PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9373236-B2
Application Number: US-201414327225-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Systems and methods for securing handheld electronic devices

Abstract:
Systems and methods are provided for securing handheld electronic devices. To provide an optimal shopping experience for consumers, handheld electronic devices must be made accessible to users, while simultaneously being secured to prevent theft. A security system can include a coupler connected to an electronic device. The coupler can include a connector operative to provide power and/or data to the electronic device. A cable transferring the power and data can also include an alarm path and a security cable for providing security. The security cable may be difficult to cut, and the alarm path can direct an alarm to sound if the cable is cut or if the electronic device is disconnected from the coupler.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A security system for a handheld electronic device, the system comprising:
 a coupler comprising a body and a terminal that protrudes from the body, wherein the body comprises tabs for attaching to a device, wherein the tabs are disposed at sides of the body, wherein each tab is configured to grip, between itself and the body, a portion of the device, and wherein the tabs are configured to prevent the device from moving relative to the body in any direction; 
 a stand comprising a post having an upper end, a lower end, and a through-hole from the upper end to the lower end, wherein an upper end of the post defines a recess for receiving at least a portion of the terminal; and 
 a cable extending from the terminal and through the through-hole from the upper end to the lower end. 
 
     
     
       2. The security system of  claim 1 , wherein the tabs attach to the device by clipping to a portion of the device. 
     
     
       3. A security system for a handheld electronic device, the system comprising:
 a coupler comprising a body and a terminal that protrudes from the body, wherein the body comprises a flat portion extending away from the terminal and a curved portion at an end of the flat portion for extending around the side of a device; 
 a connector coupled to the curved portion for connecting to the device, wherein the connector extends in a direction parallel to the flat portion; 
 a stand comprising a post having an upper end, a lower end, and a through-hole from the upper end to the lower end, wherein an upper end of the post defines a recess for receiving at least a portion of the terminal; and 
 a cable extending from the terminal and through the through-hole from the upper end to the lower end. 
 
     
     
       4. The security system of  claim 3 , further comprising the device, wherein the connector extends within a recess of the device. 
     
     
       5. The security system of  claim 3 , further comprising the device, wherein a portion of the body is attached to the device by adhesive, and wherein the flat portion of the body extending away from the terminal is not attached to the device by adhesive. 
     
     
       6. The security system of  claim 3 , further comprising the device, wherein there is no gap between the body and the device. 
     
     
       7. A security system for a handheld electronic device, the system comprising:
 a stand having a through-hole from a top end to a bottom end and a slot disposed at the top end; 
 a cable disposed through the through-hole and extending through the top and bottom ends, wherein the cable can move through the through-hole between an extended state and a non-extended state; 
 a coupler movably constrained to the stand, wherein the coupler has a body and a terminal protruding from the body, wherein the terminal physically interfaces with the slot of the stand and is capable of being received by the slot of the stand, wherein bottom and side surfaces of the slot have a shape and dimension that corresponds to a shape and dimension of bottom and side surfaces of the terminal, and wherein the side surfaces of the slot form the same shape as mating side surfaces of the terminal when the terminal is received by the slot; and 
 a recoiler attached to the cable and biasing the cable, 
 wherein the coupler is attached to a top end of the cable that extends through the top end of the stand. 
 
     
     
       8. The security system of  claim 7 , wherein the cable comprises an armor jacket to resist cutting. 
     
     
       9. The security system of  claim 7 , wherein the slot and the terminal have matching curvature where the slot interfaces with the terminal. 
     
     
       10. The security system of  claim 7 , wherein the terminal has a curved rear surface. 
     
     
       11. The security system of  claim 7 , wherein the recoiler biases the cable using a mechanical spring biasing mechanism. 
     
     
       12. A security system for a handheld electronic device, the system comprising:
 a coupler having an attachment surface for attaching to a surface of a device, and a protrusion that protrudes away from the attachment surface by less than a width of the attachment surface; 
 a stand comprising a post having an upper end, a lower end, and a through-hole from the upper end to the lower end, wherein an upper end of the post defines a recess for receiving at least a portion of the protrusion, and wherein the upper end of the post defines an upper surface around at least a portion of the recess; and 
 a cable extending from a center of the protrusion and through the through-hole from the upper end to the lower end, 
 wherein the upper surface of the post is parallel to the attachment surface of the coupler when the protrusion is received by the coupler, and 
 wherein rotation of the coupler relative to the stand is impeded when the protrusion is received within the recess. 
 
     
     
       13. The security system of  claim 12 , wherein the coupler comprises side tabs for attaching to a device. 
     
     
       14. The security system of  claim 12 , wherein when the protrusion is received within the recess, the cable is hidden.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/968,218, filed Dec. 14, 2010, which claims the benefit of previously filed U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/286,145, entitled “Systems and Methods for Securing Handheld Electronic Devices,” filed Dec. 14, 2009, entitled “Methods and Systems for Securing Handheld Electronic Devices.” Each of these applications is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This can relate to systems and methods for securing handheld electronic devices and, more particularly, to systems and methods for securing handheld electronic devices to fixtures while also coupling such devices to power and data transfer cables. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Handheld and mobile electronic devices are sold using several different sales channels. For example, some devices are sold on-line or via mail order. In these cases, devices are stored in a warehouse or distribution center prior to sale, and subsequently mailed to a purchaser following a transaction. As another example, some devices may be sold at a retail point of sale. A consumer may then look at the device within the packaging, and in some cases open the packaging to try the device. Alternatively, one or more test devices may be provided for consumers to try before purchasing. In particular, at Apple stores operated by Apple inc., of Cupertino Calif., several electronic devices may be provided on tables for consumers to try. The devices may be secured to the tables to prevent theft. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Systems and methods are provided for securing handheld electronic devices in a retail environment. In particular, systems and methods are provided by which an electronic device can be secured to a fixture while it can also be coupled to one or more sources for both power and data transfers. 
     A security system can include a coupler connected to an electronic device, and a cable connecting the coupler to a fixture. The cable can include a security element for preventing theft, as well as an electronic path for transferring at least one of data and power to the electronic device. In some cases, the coupler can include a connector operative to mate with the electronic device such that data provided through the cable and coupler can reach the electronic device. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The above and other aspects of the invention, its nature, and various features will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is simplified diagram showing a range of security options for a handheld electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIGS. 2A-2F  are simplified diagrams showing different security options for a handheld electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  are diagrams showing data and alarm connectivity for a handheld electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIGS. 4A-4D  are diagrams showing docking options for a handheld electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  are diagrams showing earphone connectivity for a handheld electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIGS. 6A-6C  are diagrams of different cabling options for a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIGS. 7A-7C and 8A-8C  are diagrams of handheld device securing systems coupled to a base, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIGS. 9A-9C  are diagrams of a cable of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIGS. 10A and 10B  are diagrams of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIGS. 14A-14D  are diagrams of an attachment fixture of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 15  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 16  is a diagram of an attachment system of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 17  is a diagram of an attachment system of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 18  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 19  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 20  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; and 
         FIG. 21  shows an embodiment of a handheld electronic device security system. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Systems and methods designed to deter theft of electronic devices while on display at retail locations are provided. More particularly, systems and methods are provided for securing portable handheld electronic devices, such as cellular telephones, media players, personal digital assistants (“PDAs”), tablets, and the like to a fixture in a store while still providing a superior user experience with the portable handheld electronic device. A user may be able to hold, play with, or use the handheld electronic device while the device remains secured to the fixture to prevent theft. 
     One example of a security device may include a stand with a security tether that may attach to the handheld electronic device. The stand may in turn be affixed to a fixture, such as a table, shelf, or counter. As a result, the handheld device may be secured to the fixture, thereby deterring theft. In some embodiments, the security device may further include an alarm feature that can create an alarm event when the security tether is severed. In some embodiments, the security device may include a connector that can mate with a connector of the handheld electronic device and that may be operatively coupled to a host system to provide a conductive path or a powered path between the host device and the electronic device. In some cases, the security system may include a coupler that can serve as a node for attachment to a handheld electronic device and a coupling point to the stand. The coupler may also carry a cable and help integrate the connector electrical lines with the security tether. In some cases, the coupler can include or be connected to the connector used to establish a communications path with the handheld electronic device. 
     Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these embodiments. For example, although many of the figures are described with reference to a handheld electronic device, many embodiments may be used with non-portable devices. The term “electronic device” can include, but is not limited to, music players, video players, still image players, game players, other media players, music recorders, video recorders, cameras, other media recorders, radios, medical equipment, domestic appliances, transportation vehicle instruments, calculators, cellular telephones, other wireless communication devices, personal digital assistants (“PDAs”), programmable remote controls, pagers, laptop computers, tablets, desktop computers, printers, and combinations thereof. In some cases, the electronic device may perform single function (e.g., a device dedicated to playing music) and, in other cases, the electronic device may perform multiple functions (e.g., a device that plays music, displays video, stores pictures, and receives and transmits telephone calls). Moreover, in some cases, the electronic device may be any portable, mobile, hand-held, or miniature electronic device that allows a user to use the device wherever the user travels. Alternatively, an electronic device of the invention may not be portable at all, but may instead be generally stationary, such as a desktop computer or television. 
     In view of the foregoing, systems and methods for securing an electronic device are provided and described with reference to  FIGS. 1-21 . 
       FIG. 1  is a simplified diagram showing a range of security options for an electronic device with varying degrees of user experience and security. Each security system or display mechanism for providing an electronic device in a retail environment may typically require a tradeoff between consumer experience and security to prevent theft. In particular, a good consumer experience may be one that allows a user to freely use the device without restriction as he or she decides to make a purchase. For example, a consumer may want to pick up a device, turn it around to see it from different angles, place it in a pocket or bag to check portability, verify the effectiveness of user interfaces, or perform other actions that emulate typical use of the device. Allowing such a free use experience, however, comes at a substantial security risk, as a consumer having a free use experience will be subject to no restraint preventing the consumer from stealing the device. As a result, an ideal security system will provide an experience as close to a free use experience as possible while maintaining a substantial barrier to theft. 
     in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , several types of security systems are laid out, along with their inconveniences. A first option can include placing a handheld electronic device  102  freely within a docking station  104 . A consumer may simply pick up device  102  to manipulate and try it. Device  102 , however, is not retained or monitored in any way, and may therefore very easily be stolen or removed without notice. A second option can include securing a handheld electronic device  112  to a cable  114 . This may allow a consumer to hold and use device  112  while keeping it physically secured. Although this approach may decrease free use for a consumer, the limits to the consumer&#39;s experience are reduced and therefore may allow for a satisfactory consumer experience. This approach, however, may still require a significant tradeoff between the consumer experience and security. In particular, as shown in  FIG. 2A , if a cable  204  securing an electronic device  202  is small to improve a consumer&#39;s experience, cable  204  may be easily cut. If the cable is too large to cut, the consumer&#39;s experience may be adversely affected because the cable may require a large force for it to bend or move. In some cases, this approach may also require a large number of cables connected to the device. For example, as shown in  FIG. 2B , a device  212  secured by a cable  214  may also include a headphone cable  216  and a power or data cable  218  for exchanging certain types of signals. The resulting display may then include three distinct cables, which may distract the user from device  212 , and may even cause tangling, which may affect the user&#39;s experience. 
     A third option, as shown in  FIG. 1 , can include coupling a handheld electronic device  122  to an alarm  124 , for example, at an end of a cable  126 . Alarm  124  may be configured to sound loudly if electronic device  122  is disconnected from alarm  124  (e.g., if cable  126  coupling device  122  to alarm  124  is cut or decoupled in some way). Alarm  124  may alert security at a retail location to stop a perpetrator, but as shown in  FIG. 2C , an alarm  224  may not prevent anyone from cutting cable  226  or otherwise decoupling cable  226  from a device  222  and/or alarm  224  and then attempting to escape from the retail location with electronic device  222 . 
     A fourth option, as shown in  FIG. 1 , can include coupling a handheld device  132  to a stand  134  that may also include an alarm  136  operative to sound if device  132  is removed from stand  134 . This approach may allow device  132  to be presented at a desirable perspective (e.g., at a perspective or angle that allows a user to best interact with device  132 ), while also discouraging theft by alarm  136 . However, this approach may have limitations however. First, as shown in  FIG. 2D , for example, a stand  234  may be out of scale relative to a device  232 , thus making the presentation aesthetically unpleasing. Second, an alarm associated with stand  234  and device  232  may provide limited security for device  232 . 
     As also shown in  FIG. 1 , a fifth option can include fixedly mounting an electronic device  142  to a surface  144  of a fixture or stand. In some cases, device  142  may be mounted such that it can move along surface  144  along one or more limited axes of movement. For example, as shown in  FIG. 2E , an electronic device  242  can be mounted such that it may rotate within a plane of a mounting surface  244  as indicated by arrow  246 , but may not be removed from surface  244  (e.g., no movement in the directions or arrows  247  or  248 ). This approach, however, may prevent a consumer from holding device  242 , and may restrict the consumer&#39;s range of motion for using device  242  in the retail environment. As shown in  FIG. 1 , a sixth option can include placing a handheld electronic device  152  behind a window  154 . Unfortunately, this may not allow a user to hold or use device  152 , as device  152  is physically inaccessible, as also shown in  FIG. 2F  by a device  252  and a window  254 . 
       FIG. 3A  is diagram showing alarm connectivity for a handheld electronic device in accordance with several embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an alarm may be situated within or on a handheld electronic device. For example, as shown in  FIG. 3A , an electronic device  302  can include an alarm  304 . In some cases, alarm  304  can be carried by or otherwise coupled to a coupler  306  that may be secured to electronic device  302 . Coupler  306  can be coupled to a cable  308  for securing device  302 . Alarm  304  can be configured to sound when cable  308  is cut or decoupled from coupler  306  or alarm  304 . In other embodiments, as also shown in  FIG. 3A , an electronic device  312  can include a first alarm  314  that can be carried by or otherwise coupled to a coupler  316  that may be secured to electronic device  312 , while a second alarm  320  may be integrated with or coupled to a fixture  322 . Alarms  314  and  320  may be coupled to one another via a cable  318 . In this manner, both electronic device  312  and fixture  322  may emit a sound when cable  318  is cut or otherwise decoupled from one or more of alarm  314 , coupler  316 , alarm  320 , and fixture  322 . In yet other embodiments, as also shown in  FIG. 3A , an electronic device  332  can include a first alarm  334  carried by or otherwise coupled to a coupler  336 , which can be secured to device  332 , while a second alarm  340  may be integrated with or otherwise coupled to a fixture  342 , and while a third alarm  346  may be placed within a retail location to detect when electronic device  332  passes near alarm  346  (e.g., when electronic device  332  passes through a gate). In some cases, alarm  346  can be placed near an entrance or exit of a retail location. 
       FIG. 3B  is a diagram showing power/data connectivity for a handheld electronic device. In some embodiments, a device  352  can be electrically coupled to a host device or to a power supply via a docking station  354 . Docking station  354  may, for example, include a cavity for receiving a portion of device  352  and supporting device  352  in an upright position. In some cases, docking station  354  can be coupled to other components for providing additional functionality to device  352  (e.g., speakers or a video projector). Docking station  354  may include a connector that can engage a corresponding connector of device  352  when device  352  is placed inside the cavity of docking station  354 . It should be appreciated that a cavity is not a limitation and that device  352  may simply be mounted to the connector itself or may possibly rest on a surface rather than be placed in a cavity of docking station  354 . In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 3B , a device  362  may simply be coupled to a host device via a connector  364  and a cable  366 . In some cases, a connector of docking station  354 , connector  364 , device  352  or device  362 , or combinations of these, can include a latching mechanism for securing the connectors together. In some cases, the latching mechanism can be removable to release the device from the docking station or cable, although in other cases it may maintain the device secured to the docking station or cable. 
       FIGS. 4A-4D  are diagrams showing docking options for a handheld electronic device in accordance with several embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 4A , for example, a handheld electronic device  402  may be freely connectable with a docking station  404 . That is, electronic device  402  may not be restrained to docking station  404 , and a consumer can freely pick up and try electronic device  402  as if it had been purchased. In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 4B , for example, a handheld electronic device  412  can be left free to connect to or disconnect from a docking station  414 , but may be tethered to docking station  414  by a cable  416 . Cable  416  may be fixed to handheld electronic device  412  and to a fixture, such as docking station  414 , to limit a range of motion of device  412  in the retail environment (e.g., with respect to docking station  414 ). Cable  416  may be attached to handheld electronic device  412  using different approaches including, for example, via a coupler  413  that may be glued, fastened, locked, or otherwise attached to handheld electronic device  412 . The interface between electronic device  412  and coupler  413  can be selected to be substantially permanent. In some embodiments, cable  416  may be movably coupled to docking station  414  such that cable  416  can be moved between a non-extended state (e.g., a short state) and an extended state (e.g., a long state). Based on the state of cable  416 , the range at which electronic device  412  can be moved can change. This can allow a consumer to pick up device  412  so that they can freely use device  412  with a reduced restraint while keeping device  412  secured to docking station  414  or to a fixture. In some embodiment, the moving action of cable  416  may be biased with a recoiler. The recoiler may be configured to continually pull (e.g., bias) cable  416  in a non-extended state. This may be accomplished, for example, with a spring action. 
     In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 4C , for example, a handheld electronic device  422  may be configured to rest on a stand  424 . In such embodiments, electronic device  422  may not be attached or coupled to stand  424  and, therefore, may be freely used by a consumer without restraint. In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 4D , for example, an electronic device  432  may be movably constrained to a stand  434  via a cable  436 . As described above in connection with other embodiments, cable  436  may be attached to electronic device  432  and to stand  434  or any other fixture in a retail environment. Cable  436  may contain slack or it may be configured to move relative to stand  434 . Cable  436  may also include a recoiler so as to reduce slack (e.g., continuously bias cable  436  in a non-extended state). 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  are diagrams showing accessory (e.g., earphone) connectivity for a handheld electronic device in accordance with several embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 5A , for example, earphones  504  may be connected to a handheld electronic device  502 . This may be accomplished, for example, with a cable jack that can be mated with a corresponding receptacle on handheld electronic device  502 . In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 5B , for example, earphones  514  may be connected to a docking station or stand  516  rather than directly to a handheld electronic device  512 . Stand or docking station  516  can serve to transfer signals between electronic device  512  and earphones  514 . In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 5C , for example, earphones  524  may be connected to a handheld electronic device  522  through a fixture  526  rather than through an intermediate device such as a stand or docking station. 
       FIGS. 6A-6C  show different cabling options for a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with several embodiments of the invention. In all of these embodiments, a cable may be used to secure the handheld electronic device to a fixture inside a store (e.g. a table). In each of these embodiments, the cable may provide free use of the handheld electronic device relative to the fixture, or to another fixed object to which the device is connected (e.g., a docking station or a stand). In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 6A , for example, a cable  602  may be provided with slack. That is, cable  602  may be provided at an extended length (e.g., loose). The length may be enough for a consumer to pick up and adequately use a handheld electronic device  601  coupled to cable  602 . In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 6B , for example, a cable  612  coupled to a device  611  may be provided with a mechanical recoiler  614  that can allow cable  612  to extend while also providing a force for drawing cable  612  back to a non-extended state. In yet other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 6C , for example, a cable  622  coupled to a device  621  may be configured with a coil  624  or a series of tight spirals that allow cable  622  to extend past its nominal state while limiting the cable slack when device  621  is not in use. The numbers and size of the spirals may be widely varied, but may typically provide an extended length that is adequate to allow a consumer to use and hold device  621 . 
       FIGS. 7A-7C and 8A-8C  are diagrams of handheld electronic device securing systems connected to a fixture, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As shown in  FIGS. 7A-7C , respectively, for example, cables  702 ,  712 , and  722  may be positioned in a non- or slightly extended state. This can correspond to a typical position that may be used to present or display devices to a consumer. In some embodiments, the particular length of each cable can be the same or different based on a type of fixture to which the cable is connected. For example, as shown in  FIG. 7A , cable  702  can be coupled to a device  701  and to a table  704 . As shown in  FIG. 7B , cable  712  can be coupled to a device  711  and to a counter  714 . As shown in  FIG. 7C , cable  722  can be coupled to a device  721  and to a wall  724 . In some embodiments, the lengths of cables  702 ,  712 , and  722  can be selected based on the type of device it is coupled to (e.g., whether or not the device is to be placed near a user&#39;s head). As shown in  FIGS. 7A-7C , for example, devices  701 ,  711 , and  721  may not need to be positioned near a user&#39;s head, but rather may only need to be held in a user&#39;s hands. Therefore, in such embodiments, the length of a cable may be in the range of about 10 inches to 14 inches. 
     In  FIGS. 8A-8C , cables  802 ,  812 , and  822  may be positioned in an extended state. This is typically the position that allows a consumer to freely use and hold the device. For example, in the case of a telephone device, the distance of the extended state may allow the user to place the device near or next to their ear. Therefore, in such embodiments, the length of a cable may be in the range of about 36 inches to 40 inches. In some embodiments, the particular length of each cable can be the same or different based on a type of fixture to which the cable is connected. For example, as shown in  FIG. 8A , cable  802  can be coupled to a device  801  and to a table  804 . As shown in  FIG. 5B , cable  812  can be coupled to a device  811  and to a counter  814 . As shown in  FIG. 8C , cable  822  can be coupled to a device  821  and to a wall  824 . 
       FIGS. 9A-9C  are diagrams of cable types of a handheld device security system, in accordance with several embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 9A , for example, a cable  902  may integrate security features with data, power, and other signal paths (e.g., audio) that may be used to communicate signals with a handheld electronic device. For example, cable  902  can include a power path  903 , an alarm path  904 , a data path  905 , and an audio path  906 . Alarm path  904  may serve to monitor for cuts or a decoupling of cable  902 , and may be used to drive an alarm. When alarm path  904  is adversely affected (e.g., cut into or decoupled), an alarm may be sounded at the device, an associated stand, docking station, fixture, and/or the like. Alarm path  904  may be a dedicated path or it may also be a data, power, and/or audio path that may also act as an alarm path. 
     Cable  902 , however, may not include any feature for preventing cable  902  from being cut (e.g., cable  902  may not include any physical security element). To remedy this, a cable can include a physical security element. In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 9B , for example, a security element  912  can be enclosed by an outer sheath  916  (e.g., vinyl) of a cable  910  with an alarm path  914 . That is, security element  912  may include a wire that can extend through cable  910  along with any power/data lines of cable  910 . Such a wire may be configured to resist cutting or any other type of separation or decoupling. It should be appreciated that the physical security element and electrical security element may be a single element. In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 9C , for example, a security element  922  may be a sheath itself of a cable  920 , in which an alarm path  924  may be enclosed. This type of configuration may be referred to as an armor jacket. The material selected for the armor jacket may be configured to resist cutting or any other type of separation or decoupling. 
       FIGS. 10A and 10B  are diagrams of a handheld electronic device security system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The handheld electronic device security system may be configured to secure a handheld electronic device to a fixture using a stand. The stand may provide a surface onto which the handheld device may rest. In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 10A , for example, a device  1002  can be placed on a stand  1004  that may include a platform  1006  for receiving a back side  1003  of electronic device  1002  and a post  1005  for maintaining platform  1006  offset from a surface of a fixture  1010  to which stand  1004  may be coupled. Stand  1004  can be attached to fixture  1010  such that it may not be movable therefrom (e.g., fixed). For example, stand  1004  may be glued, fastened, or otherwise attached to fixture  1010 . In some cases, stand  1004  may even be integral with fixture  1010 . Although the example of  FIG. 10A  includes stand  1010  for supporting device  1002 , it should be appreciated that other configurations can be used to support device  1002  (e.g., a docking station). 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the handheld electronic device security system may further include a cabling system  1012  for movably coupling handheld electronic device  1002  to stand  1004 . Cabling system  1012  may allow handheld device  1002  to move relative to stand  1004  while keeping it secured thereto. Cabling system  1012  can include a cable  1016  attached at one end to handheld electronic device  1002 , and to stand  1004  at another end. As such, handheld electronic device  1002  may be retained to fixture  1010  via stand  1004 . Although retained, cable  1016  can allow handheld electronic device  1002  to be extended away from stand  1004  so that a user can freely hold and/or use handheld electronic device  1002 . In some cases, stand  1004  may include a throughhole for allowing cable  1016  to pass therethrough. The throughhole may, for example, extend through platform  1006  and post  1005  of stand  1004 . 
     Although a variety of techniques can be used to provide the extending capabilities of cable  1016 , as shown in  FIG. 10A , the handheld electronic device security system may further include a recoiler  1014 . Recoiler  1014  may be configured as a portion of stand  1004  or it may be a separate element that works with stand  1004 . For example, recoiler  1014  can be placed on the same surface of fixture  1010  as stand  1004 . Alternatively, as shown in  FIG. 10B , a recoiler  1024  can be placed on an opposite surface of a fixture  1020  as a stand  1022 . In either case, recoiler  1014  may be configured to continuously bias cable  1016  in a non-extended position relative to stand  1004 , which may keep cable  1016  taut when device  1002  is placed on stand  1004  (e.g., with no or minimal amounts of slack). Recoiler  1014  may also allow cable  1016  to be roiled out or extended against the recoil force. The recoil force may, for example, be provided via a spring action. In some cases, the recoil force may only be designed to reduce slack, which may make it easy to extend. 
     In some embodiments, cable  1016  can be attached to handheld electronic device  1002  via a coupler  1001 . Coupler  1001  may be attached, for example, to backside  1003  of device  1002 . Coupler  1001  may be attached using a wide variety of techniques including, for example, fasteners, glues, locks, and other attachment agents such that coupler  1001  may be fixed to device  1002 . In some embodiments, coupler  1001  may interface with stand  1004 . For example, as coupler  1001  may protrude away from device  1002 , a mating feature may be provided in platform  1006  of the stand  1004  to receive at least a portion of coupler  1001 . 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a cable may be both an electric cable and a security cable. For example, as described above in connection with  FIGS. 9A-9C , a cable may integrate security and electrical functionality (e.g., data/power, audio, alarm, etc.). As such, the cable and/or a coupler may include a connector (see, e.g., connector  1007  of  FIG. 10A , which may be a 30-pin connector or any other suitable connector) that may interface with a corresponding connector of a handheld electronic device. The connector may provide a path by which data, instructions, or other information can be retrieved from or transferred to the electronic device. In one example, a physical security element of a cable may be attached to a coupler while the electrical elements of the cable may be attached to a connector that may couple with the electronic device. Alternatively, a physical security element of a cable may in addition be securely coupled to a connector of an electronic device. In some cases, a coupler may additionally include an alarm that can sound when a portion or all of the cable is severed or decoupled from the coupler. 
       FIG. 11  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The system of  FIG. 11  may be similar to the systems shown in  FIGS. 10A and 10B . In the system of  FIG. 11 , an electronic device  1102  can be secured to a fixture  1110  by a cable  1106 . To present electronic device  1102  in a pleasing manner, the system can include a stand  1104  for supporting electronic device  1102 . A first end of cable  1106  can be secured to electronic device  1102  via a coupler  1108 , which can include some or all of the features of the couplers described above. Another end of cable  1106  can be secured to one or both of stand  1104  and fixture  1110 . Cable  1106  can be provided with stand  1104  using any suitable approach. In some cases, cable  1106  can pass through a post of stand  1104 , as shown in the embodiments of  FIGS. 10A and 10B . Alternatively, as shown in  FIG. 11 , cable  1106  can pass next to a post  1107 , and through a platform  1109  of stand  1104 . In some cases, portions of cable  1106  can pass through fixture  1110  and to a host device or a power supply located underneath or behind fixture  1110 . 
     To provide security for electronic device  1102 , cable  1106  can include at least electric path  1112  for transferring data, power, alarm, or several of these signals, and a security cable  1114 . An alarm  1116  can be provided near electronic device  1102 , for example, as part of coupler  1108 . To further secure coupler  1108  to electronic device  1102  while providing data to device  1102 , the system can include a connector  1118  that may mate with a corresponding connector of electronic device  1102 . For example, connector  1118  can include a 30-pin connector incorporated in a plastic tab extending from coupler  1108  for coupling with a respective 30-pin connector of device  1102 , 
       FIG. 12  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Like the system shown in  FIG. 11 , this system may include an integrated cable/coupler. But instead of a stand as in  FIG. 11 , the system of  FIG. 12 , may include a docking station  1204  having a connector  1206  for interfacing with a connector of an electronic device  1202 . A cable  1208 , which can include an electric path  1212  and a security cable  1214 , can couple electronic device  1202  to docking station  1204 , to a host device, to a power supply, or to combinations of these. In some cases, cable  1208  can be coupled to electronic device  1202  via a coupler  1210 , which can include an alarm. 
       FIG. 13  is a diagram of a handheld electronic device security system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. This embodiment may be similar to the one shown in  FIG. 12  except that the system of  FIG. 13  may additionally include a recoiler  1320  that may bias arable  1308  that may connect an electronic device  1302  to a docking station  1304  in a non-extended state. Recoiler  1320  may be enclosed within docking station  1304  or alternatively may be outside of docking station  1304 . Each component of the system of  FIG. 13  can include some or all of the features of systems described above (e.g., features described in connection with  FIGS. 11 and/or 12 ). 
       FIGS. 14A-14D  are diagrams of respective couplers  1404 ,  1414 ,  1424 , and  1434  of a handheld electronic device security system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Each of couplers  1404 ,  1414 ,  1424 , and  1434  may be used to attach a respective cable  1406 .  1416 ,  1426 , and  1436  to a respective electronic device  1402 ,  1412 ,  1422 , and  1432 . By way of example, as shown, each coupler may be used to attach a cable to a music player electronic device and/or cellular telephone, such as any of those manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino Calif. (e.g., iPod nano™  1402 , iPod classic™  1412 , iPod Touch™  1422 , and iPhone™  1434 ). 
     Although the following discussion will describe the system of  FIG. 14D , it will be understood that it may be applied to any of the couplers described herein, and in particular to any of the couplers shown in  FIGS. 14A-14C . Coupler  1434  may include a body  1440  that may interface with a surface  1433  of handheld electronic device  1432  (e.g., a back surface or surface opposite the main user interface of device  1432 ). Body  1440  may provide one or more attachment points or areas for fixing coupler  1434  to handheld electronic device  1432 . The attachment may be accomplished using any suitable approach including, for example, with fasteners, glue, or adhesives. In some cases, body  1440  can include one or more features for clipping to a portion of electronic device  1432  (e.g., an upper tab or side tabs, not shown). 
     Coupler  1434  may also include a terminal  1442  that may interface with a stand in order to present handheld electronic device  1432  to the potential consumer. Terminal  1442  may, for example, engage a feature on a stand in order to detachably secure or hold handheld electronic device  1432  relative to the stand. Terminal  1442  may include, for example, one or more snaps, detents, grooves, guides, channels, latches, protrusions or chamfers. 
     In some cases, coupler  1434  may also include a connector  1446  that may interface with a corresponding connector of handheld electronic device  1432 . Connector  1446  can be connected to cable  1436 , either directly (e.g., via soldering) or through an intermediate component (e.g., through an electronic interface or carrier between cable  1436  and connector  1446 ). For example, body  1440  may include a printed circuit board, a flex circuit, or a rigid flex that can provide traces or interconnects between cable  1436  and connector  1446 . The electronic interface or carrier may provide additional functionality to coupler  1434  including, for example, alarm components. 
     The shape of body  1440  may be widely varied. In some cases, body  1440  may be a compliant or flexible element such that it may conform to the shape of device  1432  when secured thereto. In other cases, body  1440  may be a rigid member that may substantially follow the contour of device  1432 . Alternatively, body  1440  may include both rigid and flexible portions. For example, body  1440  may include a rigid section  1448  for physical attachment to device  1432  and a flexible portion  1449  for detachably securing connector  1446  to the connector of device  1432 . In some embodiments, body  1440  may be a somewhat rigid member that may fit the shape of device  1432 , such that body  1440  may be slid onto device  1432  (e.g., such that the connectors of the body and the device may engage). Thereafter, body  1440  may be attached to device  1432 . 
     The placement of terminal  1442  on body  1440  may be widely varied. As shown, terminal  1442  may be somewhat aligned with the center of back surface  1433  of electronic device  1432 . Alternatively, terminal  1442  can be positioned relative to a center of gravity of electronic device  1432  to ensure that electronic device  1432  may be properly supported by a stand. 
       FIGS. 15-17  are diagrams of a handheld electronic device security system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As shown, the system may include a coupler  1506  that may attach to a handheld electronic device  1502  and a stand  1504  that may hold device  1502  in a position for presenting device  1502  to a potential consumer. Stand  1504  and coupler  1506  can include some or all of the features of the corresponding components described above. The system can include a cable  1508  that may secure coupler  1506 , and thus electronic device  1502 , to a fixture. 
     To expose electronic device  1502 , coupler  1506  can include a terminal  1512  that may extend from a body  1510  of coupler  1506 . As shown in  FIG. 17 , for example, terminal  1512  can be received by a slot  1522  in a platform  1520  of stand  1504 . The size and shape of slot  1522  can be selected to correspond to the shape and dimensions of terminal  1512 , such that electronic device  1502  may be retained by stand  1504 . Platform  1520  of stand  1504  may be designed to place device  1502  at the desired orientation relative to a consumer. 
     In some embodiments, terminal  1512  can include a protruding member that may physically interface with slot  1522  built into platform  1520 . The protruding member may, for example, be formed as a cylinder and slot  1522  may be U-shaped with a curvature similar to that of the cylinder. For example, in some embodiments, terminal  1512  may further include a groove  1513  that can engage a flange  1523  on platform  1520 . In order to engage device  1502  with platform  1520 , a consumer may slide device  1502  on or of platform  1520  via the engagement of terminal  1512  and groove  1513  with slot  1522  and flange  1523  in the direction of arrow  1530 . Flange  1523  and groove  1513  may help prevent rotation of device  1502  relative to platform  1520 . 
       FIGS. 18-21  show various embodiments of a handheld electronic device security system, similar to that shown in  FIGS. 15-17 , but in which a cable has one or more different configurations. As shown in  FIG. 18 , for example, a cable  1806  may be attached to the base of a stand  1804 . Cable  1806  may be attached behind a post of stand  1804 . Furthermore, cable  1806  may be provided with enough slack to allow a consumer to use or hold a device  1802  coupled to cable  1806 . In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 19 , for example, a cable  1906  coupled to a device  1902  may include one or more coils  1907 , and cable  1906  may also be coupled to a base of a stand  1904  and behind a post of stand  1904 . In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 20 , for example, a cable  2006  may be attached to a device  2002  and to a base of a stand  2004  in front of a post of stand  2004 . In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 21 , for example, a cable  2106  coupled to a device  2102  may be provided through a post  2105  of a stand  2104 . Post  2105  may include an opening  2108  near an end of post  2105  that may be adjacent to electronic device  2102 , such that cable  2106  may be somewhat hidden from the view of a user of device  2102 . 
     Examples of electronic devices that can be used with the security systems described herein may include, but are not limited to, media players that play or otherwise transmit audio and/or visual (e.g., video or picture) signals (e.g., an iPod™ by Apple Inc.) and cellular telephones or other devices that allow users to communicate remotely through wireless connections. Electronic devices may also correspond to mini-computers, tablet computers, PDAs, internet or e-mail based devices, or any other handheld or portable electronic device. Some electronic devices may be a combination of specific or dedicated devices mentioned above (e.g., an iPhone™ or an iPad™ by Apple Inc.). 
     Insubstantial changes from the claimed subject matter as viewed by a person with ordinary skill in the art, now known or later devised, are expressly contemplated as being equivalently within the scope of the claims. Therefore, obvious substitutions, alterations, permutations, and equivalents, now or later known to one with ordinary skill in the art, are defined to be within the scope of the defined elements. 
     The above described embodiments of the disclosed systems and methods are presented for purposes of illustration and not of limitation. Further, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, the disclosure of the presently disclosed subject matter is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the claimed subject matter, which is set forth in the following claims.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20140709
Publication Date: 20160621
Grant Date: 20160621
Priority Date: 20091214
Inventors: OEHL WILHELM
ANDERSON ERIK
KUAN EDMOND
NOBLES JOE
AHMADI KAMBIZ
TAKEZAWA ISAO
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G08B13/1445", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/1463", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/22", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/1445", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/1463", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/1463", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/1445", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/22", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 44341121