Patent Document

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/800,877, entitled “Mounting Systems for Handheld Electronic Devices” and filed on Mar. 15, 2013, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Many electronic devices that are designed for handheld use (e.g., mobile phones, tablet devices, or the like) provide useful functionalities in a variety of activities that are not conducive to handheld use, particularly when considering that typical handheld use often requires availability of both hands (i.e., one hand to hold the device and the other hand for operating the device, e.g., interacting with a touchscreen user interface). Existing mounts for such devices are, however, unsatisfactory for all applications and further mount functionality is desirable. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Advantageously, mounting apparatus of the invention provide improved functionality and ease of use. Not only are such mounting apparatus adaptable, without modification in exemplary embodiments, to adequately secure a range of electronic devices types and sizes (e.g., a portable consumer electronic device selected from personal data assistants, phones, and personal computers), but they are also adaptable, with little or no modification, for attachment to a wide range of surfaces (e.g., a surface on a shopping trolley) and for efficient use of devices in a wide range of applications (e.g., for operation of the device while driving a motorized vehicle or for operation of the device by a user simultaneously while exercising). 
         [0004]    A mounting apparatus for securing an electronic device to facilitate operation of the device by a user in a hands-free manner according to the invention comprises: a base portion configured for attachment of the mounting apparatus to a surface (e.g., the base portion comprises a magnetic sub-component for attachment to the surface) and a holder portion comprising a flexible and fatigue resistant material adjacent the base portion and configured to enable single-handed securing of the device therein by constraining the device only along a portion of two longest opposing side edges of the device without substantially obscuring a front side of the device and such that a gap exists between a back side of the device and the holder portion (e.g., the gap providing a distance between the back side of the device and the mount of about 1.0 centimeter to about 2.4 centimeters), wherein the holder portion has a maximum inner diameter in a relaxed state that is smaller than a width dimension of the device. 
         [0005]    In one embodiment, the mounting apparatus is a single component comprising the base portion and the holder portion. In another embodiment, the mounting apparatus comprises at least two components, one of the at least two components comprising the base portion and another one of the at least two components comprising the holder portion. 
         [0006]    Advantageously, configuration of the holder portion of the mounting apparatus specifically facilitates improved functionality of the mount, including adaptability of the mount for securing a range of devices single-handedly. Dimensions of the holder portion can vary. In one embodiment, width of the holder portion is about 1.3 centimeters to about 7.6 centimeters. In one embodiment, the holder portion has a maximum thickness of 0.25 centimeter to about 2.54 centimeters. 
         [0007]    The holder portion advantageously comprises a flexible and fatigue resistant material—e.g., a material selected from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, high-density polyethylene, and thermoplastic elastomer materials. According to one aspect of this embodiment, Young&#39;s Modulus of the flexible and fatigue resistant material is about 0.1-8.0 GPa. According to another aspect of this embodiment, ultimate tensile strength of the flexible and fatigue resistant material is about 12-90 MPa. 
         [0008]    In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting apparatus is capable of use with a range of small devices, wherein width of the devices in the range is about 2.5-8.9 centimeters. According to another exemplary embodiment, the mounting apparatus is capable of use with a range of medium devices, wherein width of the devices in the range is about 6.4-12.7 centimeters. According to yet another exemplary embodiment, the mounting apparatus is capable of use with a range of large devices, wherein width of the devices in the range is about 10.2-20.3 centimeters. 
         [0009]    In one embodiment, the mount is capable of providing a holding force through flexion of about 8-67 Newtons when the device is secured within the mount. Securement of a device within mounting apparatus of the invention can be further improved in alternative embodiments. According to a further embodiment, the holder portion has at least one protrusion at each of two opposing edges adjacent an opening of the holder portion. An inner surface of the holder portion adjacent the opposing protrusions slopes inward according to an exemplary aspect of this embodiment. The mounting apparatus further comprises a gripping component (e.g., having a maximum thickness of about 1.30 millimeters to about 1.30 centimeters) on at least a portion of an inner surface of the holder portion according to another embodiment. According to an exemplary aspect of this embodiment, the gripping component comprises a material having a Shore D hardness of less than about 55. According to another exemplary aspect of this embodiment, the gripping component comprises a material having a Shore A hardness of about 3090. According to yet another exemplary aspect of this embodiment, the gripping component has less than about 25% compression set after being compressed at room temperature for about 22 hours when tested according to ASTM D 395. 
         [0010]    Kits comprising mounting apparatus of the invention can draw upon adaptability of the mounts. In one embodiment, a kit comprises the base portion and at least two of the holder portions, wherein the holder portions are interchangeable with the base portion to form the mounting apparatus. In another embodiment, a kit comprises the holder portion and at least two of the base portions, wherein the base portions are interchangeable with the holder portion to form the mounting apparatus. 
         [0011]    A method of using the mounting apparatus comprises: attaching the mounting apparatus to a first surface; securing the device therein; optionally, operating the device in a hands-free manner; optionally, detaching the mounting apparatus from the first surface; optionally, attaching the mounting apparatus to a second surface; and, optionally, operating the device in a hands-free manner. According to one aspect of the invention, the device can be secured in the mounting apparatus such that the mounting apparatus functions as a stand from which the device can extend upward. According to another aspect of the invention, the device is secured within the mounting apparatus in a generally horizontal orientation. Further embodiments of methods of the invention comprise the step of tilting the device from the generally horizontal orientation. 
         [0012]    Another improved mounting apparatus for securing an electronic device to facilitate operation of the device by a user in a hands-free manner comprises: a base portion configured for attachment of the mounting apparatus to a surface; a holder portion adjacent the base portion and comprising a flexible and fatigue resistant material; and communications functionality housed within at least one of the base portion and the holder portion and enabling data communication between the mount and the device when secured in the mount. According to an exemplary aspect of this embodiment, the communications functionality comprises a passive component—e.g., a NFC chip or RFID tag. According to another exemplary aspect of this embodiment, the communications functionality is limited to nonprogrammable actions, operating based on one or more preset programs. Stores using shopping trolleys comprising such mounting apparatus attached to at least one surface thereon are capable of, for example, drawing upon the mounts to increase sales or otherwise generate more revenue. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0013]      FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a mounting apparatus according to the present invention. 
           [0014]      FIG. 1B  is a side view of the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0015]      FIG. 1C  is a front view of the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0016]      FIG. 1D  is a perspective view of the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 1A  with a horizontally oriented device secured therein. 
           [0017]      FIG. 1E  is a perspective view of the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 1A  with a vertically oriented device secured therein on a vertical surface. 
           [0018]      FIG. 1F  is a front view of the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 1A  with a device secured therein in a horizontal orientation. 
           [0019]      FIG. 1G  is a side view of the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 1A  with a device secured therein in a horizontal orientation. 
           [0020]      FIG. 1H  is a side view of the device secured in the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 1G , but with the device angled in the mounting apparatus as compared to that orientation shown in  FIG. 1G . 
           [0021]      FIG. 1I  is a side view of the device secured in the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 1G , but with the device angled in the mounting apparatus as compared to those orientations shown in  FIGS. 1G-1H . 
           [0022]      FIG. 1J  is a perspective view of a device secured in the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 1G , but with the mounting apparatus positioned to secure the device in a vertical orientation on a horizontal surface. 
           [0023]      FIG. 2A  is a side view of a single-component mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0024]      FIG. 2B  is a side view of a multi-component mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0025]      FIG. 2C  is a perspective view of the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 2A , wherein a magnetic component is included in the base portion thereof. 
           [0026]      FIG. 3A  is a side view of a mounting apparatus of the invention wherein the holder portion is flexed inward from its relaxed state to an overlapping position. 
           [0027]      FIG. 3B  is a side view of a mounting apparatus of the invention wherein the holder portion is flexed outward from its relaxed state. 
           [0028]      FIG. 4A  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0029]      FIG. 4B  is a side view of the holder portion illustrated in  FIG. 4A . 
           [0030]      FIG. 5A  is a C-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0031]      FIG. 5B  is a block C-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0032]      FIG. 5C  is a V-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0033]      FIG. 5D  is a half hexagon-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0034]      FIG. 5E  is an angle in-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0035]      FIG. 5F  is an angle out-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0036]      FIG. 5G  is a half octagon-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0037]      FIG. 5H  is an open diamond-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0038]      FIG. 5I  is a U-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0039]      FIG. 5J  is an angle in gripper-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0040]      FIG. 5K  is an angle out gripper-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0041]      FIG. 5L  is a tall C-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0042]      FIG. 5M  is a tall C gripper-shaped side profile for an exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0043]      FIG. 5N  is a w-shaped side profile for an alternative exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0044]      FIG. 6A  is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a holder portion of a mounting apparatus of the invention, wherein a gripping component is included therein. 
           [0045]      FIG. 6B  is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the holder portion illustrated in  FIG. 6A . 
           [0046]      FIG. 7A  is a perspective view of an exemplary mounting apparatus of the invention. 
           [0047]      FIG. 7B  is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 7A . 
           [0048]      FIG. 7C  is a perspective view of the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 7B  attached to a shopping trolley. 
           [0049]      FIG. 7D  is a perspective view of a device secured within the mounting apparatus of  FIG. 7C . 
           [0050]      FIG. 8  is a side view of a mounting apparatus of the invention comprising communications functionality. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0051]    A novel mounting apparatus (also referred to herein as a “mount”) for an electronic device (also referred to herein as a “device”) is described further herein. Devices capable of being mounted within apparatus of the invention include a display for viewing data and/or images thereon. 
         [0052]    Advantageously, mounting apparatus of the invention are capable of use with a wide variety of electronic devices, such as consumer electronic devices. In addition, mounts of the invention may be used to hang, hold, stand up, grip, lock, or support other objects (e.g., a remote control, a bottle, a guitar, tools, a hose, a pipe, clothing, jewelry, headphones, equipment, or baggage). However, benefits of the invention are generally realized by use of the mounting apparatus for mounting of electronic devices. 
         [0053]    In some embodiments, the mounting apparatus is not device-specific. Rather, in exemplary embodiments, the mount is a universal mount that is capable of use with one or more classes of devices, as delineated by width of devices within each class. In alternate embodiments, the mount is capable of use with a specific range of devices within a certain class of device (e.g., small, medium, or large) or with a specific device. In preferred embodiments, use of a mount universally in such a manner can be done without modification of the mount. Thus, functionality of mounts of the invention in that regard is advantageously improved as compared to many conventional mounting apparatus. 
         [0054]    Exemplary consumer electronic devices are generally portable and include those widely marketed as personal data assistants, phones (e.g., cellular, satellite, and other cordless phones), personal computers, and the like. For example, laptop computers, notebook computers, tablet computers, portable music players, smartphones, GPS devices, radios, e-readers, calculators, game consoles, clocks, timers, digital photo albums, microphones, cameras (e.g., still or video cameras), monitors, transceivers, scanners, and identifiers (e.g., RFID identifiers) are such consumer electronic devices. Many of these devices are generally mobile and, as such, are understood to be handheld electronic devices. Use of the disclosed mount in conjunction with such devices is relatively quick and easy. In preferred embodiments of the invention, devices are capable of being secured within a mounting apparatus single-handedly (i.e., requiring only one hand for the same, although both of a user&#39;s hands can be used) and thereafter operated in a hands-free manner. 
         [0055]    While not limited to handheld electronic devices, mounting apparatus of the invention have been found particularly beneficial for use with electronic devices that are designed for handheld use. One of the benefits of mounting apparatus of the invention is their ease of adaptability to a wide variety of, not only devices, but also applications for those devices. For example, mounts of the invention can be used in situations where use of a device is desired or needed, but holding of the device is not desired or allowed. A notable situation where mounts of the invention can be advantageously employed is for operation of a cellular phone while driving a motorized vehicle. Other exemplary situations include those where a device is used by one exercising, cooking, playing an instrument, biking, recording, shopping, engaging in a conference call, performing do-it-yourself or manual tasks that require coinciding task instruction, speaking in public using the device as a teleprompter, or otherwise desiring use of their hands for activities other than operating the device. Such situations also include those where a device is used to assist with any of the following exemplary tasks: making a phone call in general, using application software (i.e., an app), playing a game, organizing tasks, ascertaining weather, setting an alarm, watching a clock, note taking, recording voice notes, using social networks, sending and receiving messages such as texts and e-mails, locating GPS coordinates, obtaining map directions, video conferencing, listening to music, recording audio, editing audio, reading news, watching movies, recording video, editing video, using a flashlight, accessing the Internet, using an Internet search engine, speaking from a teleprompter, watching or listening to a baby monitor, finding nearby items, reading, photographing, scanning, making a payment, calculating, drawing, shopping, cooking, banking, or otherwise computing in general. Functionality of mounts in this regard is advantageously improved as compared to that of most conventional mounts. 
         [0056]    When evaluating whether the mounting apparatus is capable of use with a specific device, consideration of any accessories positioned on the exterior of the device may be necessary. For example, a wide variety of protective and/or decorative cases are marketed for many consumer electronic devices. The dimensions and materials used for such cases can vary widely. In certain embodiments, mounting apparatus of the invention designed for use with a specific range of devices or with a specific device can accommodate devices positioned within its respective case or similar accessory. It is to be understood, however, that there may be circumstances where use of the device with specific accessories causes it to be incapable of use with its respective mounting apparatus. In those embodiments where the mount accommodates device cases and similar accessories, the mount is capable of accommodating devices as used with a majority of cases marketed for use with that device. There are exceptional circumstances, however, where specific cases and similar accessories deviate from the norm to the extent that the mount is not capable of effective use with devices outfitted with such accessories. 
         [0057]    Mounting apparatus of the invention can be configured for use in conjunction with a wide range of surfaces, often with little or no modification being required when moving the mount between surfaces. Understand that the surfaces with which mounting apparatus of the invention can be used include those associated with specific objects (e.g., supports). Exemplary objects to which mounts of the invention can be attached include those shaped as a rounded cylinder (e.g., a pole, a railing, a handlebar, etc.), those including a screw or receptacle therefor (e.g., a screw-mount on a tripod), or those having a semi-flat surface (e.g., a wall, a desktop, etc.). Again, functionality of mounts in this regard is advantageously improved as compared to that of most conventional mounts. Depending on user desires and configuration of the mounting apparatus, a mount is typically positioned on a surface in a manner facilitating hands-free use of a device when mounted therein. 
         [0058]    Exemplary surfaces on which mounts of the invention can be used include those associated with the following objects: a shopping trolley (sometimes referred to as a shopping cart, and which includes a handlebar, crossbar for a handlebar, side, and even a child seat in certain embodiments), a stroller, a non-motorized vehicle (e.g., a bicycle, a cart, or a wheelchair), a motorized vehicle (e.g., an automobile, a truck, a motorcycle, an ATV, a forklift, various construction equipment, a boat, an airplane, a train, or a bus) or component thereof (e.g., a dashboard or dashboard vent on an automobile), furniture (e.g., a desk, a table, a chair, a cabinet, or a bed such as a hospital bed), a stand, a belt, a tripod, a backpack, exercise equipment (e.g., a treadmill, an elliptical machine, a stationary bike, a weight machine such as a weight rack or bench, a TRX station, a training rig, a kettlebell, or a free weight), musical equipment (e.g., an amplifier, a keyboard stand, a music stand, a keyboard, a piano, a guitar, a drum set, or other musical instrument), a computer, a television, an appliance, a tree, an easel, a conveyor, a ladder, a railing, or a multitude of other objects on which mounting of a device is desired. 
         [0059]    In one embodiment, the mount is positioned on a surface in a repositionable manner (i.e., in a manner requiring no releasing adjustment of mechanical or adhesive components on the mounting apparatus in order to move the mount to a different position on that surface or to another surface). For example, mounting apparatus according to this embodiment can be simply picked up with minimal effort by a user and placed in a different location. In another embodiment, the mount is positioned on a surface in a fixed manner (i.e., in a manner requiring releasing adjustment of mechanical or adhesive components on the mounting apparatus in order to move the mount to a different position on the surface). For example, mounting apparatus according to this embodiment may need loosening of a screw, de-bonding of an adhesive, or other releasing adjustment before they can be picked up with minimal effort by a user and placed in a different location. 
         [0060]    The mount is configured for attachment to a surface, with different configurations depending on the nature of the surface to which it is intended to be attached and the type of attachment mechanism desired. In one embodiment, a mount is designed to typically secure a device in one particular orientation, both with respect to basic orientation of a device within the mount and with respect to orientation of the mount securing the device in relation to the environment in which the mount is used. According to another embodiment, a mount is designed to secure a device in one basic orientation within the mount, but in one of multiple orientations with respect to the environment in which the mount is used when the device is secured therein. The latter embodiment includes use of an adapter (i.e., an individual component coupled between the base portion of the mount and the surface to which the mount is attached) according to further embodiments of the invention. 
         [0061]      FIGS. 1A-1J  illustrate one embodiment of a mounting apparatus  100  for securing a device  102  according to the invention and attaching the mount  100  to a surface  104 . A device  102  can be secured within the mount  100  such that it is generally positioned horizontal in relation to the environment in which the mount is used, as illustrated in  FIG. 1D . By “horizontal,” it is to be understood that the longest side edge  151  of the device  102  (which typically has a rectangular shape when viewed from the front side  106 ) is disposed horizontally (i.e., in a landscape orientation when viewed from the perspective of an individual standing upright on level ground) when the mounting apparatus  100  is attached to a surface  104 . In another embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 1E , a device  102  can be secured within a mount  100  such that it is generally positioned vertical. By “vertical,” it is to be understood that width dimension  146  of the device  102  is disposed vertically (i.e., in a portrait orientation when viewed from the perspective of an individual standing upright on level ground) when the mounting apparatus  100  is attached to a surface  104 . 
         [0062]    As illustrated in  FIGS. 1F-1G , a device  102  is generally secured in a horizontal orientation within the mount  100 . Orientation within the mount  100  is to be understood as that basic orientation when viewed from the front of the mount  100  positioned as illustrated in  FIG. 10 . While orientation within the mount  100  is generally horizontal, position of a device  102  secured within the mount  100  can deviate from that basic orientation as desired. 
         [0063]    According to a further embodiment of the invention, a mount  100  is designed to allow for easy adjustment of a device&#39;s orientation within the mount  100  by a user. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 1H , a device  102  is secured within the mount  100 , but tilted backward by sliding the top  149  of the device  102  along inner surface  141  of the holder portion  108  (as described further below) a desired distance  142  from its general horizontal orientation to an angle  144  (e.g., an angle of up to about fifteen degrees) from the general horizontal orientation of the device  102 . In another example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 11-11 , a device  102  is secured within the mount  100 , but translated from the general horizontal orientation illustrated in  FIG. 1G  by pushing or pulling one side  150  of the device  102  to an angle  148  (e.g., an angle of up to about fifteen degrees) from the general horizontal orientation of the device  102 . Recognize that the side of the device that is pushed or pulled to provide such translation can also be the side that is opposite side  150  denoted in  FIGS. 1D-1J . Tilting (also referred to herein as translation) of the device  102  in this manner is easy, can be done single-handedly, and does not affect ability of the mount  100  to secure the device  102  at the desired orientation within the mount  100 . 
         [0064]    In all cases, a device  102  is advantageously oriented within the mount  100  such that the device  102  is constrained by the mount  100  (e.g., at the holder portion of the mount  100 , as described further below) only along a portion of two longest opposing side edges  151  of the device  102 . Advantageously, simply, and in contrast to many conventional mounting apparatus, no physical contact is necessary or occurs between the device  102  and the mount  100  along the device&#39;s longitudinal axis. Further, minimal to no physical contact occurs between the device  102  and the mount  100  along the back side  140  of the device  102 . 
         [0065]    As illustrated in  FIG. 1G , when a device  102  is secured within a mount  100  according to the invention, a gap  138  is formed between the device  102  and the mount  100 . The gap  138  is formed as essentially the entire back side  140  of the device  102  makes no physical contact with the mount  100 . In an exemplary embodiment, the gap  138  (as measured at an angle  156  of about ninety degrees with respect to the back side  140  of the device  102 ) provides a distance  154  between the back side  140  of the device  102  and the mount  100  of about 1.0 centimeter (0.4 inch) to about 2.4 centimeters (1.0 inch). In a further exemplary embodiment, the gap  138  (as measured at an angle  157  of about forty-five degrees with respect to the back side  140  of the device  102 ) provides a distance  155  between the back side  140  of the device  102  and the mount  100  of about 1.2 centimeters (0.5 inch) to about 2.4 centimeters (1.0 inch). This novel gap  138  was found to provide an optimal balance of properties and functionality for mounts  100  of the invention. 
         [0066]    Unlike conventional mounting apparatus, mounts  100  of the invention providing for such a gap  138  when a device  102  is secured therein have improved functionality. For example, such a design facilitates flexibility in what types and sizes of devices  102  the mount  100  can securely hold. Further, such a design facilitates selective repositioning of a device  102  within the mount  100  as desired by a user of the device  102  and as described above with respect to  FIGS. 1F-1I  and as described below with respect to  FIG. 1J . 
         [0067]    According to one aspect of the invention, the device  102  is capable of being selectively slid along its longest side edges  151  and within the mount  100  as desired by a user of the device  102 . Recognize that the device  102  is generally positioned such that the mount  100  constrains only a portion of two longest opposing side edges  151  of the device  102  proximate the centerline  158  of the device  102 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 1D-1F . In alternate embodiments, however, the device  102  is positioned within the mount  100  such that the mount  100  constrains only a portion of two longest opposing side edges  151  of the device  102  at one end of the device  102 , as illustrated in  FIG. 1J . In this manner, the mount  100  can be attached to a horizontal surface such that it is positioned on its side  153  and the device  102  is positioned in a vertical orientation in relation to the environment in which it is used. The mount  100  not only secures the device  102  in this embodiment, but it also functions as a simple stand from which the device  102  can extend upward in an unfettered manner. Positioning of the device  102  within the mount  100  in this manner is easy, can be done single-handedly, and does not affect ability of the mount  100  to secure the device  102  at the desired orientation within the mount  100 . For example, a device  102  secured within a mount  100  functioning as a stand, as illustrated in  FIG. 1J  can be tilted within the mount  100  as described above with respect to  FIGS. 1H-1I . 
         [0068]    Mounting apparatus of the invention may have one or multiple individual components and can be attached to a surface via any suitable portion thereof. In one embodiment, a mount comprises a holder portion and a base portion. The holder portion secures (i.e., holds) the device within the mount and the base portion secures (i.e., attaches) the mount to a surface directly or indirectly, as is the case when an adapter is used. Each of these portions may comprise multiple parts (also referred to herein as sub-components). In order to maximize benefits of the invention, however, at least the holder portion of a mount according to the invention does not include sub-components. 
         [0069]    Structural components of the mount can be made from any suitable material according to methodology known to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, mounts and individual components thereof can be made from plastic, rubber, metal, wood, or combinations thereof. To facilitate obtainment of relatively lightweight mounts, which are beneficially used in certain applications, and for adequately securing devices therein, use of flexible and fatigue resistant materials (i.e., a material capable of flexure, but developing relatively low fatigue strain over a high number of cycles), such as certain plastic and/or rubber materials, within the mount is preferred. Fatigue resistant materials as used herein refers to materials that remain flexible through at least about 10,000 cycles when tested using Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) based on ASTM D 4065. A material is understood to remain flexible if less than about 25% fatigue strain develops in the material when tested as such. Preferably, fatigue resistant materials of the invention remain flexible through at least about 500,000 cycles when tested as such. Further preferred are fatigue resistant materials wherein less than about 10% fatigue strain develops in the material when tested as such. Exemplary flexible and fatigue resistant materials include those within the following classes of materials: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Such materials are commercially available from a number of sources, including HDPE marketed by Legacy Polymer Products (Dunmore, Pa.) and TPE marketed by RTP Co. (Winona, Minn.) using the trade designation, RTP 6001-70A. 
         [0070]    Depending on the type of material being formed into the mount or individual components thereof, various processes such as milling, computer numerical control (CNC) machining, injection molding, extruding, casting (e.g., die casting), cold rolling, three-dimensional (3D) printing, bending, welding, forging, laminating, or stereo lithography can be used to form the same. When the mount includes multiple components, each of the individual components may be formed using the same or different materials and processes. In general, however, to provide functionality according to the present invention, the holder portion is formed from materials and in a shape suitable for securing a desired device or range of devices within the mount. In one embodiment, the holder portion specifically comprises a flexible and fatigue resistant material selected to provide adequate holding force on a specific device or range of devices to be used with the mount. Preferably, the holder portion comprises ABS, HDPE, and/or TPE materials. 
         [0071]    According to one aspect of this embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 2A , a holder portion  208  and a base portion  210  of a mount  200  together can be a single component in that they are integrally formed or of monolithic construction. Advantageously, single component mounts  200  are capable of providing improved functionality as compared to conventional mounting apparatus. Surprisingly, such single-component mounts  200  are capable of effectively securing a device or range of devices therein without requiring use of additional parts (e.g., mechanical fasteners or tensioning devices) to provide constraining or tensioning properties necessary to single-handedly and effectively secure the device as desired. 
         [0072]    According to another aspect of this embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 2B , a holder portion  208  and a base portion  210  of a mount  200  are formed as two individual components  208 ,  210 . That is, the mount  200  is an assembly of distinct and/or separable components, collectively forming the holder portion  208  and the base portion  210  of the mount  200  according to this aspect of the invention. 
         [0073]    Advantageously, this latter aspect of the invention facilitates use of a base portion  210  with interchangeable holder portions  208 , each of which may be designed for use with specific devices or ranges of devices. A product range for holder portions  208  of a mount may include, for example, holder portions  208  having multiple maximum inner diameters  222  (as defined further below with respect to maximum inner diameter  422  in  FIG. 4B ) that can collectively be used with a wide range of devices of one or more device types. For example, a specific-sized holder portion  208  can secure a phone-sized device, whereas a different specific-sized holder portion  208  can secure a tablet-sized device according to this aspect of the invention. In that manner, a base portion  210  may be attached to a surface and different devices, each having an associated holder portion  208  compatible with that base portion  210 , and can be easily and quickly interchanged within such mounts  200  of the invention. 
         [0074]    The devices and their associated holder portions  208  can be similar or different according to varying aspects of this embodiment. For example, two individuals with similar cellular phones and associated holder portions  208  can efficiently and interchangeably secure their phones at the same location on a surface by attaching the phone&#39;s respective holder portion  208  to the base portion  210  to complete the mount  200 . This may be the case when the mount  200  is used in a fitness facility, for example, where fitness equipment is successively used by multiple individuals desiring to access their device while using the equipment. As another example, one individual with multiple device types, each device having a different type of holder portion  208 , can efficiently and interchangeably secure those devices at the same location on a surface by attaching the device&#39;s respective holder portion  208  to the base portion  210  to complete the mount  200 . This may be the case when the mount  200  is used at the individual&#39;s workstation, for example, where successive use of different devices at the same location on a surface is desired throughout the day. 
         [0075]    In an alternate embodiment, this latter aspect of the invention facilitates use of a holder portion  208  with interchangeable base portions  210  or sub-components  270  thereof, each of which may be designed for attachment to a different surface. In that manner, multiple base portions  210  or sub-components  270  thereof can be attached to different surfaces and a device having an associated holder portion  208  compatible with those base portions  210  or sub-components  270  thereof, can be easily and quickly interchanged within such mounts  200  of the invention. Recognize also that interchangeability of base portions  210  according to this embodiment may entail interchanging only one of multiple sub-components  270  constituting the base portion of the mount. In an exemplary embodiment, a base portion  210  of a mount comprises a universal base attachment mechanism (for example,  270 ) for quick and simple attachment of the mount  200  in its entirety to a range of surfaces indirectly through an adapter (not shown). 
         [0076]    Base portions  210  or adapters used in conjunction therewith for attachment of the mount  200  to a surface include any suitable attachment mechanisms depending on desired applications. The number of attachment mechanisms suitable for use with mounts  200  according to the present invention is unlimited and can include, for example, one or more of the following attachment mechanisms: clamp, screw, plate hemisphere, ring, bracket (e.g., snap- flat-, or U-bracket), band (e.g., elastic band), interlock, screw clamp, and clip. If desired, any of a wide variety of conventional adapters may be used with mounts  200  of the invention, including the following exemplary fasteners: bolts (e.g., U-bolts), snaps, nails, rivets, staples, cable holders (including, for example, self-closing, press-in, snap-lock, locking-arm, adjustable-strap, adjustable-loop, fold-over strap, flexible-loop, and adjustable-strap cable holders), straps, ties (e.g., zip-ties), tape (e.g., double-sided foam tape available from 3M Company (St. Paul, Minn.) under the VHB trade designation), hook-and-loop, clamps (e.g., bar clamps, band clamps, corner clamps, plier clamps, spring clamps, and tube clamps), tool holders, hinges, suction cups, tongs, pliers, grippers, hangars, and collars. Many off-the-shelf adhesives may also be used for attachment of the mount  200  to a surface. Exemplary adhesives include those classified as one or more of the following adhesive types: epoxy, sealant, caulking, glue (e.g., super glue), or hot-melt. 
         [0077]    The base portions  210  can be similar or different according to varying aspects of this embodiment. For example, a base portion  210  attached to a stationary bike may have a different design than a base portion  210  attached to a weight bench. This may be the case when an individual is proceeding through various stations within a fitness facility and desires to access the same device at multiple locations within the facility. As another example, one individual can efficiently and interchangeably secure the same device within mounts  200  of the invention by attaching the device and its associated holder portion  208  to one of several base portions  210  attached to different surfaces to complete the mount  200 . This may be the case when the mount  200  is used throughout an individual&#39;s day at various locations and for various activities. For example, an individual may successively attach a cellular phone and its associated holder portion  208  to a base portion  210  attached to a surface of an automobile, a workstation, various pieces of exercise equipment, or a kitchen, as often used throughout the day. 
         [0078]    Conventional mounting apparatus often include multiple and complex parts. The fact that a mounting apparatus can be made and work effectively as a single component or a combination of more than one relatively simple component is one advantage of the present invention. Partly due to the absence, within the mount, of parts requiring movement with respect to each other in order to provide constraining or tensioning properties necessary to single-handedly and effectively secure a device therein as desired, preferred embodiments of the mount have relatively high durability as compared to many conventional mounting apparatus. In an exemplary embodiment, a mounting apparatus of the invention can survive a freefall drop of 30 meters (100 feet) without any measurable damage. In addition, preferred embodiments of the mount are waterproof and oil-resistant as compared to many conventional mounting apparatus. 
         [0079]    A holder portion  208  of the mount  200  is generally shaped in a non-linear manner when viewed from the side, as illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2B , for example. When viewed from the front or back, however, the holder portion  208  is generally shaped in a linear manner (e.g., such that it is rectangular-shaped like the mount  100  in its entirety as illustrated in  FIG. 1C ) according to a preferred embodiment. The holder portion  208  is shaped such that is extends around three sides of a device (e.g., the back  140  and adjacent sides  150  of the device  102  as illustrated in  FIGS. 1F-1G ) secured therein. Generally, a device  102  is secured within a holder portion  208  of a mount  200  such that the width dimension  146  of the device  102  (as illustrated in  FIG. 1F ) is substantially within the confines of the holder portion  208  and spans an opening  212  between opposing ends  214 ,  216  of the holder portion  208 . When the device  102  is secured therein, as illustrated in  FIGS. 1D-1G , the holder portion  208  does not extend substantially around a front side  106  of the device  102 . That is, the holder portion  208  preferably does not obscure a screen  103  used for display of images and/or data on a front side  106  of the device  102 , as is often present on many consumer electronic devices. In a preferred and exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 1F , the device  102  extends in a transverse direction from opposing sides  153  of the holder portion  108  of the mount  100 . 
         [0080]    As compared to many conventional mounting apparatus, a holder portion  108  of the mount  100  constrains (i.e., makes physical contact with) a device  102  only along a portion of two longest opposing side edges  151  of the device  102  (e.g., along about 5% to about 70% of the length dimension  147 , more preferably about 20% to about 50% of the length dimension  147  of the device  102 ) secured within the mount  100  according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. As the width dimension  146  of most devices  102  is typically smaller than its length dimension  147 , mounts  100  of the invention are generally smaller than conventional mounts designed to accommodate the length dimension  147  of a device  102 . This not only results in a smaller footprint for the mount  100 , but it also facilitates mounts  100  that are relatively lightweight. For certain uses, such as bicycling, weight of the mount  100  is very important. Although weight of the mount  100  can vary depending on factors such as the materials used therein, in an exemplary embodiment, a mount  100  of the invention has a mass of less than about twenty (20) grams. In a further exemplary embodiment, a mount  100  of the invention has a mass of less than about twelve (12) grams. 
         [0081]    With reference to  FIGS. 2A-2C and 3A-3B , the holder portion  208  of the mount  200  is flexible. In one embodiment, the holder portion  208  can be flexed inward (i.e., such that opposing ends  214 ,  216  of the holder portion  208  move closer together, even to the point of overlapping in some embodiments) and outward (Le., such that opposing ends  214 ,  216  of the holder portion  208  move farther apart from their normal position in a relaxed state wherein no pressure is exerted on the holder portion  208 ), even to the point where the opposing ends  214 ,  216  move closer together in the opposite direction after the holder portion  208  is flexed into an approximately straight line). According to one aspect of this embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 3A , the holder portion  308  of the mount  300  can be flexed inward from its relaxed state to an overlapping position. According to another aspect of the embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 3B , the holder portion  308  of the mount  300  can be flexed outward from its relaxed state without significantly impacting the mount&#39;s ability to effectively secure an intended device therein. This property beneficial enables mounts  300  of the invention to be efficiently used with a wide range of devices. Not only are mounts  300  of the invention capable of such flexible securement of devices, but preferred mounts  300  of the invention exhibit such properties even after repeated flexure and use—i.e., the holder portion  308  of such mounts  300  is fatigue resistant as described above. Such holder portions  308  within mounts  300  of the invention advantageously provide improved functionality as compared to conventional mounting apparatus. 
         [0082]    The width  160  of the mount  100  (i.e., when the mount  100  is attached to a surface in an upright position with the base portion  110  of the mount  100  underneath the holder portion  108  of the mount  100  as illustrated in  FIGS. 1C-1D ) varies according to the type of device and nature of the surface to which the mount  100  is attached. In an exemplary embodiment, width  160  of the mount  100  is about 1.3 centimeters (0.5 inch) to about 7.6 centimeters (3.0 inches). In further exemplary embodiments, width  160  of the mount  100  is about 2.5 centimeters (1.0 inch), 3.2 centimeters (1.25 inches), or 4.4 centimeters (1.75 inches). 
         [0083]    Similarly, the height  162  of the mount  100  varies according to the type of device and nature of the surface to which the mount  100  is attached. The height  162  of the mount  100  also depends on dimensions of the holder portion  108 . In an exemplary embodiment, height  162  of the mount is about 6.7 centimeters (2.6 inches) in a relaxed state (i.e., when no pressure is exerted on the holder portion  108 , outwardly from a device therein or inwardly by applying pressure thereto), but increases up to about 10.2 centimeters (4 inches) when a device is secured therein. 
         [0084]    An exemplary embodiment of a holder portion of a mount according to the present invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 4A-4B . Importantly, dimensions of a holder portion  408  of the mount vary according to the type of device and nature of the surface to which the mount is attached. Although a device can be tilted once secured within a device, devices are generally secured within mounts of the invention such that the device is constrained at the maximum inner diameter  422  of the holder portion  408  of the mount. Maximum inner diameter  422  of a holder portion  408  is measured with respect to the holder portion  408  in a relaxed state (i.e., when no pressure is exerted on the holder portion  408 , outwardly from a device therein or inwardly by applying pressure thereto). Maximum inner diameter  422  of a holder portion  408  can vary depending on overall size form factor of the mount, which in turn is influenced by device size range for which it is designed. 
         [0085]    In all embodiments, the maximum inner diameter  422  of the holder portion  408  is smaller than the width of a device capable of being secured within the mount, so that insertion of the device in the holder portion  408  of the mount causes widening (also referred to herein as dilation) of the opening  412 . This dilation is counter-balanced by the resistance to expansion of the holder portion  408 . As a result, a clamping force is exerted on the device substantially radially inward by opposing edges  414 ,  416  of the holder portion  408 . When configured for securing a range of device sizes or device types therein, maximum inner diameter  422  of the holder portion  408  is generally determined by device width of devices or ranges of devices to be secured therein. Typically, phone-sized devices have a width that falls within the 2.5-8.9 centimeters (1.0-3.5 inches) (“small”) range; GPS-sized devices have a width that falls within the 6.4-12.7 centimeters (2.5-5.0 inches) (“medium”) range; and tablet-sized devices have a width that falls within the 10.2-20.3 centimeters (4.0-8.0 inches) (“large”) range. As such, in an exemplary embodiment, maximum inner diameter  422  of a holder portion  408  is selected such that the holder portion  408  can flex through the width range of a specific device class (e.g., small, medium, or large) and provide the proper holding force throughout flexion to any device within that class. 
         [0086]    In a preferred embodiment, there are no mechanical parts in the holder portion of the mount. As such, effectiveness of the holder portion of the mount in securing intended devices often derivates from the material it is constructed from. Preferred materials for the holder portion balance flexure with holding force of the holder portion. In a preferred embodiment, Young&#39;s Modulus of the material is about 0.1-8.0 GPa, and the ultimate tensile strength of the material is about 12-90 MPa. This balance of material properties allows for a desired range in flexure over the variation in device size to provide a desired holding force. Holding force through flexion can be, for example, about 8-67 Newtons. 
         [0087]    The overall thickness  464  of the holder portion  408  of the mount depends upon the flexibility and strength of the material from which it is formed. Although substantially the same throughout the holder portion  408  illustrated in  FIGS. 4A-4B , the thickness  464  can vary throughout the holder portion  408 . For a material with a Young&#39;s modulus of less than about 1 GPa and an ultimate tensile strength of less than about 20 MPa, a holder portion  408  has a maximum thickness 464 of about 0.50 centimeter (0.20 inch) to about 0.60 centimeter (0.25 inch) in an exemplary embodiment. In another exemplary embodiment, the holder portion  408  has a maximum thickness  464  of about 0.25 centimeter (0.10 inch) to about 1.20 centimeters (0.50 inch). In another exemplary embodiment, the holder portion  408  has a maximum thickness  464  of 0.25 centimeter (0.10 inch) to about 2.54 centimeters (1.0 inch). 
         [0088]    In one embodiment, such as that illustrated in  FIGS. 4A-4B , the holder portion  408  has protrusions  418 ,  420  (also referred to herein as ridges) at each respective opposing edge  414 ,  416  of the holder portion  408  adjacent the opening  412  of the holder portion  408  (comparable to serifs on a typeface letter “C” in an exemplary embodiment where the holder portion  408  is C-shaped). The size of the protrusions  418 ,  420  can vary according to, for example, the maximum inner diameter  422  of the holder portion  408 . While it can vary, in one embodiment, the range for pinch point height  424 ,  426  for respective protrusions  418 ,  420  is about 1.5 millimeters (0.06 inch) to about 0.6 centimeter (0.24 inch). 
         [0089]    When protrusions  418 ,  420  are present, it is advantageous for the inner surface  421  of the holder portion  408  immediately adjacent the protrusions  418 ,  420  (and hence, edges of a device secured in the mount by physical contact at that location) to slope inward (i.e., toward the center  428  of the holder portion  408 ), so that a clamping force exerted by the holder portion  408  forces the device outward toward the opposing edges  414 ,  416  of the holder portion  408  surrounding the opening  412 . In this manner, the device is forced against the protrusions  418 ,  420  of the holder portion  408  to improve secure seating of the device within the mount. 
         [0090]    Note that, as a result of the holder portion&#39;s curved inner surface  428  in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 4A-4B , the maximum inner diameter  422  of the holder portion  408  extends between points substantially adjacent the protrusions  418 ,  420 . The maximum inner diameter  422  of the holder portion  408  is smaller than the width of a device capable of being secured within the mount, so that insertion of the device in the holder portion  408  of the mount causes widening (also referred to herein as dilation) of the opening  412 . This dilation is counter-balanced by the holder portion&#39;s resistance to expansion. As a result, a clamping force is exerted on the device substantially radially inward by the protrusions  418 ,  420  at their diametrically opposed positions. When present, the protrusions  418 ,  420  provide pinch points (also referred to herein as jaws), further enhancing resistance to sliding movement of the device when clamped in such a holder portion  408 . 
         [0091]    In one embodiment, the holder portion  508  has a non-linear (e.g., semi-circular or major arc) side profile when viewed along its longitudinal axis as illustrated in  FIG. 5A , but comprises only about half of the circumference or outer perimeter of such a profile that would be present if the profile was symmetrically enclosed—i.e., without an opening. For example, when the holder portion  508  has a semi-circular side profile, the holder portion consists of about 180°+/−5° of a circle. 
         [0092]    While an exemplary holder portion  508  described herein is generally C-shaped as illustrated in  FIG. 5A , different profiles may be adopted for the holder portion of mounts of the invention. Other suitable holder portion  508  profiles include, for example, those shaped as a block C ( FIG. 5B ), V ( FIG. 5C ), half hexagon ( FIG. 5D ), angle in ( FIG. 5E ), angle out ( FIG. 5F ), half octagon ( FIG. 5G ), open diamond ( FIG. 5H ), U ( FIG. 51 ), angle in gripper ( FIG. 5J ), angle out gripper ( FIG. 5K ), tall C ( FIG. 5L ), tall C gripper ( FIG. 5M ). 
         [0093]    According to a further embodiment, the holder portion secures multiple devices within the mount. For example, the holder portion  508  comprises a flexible, W-shaped portion of the mount according to one aspect of this embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 5N . 
         [0094]    As with all embodiments of the invention, holder portions  508  shaped as such may or may not include protrusions. If protrusions are present, recognize that the profiles illustrated in  FIGS. 5A-5N  would be modified accordingly. 
         [0095]    According to a further embodiment as illustrated in  FIGS. 6A-6B , the holder portion  608  of the mount  600  comprises a gripping component  630  on at least a portion thereof. The gripping component  630  can include one or more discrete parts. In one embodiment, a gripping component  630  is provided on the holding portion  608  at a position or multiple positions designed to contact a device secured therein. In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 6A , the gripping component  630  is provided on substantially the entire inner surface of the holder portion  608 , extending toward opposing edges  614 ,  616  of the holder portion  608  adjacent respective protrusions  618 ,  620 . In an exemplary embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 6B , the holder portion  608  comprises a gripping component  630  at radially opposing inner surfaces adjacent opposing edges  614 ,  616  of the holder portion  608 , locations typically making physical contact with a device when secured therein. 
         [0096]    If included within the mount, the gripping component  630  generally increases the coefficient of friction between the mount and a device with which it is used. As such, the gripping component  630  facilitates a reduction in slip between the device and the mount as compared to slip between the device and a similar mount, but without the gripping component  630 . The gripping component  630  also facilitates translation of a device once secured within a mount as described above. 
         [0097]    An exemplary material for use as the gripping component  630  is a flexible and fatigue resistant material as described above with respect to the holder portion of the mount, but a material that is softer than material used for the holder portion of the mount. Such a material is referred to herein as a grip material. Preferably, a grip material used in accordance with the present invention has less than about 25% compression set (i.e., the amount of permanent deformation that occurs when a material is compressed to a specific deformation, for a specified time, at a specific temperature) after being compressed at room temperature for about 22 hours when tested according to ASTM D 395. In one embodiment, grip material within a mount has a Shore D hardness of less than about 55. In other embodiments, grip material within a mount has a Shore A hardness of about 3090. Thickness of the gripping component is influenced by hardness of the grip material used therein. In an exemplary embodiment, the gripping component has a maximum thickness of about 1.30 millimeters (0.05 inch) to about 1.30 centimeters (0.5 inch). In a further exemplary embodiment, the gripping component has a maximum thickness of less than about 6.35 millimeters (0.25 inch). However, thickness of the gripping component can vary. 
         [0098]    The base portion of the mount can be attached to a surface directly or via one or more components. The nature of the components is often determined by the nature of the surface to which the mount is attached and the type of attachment mechanism desired. 
         [0099]    As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2C , the base portion  210  comprises a magnetic sub-component  270  according to one embodiment, facilitating magnetic attachment of the mount  200  to a surface (e.g., a ferrous surface such as iron or steel). The use of a flush-mounted magnetic sub-component  270  as illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2C  facilitates increased functionality of the mount  200 , particularly when attached to a ferrous surface. A mounting apparatus  200  of the invention, when magnetically attached to a surface as such, can exhibit the following degrees of freedom with respect to its orientation on the surface: sway (translation to the right and left), surge (translation forward and backward), and yaw (rotation by turning the mount from side to side). These degrees of freedom are limited only by the shape and configuration of the surface to which the mount is attached. For example, the mount  200  can have a limitless yaw of 360 degrees in both directions, irrespective of whether a device is secured within the mount  200 . 
         [0100]    Many types of magnetic components may be used within mounts of the invention, including rare earth and other types of permanent magnets, electromagnets, superconductors, and others known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Exemplary magnets comprise the following: neodymium iron boron (also referred to as NdFeB or NIB), samarium cobalt (SmCo), alnico (i.e., one or more of a family of iron alloys, which in addition to iron, are composed primarily of aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), and cobalt (Co)), or ceramics (e.g., ferrites). Although magnets can be custom-manufactured into any desired shape, many off-the-shelf shapes may be used—e.g., bars (rounded bars), prisms, horseshoes, donuts, rings, disks, plates, rods, spheres, and hemispheres. 
         [0101]    According to other embodiments, the base portion  110  facilitates attachment to a surface  104  using non-magnetic mechanisms. In its simplest form, gravity provides the non-magnetic attachment mechanism. Depending on the material from which the base portion  110  of the mount  100  is formed and the dimensions of the same, for example, the base portion  110  may be selectively weighted to facilitate effective attachment of the mount  100  with a device secured therein to a substantially horizontal surface  104  simply by placing the mount  100  on the surface  104  so that the holder portion  108  extends upward from the base portion  110  of the mount  100  as illustrated in  FIG. 1D . 
         [0102]    Other exemplary non-magnetic attachment mechanisms and, thus, components of the base portion in alternate embodiments of the invention include mechanical and adhesive mechanisms and components. In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 7A , the base portion  780  comprises a component functioning as a clamp  782  for attachment of the mount  700  directly to a surface of an object having a rounded cylinder shape. According to a further embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 7B , the base portion  780  comprises multiple clamps  782 . Such a configuration was found useful when, for example, attaching the mount to the handlebar on a shopping trolley, as illustrated in  FIGS. 7C-7D . Sometimes shopping trolleys  790  and other objects have branding, advertisements, or physical obstructions making attachment of a mount  700  at the desired location (e.g., the center of the handlebar  792 ) difficult. When the mount  700  is configured with multiple clamps  782 , however, it can be attached so that a device  702  secured therein is positioned as desired, irrespective of such obstructions and without obscuring such branding/advertisements  794 . 
         [0103]    According to a further aspect of the invention, the mount is enabled for data communication, e.g., for wireless and/or radio communication, with the electronic device. In one embodiment, the mount comprises communications functionality enabling communication of data between the mount and an electronic device used with the mount. While not limited thereby,  FIG. 8  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of such a mount  800 . At least one of the base portion  810  and the holder portion  808  comprises communications functionality  896 . The communications functionality  896  may be placed at only one location within the mount  800 , or it may be placed at several locations as illustrated in  FIG. 8 . 
         [0104]    Communications functionality may be provided by one or more electronic communication components selected from, for example, one or more components enabling communication via: near field communication (NFC), radio-frequency identification (RFID), short-wave radio frequency (e.g., Bluetooth), wireless local area network (WLAN) (e.g., Wi-Fi), cellular data service, mobile satellite communication, or Global Positioning System (GPS). Exemplary components for providing communications functionality include, for example, NFC and/or RFID programs embedded on a NFC chip or RFID tag. Suitable electronic communication components for providing such functionality are commercially available from a number of sources. For example, components enabling NFC communication include those marketed by NXP Semiconductors under the following trade designations: PN512 (transmission module), PN531 (transmission module), and PN544 (NFC controller). Components enabling RFID communication include those sold by Texas Instruments Inc. (Plano, Tex.) under the following trade designations: TI-RFid tags, TI-RFid smart labels, and TI-RFid reader systems. 
         [0105]    Again, depending on the type of communication, for example, one or more components may be necessary to provide desired communications functionality. The communications functionality (i.e., components therefor) can be positioned at any suitable location, some of which are described above with respect to  FIG. 8 . In one embodiment, such functionality is housed within the mount such that it is not visible or easily accessible on the exterior of the mount during use. When the communications functionality is based on NFC communications, for example, this embodiment is an improvement over conventional placement of NFC chips on articles using, for example, adhesive-backed stickers repositionably placed on exterior surfaces of the articles. Not only do such stickers tend to accumulate grime on the adhesive, causing them to lose their ability to adequately adhere to a surface, placement of NFC chips in such a manner allows users of devices in communication with such NFC chips to more easily relocate the sticker so that unwanted communication ceases, as may be the case when advertising materials are communicated to users of devices via strategically placed NFC chips. In another embodiment, communications functionality is at least partially located so that it is visible on the exterior of the mount during use. 
         [0106]    When housed within the mount, one or more components necessary to provide communications functionality can be integrally formed within the mount during, for example, manufacture of the mount or individual components thereof. In one embodiment, such components are confined to the holder portion; and, in another embodiment, such components are confined to a base portion. In another embodiment, such components are included within both the holder portion and the base portion of the mount. 
         [0107]    In one embodiment, communications functionality is provided by passive components. An advantage of passive components, such as NFC chips and RFID tags, is that they do not contain or require a power source. This enables such components to be fully integrated within a mount. According to one aspect of this embodiment, passive components are integrated within a mount during molding of plastic material into the shape of the mount or component thereof. According to this embodiment, the communications functionality is limited to nonprogrammable actions, operating based on one or more preset programs. According to another aspect of this embodiment, the communications functionality encompasses programmable actions, operating based on at least one programmable program and, optionally, one or more preset programs. 
         [0108]    In another embodiment, communications functionality is provided by active components, components which require a power source. According to one aspect of this embodiment, the communications functionality provides programmable actions, operating based on at least one programmable program and, optionally, one or more preset programs. According to another aspect of this embodiment, the communications functionality is limited to nonprogrammable actions, operating based on one or more preset programs. 
         [0109]    A benefit of a communication-enabled mounting apparatus is that it permits customizable, automatic, site-specific configuration or operation of an electronic device. A user may, for example, have a number of the mounts mounted in a number of respective locations. A preset program may be user-customizable in certain embodiments, facilitating custom device configuration and/or device/mount interaction. 
         [0110]    In one embodiment, a mount&#39;s communications functionality may trigger automatic configuration of a device according a user&#39;s customized settings. Configuration of a device by changing system settings for power management and/or privacy purposes, for example, can thus be effected through automatic, site-specific configuration triggered by respective mounts. 
         [0111]    An exemplary preset program is one capable of automatically activating an application management utility on the device. For example, a user may preset application management utility software on a device to switch on GPS communication and enable a navigation app. According to an exemplary aspect of this embodiment, a component (e.g., a NFC chip) within a mount communicates with a device (e.g., a NFC-enabled device) to switch on its GPS communication and enable a navigation app thereon when there is communication between a receiver on the device and the communications functionality component on the mount. Basic functionality of, for example, NFC communications triggering management utility actions is well known and understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0112]    The number of communication possibilities is immense. A mount attached, for example, to a user&#39;s bicycle may be programmed to automatically launch an exercise application (optionally, relating specifically to cycling) on the device. Alternatively, communications functionality within such a mount may trigger automatic configuration of a cellular phone held in the mount—e.g., switching on GPS services, switching off Wi-Fi capability, etc. 
         [0113]    As another example, a mount may be attached to and kept, for example, at a workstation or desk. Such a communication-enabled mount may, for example, be programmed to automatically launch one or more work-related applications on the device. Alternatively, communications functionality within the mount may trigger automatic configuration of a device held in the mount. For example, if a device does not have adequate cellular phone reception in an office, a mount positioned on a workstation or desk in the office can trigger automatic configuration of a cellular phone held in the mount to switch off cellular data communication by the device. 
         [0114]    As another example, brick-and-mortar vendors may attach mounts having location-enabled communications functionality to shopping trolleys. Such mounts can be programmed to automatically launch store-specific or department-specific applications or transfer data to a device that is relevant to the particular store or department therein. In an exemplary embodiment, trolley-mounts according to the invention include communications functionality programmed to automatically trigger connection (e.g., using Wi-Fi) of a device mounted therein to a store&#39;s Internet website or other network. Connecting a device in this manner can facilitate transmission of, for example, advertising material, product prices and deals, store-specific barcode information, and the like. Advantageously, using mounts of the invention, access to such electronic information is more easily accessible via devices secured therein. Functionality of store- and department-specific applications is, thus, increased accordingly. By facilitating access to store- and department-specific applications and data in this manner, stores can advantageously draw upon mounts of the invention to increase sales or otherwise generate more revenue. 
         [0115]    In some embodiments, communications functionality within a mount may be locked so that communications with a device are limited to execution of predefined actions that cannot be redefined by the device or its user. For example, when a communication-enabled mount is attached to a shopping trolley, such an embodiment may be desirable to avoid multiple users of devices secured within such mounts from interfering with desired communications—e.g., advertising material displayed. 
         [0116]    In further embodiments, mounting apparatus of the invention comprise space for marketing and advertisement. Mount can be made with various colors and designs (e.g., printed, stamped, machined, or molded). In an exemplary embodiment, mounts of the invention comprise embedded branding, e.g., using colors and designs formed using in-mold graphics and/or film-applied graphics (e.g., by application of ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA)-based polymer films with embedded graphics). 
         [0117]    This may be particularly beneficial in applications, such as those where the mount is secured to a shopping trolley  790 , as illustrated in  FIG. 7C . On a shopping trolley  790 , or other similar semi-permanent location with high traffic, marketers may wish to place advertisements on the mount  700 . To facilitate the same, the mount  700  can be constructed with a removable and replaceable advertising display device, such as an insert for interchangeable ads. Advertising material carried by the mount  700  may also include a molded, stamped, or printed branding and/or advertisements. 
         [0118]    When designed according to preferred embodiments of the invention, the mount has a relatively simple form factor with one or more surfaces (e.g., surface  796  illustrated in  FIG. 7C ), providing conveniently-shaped, highly-visible advertising display surfaces on which advertising information and/or indicia may be displayed. The mount itself can also be used as promotional item or as a branded give-away. 
         [0119]    Various modifications and alterations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which is defined by the accompanying claims. It should be noted that steps recited in any method claims below do not necessarily need to be performed in the order that they are recited. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize variations in performing the steps from the order in which they are recited. In addition, the lack of mention or discussion of a feature, step, or component provides the basis for claims where the absent feature or component is excluded by way of a proviso or similar claim language. Further, as used throughout, ranges may be used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range. Similarly, any discrete value within the range can be selected as the minimum or maximum value recited in describing and claiming features of the invention. 
         [0120]    Finally, as discussed herein it is again noted that the mounts and portions thereof described herein may comprise all components in one or multiple parts. Further, any material or performance properties described or measured herein are those existing at room temperature and atmospheric pressure unless specified otherwise.

Technology Category: 7