Device with display and camera

Abstract

The utility model relates to a device with a display and a camera. The device includes a coupling member that couples the device to a stackable storage unit container. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises: a battery interface for coupling to a battery for a power tool; a camera; and a display that displays the image captured by the camera.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the interests and priorities of U.S. Application No. 19 / 049612, filed February 10, 2025, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 559366, filed February 29, 2024, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of tool storage systems and related devices. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a device or unit including a camera, a display, and a coupling mechanism that detachably connects the device to another device or container in a modular tool storage system, such as a tool storage container. Background Technology

[0004] Tool storage units are typically used to carry tools and tool accessories. Some storage units are designed to be integrated into modular storage systems. In modular storage systems, different units, devices, and / or containers can provide different functions, such as the ability to capture images via a camera and display them on a monitor. Utility Model Content

[0005] One embodiment of this utility model relates to a utility module comprising: a housing; a bottom surface defined by the housing; a plurality of convex connectors extending from the bottom surface, the plurality of convex connectors detachably and rigidly connecting the housing to a top surface of a storage unit; a display pivotally connected to the housing; a cable configured to extend from and retract into the housing; and a camera connected to an outer end of the cable. The display shows one or more images captured by the camera.

[0006] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a utility module comprising: a housing; a bottom surface defined by the housing; a plurality of convex connectors extending from the bottom surface, the plurality of convex connectors detachably and rigidly connecting the housing to a top surface of a storage unit; a display pivotally connected to the housing; a camera displaying one or more images captured by the camera; and a battery interface configured to physically connect to a rechargeable power tool battery. The display and camera are configured to receive power from the rechargeable power tool battery connected to the battery interface.

[0007] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a utility module comprising: a housing; a bottom surface defined by the housing; a plurality of convex connectors extending from the bottom surface, the plurality of convex connectors detachably and rigidly connecting the housing to a top surface of a storage unit; a display pivotally connected to the housing; a storage area defined by the housing, the storage area being configured as a storage device; and a camera. The display shows one or more images captured by the camera.

[0008] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to an apparatus comprising: a housing; a bottom surface defined by the housing; a plurality of convex connectors extending from the bottom surface; a display pivotally coupled to the housing; and a camera operatively coupled to the display such that images captured by the camera are visible on the display. In a specific embodiment, the apparatus includes a cable configured to extend from and retract within the housing, and the camera is coupled to the cable. The plurality of convex connectors detachably and rigidly connect the housing to the top surface of a storage unit. The display includes a screen for displaying one or more images captured by the camera.

[0009] In various embodiments, the device includes a first cover pivotally coupled to a housing, the first cover and the housing together defining a first compartment. Cables extend from and retract into the first compartment.

[0010] In various embodiments, the display is pivotally coupled to the housing in such a way that the display is pivotally coupled to the first cover and the first cover is pivotally coupled to the housing.

[0011] In various embodiments, the device includes a second cover pivotally coupled to the housing, the second cover and the housing together defining a second compartment, and the device also includes a battery interface located within the second compartment, the battery interface being configured to physically connect to a rechargeable power tool battery. A display and camera mechanism are configured to receive power from the rechargeable power tool battery.

[0012] In various embodiments, each of the plurality of convex connectors includes a body extending below a bottom surface, a first tongue, and a second tongue. Both the first and second tongues extend from the body and are offset relative to and below the bottom surface. The first tongue defines a first channel between the bottom surface and the first tongue, and the second tongue defines a second channel between the bottom surface and the second tongue. The first and second channels each extend on opposite sides of the body, and each channel includes a front open end and a rear closed end.

[0013] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a device comprising: a housing; a bottom surface defined by the housing; a plurality of convex connectors extending from the bottom surface; a display pivotally coupled to the housing; a camera operatively coupled to the display such that images captured by the camera are visible on the display; and a battery interface configured to physically connect to a rechargeable power tool battery. The display includes a screen for displaying one or more images captured by the camera. The plurality of convex connectors detachably and rigidly connect the housing to the top surface of a storage unit. The display and camera mechanism cause power to be received from the rechargeable power tool battery coupled to the battery interface.

[0014] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following detailed description and will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description or will be recognized by practice of the embodiments as described in the written description and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary.

[0015] The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operation of various embodiments. Additionally, alternative exemplary embodiments relate to other features and combinations of features as can be generally set forth in this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0016] This application will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements:

[0017] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an apparatus including a display and a camera according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the device.

[0019] Figure 3 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the device.

[0020] Figure 4 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the device.

[0021] Figure 5 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the device viewed from below.

[0022] Figure 6 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A detailed perspective view of the device from below.

[0023] Figure 7 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A frontal perspective view of the device, in which the first and second covers have been removed.

[0024] Figure 8 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A rear-view perspective view of the device, in which the first and second covers have been removed.

[0025] Figure 9 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the device.

[0026] Figure 10 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A front view of a portion of the graphics and images shown on the device's display.

[0027] Figure 11 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A front view of a portion of the graphics and images shown on the device's display.

[0028] Figure 12 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A front view of a portion of the graphics and images shown on the device's display.

[0029] Figure 13 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A front view of a portion of the graphics shown on the device's display.

[0030] Figure 14 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A front view of a portion of the graphics and images shown on the device's display.

[0031] Figure 15 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A front view of a portion of the graphics and images shown on the device's display.

[0032] Figure 16 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A front view of a portion of the graphics and images shown on the device's display. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of stackable devices, containers, or units are illustrated. One or more devices within the device are configured to selectively engage and disengage with a storage unit. The stackable device is engaged with the storage unit and includes a camera and a display to show images captured by the camera. The display pivots relative to the housing and includes an interface for receiving power from a power tool battery. The applicant has observed that providing a single device including a camera, a display showing images from the camera, and modular connecting components facilitates the user's transport of the device along with other units in a modular system and the use of the camera to view objects that would otherwise be difficult to observe.

[0034] Reference Figures 1 to 4 The diagram illustrates various aspects of a practical module shown as device 110. Device 110 includes a housing 120, a first cover 122 pivotally connected to the housing 120, and a second cover 160 pivotally connected to the housing 120. A first toggle latch 126 secures the first cover 122 in a closed position against the housing 120, and a second toggle latch 162 secures the second cover 160 in a closed position against the housing 120.

[0035] Device 110 includes a display 130 coupled to housing 120, for example, in a pivotally coupled manner, such as by pivotally coupling the display 130 to a first cover 122 and the first cover 122 to housing 120. The display 130 pivots relative to housing 120 about a first axis 132 and a second axis 134. Device 110 includes a cable 136 configured to extend and retract relative to housing 120 from an inner end to an outer end 138 coupled to housing 120 via a camera spring 144. Device 110 includes a camera 140 coupled to cable 136, such as the outer end 138 of cable 136, the camera 140 receiving light transmitted toward the outer end 138 of cable 136 (e.g., by positioning the camera 140 at the outer end 138 of the cable, or by using cable 136 as an optical fiber and transmitting light to camera 140 at the inner end of the cable). Arm 146 is detachably engaged with camera spring 144 to secure camera spring 144. Cable 136 extends through camera spring 144 and extends and retracts from housing 120 via camera spring 144. Screen 180 of display 130 displays one or more images captured by camera 140.

[0036] Display 130 pivots relative to first cover 122 and housing 120 about a first axis 132, and display 130 pivots relative to first cover 122 and housing 120 about a second axis 134 different from the first axis 132. In various embodiments, the second axis 134 is perpendicular to the first axis 132. In various embodiments, display 130 pivots 150 degrees relative to housing 120 about the first axis 132, and display 130 pivots 180 degrees relative to housing 120 about the second axis 134.

[0037] In various embodiments, the display 130 includes a power button 184 configured to toggle whether the screen 180 and the camera 140 are powered. In various embodiments, for example when the display 130 is in a retracted position ( Figure 1 The display 130 is clamped and / or snapped against the first cover 122. In various embodiments, the display 130 includes a sealing gasket to provide a waterproof and / or watertight seal to prevent water from entering the display 130. In various embodiments, the display 130 and the screen 180 are touchscreen devices, thereby allowing a user to touch the screen 180 to provide input to the device 110.

[0038] Reference Figure 3 In various embodiments, device 110 includes a knee pad 174 coupled to housing 120, for example, to a second cover 160 coupled to housing 120. The knee pad 174 provides a more comfortable resting position for the user while using device 110, such as while extending cable 136, or while viewing a screen 180 displaying images captured by camera 140. In various embodiments, the pad 174 is formed of foam material. In various embodiments, the knee pad 174 is configured for use by a user operating camera 140 and display 130.

[0039] Reference Figure 4 The device 110 includes a cover 150 that is detachably engaged with the display 130 above a port shown as a USB port 148. In various embodiments, the cover 150 is tethered to the display 130.

[0040] Reference Figures 1 to 5 The housing 120 includes a front wall 240, an opposite rear wall 242, a first side wall 244, and an opposite second side wall 246, each of the first side wall 244 and the second side wall 246 extending between the front wall 240 and the rear wall 242. The device 110 includes a handle 248 coupled to the housing 120, for example, pivotally coupled to the housing 120, for example, pivotally coupled to the front wall 240.

[0041] Reference Figures 5 to 6 The device 110 includes a bottom surface 200 defined by a housing 120 and a plurality of convex connectors 202 extending from the bottom surface 200 of the housing 120. The plurality of convex connectors 202 detachably and rigidly connect the housing 120 to the top surface of a storage unit, such as to a storage unit in a modular system. The device 110 includes a latch 230 connected to the housing 120, for example, slidably connected to the housing 120; and a latch engagement 232 configured to allow a user to actuate the latch 230 upward, thus preventing the latch 230 from extending below the bottom surface 200. In various embodiments, the latch 230 is connected to the front wall 240 of the housing 120. In use, the housing 120 slides in a first direction until the convex connectors 202 engage with a concave connector on the top surface of a connecting mechanism, such as a modular unit, and until the latch 230 engages with a latch recess defined by the modular unit. The latch 230 is configured to engage with a latch recess defined by the top surface of the storage unit to which the device 110 is coupled. The engagement between the latch 230 and the latch recess biases the convex connector 202 to prevent disengagement from the concave connector, thereby allowing the device 110 and the modular unit to be detachably and rigidly coupled together.

[0042] Reference Figure 6 One or more of the convex connectors 202 include an engagement member 204 extending from and located below the body 206 of the convex connector 202. In various embodiments, the engagement member 204 is formed of a material (e.g., rubber) that provides increased frictional resistance between the housing 120 and the object resting on the device 110, thereby biasing the device 110 to prevent slippage relative to the object resting on the device 110. In various embodiments, the engagement member 204 is detachably coupled to the housing 120 and is therefore replaceable by the user.

[0043] The device 110 includes a bottom surface 200 defined by a housing 120. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of convex connectors 202 includes a body 206 extending from the bottom surface 200, a first tongue 208, and a second tongue 216. Both the first tongue 208 and the second tongue 216 extend from the body 206 and are both offset relative to, below, and parallel to the bottom surface 200. The first tongue 208 defines a first channel 210 between the bottom surface 200 and the first tongue 208, and the second tongue 216 defines a second channel 218 between the bottom surface 200 and the second tongue 216. The first channel 210 and the second channel 218 each extend on opposite sides of the body 206 (e.g., a first side 224 and an opposite second side 226).

[0044] Each of the first channel 210 and the second channel 218 includes a front open end and a rear closed end. For example, the first channel 210 extends from the rear closed end 214 to the front open end 212, and the second channel 218 extends from the rear closed end 222 to the front open end 220.

[0045] In various embodiments, the first channel 210 extends from the rear closed end 214 toward the front open end 212 and the rear wall 242 of the housing 120.

[0046] In a specific embodiment, the convex connector 202 and the latch 230 are compatible with the connection mechanism described in International Patent Publication No. WO / 2017 / 191628, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0047] Reference Figures 7 to 8 The diagram illustrates various aspects of the internal structure of device 110. When the first cover 122 is in the closed position relative to housing 120, a gasket 124 engages with both the first cover 122 and housing 120 to provide a seal between them. In various embodiments, the gasket 124 engages between the first cover 122 and housing 120 to reduce the amount of debris and / or water that passes through the space between the first cover 122 and housing 120 to overflow or enter the first compartment 128. When the second cover 160 is in the closed position relative to housing 120, a gasket 172 engages with both the second cover 160 and housing 120 to provide a seal between them. In various embodiments, the gasket 172 engages between the second cover 160 and housing 120 to reduce the amount of debris and / or water that passes through the space between the second cover 160 and housing 120 to overflow or enter the second compartment 164.

[0048] A first cover 122 and a housing 120 together define a first compartment 128. The first compartment 128 includes a cylinder 142 that secures a cable 136 within the first compartment 128. In various embodiments, the first cover 122 and the housing 120 together define the first compartment 128, which is configured to store the cable 136 connected to the camera 140.

[0049] The second cover 160 and the housing 120 together define a compartment, such as a second compartment 164, and a storage area 170. The second cover 160 and housing 120 define a second compartment in which a battery interface 166 is located. The second compartment 164 includes the battery interface 166, which is configured to be physically and electrically connected to a rechargeable power tool battery 168. In various embodiments, the display 130 and the camera 140 are configured to receive power from the rechargeable power tool battery 168 connected to the battery interface 166. The second compartment 164 includes a storage area 170, which is configured to store other objects and / or equipment, such as a scooter or other small drainage cleaning attachments.

[0050] The device 110 includes a retainer 152 that extends from the housing 120 to secure the cable 136 within the tube 142. In various embodiments, the retainer 152 extends from the housing 120 toward the center of the tube 142 and then downward to secure the cable 136 within the tube 142.

[0051] When cable 136 is retracted into tube 142, cable 136 enters tube 142 in direction 272 via input portion 266. Retainer 152 is positioned on tube 142 at an angle 274 relative to input portion 266 in direction 272 around the circumference of tube 142. In various embodiments, angle 274 is between 90 degrees and 270 degrees, and more specifically between 100 degrees and 180 degrees, and more specifically between 110 degrees and 160 degrees, and even more specifically 135 degrees. The applicant has observed that these angles 274 help retain cable 136 within tube 142 when cable 136 is retracted into tube 142.

[0052] Reference Figure 9 The image shows various aspects of the retainer 152. The retainer 152 includes a horizontal arm 260 extending horizontally above the cylinder 142 between the cylinder 142 and the first cover 122, and a vertical arm 262 extending from the horizontal arm 260 away from the first cover 122 and toward the bottom surface 200. In various embodiments, the vertical arm 262 extends a distance 264 into the cylinder 142, and the distance 264 is at least twice the diameter 270 of the cable 136, and more specifically, the distance 264 is at least three times the diameter 270 of the cable 136, and even more specifically, the vertical arm 262 extends to the bottom of the cylinder 142, thereby enclosing the cable 136 between the vertical arm 262 and the inner surface of the cylinder 142.

[0053] In various embodiments, when the first cover 122 is closed, the horizontal arm 260 engages against the first cover 122, and the engagement between the horizontal arm 260 and the first cover 122 facilitates biasing the retainer 152 downward toward the bottom surface 200. The first cover 122, biasing the retainer 152 downward toward the bottom surface 200, helps to hold the retainer 152 in place to confine the cable 136 within the tube 142. In various embodiments, the device 110 includes a tube 142 located within a first compartment 128, the cable 136 being wound within the tube 142, and the device 110 includes a retainer 152 including a vertical arm 262 extending away from the first cover 122 and extending within the tube 142, the vertical arm 262 partially enclosing the cable 136 within the tube 142.

[0054] Reference Figure 10 In various implementations, the button 182 on the screen 180 has a transparent or substantially transparent background, and / or the button 182 includes an outline for identifying the clickable area of ​​the button 182, such as when the display 130 is a touch screen display.

[0055] Reference Figure 11 In various implementations, when button 182 is selected, button 182 on screen 180 is brighter than other buttons 182, and when button 182 is not selected, button 182 is darker than other buttons 182.

[0056] Reference Figure 12 In various embodiments, the slider 190 is large enough to allow the user's finger to easily interact with the screen 180. In various embodiments, one side of the slider 190 is colored and / or brighter to indicate to the user the degree to which the control has been activated.

[0057] Reference Figure 13 In various implementations, screen 180 displays a status bar that indicates various important information, such as remaining battery life, Wi-Fi connectivity, and / or time.

[0058] Reference Figures 14 to 15 In various implementations, screen 180 facilitates user switching, for example by providing a list of filter options at the top of the screen. Figure 14 ), and / or by providing a pop-up alert superimposed on screen 180, such as providing a pop-up alert semi-transparently in the center of screen 180 ( Figure 15 This makes it easier for users to switch between modes.

[0059] Reference Figure 16In various embodiments, screen 180 includes a distance counter 186 and / or a reset button 188, the distance counter 186 indicating the amount of cable 136 that has extended out of housing 120.

[0060] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments in detail, and that this application is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the specification or illustrated in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology is used for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0061] Given this description, further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this description is to be interpreted as illustrative only. The constructions and arrangements shown in the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions of various elements, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed from multiple parts or elements whose positions may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. According to alternative embodiments, the order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be changed or reordered. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may also be made in terms of the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0062] Unless otherwise expressly stated, no method described herein is intended to be construed as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order. Therefore, no particular order is intended to be inferred unless a method claim actually describes the order by which its steps are to be followed, or unless otherwise specifically stated in the claims or description that the steps should be limited to a particular order. Furthermore, as used herein, the article “a” is intended to include one or more parts or elements, and is not intended to be construed as referring to only one.

[0063] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "connection" refers to two components being directly or indirectly linked to each other. Such a connection may be inherently fixed or inherently movable. This connection can be achieved by integrally forming two components and any additional intermediate components into a single monolithic body, or by attaching two components to each other or by attaching two components and any additional components to each other. Such a connection may be inherently permanent, or alternatively, such a connection may be inherently removable or releasable. As used herein, a "rigid connection" refers to two components connected in such a way that, when subjected to forces, these components move together in a fixed positional relationship.

[0064] Although this application describes specific combinations of features in the appended claims, various embodiments of the present invention relate to any combination of any features described herein, whether or not such combinations are currently claimed, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this application or a future application. Any feature, element, or component of any exemplary embodiment of the exemplary embodiments discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any feature, element, or component of any other embodiment of the other embodiments discussed above.

[0065] In various exemplary embodiments, relative dimensions, including angles, lengths, and radii, as shown in the accompanying drawings, are drawn to scale. Actual measurements of the drawings will reveal the relative dimensions, angles, and scales of the various exemplary embodiments. The various exemplary embodiments extend to a wide range around the absolute and relative dimensions, angles, and scales that can be determined from the drawings. The various exemplary embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that can be determined from the drawings. Furthermore, actual dimensions not explicitly stated in this specification can be determined by combining the scales of the dimensions measured in the drawings with the explicit dimensions stated in this specification.

Claims

1. A device having a display and a camera, characterized in that, The device includes: case; A bottom surface, defined by the housing; Multiple convex connectors extend from the bottom surface and detachably and rigidly connect the housing to the top surface of the storage unit. A display, the display being pivotally connected to the housing; Cables, the cables being configured to extend from and retract into the housing; and A camera, which is connected to the outer end of the cable, wherein the display shows one or more images captured by the camera.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of convex connectors includes a body extending from the bottom surface and a first tongue extending from the body, the first tongue being offset relative to the bottom surface, located below the bottom surface, and parallel to the bottom surface.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first tongue-shaped portion defines a first channel, the first channel including a front open end and a rear closed end.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The housing includes a front wall and an opposite rear wall, the first channel extends from the rear closed end toward the front open end and the rear wall, and the utility module includes a handle coupled to the front wall.

5. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The housing includes a front wall and an opposite rear wall, the first channel extending from the rear closed end toward the front open end and the rear wall, the utility module including a latch coupled to the front wall, the latch being configured to engage with a latch recess defined by the top surface of the storage unit, wherein the engagement of the latch and the latch recess biases a convex connector to prevent disengagement from the concave connector of the storage unit.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display pivots relative to the housing about a first axis and a second axis different from the first axis.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second axis is perpendicular to the first axis.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The utility module includes a knee pad configured for use by a user operating the camera and the display.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display is a touchscreen.

10. A device having a display and a camera, characterized in that, The device includes: case; A bottom surface, defined by the housing; Multiple convex connectors extend from the bottom surface and detachably and rigidly connect the housing to the top surface of the storage unit. A display, the display being pivotally connected to the housing; A camera, wherein the display shows one or more images captured by the camera; and A battery interface configured to physically connect to a rechargeable power tool battery, wherein the display and the camera mechanism cause the rechargeable power tool battery connected to the battery interface to receive power.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The utility module includes a first cover pivotally connected to the housing, the first cover and the housing together defining a first compartment configured to store cables connected to the camera.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The utility module includes a second cover pivotally connected to the housing, the second cover and the housing together defining a second compartment, in which the battery interface is located.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that, The utility module includes a knee pad attached to the second cover, the knee pad being configured for use by a user operating the camera and the display.

14. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The utility module includes: A cylinder, located within the first compartment, wherein the cable is wound inside the cylinder; and A retainer comprising a vertical arm extending away from the first cover and extending within the cylinder, the vertical arm partially enclosing the cable within the cylinder.

15. The apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of convex connectors includes a body extending from the bottom surface, a first tongue extending from the body, and a second tongue extending from the body opposite to the first tongue, each of the first tongue and the second tongue being offset relative to the bottom surface, located below the bottom surface, and parallel to the bottom surface.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first tongue-shaped portion defines a first channel, and the second tongue-shaped portion defines a second channel, each of the first tongue-shaped portion and the second tongue-shaped portion including a front open end and a rear closed end.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that, The housing includes a front wall and an opposite rear wall, each of the first and second channels extending from the rear closed end toward the front open end and the rear wall. The utility module includes a latch coupled to the front wall, the actuated latch configured to engage with a latch recess defined by the top surface of the storage unit, wherein the engagement of the latch and the latch recess biases a convex connector to prevent disengagement from the concave connector of the storage unit.

18. A device having a display and a camera, characterized in that, The device includes: case; A bottom surface, defined by the housing; Multiple convex connectors extend from the bottom surface and detachably and rigidly connect the housing to the top surface of the storage unit. A display, the display being pivotally connected to the housing; Storage area, defined by the housing, configured as a storage device; and A camera, wherein the display shows one or more images captured by the camera.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that, The device includes a joining member that extends from and is located below the plurality of convex connectors, wherein the joining member is formed of a material comprising rubber.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that, The display pivots relative to the housing about a first axis and a second axis different from the first axis, wherein the second axis is perpendicular to the first axis, and wherein the display is a touch screen.

Images