Patent ID: 6434237
Filing Date: 2002-08-13
Classification: H04M

Abstract:
An apparatus that supports an electronic device in proximity to a user for hands-free operation, comprising:an elongate member having opposite first and second ends and an internal passageway extending between the first and second ends, wherein the first end is configured to electrically communicate with an electrical power source, and wherein the second end is configured to support the electronic device; an electrical conductor extending through the internal passageway, wherein the electrical conductor is configured to provide electrical current to the electronic device from the electrical power source when the elongate member first end is in electrical communication with the electrical power source; and a Theological material disposed within the internal passageway, wherein the rheological material has a controllable viscosity that increases in response to a magnetic field generated by electrical current flow through the electrical conductor, such that the elongate member is flexible in the absence of electrical current flow through the electrical conductor, and such that the elongate member is rigid in the presence of electrical current flow through the electrical conductor.