Abstract:
Device holders having a number of arms for receiving a handheld device and a number of recesses providing an interface area for a user&#39;s hand to hold the device during use. In some examples the device holder maintains an open cavity between the body of the device and the holder itself. In some examples, the holder maintains the device in place with a series of extensions from the base of the holder that secure the periphery of the device via a retainer.

Description:
BACKGROUND 
       [0001]    The present disclosure relates generally to handheld device holders. In particular this disclosure includes handheld device holders having strategically placed gripping recesses and device protection cavities. 
         [0002]    There exist a large variety of handheld devices on the market today. These devices come in all shapes and sizes and vary in function and purpose. These devices range from standard cellular phones, to smart phones, to gaming devices, global positioning units, tablet computers, laptops and more. These devices serve a myriad of purposes and are carried everywhere a user goes. Because these devices are handheld, users often seek comfortable and efficient ways to secure these devices during use and protect them from damage. 
         [0003]    Known device holders are not entirely satisfactory for the range of applications in which they are employed. For example, existing device holders lack gripping recesses conducive to increasing a user&#39;s hold on a device. Existing device holders allow a very limited number of holding positions for a user. These positions often place the device in precarious and difficult to maintain positions in a user&#39;s hands. 
         [0004]    Existing holders often cause user discomfort in that they force a user to endure often uncomfortable and non-ergonomic hand positions when interfacing with a device. Such positions can lead to Fatigue and increase the likelihood that a device will fall or be dropped by the user causing damage to the device. 
         [0005]    Extant device holders are also attached too close to the body of the device to allow for proper gripping recesses. A user maintains significantly more control over a device when the hand and fingers can penetrate the holder&#39;s recesses. Existing device holders do not allow adequate space between the body of the device and the holder itself for users to grip the holder. 
         [0006]    Additionally, known device holders provide inadequate protection to the device. Damage to the device results when the device is dropped and contacts a hard surface, Existing holders are wrapped to closely around the body of the device and fail to provide sufficient impact resistance for the device. A holder having inadequate cavity between the device body and the holder allows the full force of impact to be transferred to a device. 
         [0007]    Ease of use, comfort in handling, and protection from damage are of utmost importance for device users, Current holders have failed to sufficiently incorporate these needs into a single functional design. Thus, there exists a need for device holders that improve upon and advance the design of known device holders. Examples of new and useful device holders relevant to the needs existing in the field are discussed below. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0008]    The present disclosure is directed to device holders having a number of arms for receiving a handheld device and a number of recesses providing an interface area for a user&#39;s hand to hold the device during use. In some examples the device holder maintains an open cavity between the body of the device and the holder itself. In some examples, the holder maintains the device in place with a series of extensions from the base of the holder that secure the periphery of the device via a retainer. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0009]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a first example of a device holder being held by a user. 
           [0010]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the device holder shown in  FIG. 1  depicting a number of finger holes. 
           [0011]      FIG. 3  is a side elevation view of the device holder of  FIG. 1  depicting an arm extending from the base of the device holder contacting the device. 
           [0012]      FIG. 4  is a front elevation view of the device holder of  FIG. 1  holding a device in place with a retainer portion of the arm shown in  FIG. 3 . 
           [0013]      FIG. 5  is a rear elevation view of the device holder of  FIG. 1  depicting a number of arms extending from the base of the device holder contacting the periphery of a sample device. 
           [0014]      FIG. 6  is a side elevation view of the device holder shown in  FIG. 3  including a lid attachment. 
           [0015]      FIG. 7  is a rear perspective view of the device holder of  FIG. 1  including a mounted attachment. 
           [0016]      FIG. 8  is a rear elevation view of a second example of a device holder depicting a friction interface. 
           [0017]      FIG. 9  is a rear perspective view of the device holder shown in  FIG. 8  including a support stand. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0018]    The disclosed device holders will become better understood through review of the following detailed description in conjunction with the figures. The detailed description and figures provide merely examples of the various inventions described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed examples may be varied, modified, and altered without departing from the scope of the inventions described herein, Many variations are contemplated for different applications and design considerations; however, for the sake of brevity, each and every contemplated variation is not individually described in the following detailed description. 
         [0019]    Throughout the following detailed description, examples of various device holders are provided. Related features in the examples may be identical, similar, or dissimilar in different examples. For the sake of brevity, related features will not be redundantly explained in each example. Instead, the use of related feature names will cue the reader that the feature with a related feature name may be similar to the related feature in an example explained previously. Features specific to a given example will be described in that particular example. The reader should understand that a given feature need not be the same or similar to the specific portrayal of a related feature in any given figure or example. 
         [0020]    With reference to  FIGS. 1-7 , a first example of a device holder, device holder  100  will now be described. Device holder  100  includes a base  102 , a plurality of finger holes  104 , a first arm  110 , a second arm  112 , each arm having a terminal end  114  and a retainer  116 , a cavity  120  defined by the interior of the base  102 . Device holder  100  functions to provide secure holding positions for the user of a device. Additionally or alternatively, device holder  100  can provide impact resistance and protection from damage. 
         [0021]    By way of example, reference is also made to a device  150  and a user interacting with device holder  100 . These examples do not limit the device holder in any way and only represent a sample of the devices with which the instant embodiment may be used. 
         [0022]    As can be seen in  FIGS. 1-7 , base  102  defines a central portion of device holder  100 . Base  102  represents any portion of device holder  100  that the user would interface with for holding device holder  100 . In the instant example, base  102  is mostly planar having outer and inner surfaces. The edges of base  102  taper towards the device to create an overall rounded shape. In another example, the base takes on a rectangular shape. In yet other examples, the base is selected from a number of different shapes suitable for cradling a device and allowing a user to increase the stability with which the device is held. 
         [0023]    In this example base  102  is composed of a flexible plastic. A significant number of materials and composites are employed in various other examples. In another example the base is made of aluminum. In yet another example the base is made of rubber. In other examples any material that can reasonably create a holding surface for user interface is contemplated. 
         [0024]    Base  102  provides a surface into which finger holes  104  extend. Base  102  constitutes a structure within which space is provided for gripping device holder  100 , Material can be removed from any portion of base  102  creating finger holes  104 . 
         [0025]    Turning our attention more specifically to  FIG. 1 , we see finger holes  104  extending into base  102  of device holder  100 . In this example, a number of finger holes  104  are present on base  102 . In another example, there is only a single hole to provide a gripping surface. In yet other examples, there are many holes covering the base of the device holder. 
         [0026]    In the present embodiment, finger holes  104  are arranged in a circular pattern. In various examples, finger holes may be arranged in patterns conducive to user interface. In yet other examples, finger hole placement is specifically optimized for user interface and/or mounted attachment interface. 
         [0027]    Referencing  FIG. 1 , a user is shown interfacing with device holder  100  by inserting his fingers into finger holes  104 . The user is depicted having inserted his thumb into one finger hole  104  towards the bottom of base  102  in device holder  100 , and also having inserted his pointer and middle fingers into finger holes  104  opposite the thumb. This figure shows only one possible way for a user to engage device holder  100 . 
         [0028]    The ranges of devices that may be used with device holder  100  serve numerous functions. As such, user preferred holding positions differ between the varying functions and device orientations. In  FIG. 1 , device  150  is being used in a horizontal position. In an alternate example, where the device being used is in its vertical position, the user would need only to rotate the device holder to gain access to alternative finger holes, maintaining largely the same hand position despite a change in device orientation. 
         [0029]    By way of explanation only, a device holder may be used in conjunction with a handheld gaming device. A user needing to turn the device or move it rapidly in his hands would elect a particular hand position to accomplish such mobility. On the other hand a device holder being used with a handheld electronic sketch pad would cause a user to elect a different hand position offering more stationary stability. 
         [0030]    We also see in  FIG. 2  that finger holes  104  vary in size relative to one another. Just as finger hole placement on the device holder can be varied to achieve optimal interfacing for a given use, finger hole size may also be varied. Though  FIG. 2  shows finger holes  104  having alternating sizes relative to one another, in another example the holes are the same size relative to one another. In various examples, the device holder has finger holes which range from small (approx. 0.5 inches in diameter) to large (greater than 2 inches in diameter). 
         [0031]    Further,  FIGS. 1-4  show finger holes  104  which are largely circular in appearance, while in some examples circular finger hole shape may be optimal for a given use, other examples include finger holes having non-circular shape. In a certain example, the finger holes are oval. In another example, the finger holes are square. 
         [0032]    Turning now to  FIG. 2 , a central finger hole  104 ( i ) is shown. In the instant example central finger hole  104 ( i ) is a standard finger hole having characteristics similar to other finger holes  104 . As described above, device holder  100  will be interfaced by users and mounted attachments alike. In the instant embodiment finger hole  104 ( i ) represents an interface location for mounted attachments.  FIG. 5  further shows finger hole  104 ( i ) in a standard user interface configuration. In contrast,  FIG. 7  depicts finger hole  104 ( i ) being interfaced by a mounted attachment  140 . 
         [0033]    Any number of mounted attachments may be attached to any of finger holes  104 . In the instant example the mounted attachment is an adjustable clamping arm  140 . Clamping arm  140  has been optionally interfaced with central finger hole  104 ( i ). In various other embodiments the mounted attachment is a wall mount, a table top stand, or an automotive dash attachment. In each of the various embodiments, mounted attachments are able to interface using any of the unused finger holes. 
         [0034]    Directing attention now to  FIGS. 5-6 , arms  110  and  112  will now be described. Arms  110  and  112  originate on base  102  and extend transverse to a plane defined by base  102 . Arm  110  terminates in a first terminal end  114  and a retainer  116  on the periphery of device  150 . Arm  112  also has a terminal end and retainer substantially identical to those of arm  110  and will not be redundantly described. Also, by way of example only, the current embodiment includes right arm  112 ( i ) and left arm  112 ( ii ) both arms having features substantially identical to arms  110  and  112 . Some alternative embodiments include only two arms while yet other embodiments include more than two arms. 
         [0035]    In the instant embodiment, arms  110  and  112  extend seamlessly in one piece from base  102  towards the periphery of device  150  in opposing directions. Arm  110  for example, extends from the top of base  102  towards the top of device  150  whereon the terminal end  114  of arm  110  contacts the peripheral edge of device  150 . 
         [0036]    In contrast, arm  112  extends from the bottom of base  102  towards the bottom of device  150  terminating on the bottom peripheral edge of device  150 . In a similar configuration, right arm  112 ( i ) and left arm  112 ( i ) extend from base  102  in opposing directions terminating on the right and left peripheral edge respectively, of device  150 . 
         [0037]    Each of arms  110 ,  112 ,  112 ( i ), and  112 ( ii ) are capped at their respective terminal ends with a retainer  116 . As can be seen in  FIG. 6  for example, the terminal ends of arm  110  and  112  further extend beyond the peripheral edge of device  150  and create retainer  116 . In the instant example, retainer  116  folds over the peripheral edge of device  150  onto the face of device  150 . In another example, the retainer does not extend onto the face of the device and instead clips solely to the peripheral edge of device  150 . 
         [0038]    Turning to  FIG. 4 , retainers  116  are shown cradling the face of device  150 . The opposing directions of arms  110 ,  112 ,  112 ( i ), and  112 ( ii ) and the terminal ends having retainers  116  create a shape whereby device holder  100  maintains device  150  in a secure position. 
         [0039]    Retainers  116  have an outer and inner surface.  FIG. 4  shows the outer surface of retainers  116 . In the instant example, retainers  116  have an inner surface substantially matching the contour of the outer surface. In another example, the interior surface may curve to match the contour of the device in question. In other examples, the interior surface comprises a lip designed to fit snugly over the peripheral edge of the device contained within the device holder. In yet other examples, the interior surface is made from a flexible material able to conform to the edges of multiple devices. 
         [0040]    Turning back to  FIG. 6 , the peripheral edge of device  150  is shown contacting terminal ends  114  of each arm at such an angle that restricts movement of device  150  laterally or medially within base  102 . 
         [0041]    As can be seen in  FIGS. 5-6 , the arms extend from base  102  in a curve precisely toward the peripheral edges of device  150 . In this example, the curved shape of arms  110 ,  112 ,  112 ( i ), and  112 ( ii ) in conjunction with the semi-rigid nature of device holder  100  causes inward pressure to be exerted on the peripheral edges of device  150 . This inward pressure secures the edges of device  150  from movement and allows device holder  100  to provide multiple secure holding positions for the user. 
         [0042]    In another example, the arms approach the peripheral edges of the device at a substantially right angle creating a similar inward pressure for holding the device in place. In another example, the device is instead held in place with adhesive. In yet other examples, the device is held in place mechanically and no inward pressure is exerted on the device by the arms. 
         [0043]    While in the current example base  102 , arms  110 , 112 , 112 ( i ), and  112 ( ii ), and the respective terminal ends  114 , and retainers  116  are formed from a single piece having no seams, alternative embodiments include bases, arms, terminal ends, and retainers formed from multiple discrete pieces that are joined together to create a single device holder. 
         [0044]    In the current example and in various other embodiments, the device holder is configured to receive a lid portion  160 .  FIG. 6  shows one example of a lid configuration that engages the peripheral edge of device  150  in the spaces between adjacent arms  110 ,  112 ,  112 ( i ), and  112 ( ii ). In this example the lid is made from a material substantially similar to that of the base  102  of device holder  100 . In yet other embodiments the lid is made from other materials sufficient to provide a covert to the face of the device. 
         [0045]    Focusing again on  FIG. 6 , cavity  120  is now described. The inner surface of base  102  defines a cavity  120 , between device holder  100  and device  150 . The outer surface of base  102  comes in contact with the user and other interfacing surfaces. Cavity  120  provides a buffer between device  150  and interfacing surfaces and users. Additionally, cavity  120  creates an interstitial space where users may place their fingers for desired holding positions and where mounted attachments engage finger holes  104 . 
         [0046]    In the instant embodiment, cavity  120  has a contour largely matching the contour of the exterior surface of base  102 . The outside edges of cavity  120  are tapered to meet the peripheral edges of device  150 . In another example, the cavity does not match the exterior contour of the base but instead is has a unique shape which can be selected for particular characteristics. The cavity in such examples is selected based upon desired mountable attachments, storage, rigidity, flexibility, cushion, weight, etc. In each case the cavity shape is selectable based upon desired interface characteristics. 
         [0047]    Turning attention to  FIGS. 8-9 , a second example of a device holder, device holder  200  will now be described. Device holder  200  includes many similar or identical features to device holder  100 . Thus, for the sake of brevity, each feature of device holder  200  will not be redundantly explained. Rather, key distinctions between device holder  200  and device holder  100  will be described in detail and the reader should reference the discussion above for features substantially similar between the two device holders. 
         [0048]    As can be seen in  FIGS. 8-9 , device holder  200  includes a base  202 , a plurality of finger holes  204 , a first arm  210 , a second arm  212 , each arm having a terminal end  214  and a retainer  216 , a cavity  220  defined by the interior of the base  202 . Device holder  200  functions to provide secure holding positions for the user of a device, and secure holding positions for mounted attachments. Additionally or alternatively, device holder  100  can provide impact resistance and protection from damage. 
         [0049]    Arms  210 , and  212 , the relevant terminal ends  214  and retainers  216  are substantially similar to their device  100  counterparts. Additionally, cavity  220  defines a cavity having substantially similar characteristics compared to cavity  120  described above. Finger holes  204  however include an additional feature not present in the embodiment described above. Device holder  200  therefore, additionally includes a mounted attachment friction interface  230  and a support stand  240  for propping the device. 
         [0050]    Directing attention now to  FIG. 8 , friction interface  230  is described. As can be seen in  FIG. 8 , device holder  200  includes a base  202 , into which a plurality of finger holes  204  extend. In the instant example, finger holes  204  vary in size relative to one another. Also in the instant example, finger holes  204  are shown in a circular arrangement toward the center of base  202 . In another example, the size and location of the finger holes are random, taking up space across the entirety of base  202 . In various other examples finger hole placement on the device holder is varied to achieve optimal interfacing for a given use. Additional embodiments include finger hole sizes that are uniform. 
         [0051]    Though  FIG. 8  shows finger holes  204  alternating in size relative to one another, in another example the holes remain uniform in size relative to one another. In various examples, the device holder has finger holes which range from small (approx. 0.5 inches in diameter) to large (greater than 2 inches in diameter). 
         [0052]    Further,  FIGS. 8-9  show finger holes  204  which are largely round in appearance, while in some examples round finger hole shape may be optimal for a given use, other examples include finger holes having non-round shapes. In a certain example the finger holes are oval. In another example the finger holes are square. 
         [0053]    Turning now to  FIG. 8 , a central finger hole  204 ( i ) is shown. In the instant example central finger hole  204 ( i ) is a standard finger hole having characteristics similar to other finger holes  204 . As described above, device holder  100  will be interfaced by users and mounted attachments alike. In the instant embodiment finger hole  204 ( i ) represents an interface location for mounted attachments.  FIG. 8  shows finger hole  204 ( i ) in a standard user interface configuration. In contrast,  FIG. 9  depicts finger hole  204 ( i ) being interfaced by a mounted attachment. 
         [0054]    A noticeable addition to finger hole  204 ( i ) when compared to device holder  100 , is a friction interface  230 . In the instant example, friction interface  230  is arranged in a circular pattern surrounding finger hole  204 ( i ). Friction interface  230  defines a region of base  202  having a series of ribs arranged in a pattern surrounding a finger hole  204 . Friction interface  230  provides for controlled adjustment of interfacing mounted attachments. 
         [0055]    In the instant embodiment, friction interface  230  defines a series of ribs protruding from the surface of base  202 . In another example, the friction interface is comprised of tooth like structures. In yet another embodiment, the friction interface is a series of dimples. In each embodiment including a friction interface, any surface having a sufficient friction coefficient for selectable adjustment of interfacing mounted attachments is contemplated. 
         [0056]    Any number of mounted attachments may be attached to any of finger holes  204  and therefore friction interface  230  may likewise be present around any of finger holes  204 . In the instant example the mounted attachment is a support stand  240 . Support stand  240  has been optionally interfaced with central finger hole  204 ( i ). In various embodiments, support stand  240  is able to interface using any of the unused finger holes  204 . 
         [0057]    Turning attention now to  FIG. 9 , support stand  240  is now described. As can be seen in  FIG. 9 , support stand  240  includes an attachment surface  242 , a coupler  244 , swivel member  246 , and a propping member  248 . 
         [0058]    In this example, attachment surface  242  engages friction interface  230 . Attachment surface  242  is a substantially planar surface configured to create a contact point between device holder  200  and support stand  240 . In the instant example, the contacting face of attachment surface  242  is covered with a series of ribs complimentary to the ribs of friction interface  230 . 
         [0059]    In another embodiment, the attachment surface is covered with tooth-like protrusions configured to compliment the teeth of alternative friction interfaces. In yet another embodiment the attachment surface is dimpled to receive a complimentarily dimpled friction interface, in yet other embodiments, any surface complimentary to an opposing friction interface that allows for controlled adjustment of the support stand is contemplated. 
         [0060]    The attachment surface  242  of device holder  200  is coupled to base  202  via a coupler  244 . In the instant example, coupler  244  attaches to base  202  through the center of attachment surface  242 , through finger hole  204 ( i ) and is fastened into place within cavity  220 . 
         [0061]    Coupler  244  applies a clamping force on attachment surface  242  pulling it into contact with friction interface  230 . In this example, coupler  244  is a standard bolt retained in place with a nut as known in the art. The bolt extends through the attachment surface and through the finger hole and is retained from within the cavity causing a clamping force to be exerted on all surfaces and hold the support stand to the device holder. The amount of clamping force exerted by coupler  244  on the attachment surface  242  is adjustable by tightening the nut. 
         [0062]    In this example, a clamping force that allows for selectable adjustment of the angle of attachment of the stand, but sufficient to withstand sagging or unwanted movement is preferable. In another example, the coupler is a pin that is retained in place with a spring, the spring being disposed on the interior surface of the cavity. In such example, the amount of clamping force exerted by the coupler on the attachment surface is a function of the tension exerted by the spring. 
         [0063]    When sufficient clamping force is exerted, drawing base  202  together with attachment surface  242  via coupler  244 , support stand  240  can be rotated in intervals around the friction interface between corresponding ribs. Device holder  200  supplies support, protection and holding positions for a large number of devices, each of which often have multiple positions of use. Support stand  240  allows articulation of device holder  200  across a range of positions and orientations. 
         [0064]    Support stand  240  is rotatably adjustable around the axis of coupler  244 . As support stand  240  rotates around the axis, attachment surface  242  intermittently engages the ribs of friction interface  230  making support stand  240  selectably adjustable in three-hundred-and-sixty degrees. 
         [0065]    Turning back to  FIG. 9 , coupler  244  additionally provides a point of attachment for a swivel member  246 . Swivel member  246  provides for articulation of device holder  200  relative to support stand  240 . In the instant example, swivel member  246  defines a pin structure that connects a propping member  248  to coupler  244  providing for a swivel movement between the two structures. The pin structure of swivel member  246  transects both propping member  248  and attachment surface  242 . 
         [0066]    Swivel member  246  allows propping member  248  to open away from base  202  sufficient to provide standing support for device  200 . In this embodiment, swivel member  246  is free floating and acts as a common bushing between the propping member and attachment surface. In another embodiment the swivel member is configured to selectively apply a clamping force between the propping member and the attachment surface. Such a clamping force allows for selective positioning angle of the propping member. 
         [0067]    Turning attention now to propping member  248 .  FIG. 9  depicts a propping member  248  secured to the attachment surface via swivel member  246 . In the instant example, propping member  248  comprises a leg portion of support stand  240 . Propping member  248  is configured to rest on any structure like a table or other surface that a user would commonly place a device on during use. Propping member  248  provides a contact point with a surface which in addition to the contact points created by the periphery of device  150 , cause device  150  to remain upright during use. 
         [0068]      FIG. 9  depicts a common standing position created by propping member  248 . In the instant example, propping member  248  is a plastic material having a contour matching the outside contour of base  202 . In another example, the propping member is made of metal. In various other embodiments, the propping member is composed of any material sufficiently rigid to allow the device to stand upright without additional support. 
         [0069]    The contour of propping member  248  allows for a compact stowing position.  FIG. 9  shows that in the instant example, propping member  248  has a contour that is complimentary to the shape of base  202 . This contour creates a stowing position where propping member  248  is nested around the outer edge of base  202 . In another embodiment, the propping member is not contoured but instead is substantially planar. In another example, the contour of the propping member includes one or more right angles and does not nest against the base. 
         [0070]    The disclosure above encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility. While each of these inventions has been disclosed in a particular form, the specific embodiments disclosed and illustrated above are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed above and inherent to those skilled in the art pertaining to such inventions. Where the disclosure or subsequently filed claims recite “a” element, “a first” element, or any such equivalent term, the disclosure or claims should be understood to incorporate one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. 
         [0071]    Applicant(s) reserves the right to submit claims directed to combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed inventions that are believed to be novel and non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of new claims in the present application or in a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to the same invention or a different invention and whether they are different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are to be considered within the subject matter of the inventions described herein.