Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device

Abstract

A selectively lockable fastener is provided that includes a beveled button for removable interconnection to a locking portion based on a rotational movement. The button of one embodiment of the present invention also includes a locking relief, generally a second bevel, for engagement with a cavity of the locking portion. This secondary locking feature reduces the occurrences of unintentional disengagement of the fastener that often occurs as a result of normal wear and tear.

Description

[0001] The application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 745,907, filed Dec. 23, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 441,928, filed May 19, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29 / 163,110, filed Jun. 26, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. D478,418, each application being incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to multi-piece fasteners, clips and buckles, and more specifically a device adapted to selectively retain an electric device or other apparatus, and which can be released by a rotational movement. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Cellular telephones, pagers, radios, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other similar electronic devices (hereinafter “electronic device”) have become increasingly popular, with many people securing these devices on their belts or pockets. The inevitable advances in technol...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a detachable fastener that selectively interconnects to a user's belt and selectively secures an electronic device, while eliminating post-manufacturing steps of assembly and the costs associated therewith. Thus, the detachable fastener of one embodiment of the present invention does not employ springs or other means to disengage the lock.

[0009] It is another aspect of the present invention that the single piece design be light, strong, and less susceptible to breakage and jamming due to the reduction of movable parts. Also, the single piece design will have no metal parts that are generally prone to corrosion and tend to activate metal detectors. Due to the single piece design and the elimination of post manufacturing steps, significant time and expense is saved.

[0010] It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a fastener that has a robust design, and which can readably changed with a revision of a mold. Thus, the shape and design of the fastener may be changed easily, as well as the color. In addition, the fastener may be molded with substantially planar areas for the attachment of company logos or other advertisements, or the desired indicia may be etched or molded directly onto the clip.

Problems solved by technology

Due to the single piece design and the elimination of post manufacturing steps, significant time and expense is saved.

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