US20110031289A1

US20110031289A1 - Wrist worn electronic device holder

Info

Publication number: US20110031289A1
Application number: US12/538,693
Authority: US
Inventors: Robert Haskell; John Eric Churilla; Hamid Veijl; Roy Paul Prosise; Curt Stewart
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2009-08-10
Filing date: 2009-08-10
Publication date: 2011-02-10

Abstract

A device for supporting an electronic device is disclosed and may include a wrist wrap. The wrist wrap may include an interior wrist wrap layer and an exterior wrist wrap layer. The device may also include at least one spring metal strip that may be disposed between the interior wrist wrap layer and the exterior wrist wrap layer. Further, the device may include at least one exterior fastener disposed on the exterior wrist wrap layer. The at least one exterior fastener may be configured to receive a fastener on a device engagement housing, a fastener on a portable electronic device, or a combination thereof.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

The present disclosure generally relates to the portable electronic device holders, and more particularly, to wrist worn device holders.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Portable electronic devices are ubiquitous. These devices may include cellular telephones, portable digital assistants (PDAs), portable game consoles, palmtop computers, MP3 players, and other portable electronic devices. One drawback to using a portable electronic device, however, is the form factor typically associated therewith. A portable electronic device is typically small enough to be easily portable, but too large to carry comfortably in one's pocket. Further, the portability of a portable electronic device may make losing the portable electronic device more likely.
Accordingly, what is needed is an improved device for carrying a portable electronic device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the figures, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise indicated.

FIG. 1 is a front plan view of a portable electronic device in a closed position;

FIG. 2 is a front plan view of a portable electronic device in an open position;

FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view of a portable electronic device;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a portable electronic device;

FIG. 5 is a front plan view of a first aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 6 is a rear plan view of a first aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 7 is a side plan view of a first aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and unrolled in a flat configuration;

FIG. 8 is a front plan view of an aspect wrist wrap associated a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 9 is a rear plan view of the wrist wrap in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 10 is a cross-section view the wrist wrap taken along line 10-9 in FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a front plan view of a first aspect of a device engagement housing associated with a wrist worn electronic device holder;

FIG. 12 is a first side plan view of the first aspect of the device engagement housing;

FIG. 13 is a second side plan view of the first aspect of the device engagement housing;

FIG. 14 is a first end view of the first aspect of the device engagement housing;

FIG. 15 is a second end view of the first aspect of the device engagement housing;

FIG. 16 is a front plan view of a sleeve associated with a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 17 is a rear plan view of the sleeve in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 18 is a side plan view of the sleeve in an unrolled flat configuration;

FIG. 19 is a side plan view of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and in a rolled configuration;

FIG. 20 is a side plan view of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and in a rolled configuration;

FIG. 21 is a side plan view a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and in a J configuration;

FIG. 22 is a front plan view of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and a user wrist;

FIG. 23 is a front plan view of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and a vehicle steering wheel;

FIG. 24 is a front plan view of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and a bicycle handlebar;

FIG. 25 is a front plan view of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and an air plane seat;

FIG. 26 is a front plan view of a second aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 27 is another front plan view of the second aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 28 is a side plan view of the second aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and unrolled in a flat configuration;

FIG. 29 is a front plan view of a housing support associated with the second aspect of the wrist worn electronic device holder;

FIG. 30 is a side plan view of the housing support;

FIG. 31 is a front plan view of a second aspect of a device engagement housing associated with a wrist worn electronic device holder;

FIG. 32 is a side plan view of the second aspect of the wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and rolled in an oval configuration;

FIG. 33 is a side plan view of the second aspect of the wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and rolled in a cylindrical configuration;

FIG. 34 is a front plan view of the second aspect of the wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and in a parallel device configuration;

FIG. 35 is a front plan view of the second aspect of the wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and in a perpendicular device configuration;

FIG. 36 is a front plan view of a third aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 37 is another front plan view of the third aspect of the wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 38 is a side plan view of the third aspect of the wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and unrolled in a flat configuration;

FIG. 39 is a side plan view of the third aspect of the wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and rolled in a conical configuration;

FIG. 40 is a rear plan view of the third aspect of the wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and rolled in a conical configuration;

FIG. 41 is a front plan view of a fourth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 42 is another front plan view of the fourth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 43 is a side plan view of the fourth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and unrolled in a flat configuration;

FIG. 44 is a side plan view of the fourth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and rolled in an oval configuration;

FIG. 45 is a side plan view of the fourth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and rolled in a spiral configuration;

FIG. 46 is a front plan view of a fifth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 47 is another front plan view of the fifth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 48 is yet another front plan view of the fifth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 49 is a side plan view of the fifth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and unrolled in a flat configuration;

FIG. 50 is a front plan view of a sixth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 51 is a rear plan view of the sixth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration

FIG. 52 is a side plan view of the sixth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration

FIG. 53 is a front plan view of a seventh aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 54 is a rear plan view of the seventh aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 55 is a side plan view of the seventh aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 56 is a front plan view of an eighth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 57 is a front plan view of the eighth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder engaged with a device and unrolled in a flat configuration;

FIG. 58 is a front plan view of a ninth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 59 is another front plan view of the ninth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 60 is yet another front plan view of the ninth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder in an unrolled, flat configuration;

FIG. 61 is a flow chart illustrating a method of providing Bluetooth connectivity via a wrist worn electronic device holder;

FIG. 62 is a flow chart illustrating a method of providing display capability via a wrist worn electronic device holder; and

FIG. 63 is a flow chart illustrating a method of simulating a watch.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any aspect described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects.
In this description, the term “application” may also include files having executable content, such as: object code, scripts, byte code, markup language files, and patches. In addition, an “application” referred to herein, may also include files that are not executable in nature, such as documents that may need to be opened or other data files that need to be accessed.
The term “content” may also include files having executable content, such as: object code, scripts, byte code, markup language files, and patches. In addition, “content” referred to herein, may also include files that are not executable in nature, such as documents that may need to be opened or other data files that need to be accessed.
As used in this description, the terms “component,” “database,” “module,” “system,” and the like are intended to refer to a computer-related entity, either hardware, firmware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. By way of illustration, both an application running on a computing device and the computing device may be a component. One or more components may reside within a process and/or thread of execution, and a component may be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or more computers. In addition, these components may execute from various computer readable media having various data structures stored thereon. The components may communicate by way of local and/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and/or across a network such as the Internet with other systems by way of the signal).
Referring initially to FIG. 1 through FIG. 3, an exemplary portable electronic device is shown and is generally designated 100. As shown, the portable electronic device 100 may include a housing 102. The housing 102 may include an upper housing portion 104 and a lower housing portion 106. FIG. 1 shows that the upper housing portion 104 may include a display 108. In a particular aspect, the display 108 may be a touchscreen display. The upper housing portion 104 may also include a trackball input device 110. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the upper housing portion 104 may include a power on button 112 and a power off button 114. As shown in FIG. 1, the upper housing portion 104 of the portable electronic device 100 may include a plurality of indicator lights 116 and a speaker 118. Each indicator light 116 may be a light emitting diode (LED).
In a particular aspect, as depicted in FIG. 2, the upper housing portion 104 is movable relative to the lower housing portion 106. Specifically, the upper housing portion 104 may be slidable relative to the lower housing portion 106. As shown in FIG. 2, the lower housing portion 106 may include a multi-button keyboard 120. In a particular aspect, the multi-button keyboard 120 may be a QWERTY keyboard. The multi-button keyboard 120 may be revealed when the upper housing portion 104 is moved relative to the lower housing portion 106. FIG. 2 further illustrates that the portable electronic device 100 may include a reset button 122 on the lower housing portion 106.
As shown in FIG. 3, the portable electronic device 100 may include a multi-pin connector array 130 established, or otherwise disposed, in a short end of the portable electronic device 100, e.g., a bottom of the portable electronic device 100. Alternatively, the portable electronic device 100 may include a multi-pin connector array established, or otherwise disposed, in a long end of the portable electronic device 100, e.g., a left side of the portable electronic device 100 or a right side of the portable electronic device 100. In a particular aspect, the multi-pin connector array 130 may provide connectivity between the portable electronic device 100 and an aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder, described in detail below.
Referring to FIG. 4, an exemplary, non-limiting aspect of a portable electronic device is shown and is generally designated 420. As shown, the portable electronic device 420 includes an on-chip system 422 that includes a digital signal processor 424 and an analog signal processor 426 that are coupled together. As illustrated in FIG. 4, a display controller 428 and a touchscreen controller 430 are coupled to the digital signal processor 424. In turn, a touchscreen display 432 external to the on-chip system 422 is coupled to the display controller 428 and the touchscreen controller 430.
FIG. 4 further indicates that a video encoder 434, e.g., a phase alternating line (PAL) encoder, a sequential couleur a memoire (SECAM) encoder, or a national television system(s) committee (NTSC) encoder, is coupled to the digital signal processor 424. Further, a video amplifier 436 is coupled to the video encoder 434 and the touchscreen display 432. Also, a video port 438 is coupled to the video amplifier 436. As depicted in FIG. 4, a universal serial bus (USB) controller 440 is coupled to the digital signal processor 424. Also, a USB port 442 is coupled to the USB controller 440. A memory 444 and a subscriber identity module (SIM) card 446 may also be coupled to the digital signal processor 424. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a digital camera 448 may be coupled to the digital signal processor 424. In an exemplary aspect, the digital camera 448 is a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) camera.
As further illustrated in FIG. 4, a stereo audio CODEC 450 may be coupled to the analog signal processor 426. Moreover, an audio amplifier 452 may coupled to the stereo audio CODEC 450. In an exemplary aspect, a first stereo speaker 454 and a second stereo speaker 456 are coupled to the audio amplifier 452. FIG. 4 shows that a microphone amplifier 458 may be also coupled to the stereo audio CODEC 450. Additionally, a microphone 460 may be coupled to the microphone amplifier 458. In a particular aspect, a frequency modulation (FM) radio tuner 462 may be coupled to the stereo audio CODEC 450. Also, an FM antenna 464 is coupled to the FM radio tuner 462. Further, stereo headphones 466 may be coupled to the stereo audio CODEC 450.
FIG. 4 further indicates that a radio frequency (RF) transceiver 468 may be coupled to the analog signal processor 426. An RF switch 470 may be coupled to the RF transceiver 468 and an RF antenna 472. As shown in FIG. 4, a keypad 474 may be coupled to the analog signal processor 426. Also, a mono headset with a microphone 476 may be coupled to the analog signal processor 426. Further, a vibrator device 478 may be coupled to the analog signal processor 426. FIG. 4 also shows that a power supply 480 may be coupled to the on-chip system 422. In a particular aspect, the power supply 480 is a direct current (DC) power supply that provides power to the various components of the portable electronic device 420 that require power. Further, in a particular aspect, the power supply is a rechargeable DC battery or a DC power supply that is derived from an alternating current (AC) to DC transformer that is connected to an AC power source.
FIG. 4 further shows that the portable electronic device 420 may also include a network card 488 that may be used to access a data network, e.g., a local area network, a personal area network, or any other network. The network card 488 may be a Bluetooth network card, a WiFi network card, a personal area network (PAN) card, a personal area network ultra-low-power technology (PeANUT) network card, or any other network card well known in the art. Further, the network card 488 may be incorporated into a chip, i.e., the network card 488 may be a full solution in a chip, and may not be a separate network card 488.
As depicted in FIG. 4, the touchscreen display 432, the video port 438, the USB port 442, the camera 448, the first stereo speaker 454, the second stereo speaker 456, the microphone 460, the FM antenna 464, the stereo headphones 466, the RF switch 470, the RF antenna 472, the keypad 474, the mono headset 476, the vibrator 478, and the power supply 480 are external to the on-chip system 422.
In a particular aspect, one or more of the method steps described herein may be stored in the memory 444 as computer program instructions. These instructions may be executed by a processor 424, 426 or a combination thereof in order to perform the methods described herein.
Referring now to FIG. 5 through FIG. 7, a first aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is generally designated 500. As shown, the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 may include a generally flat, generally rectangular wrist wrap 502 and a device engagement housing 504 connected thereto. The wrist wrap 502 may serve as a means for engaging an object around which wrist worn electronic device holder is installed or otherwise wrapped. Further, the device engagement housing 504 may serve as a means for engaging a portable electronic device, e.g., the portable electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 3.
In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 504 may be detachable from the wrist wrap 502, as described below. Conversely, the device engagement housing 504 may be fixed with respect to the wrist wrap 502 to minimize the chance of the device engagement housing 504 disengaging from the wrist wrap 502.
As illustrated, the wrist wrap 502 may include a proximal end 510 and a distal end 512. Further, the wrist wrap 502 may include an interior surface 514 and an exterior surface 516. FIG. 5 and FIG. 7 show that the exterior surface 516 of the wrist wrap 502 may include at least one proximal exterior fastener 518 disposed on the exterior surface 516 of the wrist wrap 502 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 510 of the wrist wrap 502. Moreover, the exterior surface 516 of the wrist wrap 502 may include at least one distal exterior fastener 520 disposed on the exterior surface 516 of the wrist wrap 502 near, or adjacent to, the distal end 512 of the wrist wrap 502.
As depicted in FIG. 6, the interior surface 514 of the wrist wrap 502 may include a proximal interior pocket 522 disposed on the interior surface 514 of the wrist wrap 502 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 510 of the wrist wrap 502. Additionally, the wrist wrap 502 may include a distal interior fastener 524 disposed on the interior surface 514 of the wrist wrap 502 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 510 of the wrist wrap 502.
In a particular aspect, as illustrated, the proximal exterior fastener 518, the distal exterior fastener 520, and the distal interior fastener 524 may be hook-and-loop fastener. However, these fasteners 518, 520, 524 may be buttons, snaps, adhesives, any other fastener, or a combination thereof. The proximal interior pocket 522 may be configured to receive money, keys, loose change, credit cards, driver's license, any other relatively small object typically found in a user's pocket, or a combination thereof.
In a particular aspect, to maximize support and comfort, the wrist wrap 502 may have a width that is at least sixty percent (60%) of the length of the portable electronic device that is engaged therewith. As the wrist wrap 502 becomes narrower, support for the portable electronic device is compromised. Moreover, as the wrist wrap becomes narrower, the comfort associated with wearing the wrist wrap is compromised. This may be attributed to a rise in gripping pressure as the surface area of the interior surface 514 of the wrist wrap 500 becomes smaller. In a particular aspect, the width of the wrist wrap 502 is approximately three inches (3″) in order to maximize comfort and support and to not block use of a camera within the portable electronic device.
FIG. 8 through FIG. 10 further illustrate details of the wrist wrap 502. As shown, the wrist wrap 502 may include a first spring metal strip 526 and a second spring metal strip 528 disposed between an interior wrist wrap layer 530 and an exterior wrist wrap layer 532. The spring metal strips 526, 528 may extend substantially along the length of the wrist wrap 502. Further, the spring metal strips 526, 528 may be substantially parallel to each other and to a longitudinal axis 534 of the wrist wrap 502.
In a particular aspect, the wrist wrap layers 530, 532 may be made from rubber, vinyl, leather, synthetic leather, cloth, or a combination thereof. Further, the rubber may be polychloroprene, aka, Neoprene. The wrist wrap layers 530, 532 may be sewn to each other around the spring metal strips 526, 528 and along the edges thereof. Also, the wrist wrap 502 may include an edge bead 536 sewn around the perimeter of the wrist wrap 502 along the edges of the wrist wrap layers 530, 532.
In a particular aspect, the spring metal strips 526, 528 may be constructed from stainless steel. Otherwise, the spring metal strips 526, 528 may be constructed from another appropriate spring metal. Moreover, in a particular aspect, the spring metal strips 526, 528 may be configured to move between a flat configuration, illustrated in FIG. 8 through FIG. 10 and a plurality of bent configurations, e.g., as shown in FIG. 20 and FIG. 21, described below. In a particular aspect, the spring metal strips 526, 528 are unidirectional, i.e., each spring metal strip only moves into a bent configuration in a single direction relative to the flat configuration. Further, in a particular aspect, the spring metal strips 526, 528 are disposed within the wrist wrap 502 such that the wrist wrap 502 may move between a flat configuration illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 10 and the plurality of bent configurations shown and described below. Particularly, the wrist wrap 502 is configured so that when the wrist wrap 502 is bent in one of the many bent configurations, at least a portion of the interior surface 514 is concave and at least a portion of the exterior surface 516 is convex. Further, when the wrist wrap 502 is bent as described herein, at least a portion of the interior surface 514 may wrap around an object and engage the object in order to support the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 and an electronic device engaged therewith.
FIG. 11 through FIG. 15 illustrate details of the device engagement housing 504. As shown, the device engagement housing 504 may include a bottom wall 550, an upper wall 552, a lower wall 554, a first side wall 556, and a second side wall 558. The upper wall 552, the lower wall 554, the first side wall 556, and the second side 558 may be interconnected to form a perimeter wall that extends from the bottom wall 550. Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the lower wall 554 may be formed with a plurality of openings 570 configured to allow access to one or more perimeter buttons included in a typical electronic device, e.g., a volume button, a sleep button, a camera button, a mute button, etc. The upper wall 552, shown in FIG. 12, does not include any openings, but it may be appreciated that the upper wall 552 may be formed with any openings as necessary.
FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 show that the first side wall 556 and the second side wall 558 each may be formed with a notch 562, 564, respectively. These notches 562, 564 may facilitate removal of an electronic device from the device engagement housing 504. It can be appreciated that a height of the upper wall 552 or the lower wall 554 may be lessened when compared to the side walls 556, 558 in order to facilitate operation of a slide phone, i.e., a phone having an upper housing that moves relative to a lower housing to reveal a QWERTY keyboard, e.g., the device illustrated in FIG. 1 through FIG. 3.
As shown in FIG. 12 through FIG. 15, the device engagement housing 504 may include a fastener 566 disposed on a bottom surface of the device engagement housing 504. The fastener 566 on the device engagement housing 504 is configured to removably engage the distal exterior fastener 520 disposed on the exterior surface 516 of the wrist wrap 502. Accordingly, when the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 is disposed around a user wrist, as shown below in FIG. 21, a device installed within the device engagement housing 504 may be securely attached to the user wrist and may be accessible to the user. FIG. 11 indicates that the device engagement housing 504 may also include a camera hole 568. The camera hole 568 may allow a camera within the portable electronic device to be operated when the portable electronic device is engaged with the device engagement housing 504. The device engagement housing 504 may also include a flash hole (not shown) that may permit a flash within the portable electronic device to pass through the device engagement housing 504 when the portable electronic device is engaged with the device engagement housing 504.
FIG. 16 illustrates a sleeve, generally designated 1600, that may be disposed over the wrist wrap 502 of the wrist worn electronic device holder 500. As illustrated, the sleeve 1600 may include a proximal end 1602 and a distal end 1604. Further, the sleeve 1600 may include an interior surface 1606 and an exterior surface 1608. FIG. 16 and FIG. 7 show that the exterior surface 1608 of the sleeve 1600 may include at least one proximal exterior fastener 1610 disposed on the exterior surface 1608 of the sleeve 1600 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 1602 of the sleeve 1600. Moreover, the exterior surface 1608 of the sleeve 1600 may include at least one distal exterior fastener 1612 disposed on the exterior surface 1608 of the sleeve 1600 near, or adjacent to, the distal end 1604 of the sleeve 1600.
As depicted in FIG. 6, the interior surface 1606 of the sleeve 1600 may include a proximal interior pocket 1614 disposed on the interior surface 1606 of the sleeve 1600 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 1602 of the sleeve 1600. In a particular aspect, as illustrated, the proximal exterior fastener 1610 and the distal exterior fastener 1612 may be hook-and-loop fastener. However, these fasteners 1610, 1612 may also be buttons, snaps, adhesives, any other fastener, or a combination thereof. The proximal interior pocket 1614 may be configured to receive money, keys, loose change, credit cards, driver's license, any other relatively small object typically found in a user's pocket, or a combination thereof.
FIG. 18 indicates that the sleeve 1600 may include an interior layer 1616 and an exterior layer 1618. As depicted, the interior layer 1616 may be relatively shorter than the exterior layer 1618. Further, the interior layer 1616 and the exterior layer 1618 may be attached to each other, e.g., via a sewing operation, along the edges thereof. As such, a pocket 1620 may be established between the layers 1616, 1618. The pocket 1620 of the sleeve 1600 may be configured to removably receive the wrist wrap 502 of the wrist worn electronic device holder 500. As shown, the difference in lengths of the interior layer 1616 allow the wrist wrap 502 of the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 to fit into the sleeve 1600 without covering the distal exterior fastener 520 disposed on the exterior surface 516 of the wrist wrap 502. Accordingly, when the wrist wrap 502 is installed within the sleeve 1600 the device engagement housing 504 may be engaged with the wrist wrap 502, as described herein.
In a particular aspect, the sleeve 1600 may be made from rubber, vinyl, leather, synthetic leather, cloth, or a combination thereof. Further, the rubber may be polychloroprene, aka, Neoprene. The sleeve 1600 may be decorative. Moreover, the sleeve 1600, e.g., the interior layer 1616 thereof, may be made from a conforming material to provide additional comfort when wearing the wrist worn electronic device holder 500.
Referring now to FIG. 19, a portable electronic device, e.g., the portable electronic device 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 through FIG. 3, is depicted as being removably engaged with the device engagement housing 504. FIG. 20 illustrates the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 in a rolled configuration. The wrist worn electronic device holder 500 may be moved between a flat configuration, illustrated in FIG. 5 through 10, and a rolled configuration, shown in FIG. 20 by allowing the spring metal strips 536, 538 to move to the bent configuration. In the rolled configuration, the proximal exterior fastener 518 on the proximal end 510 of the wrist wrap 502 may engage the distal interior fastener 524 on the distal end 512 of the wrist wrap 502. Further, the proximal interior pocket 522 may be located on the interior of the wrist worn electronic device holder 500, e.g., next to a user wrist, for additional security. FIG. 21 shows that the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 may also be move to a J configuration. In such a case, the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 may be hung on another object, e.g., to allow viewing of video content on the portable electronic device 100 that is engaged with the wrist worn electronic device holder 500.
The spring metal strips 526, 528 provide a sufficient rigidity, or stiffness, to support the device engagement housing 504 and the device 100 without requiring an elastic strap. Further, the spring metal strips 526, 528 provide a sufficient gripping force without requiring any elastic. The spring metal strips 526, 528 also provide substantial stiffness or rigidity so that when the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 is rolled as described herein, the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 may be placed on end on a desk, table, etc. and used as a support, or an easel, for a portable electronic device 100 engaged therewith.
The engagement of the fasteners 518, 524 provides sufficient force to maintain the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 in the rolled configuration around a user wrist or other object. However, the fasteners 518, 524 also allow the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 to be relatively quickly removed from the user wrist or object by simply grabbing the device engagement housing 504 and pulling the device engagement housing 504 until the fasteners 518, 524 disengage from each other.
FIG. 22 through FIG. 25 show various exemplary, non-limiting uses of the wrist worn electronic device holder 500. As illustrated in FIG. 22, the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 may be worn around a wrist 2200. FIG. 23 indicates that the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 may be wrapped, or otherwise installed, around a vehicle steering wheel 2300. FIG. 24 shows that the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 may be wrapped, or otherwise installed, around a bicycle handlebar 2400. Further, FIG. 25 illustrates that the wrist worn electronic device holder 500 may be hung, or otherwise disposed, on the back of an air plane seat 2500, e.g., on the tray holder. In each example, the portable electronic device 100 may be easily accessed for viewing content, using global positioning system (GPS) software, making hands-free telephone calls, or a combination thereof.
Referring to FIG. 26 through FIG. 28, a second aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is generally designated 2600. As shown, the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 may include a wrist wrap 2602 and a device engagement housing 2604 connected thereto. In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 2604 may be detachable from the wrist wrap 2602, as described below. Conversely, the device engagement housing 2604 may be fixed with respect to the wrist wrap 2602 to minimize the chance of the device engagement housing 2604 disengaging from the wrist wrap 2602.
As illustrated, the wrist wrap 2602 may include a proximal end 2610 and a distal end 2612. Further, the wrist wrap 2602 may include an interior surface 2614 and an exterior surface 2616. FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 show that the exterior surface 2616 of the wrist wrap 2602 may include at least one proximal exterior fastener 2618 disposed on the exterior surface 2616 of the wrist wrap 2602 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 2610 of the wrist wrap 2602. Moreover, the exterior surface 2616 of the wrist wrap 2602 may include at least one distal exterior fastener 2620 disposed on the exterior surface 2616 of the wrist wrap 2602 near, or adjacent to, the distal end 2612 of the wrist wrap 2602. In a particular aspect, the proximal exterior fastener 2618 and the distal exterior fastener 2620 may be hook-and-loop fastener. However, these fasteners 2618, 2620 may be buttons, snaps, adhesives, any other fastener, or a combination thereof.
FIG. 28 indicates that the wrist wrap 2602 may also include a middle exterior fastener 2622 disposed on the exterior surface 2616 of the wrist wrap 2602 near the middle of the wrist wrap 2602 between the proximal end 2610 of the wrist wrap 2602 and the distal end 2612 of the wrist wrap 2602. As shown in FIG. 26 through FIG. 28, the device engagement housing 2604 may be coupled to the wrist wrap 2602 via a housing support 2624.
FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 illustrate the details concerning the housing support 2624. As shown, the housing support 2624 may include a generally square lower plate 2630. A generally cylindrical post 2632 may extend from the lower plate 2630. Further, an upper plate 2634 may be disposed on the cylindrical post 2632. As illustrated in FIG. 29, the upper plate 2634 of the housing support 2624 may be formed with a notch 2636. The notch 2636 is configured to engage one or more spring levers formed in the device engagement housing 2604, described in conjunction with FIG. 31. The housing support 2630 may further include a fastener 2638 disposed on a bottom surface of the lower plate 2630. The fastener 2638 may be hook-and-loop fastener. However, the fastener 2638 may be a snap, a button, an adhesive, another fastener, or a combination thereof. Further, the fastener 2638 of the housing support 2630 may be configured to removably engage the middle exterior fastener 2622 disposed on the exterior surface 2616 of the wrist wrap 2602.
FIG. 31 illustrates the device engagement housing 2604. As shown, the device engagement housing 2604 may be formed with a central opening 2640 through which the cylindrical post 2632 of the housing support 2630 may extend when assembled therewith. Further, the device engagement housing 2604 may include a plurality of spring levers 2642 disposed radially around the central opening 2640. As shown, the spring levers 2642 may be disposed at ninety degree) (90° increments, e.g., at zero degrees) (0°), ninety degrees) (90°), one hundred eighty degrees) (180°), and two hundred and seventy degrees) (270°).
Accordingly, the notch 2636 formed in the housing support 2630 and the spring levers 2642 of the device engagement housing 2604 may establish a detent. Further, this configuration may allow the device engagement housing 2604 to rotate relative to the housing support 2630 and the wrist wrap 2602.
FIG. 32 and FIG. 33 show that the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 may be rolled into a generally oval configuration or a generally cylindrical configuration, i.e., the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 may be rolled so that the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 is formed with an oval cross-section or circular cross-section, respectively. Accordingly, the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 may be wrapped around devices having varying shapes and sizes.
Additionally, when the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 is rolled, the wrist wrap 2602 may be used as a handle and a user may grip the wrist wrap 2602 in order to move a portable electronic device that is engaged with the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 to the user's ear. Moreover, when the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 is rolled, the wrist wrap 2602 may be used to support a portable electronic device that is engaged with the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 in a horizontal position, a vertical position, or a combination thereof. In other words, when the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 is rolled, the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 may be stood on its end in order to support the portable electronic device that is engaged therewith. Accordingly, the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 may be rolled up and placed on a desk and used as a support for a portable electronic device that is engaged therewith.
FIG. 34 and FIG. 35 show the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 in a rolled configuration and with a portable electronic device engaged therewith. The portable electronic device may be the portable electronic device illustrated in FIG. 1 through FIG. 3. As shown, the device engagement housing 2604 may be moved between a parallel configuration and a perpendicular configuration. In the parallel configuration, the device engagement housing 2604, and the portable electronic device 100, are parallel to a central axis 2650 around which the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 is rolled, or otherwise bent. In the perpendicular configuration, the device engagement housing 2604, and the portable electronic device 100, are perpendicular to a central axis 2650 around which the wrist worn electronic device holder 2600 is rolled, or otherwise bent.
Referring to FIG. 36 through FIG. 40, a third aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is generally designated 3600. As shown, the wrist worn electronic device holder 3600 may include a generally flat, generally curved wrist wrap 3602 and a device engagement housing 3604 connected thereto. In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 3604 may be detachable from the wrist wrap 3602, as described below. Conversely, the device engagement housing 3604 may be fixed with respect to the wrist wrap 3602 to minimize the chance of the device engagement housing 3604 disengaging from the wrist wrap 3602.
As illustrated, the wrist wrap 3602 may include a proximal end 3610 and a distal end 3612. Further, the wrist wrap 3602 may include an interior surface 3614 and an exterior surface 3616. FIG. 36 shows that the exterior surface 3616 of the wrist wrap 3602 may include at least one proximal exterior fastener 3618 disposed on the exterior surface 3616 of the wrist wrap 3602 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 3610 of the wrist wrap 3602. Moreover, the exterior surface 3616 of the wrist wrap 3602 may include at least one distal exterior fastener 3620 disposed on the exterior surface 3616 of the wrist wrap 3602 near, or adjacent to, the distal end 3612 of the wrist wrap 3602. In a particular aspect, the proximal exterior fastener 3618 and the distal exterior fastener 3620 may be hook-and-loop fastener. However, these fasteners 3618, 3620 may be buttons, snaps, adhesives, any other fastener, or a combination thereof.
FIG. 38 indicates that the wrist wrap 3602 may also include a middle exterior fastener 3622 disposed on the exterior surface 3616 of the wrist wrap 3602 near the middle of the wrist wrap 3602 between the proximal end 3610 of the wrist wrap 3602 and the distal end 3612 of the wrist wrap 3602. As shown in FIG. 36 through FIG. 40, the device engagement housing 3604 may be coupled to the wrist wrap 3602 via a housing support 3624.
As shown, a length of a first edge of the wrist wrap 3602 may be relatively shorter than a length of a second edge of the wrist wrap 3602. Accordingly, when the wrist wrap 3602, and the wrist worn electronic device holder 3600, is wrapped around a an object having a varying diameter, e.g., a user wrist, the wrist wrap 3602 may be rolled into a generally conical shape as shown in FIG. 39 and FIG. 40.
Referring to FIG. 41 through FIG. 45, a fourth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is generally designated 4100. As shown, the wrist worn electronic device holder 4100 may include a wrist wrap 4102 and a device engagement housing 4104 connected thereto. In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 4104 may be detachable from the wrist wrap 4102, as described below. Conversely, the device engagement housing 4104 may be fixed with respect to the wrist wrap 4102 to minimize the chance of the device engagement housing 4104 disengaging from the wrist wrap 4102.
As illustrated, the wrist wrap 4102 may include a proximal end 4110 and a distal end 4112. Further, the wrist wrap 4102 may include an interior surface 4114 and an exterior surface 4116. FIG. 41 and FIG. 43 show that the exterior surface 4116 of the wrist wrap 4102 may include at least one proximal exterior fastener 4118 disposed on the exterior surface 4116 of the wrist wrap 4102 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 4110 of the wrist wrap 4102. Moreover, the exterior surface 4116 of the wrist wrap 4102 may include at least one distal exterior fastener 4120 disposed on the exterior surface 4116 of the wrist wrap 4102 near, or adjacent to, the distal end 4112 of the wrist wrap 4102. In a particular aspect, the proximal exterior fastener 4118 and the distal exterior fastener 4120 may be hook-and-loop fastener. However, these fasteners 4118, 4120 may be buttons, snaps, adhesives, any other fastener, or a combination thereof.
As shown in FIG. 41 through FIG. 45, the device engagement housing 4104 may be coupled to the wrist wrap 4102 via a housing support 4124. The housing support 4124 may include a fastener configured to engage the distal exterior fastener 4120 disposed on the exterior surface 4116 of the wrist wrap.
FIG. 44 and FIG. 45 show that the wrist worn electronic device holder 4100 may be rolled into a generally oval configuration or a generally spiral configuration. Accordingly, the wrist worn electronic device holder 4100 may be wrapped around devices having varying shapes and sizes. Further, the wrist worn electronic device holder 4100 may be rolled into configurations having various diameters to further accommodate wrapping around devices with different diameters.
Referring to FIG. 46 through FIG. 49, a fifth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is generally designated 4600. As shown, the wrist worn electronic device holder 4600 may include a wrist wrap 4602 and a device engagement housing 4604 connected thereto. In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 4604 may be detachable from the wrist wrap 4602, as described below. Conversely, the device engagement housing 4604 may be fixed with respect to the wrist wrap 4602 to minimize the chance of the device engagement housing 4604 disengaging from the wrist wrap 4602.
As illustrated, the wrist wrap 4602 may include a proximal end 4610 and a distal end 4612. Further, the wrist wrap 4602 may include an interior surface 4614 and an exterior surface 4616. FIG. 46 and FIG. 27 show that the exterior surface 4616 of the wrist wrap 4602 may include at least one proximal exterior fastener 4618 disposed on the exterior surface 4616 of the wrist wrap 4602 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 4610 of the wrist wrap 4602. Moreover, the exterior surface 4616 of the wrist wrap 4602 may include at least one distal exterior fastener 4620 disposed on the exterior surface 4616 of the wrist wrap 4602 near, or adjacent to, the distal end 4612 of the wrist wrap 4602. In a particular aspect, the proximal exterior fastener 4618 and the distal exterior fastener 4620 may be hook-and-loop fastener. However, these fasteners 4618, 4620 may be buttons, snaps, adhesives, any other fastener, or a combination thereof.
As shown in FIG. 46 through FIG. 49, the device engagement housing 4604 may be coupled to the wrist wrap 4602 via a housing support 4624. The housing support 4624 may include a fastener configured to engage the distal exterior fastener 4620 disposed on the exterior surface 4616 of the wrist wrap.
FIG. 46 through FIG. 48 further show that the device engagement housing 4604 may include an ear bud dock 4650 in which a Bluetooth headset (“ear bud”) or other wireless headset may be stored when not in use. The device engagement housing 4604 may also include a door 4652 rotatably attached to an end of the device engagement housing 4604 adjacent to the ear bud dock 4650. The door 4652 may be coupled to the device engagement housing 4604 via a first hinge 4654 and a second hinge 4656. The door 4652 may be opened to provide access to the ear bud dock 4650 and an ear bud (not shown) stored therein. The door 4652 may also be closed in order to prevent access to the ear bud dock 4650 and protect an ear bud stored therein.
Referring to FIG. 50 through FIG. 52, a sixth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is generally designated 5000. As shown, the wrist worn electronic device holder 5000 may include a wrist wrap 5002 and a device engagement housing 5004 connected thereto. In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 5004 may be detachable from the wrist wrap 5002, as described below. Conversely, the device engagement housing 5004 may be fixed with respect to the wrist wrap 5002 to minimize the chance of the device engagement housing 5004 disengaging from the wrist wrap 5002.
As illustrated, the wrist wrap 5002 may include a proximal end 5010 and a distal end 5012. Further, the wrist wrap 5002 may include an interior surface 5014 and an exterior surface 5016. FIG. 50 and FIG. 52 show that the exterior surface 5016 of the wrist wrap 5002 may include at least one proximal exterior fastener 5018 disposed on the exterior surface 5016 of the wrist wrap 5002 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 5010 of the wrist wrap 5002. Moreover, the exterior surface 5016 of the wrist wrap 5002 may include at least one distal exterior fastener 5020 disposed on the exterior surface 5016 of the wrist wrap 5002 near, or adjacent to, the distal end 5012 of the wrist wrap 5002. In a particular aspect, the proximal exterior fastener 5018 and the distal exterior fastener 5020 may be hook-and-loop fastener. However, these fasteners 5018, 5020 may be buttons, snaps, adhesives, any other fastener, or a combination thereof.
FIG. 50 further shows that the device engagement housing 5004 may include a headset storage assembly 5050. The headset storage assembly 5050 may include a cord winding post 5052 and a pair of ear bud storage pockets 5054. The ear buds on a headset may be placed within the ear bud storage pockets 5054 and the headset cord may be wound around the cord winding post 5052.
Referring to FIG. 53 through FIG. 55, a seventh aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is generally designated 5300. As shown, the wrist worn electronic device holder 5300 may include a wrist wrap 5302 and a device engagement housing 5304 connected thereto. In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 5304 may be detachable from the wrist wrap 5302, as described below. Conversely, the device engagement housing 5304 may be fixed with respect to the wrist wrap 5302 to minimize the chance of the device engagement housing 5304 disengaging from the wrist wrap 5302.
As illustrated, the wrist wrap 5302 may include a proximal end 5310 and a distal end 5312. Further, the wrist wrap 5302 may include an interior surface 5314 and an exterior surface 5316. FIG. 53 and FIG. 52 show that the exterior surface 5316 of the wrist wrap 5302 may include at least one proximal exterior fastener 5318 disposed on the exterior surface 5316 of the wrist wrap 5302 near, or adjacent to, the proximal end 5310 of the wrist wrap 5302. Moreover, the exterior surface 5316 of the wrist wrap 5302 may include at least one distal exterior fastener 5320 disposed on the exterior surface 5316 of the wrist wrap 5302 near, or adjacent to, the distal end 5312 of the wrist wrap 5302. In a particular aspect, the proximal exterior fastener 5318 and the distal exterior fastener 5320 may be hook-and-loop fastener. However, these fasteners 5318, 5320 may be buttons, snaps, adhesives, any other fastener, or a combination thereof.
FIG. 53 further shows that the device engagement housing 5304 may include a Bluetooth module 5350 and a pair of ear bud storage pockets 5354. Ear buds (not shown) associated with a Bluetooth headset may be stored within the ear bud storage pockets 5354. Further, an electronic device, e.g., an MP3 player 5356, may be connected to the Bluetooth module 5350 within the wrist worn electronic device holder 5300 via a multi-pin connector array 5358 disposed within the device engagement housing 5304. The device engagement housing 5304 may also include spring-loaded latch 5360 configured to secure a portable electronic device therein.
Referring now to FIG. 56 and FIG. 57, an eighth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is generally designated 5600. As shown, the wrist worn electronic device holder 5600 may include a generally flat, generally rectangular wrist wrap 5602 and a device engagement housing 5604 connected thereto. In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 5604 may be detachable from the wrist wrap 5602, as described below. Conversely, the device engagement housing 5604 may be fixed with respect to the wrist wrap 5602 to minimize the chance of the device engagement housing 5604 disengaging from the wrist wrap 5602.
As shown in FIG. 56 and FIG. 57, the device engagement housing 5604 may be completely surrounded by a water resistant shroud 5610. The water resistant shroud 5610 may be a clear bag made from polyvinylchloride (PVC). Further, the water resistant shroud 5610 may include a zipper closure 5612. In a particular aspect, during use, a user may slide a portable electronic device, e.g., the portable electronic device shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 3, into the water resistant shroud 5610. Thereafter, the user may snap the portable electronic device 100 into the device engagement housing 5604, as shown in FIG. 57. Further, after the portable electronic device 100 is engaged with the device engagement housing 5604, the user may close the water resistant shroud by closing the zipper closure 5612.
Referring now to FIG. 58 through FIG. 60, a ninth aspect of a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is generally designated 5800. As shown, the wrist worn electronic device holder 5800 may include a generally flat, generally rectangular wrist wrap 5802 and a device engagement housing 5804 connected thereto. In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 5804 may be fixed with respect to the wrist wrap 5802 to minimize the chance of the device engagement housing 5804 disengaging from the wrist wrap 5802.
FIG. 58 through FIG. 60, the wrist wrap 5802 may include a proximal end 5806 and a distal end 5808. The proximal end 5804 of the wrist wrap 5802 may include one or more proximal fasteners 5810. Further, the distal end 5806 of the wrist wrap 5802 may include one or more distal fasteners 5812.
As shown in FIG. 58 through FIG. 60, the device engagement housing 5804 may include a body 5820 and an end cap 5822. Further, the body 5820 and the end cap 5822 may be made from a plastic material, e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The body 5820 of the device engagement housing 5804 may include a ruggedized touch screen display 5824 and a multi-pin connector array 5826 configured to connect an external device to the touch screen display 5824 when the external device is installed within the device engagement housing 5804. As illustrated in FIG. 59 and FIG. 60, the end cap 5822 of the device engagement housing 5804 may include an 0-ring 5828 to provide a water tight seal with the body 5820 of the device engagement housing 5804 when the end cap 5822 is installed therein.
In a particular aspect, during use, a user may remove the end cap 5822 from the body 5820 of the device engagement housing 5804. Thereafter, the user may slide a portable electronic device, e.g., the portable electronic device 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 through FIG. 3, into the body 5820 of the device engagement housing 5804 until a multi-pin connector array on the portable electronic device 100 engages the multi-pin connector array 5826 within the device engagement housing 5804.
After the portable electronic device 100 is properly disposed within the device engagement housing 5804, the end cap 5822 may be inserted into the body 5820 of the device engagement housing 5804 to seal the device engagement housing 5804. The touch screen display 5824 incorporated into the device engagement housing 5804 may provide a user interface for accessing the portable electronic device 100 disposed within the device engagement housing 5804. Accordingly, the portable electronic device 100 may be substantially protected from the elements, but access thereto may still be provided.
In a particular aspect, the device engagement housing 5804 may also include a speaker 5830 and a microphone 5832. In a particular aspect, the touch screen display 5824, the speaker 5830, and the microphone 5832 are passive devices. In other words, power may not be provided to the touch screen display 5824, the speaker 5830, and the microphone 5832 until a portable electronic device is installed within the device engagement housing 5804.
Referring now to FIG. 61, a method of providing Bluetooth connectivity via a wrist worn electronic device holder is shown and is designated 6100. As shown, the method commences at block 6102 with a do loop in which when a portable electronic device is installed within a wrist worn electronic device holder, the following steps may be performed.
At block 6104, a Bluetooth module within the wrist worn electronic device holder may be connected to the power supply of the portable electronic device, e.g., via a multi-pin connector within the wrist worn electronic device holder and a multi-pin connector within the portable electronic device. Thereafter, at block 6106, a user interface may be displayed, e.g., on the display of the portable electronic device.
Moving to decision 6108, the portable electronic device, e.g., a processor therein, may determine whether a Bluetooth ear bud or Bluetooth headphones have been removed from the wrist worn electronic device holder. If not, the method 6100 may return to block 6106 and continue as described herein. Otherwise, if a Bluetooth ear bud or Bluetooth headphones are removed from the wrist worn electronic device holder, the method 6100 may proceed to block 6110 and the Bluetooth module may be powered on, e.g., in response to a signal from the portable electronic device.
At block 6112, data may be transmitted from the portable electronic device to the ear bud or headphones via the Bluetooth module. Thereafter, at decision 6114, the portable electronic device may determine whether the ear bud or headphones have been returned to the wrist worn electronic device holder. If not, the method 6100 may return to block 6112 and the method 6100 may continue as described herein. Conversely, if the ear bud or headphones are returned, i.e., docked, with the wrist worn electronic device holder, the method 6100 may proceed to block 6116 and the Bluetooth module may be powered off, e.g., in response to a signal from the portable electronic device. Thereafter, the method 6100 may move to decision 6118.
At decision 6118, if may be determined whether the portable electronic device is removed from the wrist worn electronic device holder. If the portable electronic device is not removed, the method 6100 may return to block 6106 and the method 6100 may continue as described herein. If the portable electronic device is removed from the wrist worn electronic device holder, the method 6100 may move to block 6120 and the Bluetooth module may be disconnected from the portable electronic device power supply. The method 6100 may then end.
FIG. 62 illustrates a method, generally designated 6200, of providing display capability via a wrist worn electronic device holder. Beginning at block 6202, the method 6202 may include a do loop in which when a portable electronic device is installed within a wrist worn electronic device holder, the succeeding steps may be performed.
At block 6204, the portable electronic device may transmit power to the display within the wrist worn electronic device holder, e.g., via a multi-pin connector array within the wrist worn electronic device holder and a multi-pin connector array within the portable electronic device. At block 6206, the portable electronic device may transmit a low voltage data signal (LVDS) to the display within the wrist worn electronic device holder. Thereafter, the display within the portable electronic device may be powered off or put into a sleep mode by the portable electronic device.
Proceeding to block 6210, a user interface may be displayed on the display within the wrist worn electronic device holder. At decision 6212, it may be determined whether the portable electronic device is removed, or otherwise disengaged, from the wrist worn electronic device holder. If not, the method 6200 may return to block 6210 and continue as described herein. Otherwise, if the portable electronic device is removed from the wrist worn electronic device holder, the method 6200 may move to block 6214 and the display within the wrist worn electronic device holder may be powered off. Thereafter, the method 6200 may continue to block 6216.
At block 6216, power may be returned to the display within the portable electronic device. Further, at block 6218, the low voltage data signal (LVDS) may be returned to the display within the portable electronic device. At block 6220, the user interface may be displayed on the display within the portable electronic device. Thereafter, the method 6200 may end.
Referring to FIG. 63, a method of simulating a watch is shown and is generally designated 6300. The method 6300 may begin at block 6302 with a do loop in which when a portable electronic device is installed in a wrist worn electronic device holder, the following steps may performed. At block 6304, a watch simulator application may be executed by the portable electronic device. The watch simulator application may simulate the operation of any type of watch, any brand of watch, or a combination thereof. For example, the watch simulator application may simulate a digital watch, a mechanical watch, or a combination thereof.
At decision 6306, a processor and a motion detector within the portable electronic device may determine whether the portable electronic device is motionless for a predetermined time period, e.g., two minutes, five minutes, ten minutes, etc. If the portable electronic device is motionless for a predetermined time period, the method 6300 may move to block 6308 and the processor within the portable electronic device may execute a sleep mode. Thereafter, at decision 6310, the portable electronic device may determine whether any motion is detected. If no motion is detected, the method 6300 may return to block 6308 and continue as described herein. Otherwise, if motion is detected, the method 6300 may return to block 6304 and the method 6300 may continue as described herein.
Returning to decision 6306, if the portable electronic device is not motionless for a predetermined time period, the method 6300 may proceed to decision 6312. At decision 6312, it may be determined whether the portable electronic device is removed from the wrist worn electronic device holder. If the portable electronic device is removed from the wrist worn electronic device holder, the method 6300 may move to block 6314 and the execution of the watch simulator application may be ceased. Thereafter, the method may end.
Returning to decision 6312, if the portable electronic device is not removed from the wrist worn electronic device holder, the method 6300 may continue to decision 6316. At decision 6316, the portable electronic device may determine whether a call or a text is received. If not, the method may return to block 6304 and continue as described herein. Otherwise, if a call or a text is received, the method 6300 may move to decision 6318. At decision 6318, the portable electronic device may determine whether the caller or the sender is known. If not, the method 6300 may proceed to block 6320 and the call may be transmitted to voice mail or the text may be stored for future viewing. The method 6300 may then return to block 6304 and continue as described herein.
Returning to decision 6318, if the caller or sender is known, the method 6300 may continue to block 6322 and the watch simulator application may be interrupted. Next, at block 6324, the call or text information may be displayed at the portable electronic device. Moving to decision 6326, the portable electronic device may determine whether the call or the text is answered. If not, the method 6300 may return to block 6320 and the method 6300 may continue as described herein. On the other hand, at decision 6326, if the call or the text is answered, the method 6300 may continue to block 6328 and a call or text user interface may be displayed at the portable electronic device. Thereafter, at decision 6330, the portable electronic device may determine whether the call or the text session is ended. If not, the method 6300 may return to block 6328 and the method 6300 may continue as described herein. Otherwise, if the call or the text session is ended, the method 6300 may return to block 6304 and the method 6300 may continue as described herein.
With the configuration of structure described herein the wrist worn electronic device holder provides a device that is capable of removably engaging a portable electronic device. The wrist worn electronic device holder may be worn around a wrist so that a portable electronic device engaged therewith faces inward or outward. The wrist worn electronic device is configured to comfortably engage a user's wrist without being over tight, e.g., due to elastic.
The wrist worn electronic device holder may be formed in a tube having a circular cross-section, an oval cross-section or a combination thereof. Further, the wrist worn electronic device holder may be formed in a tube of varying diameters. As such, the wrist worn electronic device holder may be wrapped around objects having various sizes and shapes. For example, the wrist worn electronic device holder may be wrapped around a wrist, a forearm, a steering wheel, a bicycle handlebar, etc. The wrist worn electronic device holder may also be formed in a J shaped a hung from an object, e.g., the back of a seat, a vehicle visor, etc. When rolled, the wrist worn electronic device holder may be placed on end and used as an easel for a portable electronic device that is engaged therewith.
The wrist worn electronic device holder is configured to be worn by a user. However, the wrist worn electronic device holder may be used to support a portable electronic device when the wrist worn electronic device holder is not engaged with a user's wrist.
It is to be understood that the various elements of each aspect described herein may be combined to create additional aspects not shown herein. For example, one or more elements shown in a first aspect may be combined with one or more elements of a second aspect to yield yet another aspect not shown or described herein. Further, it is to be understood that the method steps described herein need not necessarily be performed in the order as described. Further, words such as “thereafter,” “then,” “next,” etc. are not intended to limit the order of the steps. These words are simply used to guide the reader through the description of the method steps.
In one or more exemplary aspects, the functions described may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions may be stored on or transmitted over as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media and communication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. A storage media may be any available media that may be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media may comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that may be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that may be accessed by a computer. Also, any connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium. For example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.
Although selected aspects have been illustrated and described in detail, it will be understood that various substitutions and alterations may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A device for supporting an electronic device, the device comprising:

a wrist wrap, wherein the wrist wrap comprises an interior wrist wrap layer and an exterior wrist wrap layer;

at least one spring metal strip disposed between the interior wrist wrap layer and the exterior wrist wrap layer; and

at least one exterior fastener disposed on the exterior wrist wrap layer, wherein the at least one exterior fastener is configured to receive a fastener on a device engagement housing, a fastener on a portable electronic device, or a combination thereof.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least one spring metal strip extends along the length of the wrist wrap.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the at least one spring metal strip is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the wrist wrap.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is movable between a flat configuration in which the wrist wrap is unrolled and substantially flat and a plurality of rolled configurations.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the plurality of rolled configurations include a tube configuration, a spiral configuration, a J configuration, or a combination thereof.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the tube configuration includes an oval cross-section, a circular cross-section, or a combination thereof.

7. A device for supporting an electronic device, the device comprising:

a wrist wrap; and

a device engagement housing removably engaged with the wrist wrap, wherein the device engagement housing is configured to receive a portable electronic device.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the device engagement housing may be substantially parallel to a central axis around which the wrist wrap is rolled.

9. The device of claim 7, wherein the device engagement housing may be substantially perpendicular to a central axis around which the wrist wrap is rolled.

10. The device of claim 7, wherein the wrist wrap includes a proximal end, a middle, and a distal end and wherein the device engagement housing is engaged with the distal end of the wrist wrap.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the device engagement housing is engaged with the middle of the wrist wrap.

12. A device for support an electronic device, the device comprising:

a wrist wrap, wherein the wrist wrap comprises a proximal end, a distal end, an interior surface, and an exterior surface;

a proximal exterior fastener affixed on the exterior surface of the wrist wrap near the proximal end of the wrist wrap;

a distal exterior fastener affixed on the exterior surface of the wrist wrap near the distal end of the wrist wrap, wherein the distal exterior fastener is configured to removably engage a fastener associated with a device engagement housing, a fastener associated with a portable electronic device, or a combination thereof; and

a distal interior fastener affixed to the interior surface of the wrist wrap near the distal end of the wrap, wherein the distal interior fastener is configured to removably engage the proximal exterior fastener on the exterior surface of the wrist wrap when the wrist wrap is disposed around an object.

13. The device of claim 10, wherein the wrist wrap comprises an interior wrist wrap layer and an exterior wrist wrap layer.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the wrist wrap further comprises a first spring metal strip between the interior wrist wrap layer and the exterior wrist wrap layer.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the interior wrist wrap layer and the exterior wrist wrap layer are affixed to each other around a perimeter of the first spring metal strip.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the wrist wrap further comprises a second spring metal strip between the interior wrist wrap layer and the exterior wrist wrap layer.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the interior wrist wrap layer and the exterior wrist wrap layer are affixed to each other around a perimeter of the second spring metal strip.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein the first spring metal strip and the second spring metal strip are configured to move the wrist wrap between a flat configuration and one of a plurality of rolled configurations.

19. The device of claim 17, wherein the interior wrist wrap layer and the exterior wrist wrap layer are affixed to each other around a perimeter of the interior wrist wrap layer and a perimeter of the exterior wrist wrap layer.

20. The device of claim 18, wherein the wrist wrap further comprises and edge bead affixed to the wrist wrap around a perimeter of the wrist wrap.