Patent Publication Number: US-2023141208-A1

Title: Security apparatus for the functional display of portable electronic devices

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of and priority to a U.S. National Stage patent application Ser. No. 17/297,677 filed on May 27, 2021, which was a 371 application of International Application No.: PCT/US20/42092 filed on Jul. 15, 2020, which claims priority to the following Provisional patent applications: Patent Application No. 62/874,277, filed Jul. 15, 2019, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/994,305, filed on Mar. 25, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/011,390, filed on Apr. 17, 2020. The entirety of these applications are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD 
     This invention relates to a security apparatus that is easily locked and unlocked, and which facilitates functional and secure display of portable, mobile, or handheld electronic devices of various sizes and shapes. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Retailers sell a wide range of portable or hand held electronic devices that can assist in or perform a multitude of tasks for the a user or customer. Part of the purchasing experience is having the ability to examine and test the device. This is done using floor models that are fitted with some form of security apparatus to prevent theft of the portable electronic device. 
     Some of the security apparatuses used by retailers allow a customer to pick up the electronic device while keeping it attached or tethered to the security apparatus. Other security apparatuses comprise a fixed portion that remains coupled to the display surface and a second portion coupled to the electronic device. These types of security apparatuses allow the customer to freely hold the electronic device while the second portion of the security apparatus remains attached to the electronic device. Unfortunately, these security apparatuses are not suitable for all types of electronic devices and provide a lower level of theft protection. Overall, many of the security apparatuses currently in use sacrifice security for the functional display of a portable electronic device. 
     The other security apparatuses in use err on the side of security over functional display and/or ease of operation. Consequently, they are cumbersome to operate and require undue time and effort to load and unload a portable electronic device. These security apparatuses also do not allow customers to fully interact with a portable electronic device while it is secured by the security apparatus. Another drawback of the security apparatuses currently in use is that they are designed for specific electronic devices and are not able to be adjusted to be used with other portable electronic devices. Therefore, a retailer will be required to more than one size/type of security apparatus in order to securely display a wide range of portable electronic devices. 
     These are just some of the problems associated with current security apparatuses for handheld or portable electronic devices. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       A more particular description of the invention briefly summarized above may be had by reference to the embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. Thus, for further understanding of the nature and objects of the invention, references can be made to the following detailed description, read in connection with the drawings in which: 
         FIG.  1    illustrates a perspective front view of an embodiment of a security apparatus; 
         FIG.  2 A  illustrates a top plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  2 B  illustrates a bottom plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a perspective rear view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  4    illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a side plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  6    illustrates a side plan view of an embodiment of a support member of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  7 A  illustrates a partial top plan view of an embodiment of a support member of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  7 B  illustrates a close up side plan view of area A from  FIG.  7     a;    
         FIG.  8    illustrates a close up view of and embodiment of an arm coupled to a support member of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  9    illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a lock assembly of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  10    illustrates a front perspective view of another embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  11 A  illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus securing a laptop computer in a closed position; 
         FIG.  11 B  illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus securing a laptop computer in a closed position; 
         FIG.  12 A  illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus securing a laptop computer in an open position; 
         FIG.  12 B  illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus securing a laptop computer in an open position; 
         FIG.  13 A  illustrates a side perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus securing a laptop computer in a closed position; 
         FIG.  13 B  illustrates a side perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus securing a laptop computer in an open position; 
         FIG.  14    illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  15 A  illustrates a right side plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  15 B  illustrates a left side plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  16    is a partially exploded view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  17    illustrates a side plan view of an embodiment of a holder of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  18 A  illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus securing a Smart Phone; 
         FIG.  18 B  illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus securing a Smart Phone; 
         FIG.  19    illustrates a front perspective view of another embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  20    illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  21    illustrates a bottom plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  22    illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  23    illustrates a top plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  24    illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  25    illustrates a bottom plan view of a portion of an embodiment of the security apparatus showing a bottom side of the lock assemblies; 
         FIG.  26    illustrates a right side plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  27    illustrates a front perspective view of another embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  28    illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  29    illustrates a bottom plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  30    illustrates a left side plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  31 A  illustrates a front plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  31 B  illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  32 A  illustrates a front perspective view of another embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  27    including a keyboard bar and securing a portable electronic device; 
         FIG.  32 B  illustrates a top perspective view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  32 A ; 
         FIG.  32 C  illustrates a rear perspective view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  32 A ; 
         FIG.  32 D  illustrates a left elevational view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  32 A ; 
         FIG.  33 A  illustrates a schematic representation of another embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  33 B  illustrates a rear perspective view of another embodiment of the security apparatus configured to secure a power cord to the portable electronic device; 
         FIG.  34    illustrates a close-up front perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG.  33 B ; 
         FIG.  35    illustrates another close-up front perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG.  33 B ; 
         FIGS.  36 A-B  illustrate top and side perspective views, respectively, of another embodiment of the security apparatus in an unlocked state; 
         FIGS.  37 A-B  illustrate top and side perspective views, respectively, of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIGS.  36 A-B  in a locked state; 
         FIG.  38    is an exploded view of the security apparatus of  FIGS.  36 A-B ; 
         FIG.  39    illustrates a top plan view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIGS.  36 A-B ; 
         FIG.  40 A  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  39    along line A-A in an unlocked state; 
         FIG.  40 B  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  39    along line A-A in a locked state; 
         FIG.  41 A  illustrates a top plan view of an embodiment of the security apparatus comprising auto-releasing holders; 
         FIG.  41 B  illustrates a top plan view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  41 A  with the support plate removed; 
         FIG.  41 C  illustrates a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  41 A ; 
         FIG.  42    illustrates a top plan view of an embodiment of another embodiment of the security apparatus; 
         FIG.  43    illustrates a left side elevational view of the embodiment of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  42   ; 
         FIG.  44    illustrates an exploded view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  42   ; 
         FIG.  45    illustrates a left side elevational view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  42    with a laptop installed and in a closed position; 
         FIG.  46    illustrates a left side elevational view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  45    with a laptop installed and in a closed back position; 
         FIG.  47    illustrates a left side elevational view of the security apparatus of  FIG.  45    with a laptop installed and in the open position; 
         FIG.  48    illustrates a left side elevational view of the embodiment of the security apparatus of  FIG.  47    with a laptop installed and in a closed position; 
         FIG.  49    illustrates a partially exploded view of another embodiment of the security apparatus including one or more detachable securing members; and 
         FIG.  50    illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the security apparatus from  FIG.  49   . 
     
    
    
     SUMMARY 
     A security apparatus for a portable electronic device is disclosed. In an embodiment, the security apparatus comprises a base and a support assembly coupled to the base. The support assembly comprises a support base coupled to the base portion and a support plate coupled to at least one of the support base and the base. A guide assembly is positioned between the support base and the support plate and comprises a guide plate and at least two engagement plates positioned on the guide plate. Each of the at least two engagement plates defines a plurality of surface features. At least two holders are partially positioned between the guide assembly and the support plate. Each of the at least two holders comprises a retainer configured to retain a portion of the portable electronic device and a holder extension defining a plurality of surface features that are complimentary to the plurality of surface features defined on the at least two engagement plates. A lock assembly at least partially positioned within at least one of the base and the support assembly comprises a barrel configured to accept a locking tool and a locking pin operatively coupled to the barrel. The locking pin includes a biaser comprising one or more biaser surfaces. A biasing element is positioned adjacent to the locking pin. 
     In an unlocked state, the locking pin is positioned away from the biasing element and the at least two engagement plates are spaced apart from the holder extensions such that the at least two holders are enabled to move in a first direction to move the retainers away from the support assembly and an opposing second direction to move the retainers towards the support. In a locked state, the locking pin contacts and advances the biasing element into contact with the guide assembly to push the guide assembly towards the support plate to clamp the holder extensions between the guide assembly and the support plate such that the plurality or surface features of the holder extensions engage the surface features of the engagement plates to inhibit movement of the at least two holders in the first direction. 
     Another embodiment of the security apparatus for securing a portable electronic device comprises a base and a support assembly coupled to the base. The support assembly comprises a support base coupled to the base and a support plate coupled to at least one of the base and the support base. A guide assembly is positioned between the support base and the support plate and comprises a guide plate and at least two engagement plates that each define a plurality of surface features. At least two holders are partially positioned between the guide assembly and the support plate and each comprise a retainer configured to retain a portion of the portable electronic device, and a holder extension defining a plurality of surface features that are complimentary to the surface features of the at least two engagement plates. A lock assembly is at least partially positioned within at least one of the base and the support assembly and is configured move between an unlocked state and a locked state. In an unlocked state, the at least two engagement plates are spaced apart from the holder extensions such that the at least two holders are enabled to move in a first direction to move each retainer away from the support assembly and an opposing second direction to move each retainer towards the support assembly. In a locked state, the lock assembly urges the guide assembly towards the support plate to clamp the holder extensions between the guide assembly and the support plate, wherein the surface features of the holder extensions engage the surface features of the engagement plates to inhibit movement of the at least two holders in the first direction. 
     Another embodiment of the security apparatus for securing a portable electronic device comprises a base, a support coupled to the base, and a guide positioned within the support and defining a plurality of surface features. At least two holders are partially positioned between the guide and the support and each defines a plurality of surface features that are complimentary to the surface features of the guide. A lock assembly is at least partially positioned within at least one of the base and the support, and is configured move between an unlocked state and a locked state. In the unlocked state, the plurality of surface features defined by the guide are spaced apart from the plurality of surface features on the holders such that the at least two holders are enabled to move in a first direction that is away from the support and an opposing second direction to move the holders towards the support. In the locked state, the lock assembly moves the guide to clamp the holder between the guide and the support, wherein the surface features of the holder engage the plurality of surface features defined by the guide to inhibit movement of the at least two holders in the first direction. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIGS.  1 - 9    illustrate an embodiment of a tool-less detachable security apparatus (“security apparatus”)  100 , which generally comprises a first support member  101  and a second support member  110 . The first support member  101  and the second support member  110  each extend along an axis L 1 , L 2 , ( FIGS.  1  and  2 A ) respectively. The first and second support members  101 ,  110  are fastened together using one or more fasteners  111  such that their axes L 1 , L 2  ( FIGS.  1  and  2 A ) intersect each other at an angle α ( FIG.  2 A ) that may be about 90°. In other embodiments, the security apparatus  100  may comprise additional support members depending on the electronic device being secured. The first support member  101  may further comprise a notch  105  or other feature ( FIG.  6   ) that is configured to engage the second support member  110  in order to add additional strength at their junction. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 3   , the first support member  101  comprises a top surface  102  ( FIG.  2 A ), a bottom surface  103  ( FIG.  2 B ), and side surfaces  104  ( FIG.  3   ). Referring to  FIGS.  1 - 5   , one end of the first support member  101  is coupled to an arm  120  and the opposing end is coupled to a stop member  140 . As shown in  FIGS.  4 - 5   , the stop member  140  comprises a brace  142  that extends from a base member  144 . The base member  144  is configured to couple to the first support member  101 . As show in  FIG.  4   , the base member  144  defines an interior space  145  that is configured to at least partially house the first support member  101 . In an embodiment, the base member  144  fixedly couples to the first support member  101 . The brace  142  may further comprise one or more resilient members  146  configured to engage a portion of a portable electronic device being secured in the security apparatus  100 . Similar to the first support member  101 , the second support member  110  also comprises a top surface  112 , a bottom surface  113  ( FIG.  2 B ), and opposing side surfaces  114 . Each end of the second support member  110  may be coupled to an arm  120 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  3   , each arm  120  generally comprises a top surface  126  and two (2) opposing side surfaces  128 . The proximal end  122  of the arm  120  may be positioned closer to the junction of the first support member  101  and the second support member  110 . The distal end  124  of the arm  120  comprises a holder  130 . The holder  130  comprises a distal end surface  133  that extends above the top surface  126  and is coupled to a cap  132 . The cap  132  extends from the top of the distal end surface  133  towards the proximal end  122  of the arm  120  to form a lip  134 . The holder may further comprise an end cap  131  ( FIG.  5   ) that also acts to limit the retraction of the arm  120 . The holder  130  may be formed as a single unitary component or may be comprised of two (2) or more components joined together using one or more welded joints, fasteners, or any other suitable means to join the components. As shown specifically in  FIG.  2 B , the arms  120  may be open at the bottom such that a cavity is formed that is defined by the inner surfaces of the top surface  126  and the opposing side surfaces  128 . The cavity may be configured to at least partially house a portion of one of the first or the second support members  101 ,  110 . The cavity may also serve to decrease the overall weight of the security apparatus  100 . 
     As shown, the security apparatus  100  comprises three (3) identical or nearly identical arms  120 , however in other embodiments, one or more of the arms  120  may vary in its size and/or shape. The arms  120  may be configured to be completely removed or detached from the corresponding first and second support members  101 ,  110 . In this manner, arms  120  of different sizes and shapes may be attached to the support members to fully customize the security apparatus  100 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  2 A,  2 B,  4  and  7 A- 8   , the first support member and the second support member  101 ,  110  each define one or more elongated openings  106 ,  116  that extend between the top surface  102 ,  112  and the bottom surface  103 ,  113  ( FIGS.  2 A- 2 B ) of each of the first and second support member  101 ,  110 . The one or more elongated openings  106 ,  116  extend a distance along the length of the first support member  101  and the second support member  110 . A depression or recess  109 ,  119  is defined around the perimeter of each elongated opening  106 ,  116  on the bottom surface  103 ,  113  of the first and second support members  101 ,  110 . 
     The top surfaces  102 ,  112  of the first support member  101  and the second support member  110  may further comprise a plurality of support member surface features  107  such as teeth  50 . Referring to  FIGS.  7 A- 7 B , the teeth  195  may be angled with respect to the axis L 1  of the first support member  101  at an angle β that is less than 90°. The teeth  195  of the second support member  110  may also be positioned with respect to the axis L 2  ( FIG.  2 A ) of the second support member  110  at an angle equal to β. As shown specifically in  FIGS.  6 - 8   , the side surfaces  104  of the first support member  101  and the side surfaces  114  of the second support member  110  comprise a first engagement structure  108 ,  118 . The first engagement structure  108 ,  118  extends substantially along the length of the first support member  101  and second support member  110 . As shown, the first engagement structure  108 ,  118  may be broken into two or more segments on each side of the first and second support members  101 ,  110  and may not extend continuously from one end of the first and second support members  101 ,  110  to the opposing end. 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   , the arms  120  further comprise a second engagement structure  123  that is configured to fit at least partially within the first engagement structure  108 ,  118  of the first support member  101 . As shown, the first engagement structure  108 ,  118  is a channel or recess and the second engagement structure  123  is protrusion, however in other embodiments, the first engagement structure  108 ,  118  is a protrusion and the second engagement structure  123  is channel or recess. As shown with regard to the first support member  101 , the second engagement structure  123  is formed on an inner surface of each opposing side surface  128  and may extend along the length of the arm  120 . The end of each arm  120  opposing the distal end surface  133  may be open to allow the arm  120  to slide along the length of the first support member  101 . The interaction of the first engagement structure  108  and the second engagement structure  123  aid in coupling the arm  120  to the first support member  101  as well as assisting in the sliding action and stability of the arm  120  when coupled to the first support member  101 . It will be understood that the second support member  110  also comprises a first engagement structure  118  that is also configured to engage the second engagement structure  123  that is formed on the inner surface of each opposing side surface  128  of the arm  120 . The interaction of the second engagement structure  123  and the first engagement structure  118  of the second support member  110  may have similar advantages to those described above with regard to the first support member  101 . 
     The arms  120  may further be coupled to the first and second support members  101 ,  110  using one or more lock assemblies  170  ( FIGS.  2 B,  4 , and  9   ). Each lock assembly  170  is configured to restrain or prevent the sliding movement of the arm  120  in one direction when in a locked position and allow the arm  120  to slide freely along the first and second support member  101 ,  110  when in an unlocked position. 
     As shown in  FIG.  9   , the lock assembly  170  is a push-button assembly, however in other embodiments the lock assembly  170  may not be a push-button assembly. The lock assembly  170  will be described with regards to its interaction with the first support member  101  as shown in  FIG.  9   , however it will be understood that the lock assembly  170  would also interact in a similar manner with the second support member  110  as it has been described above. As shown in  FIGS.  7 A-B , and  9 , the lock assembly  170  comprises a depression plate  172  coupled to one end of a push rod  177  and a backing  179  that engages an opposing end of the push rod  177 . An engagement plate  174  is positioned between the backing  179  and the first support member  101 . In an embodiment, the backing  179  and the push rod  177  may be formed as a single component. As shown, the push rod  177  traverses the arm  120  and extends through the elongated opening  106  of the first support member  101 . The engagement plate  174  comprises a plurality of lock surface features  175  that are complimentary to the support member surface features  107 . As shown, the lock surface features  175  are complimentary teeth  197  that are configured to engage or interact with the teeth  195  on the top surface  102  of the first support member  101 . A spring or resilient member  178  may surround part of and/or contact a portion of the depression plate  172  and be positioned between the depression plate  172  and the recess  109  to prevent over-depression of the depression plate. In an embodiment, the resilient member or spring  178  may be housed within the push rod  177 . In the resting or decompressed state, the spring  178  may act to exert a force F 1  against the depression plate  172 , which in turn acts to bring the lock surface features  175  of the engagement plate  174  into engagement with the support member surface features  107  of the second support member  110 . When the support member surface features  107  and the lock surface features  175  are engaged, the sliding movement of the arm  120  along the first support member  101  is permitted in a first direction S, but not in a second direction. As shown in  FIG.  7 B , when the support member surface features  107  and the lock surface features  175  are teeth, the angle β of the teeth  195  allows the arm  120  to slide in a first direction S toward the proximal end  122  when engaged with the complimentary teeth  197 , but prevents the arm  120  from sliding in a second direction N toward the distal end  124 . Applying a force F 2  ( FIG.  9   ) to depress the depression plate  172  results in the disengagement of the lock surface features  175  from the support member surface features  107 . This disengagement allows the arm  120  slide freely along the first support member  101  in both the first S and second directions N. 
     In order to secure a portable electronic device (not shown), such as a laptop computer, the depression plate  172  of each arm  120  is depressed and the arms  120  are moved in a second direction N toward their distal ends  124  ( FIG.  4   ). The portable electronic device (not shown) may be placed onto the security apparatus  100  such that it at least partially contacts the top surfaces  102 ,  112  of the first support member  101  and the second support member  110 , respectively. The arms  120  are slid in a first direction S ( FIG.  7 B ) toward the portable electronic device (not shown) until a portion of the portable electronic device (not shown) is positioned under the lip  134  of each arm  120  and/or the inner side of the distal end surface  133  is proximate to or in contact with the portable electronic device (not shown). The security apparatus  100  containing the portable electronic device is then secured to a display surface (not shown) using one or more anchors  117 . As shown, the one or more anchors  117  are threaded bolts or screws that may be secured to the display surface (not shown) using a nut, however in other embodiments the one or more anchors  117  may be any hardware suitable to securely fasten the security apparatus  100  to the display surface (not shown). 
     When the security apparatus  100  is anchored to the display surface (not shown), the lock assemblies  170 , and specifically the depression plates  172  are not accessible and the lock surface features  175  of the engagement plate  174  remain engaged with the support member surface features  107  of the first and second support members  101 ,  110 . In this state, the arms  120  can only be advanced in the first direction S ( FIG.  7 B ) toward the portable electronic device (not shown). When the portable electronic device (not shown) is locked into the security apparatus  100 , the restricted movement of the arms  120  and the holders  130 , as well as the stop member  140  act to prevent removal of the portable electronic device (not shown) from the security apparatus  100 . In order to release the portable electronic device (not shown) from the security apparatus  100 , the security apparatus  100  must be detached from the display surface (not shown) so that the push-button assemblies  170  become accessible. The depression plate  172  can then be pushed down by a force F 2  to disengage the engagement plate  174  (and thereby, the lock surface features  175 ) from the support member surface features  107 . The arm(s)  120  may then be slid away from the portable electronic device or in the second direction N away from the portable electronic device (not shown). The portable electronic device (not shown) may then be removed and another portable electronic device may be placed in the security apparatus  100 . In an embodiment, a wireless charger may be coupled to the top surfaces  102 ,  112  of the first and second support members  101 ,  110 . 
     In another embodiment, the stop member  140  may be configured to accept a supplemental security piece comprising one or more additional support members that have similar features to the previously described first and second support members  101 ,  110 . In this embodiment, the security apparatus  100  would be capable is securing the keyboard portion and the display portion of a laptop computer. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  10 - 17   , another embodiment of the security apparatus  200  comprises a support member  201  coupled to a first arm  220  at one end and a second arm  240  at the opposing end. Similar to the embodiment of the security apparatus  100  previously described, the support member  201  comprises a top surface  202 , opposing side surfaces  204 , and a bottom surface  203  ( FIG.  16   ). At least one of the opposing side surfaces  204  defines a first engagement structure  223 . As shown, the first engagement structure  208  is a channel or recess and the second engagement structure  223  is protrusion, however in other embodiments, the first engagement structure  208  is a protrusion and the second engagement structure  223  is channel or recess. The support member  201  may generally extend from one end to an opposing end along an axis. At least one end of the support member  201  defines a plurality of support member surface features  207  and an elongated opening  206  extending from the top surface  202  of the support member  201  to the bottom surface  203  ( FIG.  16   ). As shown, the support member surface features may be teeth  295  that are configured to function similar to those previously described, however in other embodiments the support member surface features  107  may be any other suitable surface feature such as grooves, ridges, or depressions. 
     The first arm  220  and the second arm  240  generally comprise a top surface  226 ,  246  and two (2) opposing side surfaces  228 ,  248  where at least one of the two (2) opposing side surfaces  228 ,  248  defines a second engagement structure  223  that is configured to slidably engage the first engagement structure  208 . The proximal ends  222 ,  242  of each arm  220 ,  240  face each other. The distal ends  224 ,  244  of each of the first arm  220  and the second arm  240  comprise a holder  230 ,  250 . The first holder  230  comprises a distal end surface  233  that extends above the top surface  226  of the first arm  220  and is coupled to a cap  232 . The cap  232  extends from the top of the distal end surface  233  towards the proximal end  222  of the arm  220  to form a lip  234 . Similarly, and as shown in  FIG.  17   , the second holder  250  comprises a distal end surface  253  that extends above the top surface  246  of the second arm  240  and is coupled to a cap  252 . The cap  252  extends from the top of the distal end surface  253  towards the proximal end  242  of the second arm  240  to form a lip  254 . One or more components of the holders  230 ,  250  may be formed as a single component. As shown, the holder  250  of the second arm  240  extends a greater distance between opposing ends than does the holder  230  of the first arm  220 . The first arm  220  and the second arm  240  may be open at the bottom such that a cavity is formed that is defined by the inner surfaces of the top surface  226 ,  246  and the opposing side surfaces  228 ,  248 . The cavity may be configured to at least partially house a portion of the support member  201 . The cavity may also serve to decrease the overall weight of the security apparatus  200 . 
     Each of the first arm  220  and the second arm  240  is configured to engage and slide along one or more first engagement structures  208  ( FIG.  16   ) that extend along the opposing side surfaces  204  of the support member  201 . The first arm  220  may further comprise an end cap  225  configured to limit the retraction of the second arm  220 . The second arm  240  may further comprise an end cap  245  configured to limit the retraction of the second arm  240 . Similar to the previously disclosed embodiments, at least one arm may further be coupled to the support members  201  using one or more lock assemblies  270 . As shown in  FIG.  10   , the second arm  240  is coupled to the support member  201  via a lock assembly  270 . The lock assembly  270  comprises a plurality of lock surface features that are configured to prevent sliding movement of the second arm  240  in the second direction N when in a locked position, and to allow the second arm  240  to slide freely along the support member  201  when in an unlocked position. The lock assembly  270  and the interaction of the lock surface features with the support member surface features  207  operates in a similar manner to the embodiments of the lock assembly previously described. 
     Referring to  FIG.  16   , the support member  201  is coupled to a rod  22  at a connection point  21 . The support member  201  with the arms  220 ,  240  coupled to it is seated within a housing  280  that is positioned on a pedestal  260 . The pedestal  260  comprises a central bore (not shown) that is configured to accept the rod  22  when the support member  201  is seated in the housing  280 . The housing  280  may further comprise one or more stabilizing elements  216  configured to support the portable electronic device being secured in the security apparatus  200 . Placing the support member  201  within the housing  280  prevents the unlocking of the locking assembly  270  inaccessible. 
     The pedestal  260  further comprises a base portion  262  ( FIGS.  13 A- 13 B ) and a stem portion  264  ( FIGS.  13 A- 13 B ). The stem portion  264  may further comprise one or more additional stabilizing elements  266 ,  268  ( FIGS.  10 ,  14   ) and may also define an opening  269  ( FIG.  14   ) configured to provide access to electrical components within the pedestal  260  or an additional locking mechanism. In an embodiment, the housing  280  and the pedestal  260  may be formed as a single component. In another embodiment, the security apparatus  200  may comprise a wireless charger. 
     In order to assemble the security apparatus  200 , the first arm  220  and the second arm  240  are extended along the support member  201  by unlocking the locking assembly  270 . The support member  201  is then placed into the housing  280  with the rod  22  extending through the pedestal  260 . The security apparatus  200  is then secured to a display surface (not shown) via mounts  217  positioned on the base portion  262  of the pedestal  260 . As shown, the mounts  217  are bolts secured with wing nuts. Referring to  FIGS.  13 A-B  and  15 A-B, the rod  22  is configured to extend through or traverse the display surface (not shown) and be secured to the underside of the display surface (not shown) so that the support member  201  cannot be separated from the housing  280 . The portable electronic device  290  may be placed against the support member  201  and the stabilizing elements  216 . Referring to  FIGS.  11 A- 13 B , the portable electronic device  290  may be a laptop, The second arm  240  is then pushed towards the portable electronic device  290  in the first direction S ( FIG.  7 B ) until it traps a portion of the portable electronic device  290  under the lip  254  and secures the portable electronic device  290  between the first holder  230  and the second holder  250 . As previously described, interaction between the support member surface features  207  and the lock surface features may allow the arms  220 ,  240  to be slid towards each other a first direction S ( FIG.  7 B ), but prevent them from being able to be moved away from each other in a second direction N ( FIG.  7 B ) as has been previously described. The housing  280  prevents access to the lock assembly  270  such that the portable electronic device  290  is secured in the security apparatus  200 . Referring to  FIG.  11 B , the dimensions of the second holder  250  allow it to engage a keyboard portion  292  of the portable electronic device  290  between a pair of hinges  296  that couple the keyboard portion  292  to the display portion  294 . In this manner, the portable electronic device  290  cannot be removed from the security device  200  unless the rod  20  is uncoupled from the display surface (not shown) so that the lock assembly  270  can be unlocked. 
     In another embodiment shown in  FIGS.  18 - 26   , the security apparatus  300  comprises a first support member  301  and a second support member  310 . Referring to  FIGS.  24 - 25   , the first and second support members  301 ,  310  comprise a top surface  302 ,  312 , opposing side surfaces  304 ,  314 , and a bottom surface  303 ,  313 . The top surface  302 ,  312  of the first support member  301  and the second support member  310  define a plurality of support member surface features  307  and two (2) elongated openings  306 ,  316  extending from the top surface  302 ,  312  to the bottom surface  303 ,  313  of the first and second support members  301 ,  310 . As shown, the support member surface features are teeth  395  that are configured and function similar to those previously described in other embodiments. Similar to the embodiments previously described, the opposing side surfaces  304 ,  314  of the first and second support members  301 ,  310  define a first engagement structure  308 ,  318 . 
     As shown, the first support member  301  is coupled to an arm  320  at one end and a split arm  340  at an opposing end. The second support member  310  is coupled to an arm  320  at each end. As shown specifically in  FIG.  19   , the arms  320  may be of a different size, however their configuration is otherwise identical. The arms  320  and the split arm  340  generally comprise a top surface  326 ,  346  and two (2) opposing side surfaces  328 ,  348 . Referring to  FIG.  20   , the opposing side surfaces  328  of the arm  320  further define a second engagement structure  323 . As shown, the first engagement structure  308 ,  318  is a channel or recess and the second engagement structure  323  is protrusion, however in other embodiments, the first engagement structure  308 ,  318  is a protrusion and the second engagement structure  323  is channel or recess. It will be understood that one or more of the other arms  320  and the split arm  340  may also comprise a similar second engagement structure  323 . The distal ends of each arm  320 ,  340  comprise a holder  330 ,  350 . Referring specifically to  FIG.  26   , the holders  330 ,  350  comprise a distal end surface  333 ,  353  that extends above the top surface  326 ,  346  of the arm  320 ,  340  and is coupled to a cap  332 ,  352 . The cap  332 ,  352  extends from the top of the distal end surface  333 ,  353  towards the opposing end of the arm  320 ,  340  to form a lip  334 ,  354 . As shown in  FIGS.  18 - 19  and  22 - 24   , the split arm  340  comprises two identical holders  350 . The arms  320  and the split arm  340  may be open at the bottom such that a cavity is formed that is defined by the inner surfaces of the top surface  326 ,  346  and the opposing side surfaces  328 ,  348 . The cavity may be configured to at least partially house a portion of the first and second support members  301 ,  310 , respectively. The cavity may also serve to decrease the overall weight of the security apparatus  300 . 
     The second engagement structure  323  of each arm  320 ,  340  is configured to engage and slide along the first engagement structures  308 ,  318  that extend along the opposing side surfaces  304 ,  314  of the first and second support members  301 ,  310 . Similar to the previous embodiments described and as shown in  FIGS.  24 - 25    the arms  320  and the split arm  340  may further be coupled to their corresponding support member using one or more lock assemblies  370 . Still referring to  FIGS.  24 - 25   , the lock assembly  370  is a push-button assembly, however in other embodiments, the lock assembly  370  may not be a push-button assembly. The lock assembly  370  operates in a similar manner to previously described embodiments of a lock assembly. The lock assembly  370  will be additionally described with regards to its interaction with the second support member  310  as shown in  FIGS.  24 - 25   , however it will be understood that the lock assembly  370  would also interact in a similar manner with the first support member  301 . 
     The lock assembly  370  comprises a depression plate  372  and an engagement plate  374 . A push rod  377  is coupled to the depression plate  372  at one end and the engagement plate  374  is positioned between the push rod  377  and the second support member  310 . As shown, the push rod  377  traverses the arm  320  and extends through the opening  316  of the second support member  310 . The engagement plate  374  comprises a plurality of lock surface features that are complimentary to the support member surface features  307 . The lock surface features are configured to engage with the support member surface features  307  on the top surface  312  of the second support member  310 . A spring or resilient member  378  may surround part or and/or contact a portion of the depression plate  372  and be positioned between the depression plate  372  and the recess  319  to prevent over-depression of the depression plate  372 . As described, the lock assembly  370  functions in a manner similar to that of the previously discussed embodiments ( 100 ,  200 ). When support member surface features  307  and the lock surface features are engaged, the sliding movement of the arm  320  with respect to the second support member  310  is permitted in the first direction S ( FIG.  7 B ), but not in the second direction N ( FIG.  7 B ). 
     Still referring specifically to  FIGS.  24 - 25   , the first support member  301  and the second support member  310  are coupled together at area  30 . A rod  32  is coupled to area  30  at a connection point  31 . In an embodiment, the first and second support members  301 ,  310  may be formed as a single component. As shown specifically in  FIGS.  18 - 19  and  24   , the first and second support members  301 ,  310  are coupled to the arms  320  and the split arm  340  and seated or positioned within a housing  380 . The housing  380  is further positioned on a pedestal  360  and is configured to obscure or otherwise make inaccessible the depression plates  372  of the locking assembly  370 . The pedestal  360  comprises a central bore  388  that is configured to accept the rod  32  when the first and second support members  301 ,  310  are seated in the housing  380 . The housing  380  further comprises one or more security tabs  389  configured to further prevent access to the components of the locking assemblies  370  while the first and second support members  301 ,  310  are positioned within the housing  380 . Referring to  FIG.  20   , the pedestal  360  further comprises a base portion  362  and a stem portion  364 . The stem portion  364  may further define an opening  369  configured to provide access to electrical components within the pedestal or an additional locking mechanism  386  ( FIG.  18   ). The housing  380  and the pedestal  360  may be formed as a single unitary component. In and embodiment, the security apparatus  300  may further comprise a wireless charger. 
     In order to assemble the security apparatus  300 , the arms  320  and the split arm  340  are fully extended along the first and second support members  301 ,  310  by depressing or pressing down on the depression plate  372  of each lock assembly  370 . The first and second support members  301 ,  310  are placed into the housing with the rod  32  extending through the central bore  388  of the pedestal  360 . The security apparatus  300  is then secured to a display surface (not shown) via mounts  317  positioned on a bracket  399  ( FIG.  24   ) positioned within the base portion  362  of the pedestal  360 . As shown, the mounts  317  are bolts secured with wing nuts. The rod  32  is configured to extend through or traverse the display surface (not shown) and be secured on the underside of the display surface (not shown) so that the first and second support members  301 ,  310  cannot be separated from the housing  380 . 
     The portable electronic device  390  may be placed against the first and second support members  301 ,  310 . Referring to  FIGS.  18 A- 18 B , the portable electronic device  390  is a Smart Phone, such as an iPhone® The arms  320  and the split arm  340  are then pushed towards the portable electronic device  390  until they trap a portion of the portable electronic device  390  under each holder lip  334 ,  354 . As described in other embodiments, the configuration of the support member surface features  307  on the first and second support members  301 ,  310  and the lock surface features the lock assembly  370  allow the arms  320 , and the split arm  340  to slide towards each other in the first direction S ( FIG.  7 B ), but prevent them from being moved away from each other in the second direction N ( FIG.  7 B ) unless the depression plate  372  is depressed. The housing  380  prevents access to the depression plates  372  of the lock assembly  370  such that the portable electronic device  390  is secured in the security apparatus  300 . In this manner, the portable electronic device  390  cannot be removed from the security apparatus  300  unless the rod  32  is uncoupled from the display surface (not shown) so that the depression plates  372  of the lock assembly  370  can be accessed. In other embodiments, it is possible that only the arms  320  are configured to slide along the first and second support members  301 ,  310  while the split arm  340  remains in a fixed position. In still another embodiment, a split arm  340  may not be included and all four (4) of the arms  320  may be identical. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  27 - 32   , another embodiment of the security apparatus  400  generally comprises a first support member  401  and a second support member  410 . The first and second support members  401 ,  410  each extend along an axis and are fastened together using one or more fasteners  411  such that the axes intersect each other at an angle that may be about 90°. In other embodiments, the security apparatus  400  may comprise additional support members depending on the portable electronic device being secured. The first support member  401  may further comprise a notch  405  ( FIG.  32   ) or other feature that is configured to engage the second support member  410  in order to add additional strength at their junction. 
     As shown, the first and second support members  401 ,  410  comprise a top surface  402 ,  412 , a bottom or rear surface  403 ,  413  ( FIG.  28   ), and opposing side surfaces  404 ,  414 . The opposing side surfaces  404 ,  414  further comprise a first engagement structure  408 ,  418  that extends or at least partially along a length of the opposing side surfaces  404 ,  414 . Referring to  FIG.  28   , the rear surfaces  403 ,  413  of the first and second support members  401 ,  410  define a plurality of support member surface features  495  and one or more elongated openings  406 ,  416  that extend from the rear surface  403 ,  413  to the top surface  402 ,  412 . As shown, and described further below, the plurality of support member surface features  407  are a plurality of teeth similar to those described in previous embodiments, however in other embodiments the plurality of support member surface features may be ridges, depressions, grooves, or any other suitable surface feature. A depression or recess  409 ,  419  is defined around the perimeter of each elongated opening  406 ,  416  on the top surface  402 ,  412  of the first and second support members  401 ,  410 . One end of the first support member  401  is coupled to an arm  420  and the opposing end is coupled to the base  462 . A brace  464  extends between the base  462  and the intersection of the first and second support members  401 ,  410  to provide further support to the security apparatus  400 . The second support member  410  is coupled to two (2) arms  420 , each positioned at opposing ends of the second support member  410 . As shown, the arms  420  are identical, however in other embodiments, the arms  420  may not be identical and may be configured to secure a specific object or portable electronic device. 
     As shown specifically in  FIGS.  28  and  31   , each arm  420  generally comprises a top surface  426 , two (2) opposing side surfaces  428 , and a rear surface  425 . The distal end of each arm  420  comprises a holder  430 . Referring to  FIG.  30   , the holder  430  comprises a distal end surface  433  that extends above the top surface  426  of the arm  420  and is coupled to a cap  432 . The cap  432  extends from the top of the distal end surface  433  towards the opposing end of the arm  420  to form a lip  434 . As shown, the top surface  426 , side surfaces  428 , and rear surface  425  of each arm  420  define an inner cavity and the interior surface of the opposing sides  428  further defines a second engagement structure  423  ( FIG.  32   ). As shown, the first engagement structure  408 ,  418  is a channel or recess and the second engagement structure  423  is protrusion, however in other embodiments, the first engagement structure  408 ,  418  is a protrusion and the second engagement structure  423  is channel or recess. The second engagement structure  423  is configured to fit at least partially within the first engagement structure  408 ,  418  of the first and second support member  401 ,  410 . Accordingly, the cavity is configured to at least partially house a portion of one of the first or the second support members  401 ,  410 . 
     The arms  420  may further be coupled to the first and second support members  401 ,  410  using one or more lock assemblies  470  ( FIG.  27   ). The one or more lock assemblies  470  are configured to further couple the arms  420  to the first and second support members  401 ,  410 . Each lock assembly  470  comprises a plurality of lock surface features that are configured to interact with the support member surface features  407  to prevent the sliding movement of the arm  420  with respect to the first and second support member  401 ,  410  in the second direction N ( FIG.  7 B ) when in a locked position, and allow the arm  420  to slide freely in the first S ( FIG.  7 B ) and second direction N ( FIG.  7 B ) along the first or second support member  401 ,  410  when in an unlocked position. The lock surface features are configured and function similar to those previously described in other embodiments. As shown in  FIG.  31 B , the lock assembly  470  is a push-button assembly, however in other embodiments, the lock assembly  470  may not be a push-button assembly. The lock assembly  470  is configured to function in a similar manner as in the embodiments of the security apparatus ( 100 ,  200 ,  300 ) previously described. 
     The lock assembly  470  will be described according to its interaction with the first support member  401  as is shown in  FIG.  31 B , however it will be understood that the lock assembly  470  interacts with the second support member  410  in a similar manner. The lock assembly  470  generally comprises a depression plate  472  and an engagement plate  474 . A push rod  477  is coupled to the depression plate  472  at one end and a backing  479  at an opposing end. The engagement plate  474  is positioned between the backing  479  and the first support member  401 . As shown, the push rod  477  traverses the arm  420  and extends through the elongated opening  406  of the first support member  401 . The engagement plate  474  comprises a lock surface features  475  that are complimentary to the support surface features  407  and are configured to engage with the support member surface features  407  on the rear surface  403  of the first support member  401 . As shown in  FIG.  31 B , the lock surface features  475  may be teeth  497 , however in other embodiments they may be any suitable shape and configuration that are complimentary to the support member surface features  407 . A spring or resilient member  478  may surround part or and/or contact a portion of the depression plate  472  and be positioned between the depression plate  472  and the recess  409  to prevent over-depression of the depression plate  472 . As shown, the depression plate  472  may be obscured by an access portion  429  of the arm  420 . When the support member surface features  407  and the lock surface features of the engagement plate  474  are engaged, the sliding movement of the arm  420  with respect to the first support member  401  is prevented in the second direction N ( FIG.  7 B ). 
     In order to secure a portable electronic device in the security apparatus  400 , the arms  420  are extended in the second direction N ( FIG.  7 B ) by depressing or pushing down on the depression plates  472  of the lock assembly  470 . The portable electronic device (not shown) is then placed onto the first and second support members  401 ,  410 , and the arms  420  are advanced towards the portable electronic device (not shown). The arms  420  are advanced in the first direction S ( FIG.  7 B ) until a portion of the portable electronic device (not shown) is trapped under each holder  430  lip  434 . The portable electronic device blocks (not shown) access to the depression plates  472  of the locking assembly  470 . The security apparatus  400  is then secured to the display surface (not shown) via one or more mounts  417  in the base  462 . As shown, the one or more mounts  417  are bolts secured with nuts. Coupling the security device  400  to the display surface (not shown) acts to secure the free end of the portable electronic device (not shown) by pinning it against the display surface (not shown) such that the portable electronic device (not shown) cannot be removed from the security apparatus  400  without damage to the portable electronic device (not shown). 
     Removal of the security apparatus  400  from the display surface (not shown) by uncoupling the one or more mounts  417 , allows the portable electronic device to be removed or slid out of the security apparatus  400 , thereby allowing access to the depression plates  472  of the lock assembly  470 . Accordingly, the arms  420  can then be re-extended in the second direction N ( FIG.  7 B ) to accept and secure another portable electronic device. 
     The security apparatus  400  may further comprise a lateral support or keyboard bar  465  as shown in  FIGS.  32 A-D , that is configured to be used with tablet devices  490  having detachable keyboards  494 . As shown, the keyboard bar  465  comprises a lateral support  466  including at least two holders  468  configured to slidably couple to the lateral support  465  and be adjusted along the keyboard bar  465 . Each of the holders  468  includes a lip  467  that is configured to retain and otherwise secure a bottom of the tablet device  492 . The holders  468  lift the tablet device  492  relative to the detachable keyboard  494  and the display surface  499 . 
     The keyboard bar  465  comprises two or more display surface contacts  469  that are configured to contact and coupled the keyboard bar  465  to the display surface  499 . The coupling may be done using any suitable means described herein or otherwise appropriate for removably coupling the keyboard bar  465  to the display surface  499 . As shown, the keyboard bar  465  prevents removal of the bottom side of the tablet device  492 , and further secures the detachable keyboard  494  against the display surface  499 . In an embodiment, the keyboard bar  465  may be a separate component from the security apparatus  400 , however in other embodiments, the keyboard bar  465  and the security apparatus  400  may be formed as a single component. In still another embodiment, the keyboard bar  465  may be movably coupled to the security apparatus  400 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  33 A- 35    an embodiment of the security apparatus  500  comprises a support  510  coupled to a base  560 , at least two extensions  501  extending from the support  510 , and at least two holders  520  configured to engage and interact with the at least two extensions  501 . The at least two holders  520  are configured to engage and retain a portion of the portable electronic device  590 . As a result, portable electronic devices  590  with multiple displays, side displays and/or articulating elements may be secured by the security apparatus  500  while enabling a customer to fully interact with said portable device  590 . As shown, one of the holders  520  is configured to move along one of the at least two extensions  501 . Movement of one holder  520  away from the other holder  520  defines an open position enabling release or loading of the portable electronic device  590  into the security apparatus  500 . Movement of one holder  520  towards the other holder  520  defines a closed position that secures the portable electronic device  590  within the security apparatus  500  and between the holders  520  or the retainers  530  of the holders  520 . 
     The security apparatus  500  comprises a power cord securing device or element  580 . As shown, the power cord securing element  580  is coupled to the holder  520  or the retainer  530  and comprises a body  582  defining an opening  583  with two projections  584 . The projections  584  may include a hook-like structure that is configured to engage or otherwise contact and secure a portion of the power cord when the security apparatus  500  is in the closed position. Referring specifically to  FIG.  35   , the holder  520  and/or the retainer  530  ( FIG.  34   ) may define an opening  586  configured to align with and provide access to the power input  592  of the portable electronic device  590 . As shown, the projections  584  are configured to engage or otherwise contact and secure a portion of the power cord when the security apparatus  500  is in the closed position. Moving the security apparatus  500  from the open position to the closed position causes the power cord securing element  580  to contact and/or trap the power cord against the portable electronic device  590  such that the power cord cannot be removed or disconnected from the portable electronic device  590 . When the security apparatus  500  is moved into the open position by moving one or more of the holders  520  away from the other holder(s)  520 , the power cord is able to be removed from portable electronic device  590  (or plugged into the portable electronic device  590 ). As shown, the power cord securing element  580  and the holder  520  and/or the retainer  530  may be formed as a single component. 
     Referring now to the embodiments of a security apparatus  600  shown in  FIGS.  36 A- 39   . The security apparatus  600  comprises a support  610 , two or more holders  620  coupled to holder extensions  617  that move relative to the support  610 , and a locking assembly  670 . The support  610  generally comprises a support plate  612  that is configured to contact and support a portable electronic device  690 , such as a smart phone, and a support base  611 . A base or base portion  614  is coupled to the support  610  and configured to be coupled to a pedestal or anchor  602 . The pedestal  602  is configured to couple to a display fixture. One or more of the components of the security apparatus  600  may be formed separately and joined together with a plurality of fasteners  615 , welded joints, or may alternatively be formed as single components using known molding or machining processes. 
     Each of the two or more holders  620  may further comprise a retainer  630  including a lip  624  that enables retention of a portion of the portable electronic device  690 , and a holder extension  617  defining a plurality of surface features  613 . One of the holders  620  may be generally configured as a power cord securing member  680  similar to embodiments previously described. In another embodiment, the support plate  612  supports a wireless charging puck (not shown) that enables wireless charging of the portable electronic device being held by the security apparatus  600 .  FIGS.  36 A-B  show the security apparatus  600  in an open position where the holders  620  are moved in a direction A away from the support  610  to enable removal of or installation of the portable electronic device  690  into the security apparatus  600 . In contrast, the holders  620  are moved towards the support plate  612  (in an opposing direction to A) to secure the portable electronic device  690  within the security apparatus  600 . The support pedestal  602  may further comprise one or more engagement structures  618  that are configured to engage the display fixture and are each configured to couple to a mount  619 , such as a wingnut, split nut, or the like to secure the security apparatus  600  to the display fixture. As shown, the one or more engagement structures  618  and mounts  619  may be similar to other embodiments previously discussed. The one or more engagement structures  618  include a first end secured within the pedestal  602  and a second, free end extending from a bottom surface  606  of the pedestal. 
     Turning now to  FIGS.  38 - 40 B , the support  610  and/or the base  614  may comprise or be configured to accept a lock assembly  670  configured to lock and unlock the security apparatus  600 . The lock assembly  670  may comprise an input interface configured to receive and input wherein the input results in an automatic locking/unlocking of the security apparatus  600  or enables the mechanical locking/unlocking of the security apparatus  600 . As shown, the input interface is a barrel configured to accept a locking tool  674 , such as a key. In other embodiment, the input interface  672  may comprise one or more biometric sensors configured to unlock and/or lock the lock assembly  670  in response to a verified biometric input. 
     A support base  611  is configured to accept and support a guide assembly that engages the holder extensions  617 . The guide assembly may comprise a guide plate  654  and two or more engagement plates  653  coupled to the guide plate  654 . In an embodiment, the guide plate  654  may further comprise a guide track extending along or partially along one or more sides of the guide plate  654 . The holders  620  are configured to move relative to the guide assembly  652  and along guide axes X or Y. The guide assembly  652  may engage or contacts the holders  620 , or power cord securing member  680  via the holder extensions  617  in a similar manner as has been shown and discussed in prior embodiments and therefore, may comprise one or more similar components. In an embodiment, the holder extensions  617  may be configured to engage the guide track of the guide plate  654  and move relative to the guide plate  654  along the guide track. The engagement plates  653  define a plurality of surface features  655  that cooperate with or otherwise engage surface features  613  positioned on or defined on the holder extensions  617 . In an embodiment, one or more components of the guide assembly  652  and/or holders  620  may be formed as a single component. 
       FIG.  40   a    shows a cross-section of the security apparatus  600  along line A-A of  FIG.  38    in an unlocked state and  FIG.  40 B  illustrates the same cross-section of the security apparatus in a locked state. In the embodiments shown, the barrel  672  of the lock assembly  670  is configured to accept a locking tool  674  such as a key. The barrel  672  is operatively coupled to a locking pin  675  and configured to move the locking pin  675  along a locking pin axis L. The locking pin  675  includes a biaser  676  positioned at an end of the locking pin  675 . The biaser  676  includes one or more biaser surfaces  677 , which are illustrated as an annular ramped surface, or frustoconical surface, however in other embodiments, the biaser surface  677  may be configured differently in order to operate as will be described below. A biasing element  650  cooperates with a resilient member  651 , such as a spring, and comprises a biasing element surface  658 . The resilient member  651  is configured to be partially seated in the biasing element  650  and extend through the guide  652  to contact the support plate  612 . 
     The operation of the security apparatus  600  will now be explained with particular reference to the security apparatus  600  shown in the unlocked state shown in  FIG.  40 A  and in the locked state as shown in  FIG.  40 B . In the unlocked state, the locking pin  675  is withdrawn or otherwise not in contact with the biasing element  650 . The resilient member  651  is in a relaxed state, which enables the guide  652  to rest on the support base  611  and loosely retains the holder extensions  617  between the guide  652  and the support plate  612 . In this unlocked state, a space may be seen between the surface features  655  of the engagement plates  653  and the surface features  613  of the holder extensions  617 . As a result, the holder extensions  617  are able to move freely in a direction towards and away A ( FIG.  36 A ) from the support  610 . In the event that a portable electronic device  690  is retained in the security apparatus  600 , the holder extensions  617  may be pulled or retracted in a direction A ( FIG.  36 A ) to move the holders  620 ,  680  away from the support plate  612  in order to remove the portable electronic device  690 . 
     In order to secure a portable electronic device  690  into the security apparatus  600 , starting the unlocked state as shown in  FIG.  40 A , two or more of the holder extensions are retracted or withdrawn. The lock assembly  670  is then moved to the locked state, for example via rotation R of the locking tool  674 . Rotating the locking tool  674  advances the locking pin  675  along the locking pin axis L such that the biaser surface  677  of the biaser  676  moves into contact with the biasing element surface  658 . Continued advancement of the locking pin  675  causes the biasing element surface  658  to ride along and up the biaser surface  677 , which results in the biasing element  650  to be pushed in an upward direction P, thereby contacting and pushing the guide  652  towards the support plate  612 . This upward advance pins or otherwise clamps the holder extensions  617  between the guide  652  and the support plate  612 . Consequently, the space between the surface features  655  of the engagement plates  653  and the surface features  613  of the holder extensions  617  is eliminated. The security apparatus  600  is now in the locked state. In the locked state, the barrel  672  may be moved relative to the base  614  and/or the support  610  along axis L to compress a release member  673  ( FIG.  40 B ). In the locked state, the barrel  672  may be retained in a locked position relative to the base  614  and/or the support  610 . The release member  673  may be comprised of a resilient material. As shown, the release member  673  is a spring, and more preferably a cone-shaped spring. 
     The portable electronic device  690  may now be placed in the security apparatus  600  such that it is in contact with the support plate  612 . Similar to embodiments previously described, the surface features  655 ,  613  are shaped in order to enable the holder extensions  617 , (and therefore the holders  620  and the power cord securing member  680 ) to be advanced towards the support plate  612  such that the holders  620  retain and hold two or more sides of the portable electronic device  690 . In the locked state, the holders  620  and power cord securing member  680  (and therefore, the holder extensions  617 ) are inhibited from being retracted or withdrawn away from the support  610 . The security apparatus  600  may then be secured to a display fixture or surface (not shown) using the engagement structures  618  and mounts  619  as has been previously described in other embodiments. This embodiment of the security apparatus  600  may remain mounted to the display surface or display fixture (not shown) during installation and removal of the portable electronic device  690 . 
     Rotating the barrel  672  to the unlocked state may enable release of the barrel  672  and decompression of the release member  673 . The release member  673  urges the barrel  672  along the axis L in a direction N. Accordingly, moving the barrel  672  to the locked state (or locked position) may comprise a combination of a rotation of the barrel and movement of the barrel along the axis L in a direction N′. With reference to  FIGS.  41 A-C , the security apparatus  600  may be spring-loaded such that one or more of the holders  620  and the power cord securing member  680  are automatically directed in the direction A when the security apparatus  600  is moved from the locked state to the unlocked state. A spring member  664  or other such resilient member is attached to or contacts the support  610  or the base  614  at on end. A second, opposing end of the spring  664  contacts or is attached to a portion of the holder  620 . When the security apparatus  600  is in the locked state, the spring members  664  are in a compressed state. Adjusting the lock assembly  670  to move the security apparatus  600  to the unlocked state enables decompression of the release member  673  to move the barrel  672  in N direction, which disengages the locking pin  675  from the biasing element  650 . This enables the spring members  664  to decompress or expand to push the holders  620  in the direction A ( FIG.  36 A ). In this manner, the security apparatus  600  may be quickly unlocked with fast release of the retained portable electronic device. 
     Referring now to the embodiments of a security apparatus  700  shown in  FIGS.  42 - 48   . This embodiment of the security apparatus  700  generally comprises a support  710  and at least two holders  720 . Each of the at least two holders  720  includes a holder base  717  moveably coupled to the support  710  and a retainer  722  pivotally coupled to the holder base  717 . Referring to  FIG.  42   , when the security apparatus  700  is in an unlocked state, the holder base  717 , and therefore the holders  720  may be freely moved along a guide axis GE and relative to the support  710 . The support  710  may define one or more guides  709  that are configured to interact with one or more holder guides  721  to guide movement of the holders  720  along the support  710 . Each retainer  722 , as shown particularly in  FIGS.  43 - 44   , include an attachment end  723  that is configured to pivotally attach to the holder base  717  at a hinge point  715  via a hinge pin  730  secured by a hinge fastener  732 . The support  710  as shown in  FIG.  44    comprises a plurality of surface features  713  positioned or defined at opposing ends of the support  710 , however in other embodiments, the surface features  713  may extend the entire length of the support  710 . The surface features  713  surround one or more elongated openings  706  that traverse the support  710 . 
     The holder bases  717  may be coupled to the support  710  in a similar manner as embodiments of the security apparatus previously described by using one or more lock assemblies  770 . The lock assemblies  770  each comprise a depression plate  772  coupled to one end of a push rod  777  and a backing that engages an opposing end of the push rod  777 . An engagement plate  774  is positioned between the backing and the support  710 . In some embodiments, there may be no backing between the push rod  777  and the depression plate  772 . In other embodiments, the backing and the push rod  777  may be formed as a single component. The push rod  777  extends through the elongated opening  706  of the support  710 . The engagement plate  774  comprises a plurality of lock surface features that are complimentary to the surface features  713  of the support  710 . As shown, the lock surface features are complimentary teeth that are configured to engage or interact with the surface features  713  or teeth of the support  710 . A spring or resilient member may surround part of and/or contact a portion of the depression plate  772 . The resilient member may be positioned between the depression plate  772  and a bottom surface of the support  710  to prevent over-depression of the depression plate  772 . In an embodiment, the resilient member may be housed within the push rod  777 . 
     In the resting or decompressed state, the spring may act to exert a force against the depression plate  772 , which in turn acts to bring the lock surface features of the engagement plate  774  into engagement with the surface features  713  of the support  710 . The surface features of the engagement plate  774  and the support  710  as shaped such that when the surface features  713  of the support  710  and the lock surface features are engaged, the sliding movement of the holder bases  717  are permitted in a first direction such that the holders  720  are brought closer together, but are inhibited from being moved in a second direction where the holders  720  are moved apart from each other. 
     In order to install a portable electronic device  790 , such as a laptop computer, into the security apparatus  700 , the depression plates  772  are depressed to disengage the engagement plates  774  and the holder bases  717 , and therefore the holders  720  are moved apart from each other. The depression plates  772  are then released to return the security apparatus  700  to the locked state. The holder bases  717  and therefore, the holders  720 , are moved closer to each other such that the lips  724  of the holders  720  retain opposing sides of the display portion  792  of the laptop computer  790  (“laptop”). As shown in  FIGS.  45 - 48   , the display portion  792  is retained by the lip  724  of the holder  720  and a holder stop  725  or stop member. The lip  724  and/or the holder stop  725  may be coated with a rubber material or may comprise a rubber or other resilient surface that protects the surfaces of the laptop and inhibits scratching of the laptop  790 . Once the display portion  792  is secured, the support  710  is then coupled to the display surface  701  by coupling mounts  719  to the engagement structures  718  of the support  710 . The engagement structures  718  may be fixedly coupled to the support  710 , or may be a separate component that is accepted in mount recesses or mount openings  711  that at least partially extend through the support  710 . The laptop  790  is now secured and inhibited from being removed from the display surface  701 . The lips  724  of the holder  720  and the holder stop  725  inhibit removal of the display portion  792  of the laptop  790  from the security apparatus  700  while it is coupled to the display surface  701 . The spacing of the lip  724  and the holder stop  725  relative to the display surface  701  or display fixture further inhibits removal of the laptop when secured within the security apparatus  700  as shown in  FIGS.  45 - 48   . 
     Once secured, the laptop  790  may be pivotally moved relative to the display surface  701  while retained by the security element  700  as shown in  FIG.  46   . In addition and as shown in  FIGS.  47 - 48   , the display portion  792  and the base portion  794  of the laptop  790  may be moved relative to each other and relative to the display surface while the laptop  790  is retained by the security apparatus  700 . 
       FIGS.  44 , and  49 - 50    illustrate an embodiment of the security apparatus  800  that comprises one or more removable brackets or securing members  780 ,  880 . As shown, the securing members  880  are configured to be removeably coupled to a holder  820  or retainer  830 . The cap  832  and the lip  834  of the retainer  830  define a pocket  835  configured to engage, secure, and/or contact a surface of a portable electronic device. In the embodiments shown in  FIGS.  49 - 50   , the securing member  880  may be configured to be removeably coupled or held within the pocket  835 . In another embodiment, the securing members are configured to be removeably coupled to the corresponding holder  820 . 
     The securing members  880  allows one or more dimensions of the holder  820  or retainer  830  to be changed in order to accommodate portable electronic devices of varying sizes without having to remove and install holders  820  or retainers  830  of different sizes, or purchasing entirely differently dimensioned security apparatuses. As shown in  FIGS.  49 - 50   , an outside surface  885  of the securing member  880  is configured to engage the pocket  835  of the retainer  830 . The retainer  830  is thereby increased in length be a distance Q and a new pocket  881  is defined by the cap  882  and lip  884  of the securing member  880 . The height and depth of the new pocket  881  is decreased relative to the pocket  835  by the thickness T of the securing member  880 . In other embodiments, the securing member  880  may be configured to change the height and depth of the new pocket  881  relative to the pocket  835  by an amount that is greater than the thickness T of the securing member  880 . The securing member  880  may be dimensioned for a snap-fit or friction fit engagement with the holder  820  or retainer  830 . In an embodiment, the outside surface  885  of the securing member  880  may define one or more surface features configured to removeably engage one or more complimentary surface features defined on corresponding surfaces of the pocket  835 . 
     Still referring to  FIGS.  49 - 50   , the stop member  840  may be configured to removeably couple to a stop support member  886 . The stop support member  886  may be comprise one or more raised members  887  positioned at opposing ends of a brace  889 . As shown, the brace  889  extends along an axis B that intersects the axis SM of the stop member  840 . The raised members  887  are configured to contact and support a surface of a portable electronic device being held/secured by the security apparatus  800 . The raised members  887  extend a distance D from the brace  889 . As shown, the stop support member  886  comprises two (2) raised members  887 , however the stop support member  886  may comprise at least one (1) raised member  887 . In other embodiments, the raised members  887  may be configured to clamp, trap, or otherwise secure a surface of a portable electronic device. As shown, the stop support member  886  may be secured to the stop member  840  using one or more fasteners  888 , however in other embodiments the stop support member  886  may be coupled to the stop member  840  through a snap-fit engagement between one or more surface features defined on the stop member  840  and one or more complimentary surface features defined on the stop support member  886 . In an embodiment, the surface features may comprise a plurality of threads defined on the stop member  840  configured to engage a plurality of complimentary threads defined on the stop support member  886 . It is understood that one or more of the features of the removable brackets or securing members  780 ,  880  may be customized to accommodate 
     One or more components of the embodiments of security apparatus  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800  described above may be comprised of one or more types of metal, such as steel, zinc, or aluminum, or one or more types of plastic, such as PA6 (Nylon 6), ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), or POM (Polyoxymethylene). In an embodiment, one or more components of the security apparatus  100  may be comprised of a combination of metallic and plastic components. 
     While the present invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to certain exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by one skilled in the art that various changes in detail may be effected therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention that can be supported by the written description and drawings. Further, where exemplary embodiments are described with reference to a certain number of elements, it will be understood that the exemplary embodiments can be practiced utilizing either less than or more than the certain number of elements.