WO2015077613A1

WO2015077613A1 - System for mounting a portable electronic device within a vehicle interior

Info

Publication number: WO2015077613A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/066900
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Scott Hodgson; Craig David FLOWERDAY; Michael R. Catlin; Dennis J. Vanhouten
Original assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
Priority date: 2013-11-22
Filing date: 2014-11-21
Publication date: 2015-05-28

Abstract

A supplemental attached device for a self-contained portable electronic device includes a retaining feature configured to secure the supplemental attached device to a housing of the self-contained portable electronic device and a mount configured to couple the supplemental attached device to a dock to establish a docked state. The mount includes an orienting device configured to block rotation of the supplemental attached device about a rotational axis relative to the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state. The dock is configured to support the supplemental attached device while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state. The supplemental attached device includes an electrical connector assembly including a first electrical connector configured to engage a second electrical connector of the dock to establish an electrical connection between the self-contained portable electronic device and the dock.

Description

SYSTEM FOR MOUNTING A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITHIN A

VEHICLE INTERIOR

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority from and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61/907,893, entitled "SYSTEM FOR MOUNTING A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITHIN A VEHICLE INTERIOR", filed November 22, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The invention relates generally to a system for mounting a portable electronic device, and more specifically, to a system for mounting a portable electronic device within a vehicle interior.

[0003] Passengers frequently carry portable electronic devices, such as phones, cameras, and music players, into a vehicle. Consequently, it may be desirable for the passengers to use and/or charge the portable electronic devices while in the vehicle. For example, passengers may use the built-in GPS functionality of certain phones during operation of the vehicle and/or the passenger may charge certain devices using the vehicle electrical system.

[0004] However, passengers may lose some functionality of the device and/or the vehicle interior when using the device in the vehicle. For example, a passenger may place a phone in a cup holder, thereby losing the ability to place a beverage container in the cup holder. Moreover, a passenger may be unable to see the screen of a phone while the phone is in the cup holder. Additionally, in-vehicle charging devices typically use a direct wired connection (e.g., a power cable connected to an auxiliary power outlet) to charge an electronic device. However, the presence of cables in the interior may decrease the aesthetic appearance. Moreover, forming physical connections between the cables and personal electronic devices may be time consuming. Additionally, passengers typically use two hands to make wired connections to the personal electronic devices, which may be inconvenient for passengers.

SUMMARY

[0005] The present invention relates to a supplemental attached device for a self- contained portable electronic device including a retaining feature configured to secure the supplemental attached device to a housing of the self-contained portable electronic device and a mount configured to couple the supplemental attached device to a dock to establish a docked state. The mount includes an orienting device configured to block rotation of the supplemental attached device about a rotational axis relative to the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state. Additionally, the dock is configured to support the supplemental attached device while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state. The supplemental attached device also includes an electrical connector assembly. The electrical connector assembly includes a first electrical connector configured to engage a second electrical connector of the dock to establish an electrical connection between the self-contained portable electronic device and the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state.

[0006] The present invention also relates to a connector assembly for a self- contained portable electronic device including a first electrical connector configured to engage a second electrical connector of the self-contained portable electronic device. The connector assembly also includes a third electrical connector including a first plurality of contacts configured to engage a second plurality of contacts of a fourth electrical connector of a dock and a conductor array extending between the first electrical connector and the third electrical connector. The third electrical connector is configured to be secured to the self-contained portable electronic device. Also, the third electrical connector includes a mount configured to couple the self-contained portable electronic device to the dock to establish a docked state. Moreover, the dock is configured to support the self-contained portable electronic device while the portable electronic device is in the docked state. Additionally, the mount includes an orienting device configured to block rotation of a supplemental attached device about a rotational axis relative to the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state.

[0007] The present invention further relates to a self-contained portable electronic device attachment system, including a supplemental attached device having a retaining feature configured to secure the supplemental attached device to a housing of the self-contained portable electronic device. The system also includes a connector assembly disposed within the supplemental attached device. The connector assembly includes a conductor configured to electrically couple the connector assembly to the self-contained portable electronic device, and a mount. Additionally, the system includes a dock configured to couple to the mount of the connector assembly to secure the supplemental attached device in a docked state. The dock includes an orientating device configured to block rotation of the supplemental attached device about a rotational axis relative to the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state.

DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary vehicle that may include a mounting system for portable electronic devices;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a part of the interior of the vehicle of FIG. i;

[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a mounting system for a portable electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a back of a case that may be utilized with the mounting system of FIG. 3;

[0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a mounting system for a portable electronic device in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure; [0013] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a magnetic mounting device that may be utilized within a mounting system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of another magnetic mounting device that may be utilized within a mounting system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a further magnetic mounting device that may be utilized within a mounting system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 9 is a top view of a rotatable dock that may be utilized within a mounting system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an adapter that may be utilized within a mounting system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary vehicle 10 that may include a mounting system for portable electronic devices. As illustrated, the vehicle 10 includes an interior 12 having a seat 14, a floor console 16, a center console 18, and a dashboard 20. In certain embodiments, the mounting system includes mounting locations for portable electronic devices.

[0019] As discussed in detail below, the mounting locations may be integrated into the vehicle interior 12. For example, one mounting location may be disposed on the surface of the dashboard 20, and configured to provide a secure attachment for a portable electronic device. For example, the mounting location may hold the portable electronic device in a sight line of a vehicle operator. In addition, the mounting location may provide electrical power from the vehicle to the electronic device (e.g., to facilitate charging). Furthermore, the mounting location may establish a connection between the portable electronic device and the vehicle electronic system (e.g., to facilitate control of vehicle systems and/or to display vehicle information on the portable electronic device).

[0020] While the mounting location is described herein with reference to the dashboard 20, it should be appreciated that additional areas of the vehicle interior 12 may include mounting locations. For example, in certain embodiments, a door panel, the floor console 16, an instrument panel, an overhead console, the vehicle seat 14, and/or an armrest may include mounting locations for portable electronic devices. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the mounting system described herein may be employed within other types of vehicles, such as boats, airplanes, buses, trains, and motorcycles, for example. Furthermore, the mounting system may be utilized outside of vehicles, such as in offices, homes, public buildings, and the like.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a part of the interior 12 of the vehicle 10 of FIG. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, mounting locations are disposed throughout the interior 12. For example, a mounting location 22 may be disposed on an A-pillar to the left of the dashboard 20. Moreover a mounting location 22 may be disposed on the center console 18. In some embodiments, the mounting system may have several mounting locations 22 distributed throughout the vehicle interior 12. As such, portable electronic devices may be mounted at various locations around the interior 12 of the vehicle 10. For example, one user may prefer to use the mounting location 22 on the A-pillar, while another prefers to use the mounting location 22 on the rear view mirror. Utilizing multiple mounting locations provides users flexibility in choosing where to mount portable electronic devices.

[0022] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a mounting system 30 that may be utilized within the vehicle 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting system 30 includes a case 32 (e.g., a supplemental attached device) and a dock 34. The case 32 is configured to retain a portable electronic device 36 (e.g., cellular phone, tablet, e- reader, etc.). The case 32 may be removable or permanent. Additionally, the case 32 may be constructed from a variety of materials. For example, the case 32 may be formed from soft plastic or rubber. Alternatively, the case 32 may be constructed of hard plastic. Additionally, the case 32 may be formed from composite materials or a combination of multiple materials. For example, the case 32 may have rubber side walls 38 and a hard plastic base 40.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the case 32 includes slots 42 in the side walls 38 that are configured to receive integrated connectors 44. The integrated connectors 44 couple to corresponding connectors of the portable electronic device 36 that facilitate functions such as battery charging, audio integration, and/or data integration. For example, the integrated connector 44 may be sized to fit within a micro-USB or LIGHTNING connector. Moreover, the integrated connector 44 may fit within a stereo outlet port. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3, the integrated connectors 44 may create a substantially smooth perimeter of the side wall 36 around the portable electronic device 36. In other words, the integrated connectors 44 may establish an appealing aesthetic appearance with the substantially smooth side wall 32 of the case 32. However, in some embodiments the integrated connectors 44 may include "pass- thru" functionality. That is, the integrated connectors 44 may have additional connection ports that mirror the connectors of the portable electronic device 36 to facilitate integration with additional components (e.g., a personal computer).

[0024] Further, in the illustrated embodiment, a mount 46 is included with the case 32 to couple the case 32 to the dock 34. As illustrated, the case 32 includes a mount 46 embedded within the base 40. However, in alternative embodiments, the mount 46 may be coupled to the case 32 (e.g., by an adhesive). In the illustrated embodiment, the mount 46 is disposed on the back of the case 32. In other embodiments, the mount 46 may fit within a recess in the base 40 of the case 32 or be buried within the wall thickness of the case 32.

[0025] To facilitate linking the integrated connectors 44 with the vehicle electronic system, the case 32 includes an electric trace/conductor array 48 that electrically couples contacts of the mount 46 to the integrated connectors 44. The electric trace 48 may be conductive wiring that establishes an electrical connection between the integrated connectors 44 and the contacts of the mount 46. Moreover, the electric trace 48 may be embedded within the case 32. That is, the electric trace 48 may not be visible to a user. However, in alternative embodiments, the electric trace 48 may include a conductive ribbon disposed on a surface of the base 40. To enable integration of the portable electronic device 36 with the vehicle 10, electronics may be disposed within the case 32 to link the portable electronic device 36 with the vehicle 10. For example, electronic music files stored on a cellular phone may be played through the vehicle entertainment system, or navigation directions could be relayed through the vehicle entertainment system. Direct integration of the portable electronic device 36 to the vehicle 10, as opposed to wireless integration (e.g., via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.), offers the benefit of increased security. For example, a direct wired connection enables information to pass directly from the portable electronic device 36 to the vehicle 10. Moreover, the wired connection may be more robust than an over the air connection, which may lose connectivity due to environmental factors (e.g., weather), range, or the like.

[0026] The dock 34 may be integrated into the interior 12 at one of the mounting locations 22, which are distributed throughout the vehicle interior 12. For example, docks 34 may be disposed at each of the mounting locations 22 depicted in FIG. 2. The docks 34 may be substantially flush with the surface of the interior 12 (e.g., substantially flush with the surface of the dashboard 20). However, in other embodiments the docks 34 may be recessed within the surfaces of the interior 12 or raised above the surfaces of the interior 12. Moreover, the docks 34 may be covered when not in use. For example, the dashboard 20 may include covers that slide over the docks 34 to conceal the docks 34 when the docks 34 are not in use. Additionally, the docks 34 may deploy from the interior 12. For example, the docks 34 may rotate and/or slide from a hidden/stowed position to an exposed/use position.

[0027] As described above, the docks 34 may be integrated and/or placed on any suitable surface of the interior 12, including, but not limited to, the seats 14, floor console 16, center console 18, dashboard 20, or combinations thereof. Electrical conductors within the interior 12 may couple the docks 34 to various components of the vehicle electronic system. For example, the docks 34 may be coupled to the vehicle entertainment system. Additionally, the docks 34 may be coupled to other components of the vehicle electronic system, such as an onboard computer that may relay diagnostic information about the vehicle to the portable electronic device 36 through the dock 34, as described below. In some embodiments, the dock 34 may have a switch that detects the presence of the portable electronic device 36. As such, the dock 34 may be configured to perform certain functions when the dock 34 detects the portable electronic device 36. For example, the portable electronic device 36 may change the user interface of the device 36 to enable improved usage during operation of the vehicle 10 (e.g., by providing larger icons, increased volume, etc.). In addition, the dock 34 may recognize a particular portable electronic device 36 associated with a user and proceed to initialize pre-programmed configurations based on the detected user (e.g., starting certain applications on the personal electronic device, adjusting the position of the driver's seat, etc.). Moreover, in some embodiments, the dock 34 may be configured to "lock out" or prevent certain functions of the portable electronic device 36 when the case 32 is connected to the dock 34. For example, text messaging may be disabled when a cellular phone is mounted to the dock 34. However, in some instances the dock 34 may be configured to auto-run certain functions of the portable electronic device 36. For example, a GPS-enabled map (e.g., a navigation application) may load when the portable electronic device 36 is coupled to the dock 34 in the vehicle 10. In other embodiments, the dock 34 may be configured to alert the user that the case 32 is still coupled to the dock 34 after electrical power is no longer being transferred between the dock 34 and the case 32. For example, the dock 34 may issue an alarm (e.g., a beeping sound, a flashing light, etc.) to alert the user to remove the case 32 after the vehicle is shut off. As such, the integration of the docks 34 may also establish an aesthetically pleasing interior 12 because the conductors coupling the vehicle electronic system components to the docks 34 may be hidden within the dashboard 20, center console 18, or the like. However, in some embodiments, the docks 34 may not be integrated into the interior 12 (e.g., the docks may be retrofit into an existing interior) so the conductors may be visible.

[0028] The mount 46 is configured to couple to the dock 34 to secure the case 32 to the dock 34. In other words, the dock 34 and the mount 46 may couple to one another to secure the case 32 at a particular location within the vehicle interior. As illustrated, the dock 34 includes pins 50 (e.g., conductive elements, contacts, etc.) to electrically couple the dock 34 to corresponding contacts of the mount 46. The pins 50 may be spring loaded. As such, the pins 50 may be biased toward opposing contacts of the mount 46 to establish a secure electrical connection. That is, the pins 50 may be biased in an outward direction relative to the dock 34. As shown in FIG. 3, the pins 50 are disposed around the perimeter of the dock 34. As will be discussed in detail below, the disposition of the pins 50 may enable the case 32 to electrically couple to the dock 34 in a variety of orientations. However, in other embodiments the pins 50 may be arranged in other configurations (e.g., vertically or horizontally oriented). Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment shows the pins 50 disposed proximate to the dock 34, in other embodiments the pins 50 may be remote from the dock 34.

[0029] To facilitate coupling of the dock 34 to the mount 46, the dock 34 may include a magnetic mounting device 52. For example, magnetic material (e.g., conventional magnets, rare earth magnets, magnetic arrays, electromagnets, etc.) may be embedded within the dock 34. In addition, a metallic plate may be disposed in the mount 46, thereby facilitating magnetic coupling of the case 32 to the dock 34. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the strength of the magnetic bond may be sufficient to support the weight of the case 32, the integrated connectors 44, and the portable electronic device 36. The size and strength of the magnetic mounting device 52 may be varied for a variety of design applications. For example, a stronger magnet may be utilized for large portable electronic devices 36 (e.g., tablets), and a weaker magnet may be utilized for small ones (e.g., cellular phones). Moreover, the strength of the electromagnet may be adjusted depending on the application. Furthermore, in some embodiments the metallic plate and magnet may be reversed (e.g., the metallic plate may be embedded within the dock 34 and the magnet may be disposed in the mount 46). Additionally, in some embodiments, both the mount 46 and the dock 34 may include magnets.

[0030] Additionally, the dock 34 may include a ridge 54, which is configured to interface with a trough 56 of the mount 46. The ridge 54, when coupled with the trough 56, may serve as an orienting device. That is, the ridge 54 may interface with the trough 56 and block rotation of the case 32 about a rotational axis R while the mount 46 is coupled to the dock 34. The ridge 54 may be a raised portion that extends from a base of the dock 34. The ridge 54 may block other devices without a corresponding trough 56 from coupling to the dock 34. For example, the ridge 54 may establish an offset that blocks a credit card or other electromagnetic card from coupling to the dock 34, thereby decreasing the likelihood of demagnetization of the electromagnetic cards.

[0031] Moreover, the ridge/trough interface may establish proper alignment of the dock 34 and mount 46, thereby enabling electrical coupling between the dock 34 and the mount 46. For example, in certain embodiments, the dock 34 and the mount 46 include connectors to establish both electrical and data connections. The ridge/trough interface may be arranged to block a user from inadvertently coupling a data connector to an electrical connector, and vice versa. As a result, the likelihood of misconnections may be reduced or substantially eliminated. While the illustrated embodiment shows a generally rectangular trough/ridge interface, other shapes (e.g., ovular, triangular, etc.) may be utilized to block rotation of the case 32 about a rotational axis R. Moreover, in some embodiments, the case 32 may have the ridge 54 while the dock 34 has the trough 56. Furthermore, other orienting devices may be used. For example, the mount 46 may include a pin configured to couple with various openings disposed on the case. Additionally, the mount 46 may be configured to "break away" when acted upon by a sufficient force. For example, if the case 32 is nudged or pushed while connected to the dock 34, the mount 46 may be configured to release the connection with the dock 34.

[0032] Moreover, while the above discussion was directed to the dock 34, in alternative embodiments auxiliary accessories may incorporate the pins 50, the magnetic mounting device 52, and the ridge 54 to couple to the portable electronic device 36. For example, a magnetic card reader (e.g., credit card scanner) may couple to the mount 46. Additionally, other accessories (e.g., medical devices, speaker systems, etc.) may incorporate the pins 50, magnetic mounting device 52, and the ridge 54 to couple to the mount 46.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a back side of the case 32. As described above, the mount 46 extends through the case 32 in the illustrated embodiment. In some embodiments, the mount 46 may be flush with the back surface of the case 32. However, in other embodiments, the mount 46 may be recessed into the case 32 or may protrude from the back surface of the case 32. Like the case 32, the mount 46 may be formed from a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, composites, and combinations thereof.

[0034] The mount 46 includes the trough 56, as described above. The trough 56 extends into the mount 46 and is configured to interface with the ridge 54. Additionally, the mount 46 includes an array of contact points 58 (e.g., electrical conductors, contacts, etc.). The contact points 58 are configured to electrically couple the mount 46 to the dock 34. Moreover, the contact points are electrically coupled to the electric trace 48. Furthermore, an electrical connection is established from the contact points 58 to the portable electronic device 36 through the electrical connection between the integrated connectors 44 and the electric trace 48. The contact points 58 may be formed from conductive material (e.g., copper, gold, etc.) to establish an electrical connection when the mount 46 and the dock 34 are coupled to one another in a docked state. In the docked state, the contact points 58 are aligned with at least some of the pins 50 to establish an electrical coupling of the dock 34 and the mount 46. Moreover, the trough 56 receives the ridge 54 in the docked state thereby blocking rotation of the case 32 about the rotational axis R relative to the dock. While in the docked state the dock 34 and the mount 46 are mechanically, magnetically, and/or electrically coupled together.

[0035] The array of contact points 58 may be arranged horizontally, as shown in FIG. 4. However, in other embodiments, the contact points 58 may be arranged vertically along the mount 46. Moreover, the contact points 58 may be centered across the mount 46, or offset from the center of the mount 46. In other words, the contact points 58 may be arranged in a number of configurations to match arrangement of the pins 50 on the dock 34. For example, in some embodiments, the contact points 58 may be arranged around the perimeter of the mount 46. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the arrangement of the array of contact points 58 may be directly related to the expected orientation of the case 32 relative to the dock 34. When aligned with the dock 34 of FIG. 3, the horizontal array of contact points 58 contacts one row or column of corresponding pins 50 on the dock 34. For example, while the case 32 is in a vertical orientation (e.g., portrait orientation) the contact points 48 engage the top horizontal row of pins 50. Moreover, while the case 32 is in a horizontal orientation (e.g., landscape orientation), the contact points 58 engage one of the vertical rows of pins 50. As a result, an electrical connection is established between the mount 46 and the dock 34 regardless of orientation.

[0036] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a mounting system 30. As illustrated, the mounting system 30 includes a case 32 and the dock 34. In addition, the mounting system 30 includes a connector assembly 60. The connector assembly 60 includes a conductor array 62 (e.g., a ribbon cable configured to electrically couple the mount 46 to a connector 64). The connector 64 is configured to engage a corresponding connector of the portable electronic device. Similarly, the connector 64 may be a micro-USB, LIGHTNING connector, or the like. Moreover, the connector 64 may include a pass-through connector having both a male connector configured to couple to the personal electronic device 36 and a female connector on a back side of the connector 64, configured to couple to another connector. The connector assembly 60 also includes a support 66 with the mount 46 disposed on one side of the support 66. In some embodiments, the support may be a metal plate. In the illustrated embodiment, the support 66 is disposed within an opening 68 of the case 32. The opening 68 is sized to enable the mount 46 to extend through the case 32. The opening also includes a retaining lip 70 to secure the support 66 to the case 32. When installed, the portable electronic device may be disposed within the case 32 on top of the connector assembly 60. However, in alternative embodiments, different features may be included to secure the mount 46 to the case 32. For example, a locking mechanism (e.g., snap-in piece, hook fastener, sliding lock, etc.) may be used.

[0037] The mount 46 may be configured to couple to the dock 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the mount 46 includes the trough 56 and the array of contact points 58. As described above, the trough 56 receives the ridge 54 of the dock 34 in the docked state, thereby blocking rotation of the case 32 about the rotational axis R relative to the dock. However, in some embodiments, the mount 46 may include a ridge and the dock 34 may include a trough. Moreover, the contact points 58 are configured to electrically couple the mount 46 to the dock 34. The contact points 58 may align with the pins 50 of the dock 34 when the case 32 is in the docked state. In some embodiments, the mount 46 may also include a magnetic mounting device 52 (e.g., magnet, magnetic array, electromagnet, etc.) to facilitate coupling to the dock 34.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the magnetic mounting device 52 that may be used to couple the mount 46 to the dock 34. In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism includes a metal plate 72 disposed behind the mount 46. The metal plate 72 may be embedded within the case 32 or may be disposed on an interior surface of the case 32. For example, the metal plate 72 may be a separate piece inserted into the case 32 before the portable electronic device is installed. Moreover, as described above, the metal plate 72 may be part of the support 66 or part of the mount 46. Additionally, a magnet 74 is disposed behind the dock 34 in the illustrated embodiment. The magnet 74 may also be integrated into the dock 34. For example, the pins 50 could be disposed on the magnet 74. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the strength of the magnet fields used may be varied depending on the desired application. When the mount 46 is brought within range of the magnet 74, the mount 46 and the dock 34 may automatically couple to one another, thereby bringing the contact points 58 and pins 50 into engagement. While the above description refers to the magnet 74 arranged behind and/or integrated with the dock 34, in some embodiments the magnet 74 may be associated with the mount 46, and the metal plate 72 may be associated with the dock 34. In another embodiment, the metal plate 72 may be replaced by an additional magnet 74.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of the magnetic mounting device 52 that may be used to couple the mount 46 to the dock 34. As shown, magnetic arrays 76 are disposed behind the mount 46 and the dock 34. The magnetic arrays 76 may have offset magnetic fields so that when brought together each magnetic array 76 is attracted to the other along a path that establishes a desired alignment. In other words, the magnetic arrays 76 may be arranged to encourage alignment and attraction of the mount 46 and the dock 34. For example, the magnetic arrays 76 may be configured to encourage orientation of the portable electronic device 36 within the case 32 in a vertical or horizontal orientation. As such, the case 32 "snaps" into place when brought close to the dock 34. As previously mentioned, with regard to the magnetic mounting device 52, the magnetic arrays 76 may be integrated into the dock 34 or the mount 46.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a further embodiment of the magnetic mounting device 52 that may be used to couple the mount 46 to the dock 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnetic mounting device 52 includes the magnetic array 76 disposed behind the dock 34. Additionally, the device 52 includes an electromagnet 78 disposed behind the mount 46. However, in alternative embodiments the electromagnet 78 may be disposed behind the dock 34, and the magnetic array 76 may be disposed behind the mount 46. Moreover, the electromagnet 78 or the magnetic array 76 may be integrated into the dock 34 or the mount 46. The electromagnet 78 may be deactivated during normal use, but when brought within proximity of the dock 34, the electromagnet 78 may be activated. Similarly to the embodiment described above with reference to FIG. 7, the magnet array 62 may enable the mount 46 to snap into place on the dock 34. In other embodiments, the magnetic array 76 may be replaced with the metal plate 72 or with another electromagnet 78.

[0041] While several embodiments of magnetic mounting devices 52 have been discussed, the mounting system 30 may utilize additional methods for coupling the mount 46 to the dock 34. For example, the mount 46 may include a clasp that aligns with an opening in the dock 34 and secures the mount 46 to the dock 34. In another embodiment, the mount 46 may have a protrusion that is configured to fit into a slot in the dock 34 and lock into the slot after being turned (e.g., quarter turn). Moreover, other mounting methods may be used.

[0042] FIG. 9 is a top view of an embodiment of the dock 34. As previously discussed, the magnetic mounting device 52 may bring the mount 46 and the dock 34 into engagement to electrically couple the pins 50 and contact points 58. Moreover, the orientation of the portable electronic device may be generally preferred as either vertical or horizontal. To enable vertical and horizontal orientations while also decreasing the number of unused pins 50, a rotatable dock 80 may be used. Similarly to the dock 34, the rotatable dock has pins 50 that may be spring loaded to establish electrical coupling with the contact points 58 of the mount 46 with the case in the docked state. Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment, the rotatable dock 80 includes the ridge 54, which is configured to engage the trough 56 of the mount 46. The rotatable dock 80 may include a detent mechanism. Accordingly, the rotatable dock 80 may be set or biased toward a particular orientation until sufficient force acts upon the dock 80 to move the dock to an alternative orientation. For example, the rotatable dock 80 may be set to the vertical orientation, as shown in FIG. 9. If a rotational force 82 is applied to the rotatable dock 80 that is insufficient to rotate the rotatable dock 80 to the horizontal orientation, the rotatable dock 80 moves back to the vertical orientation. However, if the rotation force 82 is sufficient to rotate the rotatable dock 80 to the horizontal orientation, the dock is biased toward horizontal orientation until a sufficient force is applied to move the dock back to the vertical orientation or to another desired orientation.

[0043] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an adapter 84 in accordance with the present embodiment. As illustrated, the adapter 84 includes the mount 46 and is configured to couple to the dock 34 or to the rotatable dock 80. Moreover, the adapter 84 includes a communication port 86 to interface with an electronic device. For example, the communication port 86 may be a USB port or a Firewire port among other communication ports. Additionally, the communication port 86 may be a three- prong outlet, among other electrical connectors. As such, the adapter 84 may be configured to provide electric power to a variety of devices by coupling to the dock 34. For example, a powered cooler/refrigerator may couple to the adapter 84 to receive electrical power. Furthermore, the adapter 84 may facilitate communication between certain devices and the vehicle electronic system. Furthermore, the adapter 84 may utilize the magnetic mounting devices 52 described in FIGS. 6-8. In some embodiments, the adapter 84 may also include physical components (e.g., clips, shelves, etc.) to support a device (e.g., electronic glasses, etc.). [0044] The mount 46 of the adapter 84 may be configured to couple to the dock 34. The mount 46 may include the trough 56 and the array of contact points 58. As described above, the trough 56 receives the ridge 54 of the dock 34 in the docked state thereby blocking rotation of the case 32 about the rotational axis R relative to the dock. However, in some embodiments the mount 46 may include a ridge and the dock 34 may include a trough. Moreover, the contact points 58 are configured to electrically couple of the mount 46 to the dock 34. The contact points 58 may align with the pins 50 of the dock 34 when the case 32 is in the docked state. In some embodiments, the mount 46 may also include a magnetic mounting device 52 (e.g., magnet, magnetic array, electromagnet, etc.) to facilitate coupling to the dock 34.

[0045] While the discussion above is directed to vehicle interiors it should be appreciated that, the mounting system 30 may be utilized in a variety of non- automotive applications. For example, a home may be wired to include mounting locations throughout the home to facilitate integration of portable electronic devices into a home entertainment system, a home alarm system, and the like. Additionally, the mounting system 30 may be used on public transportation systems to enable users to charge devices while traveling and also to integrate the devices with the public transportation system (e.g., to receive updates and alerts from the transportation provider). The mounting system 30 may be used in any suitable location where charging or interfacing with portable electric devices is desirable.

[0046] While only certain features and embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, many modifications and changes may occur to those skilled in the art (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters (e.g., temperatures, pressures, etc.), mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the claims. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re- sequenced according to alternative embodiments. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention. Furthermore, in an effort to provide a concise description of the exemplary embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not have been described (i.e., those unrelated to the presently contemplated best mode of carrying out the invention, or those unrelated to enabling the claimed invention). It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation specific decisions may be made. Such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure, without undue experimentation.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A supplemental attached device for a self-contained portable electronic device comprising:

a retaining feature configured to secure the supplemental attached device to a housing of the self-contained portable electronic device;

a mount configured to couple the supplemental attached device to a dock to establish a docked state, wherein the mount comprises an orienting device configured to block rotation of the supplemental attached device about a rotational axis relative to the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state, and the dock is configured to support the supplemental attached device while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state; and

an electrical connector assembly comprising a first electrical connector configured to engage a second electrical connector of the dock to establish an electrical connection between the self-contained portable electronic device and the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state.

2. The supplemental attached device of claim 1, comprising a conductor configured to electrically couple the first electrical connector to the self-contained portable electronic device.

3. The supplemental attached device of claim 1, wherein the first electrical connector comprises an array of electrical contacts arranged in a vertical orientation, a horizontal orientation, or a combination thereof.

4. The supplemental attached device of claim 1, wherein the electrical connector assembly is configured to transmit a data signal between the self-contained portable electronic device and the dock.

5. The supplemental attached device of claim 1, wherein the orienting device is configured to enable the mount to couple the supplemental attached device to the dock in a first orientation and in a second orientation, wherein the first orientation is about 90 degrees offset from the second orientation about the rotational axis.

6. The supplemental attached device of claim 1, wherein the orienting device comprises a trough configured to receive a corresponding ridge of the dock.

7. The supplemental attached device of claim 1, wherein the mount comprises a first magnetic coupling feature, and the mount is configured to couple the supplemental attached device to the dock via magnetic attraction between the first magnetic coupling feature and a second magnetic coupling feature of the dock.

8. A connector assembly for a self-contained portable electronic device comprising:

a first electrical connector configured to engage a second electrical connector of the self-contained portable electronic device;

a third electrical connector comprising a first plurality of contacts configured to engage a second plurality of contacts of a fourth electrical connector of a dock; and a conductor array extending between the first electrical connector and the third electrical connector;

wherein the third electrical connector is configured to be secured to the self- contained portable electronic device, the third electrical connector comprises a mount configured to couple the self-contained portable electronic device to the dock to establish a docked state, the dock is configured to support the self-contained portable electronic device while the portable electronic device is in the docked state, and the mount comprises an orienting device configured to block rotation of a supplemental attached device about a rotational axis relative to the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state.

9. The connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the third electrical connector is configured to mount to the supplemental attached device, and the conductor is configured to be retained within the supplemental attached device.

10. The connector assembly of claim 9, wherein the mount of the third electrical connector is substantially aligned with an opening in the supplemental attached device.

11. The connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the mount comprises a first magnetic coupling feature, and the mount is configured to couple the supplemental attached device to the dock via magnetic attraction between the first magnetic coupling feature and a second magnetic coupling feature of the dock.

12. The connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the third electrical connector is configured to transmit a data signal between the self-contained portable electronic device and the fourth electrical connector of the dock.

13. The connector assembly of claim 8, wherein the orienting device comprises a trough configured to receive a corresponding ridge of the dock.

14. The connector assembly of claim 8, comprising a rotary mechanism configured to facilitate rotation of the supplemental attached device about the rotational axis.

15. A self-contained portable electronic device attachment system, comprising:

a supplemental attached device having a retaining feature configured to secure the supplemental attached device to a housing of the self-contained portable electronic device;

a connector assembly disposed within the supplemental attached device, wherein the connector assembly comprises a conductor configured to electrically couple the connector assembly to the self-contained portable electronic device, and a mount; and

a dock configured to couple to the mount of the connector assembly to secure the supplemental attached device in a docked state, wherein the dock comprises an orientating device configured to block rotation of the supplemental attached device about a rotational axis relative to the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docked state.

16. The self-contained portable electronic device attachment system of claim 15, wherein the dock comprises a first electrical connector configured to electrically couple with a corresponding second electrical connector of the connector assembly while the self-contained portable electronic device is in the docked state.

17. The self-contained portable electronic device attachment system of claim 16, wherein first electrical connector is configured to transmit and data signal between the dock and the self-contained portable electronic device via the second electrical connector.

18. The self-contained portable electronic device attachment system of claim 15, wherein the orienting device comprises a ridge configured to engage a corresponding trough of the connector assembly.

19. The self-contained portable electronic device attachment system of claim 15, wherein the connector assembly comprises a first magnetic mounting feature and the dock comprises a corresponding second magnetic mounting feature configured to align with the first magnetic mounting feature to secure the supplemental attached device to the dock while the supplemental attached device is in the docketed state.

20. The self-contained portable electronic device attachment system of claim 15, wherein the supplemental attached device comprises an opening configured to receive the connector assembly.