KR20130042561A - Electrical accessory and method of providing same - Google Patents

Abstract

Some embodiments disclose a coupling device configured to be coupled to a surface. The coupling device comprises (a) a first housing; (b) a rotary dial having a first aperture and mechanically coupled to the first housing, the rotary dial comprising a cam mechanism adjacent the first aperture; (c) a support base comprising a first stem having a second hole, the first stem being located in the first hole and having a second hole; (d) an adsorption cup coupled to at least one of a rotary dial or a support base, comprising: (1) an adsorption portion; And (2) a suction cup having a second stem located in the second hole; And (e) an elastic mechanism at least partially positioned between the support base and the second stem of the suction cup. The coupling device is configured such that the suction cup can be rotated at least relative to the rotary dial to create a vacuum between the suction portion and the surface. Other embodiments are disclosed herein.

Description

ELECTRICAL ACCESSORY AND METHOD OF PROVIDING SAME}

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority to US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 089,141, filed April 18, 2011, and also claims priority to US patent 61 / 361,317, filed July 2, 2010.

In addition, this application is a continuing application of US Patent Application No. 12 / 349,505, filed January 6, 2009, and a partial continuing application of US Patent Application No. 12 / 545,017, filed August 20, 2009. US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 349,505 is a current US patent, filed Oct. 11, 2005, filed part of US patent application Ser. No. 10,936,356, filed on Sep. 8, 2004, and is now US Pat. Part No. 7,734,256, filed part of US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 248,762.

This application is also a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 842,921, filed on Aug. 21, 2007, filed on Sep. 8, 2004, filed on Sept. Applicant, partial application of US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 171,220, filed Jul. 10, 2008. US Patent Application No. 12 / 171,220 also claims priority from US Provisional Application No. 60 / 959,057, filed July 10, 2007.

US Patent Nos. 7,292,881 and 7,734,256, US Application Nos. 12 / 545,017, 12 / 349,505, 12 / 171,220, and 11 / 842,921, and US Provisional Application No. 60 / 959,057 are incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention relates to an electrical device, in particular an accessory of a media player (eg portable MP3 player). More specifically, the present invention relates to an electrical device having supports for fixing a media player and a method of using the same.

For example, mobile (or cellular) phones, laptop computers, audio recording and playback devices, AM (Amplitude Modulation) and FM (Frequency Modulation) radios, CD (Compact Disc) players, and MP3 (MPEG Audio Layer-3) players. Many such types of electrical devices are portable. The terms "electrical device" and "media player" are to be interpreted broadly and include all types and designs of electrical devices (eg MP3 players and audio-visual media players). Sony Corp., Philips Corp., Audiovox Corp., Microsoft Corp., Research-in-Motion, Inc. (Eg, ^Blackberry? Devices), and Apple Computer, Inc. have (for example, ^iPod? MP3 player, iPhone ^TM and iPad ^TM devices devices), many portable electronic devices available, including those manufactured by .

A common problem with electrical accessories is that they are designed to be compatible with only one or a very limited number of electrical devices. Apple's iPod ^? Electrical accessories designed to work with your MP3 player include Apple's iPod ^? Mini MP3 Player, Apple's iTouch ^? MP3 player, Blackberry from Research-in-Motion ^? Device, or Apple iPhone ^? It is not compatible with. Typically, incompatibility is caused by the inability of the electrical accessory to be physically connected to the second electrical device. For example, the second MP3 player may be wider and / or thicker than the first electrical device, and the holder may not be designed to be coupled to an electrical device that is wider and / or thicker than the first MP3 player. In addition, even when the holder is designed to work with many different sized MP3 players, the holder cannot usually be physically coupled to the MP3 player when the MP3 player is housed in a protective case.

Accordingly, there is a need for a device or electrical accessory that overcomes the limitations of prior art accessories for electrical devices.

To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following figures are provided:
1 shows an isometric view of an electrical accessory according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 shows a side view of the electrical accessory of FIG. 1 coupled to the electrical device according to the first embodiment.
3 shows a partial isometric view of the electrical accessory of FIG. 1 with the cover removed, according to the first embodiment.
4 shows a rear isometric view of the arm and the support of the electrical accessory of FIG. 1, according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory of FIG. 1 with the arm and support of FIG. 4 removed, according to the first embodiment.
6 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 7 shows a side view of the electrical accessory of FIG. 6, according to a second embodiment.
8 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory of FIG. 6 securing the electrical device of FIG. 2 according to the second embodiment.
9 shows a front perspective view of a holder for an electrical device, according to a third embodiment.
FIG. 10 shows a front perspective view of the holder of FIG. 9 coupled to an electrical device, according to a third embodiment.
11 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory according to the fourth embodiment.
12 illustrates an isometric view of a portion of the electrical accessory of FIG. 11 coupled to an electrical interface, according to a fourth embodiment.
FIG. 13 is an isometric view of another portion of the electrical accessory of FIG. 11 coupled to the electrical interface of FIG. 12 and the electrical device of FIG. 10, according to the fourth embodiment.
14 shows an exploded view of an example cradle portion of the electrical accessory of FIG. 11 with the electrical interface of FIG. 12, according to a fourth embodiment.
15 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory according to the fifth embodiment.
16 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory according to the sixth embodiment.
17 shows a side view of a portion of the electrical accessory of FIG. 16, according to a sixth embodiment.
18 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory of FIG. 16 securing the electrical device of FIG. 2, according to a sixth embodiment.
19 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory according to the seventh embodiment.
20 shows another isometric view of the hands of the user of the electrical accessory and electrical device of FIG. 19, according to a seventh embodiment.
21 shows an isometric view of a portion of the electrical accessory of FIG. 19 securing the electrical device of FIG. 2, according to a seventh embodiment.
22 shows an isometric view of the gear mechanism of the electrical accessory of FIG. 19, according to the seventh embodiment.
23 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory according to the eighth embodiment.
24 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory of FIG. 23 securing the electrical device according to the eighth embodiment.
25 shows an isometric view of the gear mechanism of the electrical accessory of FIG. 23 according to the eighth embodiment.
26 shows an isometric view of a portion of the electrical accessory according to the ninth embodiment.
27 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory of FIG. 26, according to the ninth embodiment.
FIG. 28 shows a cutaway view of the power acquisition unit of the electrical accessory of FIG. 26 along lines 28-28 (FIG. 26), according to the ninth embodiment.
FIG. 29 shows a rear view of the electrical module of the electrical accessory of FIG. 26, according to the ninth embodiment.
30 shows an isometric view of a portion of the cigarette lighter module of the electrical accessory of FIG. 26, according to the ninth embodiment.
31 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory according to the tenth embodiment.
32 shows another isometric view of the electrical accessory of FIG. 31, according to the tenth embodiment.
33 shows an isometric view of a portion of the electrical accessory according to the eleventh embodiment.
34 shows a front view of the coupling mechanism in the locked position according to the twelfth embodiment.
35 shows a front view of the engagement mechanism of FIG. 34 in the unlocked position according to the twelfth embodiment.
36 shows an exploded view of the coupling mechanism of FIG. 34, according to a twelfth embodiment.
FIG. 37 shows an upper back isometric view of the rotary dial of the engagement mechanism of FIG. 34, according to the twelfth embodiment.
FIG. 38 shows a bottom rear isometric view of the rotary dial of the engagement mechanism of FIG. 34, according to the twelfth embodiment.
FIG. 39 shows a flowchart of one embodiment of a method of providing an electrical accessory for securing two or more electrical devices, according to one embodiment. FIG.
FIG. 40 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of an activity providing a connection mechanism of the method of FIG. 34, according to one embodiment. FIG.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawings show a structure in a general manner, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention. In addition, the components in the drawings do not necessarily need to be drawn to precise scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the components in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other components to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. Like reference numbers in different drawings indicate like elements.

The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and the like in the present description and claims, if present, are used to distinguish between similar components, and must be used in a specific sequential or chronological order. The terms used herein may be interchanged under appropriate circumstances so that the embodiments described herein may be operated in a different order from, for example, those shown or otherwise described herein. In addition, the terms “comprises”, “having,” and any variations thereof include a list of components, such as a process, method, system, article, apparatus, or equipment, which is necessarily a component of such components. Need not be limited to, but may include, but are not explicitly listed, or other components inherent to such processes, methods, systems, articles, devices, or equipment. It is intended to cover a non-exclusive.

The terms "left", "right", "front", "back", "top", "bottom", "above", "below", and the like in the description and claims are used for description, if present. It does not necessarily need to be used to describe permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used may be interchanged under appropriate circumstances so that embodiments of the invention described herein may be operated, for example, in a different orientation than those shown or otherwise described herein.

The terms "couple", "coupled", "couples", "coupling" are to be understood broadly and electrically or mechanically two or more components or signals. And / or otherwise. Two or more electrical components may be electrically coupled, but not mechanically or otherwise; Two or more mechanical components may be mechanically coupled, but not electrically or otherwise; Two or more electrical components may be mechanically coupled but not electrically or otherwise. The bond can be for any length of time, for example permanent or semi-permanent, or just for a while.

“Electrical coupling” and the like should be understood broadly and include couplings including any electrical signal, such as power signals, data signals, and / or other types or combinations of electrical signals. "Mechanical coupling" and the like should be understood broadly and include all types of mechanical couplings.

The absence of words such as "separably" or "detachable" near the word "coupled" and the like does not mean that the combination, etc. being discussed is separable or non-separable.

Some embodiments disclose a coupling device configured to be coupled to a surface. The coupling device comprises: (a) a first housing; (b) a rotary dial mechanically coupled to the first housing with the first aperture and comprising a cam mechanism adjacent the first aperture; (c) a support base comprising a first stem having a second hole, the first stem being located in the first hole, the first stem having a second hole; (d) is coupled to at least one of a rotary dial or a support base, and (1) an adsorption portion; And (2) a suction cup having a second stem located in the second hole; And (e) an elastic mechanism at least partially positioned between the support base and the second stem of the suction cup. The coupling device is configured such that the rotary dial can be rotated at least relative to the adsorption cup to create a vacuum between the adsorption section and the surface of the adsorption cup.

Some embodiments disclose an electrical accessory for securing two or more electrical devices. Each of the two or more electrical devices has a top side and a bottom side opposite the top side. The electrical accessory can include a holder configured to be coupled to two or more electrical devices. The holder comprises: (1) a cradle portion configured to removably couple to a lower surface of two or more electrical devices; (2) a first arm coupled to the cradle; (3) a second arm movably coupled to the first arm; And (4) a first support coupled to the second arm and configured to couple to the top surface of the two or more electrical devices. The length of the holder may be the distance between the cradle portion and the first support portion. The holder may be configured such that the length of the holder is changed by moving the second arm relative to the first arm. When the holder is removably coupled to the first of the two or more electrical devices, the length of the holder may be substantially the same as the length of the first of the two or more electrical devices. When the holder is removably coupled to a second of the two or more electrical devices, the length of the holder may be substantially the same as the length of the second of the two or more electrical devices.

Various additional embodiments disclose electrical accessories for securing two or more electrical devices. The electrical accessory can include a holder configured to be coupled to two or more electrical devices. The holder comprises: (1) a cradle portion comprising electrical coupling; (2) a first side support having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end thereof; (3) a second side support having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end thereof; (4) one or more gears coupled to the first side support and the second side support; And (5) an activation mechanism coupled to one or more gears. When the holder is coupled to the first of the two or more electrical devices, the holder may be configured such that the first of the two or more electrical devices is fixed between the cradle portion, the first side support, and the second side support. have. The one or more gears may be configured to use an activation mechanism to allow the user to rotate the one or more gears and to change the distance between the distal end of the first side support and the distal end of the second side support.

Still other embodiments disclose an electrical accessory for securing two or more electrical devices. Each of the two or more electrical devices has a top side and a bottom side opposite the top side. The electrical accessory can include a holder configured to be coupled to two or more electrical devices. The holder comprises: (1) a cradle portion configured to be coupled to a bottom surface of two or more electrical devices; (2) a first arm coupled to the cradle; (3) a first support coupled to the first arm and configured to couple to the top surface of the two or more electrical devices; And (4) coupled to the cradle portion and the first arm such that a compressive force is applied to the top and bottom surfaces of the first of the two or more electrical devices when the first of the two or more electrical devices is coupled to the holder. It may include an elastic mechanism.

In still other embodiments, the electrical accessory may comprise: (1) a first module having one or more dimples; And (2) a body having a second module having a recess having a protrusion. At least one of the first module and the second module may have a magnet. The body may be configured such that the first module is removably coupled to the second module by coupling the recess and protrusion to one of the one or more dimples. The second module may comprise at least one of display or control means for the electrical accessory.

Further embodiments disclose a method of providing an electrical accessory for securing two or more electrical devices. The method includes: (a) providing a cradle portion configured to couple to two or more electrical devices at different times; (b) providing a connection mechanism; (c) providing a first support configured to removably couple to two or more electrical devices; And (d) coupling the cradle to the connection mechanism and the first support. The holder may comprise a cradle portion, a connection mechanism, and a first support portion. The length of the holder may be the distance between the cradle portion and the first support portion. In some examples, providing a connection mechanism includes: (a) providing a first arm; (b) providing a second arm; And (c) movably coupling the first arm to the second arm. In the same or different examples, engaging the cradle portion with the coupling mechanism and the first support includes engaging the cradle portion with the coupling mechanism and the first support such that the length of the holder is changed by moving the second arm relative to the first arm. can do.

1 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory 101 according to the first embodiment. 2 shows a side view of an electrical accessory 101 coupled to an electrical device 290, according to a first embodiment. In some examples, electrical accessory 101 may be configured to secure two or more electrical devices at different times. In the same or different embodiments, the electrical accessory 101 can be configured to couple two or more electrical devices to an external power supply at different times. Electrical accessory 101 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 101 may be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the electrical accessory 101 comprises: (a) a holder 111 configured to secure or couple two or more electrical devices; (b) connector 112; (c) a power acquisition unit 113 configured to receive power from an external power source (eg, a cigarette lighter); And (d) an electrical interface 114 configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to two or more electrical devices.

Holder 111 includes: (a) two or more electrical devices (eg, electrical device 290 (FIG. 2), electrical device 1090 (FIG. 10), and electrical device 2490 (FIG. 24)). Cradle portion 120 is configured to be coupled to the lower surface of the; (b) an arm 121 coupled to the cradle portion 120; (c) an arm 122 that is adjustable or movably coupled to the arm 121; And (d) a support 123 coupled to the arm 122 and configured to couple to the top surface of the two or more electrical devices at different times. In some examples, the electrical interface 114 protrudes from the cradle portion 120 and is configured to help secure the electrical devices to the holder 111 by mounting the electrical device on the cradle portion 120. In various examples, cradle portion 120 may be considered to have a receptacle that permanently secures electrical interface 114.

The length of the holder 111 is the distance between the cradle portion 120 and the support portion 123 (eg, distance 299 (FIG. 2)). The holder 111 is configured such that the length of the holder 111 can be adjusted by moving the arm 122 relative to the arm 121. That is, the length of the holder 111 may be adjusted according to the length of the electrical device coupled to the holder 111. For example, if the first media player has a first length and the second media player has a second length, the length of the holder 111 may be adjusted to be proportional to the first length when coupled to the first media player. And may be adjusted to be proportional to the second length when coupled to the second media player. That is, when the first media player is the electrical device 290, the distance 299 between the cradle 120 and the support 123 (ie, the length of the holder 111) is determined by the electrical accessory 101. It is generally the same as the length of the electrical device 290 when fixing 290. Similarly, the distance between the cradle portion 120 and the support 123 (not shown) is such that when the electrical accessory 101 is holding the second media player, the second media player (e.g., Approximately the length of 1090 (FIG. 10) or 2490 (FIG. 24).

In some examples, the holder 111 is rotatably coupled to the connector 112. That is, the holder 111 (and the electrical device 290) can be rotated relative to the connector 112 and the power acquisition unit 113. In some examples, the point or area of the holder 111 may be rotated 180 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the point or area of the connector 112 and the point or area of the power acquisition unit 113.

The connector 112 may be an elongated portion of a semi-rigid body configured to allow the position of the holder 111 to be semi-permanently adjusted relative to the position of the power acquisition unit 113. In some examples, connector 112 may include a gooseneck, which may be a compliant (or obey) flexible tubing, preferably metallic, or, for example, with a plastic or elastic material on the outside thereof. Metal covered. The gooseneck may be considered to have a stacked structure in which coils adjacent to each other overlap but which can be moved relative to one another (in one sense, sliding relative to one another) are formed and stacked. If it does not bend beyond its limits, goosenecks tend to fix the position where it is bent (ie it is semi-permanently adjustable or repositionable). Two "layers" of gooseneck may be considered to have different thicknesses. Thus, the gooseneck has two outer diameters alternately provided in the gooseneck, the outer diameter of the thicker layer, and the outer diameter of the thinner layer. In some embodiments, the connector 112 may be between 7.5 centimeters (cm) and 15.2 centimeters (cm) (eg, approximately 11.4 cm in length); Its larger outer diameter is approximately 9 millimeters (mm); Its smaller outer diameter is approximately 8.2 millimeters (mm); Its inner diameter is approximately 4.5 millimeters; The distance between the centers between the larger diameter portions is approximately 3.5 millimeters; The longitudinal gap between the larger diameter portions is approximately 1 millimeter; The material of the structure may be steel.

The connector 112 should not be so rigid that it cannot be easily relocated by the user; After the holder 111 and the connector 112 have entered their desired position, the connector is rigid enough to hold the holder 111 (with the electrical device 290) in a constant position relative to the power acquisition unit 113. Should have

The connector 112 used in some embodiments is available in various dimensions (eg, an outer diameter of less than 2 millimeters to more than 16 millimeters). The desired length of the connector 112, the weight of the holder 111, the weight of the electrical device 290 secured to the holder 111, and if the connector 112 functions as a broadcast antenna and, if so, The connector 112 can be implemented by using materials, structures, and designs of structures selected for any particular use based on what range it is.

The power acquisition unit 113 includes: (a) an end 151; (b) middle portion 152; (c) an end 153. The connector 112 may be coupled to the middle portion 152. In other examples, the connector 112 may be coupled to the end 151 or 153. In some examples, end 153 has a larger diameter than middle portion 152 and middle portion 152 has a larger diameter than end 151.

In many embodiments, internal cavities are present in end 151, end 153, and intermediate portion 152. This internal cavity may include electrical circuitry for obtaining power from an external power source, such as a cigarette lighter, and then processing power (ie, circuitry for a cigarette lighter adapter). The internal cavity may also include electrical circuitry for the transmitter (not shown) and transmitter control means 154. In some examples, the power acquisition unit 113 is configured to be coupled to a cigarette lighter of the vehicle. That is, the power acquisition unit 113 includes a cigarette lighter adapter.

End 151 may be configured to be inserted into an external power source, such as a cigarette lighter in a vehicle, which is typically a cylindrical cavity. To assist in positioning and securing the power acquisition unit 113 in such a cavity, non-conductive retaining springs 155 are provided on the opposite side of the end 153.

The springs 155 may not be sufficient to secure the electrical accessory 101 to all cigarette lighters of various sizes found in the vehicle, and in particular because of the cantilever weight of the electrical accessory 101, the stabilizer 156 ) Can be used. Stabilizer 156 may basically include a deformable elastic member that is larger than the inner circumference of all known cigarette lighters in the vehicle, such that at least a portion of the deformable elastic member may be relative to the inner circumference of the cigarette lighter even after deformation. While continuing to push, the end 151 is pushed into the cigarette lighter so that the outer periphery of the changeable elastic member is far from the distal end of the end 151 (ie, the part of the end 151 furthest from the middle portion 152). And bent toward the proximal end of the end 153 (the portion of the end 153 closest to the middle portion 152).

Stabilizer 156 is an electrical accessory that is mechanically and electrically as well as semi-permanent (eg, robust but detachable) to maintain power acquisition unit 113 in a desired position and maintain good electrical contact with the cigarette lighter. Allows the power acquisition unit 113 to fit into the cigarette lighter of virtually any vehicle to engage 101. The stabilizer 156 reduces or prevents unwanted rotation, oscillation, and longitudinal movement of the power acquisition unit 113 in the cigarette lighter. Thus, stabilizer 156 is a power source unit 113 (hence the electrical accessory 101) from the normal vibration, centrifugal force (e.g., resulting from the turning of the vehicle), and projections of the road from its desired location. There is a tendency to prevent moving.

In other examples of power acquisition unit 101 (or any of the power acquisition units discussed herein), power acquisition unit 113 is not configured to accept power from an external power source. That is, the power acquisition unit 113 is only a body coupled to the connector 112. In such examples, instead of being configured to receive power, the power acquisition unit 113 may have a coupling mechanism (eg, the coupling mechanism 3401 or the adsorption cup of FIGS. 34-38). The coupling mechanism may be configured to secure the electrical accessory 101 to a relatively or substantially nearly flat surface. For example, the coupling mechanism can be coupled to the vehicle's dashboard or windshield, window, or table top.

3 shows a partial isometric view of the electrical accessory 101 with the cover 119 (FIG. 1) removed, according to the first embodiment. 4 shows a rear isometric view of the arm 122 and the support 123 according to the first embodiment. 5 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory 101 with the arm 122 and the support 123 removed, according to the first embodiment.

3-5 show an example of a system used to controllably couple arm 121 to arm 122, according to the first embodiment. Such a system is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. The adjustable coupling system can be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

3 to 5, the arm 121 may include one or more grooves 131, 132, and 133. Arm 122 includes: (a) protrusions 441, 442, 443, and 444; And (b) pins 445, 446, and 447. Protrusions 442 and 444 may be disposed in groove 131. The protrusions 441 and 443 may be disposed in the groove 133. Pins 445, 446, and 447 may be disposed in groove 132. The length of the holder 111 may be adjusted by moving the protrusions 441 to 444 and the pins 445 to 447 in the grooves 131 to 133. In some examples, protrusions 441-444 and pins 445-447 fit snugly into grooves 131-133 to mount arm 121 to arm 122.

Returning to another embodiment, FIG. 6 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory 601 according to the second embodiment. 7 shows a side view of an electrical accessory 601 according to a second embodiment. 8 shows an isometric view of an electrical accessory 601 securing an electrical device 290, according to a second embodiment. Electrical accessory 601 is merely illustrative and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 601 may be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

As shown in FIGS. 6-8, the electrical accessory 601 may comprise: (a) two or more electrical devices (eg, electrical devices 290 (FIG. 8), 1090 (FIG. 10), at different times); Or 2490 (FIG. 24)); (b) a connector 112 coupled to the holder 611; (c) a power acquisition unit 113 configured to receive power from an external power source (eg, a cigarette lighter); And (d) an electrical interface 114 configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to two or more electrical devices.

The holder 611 comprises: (a) a cradle portion 620 configured to be coupled to a bottom surface of two or more electrical devices, the cradle portion 620 having an end 633 and an end 734 opposite the end 633; (b) an arm 612 that is adjustablely coupled to the cradle 620; And (c) a support 623 coupled to the arm 612 and configured to couple to the top surface of the electrical devices at different times. In some examples, electrical interface 114 protrudes from cradle portion 620 and is configured to help secure the electrical device to holder 611 by mounting the electrical device to cradle portion 620. In the same or different embodiments, arm 612 may have padding 632 over at least a portion of arm 612 to prevent scratching of the electrical device.

Arm 612 may include groove portion 631 and cradle portion 620 may include snap portions (not shown) that are sized and shaped to groove portion 631. The length of the holder 611 can be adjusted by moving the groove portion 631 along the snap portion of the cradle portion 620. Cradle portion 620 may also include a mechanism configured to allow some movement of arm 612 in the horizontal direction. That is, the cradle portion can be configured to allow some movement by the arm 612 along an axis leading between the ends 633 and 734. In various examples, cradle portion 620 may include one or more springs coupled between arm 612 and ends 633 and / or 734 to allow movement in the horizontal direction.

In such an embodiment, the electrical device 290 may be inserted into the holder 611 by coupling the electrical device 290 to the electrical interface 114 and pressing the top of the electrical device 290 against the support 623. . The support 623 may be made of materials that provide sufficient flexibility to allow the top of the electrical device 290 to snap into the support 623. In some examples, the hinge 735 that couples the connector 112 to the holder 611 may be locked in a predetermined position to allow easier engagement of the electrical device 290 with the holder 611. In various embodiments, electrical accessory 601 can include a mechanism (not shown) configured to allow a user to lock hinge 735 at one or more predetermined locations.

To separate the electrical device 290 from the holder 611, the user may slightly upward (eg, thumbs up) relative to the front of the support 623 to release the top of the electrical device 290 from the support 623. Can be pressurized). After the support 623 is released, the electrical device 290 can be pulled upwards from the holder 611 to separate the electrical device 290 from the electrical interface 114.

Returning to yet another embodiment, FIG. 9 shows a front perspective view of a holder 911 for an electrical device, according to a third embodiment. 10 shows a front perspective view of a holder 911 coupled to an electrical device 1090, according to a third embodiment. Holder 911 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Holder 911 may be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

The holder 911 includes: (a) a cradle portion 920 configured to be coupled to a bottom surface of two or more electrical devices at different times; (b) a first arm 921 coupled to the cradle 920; (c) a second arm 922 operatively coupled to the first arm 921; (d) coupling portion 929; And (e) a support 923 coupled to the second arm 922 and configured to couple to the top surface of the two or more electrical devices at different times. In some examples, electrical interface 114 protrudes from cradle portion 920 and is configured to help secure the electrical device to holder 911 by mounting the electrical device to cradle portion 920. Although not shown in FIG. 9 or FIG. 10, the holder 911 is similar to the combination of the connector 112 (FIG. 1) and the holder 111 (FIG. 1) to the power acquisition unit 113 (FIG. 1). The connector 112 (FIG. 1) and the power acquisition unit 113 (FIG. 1).

The length of the holder 911 may be adjusted based on the length of the electrical device coupled to the holder 911. That is, if the first electrical device (eg, electrical device 1090 (FIG. 10)) has a first length and the second electrical device (eg, electrical device 290 (FIG. 2) or electrical device ( 2490 (FIG. 24) has a second length such that the length of the holder 911 is proportional to the first length when coupled to the first electrical device and proportional to the second length when coupled to the second electrical device. Can be adjusted.

In some examples, coupling portion 929 may couple first arm 921 to second arm 922. The engagement portion 929 may be at least partially located within the first arm 921 and the second arm 922. That is, a first portion (not shown) of the coupling portion 929 is located within the first arm 921. A second portion (not shown) of the engagement portion 929 is located within the second arm 922. In another embodiment, the engagement portion 929 is located in only one of the first arm 921 or the second arm 922.

The engaging portion 929 couples the first arm 921 to the arm 922 such that the length of the holder 911 can be changed by adjusting the length of the first portion and / or the length of the second portion. That is, the length of the holder 911 is adjusted by varying the amount of engaging portion 929 located within the first arm 921 or the second arm 922. For example, the length of the holder 911 may extend by sliding a larger portion of the engagement portion 929 from the first arm 921 or the second arm 922. The length of the holder 911 can be reduced by increasing this portion of the engagement portion 929 located within the first arm 921 or the second arm 922.

Returning to another embodiment, FIG. 11 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory 1101 according to the fourth embodiment. 12 shows an isometric view of a portion of electrical accessory 1101 coupled to electrical interface 1214, according to the fourth embodiment. 13 is an isometric view of another portion of electrical accessory 1101 coupled to electrical interface 1214 and electrical device 1090.

In some examples, electrical accessory 1101 may have two or more electrical devices (eg, electrical device 290 (FIG. 2), electrical device 1090 (FIG. 13), and electrical device 2490 at different times). (FIG. 24)). In the same or different embodiments, electrical accessory 1101 may be configured to couple two or more electrical devices to an external power supply (eg, a cigarette lighter). Electrical accessory 1101 is merely illustrative and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 1101 may be used in many different embodiments or examples that are not specifically depicted or described herein.

As shown in FIGS. 11-13, electrical accessory 1101 includes: (a) holder 1111 configured to be secured or coupled to electrical interface 1214 (FIG. 12) and two or more electrical devices at different times. ; (b) connector 112; And (c) a power acquisition unit 113 configured to receive power from an external power source (eg, a cigarette lighter).

Holder 1111 is: (a) two or more electrical devices (eg, electrical device 1090 (FIG. 13), electrical device 290 (FIG. 2), and electrical device 2490 (FIG. 2) at different times. A cradle portion 1120 configured to be coupled to the bottom surface of the 24)); (b) an arm 1121 coupled to the cradle portion 1120; (c) an arm 1122 operatively coupled to the arm 1121; And (d) support 1123 coupled to arm 1122 and configured to couple to the top surface of the two or more electrical devices at different times. In some examples, electrical interface 114 (FIG. 12) protrudes from cradle portion 120 and is configured to help secure the electrical device to holder 111 by mounting the electrical device to cradle portion 120. .

In this embodiment, the electrical interface 1214 (FIG. 12) is not integrated or permanently coupled to the holder 1111. Instead, holder 1111 provides a hole 1125 (FIG. 11) configured to receive electrical interface 1214. Electrical interface 114 may be coupled to wire 1235 (FIG. 12) and may be configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to an electrical device. In some embodiments, electrical interface 1214 may be an electrical interface sold with electrical device 1090 (FIG. 13). For example, if the electrical device 1090 is an Apple iPod ^? And the electrical interface 1214 and wires 1235 are typically Apple iPod ^? It may be a connector and a wire sold together with. That is, the electrical interface 1214 may be a 30 pin connector coupled to one end of the wire 1235, and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector (not shown) is coupled to the other end of the wire 1235.

Hole 1125 (FIG. 11) may be configured to securely integrate electrical interface 1214 into holder 1111. 14 illustrates an exploded view of an example of a cradle portion 1120 having an electrical interface 1214 and wires 1235, according to a fourth embodiment. In this example, cradle portion 1120 includes: (a) first layer 1148; And (b) a second layer 1149 coupled to the top of the first layer 1148. Cradle portion 1120 may be configured in a two layer structure to securely and securely secure electrical interface 1214.

In some examples, the aperture 1125 may comprise: (a) an opening 1426 in the second layer 1149; (b) grooves 1227 in the second layer 1149 extending from the edge of the second layer 1149 to the opening 1426; And (c) a groove 1428 in the first layer 1148. The grooves 1427 and 1428 may be sized such that a portion of the wire 1235 may pass through the grooves 1427 and 1428. The grooves 1427 and 1428 are not large enough to allow the electrical interface 1214 to fit through or fit in the grooves 1743 and 1428. In some examples, the width of the groove 1227 is generally the same as the width of the groove 1428. Opening 1426 may be configured to receive electrical interface 1214.

When the cradle portion 1120 is assembled, the first portion of the groove 1428 is positioned adjacent (eg, below) the opening 1426, and the second portion of the groove 1428 is the groove 1827. Adjacent to (eg, below). When electrical interface 1214 is disposed in hole 1125, electrical interface 1214 lies within opening 1426 (FIG. 14) and shows first layer 1148 (FIGS. 11 and 11). 14). The wire 1235 may pass through the opening 1426 (FIG. 14) and the groove 1428 (FIG. 14).

Designing the holder 1111 to include a hole 1125 instead of having a built-in electrical interface provides several advantages. For manufacturing, the production cost and complexity of the electrical accessory 1101 is reduced. For the user, not having a built-in electrical interface allows separation of the electrical device 1090 from the electrical accessory 1101 while keeping the electrical interface 1214 coupled to the electrical device 1090. Thus, the transmission of video, audio, and / or power to the electrical device 1090 can be continued without interruption even when the electrical device 1090 is disconnected from the electrical accessory 1101.

Referring back to FIGS. 11-13, similar to the previous embodiments, the length of the holder 1111 can be adjusted according to the length of the electrical device coupled to the holder 1111. In this embodiment, the length of the holder 1111 can be adjusted by moving the arm 1122 relative to the arm 1121. In the example shown in FIGS. 11-13, arm 1121 includes a groove 1131. Arm 1122 is groove 1113 to allow snap portion 1132 to be moved up and down the groove 1131 to adjust the length of holder 1111 while locking holder 1111 to a given length when it is not adjusted. It may include a snap portion 1132 to fit. In other examples, other length adjustment mechanisms may be used.

The electrical device 1090 may be inserted into the holder 1111 using two methods in some embodiments. In a first method, electrical device 1090 is first coupled to electrical accessory 1101, similar to the coupling of electrical device 290 to electrical accessory 601 as shown in FIG. 8. The electrical interface 1214 may then be first coupled to the holder 1111 as shown in FIG. 13.

In a second method, electrical interface 1214 may be first coupled to electrical device 1090. Thereafter, electrical device 1090 and electrical interface 1214 may be inserted together in electrical accessory 1101.

Returning to another embodiment, FIG. 15 shows an isometric view of electrical accessory 1501, according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, electrical accessory 1501 includes: (a) a holder 1511 configured to be secured or coupled to two or more electrical devices at different times; (b) connector 1512; (c) a power acquisition unit 1513 configured to receive power from an external power source (eg, a cigarette lighter); (d) an electrical interface 1514 configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to two or more electrical devices at different times; And (e) a wire 1515 for electrically and mechanically coupling the electrical interface 1514 to the power acquisition unit 1513. Electrical accessory 1501 is merely illustrative and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 1501 may be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

Holder 1511 includes: (a) two or more electrical devices (eg, electrical device 1090 (FIG. 15), electrical device 290 (FIG. 2), and electrical device 2490 (FIG. 2) at different times. A cradle portion 1520 configured to couple to a bottom surface of 24)); (b) an arm 1521 coupled to the cradle portion 1520; (c) an arm 1522 operatively coupled to the arm 1521; And (d) a support 1523 coupled to the arm 1522 and configured to couple to the top surface of the two or more electrical devices at different times. The electrical interface 1514 is not integrated or permanently coupled to the holder 1511. Instead, similar to holder 1111 (FIG. 11), holder 1511 provides an aperture 1525 that is configured to receive electrical interface 1514.

The length of the holder 1511 can be adjusted according to the length of the electrical device coupled to the holder 1511. In some examples, arm 1521 may include a groove 1531 extending along at least a portion of the length of arm 1521. In the same or different embodiments, the arm 1522 may include a protrusion 1541 movably coupled to the groove 1531. That is, the length of the holder 1511 can be increased or decreased by changing the position of the protrusion 1541 in the groove 1531.

Returning to another embodiment, FIG. 16 shows an isometric view of electrical accessory 1601 according to the sixth embodiment. 17 shows a side view of a portion of an electrical accessory 1601 according to a sixth embodiment. 18 shows an isometric view of electrical accessory 1601 securing electrical device 290, according to a sixth embodiment. In some examples, electrical accessory 1601 may be configured to secure two or more electrical devices at different times. In the same or different embodiments, electrical accessory 1601 can be configured to couple two or more electrical devices to an external power supply at different times. Electrical accessory 1601 is merely illustrative and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 1601 may be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

As shown in FIGS. 16-18, electrical accessory 1601 includes: (a) a holder 1611 configured to be secured or coupled to two or more electrical devices at different times; (b) connector 112; (c) a power acquisition unit 113 configured to receive power from an external power source (eg, a cigarette lighter); And (d) an electrical interface 114 configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to two or more electrical devices at different times.

The holder 1611 is: (a) coupled to the connector 112, and at two times two or more electrical devices (e.g., electrical device 290 (FIG. 18), electrical device 1090 (FIG. 10), And cradle portion 1620 configured to couple to a bottom surface of electrical device 2490 (FIG. 24); (b) an arm 1621 coupled to the cradle portion 1620; (c) support 1623 coupled to arm 1621 with padding 1649 and configured to couple to the top surface of two or more electrical devices at different times; (d) an elastic mechanism 1640 coupled to the cradle portion 1620 and the arm 1621; And (e) an offset mechanism 1645. In some examples, electrical interface 114 protrudes from cradle portion 1620 and is configured to help secure the electrical device to holder 111 by mounting the electrical device to cradle portion 1620.

In this embodiment, the holder 1611 may secure the electrical device by applying a compressive force to the electrical device to hold the electrical device between the support 1623 and the cradle 1620. That is, the telescoping mechanism 1640 is coupled to the arm 1621 and the cradle portion 1620 such that compressive force is applied to any electrical devices disposed in the holder 1611. The stretching mechanism 1640 may be an elastic material (eg, a rubber band or a flexible plastic) that is coupled between the support 1623 and the cradle 1620 in some examples.

In some examples, arm 1621 extends away from cradle portion 1620 in a first portion 1641 of arm 1621 extending in a first direction 1647 or in a direction opposite to first direction 1647. Arm 1621 is movably coupled to cradle portion 1620 so as to pass through the interior of cradle portion 1620 to second portion 1641 extending away from cradle portion 1620 in second direction 1648. do. In these examples, by pulling or pushing the first portion 1641 away from the cradle portion 1620, the length of the first portion 1641 can be increased and the length of the second portion 1644 can be reduced. . Conversely, by pulling or pushing the second portion 1641 away from the cradle portion 1620, the length of the second portion 1644 can be increased and the length of the first portion 1641 can be reduced. In various examples, arm 1621 may have a stop at or near an end of second portion 1641 to prevent arm 1621 from being drawn out of cradle portion 1620 and detached from the rest of holder 1611. 1646.

In the same or different example, the holder 1611 has a predetermined default distance (the distance between the support 1623 and the cradle 1620 when the support 1623 and the cradle 1620 does not secure the electrical device). For example, the electrical device 2490 (FIG. 24), or the holder 1611, is configured to be slightly shorter than the length of the smallest electrical device designed to secure.

Offset mechanism 1645 may be used to provide a third point of contact between electrical device 290 and holder 1611. The other two contact points are: (1) electrical interface 114 / cradle portion 1620; And (2) support 1623. In some examples, offset mechanism 1645 may be a screw that may be screwed through arm 1621 until the screw contacts the back of electrical device 290. In other embodiments, other mechanisms (eg, pin or compressive material) may be used instead of the screw.

The offset mechanism 1645 can change the angle at which the electrical device 290 is seated in the holder 1611. That is, when offset mechanism 1645 partially supports or contacts electrical device 290, electrical device 290 may be generally parallel with arm 1621. If the offset mechanism 1645 is not used, the electrical device 290 may be seated in the holder 1611 so that the top of the electrical device 290 contacts the back portion of the arm 1621 and / or the support 1623. have. In some examples, if the offset mechanism 1645 is not used, it may be difficult to form a good electrical bond between the electrical device 290 and the electrical interface 114. Use of the offset mechanism 1645 is not limited to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16-18. Offset mechanism 1645 may be used in other embodiments of the electrical accessory described herein.

The electrical device may be mounted to the electrical accessory 1601 using two methods. In a first method, a user pulls support 1623 and arm 1621 away from cradle portion 1620. For example, a user can pull support 1623 and arm 1621 using handle 1650. The user can insert an electrical device into the electrical interface 114 and can separate the support 1623 and the arm 1621. When detached, support 1623 and arm 1621 can reliably clamp (ie, provide compressive force) over the electrical device.

In a second method, an upper portion of the electrical device is first used to push the support 1623 and the arm 1621 away from the cradle portion 1620. The user can then move the lower portion of the electrical device forward to align the electrical interface 114 with the electrical device. Thereafter, an electrical interface (not shown) on top of the electrical device can then be inserted into the electrical interface 114.

Returning to a further embodiment, FIG. 19 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory 1901 according to the seventh embodiment. 20 shows another isometric view of the electrical accessory 1901 according to the seventh embodiment. 21 shows an isometric view of a portion of electrical accessory 1901 that secures electrical device 290, according to a seventh embodiment. 22 shows an isometric view of gear mechanism 2255 of electrical accessory 1901 according to the seventh embodiment. In some examples, electrical accessory 1901 can be configured to secure two or more electrical devices. In the same or different embodiments, electrical accessory 1901 can be configured to couple two or more electrical devices to an external power supply at different times. Electrical accessory 1901 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 1901 may be used in many different embodiments or examples that are not specifically depicted or described herein.

As shown in FIGS. 19-22, electrical accessory 1901 comprises: (a) a holder 1911 configured to be secured or coupled to two or more electrical devices at different times; (b) connector 112; (c) a power acquisition unit 113 configured to receive power from an external power source; And (d) an electrical interface 114 configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to two or more electrical devices. In some examples, electrical interface 114 protrudes from cradle portion 1920 and is configured to assist in coupling the electrical device to holder 1911 by mounting the electrical device to cradle portion 1920.

The holder 1911 is: (a) coupled to the connector 112, and at two times two or more electrical devices (e.g., electrical device 290 (FIG. 21), electrical device 1090 (FIG. 10), And a cradle portion 1920 configured to couple to a bottom surface of the electrical device 2490 (FIG. 24). (b) an extension / arm 1921 having a slot 1932 and coupled to cradle portion 1920; And (c) gear mechanism 2255 (FIG. 22). Gear mechanism 2255 may be partially located inside cradle portion 1920 and may extend partially from cradle portion 1920. In some examples, cradle portion 1920 may be considered to include a base portion 1979 and an extension / arm 1921.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 19-22, gear mechanism 2255 may be used to adjust the distance between supports 1951 and 1952. Thus, the width of the holder 1911 can be adjusted according to the width of the electrical device coupled to the holder 1911. That is, if the first electrical device (eg, electrical device 290 (FIG. 21)) has a first width and the second electrical device (eg, electrical device 1090 (FIG. 10) or electrical device ( 2490 (FIG. 24) has a second width, the width of the holder 1911 can be adjusted to be proportional to the first width when coupled to the first electrical device and the second when coupled to the second electrical device. It can be adjusted to be proportional to the width. That is, when the first electrical device is the electrical device 290, the distance between the supports 1951 and 1952 is approximately equal to the width of the electrical device 290 when the electrical accessory 1901 is holding the electrical device 290. same. Similarly, the distance (not shown) between the supports 1951 and 1952 is approximately equal to the width of the second electrical device when the electrical accessory 1901 is holding the second electrical device.

As shown in FIG. 22, gear mechanism 2255 includes: (a) arm 2254; (b) a support 1952 coupled to the distal end of arm 2254; (c) arm 2053; (d) support 1951 coupled to the distal end of arm 2053; (e) gear 2256 mechanically coupled to arms 2254 and 2053; And (f) a pin 2057 having one or more protrusions 2059 (eg, a handle) and coupled to the gear 2256. In some examples, arm 2254 and support 1952 may be considered a first side support. Arm 2053 and support 1951 may be considered a second side support. The first and second side supports together with the gear 2256 may be considered a connection. Pin 2057 and protrusion 2059 may be considered an activation mechanism in some examples.

In some examples, gear 2256 and arms 2053 and 2254 may have teeth. The teeth on the arms 2053 and 2254 are the teeth on the gear 2256 so that when the gear 2256 is rotated (using the pin 2057), the distance between the supports 1951 and 1952 is changed. Can be coupled to.

In some examples, the user can increase the distance between the supports 1951 and 1952 by rotating the one or more protrusions 2059 clockwise. Rotating the protrusion (s) 2059 clockwise causes the gear 2256 to rotate clockwise and move the arms 2053 and 2254 away from each other. Similarly, the user can reduce the distance between the supports 1951 and 1952 by rotating the protrusion (s) 2059 counterclockwise. Rotating the protrusion 2059 counterclockwise causes the gear 2256 to rotate counterclockwise and to move the arms 2053 and 2254 towards each other.

In addition to being able to change the distance between the supports 1951 and 1952, the distance between the connection 1959 (FIG. 19) of the cradle portion 1920 and the electrical interface 114 can also be changed. In some examples, the connector 1959 is mechanically coupled to the arm 1921 so that the connector 1959 can be moved up and down the length of the slot 1932.

In various embodiments, pin 2057 can be configured to function dually. Pin 2057 and holder 1911 are: (a) rotating pin 2057 clockwise or counterclockwise alters the distance between supports 1951 and 1952; (b) Pulling pin 2057 away from holder 1911 and moving pin 2057 to the top or bottom side can be configured to change the distance between the top of the connection and the electrical interface 114.

Returning to another embodiment, FIG. 23 shows an isometric view of electrical accessory 2301 according to the eighth embodiment. 24 shows an isometric view of electrical accessory 2301 for securing electrical device 2490 according to the eighth embodiment. 25 shows an isometric view of gear mechanism 2555 of electrical accessory 2301 according to an eighth embodiment. Electrical accessory 2301 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 2301 may be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

As shown in FIGS. 23-25, electrical accessory 2301 comprises: (a) a holder 2311 configured to be secured or coupled to two or more electrical devices at different times; (b) connector 112; (c) a power acquisition unit 2313 configured to receive power from an external power source; And (d) an electrical interface 114 configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to two or more electrical devices. In some examples, electrical interface 114 protrudes from cradle portion 2320 and is configured to help secure the electrical device to holder 2311 by mounting the electrical device to cradle portion 2320.

The holder 2311 is: (a) coupled to the connector 112 and at two times two or more electrical devices (e.g., electrical device 290 (FIG. 21), electrical device 1090 (FIG. 10), And a cradle portion 2320 configured to couple to a bottom surface of the electrical device 2490 (FIG. 24). And (b) gear mechanism 2555 (FIG. 25). Gear mechanism 2555 may be partially located inside cradle portion 2320 and may extend partially from cradle portion 2320.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 23-25, gear mechanism 2555 can be used to vary the distance between supports 2351 and 2352. Gear mechanism 2555 includes: (a) arm 2354; (b) support 2352 coupled to the end of arm 2354; (c) arm 2353; (d) a support 2351 coupled to the end of arm 2353; (e) gear 2556 (FIG. 25) mechanically coupled to arms 2354 and 2353; (f) a gear 2560 mechanically coupled to the gear 2556; And (g) pins 2357 having protrusions 2359 and coupled to gear 2560. In some examples, gears 2556 and 2560 and arms 2353 and 2354 may have teeth. The teeth on the arms 2353 and 2354 can be coupled to the teeth on the gear 2556. The teeth in the gear 2556 may also be coupled to the teeth in the gear 2560 as shown in FIG. 25. Gear mechanism 2555 may be configured such that the distance between supports 2351 and 2352 is changed when protrusion 2359 is rotated.

Returning to another example, FIG. 26 shows an isometric view of a portion of an electrical accessory 2601 according to the ninth embodiment. 27 shows a side view of an electrical accessory 2601 according to a ninth embodiment. FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view of power acquisition unit 2613 along lines 28-28 (FIG. 26), according to the ninth embodiment. 29 shows a rear view of the electrical module 2671 according to the ninth embodiment. 30 shows an isometric view of a portion of a cigarette lighter module 2670 according to the ninth embodiment. Electrical accessory 2601 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 2601 can be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

As shown in FIGS. 26-30, electrical accessory 2601 comprises: (a) a holder (not shown) configured to be secured or coupled to two or more electrical devices (not shown) at different times; (b) a connector 112 coupled to the holder; (c) a power acquisition unit 2613 configured to receive power from an external power source (eg, a cigarette lighter); And (d) an electrical interface (not shown) configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to the two or more electrical devices at different times. In many embodiments, the holder of electrical accessory 2601 is a holder 111, 611, 911, 1111, 1511, 1611, 1911, or FIGS. 1, 6, 9, 11, 15, 16, 19, and 23, respectively. Or similar to 2311). The electrical interface of the electrical accessory 2601 can be similar or identical to the electrical interface 114 of FIG. 1.

The power acquisition unit 2613 is: (a) a cigarette lighter module 2670 having an insert 2872 (FIG. 28), wherein the insert 2872 is for a cigarette that may have ends 2861 and 2882. Lighter module; (b) an electrical module 2671 having a display 2679; And (c) electrical connectors 2876 (FIG. 28) that electrically couple the electrical module 2671 and the cigarette lighter module 2670. In some examples, electrical module 2671 may also include a transmitter (not shown) and / or control means 2689 for the transmitter. In the same or different example, electrical module 2671 may include controls (not shown) for electrical device coupled to electrical accessory 2601.

In this embodiment, the orientation of the electrical module 2671 relative to the cigarette lighter module 2670 can be adjusted. Being able to adjust the orientation of the electrical module 2671 allows the user of the electrical accessory 2601 to adjust the viewing angle of the display 2679. For example, if the electrical accessory 2601 is coupled to the cigarette lighter of the vehicle, the default orientation (eg, face to face) of the electrical module 2671 may not be easily readable by the driver of the vehicle. . Thus, the use of the adjustable electrical module 2671 allows the driver to change the orientation of the electrical module 2671 so that the display 2679 can be easily read by the driver.

In some examples, electrical module 2671 has a hole 2973 (FIG. 29). In some examples, the hole 2973 may be in the shape of an X and may have four wings 2928. In other examples, the hole 2973 may have different shapes and / or different numbers of wings.

Insertion 2872 may be disposed in hole 2973 with washers 275 (FIGS. 27 and 28) positioned between electrical module 2671 and cigarette lighter module 2670. The power acquisition unit 2613 may also have a washer 2877 (FIG. 28) located between the end 2882 and the electrical module 2671. Washer 2874 (FIG. 28) may be located between end 2861 and cigarette lighter module 2670. In some examples, washers 2874, 2775, and 2877 are used to reduce friction and provide tighter coupling between modules. Washers 2874, 2775, and 2877 may comprise rubber or foam material.

The orientation of the electrical module 2671 can be changed by sliding the insert 2872 from the center of the hole 2739 (FIG. 29) to one of the wings 2928. That is, sliding the insert 2872 into one of the wings 2928 changes the angle of the electrical module 2671 relative to the cigarette lighter module 2670.

Returning to another embodiment, FIG. 31 shows an isometric view of the electrical accessory 3101 according to the tenth embodiment. 32 shows another isometric view of the electrical accessory 3101 according to the tenth embodiment. Electrical accessory 3101 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 3101 can be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, the electrical accessory 3101 includes: (a) a holder 111 configured to be secured or coupled to two or more electrical devices at different times; (b) a connector 112 coupled to the holder; (c) a body or power acquisition unit 3113 configured to receive power from an external power source (eg, a cigarette lighter); And (d) an electrical interface 114 configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to two or more electrical devices at different times. In other embodiments, the holder of the electrical accessory 2601 is similar to the holders 611, 911, 1111, 1511, 1611, 1911, or 2311 of FIGS. 6, 9, 11, 15, 16, 19, and 23, respectively. Or the same.

The power acquisition unit 3113 includes: (a) a cigarette lighter module 3170 having an end 3288 (FIG. 32); (b) an electrical module 3171 having a display 3179; And (c) an electrical connector 3176 for electrically coupling the electrical module 3171 and the cigarette lighter module 3170. In some examples, electrical module 3171 may also include a transmitter (not shown) and / or controls for the transmitter. In the same or different example, the electrical module 3171 may include control means (not shown) for an electrical device coupled to the electrical accessory 3101.

As shown in FIG. 32, the cigarette lighter module 3170 may include dimples 3386 at the end 3288. In some examples, dimples 3286 may be similar to dimples on a golf ball. The electrical module 3171 may include a recess 3287 having a protrusion 3289. In some examples, the projection 3289 may be located at the center of the recess 3287. In the same or different example, the electrical module 3171 can include a magnet (not shown) adjacent the recess 3287. In some examples, the magnet is located inside of the outer surface of the electrical module 3171, which is underneath the recess 3287.

The electrical module 3171 can be detachably coupled to the cigarette lighter module 3170 by coupling the recess 3287 and the protrusion 3289 to one of the dimples 3386 at the end 3288. The electrical module 3171 is secured to the metal in the cigarette lighter module 3170 by a magnet at the bottom of the recess 3287. The viewing angle of the electrical module 3171 can be changed by the user by moving the projection 3289 from the first of the dimples 3386 to the second of the dimples. In this embodiment, the electrical module 3171 is also separated from the cigarette lighter module 3170 and as a result the electrical module 3171 can be placed anywhere the electrical connector 3176 can reach.

In alternative embodiments, the magnet may be located in the cigarette lighter module 3170 instead of the electrical module 3171. In still other embodiments, the magnet may be located in the electrical module 3171, and a magnet of opposite polarity may be located in the cigarette lighter module 3170.

Returning to another embodiment, FIG. 33 shows an isometric view of a portion of the electrical accessory 3301 according to the eleventh embodiment. Electrical accessory 3301 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Electrical accessory 3301 may be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

As shown in FIG. 33, an electrical accessory 3301 includes: (a) a holder (not shown) configured to be secured or coupled to one or more electrical devices (not shown) at different times; (b) a connector 112 coupled to the holder; (c) a power acquisition unit 3113, configured to receive power from an external power source; And (d) an electrical interface (not shown) configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to two or more electrical devices. In some embodiments, holders of electrical accessory 3301 are holders 111, 611, 911, 1111, 1511, 1611, 1911, of FIGS. 1, 6, 9, 11, 15, 16, 19, and 23, respectively. Or 2311).

The power acquisition unit 3313 comprises: (a) a cigarette lighter module 3370 having an end 3336; (b) an electrical module 3371 having a display 3379; And (c) a connector 3290 for electrically coupling the electric module 3371 and the cigarette lighter module 3370. In some examples, connectors 3390 and / or 112 may be goosenecks.

Returning to another embodiment, FIG. 34 shows a front view of the engagement mechanism 3401 in the locked position according to the twelfth embodiment. 35 shows a front view of the engagement mechanism 3401 in the unlocked position according to the twelfth embodiment. 36 shows an exploded view of the coupling mechanism 3401 according to the twelfth embodiment. 37 shows an isometric top view of the rotary dial 3410 of the engagement mechanism 3401 according to the twelfth embodiment. 38 shows a bottom rear isometric view of rotary dial 3410 of engagement mechanism 3401, in accordance with a twelfth embodiment. Coupling mechanism 3401 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Coupling mechanism 3401 may be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

In some examples, the electrical accessory (eg, electrical accessory 101 of FIG. 1) may be a coupling mechanism instead of or in addition to the power acquiring unit (eg, power acquiring unit 113 (FIG. 1)). 3401. For example, region 3405 of the coupling mechanism may be configured to couple to connector 112 (FIG. 12). In other embodiments, the power acquisition unit 113 (FIG. 1) may include a coupling mechanism 3401 instead of the end 151 (FIG. 1). In still other embodiments, coupling mechanism 3401 may be coupled to other types of devices, modules, and / or equipment.

34-38, in various embodiments, the coupling device or mechanism 3401 may comprise: (a) an upper housing 3405; (b) rotary dial 3410; (c) support base 3415; (d) connection mechanism 3616 (eg, screws or pins) (FIG. 36); (e) elastic mechanism 3615 (eg, a spring) (FIG. 36); And (f) an adsorption cup 3420. In many examples, the coupling mechanism 3401 may include a rotary base 3410 and / or a suction cup 3420 for attaching (ie locking) the suction cup 3420 to the surface 3402 by vacuum. And to rotate about.

In one example, when the coupling mechanism 3401 lies on the surface 3402, and the user rotates the rotary dial 3410 relative to the support base 3415 in a first direction (eg, counterclockwise). When starting to rotate, the rotary motion first presses down the adsorption cup 3420 to exhaust the air trapped in the lower portion of the adsorption cup 3420. After pressing the suction cup 3420 downward, the rotational motion may cause the reversal of the direction of movement of the suction cup 3420, with the center of the suction cup 3420 between the suction cup 3420 and the surface 3402. Pulled upwards (ie, inwards towards the rest of the coupling mechanism 3401) to create a vacuum. In various embodiments, the first downward motion of the adsorption cup allows air to escape from between the adsorption cup 3420 and the surface 3402 so that a stronger vacuum is formed between the adsorption cup 3420 and the surface 3402. As allowed, the vacuum generated between the coupling mechanism 3401 and the surface 3402 is stronger than the vacuum between the conventional adsorption cup and the surface.

In some examples, as shown in FIG. 36, the adsorption cup 3420 may comprise: (a) an adsorption portion 3631; And (b) a stem 3632 protruding from the adsorption portion 3631. Stem 3632 may have two or more wings 3633, 3634, 3635, and 3636.

The support base 3415 includes: (a) a bottom portion 3641; (b) a stem 3642 protruding from the bottom portion 3641; And (c) may also include at least one cam 3643 protruding from the bottom portion 3641. Stem 3642 may have one or more slots 3644 and 3645.

In various examples, cam 3643 may have an indicator 3447. In some examples, indicator 3447 may indicate whether the engagement mechanism is in the locked position (FIG. 34) or in the unlocked position (FIG. 35). That is, the indicator 3447 can provide the user with information regarding how the rotary dial 3410 needs to be moved or rotated to attach the coupling mechanism 3401 to the surface 3402.

Rotary dial 3410 includes: (a) an outer ring 3826 (FIG. 38) having a slot 3661 for an indicator 3447; (b) inner ring 3827 (FIG. 38); And (c) a cam mechanism 3621 within the inner ring 3827. Cam mechanism 3621 may have one or more retracting cams 3722 and one or more compression cams 3831 (FIG. 38). The cam mechanism 3621 can be adjacent to the hole 3624 in the rotary dial 3410 in some examples.

In addition, the slot 3825 (FIG. 38) may be located between the outer ring 3826 (FIG. 38) and the inner ring 3827 (FIG. 38) in various embodiments. When the rotary dial 3410 is mechanically coupled to the support base 3415, the cam 3643 may be located in the slot 3825 in some examples.

In some examples, a connection mechanism 3616 (FIG. 36) can be used to join the upper housing 3405, the rotary dial 3410, and the support base 3415 together. When the upper housing 3405, the rotary dial 3410, and the support base 3415 are joined together, the stem 3642 (FIG. 36) is in the hole 3942, and the cam 3643 is in the slot 3825. have. In many embodiments, the coupling mechanism 3616 may abut a surface on the inside of the stem 3642 and may be coupled to (eg, screwed to) a hole in the upper housing 3405. .

Suction cup 3420 is separable from the rest of coupling mechanism 3401. For example, if the adsorption cup 3420 is worn or damaged, the adsorption cup 3420 can be separated from the coupling mechanism 3401 and replaced with a new adsorption cup.

In some examples, to join the suction cup 3420 with the rest of the coupling mechanism 3401, vanes 3333 and 3634 are inserted into the slots 3644 in the support base 3415 and then the rotary dial. Inserted into slots 3829 at 3410. The elastic mechanism 3615 may be disposed between the suction cup 3420 and the rotary dial 3410. In various embodiments, one end of the resilient mechanism 3615 may abut the same surface of the stem 3642 that the coupling mechanism 3616 abuts. The second end of the elastic mechanism 3615 can abut the stem 3632.

After the vanes 3633 and 3634 are inserted into the slots 3644 in the support base 3415 and the slots 3829 in the rotary dial 3410, the suction cup 3420 is removed from the coupling mechanism 3401. It can be semi-permanently combined with the rest. In some examples, the suction cup 3420 may have an upward force applied to the stem 3632 and consequently the vanes 3633 and 3634 are raised beyond the protrusion 3771 to the areas 3772. Can be rotated (eg counterclockwise). The wings 3633 and 3634 are then brought into contact with their bottom by the area 3772 of the cam mechanism 3621 and with their top by the edge 3646 of the stem 3642. The wings 3633 and 3634 can be rotated in the area 3772.

Suction cup 3420 may have an upward force applied to stem 3632 and consequently, while wings 3633 and 3634 are raised above slot 3771 to slot 3829 (eg, clockwise). By rotating the adsorption cup 3420, it can be separated from the rest of the coupling mechanism 3401 (ie, the bond can be released). The stem 3632 can then be pulled from the slots 3644 in the support base 3415 and from the slots 3829 in the rotary dial 3410.

As previously discussed, the vacuum between the coupling mechanism 3401 and the surface 3402 can be created by rotating the rotary dial 3410 relative to the suction cup 3420 and the support base 3415. That is, the user may begin rotating the rotary dial 3410 relative to the suction cup 3420 and the support base 3415 in the first direction (eg, counterclockwise), which may cause the cam 3722 to rotate. It causes downward movement of the wings 3633 and 3634, forcing the stem 3632 to move downwards, thereby discharging air trapped between the adsorption portion 3611 and the surface 3402. Because of the curvature and shape of the cam mechanism 3621, as the user continues to rotate the rotary dial in the first direction, the direction of movement of the stem 3632 is reversed, and the stem 3632 is moved upwards or inwards (ie, engaged). Toward the rest of the mechanism 3401). Pulling the stem 3632 upwards or inwards creates a vacuum between the adsorption portion 3611 and the surface 3402 that secures the coupling mechanism 3410 to the surface 3402.

Returning to yet another embodiment, FIG. 39 shows a flow diagram for one embodiment of a method 3900 for providing an electrical accessory for securing two or more electrical devices. The method 3900 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. The method 3900 may be used in many different embodiments or examples not specifically described or described herein.

The method 3900 of FIG. 39 may include providing 3951 a cradle portion configured to couple to two or more electrical devices. For example, the cradle portion may be similar to or the same as the cradle portions 120, 620, 920, 1120, 1520, 1620, 1920, or 2320 of FIGS. 1, 6, 9, 11, 15, 16, 19, and 23, respectively. Can be.

The method 3900 of FIG. 39 continues with providing 3952 a first support configured to be coupled to two or more electrical devices. For example, the first support may be similar or identical to the support 123, 623, 923, 1123, 1523, or 1623 of FIGS. 1, 6, 9, 11, 15, and 16, respectively. The first support may also be similar or identical to the side supports 1951 and 1952 of FIG. 19 or the side supports 2351 and 2352 of FIG. 23.

The method 3900 of FIG. 39 then includes a step 3955 of providing a connection mechanism. 40 shows a flow diagram for one embodiment of providing 3953 a connection mechanism, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 40, step 3953 includes a first process 4041 for providing a first arm. For example, the first arm may be similar or identical to the arms 121, 921, 1121, or 1521 of FIGS. 1, 9, 11, and 15, respectively.

Step 3955 also includes providing 4062 a second arm. For example, the second arm may be similar or identical to the arms 122, 922, 1122, or 1522 of FIGS. 1, 9, 11, and 15, respectively. Process 4062 may be executed concurrently with or prior to process 4041 in some examples.

Next, step 3953 continues with a step 4043 of movably coupling the first arm to the second arm. For example, engagement of the first arm to the second arm may include engagement of the arm 121 to the arm 122 of FIG. 1, engagement of the arm 921 to the arm 922 of FIG. 9, of FIG. 11. The engagement of arm 1121 to arm 1122, or the engagement of arm 1521 to arm 1522 of FIG. 15 may be similar or identical. After process 4083, step 3955 is completed in this example.

In other examples, providing the coupling mechanism at step 3953 may include providing the arm 612 of FIG. 6. In still other examples, providing the coupling mechanism may include providing the arm 1621 and the telescoping mechanism 1640 of FIG. 16. In further examples, providing the connection mechanism may include providing the gear mechanism 2255 or 2555 of FIGS. 22 and 25, respectively.

Referring again to FIG. 39, the method 3900 may include engaging 3940 the coupling mechanism to the cradle portion and the first support. In some examples, coupling the coupling mechanism to the cradle portion and the first support portion forms a holder. The holders formed by engaging the connection mechanism to the cradle portion and the first support portion are holders 111, 611, 911, 1111, 1511, 1611, 1911 of FIGS. 1, 6, 9, 11, 15, 16, 19, and 23, respectively. Or 2311).

In some examples, coupling the coupling mechanism to the cradle portion and the first support may include coupling the coupling mechanism to the cradle portion and the first support such that the length of the holder is changed by moving the second arm relative to the first arm. It may include.

In some examples, the order of steps 3951-3953 may be changed. For example, step 3953 may occur concurrently with or prior to steps 3951 and 3952.

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. For example, it will be readily apparent that any of the holders disclosed herein may include a hole (similar to hole 1125 (FIG. 11) or 1525 (FIG. 5)) instead of a permanently attached electrical interface. . Further examples of such modifications are given in the above description. Accordingly, the disclosure of the embodiments is intended to illustrate the scope of the invention and not to limit it. It is intended that the scope of the invention only be limited by the scope required by the appended claims. To those skilled in the art, the electrical accessories, equipment, electrical devices and methods of providing discussed herein may be practiced in various embodiments, and the above discussion of some of these embodiments is necessarily all possible embodiments. It will be readily apparent that there is no need for a full explanation of these fields. Rather, the detailed description of the drawings, and the drawings themselves, disclose at least one preferred embodiment and may disclose alternative embodiments.

All elements claimed in any particular claim are essential to the embodiment claimed in this particular claim. As a result, replacement of one or more claimed components is considered to be a reconfiguration and not a modification. In addition, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or components are mentioned in these claims, any benefits, advantages, solutions to problems may arise or become more prominent, And any component or elements should not be construed as important, required, or essential features or components of some or all of the claims.

Moreover, if embodiments and / or limitations are: (1) not specifically claimed in the claims; (2) If there is a likelihood or equivalents of the specific elements and / or limitations in the claims under Equivalence, the embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not donated to the public under the principle of donation.

Claims (20)

A coupling device configured to be coupled to a surface,
The coupling device,
A first housing;
A rotary dial mechanically coupled to the first housing with a first hole and including a cam mechanism adjacent the first hole;
A support base comprising a first stem having a second hole, the first stem being located within the first hole and having a second hole;
An adsorption cup coupled to at least one of the rotary dial or the support base, the adsorption portion; And a second stem positioned within the second aperture; And
An elastic mechanism located at least partially between the support base and the second stem of the suction cup;
The coupling device is configured such that the rotary dial can be rotated at least relative to the suction cup to create a vacuum between the suction portion and the surface of the suction cup. The method of claim 1,
The second stem of the suction cup comprises one or more vanes;
The one or more vanes of the second stem may have the rotary dial at least the suction cup such that the suction cup is coupled to at least one of the rotary dial or the support base and to form a vacuum between the suction portion and the surface. A coupling device coupled to at least one of the first stem of the support base or the cam mechanism of the rotary dial so that it can be rotated relative to the support base. The method according to claim 1 or 2,
And the suction cup is removably coupled to at least one of the rotary dial or the support base. 4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The coupling device may cause the suction cup to be moved downward with respect to the surface to discharge air between the suction portion and the surface of the suction cup before creating a vacuum between the suction portion and the surface of the suction cup. It is configured to be, a coupling device. 5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The resilient mechanism comprises a spring. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The cam mechanism of the rotary dial includes an indicator;
And the indicator is configured to indicate whether the engagement mechanism is in the locked or unlocked position. An electrical accessory for securing two or more electrical devices, wherein each of the two or more electrical devices has an upper surface and a lower surface opposite the upper surface;
The electrical accessory,
A holder configured to couple to the two or more electrical devices at different times,
Wherein the holder comprises:
A cradle portion configured to detachably couple to the bottom surface of the two or more electrical devices;
A first arm coupled to the cradle;
A second arm movably coupled to the first arm; And
A first support coupled to the second arm and configured to couple to the top surface of the two or more electrical devices;
The length of the holder is the distance between the cradle portion and the first support portion;
The holder is configured such that the length of the holder is adjusted by moving the second arm relative to the first arm;
The length of the holder is generally equal to the length of the first of the two or more electrical devices when the holder is removably coupled to the first of the two or more electrical devices;
When the holder is removably coupled to a second of the two or more electrical devices, the length of the holder is substantially the same as the length of the second of the two or more electrical devices;
The first arm has a first end coupled to the cradle and a second end opposite the first end;
The first arm comprises one or more first coupling mechanisms;
The one or more first engagement mechanisms extend at least partially from the first arm from the first end to the second end;
The second arm has one or more second coupling mechanisms;
The one or more second coupling mechanisms are coupled to the one or more first coupling mechanisms and the length of the holder is adapted to one of the first or second coupling mechanisms relative to the other of the first or second coupling mechanisms. Electrical accessory, adjusted by moving. The method of claim 7, wherein
The cradle portion has a hole;
The aperture is configured to receive and secure the electrical interface;
And the electrical interface is configured to detachably couple to the two or more electrical devices. 9. The method of claim 8,
The electrical interface permanently coupled to the cradle portion. 9. The method of claim 8,
And the electrical interface is detachably coupled to the cradle portion. 11. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 10,
The cradle portion,
A first layer having a first opening and a first groove; And
A second layer having a second groove;
The first groove runs from an edge of the first layer to the first opening;
The width of the first groove is substantially the same as the width of the second groove;
The first layer is coupled to the second layer such that the first portion of the second groove is located adjacent to the first opening and the second portion of the second groove is located adjacent to the first groove;
The aperture comprises the first groove, the second groove, and the first opening. 12. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 11,
A power acquisition unit configured to receive power from an external power source; And
And a gooseneck connector coupling the power acquisition unit to the holder. 13. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 12,
A body comprising a suction cup; And
Further comprising a gooseneck connector configured to couple the body to the holder,
The suction cup is configured to secure the electrical accessory to a flat surface. 14. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 13,
A coupling device coupled to the cradle and configured to couple to a surface;
The coupling device,
A first housing;
A rotary dial mechanically coupled to the first housing with a first hole and including a cam mechanism adjacent the first hole;
A support base comprising a first stem having a second hole, the first stem being located within the first hole and having a second hole;
An adsorption cup coupled to at least one of the rotary dial or the support base, the adsorption portion; And a second stem positioned within the second aperture; And
An elastic mechanism located at least partially between the support base and the second stem of the suction cup,
The coupling device is configured such that the rotary dial can be rotated at least relative to the suction cup to create a vacuum between the suction portion and the surface of the suction cup. An electrical accessory for securing two or more electrical devices,
The electrical accessory,
A holder configured to couple to the two or more electrical devices at different times,
Wherein the holder comprises:
A cradle portion including electrical coupling means;
A first side support having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end;
A second side support having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end;
One or more gears coupled to the first side support and the second side support; And
An activation mechanism coupled to the one or more gears,
When the holder is removably coupled to a first of the two or more electrical devices, the holder is configured such that the first of the two or more electrical devices includes the cradle, the first side support, and the second. Configured to be fixed between the side supports;
The one or more gears are configured to allow a user to use the activation mechanism to rotate the one or more gears and cause a distance between the distal end of the first side support and the distal end of the second side support to be changed. , Electrical accessories. 16. The method of claim 15,
The one or more gears,
A first gear coupled to the first side support, the second side support, and the activation mechanism;
The activation mechanism comprises a handle. 16. The method of claim 15,
The one or more gears,
A first gear coupled to the first side support and the second side support; And
A second gear coupled to the first gear and the activation mechanism;
The activation mechanism comprises a handle. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17,
The cradle portion,
A base portion;
An extension part extending away from the base part; And
A connecting portion coupled to the extension portion such that a connecting portion can be moved in a first direction with respect to the base portion;
And the connection portion comprises the first side support, the second side support, and the one or more gears. 19. The method of claim 18,
The holder is configured to move the distal end of the first side support in a second direction and the distal end of the second side support in a third direction;
And the second and third directions are generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the first direction. A method of providing an electrical accessory for securing two or more electrical devices, the method comprising:
The method comprises:
Providing a cradle portion configured to couple to the two or more electrical devices at different times;
Providing a connection mechanism;
Providing a first support configured to be removably coupled to the two or more electrical devices; And
Coupling the cradle to the connection mechanism and the first support,
The holder includes the cradle portion, the connection mechanism, and the first support portion;
The length of the holder is the distance between the cradle portion and the first support portion;
Providing the connection mechanism,
Providing a first arm;
Providing a second arm; And
Movably coupling the first arm to the second arm;
Coupling the cradle portion with the connection mechanism and the first support portion,
Engaging the cradle portion with the connection mechanism and the first support such that the length of the holder is changed by moving the second arm relative to the first arm.

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