US20130161339A1 - Object locators - Google Patents
Object locators Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130161339A1 US20130161339A1 US13/759,979 US201313759979A US2013161339A1 US 20130161339 A1 US20130161339 A1 US 20130161339A1 US 201313759979 A US201313759979 A US 201313759979A US 2013161339 A1 US2013161339 A1 US 2013161339A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- end portion
- object locator
- closed form
- shaped
- ring
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 14
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 14
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 13
- PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Nickel Chemical compound [Ni] PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 10
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 229910045601 alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 5
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 5
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 5
- PCHJSUWPFVWCPO-UHFFFAOYSA-N gold Chemical compound [Au] PCHJSUWPFVWCPO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000010931 gold Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 229910052737 gold Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 5
- 229910052759 nickel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 5
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 229910052709 silver Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004332 silver Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 229920001410 Microfiber Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000003658 microfiber Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920001084 poly(chloroprene) Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 39
- -1 polybenzamidazole Polymers 0.000 description 39
- 239000004810 polytetrafluoroethylene Substances 0.000 description 11
- 229920001343 polytetrafluoroethylene Polymers 0.000 description 11
- 229940058401 polytetrafluoroethylene Drugs 0.000 description 11
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 10
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 9
- 229920000297 Rayon Polymers 0.000 description 9
- 229920002334 Spandex Polymers 0.000 description 9
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 description 9
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 9
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 8
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 8
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 8
- 229920002223 polystyrene Polymers 0.000 description 8
- 125000000391 vinyl group Chemical group [H]C([*])=C([H])[H] 0.000 description 8
- 229920002554 vinyl polymer Polymers 0.000 description 8
- 229920002301 cellulose acetate Polymers 0.000 description 7
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 7
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 7
- 244000099147 Ananas comosus Species 0.000 description 6
- 235000007119 Ananas comosus Nutrition 0.000 description 6
- 244000025254 Cannabis sativa Species 0.000 description 6
- 229920000433 Lyocell Polymers 0.000 description 6
- 240000000907 Musa textilis Species 0.000 description 6
- 239000004693 Polybenzimidazole Substances 0.000 description 6
- 229920002480 polybenzimidazole Polymers 0.000 description 6
- 239000004759 spandex Substances 0.000 description 6
- JOYRKODLDBILNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethyl urethane Chemical compound CCOC(N)=O JOYRKODLDBILNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920002302 Nylon 6,6 Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004696 Poly ether ether ketone Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000004962 Polyamide-imide Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000004642 Polyimide Substances 0.000 description 4
- XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Chemical compound C=CC=C.C=CC#N.C=CC1=CC=CC=C1 XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000004676 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920000122 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920006217 cellulose acetate butyrate Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 229920002313 fluoropolymer Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004811 fluoropolymer Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 4
- ISWSIDIOOBJBQZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N phenol group Chemical group C1(=CC=CC=C1)O ISWSIDIOOBJBQZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000002985 plastic film Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920006255 plastic film Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 229920000058 polyacrylate Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 229920002312 polyamide-imide Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 229920002530 polyetherether ketone Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 229920001721 polyimide Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 229920000193 polymethacrylate Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 description 4
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-M Acrylate Chemical compound [O-]C(=O)C=C NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 3
- 229920002972 Acrylic fiber Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 244000198134 Agave sisalana Species 0.000 description 3
- 229920002955 Art silk Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 235000017166 Bambusa arundinacea Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 235000017491 Bambusa tulda Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 229920002748 Basalt fiber Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 241001474374 Blennius Species 0.000 description 3
- 240000008564 Boehmeria nivea Species 0.000 description 3
- 235000012766 Cannabis sativa ssp. sativa var. sativa Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 235000012765 Cannabis sativa ssp. sativa var. spontanea Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 229920000049 Carbon (fiber) Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 229920000298 Cellophane Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 244000060011 Cocos nucifera Species 0.000 description 3
- 235000013162 Cocos nucifera Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 240000000491 Corchorus aestuans Species 0.000 description 3
- 235000011777 Corchorus aestuans Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 235000010862 Corchorus capsularis Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 240000000797 Hibiscus cannabinus Species 0.000 description 3
- 229920000271 Kevlar® Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 235000004431 Linum usitatissimum Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 240000006240 Linum usitatissimum Species 0.000 description 3
- 241000322338 Loeseliastrum Species 0.000 description 3
- 229920002821 Modacrylic Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 229920002544 Olefin fiber Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 244000082204 Phyllostachys viridis Species 0.000 description 3
- 235000015334 Phyllostachys viridis Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 239000004734 Polyphenylene sulfide Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920013627 Sorona Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 108010073771 Soybean Proteins Proteins 0.000 description 3
- 229920013631 Sulfar Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 244000274883 Urtica dioica Species 0.000 description 3
- 235000009108 Urtica dioica Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 241001416177 Vicugna pacos Species 0.000 description 3
- 241000282840 Vicugna vicugna Species 0.000 description 3
- 229920001617 Vinyon Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 229920006231 aramid fiber Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000011425 bamboo Substances 0.000 description 3
- 235000009120 camo Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 239000004917 carbon fiber Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000005018 casein Substances 0.000 description 3
- BECPQYXYKAMYBN-UHFFFAOYSA-N casein, tech. Chemical compound NCCCCC(C(O)=O)N=C(O)C(CC(O)=O)N=C(O)C(CCC(O)=N)N=C(O)C(CC(C)C)N=C(O)C(CCC(O)=O)N=C(O)C(CC(O)=O)N=C(O)C(CCC(O)=O)N=C(O)C(C(C)O)N=C(O)C(CCC(O)=N)N=C(O)C(CCC(O)=N)N=C(O)C(CCC(O)=N)N=C(O)C(CCC(O)=O)N=C(O)C(CCC(O)=O)N=C(O)C(COP(O)(O)=O)N=C(O)C(CCC(O)=N)N=C(O)C(N)CC1=CC=CC=C1 BECPQYXYKAMYBN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 235000021240 caseins Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 210000000085 cashmere Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 229920002678 cellulose Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000001913 cellulose Substances 0.000 description 3
- 235000005607 chanvre indien Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 239000013536 elastomeric material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000003365 glass fiber Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000011487 hemp Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000004790 ingeo Substances 0.000 description 3
- JVTAAEKCZFNVCJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N lactic acid Chemical compound CC(O)C(O)=O JVTAAEKCZFNVCJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 239000004791 lurex Substances 0.000 description 3
- VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N methane Chemical compound C VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 210000000050 mohair Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 239000004767 olefin fiber Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920000098 polyolefin Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 229920000069 polyphenylene sulfide Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920000915 polyvinyl chloride Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000002964 rayon Substances 0.000 description 3
- 235000019710 soybean protein Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 210000002268 wool Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000013013 elastic material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910000679 solder Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241001672694 Citrus reticulata Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004755 animal textile Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002537 cosmetic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007934 lip balm Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004757 mineral textile Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004756 plant textile Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000005020 polyethylene terephthalate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000139 polyethylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000001737 promoting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009877 rendering Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920002994 synthetic fiber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004758 synthetic textile Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D33/00—Details of, or accessories for, sacks or bags
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/001—Accessories
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
- A45D40/00—Casings or accessories specially adapted for storing or handling solid or pasty toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. shaving soaps or lipsticks
- A45D40/18—Casings combined with other objects
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F5/00—Holders or carriers for hand articles; Holders or carriers for use while travelling or camping
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/02—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles
- A45C13/021—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles inflatable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/08—Decorative devices for handbags or purses
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C11/00—Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups A45C1/00-A45C9/00
- A45C2011/002—Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups A45C1/00-A45C9/00 for portable handheld communication devices, e.g. mobile phone, pager, beeper, PDA, smart phone
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/02—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles
- A45C2013/026—Inserts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/30—Straps; Bands
- A45C2013/306—Straps; Bands for attaching auxiliary articles to luggage, e.g. piggyback
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F2003/001—Accessories
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45F
- A45F2200/05—Holder or carrier for specific articles
- A45F2200/0558—Keys
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F5/00—Holders or carriers for hand articles; Holders or carriers for use while travelling or camping
- A45F5/02—Fastening articles to the garment
- A45F5/022—Fastening articles to the garment within pockets
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to object locators. More particularly, this disclosure pertains to locators that are especially adapted to facilitate the ready location of a phone pouch in a purse, backpack, briefcase or like bag.
- a common and popular type of purse or like bag has a top that includes at least a region that is upwardly open in use. Often this type of bag is rather deep, permitting the owner-user to store a variety of items. Further, such depth is generally considered fashionable.
- a known drawback of the above-described purse or like bag configuration resides in the difficulty of readily retrieving objects such as keys or phone pouches, from its interior. This can lead to the frustration of the owner-user and to others. For example, the difficulty of locating car keys at the bottom of a purse can cause significant delay in vacating a parking space. As another example, the difficulty of locating a phone at the bottom of a purse can lead to missed calls.
- the present disclosure addresses the preceding and other shortcomings of the prior art by providing an object locator.
- the object locator comprises a bent rod-shaped first member having opposed first and second end portions that are not urged against each other.
- the object locator optionally further comprises a second member that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged to the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member.
- the object locator further comprises a pouch that is configured for holding a mobile device.
- the pouch includes a closed form element that substantially permanently and flexibly engages either the second member or the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped member.
- the bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a bent interior region between the first and second end portions.
- the first and second end portions are configured to allow the bent interior region to hang from or clasp an edge.
- the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member is configured for affixation of an ornament.
- FIGS. 1A and 1B are a front elevation view of a key locator, more generally an object locator, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure and a partial planar view of an optional ornament mounting pad thereof respectively
- FIG. 1C is a front elevation view of the object locator with an optional decorative element shown attached.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the object locator of FIGS. 1A through 1C in use.
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the object locator of the present disclosure in use taken at line 3 - 3 of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an object locator in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure in which a container, in a closed configuration, is attached to the object finder.
- FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an object locator in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 4 in which the container is in an open configuration.
- FIG. 6 is a right side perspective view of the object locator depicted in FIG. 4 showing the object locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse with the container, where the container comprises a hinge or other connector that attaches a first face to the container, and where the first face is in a closed configuration that seals an interior portion of the container.
- FIG. 7 is a right side perspective view of the object locator depicted in FIG. 4 showing the object locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse with the container, where the container comprises a hinge or other connector that attaches a first face to the container, and where the first face is in an open configuration that exposes the interior portion of the container.
- FIG. 8 illustrates more details of a second member of an object locator in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an object locator of the present disclosure in which the object is a phone pouch for storing a phone or other mobile device.
- FIG. 10 is a front view of the object locator of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 11 is a back view of the object locator of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 12 is a first side view of the object locator of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 13 is a second side view of the object locator of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 14 is a top view of the object locator of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the object locator of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 1A is a front elevation view of the object locator 10 of the present disclosure.
- the object locator 10 comprises interlocking first and second members 12 and 14 respectively.
- the first member 12 and the second members 14 are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material.
- the first member 12 and the second member 14 each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof.
- the first member 12 and the second member 14 are each made of metal.
- the first member 12 and/or the second member 14 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene.
- all or a portion of the bent-rod shaped first member 12 is electroplated.
- the second member 14 includes a clasp 16 that, in some instances, is rotatably engaged to an inverted u-shaped element 18 .
- clasp 16 is an exemplary way to retain objects.
- a key ring is used in the place of clasp 16 .
- the u-shaped element 18 is arranged to engage a hook 20 at a first end portion of the first member 12 in order to provide flexible engagement of the members 12 and 14 .
- members 12 and 14 can be flexibly engaged.
- first member 12 that engages both hook 20 and u-shaped element 18 .
- there can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engages hook 20 whereas a second ring in the set of interlocking rings engages u-shaped element 18 .
- the first and second ring may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking rings between the first and second ring.
- the closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited.
- Any closed form shape such as a n-gon, where n is an integer of 3 or greater, star-shape, or the like can be used to interlock hook 20 to u-shaped element 18 .
- there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages hook 20 whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages u-shaped element 18 .
- the first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element.
- a chain is used to interlock u-shaped element 18 to hook 20 .
- hook 20 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members 12 and 14 .
- hook 20 can be completely closed off so that it is, in of itself, in fact a closed form shape such as a ring or oval.
- u-shaped element 18 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members 12 and 14 .
- a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engage members 12 and 14 .
- a first end portion 12 a of the first member 12 comprises a hook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second member 14 comprises a closed form clasp 16 or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object.
- the closed form clasp 16 or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element 18 of the second member 14 , where the u-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20 .
- the closed form clasp 16 or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20 .
- the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape.
- the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20 .
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape.
- the first end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises a hook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second member of the object locator 10 further comprises a first ring 702 that is hooked onto the hook 20 .
- the second member of the object locator 10 further comprises a member 704 having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion.
- the first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the first ring 702 is attached.
- the second portion comprises a second eyelet.
- the second member 14 of the object locator 10 further comprises a second ring 706 that is attached to the second eyelet.
- the first end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second member 14 of the object locator 10 further comprises a second ring that is hooked onto the first ring.
- the second member 14 of the object locator 10 further comprises a member having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the second ring is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet.
- the second member 14 of the object locator 10 further comprises a third ring, where the third ring is attached to the second eyelet.
- a first end portion 12 a of the first member 12 comprises a first ring (not shown) for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second member 14 comprises a closed form clasp 16 or second ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element 18 of the second member 14 , where the u-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the first member 12 includes a bent interior region 22 .
- a second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 comprises an enlarged region 24 that serves as an ornament mounting pad for affixation of a decorative ornament 26 .
- the first member 12 has a first end portion 12 a and a second end portion 12 b .
- the first end portion 12 a of the first member 12 is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 is configured for affixation of an ornament 26 so that, when affixed to the object locator 10 , the entire ornament 26 is substantially rigidly affixed to the object locator 10 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region 22 to hang or clasp an edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 10 from an edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when said bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes, between 500 dynes
- first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that no discernable force, other than that contributed by the overall weight of the object finder and any objects attached to the object finder, is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the ornament 26 comprising a flower-like shape as shown in the drawings but not limited thereto, is arranged to face away from the interior of the first member 12 with its back portion 28 preferably fixed to the enlarged region 24 of the member by solder or the like. In some embodiments that do not have an enlarged region 24 , the back portion 28 is affixed directly onto the end portion of the first member.
- an ornament is a solid object as opposed to a chain or a rope.
- the ornament comprises an artificial or real gem, or a container.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the object locator 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure in use.
- the object locator 10 is hung from the upper edge 29 of a side panel 30 of a bag-like purse 32 with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the side panel 30 so that the face of the ornament 26 is exposed.
- the object locator 10 clasps the upper edge 29 of a side panel 30 of a bag-like purse 32 with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the side panel 30 so that the face of the ornament 26 is exposed.
- the foregoing provides the user with an attractive adjunct to the bag-like purse 32 that serves the additional function of readily locating the object locator 10 .
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the object locator 10 of the disclosure in use taken at line 3 - 3 of FIG. 2 .
- Keys or other objects 34 secured by the clasp 16 of the second member 14 , are seen to lie near or at the bottom 36 of the bag-like purse 32 , somewhat suspended from the upper edge 29 of the side panel 30 .
- the bent interior region 22 of the first member 12 of the object locator 10 is draped, hung over or clasped to the upper edge 29 to create the suspension effect.
- the altitude of the bottom of the object locator 10 and objects 34 will depend upon the length of the object locator 10 relative to the depth of the side panel 30 of the bag-like purse 32 . However, regardless of the precise altitude of the object 34 within the bag-like purse 32 , they may be readily located due to the visible presence of the ornament 26 .
- first member 12 has a rod-like appearance. That is, first member 12 is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement that first member 12 have the cylindrical shape depicted in FIG. 1 . Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal of object locator 10 from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure.
- first member 12 can be a flattened wire or other flat elements.
- first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 12 and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 12 and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm.
- first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 12 and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 12 and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm.
- first member 12 has a slender shape characterized by a cross-section that is a closed form shape.
- this closed-form shape has internal symmetry, such as in instances where the closed-form shape is a circle, oval, or n-gon, where n is a positive integer of three or greater. In some embodiments, this closed-form shape has no internal symmetry or incomplete internal symmetry.
- the bent interior region 22 is u-shaped.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of the first member 12 .
- FIG. 1C illustrate the first member 12 in which end portions 12 a and 12 b are parallel to each other and are straight
- the first and second end portions 12 a and 12 b of the first member 12 may bend toward or away from each other.
- the first and second end portions of the first member 12 may internally include any number of bends in any direction as long as the object finder maintains the disclosed functionality.
- the first and second end portions of the first member 12 may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge.
- FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an object locator 110 in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure.
- the object locator 110 is identical to the object locator 10 in all aspects with the exception that the ornament 26 of the object locator 110 is drawn to containers, such as depicted container 40 .
- the object locator 110 illustrated in FIGS. 4 through 7 comprises interlocking first and second members 12 and 14 .
- the first member 12 and the second members 14 are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material.
- the first member 12 and the second member 14 each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof.
- the first member 12 and the second member 14 are each made of metal.
- the first member 12 and/or the second member 14 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene.
- all or a portion of the bent-rod shaped first member 12 is electroplated.
- the second member 14 includes a clasp 16 that, in some embodiments, is rotatably engaged to an inverted u-shaped element 18 .
- clasp 16 is an exemplary way to retain keys or other objects.
- a key ring is used in the place of clasp 16 .
- the u-shaped element 18 is arranged to engage a hook 20 at a first end portion of the first member 12 in order to provide flexible engagement of the members 12 and 14 .
- members 12 and 14 can be flexibly engaged.
- first member 12 there can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engages hook 20 whereas a second ring in the set of interlocking rings engages u-shaped element 18 .
- the first and second ring may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking rings between the first and second ring.
- there can be a closed form element (not shown) that engages both hook 20 and u-shaped element 18 .
- the closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited.
- Any closed form shape such as an n-gon (where n is an integer of 3 or greater), star-shape, or the like can be used to interlock hook 20 to u-shaped element 18 .
- there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages hook 20 whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages u-shaped element 18 .
- the first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element.
- a chain is used to interlock u-shaped element 18 to hook 20 .
- hook 20 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members 12 and 14 in the embodiment of the object locator 110 illustrated in FIGS. 4 through 7 .
- hook 20 can be completely closed off so that it is, in of itself, in fact a closed form shape such as a ring or oval.
- u-shaped element 18 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members 12 and 14 .
- a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engage members 12 and 14 .
- a first end portion 12 a of the first member 12 comprises a hook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second member 14 comprises a closed form clasp 16 or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object.
- the closed form clasp 16 or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element 18 of the second member 14 , where the u-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20 .
- the closed form clasp 16 or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20 .
- the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape.
- the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20 .
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape.
- a first end portion 12 a of the first member 12 comprises a first ring (not shown) for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second member 14 comprises a closed form clasp 16 or second ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element 18 of the second member 14 , where the u-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the first end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises a hook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second member of the object locator further comprises a first ring 702 that is hooked onto the hook 20 .
- the second member of the object locator 110 further comprises a member 704 having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the first ring 702 is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet.
- the second member 14 of the object locator 110 further comprises a second ring 706 that is attached to the second eyelet.
- the first end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second member 14 of the object locator 110 further comprises a second ring that is hooked onto the first ring.
- the second member 14 of the object locator 110 further comprises a member having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the second ring is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet.
- the second member 14 of the object locator 110 further comprises a third ring, where the third ring is attached to the second eyelet.
- the first member 12 has a first end portion 12 a and a second end portion 12 b .
- the first end portion 12 a of the first member 12 is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14 .
- the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 is configured for affixation of a container 40 .
- the entire container 40 is substantially rigidly affixed to the object locator 110 such that any movement of the container 40 necessarily causes movement of the object locator 110 .
- the container 40 is directly and permanently fixed to the second end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 so that a first face 42 of the container is exposed.
- the container 40 is arranged so that the first face 42 of the container 40 faces away from an interior of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 .
- the interior of the bent rod-shaped first member is defined by the bent interior region between the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b.
- the container 40 comprises a hinge that attaches the first face 42 to the container 40 .
- the first face 42 is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container 40 , as depicted in FIG. 7 , and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container 40 , as depicted in FIG. 6 .
- the container 40 comprises a swivel hinge 44 that attaches the first face 42 to the container 50 .
- the first face 42 is configured to slide between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container 40 and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container 40 .
- the first face 42 is adorned with an ornament.
- the ornament comprises an artificial or a real gem.
- the container 40 comprises a material selected from the group consisting of metal and plastic.
- the container comprises gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof.
- the container 40 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene.
- the container 40 is configured to store a liquid.
- the container 40 is configured to store a gel, such as lip balm.
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region 22 to hang or clasp an edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 110 from an edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove the object locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove the object locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when said bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove the object locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove the object locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes, between 500 dynes
- first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b of the first member 12 are configured so that no discernable force, other than that contributed by the overall weight of the object finder and any objects attached to the object finder, is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29 .
- the object locator 110 further comprises the container 40 , and the second end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises an enlarged portion and a second face 48 of the container is directly and permanently fixed to the enlarged portion.
- the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of the second face of the container is directly and permanently fixed.
- the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of the second face 48 is soldered.
- the object locator 110 further comprises the container 40 .
- a second face 48 of the container is directly and permanently fixed to the second end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 .
- the object locator 110 further comprises the container 40 , and a second face 48 of the container 40 is soldered to the second end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shaped first member 40 .
- the object locator 110 further comprises the container 40 and the container 40 forms a part (e.g., an integral part) of the second end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 .
- FIGS. 6 and 7 are side views of the object locator 110 of an embodiment of the present disclosure in use.
- the object locator 110 is hung from the upper edge 29 of a side panel of a bag-like purse with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the upper edge 29 so that the first face 42 of the container 40 is exposed.
- the object locator 110 clasps the upper edge 29 of a bag-like purse with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the side panel 30 so that the first face 42 of the container 40 is exposed.
- Keys or other objects, secured by the clasp 16 of the second member 14 may lie near or at the bottom of a bag-like purse, somewhat suspended from the upper edge 29 , in the same manner as that depicted in the object locator 10 illustrated in FIG. 3 .
- the bent interior region 22 of the first member 12 of the object locator 110 is draped, hung over or clasped to the upper edge 29 to create the suspension effect.
- the altitude of the bottom of the object locator 110 and objects held thereto will depend upon the length of the object locator 110 relative to the depth of the side panel of the bag-like purse. However, regardless of the precise altitude of the keys or other objects within the bag-like purse, they may be readily located due to the visible presence of the container 40 .
- first member 12 has a rod-like appearance. That is, first member 12 is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement that first member 12 have the cylindrical shape depicted in FIGS. 4 through 6 . Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal of object locator 110 from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure.
- first member 12 can be a flattened wire or other flat element.
- the first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 12 and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 12 and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm.
- the first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 12 and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 12 and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm.
- the bent interior region 22 is u-shaped.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of the first member 12 .
- first and second end portions 12 a and 12 b of the first member 12 of the object locator 110 may bend toward or away from each other.
- first and second end portions of the first member 12 may internally include any number of bends.
- the first and second end portions of the first member 12 may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge.
- the object locator comprises, in combination: a) a bent rod-shaped first member having a first end portion and a second end portion, b) a second member configured for selectively retaining at least one object, and c) a container that is rotatably mounted to the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member.
- the first end portion and the second end portion are opposed to each other.
- the bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a bent interior region between the first end portion and the second end portion.
- the first end portion and the second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region to hang from or clasp an edge.
- the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member substantially permanently and flexibly engages with the second member.
- the container comprises a hinge that attaches a first face to the container. The first face is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container, and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container.
- the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member comprises a hook for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member.
- the second member comprises a closed form clasp or ring that is configured for selectively retaining at least one object.
- the closed form clasp or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element of the second member.
- the u-shaped element is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- the closed form clasp or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- the closed form clasp or ring is engaged with a closed form member and the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- the closed form clasp or ring is engaged with a closed form member and the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with first interlocking ring in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook.
- a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape.
- the first end portion of said bent rod-shaped first member comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member and the second member comprises a closed form clasp or second ring that is configured for selectively retaining at least one object.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element of the second member, where the u-shaped element is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, wherein the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form elements in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- Another aspect provides a method comprising retaining at least one object by a second member 14 of an apparatus that comprises at least the second member 14 and a bent rod-shaped first member 12 .
- the second member is configured for selectively retaining at least one object.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 of the apparatus has a first end portion 12 a and a second end portion 12 b .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b are opposed to each other.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 12 incorporates a bent interior region 22 between the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b .
- the first end portion 12 a and the second end portion 12 b are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region 22 to hang from or clasps an upper edge of a side panel of a bag-like purse.
- the first end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 substantially permanently and flexibly engages with some portion of the second member 14 .
- the second end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is affixed to a container 40 .
- the method further comprises hanging the apparatus from the upper edge 29 of the side panel of a bag-like purse with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the side panel so that the second end portion 12 b and the container 40 are exposed.
- the method further comprises retrieving the bent rod-shaped first member of the apparatus from the upper edge such that, when the bent rod-shaped first member is retrieved from the upper edge, the at least one object retrained by the second member is necessarily retrieved.
- the container comprises a hinge that attaches the first face to the container. The first face is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container, and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container and the method further comprises operating the first face so that the face switches between the closed configuration to the open configuration.
- the present disclosure provides an object locator especially suitable for use with a purse, backpack, briefcase or other bag-like device.
- an object locator of the present disclosure in conjunction with such a device, one may find objects stored within without delay.
- a decorative ornament for indicating the location of the object locator the appearance of the bag is enhanced.
- an object locator 910 comprising a bent rod-shaped first member 912 having a first end portion 912 a and a second end portion that are opposed to each other and that are not urged against each other.
- a second member 914 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged to the first end portion 912 a .
- FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the object locator 910 .
- FIGS. 10 and 11 are respectively the front and back views of the object locator 910 .
- FIGS. 12 and 13 are respectively first and second side views of the object locator 910 .
- FIGS. 14 and 15 are respectively top and bottom views of the object locator 910 .
- first member 912 and the optional second members 914 are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the first member 912 and the optional second member 914 each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first member 912 and the second member 914 are each made of metal.
- the first member 912 and/or the second member 914 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene.
- all or a portion of the bent-rod shaped first member 912 or second member 914 is electroplated.
- the object locator 910 further comprises a pouch 930 that is configured for holding a mobile device.
- the pouch 930 includes a closed form element (e.g., loop) 932 that substantially permanently and flexibly engages the second member 914 (as depicted in FIGS. 9-15 ) or the first end portion 912 a of member 912 (not shown).
- closed form element 932 substantially permanently and flexibly engages the first end portion 912 a of member 912 (not shown)
- the second member 914 is not required.
- some embodiments of object locator 910 do not have a second member 914 and closed form element 932 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged to a hook or ring at first end portion 912 a.
- second member 914 is a ring that engages a hook 920 .
- second member 914 can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engages hook 920 .
- second member 914 can be a closed form element (not shown) that engages hook 920 .
- the closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited.
- any closed form shape such as an n-gon, where n is an integer of three or greater, star-shape, or the like can be used to interlock hook 920 to second member 914 .
- there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages hook 20 whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages member 914 .
- the first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element.
- a chain is used to interlock member 914 to hook 20 .
- hook 920 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage first member 912 and second member 914 (or first member 912 and closed form element 932 in those embodiments that do not have second member 914 ). Any of the ways of joining first and second members in any previous embodiment may be used with this fifth embodiment depicted in FIGS. 9 through 15 .
- hook 20 can be completely closed off so that it is, in of itself, in fact a closed form shape such as a ring or oval.
- second member 914 may be the same as member 14 depicted in FIG. 4 with a closed form clasp.
- FIG. 4 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage first member 912 to second member 914 .
- a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engage members 912 and 914 .
- second member 914 may be the same as member 704 with ring 706 depicted in FIG. 8 .
- ring 706 engages closed form element 932 of FIG. 9 .
- the first member 912 includes a bent interior region 922 .
- a second end portion 912 b of the first member 12 comprises an enlarged region (not shown) that serves as an ornament mounting pad for affixation of a decorative ornament 926 or the container 40 depicted in, for example, FIGS. 4-7 .
- the first member 912 has a first end portion 912 a and a second end portion 912 b .
- the first end portion 912 a of the first member 912 is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 914 of the closed form element 932 or directly to the close form element 932 .
- the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 is configured for affixation of an ornament 926 (or container 40 ) so that, when affixed to the object locator 910 , the entire ornament 926 (or container 40 ) is substantially rigidly affixed to the object locator 910 .
- the first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region 922 to hang or clasp an edge (not shown).
- the first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 910 from an edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bent interior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge.
- the first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bent interior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. In some embodiments, the first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bent interior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge.
- the first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove the object locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bent interior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. In some embodiments, the first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bent interior region 922 hangs from or clasps an edge.
- the first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove the object locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bent interior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. In some embodiments, the first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove the object locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bent interior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge.
- first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove the object locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bent interior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge.
- the first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes
- first end portion 912 a and the second end portion 912 b of the first member 912 are configured so that no discernable force, other than that contributed by the overall weight of the object finder and any objects attached to the object finder, is required to remove the object locator 10 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bent interior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge.
- the ornament 926 comprising a flower-like shape as shown in the drawings but not limited thereto, is arranged to face away from the interior of the first member 912 with its back portion preferably fixed to an enlarged region of the second end portion 912 b of first member 912 by solder or the like. In some embodiments that do not have an enlarged region, the back portion of the ornament 926 is affixed directly onto the end portion of the first member 912 .
- first member 912 has a rod-like appearance. That is, first member 912 is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement that first member 912 have the cylindrical shape depicted in FIG. 9 . Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal of object locator 910 from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure.
- first member 912 can be a flattened wire or other flat elements.
- first member 912 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 912 and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 912 and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm.
- first member 912 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 912 and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 912 and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm.
- first member 912 has a slender shape characterized by a cross-section that is a closed form shape.
- this closed-form shape has internal symmetry, such as in instances where the closed-form shape is a circle, oval, or n-gon, where n is a positive integer of three or greater. In some embodiments, this closed-form shape has no internal symmetry or incomplete internal symmetry.
- the bent interior region 922 is u-shaped.
- the bent rod-shaped first member 912 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 912 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 912 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 912 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 912 is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of the first member 912 .
- first member 912 in which end portions 912 a and 912 b are parallel to each other and are straight
- first and second end portions 912 a and 912 b of the first member 912 may bend toward or away from each other.
- first and second end portions of the first member 912 may internally include any number of bends in any direction as long as the object finder maintains the disclosed functionality.
- the first and second end portions of the first member 912 may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge.
- pouch 930 is made of neoprene and has a microfiber lining.
- the microfiber lining is particularly advantageous because it can clean a portable device (e.g., cell phone, smart phone, iPHONE, or MP3 player), while protecting the portable device.
- pouch 930 is made out of stretch polyester or similar material.
- the pouch 930 has a zipper or a drawstring in order to store the mobile device.
- the pouch has a pocket on the side to store additional components such as earbuds, keys, credit cards, money or cosmetics.
- pouch 930 can be of any shape, it is preferred to use a geometric shape that forms a mirror image with itself to facilitate the function of a closing device. Therefore, circles, ovals, rectangles, squares, hexagons and octagons all tend to work well in this application.
- the thickness of the pouch 930 should be suitable for its function as a container for a mobile device.
- the pouch 930 may also be an elongated cylindrical shape. In some embodiments, the shape of the pouch 930 is slightly altered once mobile device is placed into it.
- the pouch 930 can be made of any material, preferably a flexible one, and can be of any shape, but is preferably elongated and sized for a mobile device such as a mobile phone or smart phone. While the exact size and shape of the pouch 930 can vary depending on embodiment, it is large enough to contain a mobile device.
- the exterior of the pouch 930 also preferably provides a surface to which can be affixed or upon which can be embossed or imprinted a design or label, such as a decorative or promotional design.
- the pouch 930 can be made of an animal textile, a plant textile, a mineral textile, a synthetic textile (organic or inorganic), or a combination thereof.
- the pouch 930 comprises neoprine, cotton, calico, satin, hessian, polycotton, bamboo, grass, jute, wool, alpaca, cashmere, mohair, modacrylic, viacose, cellulose, cellulose acetate, nylon, casein, flax, hemp, nettle, sisal, soybean protein fiber, Manila hemp, ramie, rayon, cellophane, silk, artificial silk, velvet, taffeta, TENCEL®, Pi ⁇ a (pineapple fiber), Coir (coconut fiber), seaweed, modal, DRACON® fiber, SARAN® fiber, acetate rayon, glass fiber, basalt fiber, carbon fiber, metal fiber, polyester, aramid fiber, acrylic fiber, acrylate, Abaca, SPANDEX® (or elastane), Olef
- a decorative accent is added to the pouch 930 to enhance its appeal.
- the pouch 930 is personalized with the owner's initials.
- the pouch 930 may also be dyed any desirable color or pattern of colors.
- the exterior of the pouch 930 has a dimension of 10 centimeters squared (cm 2 ) or larger, 20 cm 2 or larger, 50 cm 2 or larger, 70 cm 2 or larger, 100 cm 2 or larger, 150 cm 2 or larger, or 200 cm 2 or larger.
- a side dimension of the pouch 930 is 5 centimeters (cm) or larger, 7 cm or larger, 9 cm or larger, or 10 cm or larger.
- the volume of the pouch 930 is 10 cubic centimeters (cm 3 ) or larger, 20 cm 3 or larger, 50 cm 3 or larger, 70 cm 3 or larger, 100 cm 3 or larger, 150 cm 3 or larger, or 200 cm 3 or larger.
- a pocket (not shown) is located on a portion of the exterior surface of the pouch 930 .
- the pocket has a pocket opening through which a note may be put into the pocket and displayed.
- the pocket opening is located at a side of the pouch 930 near the pouch opening.
- the pocket 20 has a transparent surface through which a note may be displayed.
- the note for example, may be a list of grocery items, a coupon for shopping or anything relevant and suitably sized.
- the pocket has a transparent portion.
- this transparent portion comprises a plastic film made of a synthetic polymeric material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyester, polyurethane or polyethylene terephthalate.
- the plastic film is either transparent or opaque.
- a plastic film it is single-layered or multi-layered and is made of the same or different film materials which are suitable to the end use application. If the pocket material is multi-layered, the layers may be made of different materials which are joined together; for example, as a net or webbing bonded to a plastic film, fabric material or a paper.
- the pocket has a mesh or webbed surface, transparent or opaque, but through which notes or coupons may be readily recognizable.
- such transparent pockets may be made of elastic material such that the pockets can be expanded to house more notes, coupons, or the like.
- the pocket is transparent enough such that writings on any note stored in the pocket may be read without having to take such notes out of the pocket.
- the pocket is only partially transparent.
- the pocket comprises neoprine, cotton, calico, satin, hessian, polycotton, bamboo, grass, jute, wool, alpaca, cashmere, mohair, modacrylic, viacose, cellulose, cellulose acetate, nylon, casein, flax, hemp, nettle, sisal, soybean protein fiber, Manila hemp, ramie, rayon, cellophane, silk, artificial silk, velvet, taffeta, TENCEL®, Pi ⁇ a (pineapple fiber), Coir (coconut fiber), seaweed, modal, DRACON® fiber, SARAN® fiber, acetate rayon, glass fiber, basalt fiber, carbon fiber, metal fiber, polyester, aramid fiber, acrylic fiber, acrylate, Abaca, SPANDEX® (or elastane), Olefin fiber, polyolefin, VINYON® (or polyvinyl chloride fibers), Viscose fiber, Vicuna fiber, Sulfar (or polyphenyl chloride
- a second pocket is located on a second exterior side of the pouch 930 .
- the pocket is one pocket that circumferentially wraps around the perimeter of pouch 930 .
- the pocket is made of elastic material that is configured to tightly hold a note.
- a second pocket is attached on an exterior surface of the pouch 930 that is opposite to an exterior surface of the pouch 390 where a first pocket is provided.
- pouch 930 contains an opening (not shown).
- the opening is located on an end of the pouch 930 , for example on a side of the pouch 930 or on a surface of the pouch 930 .
- the opening is formed by side flaps and is configured to have two different states: an open state and a closed state. In its open state, the opening is configured for receiving a mobile device or for having a mobile device removed from therein. In its closed state, the opening is configured to retain the mobile device that has already been put inside the pouch 930 . The closed state is achieved by using a closing device, which is described in detail below.
- the opening is preferably located at an end of the pouch 930 .
- the opening is provided with a closing device, such as strips of self-adhesive material positioned approximately opposite to each other, for example, on opposite sides facing each other, to allow for engagement when pressed together or otherwise closed.
- a closing device such as strips of self-adhesive material positioned approximately opposite to each other, for example, on opposite sides facing each other, to allow for engagement when pressed together or otherwise closed.
- a snap, a zipper, or any other type of self-adhesive closing device known to those skilled in the art can be used to close the opening of the pouch 930 .
- the opening is not limited only to one side of the pouch 930 .
- the opening can occupy two or more sides of the pouch 930 .
- the closing device will accordingly also be located on two or more sides of the pouch 930 .
- the opening is formed by two sides; one side is equipped with an additional fold that can be folded to wrap over the other side.
- the resulting opening is naturally in a closed state when the additional fold is wrapped over the other side, thus rendering a closing device unnecessary.
- the opening of the pouch 930 comprises a relatively large side which can be folded over a simple side.
- the closing device for the opening of the pouch 930 is used to secure the opening such that the pouch 930 is in a closed state to retain a mobile device inside.
- the opening is located on a surface of the pouch 930 and is formed by two sides.
- the closing device can be any suitable closing device, including but not limited to one or more buttons, strips of self-adhesive material positioned on opposite sides (in order to allow for engagement when pressed together or otherwise closed) or the like.
- buttons can be, for example, shank buttons, cover buttons, flat or sew-through buttons, worked or cloth buttons, Mandarin buttons, silk knots and the like.
- any of a variety of fasteners is used as closing device.
- the type of fastener is releasable, reusable fastener such as one or more snaps, a VELCRO® system with a hook layer and a loop layer, a zip-lock fastener, a metal twist closure, or any other type of fastener that is releasable and reusable.
- the fastener type is a two-part fastener such as a snap, a VELCRO® system with a hook layer and a loop layer, or a zip-lock fastener
- the separate parts of the two-part fastener are disposed at predetermined locations on side flaps. In this way, the separate parts of the two-part fastener align to close and secure the mobile device within the pouch 930 .
- the closing device may further include a snap fastener, a popper, a press stud, a rivet, a zipper, a VELCRO® closing system with a hook layer and a loop layer, a magnet flip, or a self-adhesive closing device.
- a snap fastener e.g., a popper, a press stud, a rivet, a zipper, a VELCRO® closing system with a hook layer and a loop layer, a magnet flip, or a self-adhesive closing device.
- a snap fastener e.g., a popper, a press stud, a rivet, a zipper, a VELCRO® closing system with a hook layer and a loop layer, a magnet flip, or a self-adhesive closing device.
- any type of closing device known to those skilled in the art can be used as the closing device to close the opening of the pouch 930 .
- the closing device is a shoelace like system. In still other embodiments, the closing device is a drawstring system that goes around side flaps.
- closed form element 932 is permanently fixed to a surface of the pouch 930 (e.g., a side).
- the closed form element 932 is configured to engage second member 914 or first end portion 912 a .
- the closed form element is a loop.
- the closed form element is a loop made of the same material that the pouch 930 comprises, which includes but is not limited to neoprene, cotton, calico, satin, hessian, polycotton, bamboo, grass, jute, wool, alpaca, cashmere, mohair, modacrylic, viacose, cellulose, cellulose acetate, nylon, casein, flax, hemp, nettle, sisal, soybean protein fiber, Manila hemp, ramie, rayon, cellophane, silk, artificial silk, velvet, taffeta, TENCEL®, Pi ⁇ a (pineapple fiber), Coir (coconut fiber), seaweed, modal, DRACON® fiber, SARAN® fiber, acetate rayon, glass fiber, basalt fiber, carbon fiber, metal fiber, polyester, aramid fiber, acrylic fiber, acrylate, Abaca, SPANDEX® (or elastane), Olefin fiber, polyolefin, VINYON® (or polyvin
- the pouch 930 of the object finder 910 comprises a compartment exterior that is made of a first fabric, the compartment having an interior that is made of a second fabric, where the pouch 930 comprises an opening that is dimensioned and configured to have at least a first state and a second state.
- the opening is set to the first state, where, when the opening is in the first state, the compartment is configured to receive a portable device in the interior.
- a portable device is placed in the interior of the pouch 930 .
- the pouch 930 is then set to the second state in which the pouch is configured to store the portable device in the interior but is not configured for receiving or removing the portable device from the interior.
- the object finder 910 is then rested on an edge of a bag-like purse such that the pouch 930 suspends into an interior of a pocket of the bag-like purse.
- the first and second fabric are the same.
- the first fabric is neoprene and the second fabric is microfiber lining.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Purses, Travelling Bags, Baskets, Or Suitcases (AREA)
Abstract
Provided is an object locator that comprises a bent rod-shaped first member having opposed first and second end portions that are not urged against each other. The object locator further comprises a second member that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged to the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member. The object locator further comprises a pouch that is configured for holding a mobile device. The pouch includes a close form element that substantially permanently and flexibly engages the second member. The bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a bent interior region between the first and second end portions. The first and second end portions are configured to allow the bent interior region to hang from or clasp an edge. The second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member is configured for affixation of an ornament.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/073,789, filed Mar. 28, 2011, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/468,012, filed May 18, 2009, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 7,537,032, filed Oct. 26, 2007, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 7,308,922, filed on Aug. 17, 2004.
- The present disclosure relates to object locators. More particularly, this disclosure pertains to locators that are especially adapted to facilitate the ready location of a phone pouch in a purse, backpack, briefcase or like bag.
- A common and popular type of purse or like bag has a top that includes at least a region that is upwardly open in use. Often this type of bag is rather deep, permitting the owner-user to store a variety of items. Further, such depth is generally considered fashionable. A known drawback of the above-described purse or like bag configuration resides in the difficulty of readily retrieving objects such as keys or phone pouches, from its interior. This can lead to the frustration of the owner-user and to others. For example, the difficulty of locating car keys at the bottom of a purse can cause significant delay in vacating a parking space. As another example, the difficulty of locating a phone at the bottom of a purse can lead to missed calls.
- Given the above importance of the above identified objectives, what are needed in the art are improved apparatus for holding and storing objects when transporting them in purses or other bags.
- The present disclosure addresses the preceding and other shortcomings of the prior art by providing an object locator. The object locator comprises a bent rod-shaped first member having opposed first and second end portions that are not urged against each other. The object locator optionally further comprises a second member that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged to the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member. The object locator further comprises a pouch that is configured for holding a mobile device. The pouch includes a closed form element that substantially permanently and flexibly engages either the second member or the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped member. The bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a bent interior region between the first and second end portions. The first and second end portions are configured to allow the bent interior region to hang from or clasp an edge. The second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member is configured for affixation of an ornament.
- The preceding and other features of the present disclosure will become further apparent from the detailed description that follows. Such description is accompanied by a set of drawing figures. Numerals of the drawing figures correspond to numerals of the written description with like numerals referring to like features throughout both the written description and the drawing figures.
-
FIGS. 1A and 1B are a front elevation view of a key locator, more generally an object locator, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure and a partial planar view of an optional ornament mounting pad thereof respectively, andFIG. 1C is a front elevation view of the object locator with an optional decorative element shown attached. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the object locator ofFIGS. 1A through 1C in use. -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the object locator of the present disclosure in use taken at line 3-3 ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an object locator in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure in which a container, in a closed configuration, is attached to the object finder. -
FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an object locator in accordance with the embodiment ofFIG. 4 in which the container is in an open configuration. -
FIG. 6 is a right side perspective view of the object locator depicted inFIG. 4 showing the object locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse with the container, where the container comprises a hinge or other connector that attaches a first face to the container, and where the first face is in a closed configuration that seals an interior portion of the container. -
FIG. 7 is a right side perspective view of the object locator depicted inFIG. 4 showing the object locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse with the container, where the container comprises a hinge or other connector that attaches a first face to the container, and where the first face is in an open configuration that exposes the interior portion of the container. -
FIG. 8 illustrates more details of a second member of an object locator in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an object locator of the present disclosure in which the object is a phone pouch for storing a phone or other mobile device. -
FIG. 10 is a front view of the object locator ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 11 is a back view of the object locator ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 12 is a first side view of the object locator ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 13 is a second side view of the object locator ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 14 is a top view of the object locator ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the object locator ofFIG. 9 . - Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
- Turning now to the drawings,
FIG. 1A is a front elevation view of theobject locator 10 of the present disclosure. Theobject locator 10 comprises interlocking first andsecond members first member 12 and thesecond members 14 are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material. In some embodiments, thefirst member 12 and thesecond member 14 each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, thefirst member 12 and thesecond member 14 are each made of metal. In some embodiments, thefirst member 12 and/or thesecond member 14 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the bent-rod shapedfirst member 12 is electroplated. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 1A , thesecond member 14 includes aclasp 16 that, in some instances, is rotatably engaged to an inverted u-shapedelement 18. It will be appreciated thatclasp 16 is an exemplary way to retain objects. For example, in some alternative embodiments, rather than aclasp 16, a key ring is used in the place ofclasp 16. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1A , theu-shaped element 18 is arranged to engage ahook 20 at a first end portion of thefirst member 12 in order to provide flexible engagement of themembers members FIG. 1 ) at the first end portion of thefirst member 12 that engages bothhook 20 andu-shaped element 18. In another example, there can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engageshook 20 whereas a second ring in the set of interlocking rings engagesu-shaped element 18. The first and second ring may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking rings between the first and second ring. In still another example, there can be a closed form element (not shown) that engages bothhook 20 andu-shaped element 18. The closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited. Any closed form shape, such as a n-gon, where n is an integer of 3 or greater, star-shape, or the like can be used to interlockhook 20 tou-shaped element 18. In still another example, there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engageshook 20 whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engagesu-shaped element 18. The first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element. In some embodiments, a chain is used to interlocku-shaped element 18 to hook 20. - It will be appreciated that
hook 20 is just one example of a way to flexibly engagemembers u-shaped element 18 is just one example of a way to flexibly engagemembers u-shaped element 18, a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engagemembers - In one aspect, referring to
FIG. 1C , afirst end portion 12 a of thefirst member 12 comprises ahook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. Thesecond member 14 comprises aclosed form clasp 16 or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or ring is rotatably fixed to au-shaped element 18 of thesecond member 14, where theu-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with thehook 20. In another such embodiment (not illustrated), theclosed form clasp 16 or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with thehook 20. In another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape. In another such embodiment (not shown), theclosed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with thehook 20. In still another such embodiment (not shown), theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In yet another such embodiment (not shown), theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some such embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape. - Referring to
FIG. 8 , in some embodiments thefirst end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 comprises ahook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. The second member of theobject locator 10 further comprises afirst ring 702 that is hooked onto thehook 20. The second member of theobject locator 10 further comprises amember 704 having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which thefirst ring 702 is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. Thesecond member 14 of theobject locator 10 further comprises asecond ring 706 that is attached to the second eyelet. - Similar to
FIG. 8 , although not depicted, in some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. Thesecond member 14 of theobject locator 10 further comprises a second ring that is hooked onto the first ring. Thesecond member 14 of theobject locator 10 further comprises a member having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the second ring is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. Thesecond member 14 of theobject locator 10 further comprises a third ring, where the third ring is attached to the second eyelet. - In another aspect, a
first end portion 12 a of thefirst member 12 comprises a first ring (not shown) for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. Thesecond member 14 comprises aclosed form clasp 16 or second ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is rotatably fixed to au-shaped element 18 of thesecond member 14, where theu-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. - Referring to
FIG. 1C , thefirst member 12 includes a bentinterior region 22. In some embodiments, asecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 comprises anenlarged region 24 that serves as an ornament mounting pad for affixation of adecorative ornament 26. In some embodiments, there is noenlarged region 24 and thedecorative ornament 26 is affixed directly onto thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 1C , 2 and 3, thefirst member 12 has afirst end portion 12 a and asecond end portion 12 b. Thefirst end portion 12 a of thefirst member 12 is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. Thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 is configured for affixation of anornament 26 so that, when affixed to theobject locator 10, theentire ornament 26 is substantially rigidly affixed to theobject locator 10. Thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bentinterior region 22 to hang or clasp anedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from anedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when said bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. - In some embodiments, the
first end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 200 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 100 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 50 dynes, or between 0.1 dynes and 25 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. - In some embodiments, the
first end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that no discernable force, other than that contributed by the overall weight of the object finder and any objects attached to the object finder, is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. - Referring to
FIG. 1C , theornament 26, comprising a flower-like shape as shown in the drawings but not limited thereto, is arranged to face away from the interior of thefirst member 12 with itsback portion 28 preferably fixed to theenlarged region 24 of the member by solder or the like. In some embodiments that do not have anenlarged region 24, theback portion 28 is affixed directly onto the end portion of the first member. As used herein, an ornament is a solid object as opposed to a chain or a rope. In some embodiments, the ornament comprises an artificial or real gem, or a container. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of theobject locator 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure in use. InFIG. 2 , theobject locator 10 is hung from theupper edge 29 of aside panel 30 of a bag-like purse 32 with the bentinterior region 22 overhanging theside panel 30 so that the face of theornament 26 is exposed. In other embodiments (not shown), theobject locator 10 clasps theupper edge 29 of aside panel 30 of a bag-like purse 32 with the bentinterior region 22 overhanging theside panel 30 so that the face of theornament 26 is exposed. The foregoing provides the user with an attractive adjunct to the bag-like purse 32 that serves the additional function of readily locating theobject locator 10. -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of theobject locator 10 of the disclosure in use taken at line 3-3 ofFIG. 2 . Keys orother objects 34, secured by theclasp 16 of thesecond member 14, are seen to lie near or at the bottom 36 of the bag-like purse 32, somewhat suspended from theupper edge 29 of theside panel 30. The bentinterior region 22 of thefirst member 12 of theobject locator 10, as mentioned with reference to the preceding figure, is draped, hung over or clasped to theupper edge 29 to create the suspension effect. The altitude of the bottom of theobject locator 10 and objects 34 will depend upon the length of theobject locator 10 relative to the depth of theside panel 30 of the bag-like purse 32. However, regardless of the precise altitude of theobject 34 within the bag-like purse 32, they may be readily located due to the visible presence of theornament 26. - In
FIG. 1 ,first member 12 has a rod-like appearance. That is,first member 12 is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement thatfirst member 12 have the cylindrical shape depicted inFIG. 1 . Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal ofobject locator 10 from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example,first member 12 can be a flattened wire or other flat elements. In another example, in some embodiments,first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of thefirst member 12 and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of thefirst member 12 and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm. In another example, in some embodiments,first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of thefirst member 12 and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of thefirst member 12 and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm. In still another example, in some embodiments,first member 12 has a slender shape characterized by a cross-section that is a closed form shape. In some embodiments, this closed-form shape has internal symmetry, such as in instances where the closed-form shape is a circle, oval, or n-gon, where n is a positive integer of three or greater. In some embodiments, this closed-form shape has no internal symmetry or incomplete internal symmetry. - In some embodiments, the bent
interior region 22 is u-shaped. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of thefirst member 12. - Although the figures (e.g.,
FIG. 1C ) illustrate thefirst member 12 in which endportions second end portions first member 12 may bend toward or away from each other. Moreover, the first and second end portions of thefirst member 12 may internally include any number of bends in any direction as long as the object finder maintains the disclosed functionality. Moreover, the first and second end portions of thefirst member 12 may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge. -
FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of anobject locator 110 in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure. Theobject locator 110 is identical to theobject locator 10 in all aspects with the exception that theornament 26 of theobject locator 110 is drawn to containers, such as depictedcontainer 40. As in the case of theobject locator 10 discussed above and illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 3 , theobject locator 110 illustrated inFIGS. 4 through 7 comprises interlocking first andsecond members first member 12 and thesecond members 14 are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material. In some embodiments, thefirst member 12 and thesecond member 14 each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, thefirst member 12 and thesecond member 14 are each made of metal. In some embodiments, thefirst member 12 and/or thesecond member 14 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the bent-rod shapedfirst member 12 is electroplated. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 4 , thesecond member 14 includes aclasp 16 that, in some embodiments, is rotatably engaged to an invertedu-shaped element 18. It will be appreciated thatclasp 16 is an exemplary way to retain keys or other objects. For example, in some alternative embodiments, rather than aclasp 16, a key ring is used in the place ofclasp 16. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4 , theu-shaped element 18 is arranged to engage ahook 20 at a first end portion of thefirst member 12 in order to provide flexible engagement of themembers members FIG. 4 ) at the first end portion of thefirst member 12 that engages bothhook 20 andu-shaped element 18. In another example, there can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engageshook 20 whereas a second ring in the set of interlocking rings engagesu-shaped element 18. The first and second ring may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking rings between the first and second ring. In still another example, there can be a closed form element (not shown) that engages bothhook 20 andu-shaped element 18. The closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited. Any closed form shape, such as an n-gon (where n is an integer of 3 or greater), star-shape, or the like can be used to interlockhook 20 tou-shaped element 18. In still another example, there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engageshook 20 whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engagesu-shaped element 18. The first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element. In some embodiments, a chain is used to interlocku-shaped element 18 to hook 20. - It will be appreciated that
hook 20 is just one example of a way to flexibly engagemembers object locator 110 illustrated inFIGS. 4 through 7 . For example, hook 20 can be completely closed off so that it is, in of itself, in fact a closed form shape such as a ring or oval. Similarly, it will be appreciated thatu-shaped element 18 is just one example of a way to flexibly engagemembers u-shaped element 18, a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engagemembers - In one aspect, referring to
FIG. 4 , afirst end portion 12 a of thefirst member 12 comprises ahook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. Thesecond member 14 comprises aclosed form clasp 16 or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or ring is rotatably fixed to au-shaped element 18 of thesecond member 14, where theu-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with thehook 20. In another such embodiment (not illustrated), theclosed form clasp 16 or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with thehook 20. In another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape. In another such embodiment (not shown), theclosed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with thehook 20. In still another such embodiment (not shown), theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In yet another such embodiment (not shown), theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some such embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape. - In another aspect, a
first end portion 12 a of thefirst member 12 comprises a first ring (not shown) for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. Thesecond member 14 comprises aclosed form clasp 16 or second ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is rotatably fixed to au-shaped element 18 of thesecond member 14, where theu-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, theclosed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. - Referring to
FIG. 8 , in some embodiments thefirst end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 comprises ahook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. The second member of the object locator further comprises afirst ring 702 that is hooked onto thehook 20. The second member of theobject locator 110 further comprises amember 704 having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which thefirst ring 702 is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. Thesecond member 14 of theobject locator 110 further comprises asecond ring 706 that is attached to the second eyelet. - Similar to
FIG. 8 , although not depicted, in some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. Thesecond member 14 of theobject locator 110 further comprises a second ring that is hooked onto the first ring. Thesecond member 14 of theobject locator 110 further comprises a member having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the second ring is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. Thesecond member 14 of theobject locator 110 further comprises a third ring, where the third ring is attached to the second eyelet. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 6 and 7 , thefirst member 12 has afirst end portion 12 a and asecond end portion 12 b. Thefirst end portion 12 a of thefirst member 12 is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 14. Thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 is configured for affixation of acontainer 40. In the embodiments depicted inFIGS. 4 through 7 , when affixed to theobject locator 110, theentire container 40 is substantially rigidly affixed to theobject locator 110 such that any movement of thecontainer 40 necessarily causes movement of theobject locator 110. - Referring to
FIGS. 6 and 7 , in some embodiments, thecontainer 40 is directly and permanently fixed to thesecond end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 so that afirst face 42 of the container is exposed. Thecontainer 40 is arranged so that thefirst face 42 of thecontainer 40 faces away from an interior of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12. The interior of the bent rod-shaped first member is defined by the bent interior region between thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b. - In some embodiments, the
container 40 comprises a hinge that attaches thefirst face 42 to thecontainer 40. Thefirst face 42 is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of thecontainer 40, as depicted inFIG. 7 , and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of thecontainer 40, as depicted inFIG. 6 . In some embodiments, thecontainer 40 comprises aswivel hinge 44 that attaches thefirst face 42 to the container 50. In such embodiments, thefirst face 42 is configured to slide between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of thecontainer 40 and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of thecontainer 40. In some embodiments, thefirst face 42 is adorned with an ornament. In some embodiments, the ornament comprises an artificial or a real gem. - In some embodiments, the
container 40 comprises a material selected from the group consisting of metal and plastic. In some embodiments, the container comprises gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, thecontainer 40 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, thecontainer 40 is configured to store a liquid. In some embodiments, thecontainer 40 is configured to store a gel, such as lip balm. In some embodiments, thecontainer 40 is configured to store an object. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 4 through 7 , thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bentinterior region 22 to hang or clasp anedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 110 from anedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 110 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 110 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 110 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 110 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 110 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when said bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 110 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 110 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. - In some embodiments, the
first end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 200 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 100 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 50 dynes, or between 0.1 dynes and 25 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 110 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. - In some embodiments, the
first end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that no discernable force, other than that contributed by the overall weight of the object finder and any objects attached to the object finder, is required to remove theobject locator 10 from theedge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bentinterior region 22 hangs from or clasps theedge 29. - Referring to
FIGS. 4 through 7 , in one aspect, theobject locator 110 further comprises thecontainer 40, and thesecond end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 comprises an enlarged portion and asecond face 48 of the container is directly and permanently fixed to the enlarged portion. In some embodiments, the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of the second face of the container is directly and permanently fixed. In some embodiments, the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of thesecond face 48 is soldered. - In another aspect, the
object locator 110 further comprises thecontainer 40. Asecond face 48 of the container is directly and permanently fixed to thesecond end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12. - In another aspect, the
object locator 110 further comprises thecontainer 40, and asecond face 48 of thecontainer 40 is soldered to thesecond end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 40. - In still another aspect, the
object locator 110 further comprises thecontainer 40 and thecontainer 40 forms a part (e.g., an integral part) of thesecond end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12. -
FIGS. 6 and 7 are side views of theobject locator 110 of an embodiment of the present disclosure in use. InFIGS. 6 and 7 , theobject locator 110 is hung from theupper edge 29 of a side panel of a bag-like purse with the bentinterior region 22 overhanging theupper edge 29 so that thefirst face 42 of thecontainer 40 is exposed. In other embodiments (not shown), theobject locator 110 clasps theupper edge 29 of a bag-like purse with the bentinterior region 22 overhanging theside panel 30 so that thefirst face 42 of thecontainer 40 is exposed. Keys or other objects, secured by theclasp 16 of thesecond member 14, may lie near or at the bottom of a bag-like purse, somewhat suspended from theupper edge 29, in the same manner as that depicted in theobject locator 10 illustrated inFIG. 3 . The bentinterior region 22 of thefirst member 12 of theobject locator 110 is draped, hung over or clasped to theupper edge 29 to create the suspension effect. The altitude of the bottom of theobject locator 110 and objects held thereto will depend upon the length of theobject locator 110 relative to the depth of the side panel of the bag-like purse. However, regardless of the precise altitude of the keys or other objects within the bag-like purse, they may be readily located due to the visible presence of thecontainer 40. - In
FIGS. 4 through 7 ,first member 12 has a rod-like appearance. That is,first member 12 is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement thatfirst member 12 have the cylindrical shape depicted inFIGS. 4 through 6 . Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal ofobject locator 110 from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example,first member 12 can be a flattened wire or other flat element. In another example, in some embodiments, thefirst member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of thefirst member 12 and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of thefirst member 12 and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm. In another example, in some embodiments, thefirst member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of thefirst member 12 and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of thefirst member 12 and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm. - In some embodiments, the bent
interior region 22 is u-shaped. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of thefirst member 12. - Although the figures illustrate the
first member 12 in which end portions are parallel to each other and are straight, the present disclosure is not so restricted. The first andsecond end portions first member 12 of theobject locator 110 may bend toward or away from each other. Moreover, the first and second end portions of thefirst member 12 may internally include any number of bends. Moreover, the first and second end portions of thefirst member 12 may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge. - Another embodiment provides an object locator that is similar to the second embodiment. The object locator comprises, in combination: a) a bent rod-shaped first member having a first end portion and a second end portion, b) a second member configured for selectively retaining at least one object, and c) a container that is rotatably mounted to the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member. The first end portion and the second end portion are opposed to each other. The bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a bent interior region between the first end portion and the second end portion. The first end portion and the second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region to hang from or clasp an edge. The first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member substantially permanently and flexibly engages with the second member. The container comprises a hinge that attaches a first face to the container. The first face is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container, and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container.
- In some embodiments, the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member comprises a hook for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member. The second member comprises a closed form clasp or ring that is configured for selectively retaining at least one object. The closed form clasp or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element of the second member. The u-shaped element is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or ring is engaged with a closed form member and the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or ring is engaged with a closed form member and the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with first interlocking ring in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape.
- In still other embodiments, the first end portion of said bent rod-shaped first member comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member and the second member comprises a closed form clasp or second ring that is configured for selectively retaining at least one object. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element of the second member, where the u-shaped element is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, wherein the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form elements in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.
- Another aspect provides a method comprising retaining at least one object by a
second member 14 of an apparatus that comprises at least thesecond member 14 and a bent rod-shapedfirst member 12. The second member is configured for selectively retaining at least one object. The bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 of the apparatus has afirst end portion 12 a and asecond end portion 12 b. Thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b are opposed to each other. The bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 incorporates a bentinterior region 22 between thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b. Thefirst end portion 12 a and thesecond end portion 12 b are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bentinterior region 22 to hang from or clasps an upper edge of a side panel of a bag-like purse. Thefirst end portion 12 a of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 substantially permanently and flexibly engages with some portion of thesecond member 14. Thesecond end portion 12 b of the bent rod-shapedfirst member 12 is affixed to acontainer 40. The method further comprises hanging the apparatus from theupper edge 29 of the side panel of a bag-like purse with the bentinterior region 22 overhanging the side panel so that thesecond end portion 12 b and thecontainer 40 are exposed. The method further comprises retrieving the bent rod-shaped first member of the apparatus from the upper edge such that, when the bent rod-shaped first member is retrieved from the upper edge, the at least one object retrained by the second member is necessarily retrieved. In some embodiments, the container comprises a hinge that attaches the first face to the container. The first face is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container, and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container and the method further comprises operating the first face so that the face switches between the closed configuration to the open configuration. - Thus, it can be seen that the present disclosure provides an object locator especially suitable for use with a purse, backpack, briefcase or other bag-like device. By employing the object locator of the present disclosure in conjunction with such a device, one may find objects stored within without delay. Further, by providing a decorative ornament for indicating the location of the object locator, the appearance of the bag is enhanced.
- Referring to
FIGS. 9-15 , there is provided anobject locator 910 comprising a bent rod-shapedfirst member 912 having afirst end portion 912 a and a second end portion that are opposed to each other and that are not urged against each other. Optionally, asecond member 914 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged to thefirst end portion 912 a.FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of theobject locator 910.FIGS. 10 and 11 are respectively the front and back views of theobject locator 910.FIGS. 12 and 13 are respectively first and second side views of theobject locator 910.FIGS. 14 and 15 are respectively top and bottom views of theobject locator 910. - In some embodiments the
first member 912 and the optionalsecond members 914 are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material. In some embodiments, thefirst member 912 and the optionalsecond member 914 each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, thefirst member 912 and thesecond member 914 are each made of metal. In some embodiments, thefirst member 912 and/or thesecond member 914 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the bent-rod shapedfirst member 912 orsecond member 914 is electroplated. - The
object locator 910 further comprises apouch 930 that is configured for holding a mobile device. Thepouch 930 includes a closed form element (e.g., loop) 932 that substantially permanently and flexibly engages the second member 914 (as depicted inFIGS. 9-15 ) or thefirst end portion 912 a of member 912 (not shown). In embodiments whereclosed form element 932 substantially permanently and flexibly engages thefirst end portion 912 a of member 912 (not shown), thesecond member 914 is not required. Thus, some embodiments ofobject locator 910 do not have asecond member 914 and closedform element 932 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged to a hook or ring atfirst end portion 912 a. - One of skill in the art will appreciate that there are numerous other methods by which
members FIG. 9 ,second member 914 is a ring that engages ahook 920. In another example,second member 914 can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engageshook 920. In still another example,second member 914 can be a closed form element (not shown) that engageshook 920. The closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited. In some embodiments, any closed form shape, such as an n-gon, where n is an integer of three or greater, star-shape, or the like can be used to interlockhook 920 tosecond member 914. In still another example, there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engageshook 20 whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engagesmember 914. The first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element. In some embodiments, a chain is used to interlockmember 914 to hook 20. - It will be appreciated that
hook 920 is just one example of a way to flexibly engagefirst member 912 and second member 914 (orfirst member 912 and closedform element 932 in those embodiments that do not have second member 914). Any of the ways of joining first and second members in any previous embodiment may be used with this fifth embodiment depicted inFIGS. 9 through 15 . For example, hook 20 can be completely closed off so that it is, in of itself, in fact a closed form shape such as a ring or oval. Similarly, it will be appreciated thatsecond member 914 may be the same asmember 14 depicted inFIG. 4 with a closed form clasp. Furthermore, in such embodiments, theu-shaped element 18 ofFIG. 4 is just one example of a way to flexibly engagefirst member 912 tosecond member 914. For example, rather than having au-shaped element 18, a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engagemembers second member 914 may be the same asmember 704 withring 706 depicted inFIG. 8 . In such embodiments,ring 706 engages closedform element 932 ofFIG. 9 . - Referring to
FIG. 9 , thefirst member 912 includes a bentinterior region 922. In some embodiments, asecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 12 comprises an enlarged region (not shown) that serves as an ornament mounting pad for affixation of adecorative ornament 926 or thecontainer 40 depicted in, for example,FIGS. 4-7 . In some embodiments, there is no enlarged region and thedecorative ornament 926 is affixed directly onto thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912. - As illustrated in
FIG. 9 and discussed above, thefirst member 912 has afirst end portion 912 a and asecond end portion 912 b. Thefirst end portion 912 a of thefirst member 912 is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with thesecond member 914 of theclosed form element 932 or directly to theclose form element 932. Thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 is configured for affixation of an ornament 926 (or container 40) so that, when affixed to theobject locator 910, the entire ornament 926 (or container 40) is substantially rigidly affixed to theobject locator 910. Thefirst end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bentinterior region 922 to hang or clasp an edge (not shown). In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 910 from an edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 10 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps an edge. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. In some embodiments, thefirst end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. - In some embodiments, the
first end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 200 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 100 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 50 dynes, or between 0.1 dynes and 25 dynes is required to remove theobject locator 910 from the edge of a bag-like at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. - In some embodiments, the
first end portion 912 a and thesecond end portion 912 b of thefirst member 912 are configured so that no discernable force, other than that contributed by the overall weight of the object finder and any objects attached to the object finder, is required to remove theobject locator 10 from the edge of a bag-like purse at a time when the bentinterior region 922 hangs from or clasps the edge. - Referring to
FIG. 9 , theornament 926, comprising a flower-like shape as shown in the drawings but not limited thereto, is arranged to face away from the interior of thefirst member 912 with its back portion preferably fixed to an enlarged region of thesecond end portion 912 b offirst member 912 by solder or the like. In some embodiments that do not have an enlarged region, the back portion of theornament 926 is affixed directly onto the end portion of thefirst member 912. - In
FIG. 9 ,first member 912 has a rod-like appearance. That is,first member 912 is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement thatfirst member 912 have the cylindrical shape depicted inFIG. 9 . Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal ofobject locator 910 from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example,first member 912 can be a flattened wire or other flat elements. In another example, in some embodiments,first member 912 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of thefirst member 912 and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of thefirst member 912 and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm. In another example, in some embodiments,first member 912 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of thefirst member 912 and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of thefirst member 912 and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm. In still another example, in some embodiments,first member 912 has a slender shape characterized by a cross-section that is a closed form shape. In some embodiments, this closed-form shape has internal symmetry, such as in instances where the closed-form shape is a circle, oval, or n-gon, where n is a positive integer of three or greater. In some embodiments, this closed-form shape has no internal symmetry or incomplete internal symmetry. - In some embodiments, the bent
interior region 922 is u-shaped. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 912 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 912 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 912 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 912 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shapedfirst member 912 is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of thefirst member 912. - Although the figures (e.g.,
FIG. 1C ) illustrate thefirst member 912 in which endportions second end portions first member 912 may bend toward or away from each other. Moreover, the first and second end portions of thefirst member 912 may internally include any number of bends in any direction as long as the object finder maintains the disclosed functionality. Moreover, the first and second end portions of thefirst member 912 may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge. - In some
embodiments pouch 930 is made of neoprene and has a microfiber lining. The microfiber lining is particularly advantageous because it can clean a portable device (e.g., cell phone, smart phone, iPHONE, or MP3 player), while protecting the portable device. In someembodiment pouch 930 is made out of stretch polyester or similar material. In some embodiments thepouch 930 has a zipper or a drawstring in order to store the mobile device. In some embodiments the pouch has a pocket on the side to store additional components such as earbuds, keys, credit cards, money or cosmetics. - While
pouch 930 can be of any shape, it is preferred to use a geometric shape that forms a mirror image with itself to facilitate the function of a closing device. Therefore, circles, ovals, rectangles, squares, hexagons and octagons all tend to work well in this application. The thickness of thepouch 930 should be suitable for its function as a container for a mobile device. Thepouch 930 may also be an elongated cylindrical shape. In some embodiments, the shape of thepouch 930 is slightly altered once mobile device is placed into it. - The
pouch 930 can be made of any material, preferably a flexible one, and can be of any shape, but is preferably elongated and sized for a mobile device such as a mobile phone or smart phone. While the exact size and shape of thepouch 930 can vary depending on embodiment, it is large enough to contain a mobile device. In some embodiments, the exterior of thepouch 930 also preferably provides a surface to which can be affixed or upon which can be embossed or imprinted a design or label, such as a decorative or promotional design. - The
pouch 930 can be made of an animal textile, a plant textile, a mineral textile, a synthetic textile (organic or inorganic), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thepouch 930 comprises neoprine, cotton, calico, satin, hessian, polycotton, bamboo, grass, jute, wool, alpaca, cashmere, mohair, modacrylic, viacose, cellulose, cellulose acetate, nylon, casein, flax, hemp, nettle, sisal, soybean protein fiber, Manila hemp, ramie, rayon, cellophane, silk, artificial silk, velvet, taffeta, TENCEL®, Piña (pineapple fiber), Coir (coconut fiber), seaweed, modal, DRACON® fiber, SARAN® fiber, acetate rayon, glass fiber, basalt fiber, carbon fiber, metal fiber, polyester, aramid fiber, acrylic fiber, acrylate, Abaca, SPANDEX® (or elastane), Olefin fiber, polyolefin, VINYON® (or polyvinyl chloride fibers), Viscose fiber, Vicuna fiber, Sulfar (or polyphenylene sulfide), polybenzimidazole (PBI) fiber, INGEO® fiber, polyactide fiber, LUREX®, linen, LYCRA®, Lyocell fiber, Kenaf fiber, KEVLAR®, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyurethane, or Sorona polymer. In some embodiments, a layer of waterproof material is coated on the exterior surface of thepouch 930. - In some embodiments, a decorative accent is added to the
pouch 930 to enhance its appeal. In one example, thepouch 930 is personalized with the owner's initials. Thepouch 930 may also be dyed any desirable color or pattern of colors. - In some embodiments, the exterior of the
pouch 930 has a dimension of 10 centimeters squared (cm2) or larger, 20 cm2 or larger, 50 cm2 or larger, 70 cm2 or larger, 100 cm2 or larger, 150 cm2 or larger, or 200 cm2 or larger. In some embodiments, a side dimension of thepouch 930 is 5 centimeters (cm) or larger, 7 cm or larger, 9 cm or larger, or 10 cm or larger. - In some embodiments, the volume of the
pouch 930 is 10 cubic centimeters (cm3) or larger, 20 cm3 or larger, 50 cm3 or larger, 70 cm3 or larger, 100 cm3 or larger, 150 cm3 or larger, or 200 cm3 or larger. - In some embodiments a pocket (not shown) is located on a portion of the exterior surface of the
pouch 930. In some embodiments, the pocket has a pocket opening through which a note may be put into the pocket and displayed. In some embodiments, the pocket opening is located at a side of thepouch 930 near the pouch opening. In some embodiments, thepocket 20 has a transparent surface through which a note may be displayed. The note, for example, may be a list of grocery items, a coupon for shopping or anything relevant and suitably sized. - Preferably, the pocket has a transparent portion. In some instances this transparent portion comprises a plastic film made of a synthetic polymeric material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyester, polyurethane or polyethylene terephthalate. In some instances the plastic film is either transparent or opaque. When a plastic film is used, it is single-layered or multi-layered and is made of the same or different film materials which are suitable to the end use application. If the pocket material is multi-layered, the layers may be made of different materials which are joined together; for example, as a net or webbing bonded to a plastic film, fabric material or a paper.
- In some embodiments, the pocket has a mesh or webbed surface, transparent or opaque, but through which notes or coupons may be readily recognizable. In some embodiments, such transparent pockets may be made of elastic material such that the pockets can be expanded to house more notes, coupons, or the like. In some embodiments, the pocket is transparent enough such that writings on any note stored in the pocket may be read without having to take such notes out of the pocket. In some embodiments, the pocket is only partially transparent.
- In some embodiments, the pocket comprises neoprine, cotton, calico, satin, hessian, polycotton, bamboo, grass, jute, wool, alpaca, cashmere, mohair, modacrylic, viacose, cellulose, cellulose acetate, nylon, casein, flax, hemp, nettle, sisal, soybean protein fiber, Manila hemp, ramie, rayon, cellophane, silk, artificial silk, velvet, taffeta, TENCEL®, Piña (pineapple fiber), Coir (coconut fiber), seaweed, modal, DRACON® fiber, SARAN® fiber, acetate rayon, glass fiber, basalt fiber, carbon fiber, metal fiber, polyester, aramid fiber, acrylic fiber, acrylate, Abaca, SPANDEX® (or elastane), Olefin fiber, polyolefin, VINYON® (or polyvinyl chloride fibers), Viscose fiber, Vicuna fiber, Sulfar (or polyphenylene sulfide), polybenzimidazole (PBI) fiber, INGEO® fiber, polyactide fiber, LUREX®, linen, LYCRA®, Lyocell fiber, Kenaf fiber, KEVLAR®, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyurethane, or Sorona polymer.
- In some embodiments, there is more than a single pocket, and such pockets are located on more than one exterior surface of the
pouch 930. For example, in some embodiments a second pocket is located on a second exterior side of thepouch 930. In some embodiments, the pocket is one pocket that circumferentially wraps around the perimeter ofpouch 930. In some embodiments, the pocket is made of elastic material that is configured to tightly hold a note. In some embodiments a second pocket is attached on an exterior surface of thepouch 930 that is opposite to an exterior surface of the pouch 390 where a first pocket is provided. - As noted above,
pouch 930 contains an opening (not shown). Preferably, the opening is located on an end of thepouch 930, for example on a side of thepouch 930 or on a surface of thepouch 930. In some embodiments, the opening is formed by side flaps and is configured to have two different states: an open state and a closed state. In its open state, the opening is configured for receiving a mobile device or for having a mobile device removed from therein. In its closed state, the opening is configured to retain the mobile device that has already been put inside thepouch 930. The closed state is achieved by using a closing device, which is described in detail below. - In some embodiments, the opening is preferably located at an end of the
pouch 930. The opening is provided with a closing device, such as strips of self-adhesive material positioned approximately opposite to each other, for example, on opposite sides facing each other, to allow for engagement when pressed together or otherwise closed. Alternatively, a snap, a zipper, or any other type of self-adhesive closing device known to those skilled in the art can be used to close the opening of thepouch 930. In some embodiments, the opening is not limited only to one side of thepouch 930. For example, the opening can occupy two or more sides of thepouch 930. In these embodiments, the closing device will accordingly also be located on two or more sides of thepouch 930. - In certain embodiments, the opening is formed by two sides; one side is equipped with an additional fold that can be folded to wrap over the other side. The resulting opening is naturally in a closed state when the additional fold is wrapped over the other side, thus rendering a closing device unnecessary.
- In some embodiments, the opening of the
pouch 930 comprises a relatively large side which can be folded over a simple side. - In some embodiments the closing device for the opening of the
pouch 930 is used to secure the opening such that thepouch 930 is in a closed state to retain a mobile device inside. In some embodiments, the opening is located on a surface of thepouch 930 and is formed by two sides. The closing device can be any suitable closing device, including but not limited to one or more buttons, strips of self-adhesive material positioned on opposite sides (in order to allow for engagement when pressed together or otherwise closed) or the like. In the case where one or more buttons are used, such buttons can be, for example, shank buttons, cover buttons, flat or sew-through buttons, worked or cloth buttons, Mandarin buttons, silk knots and the like. - Alternatively, any of a variety of fasteners is used as closing device. Preferably, the type of fastener is releasable, reusable fastener such as one or more snaps, a VELCRO® system with a hook layer and a loop layer, a zip-lock fastener, a metal twist closure, or any other type of fastener that is releasable and reusable. If the fastener type is a two-part fastener such as a snap, a VELCRO® system with a hook layer and a loop layer, or a zip-lock fastener, the separate parts of the two-part fastener are disposed at predetermined locations on side flaps. In this way, the separate parts of the two-part fastener align to close and secure the mobile device within the
pouch 930. - The closing device may further include a snap fastener, a popper, a press stud, a rivet, a zipper, a VELCRO® closing system with a hook layer and a loop layer, a magnet flip, or a self-adhesive closing device. Alternatively, any type of closing device known to those skilled in the art can be used as the closing device to close the opening of the
pouch 930. - In other embodiments, the closing device is a shoelace like system. In still other embodiments, the closing device is a drawstring system that goes around side flaps.
-
Closed Form Element 932. - Referring to
FIG. 9 , closedform element 932 is permanently fixed to a surface of the pouch 930 (e.g., a side). Theclosed form element 932 is configured to engagesecond member 914 orfirst end portion 912 a. In some embodiments, the closed form element is a loop. In some embodiments, the closed form element is a loop made of the same material that thepouch 930 comprises, which includes but is not limited to neoprene, cotton, calico, satin, hessian, polycotton, bamboo, grass, jute, wool, alpaca, cashmere, mohair, modacrylic, viacose, cellulose, cellulose acetate, nylon, casein, flax, hemp, nettle, sisal, soybean protein fiber, Manila hemp, ramie, rayon, cellophane, silk, artificial silk, velvet, taffeta, TENCEL®, Piña (pineapple fiber), Coir (coconut fiber), seaweed, modal, DRACON® fiber, SARAN® fiber, acetate rayon, glass fiber, basalt fiber, carbon fiber, metal fiber, polyester, aramid fiber, acrylic fiber, acrylate, Abaca, SPANDEX® (or elastane), Olefin fiber, polyolefin, VINYON® (or polyvinyl chloride fibers), Viscose fiber, Vicuna fiber, Sulfar (or polyphenylene sulfide), polybenzimidazole (PBI) fiber, INGEO® fiber, polyactide fiber, LUREX®, linen, LYCRA®, Lyocell fiber, Kenaf fiber, KEVLAR®, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyurethane, or Sorona polymer. - Another aspect provides a method for utilizing the
object finder 910. Thepouch 930 of theobject finder 910 comprises a compartment exterior that is made of a first fabric, the compartment having an interior that is made of a second fabric, where thepouch 930 comprises an opening that is dimensioned and configured to have at least a first state and a second state. In the method, the opening is set to the first state, where, when the opening is in the first state, the compartment is configured to receive a portable device in the interior. Further in the method, a portable device is placed in the interior of thepouch 930. Thepouch 930 is then set to the second state in which the pouch is configured to store the portable device in the interior but is not configured for receiving or removing the portable device from the interior. Theobject finder 910 is then rested on an edge of a bag-like purse such that thepouch 930 suspends into an interior of a pocket of the bag-like purse. In some embodiments the first and second fabric are the same. In some embodiments the first fabric is neoprene and the second fabric is microfiber lining. - All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
- Many modifications and variations of this invention can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The specific embodiments described herein are offered by way of example only. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. The invention is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
Claims (27)
1. An object locator comprising, in combination:
a) a bent rod-shaped first member having a first end portion and a second end portion that are opposed to each other and that are not urged against each other;
b) a second member that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged to the first end portion; and
c) a pouch that is configured for holding a mobile device, wherein the pouch includes a closed form element that substantially permanently and flexibly engages the second member, wherein
said bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a bent interior region between said first end portion and said second end portion,
said first end portion and said second end portion are configured to allow said bent interior region to hang from or clasp an edge, and
said second end portion of said bent rod-shaped first member is configured for affixation of an ornament.
2. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the object locator further comprises the ornament, and wherein the ornament is directly and permanently fixed to the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member.
3. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the object locator further comprises the ornament, wherein the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member comprises an enlarged portion and wherein the ornament is directly and permanently fixed to the enlarged portion.
4. The object locator of claim 3 , wherein the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of the ornament is directly and permanently fixed.
5. The object locator of claim 3 , wherein the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of the ornament is soldered.
6. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the object locator further comprises the ornament, and wherein the ornament is directly and permanently fixed to the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member.
7. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the object locator further comprises the ornament, and wherein the ornament is soldered to the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member.
8. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the object locator further comprises the ornament, wherein the ornament forms a part of the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member.
9. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the bent rod-shaped first member and the second member each independently comprise a material selected from the group consisting of metal and plastic.
10. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the bent rod-shaped first member and the second member each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof.
11. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the bent rod-shaped first member and the second member are each made of metal.
12. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the bent rod-shaped first member and the second member are each plated with a metal.
13. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the edge is an upper edge of a side panel of a bag-like purse.
14. The object locator of claim 13 , wherein the bag-like purse is a purse, a backpack, or a briefcase.
15. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the bent interior region is u-shaped.
16. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the bent rod-shaped first member is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular or ovoid.
17. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the bent rod-shaped first member is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge.
18. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein
the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member comprises a hook or first ring that substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member; and
the second member comprises a closed form clasp or second ring.
19. The object locator of claim 18 , wherein the closed form clasp or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element of the second member, wherein the u-shaped element is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook or first ring.
20. The object locator of claim 18 , wherein the closed form clasp or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook or first ring.
21. The object locator of claim 18 , wherein the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, wherein the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook or first ring.
22. The object locator of claim 18 , wherein the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, wherein the closed form member is an intermediate ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook or first ring.
23. The object locator of claim 18 , wherein the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a chain, wherein the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook or first ring.
24. The object locator of claim 18 , wherein the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a first interlocking closed form member in a plurality of interlocking closed form members, wherein a second interlocking closed form member in the plurality of interlocking closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook or first ring.
25. The object locator of claim 24 , wherein a closed form member in the plurality of interlocking closed form members is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape.
26. The object locator of claim 1 , wherein the pouch comprise a neoprene sleeve with a microfiber lining, and wherein the pouch is configured to hold and store a portable device.
27. An object locator comprising, in combination:
a) a bent rod-shaped first member having a first end portion and a second end portion that are opposed to each other and that are not urged against each other; and
b) a pouch that is configured for holding a mobile device, wherein the pouch includes a closed form element that substantially permanently and flexibly engages the first end portion, wherein
the bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a bent interior region between the first end portion and the second end portion,
the first end portion and the second end portion are configured to allow the bent interior region to hang from or clasp an edge, and
the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member is configured for affixation of an ornament.
Priority Applications (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/759,979 US20130161339A1 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2013-02-05 | Object locators |
US14/460,936 US20150014189A1 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2014-08-15 | Case assemblies and locators |
US14/866,201 US20160007706A1 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2015-09-25 | Locators and personal safety kits |
US15/691,514 US20170360169A1 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2017-08-30 | Key locator with remote tracking |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/919,494 US7308922B2 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2004-08-17 | Key locator |
US11/977,891 US7537032B2 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2007-10-26 | Key locator |
US12/468,012 US8672002B2 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2009-05-18 | Key locator |
US13/073,789 US9131758B2 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2011-03-28 | Key locator with a container |
US13/759,979 US20130161339A1 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2013-02-05 | Object locators |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/073,789 Continuation-In-Part US9131758B2 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2011-03-28 | Key locator with a container |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/460,936 Continuation-In-Part US20150014189A1 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2014-08-15 | Case assemblies and locators |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20130161339A1 true US20130161339A1 (en) | 2013-06-27 |
Family
ID=48653533
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/759,979 Abandoned US20130161339A1 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2013-02-05 | Object locators |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20130161339A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
ITAN20130220A1 (en) * | 2013-11-23 | 2015-05-24 | Puro Italian Style Spa | HERMETIC CASE FOR PORTABLE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT |
CN106251524A (en) * | 2016-08-19 | 2016-12-21 | 上海电机学院 | The shinny article seeker of sounding |
USD885044S1 (en) * | 2017-09-07 | 2020-05-26 | Sandra Teal | Cosmetic accessory holder |
US10681448B2 (en) * | 2018-07-17 | 2020-06-09 | Barry R. Mason | Storage pouch for earbuds |
-
2013
- 2013-02-05 US US13/759,979 patent/US20130161339A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
ITAN20130220A1 (en) * | 2013-11-23 | 2015-05-24 | Puro Italian Style Spa | HERMETIC CASE FOR PORTABLE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT |
EP2875748A1 (en) * | 2013-11-23 | 2015-05-27 | Puro Italian Style S.P.A. | Hermetic case for portable electronic devices |
CN106251524A (en) * | 2016-08-19 | 2016-12-21 | 上海电机学院 | The shinny article seeker of sounding |
USD885044S1 (en) * | 2017-09-07 | 2020-05-26 | Sandra Teal | Cosmetic accessory holder |
US10681448B2 (en) * | 2018-07-17 | 2020-06-09 | Barry R. Mason | Storage pouch for earbuds |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20090314678A1 (en) | Containers for reusable shopping bags and methods thereof | |
US8672002B2 (en) | Key locator | |
US9131758B2 (en) | Key locator with a container | |
US5025918A (en) | Showcase for storing and displaying post-type earrings | |
US6637484B1 (en) | Mobile technology organizer handbag | |
US20010027834A1 (en) | Wallet/handbag system with external phone pocket | |
US20080127460A1 (en) | Eyeglass retainer | |
US11478054B2 (en) | Rollable and foldable jewelry case with tangle free magnetic attachments to roll or fold up into reduced size for conveyance or storage | |
US20130161339A1 (en) | Object locators | |
US20090301911A1 (en) | Light weight clip on fishing fly case | |
US5692604A (en) | Daily wear organizer | |
US20210137233A1 (en) | Book enclosure for the storage, transport and display of decorative pins | |
US20110303560A1 (en) | Combination Cell Phone and Eyeglass Dedicated Case | |
US20060283680A1 (en) | Expandable organizer | |
US6095213A (en) | Purse organizer and carrying case | |
US20140224390A1 (en) | Handbag Insert Assembly and Method | |
US6068401A (en) | Stretchable bag | |
US5865233A (en) | Purse organizer | |
US20140060713A1 (en) | Shoulder-Slug Personal Article Carrier and Security Wallet | |
US20130134160A1 (en) | Case for carrying articles | |
US9439488B2 (en) | Jewelry storage system | |
US20190053593A1 (en) | Mobile pocket folio for quick access within a bag and methods of manufacturing same | |
US8408394B2 (en) | Sheet for holding elastic loops thereon | |
TWM520835U (en) | Portable pad | |
US20160007706A1 (en) | Locators and personal safety kits |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: THE FINDING IP HOLDING COMPANY, LLC, CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:STEIN, SANDRA;REEL/FRAME:029759/0168 Effective date: 20130205 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |