Mobile device holder

A mobile device holder comprises a base having an inner side to be affixed to the mobile device. A hub is carried by the base and is rotatable on the base about a rotational axis. A rotational bearing rotatably couples the hub to the base. A ring is carried by the hub and is pivotally coupled to the hub about a pivot axis that is orthogonal to the rotational axis. The ring is rotatable along with the hub on the base. In addition, the ring is pivotable with respect to the hub between at least a retracted position circumscribing the hub, and a deployed position extending at an acute angle with respect to the hub. The hub has an exterior side with indicia thereon.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a holder to assist holding a mobile device, such as a cellular phone.

Related Art

Cellular phones as increasing in utility and decreasing in size, making them almost continuously held, but also easy to drop. In addition, sleek styling can make a cellular phone slip out of a user's grasp. Various different devices have been proposed to assist in holding the cellular phone. One such device is a ring that is secured to the back of the phone to receive a user's finger.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a holder to assist in securely grasping a mobile device, such as a cellular phone. In addition, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a holder that can double as an attention getter with a continuous motion, sometimes referred to as a fidget spinner. In addition, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a holder capable of displaying information, such as a business logo, so that the holder can double as a promotional item. Furthermore, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a holder and a mount capable of mounting a mobile device.

The invention provides a mobile device holder with a base having an inner side to be affixed to the mobile device. A hub is carried by the base and is rotatable on the base about a rotational axis. A rotational bearing rotatably couples the hub to the base. A ring is carried by the hub and is pivotally coupled to the hub about a pivot axis that is orthogonal to the rotational axis. The ring is rotatable along with the hub on the base. In addition, the ring is pivotable with respect to the hub between at least a retracted position circumscribing the hub, and a deployed position extending at an acute angle with respect to the hub. The hub has indicia thereon.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENT(S)

Definitions

The terms “handheld electronic device” and “mobile device” are used interchangeably herein to refer broadly to a portable, hand-held electronic device, including by way of example, a cellular (cell) phone, a smart phone, a tablet computer or tablet, a phablet, a global positioning system (GPS), a mobile media player, a gaming system, a video monitor, and the like. The handheld electronic device can be a cell phone; an MP3 player (iPod® or the like) or other digital music player; a gaming device (Nintendo® DS; PSP®; etc.); a camera; a global positioning system (GPS) system; a personal digital assistant (PDA); a DVD player; a portable television; a digital camera; a video camera; a portable computer (laptop computer, iPad®, or the like); an e-book or e-reader (Kindle®, Nook®, iPad®, Sony Reader™, or the like), etc. Such a device can have a display screen upon which data, information, media, etc. is viewed; one or more inputs, such as buttons, a touch screen, etc.; one or more outputs, such as the screen, a speaker, an audio jack, etc.; one or more cameras; a power supply, such as a battery; a data storage system and a computing system. Such a device can also include a port or socket for receiving a power and/or data connection cord or plug. The mobile device can have a back or back surface, and a front or front surface. The display or touch screen can occupy a great majority of the front of the mobile device. The portable electronic device can be mobile and transportable. The portable electronic device can be carried by a user, such as in a pocket or purse, and also can be held in the user's hand(s).

The term “cellular phone” is used broadly herein to refer to a cellular phone, a cell phone, a smart phone, phablet, etc. Such cellular phones can be portable, handheld communication devices, or mobile devices, that can include a speaker, a microphone, one or more cameras, a transmitter and a receiver (or transceiver), a power supply or battery, a display screen or touch screen display and input device, other input devices, such as one or more buttons, etc. The cellular phone can have a back or back surface, and a front or front surface. The display or touch screen can occupy a great majority of the front of the cellular phone.

In addition, the terms “mobile device” and “cellular phone” are intended to refer to such mobile devices and cellular phones with a case, cover, skin, film, etc. thereon. Cell phones often are used with a case that surrounds the sides and back of the phone. In addition, cell phones can be utilized with skins that adhere or stick to the back and/or sides of the phone. The term “cell phone” is used herein to also refer to such cases or skins. Thus, a description of an item being attached to, affixed to, carried by, and the like, the cell phone or back thereof is intended to include being attached to, affixed to, carried by, and the like, the case or skin or back thereof. Furthermore, the terms “back surface” and “back” are used interchangeably for such mobile devices or cellular phones, and are intended to refer to the actual back or back surface of such devices, and the back or back surface of any case, cover, skin, film, etc. disposed thereon.

The terms “business”, “company” are used broadly and interchangeably herein to refer to an organization that provides a product or a service. The business, company or organization can have a name, logo, slogan, trademark, service mark, etc. that is capable of identifying and/or distinguishing the business or company, or product or service, or both, or can otherwise be utilized to market, promote, and/or brand the business or company, or product or service, or both.

The terms “indicium” and “indicia” are used interchangeably herein, unless otherwise noted.

The terms “magnet” and “ferromagnetic” are used interchangeably herein and broadly to refer to a material or element that has magnetic properties and/or an ability to magnetically couple, either by being magnetic, or being magnetically attracted to a magnet (such as by containing iron) such that one ferromagnetic material or element is magnetically attracted to another ferromagnetic material or element. Thus, a magnet is magnetic, such as a permanent magnet, or is attracted to magnets, such as by containing iron.

The terms “interference fit” and “friction fit” and “resistance fit” and “press fit” are terms of art used interchangeably herein to refer to deliberately causing, increasing and/or using friction to deliberately resist movement. An interference fit or friction fit is different than and greater than the existence of friction. While friction may exist between any two surfaces, is often desirable to do all one can to reduce this friction. An interference fit or friction fit can be distinguished from naturally occurring friction by being actually deliberately caused and increased. An interference fit can be created by dimensioning engaging parts so that their surfaces tightly bear against one another. A friction fit can be created by surface roughness that is rougher.

DESCRIPTION

As illustrated inFIGS. 1-9, a mobile device holder, indicated generally at10, in an example implementation in accordance with the invention is shown for facilitating handling or gripping of a mobile device14, such as a cellular phone, and providing unique experiences with the mobile device. The holder10has a base18with an inner side22affixed to the mobile device14. In one aspect, the base18can be affixed with doubled-sided tape or adhesive film26. In another aspect, the base18can be releasably attached with an attachment pad that has a tacky surface, as described below. The inner side22of the base can be flat, and can be affixed directly to a back of the mobile device14, or a case or skin thereof. In addition, the base18can be annular with a bore therethrough. Furthermore, the base18can have an axle30extending therefrom. The base18can be formed of metal, and by casting or machining, or can be formed of plastic, and by injection molding.

A hub34is carried by the base18, and is rotatable (indicated by36) on the base18about a rotational axis38. The hub34can be substantially round or circular to facilitate rotation. The rotation36can be continuous, or the hub34can rotate or revolve indefinitely, limited only by friction, in either direction. The rotation36can be described as 360 degree rotation. The hub34can be formed of metal, and by casting or machining, or can be formed of plastic, and by injection molding. A rotational bearing42can rotatably couple the hub34to the base18. The rotational bearing42can have an annular space or groove with a plurality of spherical bearings therein. The rotational bearing42can be positioned in the bore of the base18. In addition, the rotational bearing42can be secured to the hub34by a fastener extending through the rotational bearing. Thus, the rotational bearing42can couple the hub34to the base18, and/or the rotational bearing42can be coupled between the hub34and the base18. The hub34can have an exterior side46with an exterior surface facing outwardly. In one aspect, the exterior side46and the exterior surface thereof can be exposed.

A ring50is carried by the hub34, and is pivotally (indicated by52) coupled to the hub18about a pivot axis54that is orthogonal to the rotational axis38. The ring50can be substantially round or circular to facilitate rotation. The ring50can be formed of metal, and by casting or machining, or can be formed of plastic, and by injection molding. In one aspect, the ring50can have a gap58therein receiving a tab62extending laterally from the hub34. Thus, the ring50can be coupled to a lateral side of the hub34. In one aspect, a pin can extend through the ring50at the gap58thereof, and through the tab62of the hub34, to pivotally couple the ring50to the hub34. The pin can device the pivot axis54. The ring50is rotatable36with the hub14on the base18about the rotational axis38.

In addition, the ring50can pivot52with respect to the hub34about the pivot axis54between at least two positions, including a retracted position (FIGS. 1 and 2) and a deployed position (FIG. 3). In the retracted position, the ring50circumscribes the hub34and the axle30of the base18, and is adjacent the base18and the mobile device14. The ring50can be positioned in the retracted position in order to store the mobile device12, or to place the mobile device flat on a support surface66, as shown inFIG. 7. In the deployed position, the ring50is at an acute angle with respect to the hub34and extends from the hub34, the base18and/or the mobile device14. The ring50can be positioned in the deployed position in order to receive a user's finger to help hold the mobile device, as shown inFIG. 8. In addition, the ring50can be positioned in the deployed position in order to prop the mobile device14at an angle on the support surface66for viewing, as shown inFIG. 9. The pivotal connection between the ring50and the hub34can be a friction or resistance fit, such as by a press fit between the pin and bores in the ring and the hub or tab, to allow the ring to be oriented at a desired angle, and to maintain that orientation. Thus, the angle of the ring50with respect to the hub34can be changed and maintained by the friction fit. The pivoting of the ring50with respect to the hub34, the base18and/or the mobile device14can be characterized as substantially 180 degrees. The angle of the ring50with respect to the hub34in the deployed position can be substantially any angle greater than zero and up to 180 degree.

The holder10also has indicium or indicia70thereon, such as logo, indicative of or representing a business, a product, or both, carried thereby and visible to a viewer. The indicia70can identify or distinguish, or both, a business or entity, or product or service, or both. In one aspect, the indicia70can be disposed on the exterior side46of the hub34. Thus, the indicia70can rotate36with the hub34. In another aspect, the exterior side46of the hub34has a size or diameter, and the indicia70can extend across substantially the entire diameter of the exterior side.46. In addition, the indicia70can extend from one lateral side of the hub34to an opposite lateral side. Thus, the indicia70can extend substantially across the hub34to increase the visual effect when rotating36. In another aspect, the indicia70can cover a majority of the exterior surface of the exterior side46of the hub34. In another aspect, the indicia70can cover at least 75% of the exterior surface of the exterior side46of the hub34. In another aspect, the indicia70can cover essentially the entire exterior surface of the exterior side46of the hub34. Again, having the indicia70cover or substantially cover or extend across a diameter of the hub34can enhance the visual effect when the hub34spins on the base18. In one aspect, the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34can be flat, and the indicia70can be flat. Thus, the holder10and the hub34or the exterior side46thereof can lay flat against the support surface66, as shown inFIG. 7. In one aspect, the exterior surface of the exterior side46of the hub34can be flat and smooth. Thus, the flat surface can facilitate directly printing the indicia70thereon. In another aspect, the exterior surface of the exterior side46of the hub34can be contoured, such as with a wavy or corrugated profile, or a cross-hatched surface, to provide a non-slip surface against the support surface66.

In one aspect, the indicia70can be disposed on the hub, and/or the ring, by printing the indicia directly on the exterior side or exposed surface of the hub, and/or the ring. For example, direct ink jet printing or transfer pad printing can be used. In the case of transfer pad printing, multiple different etched clichés can be used for multiple different indicia for different holders.

In use, the holder10can be affixed or adhered to the back of the mobile device14. The ring50can be deployed to receive a user's finger to assist in holding the mobile device14. The ring50can be retracted for storage, or to lay the mobile device14upon a support surface66. In one aspect, the hub34can be spun about the rotational axis38, with the ring50retracted or deployed, to act as an attention getter, sometimes referred to as a fidget spinner. In another aspect, the indicia70of the holder10can be a business logo or the like, so that the holder can double as a promotional item.

Referring toFIGS. 10-15, another mobile device holder10bis shown that is similar in many respects to that described above, and which description is hereby incorporated herein by reference. The holder10bcan comprise pad110positioned on and extending from the hub34, and defining the exterior side or exterior surface. In one aspect, the exterior surface of the pad110can be tacky. Thus, the pad110can be a friction holding pad, and the tacky exterior surface can tend to cling to another object or surface, such as the support surface66, in a mechanical fashion, as opposed to a chemical or adhesive manner. In another aspect, the exterior surface of the pad110can extend beyond or above an exterior surface or exterior side46of the hub34and the ring50when the ring50is in the retracted position. In another aspect, the mobile device14can be placed on the support surface66, with the exterior surface of the pad110against the support surface66, as shown inFIG. 15. The tacky exterior surface of the pad110can cling to the support surface66to resist displacement of the mobile device14while allowing the mobile device14spin113about the rotational bearing.

In one aspect, the indicia70can be disposed on the exterior surface of the pad110. In another aspect, the pad110can be translucent or transparent, or at least translucent, and the indicia70b(FIG. 13) can be disposed between the hub34, or exterior side thereof, and the pad110, and visible through the pad110. In one aspect, the indicia70bcan be printed on the exterior side of the hub34. In another aspect, the indicia70bcan comprise a graphic layer disposed between the hub34and the pad110.

In one aspect, the pad110can comprise a polyurethane material, such as a polyurethane layer. It has been found that polyurethane can provide a tacky surface. In one aspect, the pad110can be affixed to the hub34with an adhesive. In another aspect, the pad110can be releasably attached to the hub34with utilizing the tacky nature of the pad110or the polyurethane material thereof. In one aspect, an inner surface of the pad110can be smoother than an outer surface of the pad. The inner surface can have a greater surface area in contact with the hub34to provide a greater frictional engagement. The outer surface can have less surface area in contact with the object or surface66to provide less frictional engagement. Thus, the pad110remains on the holder10bor the hub34when the holder10band the mobile device14are removed from the object or surface66, rather than removing the pad110from the holder10bor the hub34. The outer surface of the pad110can have contours or texture formed thereon to reduce the surface area of the outer surface in contact with the object or surface66. The outer surface of the pad110can be contoured to include protrusions and/or indentations. The protrusions and indentations can be rounded or curvilinear to form a more gradual transition between the protrusions and indentations, and create a contour on the outer surface that is wavy. The contour of the outer surface creates an outermost surface on outer ends of the protrusions that contacts the object or surface66. The outermost surface thus has less surface area in contact with the object or surface66than the inner surface has in contact with the hub34or the exterior side thereof. The contour, or protrusions or indentations, can extend at least substantially across the outer surface of the pad110. The contour can be disposed on a majority of the outer surface of the pad110. The contour can include an array or matrix of a plurality of indentations that can be formed in the outer surface of the pad110creating a plurality of protrusions therebetween.

The outer surface of the pad110can be non-chemically adhered to the object or surface66. Similarly, the inner surface can be “tacky” and can tend to cling to the hub34or exterior side thereof in a mechanical fashion, as opposed to a chemical or adhesive manner. In another aspect, the pad110or the inner surface thereof can be adhered to the hub34or the exterior side thereof.

In another aspect, the pad can be formed of or can include an expanded vinyl material. It has been found that the expanded vinyl material provides a good frictional or “tacky” quality that remains disposed on the surface, and that retains the items thereon. The expanded vinyl material of the frictional holding pad can form a temporary non-chemical bond with the object or surface66. The pad can be removed from the surface66without leaving behind any residue and without damaging the pad.

The expanded vinyl material more specifically can include: diisodecy/phlthalate; polymeric plasticer; a UV stabilizer; a vinyl hear stabilizer; a blowing agent for vinyl plastisol; and vinyl resin (plastic). The expanded vinyl material can have a weight between approximately 10 and 20 ounces per square yard; more preferably between approximately 12 and 18 ounces per square yard; and most preferably between approximately 14 and 16 ounces per square yard. The frictional holding pad10can have a thickness between approximately 0.03 and 0.09; more preferably between approximately 0.04 and 0.08 inches; and most preferably between approximately 0.05 and 0.06 inches.

The frictional holding pad can be formed of different layers with different materials. For example, the pad can have a skin layer formed on the inner surface formed of a different material than the rest of the pad. For example, the material of the skin layer can include: aqua ammonia (NH4OH); azardine; rubber; color; and body for thickening. The skin layer can have a thickness between 0.003 and 0.006 inches, and more preferably between 0.004 and 0.005 inches.

Referring toFIG. 16, another mobile device holder10cis shown that is similar in many respects to that described above, and which description is hereby incorporated herein by reference. The holder10cor the exterior side46cof the hub34ccan have an indentation130formed in the exterior side46cof the hub34cand circumscribed by an annular lip134. The pad110, as described above, can be affixed to the exterior side46cof the hub34c, and disposed in the indentation130. In one aspect, the indicia70can be on the exterior surface of the pad110. In another aspect, the indicia70bcan be disposed between the hub46cand the pad110, and the pad110can be at least translucent so that the indicia70bcan be visible through the pad110. In addition, the exterior surface of the pad110can extend above or beyond an exterior surface of the ring50when the ring is in the retracted position, and/or the exterior side46cof the hub34c. Thus, the pad110can have a thickness that is greater than a depth of the indentation130of the hub34c. In another aspect, the exterior surface of the pad110can be flush with the exterior surface of the ring50in the retracted position.

Referring toFIGS. 17-22, another mobile device holder10dis shown that is similar in many respects to that described above, and which description is hereby incorporated herein by reference. The holder10dcan comprise a domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150extending from the hub34and defining the exterior side or exterior surface. The indicia70is disposed on the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150. Thus, the indicia70can be curved or arcuate, and can be visible from the side. In one aspect, the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150extends beyond or above an exterior surface or exterior side46of the hub34and the ring50when the ring50is in the retracted position. In addition, the mobile device14can be placed on the support surface66, with the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150against the support surface66, as shown inFIG. 22. The mobile device14can be pivoted112about the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150. In addition, the entire mobile device14can be spun113about the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150. In another aspect, the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150can be tacky to resist movement of the surface150, and thus the mobile device14on the support surface66. For example, the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150can comprise a polyurethane.

In one aspect, the exterior side46of the hub34itself can be shaped to form the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150. In another aspect, the holder10dcan comprise a domed or semi-spherical medallion154affixed to the exterior surface or exterior side46of the hub34, and can define the exterior side upon which the indicia70is disposed. The domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150of the medallion154can extend beyond an exterior surface of the ring50when the ring is in the retracted position, as described above.

In another aspect, the holder10dand/or the medallion154can comprise a squat dome158affixed to the exterior surface or exterior side46of the hub34. The squat dome158can form the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150. The squat dome158can comprise a polyurethane dome. The polyurethane dome can be translucent or transparent. In addition, the polyurethane dome can further comprise a graphic layer162, forming the indicia70b, disposed between the exterior surface of the hub34and the polyurethane dome158, and visible through the polyurethane dome158. Thus, the polyurethane dome158can protect the graphic layer and indicia70b.

In one aspect, the dome158can have a broad, flat shape with an outfacing surface with a flat and smooth center surrounded by a radius perimeter. In addition, the dome158can have the indicia70or70b, such as logo, indicative of or representing a business, a product, or both, carried thereby and visible to a viewer. In one aspect, the indicia70can be on the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150. In another aspect, the indicia70bcan be disposed between the squat dome158or polyurethane dome and the hub34, and visible through the squat dome or polyurethane dome.

In one aspect, the medallion154and/or the polyurethane dome158can be translucent or transparent, so that the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34can be visible through the dome158. In another aspect, a graphic layer162can be disposed between the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34and the polyurethane dome158, and visible through the polyurethane dome. In one aspect, the graphic layer162can include the indicia70bso that the indicia70bis visible through the dome158, and protected by the dome158.

As stated above, in one aspect, the dome158can be a polyurethane dome. The dome158can include the adhesive film166adhered to the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34. The adhesive film166can use a chemical adhesive to adhere. The adhesive can be selected to provide sufficient adhesion between the dome158and the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34without separating as the holder10dis repeatedly used. The adhesive can also be selected so that the dome158can be removed if desired. Thus, the adhesive film can include a releasable adhesive, as opposed to a permanent adhesive. The adhesive film can be a repositionable adhesive film releasably and repositionably adhered to the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34. The adhesive film166can have an adhesive bond between the dome158and the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34. The adhesive film166also has a contact surface between the adhesive film or dome158and the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34. Furthermore, the adhesive and/or the adhesive film166can be substantially transparent, or at least translucent, so that the surface of the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34can be visible through the dome158and the adhesive film166. The adhesive and/or adhesive film166can be a removable 3M Controltac™ adhesive.

The adhesive film166can be disposed on a substrate. The substrate can also be a film. In one aspect, the substrate can be substantially non-absorbent. The substrate can provide a surface, such as an upper or inner surface opposite the adhesive that can be printable. In addition, the substrate can be substantially transparent, or at least translucent, so that the surface of the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34can be visible through the dome158, and the substrate. The substrate can be a printed 3M® graphics vinyl. Alternatively, the substrate can be a polyester film. The substrate can be any laminated (non-porous) substrate, including: polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polyester, regular sticker paper, vinyl, or tin metal (foil). Alternatively, the substrate can have be other films with other characteristics, such as reflective, metal shine, textured, etc.

The dome158can be affixed to the adhesive film166and/or the substrate, and adhered to the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34by the adhesive film. The dome158can be secured to the adhesive film166and/or substrate. The dome can have a broad, flat, squat shape with an outfacing surface that faces and contacts the user's or viewer's forehead. The outfacing surface can be smooth and flat and parallel with the adhesive layer. In addition, the outfacing surface can be surrounded by a radius perimeter. Thus, the perimeter of the outfacing surface curves toward the adhesive layer and face plate. In one aspect, all of the outfacing surface can be flat and smooth and continuous between the radiused perimeters. The dome and/or outward facing surface can be tacky to cling to the user's forehead or another surface, such as by mechanical or specific adhesion. Furthermore, the dome can be substantially transparent, or at least translucent, so that the surface of the face plate can be visible through the dome.

The dome158or the outfacing surface thereof can provide a non-slip surface that can engage the support surface66. Thus, the outfacing surface can be sufficiently tacky to cling to the support surface66, but sufficiently smooth or slippery to slid in and out of cases, purses, pockets of clothing and clothing accessories. The tackiness of the outfacing surface can be obtained through various factors, which can include material, hardness/softness, and coefficient of friction. As described above, the dome158can be formed of polyurethane. The polyurethane can be formed by combining a polyol with a catalyst or hardener. In one aspect, the ratio of polyol to catalyst can be between 1:0.63 to 0.85, so that there is more polyol than catalyst. In another aspect, the ratio of polyol to catalyst can be between 1:0.63 to 0.75. Typical polyurethane is obtained by mixing polyol and catalyst in a 1:1 ratio. In addition, in one aspect, the outfacing surface or the dome158can have a hardness between 10 and 35 Shore D. In another aspect, the outfacing surface or the dome158can have a hardness between 12 and 21 Shore D. In another aspect, the outfacing surface or the dome118can have a hardness between 12 and 18 Shore D. Other non-tacky stickers or decals typically can have a hardness of 60 Shore D or harder. Furthermore, the outfacing surface can have a coefficient of friction of between 0.3 and 0.1 in accordance with ASTM D 1894. Thus, the outwardly facing surface can be tacky to cling to the support surface66, but smooth to facilitate insertion and removal from a pocket or purse.

A strength of the adhesive bond between the adhesive film166and the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34can be greater than a tacky cling between the outfacing surface of the dome118and the support surface66. Thus, the dome158remains on the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34while the holder10dand dome158are removed from the support surface66. In addition, the contact surface between the adhesive layer166of the dome158and the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34can be greater than the outfacing surface of the dome118contacting the support surface66to further retain the dome158on the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34as the holder10dand the dome158are removed from the support surface66. Furthermore, the contact surface between the adhesive layer166of the dome158and the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34can have a perimeter greater than and circumscribing a perimeter of the outfacing surface of the dome118that contacts the support surface66.

A graphic layer162can be disposed between the adhesive film166and the dome158, or between the substrate and the dome. The graphic layer162can include ink disposed on or printed on the substrate. For example, the graphic layer162can be an aqueous based inkjet ink. The graphic layer162can include indicia70b, such as a logo, a picture, etc. In addition, the graphic layer162can include directions for use, orientation, care, etc. Furthermore, the graphic layer162can be or can include other inclusions, as described in greater detail below. The graphic layer162can be visible through the dome158. The graphic layer162and/or inclusion can be smaller or can have a smaller size than the substrate and the dome158such that the graphic layer and inclusion are surrounded by a perimeter of the dome and the substrate. In one aspect, the graphic layer162can include indicia70that is indicative of a business, company or organization, such as a name, logo, slogan, trademark, service mark, etc. that is capable of identifying and/or distinguishing the business or company, or product or service, or both, or can otherwise be utilized to market, promote, and/or brand the business or company, or product or service, or both.

The dome158can have a circular shape, as shown. Alternatively, other shapes are possible, such as a triangular shape with rounded corners or scripted (i.e. shaped-like letters). In one aspect, the dome158can be smaller than the surface of the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34to which it is applied. In addition, the dome158can have a thickness between 1-2 mm in one aspect, and 1.2-1.5 mm in another aspect. The thickness of the dome158can be dimensionally stable so that the dome is not generally compressible. The dome158can have a stiffness with a self-supporting flat layer, yet can be flexible enough to be bent to conform to a curvature of the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34(if present). The adhesive layer166can be sufficient to overcome the stiffness of the dome158and maintain the curved or bent nature of the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34when adhered to the exterior side46or exterior surface of the hub34(if curved). In addition, the dome158can be elastic to return to its self-supporting flat layer. The dome158and the outfacing surface can be substantially solid, flat, smooth and continuous.

As indicated above, the graphic layer162can be or can include an inclusion. The inclusions can be embedded in the dome158. For example, the graphic layer162can be an etched metallic layer. The metallic layer can be etched to form the indicia70. Other inclusions can be an LED (or other light source) and a battery power source; a hologram or lenticular artwork; an RFID computer chip or tag; a mirror; one or more gems or faux gems; etc. For example, an LED can be electrically coupled to a battery. The LED may remain continuously activated or lit. Alternatively, the LED may be activated, or the leads for the LED selectively contacted by the battery, such as by pressure applied to the dome158. Alternatively, a light sensor can be electrically coupled between the battery and the LED to activate the LED in low light conditions. Other electronics can be included for special effects, such as flashing, etc. It will be appreciated that multiple lights or LEDs of one or more color can be included or embedded in the dome158. As another example, a gem or faux gem can be embedded in the dome158. The inclusion(s) can be disposed on the adhesive film166and/or substrate, and surrounded by the material of the dome158so that the inclusion project into the dome. Thus, the inclusions can be inclusions for the dome158and/or the graphics layer162.

The dome158can also include inclusions embedded therein. For example, the dome158can include a scented material, such as a scented oil, that is permeable through the polyurethane material of the dome. In addition, the dome158can be colored and translucent. Furthermore, the dome158can include a florescent material.

In another aspect, the dome158can have an opaque dome with a graphic layer, such as printing, on the outfacing surface. The opaque dome can have a color to match or complement the hub34or the holder10d.

As mentioned above, the dome158can have any shape. In addition, the dome158can be “scripted,” i.e. shaped as particular letters, symbols, etc.; which can be interconnected or can be one or more separate and discrete portions.

As discussed above, the dome158or the outfacing surface can have a radius perimeter. The dome158can be made by pouring the polyurethane material on top of the substrate and graphic layer162to form the dome. Thus, the radius perimeter is obtained by individual pouring each dome, without stamping or cutting the dome from a continuous layer. The graphic layer162can be printed on the substrate having the adhesive film166opposite the graphic layer. The graphic layer162can be a discrete graphic contained within the dome158, as opposed to a continuous graphic.

Referring toFIG. 23, another mobile device holder10eis shown that is similar in many respects to that described above, and which description is hereby incorporated herein by reference. The holder10eor the exterior side46eof the hub34ecan have an indentation170formed in the exterior side46eof the hub34eand circumscribed by an annular lip174. A domed or semi-spherical medallion154or a dome158, as described above, can be affixed to the exterior side46eof the hub34e, and disposed in the indentation170, and defining the exterior side. The indicia70can be on the domed or semi-spherical exterior surface150of the medallion154or the dome158. A distalmost tip of the medallion154or the dome158can be flush or level or coplanar with an exterior surface of the ring50when the ring is in the retracted position, and/or the exterior side46eof the hub34e. Thus, the medallion154or the dome158can have a thickness that equals, or is less than, a depth of the indentation170of the hub34e.

In another aspect, the distalmost tip of the medallion154or the dome158can extend beyond or above an exterior surface of the ring50when the ring is in the retracted position, and/or the exterior side46eof the hub34e. Thus, the medallion154or the dome158can have a thickness that is great than a depth of the indentation170of the hub34e.

Referring toFIG. 24, another mobile device holder10fis shown that is similar in many respects to that described above, and which description is hereby incorporated herein by reference. The ring50has an exterior surface facing outwardly when the ring is in the retracted position. The exterior surfaces of the hub34and the ring50are separated by an annular gap180defining a seam. The exterior surfaces of the hub34and the ring50are flush or coplanar when the ring is in the retracted position. The indicia70fcan extend across the diameter of the ring50and across the exterior surfaces of the hub34and the ring50. The indicia70fcan be interrupted by the seam or gap140.

As indicated above, one or more of the mobile device holders described above can be used as at least part of a promotional system. The indicia can promote a business and/or a product, and multiple mobile device holders can be provided with the same indicia indicative of the business and/or the product, which can be given away by the business to promote the business and/or the product. Thus, the mobile device holders can be promotional items. Thus, multiple mobile device holders can be obtained, as well as multiple different indicia, or medallions or domes. A first plurality of first indicia can be disposed on a first plurality of mobile device holders, while a second plurality of second indicia, different than the first indicia, can be disposed on a second plurality of mobile device holders. Thus, the same multiple of mobile device holders can be used for different indicia. In one aspect, disposing or affixing the indicia to the hub, and/or the ring, of the multiple mobile device holders can comprise printing the indicia directly on the exterior side or exposed surface of the hub, and/or the ring. For example, direct ink jet printing or transfer pad printing can be used. In the case of transfer pad printing, multiple different etched clichés can be used for multiple different indicia. In another aspect, disposing or affixing the indicia to the hub of the multiple mobile device holders can comprise preparing multiple different medallions or domes, each with the different indicia. Thus, a plurality of different indicia is each disposed on a different one of the plurality of domed or semi-spherical medallions.

Referring toFIGS. 25a-28, a mount200in accordance with an embodiment is shown with a mobile device14and a holder as described above, and represented by holder10. The mount200can be secured to a support surface66, such as a dashboard of a vehicle. In addition, the mount200can receive the holder10to releasably secure the mobile device14to the support surface via the holder10. The mount200can have a cavity204, or primary cavity, sized and shaped to receive and match the holder10, or the hub34and ring50thereof. The mount200can have an opening into the cavity204. Thus, the holder10, and the hub34and the ring50, can nest in the cavity204. A releasable attachment208can be disposed in a secondary cavity212adjacent the primary cavity204in the holder to releasably secure the hub34and the ring50in the cavity204. In one aspect, the releasable attachment208can be a magnet. In another aspect, the releasable attachment can comprise the tacky exterior surface of the pad described above. An annular face of the mount200can abut to the mobile device14such that the entire holder10, or all of the hub34and the ring50, is received in the cavity204. The mount200can have a mount surface216opposite the cavity204and the opening thereto.

Referring toFIGS. 29a-32, another mount200bsimilar in many respects to that described above is shown, and which description is hereby incorporated herein by reference. The mount200bcan have a wireless charging coil220carried by the mount and positioned to be disposed adjacent the mobile device14when the hub34and the ring are disposed in the cavity204of the mount. The wireless charging coil220can be coupled to a power source and a controller to modulate an electrical charge and thus a magnetic field to induce a magnetic field in a charging coil in the mobile device to produce an electrical charge therein to charge a battery in the mobile device while the mobile device is attached to the mount. The term charging coil220is used broadly herein to refer to any type of antenna or coupler in which wireless charging is accomplished.

In another aspect, the base18can be affixed to the mobile device14with an attachment pad disposed on the inner side of the base18to releasably affix the base to the mobile device14. The attachment pad can be the same as the pad described above. In one aspect, the attachment pad can comprise a polyurethane pad with a tacky outer surface.