WO2018060876A1 - Accessory for a touchscreen device - Google Patents

Abstract

An accessory for holding or supporting a personal media device having a touchscreen on a major surface has functional subassembly connected to a jaw subassembly comprising first and second jaws for gripping between them such device, wherein the first jaw bears against the touchscreen surface and the second jaw bears against the major back surface of the personal media device. The functional assembly may be detachable from the jaw subassembly and may be provided with different shapes and functionalities for enhancing the manner of use of the media device, which may typically be a smartphone handset

Description

AC C E SSO RY FO R A T OUC H SC R E E N DEVIC E

F ield of invention

[01] This invention relates to an accessory for holdi ng a personal media device such as a smartphone i n a desi red ori entati on by vari ous means. In parti cul ar, the i nventi on rel ates to a devi ce for supportively gripping a handset comprising such media device i n a variety of orientations according to a user s purpose.

Background to the invention

[02] At various places in this specification, the term :smartphone~ is used to describe a personal media device with which the accessory of this invention may be advantageously used. However, this term is not to be considered limiting, but to include all kinds of computerised personal digital utility devices that are generally pocket-sized, portable or wearable, and are intended for communication and engagement with digital media. Research shows that the principal use of a mobile telephone handset a few years ago was to make telephone calls, talk and communicate using voice or text messages. Nowadays, telephone functions rank 5^th, behind i nternet access, social media, listening to music and playing games.

[03] Although : smartphone^" is the word currently used for referring to computerised media device handsets equipped with touchscreens, the explosion of applications that followed the introduction of touchscreen computi ng on-the-go, suggests : smartphone^" is likely to superseded by another term, as the rol e of the previ ously cutti ng-edge, but now humbl e : mobi I e phone^" or : eel I phone^", continues to evolve and expand, or becomes more focused, perhaps on a particular range of communications requirements or other applications.

[04] A plethora of devices is known for holding and supporting mobile smartphones in various positions and orientations, dictated largely by specific needs and predominantly signal task applications. K nown devices are designed to hold the smartphone everywhere but on the touchscreen. It is speculated that designers are concerned that touching the screen would reduce the functional area available to the user, as well interfere with the normal capacitive touchscreen functionality through capacitance when other touch-actions are performed. US pre-grant patent publication 2015/Ό033167A 1 is an example of a gripping device that grips the electronic device on the periphery.

[05] K nown devices are designed to hold the smartphone everywhere but on the touchscreen. It is speculated that designers are concerned that touching the screen would reduce the functional area available to the user, as well interfere with the normal capacitive touchscreen functionality through capacitance when other touch-actions are performed. Known devices also tend towards being uni -functional, in that they are designed to serve a specific predefined function.

0 bj ects of the i nventi on

[06] It is an object of this invention to address the shortcomings of the prior art and, in so doi ng, to provi de an accessory for a broad range of f aci I itati ons when used for gri ppi ng a personal media device.

[07] A further object of the invention is to provide a supportively gripping device that can assist the operation of a wide variety of apps running on a smartphone, or increase the number of options available to an app designer when developing a smartphone app.

[08] The preceding discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to was part of the common general knowledge in A ustralia or elsewhere as at the priority dates of the present application.

[09] Further, and unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the cl ai ms, the words : compri se^", : compri si ng^", and the I i ke are to be construed i n an i ncl usi ve sense - that is to say of ^"including, but not being limited to_ - as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, meaning ^"including this and nothing else_.

[010] There are accessory devices on the market that can successful ly match certai n of the uses of the present invention, but none is able to rival the broad range of uses facilitated by the device of the present invention.

[01 1] Given there are currently approximately 7.2 billion mobile phones worldwide and the vast majority of users have their phone with them at all ti mes, this accessory may prove beneficial to a broad group of people.

Summary of invention

[012] T he i nventi on provi des a personal medi a devi ce accessory, preferably constructed from a thermoplastics substance and an alloy. It has jaws for gripping a generally slab-shaped touchscreen device such as a personal media device, biased to be normally closed on the face and back of the device with sufficient force for static friction to hold the device according to user requirements. Sufficient force is equivalent to the minimum force a human user needs to exert in order to hold a personal media device steadily in a landscape position by utilising static friction resulti ng from thei r pi nchi ng the opposite maj or surfaces at a corner between thumb and f oref i nger. T he jaws are preferably spring loaded, either by coil or formed pre-tensi oned plate, to be closed in default configuration, and are openableto receive the personal media device, for example by means of a thumb-operated lever.

[013] Prototype testi ng reveals the accessory does not harm the touchscreen of the devi ce it grips, not does it harm the device or any cover, or impede its operation to more than a marginal extent, if any. T he accessory can easi ly be repositi oned around the f ul I peri meter of the devi ce and be simply detached if required. Depending on the use to which the smartphone being held with the accessory i s bei ng put, the accessory may serve or provi de one of more of the f uncti ons i n the following list of examples, which should not be construed as in any way limiting: propping, supporting, and counterbalancing by gripping, pinching, holding, and clamping.

[014] Furthermore, using the accessory either continuously or occasionally presents no problem to phone operability or access to phone functions, including pressure activated functions on current smartphone models.

[015] T hus, accordi ng to a f i rst aspect of the i nventi on, there i s provi ded an accessory for a personal media device having a touchscreen defined on a major surface thereof, the accessory comprising: a. A jaw subassembly comprising first and second opposing jaws operable for gripping between them a personal media device having said touchscreen, wherein the first jaw is configured to bear against said touchscreen surface and the second jaw is configured to bear against an opposite major back surface of the personal media device, at peripheral opposite portions of said surfaces; and b. A functional subassembly connected to the jaw subassembly.

[016] In a preferred form of the invention the functional subassembly is weighted to provide a counterweight to the personal media device, whereby the device, when gripped, may be balanced i n mul ti pi e ori entati ons i n rel ati on to the user.

[017] Preferably, the counterweight provided is adjustably disposable relative to the personal medi a devi ce by adj ustment of the I ocati on of the j aws on the maj or surfaces of the personal medi a device, thereby to balance the personal media device in a user-selectable orientation.

[018] In a further preferred form of the invention, the jaws are adapted to grip the major surfaces usi ng stati c f ri cti on. In a preferred embodi ment, the j aws are adapted to gri p the surfaces by means of static friction only. [01 ] Further, according to the invention, each jaw may have a gripping surface adapted to have a coefficient of static friction, when applied to the major surfaces of the persona! media, device, sufficient to retain the personal media device stably between them, against gravity. The gripping surface is preferably defined by a resilient layer for contacting^' the touchscreen.

[020] In a further preferred form of the invention, the functional subassembly is detachable from the jaw subassembly.

[02 i ] Still further, the functional subassembly preferably comprises a functional portion and a first attachment element connected thereto, and the jaw subassembly comprises a second attachment element co-operating to establish reieasable attachment to the first element.

[022] According to the invention in a preferred form, the accessor}' operative!)'^' establishes a fulcrum when gripping a device, the fulcrum having an adjustable location depending on the location of the jaws against the surfaces being gripped. As a result of the fulcrum location being adj ustable, a variable support effect is obtainable from the body, j^'023'3 Preferably, the functional portion comprises a body which substantially provides the counterweight.

[024] in an embodiment of the invention, the functional assembiy is shaped for holding by a hand of 3 user.

1025 j The body preferably is shaped for supporting the personal media device in upright orientation on a substantially flat surface.

[026] Tn a preferred embodiment, the body is shaped to support a smartphone handset to rest in utile orientatio on a shoulder of a human user.

[027] The body may further be shaped to support the personal media device in a screen- viewing orientation on a. motor vehicle dashboard, on a windscreen, or on a flexible arm.

[028] In a further preferred form of the invention, the body portion is shaped to be handheld.

[029] The body portion is preferably shaped such that when held by a user, at least a thumb of the user's hand is available for interaction with the touchscreen. The interaction is preferably according to a function or an application being run on the smartphone. The accessory enables the smartphone to be held in a selected orientation for effective control or interaction with a particular application or function button. [030] In an embodi ment, the f uncti onal porti on compri ses a frame end osi ng an aperture.

[031] The frame may generally have the shape of an oval having first and second ends of different respective diameters.

[032] The first end may be of relatively shorter diameter than the second end and be connected to sai d f i rst attachment el ement.

[033] In an embodiment the functional portion comprises electronic controller means operable for controlling functionality of the gripped device

[034] Preferably, the control I er means compri ses a thumb- or f i nger-operabl e control panel .

[035] In a yet further preferred form of the invention, the first attachment element may comprise a housing for operatively receiving the second attachment element

[036] The first attachment element may comprise a projecting formation for operatively being received by the second attachment element.

[037] In a preferred embodi ment of the i nventi on, the j aws are hi ngedly connected and urged together in a default closed position.

[038] Preferably, the jaws include lever means operable to open a device-receiving gap between them

[039] A ccordi ng to a second aspect of the i nventi on there i s provi ded an accessory kit for use with a personal media device having a touchscreen on a major surface thereof, the kit comprising a jaw subassembly and a plural ity of interchangeable functional subassemblies adapted for removable attachment to the jaw subassembly, wherein the jaw assembly comprises first and second opposing jaws operable for grippi ng between them a personal media device on said touchscreen, and, wherein the first jaw is configured to bear against said touchscreen surface and the second jaw is configured to bear against an opposite major back surface of the personal media device, at peripheral opposite portions of said surfaces.

[040] The jaw assembly, when operatively attached to any of the functional assemblies, defines an accessory as defined above. T he functional subassemblies may be of l ike shape, differing in size, or of different functional shapes having equivalent size.

[041] Accordi ng to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method of utilising personal media device functionality, the method comprising: a. providing a personal media device of generally slab-like shape having opposed maj or surfaces, one of whi ch i ncl udes a touchscreen, and an accessory comprisi ng a jaw subassembly and a functional subassembly connected to the jaw subassembly, the j aw assembly compri si ng f i rst and second opposed j aws openabl e to define a receivi ng gap for said device, b. operati ng the j aws for def i ni ng the gap, c. introducing the personal media device partially into the gap, d. al I owi ng the j aws to gri p the personal medi a devi ce on i ts opposed maj or surfaces, and e. ori enti ng sai d dev i ce i n a desi red uti I e ori entati on.

[042] Preferably, the method includes allowing the functional subassembly to provide a counterweight to the weight of the personal media device when gripped.

[043] The step of orienting the personal media device may comprise adjusting its position in the gap relative to the functional subassembly.

[044] Preferably, the jaws grip the surfaces utilising static friction.

[045] In a preferred form of the i nventi on, the method i ncl udes I ocati ng the j aws on the maj or surfaces so that the functional subassembly establishes a fulcrum when operatively gripping the personal medi a devi ce, the f ul crum havi ng an adj ustabl e I ocati on dependi ng on the I ocati on of the j aws agai nst the surfaces bei ng gri pped.

[046] In an embodi ment, the method i ncl udes resti ng the personal media device on a remote supporti ng surface and adj usti ng the I ocati on of the j aws to bal ance sai d devi ce agai nst movement relative to said supporting surface.

[047] In a preferred form of the method, the functional subassembly is detachable from the j aw subassembly. T he method may i ncl ude the step of detachi ng and i nterchangi ng the f uncti onal subassembly with a second functional subassembly differi ng i n respect of one or more of f uncti on, shape, size and weight.

[048] Accordi ng to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a balancing accessory for a personal communications device, the accessory comprising a weighted portion and gripping means connected to the weighted portion, the gripping means being adapted to grip a personal communications device, so as to inhibit relative movement between the communications device and the accessory,

[049] Preferably, the gripping means is detachably and re-attachably attachable to weighted portions of different form and function for use with the communications device.

[050] In a preferred form of the invention, the gripping means is adapted to grip against a major surface comprising a touchscreen and an opposite major surface of a smartphone, so as to inhibit relative movement between the smartphone and accessory.

[051] In a preferred form of the invention, the weighted portion comprises a frame defining an aperture extendi ng therethrough.

[052] Preferably, the frame is temporarily openable for receiving therein an element of a separate structure for establishing attachment thereto.

[053] In a preferred embodiment, the balancing device includes electronic controller means operable for controlling functionality of the smartphone, or functional ly derived via an app or the like.

[054] Preferably, the controller means comprises a thumb- or finger-operable control panel. In a preferred form of the i nventi on, the control panel extends from a f i rst si de of the devi ce. T he control panel i n a preferred embodi ment i s mounted to a j aw to be I ocated adj acent the touchscreen surface of a devi ce bei ng gri pped.

[055] T he control I er means i s preferably i n communi cati on with the smartphone usi ng a short range wireless protocol. Communication may alternatively be achieved by means of a cable attachable to the smartphone.

[056] In a further preferred form of the i nventi on accordi ng to thi s embodi ment, the control I er means is partially housed within the body.

[057] The invention extends to a pair of balancing devices wherein a second of said devices has controller means on a second side that is opposite to the first side of the previously mentioned accessory. The pair thus comprises first and second devices positionable to grip a smartphone to that the respective control lers are adjacently opposed, each to be accessible by a thumb of a user. In simultaneous use, the two paired devices may be employed to simulate an experience relating to the control of a movi ng conveyance, such as an ai rcraft, spacecraft motor vehi cl e, boat and the like. [058] In a preferred embodiment the or each controller comprises an input means selected from one or more of touch- pads, touch controllers, triggers, joysticks, directional pads, track balls, omni di recti onal control sti cks and buttons. T he control I er enabl es i nteracti ve engagement between a device user and outputs from the personal media device being gripped, for example information being displayed on the personal media device screen or sounds being emitted, to which the user reacts.

[059] In another embodiment the accessory may incorporate suitable electronic sensors, vibrators, alarms, lights and other sensory devices to track, locate, monitor, alert; restrain, or arouse items attached to, or people interacting with, the accessory by configuring suitable activation means including wireless protocols through third party software applications such as apps or similar electronic control means including direct and remote user controls.

[060] In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of enhancing ease of use of a smartphone, the method i ncl udi ng a. providing and operating a weighted gripping accessory adapted for gripping a general ly si ab-shaped smartphone havi ng opposite f i rst and second maj or surfaces, separated by a minor surface, at opposed locations on said major surfaces, b. adj usting the locations of gripping to establish a fulcrum between a weighted portion of the accessory and the smartphone, and c. utilising the fulcrum to orientate the smartphone for user comfort when using a feature of, or running a desired application on, the smartphone.

[061 ] A ccordi ng to the i nventi on i n a sti 11 further aspect a method of usi ng a personal media device comprises the steps of a. provi di ng an accessory havi ng i. gripping means for gripping a personal media device on its major, touchscreen-displaying surface, and i i . counterbalanci ng means connected to the gri ppi ng means, b. causing the accessory to grip the device at a location on a portion of said major surface and an opposite major surface, c. positi oni ng the counterbalanci ng means to ori entate the devi ce for conveni ent use of a feature thereof or application to be run thereon, and d. adj usting the location of grip on said surface and the position of the counterbalancing means as necessary for user comfort while operating the device.

[062] In a preferred form of the i nventi on, the method i ncl udes causi ng the gri ppi ng means to gri p the maj or surfaces uti I i si ng stati c f ri cti on. In a further preferred form, the method i ncl udes utilising static friction to the exclusion of mechanical gripping of the device on its major surfaces.

Brief description of drawings

[063] In order that the invention may be readily understood, and put into practical effect, reference wi 11 now be made to the accompany i ng figures. T hus:

Figure 1 shows in top view a preferred embodiment of the accessory of this invention.

Figure 2 is a schematic side view of the accessory of Figure 1 with jaws in closed position.

Figure 3 is a schematic side view of the accessory of the invention in an alternative embodiment, with jaws in partially open position

F igure 4 depi cts the accessory of the i nventi on i n the hand of a user.

Figure 5 illustrates the accessory in use when allowing hands-free use of the phone while bei ng propped.

Figure 6 is an alternative embodiment of the accessory having a pivotal connection between a j aw porti on and a body porti on.

Figure 7 shows a pair of balancing devices according to an alternative embodiment, in which each is equipped with controller functionality.

Figure 8 shows in plan view a further embodiment of the accessory of this invention in detached form

F i gure 9 i s a pi an vi ew of the accessory of F i gure 8, with the two separabl e porti ons i n attached configuration.

Figure 10 is a schematic side view of the accessory of Figures 8 and 9 in attached configuration with jaws in operative position, gripping a smartphone (shown in broken lines).

Figure 11 depicts use of the accessory of the invention i n hoi ding a user^'s smartphone. Figure 12 illustrates use of the accessory of the invention according to an alternative embodi ment.

Detailed description of an embodi ment of the invention

[064] The accessory of the i nvention comprises two sub-assemblies, namely a jaw subassembly and a functional sub-assembly. J aws in the jaw-subassembly enable the accessory to be applied general ly at any position around the perimeter of a typical slab-shaped personal media device such as a smartphone or other computerised personal media device such as a tablet computer, so that the j aws softly but f i rmly cl ose agai nst the upper and I ower maj or surfaces of the device proximate to where they meet a common intervening minor side surface. The upper major surface comprises a touchscreen for displaying output and for receiving input from the user. However, it will be appreciated that the jaws should not be closed over areas likely, or found, to affect desired functionality of a smartphone ^" unless the desired effect of function so requires or the user desires - for example where there is a control feature on the smartphone or an input or output jack, camera or illumination lens, microphone or speaker. Typical control features include the :home^" button, volume control, silent mode, and power buttons.

[065] T he j aws need gri p no more than a smal I porti on adj acent an edge of each maj or surface which it shares with the minor surface. Preferably, the jaws close against peri pheral areas of said major surfaces, proximate the peri meter defined by the minor lateral surfaces. T he location or posi ti on of the j aws over the maj or surfaces i s adj ustabl e and may be adj usted and shi fted accordi ng to the software application being run, as influenced or required by an app that is active on the personal medi a devi ce itself. T he j aws can be al I owed to cl ose agai nst the surfaces of the personal media device body and screen itself, or a combination including a protective screen cover and a protective case.

[066] To enable them to grip the personal media device, the jaws are biased to be normally closed on the face and back of the device with sufficient force to hold the device. Sufficient force is equivalent to the mini mum force a human user needs to exert i n order to hold a personal media devi ce steadi ly i n a landscape positi on by pi nchi ng the opposi te maj or surfaces at a corner between thumb and forefinger. The coefficient of static friction between the device surfaces and the jaw surfaces is sufficient to hold the device in place when the device is in use, even when the major surfaces are vertically orientated. It is found that a force of about 3.5kg/cm2 exerted by the jaws i s effective for purposes of operati on of the accessory of thi s i nventi on. H avi ng stati c f ri cti on as the force for provi di ng gri p between the j aws and the maj or surfaces of the personal medi a devi ce obviates need for mechanical engagement means for its retention. T he force of static friction exceeds the force of gravity exerted on the device. [067] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, respectively providing top and side views of a preferred embodi ment of thi s i nventi on, the accessory i s general ly denoted by the number 10. It has a body portion 12 i n the form of a hanging ring, being defined by a rounded frame 14 which surrounds a bounded aperture 16. T he frame has an openabl e porti on 18, hi ngedly connected to the mai n part of the frame at spring-loaded hinge 20, so that portion 18, when pushed inwardly, as shown by di recti onal arrow D to a positi on marked by dashed I i nes 22, 1 eaves a cl oseabl e gap i n the frame to al low the accessory to be attached to a suitabl e receivi ng structure, for exampl e a trouser-belt I oop.

[068] Openable portion 18 in this embodiment is of the same gi rth as the remainder of the frame, forming an otherwise continuous enclosing ring. In an alternative embodi ment, the openable portion is a formed wire, with off- set base supports that cause a spring action for urging it into a closing position against the adjoining opposite frame portion. Other opening mechanisms may be employed, according to most preferred application of the smartphone to be gripped. In other embodi ments I ess preferred, the frame may be manufactured so that i t i s not openabl e.

[069] The frame is manufactured from 304 austentitic stainless steel, although other metal alloys and high density plastics would also suit The material of manufacture is selected to provide sufficient weight to the body of the accessory in comparison with the weight of the smartphone to be supported. Depending on the use, the body acts as a counterbalance, whether or not actually bei ng hel d i n the user^'s hand. U si ng a hi gher densi ty materi al al so permi ts the si ze of the accessory, in its role as a balanci ng device, to remain small and economically comfortable, yet manageable for easy stowing away when not in use. In preferred embodiments, depending on the make and model of smartphone, the body provides a counterweight in the range from 40% of the weight of the smartphone to no more than 60%.

[070] T he frame assembly i s of a si ze suitabl e for hoi di ng by the hand of a user as wel I as for supporti ng the smartphone for hands-free operation., engagi ng with screen content (for example by tapping or swiping), or simply viewing video streaming.

[071] Affixed to body 12 by means of fixing ties 24 is a first jaw 26, which, together with opposed second jaw 28, provide a pair of openable jaws 26, 28, hi ngedly attached at hinge point 30 and spring biased to be normally in a closed configuration. Second jaw 28 is pivotable at point 30 so that sufficient pressure on thumb pad 32 in the direction of arrow P overcomes the spring bi as to open a gap 34 i nto whi ch a smartphone i s recei vabl e. Structural ri bs 38 on the outer surfaces of the jaws are provided for reinforcement.

[072] L i ni ng the worki ng surfaces on the opposed i nner surfaces of the jaws are f I at resi I i ent pads 42, 44, made of a silicon-based compound, enabli ng the pads to achieve cushioned contact with the surface of the touchscreen and rear maj or surface of the smartphone, rather than j ust al ong the edges of these surfaces.

[073] Because smartphones vary i n thickness in combination with or without a protective case, either or both the top and bottom gripping pads may be equipped with an articulated pivot or rocker acti on to al I ow i t to apply even pressure on a f I at pi ane, i rrespecti ve of the phone thi ckness, resulti ng i n a larger area to gri p the smartphone, thereby providi ng added stabi I ity and support.

[074] As an alternative to a silicon-based pad, rubber or a simi lar synthetic, resilient and cushioning compound may be employed. Preferably, the compound of the pads does not leave residue on the surfaces they touch.

[075] It wi 11 be appreci ated that the frame need not take the form of a hangi ng ri ng, but may be filled to define a smaller aperture. In other embodiments, the frame is filled enti rely, or is surrounded by a continuous covering leaving no aperture at all. In further embodiments, the body is integrally formed with the first jaw, for example by a moulding process such as injection moulding. The shape of the body may be adapted into that of a pistol grip or the li ke, with mouldings for facilitating comfortable gripping in a user s hand.

[076] In preferred embodi ments, I ess gri p-specif i c shapes for the body are preferred, as these are found to enabl e graspi ng and gri ppi ng i n a far greater range of ori entati ons and by a far greater range of hand shapes and sizes than are available from a grip shaped for a particular way of gripping.

[077] A second embodiment of the accessory of the invention is illustrated in Figure 3. L ike parts of this embodiment already encountered in Figures 1 and 2 are given like numbering. In this embodiment, the hinge point 30 of jaws 26 and 28 is set relatively far back from the gripping gap to be distally located with respect of the opening defining gap 34 when the jaws are urged apart.

[078] To prevent excessive i ngress of the smartphone between the jaws and possible resultant obstruction of the screen and generally suboptimal gripping performance, a travel stop 40 is provi ded on the I ower j aw 26. In other embodi ments it may extend f rom j aw 28, or may be provi ded in two opposing meeting portions, one attached to each jaw. In the embodiment of Figure 3, stop 40 is integrally formed with jaw 28. However, in other embodiments not illustrated, it may be a separately formed component that is fixed to the jaw by appropriate fixing means known i n the art.

[079] In the embodiment of Figure 3, opposed fixed resilient fixed pads 46, 48 with a generally rounded active profile, are adhesively fixed to the respective jaws for cushioning the screen of the smartphone against damage in use. In alternative exemplary embodiments, the pads are moulded directly on to the jaws, or are formed on the jaws in situ.

[080] With reference to Figure 4, the accessory of Figures 1 and 2 is shown in use, gripping a smartphone 50, while the body 12 is held by the fingers 54 of a user^'s hand. J aw 28 obscures a mi nor porti on of touchscreen 56 of the smartphone, at the bottom I eft of the screen as shown i n the drawing.

[081] The user^'s thumb 58 supports a lower side 52 of the smartphone and is able to be employed by the user to adjust the relative positions of jaw 28 over screen 56 while the phone itself i s supported between the j aws of the accessory. T he user adj usts the screen ori entati on by pushi ng up agai nst I ower si de 52 i n the di recti on of arrow 60, causi ng the smartphone to rotate control I ably about a pivot poi nt 62. T he range of avai I abl e rotati on i s suggested by arc 64 and the obtuse angl e subtended by directional arrows A and B about pivot 62.

[082] Figure 5 shows how the accessory of Figures 1, 2 and 3 may be used for supporting a mobile phone for propping up on a generally stable, flat surface 66, such as that of a table. In this orientation, the screen may be viewed from a distance, or a video-call may be conducted, as non- limiting examples of the util ity enabled by the accessory.

[083] T he rounded steel frame 14 of the body i s moul ded i nto the j aws of the gri p assembly 28, thereby having its position set in place during manufacture.

[084] In Figure 6, an alternative embodi ment of the accessory, shown here as 110, has a body, in the form of a frame 114, pivotally attached to a grip assembly comprising hinged jaws 128, by means of a central screw assembly that is topped by a rotational plate 130. The plate is spring- loaded to cause the steel ring of the frame to be set with a forced rotational notched action at discrete angular positions defined with slots. The slots are set within a 180 degrees arc as denoted by the directional arrow marked 180, at angular intervals of about 45e; allowing five slots in all (marked with dotted lines 68a,b,c,d,e).

[085] It will be appreciated that the intervals may be differently sized and need not be equal yet sti 11 remai n withi n the scope of the clai ms of this i nventi on. T he si ots are sel ectabi e by way of the user rotating the metal ring.

[086] Figure 7 shows two accessory devices of the i nvention, numbered 10A and 10B, gripping a smartphone 56 at its left and right lower corners respectively. The accessories are equipped with electronics modules 72A and 72B respectively, adapting them as thumb-operable controllers. Device 10A for the left hand of the user has its electronics module 72A mounted to the right of the jaw portion 28A. Device 10B for the right hand of the user has its electronics module 72B mounted to the left of its jaw portion 28B.

[087] Each controller module has an upwardly-orientated button panel 74, displaying a row of thumb-operable buttons 76 economically positioned for access by the user s thumb 78. T he buttons are electronically connected to an interface for communications with the smartphone, according to methods known in the art of close range frequency communication and universal serial bus(USB) connectivity for hand-held communications devices. The connectivity achievable between the electronics modules and between the modules and the smartphone provides scope for the programming of smartphone applications that will make use of the dual controller capability, for example in game- playing, or in simulations for training or experiential education.

[088] Referring to Figures 8, 9 and 10, providing plan and side views of an alternative embodiment of this i nvention, the accessory is generally denoted by the number 210. It has a detachable functional subassembly comprising a housing 212, and a functional portion 214, which i s shown i n thi s embodi ment i n the form of an oval - 1 i ke f rame of an al I oy connected to the housi ng. F rame 214 def i nes a bounded aperture 216. T he frame has an openabl e sprung wi re el ement 218, hingedly connected to housing 212 at spring-loaded hinge 220, so that portion 218, when pushed inwardly, as shown by directional arrow D to a position marked by dashed line 222, leaves a closeable gap in the frame to allow the accessory to be attached to a suitable receiving structure, for example a trouser-belt loop or to a bunch of keys (providing further weight).

[089] Openable portion 218 in this embodiment is a formed wire, with off-set base supports that cause a spring action for urging it into a closing position against the adjoining opposite frame portion 224. Other opening mechanisms may be employed, according to most preferred application of the personal media device to be gripped. In an alternative embodi ment, the openable portion is of the same girth as the remainder of the frame, forming an otherwise continuous enclosure. In other embodiments, the frame may be manufactured so that it is not openable.

[090] The frame in this example is manufactured from grade 304 austentitic stainless steel, although other metal alloys and high density plastics may be employed according to intended particular functions of the subassembly or accessory. T he material of manufacture is selected to provide sufficient weight and preferably a desired appearance to the frame, as the functional portion of the accessory, in comparison with the weight of the device to be supported and the functionality being required. Depending on the use, the frame acts as a counterbalance, whether or not actually being held in the user^'s hand. Using a higher density material also permits the size of the subassembly and accessory as a whole, when used as a balancing device, to remain small and economically comfortable, yet manageable for easy stowing away when not in use. [091] In preferred embodiments, dependi ng on the make and model of personal media device, and depending on the material used in the attachments, the functional portion provides a counterweight, when necessary, i n the range from 40% of the weight of the personal media device to no more than 60%.

[092] T he frame assembly of the i 11 ustrated embodi ment i s of a si ze sui tabl e for hoi di ng by the hand of a user as well as for supporting a smartphone for hands-free operation, engaging with screen content (for example by tapping or swiping), or simply viewing video streaming.

[093] A ttachabl e to housi ng 212 i s the second sub-assembly that makes up the accessory 210. T hi s i s the j aw subassembly 226, which has a pai r of openabi e j aws 230, 232, hi ngedly attached at hinge poi nt 228 and spring biased to be normally in a closed configuration. Second jaw 232 is pivotabl e at hi nge poi nt 228 with respect to jaw 230, so that suff i ci ent pressure on thumb pad 234 in the direction of arrow P overcomes the spring bias to open a gap 236 into which a smartphone 38 is receivable. Structural ribs 240 on the outer surfaces of the jaws are provided for rei nforcement. T he gap need be openabi e to I ittle more than the height of the smartphone or other device, as measured between its opposite major surfaces, so that the device is inserted with one of its minor surfaces (that connects the major surfaces) leading.

[094] L i ni ng the worki ng surfaces on the opposed i nner surfaces of the jaws are f I at resi I i ent pads 242, 244, made of a silicon-based compound, enabling the pads to achieve cushioned, high- f ri cti on contact with the surface of the touchscreen and rear maj or surface of the smartphone, rather than just along the edges of these surfaces. In alternative embodiments, the pads may be of a rubber-containing compound or similar.

[095] Because smartphones vary i n thickness in combination with or without a protective case, top and bottom gri ppi ng pads 242, 244 are equipped with an articulated rocker mounting at 246 to the inner side of their respective jaw. This construction allows each jaw it to apply even pressure on a flat plane through its respective pad, irrespective of the smartphone thickness, resulting in a larger and substantially constant area for gri ppi ng the smartphone, thereby providing added stability and support. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, only one of the gripping pads need be equipped with the rocker mounting. In other embodiments, the rocker mounting may be omitted altogether.

[096] As an alternative to a silicon-based pad, rubber or a simi lar synthetic, resilient and cushioning compound may be employed. Preferably, the compound of the pads does not leave residue on the surfaces they touch and substantially contributes to the static friction between the surfaces. [097] To connect the respective jaw 226 and functional 212 subassemblies in a readi ly detachabl e manner, this embodi ment makes use of a qui ck-rel ease compressi bl e si i di ng buckl e 248 of known construction. A buckle of this type has a female portion 252 defined by a cavity in housing 212 for receivi ng the generally trident-like male portion 254 that forms part of jaw subassembly 226. By pressi ng on cutouts 215, def i ned by a I i ne of separati on 217 on the housi ng, a user is able to disengage the male portion from the female and withdraw the former to detach and separate the two subassembl i es.

[098] It wi 11 be appreci ated that i n other embodi ments, i nstead of mal e porti on 254 bei ng part of and extending from the jaw subassembly and female portion 252 being part of housing 212, the male parts may be mounted to or be part of the functional subassembly and the female cavity be formed i n the jaw subassembly.

[099] A Iternative forms of rel easabl e coupl i ng may be i ncorporated i nto the accessory, usi ng known techniques. Non-l imiting examples of couplings that may be utilised include screw- threaded couplings, bayonet couplings and sprung locating pin coupl ings.

[0100] It wi 11 be appreci ated that frame 214 need not take the form of a hangi ng ri ng, but may be parti al ly f i 11 ed so as to def i ne a smal I er aperture and perhaps bul k up the f uncti onal subassembly 212 i n general . In other embodi ments, the frame i s f i 11 ed enti rely, or is surrounded by a conti nuous covering leavi ng no aperture at all. In further embodiments, the male coupling parts 254 are integrally formed with first jaw 230, for example by a mouldi ng process such as injection moul di ng. T he shape of the f uncti onal porti on may be adapted i nto that of a pistol gri p or the I i ke, with moul di ngs for faci I itati ng comfortabl e gri ppi ng i n a user s hand.

[0101] Less grip-specific shapes for the functional portion are preferred for some embodiments, as these are found to enable grasping and gripping in a far greater range of orientations and by a far greater range of hand shapes and sizes than are available from a grip shaped for a specific way of gripping, or configured to be fixed on a stand or similar mounting means. The invention thus extends to attachable functional portions having various shapes and configurations and includes the provision of a kit comprising two or more interchangeable functional subassemblies with or without a mating jaw subassembly. Non-li miting examples of functional subassemblies include: a. Pole extension (akin to a ^"selfie stickj for taking photographs from elevated or otherwise inaccessible positions and angles, b. A belt accessory made of a material such as a fabric (woven or knitted), leather, rubber or si mi I ar compounds, c. An accessory cl i p for attachment to a belt I oop, provi ded i n matchi ng col ours by a process such as anodizing, d. A coi n purse made of f abri c, I eather, rubber, pi asti cs and the like, e. A security tether, such as a soft security method in retail, f. A flexible stand comprising means for enabling the accessory as a whole to be clamped to a bench, the gunwale or a boat, a dashboard of a vehicle, or work machinery such as tractor etc., g. A housi ng for a wireless remote- control device, such as a garage door opener, a personal security device ( ^"panic buttonj, or a vehicle door-lock or ignition actuator.

[0102] It is also within the scope of the invention that the jaw subassembly may take on different shapes and configurations that may or may not be i nfluenced by the holding or support function required for a particular use envisaged of the user s smartphone.

[0103] A further embodi ment of the accessory of the i nventi on is i 11 ustrated i n F igure 10, bei ng used for grippi ng a smartphone. L ike parts of this embodiment already encountered i n Figures 8 and 9 are given like numbering. In this embodiment, the hinge point 230 of jaws 226 and 228 is set relatively far back from the gripping gap to be distally located with respect of the opening def i ni ng gap 234 when the jaws are urged apart.

[0104] To prevent excessive ingress of the smartphone into gap 236 between the jaws and towards hinge point 230, which may result in obstruction of the screen and generally suboptimal gri ppi ng performance, a travel I i mi ter may be provi ded on ei ther or both j aws. T he I i mi ted may be in the form of a buffer extending from the jaw into the path of the smartphone when it is inserted between the jaws.

[0105] In other embodiments the limiter may be in two parts extending from either jaw, in two opposing meeti ng portions, one attached to each jaw. The limited preferably is integrally formed with the jaw structure. However, in other embodiments, it may be a separately formed component that is fixed to the jaw by appropriate fixing means known in the art, for example a screw-threaded coupling, or a friction fitted pin in a socket.

[0106] With reference to Figure 11, the accessory of Figures 8 to 10 is shown in readiness for use, gripping a smartphone 238, while functional subassembly 212 is shown detached from jaw subassembly 226, but available for holding by the fingers of a user s hand (not shown). J aw 228 obscures a mi nor portion of touchscreen 262 of the smartphone, at the bottom left of the screen as shown i n the drawi ng.

[0107] When the two subassemblies have been coupled by bringing them together in the direction of arrow 258 to that trident teeth 254 are received into socket entrance 252 and retained by internal formations characteristic of couplings of this type, the user is able to use a thumb to support a I ower si de 264 of the smartphone. T he user i s further abl e to use the thumb to adj ust the relative positions of jaw 230 over screen 262 while the smartphone itself is supported between the jaws of the accessory. T he user may adjust the screen orientation by pushing upwards (in the illustration) against lower side 264, causing the smartphone to rotate controllably in relation to the jaws holding it.

[0108] T he rounded steel frame body 214 of the f uncti onal subassembly 212 may be moul ded i nto or otherwise attached to the housi ng contai ni ng the socket i nto whi ch the mal e porti on 254 of the jaw subassembly is engageably received, thereby having its position and orientation set during manufacture.

[0109] In F igure 12, a further alternative embodi ment of the accessory, shown here as 310, has a functional subassembly 312 and a jaw assembly 314, shown uncoupled from each other. J aw subassembly 314 is shown holdi ng in its grip a smartphone 238 with screen 262, as previously descri bed.

[01 10] Functional subassembly 312 is adapted to comprise a housing 316 which houses an emergency wireless transmitter device, activated by an external ^"panic_, button 318. Integrally formed by moul di ng with the housi ng are coupl i ng teeth 322 i n the form of a conventi onal tri dent. T he coupling teeth are engageably received by coupling socket 324 formed in a socket housing portion 326 of jaw subassembly 314.

[01 1 1] J aw subassembly 314 comprises hinged jaws 330, pivotally attached to socket housing portion 326, by means of a central screw assembly that is topped by a rotational plate 328. Plate 328 is spring-loaded to cause the socket housing portion and the functional subassembly coupled to it via coupling teeth 322 to assume an angle of the user^'s choice in relation to the jaws 330 and the smartphone held in the jaws.

[01 12] The rotational plate is operable according to a forced rotational notched action to be settabl e at di screte angul ar posi ti ons def i ned with si ots. T he si ots are set i n thi s embodi ment withi n a 80 degrees arc stretchi ng from 90 to 270 degrees with respect to the datum def i ned by an axis of symmetry of j aws 330, whi ch passes through the centre of pi ate 328. T he notches are establ i shed at angul ar i nterval s of about 45e; al I owi ng five si ots i n al I . [01 13] It will be appreciated that the intervals may be differently sized and need not be equal yet sti 11 remai n withi n the scope of the clai ms of this i nventi on. T he si ots are sel ectabi e by way of the user rotating a dial peripheral to plate 328.

[01 14] Although there are accessory devices that can successfully match certain uses of the present accessory, no known accessory or attachment method rivals the variety of uses being offered with the device of this invention. Examples of its specific uses and attachment methods are now discussed in terms of their considered uniqueness, assessed on the following scale:

Common ^" This use and attachment method are reasonably common and can be found in accessories - either specifically dedicated to a single task, or where the task is in conjunction with other uses of the accessory.

Fairly unique ^" T his use and attachment method are not unique, but are not commonly found i n the market with other accessory items.

Unique ^" T hese uses and attachment methods are totally unique to this accessory with nothi ng comparable known.

[01 15] At I east sixteen uses of the accessory have been determi ned. T hese are descri bed i n the next f ol I owi ng paragraphs.

Example 1 - A wall mount

Rating: Fairly unique

Attachment Method: U nique

[01 16] In this example, the accessory is applied as a static holder at home or office, whi le the attachment method is applied to a smartphone gripped between the jaws and is hung vertically from the grip, for example from a notice board or coat rack. This orientation can also provide assistance if a light is required from a stable position or a static position to read or be alerted to a message, push notification or incoming call or text.

Example 2: A hip mount

Rating: Common

Attachment Method: U nique

[01 17] In this example, the accessory is applied as a holder while the attachment method is applied to a smartphone which is gripped and attached to the user^'s clothing or to a simple hip mount, so as to enable a person to monitor information on the screen such as texts, calls etc. while wal ki ng, standi ng, si tti ng and even runni ng. T he ri ng cl i p woul d have a smooth operati on to enabl e a user to unci i p or attach the accessory as requi red. Example 3: Hand grip while user speaks on or to the personal media device

Rating: Unique

Attachment Method: U nique

[01 18] In this example, the attachment method is applied to a smartphone for the accessory to function as a hand grip, with the media device being gripped and positioned to enable the user a more comfortable feel, especially for extended periods while in conversation on a telephone or voice-over- internet protocol (V OIP) call or the like. The accessory is positioned on a smartphone to enable left- or right-handed operation. No other accessory is known to have been designed to facilitate or assist i n the once primary function of a mobile telephone, namely to make telephone calls.

Example 4 ^" V ehicle mounti ng attachment

Rating: Common

Attachment Method: U nique

[01 19] The accessory is attachable to a windscreen, for operative mounting of a smartphone, or to a vehi cl e dashboard or other i nteri or components. T he i nventi on al so provi des an i ntermedi ate mounting method, adapted to attach with the coupling device employed in the jaw subassembly. T he attachment coul d be fixed or rotatabi e on al I axis with a sub-assembly such as a bal I and socket enabling tilti ng functions left, right, up and down then locked in position where required.

Example 5 ^" A gri p for general use

Rating: U nique

Attachment Method: U nique

[0120] T he attachment method is applied to a smartphone, the accessory being employed as a hand grip while a user is browsing the internet. The grip is easily and adjustably positionable on the browsing device, allowing the user a more economically comfortable position for making use of the extensive range of features now offered in the daily use of mobile phones including uses enabled through apps. T his use is illustrated in Figures 3 and 5 and in Figure 7 with a second accessory.

Example 6 ^" An assistance device

Rating: Unique

Attachment Method: U nique

[0121] There are considerable advantages when the attachment method is applied to a smartphone and used as an assistance item for people with hand impairments resulting from medical conditions such as stroke or arthritis, and since infinite positions on a smartphone are achi evabl e, the accessory i nvites a range of gri ps and offers users i ncreased dexterity and f I exi bi I ity when texting and web browsing. The accessory employs sensible ergonomics and offers considerable flexibility in its operation, helping to engage the user i n the varied functions of a mobile phone.

Example 7 ^" A promotional product

Rating: Unique

Attachment Method: U nique

[0122] This invention provides an inexpensive phone accessory on which commercial advertising is displayable, and which may be associated with a corporate entity whose product offerings may incorporate or relate to at least some of its uses. Furthermore, it is an ideal object for giveaways and promoti ons. T he accessory presents a readi ly avai I abl e flat surface area ( marked 250 in Figure 11) on its base for utilisation in providing marketing displays. Furthermore, the accessory permits application of promi nent graphics in both relief and recessed media. T he attachment method is applied to a smartphone and can be readily detached and positioned on another device easily.

Example 8 ^" A bench prop

Rating: Common

Attachment Method: Unique

[0123] T he attachment method is designed to support a smartphone by resti ng the accessory on its frame. This way, it can be readily utilised as a smartphone support on a bench or desk (portrait or landscape orientation). The accessory also can provide assistance if a light is required from a stable position or a static position for enabling reading or for the user to be alerted to a message, push notification, watch videos or monitoring incoming call or text.

Example 9 ^" A shoulder prop

Rating: Unique

Attachment Method: Unique

[0124] The attachment method is used to employ the accessory as a smartphone handset support on a user^'s shoulder, for positioning the smartphone to enable left- or right-handed operation, the relatively heavily-weighted functional portion acting as a counter weight to the handset. T he body portion of the functional portion may be placed under the user s clothing, in parti cul ar adj acent a col I ar, whi I e the j aws gri p a smartphone, ori entati ng i t stably transverse to the hori zontal I i ne between the user^'s shoul ders and at about 45e degrees from the verti cal , to the user ^"s ear, so that the user^'s mouth is close to the microphone and the user s ear is opposite the I oudspeaker. T hose embodi merits havi ng a body with the openabl e versi on of the frame ri ng can be attached to the clothing to provide further stability and reduce risk of displacement.

[0125] No further assistance is required from the user s head or shoulder to hold the phone steady while the user is engaged in a conventional telephone conversation, with or without the use of the hands-free speaker. T he user may walk around normally and perform other tasks while engaged in a conversation or receiving instructions, enabling their hands to be free to perform a task without the intrusion of an ear piece or additional transmitting near field communication (e.g. a Bluetooth÷ transceiver) device.

Example 10 ^" An attachment device

Rating: Unique

Attachment Method: Unique

[0126] Trying to find a mobile phone at the bottom of a bag can be frustrating, With the accessory of this invention attached to be positioned on a smartphone to enable left- or right- handed operation, a user is able to attach a mobile phone removably to another item, such as a bunch of keys, to keep them together and optionally also fix them in one place or to an existing anchor ροίηζ such as an i nternal loop in the interior of a bag. Again, one of a set of interchangeable functional support subassembl ies may be selected for a particular purpose and connected to the jaw subassembly.

[0127] T his use can be extended to act as a security feature where the attachment method is use for positioning of a smartphone to enable left- or right-handed operation, and the accessory is attached to a bag, to hamper a thi ef from extracti ng the smartphone without bei ng detected.

Example 11 ^" A :selfie^" handle for a smartphone (or other image capturing touchscreen device) Rating: Fairly unique

Attachment Method: Unique

[0128] U se of the attachment method of the i nventi on, the accessory enabl es a user whether - left- or right-handed - to take a self-portrait photograph (or iselfie) without struggling to hold the smartphone at the same ti me. T he accessory gri p is easi ly positi onable so that the activati on button on the smartphone is ideally located for pushing by the user^'s thumb in either a portrait or landscape format. The grip allows the user a more economically comfortable operating position.

Example 12 ^" A gaming console

Rating: Unique

Attachment Method: Unique [0129] Given that games are being played on millions of mobile phones daily, use of the attachment method and accessory of the invention, when equipped with economically positioned control buttons and with the necessary electronics and connections as described with reference to Figure 7 and Figure 11, enable a user whether - left- or right-handed - to turn thei r smartphone i nto a portabl e garni ng platform that can be readi ly activated and deactivated whi I e the user remai ns mobile. The connection means may comprise either a physical wire connection or a wireless system such as a Bl uetooth÷ transmitter.

[0130] With paired left- and right-hand configured devices of the invention attached at respective sides of a smartphone, a vehicle-driving position is able to be simulated, as is a method of si mulated control i n whi ch the user uses two hands i n a si mi I ar way to usi ng apparatus for home based games units, where the user^'s movements mimic on-screen action. T he accessories, when so uti I i sed, thereby further enhance enj oy ment of the game whi I e the user may be mobi I e.

Example 13 ^" A flexible bracket with clip support

Ratings: Accessory Type ^" Fairly Unique

Attachment method ^" U nique

[0131] The accessory is attachable to a bench top edge via a flexible arm component for multiple positioning, where the attachment method is applied to a smartphone. A lternatively, the invention may be employed to provide an intermediate mounti ng method adapted to attach the accessory to a bench. The attachment could be fixed or rotatable on all axes with a sub-assembly such as a ball and socket enabli ng til ti ng functions I eft right, up and down, then locked in position where required. In this way, a smartphone can be securely positioned on a bench elevated to eye level and rotated to the ideal angle to suit the user. A device function may be employed ^" for example a flashlight function for reading, or a more sophisticated app being enabled.

Example 14 ^" A flexible bench support

Ratings: Accessory Type ^" Fairly Unique

Attachment method ^" U nique

[0132] T he accessory is attachabl e to a weighted base where the attachment method is appl i ed to a smartphone, via a flexible arm component for multiple positioning, or as an intermediate mounti ng method adapted to attach to a weighted base empl oyed i n a subassembly. T he attachment coul d be fixed or rotatable on al I axis with a sub-assembly such as a bal I and socket enabl i ng ti Iti ng functions left, right up and down then locked in position where required, in this way a smartphone can be securely positioned on a bench support elevated to eye level and rotated to the ideal angle to suit the user and the functi on bei ng empl oyed whi ch may i ncl ude a I ight functi on for readi ng or a sophisticated app bei ng enabled on the smartphone.

E xampl e 15 A tether safety support

Ratings: Accessory Type ^" Fairly Unique

Attachment method ^" U nique

[0133] T he accessory i s attachabl e to a safety tether where the attachment method i s appl i ed to a smartphone via a secure safety cord attached to a user or fixed point to prevent the loss or damage to the smartphone if accidently dropped. T he special i zed properties i n the friction jaws of the accessory device prevent the smartphone from separating from the accessory if dropped vertically with a tether length up to three metres. In this way a user can safely use a phone around heights and dangerous environments without fear of dropping the smartphone.

Example 16 ^" A Power Bank Attachment

Ratings: Accessory Type ^" Unique

Attachment method ^" U nique

[0134] The accessory is attachable to a female slide clip assembly, where the attachment method is applied to a smartphone. T he male side of the slide clip is attached to a portable power bank, whi ch i s shaped to act as a handl e. T he uni on of the mal e and f emal e components of the si i de clip assembly enable the power bank to be conveniently attached to said smartphone. When a short connecting cable is plugged into both the smartphone and the power bank, a unique arrangement of a smartphone with a convenient dedicated external power sauce attached is the result, enabling the user to operate the phone while mobile for extended periods, while having the design features and ergonomic advantages of a hand grip described above in Example 3.

[0135] The power bank can be easily detached and exchanged for a fully charged bank, while being separately charged. T he sliding clip sub-assembly can incorporate a further group of sub- accessories, such as a specialised wall plug, configured to attach a power bank while charging, a car charger designed to carry a power bank and a solar cell panel designed to hold multiple power bank units while charging.

[0136] This list of uses is not exhaustive. T he reader will discern many more. For example, inserting the end of a pen or similar item through the opening within a frame-like functional body, can help rest the smartphone stably on an angle orientation chosen by the user. _oX Ckji It wi 11 al so be appreci ated that the main utility functi ons of the accessory descri bed i n the examples above are derived when the user, engaging with a smartphone or other touchscreen device being held, is in a standing position. Other benefits, grip positions and methods of use are apparent and available when the user, engaging with the held device, is seated, lyi ng down or in other positions. As the device may be made i n waterproof embodi ments, further uses are envisaged underwater as a gripping device for accessory items tethered to a user.

[0138] Since modern smartphones have little or no screen bezel, the touchscreen may have coverage even with the accessory gripping the screen surface. T his results in little to no interference in the enjoyment of the function of the accessory or in the interaction of the entertainment being displayed.

[0139] A n advantage provi ded by the accessory i n repetitive use of the touch screen, such as texti ng, is that i n si ngl e-handed use, the accessory al I ows a greater area of the screen to be accessed with the user s thumb than when the device, for example a smartphone, is held with the fingers. T his action is achievable because of the counterweight effect of the body when balanced in the user s hand. This leaves the fingers to support the smartphone instead of holding it, and allows the thumb to be more centrally positioned over the screen and entirely free to address more areas of the screen. This is found to be preferable to requiring the user to keep shifting the smartphone up and down in the hand to enable keys to be reached, and causing the thumb^'s potential to be restricted.

[0140] The re-weighti ng of the phone via the counter-weight of the accessory, so that even balance is achieved on either side of the user^'s thumb, allows the phone to pivot and rest on the thumb (as in Figure 4 and Figure 11) while the grip just steadies the phone, resulting in greater user comfort.

[0141] A primary benefit of the accessory is the improved dexterity it facilitates for a user, whi I e extendi ng for the user the i nherent useabi I ity of a mobi I e tel ephone i n everyday I ife, thereby enabling easier use of features otherwise underutilised in normal use of current mobile phones.

[0142] In a further embodiment the accessory is optionally fitted with a data storage module, to which information from the smartphone is downloadable and from which data may in turn be uploaded to the phone. Data connectivity is achievable by means of a lead such as a micro-USB lead into the phone or via a wi reless connection established by NFC pairing.

[0143] The frame of the accessory may optionally be adapted to accommodate the above additional functional ity, for example to define a storage space to house a memory card or solid state drive that is wirelessly in communication with the smartphone by means of a short-range wi rel ess protocol , for exampl e the B I uetooth÷ protocol . T he accessory woul d thus provi de a data back-up unit. In another example, the accessory may be used as a pl ug-and-play accessory for multimedia games, video and music.

[0144] The counterweight in the accessory may further comprise an external charge battery for the smartphone, thereby allowing an aluminium ring to be used in place of an alloy of greater density. The advantage of having an aluminium ring is that it may be anodised to a variety of decorative or functional colours.

[0145] In a further embodiment the accessory is fitted with fastening means, for example a standard M1/4 inch screw thread, to allow it to be fastened to or mounted on common equipment such as a tri pod stand and other attachments.

[0146] Whilst many of the tasks performed without the accessory are simple in nature, it is only with repetitive use of a smartphone over extended peri ods of ti me that the user may experi ence or develop physical problems, symptoms or ailments. T hese may range from hand and thumb strains and poor methods of grip, such as between the user s neck and shoulder when trying to keep their hands free for performi ng a simultaneous additional activity. T he accessory of this invention provides flexibility in the method of touchscreen device use, by allowing a user continually to adjust their grip or vary the method of physical interaction to make the use more pi easurabl e whi I e empl oy i ng better ergonomi cs.

[0147] The embodiments discussed merely illustrate specific examples of the method and apparatus of the i nventi on provi di ng a means for and method of operati vely gri ppi ng and proppi ng a personal media device for multiple uses. With the insight gained from this disclosure, the person skil led in the art is well placed to discern further embodiments by means of which to put the claimed invention into practice.

Claims

Claims

1. An accessory for a personal media device having a touchscreen defined on a major surface thereof, the accessory comprising: a. A j aw subassembly compri si ng f i rst and second opposi ng j aws operabl e for gri ppi ng between them a personal media device having said touchscreen, wherein the first jaw is configured to bear agai nst said touchscreen surface and the second jaw is configured to bear against an opposite major back surface of the personal media device, at peripheral opposite portions of said surfaces; and b. A functional subassembly connected to the jaw subassembly.

2. An accessory according to claim 1, wherein the functional subassembly is weighted to provi de a counterweight to the personal medi a devi ce, whereby the devi ce, when gri pped, may be balanced in multiple orientations in relation to the user.

3. An accessory according to claim 2, wherein the counterweight provided is adjustably disposable relative to the personal media device by adjustment of the location of the jaws on the major surfaces of the personal media device, thereby to balance the personal media device in a user-selectable orientation.

4. An accessory accordi ng to any one of the precedi ng cl ai ms, wherei n the j aws are adapted to gri p the surfaces usi ng stati c f ri cti on.

5. An accessory accordi ng to clai m 4, wherei n the jaws are adapted to gri p the surfaces by means of static friction only.

6. An accessory accordi ng to clai m 4 or clai m 5, wherei n each j aw has a gri ppi ng surface adapted to have a coeff i ci ent of stati c f ri cti on, when appl i ed to the maj or surfaces of the personal medi a device, sufficient to retain the personal media device stably between them, against gravity.

7. An accessory accordi ng to cl ai m 6, wherei n the gri ppi ng surface i s def i ned by a resi I i ent I ay er for contacting the touchscreen.

8. An accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the functional subassembly is detachable from the jaw subassembly.

9. An accessory according to claim 8, wherein the functional subassembly comprises a functional portion and a first attachment element connected thereto, and the jaw subassembly comprises a second attachment element co-operating to establish releasable attachment to the first element

10. An accessory according to claim 9, wherein thejaws, when operatively gripping the personal media device, establish an adjustably located fulcrum between the device and the functional portion, its location depending on the location of thejaws against the surfaces being gripped.

11. An accessory according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the functional portion comprises a body which substantially provides the counterweight.

12. An accessory according to claim 11, wherein the body is shaped for supporting the personal media device in upright orientation on a substantially flat surface.

13. An accessory according to claim 11, wherein the body is shaped to support a personal media device to rest in utile orientation on a shoulder of a human user.

14. An accessory according to claim 11, wherein the body is shaped to support the personal media device in a screen-viewing orientation on a motor vehicle dashboard.

15. An accessory accordi ng to any one of clai ms 11 to 14, wherei n the body porti on is shaped to be handheld.

16. An accessory accordi ng to clai m 15, wherei n the body porti on is shaped such that when hel d by a user, at least a thumb of the user^'s hand is available for interaction with the touchscreen.

17. An accessory according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the functional portion comprises a frame enclosing an aperture.

18. An accessory according to claim 17, wherein the frame is generally in the shape of an oval having first and second ends of different respective diameters.

19. An accessory accordi ng to clai m 18, wherei n the f i rst end is of relatively shorter diameter than the second end and is connected to said first attachment element.

20. An accessory according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the functional portion comprises electronic controller means operable for controlling functionality of the gripped device

21. An accessory according to claim 20, wherein the controller means comprises a thumb- or finger-operable control panel.

22. An accessory according to any one of claims 9 to 21, wherein the first attachment element comprises a housing for operatively receiving the second attachment element

23. An accessory according to claim 22, wherein the first attachment element comprises a projecting formation for operatively being received by the second attachment element.

24. An accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the jaws are hingedly connected and urged together in a default closed position.

25. A n accessory kit for use wi th a personal medi a devi ce havi ng a touchscreen on a maj or surface thereof, the kit comprising a jaw subassembly and a plurality of interchangeable functional subassemblies adapted for removable attachment to the jaw subassembly, wherein the jaw assembly comprises first and second opposing jaws operable for gripping between them a personal media device on said touchscreen, and, wherein the first jaw is configured to bear against said touchscreen surface and the second jaw is configured to bear against an opposite major back surface of the personal media device, at peripheral opposite portions of said surfaces.

26. An accessory kit according to claim 25, wherein thejaw assembly, when operatively attached to any of the functional assemblies, defines an accessory as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 24.

27. An accessory kit according to claim 26, wherein the functional subassemblies are of like shape, differing in size, or of different functional shapes having equivalent size.

28. A method of utilising personal media device functionality, the method comprising: a. provi di ng a personal medi a dev i ce of general ly slab-like shape havi ng opposed major surfaces, one of which includes a touchscreen, and an accessory comprising a jaw subassembly and a functional subassembly connected to the jaw subassembly, the jaw assembly comprising first and second opposed jaws openable to define a receiving gap for said device, b. operati ng the j aws for def i ni ng the gap, c. introducing the personal media device partially into the gap, d. allowing the jaws to grip the personal media device on its opposed major surfaces, and e. ori enti ng sai d devi ce i n a desi red uti I e ori entati on.

29. A method according to claim 28, including allowing the functional subassembly to provide a counterweight to the weight of the personal media device when gripped.

30. A method accordi ng to cl ai m 28 or cl ai m 29, wherei n the step of ori enti ng the personal medi a device comprises adjusting its position in the gap relative to the functional subassembly.

31. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the jaws grip the surfaces utilising static friction.

32. A method accordi ng to clai m 31 , wherei n the jaws gri p sai d surfaces usi ng stati c f ri cti on only.

33. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 32 including locating the jaws on the major surfaces so that the functional subassembly establishes a fulcrum when operatively gripping the personal media device, the fulcrum having an adjustable location depending on the I ocati on of the j aws agai nst the surfaces bei ng gri pped.

34. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 33, including resting the personal media device on a remote supporting surface and adjusting the location of the jaws to balance said device against movement relative to said supporting surface.

35. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 34, wherein the functional subassembly is detachable from the jaw subassembly.

36. A method according to claim 35, including the step of detaching and interchanging the functional subassembly with a second functional subassembly differing in respect of one or more of function, shape, size and weight

37. A balancing accessory for a personal communications device, the accessory comprising a weighted portion and gripping means detachably and re-attachably attached to the weighted portion, the gripping means being adapted to grip a personal communications device, so as to inhibit relative movement between the communications device and the accessory.

38. A balancing accessory according to claim 38, wherein the gripping means is adapted to grip a personal media device against a major surface comprising a touchscreen of said personal media device and an opposite major surface thereof.

39. A balancing accessory according to claim 37 or claim 38, wherein the weighted portion comprises a frame defining an aperture extending therethrough.

40. A balanci ng accessory accordi ng to any one of clai ms 37 to 39, wherei n the weighted porti on and gripping means include respective co-operating attachment elements capable of repeated detachment and reattachment.

41. A balanci ng accessory accordi ng to any one of clai ms 37 to 40, wherei n the weighted porti on is one of a set of interchangeably attachable weighted portions differing from each other in respect of functionality when attached to the gripping means.

42. An smartphone accessory comprising a functional portion and gripping means detachably and re-attachably attached to the functional portion, the gripping means being adapted to grip a smartphone, so as to inhibit relative movement between said smartphone and the accessory, the functional portion comprising electronic controller means operable for controlling functional ity of the smartphone.

43. A method of using a personal media device comprising the steps of a. providing an accessory having i . gri ppi ng means for gri ppi ng a personal medi a dev i ce, and i i . counterbalanci ng means detachably connected to the gri ppi ng means, b. causi ng the accessory to gri p the personal medi a devi ce, c. positioning the counterbalancing means to orientate the personal media device for convenient use of a feature thereof or application to be run thereon, and d. adj usti ng the gri p and the posi ti on of the counterbal anci ng means as necessary for user comfort while operating the personal media device.

44. A method according to claim 43 including causing the gripping means to grip the personal media device on its major, touchscreen-displaying surface.

45. A method according to claim 44 including causing the gripping means to grip the personal media device at a location on a portion of said major surface and an opposite major surface.

46. A method accordi ng to any one of cl ai ms 43 to 45 i ncl udi ng enhanci ng stati c f ri cti on between the gri ppi ng means and the maj or surfaces to be gri pped.

47. A method according to any one of claims 43 to 45 including causing the gripping means to grip the surfaces utilising an effective combination of applied force and coefficient of static friction whereby the gripped device is maintained in a functionally stable orientation of a user^'s choice.