Optical accessories clip for mobile devices

An auxiliary lens assembly for releasably connecting one or more auxiliary lenses to an electronic device with an on-board camera, such as a mobile smartphone or a tablet computer. The lens assembly includes a first bracket, a second bracket movable coupled to the first bracket, and a release assembly coupled to the first and second brackets. When actuated by a user force, the release assembly moves the second bracket in a first direction away from the first bracket to increase a separation gap between the two brackets from an initial to an expanded position and when the user force is removed, the release assembly moves the second bracket in a second direction towards the first bracket to decrease the separation gap back to the initial position.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The technology described herein relates generally to methods and systems for connecting optical accessories, such as lenses, to mobile devices.

BACKGROUND

Mobile electronic devices, such as mobile phones, smart phones, tablet computers, gaming devices, and the like, often include cameras embedded or connected thereto, e.g., “on-board cameras.” However, often users may wish to use auxiliary lenses with the on-board cameras to enhance, supplement, or change the captured images. Conventional devices for securing auxiliary lenses to mobile devices can be difficult to connect to and align with the on-board camera of the mobile device. Further, many auxiliary lens devices or carriers, are fixedly connected to a single type of lens or are otherwise are complicated to interchange the auxiliary lens.

SUMMARY

One example of the present disclosure relates to an auxiliary lens assembly for releasably connecting one or more auxiliary lenses to an electronic device with an on-board camera, such as a mobile smartphone or a tablet computer. The lens assembly includes a first bracket, a second bracket movable coupled to the first bracket, and a release assembly coupled to the first and second brackets. When actuated by a user force, the release assembly moves the second bracket in a first direction away from the first bracket to define an insertion or separation gap and when the user force is removed, the release assembly moves the second bracket in a second direction towards the first bracket to close or eliminate the separation gap.

In some embodiments, the first bracket may remain stationary during the attachment process. Additionally, in some instances the second bracket may move along a constrained path that maintains a parallel orientation between the two brackets during the motion.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a clamp for releasably coupling one or more optical lenses to a mobile device. The clamp includes a front bracket, a rear bracket movably coupled to the front bracket, an actuation assembly coupled to the front and rear brackets, and a rear camera lens assembly releasably coupled to the rear bracket. The actuation assembly is actuated by a user force to cause the rear bracket to move in a first direction laterally away from the front bracket and upon removable of the user force, the actuation assembly exerts a return force on the rear bracket to move the rear bracket in a second direction laterally towards the front bracket.

In yet another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an accessory clip for mobile devices. The accessory clip may include a stationary bracket configured to engage a first side of the mobile device, a movable bracket configured to engage a second side of the mobile device, the movable bracket coupled to the stationary bracket, and a release assembly coupled to the stationary bracket and the movable bracket. The release assembly transmits a user force to the movable bracket to cause the movable bracket to move from a clamped position to a release position and exerts a return force on the movable bracket to cause the movable bracket to move from the release position to a clamped position.

SPECIFICATION

The present disclosure is generally related to connection mechanisms for auxiliary lenses and other accessories for mobile devices or other components with on-board cameras. In some embodiments, an auxiliary lens carrier is disclosed that releasably connects to a mobile device, as well as releasably connects to one or more auxiliary lenses. The auxiliary lens carrier includes first and second or front and rear brackets coupled together and biased toward a clamped position. A release assembly acts to move the first and second brackets into an open position, to allow the carrier to be fitted over or disconnected from the mobile device. The release assembly may also include a biasing member that biases the front and second brackets towards the clamped position. In some embodiments, the release assembly is activated by a release button pressed by a user and one of the first or the second bracket is then moved away from the other bracket in a direction parallel to the user force.

One or more auxiliary lenses can be releasably connected to the first and second brackets. In some instances, two lenses (first or second; front or back) can be connected to the carrier to allow the user to utilize an auxiliary lens on two on-board cameras for the mobile device simultaneously.

Turning to the figures, the auxiliary lens carrier will be now be discussed in more detail.FIGS. 1-3Billustrate various views of the auxiliary lens carrier including two auxiliary lens assemblies connected to a mobile device. The auxiliary lens carrier100, or connection system, couples to the mobile device102and is arranged to be positioned over and optically aligned with a first camera and a second camera lens of the device, e.g., a front-facing camera located on a front surface112of the device102and a rear-facing camera located on a rear surface118of the device102. The lens carrier100may support one or more lens assemblies120, allowing the lens assemblies to be optically coupled to the on-board cameras of the mobile device102.

The auxiliary lens carrier100is fitted on the mobile device100in an attachment region114that provides a snug or friction fit against the surfaces116,118of the mobile device102to help ensure that the carrier100does not move and remains in position, as well as prevents debris or the like, from entering under the carrier100and becoming positioned over the lens of either of the on-board cameras of the mobile device102. Additionally, the auxiliary lens carrier100is configured to fit on the mobile device102directly or may be positioned on the device102when the device102includes a protective case103.

Lens Carrier

The auxiliary lens carrier100will now be discussed in more detail.FIGS. 4A and 4Bare front and rear elevation views of the lens carrier100.FIG. 5is an exploded view of the lens carrier100.FIGS. 6 and 7are various cross-sections of the lens carrier100. With respect toFIGS. 4A and 4B, the auxiliary lens carrier100includes a first bracket104, a second bracket106, a release assembly108, and a release cap124, each of which are coupled together and explained in more detail below. In some embodiments, one bracket may be defined as a stationary bracket and the other bracket may be defined as a movable bracket. For example, the first bracket104may be stationary whereas the second bracket106may be a movable bracket and move relative to the first bracket.

The first bracket104may be configured to be arranged on a front face of the mobile device102and align with the first or front-facing camera. The first bracket104forms a support arm for supporting various accessories so as to optically align the accessories with the front-facing on-board camera lens for the mobile device102. Although in some embodiments (see, e.g.,FIG. 13A), the first bracket may not include an attachment for a lens or other accessory. The first bracket is shown in more detail inFIGS. 8A-8Dand with reference to these figures, the first bracket104includes a bracket body130having a front surface154and a rear surface182, where the front surface154forms an exterior of the body130and the rear surface182is configured to engage with the mobile device102. The body130may include an edge arm186extending downwards in a first direction, a support arm142extending horizontally from the body130so as to be substantially perpendicular to the edge arm186, and a release ear180formed on an upper edge near an intersection between the two arms142,186.

The edge arm186may be configured to align with and engage with a first edge of the mobile device102and/or a case positioned around the first edge of the mobile device102. In some embodiments, the edge arm186includes an angled bottom edge194, such that an exterior wall190is shorter in length than the interior wall192of the edge arm186. However, in other embodiments, the arm may be differently configured.

With reference toFIG. 8B, the rear surface182of the edge arm186may include an edge groove156formed therein. The edge groove156is recessed and defines a curved track that extends along the entire arm186and up towards the release ear180. The edge groove156is shaped and sized so as to receive a portion of the first side and top edges of the mobile device102. In these instances, the edge groove156is configured to substantially match the curvature and depth of the perimeter top and side edges of the mobile device102and may be configured to receive and align with a corner intersection between the top and side edges of the mobile device102. The edge arm186may also include one or more support ribs182or other structures arranged on the sections surrounding or opposite of the edge groove156. For example, as shown inFIG. 8B, a support rib182may extend alongside of the edge drove156to structurally enhance the remaining sections of the arm186.

The rear surface of the edge arm186may include a transition wall162that may be an angled wall that extends from a bottom of the edge groove156outwards until transitioning into an engagement surface160. The engagement surface160may be formed as a planar surface that engages with the mobile device102.

With reference again toFIG. 8A, the support arm142will now be discussed. The support arm142forms the supporting structure for the lens assemblies120,122or other accessories there are couple to the carrier100. The length and configuration of the support arm142may be varied as desired and depending on the location and configuration of the on-board camera on the mobile device102or other feature that is being alighted with the attached accessory. In one example, the support arm142is formed as an oval shaped extension that defines a support window144therethrough. The support window144is arranged to be positioned over the on-board camera such that the lens assembly120,122can be optically aligned with the on-board camera. The support arm142may include a window rim152extending outwards and surrounding the perimeter of the support window144. In some instances, the window rim152may have an angled surface and vary in height as it extends around the support arm142and window144. A seat146may be positioned on a top edge or outer edge of the interior wall148forming an interior surface of the support arm144. The seat146is configured to receive a portion of the lens assembly120,122and may be located radially inwards from the window rim152, i.e., closer towards a center of the window144and recessed from the outermost edge surface of the window rim152.

One or more securing apertures150a,150bmay be defined on opposite ends of the interior wall148defining the window144. The securing apertures150a,150bare configured to receive supporting elements for the lens assemblies120,122to secure the assemblies to the carrier100. The securing apertures150a,150bare variable based on type of connection for the lens assemblies, but in one example are formed as keyed shaped apertures extending through the interior wall148having a circular middle shape with two rectangular cutout shaped tabs extending from each side of the circular cutout.

With reference toFIG. 8B, the top end of the support arm142transitions to form a top surface188of the bracket104. An interior side of the support arm142extends downward from the top surface188and forms a connecting surface that engages with the second bracket106. In some examples, the connecting surface includes a track cavity170defined along a length of the arm142and a support rib172may extend parallel to the track cavity170to provide additional rigidity for the arm142. A prong171may extend perpendicularly to the connection surface and be positioned at an intersection between the ear108and the support arm142. A tang receptor168may be formed as an angled slot on a bottom portion of the connecting surface. As shown inFIG. 8B, in some embodiments, the connecting surface may be extended outward from the plan of the rear surface182and in some embodiments the width of the extension may be selected to substantially match a portion of the width of the mobile device102.

The first bracket102may also include one or more engagement tangs164or arms configured to engage one or more surfaces of the mobile device102or securing case. In one example, the edge arm186and the connecting surface of the support arm142may each include an engagement tang164extending away from an interior edge. For example, the tang166may extend downward and outward from the connecting surface of the support arm142and the engagement tang164may extend inwards from a sidewall forming the edge groove156.

With reference toFIGS. 8A and 8B, the release ear180acts to support the release assembly108, as well as provide a visual and tactile alignment feature for a user to align the accessory clip100to the mobile device102. The release ear180may be formed as a circular protrusion on an exterior top edge of the bracket104. The release ear180may also be aligned with a corner of the edge groove156configured to receive an edge corner of the mobile device102. The release ear180includes various features to engage with and support the release assembly108. For example, a front or exterior side of the ear108includes a release compartment132recessed from the front surface154and having a back release wall174forming a back wall of the compartment132. A spring post134extends outwards from the release wall174and may be positioned within a central region of the compartment132. The spring post134includes a pin aperture138defined through a center axis thereof. A front ledge136may extend inwards from an outer wall of the release compartment132and extend radially inwards. In some embodiments, the front ledge136is formed in a semi-circular manner or U shape and matches the shape of the release wall174. A compartment aperture143is formed as a semi-circular cutout through the back release wall174, however, in other embodiments, the aperture143may be omitted or shaped in other manners.

With reference toFIG. 8B, on the interior side of the release ear180, a lip178may be formed along the outer perimeter or portion thereof of the release wall174. In one embodiment, the lip178is U-shaped and does not extend across the flat wall area of the release wall174. Spaced outward form the lip178is a cap trough176that may follow the lip178and be formed as a U-shaped groove extending around an outer edge of the release ear108.

With reference toFIGS. 9A-9D, the second bracket106will now be discussed in more detail. The second bracket106or movable bracket may be substantially similar to the first bracket104, but may be configured to align with and engage the second on-board camera of the mobile device102, e.g., a rear facing camera. For example, in some instances, the rear facing camera of the mobile device102may be positioned closer towards an edge of the device as compared to a front-facing camera that may be positioned in a middle section of the device102. In these instances, the support arm200of the second bracket106may extend in a direction opposite to that of the support142. For example, the support arm200may extend perpendicular to the extension of the support arm142of the first bracket104. The shape of the main body220of the bracket106may be varied based on a desired orientation on the mobile device106. For example, as shown inFIGS. 13A-13BandFIGS. 21-22, the second bracket may extend in a direction that matches the extension direction of the first bracket.

The support arm200is similar to the support arm142and includes a support window208defined therethrough configured to receive one or more accessory attachments. To this end, the interior wall212of the window208may include two or more securing apertures214a,214b, which may be keyed or otherwise shaped, to receive securing elements, such as prongs, for the accessory attachments, e.g., the circular center with rectangular shaped tabs extending from the sides. However, in other embodiments where other types of attachment mechanisms are used, the apertures214a,214bmay be omitted, different sized, shaped, or located.

In some embodiments, a window rim210may extend outwards from the front surface216of the arm200. The window rim210may extend around a perimeter of the window208and may vary in thickness as it extends around a perimeter. In one embodiment, the top and bottom sides of the window rim210may be thicker than the sidewalls, but in other embodiments, the rim210may be otherwise configured. A window seat248may extend into the support window208from the window rim210, with the seat248defining the exterior edge of the interior wall212.

With continued reference toFIG. 9A, in some embodiments, the front surface216of the main body220may include one or more alignment or installation icons218. In one embodiment, the installation icons218may indicate the type of camera or location of the camera that they should be aligned with when the user installs the carrier100on the mobile device102. The icons218may be graphics, text, raised sections, or the like, and be configured to alert a user to an orientation or position of the carrier100.

With reference toFIG. 9B, the interior surface238of the support arm200may include a perimeter wall242extending around the support window208. The perimeter wall242may extend an angle to define a beveled edge and terminate in an alignment edge240. The alignment edge240may be formed as a planar surface forming the interior edge of the support window208on the interior side of the support arm200. The shape and dimensions of the wall242and ledge240may be configured to match with a top surface of the mobile device102to engage the surface of the mobile device102, including any variations surrounding the on-board cameras.

A shelf230extends around the top portion of the interior side of the second bracket206. For example, the shelf230may be formed as a top horizontal member curving around a corner of the bracket and then terminating in a side vertical member. The shelf230extends outwards from the interior surface of the main body to define a support member for the first bracket104as will be discussed in more detail below. To that end, in some instances, one or more strengthening ribs may be formed to support the shelf230along its track.

An edge groove244may be formed along a first side of the perimeter wall244and may include a corner portion and a leg portion. The edge groove244has a curvature and depth to match the mobile device102, since the edge groove244will act to receive a portion of an edge of the mobile device102. In some embodiments, the edge groove is formed as a concavely shaped circular groove extending upwards from the bottom end of the bracket up towards the release ear and around the support window.

As with the first bracket104, the second bracket106may include one or more engagement tangs232,250at various locations of the bracket. The angle and shape of the engagement grooves232,250are selected to engage various sections of a perimeter of the mobile device102. Similarly, one or more tang receptor grooves234,236may be formed along the interior surface of the main body220.

With reference again toFIG. 9A, the second bracket106may also include a release ear204. The release ear204may be similar to the release ear180and be formed on a top corner edge of the bracket106. In some instances, the release ear204may be spaced apart from the front surface216of the bracket106such that a shoulder226is defined between the front surface216and the location of the ear204. The release ear204may include a detent224defined on a top edge and a pin aperture222defined through a central area thereof. The pin aperture222may be keyed or otherwise structured to prevent rotation or movement of the pin for the release assembly as discussed in more detail below.

With reference toFIG. 9B, the interior of the release ear204may include a strengthening plate252, which may be formed as an increased thickness of material around the pin aperture222to provide additional strength and rigidity for the ear204. Additionally, one or more ear ribs228a,228b,228c,228dmay be formed as upwardly extending ribs from the curved portion of the shelf230.

With reference toFIGS. 5, 6, 7, and 10A-10B, the release assembly will now be discussed in more detail. The release assembly acts to exert a force on at least one of the first and second brackets to move them toward or away from one another. In one embodiment, the release assembly transmits a force to the second bracket, causing the second bracket to move away from the first bracket. In one example, the release assembly108includes an actuator310, a biasing member322, a rigid member320, and optionally a leverage cap124, each of which will be discussed below.

The actuator310receives a user force and may be formed as a button, lever, or the like. The actuator310transmits a user force to the biasing member322, as will be discussed in more detail below. With reference toFIG. 6, in one embodiment, the actuator310may be formed as a circular shaped button and include a front surface316defining a user engagement surface and a rear surface318. The rear surface318may define a spring cavity314for receiving a portion of the biasing member322. Additionally, a keyed post312may extend outwards from a central area of the rear surface318. The key post312includes a keyed compartment therethrough for receiving and securing the rigid member320, which allows the actuator310to transmit force from the user to the rigid member320and prevents the rigid member320from moving relative thereto. In some embodiments, the rigid member320or exertion member may be secured to the actuator310in manners other than a friction or keyed fit and in these instances, the key post3212and keyed compartment can be omitted or formed in other manners, e.g., un-keyed or the like.

With reference again toFIG. 5, the biasing member322acts to exert a biasing force or return force on the actuator310. In some embodiments, the biasing member322is formed as a compression spring, but in other embodiments, may be differently configured, such as a leaf spring, or other type of force exerting member.

With reference toFIGS. 10A and 10B, the cap124will now be discussed in more detail. The cap124acts to provide additional leverage and strength for the release assembly108and to assist a user in actuating the actuator310. The cap124includes a front surface300having a contoured bottom edge302. The contoured bottom edge302correspond to a top surface of the second bracket106and may be varied as desired. In one example, the contoured edge, includes two shoulder areas on the edges with a raised curved section in the middle of the cap. With reference toFIG. 10B, the rear surface304includes a rear wall324extending around a substantial portion of the perimeter edge of the rear surface340. For example, the rear wall324may extend around all but one edge of the cap124to define a U-shaped wall. The rear wall324may also include an engagement lip306extending from a portion of the top surface. The lip306may be located radially inward from the outer edge of the rear wall324. The rear surface304of the cap124may also include a prong308extending outwards therefrom. The prong308may be located at a center of the rear wall324.

To assemble the lens carrier100together, the first bracket104and the second bracket106are aligned and connected together. In one embodiment, the release ears180,204are positioned opposite one another such that the edge arm186of the first bracket104extends parallel to the support arm200of the second bracket106. The shelf230of the second bracket106is then positioned within the track cavity170of the first bracket104and the various tangs164,166,232,250are received in corresponding tang receptor grooves168,234,236,251on the respective bracket104,106.

The strengthening plate252is positioned against the release wall174of the first bracket104and the lip178sits around the perimeter of the strengthening plate252. The two pin apertures138,222are aligned with one another. Once the pin apertures138,222are aligned, the release pin320is received therethrough and securing connected to the release ear204of the second bracket106, such that a force on the pin320will be transmitted to the second bracket106. In some embodiments, the pin320is keyed via the keyed features of the aperture222to the release ear204and in other instances the pin320may be glued, welded, molded, or the like, in order to connect it to the second bracket106.

After the pin320or before the pin320is connected, the spring322is positioned on the first bracket104. For example, with reference toFIGS. 6, 7, and 8A, the spring322is positioned around the spring post134and within the release compartment132on the release ear180of the first bracket104. The front ledge136and spring post134act to capture the spring322within the release compartment132and prevent lateral movement of the spring322.

The actuator310is then secured to the brackets104,106. The pin322is positioned within the post aperture312of the actuator310and extends away from the post312. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the pin320may be secured to the actuator310before being inserted through the release ears and in other embodiments, may be secured to the actuator310after insertion. The connection mechanism and assembly order of the actuator310and the pin may depend on the desired manufacturing process, materials, and the like, and the discussion of any particular order is meant as illustrative only. As shown inFIGS. 6 and 7, the actuator310is positioned adjacent but spaced apart from the release compartment132and covers the compartment window143and the release compartment132as viewed from the front of the first bracket104. The actuator310also acts to trap the spring322within the spring cavity314such that the spring322is captured between the release compartment132and the rear surface318of the actuator310.

After the actuator310is secured to the first bracket104, the cap124is positioned and coupled to the release ear204of the second bracket106. For example, the prong308of the cap124seats within the detent224and the lip306of the cap124is positioned within the cap trough176of the release ear180of the first bracket104. The bottom edge302of the cap124then follows the top outer edge of the shoulder226of the second bracket106.

With reference toFIGS. 6 and 7, to operate the carrier100, the user exerts a force F against the outer surface316of the actuator310. When the force exceeds the biasing force exerted by the spring322, the actuator310moves laterally towards the release ear180of the first bracket104, compressing the spring322within the release compartment132. As this occurs, the pin322moves with the actuator310and transmits the force to the second bracket106, in particular, the strengthening wall252of the second bracket106. This force causes the second bracket106to move in the same direction as the actuator310, e.g., in a horizontal direction away from the front bracket104. As this occurs, the top surface188of the front bracket104separates from the top surface206of the second bracket106defining a gap therebetween. The shelf230spans across the gap and the engagement tangs164,166,232,250maintain the connection between the two brackets104,106, while also allowing a separation between the two brackets. The strengthening wall252provides additional strength for the release ear204to absorb the force and repeated opening/closing, without requiring an overall increased thickness or stronger material for the bracket106. The separation gap or insertion gap between the two brackets104,106may be defined based on a thickness of the mobile device, such that the static gap plus the separation gap is determined by a clearance needed to place the carrier100over a top edge (or other edge as desired) of the device. It should be noted that the separation or insertion gap may be defined as the distance traveled by at least one of the brackets during actuation. The two brackets may have an initial separation distance and the insertion or separation gap is the initial distance, plus the moved distance.

Once the force F is removed or otherwise drops below the predetermined threshold of the biasing force of the spring322, the spring322exerts a recovery force against the rear surface318of the actuator310, which causes the actuator310to move back towards the initial position, i.e., away from the release ear180of the first bracket104. This, in turn causes the pin320, which is coupled to the release ear204of the second bracket106, to move correspondingly, moving the second bracket106back towards the first bracket104and closing the separation gap between the two brackets104,106. When the insertion or separation gap is closed, the two brackets may return to the initial separation distance, which is sufficiently close to one another to clamp or engage the surfaces of the mobile device.

Once positioned around the edge of the mobile device102, the rounded corner edge, e.g., an intersection between a top edge and a bottom edge of the mobile device, is received within a cavity defined by the edge grooves156,244of the brackets104,106. The edge grooves156,244have a depth corresponding to a portion of the thickness of the device102, such that the entire edge is received in the combination of the two grooves156,244. For example, each edge groove may have a depth approximately half the thickness of the mobile device. Additionally, the edge grooves may be configured to accommodate additional thicknesses added by protective accessories, such as cases, sleeves, screen protectors, or the like. The engagement surface160and rear surface182of the front bracket104are configured to seat against a first surface, e.g., a front surface, of the mobile device102when positioned on the front of the mobile device. The engagement helps to ensure that the carrier100remains in place relative to the on-board cameras of the device102when secured to the device102. In embodiments when the front-surface camera (e.g., front facing camera) is positioned on a central top portion of the device, the support arm142of the first bracket104extends parallel to the top edge of the device and the support window144is aligned with the front facing camera. The length of the support arm142and the size and shape of the support window144depends on the location of the front facing camera and may be varied as needed. For example, in instances where the front facing camera is closer towards one of the side edges, the length of the support arm142may be shortened or increased as needed.

With reference toFIG. 2, in some embodiments, the second bracket106may be configured to seat against a rear surface of the mobile device102and align with a second rear facing camera for the device. In some instances, such as the example shown inFIG. 2, the rear facing camera may be aligned adjacent to and parallel with the side edge of the device102. In these instances, the support arm200of the second bracket106extends parallel to the side edge, e.g., downwards from the top edge until the support window208is aligned with a camera region of the mobile device102. The alignment ledge240seats around an elevated or raised camera region for the device102and engages the rear surface of the mobile device102. In this manner, the interior surface238is spaced apart from the rear surface of the mobile device102. However, in other embodiments, the second bracket106may be differently configured such that the interior surface238and/or other surfaces may be engaged with the outer surface of the mobile device.

With reference toFIG. 3B, in some embodiments, the bottom edges of the front and rear brackets104,106are configured to extend around or otherwise correspond to features of the mobile device102. For example, the bottom walls158,254of the brackets104,106may curve upwards to provide clearance for one or more input buttons included on the side edge of the device102. In other instances, the brackets may include apertures, cutouts, or the like, that provide clearance for accessing the various input features of the mobile device102.

Lens Assembly

The lens assembly120holds lenses with different optical characteristics and allows the lenses to be easily connected and disconnected from the lens carrier100as desired. This allows a user to quickly interchange the lenses that are optically aligned with the on-board cameras without having to remove the entire carrier100from the device100. With reference toFIGS. 11A-12B, the lens assembly120may include a lens330, a lens frame332, a lens support336, and one or more latch assemblies which may include a latch331and a spring380, each of which will be discussed in more detail below.

The lens330includes an optical lens with select optical characteristics and a support for the lens. The optical characteristics of the lens330may be varied as desired and are configured to optically align with and optically enhance lens characteristics of the on-board cameras or other lenses of the mobile device102.

The lens support336helps to secure the lens330within the lens frame332and also acts to easily leverage the lens out of the frame332. With reference toFIG. 11C, in some embodiment, the lens support336includes a front surface, a rear surface, and two edge surfaces forming the peripheral side edges of the support336. In one example, a latch surface362may have convexly curved shape that may be configured to generally match a curvature of the latch engagement surface and the lens surface360may have an inwardly curved surface that may be configured to match the curvature of the bottom support of the lens330. Additionally, the lens surface360may include a cutout section formed in a middle area thereof. The lens support336may also include one or more prongs358extend outwards from a back surface. In one embodiment, the lens support336may include a top and bottom prong358positioned on top and bottom ends of the back surface and configured to be received in one or more prong compartments on the lens frame as discussed below.

With continued reference toFIG. 11C, the lens frame332may be shaped as an elongated oval and include a lens aperture338defined through a first section and a lens aperture344defined through an adjacent section. The lens aperture338may be defined as a circular shaped aperture and configured to receive the lens330and in this manner may be sized and shaped to correspond to the lens330. A catch340extends laterally outwards from a first side edge of the lens frame332and may be positioned adjacent to the lens aperture338. The catch340may be keyed and include a circular shaped protrusion having tabs extending from each side or other similar features. In some embodiments, a spring post350may be defined as a cylindrical post extending in a first direction away from an interior surface of the frame332. In one embodiment, the spring post350may be positioned opposite from the catch340and extend in an opposite direction from the catch340.

With continued reference toFIG. 12, the latch aperture344extends through a top surface and provides access to a bottom surface352of the frame332. A support edge346a,346bis defined on opposite edge corners of the latch aperture344and extend partially into the aperture344. Each support ledge346a,346bmay define a prong recess348a,348bthat may be keyed (e.g., include keying features). A track354is defined longitudinally across the interior side of the bottom surface352and extends laterally across the surface. The track354may be aligned with the spring post350such that a spring can sit within the track354and be aligned with the spring post350. A catch aperture356is defined through a sidewall edge of the lens frame332and may be aligned with the track354.

With reference toFIGS. 12 and 13, the latch331may include a front surface372and arear surface371with a support groove364defined on the edge support surface366between the two surfaces371,372. The support groove364extends along the height of the latch331and may be curved as it extends along its height. The rear surface371is split into two sections that each form an interior wall370of the latch331. A spring post368may be positioned between the two interior wall370sections and a catch342may be formed on the exterior sidewall of the latch331.

With reference toFIGS. 11A-12B, to assemble the lens assembly120, the spring380is positioned around the spring post350on the lens frame332and positioned within the track354. The opposite end of the spring380is then positioned around the spring post368on the latch331. The catch342of the latch331is inserted into and extends out of the catch aperture356of the lens frame332. The spring380then extends across the bottom surface352of the frame332between the latch331and the outer edge of the lens aperture338perimeter surface. The lens support336is then positioned over the spring380and the prongs358are positioned into the prong recesses348a,348bon the lens frame332, securing the lens support336in position. The lens330is positioned within the lens aperture338and extends from the front to the rear surface of the frame332. Once secured in position, the lens330and the lens support336may be prevented from movement to ensure that the lens330and the spring380will remain in position during movement of the frame332, such as during use on the mobile device102or the like.

In operation, a force exerted on the catch342of the latch331, causes the latch331to compress the spring380and translate across the latch aperture344, to move the catch342inwards towards an opposite wall of the lens frame. This movement allows the lens assembly120to latch and unlatch from the first or second brackets104,106of the auxiliary lens carrier100. For example, with reference toFIGS. 8A, 11A, and 11B, to insert the lens assembly120into the front bracket104, a user angles the immovable catch340formed integrally with the lens frame332with the securing aperture150bon the interior wall148of the support arm142of the first bracket104. The catch340is then positioned in the securing aperture150band the lens frame332is aligned with the support window144and the latch331is compressed to move the movable catch342inwards. This movement causes the lens frame332to seat within the support window144and be positioned within the interior wall148. Once the movable catch342aligns with the securing aperture150a, the latch331is released and the spring380forces the catch342outwards by movement of the latch331, and the catch342extends into the securing aperture150a, securing the lens frame332to the support arm142. A similar attachment procedure may be used to secure lens assembly120to the rear bracket106and the securing apertures214a,214bact to receive the catches340,342of the lens assembly120.

ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS

As noted above, the lens carrier can be modified depending on the location, configuration, and dimensions of the on-board cameras of the mobile device, as well as the desired accessories to be attached to the device via the lens carrier.FIGS. 13A-24illustrate alternative examples of lens carriers for different mobile device configurations. It should be noted that the lens carriers ofFIGS. 13A-24may be used with the lens assembly120or may be used with permanently attached or different removable lens configurations.

FIGS. 13A-20illustrate a first example of a lens carrier for use with multiple mobile device configurations, such as ones including centrally located on-board cameras on the front and/or rear surfaces. The lens carrier400is attachable to an electronic mobile device402with one or more cameras or optical elements. The lens carrier400may be substantially similar to the lens carrier100, but in some instances, may be configured to support a single accessory and be centrally located on a top surface of the mobile device402. The lens carrier400may include a release assembly424that actuates movement of at least one of a front bracket404relative to the rear bracket406, each of which are discussed in turn below. The configuration of the lens carrier400may allow the carrier to connect with an optically align with a number of different mobile devices, as compared to a more specific carrier configured to match with the profile of a single type of mobile device.

With reference toFIGS. 19A-19C, the first bracket404may be substantially similar to the first bracket104and include a support arm440extending from a top surface446. In one example, the support arm440may be formed in a tapered V or U shaped that tapers from the top surface446towards a bottom surface. Additionally, in some instances, the support arm440may not include a support window or other element to which an auxiliary lens may attach or may include a support window similar to the one in the second bracket406. A front surface442of the support arm440may include an actuator surface444extending outwards from the front surface442at a top end of the bracket406. The actuator surface444may also extend upwards from the top surface446to define an elevated surface above the top surface446of the support arm440and may define a biasing cavity452. The biasing cavity452may be formed as an oval shaped cavity or recess extending through a portion of the width of the bracket404. The depth of the biasing cavity452may be based on a desired movement amount of the second bracket relative to the front bracket. In some embodiments, the depth may correspond to a thickness of the mobile device402. One or more pin apertures448a,448b,448cmay be formed through the front surface442to the rear surface452of the support arm440.

With reference toFIG. 19B, the rear surface452of the first bracket404may include a structural shoulder454extending outwards therefrom on the top end of the bracket404. The structural shoulder454may have an increased width as compared to the remaining sections of the bracket404and be aligned with the pin apertures448a,448b,448cso as to provide increased structural support for the bracket404at the locations of the apertures. Additionally, one or more guide pins450a,450bor guide features may extend outwards from the exterior surface of the shoulder454.

The second bracket406may be substantially similar to bracket106and may include a support arm408forming a supporting body for an auxiliary accessory, such as a lens or a lens assembly. With reference toFIGS. 17 and 18, in one example, the support arm408is formed as a U or V shaped body that tapers inwards as it extends from a top surface430towards a bottom end. The length of the support arm408may be selected based on the distance of the on-board camera on the mobile device402from the top surface or other support edge of the mobile device402to which the carrier400will be engaged. The bottom end of the support arm408defines a support window410that extends from the front surface426to a rear surface428. In embodiments where the support arm408may be attached permanently to a lens, the support window410may be formed as a circular aperture to directly correspond to the shape of the lens330, but in other examples may be configured to receive removable lenses, such as the lens assembly120and in these instances may include keyed or connective features, such as catches, to releasably connect the lens to the bracket406.

With continued reference toFIGS. 17 and 18, a shoulder432is formed as a surface recessed below the top level of the top surface430on a top end of the bracket406, e.g., as a stepped down surface. The shoulder432may include on or more cap grooves436defined on its top surface and forms an engagement structure to support the cap of the release assembly as discussed below. A release ear434may extend outwards from a top end of the rear surface428and span the width of the bracket406from edge to edge. In on example, the release ear434, which may be formed as a wall, may have a top surface coextensive with the top surface430of the support arm408, but terminate at a depth shorter from the top surface430than a depth of the top surface of the shoulder432. In this manner a gap438is formed between the bottom surface of the release ear434and the top surface of the shoulder432. However, in other embodiments, the release ear434may be differently configured and the gap438may be omitted or differently configured The top surface of the release arm434may include one or more guide grooves434a,434bformed as circular dips or grooves and spaced apart from one another. Additionally, one or more keyed apertures432a,432b,432cmay be formed through the release arm434. In one example, the keyed apertures432a,432b,432cmay be keyed with a hexagonal shape, but in other embodiments may include other shapes or keying structures or in instances where the pins may be secured in manners other than a keyed fit may omit the keying structure.

With reference again toFIG. 17, the release assembly422may be substantially similar to the release assembly108. For example, the release assembly422may include a support cap420, an actuator412, one or more rigid members460a,460b,460c, and one or more biasing elements424a,424b,424c. With reference toFIGS. 17 and 20, the cap420may be similar to the cap124and act to assist a user in actuating the release by providing additional leverage. In this example, the cap420may be formed in a rectangular shape body and may include a top ledge464forming a top surface of the cap420. The cap420may transition from a first plane defining an exterior surface462to a second plane perpendicular to the exterior surface462. One or more guide pockets470a,470bmay formed as a cylindrical posts extending downwards from the interior surface of the top ledge464. Each of the guide pockets470a,470bmay include a keyed or other shaped cavity472a,472btherein. With reference toFIG. 20, the rear or interior surface of the cap420may include a raised lip466around a portion of the perimeter, as well as a tang468extending downwards form the lip466and positioned in the center of the bottom edge of the cap420.

With reference again toFIGS. 13A and 17, the actuator412may be substantially similar to the actuator310of the release assembly122. However, in some instances, the actuator412may be formed as an elongated member shaped in a slightly curved oval manner. The elongated rectangular or oval shape of the actuator412may provide an extended length actuator surface414for a user to engage and may correspond to a shape of the cutout452of the first bracket404. One or more cavities may be formed on the rear surface of the actuator412. In one embodiment, three keyed cavities416a,416b,416cmay be formed having keying features and be spaced across the rear surface. Additionally, one or more guide cavities418a,418bmay be formed in a similar manner, with the guide cavities418a,418balternating between the keyed cavities416a,416b,416c.

With reference toFIG. 17, the rigid members460a,460b,460cmay be formed as pins, posts, or other extension elements and may be formed of a rigid material, such as a metal or alloy. The rigid members460a,460b,460cact to transfer force from the actuator412to the movable bracket408and therefore may be formed of an incompressible material to ensure a majority of the force is transmitted as desired.

The one or more biasing members424a,424b,424cmay be formed as coil springs or other spring or biasing materials or configurations. In some embodiments, there may be three biasing members424a,424c,424cto ensure that the actuator412is biased evenly. However, in other configurations, other types and numbers of biasing members can be used.

To assemble the lens carrier400, the first and second brackets404,406are aligned with one another. The guide pins450a,450bof the first bracket404are aligned within the guide grooves434a,434bof the second bracket406. The rigid members460a,460b,460care asserted into the pin apertures448a,448b,448cof the first bracket404and through the keyed apertures432a,432b,432cof the second bracket. The rigid members460a,460n,460care secured to the keyed apertures432a,432b,432c, such that movement of the rigid members460a,460b,460ccauses the second bracket406to move correspondingly. In some embodiments, the rigid members460a,460b,460cmay be glued, welded, key fit, friction fit, or the like to the second bracket406, but other types of secured attachment may be used.

The biasing elements424a,424b,424cmay be positioned around each of the rigid members460a,460b,460cand positioned within the biasing cavity452. The exposed ends of the rigid members460a,460b,460cmay then be captured within the keyed cavities416a,416b,416cof the actuator412. The rigid members460a,460b,460cmay be secured to the actuator412and movement of the actuator412will thus be transmitted to movement of the rigid members460a,460b,460cand the second bracket406. The rigid members may be connected to the actuator412in a manner similar to the attachment to the second bracket406. The actuator412may then partially seat within the biasing cavity452and be configured to translate from a first or initial position to a second or actuated position.

Once the actuator412is secured, the support cap420may be seated within the shoulder432of the second bracket406with the lip466positioned over the top surface of the shoulder432and the tang468seated within the cap groove436of the shoulder432. The cap ledge464extends over the recessed shoulder432and sits on the top surface of the release arm434. The posts450a,450bof the first bracket404are received within the post cavities472a,472bof the cap420and the guide pockets470a,470bof the cap420positioned within the guide grooves434a,434b,434c. The connection between the posts450a,450band the cap420helps to secure the cap420to the first bracket404, as well as define a track for movement of the second bracket406relative to the first bracket404. The top surface of the cap420is configured be aligned with the elevated top surface of the raised actuator surface444of the first bracket404and the cap420is raised above the top surface430of the second bracket406. Before use, one or more lenses330may be positioned within the support window410of the support arm408of the bracket404.

With reference toFIGS. 15 and 16, in operation, a user exerts a force on the actuator surface414of the actuator412, e.g., a perpendicular force to the actuator surface414. Once the user force exceeds a combined biasing force of the biasing members424a,424b,424b, the biasing members424a,424b,424ccompress, causing the actuator412to move inwards into the biasing cavity452of the immovable first bracket404. As this occurs, the rigid members460a,460b,460care moved by their secured connection to the actuator412. The movement of the rigid member460a,460b,460ccauses the second bracket or movable bracket406to move correspondingly. The movement of the second bracket406may be constrained to a motion perpendicular to the extension direction of the support arm408, such that the two brackets404,406remain parallel to one another along the entire movement path. This movement causes a separation gap480between the two brackets404,406to increase, the increase being defined by the movement of the actuator412relative to the front bracket404. This increased gap480then allows a user to position the two brackets404,406on opposing sides of the mobile device402. Once the clip400is positioned over the edge of the mobile device402, the user releases the actuator412. Release of the actuator412(or other decrease in the user force below the combination biasing threshold force), causes the biasing members424a,424b,424cto decompress and expand. As the biasing members424a,424b,424cexpand, they exert an opposite movement force on the actuator412, causing the actuator412to move away from the first bracket404and extend back out of the biasing cavity452. The return movement of the actuator412may be directly opposite the actuating movement.

With reference toFIGS. 21-24, another example of a carrier500is shown. In this embodiment, the carrier500may be substantially similar to the carrier100shown inFIG. 1, but include modified support arms on the brackets to match a positioning location of the on-board cameras for the mobile device502. Additionally, the carrier500may include one more guide members511a,511b,511c,511dformed separately from the brackets504,506. In particular, the carrier500includes a first or stationary bracket504, a second movable bracket506, a release assembly508, and the one or more guide members511a,511b,511c,511d. One or more lenses530a,530bor lens assemblies may be connected to the brackets504,506. The guide members511a,511b,511c,511dmay be formed as rigid pins or posts that are received in corresponding cavities in each of the brackets504,506and define or limit the movement of the movable bracket relative to the stationary bracket.

The release assembly508may be substantially similar to the release assembly108. In one example, the release assembly508includes an actuator510, a rigid member520, a biasing member522, and a cap524, each of which are similar to the counterparts in the release assembly108. However, in some embodiments, the rigid member520may include securing features, such as threads or a head or both one each end to secure the member520to the actuator510and the cap524.

FIGS. 25A-33Cillustrate another example of the auxiliary lens carrier600in accordance with the present disclosure. The carrier may be substantially similar to the carriers shown in the other drawings and any features not specially mentioned may be considered to be substantially the same as in the other examples. In the example ofFIGS. 25A-33C, the carrier600may include two movable brackets604,606that move along a linear path to separate and clamp together to secure to the mobile device602. In this embodiment, one bracket may include the lens support, whereas the other bracket may not support a lens or lens assembly. However, in other instances, the brackets may be differently configured. Additionally, the brackets604,606may have an extension direction that extends substantially vertically relative to a longitudinal length of the mobile device602, such that when connected, can be positionable at a variety of locations on the mobile device602. This configuration allows the carrier600to be more easily attached to multiple types of mobile devices, without being individually tailored to a specific camera and/or corner configuration. In other words, because the length of the support arm extends vertically, the carrier600can be positioned at substantially any location of the top edge of the mobile device and therefore may be more easily aligned with the on-board camera(s) of multiple devices, rather than having a lateral extension distance that matches a specific mobile device on-board camera location.

In addition to the brackets604,606, the carrier600may also include a cap624, and a release assembly608. The release assembly608and the cap624may be substantially the same as the release assembly108and cap124.

With reference toFIGS. 27, 30, and 31, the first bracket604will now be discussed. The first bracket604may be configured to attach to a front facing side of the mobile device602and may or may not include a lens supporting aperture, depending on the desired number of lenses for the carrier600. In one example, the first bracket604may be formed as an elongated generally oval shaped body having an engagement surface615and a front surface617. A support ear608may be formed as at the top area of the support body642and in some instances may have an increased thickness or width as compared to the other areas of the bracket604. For example, the width of the support bracket604may taper at the bottom edge of the support ear608as it transitions towards a bottom end of the bracket604. The support ear608may include a pin aperture638defined through a central region thereof. Additionally, the interior surface of the support ear608may include one or more guide posts672a,672b,672c, which may be formed as posts, tracks, shelves, of the like, that help to define the motion track for the brackets as they extend away from one another. Additionally, an engagement lip643defining an edge groove may be defined at the bottom of the ear608and an inflection point for the bracket604. The lip634and groove may be used to capture the top edge of the mobile device602and as such the groove may have an interior curvature tracking with the curvature of the mobile device.

With reference toFIGS. 32A and 32B, the cap624may include an exterior surface625and an interior surface627and be shaped as a generally circular body having a curved bottom wall623. A top wall629extends from the interior surface627to form a canopy or cover for a portion of the perimeter of the cap624. The top wall629may include material that extends radially inwards towards the center of the cap624and may be used to form one or more guide receptors621a,621b,621cthat may include keyed apertures for receiving the guide posts671,671b,672cof the ear698.

With reference toFIGS. 33A-33C, the second bracket606will now be discussed in more detail. The second bracket606may be formed in a similar manner as the first bracket604and be shaped as an elongated oval body. However, the second bracket606may include a lens support aperture708defined therethrough. In a specific example, the lens support aperture708may be defined as an oval shaped aperture through the support arm710of the bracket606and be configured to receive the lens assembly120,122. The top end of the support arm610transitions to form the top end of the bracket and the release ear704. An interior wall of the support arm610may include lens apertures714a,714bat opposing ends, e.g., top and bottom ends of the interior wall defining the lens aperture708. An extension shelf645may extend outwards from a back surface of the bracket606between the top end of the support arm610and the release ear704. In one example, a secondary shelf647may extend from the shelf645may form a guide track or the like for connecting with the bracket604. The extension shelf645is configured to sit on a top surface of the mobile device602and may include a bottom surface curved to match the curvature of the mobile device.

The release ear704may be formed as a thin wall extending upwards from a top shelf726formed the top end of the support arm610. The release arm704may be positioned in a middle area of the top shelf726or shoulder and the extension shelf645. In some embodiments, the release earl704may include circular or U shaped cutouts641a,641b,641cpositioned on a top surface and two opposing edges of the perimeter of the release ear704. A pin aperture722may be defined through a center of the release ear704and may be keyed or otherwise configured to secure the pin of the release assembly608. Additionally, a lip may surround the pin aperture722on a front side of the release ear704.

Assembly of the carrier600will now be discussed. In one example, the two brackets604,606are aligned with one another and the guide posts671a,671b,671care positioned within the cutout grooves641a,641b,641cof the release ear704of the second bracket606. The pin320is received through the pin apertures638,722of the release ears608,704and anchored to the release ear704of the second bracket606. The cap624is then positioned on the top shelf726of the second bracket606and the guide apertures621a,621b,621c, each receive a respective guide post671a,671b,671c. The cap624is secured to the first bracket604via the guide post connection to the guide apertures.

The release assembly608is then connected to the first bracket604in a similar manner as the release assembly108. In particular the spring is received around the post surrounding the pin aperture638and the button310captures the spring322within the biasing compartment.

Operation of the carrier600is substantially the same as the carrier100. For example, the user compresses the button310, which in turn compresses the spring322, allowing the button310to move laterally relative to the first bracket604and into the spring compartment. The rigid pin320transfers this force to the second bracket606, causing the second bracket606to move away from the first bracket604, increasing a distance between the two brackets604,606, allowing the mobile device602to be positioned therebetween. Once the carrier600is positioned as desired, the user releases the button310, the spring322biases the button and the pin320(which is connected to the button310), back outwards from the first bracket604. The connection of the pin320to the second bracket606, cause the second bracket606to move laterally towards the first bracket604, reducing the gap between the two, and clamping the brackets around the two surfaces of the mobile device602.

CONCLUSION