Locking components

Abstract

A locking assembly for locking a portable electronic device to a work surface. The locking assembly includes a clamp assembly, the clamp assembly including an elongated bar extending between a first end and a second end. The clamp assembly also includes a first clamp and a second clamp movable along the elongated bar for clamping to the work surface between the first clamp and the second clamp. A connector extends from a first connection end to a second connection end, the first connection end being pivotally connected to the locking assembly, and the second connection end being connectable to the portable electronic device. The connector secures the portable electronic device to the work surface while allowing the portable electronic device to pivot relative to the locking assembly.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This U.S. patent application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 16 / 924,448, filed on July 9, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 871,764, filed on July 9, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a locking assembly. More particularly, the present invention relates to a locking assembly for securing an unsupervised portable electronic device or other personal item to a work surface. Background Art

[0004] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] With the advent of the Internet age, people have more opportunities to work remotely. With this availability, it has become a common practice to carry and use portable electronic devices such as laptops in public places. For example, users of these portable electronic devices often visit quiet public places such as cafes, airports, and bookstores where they can focus on work and / or other uses of the portable electronic devices. However, once seated, it is difficult for users to go to the restroom or buy refreshments while guarding their portable electronic devices so that they are not easily stolen. In fact, thefts have become so common that many stores and businesses have begun posting notices warning customers not to leave their portable electronic devices unattended.

[0006] In response to the rampant theft of unsupervised portable electronic devices, locking devices have been developed to allow users to lock their portable electronic devices during unsupervised periods. These prior art locking devices are generally designed to lock portable electronic devices to tables or other work surfaces to deter and reduce theft. However, despite some success, prior art locking devices still exhibit common shortcomings. For example, prior art locking devices are difficult to provide a "one size fits all" solution. More specifically, prior art locking devices can only be used with portable electronic devices and work surfaces with very specific sizes and configurations, and when attempting to lock a portable electronic device that does not meet the requirements, deviations from these sizes and configurations can result in damage to the work surface. In addition, prior art locking devices generally employ rigid clamping mechanisms that are bulky and relatively easy to damage with simple tools or by simply repeatedly swinging and pulling the clamping mechanism. Other prior art locking devices use variants of locking ports (e.g., Kensington ports) that are integrated into some older generation laptops, but are also relatively easy to circumvent.

[0007] Therefore, there is a continuing need to develop and further improve locking devices that are compatible with a variety of portable electronic devices and that are not easily circumvented. Summary of the invention

[0008] This section provides a general summary of the present disclosure and should not be construed as a complete and comprehensive listing of all objects, aspects, features, and advantages associated with the present disclosure.

[0009] The present invention relates to a locking assembly for locking a portable electronic device to a work surface. The locking assembly includes a clamp assembly having an elongated bar extending between a first end and a second end and between a first clamp and a second clamp, wherein at least one of the first clamp or the second clamp is movable along the elongated bar between the first end and the second end for clamping a work surface between the first clamp and the second clamp. A locking mechanism is also included for selectively locking the relative positioning position between the first clamp and the second clamp (i.e., fixing the work surface between the first clamp and the second clamp in an immovable / locked state). The locking assembly also includes a connector extending from a first connection end to a second connection end, the first connection end being pivotally connected to one of the clamp assembly or the locking mechanism, and the second connection end being used to connect to a provided portable electronic device. Thus, the connector secures the portable electronic device to the work surface while allowing the portable electronic device to pivot relative to the locking assembly when locked to the locking assembly. In use, the second connection end is intended to be connected to a portable electronic device that a user wishes to secure or lock to the locking assembly, and the first connection end can be quickly locked and unlocked from the locking assembly for quick and efficient use.

[0010] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a locking assembly for locking a portable electronic device to a work surface. The locking assembly includes a clamp assembly having an elongated bar extending between a first end and a second end and between a first clamp and a second clamp, wherein at least one of the first clamp or the second clamp is movable along the elongated bar between the first end and the second end for clamping a work surface between the first clamp and the second clamp. A locking mechanism is also included for selectively locking the relative positioning position between the first clamp and the second clamp (i.e., fixing the work surface between the first clamp and the second clamp in an immovable / locked state). Movement of the locking mechanism causes the first clamp or the second clamp to move into strong contact with the work surface. Thus, the clamp assembly can be clamped to the work surface quickly and easily. Movement of the locking mechanism is pivotal and causes a smaller movement of a lever of the first clamp or the second clamp to obtain a stronger clamping force.

[0011] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0012] Brief description of the attached figure

[0013] The drawings described herein are only for illustrative purposes of selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. The inventive concepts associated with the present disclosure will be more easily understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a locking assembly for locking a portable electronic device to a work surface according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 2 is another perspective view illustrating a locking assembly having more than one portable electronic device secured thereto;

[0016] Figure 3 is a side view of a locking mechanism of the locking assembly disposed in an open position to allow a portable electronic device to be removed therefrom;

[0017] Figure 4 is an interior view of the locking mechanism illustrating the components that move the deadbolt between a locked position and an unlocked position;

[0018] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a locking mechanism illustrating the electronic components that assist in moving the deadbolt between a locked position and an unlocked position;

[0019] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a lock assembly circuit that permits operation of the electronic components of the lock mechanism;

[0020] Fig. 7A is a bottom view of an example embodiment of an alarm system for a locking assembly, the alarm system including a circuit loop that is broken when a portable electronic device is moved;

[0021] Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A A side view of the alarm system described in;

[0022] Figure 8 is another example implementation of an alarm system for a locking assembly, the alarm system comprising a potentiometer that senses motion of a portable electronic device;

[0023] Fig. 9 is yet another embodiment of an alarm system for a locking assembly, the alarm system comprising a potentiometer that senses pivotal movement of a portable electronic device;

[0024] Fig.10is another embodiment of an alarm system for a locking assembly, the alarm system comprising a rotation-type detector that senses motion of a portable electronic device;

[0025] Fig.11 is a second embodiment of a locking assembly comprising a first upper pad and a pair of second lower pads, the pads being provided to be clamped on either side of a work surface;

[0026] Fig.12 is a third embodiment of a locking assembly, the locking assembly comprising a connection key for direct connection to a portable electronic device;

[0027] Fig.13A is a front view of a fourth embodiment of a locking assembly including a plurality of adjustable clamps;

[0028] Fig. 13B is a bottom view of a fourth embodiment of a locking assembly;

[0029] Fig.14 is a fifth embodiment of a locking assembly comprising an angle clip for attachment to a portable electronic device;

[0030] Fig.15A is a side view of a sixth embodiment of a locking assembly including a connection panel assembly for connecting to a portable electronic device;

[0031] Fig. 15B is a bottom view of a sixth embodiment of a locking assembly;

[0032] FIG. 16 is a seventh embodiment of a locking assembly including an electrically powered elongated bar for driving the clamp assembly between a clamped position and an unclamped position;

[0033] Fig.17 is an eighth embodiment of a lock assembly comprising a manual lock housing for manually moving a lock bolt between an unlocked position and a locked position; and

[0034] Fig.18 is a ninth embodiment of a locking assembly comprising a pair of pins for retaining a cable that can attach an additional personal item to the locking assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. In general, the present embodiments relate to a locking assembly for securing a portable electronic device to a work surface. However, example embodiments are provided only to make the present disclosure more comprehensive and to fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Many specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, and example embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and none should be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0036] Referring to the drawings, wherein like numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views, the locking assembly is intended to provide a design that is difficult to circumvent and yet is compatible with a variety of portable electronic devices.

[0037] Usually in Figures 1 to 6 , a locking assembly 10 according to a first embodiment is shown. The locking assembly 10 includes a clamp assembly 12, which includes a first clamp 14 and a second clamp 16, which are movable toward each other along an elongated rod 18 extending axially between a first end 20 and a second end 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamp 14 is fixed on the first end 20 of the elongated rod 18, and the second clamp 16 is movable along the elongated rod 18 between the second end 22 and a position adjacent to the first clamp 14. However, without departing from the present disclosure, the second clamp 16 can be fixed and the first clamp 14 can be movable along the elongated rod 18. The first clamp 14 extends from the elongated rod 18 to a first pad 25, which is disposed in a facing relationship with the second clamp 16. The first pad 25 is connected to the elongated rod 18 via a first pin 26 (such as at Fig.1114, wherein the first pad 25 is connected to the first clamp 14 via a second pin 30 that allows the first pad 25 to pivot relative to the first clamp 14. For example, the first pin 26 can allow pivotable or rotatable movement between the first pad 25 and the first pin 26 about at least one axis so that if the locking assembly 10 is rocked back and forth, the first pad 25 remains parallel to the work surface. Alternatively, the first pin 26 can include a ball-type connection (not shown) to allow pivotable movement between the first pad 25 and the first pin 26 about multiple axes. Similarly, the second clamp 16 extends from the elongated bar 18 to a second pad 28 that is disposed in a facing relationship with the first clamp 14. The second pad 28 is connected to the second clamp 16 via a second pin 30 that allows the second pad 28 to move relative to the second clamp 16. The second pin 30 can be parallel to the first pin 26. For example, the second pin 30 can allow pivotable or rotatable movement between the second pad 28 and the second pin 30 relative to at least one axis, so that if the locking assembly 10 is rocked back and forth, the pads 25, 28 remain parallel to the work surface. It has been shown that keeping the pads 25, 28 in a position parallel to the work surface can result in a clamping force that is up to ten times stronger than when they are not parallel. The pads 25, 28 are preferably formed of rubber or other elastic materials with a high friction index. In addition, the second pin 30 can include a ball-type connection (not shown) to allow pivotable movement between the second pad 28 and the second pin 30 relative to multiple axes. In use, the first clamp 14 and the second clamp 16 are moved relative to each other along the elongated bar 18 on opposite sides of a work surface such as a table, counter, etc. As will be described in more detail below, once the pads 25, 28 have been positioned and clamped on opposite sides of the work surface, the locking mechanism 24 locks the first clamp 14 relative to the second clamp 16. The pads 25, 28 may also be configured to rotate relative to the associated clamps 14, 16. For example, Fig.11 The first and second pins 26, 30 illustrated in the drawings may be rotatable relative to the associated clamps 14, 16 and also pivotally connected to the pads 25, 28 along at least one axis that may be perpendicular or parallel to the pins 26, 30. When the locking assembly 10 is swung and pried, the pivoting and rotating movement of the pads 25, 28 renders the potential thief's leverage ineffective because the pads 25, 28 remain relatively fixed and flush during the twisting of the elongated bar 18 and / or the clamps 14, 16.

[0038] Continue to refer Figure 1, the locking assembly 10 also includes a connector 32 for connecting the clamp assembly 12 to the portable electronic device. More specifically, the connector 32 extends from a first connection end 42 pivotally connected to the clamp assembly 12 to a second connection end 44 for connecting to the portable electronic device. In a preferred arrangement, the second connection end 44 establishes a pivotable connection (i.e., is pivotally connected) with the portable electronic device, thereby allowing the portable device to have greater freedom around the work surface once the locking assembly 10 is secured to the work surface. However, other ways of connecting the second connection end 44 to the portable electronic device may also be used without departing from the present disclosure, some of which are described in more detail below.

[0039] For example, in a first embodiment, the connector 32 includes a connecting plate 34 disposed adjacent to the second connecting end 44; and a connecting strip 36 extending from the first connecting end 42 to the second connecting end 44 between the clamp assembly 12. The connecting plate 34 is intended to be connected to the portable electronic device and the connecting strip 36 is intended to be connected to the clamp assembly 12. The connecting plate 34 and the connecting strip 36 can be integral or otherwise connected. The connecting plate 34 and the connecting strip 36 are preferably composed of steel or other strong semi-rigid materials. The connecting strip 36 has a flat shape and is therefore more rigid in certain directions, such as deformation in the direction in which the connecting strip can pivot. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting plate 34 includes a pivot connection 38, such as a rivet, which pivotally connects the center of the connecting plate 34 to the connecting strip 36. The pivot connection 38 on the center of the connecting plate 34 is more difficult to peel off the connecting plate 34 from the connecting strip 36 than when the pivot connection 38 is off-center. Therefore, the pivot connector 38 additionally negates the leverage of a potential thief when swinging and prying the portable electronic device. The connecting plate 34 may further include a portable electronic device connector 40, such as an adhesive, double-sided tape and / or additional components. In the case of using an adhesive or double-sided tape, the device connector 40 may include a tape primer layer (e.g., 3M Primer 94) on the surface of the portable electronic device. Studies have shown that in the case where the connecting plate 34 is steel and the laptop is plastic, using a primer on the laptop will make the laptop more difficult to peel than a laptop without a primer by more than ten times. The primer layer between the portable electronic device and the adhesive or double-sided tape significantly increases the bonding strength. For example, when in use, the portable electronic device is connected to the connecting plate 34, the connecting plate 34 is connected to the connecting strip 36, and the connecting strip 36 is connected to the clamp assembly 12. The first connecting end 42 includes a first hole 46 to connect to the clamp assembly 12, and the second connecting end 44 includes a second end 48 (FIG. 7) to connect to the pivot connector 38 extending along the axis, such as a rivet. The connecting strips 36 and / or the connecting plates 34 may be formed from steel and / or a steel alloy.

[0040] According to the first embodiment, the locking mechanism 24 locks the connecting strip 36 to the first clamp 14 and only allows removal when the locking mechanism 24 is unlocked, for example, via entering a password or using a key. More specifically, when the locking mechanism 24 is locked, a portion of the locking mechanism 24 extends through the first hole 46, and the first hole is large enough to allow the connecting strip 36 to pivot thereabout, thereby forming a first pivot connection about a first axis. The connecting strip 36 extends from the locking mechanism 24 to the rivet 38 to form a second pivot connection about a second axis parallel to the first axis. When the locking mechanism 24 is unlocked, the locking mechanism no longer extends through the hole 50 and the connecting strip 36 can be removed. Thus, the pair of pivot connections eliminates misalignment of the pads 25, 28 that may result during a theft attempt.

[0041] Reference now Figure 2 , the first hole 46 of the connecting strip 36 (such as in Figure 1 4 (best shown in FIG. 4 ) includes a slot 50 extending therefrom that allows for connection of at least one additional connector 52. More specifically, the additional connector 52 can be substantially identical to the connecting strip 36, except that the first hole 46 is replaced with a connecting pin 54 that extends to a flange 56. In use, the flange 56 is placed through the first hole 46 and the connecting pin 54 is slid into the slot 50 so that the connecting pin cannot be removed unless the connecting pin is returned to the first hole 46. In view of the continued description below, it will be understood that when the connector 32 is connected to the clamp assembly 12 and the clamp assembly 12 is clamped around a work surface, the first hole 46 becomes inaccessible so that the additional connector 52 in the slot 50 cannot be removed.

[0042] As in Figure 1 and 3As best illustrated in FIG. 1 , in one arrangement, the elongated bar 18 may include a plurality of teeth 58 along its edge. Each tooth 58 may be triangular and extend from the edge at opposite angles (e.g., 45°) such that adjacent teeth form a 90° angle with each other. The second clamp 16 includes a gear 60 pivotably connected thereto via a pin 62. The gear 60 includes a pawl 64 and a release trigger 66. Thus, when the second clamp 16 is moved toward the first clamp 14, the pawl 64 engages with the plurality of teeth 58, thereby causing the gear 60 to pivot. However, when the second clamp 16 is moved away from the first clamp 14, the pawl 64 cannot freely move along the teeth 58, causing the pawl to lock unless the release trigger 66 is actuated to pivot the pawl 64 away from the plurality of teeth 58. The gear 60 may be biased toward the plurality of teeth 58 by a torsion spring 61. When the first clamp 14 and the second clamp 16 are clamped on either side of a work surface, pressure on the second clamp 16 may prevent the use of the release trigger 66. The release trigger 66 can be used again when released by movement of the locking mechanism 24, which will be described in more detail below. However, it should be understood that other methods of locking the first and second jaws 14, 16 can be used, including methods that do not necessarily require teeth but rely on locking rods or screws known in the art.

[0043] Continuing to refer to the first embodiment, Figure 3 2 and 3. Certain components of the locking mechanism 24 are best illustrated in FIG. 2. The first clamp 14 defines a base 68 having a u-shape for housing the locking mechanism 24. The first clamp 14 also defines a cavity 70 for housing a locking rod 72 that is movable relative to the first pad 25. The locking rod 72 can extend along an axis that is parallel to the axis of the rivet 38. The locking rod 72 is connected to and at least partially extends through a back plate 74 that is generally parallel to and adjacent to a top surface 76 of the first pad 25 that is opposite the second pad 28. In lieu of the first pin 26, a bracket 78 connects the first pad 25 to the first clamp 14 and allows for some pivotal movement of the first pad 25 relative to the first clamp 14. The top surface 76 defines a recess 80 that is sized to at least partially receive the locking rod 72. In operation, actuation of the locking mechanism 24 causes the back plate 74 to move in and out of contact with the top surface 76 of the first pad 25 and the locking rod 72 to move in and out of the recess 80. Before the locking rod 72 enters the recess 80, the first hole 46 of the connecting strip 36 is aligned therewith, so that the locking rod 72 extends through the first hole 46 to form another pivot connection parallel to the first pivot connection before locking against the top surface 76 and entering the recess 80. Thus, the connecting strip 36 becomes pivotally connected to the first clamp 14 and the locking mechanism 24.

[0044] Continue to refer Figure 3, the locking mechanism 24 includes a link 82 that pivotally connects the locking mechanism 24 to the first clamp 14. More specifically, the locking mechanism 24 includes a lock housing 84 and a carriage 86, wherein the carriage 86 is connected to both the link 82 and the lock housing 84. The link 82 includes a first pivot connection 88 connected to the carriage 86 and a second pivot connection 90 connected to the locking bar 72, and the carriage 86 includes a locking pivot 92 that pivotally connects the carriage 86 to the first clamp 14. The link 82 allows the carriage 86 and the lock housing 84 to move or pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, at least a portion of the carriage 86 and the lock housing 84 are located within the base 68 of the first clamp 14, and the locking bar 72 is urged into contact with the first pad 25 by operation of the link 82. In the open position, the carriage 86 pivots away from the first clamp 14 relative to the locking pivot 92, causing the link 82, which is located closer to the elongated bar 18, to be pulled upward by the first pivot connection 88 and to carry or drag the locking rod 72 by the second pivot connection 90. The movement of the carriage 86 causes the first clamp 14 or the second clamp 16 to move into strong contact with the work surface. The movement of the carriage 86 causes the first jaw 14 or the second jaw 16 to make a small lever movement (which can be bending or flexing) at a ratio of about 40:1. Therefore, the lever movement results in a tighter clamping force that can be quickly established.

[0045] Reference now Figure 4 , illustrating an exploded view of the lock housing 84. The lock housing 84 contains a locking tongue arrangement including a locking tongue 94 located adjacent the elongated bar 18 and allowing sliding out and retraction of the lock housing 84. The first clamp 14 also includes a locking tongue port 97 ( Figure 3 ), the locking tongue port is along the base 68 and aligned to receive the locking tongue 94 in the locked position, thereby preventing pivotal movement of the locking mechanism 24 and corresponding release of the locking rod 72. A pair of support pins 96 are located on opposite sides of the locking tongue 94 and extend through a support slot 98 in the lock housing 84. In use, the support pins 96 can be manually slid along the support slot 98 to move the locking tongue 94 into and out of engagement with the locking tongue port 97. The spring 100 biases the locking tongue 94 in the locked position. The movement of the locking tongue 94 is guided by a guide block 102, which accommodates at least a portion of the locking tongue 94 and the pair of support pins 96. The first clamp 14 also includes a guide opening 104 ( Figure 5) for placing a track pad 106 which may be located therein. The guide pad 102 includes a groove 103 which engages with the track pad 106 and limits the transport of the guide pad 102 to only or substantially only axial movement. A locking plate 108 is pivotally connected to the lock housing 84 and is located adjacent to the guide pad 102 and includes a locking surface 110. During operation, the locking plate 108 can be rotated so that the locking surface 110 prevents the locking tongue 94 from returning in the contact position so that the locking tongue 94 remains in the locked position and cannot be manually retracted. The locking plate 108 can also be rotated to a non-contact position that allows the locking tongue 94 to be retracted. The rotational movement of the locking plate 108 can be achieved in a variety of ways, however, in the illustrated embodiment, it is achieved by a motor 120.

[0046] Reference now Figure 5 The locking mechanism 24 includes a user interface, such as a keyboard 112 having a plurality of keys covering an upper portion of the lock housing 84. A printed circuit board (PCB) 114 is located below the keyboard 112 and includes a locking assembly circuit 116 ( Figure 6 ), which lock assembly circuit will be described in more detail below and includes a plurality of switches 118 corresponding to the keys. A motor 120 is connected to the lock assembly circuit 116 and causes the locking piece 108 to pivot the locking face 110 into and out of engagement with the guide block 102. One or more batteries 122 are located within the lock housing 94 and provide power to the lock assembly circuit 116 and the motor 120. The lock assembly circuit 116 may also include one or more lights, such as LEDs, to indicate the status of the locking piece 108 and / or the deadbolt 94. For example, a green light 124 indicates that the locking face 110 of the locking piece 108 is not engaged with the guide block 102 and is therefore free to retract. A red light 126 may also be included to indicate engagement of the locking piece 108, thereby requiring the use of the keypad 112 to enter a password. In addition to the plurality of keys, the keypad 112 may also include a lock / unlock button 128 and the lock assembly circuit 116 may also include a lock / unlock switch 130 such that the lock / unlock button 128 needs to be pressed before or after entering a password to effect movement of the locking piece 108 .

[0047] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, Figure 6 Schematically illustrating the locking assembly circuit 116. The various elements provided herein allow for specific implementations. Therefore, a person of ordinary skill in the art of electronics and circuits can substitute various components to achieve similar functions. The locking assembly circuit 116 includes a general computing unit "GCU" system 132, a first user interface system 134 (corresponding to key 112), a second user interface system 136, and an alarm circuit 138.

[0048] According to one aspect, certain operations of the locking assembly circuit 116 can be controlled via communication between the first user interface 134 and the GCU system 132. The GCU system 132 includes a controller 140 and a communication module 142. The controller 140 includes a processor 144 and a memory 146 having a machine-readable non-transitory storage device. Programs and / or software 148 (e.g., Arduino IDE, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS) can be stored on the memory 146, as can input data 150 obtained through the first user interface 134 and / or the second user interface system 136. Profile data 152 associated with saved user preferences, such as passwords (password data), is also stored on the memory 146. The processor 144 converts and executes instructions based on the software 148, the input data 150, and the profile data 152, and causes the motor 120 to move the locking piece 108 between positions.

[0049] The communication module 142 can provide a wireless connection (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) from the GCU system 132 to a second user interface system 136, which can include a portable electronic device. For example, the communication module 142 can be paired with a laptop and / or a mobile phone secured to the locking mechanism 24. Thus, when the laptop is unattended, the processor can cause a notification to be sent to the mobile phone in the event of movement, unlocking, and / or destruction. The alarm circuit 138 is configured to provide an audible or other sensory alarm in the event of movement, unlocking, and / or destruction of the locking assembly 10. The alarm circuit 138 can include a piezoelectric buzzer 156 (sensory alarm) for providing an audible warning, a potentiometer 158, an accelerometer 160, and / or other motion detectors 162.

[0050] exist Fig. 7A and 7B An example implementation of the alarm circuit 138 is shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the connecting strip 36 includes a connection through an insulator 168 (such as in FIG. Figure 7B 164 is a first conductive layer 164 that is spaced apart from a second conductive layer 166 (best illustrated in FIG. 16 ). A contact 167 extends from the first conductive layer 164 and contacts the second conductive layer 166 to complete the circuit loop. The first conductive layer 164 is pivotally connected to the connecting plate 34, and the second conductive layer 166 is spaced apart from the pivot connection. Thus, when the connecting strip 36 is bent upward or downward or twisted along its length, the contact 167 is spaced apart from the first conductive layer 164, thereby breaking the circuit loop and causing the alarm circuit 138 to activate the alarm.

[0051] exist Figure 8, wherein the potentiometer 158 is located within the lock housing 84 and includes a pair of electrical contacts 170 that contact each other on the connecting strip 36. For example, the pair of electrical contacts 170 may include a first contact (170A) extending from the alarm circuit 138 and fixed to the connecting strip 36; and a second contact (170B) extending from the potentiometer 158 and electrically connected to the first contact when the connecting strip 36 is in a specific position. Therefore, when the connecting strip 36 is moved, the electrical connection between the pair of electrical contacts 170 is disconnected, thereby activating the alarm circuit 138.

[0052] Fig. 9 , wherein the potentiometer 158 is located on or near the rivet 38 that pivotally connects the connecting plate 34 to the connecting strip 36. Thus, a predetermined amount of rotation or pivoting of the connecting plate 34 relative to the connecting strip 36 activates the alarm circuit 138.

[0053] exist Fig.10 Yet another embodiment of the alarm circuit 138 is illustrated in , wherein the motion detector 162 comprises a rotational type detector 172 that contacts the center of the connecting strip 36 and / or the connected working surface and sends a signal to the alarm circuit 138 after a predetermined rotation distance.

[0054] The embodiments of the alarm circuit 138 illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 10 are provided for example purposes and are not intended to be limiting. Each embodiment may be used together or separately. In addition, it should be appreciated that the activation of the alarm circuit 138 may be caused by certain instructions stored in the memory 146 and executed by the processor 144. For example, the instructions stored in the memory 146 may only allow the processor to activate the alarm circuit 138 when a password has been entered and the locking assembly 10 is in the locked position. In addition, any predetermined distance or threshold value may be stored in the memory 146. It should also be appreciated that the input data 150 obtained via the first user interface 134 and / or the second user interface system 136 may allow the user to change the predetermined threshold value and / or which of the various alarm embodiments in FIGS. 7 to 10 is to be turned on or off.

[0055] Reference now Fig.11, illustrating a second embodiment of the locking assembly 10 and the locking assembly may include all of the features provided in the first embodiment. However, the second embodiment of the locking assembly 10 also includes a pair of second pads 28A, 28B (rather than just a single second pad 28 as in the first embodiment) and a cable 174 that is metal or otherwise reinforced to surround each of the second pads 28A, 28B. Thus, other items such as a wallet can be secured to the cable 174 before being connected to the second pads 28A, 28B and clamped to a work surface (i.e., the cable 174 can be passed through the handle of the wallet).

[0056] Reference now Fig.12 , illustrating a third embodiment of the locking assembly 10 and the locking assembly can include all of the features provided in the first and second embodiments. However, the third embodiment also includes a modified connecting plate, namely a connecting key 176, which can be used in conjunction with or independently of the previously described connecting strip 36. The portable electronic device includes a key slot 178, such as a Kensington slot, and the connecting key 176 can be locked therein. The connecting key 176 can be a cable or a metal strip and include one of the previously described connecting pins 54 to be located in the narrow slot 50 of the connecting strip 36. Alternatively, the connecting key 176 can include the previously described pivot connection 38 (such as a rivet) for permanent connection to the connecting strip 36. Removal of the connecting key 176 can be by an electronic lock, a mechanical lock, or other mechanism as described herein.

[0057] Fig.13A and 13B A fourth embodiment of the locking assembly 10 is described, which can include all of the features provided in the previous embodiments. However, the fourth embodiment also includes a modified connecting plate, namely a connecting bracket 180, which includes a plurality of adjustable clamps 182 connected to each other via straps 184. In operation, the adjustable clamps 182 can be fixed at various locations around the portable electronic device and connected to each other via straps 184, which can be connected to the connecting strip 36. A resilient buffer 186 can be connected to each adjustable clamp 182 for improved connection to prevent scratching of the portable electronic device. A locking tongue 183 can be located on the adjustable clamp 182 for further securing the resilient buffer 186 to the portable computing device. As shown in Fig. 13B As shown in the bottom view of the fourth embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , the strap 184 can be a metal cable, and the fastening arm 185 is connected to the strap 184 and is pivotably connected to the first clamp 14 or the second clamp 16 so that the strap 184 is fastened when the clamp is pivoted, and then it can be locked on the first clamp 14 or the second clamp 16 until it is necessary to release the cable. Alternatively, the fastening arm 185 can include an opening 189 for receiving the rivet 38 on the connecting strip 36.

[0058] Fig.14 A fifth embodiment of the locking assembly 10 is described, which can include all of the features provided in the previous embodiments. However, the fifth embodiment also includes a modified connecting plate, namely an angle clamp 188, which includes a pair of angle clamps 190 for mounting to a vertical offset angle of a laptop or other portable electronic device. The clamps 188 can also include one of the previously described connecting pins 54 that will be located in the slot 50 of the connecting strip 36. Alternatively, the angle clamp 188 can include the previously described pivot connector 38 (e.g., a rivet) for permanent connection to the connecting strip 36.

[0059] Fig.15A and 15B A sixth embodiment of the locking assembly 10 is described which may include all of the features provided in the previous embodiments. However, the sixth embodiment includes a smaller clamp assembly 12 and also includes a modified connection plate, namely a connection panel assembly 192, which includes a connection panel 194 for placement on the bottom of a portable electronic device that is pivotally connected to a side clamp 196 to clamp the panel 194 to the portable electronic device. The panel link 198 (at Fig. 15B ) extends between the panel 194 and the clamp assembly 12 and is pivotally connected to the panel 194 and pivotally connected to the clamp assembly 12.

[0060] Fig.16A and 16B A seventh embodiment of the locking assembly 10 is described, which can include all of the features provided in the previous embodiments. However, the fourth embodiment also includes a modified elongated bar, namely an electric elongated bar 200, which includes a lead screw 202 and a lead screw motor 204, which is located near the first clamp 14 to drive the lead screw 202 to rotate. The second clamp 16 is connected to the lead screw 202 and moves during the rotation of the lead screw 202. The first clamp 14 and the second clamp 16 are both pivotally connected to the electric elongated bar 200 so that they can be pivoted relative to the electric elongated bar 200 to facilitate transportation (such as Fig. 16B 14). As illustrated, the rotation type detector 172 is located near the first clamp 14. In addition, the seventh embodiment includes a pair of rectangular pads 206 instead of the first pad 25 and the second pad 28 to increase the contact area with the portable electronic device.

[0061] Fig.17An eighth embodiment of the locking assembly 10 is described, which can include all of the features provided in the previous embodiments. However, the eighth embodiment also includes a modified lock housing, namely a manual lock housing 208. Instead of electronic components, the manual lock housing 208 includes a manual combination lock 210 and / or a keyway 212. More specifically, the manual lock housing 208 can include a dial lock that can be unlocked by aligning a series of dials into a pre-established combination. Therefore, the manual lock housing 208 can be locked again by inserting a convex portion (not shown) into the lock housing 208 and rotating a series of dials until they are no longer in the pre-established combination.

[0062] Fig.18 A ninth embodiment of the locking assembly 10 is described, which may include all of the features provided in the previous embodiments. However, the ninth embodiment also includes a modified bottom clamp 16, namely, a bottom clamp 16 configured to hold a cable 174 ( Fig.11 ) of the bottom clamp 16 of a pair of pins 210. More specifically, the cable 174 can be wrapped around each pin 210 similar to how it is wrapped around the corresponding second pads 28A, 28B in the second embodiment. Each pin 210 can be sized to extend the same or similar vertical distance of the second pad 28 so that the cable cannot be removed from the pin 210 until the second clamp 16 has been loosened and spaced away from the work surface.

[0063] It should be understood that the foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for the purpose of illustration. In other words, the present disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to the particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. This can also be changed in many ways. Such changes should not be considered as departures from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A locking assembly for locking a portable electronic device to a work surface, the locking assembly comprising: a clamp assembly including a bar extending between a first end and a second end for placement adjacent to the work surface; The clamp assembly also includes a first clamp and a second clamp extending outwardly from the bar in spaced relationship from one another; At least one of the first clamp or the second clamp is movable along the bar between the first end and the second end for clamping a work surface between the first clamp and the second clamp; A locking mechanism, which can be changed from an unlocked state to a locked state, and is used to selectively lock the relative positioning position between the first clamp and the second clamp; a first pad connected to the first clamp; a locking rod located between the first clamp and the first pad and movable toward the first pad to contact the first pad during a transition of the locking mechanism from the unlocked state to the locked state, and movable away from the first pad to disengage from the first pad during a transition of the locking mechanism from the locked state to the unlocked state; a connector including a first connection end defining a bore for receiving the locking lever therethrough during transition of the locking mechanism from an unlocked state to a locked state so that the connector is pivotally connected to the locking mechanism about a first axis; The connector extends from a first connection end to a second connection end for connecting to the portable electronic device to secure the portable electronic device to the work surface when the locking mechanism is in the locked state.

2. A locking assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first connecting end is pivotally connected to one of the clamp assembly or the locking mechanism about a first axis at a first pivot connection, and wherein the second connecting end includes a second pivot connection for pivotally connecting to a provided portable electronic device about a second axis. The locking assembly of claim 2 , wherein the first axis is parallel to the second axis.

4. A locking assembly according to claim 3, wherein the connector includes a connecting strip extending between the first pivot connection member and the second pivot connection member, and the connecting strip has a flat shape so that the connecting strip is semi-rigid in a direction perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis, and is less rigid in a direction parallel to the first axis and the second axis.

5. A locking assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first clamp extends from the slender bar to a first pad, the first pad extends toward the second clamp and faces the second clamp, and the second clamp extends from the slender bar to a second pad, the second pad extends toward the first pad and faces the first pad, and wherein the first pad is connected to the first clamp by a first pin allowing the first pad to perform pivotal movement, and wherein the second pad is connected to the second clamp by a second pin allowing the second pad to perform pivotal movement.

6. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the first liner further comprises a top surface defining a recess for at least partially receiving the locking rod.

7. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism moves the lock bar toward and away from the first pad.

8. A locking assembly according to claim 7, wherein the first clamp includes a base for at least partially receiving the locking mechanism, and the locking mechanism is connected to the first clamp by a connecting rod, the connecting rod allowing the locking mechanism to pivot into and out of the base, wherein when the locking mechanism pivots out of the base, the locking rod is moved to disengage contact with the first pad, and wherein when the locking mechanism pivots into the base, the locking rod is moved to contact with the first pad.

9. The locking assembly of claim 8, wherein the locking mechanism includes a locking tongue that engages the first jaw in a locked position to lock the locking mechanism in the base.

10. A locking assembly according to claim 9, wherein the locking mechanism further includes a locking plate, the locking plate having a contact position, when in the contact position the locking plate prevents the locking tongue from leaving the locking position and disengaging from the first clamp, and wherein the locking plate can be moved to a non-contact position to allow the locking tongue to disengage from the first clamp and pivot.

11. The lock assembly of claim 10, wherein the lock mechanism includes a lock assembly circuit including a motor for moving the lock plate between the contact position and the non-contact position.

12. The locking assembly of claim 11, wherein the locking assembly circuit further comprises: A controller having a first user interface, a processor, and a memory device having a non-transitory storage device for storing cryptographic data and containing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: When the first user interface receives a password input that matches the password data, the motor is caused to move the locking piece to the non-contact position.

13. The locking assembly of claim 12, wherein the locking assembly circuit further comprises: an alarm circuit; and the memory device further comprises instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: If the first user interface does not receive a password entry and at least one of the locking mechanism, the connector, or the first pad has been moved beyond a predetermined threshold, a sensory alarm is activated in the alarm circuit.

14. The locking assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector further comprises a connection bracket having a plurality of adjustable clamps for connecting to a plurality of different locations of the portable electronic device.

15. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the first and second clamps are capable of being folded to a position substantially parallel to the bar.

16. A locking assembly according to claim 1, wherein the connector includes a connecting plate, which is connected to the provided portable electronic device by one of an adhesive or a double-sided tape, and wherein the connecting plate is also connected to the connecting strip by a rivet, and the rivet allows pivotal movement between the connecting strip and the connecting plate.

17. The locking assembly of claim 1, further comprising a lead screw in the bar and a lead screw motor for rotating the lead screw, wherein rotation of the lead screw driven by the lead screw motor causes at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp to move.

18. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the first clamp includes a first pad in facing relationship with the second clamp, and the second clamp includes a pair of second pads in facing relationship with the first clamp.

19. The locking assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises a connection key disposed on the second connection end and a keyway for connecting to the portable electronic device, wherein the key and keyway selectively lock together to secure the portable electronic device to the clamp assembly.

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