WO2015127969A1

WO2015127969A1 - Retaining device for fastening a mobile communication device

Info

Publication number: WO2015127969A1
Application number: PCT/EP2014/053731
Authority: WO
Inventors: Andreas Gahlert
Original assignee: iCradle GmbH
Priority date: 2014-02-26
Filing date: 2014-02-26
Publication date: 2015-09-03
Also published as: DE112014006411B4; DE112014006411A5

Abstract

The invention relates to a retaining device (1) for fastening a mobile communication device (2), in particular a smartphone, to a vehicle component such as a bicycle handlebar. The retaining device (1) has a main frame (5), which comprises at least one fastening region (17, 18) for connecting to a connection element fastened to the vehicle component. In order to reliably retain different mobile communication devices, the main frame (5) has a drawer element (3), which is designed as an interchangeable frame for holding the communication device (2) in a form-closed manner and can be inserted into an accurately fitting holder (4) in the main frame (5).

Description

Holding device for fastening a mobile communication device

The invention relates to a holding device for fastening a mobile communication device according to the preamble of claim 1. Mobile communication devices such as especially smart phones and tablet ^PCs are becoming increasingly popular and in addition to that required for communication functions such as telephony and / or internet access based on the available processing power and memory sizes as well as large displays versatility. For example, it is known to use such a communication device as a mobile navigation device with satellite-assisted position determination.

By installing additional programs on the communication device, the functionality can be further increased. DE 203 16 150 U1 proposes, for example, the functions of a bicycle computer, that is to say the display of an actual speed, the kilometers traveled and the like in a mobile telephone, ie a mobile communication system. cation device, integrate. The required information is transmitted wirelessly or by wire to the mobile communication device.

In DE 101 09 341 A1 it is also proposed to use a mobile communication device as a bicycle computer. For fixing the mobile communication device on the bicycle handlebar and thus in the driver's field of view serves a holding device which is bolted to the bicycle handlebar, the communication device can be positively and / or positively received in the holding device. A holding device with a main frame which can be detachably fastened to a bicycle handlebar by means of a screw connection is also known from CH 694 915 A5. The mobile communication device is first attached to a detachable adapter, which is then locked to the main frame. However, these known holding devices all have the disadvantage that the communication device is exposed to the weather relatively unprotected. In addition, a secure mount at high acceleration forces, as they can occur, for example, when mountain biking, hardly guaranteed. In DE 298 16 323 U1 is therefore proposed, the holder in the form of a collapsible

Form box in which the communication device can be completely absorbed. In this case, a window is provided in the region of the display of the communication device in order to read information from the display while driving can. Furthermore, the holding device has at least one switching element for operating the communication device when the holder is closed. Due to different sizes of deployable communication devices, however, these are relatively loose in the fixture. The holding device itself requires a lot of space and limits the usages of the communication device quite strong. The invention is based on the object to eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to provide a holding device for a mobile communication device in order to securely attach this to a vehicle part, in particular a bicycle handlebar. In this case, the mobile communication device is to be used in a variety of ways and in particular easy to use and read. Furthermore, if possible, a great simplification and reduction of required display and control elements should be achieved. According to the invention this object is achieved with a holding device having the features of claim 1. Main features of the invention are specified in the characterizing part of claim 1. Embodiments are the subject of claims 2 to 18.

In a holding device for fastening a mobile communication device, in particular a smartphone, to a vehicle component, in particular to a bicycle handlebar, wherein the holding device has a main frame which has at least one attachment region for connection to a connection element fixed to the vehicle component, it is provided according to the invention that the main frame a drawer element which is designed as a removable frame for positive reception of the communication device and can be inserted into a snug fit in the main frame.

The drawer element serves as a removable frame, which is adapted to the respective model of the communication device, so that the main frame can be combined unchanged with different communication devices. Due to the design as a drawer element this is compared to external forces that do not counteract a direction of insertion, positively guided in the main frame. Thus, even with larger force effects, a very secure hold of the drawer element and thus of the mobile communication device takes place. The one or more attachment areas then serve for simple, stable connection to connection elements which are fixed in a known manner on the vehicle part. For example, these are attached by means of hose clamps to a bicycle handlebar. This configuration results in a stable attachment to the vehicle, wherein the communication device is protected by the drawer element and the support frame against externa ßeren influences. The communication device provides a display available, so that can be dispensed with additional display instruments. This results in a complexity reduction.

In a preferred embodiment, the drawer element can be latched in the receptacle. Unintentional opening of the drawer element is thus prevented. Additionally or alternatively, further closure elements, such as a latch closure, may be provided which secure the drawer element in the inserted state within the main frame.

Preferably, at least one fastening region is designed such that the main frame can be fastened in the center via a handlebar head of a bicycle handlebar. direction of the drawer element is substantially perpendicular to a direction of travel of the bicycle. The main frame then extends both over a stem of the bicycle and on the handlebar itself and can thus be secured against rotation on the handlebars, for example, with three mounting areas. As the direction of insertion is perpendicular to the direction of travel, it runs in a direction in which the lowest acceleration forces are to be expected while driving. Accordingly, accidental opening is relatively easy to prevent. In this case, a central and horizontal arrangement of the holding device and thus of the communication device is possible, so that it is easy to read. Preferably, an extension of the drawer element is transverse to the insertion direction less than parallel to the insertion direction. In order for a communication device can be arranged transversely and so the entire display width can be exploited to display several information in parallel readable.

In order to ensure a simple operation of the communication device, in particular if it has a touch-sensitive display, the main frame has an opening on its upper side, which lies above a display of the communication device when the drawer element is inserted. The main frame is thus open on the top side and thus allows free access to the display of the communication device. The opening should be at least slightly smaller than the drawer element, so that it remains positively held despite opening.

As protection against the effects of weather, the opening is preferably associated with a removable weather and dirt cover, which can be latched in particular to the main frame. The weather and dirt cover can then close, for example, in bad weather conditions, the opening of the main frame. If necessary, an additional seal can be provided for a watertight closure.

In a preferred embodiment, the drawer element on sliding contacts, which are in the inserted position with contact surfaces in the main frame in contact. This makes it possible to transmit electrical power and / or data or signals to and from the communication device.

It is particularly preferred that the drawer element has a charging plug for the communication device. This can then, for example, a supply of the mobile Communication device with electrical energy done in order to achieve sufficiently long maturities.

With particular advantage, an electrical energy store is arranged in the main frame. Independently of a further energy source, the mobile communication device accommodated in the holding device can then be supplied with energy. But it can also be supplied with additional electrical elements with energy. In this case, the electrical energy store is preferably designed as a rechargeable store, which can be reloaded from time to time stationary.

Preferably, a control module is arranged in the main frame, which is particularly suitable for wireless connection of the communication device with components of the vehicle, for theft protection, for locating and / or for a firmware update. The integrated in the main frame control module can provide advanced functionality available such as a connection of electrical components of the vehicle to the mobile communication device. Thus, it is possible not only to display status information of the vehicle in the mobile communication device, but also to control or even regulate electrical components of the vehicle by means of the communication device.

For example, as theft protection, a GPS / GSM module may be arranged in the main frame. In the case of an undesired movement, which is detected as a change in position, then, for example, a message can be sent to the mobile communication device or another freely determinable device in order to inform the owner. In addition, a retrieval of the vehicle can be facilitated.

To record the ride and / or as a sensor for automatic assistance functions, a camera can be arranged in the main frame. In this case, the image captured by the camera can preferably be stored and displayed in the mobile communication device. In a preferred embodiment, the holding device has a shield which is detachable on

Main frame is attached. The sign can be individualized depending on the vehicle type. The shield should be easy to install and replaceable on the one hand, but on the other hand as possible to be protected against theft connected to the holding device. In order to adjust an angle of the shield, the shield is preferably pivotally mounted via a hinge on the main frame.

In a particularly preferred development, the holding device has a lighting module. The holding device thus serves not only for fastening and optionally power supply of the mobile communication device, but also for providing a vehicle lighting. In particular, in a bicycle or electric bicycle can then be dispensed with additional lighting. If the lighting module has at least one front headlight, a particularly simple attachment of the headlight to the holding device results from the fact that it can be inserted into recordings of the shield. Insertion is preferably carried out against the direction of travel, ie from a back of the shield. Advantageously, the illumination module comprises a rear light module, which in particular has a camera. The rear light module can then be switched on or off in particular via the mobile communication device. The images of the camera, which is used for example as a rear view camera, can then be transmitted via a wireless data connection such as WLAN or Bluetooth to the mobile communication device and there displayed and optionally stored. The holding device with the lighting module thus provides a complete lighting solution, for example for a bicycle. In addition, in conjunction with the mobile communication device, it can serve as the vehicle's central control and information system. Further features, details and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the wording of the claims and from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. Show it:

1 is a perspective view of an inventive holding device,

Fig. 2 is a sectional side view of the holding device and

Fig. 3 is a side view of the holding device.

In Fig. 1, a holding device 1 for a mobile communication device 2 as a smartphone is shown in a spatial representation. The mobile communication device 2 is received in a drawer element 3, which is designed as a removable frame. The drawer denelement 3 is tuned with its outer dimensions in such a way to a receptacle 4 within a main frame 5 of the holding device 1, that it is free of play in the receptacle 4 inserted. Depending on the communication device 2 used, therefore, only one replacement of the drawer element 3 is required to accommodate the communication device 2 without play in the drawer element 3 and thus safely in the holding device 1. In this case, the drawer element 3, if desired, also remain independent of the holding device 1 on the mobile communication device and thus serve as shock protection, for example.

The drawer element 3 can be locked in the inserted state within the main frame 5 via not shown latching devices. An unwanted moving out of the main frame 5 is prevented. Alternatively or additionally, a cover 6 may be provided for closing an insertion opening for the drawer element 3, which is designed in particular as a flap. The cover 6 then not only secures the drawer element 3 within the receptacle 4 but also protects it from contamination.

The main frame 5 has an opening 7 on its upper side. Through the opening 7 a free access to a touch-sensitive screen 8 of the communication device 2 is possible with inserted drawer element 3 and inserted communication device 2. This makes it easy to read and operate.

The opening 7 is associated with a transparent weather and dirt cover 9, which can be used for example in bad weather conditions in the opening 7 and then closes weatherproof. Due to the transparent design of the weather and dirt cover screen 8 remains easy to read.

At a front in the direction of travel side of the main frame 5, a shield 10 is attached. On the plate, for example by means of adhesive films different design elements, such as numbers 1 1, can be applied. This allows for extensive customization. The shield 10 is connected to the main frame 5 in such a way that replacement of the shield 10 is possible, but for reasons of theft protection this can not be done without tools. For example, the shield 10 is bolted to the main frame 5.

A lighting module with a plurality of headlights 12a-12f is attached to the shield 10 by being inserted from the rear into corresponding recesses for the headlights 12a-12f. As the light source preferably ^LEDs are provided, a good light exit offer low energy consumption and a great deal of creative freedom. The lighting module can be operated manually and / or via the mobile communication device 2. Even with an exchange of the shield 10 so the same lighting module can be used.

The holding device 1 is preferably mounted on a handlebar of a bicycle, such as a bicycle or an electric bicycle, such that the main frame 5 is centrally located above a handlebar head, while the mobile communication device is arranged transversely thereto. Accordingly, an insertion direction of the drawer element 3 is perpendicular to the direction of travel or parallel to the handlebar. This results in a central and horizontal arrangement of the holding device and thus of the communication device, as is known for example for the arrangement of instruments in motorcycles.

2 shows a sectional side view of the holding device 1 is shown. The drawer element 3 is inserted without communication device 2 into the receptacle of the main frame 5. Below the drawer element 3, an electrical energy storage 13 in the form of a battery and electronic components 14 such as a control module and / or a GPS module are housed. In this case, an electrically conductive connection takes place between the drawer element 3 and the main frame 5 via sliding contacts 15, which are in contact with corresponding contact surfaces in the main frame 5.

In the drawer element 3, a charging plug 16 is formed for the mobile communication device, so that the communication device can be powered by the electrical energy storage 12 with electrical energy. In addition, it can also be provided to enable communication between the mobile communication device 2 and the electronic components via the charging plug. However, such a communication preferably takes place wirelessly, for example by means of WLAN, Bluetooth or another recognized standard, so that only one power supply of the mobile communication device takes place via the charging plug 16.

On the underside, the main frame 5 is provided with mounting portions 17, 18, which allow a stable connection to at least one connecting element, which is attached to a vehicle component, such as a bicycle handlebar. By appropriately selecting the one or more connection elements, the holding device 1 can then be easily attached to different vehicle components. In this case, between the attachment areas 17, 18 contact surfaces 19, 20 formed, via which an electrical and optionally signal transmitted connection to vehicle components can be made.

The one or more connection elements are formed, for example, as a flange that is fastened by means of hose clamps on the vehicle component. In the flange, the mounting portions of the main frame can be accommodated and locked, so that it is protected against theft. It is also possible, if appropriate, to use connection elements already present on the vehicle with the use of an adapter for fastening the holding device. The drawer element as a removable frame can remain on the mobile communication device, ie can be taken along easily, and is thus also protected against unauthorized access.

3 shows a side view of the holding device 1 with the drawer element 3 inserted and the cover 6 closed. The shield 10 is fastened on the front frame 5 to the main frame 5 via a rotary joint 21 so that an angle of the plate 10 relative to the main frame 5 is relatively freely adjustable. Thus, a light beam 22 of the immovably connected to the shield 10 lighting module is easily adjustable by means of appropriate angular adjustment of the shield 10. In this case, the set angle can be frictionally held, but it is also conceivable to provide detents and / or a clamping connection in order to prevent an adjustment of the angle between the shield 10 and the main frame 5 even with larger loads.

The invention is not limited to one of the embodiments described above, but can be modified in many ways. For example, the attachment areas 17, 18 can be hinged to the main frame via one or more hinges in order to be able to set an angle of view on the screen of the communication device. Furthermore, the outer shape in particular of the shield and the headlight as well as its number can be chosen relatively arbitrary. In addition, optionally between the screen of the communication device and this associated side of the drawer element, a sealing element can be arranged so that can be dispensed with a weather and dirt cover even in poor weather conditions.

All features and advantages arising from the claims, the description and the drawing, including constructional details, spatial arrangements and method steps, can be essential to the invention both individually and in the most diverse combinations. Reference numeral holding device

Mobile communication device

drawer unit

admission

main frame

cover

opening

screen

Weather and dirt cover

sign

numbers

headlights

Electric energy storage

Electric components

sliding contacts

charging plug

fastening area

contact area

swivel

beam of light

Claims

Patent claims

1 . Holding device (1) for attaching a mobile communication device (2) to a vehicle component, wherein the holding device (1) has a main frame (5) which has at least one fastening area (17, 18) for connection to a connection element fixed to the vehicle component, characterized in that the main frame (5) has a drawer element (3), which is designed as a removable frame for positively holding the communication device (2) and can be inserted into a precisely fitting receptacle (4) in the main frame (5).

2. Holding device according to claim 1, characterized in that the drawer element (3) can be locked in the receptacle (4).

3. Holding device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one fastening area (17, 18) is designed such that the main frame (3) can be fastened centrally via a handlebar head of a bicycle handlebar, with an insertion direction of the drawer element (3) in Essentially perpendicular to a direction of travel of the vehicle.

4. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an extension of the drawer element (3) transverse to the insertion direction is less than parallel to the insertion direction.

5. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the main frame (5) has an opening (7) on its top, which lies above a screen of the communication device (2) when the drawer element (3) is inserted.

6. Holding device according to claim 5, characterized in that the opening (7) is assigned a removable weather and dirt cover (9), which can be locked in particular with the main frame (5).

7. Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drawer element (3) has sliding contacts (15) which are in contact with contact surfaces in the main frame (5) in the inserted position.

Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drawer element (3) has a charging plug (16) for the mobile communication device (2).

Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an electrical energy storage (13) is arranged in the main frame (5).

Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a control module (14) is arranged in the main frame (5), which is particularly suitable for wirelessly connecting the communication device to components of the vehicle, for theft protection, for location and/or for a firmware update.

Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a GPS/GSM module is arranged in the main frame.

Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a camera is arranged in the main frame (5).

Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the main frame (5) is connected to the fastening area (17, 18) via a hinge.

Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding device has a shield (10) which is releasably attached to the main frame (5).

Holding device according to claim 1 1, characterized in that the sign (10) is pivotally attached to the main frame (5) via a joint (21).

Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a lighting module.

Holding device according to claim 16, characterized in that the lighting module has at least one headlight (12a-12f), which can be inserted in particular into receptacles of the sign (10).

18. Holding device according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the lighting module comprises a rear light module, which in particular has a camera.