Patent Description:
A portable light configured to be supported on an umbrella pole has been commercially available for a number of years. The portable light has a clam shell housing that can be opened to allow the umbrella pole to be positioned within an outer periphery of the housing. The housing can have an inner periphery that is larger than the outer diameter of the umbrella pole to which the portable light is to be coupled. Closing the clam shell housing can enclose the pole within the inner and the outer peripheries of the portable light. The clam shell can be held closed with a releasable clasp that can be opened again such that the portable light can be taken off the umbrella pole and then later put back on the umbrella pole.

The portable light can also be mounted on a deployable support as has been disclosed. A deployable support can be extended from an umbrella hub such that the portable light can be mounted to a central area of a shade structure of a cantilever umbrella. The deployable support provides central area mounting of the portable light even though the shade structure is not supported from immediately beneath the shade structure by an umbrella pole.

Portable accessories that are mountable to an umbrella pole can have lights and/or audiovisual components, such as speakers and connections for source inputs to provide audio content to the speakers. The <CIT> provides a device that has two halves that can be completely separated to be disassembled from each other. For power to be transferred between the two halves when the two halves are connected to each other, there are a plug and a socket located on the portions of the two halves.

Improved products for storing, charging and using portable accessories, such as portable lights and/or audiovisual components, when separated from umbrellas would be beneficial. It would be beneficial, for example, to provide a device for coupling with a portable accessory to enhance the use and enjoyment thereof. A portable accessory according to the invention is defined by claim <NUM>.

A stand to couple with a portable light or other portable accessory to provide for storing and charging of the portable light or accessory would enhance the usefulness and enjoyment of the portable light or accessory.

In one form a portable light stand can have a speaker that can provide an audio output of audio content stored on the portable light. In one form the portable light stand can have audio source that can be transmitted to speakers in the portable light.

In one embodiment a free-standing accessory stand is provided. The accessory stand includes a ground support portion, an enclosure, an upper surface, an accessory support, a cap and a mounting surface. The ground support portion has a plurality of spaced apart feet. The enclosure extends upward relative to the ground support. The enclosure is disposed about a central axis thereof. The enclosure surrounds a component space configured for one or more electrical components to be disposed therein. The upper surface extends transversely away from the central axis of the enclosure. The upper surface faces away from the ground support. The accessory support has an outer surface that projects away from the upper surface along the central axis of the enclosure. The cap is disposed at a free end of the accessory support. The cap has a lower surface that extends transversely away from the central axis of the enclosure. The mounting space is provided between the upper surface of the enclosure, the lower surface of the cap, and the outer surface of the accessory support.

In another embodiment a portable accessory is provided that includes an accessory enclosure, an outer periphery, and an electrical component disposed within the accessory enclosure. The accessory enclosure has a first shell and a second shell. The outer periphery and an inner periphery each are defined in part by the first shell and the second shell. The portable accessory also includes an electrical contact disposed on or within the inner periphery of the accessory enclosure. The portable accessory is configured to provide or receive an electrical impulse through the electrical contact.

In another embodiment a free-standing accessory stand is provided that includes a ground support portion and an enclosure. The enclosure extends upward relative to the ground support. The enclosure is disposed about a central axis of the accessory stand. The accessory stand includes a retractable accessory support that has an outer surface projecting along the central axis in a first configuration. The outer surface is retracted in a second configuration. A mounting space is provided along the outer surface of the retractable accessory support above the enclosure.

The ground support portion of the free-standing accessory stand optionally has a plurality of spaced apart feet.

The accessory stand optionally has an upper surface that extends transversely away from the central axis. The upper surface, if provided, faces away from the ground support. The outer surface of the retractable accessory support projects away from the upper surface along the central axis in the first configuration. The outer surface is retracted below the upper surface in the second configuration. The mounting space is provided along the outer surface of the retractable accessory support above the upper surface of the enclosure.

In some embodiments, there is provided a speaker lamp that can provide a lighting function as well as a speaker function. In addition, the structure can be used as one unit (e.g., with the free standing stand and the portable accessory) and also be used as two separate units (e.g., the stand as a speaker and the accessory separately mounted to an umbrella pole). The ability to separate part of the speaker lamp accessory into two components provides these advantageous functionalities. When used together the enclosure can provide a first light, the cap can provide a second light, and the portable accessory can provide at least one additional light. Also, the enclosure of the stand can provide a first speaker and the portable accessory can provide at least a second speaker.

These and other features, aspects and advantages are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate but not to limit the inventions. In the drawings, like reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout similar embodiments. The following is a brief description of each of the drawings.

While the present description sets forth specific details of various embodiments, it will be appreciated that the description is illustrative only and should not be construed in any way as limiting. Furthermore, various applications of such embodiments and modifications thereto, which may occur to those who are skilled in the art, are also encompassed by the general concepts described herein. Each and every feature described herein, and each and every combination of two or more of such features, is included within the scope of the present invention provided that the features included in such a combination are not mutually inconsistent.

This application discloses and claims various support apparatuses that can be used to store, and in some cases, provide power to portable accessories, such as a portable lights, or portable audio components or the like. The portable accessory can be coupled with support shafts such as umbrella poles whether supporting the umbrella or being supported thereby. This application also discloses accessories that can be coupled with support apparatuses such as support stands and umbrella poles or supports.

<FIG> shows an assembly <NUM> that includes a free standing accessory stand <NUM> and a portable accessory <NUM>. The free standing accessory stand <NUM> can be placed on a table or shelf to be close enough to provide light, speaker output or other useful function to users. The portable accessory <NUM> can be selectively placed on the free standing accessory stand <NUM> as shown in <FIG> or mounted to a pole portion <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The pole portion <NUM> can be part of an umbrella. The portable accessory <NUM> can include a first shell <NUM> and a second shell <NUM>. The second shell <NUM> can be separated from the first shell <NUM> to enable the pole portion <NUM> to be disposed within an inner periphery of the enclosure <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the free standing accessory stand <NUM> in a first configuration <NUM>. The first configuration <NUM> is one in which the portable accessory <NUM> can be coupled with the free standing accessory stand <NUM> to form the assembly <NUM>. The free standing accessory stand <NUM> is elongated in the first configuration <NUM> along a central axis <NUM>. The free standing accessory stand <NUM> includes a ground support portion <NUM> configured to rest on a support surface, such as a table or shelf. The ground support portion <NUM> can include a plurality of feet <NUM>. The feet <NUM> can include three, four or another number of feet <NUM>. The feet <NUM> have a height sufficient to provide a clearance between a lower wall <NUM> and the ground surface, upon which the free standing accessory stand <NUM> is placed. The clearance allows sound and/or heat to be conveyed through the lower wall <NUM> and out from under the free standing accessory stand <NUM> in spaces between the feet <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that an enclosure <NUM> is provided that can extend upward from the ground support portion <NUM>, e.g., away from the feet <NUM>. The enclosure <NUM> can include a curved side wall <NUM> that extends between the lower wall <NUM> and an upper surface <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>. The enclosure <NUM> can surround or enclose one or more spaces in which one or more components can be housed, as discussed further below in connection with <FIG>. The enclosure <NUM> can surround a plurality of separate compartments for different functional components of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>.

The free standing accessory stand <NUM> also includes an accessory support <NUM> that is disposed above the upper surface <NUM>. The accessory support <NUM> can be partially disposed in the enclosure <NUM> at a first end in the first configuration <NUM>. The accessory support <NUM> can extend from the partially exposed portion through the upper surface <NUM> to a free end <NUM>. The accessory support <NUM> can include an outer surface <NUM> that can include a cylindrical portion. The outer surface <NUM> can extend between the upper surface <NUM> and the free end <NUM>. The outer surface <NUM> can be a surface against which the portable accessory <NUM> is mated. The accessory <NUM> can be releaseably coupled to the outer surface <NUM>. In some embodiments the free end <NUM> of the accessory support <NUM> includes a retractable end <NUM>. The retractable end <NUM> allows the accessory support <NUM> to be retracted into the enclosure <NUM> when the accessory support <NUM> is not needed. The accessory support <NUM> may not be needed when an accessory coupled therewith is removed from the free standing accessory stand <NUM>, e.g., when coupled with an umbrella pole as illustrated in <FIG>. This can facilitate placing the free standing accessory stand <NUM> in a second configuration <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

In the second configuration <NUM> the accessory support <NUM> is moved at least partially into the enclosure <NUM>. The retractable end <NUM> of the free standing accessory stand <NUM> is retracted into a lower portion of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface <NUM> that is exposed in the first configuration <NUM> is located almost entirely within the interior space of the enclosure <NUM>. <FIG> shows that the outer surface <NUM> of the accessory support <NUM> is almost entirely hidden from view when the free standing accessory stand <NUM> is in the second configuration <NUM>. In this embodiment, the outer surface <NUM> is not needed to support the portable accessory <NUM> and is within the enclosure <NUM> out of the way.

In some embodiments the accessory support <NUM> can include a guiding rail <NUM> to facilitate movement of the retractable end <NUM> relative to a lower portion of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. The guiding rail <NUM> can include an elongate structure having one or more discontinuities relative to the outer surface <NUM>. The guiding rail <NUM> can include a convex ridge that extends in a vertical direction between the upper surface <NUM> and a portion of the outer surface <NUM> disposed above the upper surface <NUM>. The accessory support <NUM> can be rotationally aligned with an opening in the upper surface <NUM> such that the guiding rail <NUM> is disposed in a concave feature of the same shape but slightly larger size. The concave feature retains the guiding rail <NUM> and prevents the guiding rail <NUM> and the accessory support <NUM> from rotating out of position relative to the enclosure <NUM> or reduces such rotation. As a result, the rotational position of the outer surface <NUM> and of the accessory support <NUM> is maintained substantially constant as the retractable end <NUM> is being retracted into or is being extended from the lower portion of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. In another embodiment, the guiding rail <NUM> can be in the form of a concave channel formed in the outer surface <NUM>. The channel can provide an elongate, linear structure that can receive a projection disposed on the upper surface <NUM> of the free standing accessory stand <NUM> or within the enclosure <NUM>. The projection can be sized and shaped to prevent or reduce relative rotation between the accessory support <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM>.

The free end <NUM> can take a variety of forms. In the illustrated embodiment the free end <NUM> includes a cap <NUM> disposed at an upper end of the outer surface <NUM>. The cap <NUM> can have a relatively flat or low profile configuration. The cap <NUM> can be disposed generally transverse to the central axis <NUM>. In one embodiment, the cap <NUM> has a generally planar lower surface <NUM> and has an arcuate upper surface. The arcuate upper surface can include a convex outer surface of the cap <NUM>. The form of the upper surface and the lower surface <NUM> of the cap <NUM> enables a space to be provided therein. In one embodiment one or more lights <NUM> is provided in the cap <NUM> between the arcuate upper surface and the lower surface <NUM>. <FIG> shows that there can be four lights, which may include light emitting diodes (LEDs) in four sections of the cap <NUM>. LEDs can be provided in other patterns as well. The power for the LEDs can be provided via an electrical conveyance disposed within the accessory support <NUM>, e.g., in a space within the outer surface <NUM> or within the guiding rail <NUM>. The cap <NUM> can have a transverse dimension, e.g., a diameter that is more than fifty percent of the transverse dimension of the upper surface <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that controlled movement of the accessory support <NUM> into and out of the lower portion of the free standing accessory stand <NUM> can be facilitated by a bearing plate <NUM> disposed in the enclosure <NUM>. The bearing plate <NUM> can be disposed generally transverse to the central axis <NUM> within the enclosure <NUM>. The bearing plate <NUM> can include a cylindrical wall disposed about a circular inner member. An upper side of the circular member of the bearing plate <NUM> can mate with the outer surface <NUM>.

As discussed above, the enclosure <NUM> can enclose one or more internal spaces of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. The internal spaces can be at least partially and in some cases entirely separated from each other. For example, a space <NUM> contained within the curved side wall <NUM> can be separated by internal walls into a plurality of smaller spaces. A speaker mounting space 260A adjacent to the lower wall <NUM> can be provided. Also, a retraction mechanism space 260B disposed between the speaker mounting space 260A and the upper surface <NUM>. A lower peripheral space 260C can be disposed about the speaker mounting space 260A and about a portion of the retraction mechanism space 260B. An upper peripheral space 260D disposed around a portion of the retraction mechanism space 260B. While the space <NUM> has been shown to be subdivided into four distinct spaces, some of these spaces can be merged resulting in fewer internal spaces. Also, the space <NUM> can be further subdivided to provide separate areas for additional components within the enclosure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the space <NUM> can fewer isolated areas with some of the foregoing spaces combined.

The bearing plate <NUM> can be disposed in the retraction mechanism space 260B within the enclosure <NUM>. <FIG> shows that the bearing plate <NUM> can be disposed toward or at the upper end of the retraction mechanism space 260B when the free standing accessory stand <NUM> is in the first configuration <NUM>. The bearing plate <NUM> is moveable within the retraction mechanism space 260B as the accessory support <NUM> is moved. When the accessory support <NUM> is moved into the retraction mechanism space 260B the bearing plate <NUM> moves downward toward the speaker mounting space 260A. When the accessory support <NUM> is moved out of the retraction mechanism space 260B the bearing plate <NUM> moves away from the space <NUM> toward the upper surface <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>. A variety of structures can be used to retain the bearing plate <NUM> in a position corresponding to the first configuration <NUM>. In one embodiment a coil spring <NUM> or other resilient member is provided to retain the bearing plate <NUM> at or adjacent to the upper end of the retraction mechanism space 260B. In one embodiment a first end of the spring <NUM> acts on a wall defining the lower end of the retraction mechanism space 260B and the upper end of the speaker mounting space 260A. A second end of the spring <NUM> acts on a lower surface of the bearing plate <NUM>. The spring <NUM> is configured such that as the bearing plate <NUM> moves downward away from an upper position in the retraction mechanism space 260B, the spring <NUM> stores strain energy. The strain energy in the spring <NUM> can be released if the bearing plate <NUM> is unconstrained. The free-state of the spring <NUM> and of the accessory support <NUM> is or corresponds to the first configuration <NUM> of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>.

The second configuration <NUM> of the free standing accessory stand <NUM> is maintained by a retraction mechanism <NUM>. The retraction mechanism <NUM> facilitates motion of the accessory support <NUM> into the lower portion of the free standing accessory stand <NUM> within the enclosure <NUM>. For example, the user can push downward the cap <NUM> in the direction of the arrow <NUM> shown in <FIG>. As the accessory support <NUM> moves into the retraction mechanism space 260B the bearing plate <NUM> slides down along a wall surrounding the space 260B. The distance between the lower surface of the bearing plate <NUM> and the upper surface of the enclosure <NUM> between the speaker mounting space 260A and the retraction mechanism space 260B is reduced and the spring <NUM> is compressed. When the accessory support <NUM> is fully advanced into the retraction mechanism space 260B a force in a direction opposite the direction of the arrow <NUM> acts on the bearing plate <NUM> and would urge the accessory support <NUM> upward back toward the first configuration <NUM> of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> show that the retraction mechanism <NUM> can include a locking device that includes a first locking member <NUM> disposed on and projecting away from a lower side of the bearing plate <NUM>. The first locking member <NUM> can include a hook structure, e.g., an elongate projection with a transverse ledge or length at a free end thereof. A second locking member <NUM> can be disposed at the lower end of the retraction mechanism space 260B. The second locking member <NUM> can include a recess at or coupled with a wall of the enclosure <NUM> bounding the lower end of the retraction mechanism space 260B. The second locking member <NUM> can include a recess configured to receive the first locking member <NUM>. For example, the first locking member <NUM> and the second locking member <NUM> can be disposed along the central axis <NUM> in one embodiment. An opening into the recess of the second locking member <NUM> can be located at an elevation just above the position at which the accessory support <NUM> is configured to be retained in second configuration <NUM>. As the first locking member <NUM> is advanced to this location the free end of the first locking member <NUM> enters the opening into the recess of the second locking member <NUM>. Further advancement of the first locking member <NUM> into the second locking member <NUM> causes the free end to be trapped by the second locking member <NUM>. If the free end of the first locking member <NUM> includes a hook structure a ledge or downward facing structure can be configured to abut the hook structure to resist the upward forced of the spring <NUM>. The hook structure of the first locking member <NUM> can include an upward facing surfaced to abut the downward facing surface of the second locking member <NUM>. In one embodiment, the accessory support <NUM> is configured such that once the first locking member <NUM> and the second locking member <NUM> are engaged the accessory support <NUM> will be held in position absent further actuation as shown in <FIG>.

The retraction mechanism <NUM> can include a disengagement device or can facilitate a disengagement action to be provided to allow the free standing accessory stand <NUM> to transition from the second configuration <NUM> to the first configuration <NUM>. The first locking member <NUM> can be disengaged from the second locking member <NUM> by pressing the cap <NUM> downward along the direction of the arrow <NUM> when the free standing accessory stand <NUM> is in the second configuration <NUM>. For example, the downward motion of the cap <NUM> can cause corresponding downward motion of a hook structure of the first locking member <NUM> relative to the second locking member <NUM>. Such downward motion can cause the first locking member <NUM> to deflect away from the second locking member <NUM> causing engaging or locking surfaces of the first locking member <NUM> and second locking member <NUM> to be misaligned in the vertical direction which can allow the first locking member <NUM> to move upwardly along the first locking member <NUM> such that engaging surface of the first locking member <NUM> and the second locking member <NUM> are not engaged. Additional configurations of locking devices are discussed below in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>.

As discussed above, the space <NUM> in the enclosure <NUM> can be subdivided into separate spaces that can retain different functional components of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. The speaker mounting space 260A can be located at a lower portion of the free standing accessory stand <NUM> and can retain the speaker <NUM> therein. The speaker mounting space 260A can be located between the retraction mechanism space 260B and the lower wall <NUM>. The free standing accessory stand <NUM> can be configured to maximize the volume emitted therefrom by providing the apertures <NUM> between the speaker mounting space 260A and the open area defined by the gap between the table shelf or other surface that the feet <NUM> rest upon and the lower wall <NUM>. The speaker mounting space 260A is advantageously made with a volume not much larger than that of the speaker <NUM> such that sound generated by the speaker and propagating away from the speaker <NUM> will be redirected back toward and out of the apertures <NUM>. Also, the lower side of the free standing accessory stand <NUM> preferably includes hard surfaces such that the sound can be propagate out around the ground support portion <NUM> of the free standing accessory stand <NUM> rather than being muffled thereunder.

The lower peripheral space 260C can be annular in shape extending entirely around the periphery of the enclosure <NUM>. The lower peripheral space 260C can extend between the curved side wall <NUM> and the speaker mounting space 260A in one portion. The lower peripheral space 260C can extend between the curved side wall <NUM> and the retraction mechanism space 260B in another portion. The lower peripheral space 260C has a larger dimension than the upper peripheral space 260D along the central axis <NUM>. The lower peripheral space 260C is configured to retain elongate components. For example, the lower peripheral space 260C can retain a power source <NUM>. The power source <NUM> can include a battery, such as a rechargeable battery. The power source <NUM> can include an AC power unit for powering the speaker <NUM> or other electrical components from wall power source. The power source <NUM> can include both an AC power unit and one or more rechargeable or other type of battery. The lower peripheral space 260C can include a plurality of components in some embodiments. For example a first component <NUM> can be mounted in the lower peripheral space 260C. The first component <NUM> can be a component with a high aspect ratio that is a height that greatly exceeds the width thereof. Accordingly the lower peripheral space 260C can be made taller (along the central axis <NUM>) than is the upper peripheral space 260D to accommodate the first component <NUM>.

As discussed further below, the free standing accessory stand <NUM> can in one mode receive a wireless transmission via a Bluetooth or other sort of antenna of audio content to be amplified and emitted by the speaker <NUM>. The transmission can be transmitted by a cellphone or other mobile device having Bluetooth or other close range transmission protocol. The transmission can come directly from the portable accessory <NUM>. The transmission can come to the free standing accessory stand <NUM> indirectly from a cellphone or other mobile device via the portable accessory <NUM>. The transmission can be directed from the free standing accessory stand <NUM> to the portable accessory <NUM> and from a cellphone or another source.

The space <NUM> in the enclosure <NUM> can also be sub-divided into the upper peripheral space 260D which can contain one or more components. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper peripheral space 260D can enclose one or a plurality of light <NUM>. The light <NUM> can include LED lights mounted to a wall defining a boundary of, e.g., a lower boundary of, the upper peripheral space 260D. The lights <NUM> can be arranged in a regular pattern, e.g., in an annular array with a light <NUM> located every ten to twenty degrees about a circumference. The lights <NUM> can be disposed about one-half of the radial distance between inner and outer walls bounding the upper peripheral space 260D. The light or lights <NUM> can be powered by the power source <NUM> disposed in the lower peripheral space 260C. Accordingly, electrical conveyances can be provided along or to a wall separating the lower peripheral space 260C from the upper peripheral space 260D. In other embodiments, electrical conveyances can be provided between adjacent or remote segments of the space within the enclosure <NUM>.

An upper portion of the curved side wall <NUM> can comprise a transmissive portion <NUM>. The transmissive portion <NUM> can bound the upper peripheral space 260D such that an outer wall radially outward of the light or lights <NUM> can transmit light out of the enclosure <NUM>. The transmissive portion <NUM> can be clear in one embodiment. In other embodiments, the transmissive portion <NUM> is translucent such that the utilitarian components inside the space <NUM> are not visible but the light generated by the light or lights <NUM> is emitted from the free standing accessory stand <NUM> as desired. A lower portion of the curved side wall <NUM> below the transmissive portion <NUM> can be configured with the same material or structure as the transmissive portion <NUM>. The lower portion of the curved side wall <NUM> below the transmissive portion <NUM> can be configured with less or non-transmissive materials as appropriate.

<FIG> shows schematically a retraction mechanism 292A according to another embodiment. The retraction mechanism 292A is configured to enable the accessory support <NUM> to be retracted and to be retained in the retraction mechanism space 260B. This embodiment is similar to that of <FIG> and <FIG> except as described differently below. The bearing plate <NUM> is disposed in the retraction mechanism space 260B and is coupled with a first locking member 300A. The bearing plate <NUM> can be directly coupled with the first locking member 300A or can be able to move some amount before the bearing plate <NUM> engages the first locking member 300A. The first locking member 300A can include a transverse extent that corresponds to but may be somewhat smaller than the transverse extent of the bearing plate <NUM>. The first locking member 300A also can include a pin at a lower end thereof configured to engage a second locking member 304A. The second locking member 304A can include a position limiting track. The track can include a convex surface <NUM> of initial contact and a concave resting surface <NUM>. The convex surface <NUM> can be disposed below an extended resting position of the accessory support <NUM>. The convex surface <NUM> can curve away from the central axis <NUM> toward a side-wall of the retraction mechanism space 260B. The concave surface <NUM> can be oriented downwardly.

<FIG>, right image, illustrates operation of the first locking member 300A and the second locking member 304A is illustrated by a series of circles along the convex surface <NUM>. The first locking member 300A is moved down into initial contact with the convex surface <NUM> as shown by the circle at the highest elevation. The second through fourth circles illustrate the trajectory of the first locking member 300A along the convex surface <NUM> of the second locking member 304A. The lower-most (fifth) circle shows a point at which the motion of the first locking member 300A transitions from a generally downward direction around the convex surface <NUM> to an upward motion as illustrated by the next circle which is located within the concave surface <NUM>. Motion between the location of the fifth and sixth circle can be aided by the spring <NUM>. That is the motion of the accessory support <NUM> and the bearing plate <NUM> along from the first to the fifth circle all correspond to a compression of the spring <NUM>. Motion from the fifth to the sixth circle corresponds to at least some upward direction (in a direction generally corresponding to the central axis <NUM>) movement. This upward direction movement corresponds to some relaxing of the spring or release of strain energy. <FIG>, right image, shows the first locking member 300A at rest in the concave surface <NUM> of the second locking member 304A.

Disengaging the first locking member 300A from the second locking member 304A can be achieved by pushing the accessory support <NUM> (e.g., by pressing on the cap <NUM>) which moves the second locking member 304A out of the concave surface <NUM>. In one embodiment a lateral load by a second spring or other means can urge the first locking member 300A away from the convex surface <NUM> and the concave surface <NUM> to an opposite return surface. The first locking member 300A (and the accessory support <NUM> to which it is attached) can be allowed to move upward to an extended rest position as shown in the left image of <FIG>.

<FIG> shows that the retraction mechanism 292A can include one or more trapping arms <NUM>, providing additional retention security. The trapping arms <NUM> can be extended and disposed away from a lower portion of the accessory support <NUM> in the extended position of <FIG>, left image. The trapping arms can include a hook-like or convex form in which free ends thereof are angled or disposed toward the accessory support <NUM>. The concave form of the trapping arms <NUM> provides that as the accessory support <NUM> is advanced into the retraction mechanism space 260B the free ends of the trapping arms <NUM> come toward and eventually overhang the bearing plate <NUM> and may in some cases engage a lower portion of the outer surface <NUM> to provide compression and clamping thereof. The trapping arms <NUM> are optional and can be provided for an extra measure of retention but are not required.

<FIG> shows a retraction mechanism 292B that can be incorporated into the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. The retraction mechanism 292B can include an accessory support 220B that is similar to the accessory support <NUM> except as described differently. The accessory support <NUM> can be coupled with the cap <NUM>. The accessory support 220B can be rotatably coupled with a bearing plate 239B. The accessory support 220B can include an actuator 324A. The accessory support 220B can also include an actuator 324B. In some embodiments, the accessory support 220B includes three or four actuators similar to the actuator 324A. The bearing member 239B can be similar to the bearing plate <NUM> except as described differently. The bearing member 239B can include a rib 328A and a rib 328B. A slanted face of the rib 328A can include a first locking member 300A. A slanted face of the rib 328B can include a first locking member 300B. In some embodiments, the bearing member 239B includes a same number of ribs as the accessory support 220B includes actuators, e.g., three or four ribs. As discussed further below, bearing member 239B is rotatably coupled with the accessory support 220B such that the actuator 324A is directly coupled with the rib 328A in a first extended configuration <NUM>, illustrated in <FIG> and the actuator 324A is directly coupled with the rib 328B in a second extended configuration <NUM> (discussed below).

The retraction mechanism 292B includes or interacts with an internal wall <NUM>. The internal wall <NUM> can be a wall of the enclosure <NUM> that defined the retraction mechanism space 260B therein. In some embodiments, the internal wall <NUM> is a separate structure from the wall of the enclosure <NUM> that defines the retraction mechanism space 260B. The internal wall <NUM> can include a second locking member 304A. The second locking member 304A can include an elongate slot and a plurality of adjacent slanted faces. The elongate slot can be sized to slideably receive the actuator 324A. If more than one elongate slot is provided, the slot can also be configured to slideably receive the actuator 324B. The slanted faces of the second locking member 304A can be configured to selectively retain the first locking member 300A of the rib 328A. If more than one locking member is provided, the slanted faces of the second locking member 304A also can be configured to selectively retain the first locking member 300B of the rib 328B in retracted configuration as discussed further below.

<FIG> shows seven positions of the retraction mechanism 292B according to one embodiment thereof. In a first extended configuration <NUM> the rib 328A is disposed in a slot of the internal wall <NUM>. For ease of illustration the enclosure <NUM> and the retraction mechanism space 260B are not shown, but one skilled in the art will understand how these structures are related to the illustration of <FIG> in view of the description herein. The first extended configuration <NUM> also provides that the first locking member 300A corresponding to the slanted face of the rib 328A is disposed against a slanted face of the actuator 324A. The first extended configuration <NUM> corresponds to the first configuration <NUM> of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. A first retracting configuration <NUM> corresponds to a position as the accessory support 220B is being retracted using the retraction mechanism 292B. The actuator 324A acts through a slanted face thereof on the first locking member 300A which includes a slanted face of the rib 328A.

<FIG> also shows a second retracting configuration <NUM> following the first retracting configuration <NUM>. In the second retracting configuration <NUM> the first locking member 300A including a slanted face of the rib 328A emerges from the slot of the internal wall <NUM> and upon so doing the bearing member 239B rotates relative to the internal wall <NUM> such that the rib 328A moves onto a slanted faces of the second locking member 304A. The first locking member 300A then comes into a rest position in a notch at a circumferential end (left end in the view) of the slanted surface. The retracted configuration <NUM> shows the rib 328A in a rest state in this notch. In this rest state the retraction mechanism 292B retains the accessory support 220B in a low profile configuration, corresponding to the second configuration <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>).

<FIG> shows a first extending configuration <NUM> in which an actuator 324B acts on the rib 328A to displace the first locking member 300B out of the notch of the second locking member 304B. After the first locking member 300B is clear of the notch, the rib 328A is allowed to rotate circumferentially (to the left in the image) onto a second slanted surface of the second locking member 304B. In a second extending configuration <NUM> the first locking member 300A including a slanted face of the rib 328A comes to rest on the second slanted face of the second locking member 304A and slides therealong until the rib 328A is disposed at and thereafter received in a second slot of the internal wall <NUM>. Upon reaching the second slot, which is circumferentially spaced from the first slot (to the left in the image), the rib 328A can be received in the second slot. Also, the rib 328B can be received in the first slot as shown in the second extended configuration <NUM>. In this position the rib 328B comes to rest on the actuator 324A.

<FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> show that the free standing accessory stand <NUM> includes control buttons <NUM> that facilitate operation thereof. The control buttons <NUM> can include a power button to turn on components therein. The control buttons <NUM> can include mode activation buttons, e.g., to cause wireless engagement between the free standing accessory stand <NUM> and the portable accessory <NUM> and/or between the free standing accessory stand <NUM> and another wireless device such as a mobile phone.

<FIG> show additional details of the portable accessory <NUM>. As discussed above, the portable accessory <NUM> includes the first shell <NUM> and the second shell <NUM>. The shells <NUM>, <NUM> can be joined to form an outer periphery <NUM> and an inner periphery <NUM>. The outer periphery <NUM> can comprise a continuous outer periphery. The inner periphery <NUM> can comprise a continuous inner periphery. The outer periphery <NUM> and the inner periphery <NUM> can be configured to be disposed around the outer surface <NUM> of the accessory support <NUM> or to receive the pole portion <NUM> which can be part of an umbrella.

<FIG> show that a clasp <NUM> can retain the shell first shell <NUM> and the second shell <NUM> in the closed periphery configuration. The clasp <NUM> can include a hook 444A disposed on the second shell <NUM> and a trapping recess disposed on the first shell <NUM>. The hook can be received in the trapping recess to engage a trapping structure 444C disposed within the first shell <NUM>. The trapping structure can be actuated by a push button 444D disposed on the outer periphery of the first shell <NUM> (see <FIG>).

A peripheral portion opposite the location of the clasp <NUM> includes a pivot connection <NUM> disposed between the first shell <NUM> and the second shell <NUM>. The pivot connection <NUM> can be provided by an axle <NUM> coupled to the first shell <NUM>, and to the second shell <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>. The axle <NUM> is disposed along the dashed line in <FIG>. The axle <NUM> allows rotation up to an extent of a limiter <NUM>. The limiter <NUM> can include enlarged ends disposed within the interior of each of the shells <NUM>, <NUM> and an elongate or arcuate portion disposed between the enlarged ends. The limiter <NUM> allows rotation of the shells <NUM>, <NUM> relative to each other up about the axle <NUM> until the enlarged ends contact inside surfaces of the shells <NUM>, <NUM>.

The portable accessory <NUM> includes one or a plurality, e.g., two grippers <NUM>. <FIG> shows one of the two grippers <NUM> by removing top portions of the enclosure <NUM>. <FIG> shows that the grippers <NUM> can include ridged faces that can be somewhat compressible but generally are stiff. The faces are moveable toward and away from a center of a space within the inner periphery <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>. In a rest state the faces of the grippers <NUM> are disposed toward the center of the space within the inner periphery <NUM>. The grippers <NUM> can be are urged away from the center of the space within the inner periphery <NUM>. Movement of the grippers <NUM> can be guided by a spring <NUM> or other resilient members disposed between the faces of the grippers <NUM> and an internal surface of the first shell <NUM> and the second shell <NUM> (or if just one gripper is provided only one of the shells). In one technique, the first and second shells <NUM>, <NUM> are moved away from each other at least on the side of the clasp <NUM>. The outer surface <NUM> or the pole portion <NUM> can be passed into the inner periphery <NUM>. The separation between the opposing grippers <NUM> or between one gripper <NUM> and an opposing wall of the inner periphery <NUM> is less than the diameter of the accessory support <NUM> or the pole portion <NUM>. Closing the first shell <NUM> onto the second shell <NUM> causes the outer surface <NUM> or the pole portion <NUM> to compress the grippers <NUM> away from the center of the space in within the inner periphery <NUM>, e.g., to move the grippers <NUM> toward the inner periphery <NUM>. The spring is configured such that when compressed by the pole portion <NUM>, the spring creates a force between the face or faces of the gripper(s) <NUM> and the pole portion <NUM> to enable the portable accessory <NUM> to be self-supporting thereon. The spring also can create a force between the face or faces of the grippers <NUM> and the outer surface <NUM> of the free standing accessory stand <NUM> sufficient to enable the portable accessory <NUM> to be self-supporting thereon.

The portable accessory <NUM> preferably includes an accessory to provide enjoyment by a user. For example, the portable accessory <NUM> can include a light <NUM> disposed on one or both of the first shell <NUM> and the second shell <NUM>. The light <NUM> can include an assembly including one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) and a light cover <NUM>. The light cover <NUM> can be configured to protect the LED lights. The light cover <NUM> can be translucent to give the appearance of more diffuse light. <FIG> shows that the enclosure <NUM> can include four light cover <NUM> on a lower surface, e.g., directing light downward when the portable accessory <NUM> is mounted on the pole portion <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> show that the enclosure <NUM> can include two light cover <NUM> on a lower surface. The lower surface is the surface facing downward on the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. The lower surface can be one that faces upward on the pole portion <NUM>, e.g., directing light upward when the portable accessory <NUM> is mounted on the pole portion <NUM> in the orientation shown in <FIG>. The portable accessory <NUM> also can be mounted on the pole portion <NUM> in an inverted compared to that shown in <FIG>, e.g., with the side shown in <FIG> facing upwards.

The lights <NUM> disposed on the top of the enclosure <NUM> can include one or an array of LED lights. Preferably an array of lights is spaced out about the outer periphery <NUM> within arcuate light compartments in each of the first shell <NUM> and the second shell <NUM>.

The portable accessory <NUM> also can include a speaker <NUM> disposed on one or both of the first shell <NUM> and the second shell <NUM>. The speaker <NUM> can be disposed within the enclosure <NUM> behind a speaker cover <NUM>. The speaker cover <NUM> can provide protection for the speaker <NUM> while not preventing the sound from being emitted to the fullest extent of the power of the speaker. <FIG> shows that the enclosure <NUM> can include a speaker <NUM> disposed behind a speaker cover <NUM> on each of the first shell <NUM> and the second shell <NUM>.

<FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate that in certain embodiments the free standing accessory stand <NUM> can be used to supply charge to a power source such as a battery <NUM> in the portable accessory <NUM> to recharge the battery <NUM>. <FIG> shows the free standing accessory stand <NUM> can include a first electrical contact <NUM> disposed on the accessory support <NUM>. The first electrical contact <NUM> can be disposed on the outer surface <NUM> such that the first electrical contact <NUM> is accessible when the accessory support <NUM> is in the first configuration <NUM>, e.g., extended from the enclosure <NUM> above the upper surface <NUM>. The first electrical contact <NUM> can be coupled with an electrical conveyance <NUM> that coveys current from a power source within or coupled to the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. The electrical conveyance <NUM> can convey current from the power source <NUM> in one embodiment and in one mode. The electrical conveyance <NUM> can be coupled with an AC port 237A in one embodiment. The AC port 237A can be coupled with wall current such that electrical current can be supplied to the first electrical contact <NUM> without drawing down power in the power source <NUM> disposed within the enclosure <NUM>.

The battery <NUM> can be charged in one embodiment by enclosing the outer surface <NUM> within the inner periphery <NUM> such that second electrical contact <NUM> disposed on the grippers <NUM> are brought into electrical contact with the first electrical contact <NUM> on the outer surface <NUM>. This contact completes a circuit from the power source <NUM> through the electrical conveyance <NUM>, the connection at the first electrical contact <NUM> and second electrical contact <NUM>, and through the electrical conveyance <NUM> to the battery <NUM>. When the battery <NUM> is fully charged the current flow can be stopped. When the battery <NUM> is fully charged the user can be signaled through a user interface <NUM> on the free standing accessory stand <NUM> or a user interface <NUM> on the portable accessory <NUM>.

In another mode the connection between the first electrical contact <NUM> and the second electrical contact <NUM> can enable the portable accessory <NUM> to operate directly on the power of the power source <NUM> in the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. Such operation can be without drawing current from the battery <NUM>. In another mode the connection between the first electrical contact <NUM> and the second electrical contact <NUM> can enable the portable accessory <NUM> to operate directly on AC current via the AC port 237A of the free standing accessory stand <NUM>. Such operation can be without drawing current from the battery <NUM>.

The assembly <NUM> and the components thereof can operate in a number of different ways. The portable accessory <NUM> can operate using a Bluetooth communication. The user interface <NUM>, the control buttons <NUM>, and/or the user interface <NUM> can be used to cause a Bluetooth transceiver to start search for and mate with another transceiver, e.g., in a cellphone. A tone or sound can be emitted to confirm that the Bluetooth functionality is engaged. The connection between a cellphone (and/or other devices) can be initiated at that device as well. An application can be provided on the cellphone to show the assembly <NUM> and indicated how and when the connection is made. The phone or other device can control function such as speaker volume or light intensity. The user interface <NUM> can also control the level of the light from the portable accessory <NUM>. One or more of the user interface <NUM>, control buttons <NUM>, and user interface <NUM> can be used to turn on or raise or lower the level of the lights <NUM>, the lights <NUM>, or the lights <NUM>. The free standing accessory stand <NUM> and the portable accessory <NUM> can also be configured to automatically wirelessly communicate upon connecting the portable accessory <NUM> to the accessory support <NUM>. This can be due to the proximity of these components by automatic pairing or by engaging the first electrical contact <NUM> with the second electrical contact <NUM>. In some configuration the free standing accessory stand <NUM> is controlled by the portable accessory <NUM>. For example after the portable accessory <NUM> is engaged (either wirelessly or through the contacts) the free standing accessory stand <NUM> can be configured to respond to control signals primarily or in some cases only from the portable accessory <NUM>.

The portable accessory <NUM> can be removed from the free standing accessory stand <NUM>, e.g., from the accessory support <NUM> and mounted to an umbrella or other device as discussed above. At that point, the free standing accessory stand <NUM> can be left in the first configuration <NUM> with the cap <NUM> extended from the upper surface <NUM> or the free standing accessory stand <NUM> can be actuated to the second configuration <NUM> with the cap <NUM> moved close to the upper surface <NUM> to a lower profile position. In this position the free standing accessory stand <NUM> can be placed on a compact shelf while still being able to provide speaker and/or light function.

The terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms "approximately", "about", and "substantially" may refer to an amount that is within less than <NUM>% of, within less than <NUM>% of, within less than <NUM>% of, within less than <NUM>% of, and within less than <NUM>% of the stated amount. As another example, in certain embodiments, the terms "generally parallel" and "substantially parallel" refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degree, <NUM> degree, or otherwise.

Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the figures are not drawn to scale. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layout of the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, it will be recognized that any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps.

It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

Claim 1:
A portable accessory (<NUM>), comprising:
an accessory enclosure comprising a first shell (<NUM>) and a second shell (<NUM>);
an outer periphery (<NUM>) and an inner periphery (<NUM>) each defined in part by the first shell (<NUM>) and the second shell (<NUM>);
an electrical component disposed within the accessory enclosure;
an electrical contact (<NUM>) disposed on or within the inner periphery (<NUM>) of the accessory enclosure;
wherein the portable accessory (<NUM>) is configured to provide or receive an electrical impulse through the electrical contact (<NUM>)
characterized in that the outer periphery (<NUM>) and the inner periphery (<NUM>) upon or within which the electrical contact (<NUM>) is disposed being configured to be disposed around an outer surface (<NUM>) of an accessory support (<NUM>) or to receive a pole portion (<NUM>) of an umbrella.