Abstract:
An accessory that attaches to an electronic multimedia device  1  (FIG.  1 ) such as an E-Reader, where the user slips a hand under an elastic material  2  (FIG.  1 ) to receive support while holding said device. This accessory allows a more comfortable and secure multimedia experience even allowing navigation with the same hand that holds said device. An optional attachment (FIG.  4 ) fits around this accessory without obstructing its hand-support functionality while retracted, and opens at variable angles to support said device on a working surface for hands-free viewing at continuously selectable angles (FIG.  6 ).

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    PPA: 61/327,801 Apr. 26, 2010 
     
    
     FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH 
       [0002]    Not applicable. 
       SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM 
       [0003]    Not applicable. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    1. Field of Invention 
         [0005]    This invention relates to electronic devices, such as electronic readers and tablet computers that have recently become available and are growing in popularity. These devices provide a portable means of consuming electronic media such as reading books, newspapers and magazines or surfing the Internet. 
         [0006]    2. Prior Art 
         [0007]    Electronic devices are navigated either by physical controls on the device or by interacting with the touch screen surface. Since the hands are used to both support these devices and to navigate the media presented on them, users find that the devices are prone to receiving frequent inadvertent commands when the user touches an unintended area of the device. Presently, using these devices requires two hands and therefore the user tires quickly as neither hand gets respite. This condition is hastened when said electronic devices are used in a reclining position where the device is held above the level of the heart because this position facilitates fatigue in the hands and arms. Users also desire extra support so that one hand can be freed for other tasks such as holding a rail on public transit, answering a phone, sipping a beverage, or simply lying in a position that is more comfortable than that afforded when one must hold an electronic device with two hands. Also, users who do not have full use of two hands require extra support. Finally, these devices are delicate and expensive, and users fear they will drop them. 
         [0008]    To date the existing art designed to support electronic devices in the user&#39;s hand is limited to devices the size of a cell phone. U.S. Pat. No. 7,050,841 provides a protective cover with protruding ribs that aid in gripping the device. U.S. Pat. No. 5,383,091 provides a similar cover but with recessed areas to fit the fingers, again appropriate only for cell phone sized devices. These solutions still require the user to actively grip the device at all times. U.S. Pat. No. 4,810,018 was designed for hand held calculators back in the 1970s, and while that design could probably be technically used on said electronic devices, that design is clearly not appropriate for extended uses such as reading or browsing the Internet as rings or tubes around the fingers would become uncomfortable very fast. It also would necessarily force the user to choose which hand to use. 
         [0009]    Some users desire the ability to prop said electronic devices in a semi vertical position on a table or similar surface in order to read hands-free. There are various fixed holders on the market which one can readily find via an Internet search on “Desktop Holder.” Most such designs limit the user to a particular location such as the home since travel with such bulky items is prohibitive. U.S. Pat. No. 6,068,299 was originally designed as a holder of traditional books that can also hold said electronic devices and is being marketed as such. It collapses into a slim enough profile to be appropriate to pack when travelling, but it is much too bulky to include inside the sleek neoprene or leather covers that are popular with these devices. This design also limits the user to only two viewing positions, and to change positions involves removing the device, inverting the holder and re-adjusting the device inside the holder. 
         [0010]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,726,070 addresses the same functionality but is clearly too bulky for my target devices. 
         [0011]    U.S. Pat. No. 7,469,809 is an invention that purports to describe how to attach a strap to a portable device. The functionality is the same as my invention, but their claim is that their strap attaches to separate top and bottom brackets. Key missing information is exactly how the brackets attach to the portable device.  FIG. 3B  shows a bracket apparently being screwed into a recession in the portable device. This is not an option for my target devices and audience: nobody is going to screw a bracket into his tablet or eReader. Also, their structure requires a manual shifting of positions of the strap top and bottom to accommodate left and right hands, whereas my invention requires no such bothersome effort. Finally, my device attaches in seconds with mounting tape and no tools which any user can do. 
         [0012]    U.S. Pat. No. 7,841,575 B1 post dates mine, but in any event it provides a stand which has the similar functionality as my stand, but is targeting a medical flat panels and is impractical for my target devices and audience: it requires a screw in bracket which would destroy an eReader or tablet computer. 
         [0013]    Patent US 2003/0089832 A1 is a PDA stand that can help the user hold the device. It is clearly not a design that will work with eReaders or tablet computers as this device would weigh more than the device it is purporting to help the user hold. It also does not secure the hand as my invention does, but rather drapes across it. 
         [0014]    Patent US 2005/0205623 A1 is an invention where a stretchy material is affixed to the back of a small device such as a remote control or a PDA and a single finger slipped through the material will secure the device to the user&#39;s hand. Such a design cannot be scaled to be appropriate for my target devices. 
         [0015]    Patent US 2009/0219677 A1 is too bulky and impractical for my target devices. It is targeting notebook computers and cannot be properly scaled down to be used on my target devices. 
         [0016]    Patent US 2009/0283559 A1 is an amazing display of trying to patent a concept that has no material manifestation. This ‘inventor’ wants to patent the concept of somehow attaching a strap to a mobile device to help hold the hand, but has no clue as to how to accomplish it.  FIG. 1  shows a small phone-like device with a much too thin strap mysteriously connected top and bottom. The claims go on to speculate on what might work, such as Velcro, snaps, etc. The details of an actual structure are what is key to any such actual invention. Presumably this ‘inventor’ wants to make vague claims and wait for someone to actually invent a structure that will work, then he will sue for the profits. 
         [0017]    Patent US 2010/0296235 A1 targets large notebook computers that remain horizontal. Its three point fastening system cannot be adapted to small devices such as eReaders and tablet computers that are mostly held vertically. Simple inspection of  FIG. 1A  shows that it cannot support a vertical orientation of these devices. 
         [0018]    Patent US 2011/0031287 A1 post dates my PPA but in any event it is a device that attaches to the back of such devices and provides a kickstand support. This design is problematic in that it has to be custom designed to fit the precise shape of each model, it is quite bulky, and it provides no hand support. 
       Objects and Advantages 
       [0019]    My invention offers a solution to the current need for a device to assist the user when holding said electronic devices, and an optional attachment solves the aforementioned disadvantages of the existing solutions for a desktop holder of same. 
         [0020]    My invention semi-permanently attaches directly to the back of the electronic device or its cover, and provides a means for either hand to slip between supporting materials that hold the hand firmly and comfortably to the electronic reader, and virtually eliminates the need for the user to grip the electronic device. While using my invention, the electronic device seems to become an extension of the user&#39;s hand. Since the user no longer has to grip the electronic device, this frees the thumb for navigation, transforming the electronic device into a one-handed device in many situations. This completely frees the other hand for other tasks such as holding a rail on public transit, answering a phone, sipping a beverage, or simply allowing the user to lie in a position that is more comfortable than that afforded when one must hold an electronic device with two hands. 
         [0021]    The fear of dropping an electronic device is amplified in public settings where a distracted owner can be suddenly bumped by another person. My invention helps to bestow confidence in such situations. 
         [0022]    While using my invention, the hand supporting the electronic device is being held by the electronic device. This relaxes the supporting hand and frees the other so that accidental mis-navigation events are significantly reduced. 
         [0023]    Since my invention can be used by either hand, the user can exchange which hand is supporting the electronic device, giving both hands the respite they need. My invention makes it easy to use an electronic device in a reclining position, as virtually no gripping by the user&#39;s hand is needed. Generally the blood supply to the hand is reduced in the reclining position as the hand is above the heart, which can rapidly lead to aching if the hand muscles are being exerted. My invention is lightweight, keeping the overall weight being supported within acceptable bounds. My invention has a low profile, allowing the electronic device outfitted with it to fit within the covers that are popular with these devices. Since it stays mounted to the electronic reader the user will not forget to bring along and will not lose my invention. 
         [0024]    An optional Desk Prop attachment allows the electronic reader to stand upright on a desk for hands-free reading. Said Desk Prop attaches semi-permanently to the reader so it has the advantage over existing holders that the user will not forget to bring it along when traveling. It has the additional advantage that the user cannot lose it. Yet another advantage is that it retracts against the electronic device and snugly around the main invention in a way that does not increase the overall profile of the electronic reader. The electronic reader will still fit inside its cover with both the main invention and this optional attachment mounted. 
         [0025]    When in the retracted position, the Desk Prop will not interfere with the use of the main invention. The user&#39;s experience with the main grip invention will be virtually the same with the Desk Prop installed and in the retracted position as it is without the optional Desk Prop. When the user wants to view the electronic device hands-free, the Desk Prop opens quickly and easily into a wide, continuous range of viewing angles from vertical to almost flat on the desk. Changing the viewing angle involves nothing more than the user simply changing the angle. 
         [0026]    With or without the optional Desk Prop, the slim profile, the sleek styling and the colors available make my invention seem like a natural part of the electronic device making it an attractive option for discriminating users. 
         [0027]    Further objects and advantages of my invention will become apparent from a consideration of the drawings and ensuing description. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0028]    In accordance with the present invention, the gripping device affords a means to assist a user&#39;s hand when holding an electronic multimedia device. In the preferred embodiment said gripping device comprises a flat, thin base that is mounted directly to the back of an electronic multimedia device or its cover, with elastic material attached to said base in a manner allowing either hand to fit between said elastic material and said base. 
         [0029]    In accordance with the present attachment to said gripping device, the optional Desk Prop affords a means to prop an electronic multimedia device in an upright viewing position on a mostly horizontal surface hands-free. In the preferred embodiment said Desk Prop comprises a flat, thin frame that, in its retracted position, closes snuggly around all four sides of said gripping device and attaches via a hinge to a flat, thin base mounted directly to the electronic device immediately above said gripping device. The hinge allows said Desk Prop to open at the bottom away from the multimedia device. The part of this frame that contacts the supporting surface on which the multimedia device is propped is highly skid resistant, with a small strip of such material attached to the bottom of the multimedia device. This configuration allows the user to open the Desk Prop frame to a wide, continuous variety of viewing angles, and the friction will maintain the selected viewing angle during hands-free viewing. 
     
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
       Figures 
         [0030]      FIG. 1  is a rear view of an electronic multimedia device with my invention attached without the optional desktop holder attachment. This figure shows how the user&#39;s hand fits between the base and the elastic material. 
           [0031]      FIG. 2  is a rear perspective view of my invention unattached to anything. 
           [0032]      FIG. 3  is a front perspective view of my invention unattached to anything. 
           [0033]      FIG. 4  is a front plan view of my optional Desk Prop attachment unattached to anything. 
           [0034]      FIG. 5  is a front plan view of my optional Desk Prop attachment unattached to anything with the gripping device embedded within its frame. 
           [0035]      FIG. 6  is a rear perspective view of a multimedia device with my gripping device affixed with the Desk Prop attachment in the open position. 
       
    
    
     DRAWINGS 
     Reference Numerals 
       [0036]      
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 1 
                 Multimedia electronic device 
                 2 
                 Elastic material - visible 
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 when installed 
               
               
                 3 
                 Elastic material - hidden 
                 4 
                 Grip Base 
               
               
                   
                 when installed 
               
               
                 5 
                 Mounting tape 
                 6 
                 Desk Prop frame 
               
               
                 7 
                 Desk Prop hinge 
                 8 
                 Desk Prop base 
               
               
                 9 
                 Embedded Grip 
                 10 
                 Bottom edge of Desk Prop 
               
               
                 11 
                 Bottom edge of multimedia device 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Preferred Embodiment 
       [0037]    A preferred embodiment of my Grip invention, hereafter referred to as Grip, is shown as it is intended to be used in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 1  shows what is henceforth referred to as the visible side of the Grip.  FIG. 2  shows a rear perspective view of what is henceforth referred to as the hidden side of the Grip. To construct the Grip one begins by cutting a rectangle of suitable dimensions from a sheet of rigid plastic, such as ABS. This rectangle is henceforth referred to as the Grip Base. Examination of  FIG. 1 . shows how the user&#39;s hand is in constant contact with an edge of the Grip Base during use. This edge and the edge opposite it should be rounded to ensure comfort. This is easily accomplished with a roundover router bit, although other methods such as sanding are possible. The side of the Grip Base that is rounded will become the visible side. 
         [0038]    A suitable length of elastic fabric with approximately 100% elasticity (8 inches relaxed fabric can be stretched to about 16 inches) is stretched along one of the rounded edges with the two ends of the fabric  3  ( FIG. 2 ) almost meeting on the hidden side of the Grip Base  4 . The fabric is aligned so that a single thread overhangs the Grip Base, to be explained later in the Operation section. The fabric is then temporarily held in place with, for example, a binder clip at the very edge of the Grip Base. This process is repeated for the opposite edge. Once both pieces of fabric are in place a brush is used to apply a suitable glue such as acrylic glue directly to the fabric  3  on the hidden side of the Grip Base  4  in sufficient quantity that it permeates through the fabric and onto the Grip Base. Immediately upon applying glue pressure is applied to the fabric  3  against the Grip Base  4  until the glue sets, approximately two minutes for acrylic glue. This pressure can come from a weight or mechanical press, but it should be uniform across the entire glued fabric and applied with a flat surface that is neutral (will not bond with) the glue being used. Soon after the glue has set the pressure is removed to allow the fabric to dry. 
         [0039]    Two pieces of mounting tape are attached at each end of the remaining exposed Grip Base on the hidden side  5 . The protective outer wax paper covering is left in place for the user to remove just before installing the Grip. The extra strength mounting tape is probably not desired since the normal strength seems adequate to hold target multimedia devices. Any stronger tape than necessary just makes it more difficult for the user to remove the Grip if ever so desired. Locating the mounting tape at either end of the base facilitates removal if needed. 
         [0040]    Over time, the prolonged exposure of the glue in the fabric next to a multimedia device can cause discoloration. Placement of vinyl tape over the glued fabric  3  provides a protective barrier to protect said devices. 
       Operation 
     Preferred Embodiment 
       [0041]      FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of the visible side of the Grip with the elastic fabric  2  stretched around two rounded edges of the Grip Base  4 . The user will remove the protective wax paper from the two pieces of mounting tape  5  ( FIG. 2 ) and attach the Grip to the back of a multimedia device, typically near the bottom if the device is an electronic reader. The rounded edge of the Grip Base combined with the single thread overlap of the elastic fabric (described above in the detailed description) facilitates sliding one&#39;s hand between the fabric and the Grip Base.  FIG. 1  shows the typical placement of the hand inside the Grip, although the user can easily extend the fingers under the second elastic band affording a more secure grip. 
         [0042]    The Grip allows the user to hold onto the multimedia device with minimal or no effort required by the hand. Without the Grip two hands are required when navigating the multimedia device, and two hands are generally needed to just hold onto said device. When using the Grip, only one hand is needed to support the multimedia device, and in many cases the same hand used to support said device can be used to navigate it, freeing the other hand to hold a transit handrail, carry or use other personal items, or to more easily navigate said device. When reclining, the Grip reduces hand fatigue since the user can exert minimal effort in the hand muscles. If the user falls asleep reading, there is less chance the multimedia device will fall out of the hand before awakening. 
       DESCRIPTION 
     Additional Embodiment (Optional Attachment for Extended Functionality) 
       [0043]    An additional embodiment is shown in  FIGS. 4 through 6 . This embodiment, referred to henceforth as the Desk Prop, is an optional attachment to the preferred embodiment referred to as the Grip.  FIG. 4  shows a front plan view of the Desk Prop attached to nothing and without any embedded Grip. The Desk Prop in its current embodiment comprises a hollowed rectangular frame  6 , henceforth referred to as the Frame, permanently attached to a base  8 , henceforth referred to as the Desk Prop Base, with a hinge  7 . It is important to keep the profile of the Desk Prop consistent with the profile of its embedded Grip for aesthetic and functional purposes. There are a variety of choices for the materials that can be used. For example, the Desk Prop Base  8  and the frame  6  can be made of the same material as the Grip Base  4  ( FIGS. 2 and 3 ), such as ABS plastic. In this case a metal piano hinge  7  can be attached to the Desk Prop Base  8  and the frame  6  using the method known as heat staking. Another option would be to use materials for the Desk Prop Base  8  and the frame  6  that allow the use of a so called living hinge. In this configuration, the three separate components shown in  FIG. 4  are constructed of a single molded unit using a highly flexible plastic such as polypropylene or polyethylene. The important factors determining the actual configuration include durability, consistency (with Grip) and low profile, ease of manufacturing, and an overall aesthetic and functional superiority. 
         [0044]    The bottom of the frame  10  ( FIG. 6 ) must be made of or coated with a material that has high skid resistance, or in other words, a material that has a high coefficient of friction with a typical desktop or tabletop surface. This can be accomplished by adding rubber feet, or preferably, by manufacturing the frame by overmolding with a thermoplastic elastomer. If sufficiently economical, the three edges not including the living hinge of the frame could be overmolded to enhance the aesthetic quality. 
         [0045]    A small strip or strips of highly skid-resistant material need to be added to the bottom of the multimedia device  11  ( FIG. 6 ) using mounting tape. This helps ensure the proper functionality of the Desk Prop as described in the Operation section to follow. 
       Operation 
     Additional Embodiment (Optional Attachment for Extended Functionality) 
       [0046]    By adding the optional attachment, referred to as the Desk Prop, the user can view a multimedia device hands-free. To install, the user merely removes the protective wax paper on the mounting tape secured to the underside of the Desk Prop Base  8  ( FIG. 4 ) and positions the frame  6  around the previously installed Grip  9  ( FIG. 5 ).  FIG. 6  is a rear perspective view of a multimedia device standing somewhat upright on a flat surface. The frame  6  can open away from the multimedia device at many continuous angles and is held in place at a given angle by the friction between the two edges  10  and  11  and the surface on which the multimedia device rests. The ability to fine tune the angle makes this design appealing since the user may at times find a narrow range of such viewing angles due to multiple sources of glare. 
         [0047]    The Desk Prop frame  6  closes snugly around the Grip  9  ( FIG. 5 ), the slight compression between the frame  6  and the elastic fabric keeping it closed. In the closed position the Grip can still be used to help support the user&#39;s hand since the frame closes flush with the Grip Base on the embedded Grip  9 . This attachment is lightweight and durable, adding significant functionality without sacrificing any benefit from the Grip alone, including the ability to pack the multimedia device into an existing cover. It is simple to use, just pull out to the position you want, adjust the angle at will, and when finished push it closed. The user gets the functionality of a separate, bulky device holder but without the hassle of packing or potentially misplacing or losing another accessory. The design is simple enough to keep it competitive with other holders on the market. 
       DESCRIPTION 
     Additional Embodiment 
       [0048]    An additional embodiment to the Grip comprises an elastic material that is directly attached to a case or cover for a multimedia device. This could be a simple elastic fabric as described in the preferred embodiment that is directly attached to a case or cover as part of the manufacturing process. Some existing cases or covers for multimedia devices consist of one flap to which the underside of said multimedia device is attached while the other flap closes onto the front of the device. An elastic strap that is attached to the inside front flap (when flap is closed) would be positioned behind the device when the flap is fully open. If the flap, in the open position, is secured to the back flap with hook and loop, magnet and base plate, or other material or means, the elastic strap could be used in the same manner described for the preferred embodiment. Such a strap could be located on both edges of the flap to allow usage by either hand. To allay fears users might have of the fabric touching the surface of said multimedia device when the flap is closed, one could use simple spacers (for example, rubber feet or just doubly thick material sewn) above and below the location of the screen to prevent such contact. The extent of the elastic would need to be similar to that demonstrated in the preferred embodiment (a bit longer than the width of a typical human hand) and not along the entire height of the cover. This will help provide the necessary holding power. 
         [0049]    Alternatively, a strap could be manufactured onto the back flap of a cover, but this would restrict the user to a single hand that is on the same side. 
       Operation 
     Additional Embodiment 
       [0050]    The operation and benefits would be nearly the same as described for the preferred embodiment. The advantage of this approach is that users who like to keep their multimedia devices inside their covers while reading would be accommodated and only one accessory, the cover, need be purchased. The disadvantage is the cover is heavier than the preferred embodiment and it must be used in order to take advantage of the grip assistance. 
       DESCRIPTION 
     Additional Embodiment 
       [0051]    An additional embodiment comprises a standalone loop of elastic material that stretches around a front or back flap of a cover for a multimedia device. Such a loop could have spacers (described in the previous embodiment) directly attached to the loop to keep the fabric off the surface of the multimedia device. Said loop of elastic material could serve a double purpose, also helping to keep the cover closed and/or opened. 
       Operation 
     Additional Embodiment 
       [0052]    The operation of this embodiment is similar to the previous embodiment. The advantage of this embodiment is that the cost is minimal and the loop can be packed with the cover. The disadvantage is that the ability to help secure the hand to the multimedia device is significantly reduced because the length must stretch around the entire height of the cover. This allows too much give, and while better than no assistance whatever, it is significantly less user friendly than the previous embodiments. 
       DESCRIPTION 
     Additional Embodiment 
       [0053]    This alternative embodiment combines the design and functionality of the preferred embodiment of the Grip with the additional embodiment referred to as the Desk Prop into a single unit. In this configuration a Grip is not attached with mounting tape  5  as in  FIG. 2 , but rather is made with a living hinge at the top, and it is the base of the living hinge that is secured to the multimedia device with mounting tape. The opposite end of the Grip can be attached to the multimedia device with hook and loop material, magnet and base plate, or other means that allows repeated attaching and un-attaching. The bottom of the Grip between elastic bands would be made of highly skid-resistant material and such material would be attached to the bottom of the multimedia device. In this configuration it is the Grip itself that swivels outward and serves the same function as the Desk Prop frame  6  ( FIG. 6 ) in a previous embodiment in propping up the multimedia device. The advantage of this configuration is that there is only a single accessory to buy that accomplishes two tasks, so price and weight are optimized. 
       Operation 
     Additional Embodiment 
       [0054]    In this embodiment the user employs the Grip the same way as described in the preferred embodiment for the Grip. When hands-free operation is desired, the user opens the Grip from the bottom, adjusts to the desired angle and rests the device on the desktop. When hands-free operation is no longer desired, the user closes the Grip against the multimedia device.