TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to the field of accessories for mobile communications devices and other portable electronic devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Mobile communications devices are in widespread use world-wide and have become an integral part of everyday life for many people. Mobile communications devices are portable and typically handheld. Mobile communications devices are also comprised of materials and electronics that are easily broken if the device is dropped.

Mobile communications devices are used in a variety of multimedia and interactive applications, such as watching video programs and receiving and displaying notifications from software applications. When lying flat on a horizontal surface, the display of a mobile communication device can be difficult to view and interact with.

An inexpensive and interchangeable means for more securely holding a mobile communications device in the hand and for positioning the device on a surface for a better viewing angle would be an improvement in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to a magnetically configurable strap accessory for a mobile communications device. The magnetically configurable strap accessory includes a strap and a base. The strap includes at least one strap magnet. The base includes at least one base magnet and a sleeve disposed at a first end of the base into which a portion of the strap can be retracted when the accessory is in a closed position and from which a portion of the strap can be extended when the accessory is in an open position. In one embodiment, in the closed position, a first strap magnet is positioned in proximity to a first base magnet and a second strap magnet is positioned in proximity to a second base magnet such that the strap is held in a substantially flat position against the base by way of magnetic attraction between the first strap magnet and the first base magnet and magnetic attraction between the second strap magnet and the second base magnet. In an open position, the strap is held in a substantially arched position with respect to the base thereby forming a loop between the base and the strap.

Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method for configuring a magnetically configurable strap accessory for a mobile communications device in a closed position. The method includes providing a strap including a first strap magnet and a second strap magnet. The method includes providing a base including a first base magnet, a second base magnet, and a sleeve disposed at a first end of the base into which a portion of the strap can be retracted when the accessory is in a closed position and from which a portion of the strap can be extended when the accessory is in an open position. The method includes positioning the first strap magnet in proximity to the first base magnet and the second strap magnet in proximity to the second base magnet such that the strap is held in a substantially flat position against the base by way of magnetic attraction between the first strap magnet and the first base magnet and magnetic attraction between the second strap magnet and the second base magnet.

Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method for configuring a magnetically configurable strap accessory for a mobile communications device in an open position. The method includes providing a strap including a first strap magnet and a second strap magnet. The method includes providing a base including a first base magnet, a second base magnet, and a sleeve disposed at a first end of the base into which a portion of the strap can be retracted when the accessory is in a closed position and from which a portion of the strap can be extended when the accessory is in an open position. The method includes positioning the first strap such that the strap is held in a substantially arched position with respect to the base thereby forming a loop between the base and the strap.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present invention in order that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be described hereinafter. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory shown with a strap in a closed position;

FIG. 2 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory with the strap shown in a closed position;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory shown the with strap in an open position;

FIG. 4 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory shown with the strap shown in an open position;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory disposed on a mobile communications device and shown with the strap in the closed position;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory disposed on a mobile communications device and shown with the strap in the open position;

FIG. 7 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory disposed on a mobile communications device and shown with the strap in the open position;

FIG. 8 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory with the strap shown in the closed position;

FIG. 9 is a sectional side view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory as viewed through cut line I-I shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory with the strap shown in the open position;

FIG. 11 is a sectional side view of exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory as viewed through cut line II-II shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is an end view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory with the strap shown in the closed position;

FIG. 13 is a sectional top view of exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory as viewed through cut line III-III shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an end view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory with the strap shown in the closed position, the end being opposite of the end shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a sectional top view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory as viewed through cut line IV-IV shown in FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory;

FIG. 17 is a sectional side view of another exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory as viewed through cut line I-I shown in in FIG. 8;

FIG. 18 is a sectional top view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory as viewed through cut line III_III shown in FIG. 12; and

FIG. 19 is a sectional side view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory as viewed through cut line II-II shown in FIG. 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method and system for a magnetically configurable accessory for a mobile communications device. The accessory can be applied to the back of a mobile communications device or applied to the back of a case for a mobile communications device. The accessory has a retractable strap that can be pulled partially out of a sleeve at the receiving end to form a loop. The loop can be used with the user's fingers to hold the phone more securely. The loop can also be used to prop the phone up in landscape mode, for example, to watch videos. When not in use, the loop can be pressed down to retract flatly into the sleeve at the receiving end to allow for a flatter profile for the mobile phone, for example, to slide into a pocket. The accessory preferably uses magnets to hold the strap in the open and/or closed positions and provide a user-detectable detent that gives an enhanced feeling of fit and finish. There is a retaining band, which can comprise an elastic member, affixed to end of the strap and the sleeve in the receiving end that prevents the strap from being fully removed from the sleeve. There can also be a crease pressed into the strap where the strap and the edge of the sleeve come into contact when the strap is in the open position forming the loop. The crease, when present, helps to “lock” the strap in the correct open position.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 shown with strap 110 in a closed position. FIG. 2 is side view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 shown with strap 110 shown in a closed position. Accessory 100 includes strap 110, base 120, and sleeve 124. Base 120 includes base end 126 and base end 128. Strap 100 includes strap end 116 and strap end 118. Strap end 118 is connected to base end 128 such that strap 100 can rotate, relative to base 120 about an axis formed by the connection between strap end 118 and base end 128.

In the closed position shown in FIGS. 1-2, strap 110 is disposed in a substantially flat position relative to base 120 such that the elevation of the assembly shown in FIG. 2 is preferably minimized. Magnets in strap 110 and base 120 (shown and described in further detail with respect to FIGS. 9, 11, and 14) align to hold strap 110 in the closed position. Strap end 116 is disposed within sleeve 124. Base 120 includes a sleeve 124 at base end 126. Sleeve 124 is adapted to receive strap end 116. A portion of strap 110 can be retracted into sleeve 124 when accessory 100 is in the closed position. Strap end 116 and base end 126 are connected by way of retaining band 130. Retaining band 130 is disposed within sleeve 124 and is shown and described in further detail with respect to FIGS. 9 and 11.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 shown with strap 110 in an open position. FIG. 4 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 shown with strap 110 shown in an open position. Accessory 100 includes strap 110, base 120, and sleeve 124. Base 120 includes base end 126 and base end 128. Strap 100 includes strap end 116 and strap end 118. Strap end 118 is connected to base end 128 such that strap 100 110 can rotate, relative to base 120 about an axis formed by the connection between strap end 118 and base end 128.

In the open position shown in FIGS. 3-4, strap 110 is disposed in a substantially arched position relative to base 120 such that a parabolic or semi-elliptical opening is formed between strap 110 and base 120. Magnets in strap 110 and base 120 (shown and described in further detail with respect to FIGS. 9 and 11) align to hold strap 110 in the open position. Strap end 116 is disposed within sleeve 124. Base 120 includes a sleeve 124 at base end 126. Sleeve 124 is adapted to receive strap end 116. A portion of strap 110 can be extended from within sleeve 124 to place accessory 100 in the open position where a parabolic or semi-elliptical opening is formed between strap 110 and base 120. Strap end 116 and base end 126 are connected by way of retaining band 130. Retaining base 130 is disposed within sleeve 124 and is shown and described in further detail with respect to FIGS. 9 and 11. Retaining band 130 is adapted to prevent strap 100 from being completely retracted from sleeve 124.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 disposed on mobile communications device 200 and shown with strap 110 in the closed position. Mobile communications device 200, as used herein, includes but is not limited to, a smartphone, tablet computer, and the like. Mobile communications device 200 includes a display 202, which can be a touchscreen display for input and output. Accessory 100 is preferably affixed on a surface of mobile communications device 200 that is opposite from the surface of display 202. Affixing accessory 100 on a surface of mobile communications device 200 that is opposite from the surface of display 202 enables the user to view and interact with display 202 without any obstruction from display 202. As shown in described in further detail with respect to FIG. 7, affixing accessory 100 on a surface of mobile communications device 200 that is opposite from the surface of display 202 also enables the user to “prop” mobile communications device 200 up on an edge, enabling a more suitable angle to view and interact with display 202.

In the closed position shown in FIG. 5, strap 110 is disposed in a substantially flat position relative to base 120 such that the elevation of accessory 100 above the surface to which it is affixed is preferably minimized. Minimizing the elevation of accessory 100 above the surface to which it is affixed reduces the vertical profile of the assembly of accessory 100 and mobile communications device 200, making it easier, for example, to slide the assembly into a pocket or a bag or a purse. Accessory 100 preferably includes adhesive layer 125 (not shown) on a surface of base 120. Adhesive layer 125 enables accessory 100 to be affixed to an outer surface of mobile communications device 200 or an outer surface of a protective case in which mobile communications device 200 is disposed.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 disposed on mobile communications device 200 and shown with strap 110 in the open position. In the open position shown in FIG. 6, strap 110 is disposed in a substantially arched position relative to base 120 such that a parabolic or semi-elliptical opening is formed between strap 110 and base 120. The opening can be used by a user to hold mobile communications device 200 more securely by placing a finger through the opening when holding the device.

FIG. 7 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 disposed on mobile communications device 200 and shown with strap 110 in the open position. The assembly of accessory 100 and mobile communications device 200 is oriented such that an edge of mobile communications device 200 and the arched portion of strap 110 in the open position are resting on surface 700. Such an orientation “props” mobile communications device 200 up on an edge, enabling a more suitable angle to view and interact with display 202. Surface 700 can be any surface suitable for propping up the assembly, such as a table, desk, or night stand. The “propped up” orientation enables the user to more easily watch videos and see incoming notifications and other information on display 202.

FIG. 8 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 in the closed position. FIG. 9 is a sectional side view of exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 as viewed through cut line I-I shown in FIG. 8. Base 120 includes at least one base magnet. The embodiment shown in FIG. 8 includes three base magnets 121, 122, and 123. Strap 100 includes crease 113 and at least one strap magnet. The embodiment shown in FIG. 8 includes two strap magnets, strap magnets 111 and 112.

In the closed position, strap magnet 111 and base magnet 121 align by way of magnetic attraction. In the closed position, strap magnet 112 and base magnet 123 also align by way of magnetic attraction. The magnetic attraction between strap magnet 111 and base magnet 121 and the magnetic attraction between strap magnet 112 and base magnet 123 help to hold the strap in the closed position until such time as the user is ready to extend strap 110 into the open position. Additionally, when moving the strap from the open position to the closed position, the magnetic attraction between strap magnet 111 and base magnet 121 and the magnetic attraction between strap magnet 112 and base magnet 123 cause strap 110 to “snap” into the proper closed position, thereby providing a user-detectable detent that gives an enhanced feeling of fit and finish. In the closed position, retaining band 130 is compressed by strap end 116 and bunches up to be fully contained within the portion sleeve 124 that is not occupied by strap 110.

FIG. 10 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 in the open position. FIG. 11 is a sectional side view of exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 as viewed through cut line II-II shown in FIG. 10.

In the open position, strap magnet 111 and base magnet 122 align by way of magnetic attraction. The magnetic attraction between strap magnet 111 and base magnet 122 helps to hold the strap in the open position until such time as the user is ready to retract strap 110 into the closed position. Additionally, when moving the strap from the closed position to the open position, the magnetic attraction between strap magnet 111 and base magnet 122 causes strap 110 to “snap” into the proper open position, thereby providing a user-detectable detent that gives an enhanced feeling of fit and finish. In the open position, retaining band 130 is stretched as strap end 116 is retracted from sleeve 124. Retaining band 130 prevents strap end 116 from being fully retracted from sleeve 124. Crease 113 is pressed into strap 100 and enables strap 100 to bend at the location of crease 113. In the open position, crease 113 forms a demarcation between the arched portion of strap 110 that is retracted from sleeve 124 and the portion of strap 110 that remains flat and disposed within sleeve 124. Crease 113 also provides a small slot into which the edge of sleeve 124 is held when strap 110 is in the open position, thereby assisting strap magnet 111 and base magnet 122 in holding strap 110 in the open position. While optional base magnet 122 assists in maintaining strap 110 in the open position, strap 110 can remain in the open position without optional base magnet 122.

FIG. 12 is an end view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 in the closed position. FIG. 13 is a sectional top view of exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 as viewed through cut line III-III shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is an end view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 in the closed position, the end being opposite of the end shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 15 is a sectional top view of exemplary embodiment of a magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100 as viewed through cut line IV-IV shown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of magnetically configurable mobile communications device accessory 100. The bottom of accessory 100 preferably includes adhesive layer 125 for affixing accessory 100 to an outer surface of mobile communications device 200 or an outer surface of a protective case in which mobile communications device 200 is disposed. Adhesive layer 125 can include a removable cover to preserve the adhesive until such time as the user is ready to affix accessory 100 to the mobile communications device 200 or the protective case in which mobile communications device 200 is disposed.

FIGS. 17, 18, and 19 are views similar to those of FIGS. 9, 13, and 11 but FIGS. 17, 18, and 19 show an alternative embodiment of a mobile communications device accessory 1700 having a base 1720 that includes only base magnets 121 and 123. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 17, 19, and 19 do not use optional base magnet 122 to assist in keeping strap 110 in the open position. FIG. 19 shows that strap 110 remains in the open position even in the absence of magnet 122. Crease 113, which is positioned at the edge of sleeve 124 when strap 110 is in the open position, helps to hold the strap 110 in the open position. Crease 113 catches on the upper edge of the opening of sleeve 124 when strap 110 is bent at crease 113 to form an arch in the open position. When strap 110 is straightened to be inserted into sleeve 124, the crease moves away from the upper edge the opening of sleeve 124 and is no longer caught. Other features, such as a ridge on strap 110 instead of a crease, can also be used.

Other embodiments can use combinations of different numbers of magnets on both the strap and the base, for example, combinations of one, two, three or more magnets on the base with one, two or more magnets on the strap. For example, an embodiment could a single strap magnet 111 and a single base magnet 121. Another embodiment could include base magnet 123 and strap magnet 112. Other combinations of strap and base magnets could also be used. The term “base magnet” refers to any fixed position magnet that is not on the strap. A base magnet could also be mounted, for example, in or on sleeve 124 instead of in or on base 120.

Although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according to the present invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

We claim as follows: