Holder for mobile terminal device; electric bicycle with holder

Abstract

The invention relates to a holder for a mobile terminal device, in particular for a smartphone, having a housing, wherein the housing has a receiving region for the mobile terminal device, wherein the housing comprises a movably supported securing unit for securing the mobile terminal device in the receiving region, wherein the housing has a locking unit for detachably locking the holder on a carrier device for the holder. It is proposed that the housing has a recess which is configured in the receiving region and which is configured to adjoin the locking unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a retainer for a mobile terminal device and an electric bicycle having a retainer for a mobile terminal device. Background Technology

[0002] A fixing device for a smartphone is described in DE 10 2023 202 515 A1. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates to a retainer for mobile terminal devices, particularly smartphones, comprising a housing having a receiving area for the mobile terminal device, wherein the housing includes a movably supported fixing unit for securing the mobile terminal device within the receiving area, and wherein the housing has a locking unit for detachably locking the retainer to a carrier for the retainer. The invention proposes that the housing have a recess constructed within the receiving area and configured to abut the locking unit. This advantageously ensures simple and secure unlocking.

[0004] This retainer is particularly useful for mobility tools, especially electric mobility tools, and particularly preferably for electric bicycles. In the context of this application, an electric bicycle should be understood as a bicycle, particularly one having a drive unit for assisting the rider. The electric bicycle is preferably constructed as an E-Bike, a Pedelec electric-assisted bicycle, a S-Pedelec high-speed electric-assisted bicycle, a cargo bicycle, a folding bicycle, etc. The drive unit has a motor, which may be constructed, for example, a mid-drive motor or a hub motor. This motor is preferably constructed as an electric motor. The drive unit is connected to a battery pack for supplying energy to the drive unit. The battery pack has a housing, which is preferably detachably connected to the housing of the mobility tool, particularly to the frame of the electric bicycle. The electric bicycle preferably has a control unit, wherein the control unit of the electric bicycle is equipped with electronic components. The electronic components of the electric bicycle preferably include sensor units, wherein the sensor units may include, for example, motion sensors, torque sensors, speed sensors, GNSS receivers, magnetic sensors, etc. Furthermore, the electronic components particularly include at least one communication interface for wirelessly connecting the electric bicycle to mobile terminal devices and / or servers. The communication interface can be configured as a short-range communication interface, especially as a Bluetooth interface or a WiFi interface, for connecting to mobile terminal devices.

[0005] Mobile terminal devices particularly feature display units for displaying information and / or input units for user input. The display unit may be constructed, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen, a micro-light-emitting diode (MicroLED) display, or other suitable technologies, and is used to visually present information such as text, images, video, or symbols. The resolution and size of the display unit can vary. The input unit enables the user to interact with the mobile terminal device and input data. For example, a mobile terminal device may have a touchscreen—also known as a touchscreen—which may operate capacitively, resistively, or based on other technologies. Commands can be executed or data can be entered via touch, gestures, or a stylus. Attached to or replacing the touchscreen, the input unit may also include physical buttons, a virtual keyboard, voice control, or other input mechanisms. The mobile terminal device has at least one wireless communication interface configured for short-range communication, such as via Bluetooth, or for long-range communication, such as via LTE or 5G. The Bluetooth interface allows wireless connection with other nearby devices (e.g., headphones, speakers, or other mobile terminal devices) to exchange data or control functions. For long-distance communication, mobile communication standards such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 5G (Fifth Generation), UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), or GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) can be used to establish a connection with a mobile communication network, thereby enabling access to the Internet, telephone, and messaging services. Other wireless interfaces can be WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network), NFC (Near Field Communication), or infrared. Furthermore, mobile terminal devices can have electrical contact interfaces, such as USB sockets. USB sockets can come in different versions, such as USB-A, USB-C, or Micro-USB, and are used for data transfer and / or power supply. Through the USB interface, mobile terminal devices can connect to computers, chargers, or other peripheral devices. Other examples of electrical contact interfaces are Lightning connectors, proprietary connectors, or magnetic contacts. Additionally, mobile terminal devices preferably have an electrical charging interface for inductive charging. This can be exemplarily achieved by a receiving coil integrated into the housing of the mobile terminal device, which interacts with a corresponding transmitting coil in a charging station, particularly in a holder or other charging device. Energy is wirelessly transferred to the mobile terminal device's battery through the electromagnetic field between the transmitting and receiving coils. The standard for inductive charging could be, for example, Qi, but other standards or proprietary solutions could also be considered.

[0006] The retainer's movable support fixing unit has at least one, preferably at least two, movable fixing elements. The fixing unit is configured such that the size of the receiving area can be adjusted according to the position of the fixing unit. In particular, the fixing unit is configured such that the size of the receiving area is minimized in the unfixed state. In the fixed state, the size of the receiving area can be adapted to the size of the corresponding mobile terminal device. This adaptation can be stepless or in defined steps. The movable fixing elements can be configured, for example, as clamps, spring-supported arms, or sliders. The movement of the fixing elements can be performed manually by the user, for example by pressing a lever or slider, or motorized, for example by a small electric motor. The fixing unit can have a locking mechanism to reliably hold the mobile terminal device in the desired position.

[0007] A locking unit for detachably locking a retainer to a carrier has at least one locking element. This locking element is configured to lock onto a corresponding locking element on the carrier. The type of locking can vary depending on the implementation, for example, as a form-locking lock, a force-locking lock, or a magnetic lock. In the case of a form-locking lock, the locking element of the retainer and the corresponding locking element of the carrier are geometrically engaged, for example, by a snap-lock mechanism or a plug connection. In the case of a force-locking lock, locking is achieved by compressive force, for example, by a clamping connection or a threaded connection. Magnetic locking utilizes the attractive force of a magnet. Furthermore, the locking unit preferably has at least one spring element configured to apply tension or pressure to the locking element. In particular, the spring element rests directly against the locking element. The spring element can be configured, for example, as a coil spring, a leaf spring, or a tension spring. The tension or pressure of the spring element is used to hold the locking element in the locked position or to assist in locking. The force of the spring element can vary depending on the implementation and the desired locking strength. The direct arrangement of the spring element on the locking element achieves a compact structure and direct force transmission. The locking unit may also additionally have an unlocking mechanism for releasing the lock. The unlocking mechanism may be, for example, a lever, a button, or a slider, which is operated by the user to release the locking element. Preferably, the locking element is configured to be operable by the user, such that unlocking can be performed by manipulating the locking element.

[0008] The carrier is designed for mounting on a moving tool. Specifically, the carrier is connected to the moving tool such that the connection can only be severed using a tool. Alternatively, the carrier can also be integrated into the moving tool.

[0009] The recess in the retainer housing has, in particular, a first opening and a second opening, which are preferably arranged opposite each other. The first opening is particularly located in the receiving area such that it is covered when connected to the mobile terminal device. This, for example, allows access to operating elements or interfaces of the mobile terminal device located on the side opposite the retainer. Depending on the implementation and configuration of the mobile terminal device, the first opening can have different shapes and sizes, such as a circular, elliptical, or rectangular opening. The second opening is preferably arranged adjacent to or directly adjacent to the locking unit. The positioning of the second opening enables access to the locking unit, for example, to detach the retainer from the carrier. The second opening can also have different shapes, such as a slit, slot, or opening, or be substantially the same as the first opening. The recess can also be used to improve ventilation of the mobile terminal device and prevent overheating.

[0010] Furthermore, it is proposed that the size of the receiving area can be adjusted according to the position of the fixed unit. This allows the retainer to flexibly adapt to various mobile terminal devices with different sizes. Additionally, it is also conceivable that the size of the recess can be adjusted according to the position of the fixed unit. This allows the recess to optimally fit the position of the operating element or interface of the corresponding mobile terminal device. The adjustment of the recess size can be performed simultaneously with or independently of the adjustment of the receiving area size. The mechanism for adjusting the recess size can correspond to or differ from the mechanism for adjusting the receiving area size.

[0011] Furthermore, it is proposed that the fixing unit has a fixing element connected to a reset element. The reset element is used to return the fixing element to its initial position after the mobile terminal device is released from fixing. This facilitates the insertion and removal of the mobile terminal device and ensures the fixed element's defined static position. The reset element can be, for example, a spring, rubber band, or other elastic element. The force of the reset element can vary depending on the implementation and desired function. The connection between the fixing element and the reset element can be achieved directly or indirectly, for example, through a linkage or lever. The initial position of the fixing element can be selected to minimize the accommodating area in the unfixed state, in order to save space and prevent accidental jamming. The reset element can be integrated into the retainer housing or mounted externally.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that the locking unit has an unlocking element, wherein the unlocking element is configured to be operated by a user. The unlocking element and the locking element are preferably constructed as a single unit. This simplifies the structure of the locking unit and improves reliability. The integrated construction of the unlocking and locking elements enables a compact structure and direct force transmission. Alternatively, the unlocking and locking elements can also be constructed as separate components, but they are mechanically coupled to each other. In this case, manipulation of the unlocking element causes movement of the locking element, thereby unlocking. The type of mechanical coupling can vary depending on the implementation, for example, as a lever mechanism, a pushing mechanism, or a rotating mechanism. The integrated or coupled construction of the unlocking and locking elements enables simple and reliable operation of the locking unit.

[0013] Furthermore, it is proposed that the unlocking element is at least partially arranged in the recess. Specifically, the unlocking element is at least partially arranged on the side of the retainer opposite to the receiving area. This advantageously simplifies operation. In particular, the unlocking element is movably supported, and especially rotatably supported, within the housing of the retainer.

[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed that the retainer has an electrical interface for electrical connection with the carrier device. The electrical interface of the retainer can be configured, for example, as a contact pad for power supply and / or information exchange. The contact pad can be located on the back side of the retainer or other suitable location. The carrier device has a corresponding contact surface that contacts the contact pad when the retainer is inserted. The electrical connection enables power supply to the retainer and / or the mobile terminal device via the carrier device. Additionally, data can be exchanged between the retainer and the carrier device via the electrical interface, such as information about the charging status of the mobile terminal device, the location of the retainer, or environmental conditions. As an alternative to or supplement to the contact pad, the electrical interface can also be configured as a plug-in connector, such as a USB interface or a proprietary interface. This achieves a more robust and reliable connection between the retainer and the carrier device. The type of electrical interface is adapted to the corresponding application and the requirements for data transmission and power supply.

[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that the retainer has at least one electrical interface for charging the mobile terminal device. This electrical interface is preferably configured to correspond to the electrical contact interface of the mobile terminal device, for example, a USB interface.

[0016] Furthermore, it is proposed that the electrical interface includes a charging coil arranged within the housing of the retainer and adjacent to a recess. This arrangement of the charging coil enables effective inductive charging of the mobile terminal device when it is positioned within the retainer. The charging coil can be designed according to standards such as Qi or using proprietary technology. The size and shape of the charging coil are adapted to the specific requirements and desired charging power of the mobile terminal device. The control unit can monitor and adjust the function of the charging coil to ensure safe and optimal charging, and implement functions such as overcharge protection, overheat protection, and foreign object detection. By integrating the charging coil into the retainer, the wireless charging configuration of the mobile terminal device becomes simpler and more convenient.

[0017] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an electric bicycle having a retainer as described above. Here, the retainer is detachably mounted on the carrying device of the electric bicycle, for example, on the handlebars, the front of the frame, the frame, or other suitable locations. The mounting position of the retainer is selected so that the mobile terminal device can be easily viewed and operated during riding without affecting the safe guidance of the electric bicycle. Power supply to the retainer and charging of the mobile terminal device can be achieved through the electric bicycle's battery. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Further advantages are illustrated in the following figures. The figures and description contain features in numerous combinations. Those skilled in the art will also appropriately consider these features individually and combine them into other meaningful combinations.

[0019] The attached diagram shows: Figure 1 A perspective view of an electric bicycle with a battery pack according to the present invention; Figure 2 For Figure 1 A side view of the retainer of an electric bicycle in its connected state with the support device; Figure 3 according to Figure 2 Top view of the retainer; Figure 4 according to Figure 2 Rear view of the retainer. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Figure 1 A perspective view shows a mobility tool 10 having an energy supply device 100 in the form of a battery pack 102. The mobility tool 10 is exemplary constructed as an electrically driven mobility tool 12, particularly an electric bicycle 14. The electric bicycle 14 can be constructed, for example, as an electric-assisted bicycle or an e-bike.

[0021] The electric bicycle 14 has a frame 18 or bicycle frame. Two wheels 20 are connected to the frame 18. Furthermore, the mobility tool 10 has a drive unit 22, which includes an electric motor. The electric motor is preferably constructed as a permanent magnet excited brushless DC motor. The electric motor is exemplaryly constructed as a mid-mounted motor, but hub motors, etc., are also contemplated.

[0022] The electric bicycle 14 includes a control unit (not shown) configured to control or regulate the electric bicycle 14, particularly the electric motor. The electric bicycle 14 has a pedal crank 24. The pedal crank 24 is connected to a pedal crank shaft (not shown).

[0023] The control unit and the drive unit 22, which includes an electric motor and a pedal crankshaft, are arranged in a drive housing 26 connected to the frame. The drive motion of the electric motor is preferably transmitted to the pedal crankshaft via a transmission (not shown), wherein the auxiliary magnitude of the drive unit 22 is controlled or adjusted by means of the control unit.

[0024] The electric bicycle 14 is electrically and mechanically connected to a battery pack 102 configured to supply power to the drive unit 22. The battery pack 102 is exemplarily configured as a replaceable battery pack. In the connected state, the battery pack 102 is exemplarily fully housed within the frame 18 of the electric bicycle 14. This connection can be achieved by axially pushing the battery pack 102 into the downtube of the frame 18 or by laterally inserting the battery pack 102 into the frame 18. Alternatively, the battery pack 102 can also be configured such that it can be fixed to the outside of the frame 18.

[0025] The electric bicycle 14 has a support device 200. The support device 200 is configured to be detachably connected to the retainer 202. The support device 200 is exemplarily arranged on the handlebars 204 of the electric bicycle 14, but it is also conceivable that the support device 200 is arranged in other locations, such as on the top tube 206 of the frame.

[0026] Figure 2 A side view of the support device 200 in its connected state with the retainer 202 is shown. The support device 200 has a first connecting unit 208 for connecting with the handlebar 204 and a second connecting unit 210 for connecting with the retainer 202. Here, the first connecting unit 208 and the second connecting unit 210 are constructed spaced apart from each other.

[0027] The retainer 202 has a housing 212, which is connected to the carrier 200 by means of a connecting unit 214 corresponding to the second connecting unit 210 of the carrier 200. An electrical interface 218 is arranged on the side 216 of the housing 212. The electrical interface 218 is exemplary configured as a USB interface and is protected by means of a cover element 220 to prevent moisture and dirt from entering.

[0028] The retainer 202 has a receiving area 222 configured to receive a mobile terminal device (not shown), particularly a smartphone. Here, the receiving area 222 is defined by two opposing walls 224. To secure the mobile terminal device within the receiving area 222, the retainer 202 has a fixing unit 226. For this purpose, the fixing unit 226 has a movably supported fixing element 228, which is exemplarily arranged linearly within the housing 212 of the retainer 202. Exemplarily, one of the walls 224 defining the receiving area 222 is configured as the fixing element 228. The fixing element 228 is connected here to a spring element (not shown), which loads the fixing element 228 toward the opposing walls 224 by means of a restoring force. Therefore, the size of the receiving area 222 depends on the position of the fixing element 228 and can be increased to accommodate the mobile terminal device. This advantageously allows for the accommodation of mobile terminal devices of different sizes.

[0029] Figure 3 The retainer 202 is shown in a top view. The retaining element 228 is shown here in a state where no force is applied to it by the user, and the retaining element 228 is fully retracted into the housing 212 of the retainer 202. The receiving area 222 has a receiving surface 230 configured to receive a mobile terminal device. The receiving surface 230 has a closed first region 232 and an open second region 234, in which a recess 236 is arranged. A continuous auflagespur 237 is arranged in both regions 232, 234. The housing 212 of the retainer 202 is preferably made of hard plastic, while the auflagespur 237 is preferably made of soft plastic, thereby advantageously reducing mechanical vibrations acting on the mobile terminal device.

[0030] The holder 202 has electronic components (not shown) arranged in a closed first region 232 of the receiving surface 230 within the housing 212 of the holder 202. These electronic components include an additional electrical interface 240, which includes a charging coil for inductive charging of the mobile terminal device.

[0031] The recess 236 exemplarily has two openings 242, 244, wherein the first opening 242 is arranged in the receiving area 222 and reduces the receiving surface 230. The first opening 242 has an octagonal shape and is arranged completely between the two receiving strips 237.

[0032] Figure 4 The retainer 202 is shown in a perspective rear view. The second opening 244 has substantially the same dimensions and geometry as the first opening 242. The recess 236 is constructed here adjacent to, and in particular directly adjacent to, the locking unit 250 of the retainer 202. The locking unit 250 is associated with the connecting unit of the retainer 202 and includes a locking element 252 movably supported on the housing 212 of the retainer 202. The locking unit 250 also includes two spring-type reset elements 254 configured to apply force to the locking element 252 in the direction of the locked state. Furthermore, the locking unit 250 has an unlocking element 256 that can be operated by a user and is configured for unlocking. To improve grip, the unlocking element 256 has a textured structure 258, which is exemplarily constructed in the form of four grooves (Rille).

[0033] In addition, the retainer 202 has an additional electrical interface 260 on its back side, which is configured to electrically connect the retainer 202 to the carrier device 200. The electrical interface 260 exemplarily has two electrical contact pads 262 configured to power the retainer 202.

[0034] Therefore, with the help of the recess 236, the retainer 202 can be easily removed from the carrier 200 by manipulating the unlocking element 256 through the recess 236. This makes the removal of the retainer 202 significantly simpler. In addition, the recess can effectively cool the mobile terminal device when charging through the retainer 202.

Claims

1. A retainer for mobile terminal devices, particularly for smartphones, said retainer having a housing (212), wherein, The housing (212) has a receiving area (222) for the mobile terminal device, wherein the housing (212) includes a movably supported fixing unit (226) for fixing the mobile terminal device in the receiving area (222), wherein the housing (212) has a locking unit (250) for detachably locking the retainer (202) to a support device (200) for the retainer (202). Its features are, The housing (212) has a recess (236) formed in the receiving area (222) and configured to be adjacent to the locking unit (250).

2. The retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fixing unit (226) is configured such that the size of the receiving area (222) can be adjusted according to the position of the fixing unit (226).

3. The retainer according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The fixing unit (226) has a fixing element (228) which is connected to the reset element.

4. The retainer according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The locking unit (250) has an unlocking element (256) configured to be operable by a user.

5. The retainer according to claim 4, characterized in that, The unlocking element (256) is at least partially disposed in the recess (236).

6. The retainer according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The unlocking element (256) is at least partially arranged on the side of the retainer (202) opposite to the receiving area (222).

7. The retainer according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, The unlocking element (256) is movably supported, and in particular rotatably supported, in the housing (212) of the retainer (202).

8. The retainer according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The retainer (202) has an electrical interface (260) for electrical connection with the carrier (200).

9. The retainer according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The retainer (202) has at least one electrical interface (240) for charging the mobile terminal device.

10. The retainer according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The electrical interface (240) includes a charging coil arranged in the housing (212) of the retainer (202) and adjacent to the recess (236).

11. An electric bicycle having a retainer (202) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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