US20050035164A1 - Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device - Google Patents
Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050035164A1 US20050035164A1 US10/947,627 US94762704A US2005035164A1 US 20050035164 A1 US20050035164 A1 US 20050035164A1 US 94762704 A US94762704 A US 94762704A US 2005035164 A1 US2005035164 A1 US 2005035164A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- button
- locking
- tab
- bevel
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F5/00—Holders or carriers for hand articles; Holders or carriers for use while travelling or camping
- A45F5/02—Fastening articles to the garment
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F5/00—Holders or carriers for hand articles; Holders or carriers for use while travelling or camping
- A45F5/02—Fastening articles to the garment
- A45F5/021—Fastening articles to the garment to the belt
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F5/00—Holders or carriers for hand articles; Holders or carriers for use while travelling or camping
- A45F5/02—Fastening articles to the garment
- A45F2005/025—Fastening articles to the garment with a holder or item rotatably connected to the fastening device, e.g. having a rotation axis perpendicular to the garment
- A45F2005/026—Fastening articles to the garment with a holder or item rotatably connected to the fastening device, e.g. having a rotation axis perpendicular to the garment with a pin having an enlarged head detachably connected to a fastening device, e.g. to a pin receiving slot
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45F
- A45F2200/05—Holder or carrier for specific articles
- A45F2200/0516—Portable handheld communication devices, e.g. mobile phone, pager, beeper, PDA, smart phone
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- Telephone Set Structure (AREA)
Abstract
A selectively lockable fastener is provided that includes a beveled button for removable interconnection to a locking portion based on a rotational movement. The button of one embodiment of the present invention also includes a locking relief, generally a second bevel, for engagement with a cavity of the locking portion. This secondary locking feature reduces the occurrences of unintentional disengagement of the fastener that often occurs as a result of normal wear and tear.
Description
- The application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/745,907, filed Dec. 23, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/441,928, filed May 19, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/163,110, filed Jun. 26, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. D478,418, each application being incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- The present invention relates to multi-piece fasteners, clips and buckles, and more specifically a device adapted to selectively retain an electric device or other apparatus, and which can be released by a rotational movement.
- Cellular telephones, pagers, radios, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other similar electronic devices (hereinafter “electronic device”) have become increasingly popular, with many people securing these devices on their belts or pockets. The inevitable advances in technology will surely bring about new items that users will desire to carry in this fashion SO that they are easily accessible.
- Various means of clipping small items to a user's belt have been in use for many years. More specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 5,779,115, assigned to NOKIA®, teaches a carrying device that employs a hand-operated slide that includes an element to deflect a spring to release a lock. The device employs a button, and a cylindrical stem interconnected to a circular plate that is sewn on a case adapted to receive a cellular phone. The body portion of the holding device is attached to a user's belt and employs a locking feature. The user inserts the button into the lock which thus secures the electronic device on the belt. To disengage the electronic device from the carrying device, the user must release the locking mechanism by deflecting a release mechanism. This type of lock has the disadvantage of being assembled from many parts thus time consuming and expensive to manufacture. Further, the release mechanics of traditional locks maybe inadvertently activated causing the item to become dislodged and possibly damaged in a fall. Failure, due to normal wear and tear, of the locking spring and the clip housing are also common, which will cause the electronic device to become dislodged from the locking mechanism and possibly damaged. Finally, it is cumbersome and awkward in certain situations to disengage the lock with a thumb or finger, and it is often difficult for the elderly or physically challenged to perform the unlocking operation.
- Separable fasteners with a single piece locking feature are known in the art. For example, the MOD-U-LOCK® attachment system, built by the National Molding Corporation and sold commercially by DURAFLEX®, is a separable fastener that utilizes the elastic properties of plastic to lock the button into place. The locking portion includes a flexible tab with a locking lip and a pocket to receive the button, which may be released by applying finger pressure against an upper portion of the tab. However, the locking portion of this type of separable fasteners is usually rigidly interconnected onto existing materials, and thus provides no means for removable interconnection to a belt, pocket, or other object.
- Another drawback of the separable fasteners is that they have limited applications outside use with soft compliant items. More specifically, user-applied deflects the tab to provide a sufficient gap so that the button, which is interconnected to the device, may be easily slipped into and out of the locking mechanism without interference with a locking lip on the tab. In current low-profile lock designs, a deflected tab will come in contact with the item the lock is attached to. If the lock is attached to a compliant item, a nylon bag for example, pressure from the tab will deflect the compliant item and a sufficient gap will be provided for button disengagement. If the item that the locking portion of the separable fastener is interconnected to is not compliant, the deflected tab may not provide a sufficient gap for the insertion or removal of the button. Fasteners in use today are low profile, and as such lack a sufficient gap when deflected to be used on non-compliant materials.
- There is thus a significant need for a one-piece integrally molded interconnection system that may be selectively attached to a belt or pocket, and which comprises a locking mechanism that selectively secures an electronic device, and wherein selective rotation of the electronic device facilitates disengagement thereof. There is a further need for a simplistic interconnection system which requires no assembly, is durable, and can be used in a multitude of applications.
- It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a detachable fastener that selectively interconnects to a user's belt and selectively secures an electronic device, while eliminating post-manufacturing steps of assembly and the costs associated therewith. Thus, the detachable fastener of one embodiment of the present invention does not employ springs or other means to disengage the lock.
- It is another aspect of the present invention that the single piece design be light, strong, and less susceptible to breakage and jamming due to the reduction of movable parts. Also, the single piece design will have no metal parts that are generally prone to corrosion and tend to activate metal detectors. Due to the single piece design and the elimination of post manufacturing steps, significant time and expense is saved.
- It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a fastener that has a robust design, and which can readably changed with a revision of a mold. Thus, the shape and design of the fastener may be changed easily, as well as the color. In addition, the fastener may be molded with substantially planar areas for the attachment of company logos or other advertisements, or the desired indicia may be etched or molded directly onto the clip.
- It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a separable fastener that includes a button that selectively interconnects with a locking portion of the separable fastener by sliding into a locking pocket thereof. The button may be interconnected to any number of electronic devices, tools, or carrying pouches, sleeves, or holsters, such as a cell phone, a pager, a PDA, an MP3 player, a CD player, a diagnostic device, a radio, tape cassette player, a health monitor, a hammer, a tape measure, an inventory device, a water bottle, a flashlight, a sleeve or holster adapted to secure a cell phone, a gun holster, a pouch, a hand cuff holder, a knife case, and a time piece (hereafter “electronic device”). Alternatively, the button may be interconnected to a belt, strap, leash, or any other object that is designed to selectively interconnect to a mating fastener. Generally, the attachment of the button to the electronic device or other item depends on the application, but the button may be sewn, glued, integrally molded, screwed, riveted, clipped, taped, or tied to the item, as appreciated by one skilled in the art. Finally, items of the same general size may fit into the same lock depending on the shape of the interface portion of the lock and the button.
- It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a belt clip that is integrally interconnected to the locking portion of the separable fastener by a thinner, resiliently deflectable, section of material. By squeezing together finger and thumb tabs on the clip and lock, the thinner section will resiliently deflect, thereby allowing selective interconnection to a user's belt. The lock portion will generally use the same materials, such that the tab attached to the locking portion may be easily deflected to allow insertion and removal of the button that is interconnected to the electronic device.
- It is a related aspect of the present invention to provide a locking portion of the integrai assembly that is attached to the belt clip via a spring and pin combination, and thus does not utilize the one-piece integral design discussed above, but is still simplistic to manufacture, and thus cost effective.
- It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a holder used to carry larger items that, due to their shape and/or size, a user would find difficult to disengage the lock of the fastener. In this embodiment, the locking portion employs the locking pocket, but no movable tab. In contrast, the locking portion is equipped with a small protrusion that in turn interfaces with a tab on the button. Disengagement is achieved by flexing the tab, thereby releasing the interface. In addition, the interconnection between the clip and the locking portion may not include a reduced thickness, but rather employ the same dimensions as the joined components to increase the strength of the holder to accommodate heavier items.
- In each of the above mentioned aspects of the invention, a button that is selectively interconnected to the electronic device or other items is employed. The interface portion of the button will dictate the mobility of the item when it is installed in the locking pocket. For example, a round interface will allow the device to rotate, whereas a square interface will constrain the device to prevent rotation, and an interface that is notched will allow the user to maintain a desired rotation angle in a preferred position of use.
- It is another aspect of the present invention that there be a sufficient gap incorporated into the locking portion of the integral assembly such that sufficient space is provided for the tab to be deflected.
- It is still yet another aspect of the invention to provide a button that is selectively removable from the locking portion when it is rotated to a predetermined angle, thus removable without manually deflecting the tab. In one embodiment of the present invention the button employs an angled bevel on the interface portion that provides sufficient clearance from the locking portion of the clip or facilitates hands-free deflection of the tab when the button is rotated a predetermined angle. During insertion, the beveled area of the button travels in an unobstructed path, or in a path that facilitates deflection of the tab, into the locking portion of the clip. Further, once the button is seated securely in the pocket, a non-beveled area of the button will be in contact with the locking portion, thereby preventing removal. Removal of the electronic device is achieved by rotation, in one embodiment about 180 degrees, such that the beveled area is again proximate to the locking portion, thereby providing an unobstructed or tab deflecting path for button removal. One skilled in the art will appreciate that any rotation angle, or plurality thereof, may be used to facilitate button removal.
- The locking portions of the present invention that are resiliently deflectable, may be used. Alternatively, a locking portion with no moving parts may be employed. More specifically, a beveled button may be employed that alleviates the need for a resiliently deflectable tab by providing an unobstructed path for selective interconnection. Further, the removal of the resiliently deflectable tab will allow the locking portion to be constructed with a lower profile, because the travel distance of the tab will no longer be required.
- It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a fastening mechanism that is not used exclusively with electronic devices. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention may be used with other items, such as belts, straps, leashes, or any other similar type of device. For example, the button may interconnect to an intermediate appendage that includes at least one aperture for the interconnection to the strap or belt. It is envisioned that this embodiment be used for straps or belts for elderly or disabled individuals such that the interconnection and disconnection of the separable fastener is facilitated.
- It is related aspect of the present invention to provide a button that includes a second bevel or relief to ensure that the button does not disengage from the lock. More specifically, as previously described above, the non-beveled portion is designed to selectively engage the locking lip on the resiliently deflectable tab of the locking portion of the clip. However, over time this engagement may become worn such that the button may become disengaged from the locking portion upon sufficient pressure thereto. Accordingly, one embodiment of the present invention includes a locking tab that includes a locking cavity integrated therein. A button with a locking relief is also provided such that the locking relief and the locking cavity engage when the button is in a locked position such that disengagement from the locking portion of the severable fastener is subsequently prevented. Additional advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following discussion, particularly when incorporated with the accompanying drawings.
- Thus, in one aspect of the present invention a fastening system adapted for selectively securing an electronic device is provided comprising:
- a locking portion comprising an upper end, a lower end and lateral edges extending therebetween;
- a receiving pocket positioned within said locking portion and comprising at least one outwardly extending lip on a first end with a restricted diameter upper surface;
- a button having a lower surface and an upper surface to define a first thickness, said button further including:
- a beveled edge extending generally between said lower surface and said upper surface of said button, wherein said first thickness is reduced and
- a locking relief extending generally between said lower surface and said upper surface of said button, generally opposite said beveled edge, wherein said first thickness is reduced; and
- wherein said receiving pocket is sized to receive and secure said button in a first position, but said button cannot be withdrawn from said receiving pocket until said beveled edge is positioned substantially adjacent to said outwardly extending lip.
- The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The present invention is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention.
- The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these embodiments.
-
FIG. 1 is perspective view of a first embodiment of an integral belt clip and locking fastener; -
FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 are front elevation and plan views of a square engagement button used with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6 are front elevation and plan views of a round engagement button used with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 7 are front elevation and plan views of a notched engagement button used with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 8 is a left elevation view of the button attached to an electronic device and a method of insertion into the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 9 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 interconnected to a belt and the electronic device selectively secured thereto; -
FIG. 10 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 11 is a rear elevation view of the invention shown inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 12 is a left elevation view of the invention shown inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of the invention shown inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of the invention shown inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 15 is a left elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 16 is a rear elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 17 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 19 is a front elevation view of a button with an extended tab; -
FIG. 20 is a right elevation view of the button with extended tab shown inFIG. 19 ; -
FIG. 21 is a left elevation view of the button with an extended tab attached to an item and the method of insertion into the embodiment shown inFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 22 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 16 interconnected to a user's belt and an electronic device selectively secured thereto; -
FIG. 23 is a rear elevation view of an alternative embodiment; -
FIG. 24 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 23 ; -
FIG. 25 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 23 ; -
FIG. 26 is a front elevation view of a resilient engagement button; -
FIG. 27 is a right section view of a resilient engagement button; -
FIG. 28 is a top plan view of a resilient engagement button; -
FIG. 29 is a rear elevation view that shows an example of a hard stop; and -
FIG. 30 are front elevation and plan views of a beveled button used with an alternate embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 31 is a partial right cross section of the locking portion of the belt clip shown inFIG. 25 selectively interconnected to the beveled button shown inFIG. 30 ; -
FIG. 32 is a partial right cross section of the locking portion of the belt clip shown inFIG. 25 selectively interconnected to the beveled button shown inFIG. 30 , rotated to facilitate removal thereof; -
FIG. 33 is a front elevation view of a locking portion of an alternate embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 34 is a left elevation view of the locking portion shown inFIG. 33 ; -
FIG. 35 is a front elevation view of a button of an alternate embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 36 is a left elevation view of the button shown inFIG. 35 ; and -
FIG. 37 is a partial sectional view of the embodiments of the locking portion shown inFIG. 33 and the button shown inFIG. 35 illustrating the locking mechanism. - To provide clarity to the various components found in the drawings, and the numbering of the various components provided herein: # Component
- 1 Hard Stop
- 2 Extended Tab
- 3 Locking Protrusion
- 4 Extended tab/Protrusion interface location
- 5 User
- 7 Pin
- 10 Belt clip portion
- 11 Hook
- 12 Belt Clip Finger Grip
- 12A Belt Clip Finger Grip
- 12B Belt Clip Finger Grip
- 13 Locking Portion Finger Grip
- 14 Open molding area
- 15 Tab
- 16 Locking Lip
- 17 Front wall of locking pocket
- 17A Front wall of locking pocket (Looking from the belt clip)
- 18 Back wail of locking pocket
- 18A Back wall of locking pocket (Looking from the belt clip)
- 19 Locking Pocket
- 21 Open molding space
- 22 Side pocket walls
- 30 Lock portion
- 31 Web
- 32 Belt clip/Lock portion interface
- 36 Sleeve
- 41 Button attachment surface
- 42 Button
- 43 Button notches
- 44 Stitch holes
- 45 Rivet hole
- 46 Stem
- 50 Electronic Device or other item
- 60 Integral Belt Clip and Holder
- 70 Gap
- 71 Back surface of locking portion
- 73 Button bevel area
- 80 Locking relief
- 82 Locking cavity
- 86 Aperture
- It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details which are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or which render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.
- Referring now to
FIGS. 1-37 , a separable fastener that includes at least a locking portion and a button is shown. One embodiment of the present invention includes a locking portion with a resiliently deflectable tab that employs a locking protrusion that is adapted to selectively engage the button. Engagement and disengagement of the button is achieved by selectively deflecting the tab to provide a obstruction-free path for the button to travel. Alternatively, in another embodiment of the invention, a button is provided that employs a beveled area that is adapted to provide an obstruction free path, or alternatively a button that provides the tab deflection force, for removal when the beveled area is rotated to a predetermined angle. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1-4 , one embodiment of the present invention is shown herein. In general, a one-piece integralbelt clip holder 60 is a union of abelt clip 10 and a lockingportion 30 of a separable fastener which are attached by aweb 31 of plastic or other material with resilient properties, made from a material such as rubber, deflectable plastic, etc. Theweb 31 is resilient to allow for attachment to a belt when pressure is applied to the finger grip on theclip portion 12 and the finger grip on thelock portion 13. Alternatively, the lower portions of thebelt clip 10 and the lockingportion 30 may be pulled apart to allow for selective interconnection to a belt or other object. Thelock portion 30 employs aflexible plastic tab 15 with alip 16 that secures a button and prevents upward movement and disengagement from thelock portion 30. Alternatively, other types of residual materials commonly known in the art may be used, including rubber, polyethylene, etc. A lockingpocket 19 constrains the button portion of the separable fastener, and consists of afront wall 17, aback wall 18, andside pocket walls 22. When thetab 15 is flexed, the non-locking portion remains supported in the pocket and is easily disengaged. Thebelt clip portion 10 may be equipped with a hook 11 which will help maintain the unit on the user's belt. Both portions of thebelt clip 10 and the lockingportion 30 of the separable fastener are integrally molded preferably with open moldedspaces - Referring now to
FIGS. 5-7 andFIGS. 26-27 , a secondary engaged portion of the separable fastener is shown, and which is designed for interconnecting to an electric device such as a cellular phone, radio, etc. This item is referred to herein as abutton 42, and is generally comprised of a plastic material such as polypropylene, polyethylene, etc. The button'sattachment surface 41 is connected to thebutton 42 by astem 46 such that thebutton 42 is easily slipped into the pocket of the lock. In one embodiment, the interconnectingstem 46 and/or theattachment area 41 may be made of rubber or other resilient material capable of deflection which will decrease stresses on the button and electronic device interface when a force is applied to a portion of the electronic device. Thestem 46 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, a rectangularly shapedstem 46 may be used which would provide resiliency in one direction and greater stiffness in the others. Also, at the button-to-electronic device interface, a resilient material will provide a better bond between thebutton attachment surface 41 and the electronic device because the resilient material will be capable of deflection and conformance to the electronic device that may have a non-planar shape. Thebutton 42 dictates the mobility of the item when it is locked in the pocket. More specifically, a square shape will give a user substantially no rotation, while a round button shape will allow for substantially free rotation. Alternatively in one embodiment,notches 43 may be employed to provide a variety of fixed positions depending on the preferred application. - The
button attachment surface 41 is selectively interconnected to the electronic device, electronic device carrying case, or other item by sewing, gluing, integrally molding, clipping, screwing, riveting, taping, or tying. Thebutton attachment surface 41 may further employ arivet hole 45 or stitching holes 44 to facilitate interconnection with the electronic device, electronic device carrying case, or other item. One embodiment of the present invention is adapted for interconnection to a sleeve or holster that secures a cellular phone, wherein the sleeve encompasses all or a portion of the cellular phone body. - Referring now to
FIG. 8 , the locking function of one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated herein. More specifically, thebutton 42 is shown interconnected to theelectronic device 50, while the integral belt clip andholder 60 is shown with atab 15 in the locked position. To lock theelectronic device 50 into place, the user applies pressure to thetab 15 in the direction of theclip portion 10 of theintegral assembly 60. Alternatively embodiments may employ release mechanisms that are pushed in different directions of release. After pressure is applied to thetab 15, there is an unobstructed path for thebutton 42 to engage thepocket 19. That is, thebutton interface 42 is easily guided downward into the lockingpocket 19. When the user releases the pressure on thetab 15 the locking portion of thetab 16 will prevent thebutton interface 42 from traveling upward. Thus, theelectronic device 50 is released by the application of pressure to thetab 15 towards theclip portion 10 of theintegral assembly 60, thereby deflecting the tab, separating thelock 16 andbutton interface 42, and providing an unobstructed path in which the electronic device can travel. - The requisite pressure that deflects the
tab 15 prior to the introduction of thebutton interface 42 into thepocket 19 can be supplied by theinterface 42 itself. More specifically, the user can initiate the downward motion of theelectronic device 50 into thepocket 19 without touching thetab 15. Thus, the contact of theinterface 42 with thetab 15, along with the downward force supplied by the user, may sufficiently deflect thetab 15 so that theinterface 42 will engage the lockingpocket 19. - Referring now to
FIG. 9 , thebutton 42 is shown interconnected to theelectronic device 50, while thebelt clip 10 is attached to the user's 5 belt. Thetab 15 of thelock 30 has been deflected towards theuser 5, while the button interface has been seated in the lockingpocket 19, and thetab 15 has been released. Thus, the button is prevented from upward motion by thelock 16, and theelectronic device 50 is operably interconnected to belt clip andholder 60. - Referring now to
FIGS. 10-14 , another embodiment of the present invention is shown. This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment of the present invention shown inFIGS. 1-9 , but the single piece molding is modified to simplify manufacturing because “side pulls” on the mold are not required. In some molding processes side pulls are required to form holes or cavities into the final product. By deleting the need for side pulls, an integral design is moldable using a two-piece mold construction, and more clips can be made using a single mold. The requirement of side pulls adds complexity and cost to the molding operation. More specifically, thebelt clip portion 10 is constructed slightly longer than the lockingportion 30. In addition, the belt clip finger grip is split into twopieces 12A and 12B. - Referring now to
FIG. 15 , yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown that employs apin 7 and spring mechanism to connect the locking 30 and clip 10 portions of the unit. More specifically, the pressure on the finger grips 12 and 13 is reduced by the use of a pin and spring such that selective interconnection to a user's belt or other object is more easily performed. - Referring now to
FIGS. 16-20 , an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown that is more durable and which may be used for larger items such as radios, CD players, PDAs, inventory devices, water bottles, etc. In this embodiment of the present invention, thelocking feature 3 on theintegral assembly 60 is not attached to a flexible tab. Instead, the lockingportion 30 employs asmall protrusion 3, which interfaces with aflexible tab 2 on thebutton 42 when the button is seated in the lockingpocket 19 and thetab 2 is released. Further, the halves are connected by athicker interface 32 that increases the strength of the unit. - Referring now to
FIG. 21 , the locking function of one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated herein. More specifically, thebutton 42 is shown interconnected to asleeve 36 on alarger device 50, while the integral belt clip andholder 60 is shown with astationary locking protrusion 3. Thesleeve 36 may be used to selectively secure thelarger device 50 to thebutton 42 if attachment locations on theitem 50 are not feasible. To lock the device into place the user applies pressure to thetab 2 on thebutton 42. After pressure is applied to thetab 15 there is an unobstructed path for thebutton 42 to engage thepocket 19, that is, thebutton 42 may be easily guided downward into thelock pocket 19. When the user releases the pressure on thetab 2, the locking portion of theintegral assembly 3 will prevent thebutton 42 from traveling upward because a portion of thetab 2 will selectively interconnect with thelock 3. The item is released by the application of pressure to thetab 2 thereby deflecting the tab, separating thelock 3 and the tab interface 4, and providing an unobstructed path in which the device can be moved upward. - The requisite pressure that deflects the
tab 2 prior to the introduction of thebutton interface 42 into thepocket 19 can be supplied by the interface 4 itself. More specifically, the user can initiate the downward motion of the device into the pocket without touching thetab 2. The contact of the interface 4 with thelock 3, along with the downward force supplied by the user, will sufficiently deflect thetab 2 so that thebutton interface 42 will be able to be seated into thepocket 19. - Referring now to
FIG. 22 , thebutton 42 is shown interconnected to thelarger device 50, while thebelt clip 10 is attached to the user's 5 belt. Thetab 2 of thebutton 42 has been flexed towards thedevice 50, the button interface has been seated in thepocket 19, thetab 2 has been released, and the button has been prevented from upward motion by the contact of the interface 4 with thelock 3. - Referring now to
FIGS. 23-25 , another embodiment of the present invention is shown that employs athick connection interface 32, but is substantially similar to the first two embodiment described with respect to the aspects of the locking feature. In order for any locking mechanism to work properly in some embodiments of the present invention, a gap 70 must be integrated into the lockingportion 30 of the integral design to allow unrestricted travel of thelocking tab 15. This gap 70 will extend from the back surface of the locking portion 71 to the back wall of the locking pocket 18A. When the user deflects thetab 15, the gap 70 will provide sufficient deflection of thetab 15 so that thebutton 42 will not come in contact with the lockinglip 16 when a user inserts and removes a device from theintegral assembly 60. The greater the gap 70, the easier and quicker the button can be inserted and released from the pocket and lock. - Referring now to
FIG. 29 , a “hard stop” is shown. As used herein, ahard stop 1 is any type of backing material, detent, or other mechanism which prevents thetab 15 from extending or deflecting past a predetermined position. The predetermined position may be dictated by the maximum deflection thetab 15 can move without incurring damage. To engage and disengage a button from theintegral assembly 60, a user must depress thetab 15 toward thebelt clip 10 of the integral assembly. Extreme deflections of thetab 15 may fatigue the material such that it will be permanently deformed or break. In order to prevent this detrimental effect, thehard stop 1 may be added to thebelt clip portion 10 of theintegral assembly 60. When a user applies pressure on thetab 15 towards thebelt clip portion 10, thetab 15 will deflect enough for engagement or disengagement of a button, but thetab 15 will be stopped from further deflection when it comes in contact with thehard stop 1. Preferably, thehard stop 1 is molded integrally with thebelt clip 10. - Further, the
hard stop 1 may be added to or molded onto thetab 15 of the lockingportion 30 of theintegral assembly 60 as opposed to thebelt clip 10, as discussed above. When a user applies pressure on thetab 15 towards thebelt clip portion 10, thetab 15 will deflect enough for engagement or disengagement of a button, but thetab 15 will be stopped from further deflection when thehard stop 1 on thetab 15 comes in contact with thebelt clip portion 10. - Referring now to
FIGS. 30-32 , an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown herein. More specifically, abutton 42 that employs abeveled area 73 is shown that is adapted to selectively interconnect with thelock portion 30 of theclip 60. When interconnecting, thebeveled area 73 allows thebutton 42 to pass unobstructed into the lockingpocket 19. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that deflection of the tab may be facilitated by theangled bevel area 73, wherein hands-free interconnection and disconnection is realized. Once seated in the lockingpocket 19, the button's 42 non-beveled area selectively interconnects with the lockingprotrusion 3 of the lockingportion 30, thereby preventing removal. To separate thebutton 42 from the lockingportion 30, the user rotates thebutton 42, such that thebeveled area 73 is proximate to the lockingprotrusion 3, thereby providing an unobstructed path for thebutton 42 to travel. In contrast to the previously-described embodiments, this embodiment requires no manual deflection of the tab employed on the clip. More specifically, the shape of thebevel 73 allows thebutton 42 to be inserted into thelock 30 without manually resiliently deflecting the locking tab, and wherein a predetermined rotation allows thebutton 42 to be removed from thelock 32 easily because thebutton 42 facilitates deflection of the tab. This feature is highly desirable for individuals who have difficulty using their hands, wherein use of the resiliently deflectable tab may be difficult. Further, individuals, such as the elderly or the disabled, will be able to easily utilize this embodiment of the present invention since the unlocking mechanism simply entails selective rotation of the electronic device. - Generally, the
button 42 is constructed with a predetermined thickness. In order to create thebevel 73, the thickness of thebutton 42 is selectively trimmed at a predetermined angle relative to the top of thebutton 42. This cut defines abevel portion 73 on thebutton 42 which allows for substantially unobstructed travel of thebutton 42 in and out of the lock. More specifically, thebutton 42 is defined after thebevel 73 of angle θ is created by an unaffected portion of length d. The angle θ and the length d may be of any dimension depending on the thickness of thebutton 42 and the locking requirements required. Preferably, in one embodiment of the invention, d is about ⅜ inches. In addition, thebeveled portion 73 may span any distance around a perimeter of thecircular button 42 as long as sufficient non-beveled area remains to ensure that locking is possible, wherein more than small rotations of the electronic device will facilitate unlocking. For example, in one embodiment of the invention the bevel spans at least about 50%, or about 180°, around the perimeter of thebutton 42. Further, thebevel 73 may be made of one smooth swept cut around the perimeter, or may be made of a series of faceted cuts to allow for various locking and unlocking options. In one embodiment of the present invention, the angle θ is about 30°. - Referring now to
FIGS. 33-37 , an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown that provides greater locking capabilities. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention, similar to that described above, includes a locking relief 80 integrated into thebutton 42 and a lockingcavity 82 integrated into thetab 15 of thelock portion 30. As described above, thebevel 73 is designed to either pass completely over the lockinglip 16 of thetab 15 or alternatively to facilitate deflection of thetab 15 by a sliding engagement between the beveled area 72 and the lockinglip 16, thereby allowing thebutton 42 to be seated into the lockingpocket 19. In addition, this embodiment of the present invention includes the lockingcavity 82 that is generally an annulus removed from the lockinglip 16 of the tab. As shown herein, a triangular annulus angle φ is shown that spans the length of the lockinglip 16. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that any shape and length of the lockingcavity 16 maybe employed without departing from the scope of the invention. In combination with the lockingcavity 82, a locking relief 80 is provided on the underside of thebutton 42 that is opposite from the beveled side, as shown most distinctly inFIG. 37 . This locking relief, as shown herein, is generally a triangular bevel of angle γ is designed to selectively engage the lockingcavity 82 of thetab 15. - One skilled in the art will appreciate that the length of the locking
relief 86 may be any practical value as long as it selectively locks into the lockingcavity 82 of thetab 15. More specifically, the length of the locking relief 80 of thebutton 42 maybe such that only one locking position may be provided, wherein a small locking cavity, or groove, receives a small locking relief 80, for example. This embodiment of the present invention provides the user with a more enhanced locking feature such that normal wear and tear of the surfaces on the lockinglip 16 and the interface surface of thebutton 42 will not substantially affect the locking of the button in the lockingportion 30 of the clip. More specifically, the engagement of the button in the cavity substantially prevents the electronic device from being slipped out of the locking cavity and/or pulled therefrom. - Referring now specifically to
FIGS. 33 and 35 , a locking mechanism that utilizes a locking relief 80 and lockingcavity 82 is shown. A protuberance of any shape may be employed with aaperture 86 integrated therethrough to provide locations for the interconnection of belts, straps, strings, ropes, etc. In addition, the locking portion of theclip 30 maybe provided with a section for the placement of anaperture 86 for the interconnection of similar devices, such that the separable locking mechanism may be used in a number of applications. For example, the present invention may be employed as a belt buckle, clasp, or any other similar type mechanism that is easy to use, which would aid elderly or disabled individuals. - Referring now to
FIG. 3-7 , a method of engagement of one embodiment of the present invention that includes a lockingcavity 82 and locking relief 80 is described. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is slid into the lockingportion 30 of the clip wherein thebeveled area 73 either passes by the lockinglip 16 or facilitates deflection of thelocking tab 15 by engagement therewith. Once thebutton 42 is seated in the lockingpocket 19, the device is substantially constrained from disengagement. If upward motion, as shown in the figure motion to the left, is attempted, the locking relief 80 and the lockingcavity 82 will become engaged such that upward motion is substantially prevented. - While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and adaptations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and adaptations are within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as set forth in the claims that follow.
Claims (22)
1. A two-piece fastening apparatus adapted for removable interconnection, comprising:
a locking portion comprising an upper end, a lower end and lateral edges extending therebetween;
a receiving pocket positioned within said locking portion and comprising at least one outwardly extending lip on a first end and an upper surface having a restricted diameter in at least one location;
a button for selective interconnection into said receiving pocket having:
a) a first surface defined by an edge;
b) a second surface defined by an edge separated by a predetermined distance from said first surface;
c) a bevel extending around a portion of said edge of said first surface, wherein the thickness of said button is reduced; and
d) a locking relief extending around a portion of said edge of said second surface generally opposite said bevel, wherein the thickness of said button is reduced; and
wherein said receiving pocket is sized to receive and secure said button in a first secured position wherein said button cannot be withdrawn from said receiving pocket until said bevel is positioned substantially adjacent to said outwardly extending lip as a result of a rotation of said button.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said outwardly extending lip further includes a locking cavity for engagement with said locking relief.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said button further comprises an attachment means for interconnection to an electronic device.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said at least one outwardly extending lip is interconnected to a tab portion operably interconnected to said locking portion, wherein displacement of said tab provides sufficient spacing to allow said button to seat in said receiving pocket.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein when said button is selectively interconnected to said locking portion it is capable of substantially free rotation.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein alignment of said bevel of said button with said outwardly extending lip requires rotation of said button in said receiving pocket.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein said rotation of said button to facilitate disengagement of said button from said outwardly extending lip is between about 150 and 210 degrees.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said locking portion is interconnected to a clip for selective interconnection to a belt, a pocket, or other article of clothing.
9. A fastening apparatus, comprising:
a locking means;
a receiving pocket integrally positioned within said locking means and comprising a deflectable tab with an engagement means positioned thereon adjacent to an upper surface of said receiving pocket; and
a locking button operably sized to fit in said receiving pocket upon insertion in a first direction, wherein said locking button becomes secured by said engagement means, said locking button further comprising:
a) a beveled edge on an outer surface of said locking button; and
b) a locking relief on an inner surface of said locking button; and
wherein said locking button is selectively released from said receiving pocket by rotating said locking button to an angle distinct from said first direction to facilitate release from said receiving pocket.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein said engagement means further includes a locking cavity for engagement with said locking relief.
11. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein said engagement means comprises an upwardly extending lip.
12. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein said receiving pocket is shrouded with a restricted diameter portion to substantially prevent said locking button from inadvertent disengagement from said pocket.
13. A method for one-handed interconnection and removal of a multi-piece fastening apparatus, comprising:
providing a button with a first bevel and a locking relief;
providing a locking pocket;
providing an engagement means positioned within said locking pocket that retains said button in said locking pocket when said button is oriented in a first position, and allows said button to be released from said engagement means when said button is rotated at least about 30 degrees from said first position; and
wherein said button is selectively secured and removed from said locking pocket with one hand based on a rotational movement of said button.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein said engagement means further includes a locking cavity for engagement with said locking relief.
15. The method of claim 13 , wherein said engagement means comprises a receiving pocket with an upwardly extending lip and a reduced diameter cap portion sized to retain said button.
16. The method of claim 13 , wherein said first bevel allows movement over said upwardly extending lip when said first bevel and said upwardly extending lip are rotationally aligned.
17. The method of claim 13 , wherein said engagement means further comprises a tab that allows said button to be slidingly positioned in said receiving pocket when said tab is deflected.
18. The method of claim 13 , wherein said button and said locking pocket are interconnected to a protuberance for interconnection to a strap, a belt, a rope, or a leash.
19. The method of claim 13 , wherein said button is interconnected to an electronic device.
20. The method of claim 13 , wherein said locking relief of said button has at least a second bevel that is oriented at least about 30 degrees from said first bevel.
21. The method of claim 20 , wherein in said first position said second bevel is retained within said locking relief.
22. A two-piece fastening apparatus adapted for selective interconnection, comprising:
a first locking portion having:
a) an upper end, a lower end and lateral edges extending therebetween;
b) a receiving pocket positioned within said locking portion and comprising a lip extending along said lower end and along at least a portion of said lateral edges, said receiving pocket also including an opened surface interconnected to said lip to provide a slot; and
c) a locking tab capable of resilient defection about an axis substantially parallel to said lower end, said locking tab having a protrusion with a cavity;
a second locking portion for selective interconnection into said first locking portion having:
a) a cylindrical button with a first surface and a second surface that is separated a predetermined distance from said first surface;
b) a bevel extending around a portion of an edge of said first surface, wherein the thickness of said cylindrical button is reduced;
c) a locking relief extending around a portion of an edge of said second surface, generally opposite said bevel, wherein the thickness of said cylindrical button is reduced; and
d) a stem interconnected to said second surface of said cylindrical button; and
wherein said receiving pocket is sized to receive and secure said cylindrical button such that said locking relief is positioned within said cavity of said protrusion when said first locking portion and said second locking portion are in a first locked position, and wherein said button is withdrawn from said receiving pocket when said first locking portion and said second portion are rotated relative to each other such that said bevel is positioned substantially adjacent to said protrusion of said locking tab.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/947,627 US20050035164A1 (en) | 2002-06-26 | 2004-09-21 | Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US29/163,110 USD478418S1 (en) | 2002-06-26 | 2002-06-26 | Belt clip for electronic devices |
US10/441,928 US20040251286A1 (en) | 2002-06-26 | 2003-05-19 | Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device |
US10/745,907 US20040232180A1 (en) | 2003-05-19 | 2003-12-23 | Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device |
US10/947,627 US20050035164A1 (en) | 2002-06-26 | 2004-09-21 | Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/745,907 Continuation-In-Part US20040232180A1 (en) | 2002-06-26 | 2003-12-23 | Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20050035164A1 true US20050035164A1 (en) | 2005-02-17 |
Family
ID=34139493
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/947,627 Abandoned US20050035164A1 (en) | 2002-06-26 | 2004-09-21 | Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20050035164A1 (en) |
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US7328486B2 (en) | 2005-04-26 | 2008-02-12 | Samuel Farchione | Utility clip |
US20100331710A1 (en) * | 2009-06-26 | 2010-12-30 | Patrick Eddy | Blood pressure measurement cuff that includes an antimicrobial substance |
US20110303714A1 (en) * | 2010-06-11 | 2011-12-15 | Manson Blair R | Carrying attachment for a crutch |
WO2014093989A1 (en) | 2012-12-14 | 2014-06-19 | Hamra Andrew | Latch and carry detachable messenger bag and shoulder strap assembly for personal electronic devices |
USRE45179E1 (en) * | 2005-01-03 | 2014-10-07 | Speculative Product Design, Llc | Portable device case with corner protector |
US10173334B2 (en) | 2013-05-03 | 2019-01-08 | MagnoGrip Inc. | Magnetic utility knife and holder |
USD871764S1 (en) | 2018-02-22 | 2020-01-07 | Andre A. Woolery | Tool bag |
US11653995B2 (en) | 2018-03-28 | 2023-05-23 | Parasol Medical, Llc | Antimicrobial treatment for a surgical headlamp system |
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Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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USRE45179E1 (en) * | 2005-01-03 | 2014-10-07 | Speculative Product Design, Llc | Portable device case with corner protector |
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WO2014093989A1 (en) | 2012-12-14 | 2014-06-19 | Hamra Andrew | Latch and carry detachable messenger bag and shoulder strap assembly for personal electronic devices |
EP2934226A4 (en) * | 2012-12-14 | 2016-09-28 | Andrew Hamra | Latch and carry detachable messenger bag and shoulder strap assembly for personal electronic devices |
US10173334B2 (en) | 2013-05-03 | 2019-01-08 | MagnoGrip Inc. | Magnetic utility knife and holder |
US10792828B2 (en) | 2013-05-03 | 2020-10-06 | Magnogrip, Inc. | Magnetic utility knife and holder |
USD871764S1 (en) | 2018-02-22 | 2020-01-07 | Andre A. Woolery | Tool bag |
US11653995B2 (en) | 2018-03-28 | 2023-05-23 | Parasol Medical, Llc | Antimicrobial treatment for a surgical headlamp system |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: INTELLIGENT DESIGNS 2000 CORP., COLORADO Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BADILLO, PAUL;REEL/FRAME:015389/0919 Effective date: 20040914 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |