WO2012166114A1 - Ensemble d'écouteur extensible et rétractable pouvant être fixé - Google Patents

Ensemble d'écouteur extensible et rétractable pouvant être fixé Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012166114A1
WO2012166114A1 PCT/US2011/038573 US2011038573W WO2012166114A1 WO 2012166114 A1 WO2012166114 A1 WO 2012166114A1 US 2011038573 W US2011038573 W US 2011038573W WO 2012166114 A1 WO2012166114 A1 WO 2012166114A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
earpiece
plate
reel
reel housing
extendable
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2011/038573
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Robert Kroupa
Original Assignee
Robert Kroupa
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Robert Kroupa filed Critical Robert Kroupa
Priority to PCT/US2011/038573 priority Critical patent/WO2012166114A1/fr
Publication of WO2012166114A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012166114A1/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H75/00—Storing webs, tapes, or filamentary material, e.g. on reels
    • B65H75/02—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks
    • B65H75/34—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks specially adapted or mounted for storing and repeatedly paying-out and re-storing lengths of material provided for particular purposes, e.g. anchored hoses, power cables
    • B65H75/38—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks specially adapted or mounted for storing and repeatedly paying-out and re-storing lengths of material provided for particular purposes, e.g. anchored hoses, power cables involving the use of a core or former internal to, and supporting, a stored package of material
    • B65H75/44—Constructional details
    • B65H75/4418—Arrangements for stopping winding or unwinding; Arrangements for releasing the stop means
    • B65H75/4428—Arrangements for stopping winding or unwinding; Arrangements for releasing the stop means acting on the reel or on a reel blocking mechanism
    • B65H75/4431—Manual stop or release button
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H75/00—Storing webs, tapes, or filamentary material, e.g. on reels
    • B65H75/02—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks
    • B65H75/34—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks specially adapted or mounted for storing and repeatedly paying-out and re-storing lengths of material provided for particular purposes, e.g. anchored hoses, power cables
    • B65H75/38—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks specially adapted or mounted for storing and repeatedly paying-out and re-storing lengths of material provided for particular purposes, e.g. anchored hoses, power cables involving the use of a core or former internal to, and supporting, a stored package of material
    • B65H75/44—Constructional details
    • B65H75/4457—Arrangements of the frame or housing
    • B65H75/446—Arrangements of the frame or housing for releasably or permanently attaching the frame to a wall, on a floor or on a post or the like
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2701/00—Handled material; Storage means
    • B65H2701/30—Handled filamentary material
    • B65H2701/39—Other types of filamentary materials or special applications
    • B65H2701/3919—USB, earphones, audio or video cables, e.g. for connecting small electronic devices such as MP3 players or mobile telephones

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to extendable and retractable earpieces for mobile sound and communication devices and for casings for such devices, and more particularly to an extendable and retractable earpiece assembly permanently attached directly to the mobile device in one embodiment, removably attached directly to the mobile device in other embodiments, and removably attached to or integrally formed with a protective casing for protecting a mobile electronic device in further embodiments.
  • Portable sound and communication devices deliver sound waves through either a built in speaker unit or a pair of earpieces adapted to be electrically connected to and removed from the device. While a speaker is a practical feature for a portable communication device, portable sound systems designed to deliver a user's musical selections over a period of time generally require connection of at least one headset earpiece, or earpieces per se, to the portable device to convey the sound to the user in private, and without disturbing those nearby the user. Also, many portable
  • communication devices that have a built-in speaker system also have a socket for receiving an earpiece connection jack or plug.
  • headsets or earpieces are used with headsets or earpieces.
  • portable communication device users rely on headsets or earpieces for convenience in multi- tasking.
  • Such headsets and earpieces, and associated wires when not in use, extend and dangle from the mobile device, allowing the wires, headset and/or earpieces to become ensnared on a nearby object, such as the user's clothing, and to rip out of the device causing damage to the headset or earpieces and wires, or both. Replacement of such damaged parts can be costly.
  • a common accessory furnished with mobile communication and sound devices is a pliable plastic or rubber casing that extends tightly around the outer body of the device, with apertures in the casing allowing the user to access the controls, inputs, outputs, and displays of the communication or sound device.
  • the plastic or rubber tightly fitting casing protects the integrity of the mobile device if the device is accidentally dropped or flung into contact with a hard surface by absorbing potentially disabling shock forces before they reach the mobile device.
  • Presently available recharging units and carrying cases for portable sound and communication devices include assemblies to hold earpiece cables around a spool attached to the carrying case or recharging unit. See, for example, U.S. Patent
  • the present device While minimizing the amount of accessories needed for a mobile electronic device, the present device also minimizes the length of a connector plug cable and earpiece cables exposed to the environment during use, reducing potential damage to the mobile electronic device as well as injury to the user. This is particularly advantageous for children carrying backpacks and sports duffle bags who desire to listen to music or speak with their friends on the phone at the same time. This is also advantageous to adults hurrying to appointments while carrying a brief case or purse while speaking on the phone.
  • None of the aforesaid prior devices provide a combined integral extendable and retractable earpiece cable reel assembly that attaches directly to a portable sound or communication device, or that can be removably attached directly to a portable sound or communication device. Further, none of the aforesaid prior devices provide a combined integral extendable and retractable earpiece cable reel assembly that is integrally formed with or removably attached to a tight fitting protective casing for a portable sound or communication device.
  • the present invention provides, in one embodiment, a carrying clip allowing a user to attach a mobile sound or communication device such as a cell phone, sound pod, PDA, pager, etc. to the user's belt, pocket, handbag, backpack or other personally worn or carried item.
  • the carrying clip includes a housing portion in which is located extendable and retractable earpieces. Each earpiece is attached to an earpiece cable that is electrically connected to the earpiece at one end, and to a jack plug at an opposite end. The jack plug is designed to be inserted into the outlet portal of the mobile device.
  • the carrying clip in one embodiment has a semi-permanent adhesive on one surface of a plate, with the adhesive removably attaching the plate to the rear of the mobile device. This embodiment of the invention eliminates carrying three separate items: the cell phone or sound pod, carrying case, and headset or earpieces.
  • the housing for the retractable earpiece cables could be permanently fixed to the plate, or could be removably attached to the plate.
  • the clip assembly may also include a separate small adhesive-backed hook-and- loop fastening device to attach the clip to the dashboard of a car, or to another solid surface.
  • Additional embodiments of the present invention provide a rear plate adapted to be fixedly attached to the rear of the mobile communication or sound device, and a forward plate assembly that is removably attached to the rear plate.
  • the forward plate assembly includes a cable reel assembly into which the earpiece cables are retracted when the mobile device is not in use.
  • the removable forward plate assembly allows the mobile communication or sound device to be installed in a docking station without interference from the forward plate and cable reel assembly.
  • the present invention also provides a further embodiment in which the carrying clip fixedly or pivotally attaches to a casing, which casing tightly encases the mobile electronic device.
  • the casing is made of rubber, plastic, or other suitable materials, and is configured so that the interior of the casing has substantially the same dimensions as the exterior of the electronic mobile device.
  • the casing includes apertures for the controls and input and output ports of the mobile electronic device, as well as an aperture for each electronic display.
  • the casing in an embodiment, also includes an integrally formed reel housing portion in which the extendable and retractable earpiece cables are located. In an additional embodiment, the earpiece cable reel housing is removably attached to the casing.
  • Each earpiece is attached to an earpiece cable that is electrically connected to the earpiece at one end, and to a connector plug at an opposite end.
  • the earpiece cables and connector plug cables penetrate the reel housing through earpiece cable apertures and connector plug apertures, respectively.
  • the connector plug is designed to be inserted into the outlet portal of the mobile electronic device.
  • the housing in the additional embodiment can be removed for service or replacement, and reattached again to the casing's posterior side, opposite the casing aperture for the electronic display.
  • the reel housing portion in another embodiment is integrally formed with the casing on the casing's posterior side, opposite the casing aperture for the electronic display.
  • Fig. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the invention wherein the carrying clip extendable and retractable earpiece cable assembly and reel housing is attached to a plate, wherein the plate is attached to a mobile communication or sound device;
  • Fig. 2 is a side view of the plate, cable assembly and reel housing, and carrying clip of the embodiment of the present invention, shown in Fig. 1, taken along line 2—2 of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 2A is an exploded view of the reel housing of Figs. 1 and 2, illustrating a typical extendable and retractable cable reel in the housing;
  • Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the rear plate of a further embodiment of the invention, shown attached to the rear of a portable sound or communication device;
  • Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the front plate assembly of the embodiment of the invention illustrated in Fig. 3, with the lines extending between Figs. 3 and 4 illustrating how the front plate assembly is connected to the rear plate;
  • Fig. 5 is a top view of the front plate assembly of Fig. 4 shown removably attached to the rear plate shown in Fig. 3, with the rear plate shown attached to the mobile sound or communication device;
  • Fig. 6 is a detail view of a portion of the rear plate shown in Fig. 3, illustrating an alternate embodiment of the invention where a portion of the tubular attachment member includes an aperture to receive a locking hinge of the front plate assembly;
  • Fig. 7 is a detail view of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 6 where a portion of the front plate assembly includes a locking hinge adapted to be received in the aperture of Fig. 6 when the front plate assembly is attached to the rear plate assembly;
  • Fig. 8 is an elevation view of a further embodiment of the front plate assembly shown in Figs. 4 and 5;
  • Fig. 9 is an elevational view of the rear plate of Fig. 3, wherein spring locking mechanisms are included to removably attach the rear plate to the front plate in the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 8 with the lines extending between Figs. 8 and 9 illustrating how the front plate assembly is attached to the rear plate;
  • Fig. 10A is a perspective detail view of the spring locking mechanism and front plate shown in Figs. 8 and 9;
  • Fig. 1 OB is a sectional view showing the spring locking mechanism and front plate assembly of Figs. 8 and 9 shown in the engaged position
  • Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the rear plate of a further embodiment of the present invention, where the attachment clip is attached to or formed with the rear plate;
  • Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the forward plate assembly of the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 11, with lines extending between Figs. 11 and 12 to illustrate how the front plate assembly is attached to the rear plate; and
  • Fig. 13 is a top view of the forward plate assembly of Fig. 12 shown removably attached to the rear plate shown in Fig. 11, with the rear plate shown attached to the mobile sound or communication device;
  • Fig. 14 is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the retractable earpiece and casing assembly of the present invention, wherein the carrying clip is attached the casing, the extendable and retractable earpiece cable assembly is located inside the reel housing, and the reel housing is integrally formed with the casing.
  • the casing is adapted to encase and protect the mobile communication or sound device;
  • Fig. 15 is an exploded view of the cable reel mechanism lodged in the integral reel housing of Fig. 14, illustrating a typical extendable and retractable cable reel in the housing;
  • Fig. 16 is a side view depicting the reel housing and carrying clip, connector plug aperture, and mobile device control apertures of the earpiece and casing assembly shown in Fig. 14;
  • Fig. 17 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention depicting the electronic display aperture in the casing assembly
  • Fig. 18 is a side view, opposite of Fig. 16, depicting the reel housing and carrying clip as well as the earpiece cable apertures of the earpiece and casing assembly shown in Fig. 14;
  • Fig. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention wherein the carrying clip is attached to, and the extendable and retractable earpiece cable assembly reel housing is integrally formed with, a side of the casing.
  • the casing is adapted to encase the mobile communication or sound device;
  • Fig. 20 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a carrying clip assembly, wherein the carrying clip is pivotally attached to the casing by pivot pins and brackets.
  • the carrying clip rests in the closed position, abutting the casing, due to the force exerted on the carrying clip by the spring;
  • Fig. 21 is a rear perspective view of a further embodiment of the retractable earpiece and casing assembly of the present invention, wherein the carrying clip is attached to the reel housing, the extendable and retractable earpiece cable assembly is located inside the reel housing, and the reel housing is removably attached to the casing.
  • the casing is adapted to encase the mobile communication or sound device;
  • Fig. 22 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of the protective apparatus of Fig. 21, wherein the reel housing (not shown) is removed from a pair of brackets attached to the casing;
  • Fig. 23 is a perspective view of the detachable reel housing of the embodiment of Fig. 21, where the detachable reel housing is removed from the casing;
  • Fig. 24 is a perspective detail view of the detachable reel housing of Fig. 21 attaching and detaching from the casing. Detailed Description of the Illustrated Embodiments
  • the present invention in one embodiment, provides a retractable headset or earpiece cable assembly mounted on a plate.
  • the plate is attached directly to the rear of a mobile communications or sound device, and the cable assembly is extendable from and retractable into a reel housing mounted on the plate.
  • a clip assembly is also mounted on the plate for attaching the plate and mobile device to the belt, pocket, backpack or strap worn or supported by the user.
  • the invention allows a user to carry only a single item that includes the mobile communication or sound device, retractable headset or earpiece and cables, and clip-on assembly in lieu of transporting several pieces to achieve the same results provided by the present invention.
  • the user benefits from the convenience and ease of transporting and using his or her mobile communication or sound device, and having an integral clip-on unit and cable reel assembly mounted directly on the mobile device to prevent the cables from becoming tangled or hanging loose when the portable device is not being used.
  • the extendable and retractable earpiece cable and attachment clip assembly of the present invention is generally designated by the numeral 10.
  • the assembly 10 comprises a relatively thin flat plate 12 having forward and back surfaces 14, 16 respectively.
  • back surface 14 of plate 12 is adapted to be fixed directly to the rear of mobile sound or communication device 18 by means of adhesive, hook and loop fasteners, or other attachment means as are known in the art.
  • the assembly 10 could be magnetically attached to the dash of a vehicle for storage when not in use.
  • a separate permanent magnet is attached to the dash that would attract and secure the metal of clip 20 to the dash.
  • housing 26 can be attached directly to the permanent magnet on the vehicle dash when the device 10 is not in use.
  • An attachment clip 20 is pivotally attached to forwarded surface 14 of plate 12 by pivot pins 22 extending through a pair of brackets 24. Brackets 24 are each attached to or integral with the forward surface 14 of plate 12. Clip 20 is biased to the closed position against forward surface 14 by means of a coil spring assembly, not shown. As will be explained, attachment clip 20 is adapted to removably engage a belt, strap or other item worn by a user of mobile device 18.
  • the hollow cable reel assembly housing 26 is formed on or attached to forward surface 14 of plate 12.
  • a retractable and extendable cable reel assembly is located inside reel housing 26.
  • reel housing 26 includes at least one aperture 28 through which earpiece cables 30, 32 extend.
  • Each cable 30, 32 is electrically connected to an earpiece 34, as seen in Figs. 1 and 2.
  • Cables 30, 32 are attached at their respective ends opposite earpieces 34 to a retractable and extendable reel mechanism inside reel housing 26, that allows cables 30, 32 to be manually extended from housing 26 as the user places earpieces 34 in his or her ears.
  • reel housing 26 includes a top part 108 that mates with bottom part 110 to form hollow reel housing 26.
  • a shaft 112 is attached to and extends outward from bottom part 110, and a slit 114 is formed in the upper portion of shaft 112.
  • a cable reel 116 is located in reel housing 26, and a coil plate spring 118 is located in an open circular wall portion 120 of reel 116.
  • an end 122 of spring 118 fits into slit 114 of shaft 112, holding one end of spring 118 against rotation. The other end of spring 118 is firmly attached to wall portion 120 of reel 116.
  • Reel 116 includes a plurality of angled ratchet teeth 124 mounted on a rim of the reel.
  • a release button 126 has a stopper and release arm 128, and the release button 126 is pivotally mounted to a shaft 130 attached to bottom part 110 of reel housing 26.
  • the underside of outer end of stopper and release arm 128 includes a stop member (not shown) that is adapted to engage ratchet teeth 124 and allow rotation of cable reel 116 in the clockwise direction only as viewed in Fig. 2A.
  • a plurality of concentric conductive rings 134a, b, c, d are located on the interior of bottom part 110 of reel housing 26.
  • a printed circuit board 136 is positioned next to bottom part 110, and includes a plurality of concentric conductive rings 134a-d.
  • Each of the conductive rings 134a-d are electrically connected to cable 36 and jack plug 40 (Fig. 1) by solder points 138a-d (Fig. 2A).
  • four spring wiper contacts (not shown) are attached to reel 116 and are aligned such that when reel 116 rotates, the spring wiper contacts remain in constant contact with a corresponding conductive ring 134a-d.
  • the four wires in both earpiece cables 30, 32, are each connected to one of the spring wiper contacts on reel 116.
  • Release button 126 extends through an opening 140 in reel housing 26, making release button 126 accessible to a user.
  • earpieces 34 (Fig. 1) using a slight tension force.
  • the stop member (not shown) on the underside of stopper and release arm 128 glides over ratchet teeth 124 as reel 116 rotates without engaging the ratchet teeth.
  • spring 118 is wound, thus storing kinetic energy.
  • Reel 116 can be fixed at any point on the rotation of reel 116, allowing the user to extract any suitable length of earpiece cable 30, 32 and have the earpiece cable fixed at that extracted length until release button 126 is pushed inward.
  • cables 30, 32 opposite earpieces 34 as described above are electrically connected through solder points 138a-d to a cable 36 extending from an aperture 38 in reel housing 26.
  • the terminus end of cable 36 includes a jack plug 40 that is adapted to be inserted into the sound output portal 42 of the mobile device 18.
  • the cable 36 may be a self-coiling cable that is extended when plug 40 is inserted into portal 42.
  • a user To operate the retractable earpiece cable assembly 10 illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, a user first attaches the back surface 16 of plate 12 to the rear of mobile device 18 with an adhesive, semi-permanent adhesive, hook-and-loop fastener, or other suitable fastening device. If feasible, a magnetic fastener may be used to attach plate 12 to the rear of mobile device 18. Jack plug 40 is then inserted into sound output portal 42 of mobile device 18, establishing an electrical connection through cables 30, 32 and cable 36 between earpieces 34 and the sound output system embedded in mobile device 18.
  • assembly 10 attaches assembly 10 to his or her belt, strap, backpack, item of clothing, etc., by pressing on upper portion 44 of attachment clip 20 (Figs. 1, 2) and moving the bottom of attachment clip 20 away from plate 12.
  • upper portion 44 of clip 20 is released, and attachment clip 20 holds the plate 12 and mobile device 18 securely to the user's apparel or accessory item.
  • the mobile device 18 is activated to be able to receive and/or send electronic impulses that are transformed into sound at earpieces 34.
  • cables 30, 32 are extracted from reel housing 26 The spring 118 acting on the cable reel inside reel housing 26 is wound, applying a tension force on the ends of cables 30, 32 extending around the cable reel 116.
  • the retraction process is halted, and the automatic reel brake mechanism shown in Fig. 2A, is activated to brake the cables 30, 32 against being retracted back into the housing 26 until the user has completed using mobile device 18.
  • the user To retract the cables 30, 32 back into reel housing 26, the user removes the earpieces 34 from the ears, and applies a brief tug or tension force on the cables 30, 32.
  • the spring operated reel 116 inside housing 26 is released as explained above, and the energy stored in the reel spring 118 when the cables 30, 32 were extracted from reel housing 26, rotates the reel and draws cables 30, 32 back onto reel 116 and into housing 26 until each earpiece abuts housing 26 adjacent an aperture 28. It is not necessary to disengage jack plug 40 from portal 42 when the mobile device 18 is no longer being used.
  • an integral retractable earpiece cable and supporting attachment device 10 is provided in a single unit that attaches to and remains with a mobile communication device.
  • the user need not carry separate headphones or earpieces and separate attachment devices or pouches when transporting and/or using their mobile sound or communication device.
  • the invention described above and shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 2A provides the user of the mobile device 18 with the convenience of having the earpieces and attachment apparatus for their mobile device as a single unit, thus providing ease of use and aiding in preventing the loss of individual components.
  • FIGs. 3-5 A further embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figs. 3-5.
  • This embodiment allows removal of a front plate assembly of the present invention when the user desires to insert the mobile device 18 into a docking station receptacle.
  • rear plate 46 forms part of retractable earpiece cable and clip on assembly 10.
  • the rear flat surface 48 of rear plate 46 is attached by adhesive, hook and loop fasteners, or other fastening devices that are known in the art to the rear of mobile device 18.
  • the lateral edges of rear plate 46 are formed into tubular members 50 each defining a hollow channel 52 extending the length of tubular members 50.
  • Each channel 52 is open as shown at 54, such that the portion of rear plate 46 forming tubular members 50 extends approximately 300 to 340 degrees, leaving a longitudinal opening along the vertical length of each channel 52.
  • an aperture 56 is located adjacent the lower extent of each tubular member 50.
  • Fig. 4 illustrates the reel housing 26 attached to or formed with the front side of forward plate 58.
  • a pair of cables 30, 32 extend from reel housing 26 as described above with reference to the embodiment of Figs. 1, 2 and 2A.
  • Reel housing 26 includes the retractable and extendable cable reel assembly.
  • Earpieces 34 are also connected at one end to cables 30, 32 similar to the embodiment of Figs. 1 and 2.
  • attachment clip 20 is pivotally attached to forward plate 58.
  • Each side edge of forward plate 58 includes a tube member 60, 62 having an outer dimension slightly less than the inner diameter of hollow channel 52 of tubular members 50 (Fig. 3).
  • tube members 60, 62 are solid, but could be formed in the configuration of hollow tubes if desired.
  • a spring loaded latch pin 64, 66 is mounted to the tube member for lateral movement toward and away from a respective tube member 60, 62.
  • a spring biases each latch pin 64, 66 in an outward direction.
  • Fig. 5 is a top view of the retractable earpiece cable and attachment clip assembly 10 of the second embodiment of the present invention, showing forward plate
  • FIG. 3 rear plate 46 is attached to mobile device 18 as previously described.
  • Forward plate 58 is assembled on rear plate 46 by sliding tube members 60, 62 along hollow channels 52 of rear plate 46 until latch pins 64, 66 (Fig. 4) extend outward into apertures 56 of tubular members 50 (Fig. 3) and provide a detent locking mechanism to lock forward plate 58 into its proper position adjacent rear plate 46. In this locked position, forward plate 58 extends through openings 54 as illustrated in Fig. 5.
  • rear plate 46 To disengage forward plate 58 from rear plate 46, spring biased latch pins 64, 66 are pushed inward by thumb or finger pressure by the user, until each latch pin 64, 66 has been substantially withdrawn from a corresponding aperture 56. The forward plate 58 is then moved upward to separate the forward plate from rear plate 46. In this configuration, the mobile device 18, with rear plate 46 still attached, can be mounted into a docking station, recharging station, or other device as desired by the user. In an embodiment of the present invention, rear plate 46 is made of a strong but flexible material, allowing tubular members 50 to compress to a somewhat flattened position.
  • Figs. 6 and 7 illustrate an embodiment of the retractable earpiece cable and attachment clip assembly 10 of the present invention wherein a flexible member such as a living hinge construction replaces the detent latch mechanism of Figs. 3 and 4 to lock forward plate 58 to rear plate 46.
  • a slot 68 is formed in the walls of each tubular member 50 of the embodiment of rear plate 46 shown in Fig. 3.
  • Fig. 7 is a detail view illustrating a flexible hinge latching mechanism to removably secure forward plate 58 to rear plate 46.
  • each tube member 60, 62 extending longitudinally on either side of forward plate 58 includes a flexible arm 70 attached at its upper extent, or preferably formed integral with, tube members 60, 62.
  • a first space 72 lies between flexible arm 70 and a wall portion 74 of each tube member.
  • a second space 76 lies between the bottom of flexible arm 70 and horizontally extending portion 78 of the tube members 60, 62.
  • flexible arm 70 is capable of pivotal movement in space 72.
  • a horizontally extending flange 80 is formed at the bottom of flexible arm 70.
  • Flange 80 includes a flat upper surface 82, a slanted lower surface 84, and a flat frontal surface 86.
  • flange 80 In its quiescent position shown in Fig. 7, flange 80 extends outward through slot 68 in tubular member 50 such that flat upper surface 82 of flange 80 abuts the upper surface 104 of slot 68, thereby keeping tube members 60, 62, and forward plate 58 from moving upward relative to rear plate 46, as will be explained.
  • a further embodiment of a latching mechanism to secure the forward plate to the rear plate is illustrated in Figs. 8-10A and B.
  • forward plate 88 is configured similar to flat plate 12 shown in Figs. 1 and 2, with reel housing 26 formed with or attached to forward plate 88 and cables 30, 32 retractably extending from reel housing 26, and attachment clip 20 also attached to forward plate 88.
  • sets 90 of slots 92 are formed adjacent to each of the four corners of forward plate 88. Slots 92 extend through forward plate 88 and are shown as square or rectangular in shape, but can be any other shape if desired.
  • Fig. 9 discloses a rear plate 94 that is adapted to be mounted on the rear surface of mobile device 18 (Fig. 1).
  • rear plate 94 includes four spring-biased moveable latch mechanisms 96 that are dimensionally spaced from the lateral top and bottom edges of rear plate 94 the same as slots 92 are dimensionally spaced from the lateral, top and bottom edges of forward plate 88.
  • each latch mechanism 96 includes a pair of moveable latch members 98 mounted on a slide member 99, wherein each slide member 99 is moveably disposed in a channel or on a rail (not shown) of rear plate 94 such that each latch member is slidable in the same plane as the outer surface of rear plate 94.
  • Each latch member 98 is biased away from its adjacent latch member by a compression spring 100, or any other compression force device as is known in the art.
  • Each latch member 98 also includes a slanted surface 102, and a groove 106 adapted to engage a rim of a slot 92 when forward plate 88 is mounted on rear plate 94, as will be described.
  • the rear plate 46 is adhesively or otherwise attached to the back of mobile device 18.
  • the tube members 60, 62 of forward plate 58 are inserted into the top of tubular members 50, and under the force of manual pressure are slid downward in hollow channels 52.
  • spring loaded latch pins 64, 66 are driven outward into an adjacent aperture 56 in each tubular member 50. This locks forward plate 58 to rear plate 46, and to the rear of mobile device 18.
  • Jack plug 40 (Fig. 4) is then inserted into sound output portal 42 (Fig. 3) of mobile device 18, electrically connecting the sound output system of mobile device 18 to the earpiece cables 30, 32 mounted on reel 116 (Fig.
  • the mobile device When the user is finished listening to the sounds produced by the mobile device 18, the mobile device is switched to its off position, and the earpieces are removed from the user's ears. The user then applies a brief tension pull the cables 30, 32, which releases the reel locking mechanism 124, 128 inside reel housing 26, and the cables 30, 32 are rewound on the reel 116 by the kinetic energy stored in the spring 118. The earpieces 34 are drawn to their storage position against reel housing 26, as seen in Figs. 4 and 5.
  • jack plug 40 is withdrawn from sound output portal 42 of mobile device 18. Thumb and/or finger pressure is then applied to the portions of spring biased latch pins 64, 66, thus disengaging the latch pins from apertures 56, enabling tube members 60, 62 and forward plate 58 to be moved upward in tubular members 50 of rear plate 46. Forward plate 58, along with reel housing 26 and attachment clip 20 is removed from rear plate 46 and stored in a convenient location. Rear plate 46 remains attached to mobile device 18.
  • Tubular members 50 are made of a relatively flexible material, permitting a certain latitude of deformation of the tubular members, if necessary, when mobile device 18 is placed in a docking station.
  • FIG. 6 and 7 operates with a modified latching mechanism between rear plate 46 and forward plate 58 compared to the spring loaded latch pin mechanisms 64, 66 of Figs. 3-5.
  • the forward plate 58 moves downward with flat frontal surface 86 of each flange 80 slidably engaging the interior surface of a corresponding hollow channel 52, thereby pressuring the lower portion of flexible arm 70 inward into first space 72.
  • rear plate 94 is attached to mobile device 18 by means of adhesive, hook-and-loop fasteners, or any other suitable fastening means.
  • Latch members 98 project outwardly away from the surface of rear plate 94.
  • forward plate 88 with reel housing 26, earpieces 34, cables 30, 32 and attachment clip 20, is manually placed over rear plate 94 such that each pair of slots 92 are juxtaposed over a corresponding latch member 98.
  • an edge of each slot 92 contacts a slanted surface 102 of a latch member 98, forcing adjacent latch members to move towards each other against the force of spring 100.
  • the slots 92 rest adjacent grooves 106 (Figs. 10A and B) in each latch member 98.
  • Springs 100 then move each slide 99 and latch member 98 outward such that the portions of forward plate 88 adjacent the slots 92 are grasped in corresponding grooves 106, and forward plate 88 is held firmly against rear plate 94.
  • Figs. 11, 12 and 13 illustrate a further embodiment of the invention shown in Figs. 3-7, wherein the attachment clip 20 is flexibly attached directly to rear plate 46 as seen in Figs. 11 and 13, whereas the attachment clip 20 is attached to forward plate 58 in the embodiment of Figs. 3-5.
  • Like numerals in Figs. 11-13 and Figs. 3-5 are used to identify like elements, and the description of the elements of the embodiment of Figs. 1-3 above is equally applicable to the embodiment of Figs. 11-13 with the exception of the location of attachment clip 20.
  • the embodiment of Figs. 11-13 includes rear plate 46 attached, or removably attached, to mobile device 10 as previously described with reference to the embodiment of Figs. 3-5.
  • forward plate 58 (Figs. 12, 13) is attached to rear plate 46 by inserting tube members 60, 62 of forward plate 58 into the bottom of hollow channels 52 formed in tubular members 50 of rear plate 46. The forward plate is then advanced upward until spring loaded latch pins 64, 66 engage apertures 56 in tubular members 50 to lock forward plate 58 in position relative to rear plate 46 (Figs. 11-13).
  • the "living hinge" flange 80 (Figs. 6, 7) replaces latch pins 64, 66 (Figs.
  • forward plate 58 is moved upward until flange 80 extends through slot 68, and forward plate 58 is locked in position against rear plate 46.
  • forward plate 58 In the embodiment of Figs. 11-13, forward plate 58 must be attached to rear plate 46 through the bottom of hollow channels 52 since the location of attachment clip 20 in this embodiment prevents the insertion of forward plate 58 and tube members 60, 62 from the top of hollow channels 52.
  • a retractable earpiece cable or headset assembly in a reel housing, where the reel housing is mounted on a casing.
  • the reel housing is integrally formed with or attached to the casing.
  • the reel housing is mounted to the casing using an attachable and detachable mounting assembly.
  • the casing is adapted to tightly encase a mobile communications or sound device for protection of the device against shock forces, and the cable assembly is extendable from and retractable into a reel housing integrally formed with the casing.
  • a clip assembly is also mounted on the casing for attaching the casing and mobile electronic device to a belt, pocket, backpack or strap worn or supported by the user.
  • the invention allows a user to carry only a single item that includes the mobile communication or sound device, retractable headset or earpiece and cables, and the casing firmly attached to the mobile device, in lieu of transporting several pieces to achieve the same results provided by the present invention.
  • the user benefits from the convenience and ease of transporting and using his or her mobile
  • the protective apparatus 210 is adapted to protect a mobile electronic device 212, and casing 214, having an integral, hollow reel housing 216, is adapted to fit tightly over portions of the mobile device 212.
  • the reel housing 216 houses the extendable and retractable earpiece cable assembly 218 of the present invention (Fig. 15).
  • the reel housing 216 of this embodiment is integrally formed with the casing 214 of the protective apparatus 210.
  • a carrying clip 220 is pivotally attached to the casing 214 by pivot pins 222 (Fig. 20) extending through a pair of brackets 224. Brackets 224 are each attached to or integral with the casing 214 of protective apparatus 210. Carrying clip 220 is biased to the closed position against the casing 214 by means of a coil spring assembly 226 (Fig. 20). As will be explained, carrying clip 220 is adapted to removably engage a belt, strap or other item worn by a user of mobile electronic device 212.
  • the hollow reel housing 216 is integrally formed with the casing 214 of the protective apparatus 210.
  • a retractable and extendable earpiece cable reel assembly 218 (Fig. 15) is located inside reel housing 216.
  • reel housing 216 includes at least one earpiece cable aperture 228 through which earpiece cables 230 and 232 extend.
  • Each earpiece cable 230, 232 is electrically connected to an earpiece 234, 236.
  • Earpiece cables 230, 232 are attached at their respective ends opposite earpieces 234, 236 to a retractable and extendable reel mechanism inside reel housing 216, that allows earpiece cables 230, 232 to be manually extended from reel housing 16 as the user places earpieces 34, 36 in his or her ears.
  • reel housing 116 includes a shaft 312 attached to and extending from the anterior wall 338 of the reel housing 216, and the shaft 312 extends toward the flexible posterior wall 240 of the reel housing 216.
  • a slit 314 is formed in the upper portion of shaft 312.
  • a cable reel 316 is located in reel housing 216, and a coil plate spring 318 is located in an open circular wall portion 320 of cable reel 316.
  • an end 322 of spring 318 fits into slit 314 of shaft 312, holding one end of spring 318 against rotation. The other end of spring 318 is firmly attached to wall portion 320 of cable reel 316.
  • Reel 316 includes a plurality of angled ratchet teeth 324 mounted on a rim of the reel 316.
  • a release actuator comprising a button 326, a stopper and release assembly including an arm 328, and the release button 326 is pivotally mounted to a shaft 330 attached to the anterior wall 238 of the reel housing 216.
  • the underside of the outer end of stopper and release arm 328 includes a stop member (not shown) that is adapted to engage ratchet teeth 324 and allow rotation of cable reel 316 in the clockwise direction.
  • a plurality of concentric conductive rings 334a, b, c, d are located on the anterior wall 238 of the reel housing 216.
  • a printed circuit board 336 is positioned on the anterior wall 238 inside the reel housing 216, and includes a plurality of concentric conductive rings 334a-d.
  • Each of the conductive rings 334a-d are electrically connected to cable 236 and connector plug 242 (Fig. 14) by solder points 338a-d (Fig. 15).
  • four spring wiper contacts (not shown) are attached to cable reel 116 and are aligned such that when cable reel 316 rotates, the spring wiper contacts remain in constant contact with a corresponding conductive ring 334a-d.
  • Both earpiece cables 230, 232 are each connected to one of the spring wiper contacts on cable reel 316.
  • Release button 126 rests against the flexible posterior wall 240 inside reel housing 216, allowing the user to press the outside of the flexible posterior wall 240 of reel housing 216 making release button 326 accessible to a user.
  • earpiece cables 230, 232 When a user desires to extract earpiece cables 230, 232 from reel housing 216, the user pulls outward on earpieces cables 230, 232 (Fig. 14) using a slight tension force.
  • spring 318 is wound, thus storing kinetic energy.
  • tension on the cables is released, and the stop member engages one of the ratchet teeth 324, preventing reverse rotation of cable reel 316.
  • the stop member can be fixed at any point on the rotation of reel 316, allowing the user to extract any suitable length of earpiece cable 230, 232 and have the earpiece cable 230, 232 fixed at that extracted length until release button 326 is pushed inward.
  • Earpiece cables 230, 232 are prevented from being retracted fully inside of reel housing 216 since the outer diameters of earpieces 234, 236 at the point where they attach to earpiece cables 230, 232, respectively, are larger than the inner diameters of earpiece cable aperture 228.
  • earpiece cables 230, 232 opposite earpieces 234, 236 as described above are electrically connected through solder points 338a-d to a connector plug cable 244 extending from a connector plug aperture 246 (Fig.14) in reel housing 216.
  • the terminus end of connector plug cable 244 includes a connector plug 242 (Fig. 14) that is adapted to be inserted through the sound output portal aperture 248 (Figs. 16, 17, 18) of the casing 214 and into the sound output portal 250 of the mobile electronic device 212.
  • the connector plug cable 244 may be a self-coiling cable that is extended when connector plug 242 is inserted into sound output portal 250.
  • a user To operate the extendable and retractable earpiece cable assembly 18 illustrated in Figs. 14 and 15, a user must insert the mobile electronic device 212 into the casing 214 of the protective apparatus 210. The user then attaches carrying clip 220 to his or her belt, strap, backpack, item of clothing, etc., by pressing on the upper portion of carrying clip 252 (Fig. 14) and moving the bottom portion of carrying clip 254 away from the casing 214 and reel housing 216. When suitably attached to the apparel or accessory item worn by the user, upper portion of the carrying clip 252 is released, and carrying clip 220 holds the casing 214 and mobile electronic device 212 securely to the user's apparel or accessory item. If necessary or desired, the mobile electronic device 212 is activated to be able to receive and/or send electronic impulses that are transformed into sound at earpieces 234, 236.
  • earpieces 234, 236 The user then manually grasps earpieces 234, 236 and applies a tension or pulling force that extracts cables 230, 232 out of reel housing 216 through the earpiece cable apertures 228.
  • the spring 318 (Fig. 15) acting on the cable reel 316 inside reel housing 216 is wound, applying a tension force on the ends of earpiece cables 230, 232 extending around the cable reel 316.
  • the retraction process is halted, and the automatic reel brake mechanism shown in Fig.
  • the length of the connector plug cable 244 is determined by the relative position of the connector plug aperture 246 to the sound output portal aperture 248 and sound output portal 250, having enough connector plug cable 244 to reach the sound output portal 250 and plug the connector plug 242 into the sound output portal 250.
  • the connector plug cable 244 should also be short enough to minimize potential snagging of the connector plug cable 244 on external objects during use.
  • the user removes the earpieces 234, 236 from the ears, and applies a brief tug or tension force on the earpiece cables 230, 232.
  • the spring operated cable reel 316 inside housing 216 is released as explained above, and the energy stored in the reel spring 318 when the earpiece cables 230, 232 were extracted from reel housing 216 rotates the cable reel 316 and draws earpiece cables 230, 232 back onto cable reel 316 and into reel housing 216 until each earpiece 234, 236 abuts reel housing 216 adjacent an earpiece cable aperture 228. It is not necessary to disengage connector plug 242 from sound output portal 250 when the mobile electronic device 212 is no longer being used.
  • an extendable and retractable earpiece cable assembly 218 and an integral reel housing 216 is provided in a single unit integrally formed in the casing 214 encasing the mobile electronic device 212.
  • the user need not carry separate headphones or earpieces and separate attachment devices or pouches when transporting and/or using their mobile sound or communication device.
  • the invention described above and shown in Figs. 14 and 15 provides the user of the mobile electronic device 212 with the convenience of having the earpieces and attachment apparatus for their mobile device as a single unit, thus providing ease of use and aiding in preventing the loss of individual components.
  • Figs. 16 and 18 are side views of the protective apparatus 210 of Fig. 14 showing the extendable and retractable earpiece cable assembly 218 inside the reel housing 216 which is integrally formed with the casing 214 and carrying clip assembly 256. These figures depict input port apertures 258 to allow access through the casing 214 to input ports 260. Additionally, output port apertures 262 allow access through the casing 214 to output ports 264. The input port apertures 258 and output port apertures 262 can be placed in any position on the casing 214 to allow access to input ports 260 and output ports 264.
  • the input port apertures 258 and output port apertures 262 can openly expose the input ports 260 and output ports 264 to the environment outside the casing 214 or the input port apertures 258 and output port apertures 262 can have a flexible removable membrane, for example, rubber or plastic, covering the input ports 260 and output ports 264 protecting the input ports 260 and output ports 264 from the environment.
  • a flexible removable membrane for example, rubber or plastic
  • Fig. 17 is a front view of the protective apparatus 210 showing the electronic display aperture 266 allowing access to the electronic display 268 and the sound output portal aperture 248 (Fig. 17) of the mobile electronic device 212, allowing access to the sound output portal 250.
  • the electronic display aperture 266 can openly expose the electronic display 268 to the environment, or the electronic display aperture 266 can transparently cover the electronic display 268 protecting the electronic display from the environment, while still allowing the user to interface with the electronic display 268.
  • Fig. 19 is another embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figs.
  • FIG. 19 illustrates that the position of the carrying clip can be altered to accommodate the position of input port apertures 258 and output port aperture 262, input ports 260 and output ports 264 which in this embodiment are located in the top middle portion of the casing 214.
  • the carrying clip 220 can be mounted in any position to accommodate the needs of the manufacturer or user.
  • the reel housing 216 is removably attached to the casing 214.
  • a reel housing attachment assembly 270 allows the reel housing 216 to be manually disengaged from the casing 214, and reengaged again with the casing 214.
  • the reel housing attachment assembly 270 allows disengagement and reengagement of the reel housing 216 with the casing 214 to be repeated multiple times.
  • the reel housing attachment assembly 270 comprises at least one reel housing attachment assembly female bracket 272 attached to the casing and at least one reel housing male attachment pin assembly 274 on opposed sides of reel housing 216 in the illustrated embodiment.
  • This embodiment of the invention has the same amount of reel housing attachment assembly female brackets 272 as reel housing male attachment pin assemblies 274.
  • two brackets 272 and pin assemblies 274 are shown, however it is contemplated that the removable connection between reel housing 216 and casing 214 may comprise a single male-female attachment assembly, or more than two attachment assemblies.
  • Each reel housing attachment assembly female bracket 272 is integrally formed with or attached to the casing 214 (Fig. 24) and each bracket is configured and spaced from an opposing bracket 272 (Fig. 22) so that reel housing 216 can be inserted between female brackets 272 thus removably securing reel housing 216 to the casing 214 (Fig. 22).
  • Each bracket 272 includes at least one aperture 276 that is adapted to receive a spring-loaded male pin 278 extending from male attachment assembly 274 of reel housing 216.
  • Each pin 278 is configured to fit snugly inside the corresponding aperture 276 (Figs. 22 and 24) of female brackets 272.
  • Each aperture 276 allows the
  • Male attachment pin assemblies 274 are integrally formed as part of the reel housing 216 (Fig. 24). The pin assemblies 274 are spaced so that each pin assembly 274 is aligned with a corresponding aperture 276 of a bracket 272. Each spring-loaded male pin 278 rests in the extended position in a direction away from the center of the reel housing 216. The spring-loaded pins 278 are configured so that the tip of each pin 278 is rounded, allowing for easier insertion and removal from the apertures 276. The pin assemblies 274 are sized so that reel housing 216 removably attaches securely to the casing 214.
  • pin assemblies 274 will hold the pins 278 in the pushed-in or non-resting position toward the center of the reel housing 216.
  • the user slides the reel housing 16 into position between brackets 272 so that the spring-loaded pins 278 move back to their resting positions and extend through the corresponding apertures 276, securing the reel housing 216 against the casing 214 and between the brackets 272.
  • each spring-loaded male pin 278 protruding through and resting in the female apertures 276 so that the spring-loaded male pins 278 are no longer protruding in a perpendicular manner, relative to the brackets 272, through the apertures 276.
  • the user simultaneously moves the reel housing 216 until each spring-loaded pin 278 is held in the non-resting position, pushed toward the center of the reel housing 216 by the brackets 72. Once the brackets 272 are pushing in on the tips of pins 278, the user can release manual pressure on pins 278 and remove the reel housing 216 from the casing 214.
  • the carrying clip assembly 256 is mounted on the reel housing 216, so that when the reel housing 216 is removed from the casing 214, the carrying clip assembly 256 remains attached to the reel housing 216.
  • the carrying clip assembly 256 is mounted directly to the casing 214.
  • the reel housing mounting brackets 272 and each pin assembly 274 are configured on the casing 214 so that use of the carrying clip assembly 256 is not impeded regardless of whether the reel housing 216 is engaged with the casing 214.
  • the carrying clip assembly 256 can be of a different design configured to avoid an impediment created by the brackets 272 when the reel housing 216 is disengaged from the casing 214, or with the reel housing 216 when the reel housing is engaged with the casing 214.

Landscapes

  • Telephone Set Structure (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur un ensemble de câbles d'écouteur extensible et rétractable pour dispositifs de son mobiles et de communications mobiles. Un ensemble de boîtier à rouleau pour le câble comprend une plaque apte à être fixée directement au dispositif mobile, dans un mode de réalisation. Dans un autre mode de réalisation, une plaque arrière est fixée au dispositif mobile, une plaque avant est fixée de façon amovible à la plaque arrière, et le boîtier d'ensemble de rouleau de câble est fixé à la plaque avant, ou formé d'un seul tenant avec celle-ci. Dans des modes de réalisation additionnels, l'ensemble de boîtier à rouleau est formé d'un seul tenant avec une enceinte pour protéger le dispositif mobile, ou relié de façon détachable à celle-ci. Les câbles d'écouteur sont extensibles à partir du boîtier à rouleau et rétractables à l'intérieur de celui-ci. Dans chacun des modes de réalisation de l'invention, la plaque, l'enceinte ou le boîtier à rouleau pouvant être fixé peut supporter une attache de support permettant à un utilisateur de fixer le dispositif mobile et le boîtier à rouleau à un article d'habillement ou à un autre article d'accessoire supporté par l'utilisateur.
PCT/US2011/038573 2011-05-31 2011-05-31 Ensemble d'écouteur extensible et rétractable pouvant être fixé WO2012166114A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2011/038573 WO2012166114A1 (fr) 2011-05-31 2011-05-31 Ensemble d'écouteur extensible et rétractable pouvant être fixé

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2011/038573 WO2012166114A1 (fr) 2011-05-31 2011-05-31 Ensemble d'écouteur extensible et rétractable pouvant être fixé

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2012166114A1 true WO2012166114A1 (fr) 2012-12-06

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Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5044981A (en) * 1990-04-18 1991-09-03 Reliance Comm/Tec Corporation Snap-on stacking telephone jack
US5664868A (en) * 1996-05-28 1997-09-09 Montalbano; David Helmet rigid flashlight bracket
US20020126837A1 (en) * 1996-08-30 2002-09-12 Dowsett Alan Clifford Cradle for a handset
US6616080B1 (en) * 1999-04-28 2003-09-09 Speculative Product Design, Inc. Retractable cord device
US20040203521A1 (en) * 2002-12-23 2004-10-14 Shary Nassimi Modular base plate for wireless device
US20050255898A1 (en) * 2004-03-31 2005-11-17 Neotrends Products, Inc. Cell phone and holder

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5044981A (en) * 1990-04-18 1991-09-03 Reliance Comm/Tec Corporation Snap-on stacking telephone jack
US5664868A (en) * 1996-05-28 1997-09-09 Montalbano; David Helmet rigid flashlight bracket
US20020126837A1 (en) * 1996-08-30 2002-09-12 Dowsett Alan Clifford Cradle for a handset
US6616080B1 (en) * 1999-04-28 2003-09-09 Speculative Product Design, Inc. Retractable cord device
US20040203521A1 (en) * 2002-12-23 2004-10-14 Shary Nassimi Modular base plate for wireless device
US20050255898A1 (en) * 2004-03-31 2005-11-17 Neotrends Products, Inc. Cell phone and holder

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