In some embodiments, cradle 6950 can be removably attached to
support base 6920.
[0307] Cradle 6950 can be similar to cradle 3100 (FIG. 31-34). In
some embodiments, cradle 6950 can include a bottom frame 6954,
corner frames 6951, and/or side frames 6952, which together can
form a device slot 6956, and which can provide support for the
device and/or provide a snug fit for the device to prevent movement
of the device when held by cradle 6950. In many embodiments, cradle
6950 can include an alignment base 6953, which can engage with
alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30) of overlay applicator 3000
(FIG. 30). In some embodiments, alignment base 6953 can be one or
more protrusions that can fit inside the one or more slots of
alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30). Alignment base 6953 and
alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30) can be configured and
positioned such that when alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30) is
engaged with alignment base 6953, overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) can be
positioned directly above the screen of the device held by cradle
6950, and aligned such that overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) can be
adhered in an accurate position on the screen of the device when
adhesive release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) is removed, as described
below.
[0308] In many embodiments, cradle 6950 can include central support
6955. Central support 6955 can be similar to central support 3150
(FIG. 31). In many embodiments, central support 6955 can provide
support for overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30). In a number of
embodiments, central support 6955 can press overlay applicator 3000
(FIG. 30) against the screen of the device as adhesive release
liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) is peeled away from overlay 2930 (FIGS.
29-30), as described below.
[0309] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 70 illustrates a
perspective view of clamshell frame 6910. In several embodiments,
support base 6920 can include a cradle support 7021, which can
securely hold cradle 6950 (FIG. 69). In a number of embodiments,
cradle 6950 (FIG. 69) can be removably inserted in cradle support
7021. In other embodiments, cradle 6950 (FIG. 69) can be fixedly
attached to cradle support 7021. In a number of embodiments, cradle
support 7021 can hold various different cradles, such as cradles
configured for various different devices.
[0310] In various embodiments, hinge mechanism 6940 attach lid 6930
to support base 6920, and/or can allow lid 6930 rotate with respect
to support base 6920 between an open configuration, as shown in
FIGS. 70-71 (FIG. 71 is described below), and a closed
configuration, as shown in FIG. 72, described below. In some
embodiments, hinge mechanism 6940 can include one or more axles
7041. In certain embodiments, axles 7041 can be secured in one or
more base axle mounts 7042, and/or can be attached to lid 6930 by
one or more lid axle supports 7034. In a number of embodiments, lid
axle supports 7034 can be fixedly attached to axles 7041. In
various embodiments, hinge mechanism 6940 can include one or more
springs 7043, which can be attached to axles 7041 and support base
6920, and which can bias lid 6930 to rotate away from support base
6920 in an open configuration, as shown in FIGS. 70-71.
[0311] In many embodiments, support base 6920 can include one or
more latching slots 7022, one or more release buttons 7023, and/or
one or more latches (not shown). Lid 6930 can include one or more
catches 7032. In a number of embodiments, when machine 6900 (FIG.
69) is in the closed configuration, as shown in FIG. 72, catches
7032 can be inserted inside latching slots 7022 and can be engaged
with the latches to secure lid 6930 proximate to support base 6920
in the closed configuration. In various embodiments, release
buttons 7023 can be pressed to release catches 7032 from the
latches, which can allow lid 6930 to rotate open away from support
base 6920, so as to allow machine 6900 to open to the open
configuration, as shown in FIG. 70. As described above, hinge
assembly 6940 can be spring-loaded such that, upon pressing release
buttons 7023 when machine 6900 is in a closed configuration, as
shown in FIG. 72, machine 6900 (FIG. 69) can open to an open
configuration, as shown in FIGS. 70-71. In certain embodiments,
support base 6920 can include one or more bumpers 7024, which can
support one or more rear portions 7033 of lid 6930 when machine
6900 (FIG. 69) is in an open configuration, and can prevent lid
6930 from opening further.
[0312] In a number of embodiments, lid 6930 can include one or more
pads 7031. Pads 7031 can be made of foam or an elastomeric
material. In a number of embodiments, pads 7031 can press the
device down upon overlay applicator 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) when machine
6900 (FIG. 69) is in a closed configuration, as shown in FIG.
72.
[0313] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 71 illustrates a
perspective view of machine 6900 in an open configuration while
holding a device 7100. In the open configuration, lid 6930 can be
rotated about hinge assembly 6940 away from support base 6920. In
many embodiments, cradle 6950 can be inserted and/or removed from
clamshell frame 6910 while machine 6900 is in the open
configuration. In several embodiments, overlay applicator 3000
(FIG. 30) can be attached to cradle 6950 while machine 6900 is in
the open configuration. Overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30) can be
positioned on cradle 7150 such that protective film 2920 (FIGS.
29-30) is placed against central support 6955, and adhesive release
liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) and pull tab 2750 are above protective
film 2920 (FIGS. 29-30). Pull tab 2750 (FIGS. 27-30) can be folded
back across adhesive release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30), such that
alignment tab 2910 (FIGS. 29-30) is partially or fully uncovered
and wiper 2857 (FIGS. 28-30) is face up. In a number of
embodiments, device 7100 can be inserted in device slot 6956 of
cradle 6950. Device 7100 can be inserted with the screen of device
7100 facing downward against overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30).
[0314] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 72 illustrates a
perspective view of machine 6900 in a closed configuration while
holding device 7100. In a closed configuration, lid 6930 can be
rotated about hinge assembly 6940 proximate to support base 6920.
As described above, catches 7032 can engage with the latches in
support base 6920 to securely hold machine 6900 in a closed
configuration. In many embodiments, pads 7031 (FIG. 70) can press
down upon the back of device 7100 to press the screen of device
7100 against overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30). In many
embodiments, machine 6900 can include an end slot 7225 in clamshell
frame 6910 and/or cradle 6950 through which pull tab 2750 (FIGS.
27-30) can extend and be pulled to remove adhesive release liner
2740 (FIGS. 27-30) from overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30).
[0315] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGS. 73-74 illustrate using
machine 6900 to apply overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) to the screen of
device 7100 (FIG. 71). FIG. 73 illustrates a perspective view of
machine 6900 in an open configuration with overlay applicator 3000
placed on cradle 6950. Overlay applicator 3000 can be positioned
such that protective film 2920 (FIGS. 29-30) is placed against
central support 6955 (FIG. 69), and adhesive release liner 2740
(FIGS. 27-30) and pull tab 2750 are above protective film 2920
(FIGS. 29-30). Pull tab 2750 can be folded back across adhesive
release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30), such that alignment tab 2910 is
partially or fully uncovered and wiper 2857 is face up. In many
embodiments, alignment mechanism 2915 of alignment tab 2910 can be
inserted on alignment base 6953 of cradle 6950. Machine 6900 can be
in an open configuration, with lid 6930 opened away from support
base 6920 when overlay applicator 3000 is placed on cradle
6950.
[0316] In many embodiments, device 7100 can be placed in device
slot 6956 (FIG. 69) of cradle 6950. In many embodiments, device
7100 can be placed in device slot 6956 (FIG. 69) with the screen of
device 7100 facing downwards. In various embodiments, the screen of
device 7100 can rest against or be proximate to pull tab 2750
and/or wiper 2857.
[0317] FIG. 74 illustrates a perspective view of machine 6900 in a
closed configuration holding overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 73) and
device 7100, with pull tab 2750 being pulled. In many embodiments,
lid 6930 can be lowered until catches 7032 (FIG. 70) engage with
the latches in latching slots 7022 (FIG. 70), so as to change
machine 6900 to a closed configuration. In many embodiments, lid
6930 can rotate with respect to support base 6920 about hinge
mechanism 6940. In a closed configuration, pads 7031 (FIG. 70) can
press downward on the back of device 7100 and hold device 7100
securely within machine 6900. In many embodiments, central support
6955 (FIG. 69) and pads 7031 (FIG. 70) can press the screen of
device 7100 and overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 73) closely
together.
[0318] As shown in FIG. 74, pull tab 2750 can be pulled to remove
adhesive release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) from the adhesive side of
overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30). In many embodiments, as pull tab 2750
is pulled, wiper 2857 (FIG. 73) can wipe across the screen of
device 7100 to remove any dust from the screen of device 7100. In a
number of embodiments, as pull tab 2750 is pulled and adhesive
release liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) is removed, central support 6955
(FIG. 69) can be depressed slightly as the fold in adhesive release
liner 2740 (FIGS. 27-30) moves from one end to the other end of
device 7100, and can rebound to provide pressure against protective
film 2920 (FIGS. 29-30) to press the exposed adhesive of overlay
2930 (FIGS. 29-30) against the screen of device 7100 as it is
exposed.
[0319] In many embodiments, lid 6930 can next be raised so as to
change machine 6900 to an open configuration. In a number of
embodiments, lid 6930 can be raised by pushing release buttons
7023, so as to release catches 7032 (FIG. 70) from the latches in
latching slots 7022 (FIG. 70), such that springs 7043 (FIG. 70)
cause axles 7041 (FIG. 70) to rotate and open lid 6930. Lid 6930
can be raised to an open configuration to facilitate removal of
device 7100 from cradle 6950.
[0320] In a number of embodiments, device 7100 can be removed,
along with overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) and protective film 2920
(FIGS. 29-30), from cradle 6950 of machine 6900. Protective film
2920 (FIGS. 29-30) can be removed from overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30),
which is adhered to device 7100. After protective film 2920 (FIGS.
29-30) has been peeled away from overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30),
application of overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30) to the screen of device
7100 can be complete.
[0321] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 75 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 7500 of providing a machine.
Method 7500 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 7500 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 7500 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 7500 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 7500 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
machine can be similar or identical to machine 6900 (FIGS.
69-74).
[0322] Referring to FIG. 75, method 7500 can include a block 7501
of providing a base. In a number of embodiments, the base can be
similar or identical to support base 6920 (FIGS. 69-74). In some
embodiments, the base can include a first attachment mechanism. In
various embodiments, the first attachment mechanism can be similar
or identical to latching slots 7022 (FIG. 70) and/or release
buttons 7023 (FIGS. 70, 72).
[0323] In many embodiments, method 7500 next can include a block
7502 of providing a first cradle. The cradle can be similar or
identical to cradle 3100 (FIGS. 31-34) and/or 6950 (FIGS. 69,
71-73). In several embodiments, the cradle can be configured to
hold a first electronic device. The first electronic device can be
similar or identical to device 7100 (FIG. 71-72, 74). In some
embodiments, the first cradle can be integral with the base. In
other embodiments, the first cradle can be removable from the base.
In a number of embodiments, the base can be configured to hold a
second cradle different from the first cradle. The second cradle
can be similar or identical to cradle 3100 (FIGS. 31-34) and/or
cradle 6950 (FIGS. 69, 71-72) The second cradle can be configured
to hold a second electronic device having one or more different
dimensions than the first electronic device.
[0324] In various embodiments, method 7500 next can include a block
7503 of providing an alignment base. The alignment base can be
similar or identical to alignment base 212 (FIG. 2), alignment base
312 (FIG. 3), alignment base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base
1632 (FIGS. 16-19), alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20, alignment base
3112 (FIGS. 31-34), alignment base 3514 (FIGS. 35-36), alignment
base 3814 (FIG. 38), alignment base 4734 (FIG. 47), alignment base
6414 (FIG. 64), alignment base 6424 (FIG. 64), alignment base 6434
(FIG. 64), and/or alignment base 6953 (FIGS. 69, 73). In some
embodiments, the first cradle can include the alignment base. In a
number of embodiments, the base can include the alignment base.
[0325] In several embodiments, the alignment base can be configured
to engage with an alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The
overlay applicator can be similar or identical to overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7),
overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), overlay applicator 3000 (FIG.
30), overlay applicator 3550 (FIGS. 35-36), and/or overlap
applicator 6050 (FIG. 60). In many embodiments, the alignment
mechanism can be similar or identical to alignment mechanism 115
(FIG. 1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIG. 4), alignment mechanism 615
(FIG. 6), alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7), alignment mechanism
1515 (FIG. 15), alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30), and/or
alignment mechanism 3557 (FIGS. 35-36). The overlay applicator can
include an overlay configured to be applied to a screen of the
first electronic device. The overlay can be similar or identical to
overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay 630 (FIG.
6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay 1530 (FIG. 15), and/or
overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30). In several embodiments, the alignment
base can be configured to align the overlay applicator as the
overlay of the overlay applicator is applied to the screen of the
first electronic device.
[0326] In some embodiments, the first cradle can include one or
more frame pieces configured to securely hold the first electronic
device in a device slot in a fixed position with respect to the
alignment base. The one or more frame pieces can be similar or
identical to bottom frame 6954 (FIG. 69), corner frames 6951 (FIG.
69), and/or side frames 6952 (FIG. 69). The device slot can be
similar or identical to device slot 6956 (FIG. 69). In some
embodiments, the one or more frame pieces can include four corner
frames located at each corner of the first cradle. For example, the
four corner frames can be similar or identical to corner frames
6951 (FIG. 69). In a number of embodiments, the machine can be
configured to hold the overlay applicator between the first cradle
and the screen of the electronic device when the screen of the
first electronic device is facing toward the first cradle, such as
shown in FIG. 71, for example.
[0327] In many embodiments, method 7500 next can include a block
7504 of providing a lid. The lid can be similar or identical to lid
6930 (FIGS. 69-74). In some embodiments, the lid can be hingedly
attached to the base. For example, the lid can be hingedly attached
to the base at hinge mechanism 6940 (FIGS. 69-72, 74). In several
embodiments, the machine can be configured such that the lid can be
rotated with respect to the base between an open configuration, as
shown in FIGS. 69-71 and 73, and a closed configuration, as shown
in FIGS. 72 and 74. In many embodiments, the machine can be
configured in the closed configuration to facilitate applying the
overlay of the overlay applicator to the screen of the first
electronic device.
[0328] In many embodiments, the machine can be configured in the
open configuration such that the overlay applicator and the first
electronic device can be inserted and removed from the machine. In
some embodiments, the machine can be configured in the closed
configuration to prevent removal of the first electronic device and
at least a portion of the overlay applicator from the machine. In
various embodiments, the machine can be configured in the closed
configuration such that a pull tab of the overlay applicator can be
pulled to remove an adhesive release liner of the overlay
applicator from the overlay to expose an adhesive agent of the
overlay to the screen of the first electronic device. The pull tab
can be similar or identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450
(FIGS. 4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIGS. 7, 42,
44-45, 48-49), pull tab 1550 (FIG. 15), pull tab 2750 (FIGS. 27-30)
and/or pull tab 6055 (FIG. 60). The adhesive release liner can be
similar or identical to adhesive release liner 140 (FIG. 1),
adhesive release liner 440 (FIGS. 4-5), adhesive release liner 640
(FIG. 6), adhesive release liner 740 (FIG. 7), adhesive release
liner 1540 (FIG. 15), and/or adhesive release liner 2740 (FIGS.
27-30).
[0329] In some embodiments, the lid can include one or more pads
configured to press the first electronic device toward the overlay
applicator when (a) the first electronic device is in first cradle,
(b) the overlay applicator is engaged with the alignment base, and
(c) the machine is in the closed configuration. In various
embodiments, the lid can include a second attachment mechanism
configured to removably attach to the first attachment mechanism to
hold the lid in the closed configuration. The second attachment
mechanism can be similar or identical to catches 7032.
[0330] In various embodiments, the first cradle can include a
support piece extending in a first direction. The support piece can
be similar or identical to central support 3150 (FIG. 31) and/or
central support 6955. In many embodiments, the support piece can
include an elastomeric material. The support piece can be
configured to press the adhesive agent of the overlay of the
overlay applicator toward the screen of the first electronic device
when the screen of the first electronic device is facing toward the
support piece and the adhesive release liner of the overlay
applicator is removed to expose the adhesive agent of the overlay
to the screen of the first electronic device. In a number of
embodiments, the support piece can be configured to press a wiper
of the pull tab toward the screen of the first electronic device as
the wiper moves across the screen of the electronic device in first
direction when the pull tab is pulled in the first direction. The
wiper can be similar or identical to wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457
(FIG. 4), wiper 657 (FIG. 6), wiper 757 (FIG. 7), wiper 2857 (FIGS.
28-30), wiper 6200 (FIG. 62), and/or wiper 6300 (FIG. 63).
[0331] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 76 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 7600 of providing a cradle.
Method 7600 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 7600 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 7600 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 7600 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 7600 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
cradle can be similar or identical to cradle 6410 (FIGS. 64-68),
cradle 6420 (FIGS. 64, 67-68), and/or cradle 6430 (FIGS. 64,
67-68).
[0332] Referring to FIG. 76, method 7600 can include a block 7601
of providing a device slot. In a number of embodiments, the device
slot can be similar or identical to device slot 6411 (FIG. 64),
device slot 6421 (FIG. 64), and/or device slot 6431 (FIG. 64). In
many embodiments, the device slot can be configured to securely
hold an electronic device. The electronic device can be similar or
identical to device 6550.
[0333] In many embodiments, method 7600 next can include a block
7602 of providing an alignment base. The alignment base can be
similar or identical to alignment base 212 (FIG. 2), alignment base
312 (FIG. 3), alignment base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base
1632 (FIGS. 16-19), alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20, alignment base
3112 (FIGS. 31-34), alignment base 3514 (FIGS. 35-36), alignment
base 3814 (FIG. 38), alignment base 4734 (FIG. 47), alignment base
6414 (FIG. 64), alignment base 6424 (FIG. 64), alignment base 6434
(FIG. 64), and/or alignment base 6953 (FIGS. 69, 73). In several
embodiments, the alignment base can be configured to engage with an
alignment mechanism of an overlay applicator. The overlay
applicator can be similar or identical to overlay applicator 100
(FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay applicator
600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7), overlay applicator
1500 (FIG. 15), overlay applicator 3000 (FIG. 30), overlay
applicator 3550 (FIGS. 35-36), and/or overlap applicator 6050 (FIG.
60). In many embodiments, the alignment mechanism can be similar or
identical to alignment mechanism 115 (FIG. 1), alignment mechanism
415 (FIG. 4), alignment mechanism 615 (FIG. 6), alignment mechanism
715 (FIG. 7), alignment mechanism 1515 (FIG. 15), alignment
mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30), and/or alignment mechanism 3557
(FIGS. 35-36).
[0334] In a number of embodiments, the overlay applicator can
include a first alignment tab and a second alignment tab. The first
alignment tab can include a first portion of the alignment
mechanism. The second alignment tab can include the second portion
of the alignment mechanism. In a number of embodiments, the
alignment base can include a first side configured to engage with
the first portion of the alignment mechanism of the overlay
applicator and a second side configured to engage with the second
portion of the alignment mechanism of the overlay applicator. The
first and second sides of the alignment base can be similar or
identical to alignment base 3514.
[0335] In many embodiments, method 7600 next can include a block
7603 of providing a first pull slot. The first pull slot can be
similar or identical to pull slot 3515 (FIGS. 35-36), pull slot
6416 (FIGS. 64-65), pull slot 6426 (FIG. 64), and/or pull slot 6436
(FIG. 64). In a number of embodiments, the pull slot can be
disposed between the device slot and the second side of the
alignment base. In various embodiments, the cradle can be
configured, when the electronic device is held within the device
slot with a screen of the electronic device facing upwards or away
from the device slot and/or the cradle, to hold the overlay
applicator over the electronic device such that a pull tab of the
overlay applicator can be pulled through the pull slot to expose an
overlay of the overlay applicator to the screen of the electronic
device. The pull tab can be similar or identical to pull tab 150
(FIG. 1), pull tab 450 (FIGS. 4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab
750 (FIGS. 7, 42, 44-45, 48-49), pull tab 1550 (FIG. 15), pull tab
2750 (FIGS. 27-30) and/or pull tab 6055 (FIG. 60). The overlay can
be similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS.
4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay
1530 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30).
[0336] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 77 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 7700 of providing a set of
cradles. Method 7700 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 7700 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 7700 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 7700 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 7700 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
set of cradles can be similar or identical to set of cradles 6400
(FIGS. 64, 67-68).
[0337] Referring to FIG. 77, method 7700 can include a block 7701
of providing a first cradle. The first cradle can be similar or
identical to cradle 6410 (FIGS. 64-68), cradle 6420 (FIGS. 64,
67-68), and/or cradle 6430 (FIGS. 64, 67-68). In a number of
embodiments, the first cradle can include a first device slot
having first dimensions. In a number of embodiments, the first
device slot can be similar or identical to device slot 6411 (FIG.
64), device slot 6421 (FIG. 64), and/or device slot 6431 (FIG. 64).
In many embodiments, the first device slot can be configured to
securely hold a first electronic device. The first electronic
device can be similar or identical to device 6550.
[0338] In various embodiments, the first cradle can include a first
alignment base. The first alignment base can be similar or
identical to alignment base 212 (FIG. 2), alignment base 312 (FIG.
3), alignment base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base 1632
(FIGS. 16-19), alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20, alignment base 3112
(FIGS. 31-34), alignment base 3514 (FIGS. 35-36), alignment base
3814 (FIG. 38), alignment base 4734 (FIG. 47), alignment base 6414
(FIG. 64), alignment base 6424 (FIG. 64), alignment base 6434 (FIG.
64), and/or alignment base 6953 (FIGS. 69, 73). In several
embodiments, the first alignment base can be configured to engage
with an alignment mechanism of a first overlay applicator. The
first overlay applicator can be similar or identical to overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7),
overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), overlay applicator 3000 (FIG.
30), overlay applicator 3550 (FIGS. 35-36), and/or overlap
applicator 6050 (FIG. 60). In many embodiments, the alignment
mechanism can be similar or identical to alignment mechanism 115
(FIG. 1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIG. 4), alignment mechanism 615
(FIG. 6), alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7), alignment mechanism
1515 (FIG. 15), alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30), and/or
alignment mechanism 3557 (FIGS. 35-36). In a number of embodiments,
the first overlay applicator can include an overlay configured to
be applied to a screen of the first electronic device. The overlay
can be similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430
(FIGS. 4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or
overlay 1530 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30).
[0339] In a number of embodiments, the first alignment base can
include a first side and a second side. The first and second sides
of the first alignment base can be similar or identical to
alignment base 3514. The first side of the first alignment base can
be configured to engage with a first portion of the alignment
mechanism of the first overlay applicator. The second side of the
first alignment base can be configured to engage with a second
portion of the alignment mechanism of the first overlay applicator.
The first and second portions of the alignment mechanism can be
similar or identical to alignment tabs 3556 and/or alignment
mechanisms 3557. In several embodiments, the first device slot can
be disposed between the first side of the first alignment base and
the second side of the first alignment base.
[0340] In many embodiments, the first cradle can further include a
first pull slot. The first pull slot can be similar or identical to
pull slot 3515 (FIGS. 35-36), pull slot 6416 (FIGS. 64-65), pull
slot 6426 (FIG. 64), and/or pull slot 6436 (FIG. 64). In a number
of embodiments, the first pull slot can be disposed between the
first device slot and the second side of the first alignment
base.
[0341] In various embodiments, the first cradle can be configured,
when the first electronic device is held within the first device
slot with the screen of the first electronic device facing upwards
or away from the first device slot and/or the first cradle, to hold
the first overlay applicator over the first electronic device such
that a pull tab of the first overlay applicator can be pulled
through the first pull slot to expose the overlay of the first
overlay applicator to the screen of the first electronic device.
The pull tab of the first overlay applicator can be similar or
identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450 (FIGS. 4-5), pull
tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIGS. 7, 42, 44-45, 48-49), pull
tab 1550 (FIG. 15), pull tab 2750 (FIGS. 27-30) and/or pull tab
6055 (FIG. 60).
[0342] In many embodiments, method 7700 next can include a block
7702 of providing a second cradle. The second cradle can be similar
or identical to cradle 6410 (FIGS. 64-68), cradle 6420 (FIGS. 64,
67-68), and/or cradle 6430 (FIGS. 64, 67-68). In a number of
embodiments, the second cradle can include a second device slot
having second dimensions. In many embodiments, the first dimensions
of the first device slot of the first cradle can be different from
the second dimensions of the second device slot of the second
cradle. In a number of embodiments, the second device slot can be
similar or identical to device slot 6411 (FIG. 64), device slot
6421 (FIG. 64), and/or device slot 6431 (FIG. 64). In many
embodiments, the second device slot can be configured to securely
hold a second electronic device. The second electronic device can
be similar or identical to device 6550. In many embodiments, the
first cradle and the second cradle can be configured to be stacked
in a first coterminous configuration, such as shown in FIGS. 67-68,
for example.
[0343] In various embodiments, the second cradle can include a
second alignment base. The second alignment base can be similar or
identical to alignment base 212 (FIG. 2), alignment base 312 (FIG.
3), alignment base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base 1632
(FIGS. 16-19), alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20, alignment base 3112
(FIGS. 31-34), alignment base 3514 (FIGS. 35-36), alignment base
3814 (FIG. 38), alignment base 4734 (FIG. 47), alignment base 6414
(FIG. 64), alignment base 6424 (FIG. 64), alignment base 6434 (FIG.
64), and/or alignment base 6953 (FIGS. 69, 73). In several
embodiments, the second alignment base can be configured to engage
with an alignment mechanism of a second overlay applicator. The
second overlay applicator can be similar or identical to overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7),
overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), overlay applicator 3000 (FIG.
30), overlay applicator 3550 (FIGS. 35-36), and/or overlap
applicator 6050 (FIG. 60). In many embodiments, the alignment
mechanism can be similar or identical to alignment mechanism 115
(FIG. 1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIG. 4), alignment mechanism 615
(FIG. 6), alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7), alignment mechanism
1515 (FIG. 15), alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30), and/or
alignment mechanism 3557 (FIGS. 35-36). In a number of embodiments,
the second overlay applicator can include an overlay configured to
be applied to a screen of the second electronic device. The overlay
can be similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430
(FIGS. 4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or
overlay 1530 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30).
[0344] In a number of embodiments, the second alignment base can
include a first side and a second side. The first and second sides
of the second alignment base can be similar or identical to
alignment base 3514. The first side of the second alignment base
can be configured to engage with a first portion of the alignment
mechanism of the second overlay applicator. The second side of the
second alignment base can be configured to engage with a second
portion of the alignment mechanism of the second overlay
applicator. The first and second portions of the alignment
mechanism can be similar or identical to alignment tabs 3556 and/or
alignment mechanisms 3557. In several embodiments, the second
device slot can be disposed between the first side of the second
alignment base and the second side of the second alignment
base.
[0345] In many embodiments, the second cradle can further include a
second pull slot. The second pull slot can be similar or identical
to pull slot 3515 (FIGS. 35-36), pull slot 6416 (FIGS. 64-65), pull
slot 6426 (FIG. 64), and/or pull slot 6436 (FIG. 64). In a number
of embodiments, the second pull slot can be disposed between the
second device slot and the second side of the second alignment
base.
[0346] In various embodiments, the second cradle can be configured,
when the second electronic device is held within the second device
slot with the screen of the second electronic device facing upwards
or away from the second device slot and/or the second cradle, to
hold the second overlay applicator over the second electronic
device such that a pull tab of the second overlay applicator can be
pulled through the second pull slot to expose the overlay of the
second overlay applicator to the screen of the second electronic
device. The pull tab of the second overlay applicator can be
similar or identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450 (FIGS.
4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIGS. 7, 42, 44-45,
48-49), pull tab 1550 (FIG. 15), pull tab 2750 (FIGS. 27-30) and/or
pull tab 6055 (FIG. 60).
[0347] In some embodiments, method 7700 optionally can include a
block 7703 of providing a third cradle. The third cradle can be
similar or identical to cradle 6410 (FIGS. 64-68), cradle 6420
(FIGS. 64, 67-68), and/or cradle 6430 (FIGS. 64, 67-68). In a
number of embodiments, the third cradle can include a third device
slot having third dimensions. In many embodiments, the third
dimensions of the third device slot of the third cradle can be
different from the first dimensions of the first device slot of the
first cradle and the second dimensions of the second device slot of
the second cradle. In a number of embodiments, the third device
slot can be similar or identical to device slot 6411 (FIG. 64),
device slot 6421 (FIG. 64), and/or device slot 6431 (FIG. 64). In
many embodiments, the third device slot can be configured to
securely hold a third electronic device. The third electronic
device can be similar or identical to device 6550. In many
embodiments, the third cradle can be configured to be stacked with
the first cradle and the second cradle in a second coterminous
configuration, such as shown in FIGS. 67-68, for example.
[0348] In various embodiments, the third cradle can include a third
alignment base. The third alignment base can be similar or
identical to alignment base 212 (FIG. 2), alignment base 312 (FIG.
3), alignment base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base 1632
(FIGS. 16-19), alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20, alignment base 3112
(FIGS. 31-34), alignment base 3514 (FIGS. 35-36), alignment base
3814 (FIG. 38), alignment base 4734 (FIG. 47), alignment base 6414
(FIG. 64), alignment base 6424 (FIG. 64), alignment base 6434 (FIG.
64), and/or alignment base 6953 (FIGS. 69, 73). In several
embodiments, the third alignment base can be configured to engage
with an alignment mechanism of a third overlay applicator. The
third overlay applicator can be similar or identical to overlay
applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400 (FIGS. 4-5),
overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator 700 (FIG. 7),
overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), overlay applicator 3000 (FIG.
30), overlay applicator 3550 (FIGS. 35-36), and/or overlap
applicator 6050 (FIG. 60). In many embodiments, the alignment
mechanism can be similar or identical to alignment mechanism 115
(FIG. 1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIG. 4), alignment mechanism 615
(FIG. 6), alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7), alignment mechanism
1515 (FIG. 15), alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30), and/or
alignment mechanism 3557. In a number of embodiments, the third
overlay applicator can include an overlay configured to be applied
to a screen of the third electronic device. The overlay can be
similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS.
4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay
1530 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30).
[0349] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 78 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 7800 of providing an overlay
applicator. Method 7800 is merely exemplary and is not limited to
the embodiments presented herein. Method 7800 can be employed in
many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 7800 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 7800 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 7800 can be combined or skipped. In some embodiments, the
overlay applicator can be similar or identical to overlay
applicator overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400
(FIGS. 4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator
700 (FIG. 7), overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), overlay applicator
3000 (FIG. 30), overlay applicator 3550 (FIGS. 35-36), and/or
overlap applicator 6050 (FIG. 60).
[0350] Referring to FIG. 78, method 7800 can include a block 7801
of providing an overlay. In many embodiments, the overlay can be
similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS.
4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay
1530 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30). In a number of
embodiments, the overlay can have a top side and a bottom side. The
top side of the overlay can be similar or identical to top side 131
(FIG. 1) of overlay 130 (FIG. 1). The bottom side of the overlay
can be similar or identical to bottom side 132 (FIG. 1) of overlay
130 (FIG. 1). In various embodiments, the bottom side can include
an adhesive agent configured to adhere to a screen of an electronic
device.
[0351] In some embodiments, method 7800 next can include a block
7802 of providing an adhesive release liner. The adhesive release
liner can be similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay
430 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or
overlay 1530 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30). In a
number of embodiments, the adhesive release liner can have a top
side and a bottom side. The top side of the adhesive release liner
can be removably attached to the bottom side of the overlay. In
some embodiments, the adhesive release liner can be configured to
protect the adhesive agent at the bottom side of the overlay from
contaminants.
[0352] In many embodiments, method 7800 next can include a block
7803 of providing an alignment tab. In some embodiments, the
alignment tab can be similar or identical to alignment tab 110
(FIG. 1), alignment tab 410 (FIGS. 4-5), alignment tab 610 (FIG.
6), alignment frame 710 (FIG. 7), and/or alignment flaps 1510 (FIG.
15), alignment tab 2910 (FIGS. 29-30), and/or alignment tab 3556
(FIGS. 35-36). In many embodiments, the alignment tab can include
an alignment mechanism. The alignment mechanism can be similar or
identical to alignment mechanism 115 (FIG. 1), alignment mechanism
415 (FIG. 4), alignment mechanism 615 (FIG. 6), alignment mechanism
715 (FIG. 7), alignment mechanism 1515 (FIG. 15), alignment
mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30), and/or alignment mechanism 3557
(FIGS. 35-36).
[0353] In several embodiments, method 7800 next can include a block
7804 of providing a pull tab. In some embodiments, the pull tab can
be similar or identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450
(FIGS. 4-5), pull tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIGS. 7, 42,
44-45, 48-49), pull tab 1550 (FIG. 15), pull tab 2750 (FIGS. 27-30)
and/or pull tab 6055 (FIG. 60).
[0354] In many embodiments, method 7800 next can include a block
7805 of providing a wiper. The wiper can be similar or identical to
wiper 157 (FIG. 1), wiper 457 (FIG. 4), wiper 657 (FIG. 6), wiper
757 (FIG. 7), and/or wiper 2857 (FIGS. 28-30). In some embodiments,
the wiper can include a surface. The surface can be similar or
identical to wiper surface 6220 (FIG. 62) and/or wiper surface 6320
(FIG. 62). In several embodiments, the wiper can include a first
slot. The first slot can be similar or identical to slot 6230 (FIG.
62), slot 6330 (FIG. 63), and/or slot 6340 (FIG. 63). In many
embodiments, the first slot can extend at least partially through
the surface of the wiper. In a number of embodiments, the wiper can
include a second slot. The second slot can be similar or identical
to slot 6230 (FIG. 62), slot 6330 (FIG. 63), and/or slot 6340 (FIG.
63). In many embodiments, the second slot can extend at least
partially through the surface of the wiper. In some embodiments,
the wiper can include a support portion disposed between the
surface of the wiper and the pull tab. The support portion can be
similar or identical to wiper support 6210 (FIGS. 62-63).
[0355] In a number of embodiments, method 7800 next can include a
block 7806 of attaching the wiper to the pull tab. In several
embodiments, the wiper can be attached to the pull tab with an
adhesive. In many embodiments, the pull tab, the wiper, and the
adhesive release liner can be configured such that the pull tab can
be folded across the bottom side of the adhesive release liner and
can be pulled to remove the adhesive release liner from the bottom
side of the overlay to expose the adhesive agent. In various
embodiments, the pull tab, the wiper, and the adhesive release
liner can be configured such that, when the pull tab is pulled, the
wiper can wipe across and clean the screen of the electronic
device
[0356] In some embodiments, method 7800 optionally can include a
block 7807 of providing a protective film. In some embodiments, the
protective film can be similar or identical to protective film 120
(FIG. 1), protective film 420 (FIGS. 4-5), protective film 620
(FIG. 6), protective film 720 (FIG. 7), protective film 1520 (FIG.
15), protective film 2920 (FIGS. 29-30), protective film 3552 (FIG.
35), and/or protective film 6052 (FIG. 60). In many embodiments,
the protective film can be removably attached to the top side of
the overlay.
[0357] Proceeding to the next drawing, FIG. 79 illustrates a flow
chart for an embodiment of a method 7900 of providing a system.
Method 7900 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the
embodiments presented herein. Method 7900 can be employed in many
different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or
described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of method 7900 can be performed in
the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the
processes, and/or the activities of the method 7900 can be
performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments,
one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities
in method 7900 can be combined or skipped.
[0358] Referring to FIG. 79, method 7900 can include a block 7901
of providing an overlay applicator. In many embodiments, the
overlay applicator can be similar or identical to overlay
applicator overlay applicator 100 (FIG. 1), overlay applicator 400
(FIGS. 4-5), overlay applicator 600 (FIG. 6), overlay applicator
700 (FIG. 7), overlay applicator 1500 (FIG. 15), overlay applicator
3000 (FIG. 30), overlay applicator 3550 (FIGS. 35-36), and/or
overlap applicator 6050 (FIG. 60). In a number of embodiments, the
overlay applicator can include an overlay. In many embodiments, the
overlay can be similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1),
overlay 430 (FIGS. 4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG.
7), and/or overlay 1530 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay 2930 (FIGS.
29-30). In a number of embodiments, the overlay can have a top side
and a bottom side. The top side of the overlay can be similar or
identical to top side 131 (FIG. 1) of overlay 130 (FIG. 1). The
bottom side of the overlay can be similar or identical to bottom
side 132 (FIG. 1) of overlay 130 (FIG. 1). In various embodiments,
the bottom side can include an adhesive agent configured to adhere
to a screen of an electronic device.
[0359] In several embodiments, the overlay applicator can include
an adhesive release liner. The adhesive release liner can be
similar or identical to overlay 130 (FIG. 1), overlay 430 (FIGS.
4-5), overlay 630 (FIG. 6), overlay 730 (FIG. 7), and/or overlay
1530 (FIG. 15), and/or overlay 2930 (FIGS. 29-30). In a number of
embodiments, the adhesive release liner can have a top side and a
bottom side. The top side of the adhesive release liner can be
removably attached to the bottom side of the overlay. In some
embodiments, the adhesive release liner can be configured to
protect the adhesive agent at the bottom side of the overlay from
contaminants.
[0360] In some embodiments, the overlay applicator can include a
protective film. The protective film can be similar or identical to
protective film 120 (FIG. 1), protective film 420 (FIGS. 4-5),
protective film 620 (FIG. 6), protective film 720 (FIG. 7),
protective film 1520 (FIG. 15), protective film 2920 (FIGS. 29-30),
protective film 3552 (FIG. 35), and/or protective film 6052 (FIG.
60). In many embodiments, the protective film can be removably
attached to the top side of the overlay.
[0361] In many embodiments, the overlay applicator can include an
alignment tab. In some embodiments, the alignment tab can be
similar or identical to alignment tab 110 (FIG. 1), alignment tab
410 (FIGS. 4-5), alignment tab 610 (FIG. 6), alignment frame 710
(FIG. 7), and/or alignment flaps 1510 (FIG. 15), alignment tab 2910
(FIGS. 29-30), and/or alignment tab 3556 (FIGS. 35-36). In many
embodiments, the alignment tab can include an alignment mechanism.
The alignment mechanism can be similar or identical to alignment
mechanism 115 (FIG. 1), alignment mechanism 415 (FIG. 4), alignment
mechanism 615 (FIG. 6), alignment mechanism 715 (FIG. 7), alignment
mechanism 1515 (FIG. 15), alignment mechanism 2915 (FIGS. 29-30),
and/or alignment mechanism 3557 (FIGS. 35-36). In many embodiments,
the alignment tab can include a first alignment portion extending
at and/or toward a first end of the overlay applicator; and a
second alignment portion extending at and/or toward a second end of
the overlay applicator. The first alignment portion and the second
alignment portion can include the alignment mechanism.
[0362] In some embodiments, the alignment tab can be configured to
engage with an alignment base. The alignment base can be similar or
identical to alignment base 212 (FIG. 2), alignment base 312 (FIG.
3), alignment base 835 (FIGS. 8-9, 13-14), alignment base 1632
(FIGS. 16-19), alignment base 2035 (FIG. 20, alignment base 3112
(FIGS. 31-34), alignment base 3514 (FIGS. 35-36), alignment base
3814 (FIG. 38), alignment base 4734 (FIG. 47), alignment base 6414
(FIG. 64), alignment base 6424 (FIG. 64), alignment base 6434 (FIG.
64), and/or alignment base 6953 (FIGS. 69, 73). The alignment base
can include a first portion and a second portion. The first
alignment portion can be configured to engage with the first
portion of the alignment base. The second alignment portion can be
configured to engage with the second portion of the alignment base.
The first and second portions of the alignment mechanism can be
similar or identical to alignment mechanisms 3557 and/or alignment
mechanisms 6057 (FIG. 60)
[0363] In various embodiments, the overlay applicator can include a
pull tab. In some embodiments, the pull tab can be similar or
identical to pull tab 150 (FIG. 1), pull tab 450 (FIGS. 4-5), pull
tab 650 (FIG. 6), pull tab 750 (FIGS. 7, 42, 44-45, 48-49), pull
tab 1550 (FIG. 15), pull tab 2750 (FIGS. 27-30) and/or pull tab
6055 (FIG. 60).
[0364] In many embodiments, method 7900 next can include a block
7902 of providing a sticker assembly. In some embodiments, the
sticker assembly can be similar or identical to dust sticker
assembly 5500 (FIGS. 55-61). In several embodiments, the sticker
assembly can include a sticker. The sticker can be similar or
identical to dust removal sticker 5510 (FIGS. 55-61). The sticker
can include a top side and a bottom side and an end portion. The
end portion of the sticker can be similar or identical to adhesive
end region 5922 (FIGS. 59-61). The bottom side can include a second
adhesive agent configured to removably adhere to the screen of the
electronic device.
[0365] In some embodiments, the sticker assembly can include a
release liner. The release liner can be similar or identical to
release liner 5520 (FIG. 55). In many embodiments, the release
liner can be removably attached to the bottom side of the sticker.
In some embodiments, the release liner can include a device portion
and an end portion. The device portion can be similar or identical
to device portion 5521 (FIGS. 55-56). The end portion of the
release liner can be similar or identical to 5522 (FIGS. 55-56,
58-59). In several embodiments, the end portion of the release
liner can be removably attached to the end portion of the sticker,
such as shown in FIGS. 56 and 58-59.
[0366] In many embodiments, the sticker assembly can be configured
such that, when the device portion of the release liner is removed
to expose the second adhesive agent, such as shown in FIG. 56, the
second adhesive agent of the bottom side of the sticker can be
adhered to the screen of the electronic device, and the end portion
of the sticker can be folded back over the top side of the sticker
to expose the end portion of the release liner, such as shown in
FIG. 58. In a number of embodiments, the pull tab and the adhesive
release liner can be configured such that the pull tab can be
folded across the bottom side of the adhesive release liner, such
as shown in FIGS. 60-61. In some embodiments, the sticker assembly
can be configured such that, when the end portion of the sticker is
folded back over the top side of the sticker and the end portion of
the release liner is removed from the sticker to expose the second
adhesive agent, such as shown in FIG. 59, the end portion of the
sticker can be adhered to the pull tab while the pull tab is folded
across the bottom side of the adhesive release liner, such as shown
in FIG. 60-61. In several embodiments, the overlay applicator and
sticker assembly can be configured such that, when the end portion
of the sticker is adhered to the pull tab, the pull tab can be
pulled to remove the sticker from the screen of the electronic
device and to remove the adhesive release liner from the bottom
side of the overlay to expose the first adhesive agent to the
screen of the device. In a number of embodiments, the sticker can
be configured to remove dust from the screen of the electronic
device when the sticker is removed from the screen of the
electronic device.
[0367] In certain embodiments, the overlay applicator and the
sticker assembly can be configured such that, when the pull tab is
pulled to remove the sticker from the screen of the electronic
device and to remove the adhesive release liner from the bottom
side of the overlay, at least a portion of the sticker is adhered
to at least a portion of the adhesive release liner. In many
embodiments, the overlay applicator and the sticker assembly can be
configured such that, when (a) the first alignment portion is
engaged with the first portion of the alignment base, (b) the
second alignment portion is engaged with the second portion of the
alignment base, and (c) the pull tab is pulled, the pull tab, the
sticker, and the adhesive release liner can be pulled through a
pull slot. The pull slot can be similar or identical to pull slot
3515 (FIGS. 35-36), pull slot 6416 (FIGS. 64-65), pull slot 6426
(FIG. 64), and/or pull slot 6436 (FIG. 64).
[0368] Although the invention has been described with reference to
specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the
art that various changes may be made without departing from the
spirit or scope of the invention. Accordingly, the disclosure of
embodiments of the invention is intended to be illustrative of the
scope of the invention and is not intended to be limiting. It is
intended that the scope of the invention shall be limited only to
the extent required by the appended claims. For example, to one of
ordinary skill in the art, it will be readily apparent that various
elements of FIGS. 1-79 may be modified, combined, and/or
interchanged, and that the foregoing discussion of certain of these
embodiments does not necessarily represent a complete description
of all possible embodiments. As another example, one or more of the
procedures, processes, or activities of FIGS. 23-26, 51-54, and
75-79 may include different procedures, processes, and/or
activities and be performed in many different orders.
[0369] All elements claimed in any particular claim are essential
to the embodiment claimed in that particular claim. Consequently,
replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes
reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other
advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with
regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions
to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any
benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced,
however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or
essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless
such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are expressly
stated in such claim.
[0370] Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are
not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the
embodiments and/or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in
the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express
elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of
equivalents.
* * * * *