U.S. patent application number 16/698223 was filed with the patent office on 2020-03-26 for system comprising a portable switching device for use with a portable electronic device.
This patent application is currently assigned to GUI GLOBAL PRODUCTS, LTD.. The applicant listed for this patent is GUI GLOBAL PRODUCTS, LTD.. Invention is credited to Walter G. Mayfield, Daniel Martin Valdez.
Application Number | 20200094291 16/698223 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47669176 |
Filed Date | 2020-03-26 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200094291 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mayfield; Walter G. ; et
al. |
March 26, 2020 |
SYSTEM COMPRISING A PORTABLE SWITCHING DEVICE FOR USE WITH A
PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE
Abstract
A lens and/or a view screen of an electronic device having at
least one case can be cleaned by wiping the view screen with a
cleaning component wherein the cleaning component is configured to
selectively couple to the at least one case or some other substrate
using a magnetic attractive force. The cleaning devices may have
secondary applications such as securing fly fishing lures,
activating or deactivating a device having a magnetic switch, or
preventing sunglasses from sinking. They may also be manufactured
without a cleaning component for use with the secondary
applications.
Inventors: |
Mayfield; Walter G.;
(Houston, TX) ; Valdez; Daniel Martin; (Kingwood,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GUI GLOBAL PRODUCTS, LTD. |
Houston |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GUI GLOBAL PRODUCTS, LTD.
Houston
TX
|
Family ID: |
47669176 |
Appl. No.: |
16/698223 |
Filed: |
November 27, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16502935 |
Jul 3, 2019 |
10493496 |
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16698223 |
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16460770 |
Jul 2, 2019 |
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16502935 |
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16388691 |
Apr 18, 2019 |
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16460770 |
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16041594 |
Jul 20, 2018 |
10272474 |
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16388691 |
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15852000 |
Dec 22, 2017 |
10259021 |
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16041594 |
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15597005 |
May 16, 2017 |
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15852000 |
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14343665 |
Jul 14, 2014 |
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PCT/US2012/049562 |
Aug 3, 2012 |
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15597005 |
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61661090 |
Jun 18, 2012 |
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61619229 |
Apr 2, 2012 |
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61592344 |
Jan 30, 2012 |
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61576834 |
Dec 16, 2011 |
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61569093 |
Dec 9, 2011 |
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61568031 |
Dec 7, 2011 |
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61561087 |
Nov 17, 2011 |
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61555310 |
Nov 3, 2011 |
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61515752 |
Aug 5, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 11/00 20130101;
H04M 1/21 20130101; H04M 1/72569 20130101; A47L 25/00 20130101;
H04B 1/3816 20130101; A45C 11/38 20130101; B08B 11/04 20130101;
A45C 2011/002 20130101; B08B 1/002 20130101; A45C 11/08 20130101;
H04M 1/0266 20130101; A45C 2011/003 20130101; G06F 1/32 20130101;
B08B 1/006 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B08B 1/00 20060101
B08B001/00; A45C 11/00 20060101 A45C011/00; G06F 1/32 20060101
G06F001/32; B08B 11/04 20060101 B08B011/04; H04M 1/21 20060101
H04M001/21 |
Claims
1. A system comprising: a portable switching device coupled to a
portable electronic device; wherein: the switching device and the
electronic device are configured to selectively couple to each
other employing magnetic force; the switching device comprises a
first case; the electronic device comprises a second case and an
electronic circuit that is responsive to the switching device; a
first magnet is fully disposed within the electronic device; the
electronic device comprises at least one element selected from the
group consisting of beveled edges, ridges, recessed areas, grooves,
slots, indented shapes, bumps, raised shapes, and combinations
thereof; configured to correspond to complimentary surface elements
on the switching device; wherein the second case is decoupled from
the first case by overcoming magnetic force the portable switching
device is configured to activate, deactivate, or send into
hibernation the portable electronic device; the electronic device
plays or pauses a remote device; the switching device includes a
lid and hinge attaching the lid to the switching device; the lid is
recessed to configure to the electronic device; and when coupled,
the first case functions to protect the second case.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the switching device has a first
lens.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein the electronic device has a second
lens.
4. The system of claim 1 wherein the lid has a second magnet
disposed within it.
5. The system of claim 4 wherein the lid is configured to employ
the second magnet to secure the lid in a closed position by
magnetically coupling to the first case.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein the electronic device has a tab or
knob configured to be manipulated by an external force.
7. The system of claim 3 wherein the first case is configured to be
nonabrasive to the second lens.
8. The system of claim 2 wherein the second case is configured to
be nonabrasive to the first lens.
9. The system of claim 1 wherein the first magnet is employed in
actuating the electronic circuit.
10. The system of claim 4 wherein the second or a third magnet is
employed in the lid to actuate the electronic circuit.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein the electronic device is wireless
earplugs.
12. The system of claim 1 wherein the system further comprises a
sensor that can be activated using a magnet.
13. The system of claim 5 wherein the system further comprises a
sensor that can be actuated using a magnet.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 16/502,935, filed Jul. 3, 2019, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/460,770, filed
Jul. 2, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 16/388,691, filed Apr. 18, 2019, which is a continuation
of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/041,594, filed Jul. 20,
2018, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
15/852,000, filed Dec. 22, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 15/597,005, filed May 16, 2017, which
is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/343,665, filed
Jul. 14, 2014, which is a national stage entry of PCT application
No.: PCT/US2012/049562, filed, Aug. 3, 2012, which claims priority
from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/661,090, filed June
18, 2012, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/619,229,
filed Apr. 2, 2012; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
61/592,344, filed Jan. 30, 2012; and U.S. Provisional Application
Ser. No. 61/576,834, filed Dec. 16, 2011; and U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 61/569,093, filed Dec. 9, 2011; and U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/568,031, filed Dec. 7, 2011;
and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/561,087, filed Nov.
17, 2011; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/555,310,
filed Nov. 3, 2011; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
61/515,752, filed Aug. 5, 2011, the entire disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The invention relates to an apparatus for cleaning view
screens. The invention particularly relates to such an apparatus
used with electrical devices.
2. Background of the Art
[0003] Cleaning lenses has long been an issue for the users of
devices employing them. For example, telescopes, glasses,
binoculars, and cameras have long been used and keeping the lenses
of such devices clean has been the subject of many creative
efforts.
[0004] More recently, there are new devices to clean. With the
advent of portable electronic devices, it has become common to
observe such devices being used in many public venues. Such venues
include coffee shops, restaurants, shopping malls, and the like.
These devices can be seen in just about any public setting.
[0005] Many of the portable electronic devices have a view screen
for displaying text. Some of these devices also are used for
displaying photographs and in some cases movies. The newest of
these devices display photographs and movies in high
definition.
[0006] While the view screens are usually rugged, and often covered
with a protective film or screen, they are still subject to
becoming dirty. Oils from human skin, environmental liquids and
powders, and even airborne aerosols and dust can collect on a view
screen and make it difficult to use.
[0007] Cleaning the view screen of a portable electronic device can
be problematic. It is often not desirable to use materials that are
readily available to clean the view screen. For example, paper
towels and paper napkins or sometimes composed of materials that
may scratch and thereby damage a view screen.
[0008] Carrying appropriate cleaning materials is sometimes a
problem. Cleaning devices are sometimes too bulky to be comfortably
carried. In their rush to get ready in the morning, it is easy for
users of electronic devices to forget or overlook such preparations
for their day.
[0009] It would be desirable in the art of manufacturing portable
electronic devices to incorporate into such devices the cleaning
apparatus. It would also be desirable in the art of providing
accessories for portable electronic devices to provide a cleaning
component that can be carried on an electronic device case.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] In one aspect, the invention is a method of cleaning a view
screen of an electronic device having at least one case comprising
wiping the view screen with a cleaning component wherein the
cleaning component is configured to selectively couple to the at
least one case using a magnetic attractive force.
[0011] In another aspect, the invention is a cleaning component for
use on an electronic device view screen comprising a cleaning
material covering at least one surface of a ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic substrate wherein the cleaning component has a
maximum thickness of 1.5 cm.
[0012] In still another aspect, the invention is a small electronic
device comprising a case, a view screen, and internal electronic
components wherein the view screen and internal electronic
components are mounted within the case and the view screen is
externally visible in at least one configuration of the case. Also,
the case has a surface that is substantially diamagnetic and at
least a part of the surface of the case has been configured to
receive a cleaning component wherein: the cleaning component is
configured to selectively couple to the at least one part of the
surface of the case that has been configured to receive the
cleaning component; the at least one part of the surface of the
case that has been configured to receive the cleaning component is
ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic or overlays a ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic material; and the cleaning component comprises a
cleaning material covering at least one surface of a ferromagnetic
or ferrimagnetic substrate.
[0013] Another aspect of the invention is a second case, that
functions to protect an electronic device's primary case, and has a
surface that is substantially diamagnetic and at least a part of
the surface of the second case has been configured to receive a
cleaning component wherein: the cleaning component is configured to
selectively couple to the at least one part of the surface of the
second case that has been configured to receive the cleaning
component; the at least one part of the surface of the second case
that has been configured to receive the cleaning component is
ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic or overlays a ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic material; and the cleaning component comprises a
cleaning material covering at least one surface of a ferromagnetic
or ferrimagnetic substrate.
[0014] In still another aspect, the invention is a method of
cleaning a view screen or a lens for use with a mechanical or
non-electronic device having a view screen or a lens comprising
wiping the view screen or lens with a cleaning component wherein
the cleaning component is configured to selectively couple to the
at least one part of the mechanical or non-electrical device using
a magnetic attractive force.
[0015] In yet another aspect, the invention is a method of cleaning
a view screen or a lens using a cleaning component wherein the
cleaning component is configured to adhere to portable object
different from the object having the view screen or lens.
[0016] Another aspect of the invention is employing a cleaning
component having a magnet element to activate or deactivate a
magnetic switch.
[0017] In still another aspect, the invention is a cleaning
component having a cleaning surface that is replaceable and held in
place within the cleaning component with a tacky adhesive wherein
the tacky adhesive is directly on the surface of the non-cleaning
surface or the tacky adhesive is in the form of a double sided
tape.
[0018] In yet another aspect, the invention is a cleaning component
having an external cover for protecting one both sides of a
cleaning material wherein the external cover is reversible so that
it may be folded over to expose the cleaning surface.
[0019] In still another aspect, the invention is a case for an
electronic device having a magnetic switch, and in the area of the
case over the magnetic switch, a recessed area that functions to
facilitate a cleaning component having a magnet moving past the
switch in order to activate or deactivate the switch.
[0020] Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning system having
at least one element being a piece of clothing selected from the
group consisting of a hat, helmet, sweatband or other headgear; a
jacket or coat; a shirt or top; a skirt or pants; and a shoe or
boot, wherein the piece of clothing is configured to accept a
cleaning component and the cleaning component is held in place, at
least in part, using a magnet.
[0021] In yet another aspect, the invention may be cleaning system
comprising a cleaning component and an area on a device case
configured to receive the cleaning component wherein the area of
the device case configured to receive the cleaning component and
the cleaning component may be used as a game wherein the cleaning
component is tossed at the device case configured to receive the
cleaning component.
[0022] In still another aspect, the invention is a stylus
configured to receive a cleaning component.
[0023] Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning system having
at least one element being an accessory selected from the group
consisting of a purse, wallet, computer case, gun case, glasses
strap, gloves, backpack, and a belt, wherein the piece of clothing
is configured to accept a cleaning component and the cleaning
component is held in place, at least in part, using a magnet.
[0024] Yet another aspect of the invention is a cleaning component
for use on an electronic device view screen comprising a cleaning
material covering at least one surface of a ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic substrate wherein the cleaning component also
includes a tab. In one embodiment, the tab is elongated so that it
can function as a stand to hold the electronic device upright.
[0025] Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning device having
a hard surface and cleaning surface and including at least one
ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material within the cleaning device
wherein the at least one ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material
may function to actuate a power switch or sensor that is capable of
being actuated using a magnet.
[0026] Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning device having
additional functionality such as a remote control, laser pointer or
the like.
[0027] In one aspect, the invention is a switching device for use
with a portable electronic device having a view screen and at least
one switch that can be activated or de-activated by introducing a
magnetic field to the at least one switch wherein the switching
device has at least one magnet and at least one surface that is
non-abrasive to the surface of the view screen.
[0028] In another aspect, the invention is a switching device for
an electronic apparatus that can be activated or deactivated by
employing a magnet, the switching device having (i) at least one
magnet, (ii) a body surrounding the magnet, and (iii) at least one
surface configured to contact any surface of the device, including
the view screen; wherein the surface configured to contact the
electronic apparatus is non-abrasive to the view screen of the
apparatus.
[0029] In another aspect, the invention is a method of conserving
power when using a portable electronic device having a view screen
and at least one switch that can activated or de-activated by
introducing a magnetic field to the at least one switch wherein the
switching device has at least one magnet and at least one surface
that is non-abrasive to the surface of the view screen, wherein the
method includes using the switching device to turn the portable
electronic device off when the portable electronic device is not in
actual use and then on when the portable electronic device is
needed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] The above and other features and advantages of the present
invention will become more apparent by describing in detail
embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings in
which:
[0031] FIG. 1A illustrates the top view of an embodiment of a
cleaning component;
[0032] FIG. 1B illustrate the side view of an embodiment of a
cleaning component;
[0033] FIG. 2A illustrates the top view of a second embodiment of a
cleaning component;
[0034] FIG. 2B illustrate the side view of a second embodiment of a
cleaning component; and
[0035] FIG. 2C illustrates an embodiment similar to that of FIG.
2B, but having a tab;
[0036] FIG. 3 illustrates a computer case configured to receive a
cleaning component;
[0037] FIG. 4 illustrates a flip type phone case configured to
receive a cleaning component;
[0038] FIG. 5A illustrates a lateral type phone case configured to
receive a cleaning component;
[0039] FIG. 5B illustrates the interaction of two components of the
lateral type phone case configured to receive a cleaning
component;
[0040] FIG. 6 illustrates a cleaning component with a single offset
magnet;
[0041] FIG. 7 illustrates a cleaning component having multiple
layers;
[0042] FIG. 8 illustrates a cleaning component used with a set of
binoculars;
[0043] FIG. 9 illustrates a cleaning component employing a
structural feature to enhance adhesion;
[0044] FIG. 10A illustrates a cleaning component employing
replaceable cleaning surface held in place with a tacky
adhesive;
[0045] FIG. 10B illustrates the cleaning component of FIG. 10B
wherein the acky adhesive is in the form of a double sided
tape;
[0046] FIG. 11A illustrates a cleaning component employing a
revisable cover;
[0047] FIG. 11B illustrates a the cleaning component of FIG. 11A
where the cleaning surface is not attached to the cover;
[0048] FIG. 11C illustrates a the cleaning component of FIG. 11A
where the cleaning surface is detachable;
[0049] FIG. 12 illustrates a cleaning component including a
brush;
[0050] FIG. 13A illustrates a cap having a cleaning component
located on the bill of the cap;
[0051] FIG. 13B illustrates a bottom view of the bill of the cap
having a cleaning component located on the bill of the cap;
[0052] FIG. 13C illustrates a bottom view of the bill of the cap
having a cleaning component located on the bill of the cap with the
cleaning component in place;
[0053] FIG. 14A illustrates a cleaning component having a "quick
release" capability;
[0054] FIG. 14B illustrates a cleaning component having a "quick
release" capability with cleaning component in the released
state;
[0055] FIG. 15 illustrates a stylus for use with a cleaning
component;
[0056] FIG. 16A illustrates a purse having a cleaning component
attached thereto;
[0057] FIG. 16B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the purse
having a cleaning component attached thereto;
[0058] FIG. 17A illustrates a top view of a cleaning component
having a tab and a magnetic tab hold-down;
[0059] FIG. 17B illustrates a side view of a cleaning component
having a tab and a magnetic tab hold-down;
[0060] FIG. 17C illustrates a side view of a cleaning component
having a tab and a magnetic tab hold-down with the tab in the
raised position;
[0061] FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of a cleaning component
having a tab wherein the tab is elongated and functions as a stand
for an electronic device;
[0062] FIG. 19A illustrates a top view of a cleaning component
which may also be a switch for electronic devices having a
magnetically activated switch or sensor;
[0063] FIG. 19B illustrates a side view of a cleaning component
which may also be a switch for electronic devices having a
magnetically activated switch or sensor;
[0064] FIG. 20 illustrates a cleaning component which may also
include a powered devices such as a remote control, laser pointer
or the like;
[0065] FIG. 21 illustrates a combination cleaner and glasses holder
that is also buoyant; and
[0066] FIG. 22 is a photograph illustrating an example of a device
as illustrated in FIG. 21 preventing a pair of glasses from
sinking;
[0067] FIG. 23 is an illustration of an embodiment which may be
used to affix objects to clothing.
[0068] FIG. 24 is an illustration of a tablet computer and a
switching device of the application;
[0069] FIG. 25 illustrates a side view of a the switching device in
FIG. 24; and
[0070] FIG. 26 is a photograph of a trademarked doll used as a
component of the switching device of the disclosure, perched on an
APPLE iPad.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0071] One embodiment of the invention is a method of cleaning a
view screen of an electronic device having at least one case
comprising wiping the view screen with a cleaning component
wherein: the cleaning component is configured to selectively couple
to the at least one case using a magnetic attractive force. For the
purposes of this application, the term "at least one case" means
the primary case used by a manufacturer to hold and protect the
individual electronic components of which an electronic device is
composed, but it can also mean a protective case that functions to
protect the primary case. For example, a smartphone generally
comprises electronics disposed within a rigid shell like case. This
would be the primary case. There are available protective cases,
often made of leather, rubber, and/or rigid are flexible plastic,
that serve to prevent scratches and blemishes on the primary case
and sometimes to impart a bit of shock resistance as well.
[0072] The term electronic device means such devices having a view
screen including, but not limited to cell phones, smartphones, some
cameras, some telescopes, some weapons scopes, tablet computers,
laptop computers, DVD players, and the like. Other examples include
computer monitors, televisions, laboratory apparatus (both portable
and non portable), and the like. The method of this application may
be used with any electronic device having a view screen.
[0073] The term "selectively couple" describes the process wherein
a cleaning component of the disclosure is applied to an electronic
device and adheres to it because of a magnetic force. In one
embodiment of the disclosure, there is sufficient magnetic force to
allow the cleaning component to remain in place despite casual
movements of the electronic device, but to still be easily removed
by a human operator.
[0074] Turning to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a top and side view of a round
cleaning component (100) are shown. As can be observed, the
cleaning component is covered with a cleaner material (101).
Cleaner materials useful with the method and apparatus of the
application include, but are not limited to fabrics. Exemplary
fabrics include microfiber cloths, open-end weave microfiber
cloths, double layer cloths wherein the outer layer which would
make contact with a view screen is a microfiber cloth, and
combinations thereof. For the purposes of this application, the
term "fabrics" is defined to further include non-plant materials
such as animal skins and/or cloth prepared using synthetic
materials or animal materials. In at least one embodiment, the
fabric may be a shammy (a.k.a. chamois). In another preferred
embodiment, the cleaning material may be the material commonly
known in the art as a Micro Shamois Cloth such as is available from
iKlear. Any cleaning material that can be used to clean a view
screen that does not cause excessive wear or abrasions may be used
with the method and apparatus of the application. A ferromagnetic
or ferrimagnetic substrate (102) is also shown.
[0075] Turning to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a side view of the cleaning
component, it can be seen that disposed within the cleaner material
(201) is a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate (202). The
ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate may be made of iron or
other conventional ferrimagnetic and ferrimagnetic materials. In
may also be a composite. Exemplary composites include combinations
of aluminum, nickel, and cobalt compound with iron. Such composites
may be made by sintering metals or by mixing the metallic
components with a resin and injection molding. Mixtures of iron
oxide and ceramic components such as barium and strontium carbonate
may be used to make ceramic magnets for use as the Ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic substrates useful with the application. For the
purposes of this application, rare earth magnets, such as but not
limited to samarian and neodymium based magnets, are ferrimagnetic
and ferrimagnetic materials and may be used to prepare the
Ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrates useful with the
application. Any magnetic material or material that is attracted to
magnets may be used to prepare the Ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic
substrates useful with the application.
[0076] In another embodiment, the invention is a cleaning component
for use on an electronic device view screen comprising a cleaning
material covering at least one surface of a ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic substrate wherein the cleaning component has a
maximum thickness of 1.5 cm. Turning to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a top and
side view of a rectangular cleaning component is shown. In this
embodiment, a cleaner material (201) is shown surrounding, on both
sides, a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate (202) that is
rectangular in shape.
[0077] In some embodiments, the cleaning material is present only
on one side of the substrate. On the other side of the substrate is
a different material that is selected to facilitate movement of the
cleaning component on a view screen or to protect from a hostile
environment. This material may be textured or it may be one that
has a higher coefficient of friction than the cleaning material. In
a variation of this embodiment, the cleaning component may include
a tab that can be pinched to facilitate moving the cleaning
component. In still another variation, in this latter embodiment,
the tab may be constructed such that it can lay down in order to
lower the profile of the cleaning component. Turning to FIG. 2C, a
cleaning component otherwise identical to that of FIGS. 2A and 2B
is shown, except that a tab (203) is shown in the raised
position.
[0078] The dimensions of the cleaning component may vary according
to its intended use. For example, one class of small electronic
devices upon which the cleaning components may be employed is cell
phones. The cell phone class includes both cell phones and devices
combining cell phone functionality with computing power such as the
so called smart phones. When the cleaning component will be used
with a cell phone, it may have dimensions ranging as follows.
Length may range from about 2.1 cm to about 0.5 cm. In one
embodiment, the length may be about 1.7 cm. Width may range from
1.9 cm to about 0.5 cm. In one embodiment, the width may be about
1.7 cm.
[0079] Another class of small electronic devices is the so-called
tablet computers. When the cleaning component will be used with a
tablet computer, it may have dimensions ranging as follows. Length
may range from about 7.5 cm to about 0.6 cm. In one embodiment, the
length may be about 2.5 cm. Width may range from 3 cm to about 0.5
cm. In one embodiment, the width may be about 2.5 cm.
[0080] In embodiments of the disclosure wherein the cleaning
component will be employed on a cell phone or tablet computer, it
may be desirable to make the cleaning component as thin as
possible. This is of course the subject the caveat that the
cleaning component is thick enough to be easily manipulated during
the cleaning process. While in some embodiments the cleaning
component may be as thin as a sheet of paper, but in most
embodiments it will have a thickness of from about 0.5 cm to about
1 mm.
[0081] The overall shape of the cleaning component when used with
cell phones and tablet computers may be round, oval, rectangular,
or square. In some embodiments, in order to avoid overlapping with
a view screen, the cleaning component may be shaped to fit
available space.
[0082] The cleaning components of the disclosure may be used with
another class of small electronic devices, commonly referred to as
laptop computers. They may also be used with televisions,
laboratory instruments, and the like. Because these devices are
larger it may be desirable in some embodiments to increase the
dimensions of the cleaning component. For example, the length of
cleaning component used with these devices may range from about 10
cm to about 1 cm. The optimum length may range from about five cm
to about 8 cm. The width may range from about 0.5 cm to about 5 cm.
The optimum width may be from about 0.5 to about 5 cm. Similar to
the other classes, the cleaning component may be as thin as a sheet
of paper, but in most embodiments it will have a thickness of from
about 0.5 cm to about 1 mm.
[0083] For the larger devices, shape is generally not as critical.
There are often larger areas to which the cleaning component can be
coupled. For these applications, it is often desirable to make the
cleaning component rectangular in shape. Still, other shapes would
be within the scope of the claims of this application.
[0084] Another embodiment of the application invention is a small
electronic device comprising a case, a view screen, and internal
electronic components wherein the view screen and internal
electronic components are mounted within the case. In this
embodiment, the view screen is externally visible in at least one
configuration of the case and the case has a surface that is
substantially diamagnetic. At least a part of the surface of the
case has been configured to receive a cleaning component. Further,
the cleaning component is configured to selectively couple to the
at least one part of the surface of the case that has been
configured to receive the cleaning component; the at least one part
of the surface of the case that has been configured to receive the
cleaning component is ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic or overlays a
ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material; and the cleaning component
comprises a cleaning material covering at least one surface of a
ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate.
[0085] It may be desirable, in some applications, to make the
cleaning components such that they have beveled edges. Such
components could be particularly useful when coupled with devices
having a case configured to accept the cleaning component wherein
there is a ridge configured to accept the beveled edge to more
securely hold it in place.
[0086] Some electronic devices have view screens that are always
visible. Exemplary of this are some cell phones and tablet
computers that do not have covers. Other devices such as laptops
have view screens that may be seen only when the cover is
lifted.
[0087] In embodiments of the disclosure where a case has been
configured to receive a cleaning component, it may be so configured
in several ways. In one embodiment, such a case is configured by
placing a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material onto the surface
of the case where the cleaning component is received. In another
embodiment, the case is prepared such that the case itself is
composed of a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material at the point
where the cleaning component is received. In still another
embodiment, the case is prepared by placing a ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic material underneath where the cleaning component is
received. Additionally, the case may be fabricated such that the
cleaning component is received into a groove, slot, or other
indented geometrical shape to lower the profile of the cleaning
component to facilitate closing a cover or prevent snagging a
cleaning component. Another reason to lower the profile that the
cleaning component may be to enhance the aesthetics of the
device.
[0088] Turning to FIG. 3, the base of a laptop computer (300) is
shown. Above and to the right of the keyboard (301) is a
rectangular indention (302) having dimensions and all three
directions that are slightly larger than those of a cleaning
component (303). In one embodiment of the disclosure, the cleaning
component has a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate that is a
permanent magnet. The case, at the base of the invention, is
prepared using a ferromagnetic material.
[0089] In employing the method of the disclosure, the cleaning
component is coupled to the base of the laptop computer by placing
it within the invention. The magnetic attractive force between the
permanent magnet and the ferromagnetic material holds the cleaning
component in place as a laptop computer is moved. The cleaning
component is decoupled from the laptop computer base by lifting it
to overcome the magnetic force. The cleaning component is then
placed on the view screen (not shown) and is then moved across the
view screen using one or more fingers. After the view screen has
been cleaned, the cleaning component may be recoupled to the
computer base.
[0090] Similarly, the method and apparatus of this disclosure may
apply to a second case. In this embodiment, a case constructed to
protect the primary case of a small electronic device may be
similarly configured to receive a cleaning component. Such cases
which are sometime manufactured by 3.sup.rd party providers
generally serve to protect the finish of the primary case and/or
provide additional impact protection for the electrical components
of the small electronic devices.
[0091] In practicing the method of the disclosure, there are three
basic embodiments regarding the source of magnetic force used. In
one embodiment, the cleaning component may include a magnet and the
case may include an unmagnetized ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic
material. In a second embodiment, the cleaning device may have only
an unmagnetized ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material and the
magnet may be in or on the case. In the third embodiment, both the
cleaning component and the case may include a magnet.
[0092] When a magnet or a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material
is applied to a case, in one embodiment, it may be adhered using a
tacky adhesive. One such embodiment includes using double sided
gaffer's tape as the source of the tacky adhesive. Any tacky
adhesive can be used with the method of the application.
[0093] In one embodiment, the cleaning component of the application
may be used as a source of advertising. For example, in one
embodiment of the application, a cleaning component may have
imprinted upon it a logo, trademark, slogan, or the like. In
another embodiment, a pre-printed substrate having a logo or
decorative side, and optionally, a second adhesive side may be
used. In some of these embodiments where the substrate includes an
adhesive, it may be used to secure a magnet to the cleaning
component. In another embodiment, the substrate having an adhesive
may be free of advertisements and/or decoration.
[0094] In this application, the term diamagnetic is used to
delineate materials that are not ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic.
From a practical perspective, the materials that are paramagnetic
have such a weak attraction to magnets that they would not be
effective if utilized and thus are to be treated as if they are
diamagnetic.
[0095] While, generally speaking, the cleaning components are meant
to be unitary, in some embodiments, the cleaning material may be
removed and replaced with new cleaning material. Also, the cleaning
components may be configured such that they have a thinner center
to allow a user to employ lateral force to the cleaning component
to more easily slide it across the surface of a view screen. In
some embodiments, the cleaning component may have a profile such
that the cleaning component is thinner in the middle and near the
edge of the cleaning component.
[0096] Other embodiments of the invention include those such as are
illustrated in FIG. 4. In this embodiment, a flip case and a smart
phone 400 is shown. The flip case includes a cover 401, a hinge
403, and a base 404 holding the smartphone 405. The cleaning device
402 is held in place by means of a magnet (not shown). In one
embodiment, the magnet is built into the cover. In another
embodiment, the magnet is attached to the cover using an adhesive.
In still another embodiment, the cover includes a ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic material rather than a magnet.
[0097] While many of the cleaning components have a single magnet
or ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate, this is not a
limitation of the application. In some embodiments, it may be
desirable to have multiple magnets in a cleaning component. For
Example, at FIG. 5, a case having two magnets to hold it closed 500
is shown. This case consists of a body 504 which functions to hold
a smartphone; and a lid having a top 501, a side 502, and a hinge
507. Also shown is the cleaning component 503 adhering to the
inside of the side of the lid. The side is shown again at 502a from
lateral perspective with the magnets visible 506. The cleaning
component 503a is also shown from a lateral perspective, again
showing two magnets 506. The two magnets of the case line up with
the two magnets of the cleaning component in some embodiments to
allow for a more secure fit to the case.
[0098] Note that in the embodiments shown in FIG. 5, the magnets
are offset from center. The magnets may be placed anywhere within
the cleaning component as necessary to facilitate their use with a
device. For example, in FIG. 6, a cleaning component 602 is shown
with a magnet 601 offset near the edge of the component. In one
example of a method of the application, the cleaning component is
adhered to the top of a device having a case that closes, such as a
laptop computer, with the body of the cleaning component rotated
down when the case is closed. When the laptop is opened for use,
the body can be rotated up and away from the screen.
[0099] In some embodiments, the cleaning component of the
application can be composed of multiple layers. For example, in one
such embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, a three layer cleaning
component may be seen. Therein, a cleaning component having an
offset magnet 702 and as described hereinabove is shown. It is
sandwiched between two additional layers (701 & 703) that serve
to protect the cleaning layer from ambient conditions that might
shorten its useful life. One such environment could be one that is
dusty such as in a production facility that employs saws or knives
to cut dust generating objects. In an alternative embodiment, there
may be multiple cleaning components so that dirty or worn
components can be discarded.
[0100] In an alternative embodiment, the layers of the cleaning
component may be stitched or otherwise joined with the caveat that
at least one external layer will have a magnet or a ferromagnetic
or ferrimagnetic substrate.
[0101] The cleaning components of the application may be used with
mechanical and/or non-electrical devices having small view screens,
windows, or lens. For example, in one embodiment, a cleaning
component may be used with a site glass in a chemical manufacturing
facility. In another embodiment, the cleaning component may be used
with a pump to facilitate the cleaning a window used to make visual
inspections of the material within the feed or flow lines. The
cleaning components are particularly useful with devices having
lens.
[0102] Devices that have lens include, but are not limited to
telescopes, binoculars, eye glasses, and weapon scopes. Turning to
FIG. 8, a pair of binoculars is shown having eye pieces 801, a body
803, and objective lens 804. In one embodiment, a cleaning
component for the lenses may be secured in place using a magnet
directly upon the body of the binoculars. However, in a preferred
embodiment, the cleaning component (804 or 806) is secured to the
inside of a lens cap or an eyepiece cap (805 or 807). In such an
embodiment, different sized cleaning components may be employed and
by placing them under the lens cap, they are protected from the
environment except when in use, thereby extending their
use-life.
[0103] In one preferred embodiment, a lens cap may be prepared or
even retrofitted to work with the cleaning components of the
disclosure by deploying a magnet on the outside of the lens cap
using an adhesive. In an especially useful embodiment, the magnet
serves as the base for a tether that terminates in an element
useful for attaching the lens cap to another object, such as the
device to which it is employed to protect a lens.
[0104] In an alternative embodiment, the cleaning component may be
configured to adhere to a case for the objects having lens.
[0105] While the adhesive may be a tacky adhesive such as already
discussed hereinabove, it may also be a permanent adhesive. Such
permanent adhesives may be selected from acrylic emulsion
adhesives, rubber-based adhesives, or any other suitable material
exhibiting durable bonding qualities.
[0106] In a related embodiment, a cleaning component of the
invention may be secured to a portable object, such as, but not
limited to, a set of keys, jacket, other clothing items, jewelry,
belts, or other items worn or kept in a pocket, by employing a
tether having a first end terminating in form suitable for
connecting to, for example the key chain and a second end
terminating in a magnet configured to secure a cleaning component
as describe hereinabove. Two uses for this embodiment would be the
cleaning of glasses and also the cleaning of goggles or other
protective eyewear.
[0107] In an alternative embodiment, the magnet that was on the
tether can attached a clip or other device suitable for affixing
the cleaning component to the portable object.
[0108] In yet another alternative embodiment, the portable object
may be modified to include a magnet so that the cleaning component
can be secured directly to the portable object.
[0109] In still another related embodiment, a cleaning component of
the application can be adhered to a personal accessory such as a
wallet, change purse, purse or the like.
[0110] The cleaning components may be configured with sufficient
structural integrality that they have constant or at least
resilient shape at the magnet so that they may employed with
devices having cases configured to utilize that dimensional
stability to increase the security with which the cleaning
components are adhered to the case. FIG. 9 shows such a device case
901 having a raised section 902 configured to fit within a recess
904 of a cleaning component 903. The magnets (not shown) are within
the recessed and raised parts of the case and cleaning component.
When joined, the fitting of the raised section and recessed
sections add an additional level of security to the magnetic
adhesion.
[0111] Another embodiment of the disclosure includes incorporating
a magnet or ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material into a rigid or
semi rigid construction configured to accept a cleaning material as
defined hereinabove. In some applications of this embodiment the
rigid or semi-rigid construction can be used to facilitate moving
the cleaning material during the process of cleaning.
[0112] In addition to their cleaning functionality, the cleaning
components of the application have a functionality of being able to
active magnetic switches on devices having such switches. This is
particularly useful in saving battery life as it does not require
the cover of such devices to be closed (the normal mode for
activation of such switches). In the use of tablet devices having a
magnetic switch, the cleaning components are particularly useful as
the tablet can be put into hibernation mode with a single touch to
the cleaning component as compared to the multiple touches required
to do the same thing using the touch pad of the tablet.
[0113] In one embodiment where a cleaning component of the
application is employed on a tablet using the Apple.RTM. Smart
Cover, it may be employed on the outside of the smart cover to
function as a handle for more easily manipulating the cover.
Magnets at the bottom of the Smart Cover allow for a very efficient
employment of the cleaning component.
[0114] Another embodiment of the cleaning components of the
application is one where the cleaning component has a cleaning
surface that is replaceable and held in place within the cleaning
component with a tacky adhesive wherein the tacky adhesive is
directly on the surface of the non-cleaning surface or the tacky
adhesive is in the form of a double sided tape. Turning to FIG.
10A, there is an illustration of an enhancement to any of the other
cleaning components discussed herein, wherein a cleaning surface
1001 is held in place on a non-cleaning surface 1002 using a tacky
adhesive 1003. In FIG. 10B, an alternative embodiment is shown
wherein the tacky adhesive is in the form of a double sided tape
1004.
[0115] In still another embodiment, the cleaning component is one
having an external cover for protecting one or both sides of a
cleaning material wherein the external cover is reversible so that
it may be folded over to expose the cleaning surface. Turning to
FIG. 11A, a configuration where single side of two cleaning
surfaces 1102 is protected by an external cover 1101. The external
cover 1101 includes a hinge 1103 which may be a cloth hinge or a
mechanical hinge or any other type of hinge known to those of
ordinary skill in the art which would not interfere with the
cleaning functionality of the cleaning component. In one
embodiment, the configuration of FIG. 11A when not reversed is
particularly useful for cleaning both sides of a lens such as in a
pair of eyeglasses. In some embodiments, the cleaning surfaces may
be specialized with one side of the cleaning surface being more
useful removing oily materials while the other side is more useful
for removing water based materials from a lens or view screen
surface.
[0116] The cleaning component may be, in some embodiments, stored
in an eyeglasses case configured to receive the cleaning component.
In some embodiments, this case may include a magnet and in other
embodiments, the case may be prepared using a ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic substrate.
[0117] Turning to FIG. 11B, in this embodiment the same a single
sheet of cleaning material 1102 is shown where the cleaning
material hangs from the hinge area of the cleaning component 1103.
In either of these embodiments, the external component may be fully
opened and folded back upon itself to serve as a support of the
cleaning surface.
[0118] Turning to FIG. 11C, still another useful configuration is
shown where the cleaning material, 1102 is shown to be detachable.
In some embodiments, the cleaning material is held in place with a
magnet or ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate. If there is a
magnet in both the cleaning material and the cover, in some
embodiments, at least one of the magnets will be on a swivel to
facilitate the easy replacement of the cleaning material within the
cover.
[0119] In another embodiment, the cleaning component is a
configured to work with optical devices such as scopes and
binoculars wherein the cleaning component includes at least one
cleaning surface and brush. Such a cleaning component is
illustrated in FIG. 12. The body of the cleaning component 1201 has
at least one surface that is a cleaning surface and in some
embodiments, the entire body is a cleaning surface. The body also
acts as a support for a brush 1202. The bristles of the brush may
be employed to remove sand, dust or other materials from a lens or
view screen. After this removal, the cleaning surfaces may be used
to further clean the lens or view screen. In one particularly
desirable embodiment, the cleaning component is sized to fit within
a lens cap and may be held in place in the lens cap employing an
magnet (not shown), In still another embodiment, the cleaning
component has a cleaning only one side and the other side a tab or
other construction to facilitate holding the component. And, yet
another embodiment, there is no cleaning surface and this
configuration functions only as a brush.
[0120] In another embodiment, a cleaning system having at least one
element being a piece of clothing may be selected from the group
consisting of a hat, helmet, sweatband or other headgear; a jacket
or coat; a shirt or top; a skirt or pants; and a shoe or boot,
wherein the piece of clothing is configured to accept a cleaning
component and the cleaning component is held in place, at least in
part, using a magnet. The magnet may be incorporated using any
method known to those of ordinary skill in the art of preparing
clothing. Turning to FIG. 13A, a cap 1300 having a bill 1301 is
shown. In this embodiment, at FIG. 13B, a magnet 1303 is located on
or in the bill of the hat. FIG. 13C illustrates a cleaning
component 1304 in place on the bill.
[0121] The cleaning components of the application may be placed in
any type of clothing. For example, the cleaning devices may be
employed with a boot having an magnet located on the upper quadrant
of the boot. In another example, the magnet may be incorporated
into a pocket of a pair of trousers analogous to a watch pocket
within a pocket of times past. Any employment of a magnet to secure
the cleaning devices of the application within a piece of clothing
is within the scope of the invention.
[0122] Turning to FIG. 14, an embodiment of the disclosure is
illustrated that is a quick release cleaning component. In this
embodiment, at FIG. 14A, a cleaning component which includes a
flexible cover 1400 and a cleaning material 1402 within the
flexible cover bends or folds such that two magnets 1401 at the
ends may function to keep it folded when not in use. A third magnet
in the middle of the cleaning component serves to secure it to the
body of a holding component having index number 1403. The holding
component is composed of the same flexible cover material, at least
in some embodiments, and usually will not include a cleaning
material. The holding component will also have magnets 1401 at the
ends. FIG. 14B shows this cleaning component engaged upon a
substrate 1404, often a key ring, a caribbeaner, or a ring on a
jacket or other article of clothing.
[0123] When engaged with the cleaning component, the holding
component wraps around the substrate and the magnets at the end of
the holding component hold the cleaning component in place
employing the magnet at the middle of the cleaning component. The
cleaning component can be quickly removed by pulling it with a
force sufficient to overcome the attraction of the magnets. As the
cleaning component leaves the holding component, the magnets of the
holding component will be attracted to each other thereby keeping
the holding component wrapped around the substrate.
[0124] Turning to FIG. 15, a stylus 1500 is shown that is
configured to accept a cleaning component of the disclosure (not
shown). In this figure, the stylus may be prepared wherein the
entire stylus exterior is a magnet or a substrate that would be
attracted to a magnet. In an alternative embodiment, the stylus
includes a clip 1501 or other decorative component which can serve
as a substrate to accept and hold a cleaning component. Note that
the stylus may also be a writing implement.
[0125] Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning system having
at least one element being an accessory. The accessory may be
selected from the group consisting of a purse, wallet, computer
case, gun case, glasses strap, gloves, backpack, and a belt,
wherein the accessory is configured to accept a cleaning component
and the cleaning component is held in place, at least in part,
using a magnet. In FIG. 16A, a purse 1600 is shown having attached
thereto a cleaning component 1601 of the application. The cleaning
component is shown attached to the handle 1602 of the purse. The
cleaning component is shown in this illustration as being attached
via a simple loop 1603 from the handle, but it can be attach using
any means known to those of ordinary skill in the art or otherwise
already disclosed herein. For example, the cleaning component may
be attached to the pull tab of a zipper. It may also be attached to
a decorative ring. On a backpack, it may be attached to a ring
which also allows for the attachment of a shoulder strap.
[0126] Also shown in FIG. 16A is the use of a logo for advertising
purposes wherein the logo is clearly visible on the cleaning
component.
[0127] In FIG. 16B, an alternative embodiment of the purse is shown
wherein the cleaning component is attached to a purse having a flap
1604. In this embodiment, the cleaning component, shown in a
cut-away view, is protected from environmental damage by being
between the flap and the side of the purse. In one embodiment, the
purse includes a magnet that then couples with the magnet of the
cleaning component to hold it in place.
[0128] The cleaning components may be enhanced by adding additional
features. For example, the cleaning component having a tab
illustrated in FIG. 2C may be further enhanced by employing a
magnetic hold-down. Turning to FIG. 17A, a cleaning component 1700
having a tab 1701 is shown with the tab in the closed position.
FIG. 17B is a side view of the same cleaning component. Also shown
in this view are the magnet 1702 and cleaning material 1703. It can
be seen in this view that the tab has a hinge 1704 at its center.
In FIG. 17C, the cleaning component is shown with the tab in the
raised position and also showing a magnet 1705 within the raised
portion of the tab. The magnet, when the tab is closed, functions
to hold the tab down which may prevent the tab from being broken or
the tab being caught by another object resulting in the cleaning
component being unintentionally removed from its substrate.
[0129] In another embodiment featuring a tab, FIG. 18 illustrates
an electronic device 1801 having a cleaning component 1802 with an
elongated tab 1803. The tab is hinged (not shown) so that it may be
positioned to act as a stand. FIG. 18 illustrates a "portrait"
configration, but in another embodiment, the stand may be used to
hold the device in a "landscape" configuration.
[0130] Any cleaning component useful with the application may be
prepared using additives that may be applied to the cleaning
material to make it more suitable to a specific cleaning job. For
example, in some embodiments, the cleaning material may be treated
to make it better at removing oily smudges from a lens while in
other embodiments, the cleaning material may be modified to make it
better for removing hydrophilic dirt or smudges. In still other
embodiments, the cleaning material(s) in a cleaning component maybe
selected to have part of the component be useful for oily smudges
while another part of the cleaning component is more useful for
hydrophilic dirt or smudges. In embodiments where the cleaning
components have more than one cleaning surface, then the cleaning
materials and/or additives may be selected so that they are useful
for cleaning both types of smudges/dirt.
[0131] In some embodiments of the cleaning components of the
application, the use of magnets or ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic
substrates is done with magnetic orientation utilized to facilitate
the removal or replacement of the cleaning component to/or a case
or other substrate. For example, when possible it is desirable to
employ only a single magnet at a contact/adhesion point where the
magnet is affixed using a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate.
This avoids entirely the problem of magnetic orientation when
returning the cleaning component.
[0132] When the strength of two magnets is necessary, then the use
of a swivel as described above may be desirable. Other means of
mitigating the issues arising with magnetic orientation include but
are not limited to printing a notice on the device (such as "this
side up" or configuring the shape of the cleaning component such
that it is obvious which side of the cleaning component will have
an attraction to the magnet fixed on or within the case to which it
is being applied.
[0133] Any cleaning device of the application may be prepared using
an additional layer that functions to stiffen the cleaning device.
As the objects to be cleaned, be they viewscreens or lens, get
larger, it may be desirable to stiffen the cleaning device.
Materials useful as a stiffening layer include, but are not limited
to plastic, metal, wood and heavy fabrics.
[0134] The cleaning components of the disclosure, when prepared
with especially strong magnets, can have a dual purpose of being a
game component. For example, in an embodiment where a smart phone
is within a case having a recessed area configured to receive a
cleaning component, the recessed area and the cleaning component
may be shaped to resemble a ball or other game object. If the
cleaning component is tossed accurately, it will be attached into
the recessed area and such a toss could be a goal or score. Any
such game is within the scope of the invention.
[0135] In order to make the cleaning components more desirable to
young users, they may be converted into or incorporated into dolls
or toys with the caveat that the doll or toy is configured to be
attached to or perched upon an electronic device and secured
thereon using a magnet. While trademarked and/or copyrighted toys
and dolls may be used (subject to proper licensing), even generic
toys and dolls may be used, particularly if they will function to
encourage proper maintenance of devices by, at least in some
instances, young users. For example a Mini Beanie Baby.TM. from
TY.TM. may be configured to sit upon a rectangular cleaning
component wherein the cleaning component resembles a "rug." In
another embodiment, covers and cases for electronic devices may be
configured to resemble a cage or a house and an appropriately
selected figure prepared using a cleaning material on at least one
surface and at least one magnet. The figure/cleaning component
could be adhered to the cover or case such that it appears to be
using the cage/house. One example would be the use of a Snoopy.TM.
shaped cleaning component on a case or cover having a doghouse
design or shape. In another embodiment, an Angry Bird.TM. figure
could be configured to sit upon (aka perch) upon the top of a case
or cover being secured from falling by the magnet containing within
the cleaning component.
[0136] In yet another example of employing the cleaning components
of the application, a cleaning component may be used on the contact
surface of interactive toys used with electronic devices. The
advantage of this embodiment would be that the toy would
simultaneously clean a view screen/monitor while providing
entertainment. In still another embodiment, such devices may be
employed for purposes of therapy rather than entertainment, or they
may be used for both.
[0137] The cleaners of the application, in some embodiments, may be
prepared from wood, plastic or even metal. Turning to FIG.
19A&B, a combination switch and cleaner for an electronic
device is shown. The switch/cleaner may be made with, for example,
acrylic plastic. In this embodiment, the switch is shown from above
in FIG. 19A where the hard shell is 1901 and three magnets are
enclosed within the shell and have the reference number 1902. FIG.
19B is a side view that also shows the cleaning material, 1903.
[0138] Cleaners such as those illustrated in FIG. 19 may be
employed with devices that have power switches or sensors that may
be actuated using a magnet. In some embodiments, the magnets of
these cleaners may serve a dual function of both actuating a sensor
or switch and holding the cleaner in place when not in use. As
devices change, the number and location of the magnets could be
modified to fit new devices.
[0139] In addition to the shape shown in the drawing, the
cleaner/switches may be further modified to facilitate use by
incorporating recesses (not shown). In an alternative embodiment,
the switch may also have a knob, or "bumps" or surface features
that allow for an easier "grip" by the finger, two fingers, one or
two fingers and thumb used to move the cleaner/switch. In some
embodiments, a tacky adhesive may even be employed upon the
surface.
[0140] Another embodiment of the application is a cleaning device
having additional functionality such as a remote control, laser
pointer or the like. Turning to FIG. 20, a device 2000 including
both a laser pointer and a remote control is shown. This device
includes and a case, 2001, a battery 2002, a remote transmitter
and/or receiver 2004 and a laser 2007. Power is provided to the
remote over circuit 2003 and to the laser over circuit 2008. The
remote device is controlled using the buttons shown at 2005. An
off/on switch is provided for the laser at 2006 which actuates a
switch on the top of the laser (not shown). This device may or may
not include cleaning capabilities but will include a rare earth
magnet or magnets such as are already disclosed. Ideally, the
device may be deployed with an apparatus with which the additional
functionality is complementary. For example, a laser pointer and a
remote functionality for sending signals to a laptop computer to
aid in providing visual aids during a conference presentation or
lecture.
[0141] Capabilities that can be included with this embodiment
include, but are not limited to: pointing devices such as a laser
pointer; remote functionality such as a transmitter that can send
mouse inputs to control a presentation; a wifi hotspot, and the
like. The remote function can be particularly useful for volume
control, off/on switching, pause/play, and next/previous slide
functionality.
[0142] Still other functionality that may be incorporated into such
a device may include, but not be limited to a flash drive or other
solid-state recording device, earplugs, Bluetooth earplugs, credit
card reader, microphone, and the like.
[0143] In some embodiments, the devices of the application may be
held in place using both magnetic and frictional forces. For the
purposes of this, the term frictional forces includes those such as
are obtained by including a ridge on a cleaning device that fits
into a slot on a case. For example, a smart phone case having a
slot which is configured to receive a cleaning device of the
application wherein the cleaning device has a ridge that fits into
that slot. By having both magnetic and frictional forces in play,
such a cleaning device could be employed where it would otherwise
be likely that the cleaning device would be separated from the
smart phone case.
[0144] Also within the scope of the application are embodiments
wherein the cleaning material is replaceable. In these embodiments,
the cleaning material may be such that it is held in place by an
adhesive or the cleaning material may be rigid and fit within a
slot configured to receive it. This is true of any of the
previously disclosed embodiments.
[0145] The cleaning devices of the application may be prepared
using material that is foamed or otherwise buoyant. For example, in
one application, a glasses holder can be configured to prevent a
pair of glasses from sinking if dropped into water. For Example, in
FIG. 21, a cleaning device 2100 is shown that has an outside cover
2101 and two cleaning surfaces within 2104. Within the outside
cover are two foamed inserts 2103 and two magnets 2102 which
function to hold the cover together when the cleaning device is not
in use. FIG. 22 is a photograph showing such a device in use. Note
that the cleaning device prevents the glasses from sinking.
[0146] Embodiments of the disclosure that are hourglass in shape
may be prepared using exceptionally strong magnets. Turning to FIG.
23, these embodiments, in addition to being useful for cleaning
lenses, may also be employed to affix items such as glasses, golf
tees, flies for fly-fishing and other fish hooks, and the like to
clothing and hats. The device 2300 is employed by opening the
device and then placing the magnets 2302 on either side of a
substrate like the sleeve or pocket of a shirt. The body of the
cleaner, which is flexible, then "snaps" shut as the magnets
divided only the thin material of the shirt or hat. By inserting a
pen, pair of glasses or the like before bringing the magnets
together, the item can be held in place. In one particularly useful
embodiment, two such devices can be applied to the lens of a pair
of glasses thereby protecting the lens from scratches and other
perils of the environment.
[0147] In another embodiment, the cleaners of the application can
be applied to a non-magnetic surface using an adhesive, a clamp, an
elastic snap on design or the like.
[0148] The previous embodiment is just one example of how to
prepare a buoyant cleaner. Any buoyant material can be employed in
the making such an apparatus. For example the cleaning material
themselves can be encapsulated around the buoyant core.
[0149] Many the features of the illustrated devices of the
application can be employed on other embodiments. For example, the
use of buoyant materials may be employed with cleaning devices such
as those illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14. Also, any of the
embodiment of the application with sufficient internal volume, may
include a reservoir for a cleaning fluid which may be dispensed as
a spray or any other method known to those of ordinary skill in the
art.
[0150] One embodiment of the invention is a switching device for
use a portable electronic device having a view screen, a switch for
turning the portable device off and on that can be activated or
deactivated by the application of a magnetic field and at least one
case. The term portable electronic device means such devices having
a view screen including, but not limited to, tablet computers,
laptop computers, portable DVD players, and the like.
[0151] The switching devices of the application selectively couple
with the case or cases of the portable electronic devices. The term
"selectively couple" describes the process wherein a switching
device of the disclosure is applied to a portable electronic device
and adheres to it because of a magnetic force. In one embodiment of
the disclosure, there is sufficient magnetic force to allow the
witching device to remain in place despite casual movements of the
portable electronic device, but to still be easily removed by a
human operator.
[0152] Turning to FIG. 24, a front view of a portable electronic
device, in this case a table computer (2400) is shown. As can be
observed, the switching device (2401) is selectively coupled to the
front of the portable electronic device 2402 outside of the view
screen 2403. The magnetic switch is normally disposed with the
portable electronic device but is shown here for illustration
purposes (2404).
[0153] In employing the method of the application, the switching
component may be picked up and, depending upon the model and
functionality of the magnetic switch, the switching device is
either applied directly to the magnetic switch or applied to either
side of the switch and then slid past it to activate or deactivate
the portable electronic device.
[0154] Turning to FIG. 25, a side view of the switching device 2401
of FIG. 25 may be seen. The body of the switching device has a
bottom surface (2501) and a top surface 2502. This particular
embodiment has a tab (2503) on the top surface to facilitate its
manipulation. Disposed within the switching device is a
ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate (2504). In this
embodiment, the bottom of the switching device is in contact with
portable electronic device and is composed of a material that is
not abrasive to the portable electronic device generally and the
view screen in particular. Except for this limitation, the
switching devices may be prepared with any material known to be
useful to those of ordinary skill in the art for such
applications.
[0155] In some embodiments, the switching device may include a tab
that can be pinched to facilitate moving the switching device. In
still another variation, in this latter embodiment, the tab may be
constructed such that it can lie down in order to lower the profile
of the switching device.
[0156] The dimensions of the switching device may vary according to
its intended use. For some embodiments, length may range from about
12.5 cm to about 5 cm. In one embodiment, the length may be about 7
cm. Width may range from 1.5 cm to about 4 cm. In one embodiment,
the width may be about 2 cm.
[0157] The overall shape of the switching device may be round,
oval, rectangular, or square. In some embodiments, in order to
avoid overlapping with a view screen, the switching device may be
shaped to fit available space.
[0158] Another embodiment of the application invention is a small
electronic device comprising a case, a view screen, and internal
electronic components wherein the view screen and internal
electronic components are mounted within the case. In this
embodiment, the view screen is externally visible in at least one
configuration of the case and the case has a surface that is
substantially diamagnetic. At least a part of the surface of the
case has been configured to receive a switching device. Further,
the switching device is configured to selectively couple to the at
least one part of the surface of the case that has been configured
to receive the switching device; the at least one part of the
surface of the case that has been configured to receive the
switching device is ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic or overlays a
ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material.
[0159] It may be desirable, in some applications, to make the
switching devices such that they have beveled edges. Such
components could be particularly useful when coupled with devices
having a case configured to accept the switching device wherein
there is a ridge configured to accept the beveled edge to more
securely hold it in place.
[0160] In embodiments of the disclosure where a case has been
configured to receive a switching device, it may be so configured
in several ways. In one embodiment, such a case is configured by
placing a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material onto the surface
of the case where the switching device is received. In another
embodiment, the case is prepared such that the case itself is
composed of a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material at the point
where the switching device is received. In still another
embodiment, the case is prepared by placing a ferromagnetic or
ferrimagnetic material underneath where the switching device is
received. Additionally, the case may be fabricated such that the
switching device is received into a groove, slot, or other indented
geometrical shape to lower the profile of the switching device to
facilitate closing a cover or prevent snagging a switching device.
Another reason to lower the profile that the switching device may
be to enhance the aesthetics of the device.
[0161] In employing the method of the disclosure, the switching
device is coupled to the base of, for example, a laptop computer by
placing it within the invention. The magnetic attractive force
between the permanent magnet and the ferromagnetic material holds
the switching device in place as a laptop computer is moved. The
switching device is decoupled from the laptop computer base by
lifting it to overcome the magnetic force. The switching device is
then placed on the view screen (not shown) and is then moved across
the view screen using one or more fingers. After the device has
been activated or deactivated, the switching device may be
recoupled to the computer base.
[0162] Similarly, the method and apparatus of this disclosure may
apply to a second case. In this embodiment, a case constructed to
protect the primary case of a small electronic device may be
similarly configured to receive a switching device. Such cases
which are sometime manufactured by 3.sup.rd party providers
generally serve to protect the finish of the primary case and/or
provide additional impact protection for the electrical components
of the small electronic devices.
[0163] In practicing the method of the disclosure, there are three
basic embodiments regarding the source of magnetic force used. In
one embodiment, the switching device may include a magnet and the
case may include an unmagnetized ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic
material. In a second embodiment, the switching device may have
only an unmagnetized ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material and
the magnet may be in or on the case. In the third embodiment, both
the switching device and the case may include a magnet.
[0164] When a magnet or a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material
is applied to a case, in one embodiment, it may be adhered using a
tacky adhesive. One such embodiment includes using double sided
gaffer's tape as the source of the tacky adhesive. Any tacky
adhesive can be used with the method of the application.
[0165] In one embodiment, the switching device of the application
may be used as a source of advertising. For example, in one
embodiment of the application, a switching device may have
imprinted upon it a logo, trademark, slogan, or the like. In
another embodiment, a pre-printed substrate having a logo or
decorative side, and optionally, a second adhesive side may be
used. In some of these embodiments where the substrate includes an
adhesive, it may be used to secure a magnet to the switching
device. In another embodiment, the substrate having an adhesive may
be free of advertisements and/or decoration.
[0166] In this application, the term diamagnetic is used to
delineate materials that are not ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic.
From a practical perspective, the materials that are paramagnetic
have such a weak attraction to magnets that they would not be
effective if utilized and thus are to be treated as if they are
diamagnetic.
[0167] While many of the switching device have a single magnet or
ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate, this is not a limitation
of the application. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to
have multiple magnets in a switching device. In one example of a
method of the application, the switching device is adhered to the
top of a device having a case that closes, such as a laptop
computer, with the body of the switching device rotated down when
the case is closed. When the laptop is opened for use, the body can
be rotated up and away from the screen.
[0168] The switching devices have a functionality of being able to
active magnetic switches on devices having such switches. This is
particularly useful in saving battery life as it does not require
the cover of such devices to be closed (the normal mode for
activation of such switches). In the use of tablet devices having a
magnetic switch, the switching devices are particularly useful as
the tablet can be put into hibernation mode with a single touch to
the switching device as compared to the multiple touches required
to do the same thing using the touch pad of the tablet.
[0169] In one embodiment where a switching device of the
application is employed on a tablet using the Apple.RTM. Smart
Cover, it may be employed on the outside of the smart cover to
function as a handle for more easily manipulating the cover.
Magnets at the bottom of the Smart Cover allow for a very efficient
employment of the switching device.
[0170] The switching device of the disclosure, when prepared with
especially strong magnets, can have a dual purpose of being a game
component. For example, in an embodiment where a smart phone is
within a case having a recessed area configured to receive a
switching device, the recessed area and the switching device may be
shaped to resemble a ball or other game object. If the switching
device is tossed accurately, it will be attached into the recessed
area and such a toss could be a goal or score. Any such game is
within the scope of the invention.
[0171] In order to make the switching device more desirable to
young users, they may be converted into or incorporated into dolls
or toys with the caveat that the doll or toy is configured to be
attached to or perched upon an electronic device and secured
thereon using a magnet. While trademarked toys and dolls, such as
Angry Birds.TM. doll in FIG. 3 may be used, even generic toys and
dolls may be used, particularly if they will function to encourage
proper maintenance of devices by, at least in some instances, young
users. For example a Mini Beanie Baby.TM. from TY.TM. may be
configured to sit upon a rectangular switching device wherein the
switching device resembles a "rug." In another embodiment, covers
and cases for electronic devices may be configured to resemble a
cage or a house and an appropriately selected figure prepared using
a nonabrasive material on at least one surface and at least one
magnet. The figure/switching device could be adhered to the cover
or case such that it appears to be using the cage/house. One
example would be the use of a Snoopy.TM. shaped switching device on
a case or cover having a doghouse design or shape. In another
embodiment, a cartoon figure could be configured to sit upon (aka
perch) upon the top of a case or cover being secured from falling
by the magnet containing within the switching device.
[0172] The switching devices of the application have many
advantages as compared to the conventional switching devices which
are generally fixed within the covers of cases. The conventional
switches often cannot be moved from side to side and usually block
the view screen when employed. The switching devices of the
application do not have these limitations. In fact, the switching
devices of the application may be perched or attached to the front
of a portable electronic device whether the device is off or
on.
[0173] The switching devices of the application do not server as a
cover, but this allows them to be of very low weight compared to
the conventional covers/switches. Where a conventional case lacks a
handle, the switching devices of the application may do double duty
as a handle when the case, such as the Apple.RTM. Smart Case, is in
place.
[0174] The cleaning materials that are employed in some of the
embodiments of the application may be removable. For example, the
cleaning devices illustrated in FIGS. 19A and 19B may be prepared
with a cleaning material that 1903 that can be removed and
replaced. While in some embodiment a tacky adhesive or other
adhesive may be employed for the purpose of holding the cleaning
material in place, because the device includes at least one magnet,
a cleaning material that has been impregnated with iron particles
(such as dust of filings) may be employed so that the magnet also
serves to hold the cleaning material in place. In the alternative a
metal foil could be used.
[0175] An adhesive can be selected to secure the impregnated metal
particles of foil in place. The adhesive, in some embodiments, can
function to protect the metal particles from corrosion as well as
to prevent their escape. It would be desirable that especially
metal particles such as iron dust of filings be secured and not
escape onto surfaces being cleaned.
[0176] Some of the cleaning devices, such as those illustrated at
FIG. 23, have secondary uses. For example, these devices may also
be prepared with a surface made out a material suitable for holding
fly fishing lures and other fishhooks. Where such a secondary use
has been disclosed, then such devices, with or without the cleaning
material are also within the scope of the application.
* * * * *