US20210140579A1 - Mounting device for portable electronic devices - Google Patents
Mounting device for portable electronic devices Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20210140579A1 US20210140579A1 US17/022,120 US202017022120A US2021140579A1 US 20210140579 A1 US20210140579 A1 US 20210140579A1 US 202017022120 A US202017022120 A US 202017022120A US 2021140579 A1 US2021140579 A1 US 2021140579A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- ball
- mounting device
- casing
- pole
- ball head
- 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
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- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 210000002414 leg Anatomy 0.000 description 31
- 210000000689 upper leg Anatomy 0.000 description 8
- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 6
- 241000238413 Octopus Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M13/00—Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles
- F16M13/04—Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or holding steady relative to, a person, e.g. by chains, e.g. rifle butt or pistol grip supports, supports attached to the chest or head
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/02—Heads
- F16M11/04—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand
- F16M11/041—Allowing quick release of the apparatus
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/02—Heads
- F16M11/04—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand
- F16M11/043—Allowing translations
- F16M11/046—Allowing translations adapted to upward-downward translation movement
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/02—Heads
- F16M11/04—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand
- F16M11/06—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting
- F16M11/12—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting in more than one direction
- F16M11/14—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting in more than one direction with ball-joint
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/20—Undercarriages with or without wheels
- F16M11/2007—Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment
- F16M11/2035—Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment in more than one direction
- F16M11/2078—Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment in more than one direction with ball-joint
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/20—Undercarriages with or without wheels
- F16M11/24—Undercarriages with or without wheels changeable in height or length of legs, also for transport only, e.g. by means of tubes screwed into each other
- F16M11/40—Undercarriages with or without wheels changeable in height or length of legs, also for transport only, e.g. by means of tubes screwed into each other by means of coilable or bendable legs or spiral shaped legs
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M13/00—Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M2200/00—Details of stands or supports
- F16M2200/02—Locking means
- F16M2200/021—Locking means for rotational movement
- F16M2200/022—Locking means for rotational movement by friction
Definitions
- Portable hand-held electronic devices are widely used across every segment of society. Almost every adult and teenager own a portable hand-held electronic device.
- Portable hand-held electronic devices hereafter referred to as electronic devices comprise smart phones, tablets, etc.
- An example of a smart phone is APPLE® IPHONE®
- APPLE® IPHONE® An example of a smart phone
- Users generally hold the electronic devices in their hand during use.
- a fixture hereafter a mounting device, for mounting electronic devices during use. Mounting devices are generally fixed or placed on a surface when used with the electronic device.
- An existing mounting device for electronic devices is designed to be affixed via a suction cup to a smooth, residue-free surface such as glass or plastic.
- Other variants of the mounting devices are designed to be attached to an object through a clamp or similar mechanism.
- existing mounting devices often allow the electronic device to disengage and fall off from the mounting device, or allow the mounting device to not remain attached to the surface on which the mounting device was attached.
- existing mounting devices are not designed to position the electronic device at a height or angle that is convenient for the user.
- Existing mounting devices are also not designed to be placed on an uneven surface. Therefore, for use on uneven surfaces, a user often holds the mounting device in one hand while using the electronic device with the other hand.
- a mounting device that positions the electronic device at a height and angle that is convenient for the user. Furthermore, there is a long felt but unresolved need for a mounting device that can be secured on an even or an uneven surface to enable the user to use the electronic device in, for example, a sitting or a resting position over the even surface or the uneven surface.
- the mounting device disclosed herein positions the electronic device at a height and angle that is convenient for the user.
- the mounting device can be secured on an even or an uneven surface to enable the user to use the electronic device in, for example, a sitting or a resting position over the even surface or the uneven surface.
- the mounting device disclosed herein comprises an adjustable receptacle, a first ball head, a second ball head, telescopic pole, and a tripod.
- the first ball head comprises a ball in rotatable communication with a casing within which the ball is disposed.
- the ball of the first ball head comprises a stem projecting out of an opening in the ball casing.
- the stem of the first ball head engages a base of the adjustable receptacle.
- a top end of the telescopic pole is attached to a base of the ball casing of the first ball head.
- the second ball head comprises a ball in rotatable communication with a casing within which the ball is disposed.
- the ball of the second ball head comprises a stem projecting out of an opening in the ball casing.
- the stem of the second ball head engages a bottom end of the telescopic pole.
- the tripod is attached to a base of the casing of the second ball head.
- FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of the mounting device disposed on a tripod with flexible, adjustable legs.
- FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of the mounting device used by a user.
- FIG. 1C illustrates a left view of the mounting device showing the flexible tripod.
- FIG. 2A illustrates a front perspective view of an adjustable receptacle of the mounting device.
- FIG. 2B illustrates a left side view of the adjustable receptacle of the mounting device.
- FIG. 2C illustrates a left side perspective view of the adjustable receptacle of the mounting device with an electronic device secured in the adjustable receptable.
- FIG. 2D illustrates another front perspective view of the adjustable receptacle of the mounting device.
- FIG. 3A illustrates a bottom perspective view of a first ball head of the mounting device.
- FIG. 3B illustrates a top perspective view of the first ball head of the mounting device.
- FIG. 3C illustrates another top perspective view of the first ball head of the mounting device showing the stem of the first ball head positioned in the circumferential groove by rotation of a ball of the first ball head.
- FIG. 4A illustrates a telescopic pole of the mounting device in a non-extended position.
- FIG. 4B illustrates the telescopic pole of the mounting device in an extended position.
- FIG. 5A illustrates a bottom perspective view of a second ball head of the mounting device.
- FIG. 5B illustrates a top perspective view of the second ball head of the mounting device.
- FIG. 5C illustrates another top perspective view of the second ball head of the mounting device showing a stem of the second ball head disposed in the circumferential groove by rotation of a ball of the second ball head.
- FIG. 5D illustrates an exploded view showing the telescopic pole and the tripod aligned with the second ball head.
- FIG. 6 illustrates the tripod of the mounting device with the legs of the tripod in a non-extended position.
- FIG. 7A illustrates a right-side view showing the mounting device used by the user while sitting on a chair.
- FIG. 7B illustrates a top view showing the flexible legs of the tripod of the mounting device positioned with respect to the user.
- FIG. 8A illustrates the mounting device placed on an uneven base of a car seat with the flexible legs adjusted.
- FIG. 8B illustrates the mounting device placed between two steps of a staircase with the flexible legs adjusted.
- FIG. 9A illustrates a right-side view showing the mounting device positioned between the user's thighs when the user is lying down on his back on a bed.
- FIG. 9B illustrates a top view showing the mounting device positioned between the user's thighs when the user is lying down on his back on the bed illustrated in FIG. 9A .
- FIG. 10A illustrates a right-side view showing the mounting device positioned above the user's head when the user is lying down on his back on the bed illustrated in FIG. 9A .
- FIG. 10B illustrates a top view showing the mounting device positioned above the user's head when the user is lying down on his back on the bed illustrated in FIG. 9A .
- FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of a mounting device 100 for an electronic device showing a tripod 105 comprising flexible, semi-rigid legs 105 a , 105 b and 105 c that are deformable by moderate manual pressure to configure to any shape or orientation as set by a user, and to thereafter retain their configuration with respect to one another.
- FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of the mounting device 100 used by the user 107 .
- the mounting device 100 comprises an adjustable receptacle 101 for holding an electronic device 106 , and a first ball head 102 comprising a ball 102 a in rotatable communication with a casing 102 b within which the ball 102 a is disposed, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B .
- the ball 102 a of the first ball head 102 comprises a stem 102 c projecting out of an opening 102 d in the ball casing 102 b as shown in FIG. 3B , FIG. 3C .
- the stem 102 c engages a base 101 b of the adjustable receptacle 101 .
- the mounting device 100 further comprises a telescopic pole 103 .
- the telescopic pole 103 comprises a top end 103 a and a bottom end 103 b , as shown in FIG. 1A .
- the top end 103 a of the telescopic pole 103 engages with the base 102 e of the ball casing 102 b of the first ball head 102 .
- FIG. 1C illustrates a left view of the mounting device 100 showing the flexible tripod 105 .
- the mounting device 100 further comprises a second ball head 104 , as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B .
- the second ball head 104 comprises a ball 104 a in rotatable communication with a ball casing 104 b within which the ball 104 a is disposed.
- the ball 104 a comprises a stem 104 c projecting out of an opening 104 d in the ball casing 104 b .
- the stem 104 c engages with the bottom end 103 b of the telescopic pole 103 as shown in FIGS. 5B, 5C and 5D .
- the mounting device 100 further comprises the tripod 105 as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C and 6 .
- the tripod 105 engages with the base 104 e of the ball casing 104 b of the second ball head 104 as shown in FIG. 5D .
- FIG. 2A illustrates a front perspective view of the adjustable receptacle 101 of the mounting device 100 .
- FIG. 2B illustrates a left side perspective view of the adjustable receptacle 101 of the mounting device 100 .
- FIG. 2C illustrates a left side perspective view of the adjustable receptable 101 of the mounting device 100 with an electronic device 106 secured in the adjustable receptable 101 .
- FIG. 2D illustrates another front perspective view of the adjustable receptacle 101 of the mounting device 100 .
- the adjustable receptable 101 comprises a screw hole 101 a at a lower section 101 e of the base 101 b of the adjustable receptacle 101 .
- the adjustable receptable 101 comprises a pair of spring-loaded arms 101 c and 101 d projecting substantially perpendicularly from an upper section 101 f of the base 101 b .
- the adjustable receptable 101 further comprises a pair of sliding members 101 g and 101 h , as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
- the pair of sliding members 101 g and 101 h comprise lower portions 101 i and 101 j that are configured to slidably engage with the pair of spring-loaded arms 101 d and 101 c , along an axis A-A′ illustrated in FIG. 2C .
- the axis A-A′ runs along the length of the adjustable receptacle 101 .
- the upper portions 101 m and 101 n of the pair of sliding members 101 g and 101 h extend substantially perpendicular to the axis A-A′ along which the pair of sliding members 101 g and 101 h slide.
- the adjustable receptacle 101 further comprises a first jaw 101 k attached to upper portions 101 m and 101 n of the pair of sliding members 101 g and 101 h .
- the adjustable receptacle 101 further comprises a first end 101 p and a second end 101 q , as shown in FIG. 2C .
- the first jaw 101 k and the pair of sliding members 101 g and 101 h are configured to move the first end 101 p of the adjustable receptacle 101 relative to the second end 101 q to secure the electronic device 106 in the adjustable receptable 101 , and to move the first end 101 p of the adjustable receptacle 101 to release the electronic device 106 .
- the pair of sliding members 101 g and 101 h use a pair of springs (not shown) within the pair of spring-loaded arms 101 d and 101 c to slide the first end 101 p of the adjustable receptable 101 into a position such that the first end 101 p with the force from the pair of springs, secures the electronic device 106 in the adjustable receptacle 101 .
- the adjustable receptable 101 further comprises a pull knob 101 r attached to the first jaw 101 k , as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
- the first jaw 101 k extends substantially perpendicular to the axis A-A and away from the upper portions 101 m and 101 n of the pair of sliding members 101 g and 101 h .
- the adjustable receptable 101 further comprises a second jaw 101 s that extends substantially perpendicular to the axis A-A′ and away from the lower portion 101 t of the pair of spring-loaded arms 101 d and 101 c .
- the electronic device 106 is held between the first jaw 101 k and the second jaw 101 s , as shown in FIG. 2B .
- the springs enable the first jaw 101 k and the second jaw 101 s to compressively hold the electronic device 106 between the first and second jaws 101 k and 101 s.
- FIG. 3A illustrates a bottom perspective view of the first ball head 102 of the mounting device 100 .
- FIG. 3B illustrates a top perspective view of the first ball head 102 of the mounting device 100 .
- the first ball head 102 comprises a ball 102 a in rotatable communication with the ball casing 102 b within which the ball 102 a is disposed.
- the ball 102 a has one of a spherical shape, an aspherical shape, etc.
- the first ball head 102 further comprises a circumferential groove 102 f on an upper section 102 h of a wall 102 i of the ball casing 102 b , as shown in FIG. 3B .
- the ball 102 a rotates within the ball casing 102 b to engage the stem 102 c in the circumferential groove 102 f .
- the ball casing 102 b further comprises a friction knob 102 g .
- the friction knob 102 g comprises a threaded rod 102 h that projects into the ball casing 102 b through a threaded hole 102 k in the wall 102 i of the ball casing 102 b .
- the friction knob 102 g advances into the ball casing 102 b to progressively constrict the rotatable movement of the ball 102 a within the ball casing 102 b .
- FIG. 3C illustrates another top perspective view of the first ball head 102 of the mounting device 100 showing the stem 102 c of the first ball head 102 engaged in the circumferential groove 102 f by rotation of the ball 102 a of the first ball head 102 .
- the stem 102 c is disposed substantially perpendicular to an axis B-B′ that runs along the length of the ball casing 102 b .
- the angle of inclination between the axis B-B′ and the stem 102 c is about 90 degrees when the stem 102 c of the first ball head 102 is disposed within the circumferential groove 102 f .
- the angle of inclination between the axis B-B′ and the stem 102 c can be varied between 0 degrees to 90 degrees by positioning the stem 102 c at any position between the circumferential groove 102 f and along the axis B-B′.
- the first ball head 102 further comprises a support plate 102 j rigidly attached to a mid-section of the stem 102 c .
- An upper section 102 l of the stem 102 c is threaded to mate with the screw hole 101 a in the base 101 b of the adjustable receptable 101 .
- the support plate 102 j is configured to frictionally engage with the base 101 b .
- the support plate 102 j and the stem 102 c tighten with the base 101 b of the adjustable receptable 101 .
- FIG. 4A illustrates a telescopic pole 103 of the mounting device 100 in a non-extended position.
- FIG. 4B illustrates the telescopic pole 103 of the mounting device 100 in an extended position.
- the telescopic pole 103 comprises a first pole 103 c and a second pole 103 d .
- the first pole 103 c is configured to slidably engage with the second pole 103 d , through an upper end 103 e of the second pole 103 d .
- the telescopic pole 103 further comprises a clamp 103 f attached to the upper end 103 e of the second pole 103 d .
- the clamp 103 f comprises a knob 103 g .
- the clamp 103 f is configured to secure the first pole 103 c with the second pole 103 d .
- the knob 103 g is rotated anticlockwise to reduce the grip of the upper end 103 e of the second pole 103 d on the first pole 103 c , allowing the first pole 103 c to slide in and out of the upper end 103 e of the second pole 103 d .
- the knob 103 g is rotated clockwise to tighten the grip of the upper end 103 e of the second pole 103 d on the first pole 103 c , thereby securing the first pole 103 c to the upper end 103 e of the second pole 103 d .
- the first pole 103 c comprises a threaded rod 103 h projecting from a top end 103 a of the telescopic pole 103 , for example, from a top end 103 a of the first pole 103 c .
- the threaded rod 103 h is configured to mate and fasten with a threaded hole 102 m in the base 102 e of the ball casing 102 b of the first ball head 102 .
- the second pole 103 d comprises a threaded hole 103 i at the bottom end 103 b of the second pole 103 d .
- the telescopic pole 103 comprises one or more intervening telescopic poles (not shown) between the second pole 103 d and the first pole 103 c.
- FIG. 5A illustrates a bottom perspective view of the second ball head 104 of the mounting device 100 .
- FIG. 5B illustrates a top perspective view of the second ball head 104 of the mounting device 100 .
- the second ball head 104 comprises a ball 104 a in rotatable communication with the ball casing 104 b within which the ball 104 a is disposed.
- the second ball head 104 further comprises a circumferential groove 104 f on an upper section 104 h of a wall 104 i of the ball casing 104 b .
- the ball 104 a is configured to rotate within the ball casing 104 b with the stem 104 c disposed within the circumferential groove 104 f .
- the ball casing 104 b further comprises a friction knob 104 j configured to one of progressively tighten and progressively loosen the rotatable movement of the ball 104 a , similar to the way the friction knob 102 g of the first screw head 102 to one of progressively constricts and progressively loosens the rotatable movement of the ball 102 a .
- the friction knob 104 g is rotated in a clockwise direction to progressively tighten the rotatable movement of the ball 104 a .
- the friction knob 104 g is rotated in an anti-clockwise direction to progressively loosen the rotatable movement of the ball 104 a , as illustrated in FIG. 5C .
- FIG. 5C FIG.
- FIG. 5C illustrates another top perspective view of the second ball head 104 of the mounting device 100 showing the stem 104 c of the second ball head 104 positioned in the circumferential groove 104 f by rotation of the ball 104 a of the second ball head 104 .
- the stem 104 c is positioned substantially perpendicular to an axis C-C′ that runs along the length of the ball casing 104 b .
- the angle of inclination between the axis C-C′ and the stem 104 c is about 90 degrees when the stem 104 c of the second ball head 104 is positioned within the circumferential groove 104 f .
- the angle of inclination between the axis C-C′ and the stem 104 c can be varied between 0 degrees to 90 degrees by positioning the stem 104 c anywhere between the circumferential groove 104 f and along the axis C-C′.
- FIG. 5D illustrates an exploded view showing the telescopic pole and the tripod aligned with the second ball head. As shown in FIG. 5D , the base 104 e of the second ball head 104 further comprises a screw hole 104 k configured to receive a screw 105 d projecting from an upper portion 105 e of the tripod 105 .
- FIG. 6 illustrates the tripod 105 of the mounting device 100 with the legs 105 a - 105 c of the tripod 105 in proximity to one another.
- the legs 105 a - 105 c of the tripod 105 are flexible, semi-rigid and configurable to the orientation desired by the user 107 , by application of manual pressure by the user 107 .
- Each individual leg 105 a is configurable with respect to the other legs 105 b and 105 c .
- the legs 105 a - 105 c are angled away from each other to form the tripod 105 .
- the tripod 105 comprises a hub 105 f on an upper portion 105 e to which each of the legs 105 a - 105 c are connected.
- the tripod 105 comprises a screw 105 d projecting, for example, perpendicularly, from the hub 105 f on the upper portion 105 e of the tripod 105 .
- FIG. 7A illustrates a right-side view of the mounting device 100 used by the user 107 while sitting on a chair 701 .
- FIG. 7B illustrates a top view showing the position of the flexible legs 105 a - 105 c of the tripod 105 of the mounting device 100 as set by the user 107 .
- FIGS. 7B and 1B when the user 107 uses the mounting device 100 in a seated position, the user 107 bends the flexible, semi-rigid legs 105 a - 105 c to form a tripod 105 .
- the user 107 places two of the flexible legs, for example, 105 a and 105 b under the thighs of the user, for example a right thigh 107 a and a left thigh 107 b .
- the third flexible leg 105 c is placed under his crotch region 107 c .
- This configuration and placement of the mounting device 100 provides a stable support for the mounting device 100 .
- the user 107 can adjust the height, horizontal tilt and vertical tilt of the electronic device 106 with respect to the tripod 105 .
- both of the user's 107 hands 107 d and 107 e are free.
- the tripod 105 is, for example, “Large flexible octopus tripod stand desktop camera tripod mobile phone support” manufactured by Shaoxing Shangyu Forfeel Photographic Equipment Co., Ltd., Zhejiangzhou, China.
- the tripod 105 is, for example, “Camera flexible tripod 12 inch tripod lightweight bendable tripod with smartphone stand” manufactured by Shenzhen Siroka Electronic Co., Ltd., Guangdong, China.
- the user 107 bends the flexible, semi-rigid legs 105 a - 105 c to wrap around a support structure, for example a pole (not shown) to affix the mounting device 100 to the pole.
- the user 107 bends the flexible, semi-rigid legs 105 a - 105 c to wrap around a support structure, for example a beam (not shown) to suspend the mounting device 100 from the beam.
- FIG. 8A illustrates the mounting device 100 placed on an uneven base 801 a of a car seat 801 by adjusting the flexible, semi-rigid legs 105 a - 105 c of the tripod 105 .
- the telescopic pole 103 attached to the stem 104 c of the second ball head 104 is inclined away from the seat back 801 b by using the friction knob 104 g .
- the adjustable receptacle 101 comprising electronic device 106 is inclined to face the seat back 801 b by using the friction knob 102 g .
- FIG. 8B illustrates the mounting device 100 placed between two steps 802 a and 802 b of a staircase 802 by adjusting the flexible legs 105 a , 105 b and 105 c.
- FIG. 9A illustrates a right-side view showing the mounting device 100 positioned between the user's 107 thighs 107 a and 107 b when the user 107 is lying down or resting on his back 107 f on a bed 901 .
- FIG. 9B illustrates a top view showing the mounting device 100 positioned between the user's 107 thighs 107 a and 107 b when the user 107 is lying down or resting on his back 107 f on the bed 901 illustrated in FIG. 9A .
- the flexible, semi-rigid legs 105 a - 105 c are bent away from each other.
- the flexible, semi-rigid legs 105 a - 105 c are bent such that each of the legs 105 a - 105 c are parallel to the surface of the bed 901 .
- the legs 105 a - 105 c are parallel to the surface of the bed 901 , it is convenient for the user 107 to position the legs, for example, legs 105 a and 105 b underneath his thighs 107 a and 107 b as illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B .
- FIG. 10A illustrates a right-side view showing the mounting device 100 positioned above the user's 107 head 107 g when the user 107 is lying down or resting on his back 107 f on the bed 901 illustrated in FIG. 9A .
- FIG. 10B illustrates a top view showing the mounting device 100 positioned above the user's 107 head 107 g when the user 107 is lying down or resting on his back 107 f on the bed 901 illustrated in FIG. 9A .
- the flexible, semi-rigid legs 105 a - 105 c are bent away from each other.
- the flexible, semi-rigid legs 105 a - 105 c are bent such that each of the legs 105 a - 105 c are parallel to the surface of the bed 901 .
- the legs 105 a and 105 b are slid underneath a pillow 902 used by the user 107 .
- the user 107 can place his head 107 g on the portion of the pillow 902 that is between the legs 105 a and 105 b , as illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B .
- the first ball head 102 is used to adjust the tilt of the adjustable holder 101 , comprising the electronic device 106 , with respect to the first ball head 102 .
- the second ball head 104 is used to adjust the tilt of the telescopic pole 103 with respect to the tripod 105 .
- the telescopic pole 103 is used to position the adjustable holder 101 proximal to the second ball head 104 or away from the second ball head 104 .
- the adjustable receptacle 101 of the mounting device 100 is configured to accommodate electronic devices 106 of various sizes and thicknesses.
- the adjustable receptacle 101 of the mounting device 100 is configured to accommodate the electronic device 106 in both a landscape orientation and a portrait orientation.
- the electronic device 106 mounted on the mounting device 100 enables a user to watch videos, for example, movies, news, etc., in the electronic device 106 , use the electronic device 106 to make and receive video calls, etc.
- both of the user's 107 hands 107 d and 107 e are freed-up for performing various tasks.
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- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
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- Studio Devices (AREA)
Abstract
A mounting device comprises an adjustable receptable, a first ball head, a second ball head, a telescopic pole, and a tripod. The first and second ball heads comprise a ball in rotatable communication with a casing within which the ball is disposed. The ball of the first ball head comprises a stem projecting out of an opening in the ball casing. The stem of the first ball head is attached to a base of the adjustable receptacle. A top end of the telescopic pole is attached to a base of the ball casing of the first ball head. The ball of the second ball head comprises a stem projecting out of an opening in the ball casing. The stem of the second ball head is in communication with the bottom end of the telescopic pole. The tripod is attached to a base of the casing of the second ball head.
Description
- This application claims priority to and the benefit of the provisional patent application titled “Smartphone Hands Free Stand”, application No. 62/931,897, filed in the United states Patent and Trademark Office on Nov. 7, 2019. The specification of the above referenced patent application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- Portable hand-held electronic devices are widely used across every segment of society. Almost every adult and teenager own a portable hand-held electronic device. Portable hand-held electronic devices, hereafter referred to as electronic devices comprise smart phones, tablets, etc. An example of a smart phone is APPLE® IPHONE® These electronic devices which have sold millions of units across the world, are now relatively expensive. Users generally hold the electronic devices in their hand during use. To facilitate the handling of electronic devices during use, a large market has been created for a fixture, hereafter a mounting device, for mounting electronic devices during use. Mounting devices are generally fixed or placed on a surface when used with the electronic device.
- An existing mounting device for electronic devices is designed to be affixed via a suction cup to a smooth, residue-free surface such as glass or plastic. Other variants of the mounting devices are designed to be attached to an object through a clamp or similar mechanism. However, during use, such existing mounting devices often allow the electronic device to disengage and fall off from the mounting device, or allow the mounting device to not remain attached to the surface on which the mounting device was attached. Furthermore, existing mounting devices are not designed to position the electronic device at a height or angle that is convenient for the user. Existing mounting devices are also not designed to be placed on an uneven surface. Therefore, for use on uneven surfaces, a user often holds the mounting device in one hand while using the electronic device with the other hand.
- Therefore, there is a long felt but unresolved need for a mounting device that positions the electronic device at a height and angle that is convenient for the user. Furthermore, there is a long felt but unresolved need for a mounting device that can be secured on an even or an uneven surface to enable the user to use the electronic device in, for example, a sitting or a resting position over the even surface or the uneven surface.
- This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further disclosed in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is not intended to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.
- The mounting device disclosed herein positions the electronic device at a height and angle that is convenient for the user. The mounting device can be secured on an even or an uneven surface to enable the user to use the electronic device in, for example, a sitting or a resting position over the even surface or the uneven surface.
- The mounting device disclosed herein comprises an adjustable receptacle, a first ball head, a second ball head, telescopic pole, and a tripod. The first ball head comprises a ball in rotatable communication with a casing within which the ball is disposed. The ball of the first ball head comprises a stem projecting out of an opening in the ball casing. The stem of the first ball head engages a base of the adjustable receptacle. A top end of the telescopic pole is attached to a base of the ball casing of the first ball head. The second ball head comprises a ball in rotatable communication with a casing within which the ball is disposed. The ball of the second ball head comprises a stem projecting out of an opening in the ball casing. The stem of the second ball head engages a bottom end of the telescopic pole. The tripod is attached to a base of the casing of the second ball head.
- The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For illustrating the invention, exemplary constructions of the invention are shown in the drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the specific structures and components disclosed herein. The description of a structure or a component referenced by a numeral in a drawing is applicable to the description of that structure or component shown by that same numeral in any subsequent drawing herein.
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FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of the mounting device disposed on a tripod with flexible, adjustable legs. -
FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of the mounting device used by a user. -
FIG. 1C illustrates a left view of the mounting device showing the flexible tripod. -
FIG. 2A illustrates a front perspective view of an adjustable receptacle of the mounting device. -
FIG. 2B illustrates a left side view of the adjustable receptacle of the mounting device. -
FIG. 2C illustrates a left side perspective view of the adjustable receptacle of the mounting device with an electronic device secured in the adjustable receptable. -
FIG. 2D illustrates another front perspective view of the adjustable receptacle of the mounting device. -
FIG. 3A illustrates a bottom perspective view of a first ball head of the mounting device. -
FIG. 3B illustrates a top perspective view of the first ball head of the mounting device. -
FIG. 3C illustrates another top perspective view of the first ball head of the mounting device showing the stem of the first ball head positioned in the circumferential groove by rotation of a ball of the first ball head. -
FIG. 4A illustrates a telescopic pole of the mounting device in a non-extended position. -
FIG. 4B illustrates the telescopic pole of the mounting device in an extended position. -
FIG. 5A illustrates a bottom perspective view of a second ball head of the mounting device. -
FIG. 5B illustrates a top perspective view of the second ball head of the mounting device. -
FIG. 5C illustrates another top perspective view of the second ball head of the mounting device showing a stem of the second ball head disposed in the circumferential groove by rotation of a ball of the second ball head. -
FIG. 5D illustrates an exploded view showing the telescopic pole and the tripod aligned with the second ball head. -
FIG. 6 illustrates the tripod of the mounting device with the legs of the tripod in a non-extended position. -
FIG. 7A illustrates a right-side view showing the mounting device used by the user while sitting on a chair. -
FIG. 7B illustrates a top view showing the flexible legs of the tripod of the mounting device positioned with respect to the user. -
FIG. 8A illustrates the mounting device placed on an uneven base of a car seat with the flexible legs adjusted. -
FIG. 8B illustrates the mounting device placed between two steps of a staircase with the flexible legs adjusted. -
FIG. 9A illustrates a right-side view showing the mounting device positioned between the user's thighs when the user is lying down on his back on a bed. -
FIG. 9B illustrates a top view showing the mounting device positioned between the user's thighs when the user is lying down on his back on the bed illustrated inFIG. 9A . -
FIG. 10A illustrates a right-side view showing the mounting device positioned above the user's head when the user is lying down on his back on the bed illustrated inFIG. 9A . -
FIG. 10B illustrates a top view showing the mounting device positioned above the user's head when the user is lying down on his back on the bed illustrated inFIG. 9A . -
FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of a mountingdevice 100 for an electronic device showing atripod 105 comprising flexible,semi-rigid legs FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of the mountingdevice 100 used by theuser 107. The mountingdevice 100 comprises anadjustable receptacle 101 for holding anelectronic device 106, and afirst ball head 102 comprising aball 102 a in rotatable communication with acasing 102 b within which theball 102 a is disposed, as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B . Theball 102 a of thefirst ball head 102 comprises astem 102 c projecting out of anopening 102 d in the ball casing 102 b as shown inFIG. 3B ,FIG. 3C . Thestem 102 c engages a base 101 b of theadjustable receptacle 101. The mountingdevice 100 further comprises atelescopic pole 103. Thetelescopic pole 103 comprises atop end 103 a and abottom end 103 b, as shown inFIG. 1A . Thetop end 103 a of thetelescopic pole 103 engages with the base 102 e of the ball casing 102 b of thefirst ball head 102. -
FIG. 1C illustrates a left view of the mountingdevice 100 showing theflexible tripod 105. The mountingdevice 100 further comprises asecond ball head 104, as shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B . Thesecond ball head 104 comprises aball 104 a in rotatable communication with a ball casing 104 b within which theball 104 a is disposed. Theball 104 a comprises astem 104 c projecting out of anopening 104 d in the ball casing 104 b. Thestem 104 c engages with thebottom end 103 b of thetelescopic pole 103 as shown inFIGS. 5B, 5C and 5D . - The mounting
device 100 further comprises thetripod 105 as shown inFIGS. 1A-1C and 6 . Thetripod 105 engages with the base 104 e of the ball casing 104 b of thesecond ball head 104 as shown inFIG. 5D . -
FIG. 2A illustrates a front perspective view of theadjustable receptacle 101 of the mountingdevice 100.FIG. 2B illustrates a left side perspective view of theadjustable receptacle 101 of the mountingdevice 100.FIG. 2C illustrates a left side perspective view of theadjustable receptable 101 of the mountingdevice 100 with anelectronic device 106 secured in theadjustable receptable 101.FIG. 2D illustrates another front perspective view of theadjustable receptacle 101 of the mountingdevice 100. As shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B , theadjustable receptable 101 comprises ascrew hole 101 a at alower section 101 e of the base 101 b of theadjustable receptacle 101. Theadjustable receptable 101 comprises a pair of spring-loadedarms upper section 101 f of the base 101 b. Theadjustable receptable 101 further comprises a pair of slidingmembers FIGS. 2A and 2B . The pair of slidingmembers lower portions arms FIG. 2C . The axis A-A′ runs along the length of theadjustable receptacle 101. Theupper portions members members adjustable receptacle 101 further comprises afirst jaw 101 k attached toupper portions members adjustable receptacle 101 further comprises afirst end 101 p and asecond end 101 q, as shown inFIG. 2C . Thefirst jaw 101 k and the pair of slidingmembers first end 101 p of theadjustable receptacle 101 relative to thesecond end 101 q to secure theelectronic device 106 in theadjustable receptable 101, and to move thefirst end 101 p of theadjustable receptacle 101 to release theelectronic device 106. The pair of slidingmembers arms first end 101 p of theadjustable receptable 101 into a position such that thefirst end 101 p with the force from the pair of springs, secures theelectronic device 106 in theadjustable receptacle 101. - The
adjustable receptable 101 further comprises apull knob 101 r attached to thefirst jaw 101 k, as shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B . Thefirst jaw 101 k extends substantially perpendicular to the axis A-A and away from theupper portions members adjustable receptable 101 further comprises asecond jaw 101 s that extends substantially perpendicular to the axis A-A′ and away from thelower portion 101 t of the pair of spring-loadedarms electronic device 106 is held between thefirst jaw 101 k and thesecond jaw 101 s, as shown inFIG. 2B . The springs enable thefirst jaw 101 k and thesecond jaw 101 s to compressively hold theelectronic device 106 between the first andsecond jaws -
FIG. 3A illustrates a bottom perspective view of thefirst ball head 102 of the mountingdevice 100.FIG. 3B illustrates a top perspective view of thefirst ball head 102 of the mountingdevice 100. Thefirst ball head 102 comprises aball 102 a in rotatable communication with the ball casing 102 b within which theball 102 a is disposed. Theball 102 a has one of a spherical shape, an aspherical shape, etc. Thefirst ball head 102 further comprises acircumferential groove 102 f on anupper section 102 h of awall 102 i of the ball casing 102 b, as shown inFIG. 3B . Theball 102 a rotates within the ball casing 102 b to engage thestem 102 c in thecircumferential groove 102 f. The ball casing 102 b further comprises afriction knob 102 g. Thefriction knob 102 g comprises a threadedrod 102 h that projects into the ball casing 102 b through a threadedhole 102 k in thewall 102 i of the ball casing 102 b. When thefriction knob 102 g is rotated in a clockwise direction, thefriction knob 102 g advances into the ball casing 102 b to progressively constrict the rotatable movement of theball 102 a within the ball casing 102 b. When thefriction knob 102 g is rotated in an anticlockwise direction, thefriction knob 102 g retracts from the ball casing 102 b to progressively loosen the rotatable movement of theball 102 a within the ball casing 102 b.FIG. 3C illustrates another top perspective view of thefirst ball head 102 of the mountingdevice 100 showing thestem 102 c of thefirst ball head 102 engaged in thecircumferential groove 102 f by rotation of theball 102 a of thefirst ball head 102. As illustrated inFIG. 3C , thestem 102 c is disposed substantially perpendicular to an axis B-B′ that runs along the length of the ball casing 102 b. The angle of inclination between the axis B-B′ and thestem 102 c is about 90 degrees when thestem 102 c of thefirst ball head 102 is disposed within thecircumferential groove 102 f. In an embodiment, the angle of inclination between the axis B-B′ and thestem 102 c can be varied between 0 degrees to 90 degrees by positioning thestem 102 c at any position between thecircumferential groove 102 f and along the axis B-B′. - The
first ball head 102 further comprises asupport plate 102 j rigidly attached to a mid-section of thestem 102 c. An upper section 102 l of thestem 102 c is threaded to mate with thescrew hole 101 a in the base 101 b of theadjustable receptable 101. Thesupport plate 102 j is configured to frictionally engage with the base 101 b. As the upper section 102 l of thestem 102 c is threaded into thescrew hole 101 a in the base 101 b, thesupport plate 102 j and thestem 102 c tighten with the base 101 b of theadjustable receptable 101. -
FIG. 4A illustrates atelescopic pole 103 of the mountingdevice 100 in a non-extended position.FIG. 4B illustrates thetelescopic pole 103 of the mountingdevice 100 in an extended position. Thetelescopic pole 103 comprises afirst pole 103 c and asecond pole 103 d. Thefirst pole 103 c is configured to slidably engage with thesecond pole 103 d, through anupper end 103 e of thesecond pole 103 d. Thetelescopic pole 103 further comprises aclamp 103 f attached to theupper end 103 e of thesecond pole 103 d. Theclamp 103 f comprises aknob 103 g. Theclamp 103 f is configured to secure thefirst pole 103 c with thesecond pole 103 d. For example, theknob 103 g is rotated anticlockwise to reduce the grip of theupper end 103 e of thesecond pole 103 d on thefirst pole 103 c, allowing thefirst pole 103 c to slide in and out of theupper end 103 e of thesecond pole 103 d. Theknob 103 g is rotated clockwise to tighten the grip of theupper end 103 e of thesecond pole 103 d on thefirst pole 103 c, thereby securing thefirst pole 103 c to theupper end 103 e of thesecond pole 103 d. In an embodiment, thefirst pole 103 c comprises a threadedrod 103 h projecting from atop end 103 a of thetelescopic pole 103, for example, from atop end 103 a of thefirst pole 103 c. The threadedrod 103 h is configured to mate and fasten with a threadedhole 102 m in the base 102 e of the ball casing 102 b of thefirst ball head 102. In an embodiment, thesecond pole 103 d comprises a threadedhole 103 i at thebottom end 103 b of thesecond pole 103 d. In an embodiment, thetelescopic pole 103 comprises one or more intervening telescopic poles (not shown) between thesecond pole 103 d and thefirst pole 103 c. -
FIG. 5A illustrates a bottom perspective view of thesecond ball head 104 of the mountingdevice 100.FIG. 5B illustrates a top perspective view of thesecond ball head 104 of the mountingdevice 100. Thesecond ball head 104 comprises aball 104 a in rotatable communication with the ball casing 104 b within which theball 104 a is disposed. Thesecond ball head 104 further comprises acircumferential groove 104 f on anupper section 104 h of awall 104 i of the ball casing 104 b. Theball 104 a is configured to rotate within the ball casing 104 b with thestem 104 c disposed within thecircumferential groove 104 f. The ball casing 104 b further comprises afriction knob 104 j configured to one of progressively tighten and progressively loosen the rotatable movement of theball 104 a, similar to the way thefriction knob 102 g of thefirst screw head 102 to one of progressively constricts and progressively loosens the rotatable movement of theball 102 a. The friction knob 104 g is rotated in a clockwise direction to progressively tighten the rotatable movement of theball 104 a. The friction knob 104 g is rotated in an anti-clockwise direction to progressively loosen the rotatable movement of theball 104 a, as illustrated inFIG. 5C .FIG. 5C illustrates another top perspective view of thesecond ball head 104 of the mountingdevice 100 showing thestem 104 c of thesecond ball head 104 positioned in thecircumferential groove 104 f by rotation of theball 104 a of thesecond ball head 104. As illustrated inFIG. 5C , thestem 104 c is positioned substantially perpendicular to an axis C-C′ that runs along the length of the ball casing 104 b. The angle of inclination between the axis C-C′ and thestem 104 c is about 90 degrees when thestem 104 c of thesecond ball head 104 is positioned within thecircumferential groove 104 f. In an embodiment, the angle of inclination between the axis C-C′ and thestem 104 c can be varied between 0 degrees to 90 degrees by positioning thestem 104 c anywhere between thecircumferential groove 104 f and along the axis C-C′.FIG. 5D illustrates an exploded view showing the telescopic pole and the tripod aligned with the second ball head. As shown inFIG. 5D , the base 104 e of thesecond ball head 104 further comprises a screw hole 104 k configured to receive ascrew 105 d projecting from anupper portion 105 e of thetripod 105. -
FIG. 6 illustrates thetripod 105 of the mountingdevice 100 with thelegs 105 a-105 c of thetripod 105 in proximity to one another. As illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C , thelegs 105 a-105 c of thetripod 105 are flexible, semi-rigid and configurable to the orientation desired by theuser 107, by application of manual pressure by theuser 107. Eachindividual leg 105 a is configurable with respect to theother legs legs 105 a-105 c are angled away from each other to form thetripod 105. Thetripod 105 comprises ahub 105 f on anupper portion 105 e to which each of thelegs 105 a-105 c are connected. Thetripod 105 comprises ascrew 105 d projecting, for example, perpendicularly, from thehub 105 f on theupper portion 105 e of thetripod 105. -
FIG. 7A illustrates a right-side view of the mountingdevice 100 used by theuser 107 while sitting on achair 701.FIG. 7B illustrates a top view showing the position of theflexible legs 105 a-105 c of thetripod 105 of the mountingdevice 100 as set by theuser 107. As shown inFIGS. 7B and 1B , when theuser 107 uses the mountingdevice 100 in a seated position, theuser 107 bends the flexible,semi-rigid legs 105 a-105 c to form atripod 105. In an embodiment, theuser 107 places two of the flexible legs, for example, 105 a and 105 b under the thighs of the user, for example aright thigh 107 a and aleft thigh 107 b. The thirdflexible leg 105 c is placed under hiscrotch region 107 c. This configuration and placement of the mountingdevice 100 provides a stable support for the mountingdevice 100. Theuser 107 can adjust the height, horizontal tilt and vertical tilt of theelectronic device 106 with respect to thetripod 105. Furthermore, after theuser 107 positions the mountingdevice 100 on thetripod 105, both of the user's 107hands tripod 105 is, for example, “Large flexible octopus tripod stand desktop camera tripod mobile phone support” manufactured by Shaoxing Shangyu Forfeel Photographic Equipment Co., Ltd., Zhejiang Province, China. In another embodiment, thetripod 105 is, for example, “Cameraflexible tripod 12 inch tripod lightweight bendable tripod with smartphone stand” manufactured by Shenzhen Siroka Electronic Co., Ltd., Guangdong, China. In an embodiment, theuser 107 bends the flexible,semi-rigid legs 105 a-105 c to wrap around a support structure, for example a pole (not shown) to affix the mountingdevice 100 to the pole. In another embodiment, theuser 107 bends the flexible,semi-rigid legs 105 a-105 c to wrap around a support structure, for example a beam (not shown) to suspend the mountingdevice 100 from the beam. -
FIG. 8A illustrates the mountingdevice 100 placed on anuneven base 801 a of acar seat 801 by adjusting the flexible,semi-rigid legs 105 a-105 c of thetripod 105. As shown inFIG. 8A , thetelescopic pole 103 attached to thestem 104 c of thesecond ball head 104 is inclined away from the seat back 801 b by using the friction knob 104 g. Theadjustable receptacle 101 comprisingelectronic device 106 is inclined to face the seat back 801 b by using thefriction knob 102 g.FIG. 8B illustrates the mountingdevice 100 placed between twosteps staircase 802 by adjusting theflexible legs -
FIG. 9A illustrates a right-side view showing the mountingdevice 100 positioned between the user's 107thighs user 107 is lying down or resting on hisback 107 f on abed 901.FIG. 9B illustrates a top view showing the mountingdevice 100 positioned between the user's 107thighs user 107 is lying down or resting on hisback 107 f on thebed 901 illustrated inFIG. 9A . As illustrated inFIGS. 9A and 9B , the flexible,semi-rigid legs 105 a-105 c are bent away from each other. Furthermore, the flexible,semi-rigid legs 105 a-105 c are bent such that each of thelegs 105 a-105 c are parallel to the surface of thebed 901. When thelegs 105 a-105 c are parallel to the surface of thebed 901, it is convenient for theuser 107 to position the legs, for example,legs thighs FIGS. 9A and 9B . -
FIG. 10A illustrates a right-side view showing the mountingdevice 100 positioned above the user's 107head 107 g when theuser 107 is lying down or resting on hisback 107 f on thebed 901 illustrated inFIG. 9A .FIG. 10B illustrates a top view showing the mountingdevice 100 positioned above the user's 107head 107 g when theuser 107 is lying down or resting on hisback 107 f on thebed 901 illustrated inFIG. 9A . As illustrated inFIGS. 10A and 10B , the flexible,semi-rigid legs 105 a-105 c are bent away from each other. Furthermore, the flexible,semi-rigid legs 105 a-105 c are bent such that each of thelegs 105 a-105 c are parallel to the surface of thebed 901. In an embodiment, thelegs pillow 902 used by theuser 107. To maximize comfort, theuser 107 can place hishead 107 g on the portion of thepillow 902 that is between thelegs FIGS. 10A and 10B . Thefirst ball head 102 is used to adjust the tilt of theadjustable holder 101, comprising theelectronic device 106, with respect to thefirst ball head 102. Thesecond ball head 104 is used to adjust the tilt of thetelescopic pole 103 with respect to thetripod 105. Thetelescopic pole 103 is used to position theadjustable holder 101 proximal to thesecond ball head 104 or away from thesecond ball head 104. - The
adjustable receptacle 101 of the mountingdevice 100 is configured to accommodateelectronic devices 106 of various sizes and thicknesses. In an embodiment, theadjustable receptacle 101 of the mountingdevice 100 is configured to accommodate theelectronic device 106 in both a landscape orientation and a portrait orientation. Theelectronic device 106 mounted on the mountingdevice 100 enables a user to watch videos, for example, movies, news, etc., in theelectronic device 106, use theelectronic device 106 to make and receive video calls, etc. When theuser 107 positions the mountingdevice 100 on thetripod 105, both of the user's 107hands - The foregoing examples have been provided merely for explanation and are in no way to be construed as limiting of the mounting
device 100 disclosed herein. While the mountingdevice 100 has been described with reference to various embodiments, it is understood that the words, which have been used herein, are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Furthermore, although the mountingdevice 100 has been described herein with reference to particular means, materials, and embodiments, the mountingdevice 100 is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed herein; rather, the mountingdevice 100 extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses, such as are within the scope of the appended claims. While multiple embodiments are disclosed, it will be understood by those skilled in the art, having the benefit of the teachings of this specification, that the mountingdevice 100 disclosed herein is capable of modifications and other embodiments may be effected and changes may be made thereto, without departing from the scope and spirit of the mountingdevice 100 disclosed herein.
Claims (9)
1. A mounting device for an electronic device, comprising:
an adjustable receptacle for holding the electronic device;
a first ball head comprising a ball in rotatable communication with a casing within which the ball is disposed, the ball comprising a stem projecting out of an opening in the ball casing, wherein the stem engages a base of the adjustable receptacle;
a telescopic pole, wherein a top end of said telescopic pole is attached to a base of said ball casing of said first ball head;
a second ball head comprising a ball in rotatable communication with a casing within which the ball is disposed, the ball comprising a stem projecting out of an opening in the ball casing, wherein the stem engages a bottom end of the telescopic pole; and
a tripod attached to a base of said ball casing of said second ball head.
2. The mounting device of claim 1 , wherein the adjustable receptacle comprises a screw hole at the base of the adjustable receptacle and a pair of spring-loaded arms projecting perpendicularly from an upper section of the base, wherein the adjustable receptacle further comprises a pair of sliding members, wherein lower portions of the pair of sliding members are configured to slide in and out of the pair of spring-loaded arms, wherein the adjustable receptacle further comprises a first jaw in communication with an upper portions of the pair of sliding members, wherein the first jaw and the pair of sliding members are configured to move a first end of the adjustable receptacle to secure the electronic device and to release the electronic device, and wherein the pair of sliding members use a pair of springs within the pair of spring-loaded arms to slide the first end of the adjustable receptacle into a position such that the first end, with force from the pair of springs, secures the electronic device in the adjustable receptacle.
3. The mounting device of claim 2 , wherein the first ball head further comprises a support plate rigidly attached to a mid-section of the stem, wherein an upper section of the stem is threaded to mate with the screw hole in the base of the adjustable receptacle, and wherein the support plate is configured to frictionally engage with the base to tighten the support plate and the stem with the base of the adjustable receptacle.
4. The mounting device of claim 2 , wherein the adjustable receptacle further comprises a pull knob attached on top of the first jaw, wherein the first jaw extends perpendicular to an axis that runs along a length of the adjustable receptacle and away from the upper portions of the pair of sliding members, and wherein the adjustable receptacle further comprises a second jaw extending perpendicular to the axis that runs along the length of the adjustable receptacle and away from a lower portion of the pair of spring-loaded arms, and wherein the electronic device is secured between the first and second jaws.
5. The mounting device of claim 1 , wherein the ball casing of the first ball head comprises an internal surface configured to engage an external surface of the ball of the first ball head, and wherein the first ball head further comprises a circumferential groove on an upper section of a wall of the ball casing, wherein the ball is configured to rotate within the ball casing and engage the stem in the circumferential groove, and wherein the ball casing further comprises a friction knob configured to one of progressively tighten and progressively loosen the rotatable movement the ball.
6. The mounting device of claim 1 , wherein the ball casing of the second ball head comprises an internal surface configured to engage an external surface of the ball of the second ball head, wherein the second ball head further comprises a circumferential groove on an upper section of a wall of the ball casing, wherein the ball is configured to rotate within the ball casing and engage the stem in the circumferential groove, and wherein the ball casing further comprises a friction knob configured to one of progressively tighten and progressively loosen the rotatable movement of the ball.
7. The mounting device of claim 6 , wherein the base of the second ball head further comprises a screw hole configured to receive a screw projecting from an upper portion of the tripod.
8. The mounting device of claim 1 , wherein the telescopic pole comprises a first pole and a second pole, wherein the first pole is configured to slidably engage with the second pole, wherein an upper end of the second pole comprises a clamp configured to secure the first pole with the second pole.
9. The mounting device of claim 1 , wherein legs of the tripod are flexible and semi-rigid.
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US17/543,691 US11649920B2 (en) | 2019-11-07 | 2021-12-06 | Mounting device for portable electronic devices |
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US201962931897P | 2019-11-07 | 2019-11-07 | |
US17/022,120 US20210140579A1 (en) | 2019-11-07 | 2020-09-16 | Mounting device for portable electronic devices |
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-
2020
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2021
- 2021-12-06 US US17/543,691 patent/US11649920B2/en active Active
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US11396973B2 (en) * | 2019-10-28 | 2022-07-26 | Tanya Weltzien | Support apparatus |
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USD943570S1 (en) * | 2020-03-26 | 2022-02-15 | Erik A. Kaiser | Cell phone mounting fixture |
USD1033062S1 (en) * | 2023-10-27 | 2024-07-02 | Shenzhen Smile Technology Co., Ltd. | Mirror |
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US20220090731A1 (en) | 2022-03-24 |
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