WO2021148512A1

WO2021148512A1 - An apparatus for mounting a mobile device to a headrest.

Info

Publication number: WO2021148512A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/051292
Authority: WO
Inventors: Joe SHORTT
Original assignee: JS Design Concepts Limited
Priority date: 2020-01-21
Filing date: 2021-01-21
Publication date: 2021-07-29
Also published as: EP4093639A1

Abstract

An apparatus (100) for mounting a mobile device to the body of a headrest (702; 802) of a vehicle seat, comprising a mobile device support section (102) having a first end and a second end; and a seat engagement section (104);. The seat engagement section having a first portion and a clip (200), wherein the first portion is connected to the mobile device support section and configured to overlie an upper surface of the headrest and wherein the clip is configured to engage with the headrest to retain the apparatus on the headrest.

Description

Title

An apparatus for mounting a mobile device to a headrest.

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to mounting means for mobile devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus for mounting a mobile device to a headrest, such as a headrest which may be found on the seat in a vehicle such as an aeroplane.

Background to the Invention

[0002] Apparatus for mounting mobile devices are useful in freeing up the hands of a mobile device user allowing them to engage in other activities while allowing them to position the mobile device such that the mobile device is more easily viewable and/or accessible. Previously, if you wished to use a mobile device in a vehicle, such as a car, train, bus or aeroplane, sacrifices to comfort and space had to be made. In order to use a mobile device to, for example, watch a movie or read the news or e-book at a comfortable viewing angle one must hold the mobile device in one’s hand and use one’s arms to elevate the mobile device to eye-level. This not only occupies the hands of the mobile device user but can quickly lead to discomfort and fatigue of the arms. Alternatively, one may make use of a mounting apparatus or mobile device stand to free up one’s hands to engage in other tasks or activities. However the use of mounting apparatus or stands can lead to their own disadvantages. In order to use such a mobile device stand on an aeroplane, for example, one must sacrifice space on the fold-down tray table in order to support the stand and the mobile device. Furthermore, the position of fold-down tray tables on aeroplanes are generally at such a level much lower than eye-level and are generally not height-adjustable. Therefore the mobile device user must angle one’s head in a downward position which can quickly lead to neck strain and discomfort. There is therefore a need for a mounting device which frees the hands of the user allowing the user to engage in other activities and maintain a free tray table whilst maintaining a comfortable and ergonomic viewing position for the user. U.S. Patent No. 9,278,648 B2 discloses a device for attaching a tablet computer wherein the device attaches to the columns of a headrest in a motor vehicle via a clamping mechanism that attaches to said columns. However such a device is not suitable for use on an aeroplane. Further such a device, even if there were columns on an aeroplane headrest, would interfere with the comfort of the user sitting in the forward seat. US 6,418,010 B1 provides a flat panel display hanging support. However this is a complex solution having a series of hinges which inherently require compressive forces which is indicated by the presence of the turn screw for attaching to an airplane headrest. Such a system is complex to install, interferes with the comfort of the passenger in the forward seat and based on the interconnect between the display and the system is overly complex requiring time to both attach and remove the apparatus from the seat and indeed to remove the monitor from the device. It is desirable therefore to provide a simple, portable, easily installed and uninstalled solution, adaptable to a plurality of seating arrangements and adaptable to support a variety of portable mobile devices.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] The invention described herein in the appended claims is directed to an apparatus for mounting a mobile device to the body of a headrest of a seat in a vehicle. [0004] The apparatus may comprise a mobile device support section comprising a planar support section having a first end and a second end, the planar support section having a front face which when in situ is arranged to face a user of the device, the front face comprising an attachment means for attaching the mobile device and a rearward portion which when in situ faces the headrest, the planar support section comprising a cushioning element engaged with the rearward portion for maintaining a distance between the device support section and the headrest; a clip for engaging with the headrest of the vehicle to retain the apparatus on the headrest; and a seat engagement section having a first end pivotably connected to the first end of the planar support section and the second end detachably engaged with the clip, the seat engagement section configured to overlie an upper surface of the head rest..

[0005] This is advantageous as it allows a user of a mobile device to enjoy media content or use said mobile device while also freeing up the hands on the mobile user to engage in other activities/tasks. Another advantage is that the mobile device, because it is mounted to the body of a headrest of a vehicle, will be mounted at a height with is approximately eye-level with the user thereby increasing user comfort and decreasing bad posture and risk of neck strain. Another advantage of the apparatus is that, if the apparatus is being used on the headrest of an aeroplane seat for example, space on the fold-down tray-table is not taken up by the mobile device. The clip for engaging with the headrest may be detachable from the first portion or integral thereto. This is advantageous as, if the clip for engaging with the headrest is detachable from the apparatus it allows the user to use the apparatus in a variety of vehicles, simply and easily by altering the clips. For example, if the clip currently attached to the apparatus is incompatible with the headrest of the vehicle the user wishes to mount the device on the clip can be simply replaced with one which is compatible with the headrest.

[0006] The apparatus may further comprise connection means for pivotably connecting the first end of the planar support section and the first end of the seat engagement section. The connection means may be adjustable. This is advantageous as it allows the user to adjust the angle between the support section and the seat engagement clip to find the most comfortable viewing angle for the mobile device.

[0007] The cushioning element may comprise a spacer for maintaining a distance between the device support section and the headrest. The cushioning element may be a convex cushioning element. The cushioning element may be elastically deformable. This is advantageous as it allows, in situations where there is a gap between the support section and the headrest, the apparatus to remain secured to the headrest and maintain a vertical orientation of the support section.

[0008] The connection means may comprise a mechanical connection means selected from a list including a screw, a bolt, a spring, a rivet, a pin, a hinge, or the like.

[0009] The clip may comprise a substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, L-shaped, T-shaped element for retaining the seat engagement section on the headrest. The clip of the seat engagement section may comprises a substantially planar member. The mobile device support section may comprise an attachment means for attaching the mobile device thereto.

[0010] The clip may comprise a mount having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion comprising an elastically deformable engagement means for detachably engaging with the second end of the seat engagement member and wherein the second portion comprises a planar stopping portion and a planar seat engagement member for engaging the body of the headrest

[0011] The planar seat engagement member may protrude from the stopping portion such that the seat engagement clip is substantially C-shaped.

[0012] The planar member may protrude from the stopping member such that angle formed between the protrusion and the first portion is approximately zero degrees. [0013] The planar member may protrude from the stopping member such that the seat engagement clip is substantially L-shaped.

[0014]

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] Embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [0016] Figure 1a is a view of the front of an apparatus for mounting a mobile device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 1 b is a side view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 1 a;

[0018] Figure 1c is an opposing side view of the apparatus of figure 1b;

[0019] Figure 1 d is top down view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 1a; [0020] Figure 1e is bottom up view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 1a; [0021] Figure 1f is a perspective view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 1a; [0022] Figure 2 shows a detachable seat engagement clip according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3 shows a detachable seat engagement clip according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 4 shows a detachable seat engagement clip according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figures 5a-c show perspective views of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 1a the present invention engaged with the seat engagement clips of figures 2, 3 and 4 respectively;

[0026] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the seat engagement clip of figure 2 and the apparatus of figure 1a;

[0027] Figure 7a shows the apparatus of figure 5a engaged with a headrest of a vehicle; [0028] Figure 7b shows the embodiment of figure 7a from the opposite side of the headrest ;

[0029] Figure 8a shows a perspective view of the front side of a headrest of a vehicle with the apparatus of figure 5c engaged therewith;

[0030] Figure 8b shows a perspective view of the embodiment of figure 8a from the opposite side of the headrest;

[0031] Figure 9a is a view of the front of apparatus for mounting a mobile device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 9b is a side view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 9a;

[0033] Figure 9c is an opposing side view of the apparatus of figure 9b;

[0034] Figure 9d is a top down view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 1a; [0035] Figure 9e is a bottom up view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 1a; [0036] Figure 9f is a perspective view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 1a; [0037] Figure 10a shows a perspective view of a detachable seat engagement clip according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 10b is a side view of the seat engagement clip of the embodiment of figure 10a; [0039] Figure 10c is an opposing side view of the seat engagement clip of the embodiment of figure 10b;

[0040] Figure 11 a is a perspective view of a detachable seat engagement clip according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 11 b is a side view of the seat engagement clip of the embodiment of figure 11a;

[0042] Figure 11c is an opposing side view of the seat engagement clip of the embodiment of figure 11b;

[0043] Figure 12a is a perspective view of a detachable seat engagement clip according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 12b is a side view of the seat engagement clip of the embodiment of figure 12a;

[0045] Figure 12c is an opposing side view of the seat engagement clip of the embodiment of figure 12b;

[0046] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a spacer pad in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the seat engagement clip of figure 2 and the apparatus of figure 9a;

[0048] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 9a the present invention engaged with the seat engagement clip of figure 12a;

[0049] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 9a the present invention engaged with the seat engagement clip of figure 11a;

[0050] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 9a the present invention engaged with the seat engagement clip of figure 10a;

[0051] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the apparatus of the embodiment of figure 9a the present invention engaged with the seat engagement clip of figure 2.

[0052] Figures 19 a and b are cross sectional views of the support member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

[0053] With reference now to the drawings, Figures 1a-f show an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus 100 for mounting a mobile device (not shown) to a headrest of a seat of a vehicle such aeroplane, train, car, bus or the like. The apparatus 100 comprises a mobile device support section. The device support section has a second end which in use is adjacent an upper part of the headrest The device support section comprises a substantially planar support section 102 extending between a second end of the device support section and a first end of the device support section. In use the planar support section extends in the longitudinal direction, substantially along the headrest along the face of the headrest which faces the passenger in the seat behind the headrest. The apparatus also comprises a seat engagement section for engaging with the headrest. In the embodiment of Figure 1 , the device support section is connected to the seat engagement section 104 via a connection means. It will be appreciated, and as outlined further below, the device support section and the seat engagement section 104 may be formed in a single moulding process and thus the connection means encompasses such a single moulding. The connection means as shown in Figure 1 is a pivotable connection. Such a pivotable connection enables the apparatus to fold for transport. This connection also allows for adaptable viewing angles. The mobile device support section in particular the substantially planar support section thereof 102 has a front portion which when in situ faces the user of the device and a rearward portion which when in situ faces the seat or headrest portion of the seat.

[0054] The front portion of the support section 102 comprises an attachment means. This attachment means provides a mechanism for attaching the mobile device. The attachment means can be a magnetic attachment portion 106 upon which a mobile device is detachably mounted. For example the casing of the mobile device may adhere directly to the magnetic attachment portion 106. The mobile device may also be adapted through the addition of a magnet to the rear of the mobile device so that the mobile device is attracted to the magnetic attachment portion 106. It will be appreciated that the attachment means may encompass the full front portion of the support section 102 or a portion thereof.

[0055] In alternative embodiments, the attachment means may be a clamp which grasps or grips the mobile device to secure it to the support section 102. Alternatively, or additionally (as shown) the attachment means may be of a plug-and-socket type configuration. In one embodiment a socket 116 may be included on the attachment means and a corresponding plug element attachable to the mobile device may be inserted into the socket 116. Conversely, a plug element may be included on the attachment means with a socket portion 116 attachable to the mobile device. In the former, the support section 102 comprises an opening into which an attachment (not shown) affixed to the back side of the mobile device is inserted to secure the mobile device to the support section 102. Although the apparatus 100 of figure 1a includes a socket portion 116 in addition to a magnetic portion, it is envisaged that these attachment means may be provided in separate embodiments. Such an arrangement facilitates a quick and efficient removal of the mobile device from the apparatus. [0056] In the embodiment of figure 1 , the support section 102 is connected to the seat engagement section 104. In the embodiment of figure 1, the support section 102 is tear drop shape. In this arrangement the connection part has a thickness greater than that of the portion of the support section 102 on which the mobile device may be mounted. It will be appreciated that the invention is not restricted as such. In this embodiment, the portion of the support section 102 which connects to the seat engagement section 104 is curved in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the support section 102. This curvature acts to position the screen of a mobile device in a vertical orientation when the apparatus 100 is engaged with a headrest of a vehicle. For example, in an aircraft a seat may be tilted and the configuration of the curvature facilitates a comfortable viewing angle, regardless of the position of the supporting seat. The support section 102 further comprises a resiliently deformable spacer 114 which protrudes from the back side of the support section 102. This resiliently deformable spacer may be a spring, or webbing or damper. The resiliently deformable spacer may be mounted with the support section, or separately formed and attached thereto

[0057] The seat engagement section 104 may comprise a single component or may be formed from a plurality of components. The description herein describes a first portion and a clip or second portion, however it will be appreciated that these portions may be comprised in a single component. The seat engagement section 104 comprises a first portion 104a for engaging with the connection means and a second portion or clip 104b for engaging with the headrest. The first portion 104a is connected to the support section 102 of the apparatus 100. It will be appreciated that the clip may be detachable from the first portion of the seat engagement section. It will also be appreciated that the clip may be connected to the first An opening 112 is provided at the end of the first portion 104b distal the connection of the device support section and the seat engagement section. This opening is configured to receive the clip (200, 300, 400, 1000, 1100, 1200). In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the clip for engaging with the headrest (200, 300, 400, 1000, 1100, 1200) may be integral to or integrally formed with the first portion of the seat engagement section 104.

[0058] The support section 102 and the seat engagement section 104 are connected via a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be an adjustable friction lock 108, such that the support section 102 and the seat engagement section 104 apparatus pivot freely about the connection when the lock 108 is disengaged and be fixed securely in a desired position when the lock 108 is engaged. In the embodiment of figures 1a - f, the locking mechanism 108 is a screw mechanism, however, it is envisaged that the locking mechanism may be selected from a list including a bolt, a spring, a rivet, a pin, a hinge or the like.

[0059] In the embodiment of figure 2, the clip portion of seat engagement section 104 secures the apparatus 100 to the headrest of a vehicle. The clip 200 engages with the headrest to secure the headrest in position. The clip is also referred to herein interchangeably as a mount 200. This mount 200 comprises a first portion 202 and a second portion 204. The first portion comprises an elastically deformable engagement means 206. This allows the mount 200 to be coupled to the apparatus 100. The second portion 204 of the mount 200 comprises a planar stopping portion 210. The planar stopping portion is disposed substantially perpendicular to the first portion 202. The stopping portion abuts the end of the first portion of the seat engagement section 104 of the apparatus 100 when the mount or clip 200 is coupled to the first portion of seat engagement clip 104. The second portion 204 of the mount or clip 200 comprises a second planar seat engagement member 208. The second planar seat engagement member retains the clip 104 on the headrest. The planar seat engagement member 208 protrudes from the stopping portion such that the mount 200 is substantially C-shaped. [0060] An alternative embodiment of the mount or clip is shown in figure 3. In a similar manner to the mount shown in figure 2, the mount 300 comprises a first portion 302 and a second portion 304, the first portion 302 being the same as that which was described for the mount 200 of figure 2. The second portion 304 of the mount 300 comprises a substantially planar member 308. This planar member 308 protrudes from the stopping member 304. In this embodiment, the angle formed between the planar member 308 and the first portion 302 is approximately 180 degrees. In such a configuration it will be appreciated that the mount 300 is substantially planar.

[0061] Yet another embodiment of mount 400 is shown in figure 4. The first portion 402 of the mount 400 is the same as that which was described for the mounts 200 and 300 as shown in figures 2 and 3. The second portion 404 of the mount 400 comprises a planar member 408. The planar member 408 protrudes from the stopping member such that mount 400 is substantially L-shaped. In this embodiment, the angle formed between the planar member 408 and the first portion 402 is approximately 90 degrees. Although the mounts 200, 300, 400, 1000, 1100, 1200 are shown to be detachable from the apparatus 100, it is envisaged that the mounts 200, 300, 400, 1000, 1100, 1200 may be integral to the apparatus 100, i.e. moulded in a single process.

[0062] Figures 5 a-c show an embodiment of the apparatus in an open configuration. The support section 102 and the seat engagement section 104 form a substantially L- Shape. This is the configuration of the apparatus when it is engage-able with the headrest of a vehicle seat. Figure 5a shows the apparatus of the present invention in an open configuration with the mount/clip 200 shown in figure 2 engaged therewith. It will be appreciated that the clip and the apparatus may be formed in a single moulding process or separately moulded. Figure 5b shows the apparatus of the present invention with the mount/clip 300 shown in figure 3 engaged therewith. Figure 5c shows the apparatus of the present invention in an open configuration with mount/clip 400 shown in figure 4 engaged therewith.

[0063] The device support section 102, further comprises a spacer 114 which protrudes from the back side of the device support section 102. The spacer 114 may be elastically deformable. The elastically deformable spacer 114 and the support section 102 form a V-shape. The elastically deformable spacer 114 acts to maintain a constant distance between the support section 102 and the back of the headrest of the vehicle. The elastically deformable spacer 114 has the further advantage of acting to absorb sudden shocks such as those experienced by, for example, an aircraft encountering turbulence. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention a rubber pad may be affixed to the end of the elastically deformable spacer 114. The rubber pad acts to resist lateral movement of the apparatus 100 due to impacts or shocks by providing an area of high static friction which is in contact with the back for the headrest of the vehicle. The spacer 114 as shown is a planar element, formed from metal or the like which flexes relative to the device support section 102.

[0064] Figure 6 shows the apparatus for mounting a mobile device 100 in an open configuration with the mount 200 detached from the apparatus. In the configuration, the apparatus 100 forms a substantially L-Shape. The angle formed between the support section 102 and the seat engagement section 104 is approximately 90 degrees, it will be appreciated that the invention is not restricted as such and that the angle formed between the support section 102 and the seat engagement clip may be greater than, or less than 90 degrees. The mount 200 can be coupled with or attached to the apparatus 100 by inserting the first portion 202 of the clip 200 into the opening 112 of the first portion of the seat engagement section 104. When the mount 200 is coupled to the seat engagement section 104, an elastically deformable engagement means 206 engages with a second opening 602 in the first portion 104a. This serves as a locking mechanism. The mount 200 can be decoupled from the apparatus by depressing the elastically deformable engagement means 206 such that it disengages/ unlocks from the second opening 602 in the first portion 104a. Once the elastically deformable engagement means 206 has been disengaged, the mount 200 can be easily removed from the apparatus and, if desired, replaced by one of the other embodiments of the mount (300, 400, 1000, 1100, 1200).

[0065] Figures 7a and 7b show the apparatus for mounting a mobile device 100 engaged with an exemplary headrest 702 of an aeroplane seat. The headrest 702 may comprised of two components, a rigid shell 704 and a cushioned portion 706. Fig 7a shows a view of the back side of a headrest 702 of an aeroplane seat with apparatus 100 coupled to the mount 200 of figure 2, engaged therewith. The back side of the aeroplane seat is the rearward portion of the headrest facing a passenger in the seat behind the headrest. This passenger will mount the apparatus on the forward headrest so that they can look at their mobile device screen during the flight. This embodiment of the apparatus engages with the headrest of the seat by hooking or otherwise clipping the planar element 208 of the mount 200 under the rigid shell which forms the back of a headrest 702. The elastically deformable spacer 114 acts to push against the back of the headrest such that the support section 102 of the apparatus 100 remains in a substantially vertical orientation. Figure 7b shows a view of the front side of the headrest 702. It can be seen more clearly in this view that the mount 200 hooks onto the rigid shell 704 of the headrest 702 to secure the apparatus 100 to the headrest 702.

[0066] Figures 8a and 8b show the apparatus for mounting a mobile device 100 engaged with the headrest 802 of the seat of a vehicle which does not have any component to which the mount 200 of figure 2 can be engaged with the headrest. The headrest of figures 8a and b may comprise a single component such as a cushion portion. Alternatively the headrest 802 may be composed of multiple components which may be covered by a layer of fabric. Figure 8a shows a front view of headrest 802 with the apparatus 100 coupled to the mount 400 of figure 4, engaged therewith. The mount 400 secures the apparatus 100 to the headrest by hooking over the top of headrest 802. It can be seen more clearly in figure 8b that the mount 400 and the apparatus 100 form a U-shape. This U-shape then fits over the top of the headrest 802 such that the mount 400 is in contact with the front portion of the headrest 802 and the support section 102 of the apparatus 100 is engaged with the back portion of the headrest 802 via the elastically deformable spacer 114 (not shown). As the spacer 114 is elastically deformable, it enables use of the apparatus with headrests of different thicknesses. [0067] While the apparatus described above in relation to Figures 1 to 7 is described as comprising a plurality of sections, it will be appreciated that the apparatus may be formed as a single component, moulded or otherwise formed as a single element. An alternative embodiment formed as a substantially single element is described herein in relation to figures 9a to f. It will also be appreciated that any of the features of the embodiments of figures 9a to f can be incorporated into the embodiments of figures 1 to 8. The apparatus 900 comprises a device support section. The mobile device support section may comprise a substantially planar support section 902 as described above. This planar support section extends between a first end and a second end of the mobile device support. The apparatus 900 also comprises a seat engagement section 904 for engaging with the headrest. The seat engagement section comprises a first portion and a clip, the first portion and the clip being either integrally formed with or separate and connectable thereto. In the embodiment in Figure 9, the first portion seat engagement section 904 is integrally connected to the planar support section 902. The seat engagement section 904 and the mobile device support section 902 form an L-Shape. The mobile device support section 902 has a front portion which when in situ faces the user of the device (sitting in the seat immediately behind the headrest) and a rearward portion which when in situ faces the seat or headrest portion of the seat to which the apparatus is mounted. [0068] The front portion of the support section 902 comprises an attachment means. This attachment means provides a mechanism for attaching the mobile device as described above in relation to figures 1 to 8. The attachment means can be a magnetic portion 906 upon which a mobile device is detachably mounted. For example, the casing of the mobile device may adhere through the addition of a magnet to the rear of the mobile device so that the mobile device is attracted to the magnetic attachment portion 906. It will be appreciated that the attachment means may encompass the full front portion of the support section 902 or a portion thereof.

[0069] In alternative embodiments the attachment means may be a clamp which grasps or grips the mobile device to secure it to the support sections 902. Alternatively or additionally (as shown) the attachment means may be of a plug-and-socket type configuration. In one embodiment, a socket 916 may be included on the attachment means and a corresponding plug element attachable to the mobile device may be inserted into the socket 916. Conversely, a plug element may be included on the attachment means with a socket portion attachable to the mobile device. In the former, the support section 902 comprises an opening into which an attachment (not shown) affixed to the back side of the mobile device is inserted to secure the mobile device to the support section 902. Although the apparatus 900 of figure 9a includes a socket portion 916 in addition to a magnetic portion, it is envisaged that these attachment means may be provided in separate embodiments.

[0070] In the embodiments of figure 9, the support section 902 and the seat engagement section 904 are fabricated or moulded as a single piece. The seat engagement section 904 protrudes from the support section 902 such that the seat engagement section 904 and the support section 902 form an L-shape. The support section 902 further comprises a spacer. The spacer may be elastically deformable. In the embodiment of Figure 9, the spacer is formed from a plurality of elements 1304. These elements form a cushioning structure. Each element is individually resiliently deformable. The plurality of resiliently deformable spacers 1304 protrude from the back side of the support section 902 in a convex shape. The resiliently deformable spacers 1304 may be fabricated as integral to the apparatus 900. Alternatively, the resiliently deformable spacers may protrude from a removable spacer pad 1300. While shown as individual elements it will be appreciated that the spacer may be a single convex element which functions to cushion any impact which may occur between the mobile device support section and the headrest.

[0071] The seat engagement section 904 may comprise a single component which is integral with the support section and which also comprises a means for engaging with the headrest. It will be appreciated that each element of the apparatus may be individually formed. Alternatively the seat engagement clip may be formed from a plurality of components.

[0072] In figures 10a-c, the clip for engaging with the headrest which secures the apparatus 900 to the headrest of a vehicle is shown. It will be appreciated that these mounts are interchangeable with the mounts as described above. Mount/Clip 1000 comprises a first portion 1002 and a second portion 1004. The first portion 1002 comprises an elastically deformable engagement means 1006. This allows the mount to 1000 to be coupled to the apparatus 100 or 900. The second portion of the mount 1000 comprises a stopping portion 1004. The stopping portion 1004 is disposed substantially perpendicular to the first portion 1002. The stopping portion 1004 abuts the end of the seat engagement section 904 of the apparatus 900 when the mount 1000 is coupled to the seat engagement clip. The second portion of the mount 1000 also comprises a plurality of planar members (1008, 1010, 1012) configured such that they form a substantially C-shape. Planar member 1008 of the C-shaped portion retains the seat engagement clip 904 on the headrest. The mount 1000 also comprises a reinforcing member 1014 which is disposed substantially along the length of the mount 1000. The reinforcing member 1014 prevents the mount from flexing or bending in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first portion 1002.

[0073] An alternative embodiment of the mount is shown in figure 11a-c. In a similar manner to the mount shown in figure 10a-c, the mount 1100 comprises a first portion 1102 and a second portion 1104. The first portion of mount 1100 is the same as that which was described for mount 1000 of figures 10a-c. The second portion 1102 of the mount 1100 comprises a plurality of planar members (1108, 1110, 1112) which form a substantially J-shaped portion. Planar member 1108 of the J-shaped section retains the seat engagement clip 904 on the headrest. The mount 1100 comprises a reinforcing member 1114 which is disposed substantially along the length of the mount. The reinforcing member 1114 acts to prevent the mount from bending or flexing in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the first portion.

[0074] A further embodiment of the mount is shown in figures 12a-c. The first portion of the mount is the same as that which was described for mounts 1000 and 1100. The second portion 1204 of the mount 1200 comprises a planar member 1210 which protrudes from the stopping portion 1204 in the direction parallel to the first portion 1202. The angle between the first portion and the planar member 1210 is approximately 0 degrees. The second portion 1204 further comprises a second planar member 1208 which protrudes form the planar member 1210 distal the stopping portion 1204. The second planar member 1208 protrudes from planar member 1210 such that the angle formed between them is approximately 90 degrees. The second planar member 1208 protrudes from planar member 1210 such that mount 1200 is substantially L-shaped. The second planar member 1208 comprises a rubber pad 1212 affixed to the surface of the second planar member 1208 on its inside surface. The inside surface of planar member 1208 is the surface in the direction of the first portion 1202 of the mount 1200. The rubber pad 1212 acts to resist lateral movement of the apparatus 100 or 900 due to impacts or shocks by providing an area of high static friction which is in contact with the headrest of the seat of a vehicle. The mount 1200, in a similar manner to mounts 1000 and 1100, comprises a reinforcing member 1214 which is disposed substantially along the length of the mount 1200.

[0075] Figure 13 shows an embodiment of the spacer pad 1300 discussed in relation to figure 9. The spacer 1300 comprises a planar base element 1302 which engages with the back side of the planar support section 902 of the apparatus 900. The spacer pad 1300 further comprised a plurality of resiliently deformable fins 1304 which protrude from the planar base element 1300. The resiliently deformable fins 1304 are disposed substantially parallel to each other. In the embodiment shown in figure 13, the profile of the spacer pad 1300 is hemi-ellipsoidal in shape. The hemi-ellipsoidal shape of this embodiment is due to an increase in the height of the fins toward the centre of the planar base element 1302.

[0076] Figure 14 shows the apparatus 900, according to the embodiment of the invention described in relation to figure 9, with mount or clip 200 detached from the apparatus, In the embodiment shown in figure 14, the mount or clip 200 can be coupled or attached to the apparatus. by inserting the first portion 202 of the mount 200 into an opening 912 at the end of the first portion 904a of the seat engagement section 904. When the mount 200 is coupled to the first portion 904a of the seat engagement section 904, elastically deformable engagement means 206 engages with a second opening 920 in the first portion 904a of the seat engagement section 904. This serves as a locking mechanism. The mount 200 can be decoupled from the apparatus by depressing the elastically deformable engagement means 206 such that it disengages/unlocks from the second opening 920 in the seat engagement section 904. Once the elastically deformable engagement means 206 has been disengaged, the mount 200 can be easily removed from the apparatus and, if desired, replaced by one of the other embodiments of the mount (300, 400, 1000, 1100, 1200).

[0077] Figures 15-18 show the apparatus 900 as described in relation to figure 9 engaged with various embodiments of the mount for retaining the apparatus 900 to the headrest of a seat in a vehicle. Figure 15 shows the apparatus 900 with mount 1200 as shown in figures 12a-c engaged therewith. Figure 16 shows the apparatus 900 with mount 1100 as shown in figures 11a-c engaged therewith. Figure 17 shows the apparatus 900 with mount 1000 as shown in figures 10a-c engaged therewith. Figure 18 shows the apparatus 900 with mount 200 as shown in figure 2 engaged therewith. While the clips in figures 15 to 18 are shown as detachably engaged, it will be appreciated that the apparatus may be formed as a single unit or the seat engagement portion may be formed as a single unit.

[0078] Figure 19 a and b provides an alternative configuration of the convex cushioning element or spacer pad 1300. A cross section of the support section 1902 is shown in Figure 19a. This support section may be used in replacement for the support sections in any of Figures 1 to 18. The support section is formed with a convex curve which when the device is in situ will lean against the seat and thus provide a cushioning and supporting configuration. It will be appreciated that the support section may be moulded as two sections which are joined together to form the support section or moulded as a single piece. In one configuration the section 1902 may be the right hand section of the support section and may cooperate with a left hand section to form a support section. Clip elements 1903a, b are configured to engage with corresponding clip elements on a left hand section (not shown). Webbing or structural support elements 1904 are provided. These webbing or structural support elements provide a rigid structure for the support section. A planar element 1905 is also provided to ensure a closed configuration. The planar element may be sandwiched or held between the left and right hand sections of the support section in a two part configuration. In contrast to the cushioning element of figure 13, the support section in Figure 19 a and b is moulded to have a similar shape. This is appreciably a lower cost solution to the configuration of Figure 13 for example. [0079] The words “comprises/comprising” and the words “having/including” when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

[0080] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

Claims

1. An apparatus for mounting a mobile device to the body of a headrest of a vehicle seat, comprising: a mobile device support section comprising a planar support section having a first end and a second end, the planar support section having a front face which when in situ is arranged to face a user of the device, the front face comprising an attachment means for attaching the mobile device and a rearward portion which when in situ faces the headrest, the planar support section comprising a cushioning element engaged with the rearward portion for maintaining a distance between the device support section and the headrest; a clip for engaging with the headrest of the vehicle to retain the apparatus on the headrest; and a seat engagement section having a first end pivotably connected to the first end of the planar support section and the second end detachably engaged with the clip, the seat engagement section configured to overlie an upper surface of the head rest..

2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising connection means for pivotably connecting the first end of the planar support section and the first end of the seat engagement section.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the connection means are adjustable.

4. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein the cushioning element comprises a spacer for maintaining a distance between the device support section and the headrest.

5. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein the cushioning element is a convex cushioning element.

6. The apparatus of claim 4 or claim 5 wherein the cushioning element is elastically deformable.

7. The apparatus of any of claims 2 to 6 wherein the connection means comprises a mechanical connection means selected from a list including a screw, a bolt, a spring, a rivet, a pin, a hinge, or the like.

8. The apparatus of any of claim 3 to 7, wherein the clip comprises a substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, L-shaped, T-shaped element for retaining the seat engagement section on the headrest.

9. The apparatus of any of claims 3 to 8 wherein the clip of the seat engagement section comprises a substantially planar member.

10. The apparatus of any previous claim wherein the mobile device support section comprises an attachment means for attaching the mobile device thereto.

11. The apparatus of any of claims 3 to 7 wherein the clip comprises a mount having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion comprising an elastically deformable engagement means for detachably engaging with the second end of the seat engagement member and wherein the second portion comprises a planar stopping portion and a planar seat engagement member for engaging the body of the headrest

12. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the planar seat engagement member protrudes from the stopping portion such that the seat engagement clip is substantially C-shaped.

13. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the planar member protrudes from the stopping member such that angle formed between the protrusion and the first portion is approximately zero degrees.

14. The mount of claim 11 , wherein the planar member protrudes from the stopping member such that the seat engagement clip is substantially L-shaped.