Docking system for mobile devices

Abstract

A docking system for a mobile device includes a docking base operable to be secured to a display mounting interface of a display mount. The docking base includes a mounting post at a post offset location of the docking base. The docking system also includes a docking adapter operable to be secured to a mobile device at a device offset location of the mobile device. The docking adapter includes a mounting recess operable to receive the mounting post to removably secure the docking adapter to the docking base. The device offset location is offset from a center of the mobile device. The post offset location is offset from a center of the display mounting interface such that the mobile device is centered on the display mounting interface when the mobile device is secured to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is secured to the docking base.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to mobile devices, and more specifically to docking systems for mobile devices. Background Technology

[0002] Early solutions for in-store point-of-sale (POS) devices were fixed to countertops, often due to their size and weight or based on precedent. The emergence of mobile POS software has enabled mobile devices to offer most of the same feature set as fixed POS devices, but with greater mobility throughout the store. This mobility, achievable through wireless networks and cloud-based technologies such as digital payments and electronic receipts, makes these mobile devices attractive to retailers both aesthetically and in terms of cost per POS unit, by providing a “cutting-edge” look.

[0003] As store operators began deploying mobile POS devices, they found that these devices could do everything their fixed POS devices had been doing for years, so in many cases, these store operators opted for mobile POS devices when it was time to replace the fixed POS devices. Some store operators also found the occasional benefit of using docking stations to install mobile POS devices in fixed locations (such as at the counter in the checkout lane).

[0004] Mobile devices are also used in business environments, such as warehouses. In some examples, mobile devices are carried by warehouse staff to facilitate inventory management by scanning barcodes, entering data, and viewing data. Staff can alternate between working in fixed locations, such as at a table near the loading dock, and carrying mobile devices while performing other tasks within the warehouse.

[0005] Solutions for mounting mobile devices include Velcro, tape, and even magnets, which attach to the mobile device itself or to the housing that holds it. However, these solutions often lack durability for certain environments (e.g., warehouses) or are designed for specific mobile devices. Utility Model Content

[0006] The appended claims define this application. This document discloses various aspects of the embodiments and is not intended to limit the claims. Other embodiments are contemplated based on the technology described herein, as will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description, and these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application.

[0007] An example embodiment of a docking system for mobile devices is shown.

[0008] The example docking system for mobile devices disclosed herein includes a docking base and a docking adapter. The docking base is operable to be secured to a display mounting interface of a display mount, and includes a mounting post at a post offset position. The docking adapter is operable to be secured to the mobile device at a device offset position, and includes a mounting recess operable to receive the mounting post to removably secure the docking adapter to the docking base. The device offset position is offset from the center of the mobile device. The post offset position is offset from the center of the display mounting interface such that when the mobile device is secured to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is secured to the docking base, the mobile device is centered on the display mounting interface.

[0009] The example docking system for mobile devices disclosed herein includes a docking base and a docking adapter. The docking base is operable to be secured to a display mounting interface of a display mounting bracket. The docking base includes mounting posts that are offset from the center of the display mounting interface when the docking base is secured to the display mounting interface. The docking adapter is operable to be secured to an elongated housing that holds the mobile device. The docking adapter includes a mounting recess operable to receive the mounting posts to removably secure the docking adapter to the docking base. The docking adapter is operable to be offset toward a first short side of the elongated housing such that when the mobile device is held in the elongated housing, with the elongated housing centered on the display mounting interface, the elongated housing is secured to the docking adapter, and the docking adapter is secured to the docking base, wherein the mobile device is in a laterally oriented position. Attached Figure Description

[0010] To better understand this application, reference can be made to the embodiments shown in the following figures. Components in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, and related elements may be omitted, or in some cases, the scale may be excessive to emphasize and clearly illustrate the novel features described herein. Furthermore, as is known in the art, system components may be arranged differently. Additionally, throughout the figures, the same reference numerals denote corresponding parts.

[0011] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of an example docking system having a docking base connected to a display mounting base, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The front view of the docking system shows the mobile device fixed laterally to the housing of the docking base.

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The front view of the docking system shows the mobile device fixed longitudinally to the housing of the docking base.

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of the docking system, showing the docking adapter before it engages the docking base.

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of the docking system, showing the docking adapter engaging with the docking base.

[0016] Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C yes Figure 1 A front-view perspective view of the docking system, showing the installation of the mobile device onto the display mount. Detailed Implementation

[0017] While this application may be implemented in various forms, some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and will be described below. It should be understood that this disclosure should be considered as exemplary of this application and is not intended to limit this application to the specific embodiments shown.

[0018] An example docking system for mobile devices is configured to securely mount and / or connect different mobile devices to a suitable display dock. The docking system includes a docking base that can be secured to the display dock and a docking adapter that can be secured to a housing for the mobile device. When the housing and the mobile device are connected to the docking adapter, the docking adapter allows the housing and the mobile device to be secured to the docking base and thus to the display dock. Once secured, the docking base and the docking adapter are configured to provide data and / or power to the mobile device and securely hold the mobile device to the display dock. In some embodiments, the docking adapter can be directly secured to the mobile device. In some embodiments, the docking adapter can be secured to any of a variety of housings for different mobile devices. In some such embodiments, the docking system allows any mobile device among different mobile devices to be secured to the display dock.

[0019] Switch to the attached image. Figures 1 to 5 An example docking system 100 operable to secure a mobile device 25 to a display mounting base 50 according to the teachings herein is depicted. In various embodiments, the docking system 100 includes a docking base 200 and a docking adapter 400. In some embodiments, the docking system 100 also includes a housing 300 for receiving the mobile device 25.

[0020] In various embodiments, mobile device 25 is a tablet computer, smartphone, or other suitable mobile electronic device. Mobile device 25 may include Android-based devices, iOS-based devices, Fire OS-based devices, Chrome OS-based devices, and / or other suitable mobile devices. In some embodiments, mobile device 25 includes a tablet computer or other mobile electronic device employing a POS operating system and / or POS applications.

[0021] Mobile device 25 includes a display screen 26, user input devices 27 (e.g., buttons, switches, sliders, and / or keys), and one or more communication ports 28. Communication ports 28 may include data and charging ports, such as a Universal Serial Bus port, a Lightning port, or other suitable ports. In various embodiments, mobile device 25 may include a speaker, a microphone, a SIM card tray, a memory card tray, and / or other suitable components.

[0022] The display stand 50 is configured to support a display device, such as a monitor (e.g., LCD), all-in-one computer, television, fixed POS device, or other suitable device. In various embodiments, the display stand 50 includes a base 52, an arm 54 extending from the base 52, and a display mounting interface 56 at the end of the arm 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 52 is placed on a counter or table, and the arm 54 extends vertically from the base 52. In other embodiments, the base 52 may be fixed to a wall, ceiling, or other suitable surface. The arm 54 and the display mounting interface 56 are configured to support the display device in a position and orientation suitable for the user, such as in front of a cashier at a store checkout.

[0023] The display mounting interface 56 includes four or more mounting holes configured to receive fasteners, such as screws, to secure the display device. In some embodiments, the mounting holes of the display mounting interface 56 are threaded to receive screws. In other embodiments, the mounting holes of the display mounting interface 56 are unthreaded, and fasteners pass through the mounting holes to engage nuts or other threaded elements and secure the display device.

[0024] The docking base 200 includes a base body 210, mounting posts 220, base electrical contacts 230, base magnetic fixing devices 240, and wires 250. The base body 210 includes a housing that supports various components of the docking base 200, such as electrical components (e.g., power adapters, communication controllers, and / or circuitry), mechanical components (e.g., actuator components), or other suitable components. In various embodiments, the base body 210 includes one or more data ports (e.g., USB ports) and / or power ports.

[0025] The docking base 200 is operable to be secured to the display mounting interface 56 of the display mounting base 50. In various embodiments, for securing the docking base 200 to the display mounting interface 56 of the display mounting base 50, the base body 210 includes a base bracket 212 having two or more fastener holes 214, which allow the docking base 200 to be secured to the display mounting base 50. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the base bracket 212 is located on the rear surface of the base body 210. In other embodiments, the base bracket 212 is located on one or more sides of the base body 210. Although the base bracket 212 in the example embodiment is shown as a single bracket, in other embodiments, the base bracket 212 includes two, three, or more bracket portions.

[0026] In some embodiments, the fastener hole 214 of the base bracket 212 is threaded to receive screws or other threaded fasteners. In other embodiments, the fastener hole 214 is unthreaded, and suitable fasteners pass through the fastener hole 214 to engage nuts or other threaded retaining devices and secure the mating base 200. In other embodiments, the fastener hole 214 is configured to receive various fastening devices, such as push-clamp retainers, snap-fit ​​connectors, or other suitable fastening devices.

[0027] In various embodiments, the base bracket 212 is compatible with one or more standardized mounting brackets and / or proprietary mounting brackets. Specifically, the fastener holes 214 for the base bracket 212 are aligned to be compatible with the display mounting interface 56 of the display mount 50. In various embodiments, the base bracket 212 can be adjusted to be compatible with other brackets or other mounting holes of the display mounting interface 56.

[0028] In the embodiment shown in the figure, the base bracket 212 and the display mounting interface 56 are each compatible with the Flat Panel Display Mount Interface (FDMI) or the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mounting interface standard (“VESA mount”). In this example embodiment, the display mounting interface 56 and the base bracket 212 are each compatible with the VESAMIS-D 100 mm mount, which includes four screw holes having a 100 mm by 100 mm form factor. In some embodiments, the base bracket 212 is compatible with other suitable VESA configurations with different hole forms (e.g., 75x75, 50x100, etc.), different mounting configurations (e.g., center mount and / or edge mount), or other variations.

[0029] Mounting post 220 extends from the front surface of base body 210 and provides a structure to which docking adapter 400 can be mounted. Specifically, mounting recess 420 of docking adapter 400 is mounted onto mounting post 220, as described below. In the embodiment shown in the figures, mounting post 220 is typically square, which allows docking adapter 400 to be mounted in four different orientations for mobile device 25 (i.e., lateral left, longitudinal, lateral right, and inverted longitudinal). In other embodiments, mounting post 220 has different shapes, such as hexagonal, octagonal, circular, or other suitable shapes.

[0030] In some embodiments, to facilitate placement of the mounting recess 420 onto the mounting post 220, the mounting post 220 includes a chamfered edge, a rounded edge (i.e., having a curved profile), and / or a beveled edge around the distal end of the mounting post 220. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting post 220 includes a chamfered edge around its outer periphery 226 at its distal end. In some embodiments, the mounting post 220 includes a chamfered edge, a rounded edge, and / or a beveled edge around a peripheral corner 228 of the mounting post 220. Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, the mounting post 220 includes a chamfered edge around the outer periphery of a square shape surrounding the mounting post 220.

[0031] In various embodiments, the mounting post 220 is located at a post offset position of the mating base 200. In some embodiments, the mating base 200 is configured such that the mounting post 220 is offset relative to the center of the display mounting interface 56 in a first direction. In some such embodiments, the mating adapter 400 may be fixed to the housing 300 (or the mobile device 25) and offset to one side of the mobile device 25 (e.g., offset in a second opposite direction), such that the mobile device 25 is centered relative to the center of the display mounting interface 56. With the mating adapter 400 offset to one side, the mating adapter 400 allows additional space on the other side of the housing 300 (i.e., opposite to the mating adapter 400) to be used for other purposes. Figure 6A In the exemplary embodiment shown, the housing 300 includes a retaining device 310 on the other side. In such an embodiment, the mobile device 25 can be comfortably and securely supported by the user's hand using the retaining device 310 in an offset position, and is also centrally secured to the docking base 200 relative to the display mounting interface 56. In some embodiments, the mounting post 220 is offset such that when the mobile device 25 is secured to the docking base 200, the user's hand is not trapped between the housing 300 and the docking base 200.

[0032] In some embodiments, the housing 300 is elongated, having two short sides and two long sides. In some such embodiments, the docking adapter 400 is operable to be offset toward a first short side of the housing 300, such that when the mobile device 25 is held in the housing 300, with the housing centered on the display mounting interface 56, the housing 300 is secured to the docking adapter 400, and the docking adapter 400 is secured to the docking base 200, wherein the mobile device 25 is laterally oriented. In such embodiments, the holding device 310 is mounted toward a second short side of the housing 300.

[0033] The base electrical contact 230 is configured to facilitate data and / or power transmission to the mobile device 25. In various embodiments, the base electrical contact 230 is configured to engage the adapter electrical contact 430 of the docking adapter 400, providing further electrical connection to the mobile device 25. In various examples, the base electrical contact is configured to engage electrical contacts of the mobile device 25 itself.

[0034] The base magnetic securing device 240 is configured to secure the mobile device 25 to the docking base 200 using a quick-release mechanism. In the example shown in the figure, the base magnetic securing device 240 is configured to magnetically secure the docking adapter 400 to the docking base 200 while still allowing for quick release and removal of the mobile device 25. The base magnetic securing device 240 employs a magnetic attraction force on the adapter magnetic securing device 440, as described below, to secure the mobile device 25. To provide a suitable magnetic attraction force, one of the base magnetic securing device 240 and the adapter magnetic securing device 440 includes a magnet, while the other of the base magnetic securing device 240 and the adapter magnetic securing device 440 includes another magnet or other suitable magnetic material (i.e., ferrous metal). In various embodiments, the base magnetic securing device 240 is used to maintain the connection between the base electrical contacts 230 and the adapter electrical contacts 430 even if the mobile device 25 is accidentally bumped by the user.

[0035] The wire 250 is configured to provide data transmission and / or power transmission to the docking system 200. In various embodiments, the wire 250 includes a power cord, USB cable, Ethernet cable, audio cable, and / or other suitable wire or cable. Although the wire 250 is shown as a single cable in the exemplary embodiment, in other embodiments, the wire 250 may include two, three, or more separate cables. In various embodiments, the wire 250 is electrically connected to the base electrical contacts 230 and / or other electrical components supported by the base body 210. In an example embodiment, the wire 250 is connected at one end to the docking base 200, routed through the central channel of the arm 54, and connected at the other end to a power source and / or electronic device (not shown).

[0036] In various embodiments, the docking base 200 includes one or more retractable tabs configured to lock the docking adapter 400, housing 300, and / or mobile device 25 to the docking base 200, for example, to prevent accidental removal and / or theft of the mobile device 25. The retractable tabs are movable between an extended position, in which the docking adapter 400 is secured to the docking base 200, and in the retracted position, the docking adapter 400 is releasable from the docking base 200. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the mounting post 220 includes four retractable tabs 222 extending radially outward from the central axis of the mounting post 220.

[0037] In various embodiments, the docking base 200 includes a tab actuator, such as a lever, switch, electromechanical actuator, or other suitable actuator, which selectively causes a retractable tab 222 to extend outward to lock the mobile device 25 and / or retract inward to release (or enable release) the mobile device 25. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the docking base 200 includes a tab actuator 224 that can be slid by a user to actuate the retractable tab between an extended position and a retracted position. In some embodiments, the tab actuator 224 is positioned in a concealed position when the mobile device 25 is docked to the docking base 200 to prevent unauthorized release of the mobile device 25.

[0038] In some embodiments, the retractable tab 222 is spring-loaded and biased toward a retracted position, and actuation of the tab actuator causes the retractable tab 222 to extend outward. In some embodiments, the retractable tab 222 is spring-loaded and biased toward an extended position. In some such embodiments, the mounting recess 420 is configured to: (1) push the retractable tab 222 inward to prevent interference with the mounting of the docking adapter 400 when the docking adapter 400 is secured to the docking base 200; and (2) release the retractable tab 222 outward once the docking adapter 400 is properly mounted onto the mounting post 220.

[0039] In various embodiments, the docking base 200 includes a wireless charging device 260 that enables wireless charging of the mobile device 25 when it is docked in the docking base 200. In various embodiments, the wireless charging device 260 includes a charging controller (e.g., processor and driver circuitry) and an induction coil configured to provide a suitable magnetic field to the corresponding induction coil and charging controller of the mobile device 25 when it is attached to the docking base 200. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the induction coil of the wireless charging device 260 is located within the mounting post 220 to provide suitable proximity between the wireless charging device 260 and the induction coil of the mobile device 25. In some embodiments, the wireless charging device 260 includes an induction coil located within the base body 210.

[0040] The housing 300 is configured to securely accommodate the mobile device 25. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the housing 300 is a one-piece body, but in other embodiments it may include a two-piece, three-piece, or more-piece body. In various embodiments, the housing 300 includes polycarbonate, polyoxymethylene, other suitable thermoplastics, carbon fiber reinforced polymers (“carbon fibers”), other fiber reinforced polymers (e.g., glass fiber reinforced nylon), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, and / or other suitable materials.

[0041] In some embodiments, the housing 300 is an elongated housing having two short sides and two long sides. Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the two short sides are the left and right sides, and the two long sides are the top and bottom sides. The housing 300 includes a back wall and a plurality of side walls. The front side of the back wall and the side walls define cavities or openings in which the mobile device 25 is secured. In various embodiments, the housing 300 includes a communication port aperture 328 for a communication port 28 of the mobile device 25. In various embodiments, the housing 300 defines one or more additional apertures (not labeled) to facilitate user interaction with one or more components of the mobile device 25, such as the communication port, buttons, switches, speakers, microphones, SIM card trays, memory card trays, or other suitable components of the mobile device 25. In some embodiments, the additional apertures include mounting holes configured to receive fasteners to secure the housing 300 to a docking adapter 400. In some embodiments, the housing 300 includes magnetic securing devices, for example, to facilitate wireless charging and / or accessory attachment of the mobile device 25.

[0042] In various embodiments, the housing 300 includes one or more structural features, fasteners, and / or connectors for securing the mobile device 25 within an opening of the housing 300, for example, to facilitate retention of the mobile device 25 within the housing 300 during forceful movement (e.g., physical impact). In various embodiments, the housing 300 includes an inner lip that extends along the outer edge of the mobile device 25 around the inner periphery of a sidewall and partially extends over the front side (i.e., screen) of the mobile device 25. Other configurations of the inner lip and other means for securing the mobile device 25 within the housing 300 are conceivable and within the scope of this disclosure.

[0043] To secure the mating adapter 400 to the housing 300, the housing 300 includes one or more fastening devices (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment shown, the fastening device 300 of the housing includes a mounting hole through which a screw passes and enters a corresponding fastening device 412 (described below) of the mating adapter 400. In various embodiments, the fastening device includes a mounting hole, a threaded recess or post, a push-clamp retainer, a snap-fit ​​connector, or other suitable fastening device.

[0044] In various embodiments, housing 300 includes multiple fastening device groups (not shown). Each fastening device group includes one or more fastening devices that enable different components to be secured to housing 300. Different components may include docking adapter 400, retaining device 310, external battery, barcode scanner, housing frame (i.e., for supporting mobile device 25 when placed on a surface or on a user's knee), other housing accessories, or other suitable components. Figure 6A In the exemplary embodiment shown, the housing 300 includes a first fastening device group for securing the retaining device 310 to the housing 300 and a second fastening device group for securing the docking adapter 400 to the housing 300.

[0045] In various embodiments, the housing 300 includes a holding device 310 that facilitates support of the housing 300 by a user's hand. In some embodiments, the holding device 310 secures the housing 300 to the user's hand. Figure 6A In the illustrated embodiment, the holding device 310 includes a hand strap configured to wrap around the back of a user's hand. In other embodiments, the holding device 310 includes a clip mounted on the user's hand or other suitable holding device. In various embodiments, the holding device 310 allows the user to grip the housing 300 with their hand without wrapping their thumb or fingers around the edge of the housing 300, which could otherwise lead to unintentional user input on the touchscreen display of the mobile device 25.

[0046] In some embodiments, housing 300 includes a magnetic securing device (not shown) configured to secure mobile device 25 to docking base 200. Specifically, the magnetic securing device of housing 300 is configured to magnetically secure housing 300 to docking base 200. To provide suitable magnetic attraction, one of the base magnetic securing device 240 and the housing 300 magnetic securing device includes a magnet, while the other includes another magnet or other suitable magnetic material (i.e., ferrous metal). In some such embodiments, the magnetic securing device of housing 300 and the adapter magnetic securing device 440 cooperate to magnetically secure mobile device 25 to docking base 200.

[0047] The docking adapter 400 includes an adapter body 410, a mounting recess 420, adapter electrical contacts 430, an adapter magnetic fixing device 440, and a communication plug 450. The adapter body 410 includes a housing that supports various components of the docking adapter 400, such as electrical components (e.g., power adapter, communication controller, and / or circuitry) or other suitable components.

[0048] To secure the docking adapter 400 to the housing 300, the adapter body 410 includes one or more fastening devices 412. Figure 5 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the fastening device 412 includes a threaded groove into which a screw passes through a corresponding mounting hole in the housing 300. In some embodiments, the fastening device 412 includes a push-clamp retainer, a snap-fit ​​connector, or other suitable fastening device. In some embodiments, the fastening device 412 includes a threaded post that passes through a corresponding mounting hole in the housing 300 and receives a nut or other threaded retaining device.

[0049] The mounting recess 420 extends into the adapter body 410 and is configured to receive the mounting post 220 of the mating base 200. In other words, the mounting recess 420 is mounted onto the mounting post 220 to removably secure the mating adapter 400 to the mating base 200. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the mounting recess 420 is generally square. In some embodiments, the mounting post 410 and the mounting recess 420 have different shapes that enable additional orientation when fixed to each other, such as a square mounting post and an octagonal mounting recess that enable orientations of 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, etc.

[0050] In various embodiments, the mounting recess 420 includes an outer periphery 426 having chamfered edges, rounded edges, and / or beveled edges to facilitate placement of the mounting recess 420 onto the mounting post 220. In some embodiments, the mounting recess 420 includes a peripheral corner 428 having chamfered edges, rounded edges, and / or beveled edges. Figure 4In the embodiment shown, the mounting recess 420 includes a chamfered edge around the outer periphery 426 and a chamfered edge around the periphery corner 428.

[0051] The adapter electrical contact 430 is configured to facilitate data and / or power transmission to the mobile device 25. The adapter electrical contact 430 is configured such that if the docking base 200 and the docking adapter 400 are connected to each other, the base electrical contact 230 connects to the adapter electrical contact 430. Once connected, this enables the docking system 100 to provide power and / or data transmission between the mobile device 25 and the cable 250 via the docking adapter 400 and the docking base 200.

[0052] In the embodiment shown in the figure, the adapter electrical contacts 430 are implemented in a redundant group, shown as groups 430A, 430B, 430C, and 430D, such that when the docking base 200 and the docking adapter 400 are connected to each other, one group of adapter electrical contacts 430 is connected to the base electrical contacts 230. For example, group 430A is configured such that when the mobile device 25 is in a longitudinal orientation (e.g., Figure 3 When (as shown), it connects to the base electrical contact 230, and group 430B is configured to connect when the mobile device 25 is in a horizontal orientation (as shown). Figure 2 (As shown) When connected to the electrical contact 230 of the base, etc.

[0053] The adapter magnetic fixing device 440 is configured to secure the mobile device 25 to the docking base 200. In the example shown in the figure, the adapter magnetic fixing device 240 is configured to magnetically secure the docking adapter 400 to the docking base 200 via a magnetic attraction force on the base magnetic fixing device 240. As described above, one of the base magnetic fixing device 240 and the adapter magnetic fixing device 440 includes a magnet, while the other of the base magnetic fixing device 240 and the adapter magnetic fixing device 440 includes another magnet or other suitable magnetic material (i.e., ferrous metal). In various embodiments, the adapter magnetic fixing device 440 is used to maintain the connection between the base electrical contact 230 and the adapter electrical contact 430. Figure 5 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the adapter magnetic fixing device 440 includes four magnets 442A, 442B, 442C and 442D, which can be fixed to the corresponding magnets (not shown) of the base magnetic fixing device 240.

[0054] Communication plug 450 is configured to provide an electrical connection between communication port 28 of mobile device 25 and adapter electrical contacts 430. In various embodiments, communication plug 450 provides an electrical connection between communication port 28 and other electrical components of mating adapter 400. Figure 5In the example embodiment shown, the communication plug 450 includes a USB-C plug that can be directly inserted into the communication port 28 of the mobile device 25. In some embodiments, the docking adapter 400 includes multiple communication ports (not shown) at different locations on the docking adapter 400 (e.g., at different locations around the periphery of the adapter body 410). In such embodiments, the communication plug 450 is removable to be interchanged between different communication ports, making it easier for the same docking adapter 400 to be used with different mobile devices that have their communication ports in different locations.

[0055] Go to Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C This illustrates an example sequence for mounting a mobile device 25 to a display mount 50 using the docking system 100. For this example sequence: (1) the docking base 200 is secured to the display mount 50 via the base bracket 212; (2) the docking adapter 400 is secured to the housing 300; and (3) the mobile device 25 is secured within the housing 300.

[0056] like Figure 6A As shown, the user uses holding device 310 to support mobile device 25 with their hands. When the user approaches display mount 50, the user aligns housing 300 so that mounting recess 420 aligns with mounting post 220, as... Figure 6B As shown. In this example sequence, the user aligns the housing 300 in a lateral orientation. When the mounting recess 420 is placed on the distal end of the mounting post 220, the base magnetic fixing device 240 and the adapter magnetic fixing device 440 provide an increased level of magnetic attraction to secure the housing 300 to the mating base 200. Once the mounting recess 420 is positioned on the mounting post 220, as... Figure 6C As shown, the base electrical contact 230 engages the adapter electrical contact 430 to enable data and / or power transmission to the mobile device 25, and the wireless charging device 260 enables wireless charging of the mobile device 25.

[0057] In some embodiments, the adapter body 410 is configured to separate the front of the display mounting interface 56 from the rear of the housing 300 to accommodate the user's hand when the mobile device 25 is held in the housing 300, the housing is secured to the docking adapter 400, and the docking adapter 400 is secured to the docking base 200.

[0058] Although only a single exemplary housing 300 and mobile device 25 are shown in the exemplary embodiments, other variations of housing 300 and mobile device 25 are conceivable and within the scope of this disclosure. In various embodiments, the docking adapter 400 is configured to connect with any of a variety of different housings, for example, as a modular accessory to different housings. In some such embodiments, the docking system 100 provides a modular solution for mounting different mobile devices on an existing display dock. In some embodiments, the docking system 100 enables a store operator or warehouse operator to use the same docking system 100 at each of a number of different locations, even if different mobile devices are used at each location. In other words, a store or warehouse operator can use their own mobile devices, or even change mobile devices while using the same docking system 100, rather than being restricted to a particular POS system or terminal.

[0059] Although only a single exemplary display stand 50 is shown in the exemplary embodiment, other variations of the display stand 50 are contemplated and are within the scope of this disclosure. In embodiments where the base bracket 212 of the docking stand 200 is compatible with VESA mounts, the docking stand 200 is made possible to be mounted to a number of different display mounts that provide VESA mounts. Advantageously, the docking stand 200 allows retail stores with several existing display mounts of different styles, types, and / or configurations but each compatible with VESA mounts to purchase multiple instances of the docking stand 200, rather than different docking stands for each variation of the display mount. In some embodiments, the docking stand 200 includes one or more intermediate accessory brackets (not shown) such that the base bracket 212 can be secured to the intermediate accessory bracket, which in turn can be secured to the display stand.

[0060] It should be understood that the docking base 200, housing 300, and docking adapter 400 may vary according to this disclosure. For example, the docking base 200 and docking adapter 400 may employ mounting posts 220 and mounting recesses 420 of different sizes and shapes to facilitate attachment of the docking adapter 400 to the docking base 200.

[0061] Exemplary embodiments based on the teachings herein are disclosed below.

[0062] An example docking system includes: a docking base operable to be secured to a display mounting interface of a display mount, the docking base including a mounting post at a post offset position; and a docking adapter operable to be secured to a mobile device at a device offset position, the docking adapter including a mounting recess operable to receive the mounting post for removably securing the docking adapter to the docking base. The device offset position is offset from the center of the mobile device, and the post offset position is offset from the center of the display mounting interface, such that when the mobile device is secured to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is secured to the docking base, the mobile device is centered on the display mounting interface.

[0063] In some examples, the display mounting interface includes a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mounting interface; and the docking base includes a base bracket with fastener holes arranged in the form of a VESA mounting interface.

[0064] In some examples, when the mobile device is secured to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is secured to the docking base in the lateral orientation of the mobile device, the mobile device is centered on the display mounting interface.

[0065] In some examples, the docking adapter can be fixed to the docking post in the longitudinal orientation of the mobile device.

[0066] In some examples, when the mobile device is secured to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is secured to the docking base in the longitudinal orientation of the mobile device, the mobile device is centered on the display mounting interface.

[0067] In some examples, the docking adapter can be fixed to the docking post in the lateral orientation of the mobile device.

[0068] In some examples, the docking adapter is operable to be secured to a mobile device on a first side of the docking adapter, and a mounting recess is located on a second side of the docking adapter opposite to the first side.

[0069] In some examples, the docking base includes a base magnetic fixing device; the docking adapter includes an adapter magnetic fixing device; and when the mobile device is fixed to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is fixed to the docking base, the base magnetic fixing device and the adapter magnetic fixing device magnetically fix the mobile device to the docking base.

[0070] In some examples, the docking system also includes a housing having mounting holes and configured to securely receive a mobile device; and the docking adapter includes one or more fastening devices configured to secure the housing to the docking adapter via the mounting holes.

[0071] In some examples, the housing also includes a retaining device operable to secure the housing to a user's hand; the device offset position is offset from the center of the mobile device in a first direction; and the retaining device is offset from the center of the mobile device in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0072] In some examples, the docking adapter includes an adapter body configured to separate the front of the display mounting interface from the rear of the housing to accommodate the user's hands when the mobile device is held in the housing, the housing is secured to the docking adapter, and the docking adapter is secured to the docking base.

[0073] In some examples, the docking adapter is operable to be secured to any of a variety of housings, each housing having mounting holes and configured to securely accommodate different moving parts, and the docking adapter having one or more fastening devices configured to secure the housing to the docking adapter via the mounting holes of the housing.

[0074] In some examples, the docking adapter includes an adapter body configured to separate the front of the display mounting interface from the rear of the mobile device to accommodate the user's hands when the mobile device is attached to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is attached to the docking base.

[0075] An example docking system includes: a docking base operable to be secured to a display mounting interface of a display mounting base, the docking base including a mounting post offset from the center of the display mounting interface when the docking base is secured to the display mounting interface; and a docking adapter operable to be secured to an elongated housing holding a mobile device, the docking adapter including a mounting recess operable to receive the mounting post to removably secure the docking adapter to the docking base; the docking adapter operable to be offset toward a first short side of the elongated housing such that when the mobile device is held in the elongated housing, with the elongated housing centered on the display mounting interface, the elongated housing is secured to the docking adapter, and the docking adapter is secured to the docking base, wherein the mobile device is in a laterally oriented position.

[0076] In some examples, the display mounting interface includes a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mounting interface; and the docking base includes a base bracket with fastener holes arranged in the form of a VESA mounting interface.

[0077] In some examples, the docking adapter can operate to selectively attach to the mounting post when the mobile device is in either landscape or portrait orientation.

[0078] In some examples, the docking base includes a base magnetic fixing device; the docking adapter includes an adapter magnetic fixing device; and when the mounting post is fixed to the mounting recess, the base magnetic fixing device and the adapter magnetic fixing device are magnetically fixed to each other.

[0079] In some examples, the docking system also includes an elongated housing; and the elongated housing includes a hand-holding device that is offset toward a second short side of the elongated housing.

[0080] In some examples, the docking adapter includes an adapter body configured to separate the front of the display mounting interface from the rear of the elongated housing to accommodate the user's hands when the mobile device is held in the elongated housing, the elongated housing being secured to the docking adapter, and the docking adapter being secured to the docking base.

[0081] In some examples, the hand-holding device is a hand strap that secures the back of an elongated housing to the user's hand.

[0082] The above embodiments, especially any "preferred" embodiments, are examples of possible implementations and are merely illustrative for the purpose of clearly understanding the principles of this application. Many variations and modifications can be made to the above embodiments without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of the technology described herein. All modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure and are protected by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A docking system for mobile devices, characterized in that, The docking system includes: A docking base operable to be fixed to a display mounting interface of a display mounting base, the docking base including a mounting post at a post offset position of the docking base; A docking adapter operable to be secured to the mobile device at a device offset position, the docking adapter including a mounting recess operable to receive the mounting post to removably secure the docking adapter to the docking base. in: The device offset position is offset from the center of the mobile device, and The column offset position is offset from the center of the display mounting interface, such that when the mobile device is fixed to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is fixed to the docking base, the mobile device is centered on the display mounting interface.

2. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 1, characterized in that: The display mounting interface includes a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mounting interface; and The docking base includes a base bracket with fastener holes arranged in the form of a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESSA) mounting interface.

3. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the mobile device is fixed to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is fixed to the docking base in the lateral orientation of the mobile device, the mobile device is centered on the display mounting interface.

4. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 3, characterized in that, The docking adapter can be fixed to the docking post in the longitudinal orientation of the mobile device.

5. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the mobile device is fixed to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is fixed to the docking base in the longitudinal orientation of the mobile device, the mobile device is centered on the display mounting interface.

6. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 5, characterized in that, The docking adapter can be fixed to the docking post in the lateral orientation of the mobile device.

7. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 1, characterized in that, The docking adapter is operable to be secured to the mobile device on a first side of the docking adapter, and the mounting recess is located on a second side of the docking adapter opposite to the first side.

8. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 1, characterized in that: The docking base includes a base magnetic fixing device; The docking adapter includes an adapter magnetic fixing device; and When the mobile device is secured to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is secured to the docking base, the magnetic securing device of the base and the magnetic securing device of the adapter magnetically secure the mobile device to the docking base.

9. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 1, characterized in that: The docking system also includes a housing having mounting holes and configured to securely accommodate the mobile device; and The docking adapter includes one or more fastening devices configured to secure the housing to the docking adapter via the mounting holes.

10. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 9, characterized in that: The housing also includes a retaining device operable to secure the housing to a user's hand; The device offset position is offset from the center of the mobile device in a first direction; and The holding device is offset from the center of the mobile device in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

11. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 9, characterized in that, The docking adapter includes an adapter body configured to separate the front of the display mounting interface from the rear of the housing to accommodate a user's hand when the mobile device is held in the housing, the housing being secured to the docking adapter, and the docking adapter being secured to the docking base.

12. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 1, characterized in that: The docking adapter is operable to be secured to any of a variety of housings, each housing having mounting holes and configured to securely accommodate different mobile devices. The docking adapter has one or more fastening devices configured to secure the housing to the docking adapter via the mounting holes of the housing.

13. The docking system for mobile devices according to claim 1, characterized in that, The docking adapter includes an adapter body configured to separate the front of the display mounting interface from the rear of the mobile device to accommodate the user's hand when the mobile device is attached to the docking adapter and the docking adapter is attached to the docking base.

14. A docking system for mobile devices, characterized in that, The docking system includes: A docking base operable to be secured to a display mounting interface of a display mounting bracket, the docking base including mounting posts that offset from the center of the display mounting interface when the docking base is secured to the display mounting interface; and A docking adapter operable to be secured to an elongated housing holding the mobile device, the docking adapter including a mounting recess operable to receive the mounting post to removably secure the docking adapter to the docking base. in: The docking adapter is operable to be offset toward a first short side of the elongated housing, such that when the mobile device is held in the elongated housing, the elongated housing is centered on the display mounting interface, the elongated housing is fixed to the docking adapter, and the docking adapter is fixed to the docking base, wherein the mobile device is in a lateral orientation.

15. The docking system according to claim 14, wherein: The display mounting interface includes a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mounting interface; and The docking base includes a base bracket with fastener holes arranged in the form of a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESSA) mounting interface.

16. The docking system according to claim 15, wherein, The docking adapter is operable to be selectively secured to the mounting post when the mobile device is in the lateral and longitudinal orientations.

17. The docking system according to claim 16, wherein: The docking base includes a base magnetic fixing device; The docking adapter includes an adapter magnetic fixing device; and When the mounting post is fixed to the mounting recess, the base magnetic fixing device and the adapter magnetic fixing device are magnetically fixed to each other.

18. The docking system according to claim 17, wherein: The docking system also includes the elongated shell; and The elongated housing includes a hand-holding device that is offset toward the second short side of the elongated housing.

19. The docking system according to claim 18, wherein, The docking adapter includes an adapter body configured to separate the front of the display mounting interface from the rear of the elongated housing to accommodate a user's hand when the mobile device is held in the elongated housing, the elongated housing being secured to the docking adapter, and the docking adapter being secured to the docking base.

20. The docking system according to claim 19, wherein, The hand-holding device is a hand strap that secures the back of the elongated housing to the user's hand.

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