US20140299347A1

US20140299347A1 - Cord cover and holder

Info

Publication number: US20140299347A1
Application number: US14/247,730
Authority: US
Inventors: Thomas N. Stapleton
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-04-08
Filing date: 2014-04-08
Publication date: 2014-10-09
Also published as: US20140304282A1; US9542478B2

Abstract

The cords, such as electrical and/or cable wiring, extending from many domestic and commercial appliances generally hang from the appliances in a loose or unorganized manner, creating an unattractive appearance. The present invention relates generally to a curved cord cover and holder as well as to a system of curved cord cover and holders units used in conjunction to create a substantially continuous channel through which a cord or wire can be run between a source and an intended device in a systematic and organized manner. The curved cord cover and holder units comprises a bottom portion, at least one top portion, at least one connecting portion, and an attachment means for attaching the curved cord cover and holder to an external surface, wherein the curved cord cover and holder unit is curved at an angle.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to the provisional U.S. patent application No. 61/809,570, entitled “Cord Cover and Holder,” filed Apr. 8, 2013.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

REFERENCE TO A “SEQUENCE LISTING,” A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM

Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND

With the rapid expansion of technological devices comes the inevitable increase in wires and cables to carry both power and signals to and from the tech devices. The electrical and signal wiring forming the cords of these technological devices often create an unsightly appearance, hanging loosely from the appliance to the electrical outlet or signal source. The present invention seeks to introduce a novel and useful means of hiding wires by using curved cord covers and holders to facilitate the running of these wires to and from two intended objects
Information relevant to previous attempts to address these problems can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,454,374, and 4,563,542. However, each one of these references suffers from one or more of the following disadvantages: 1) the channel or passageway through which the cord or wire is run is comprised solely of straight angled cover pieces; 2) the cover pieces require “cap”-like structures to connect to one another and create a continuous channel; 3) in order to turn the channel in a different direction, an adapter must be utilized; 4) the covers and caps only utilize 90 degree turns or 180 degree straight angles, so the direction of the channel is greatly limited; 5) the covers and caps create only one channel through which a cord or wire can be run, greatly limiting a user's ability to separate and more efficiently organize wires and cords; and 6) the covers and caps disclosed in these patents do not allow for more free-flow design and the degree of flexibility in running cables and wires to electrical devices as required by today's market.
For the foregoing reasons, there exists a need for a cord cover and holder that will allow for greater flexibility in the positioning and aesthetic holding and covering of wires and cables than does the prior art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, which disclose several embodiments. The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the cord cover and holder which may be embodied in various forms. It is to be understood that in some instances, various aspects may be shown exaggerated or enlarged to facilitate understanding, therefore the drawings may not be to scale. It is to be understood that the drawings are to be used for the purposes of illustration only, and not as a definition of the limits of the claims.

In the drawings, similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views.

FIG. 1 is a frontal view of one embodiment of the cord cover and holder comprising a single cord channel.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a frontal view of another embodiment of the cord cover and holder, wherein the cord cover and holder comprises multiple cord channels.

FIG. 4 is a cross-section view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 depicts an application of the cord cover and holder in which multiple embodiments are utilized in conjunction with each other and with leaf-shaped additions to create a vine-shaped cord channel traversing from a source depicted as an electrical outlet to an input device depicted as a television.

DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed to a curved cord cover and holder unit as well as to a system of combining multiple curved cord cover and holder units to form a substantially continuous, free flowing channel through which a cord can be run between at least two intended objects. To provide for this solution, in one embodiment, a curved cord cover and holder unit is provided comprising a top portion, a bottom portion, and at least one connecting portion, wherein said cord cover and holder is curved at an angle. In an additional embodiment, the cord cover and holder unit comprises a top portion, a bottom portion, and at least one connecting portion that is attached to the top portion and the bottom portion; wherein said top portion is connected to said bottom portion only through said at least one connecting portion; wherein said bottom portion has a cross-section with at least one free end which is not connected to said top portion or said at least one connecting portion; wherein a slotted tubular cross-section is formed between said top portion, said bottom portion, and said at least one connecting portion; wherein the lack of connection between said top portion and the free end of said bottom portion creates a slot in the tubular cross section to allow for the insertion and removal of wires into and out of the device; and wherein the entire curved cord cover and holder structure is curved at an angle no less than 92 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees, measured relative to the external curvature. In a further embodiment, the curved cord cover and holder unit is constructed from a flexible and resilient material. In yet another embodiment, the flexible and resilient material is a plastic and the shapes of the top portion, bottom portion and connecting portion are extruded from the plastic. In a further embodiment, the flexible and resilient material is a plastic and the entire structure is extruded from a single section of plastic.
Many embodiments of the present cord cover and holder can be conceived. For example, in an embodiment, said top portion has an inner side and an outer side, wherein said inner side forms part of the wall for the slotted tubular cross-section. In a further embodiment, the cross section of the top portion is substantially in the shape of an arch, dome, bow, or other similarly curved or arced shape, wherein one end of the top portion is connected to said at least one connecting portion and the other end of the top portion extends away from said connecting portion towards a free end of said bottom portion, but does not connect to said bottom portion. In a further embodiment, said bottom portion is substantially planar. In yet a further embodiment, the cross section of the top portion is substantially in the shape of an “L”, wherein said L-shape comprises two perpendicular pieces connected at a substantially 90 degree angle, wherein one end of the substantially L-shaped top portion is connected to said at least one connecting portion and the other end of the top portion extends outwards from said connecting portion towards a free end of said bottom portion, but does not connect to said bottom portion except through said at least one connecting portion.
In further embodiments, said bottom portion is substantially planar so as to be able to be placed substantially flush with a flat surface, and said bottom portion comprises an inner side and an external side, wherein said inner side forms part of the wall for the slotted tubular cross section. In another embodiment, said at least one connecting portion is substantially planar.
In yet another embodiment, the connecting portion is formed from the same piece of flexible and resilient material as the top portion and bottom portion such that the three portions form one unitary structure; wherein the bottom portion is substantially planar; wherein the top portion and bottom portion are connected only by said at least one connection portion, wherein the top portion comprises at least one arch-shaped flange which extends away from said connecting portion towards an open end on said bottom portion in a bowed manner; wherein a free end of said arch-shaped flange is substantially juxtaposed to a free end of the bottom portion but does not connect to said free end of the bottom portion forming a slot; wherein at least one slotted, tubular cross-section is formed between the segment of the bottom portion between said free end of the bottom portion and the connecting portion, the side of the connecting portion which faces the slot, and the arch-shaped flange of the top portion; wherein the one unitary structure of the curved cord cover and holder is curved at an angle no less than 92 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees.
In yet a further embodiment, an adhesive is attached to said outer side of said bottom portion such that the bottom portion can be attached to any substantially planar surface. A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that multiple types of adhesives could be utilized and that the selection of a proper adhesive depends on multiple variables including, but not limited to, the size and weight of the cord cover and holder plus the cord or cords contained therein, the permanency for which the user desires the curved cord cover and holder to be in place, the frequency at which cords will be inserted into or removed from the cord cover and holder, and the material of the surface to which it will adhere. Suitable adhesives can be classified in multiple ways such as by the chemistry of the adhesive, including, but not limited to, epoxies, polyurethanes, and polyimides; the form in which the adhesive is introduced, including, but not limited to, pastes, liquid adhesive, film, pellets, and tape; the method of adhesive, including, but not limited to, hot melt, reactive hot melt, thermosetting, pressure sensitive, or contact; or their load carrying capability, including, but not limited to, structural, semi-structural, or non-structural adhesives. In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least one adhesive strip, which is connected to said outer side of said bottom portion, so that the adhesive strip can be used to attach the bottom portion to a substantially planar surface or other external surface.
In a further embodiment, multiple curved cord covers and holder units can be placed, or joined together lengthwise, such that a system comprising at least one substantially continuous channel is formed by the meeting of the substantially tubular cross-sections of the joined curved cord cover and holder units. This will allow for the combined cord cover and holder units, together as a system, to exhibit an overall curved shape without the need for adapter pieces to turn the cord or cords. A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that multiple different types of obstacles are routinely present on walls, floors, or other surfaces near electrical devices and that these obstacles are often positioned in a manner that would obstruct a wire from being run in a straight line from the electrical and/or signal device to the intended input or output outlet or device. This solves this issue by abutting at least two or more curved cord cover and holder units together to form at least one substantially continuous channel so that a user can aesthetically and functionally curve a cord around an obstacle. Common obstacles include, but are not limited to, paintings, pictures, fixtures, shelves, or other obstacles which may interfere with linearly running a cord along a surface directly from one point to another.
In yet another embodiment, a curved cord cover and holder is provided comprising a substantially “B”-shaped cross-section comprising a top portion, a connecting portion, and a bottom portion, wherein said top portion comprises two flanges, each extending outwardly in an arcuate-dome shape in two opposing directions from the center line of the top portion, that when mated with the bottom portion forms a “B”-shaped cross-section adapted for the insertion of electrical and signal wiring between the outwardly extending bottom portion and the substantially B-shaped top portion, forming two tubular channels, wherein the overall planar structure is curved at an angle no less than 92 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees.
In another embodiment, the curved cord cover and holder a substantially planar bottom portion and a substantially “m”-shaped top portion, wherein the “m”-shaped top portion comprises a center extension and two overhangs, and wherein when the top portion and the bottom portion are in mated alignment, only the center extension of the m-shaped portion contacts the planar bottom portion, and the overhangs abut but do not contact the bottom portion such that two slots are formed for the insertion of the electrical and/or signal cords between the planar bottom portion and the overhangs of the m-shaped top portion, and wherein the entire structure is curved at an angle no less than 92 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees, measuring along its obtuse angle. In this embodiment, when the top portion and bottom portion are mated, a “m”-shaped cross-section is formed with two channels for the insertion of cords.
In additional embodiments, a securing means of pre-determined width, is connected to the bottom portion, and is adapted to be attached to an external surface so as to attach the curved cord cover and holder to the external surface. Said pre-determined width can be determined based on multiple factors, including, but not limited to the weight of the cord cover and holder plus cords, the adhesive used, the size of the bottom portion. In one embodiment, at least one of the overhangs extends outwardly to the external surface so as to be flush therewith, so that the cord cover and holder may be attached to the external surface with the at least one overhang abutting the external surface. In an additional embodiment, at least one overhang extends outwardly to juxtapose but not connect to, said at least one end of the bottom portion so as to appear flush therewith.
In a further embodiment, the curved cord cover and holder comprises a top portion, a bottom portion, and a connecting portion; wherein said bottom portion is substantially planar and comprises an inner side and an external side; wherein said top portion comprises a top inner side and a top external side; wherein said connection portion is substantially flat; wherein said connection portion is connected to said bottom portion and to said top portion; wherein said bottom portion further comprises at least two free ends; wherein said connecting portion is connected to said bottom portion at a location that is substantially in the halfway between the two opposing free ends of the bottom portion; wherein said top portion comprises two flanges, wherein each flange comprises an free end and an end connected to said connecting portion; wherein said flanges extend away from said connecting portion in substantially opposing directions, each extending towards a corresponding free end of said bottom portion; wherein said corresponding free ends of the top portion and bottom portion are juxtaposed but do not connect; and wherein the entire cord cover and holder structure is bowed at an angle no greater than 178 degrees and no less than 92 degrees.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter of this specification is described with specificity to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to necessarily limit the scope of claims. Rather, the claimed subject matter might be embodied in other ways to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other present or future technologies.
The detailed description herein relates generally to a curved cord cover and holder as well as to a system of multiple curved cord cover and holders units used in together to create a substantially continuous channel through which a cord or wire can be run between a source and an intended device.
FIG. 5 is depicts one embodiment of a system using multiple curved cord cover and holders units 6 and/or 16 are placed, abutted or joined together, lengthwise, in cooperation with each other to create a substantially continuous channel through which a user can run a cord 5 or 15 from a source, depicted as electrical source or outlet 19 to device 20. The curved cord cover and holder units and system using the curved cord cover and holders units are not limited to straight channels or channels utilizing substantially 90 degree turns, as are those in the prior art.
As used herein, the term cord includes wires, cables, and other physical embodiments capable of conveying energy or signals from one electronic device to either an energy or signal source or to another electronic device. The types of wiring which could be hidden by the curved cord holder and cover include, but are not limited to, signal wiring such as HDMI cables, co-axial cables, s-video cables, phone cables, Ethernet cables, or other form of signal cables, which carries a signal from an output device such as a VCR, DVD, cable box, or other form of output device, to a device such as a monitor, television, or other type of input or output device capable of sending or receiving the signal from the source input or output device; or a power cable which supplies energy from an energy source or outlet to an electronic device.
Various embodiments of the curved cord cover and holder are included in the scope of the disclosure herein. For illustrative and non-limiting purposes, a single-channel curved cord cover and holder unit 6 and a two-channel cord cover and holder unit 16 are provided herein.
A single-channel curved cord cover and holder 6 is depicted in FIG. 1. Curved cord cover and holder 6 is a single-channeled cover and holder that comprises a flexible and resilient material. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the curved cord cover and holder comprises a curved, elongated, and extruded plastic, having a substantially arcuate shape as seen in the end view of FIG. 1 or the cross-sectional view as depicted in FIG. 2. One having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the curved cord cover and holder does not have to be formed from plastic. Rather, any flexible and resilient material may be used. Likewise, many suitable means for creating the curved cord cover and holder unit may be employed. By way of example, in one embodiment, the curved cord cover and holder is formed by extruding a profile from a plastic. In another embodiment, the curved cord cover and holder is formed using injection molding.
As seen in FIG. 1, curved cord cover and holder unit 6 comprises a bottom portion 1, a top portion 2, and a connecting portion 4. Bottom portion 1 and top portion 2 are of substantially the same length. Bottom portion 1 is a planar surface which longitudinally extends from one end of the curved cord cover and holder unit 6 towards the opposite end of the unit. As seen in FIG. 2, one side of bottom portion 1 is a free side 1 a while the side opposite to the free side is the connecting side 1 b, connected to connecting portion 4. FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment wherein the curved cord cover and holder 6 is formed from a single piece of extruded plastic, and connecting portion 4 is a curved, or bended section in the curved cord cover and holder which connects bottom portion 1 to top portion 2. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, top portion 2 is a curved surface comprising a connecting end and a free end. The connecting end is connected to the connecting portion 4 from which the rest of top portion 2, including the free end, outwardly extends towards the free end of bottom portion 1 in an arcuate, domed, curved or other similarly bowed shape.
As previously disclosed, the arched flange of top portion 2 has a free end 2 a and a connecting end 2 b. As used herein, the term “flange” is not meant to limit the scope of the top portion, but rather is to refer to the overall cover that is the top portion 2 expanding from the front end 21 of the cord cover and holder to the back end 22 and encompasses top portion connecting end 2 b and top portion free end 2 a as well as the cover portion between the two. The connecting end 2 b is opposite the free end 2 a. Further, the connecting end 2 b is attached to connecting portion 4. The flange of top portion 2 extends away from the connecting portion in an arch-like shape such that the free end 2 a of top portion 2 juxtaposes but does not connect to the free end of bottom portion 1. This leaves a slot 3 in between the free ends of bottom portion 1 and top portion 2. Slot 3 extends longitudinally in a curved, planar fashion along one side of the curved cord cover and holder unit. Because the curved cord cover and holder unit is formed out of a flexible and resilient material, a user is capable of manually manipulating slot 3 such that the free end 2 a of top portion 2 and the free end 1 a of bottom portion 1 are distanced from each other, enlarging slot 3 to introduce or remove a cord into or from the channel created by bottom portion 1, top portion 2, and connecting portion 4. Once the cord is introduced or removed, the flexible and resilient nature of the curved cord cover and holder allows the free ends of top portion 2 and bottom portion 1 to return to their natural configuration in a substantially juxtaposed position. One having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the intended natural configuration for the free ends of top portion 2 and bottom portion 1, in relation to each other, results in slot 3 being sized so that the cord cannot readily pass through slot 3 and pass outside the channel without external influence.
In order to allow for free flow or flexibility in the outlay of the curved cord cover and holder and to aid in its ability to functionally facilitate the running of cords around obstacles which may be present, the entire curved cord cover and holder 6 is curved or bowed at θ, measured relative to the external curvature. The angle of the bowing of the external curvature of the curved cord cover and holder may range from no less than 92 degrees to no greater than 178 degrees. In an additional embodiment, the angle ranges from 142 to 178 degrees. In yet another embodiment, the angle ranges from no less than 160 degrees to 175 degrees.
FIG. 3 depicts a two-channel curved cord cover and holder unit 16 which is used to cover and hold a cord 15, such as is generally found in a home, office, or an industrial setting, which connects at one end to an electronic device (not depicted) and on the opposite end to either another device or an energy source or outlet or signal source (also, not depicted). As shown in FIG. 3 and the related cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 4, curved cord cover and holder unit 16 comprises a bottom portion 11, a top portion 12, and a connecting portion 14. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, two channels 23 are formed in the curved cord cover and holder unit 16, allowing for both a greater number of cords to be used in connection with the curved cord cover and holder unit 16 and for the ability to organize cords between the two curved cord cover and holder channels 23. One having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that it is often necessary or desirable for cords to be moved or swapped out. For example, a user may switch a DVD player and its accompanying cords to another television. By offering a multiple channel curved cord cover and holder, the user is capable of separating the signal wires from cords or one device's cords from those of another by placing the cords into the separate channels of the curved cord cover and holder, allowing a user to more readily discern which cord he desires to remove or switch in the channel. This essentially allows for an easy interchange of cords and devices.
In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3, the curved cord cover and holder unit 16 comprises a structure formed of curved, elongated and extruded plastic and having a cross-section which is substantially “B” shaped, as seen in an end or cross-sectional view depicted in FIG. 4. As seen in FIG. 3, bottom portion 11 is an planar surface which extends from front end 21 to back end 22 of the curved cord cover and holder unit. Bottom portion 11, although substantially planar, is bowed with the rest of curved cord cover and holder 16 to accommodate the overall curved angle θ, which is no less than 92 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees. As depicted in FIG. 4, bottom portion 11 has two free ends 11 a which form part of slot 13. As shown in FIG. 3, connecting portion 14 is an internal vertical member, which connects bottom portion 11 and top portion 12. Connecting portion 14 extends from front end 21 of the cord cover and holder to the back end 22, and curves along with the curvature of the cord cover and holder as represented by θ. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3, the connecting portion 14 is located at substantially the center of both the bottom portion 11 and the top portion 12, allowing for the creation of two channels 23 of substantially similar sizes. One having ordinary skill in the art would readily recognize that the positioning of connecting portion 14 could be altered such that channels of varying volume, size and shape could be formed. Likewise, one having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that configurations of the curved cord cover and holder could be created wherein two or more channels are created. In another embodiment, the connecting portion consists of at least two post-like structures which are positioned so as to adequately connect top portion 12 and bottom portion 11.
Still referring to FIG. 3, top portion 12 consists of two arched flanges which extend in opposite directions from connecting portion 14, resulting in an overall dome-shaped or “m” shaped cross section. When viewing the cross section as depicted in FIG. 4, each flange of top portion 12 has a free end 12 a and a connecting end 12 b which is connected to connecting piece 14. Each flange extends in substantially opposing directions from connecting piece 14 towards the free ends of bottom portion 11 in an arcuate, domed, curved or other substantially bowed shape, such that the free ends of each flange of top portion 12 juxtapose but do not connect to the corresponding free ends of bottom portion 11. Because the free ends of top portion 12 and bottom portion 11 juxtapose but do not connect, slot 13 is formed between the free ends of top portion 12 and bottom portion 11.
As previously described, the curved cord cover and holder 16 is formed out of a flexible and resilient material, and therefore a user is capable of manually manipulating slot 13 such that the free ends of the flanges which comprise top portion 12 and the corresponding free ends of bottom portion 11 can be moved away from each other, enlarging slot 13 to introduce a cord into or remove a cord from the channels 23 created by the inner sides of bottom portion 11 and the flanges of top portion 12, and the corresponding side of connecting portion 14. Once the cord is introduced or removed, the flexible and resilient nature of the device allows the free ends of top portion 12 and bottom portion 11 to return to their natural configuration in a substantially juxtaposed position. One having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the intended natural configuration for the free ends of top portion 12 and bottom portion 11 is such that slot 13 is sized so that it is smaller than or equal to the diameter of cord 15.
In order to allow for flexibility in the layout of the cord cover and holder 16 and to aid in its ability to functionally facilitate the running of cords around obstacles, the curved cord cover and holder 16 is bowed at θ. The angle of θ may range from no less than 92 degrees to no greater than 178 degrees.
As depicted in FIGS. 2 and 4, an attachment means 7 is attached to the exterior side of the curved cord cover and holder unit's 6 or 16 bottom portion 1 or 11. Turning to the cross-sectional view in FIG. 4, attachment means 7 is secured to the exterior side of bottom portion 11. A person having ordinary skill in the art would readily recognize that multiple types and forms of adhesives could be used to adequately attach the cord cover and holder 16 to an external surface. As depicted in FIG. 4, attachment means 7 is an adhesive tape, that is glued or otherwise secured to the external side of bottom portion 11, to attach the cord cover and holder unit 16 to an external surface, such as a wall. In another embodiment, the attachment means is a double sided tape. In a related embodiment, a protective layer is placed on the side of the tape which will be attached to the external surface. The protective layer is capable of being peeled off when attachment is desired. Multiple types of adhesives could be utilized and the selection of a proper adhesive depends on multiple variables that are known to persons of ordinary skill in the art, including, but not limited to, the size and weight of the cord cover and holder plus the cord or cords contained therein, the permanency for which the user desires the cord cover and holder to be in place, the frequency at which cords will be inserted into or removed from the cord cover and holder, and the material of the surface to which it will adhere.
FIG. 5 discloses a system of curved cord cover and holder units 6 or 16 wherein at least two units are used to create a substantially continuous channel that traverses the area of a wall between electrical source or outlet 19 and device 20. To create the system, the user would optionally, but not necessarily, first determine the number of channels required for the particular use and the number of devices and cords required and then select the appropriate curved cord cover and holder unit type based on the number of channels needed. The system may include units with different numbers of channels within the same system. Next, the user would determine the location and layout for the curved cord cover and holder units, depicted as 6 or 16, which will be used to form the cord channel. With the layout selected, the user would attach the curved cord cover and holder units to the external surface via an attachment means 7 as depicted in FIGS. 2 and 4. Given the curvature of the curved cord cover and holder units and/or the intended layout chosen by the user, it is possible for gaps to be realized between the ends of two otherwise contiguous curved cord cover and holder units. In order to cover these gaps and thus create a continuously covered channel, gap covers 17 can be employed. In the depicted embodiment, gap covers 17 are formed from the same flexible and resilient material as curved cord cover and holder units 6 or 16 and curved on top to substantially match the curvature of top portions 2 or 12. Gap covers 17 are connected to or over the free ends of two substantially adjoining curved cord cover and holder units to cover and close the gap between the units and create a continuous channel. Gap covers 17 can either be attached directly to the curved cord cover and holder units or can be attached to the external surface, such as a wall or other substantially flat surface, in order to cover the gap via similar attachment means as those previously described herein.
As depicted in FIG. 5, additional features such as decorative piece 18 can be used with curved cord cover and holder units 6 or 16 and incorporated into the system in order to change the created channel's overall external appearance. As depicted, decorative piece 18 is a leaf or vine-like piece that can be directly or indirectly connected to curved cord cover and holder units 6 or 16 at either various or pre-determined locations in order to give the system a vine-like appearance, further adding to the aesthetic appeal of the curved cord cover and holder system. A person having ordinary skill in the art would readily recognize that multiple forms of decorative pieces of different shapes, designs, and sizes could be added to, connected to or otherwise paired with the curved cord cover and holder units to alter the overall appearance of the system. Moreover, in various embodiments, the additional pieces such as leaf or vine-like pieces 18 can either be directly attached to the cord cover and holder unit or can be attached to a different object and merely be positioned in a substantial proximity to a cord cover and holder unit such as to give the appearance that the two are connected.
For the purpose of understanding the curved cord cover and holder, references are made in the text to exemplary embodiments of a curved cord cover and holder, only some of which are described herein. It should be understood that no limitations on the scope of the invention are intended by describing these exemplary embodiments. One of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that alternate but functionally equivalent components, materials, designs, and equipment may be used. The inclusion of additional elements may be deemed readily apparent and obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art. Specific elements disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to employ the present invention.
Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized should be or are in any single embodiment. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.
Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the Curved Cord Cover and Holder may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments.
Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale; instead, emphasis has been placed upon illustrating the principles of the disclosure. In addition, in the embodiments depicted herein, like reference numerals in the various drawings refer to identical or near identical structural elements.
Moreover, the terms “substantially” or “approximately” as used herein may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change to the basic function to which it is related.

Claims

1. A curved cord cover and holder comprising:

a. A bottom portion comprising a free end and a connecting end;

b. At least one top portion comprising a free end and a connecting end; and,

c. A connecting portion comprising two sides, one connected to the bottom portion and one connected to the top portion, and two ends,

d. Wherein said at least one top portion is connected to the bottom portion via said connecting portion; wherein said at least one top portion is connected to one side of the connecting portion and said bottom portion is connected to the other side of said connecting portion; wherein at least one channel is formed between said bottom portion, said at least one top portion, and said connecting portion; wherein a slit in said channel is formed between said at least one top portion and said bottom portion, wherein said cord cover and holder is curved at an angle of curvature no less than 92 degrees and no greater than 180 degrees; wherein at least said at least one top portion comprises a flexible and resilient material.

2. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 1, wherein said bottom portion is substantially planar and comprises an inner side and an external side in relation to said channel; wherein an attachment means is coupled to said external side of the bottom portion for attaching the cord cover and holder to an external surface.

3. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 1, wherein said bottom portion is substantially planar; wherein said top portion comprises a flange with a free end and a connecting end, wherein said flange connecting end is connected to said connecting portion and wherein said flange extends away from said connecting portion in an arcuate manner such that the free end of the flange naturally rests in proximity to said at least one free end of the bottom portion.

4. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 1, wherein said bottom portion is substantially planar; wherein said top portion comprises a flange with a free end and a connecting end, wherein said flange connecting end is connected to said connecting portion; wherein said flange extends away from said connecting portion in an arcuate manner such that the free end of the flange naturally rests in proximity to said at least one free end of the bottom portion; and, wherein an attachment means is coupled to said external side of the bottom portion for attaching the cord cover and holder to a surface.

5. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 1, wherein the angle of curvature is no less than 142 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees.

6. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 1, wherein the angle of curvature is no less than 160 degrees and no greater than 175 degrees.

7. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 1, wherein the bottom portion, the top portion, and the connecting portion create one unit formed out of the same piece of flexible and resilient material.

8. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 1, wherein said bottom portion is substantially planar; wherein said top portion comprises a flange with a free end and a connecting end, wherein said flange connecting end is connected to said connecting portion; wherein said flange extends away from said connecting portion in an arcuate manner such that the free end of the flange naturally rests in proximity to said at least one free end of the bottom portion; wherein an attachment means is coupled to said external side of the bottom portion for attaching the cord cover and holder to a surface; wherein the bottom portion, the top portion, and the connecting portion create one unit formed out of the same piece of flexible and resilient material; and, wherein a decorative piece is attached directly or indirectly to said curved cord cover and holder.

9. A curved cord cover and holder comprising:

a. A bottom portion with two free ends;

b. A top portion, wherein said top portion comprises at least two flanges; wherein each of said at least two flanges further comprises a connecting end and a free end; and,

c. At least one connecting portion;

d. wherein said bottom portion connects to the connecting portion at a point between the free ends of the bottom portion, wherein said connecting end of each flange is connected to the connecting portion, indirectly connecting the top portion to the bottom portion via the connecting portion; wherein at least two channels are formed between said bottom portion, a flange, and said connecting portion; wherein a slit is formed in the channel between the corresponding free ends of the flange and bottom portion; wherein said cord cover and holder is curved at an angle no less than 92 degrees and no greater than 180 degrees.

10. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 9, wherein said bottom portion is substantially planar and comprises an inner side and an external side in relation to said channels; wherein an attachment means is coupled to said external side of the bottom portion for attaching the cord cover and holder to an external surface.

11. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 9, wherein said bottom portion is substantially planar and comprises at least two free ends on opposing sides; wherein said connecting portion connects to the bottom portion at a location between said opposing free ends; wherein said at least two flanges outwardly extend in opposing directions from said connecting portion in an arcuate manner towards a free end of the bottom portion such that the free end of each flange naturally rests in proximity to said a free end of the bottom portion.

12. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 9, wherein said bottom portion is substantially planar and comprises at least two free ends on opposing sides; wherein said connecting portion connects to the bottom portion at a location between said opposing free ends; wherein said at least two flanges outwardly extend in opposing directions from said connecting portion in an arcuate manner towards a free end of the bottom portion such that the free end of each flange naturally rests in proximity to said a free end of the bottom portion and, wherein an attachment means is coupled to said external side of the bottom portion for attaching the cord cover and holder to an external surface.

13. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 9, wherein the angle of curvature is no less than 142 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees.

14. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 9, wherein the angle of curvature is no less than 160 degrees and no greater than 175 degrees.

15. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 9, wherein the bottom portion, the top portion, and the connecting portion create one unit formed out of the same piece of flexible and resilient material.

16. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 9, wherein a decorative piece is attached directly or indirectly to said curved cord cover and holder.

17. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 12 wherein said bottom portion is substantially planar and comprises an inner side and an external side in relation to said channels as well as at least two free ends on opposing sides; wherein said connecting portion connects to the bottom portion at a location between said opposing free ends; wherein said at least two flanges outwardly extend in opposing directions from said connecting portion in an arcuate manner towards a free end of the bottom portion such that the free end of each flange naturally rests in proximity to said a free end of the bottom portion; wherein an attachment means is coupled to said external side of the bottom portion for attaching the cord cover and holder to a surface; wherein said cord cover and holder is curved at an angle no less than 142 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees; and, wherein the bottom portion, the top portion, and the connecting portion create one unit formed out of flexible and resilient material.

18. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 12, wherein said cord cover and holder is curved at an angle no less than 142 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees; wherein the bottom portion, the top portion, and the connecting portion create one unit formed out of flexible and resilient material; and, wherein the cord cover and holder has a cross section that is substantially in the shape of a “B.”

19. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 9, wherein said bottom portion connects to the connecting portion at a point substantially in the middle of the free ends of the bottom portion.

20. The curved cord cover and holder of claim 12, wherein said bottom portion connects to the connecting portion at a point substantially in the middle of the free ends of the bottom portion; wherein said cord cover and holder is curved at an angle no less than 142 degrees and no greater than 178 degrees; wherein the bottom portion, the top portion, and the connecting portion create one unit formed out of flexible and resilient material; and, wherein a decorative piece is attached directly or indirectly to said curved cord cover and holder.