US20220228709A1 - Magnetic Support Structures For Electronic Devices - Google Patents

Abstract

A support for holding an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone, that attaches to the electronic device with a magnetic connector. In some aspects, the support has an adhesive backing to affix to a surface. The support may have a bracket adapted to mount to a tripod. A connector adapted to magnetically couple a trio of legs to an electronic device. A support with a magnetic connector for holding a cellular telephone with an adhesive back surface and a hollow central portion with slots allowing access for and support of a charging cord.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/138,399 to Chao, filed Jan. 16, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/177,967 to Chao, filed Apr. 22, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUNDField of the Invention
• The present invention relates to accessories for an electronic device, and more particularly to a magnetic attachment for attaching and/or using the device.
Description of Related Art
• Cellular telephones are increasingly used to support video conferencing and other video activities. Also, users may want to be able to support other accessory items, and may want to have them attached to the telephone, or to its case.
• What is called for is a device which can provide a more secure way to hold the device, such as a cellular telephone, and which can support accessories.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIGS. 1A-1F are views of a clip support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 2A-2B present views of a clip support with magnetic connector supporting a cellphone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 3A-3C are views of a clip support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 4A-B present views of a clip support with magnetic connector supporting a cellphone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 5A-5C are views of a microphone with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 6A-6B are views of a microphone with magnetic connector on a cellphone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 7A-7E are views of a flip up light with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 8A-8C are views of a flip up light with magnetic connector in a flipped up configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 9A-9B present views of a flip up light with magnetic connector on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 10A-10B present views of a flip up light with magnetic connector in a flipped up configuration on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 11A-11C present views of a support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 12A-12B present views of a support with magnetic connector on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 13A-13B present views of an adhesive support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 14 presents oblique views of an adhesive support with magnetic connector on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 15A-15C present views of a magnetic connector with cold shoe mount according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• invention.
• FIG. 16 presents oblique views of a magnetic connector with cold shoe mount on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 17 presents oblique views of a magnetic connector with a parallel plate mount according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 18 presents oblique views of a magnetic connector with a parallel plate mount on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 19A-19C present views of a magnetic connector with legs according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 20 is an oblique view of a magnetic connector with legs in a stowed configuration on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 21A-21B are views of a magnetic connector with legs in a deployed configuration on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 22A-22B present views of a clip support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 23 is a view of a clip support with magnetic connector on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 24A-24B present views of a clip support with ring and magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 25 is a view of a clip support with ring and magnetic connector on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 26A-26F are views of a support with magnetic connector and arms in a flat configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 27A-B are views of a support with magnetic connector and arms in a flat configuration with cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 28A-28B are views of a support with magnetic connector and arms in a gripping configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 29A-29B are views of a support with magnetic connector and arms in a gripping configuration with a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 30A-30AA are views of a second embodiment of a magnetic gripping clip according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 31A-31C are views of a support with magnetic connector and vent clip according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 32A-32B are views of a support with magnetic connector and vent clip and cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 33A-33C are views of an auxiliary battery with magnetic connector and vent clip according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 34A-34B are views of an auxiliary battery with magnetic connector and vent clip on a cell phone according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 35A-C are views of an auxiliary battery and battery holder with magnetic connector and vent clip according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 36 presents orthogonal views of a clip support with cold shoes and magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 37A-37B are views of a clip support with a deployable cold shoe and magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 38A-38C are views of a device support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 39A is an oblique view of a device support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 39B is an oblique view of a device support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 39C is an oblique view of a device support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 40 is an oblique view of a device support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 41A-41E are views of a device support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 42A-42B are views of a device support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 43A-43C are views of a magnetic charger holder according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 44 presents views of a magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 45A-45C present views of a device support with magnetic connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
• FIGS. 46A-46B illustrate views of a second embodiment of a magnetic gripping clip on a tripod according to some embodiments of the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• A support for holding an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone, that attaches to the electronic device with a magnetic connector. In some aspects, the support has an adhesive backing to affix to a surface. The support may have a bracket adapted to mount to a tripod. A connector adapted to magnetically couple a trio of legs to an electronic device. A support with a magnetic connector for holding a cellular telephone with an adhesive back surface and a hollow central portion with slots allowing access for and support of a charging cord.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 1A-1F, a clip support withmagnetic connector100 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, theclip support100 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Theclip support100 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body101 coupled to afirst bracket support102. Thefirst bracket support102 is coupled to asecond bracket support104. Thefirst bracket support102 and thesecond bracket support104 may be joined at a right angle. Thebottom surface108 of thesecond bracket support104 may be a flat surface adapted to reside on a support, such as a tripod head, and may be fastened to a threaded post of a tripod or other support using the threadedinsert106. Themagnetic coupler103 may present aflat surface107 such that thesurface107 is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. Side rails105 on thesecond bracket support104 allow for insertion and retention by a clip receiver, as may be seen on a tripod or other support structure.
• FIG. 11C illustrates a cross-section of a magnetic coupling body as seen in embodiments of the present invention. Afront cover245 provides the mating surface to the device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thefront cover245 may be of a frictional or resilient material to add to the security of the attachment. Acircular magnet243 resides within thecoupling body244. In some aspects, thecircular magnet243 may have an exterior diameter of 54 mm and an interior diameter of 46 mm, and may be 2.25 mm thick. Thecircular magnet243 allows for coupling of the cellular telephone to the clip support, or other accessory as described herein, to a mating magnetic, or magnetically susceptible, interface which also may circular in nature. The circular nature of the interface allows for held positional fit of the clip support to the cellular telephone, and may draw the clip support into this concentric fit if attached close to concentrically initially.
• FIG. 2A illustrates acellular telephone110 coupled to a clip support withmagnetic connector100 in a landscape configuration. Therear side113 of thecellular telephone110 may contain a circular magnetic interface feature.Camera lenses111 may allow for imaging away from therear side113 of thecellular telephone110. Thefront side112 of thecellular telephone110 is away from theclip support100.FIG. 2B illustrates acellular telephone110 coupled to a clip support withmagnetic connector100 in a portrait configuration.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 3A-3C, a clip support withmagnetic connector140 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, theclip support140 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Theclip support140 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body141 coupled to afirst bracket support142. Thefirst bracket support142 is coupled to asecond bracket support144. Thefirst bracket support142 and thesecond bracket support104 may be joined at a right angle. Thebottom surface108 of thesecond bracket support144 may be a flat surface adapted to reside on a support, such as a tripod head, and may be fastened to a threaded post of a tripod or other support using the threadedinsert146. The magnetic coupler may present aflat surface143 such that thesurface147 is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. Side rails15 on the second bracket support14 allow for insertion and retention by an Arca-Swiss clip receiver, as may be seen on a tripod or other support structure.
• FIG. 4A illustrates acellular telephone110 coupled to a clip support withmagnetic connector140 in a landscape configuration.FIG. 4B illustrates acellular telephone110 coupled to a clip support withmagnetic connector140 in a portrait configuration.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 5A-5C, a microphone withmagnetic connector180 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, themicrophone180 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Themicrophone180 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body183. The circular body may include battery and one or more microphones. An on-off switch may also be found on the exterior of the circular body. In some aspects, the microphone battery may be recharged using a charger with a cable such as a USB cable, and may have the appropriate port. In some aspects, the microphone battery may be charged without a cable, such as with a magsafe system. The microphone may be covered with an appropriatewind screening material181. Themicrophone180 may be annular with a throughhole182.FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate the microphone with magnetic connector on acellular telephone110.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 7A-7C, a deployable light withmagnetic connector220 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone.
• In some aspects, the deployable light220 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Thedeployable light220 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body223. The connection body may have acover235 which provides the mating surface to the device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thecover235 may be of a frictional or resilient material to add to the security of the attachment. A magnet, which may be a circular magnet, resides within the coupling body connection. In some aspects, the circular, annular, magnet may have an exterior diameter of 54 mm and an interior diameter of 46 mm, and may be 2.25 mm thick. The circular magnet allows for coupling of the cellular telephone to the deployable light, to a mating magnetic, or magnetically susceptible, interface which also may circular in nature. The circular nature of the interface allows for held positional fit of the clip support to the cellular telephone, and may draw the clip support into this concentric fit if attached close to concentrically initially.
• Anextension portion231 of theconnection body223 may culminate in apivot221 which is adapted to allow for the deployment of alighting element230. In some aspects, theconnection body223 may include a battery electrically coupled to thelighting element230. In some aspects, the battery may reside within the annulus of the circular magnet. An on/off button and cord ports for charging may be found on theextension222 or other suitable location.
• In the stowed configuration ofFIGS. 7A-7C, thelighting element230 is laid over the connection body. Thelighting element224 may be a circular, annular, lighting element with aninner surface234. Theconnection body223 may have a raisedexternal surface235. In some aspects, theinner surface234 of thelighting element224 may reside aroundexternal surface235 of theconnection body223 in the stowed configuration. In some aspects, thelighting element224 is comprised of a plurality of LEDs arranged in a circular pattern.
• FIG. 7D illustrates a variation of the lighting element further including atab239 which is an extension of theback surface235 of theconnection body223a. Thelighting element224aof this variation may also have arecess229 to allow room for thetab239. Thistab230 andrecess229 may allow a user to utilize therecess229, for example with a fingernail, to more easily move the lighting element from the stowed configuration to the deployed configuration.FIG. 7E illustrates an exploded view of aconnection body223, illustrating abattery226 which may reside in arecess227 within the annulus of the circular magnet. Atop surface plate225 of the connection body resides over thebattery226 and is the outside surface of this portion of the connection body.
• FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate the lighting element in a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration the lighting element has been deployed 180 degrees from its position in the stowed configuration. The deployable light may have detents, or a mechanical stop, such that the lighting element is held in the deployed configuration with sufficient force that the lighting element will not pivot away from the deployed configuration in normal use, without further force purposefully applied by the user. Agap238 between the raisedexternal surface235 of theconnection body223 and the raised area of theextension portion231 allows thecircular lighting element224 to fit into the gap when thedeployable light220 is in the stowed configuration.
• A chargingport236 is adapted to allow for the coupling of an external charging cord to the deployable light. In some aspects, the charging port may be compatible with a USB-C plug. One ormore control buttons237 allow the user to turn the lighting element of the deployable light on and off. In some aspects, thecontrol buttons237 may also allow the user to select various brightness levels for the light.
• FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate thedeployable light220 on acellular telephone110, with the light in a stowed configuration. The magnet within theconnection body223 has magnetically coupled to thecellular telephone110. This stowed configuration allows for the light to shine in a direction to the rear of the cellular telephone.FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate thedeployable light220 on acellular telephone110, with the light in a deployed configuration. This deployed configuration allows for the light to shine in a direction to the front of the cellular telephone. In the deployed configuration, a user may use the cellular telephone for video recording or communication using the forward facing camera function of the cellular telephone, which may allow the user to observe themself in real time during the video call, for example.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 11A-11C, a support withmagnetic connector240 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thesupport240 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Thesupport240 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body241 which presents a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. A threadedinsert242 allows for attachment of thesupport240 to a support structure with a threaded post.FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate thesupport240 on acellular telephone110.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 13A and 13B a support withmagnetic connector260 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thesupport260 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Thesupport260 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body265 which presents aflat surface261 such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. Anadhesive surface265 allows for attachment of thesupport260 to a surface.FIG. 14 illustrates thesupport260 on acellular telephone110.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 15A-15C, a cold shoe clip withmagnetic connector280 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the cold shoe clip withmagnetic connector180 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The cold shoe clip withmagnetic connector180 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body281. The circular body may include an extension with acold shoe clip284. The cold shoe clip may have abottom mounting surface285. A tighteningnut283 is adapted to cinch down and tighten to hold the cold shoe clip to it mating interface.FIG. 16 illustrate the cold shoe clip withmagnetic connector280 on acellular telephone110.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIG. 17, a support withmagnetic connector300 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thesupport300 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Thesupport300 may have a circular, or substantially circular, connection body which presents a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. Amulti-planar extension301 allows for attachment of thesupport300 to a support structure with a mating structure.FIG. 18 illustrates thesupport300 on acellular telephone110.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 19A-19C, a tripod withmagnetic connector320 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the tripod withmagnetic connector320 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The tripod withmagnetic connector320 may have a circular, or substantially circular, connection body which presents a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. A trio oflegs322,323,324 is adapted to stow in plane with each other and the connection body, and to pivot325 to a deployed configuration. The legs may have plug extensions327.
• FIG. 20 illustrates the tripod withmagnetic connector320 in a stowed configuration on acellular telephone110.FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate the tripod withmagnetic connector320 in a deployed position with thelegs322,323,324 extended in order to support a cellular telephone.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 22A and 22B, a clip withmagnetic connector360 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the clip withmagnetic connector360 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The clip withmagnetic connector360 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body361. The circular body may include arecess363 with aclip362 within the recess, which may be adapted to clip into a clip receiver, such as may be seen on a tripod.FIG. 23 illustrate the clip withmagnetic connector360 on acellular telephone110.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 24A and 24B, a clip and ring withmagnetic connector380 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the clip and ring withmagnetic connector380 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The clip and ring withmagnetic connector380 may have a circular, or substantially circular, connection body. The circular body may include arecess383 with aclip382 within the recess, which may be adapted to clip into a clip receiver, such as may be seen on a tripod. Adeployable ring384 may also reside in therecess383. Thering384 may stow into the recess, and the deploy to allow for the insertion of a finger, for example.FIG. 25 illustrates the clip and ring withmagnetic connector380 on acellular telephone110.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 26A-26F, a first embodiment of a magnetic gripping clip for anelectronic device400 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the gripping clip withmagnetic connector400 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The gripping clip withmagnetic connector400 may have a circular, or substantially circular,magnetic connection body401. The circular magnetic connection body may be coupled to a clipbody cross bracket403 which may be rotatably coupled to the clip main post. The cross bracket may be centrally connected, at its center, to themain post402. The clip body cross bracket has a firstgripping arm404 and a secondgripping arm405, which may be extendable relative to the clipbody cross bracket403. Amain post402 has a first end and a second end. The first end of said main post is coupled to the clipbody cross bracket403. Amount408 is coupled to the main post. Themount408 may have a threadedinsert409 such that themount408 may be coupled to threaded post, such as seen on a tripod.
• FIGS. 26C-26F illustrate the grippingarms404,405 in a flat configuration.FIGS. 26B and 28A-B illustrate the grippingarms404,405 in a gripping configuration. The grippingarms404,405 are adapted to rotate from a position in plane with theclip body403 to a gripping position perpendicular to the clip body at atwist interface406,407. The twist interface may have detents such that the gripping arms can be set either in plane, or perpendicular, as shown comparatively inFIGS. 26A and 26B, for example. The gripping arms may be extendable outward, and resisted with springs within the clip body, allowing for gripping of devices of various dimension.
• FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate the gripping clip withmagnetic connector400 with acellular telephone110. The flat configuration allows for the coupling of the cellular telephone when no extra forces are placed upon the cellular telephone, for example.FIGS. 29A and 29B illustrate the gripping clip withmagnetic connector400 with acellular telephone110 in a gripping configuration. The gripping configuration allows for the coupling of the cellular telephone when extra forces may be placed upon the cellular telephone, for example, and provides the security of the gripping arms to maintain telephone retention.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 30A-30AA, a second embodiment of a magnetic gripping clip for anelectronic device420 is adapted to magnetically couple to and support an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the magnetic gripping clip for anelectronic device420 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The magnetic gripping clip for anelectronic device420 may have a circular, or substantially circular,magnetic connection body401. The circular magnetic connection body may be coupled to a clipbody cross bracket403 which may be rotatably coupled to the clip main post. The cross bracket may be centrally connected, at its center, to themain post440. The clip body cross bracket has a firstgripping arm404 and a secondgripping arm405, which may be extendable relative to the clipbody cross bracket403. The grippingarms404,405 are adapted to rotate from a position in plane with theclip body403 to a gripping position perpendicular to the clip body at atwist interface406,407. The twist interface may have detents such that the gripping arms can be set either in plane, or perpendicular. The gripping arms may be extendable outward, and resisted with springs within the clip body, allowing for gripping of devices of various dimension. Amain post440 has a first end and a second end. The first end of the main post is coupled to the clipbody cross bracket403. The second end the main post may have various threaded mounting inserts coupled to the main post. Themount408 may have a threadedinsert428 on a bottom surface such that themount408 may be coupled to threaded post, such as seen on a tripod.
• FIGS. 30A-C illustrate the magneticgripping clip420 in a first configuration wherein the firstgripping arm404 and the secondgripping arm404 are positioned to be parallel to the mounting surface of themagnetic connection body401. Thecross bracket403 is perpendicular to the main post in this exemplary configuration. In such a configuration, a device such as a cellular telephone can magnetically couple to the magnet in the magnetic connection body. The extended gripping arms present a planar surface extension which may support the back surface of the cellular telephone. The planar surface extension reduces the torque which might be put onto the magnetic connection by limiting the amount of overhang of the telephone from the mounting surface. In contrast,FIGS. 30D-G illustrate the magneticgripping clip420 wherein the firstgripping arm404 and the secondgripping arm404 are positioned to be parallel to the mounting surface of themagnetic connection body401. Thefirst extension arm424 and the firstgripping arm404 are seen extended from thecross bracket403 on a first slidingsection425, and thesecond extension arm423 and the secondgripping arm405 are seen extended from thecross bracket403 on a second slidingsection426. In some aspects, the slidingsections425,426 resist extension with the use of one or more springs configures to resist the extension of the extension arms.FIGS. 30H-J further illustrate the magneticgripping clip420 which a cellular telephone mounted therein. In this exemplary configuration, theextension arms423,424 have been somewhat extended, showing a portion of thesliders425,426. Thecellular telephone430 is magnetically held in place on the mountingconnection body401, and then is further held by the grippingarms404,405, which are pulled in by the springs within thecross bracket403. The grippingarms404,405 are adapted to rotate from a position in plane with theclip body403 to a gripping position perpendicular to the clip body at atwist interface406,407. The twist interface may have detents such that the gripping arms can be set either in plane, or perpendicular, as shown comparatively inFIGS. 26A and 26B, for example. The gripping arms may be extendable outward, and resisted with springs within the clip body, allowing for gripping of devices of various dimension. The grippingarms404,405 are in a configuration perpendicular to the mounting surface of the mounting connection body.Resilient pads431,432 reset into the grippingarms404,405 help hold the cellular telephone firmly.
• FIGS. 30K-M illustrate the magneticgripping clip420 in a configuration where thecross bracket403 is perpendicular to themain post440, and the grippingarms404,405 are configured to be parallel to the mounting surface of the mounting connection body. As can be seen, the extended surface provided by the gripping arms in this configuration enhances the stability of the mounting of thecellular telephone430 to the magneticgripping clip440 despite not using the gripping aspect of the clip. The plane of the backside of the gripping arms is coplanar with the mounting surface of the mounting connection body.
• FIGS. 30N-O illustrate the magnetic gripping clip in an orientation wherein thecross bracket403 is at an angle (45 degrees) to themain post440 with the gripping arms in a configuration perpendicular to the magnetic mounting surface. A rotatable joint434 between the cross bracket and the main post may be set with detents that allow for the cross bracket to be rotated when enough rotational force in applied, but then snaps into preset angular positions that then have sufficient detent for normal use.
• FIGS. 30P-Q illustrate the magnetic gripping clip in an orientation wherein thecross bracket403 is at an angle (45 degrees) to themain post440 with the gripping arms in a configuration parallel to the magnetic mounting surface. A rotatable joint434 between the cross bracket and the main post may be set with detents that allow for the cross bracket to be rotated when enough rotational force in applied, but then snaps into preset angular positions that then have sufficient detent for normal use.
• FIGS. 30R-V illustrate the magnetic gripping clip in an orientation wherein thecross bracket403 is parallel to themain post440 with the gripping arms in various configurations. A rotatable joint434 between the cross bracket and the main post may be set with detents that allow for the cross bracket to be rotated when enough rotational force in applied, but then snaps into preset angular positions that then have sufficient detent for normal use.
• FIGS. 30X-Y illustrate the magneticgripping clip420 with acellular telephone430 mounted in a configuration wherein thecross bracket403 is parallel to themain post440 and the gripping arms are perpendicular to the magnetic mounting surface, and gripping the telephone.FIGS. 30Z-AA illustrate the magneticgripping clip420 with acellular telephone430 mounted in a configuration wherein thecross bracket403 is parallel to themain post440 and the gripping arms are parallel to the magnetic mounting surface, and providing further mounting surface support for the telephone.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 46A-B, a magneticgripping clip420 supports atelephone430. The magnetic gripping clip is mounted onto atripod441. In some aspects, thetripod441 has a threadedpost442 which screws in the threaded mating insert on the bottom of the main post of the magneticgripping clip420.Flexible extensions443 are fastened to threaded mating inserts along the side of the main post of the magnetic gripping clip and allow for further mounting of accessories, such as lights and other devices.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 30A-30C, a platform vent clip withmagnetic connector460 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the platform vent clip withmagnetic connector460 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The platform vent clip withmagnetic connector460 may have a circular, or substantially circular,magnetic connector461 with aplatform462. Theplatform462 may also have amagnetic key463 for interfaces which include a keyed interface. Theplatform462 may be coupled to avent clip464. The vent clip may have aninternal recess406 with acompressible pad406. A tighteningring467 may tighten the vent clip into place, and may be used in conjunction a ball joint. In an exemplary use, the platform vent clip with magnetic connector may be placed onto a fin of an auto vent, and a cellular telephone then placed upon the platform and magnetically coupled.FIGS. 31A and 31B illustrate acellular telephone110 on a vent clip withmagnetic connector460.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 32A-32C, an auxiliary battery withmagnetic connector500 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the auxiliary battery withmagnetic connector500 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The auxiliary battery withmagnetic connector500 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body501. The circular body may contain a battery within it that is adapted to provide power to a mated device. Acord connector503 andcable slot504 may facilitate powered recharging of the auxiliary battery.FIGS. 33A and 33B illustrate the auxiliary battery withmagnetic connector500 coupled to acellular telephone110.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 34A-34C, an auxiliary battery andreceptacle540 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the auxiliary battery andreceptacle540 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The circular body may contain a battery within it that is adapted to provide power to a mated device. Arecess543 is adapted to receive a puck type charger as may be used with a cellular telephone. The puck may reside within the recess against asurface544 and may be contained with a slight interference fit. Acord connector544 and cable slot555 may facilitate powered recharging of the auxiliary battery. The charging puck may have its cable plugged into thecord connector544 to allow the use of the charging puck to route the battery power from the auxiliary battery andreceptacle540. The auxiliary battery andreceptacle540 with a charging puck in its recess may then be magnetically coupled to the cellular telephone.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 36A and 36B, a clip support with magnetic connector is seen with a flip out cold shoe mount.
• In embodiments of the present invention, device supports with a magnetic connector are adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the device support couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The device support may have a circular, or substantially circular, connection body coupled to a bracket support, or the circular magnetic interface may be embedded within a surface of the device support. The magnetic coupler may present a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone.
• FIG. 44 illustrates a cross-section of a magnetic coupling body as seen in embodiments of the present invention. Afront cover245 provides the mating surface to the device, such as a cellular telephone. Acircular magnet243 resides within thecoupling body244. In some aspects, thecircular magnet243 may have an exterior diameter of 54 mm and an interior diameter of 46 mm, and may be 2.25 mm thick. Thecircular magnet243 allows for coupling of the cellular telephone to the clip support, or other accessory as described herein, to a mating magnetic, or magnetically susceptible, interface which also may circular in nature. The circular nature of the interface allows for held positional fit of the clip support to the cellular telephone, and may draw the clip support into this concentric fit if attached close to concentrically initially.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 38A-38C, a device support with magnetic connector, folding stand, androtating mount600 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thedevice support600 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Theclip support600 may have a circular, or substantially circular,connection body603 rotatably coupled to afirst bracket support602. Thefirst bracket support602 is pivotally coupled to asecond bracket support601. Thefirst bracket support602 and thesecond bracket support601 may be joined at pivot adapted to allow for placing into different angular configurations while having sufficient holding force to retain the position once placed. The bottom surface of thesecond bracket support601 may be a flat surface adapted to reside on a support, such as a tripod head, and may be fastened to a threaded post of a tripod or other support using the threadedinsert607. Themagnetic coupler603 may present a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. The pivoting of therotatable connection body603 allows the magnetic interface to face either direction. Side rails604 on thesecond bracket support601 may be extendable to act as an outrigger for enhanced stability.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIG. 39A, a device support with magnetic connector, folding stand, androtating mount620 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thedevice support620 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Theclip support620 may have afirst bracket support625 rotatably and pivotally coupled to a second bracket support621. Thefirst bracket support625 is rotatably coupled at a pivot joint to a second bracket support621. Thefirst bracket support625 and the second bracket support621 may be joined at pivot adapted to allow for placing into different angular configurations while having sufficient holding force to retain the position once placed. The bottom surface of the second bracket support may be a flat surface adapted to reside on a support, such as a tripod head, and may be fastened to a threaded post of a tripod or other support using the threadedinsert622. Themagnetic coupler626 may present a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. The second bracket support621 may spread out at a slidingcoupler628 such that afirst portion621aand asecond portion621bconfigure for enhanced stability.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIG. 39B, a device support with magnetic connector, folding stand, and rotating mount640 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the device support640 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The clip support640 may have afirst bracket support645 spherically coupled to a second bracket support641. Thefirst bracket support645 and the second bracket support641 may be adapted to allow for placing into different angular configurations while having sufficient holding force to retain the position once placed. The bottom surface of the second bracket support may be a flat surface adapted to reside on a support, such as a tripod head, and may be fastened to a threaded post of a tripod or other support using the threadedinsert642. Themagnetic coupler646 may present a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. The second bracket support641 may spread out at a sliding coupler such that afirst portion641aand asecond portion641bconfigure for enhanced stability. The second bracket support may haveinterfaces647 adapted to fit into tripod mounting clips.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIG. 39C, a device support with magnetic connector androtating mount660 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thedevice support660 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Theclip support660 may have afirst bracket support665 spherically coupled to a second bracket support661. Thefirst bracket support665 and the second bracket support661 may be adapted to allow for placing into different angular configurations while having sufficient holding force to retain the position once placed. Thefirst bracket665 may have amirror666 on a side opposite of the magnetic interface. The bottom surface of the second bracket support may be a flat surface adapted to reside on a support, such as a tripod head, and may be fastened to a threaded post of a tripod or other support using the threadedinsert662. Themagnetic coupler646 may present a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. The second bracket support661 may spread out at a sliding coupler such that afirst portion661aand asecond portion661bconfigure for enhanced stability. The second bracket support may haveinterfaces667 adapted to fit into tripod mounting clips.
• FIG. 40 illustrates anotherembodiment680 of a device support with magnetic connector and rotating mount. Thedevice support680 represents another variation of a folding base with spreadable portions, wherein the upper bracket may both pivot and rotate relative to the lower bracket.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 41A-E, a device support withmagnetic connector700 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thedevice support700 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. The circular magnetic interface may be embedded within aband704. Thedevice support700 may have afirst bracket support701 pivotally coupled to asecond bracket support702. Thefirst bracket support701 and thesecond bracket support702 may be adapted to allow for placing into different angular configurations while having sufficient holding force to retain the position once placed. The bottom surface of the second bracket support may be a flat surface adapted to reside on a support, such as a tripod head, and may be fastened to a threaded post of a tripod or other support using the threadedinsert705. Themagnetic coupler704 may present a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone.FIGS. 4D and 4E illustrate acellular telephone710 coupled to thedevice support700.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 42A-B, a device support with magnetic connector andcharger740 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thedevice support700 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be acircular interface751. The circular magnetic interface may include a charging aspect adapted to charge a supported device, such as a cellular telephone. Thedevice support740 may have afirst bracket support741 pivotally coupled to asecond bracket support742 at apivot743. Thefirst bracket support741 and thesecond bracket support742 may be adapted to allow for placing into different angular configurations while having sufficient holding force to retain the position once placed. The bottom surface of the second bracket support may be a flat surface adapted to reside on a support, such as a tripod head, and may be fastened to a threaded post of a tripod or other support using the threadedinsert745. Themagnetic coupler740 may present a flat surface such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 43A-C, acharger support760 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thecharger support760 couples to a charging disc which contains a circular interface adapted to couple to a cellular telephone. In this way thecharger support760 may support the cellular telephone through the intermediate coupling of thecharger support760. Thedevice support760 may have afirst bracket support760 with arecesses764 within protrudingbracket arms763. Thefirst bracket support760 is coupled to a secondbracket support portion762. The second bracket support portion may act as a stand alone support or may be coupled to a tripod or other device. A magneticcoupling charging disc765 may reside within therecesses764. The charging disc may include anexternal power cord766 which may route through aslot767 within the bracket.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen inFIGS. 45A-C a support withmagnetic connector800 is adapted to magnetically couple to an electronic device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, thesupport800 couples to a cellular telephone with a magnetic or magnetically susceptible interface, which may be a circular interface. Thesupport800 may have a circular, or substantially circular, connection body which presents aflat surface802 such that the surface is adapted to couple to a magnetic coupling area of a cellular telephone. Anadhesive surface803 allows for attachment of thesupport260 to a surface. The adhesive mountingsurface803 may be parallel to theflat surface802 for mounting to a cellular telephone. A plurality ofslots801 within the central portion804 of the connection body are adapted to allow for routing, and fastening, of a power cord which may be coupled to the supported device. The power cord may be routed through a hollow central section which is accessed through theslots801. When the device is removed from the support, the cord may thusly remain with thesupport800. A front cover provides the mating surface to the device, such as a cellular telephone. In some aspects, the front cover may be of a frictional or resilient material to add to the security of the attachment. A circular magnet resides within the connection body. In some aspects, the circular magnet may have an exterior diameter of 54 mm and an interior diameter of 46 mm, and may be 2.25 mm thick. The circular magnet allows for coupling of the cellular telephone to the clip support, or other accessory as described herein, to a mating magnetic, or magnetically susceptible, interface which also may circular in nature. The circular nature of the interface allows for held positional fit of the clip support to the cellular telephone, and may draw the clip support into this concentric fit if attached close to concentrically initially.
• As evident from the above description, a wide variety of embodiments may be configured from the description given herein and additional advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. The invention in its broader aspects is, therefore, not limited to the specific details and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures from such details may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant's general invention.

Claims (20)

1. A magnetic support structure for an electronic device, said magnetic support structure comprising:

a magnetic connection body, said magnetic connection body comprising:

a flat mounting surface on a first side of said magnetic connection body; and

a magnet within said magnetic connection body under said flat mounting surface; and

a mount, said mount coupled to said magnetic connection body.

2. The magnetic gripping clip ofclaim 1 where said magnet is an annular magnet under an outer area of said flat mounting surface.

3. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 further comprising:

a first bracket support portion coupled to said connection portion body at a first end;

a second bracket support portion coupled to a second end of said first bracket support portion; and

a clip interface on said second support bracket, said clip interface comprising said rails along the sides of said second support bracket.

4. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 2 further comprising:

a first bracket support portion coupled to said connection portion body at a first end;

a second bracket support portion coupled to a second end of said first bracket support portion; and

a clip interface on said second support bracket, said clip interface comprising said rails along the sides of said second support bracket.

5. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 wherein said first bracket support portion is coupled to said second bracket support portion at a right angle.

6. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 2 wherein said first bracket support portion is coupled to said second bracket support portion at a right angle.

7. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 3 wherein said second bracket support portion comprises a threaded insert along a bottom surface.

8. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 wherein said mount comprises a threaded insert on a second side of said magnetic connection body, wherein said second side of said connection body is opposite said first side of said connection body.

9. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 2 wherein said mount comprises a threaded insert on a second side of said magnetic connection body, wherein said second side of said connection body is opposite said first side of said connection body.

10. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 wherein said mount comprises an adhesive attachment surface on a second side of said magnetic connection body, wherein said second side of said connection body is opposite said first side of said connection body.

11. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 2 wherein said mount comprises an adhesive attachment surface on a second side of said magnetic connection body, wherein said second side of said connection body is opposite said first side of said connection body.

12. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 further comprising a cold shoe clip coupled to said connection body portion.

13. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 further comprising:

a clip on a second side of said connector body portion; and

a ring pivotally connected to said second side of said connector body portion.

14. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 further comprising a vent clip coupled to a second side of said connector support bracket.

15. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 further comprising a plurality of legs pivotally coupled to said connection body portion, said legs adapted to pivot from a stowed position in plane together with said connection body portion to a deployed position away from said connection body portion.

16. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 further comprising a clip on a second side of said connector body portion.

17. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 further comprising:

a clip on a second side of said connector body portion; and

a ring pivotally connected to said second side of said connector body portion.

18. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 1 further comprising a central portion between said magnetic connection body and said mount, wherein said central portion is hollow and has slots around its periphery.

19. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 18 where said mount comprises an adhesive surface.

20. The magnetic support structure ofclaim 19 wherein said adhesive surface is parallel to said flat mounting surface.

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