Grips for portable electronic devices

Abstract

A finger grip is configured to be attachable to a portable electronic device and provide a deployable tool to assist a user in holding the portable electronic device. The finger grip includes a base, a cap portion, and a flexure bearing. The cap portion is movable between a captured position in which the cap portion contacts the base and a relaxed position in which the cap portion is separated from the base by a gap. The flexure bearing is coupled to the base and to the cap portion, and provides at least one compliant degree of freedom to enable movement of the cap portion between the captured and relaxed positions.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to physical accessories for portable electronic devices, and more specifically to a thin, reusable grip that allows electromagnetic induction therethrough. [Background technology]

[0002] Portable electronic devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, laptop computers, smartwatches, e-readers, music players, fitness trackers, handheld gaming consoles, etc.) have become ubiquitous in modern society. These devices are often sized to be carried in one hand and operated with either hand. However, frequent use can lead to hand cramps or discomfort. To address these and other challenges, accessories have been developed to ease the burden of carrying and using these portable electronic devices. One such accessory (commonly referred to as a "grip" or "finger grip") can attach to a device or case and double as a kickstand, provide drop protection, and offer a more comfortable and functional means of holding the device. An exemplary grip is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,330,093, assigned to Ohsnap, Inc. ("Ohsnap") of Apex, North Carolina, and incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Wireless charging, including the Qi wireless power transmission standard, has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially for smartphone charging. These devices utilize an AC charging base station that can be powered by a household power source. The charging base station can include a transmitter coil that can induce a receiver coil inside the smartphone, generating a magnetic field known as magnetic resonance charging. Conventional finger grips are often excessively thick to enable wireless charging through them. As a result, when charging is desired, many users continue to opt for plug-in chargers or physically remove the finger grips to enable wireless charging. These options are burdensome and undesirable. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0004] Throughout the drawings, reference numbers may be reused to indicate correspondence between referenced elements. The drawings are provided to illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and not to limit the scope thereof.

[0005] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an environmental view of an exemplary finger grip according to the present disclosure.

[0006] [Figure 2A] 2 shows a perspective view of the finger grip of FIG. 1 in a relaxed position. [Figure 2B] 2 shows a perspective view of the finger grip of FIG. 1 in a relaxed position.

[0007] [Figure 3A] 2 shows the finger grip of FIG. 1 in a retracted position. [Figure 3B] 2 shows the finger grip of FIG. 1 in a retracted position. [Figure 3C] 2 shows the finger grip of FIG. 1 in a retracted position.

[0008] [Figure 4A]2 shows the finger grip of FIG. 1 in a kickstand position. [Figure 4B] 2 shows the finger grip of FIG. 1 in a kickstand position. [Figure 4C] 2 shows the finger grip of FIG. 1 in a kickstand position. [Figure 4D] 2 shows the finger grip of FIG. 1 in a kickstand position.

[0009] [Figure 5A] 2 illustrates a transient sequence for the finger grip of FIG. 1 to shift from a retracted position to a kickstand position. [Figure 5B] 2 illustrates a transient sequence for the finger grip of FIG. 1 to shift from a retracted position to a kickstand position. [Figure 5C] 2 illustrates a transient sequence for the finger grip of FIG. 1 to shift from a retracted position to a kickstand position.

[0010] [Figure 6A] 1 illustrates an exemplary use of a finger grip for holding a smartphone. [Figure 6B] 1 illustrates an exemplary use of a finger grip for holding a smartphone. [Figure 6C] 1 illustrates an exemplary use of a finger grip for holding a smartphone.

[0011] [Figure 7] 2 shows an exploded view of the finger grip of FIG. 1.

[0012] [Figure 8A] 1A and 1B show front and rear exploded views, respectively, of an exemplary finger grip. [Figure 8B] 1A and 1B show front and rear exploded views, respectively, of an exemplary finger grip.

[0013] [Figure 9A]1A and 1B show cross-sectional front and side views, respectively, of an exemplary finger grip. [Figure 9B] 1A and 1B show cross-sectional front and side views, respectively, of an exemplary finger grip.

[0014] [Figure 10] 1 illustrates an exemplary flexure bearing.

[0015] [Figure 11] 1 illustrates an exemplary finger grip according to the present disclosure.

[0016] [Figure 12] 1 illustrates an exemplary finger grip according to the present disclosure.

[0017] [Figure 13] 1 shows the relative bond strength associated with the finger grip. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] While specific cases and examples are described below, it will be understood that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments and / or applications, and obvious variations and equivalents thereof. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of the disclosure disclosed herein be limited by any specific embodiments described below. Furthermore, although the specific cases and examples described herein refer to a "finger grip," it will be understood that such a grip should not be limited to use with the fingers.

[0019] Embodiments of the inventive concepts disclosed herein relate to finger grips for portable electronics. As understood by the present inventors, finger grips may be uncomfortable, lack enhanced functionality, and / or may not support wireless charging therethrough.

[0020] In light of the description herein, it will be appreciated that the embodiments disclosed herein substantially improve finger grips for portable electronics and other portable devices. Specifically, the embodiments disclosed herein provide a finger grip that folds to a point where its profile is thin enough to permit wireless charging therethrough. In this manner, the finger grip is MagSafe and / or Qi compliant. By permitting wireless charging through the finger grip itself, the accessibility of wireless charging is greatly improved.

[0021] Additionally, embodiments disclosed herein provide finger grips that are movable between multiple configurations. For example, the finger grips can be manipulated into a compact, low-profile position (referred to as the "captured position"), a position that provides dynamically resizable finger openings (referred to as the "relaxed position"), or a position for propping the portable device against a surface (referred to as the "kickstand position"), to name a few. Additionally, embodiments disclosed herein provide finger grips that implement flexure bearings, which promote comfort and ease of use by facilitating movement into any of multiple configurations. By allowing for multiple positions, the finger grips advantageously improve functionality and comfort, among other improvements.

[0022] 1 shows an environmental view of an exemplary finger grip according to the present disclosure. Finger grip 100 can be magnetically and / or adhesively attached to a smartphone 121 to provide an easily deployable tool for holding the smartphone 121 between one or more fingers.

[0023] The specific implementation of finger grip 100 may vary depending on the embodiment. For example, in some cases, as shown in FIG. 1 , finger grip 100 may be implemented as a standalone accessory attachable to a portable device, such as a smartphone 121 or a case for smartphone 121. In some such cases, finger grip 100 may be compatible with a particular brand or model that is not compatible with other brands or models. For example, finger grip 100 may be compatible with Apple® devices (e.g., iPhone®) but not with Android® devices (e.g., Samsung Galaxy), or may be compatible with Android® devices and not with Apple® devices. Alternatively, in some cases, finger grip 100 is universally compatible with multiple (or all) brands or models (e.g., both Apple® and Android® devices). As another example, in some cases, finger grip 100 is integrated into or part of a portable device. For example, the finger grip 100 may be integrated into a smartphone case or into the smartphone 121 itself.

[0024] While shown installed on a smartphone 121, it will be understood that finger grip 100 may be removably coupled to any of a variety of portable devices to assist in holding the device. For example, the rear surface of finger grip 100 may be attachable to a portable electronic device (e.g., a gaming device, a cell phone, an e-reader, a smartphone, a tablet, a personal computer, a laptop, a television, an automobile console display, a personal digital assistant (PDA), smart glasses, a monitor, or another portable object (e.g., a book, a notepad, a soda can, a coffee mug, etc.) using a magnet, adhesive, etc. Additionally, the front surface of finger grip 100 may be attachable to ferrous metal and magnetic surfaces (e.g., a refrigerator, gym equipment, an automobile, a charger, a desk mount, etc.) using a magnet.

[0025] 2A and 2B show perspective views of the finger grip 100 of FIG. 1 in a relaxed position. Finger grip 100 includes a base portion 110, a cap portion 140, and a living hinge assembly 160. It will be understood that finger grip 100 represents an exemplary finger grip, and other examples may use fewer, additional, or different components or arrangements.

[0026] The base 110 includes a frame portion 112 and a hub portion 114 that is radially inserted from and rotatably connected to the frame portion 112. In the illustrated example, the frame portion 112 is implemented as a ring-shaped member having an outer edge with an outer diameter D1 and an inner edge with an inner diameter D2. D1 and D2 can vary depending on the embodiment. For example, D1 or D2 can be within a range between about 30 mm and about 70 mm, between about 40 mm and about 60 mm, or between about 45 mm and about 55 mm. As another example, D1 or D2 can be greater than 30 mm, greater than 40 mm, greater than 50 mm, greater than 60 mm, greater than 70 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 40 mm, less than 50 mm, less than 60 mm, or less than 70 mm. As another example, D1 or D2 can be about 40, 42.5, 45, 47.5, 50, 52.5, 55, 57.5, 60, 62.5, or 65 mm (+ / - about 1 mm).

[0027] It will be appreciated that the shape of the frame portion 112 may vary depending on the embodiment. For example, in some cases, the inner and / or outer edges of the frame portion 112 may be relatively rectangular, elliptical, triangular, polygonal, non-polygonal, or irregular. In some cases, the inner and / or outer edges of the frame portion 112 are complementary in shape to magnets located on an electronic device. For example, the electronic device may include a circular array of magnets (e.g., having an outer diameter of approximately 56-58 millimeters and an inner diameter of approximately 45-46 millimeters) to facilitate magnetic connection of the electronic device. In some such cases, the inner and / or outer edges of the frame portion 112 may have a shape that is complementary to the outer and / or inner diameter of the magnets. By implementing a frame portion 112 having a shape that is complementary to the circular array of magnets in the electronic device, the finger grip 100 may maintain a modest size while remaining large enough to be magnetically coupled to the electronic device using its magnets. In some cases, the base 110 can have a shape that is complementary to the shape of the electronic device. In some cases, the base 110 can have an interior shape that is complementary to the shape of the cap portion 140, as described herein.

[0028] Frame portion 112 includes a first side 115, a second side 116, and a transitional edge 118 between first side 115 and second side 116. Due to the transitional edge 118, the perimeter of first side 115 is different from (e.g., larger than) the perimeter of second side 116. In some cases, transitional edge 118 makes it easier for a user to disengage frame portion 112 (and therefore finger grip 100) from an electronic device. For example, transitional edge 118 may create a small gap below the edge of frame portion 112, under which a user can insert a fingernail (or other similarly sized object) when disengaging finger grip 100 from an electronic device. Transitional edge 118 may be implemented in various ways. For example, in some cases, transitional edge 118 includes a tapered sidewall. As another example, the transition edge 118 may include a chamfered edge or a fillet edge.

[0029] At least a portion of the second side 116 (sometimes referred to as the back side) of the frame portion 112 may include an adhesive backing 120. The adhesive backing 120 may include an adhesive, such as a double-sided adhesive substrate, to aid in attachment of the finger grip 100 to an electronic device or other object. In some cases, the adhesive backing 120 works in conjunction with a magnetic connection to couple the finger grip 100 to the electronic device or other object. In this manner, the adhesive backing 120 may strengthen the bond between the finger grip 100 and the electronic device compared to an overall magnetic coupling.

[0030] The thickness (T1) of the frame portion 112 can vary depending on the embodiment. For example, T1 can be within a range between about 1 mm and about 4.5 mm, between about 1 mm and about 3.5 mm, or between about 1.25 mm and about 1.75 mm. As another example, T1 can be less than 4.5 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 3.5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 1.5 mm, less than 1 mm, or less than 1.5 mm. As another example, T1 can be about 1.5, 1.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, 3, 3.25, 3.5, 3.75, 4, 4.25, 4.5, 4.75, or 5 mm (+ / - about 0.05 mm).

[0031] In some cases, frame portion 112 may include (e.g., completely or partially encapsulate) a circular array of magnets disposed at least partially around the periphery of frame portion 112. The one or more magnets may include multiple arc-shaped magnets disposed in a circular peripheral channel of frame portion 112. According to certain advantageous embodiments, the size and shape conforming to the circular array of magnets conforms to the MagSafe specification. MagSafe is a magnetic technology specification from Apple® that has been incorporated into the internal engineering of certain iPhone® models to create a new ecosystem of accessories for easy attachment and faster wireless charging using magnetic fields.

[0032] The hub portion 114 includes a retainer portion 122 for coupling with the cap portion 140. As described in more detail herein, the hub portion 122 is rotatably connected to and separable from the frame portion 112 (see, for example, FIG. 7 ). Additionally, the hub portion 114 defines at least one cavity 124 for receiving a portion of the living hinge assembly 130. As described in more detail herein, the presence of the cavity (124) provides a space into which the living hinge assembly 160 can be folded, thereby allowing the finger grip 100 to maintain a sufficiently thin thickness that enables wireless charging therethrough.

[0033] The retainer portion 122 includes an elongate member 126 that bisects the hub portion 122. The elongate member 126 includes a slit 128 along a central portion. The retainer portion 122 includes a tapered sidewall 130 having a first height, H1, above a peripheral surface 132 of the elongate member 126. In the example shown, the elongate member 126 includes two curved, tapered sidewalls 130 located at the center of the elongate member 126. It will be understood that in some cases, the number of tapered sidewalls may vary. For example, in some cases, the retainer portion 122 includes only one or more than two tapered sidewalls 130. In some cases, the tapered sidewalls 130 form a right angle or an acute angle with the peripheral surface of the elongate member 126. In some cases, the tapered sidewalls 130 form an obtuse angle with the peripheral surface of the elongate member 126. As described in further detail herein (and shown, for example, in FIG. 3C), the presence of tapered sidewall 130 positions the edge of cap portion 140 behind it, thereby providing a raised area for securing finger grip 100 in the kickstand position.

[0034] The retainer portion 122 includes an engagement portion 132 for engaging with the cap portion 140, such as the engagement portion 142. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the engagement portion 132 is formed by a tapered sidewall 130 that creates a female structure 134 including an opening 136, and the engagement portion 142 mounts a male structure 164 including a protrusion 166 facing the opening 136. In this example, the opening 136 is fixedly smaller in diameter than the protrusion 166. As such, when the cap portion 140 is pressed toward the base 110, the male structure 164 moves into the female structure 134, and the male structure 164 (e.g., the protrusion 166) is received and secured by the female structure 134 (e.g., the opening 136). Furthermore, as the engagement portion 142 is pressed into the engagement portion 132, the engagement portion 142 exerts outward pressure on a portion of the engagement portion 132, causing the slit 128 to widen. By introducing compressive forces, the slits 128 may advantageously improve the robustness of the retainer portion 122. In some cases, the implementation of the slits 128 advantageously allows for smaller male structures 164, which allows for a smaller profile of the finger grip 100.

[0035] The hub portion 114 is thinner than the frame portion. The thickness of the hub portion 114 can vary depending on the embodiment. For example, the thickness can be within a range between about 0.25 mm and about 2 mm, between about 0.5 mm and about 1.5 mm, or between about 0.75 mm and about 1.25 mm. As another example, the thickness can be less than 2 mm, less than 1.5 mm, less than 1.25 mm, less than 1.1 mm, less than 1.05 mm, less than 1 mm, or less than 0.9 mm. As another example, the thickness can be about 0.5, 0.55, 0.60, 0.65, 0.70, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, 0.90, 0.95, 1, 1.05, 1.1, 1.15, 1.2, 1.25, 1.3, 1.35, 1.4, 1.45, or 1.5 mm (+ / - about 0.0025 mm). The base 110 can be made of plastic (e.g., ABS plastic, polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC-ABS)) or any non-ferrous metal (e.g., aluminum, copper, magnesium alloys).

[0036] The cap portion 140 is generally a flat, rounded structure including a first surface 143, a second surface 144, and an outer rim 146. The first and second surfaces 142, 144 are opposite and parallel to one another. Although shown as circular, the shape of the cap portion 140 can vary depending on the embodiment. For example, the cap portion 140 can be relatively rectangular, elliptical, triangular, polygonal, non-polygonal, or irregular. As another example, the cap portion 140 can have the shape of a leaf, a flower, or a particular object. In some cases, the cap portion 140 has a symmetrical shape, while in other cases, the cap portion 140 has an asymmetrical shape. In some cases, the shape of the cap portion 140 is complementary to the shape of the inner edge of the base portion 110 (e.g., the shape defined by the inner edge of the frame portion 112). When the cap portion 140 is pressed down into the base portion 110 in this manner, the cap portion 140 fits into a cavity located above the hub portion 114 and at or below the upper surface of the frame portion 112, so that the first surface 142 of the cap portion 140 is substantially flush with the upper surface of the frame portion 112.

[0037] First surface 142 is generally a plane that faces away from base 110 and may be referred to as the exterior surface of cap portion 140. Although generally depicted as a plane, it will be understood that first surface 142 may be non-planar. For example, in some cases, first surface 142 is textured, has a curved (e.g., concave, convex) profile, defines a staircase shape, or the like.

[0038] The second surface 144 faces the base 110. As described herein, the second surface 144 includes an engagement portion 142 for engaging the base 110, such as, for example, the engagement portion 132.

[0039] It will be understood that engaging portions 132 and 142 may be implemented differently across embodiments. For example, cap portion 140 and base portion 110 may include any mating coupling feature (e.g., snap fit pairing, living hinge and mating lip, interference fit pairing, hook and loop fastener, protrusion and slot, clip, clamp, clasp, buckle, button, hook and protrusion, screw and aperture, wire, etc.).

[0040] The outer rim 146 of the cap portion 140 may be implemented as a transitional edge between the first surface 142 and the second surface 144. The transitional edge may facilitate disengagement of the cap portion 140 from the base 110. For example, the transitional edge may facilitate a user inserting a fingernail (or a similarly sized object) under the edge of the cap portion 140 to disengage the cap portion 140 from the base 110. The transitional edge may be implemented in various ways. For example, in some cases, the transitional edge includes a tapered sidewall. As another example, the transitional edge may include a chamfered edge or a filleted edge.

[0041] The thickness of the cap portion 140 can vary depending on the embodiment. For example, the thickness can be within a range between about 0.25 mm and about 2 mm, between about 0.5 mm and about 1.5 mm, or between about 0.75 mm and about 1.25 mm. As another example, the thickness can be less than 2 mm, less than 1.5 mm, less than 1.2 mm, less than 1.1 mm, less than 1.05 mm, less than 1 mm, or less than 0.9 mm. As another example, the thickness can be about 0.5, 0.55, 0.60, 0.65, 0.70, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, 0.90, 0.95, 1, 1.05, 1.1, 1.15, 1.2, 1.25, 1.3, 1.35, 1.4, 1.45, or 1.5 mm (+ / - about 0.0025 mm).

[0042] The living hinge assembly 160 is coupled to the base 110 and to the cap portion 140. The living hinge assembly 160 is a compliant mechanism that provides at least one compliant degree of freedom to allow the cap portion 140 to move. In some cases, the at least one compliant degree of freedom includes only one compliant degree of freedom. In some cases, the at least one compliant degree of freedom includes more than one compliant degree of freedom, such as two, three, four, or more compliant degrees of freedom. The living hinge assembly 160 allows the finger grip 100 to move between various positions, including, but not limited to, a capped position (e.g., where the cap portion 140 contacts the base 110), a relaxed position (e.g., where the cap portion 140 is separated from the base 110), and / or a kickstand position (e.g., where an edge of the cap portion 140 fits behind the tapered sidewall 130 of the base 110). For example, if the finger grip 100 is in the retracted position and then the cap portion 140 is released from the base 110, the living hinge assembly 160 may apply a translational force to the cap portion 140 to urge the finger grip 100 into a relaxed position. It will be understood that the "relaxed position" may be generalized to refer to any position in which the cap portion 140 is separated from the base 110. Thus, there are multiple relaxed positions that vary depending on the size of the gap between the cap portion 140 and the base 110 and the orientation of the cap portion 140 relative to the base 110. Similarly, the "kickstand position" may refer to any position in which the cap portion 140 is separated from the base 110.

[0043] 2A and 2B, the living hinge assembly 160 includes four segments. Each segment includes an upper flexible member 162 coupled to the cap portion 140, a lower flexible member 164 coupled to the base portion 120, and a living hinge 166 coupling the upper flexible member 162 to the lower flexible member 164. Furthermore, the living hinge assembly 160 includes a living hinge coupling the lower flexible member 164 to the base 120 and a living hinge coupling the upper flexible member 162 to the lower flexible member 164. While the finger grip 100 is shown as including a living hinge assembly 160, it will be understood that the living hinge assembly 160 may vary depending on the embodiment. For example, the living hinge assembly 160 may include fewer or additional segments. Furthermore, the finger grip 100 may include any other flexure bearing in place of the living hinge assembly 160. For example, in some cases, the finger grip 100 may have a leaf spring instead of or in addition to the living hinge assembly 160.

[0044] 3A, 3B, and 3C show the finger grip 100 of FIG. 1 in a retracted position, where the cap portion 140 contacts the base portion 110 and the finger grip 100 is compact, such that the thickness (302) of the finger grip 100 is thin enough to permit wireless charging through the finger grip 100.

[0045] The thickness (302) of the finger grip 100 can vary depending on the embodiment. For example, when the finger grip 100 is in the retracted position, the thickness (302) of the finger grip 100 can be in a range between about 1 mm and about 4.5 mm, between about 1 mm and about 3.5 mm, or between about 1.25 mm and about 1.75 mm. As another example, when the finger grip 100 is in the retracted position, the thickness (302) of the finger grip 100 can be less than 4.5 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 3.5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 1.5 mm, less than 1 mm, or less than 1.5 mm. As another example, when the finger grip 100 is in the retracted position, the thickness (302) of the finger grip 100 can be approximately 1.5, 1.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, 3, 3.25, 3.5, 3.75, 4, 4.25, 4.5, 4.75, or 5 mm (+ / - approximately 0.05 mm).

[0046] In some cases, the thickness (302) of the finger grip 100 while in the stowed position is thin enough to allow wireless charging through the finger grip 100 such that a first device (e.g., a wireless charging device) can be coupled to the frame portion 112 of the base 110 and provide charging to a second device (e.g., a smartphone) coupled to the second side 116 of the base 110. For example, the thickness (302) of the finger grip 100 while in the stowed position may be thin enough to allow wireless charging using Qi or other wireless power transfer standards (e.g., using a MagSafe charger).

[0047] 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D show the finger grip 100 of FIG. 1 in the kickstand position, where the edge 402 of the cap portion 140 fits behind the tapered sidewall 412 of the retainer portion 122 of the base 110. In the kickstand position, the cap portion 140 can function as a tool (sometimes referred to as a "kickstand") for propping the portable device upright on a surface to allow a user to view the screen hands-free.

[0048] The finger grip 100 may include multiple kickstand configurations. For example, in some cases, the finger grip 100 may be symmetrical, such that a first kickstand position may be formed by positioning the first edge 402 of the cap portion 140 behind the first tapered sidewall 412, and a second kickstand position may be formed by positioning the second edge 404 of the cap portion 140 behind the second tapered sidewall 414. In some cases, the kickstand angle (e.g., the angle between the location of the plane of the cap portion 140 and the base 110) may be the same for the first kickstand position and the second kickstand position. Alternatively, in some cases, the kickstand angle for the first kickstand position may differ from the kickstand angle for the second kickstand position. For example, the angle for a particular kickstand position may be within a range between approximately 70 degrees and approximately 130 degrees, between approximately 90 degrees and approximately 120 degrees, or between approximately 100 degrees and approximately 110 degrees. As another example, the angle of a particular kickstand position may be approximately 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, or 150 degrees (+ / - about 1 degree). In some cases, a single tapered sidewall 130 may allow for multiple kickstand angles. For example, in some cases, elongated member 126 may include multiple ridges or notches along its length that a user can select between to selectively angle cap portion 140 relative to base portion 110. Depending on the embodiment, the ridges or notches may be located at the rear or front of tapered sidewall 130. Additionally or alternatively, tapered sidewall 130 may include multiple ridges or notches.

[0049] 5A, 5B, and 5C show the transition sequence for shifting the finger grip 100 of FIG. 1 from the retracted position to the kickstand position. Starting in the retracted state of FIG. 5A, when a user lifts one side of the cap portion 140, the cap portion 140 disengages from the base portion 110 and reflexly separates from the base portion 110 (as a result of elastic deformation of the living hinge assembly 160), as shown in FIG. 5B. When the user rotates the cap portion 140 approximately 90 degrees, positioning the pivot edge 502 of the cap portion 140 behind the first tapered sidewall 412, the finger grip 100 is in the kickstand position, as shown in FIG. 5C.

[0050] Once cap portion 140 is moved to a location behind the desired tapered sidewall 412, living hinge assembly 160 maintains cap portion 140 in tension behind the desired tapered sidewall 412. While in the kickstand position, hub portion 114 is rotatable within frame portion 112, allowing a user to rotate the kickstand, for example, to select between portrait or landscape orientation.

[0051] To disengage the kickstand position (sometimes referred to as the kickstand configuration) shown in FIG. 4C, the user simply pulls the pivoting edge 502 of the cap portion 140 up and over the tapered side wall 412, causing the living hinge assembly 160 to reflexively reorient the cap portion 140 so that the finger grip 100 is in a relaxed position.

[0052] 6A, 6B, and 6C illustrate exemplary uses of finger grip 100 for holding a smartphone 602. In particular, FIG. 6A illustrates a single finger between an opening defined by living hinge assembly 160 (sometimes referred to as a one-finger hold), while FIGS. 6B and 6C illustrate a pair of fingers positioned along the side of living hinge assembly 160 (sometimes referred to as a two-finger hold). While only a one-finger hold and a two-finger hold are shown, it will be understood that finger grip 100 can be held using a variety of techniques, such as any such technique that feels comfortable or functional to the user.

[0053] The finger grips can include reusable and disposable elements. Those skilled in the art will recognize from the present disclosure herein that disposable elements can be reusable, and thus the difference between so-called reusable and disposable elements relates to the difference in expected life span between the two sets of elements.

[0054] FIG. 7 shows an exploded view of the finger grip 100 of FIG. 1 . In particular, FIG. 7 shows the disposable element 750 separated from the reusable element 760. The disposable element 750 may generally include those components of the finger grip 100 that are less expensive or more fragile, such as, for example, the cap portion 140, the living hinge assembly 160, and the hub portion 114 of the base 110. The reusable element 760 may generally include those components of the finger grip 100 that are more expensive or more sturdy, such as, for example, the frame portion 112 of the base 110. In some cases, after multiple uses, one or more portions of the disposable element may break or otherwise become inoperable. In some such cases, rather than discarding the entire finger grip 100, a separate disposable element 750 may be provided for attachment to the reusable element 760.

[0055] The reusable element 760 can be configured to receive the disposable element 750 in a releasable attachment assembly and provide radial displacement between the disposable and reusable elements 750, 760. The radial displacement advantageously allows the disposable element 750 to be rotated relative to a position to which the reusable element 760 may be fixed. To assemble the finger grip 100, members of the reusable element are mated with an assembly mechanism of the disposable element 750.

[0056] In some cases, the reusable element 760 and the disposable element 750 may be attached together by placing or snapping protrusions on one element into apertures and receiving slots on the other element. For example, as shown, the disposable element 750 may include protrusions, detents, or tabs extending along the outer periphery of the disposable element 750 (e.g., along the hub portion 114), and the reusable element 760 may include corresponding apertures along the inner periphery of the reusable element 760. In some such cases, the disposable element 750 attaches to the reusable element 760 by inserting or snapping the protrusions into the apertures. When assembled, at least some of the protrusions are slidable into the receiving slots to allow radial displacement of the disposable element 750 relative to the reusable element 760.

[0057] 8A and 8B show front and rear exploded views, respectively, of an exemplary finger grip 800. Finger grip 800 represents an exemplary finger grip, and it will be understood that other examples may use fewer, additional, or different components or arrangements. For example, finger grip 800 may be an embodiment of finger grip 100. Finger grip 800 includes a base assembly (e.g., base 802, base trim 808), a cap assembly (e.g., cap front 810, cap trim 806), and a living hinge assembly 804.

[0058] 9A and 9B show cross-sectional front and side views, respectively, of an exemplary finger grip 900. Finger grip 900 represents an exemplary finger grip, and it will be understood that other examples may use fewer, additional, or different components or arrangements. For example, finger grip 900 may be an embodiment of finger grip 100.

[0059] Figure 10 shows an exemplary living hinge assembly 1030. The living hinge assembly 1030 may be an embodiment of the living hinge assembly 160 of Figure 1. For example, Figure 1 shows the finger grip 100 having two living hinge assemblies 1030 facing opposite each other.

[0060] The hinge assembly 1030 includes a cap mounting member 1002, two leg segments 1004 extending from the cap mounting member 1002, and a respective base mounting member 1006 on each leg segment 1004. Each leg segment 1004 includes an upper flexible member 1010 coupled to the cap mounting member 1002, a lower flexible member 1012 coupled to the base mounting member 1006, and a living hinge 1016 coupling the upper flexible member 1010 to the lower flexible member 1012. The two leg segments 1004 are connected to the cap mounting member 1002 via the living hinges 1016 and to the base mounting member 1006 via a pair of living hinges 1018. The cap mounting member 1002 is configured to attach to a cap portion of a finger grip (e.g., cap portion 140), and the base mounting member 1006 is configured to attach to a base portion of a finger grip (e.g., base portion 110).

[0061] Each of the living hinges 1016, 1018 may provide force and / or motion transmission through the upper and / or lower flexible members 1010, 1012 to move the cap mounting member 1002 and / or the base mounting member 1006, which may be attached to the cap portion and base portion, respectively.

[0062] It will be understood that the hinge assembly 1030 represents an exemplary flexure bearing and that other embodiments may be implemented differently. For example, in some cases, the cap mounting member 1002 may be implemented as two or more cap mounting members, such as one cap mounting member for each leg segment 1004. As another example, the base mounting member 1006 may be implemented as a single base mounting member attached to each leg segment 1004. As another example, the hinge assembly 1030 may include a different number of leg segments, such as one leg segment, three leg segments, or more.

[0063] Either of the living hinges 1016, 1018 may include a thinned portion 1020 having a thickness that is less than the thickness of the upper flexible member 1010 and less than the thickness of the lower flexible member 1012. Either of the living hinges 1016, 1018 may provide for the transmission of force and motion through the upper and lower flexible members 1010, 1012 to move the cap portion 140 between a captured position and a relaxed position via elastic deformation. In some cases, one or more of the living hinges 1016, 1018 is a unitary structure formed with the respective upper flexible member 1010 and lower flexible member 164. Additionally, one or more of the living hinges 1016, 1018 may be made of polypropylene.

[0064] 11 illustrates an exemplary finger grip 1100 according to the present disclosure. The exemplary finger grip 1100 includes a base portion 1110, a cap portion 1120, and a living hinge assembly 1130. It will be understood that the finger grip 1100 represents an exemplary finger grip, and other examples may use fewer, additional, or different components or arrangements. For example, the finger grip 1100 may be an embodiment of the finger grip 100 of FIG. 1, the base portion 1110 may be an embodiment of the base portion 110, the cap portion 1120 may be an embodiment of the cap portion 140, and / or the living hinge assembly 1130 may be an embodiment of the living hinge assembly 160.

[0065] As described herein, the implementation of the living hinge assembly 1130 may vary depending on the embodiment. In the example of FIG. 11 , the living hinge assembly 1130 is implemented as two opposing, face-to-face sections 1130A, 1130B. Each section 1130A, 1130B includes a respective upper flexible member 1102 coupled to the cap portion 1120, a respective lower flexible member 1104 coupled to the base portion 1110, and a living hinge 1106 coupling the upper flexible member 1102 to the lower flexible member 1104. The living hinge 1106 provides force and motion transmission through the upper and lower flexible members to move the cap portion 1120 between relaxed and retracted positions via elastic deformation.

[0066] 11, in some cases, the living hinge 1106 includes a thinned portion 1112 having a thickness that is less than the thickness of the upper flexible member 1102 and less than the thickness of the lower flexible member 1104. In some cases, the living hinge 1106 is a unitary structure formed with the upper flexible member 1102 and the lower flexible member 1104.

[0067] As shown, the living hinges 1106 of each section 1130A, 1130B are located on opposite sides of the base portion 1110 and cap portion 1120 from each other. In the relaxed position, the first living hinge 1106A forms an interior angle that faces the interior angle formed by the second living hinge 1106B. Furthermore, the outer side of the first living hinge 1106A faces away from the second living hinge 1106B, and the outer side of the second living hinge 1106B faces away from the first living hinge 1106A.

[0068] 12 illustrates an exemplary finger grip 1200 according to the present disclosure. The exemplary finger grip 1200 includes a base portion 1210, a cap portion 1220, and a living hinge assembly 1230. It will be understood that the finger grip 1200 represents an exemplary finger grip, and other examples may use fewer, additional, or different components or arrangements. For example, the finger grip 1200 may be an embodiment of the finger grip 100 of FIG. 1 , the base portion 1210 may be an embodiment of the base portion 110, the cap portion 1220 may be an embodiment of the cap portion 140, and / or the living hinge assembly 1230 may be an embodiment of the living hinge assembly 160.

[0069] As described herein, the shape and / or size of the base 1210 can vary depending on the embodiment. In the example of FIG. 12, the base 1210 is shown as having a rectangular shape. In some cases, the base 1210 may be larger to encompass a larger surface area of ​​the device to which it is attached. In some such cases, the base 1210 may include an adhesive material on at least a portion of its outer surface. In some cases, the adhesive provides a stronger bond as the surface area of ​​the adhesive increases.

[0070] Often, a user may want to use multiple accessories simultaneously with her electronic device. For example, a user may want to install a finger grip on the back of her smartphone and then, while the finger grip is installed, use a charger to wirelessly charge the phone without having to remove the finger grip. The result is a layering of devices, with the smartphone at the bottom, the finger grip in the middle, and the wireless charger at the top. In some such cases, it may be desirable for the connection between the finger grip and the smartphone to be stronger than the connection between the wireless charger and the finger grip. In this way, the user may easily remove the charger from the finger grip without also removing the finger grip from the smartphone.

[0071] 13 illustrates the relative coupling strengths associated with a finger grip 1300. In this example, the finger grip 1300 is coupled to the rear of a mobile device 1302, and a wireless charger 1304 is coupled to the rear of the finger grip 1300. The finger grip 1300 may be an embodiment of the finger grip 100 of FIG. 1. For example, the finger grip 1300 may be thin enough to allow charging of the mobile device 1302 via the wireless charger 1304 through the finger grip 1300.

[0072] In some cases, the bond strength between the wireless charger 1304 and the finger grip 1300 is greater than the bond strength between the mobile device 1302 and the finger grip 1300. For example, the connection between the wireless charger 1304 and the finger grip 1300 may include a combination of magnets and adhesive, while the connection between the mobile device 1302 and the finger grip 1300 may rely solely on magnets. For example, the finger grip 1300 may include an array of multi-polarized arch magnets, where a first set of magnets has a positive polarity and a second set of magnets has a negative polarity. Illustrative Embodiments

[0073] Various exemplary embodiments of the grip can be found in the following clauses.

[0074] [Article 1] 1. A grip for coupling to a portable electronic device, the grip comprising: base; a cap portion movable between a capped position in which the cap portion contacts the base and a relaxed position in which the cap portion is separated from the base by a gap; and a flexure bearing coupled to the base and to the cap portion, the flexure bearing providing at least one compliant degree of freedom to allow the cap portion to move from the captured position to the relaxed position; A grip is provided.

[0075] [Clause 2] The flexible bearing: an upper flexible member coupled to the cap portion; a lower flexible member coupled to the base; and a living hinge connecting the upper flexible member to the lower flexible member; A grip of any of the preceding clauses.

[0076] [Clause 3] The grip of Clause 2, wherein the living hinge includes a thinned portion having a thickness that is thinner than the thickness of the upper flexible member and thinner than the thickness of the lower flexible member.

[0077] [Clause 4] A grip of either clause 2 or 3, wherein the living hinge provides for the transmission of force and motion through the upper and lower flexible members to move the cap portion to the relaxed position through elastic deformation.

[0078] [Clause 5] A grip according to any one of clauses 2 to 4, wherein the living hinge is a unitary structure formed by the upper flexible member and the lower flexible member.

[0079] [Clause 6] The grip of any of Clauses 2 to 5, wherein the living hinge comprises polypropylene.

[0080] [Clause 7] A grip of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the flexure bearing has a leaf spring.

[0081] [Clause 8] The said flexible bearing: a first living hinge coupled to the base and the cap portion at first locations on a first side of the base and on the cap portion, respectively; and a second living hinge coupled to the base and the cap at a second location on the second side of the base and opposite the first side on the cap, respectively; A grip of any of the preceding clauses.

[0082] [Clause 9] The grip of Clause 8, wherein the first and second living hinges are located on opposite sides of the base and cap portions from each other.

[0083] [Clause 10] The flexible bearing: a first pair of living hinges coupled to the base and the cap portion at first locations on a first side of the base and on the cap portion, respectively; and a second pair of living hinges coupled to the base and the cap portion at second locations on a second side of the base and opposite the first side on the cap portion, respectively; A grip of any of the preceding clauses.

[0084] [Clause 11] The grip of Clause 10, wherein the first and second pairs of living hinges are located on opposite sides of the base and cap portions from each other.

[0085] [Clause 12] The first pair of living hinges are coupled to the cap portion and the base portion by upper and lower flexible members, respectively, in the first position; The second pair of living hinges are coupled to the cap portion and the base portion by upper and lower flexible members, respectively, in the second position. Grip of either clause 10 or 11.

[0086] [Clause 13] A grip according to any one of clauses 10 to 12, wherein in the relaxed position, the first pair of living hinges form respective interior angles that face in opposite directions.

[0087] [Clause 14] A grip according to any one of clauses 10 to 13, wherein in the relaxed position, the second pair of living hinges form interior angles that face in opposite directions.

[0088] [Clause 15] The grip of any one of clauses 10 to 14, wherein the first pair of living hinges includes a first living hinge and a second living hinge that are directly adjacent to each other.

[0089] [Clause 16] The grip of any preceding clause, further comprising a retainer configured to secure the cap portion to the base in the captured position.

[0090] [Article 17] The retainer shall: a first portion of a snap-fit ​​pairing on the cap portion; and a second portion of the snap-fit ​​pairing on the base The grip of clause 15.

[0091] [Article 18] The retainer shall: a male structure on the cap portion, wherein the male structure includes a protrusion having a diameter; and a female structure on the base, the female structure including an opening facing the protrusion, the opening having a size smaller than the diameter and configured to secure the cap portion to the base in the captured position; 15 or 16.

[0092] [Clause 19] The grip of Clause 18, wherein the female structure further includes a tapered sidewall having a first height above a peripheral surface of the base.

[0093] [Clause 20] The grip of Clause 19, wherein the tapered sidewall forms an obtuse angle with a surface at the outer edge of the base.

[0094] [Article 21] The living hinge: a first pair of living hinges coupled to the base and the cap portion at first locations on a first side of the base and on the cap portion, respectively; and a second pair of living hinges coupled to the base and the cap portion at second locations on a second side of the base and opposite the first side on the cap portion, respectively, wherein the female structure is located between the first and second pairs of living hinges. and wherein the grip further comprises: Here, the cap portion rotates from the relaxed position about the first and second pair of living hinges to engage the upper surface of the cap portion with the tapered sidewall, thereby placing the cap portion in an upright position. 19. A grip according to any of clauses 19 or 20.

[0095] [Clause 22] A grip according to any one of clauses 19 to 21, wherein the thickness of the grip is in the range of between about 2 mm and about 4 mm when the cap portion is in the captured position.

[0096] [Clause 23] A grip for coupling to a portable electronic device, said grip comprising: base; Cap portion; and a continuous material connecting the base and the cap portion, the continuous material having a first segment and a second segment separated by a living hinge, the first segment being connected to the base and the second segment being connected to the cap portion; Equipped with wherein the thickness of the grip allows power to be transferred from the first device to the second device through at least a portion of the grip. grip.

[0097] [Clause 24] A grip for coupling to a portable electronic device, said grip comprising: a base having a first engagement member; a cap portion having a second engagement member; and a first continuous material connecting the base portion and the cap portion, the first continuous material having a first segment and a second segment separated by a first living hinge, the first segment being connected to the base portion and the second segment being connected to the cap portion; a second continuous material joined to the base and the cap, the second continuous material having a third segment and a fourth segment separated by a second living hinge, the third segment joined to the base and the fourth segment joined to the cap; Equipped with wherein, in a closed orientation, the first continuous material is folded along the first living hinge and the second continuous material is folded along the second living hinge. grip.

[0098] [Clause 25] A grip for coupling to a portable electronic device, said grip comprising: a base having a first engagement member; a cap portion having a second engagement member; and a plurality of continuous pieces of material connecting the base and the cap, each continuous piece of material having a first segment and a second segment separated by a living hinge, the first segment being connected to the base and the second segment being connected to the cap; Equipped with wherein the grip is movable through a plurality of configurations, wherein in a first configuration, the second engagement member is engaged with the first engagement member and a major plane of the base is parallel to a major plane of the cap portion, and wherein in a second configuration, a first end of the cap portion is located rearward of a protrusion of the first engagement member. grip.

[0099] [Clause 26] In a third configuration, the grip of Clause 25, wherein the grip defines a receiving area for receiving a finger, wherein a top of the receiving area is defined by the cap, wherein a bottom of the receiving area is defined by the base, and wherein sides of the receiving area are defined by at least one of the continuous materials.

[0100] [Clause 27] In a third configuration, the grip of Clause 25 defines a first receiving area for receiving a first finger and a second receiving area for receiving a second finger, wherein the tops of the first and second receiving areas are defined by the cap, wherein the bottoms of the first and second receiving areas are defined by the base, wherein the sides of the first receiving area are defined by a first piece of the continuous material, and wherein the sides of the second receiving area are defined by a second piece of the continuous material.

[0101] [Clause 28] A grip for coupling to a portable electronic device, said grip comprising: a grip having a thickness to allow power to be transmitted from a first device to a second device through at least a portion of the grip; Equipped with wherein a first side of the base is configured for a first connection with a portable electronic device, wherein the first connection comprises an adhesive connection and a magnetic connection; wherein a second side of the base is configured for a second connection with a portable electronic device, wherein the second connection comprises a magnetic connection; wherein the first connection is stronger than the second connection, such that uncoupling the second device from the grip does not uncoupling the grip from the portable electronic device. grip.

[0102] [Clause 29] A grip according to any preceding clause, wherein the first device is a charging device and the second device is a portable electronic device coupled to the grip.

[0103] [Clause 30] A grip according to any preceding clause, wherein the thickness of the grip is less than 2.5 mm.

[0104] [Clause 31] A grip of any preceding clause, wherein the thickness refers to the distance between the bottom surface of the base and the top surface of the cap portion when the grip is in a closed position.

[0105] [Clause 32] A grip according to any preceding clause, wherein the grip has a plurality of orientations, and wherein the thickness of the grip is the thickness of the grip when the grip is positioned in a first orientation of the plurality of orientations.

[0106] [Clause 33] A grip of any preceding clause, wherein in the first orientation, the continuous material is folded along the living hinge and the first segment is coplanar with the second segment.

[0107] [Clause 34] A grip according to any preceding clause, wherein the base portion has a first engagement portion and the cap portion has a second engagement portion, wherein in the first orientation, the second engagement portion mates with the first engagement portion, thereby removably securing the grip in the first position.

[0108] [Clause 35] A grip according to any preceding clause, wherein the first engagement portion comprises a first part of a snap-fit ​​pairing, and wherein the second engagement portion comprises a second part of the snap-fit ​​pairing.

[0109] [Clause 36] A grip according to any preceding clause, wherein the first engagement portion comprises a first part of a snap-fit ​​pairing, and wherein the second engagement portion comprises a second part of the snap-fit ​​pairing.

[0110] [Clause 37] The grip of any preceding clause, wherein the first engagement portion includes a first portion of a press-fit latch, and wherein the second engagement portion includes a second portion of the press-fit latch.

[0111] [Clause 38] A grip according to any preceding clause, wherein when the grip is in the first orientation, a force applied to the cap portion in a first direction actuates the living hinge to disengage the second engagement portion from the first engagement portion and move the cap portion in the first direction.

[0112] [Clause 39] A grip according to any preceding clause, wherein in a second orientation of the plurality of orientations, the grip defines a receiving area for receiving a finger, wherein a top of the receiving area is defined by the cap, wherein a bottom of the receiving area is defined by the base, and wherein a side of the receiving area is defined by the living hinge.

[0113] [Clause 40] A grip of any preceding clause, wherein in a second orientation of the plurality of orientations, the grip is configured to receive a pair of fingers between the base and the cap, at least partially around at least a portion of the living hinge.

[0114] [Clause 41] The living hinge is a first living hinge, wherein the continuous material further comprises: a third segment separated from the first segment by a second living hinge, wherein the third segment is coupled to the base; and a fourth segment separated from the second segment by a third living hinge, wherein the fourth segment is coupled to the cap portion; A grip of any of the preceding clauses.

[0115] [Clause 42] The grip of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the living hinge is a first living hinge, wherein the continuous material is a first continuous material, and wherein the grip further comprises a second continuous material having a third segment and a fourth segment separated by a second living hinge, wherein the third segment is connected to the base portion and the fourth segment is connected to the cap portion.

[0116] [Clause 43] The grip of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the living hinge is a first living hinge, wherein the continuous material is a first continuous material, and wherein the grip further comprises a second continuous material having a third segment and a fourth segment separated by a second living hinge, wherein the third segment is connected to the base portion and the fourth segment is connected to the cap portion.

[0117] [Clause 44] A grip according to any preceding clause, wherein an interior of the first living hinge faces a first direction and an interior of the second living hinge faces a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0118] [Clause 45] A grip of any preceding clause, wherein the continuous material comprises a plurality of interleaved continuous materials, each continuous material including a living hinge.

[0119] [Clause 46] A grip of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the hinges are offset from one another.

[0120] [Clause 47] A grip of any preceding clause, wherein the base is configured to couple to a frame portion, wherein the frame portion has a first magnetic interface for coupling to a second magnetic interface of the second device.

[0121] [Clause 48] The grip of any preceding clause, wherein the frame portion further comprises an adhesive for bonding to the second device.

[0122] [Clause 49] The grip of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the base has a first engagement portion extending at least partially around a periphery of the base, and wherein the frame defines an interior region including a second engagement portion, and wherein the first engagement portion is configured to removably mate with the second engagement portion.

[0123] [Clause 50] The grip of any preceding clause, wherein the base is rotatably mounted within the frame portion such that the grip is rotatable about a central axis relative to the frame portion.

[0124] [Clause 51] A grip according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein in a kickstand orientation among the plurality of orientations, the cap portion is oriented substantially perpendicular to the base portion.

[0125] [Clause 52] A grip according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein, in the kickstand orientation, a first end of the cap portion is located behind the protrusion of the base, and a second end opposite the first end is in the air.

[0126] [Clause 52] A grip as shown in the drawings and / or described herein.

[0127] [Clause 53] The method of using any of the grips of the preceding clauses.

[0128] [Clause 54] A method of manufacturing a grip according to any of the preceding clauses. [term]

[0129] Any term commonly associated with a circle, such as "radius" or "radial" or "diameter" or "circumference" or "circumferential," or any derivative or similar type term, is intended to be used to designate not only circular structures, but any corresponding structure in any type of shape. For example, "radial" applied to another geometric structure should be understood to refer to the direction or distance between a location corresponding to the general geometric center of such structure and the perimeter of such structure; "diameter" applied to another geometric structure should be understood to refer to the width of the cross-section of such structure; and "perimeter" applied to another geometric structure should be understood to refer to the peripheral area. Nothing in this specification or the drawings should be construed as limiting these terms to only circles or circular structures.

[0130] Terms such as “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” or the like, when used in reference to a relationship between two objects, are intended to reflect not only the exact relationship but also variations in that relationship that may result from various factors, such as the effects of environmental conditions, common error tolerances, manufacturing variations, or the like. While some values ​​or other relationships may be expressed herein without modifiers, it should be further understood that these values ​​or other relationships may also be exact or may include degrees of variation due to various factors, such as the effects of environmental conditions, common error tolerances, manufacturing variations, or the like. For example, when referring to the thickness of a finger grip, or one or more components thereof, a specified thickness may, in some contexts, refer to a variation in thickness of less than about 10% (e.g., 10%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or 0.5% variation) from the specified thickness. Accordingly, a thickness of about 3 mm may refer to 3 mm ± 0.3 mm, 3 mm ± 0.15 mm, 3 mm ± 0.012 mm, 3 mm ± 0.019 mm, 3 mm ± 0.006 mm, or 3 mm ± 0.03 mm. As another example, when referring to a diameter, for a specified distance, in some contexts, reference may be made to a variation in thickness of less than about 10% (e.g., a 10%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or 0.5% variation) from the specified distance. Accordingly, a thickness of about 50 mm may refer to 50 mm ± 5 mm, 50 mm ± 2.5 mm, 50 mm ± 2 mm, 50 mm ± 1.5 mm, 50 mm ± 1 mm, or 50 mm ± 0.5 mm. As a further example, when referring to the angle of a kickstand, a specified angle may in some contexts refer to an angular variation of less than about 10% (e.g., 10%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or 0.5%) from the specified angle. Accordingly, approximately 70 degrees may refer to 70°±7°, 70°±3.5°, 70°±2.8°, 70°±2.1°, 70°±1.4°, or 70°±0.7°.

[0131] In particular, conditional language such as "can," "could," "might," or "may," unless specifically stated otherwise or understood otherwise within the context in which it is used, is generally intended to convey that particular embodiments include certain features, elements, and / or steps, while other embodiments do not. Thus, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required by one or more embodiments, or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for determining whether those features, elements, and / or steps are included or performed in any particular embodiment, with or without user input or prompting.

[0132] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words "include," "can include," and the like, should be construed in an inclusive sense, i.e., "including, but not limited to," as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense. As used herein, the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variation thereof, mean any direct or indirect connection or coupling between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between elements may be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when used in this application, refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions thereof. Where the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description using the singular or plural may also include the plural or singular, respectively. The term "or" when referring to a list of two or more items covers the following interpretations: any one of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and all of the items in any combination of the items in the list. Similarly, the term "and / or" when referring to a list of two or more items covers the following interpretations: any one of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and all of the items in any combination of the items in the list.

[0133] Unless specifically stated otherwise, disjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, or Z" is understood differently in context, as it is generally used to indicate that an item, term, etc. can be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (non-limiting example: X, Y, and / or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is generally not intended to, and should not, suggest that a particular embodiment requires that at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z, respectively, be present.

[0134] Unless expressly stated otherwise, articles such as "a" or "an" should be construed to generally include one or more described items. Accordingly, phrases such as "a device configured to" are intended to include one or more listed devices. Such one or more listed devices may also be collectively configured to perform the referenced list. For example, "a processor configured to perform list A, B, and C" may include a first processor configured to perform list A, working in conjunction with a second processor configured to perform list B and C.

[0135] While the detailed description illustrates, describes, and points out novel features as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the illustrated devices or algorithms may be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As will be recognized, specific embodiments described elsewhere herein may be embodied in forms that do not provide all of the features and benefits described herein, since some features may be used or practiced separately from others. The scope of the specific embodiments disclosed herein is dictated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced within their scope.

[0136] These and other changes can be made to the invention in light of the detailed description. While the above description describes particular examples of the invention and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in the text, the invention can be practiced in many ways. The details of the system may vary considerably in its specific implementation while still being encompassed by the invention disclosed herein. As noted above, the use of specific terms when describing particular features or aspects of the invention should not be taken to suggest that such terms are redefined herein to be limited to any specific characteristic, feature, or aspect of the invention with which they are associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the invention to the specific examples disclosed herein unless the Detailed Description section above explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the invention encompasses not only the disclosed examples, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the invention under the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A grip for coupling to a portable electronic device, the grip comprising: base; a cap portion, the cap portion movable between a capped position in which the cap portion contacts the base and a relaxed position in which the cap portion is separated from the base by a gap; and a flexure bearing coupled to the base and to the cap portion, the flexure bearing providing at least one compliant degree of freedom to allow the cap portion to move from the captured position to the relaxed position; A grip is provided.

2. The flexure bearing comprises: an upper flexible member coupled to the cap portion; a lower flexible member coupled to the base; and a living hinge connecting the upper flexible member to the lower flexible member; The grip of claim 1 , wherein

3. The grip of claim 2 , wherein the living hinge includes a thinned portion having a thickness that is less than a thickness of the upper flexible member and less than a thickness of the lower flexible member.

4. The grip of claim 2 , wherein the living hinge provides for the transmission of force and motion through the upper and lower flexible members to move the cap portion to the relaxed position through elastic deformation.

5. The grip of claim 2 , wherein the living hinge is a unitary structure formed by the upper flexible member and the lower flexible member.

6. The grip of claim 1 , wherein the flexure bearing comprises a leaf spring.

7. The flexure bearing comprises: a first living hinge coupled to the base and the cap at a first location on a first side of the base and on the cap, respectively; and a second living hinge coupled to the base and the cap at a second location on the second side of the base and opposite the first side on the cap, respectively; The grip of claim 1 , wherein

8. The grip of claim 7 , wherein the first and second living hinges are located on opposite sides of the base and cap from each other.

9. The flexure bearing comprises: a first pair of living hinges coupled to the base and the cap portion at first locations on a first side of the base and on the cap portion, respectively; and a second pair of living hinges coupled to the base and the cap portion at second locations on a second side of the base and opposite the first side on the cap portion, respectively; The grip of claim 1 , wherein

10. 10. The grip of claim 9, wherein the first and second pairs of living hinges are located on opposite sides of the base and cap portions from each other.

11. the first pair of living hinges being coupled to the cap portion and the base portion by upper and lower flexible members, respectively, at the first position; The second pair of living hinges are coupled to the cap portion and the base portion by upper and lower flexible members, respectively, in the second position.

10. The grip of claim 9.

12. 10. The grip of claim 9, wherein in the relaxed position, the first pair of living hinges form respective interior angles that face in opposite directions.

13. 10. The grip of claim 9, wherein in the relaxed position, the second pair of living hinges form interior angles that face in opposite directions.

14. further comprising a retainer configured to secure the cap portion to the base in the captured position, wherein the retainer comprises: a first portion of a snap-fit ​​pairing on the cap portion; and a second portion of the snap-fit ​​pairing on the base The grip of claim 1 , wherein

15. The retainer comprises: a male structure on the cap portion, wherein the male structure includes a protrusion having a diameter; and a female structure on the base, the female structure including an opening facing the protrusion, the opening having a size smaller than the diameter and configured to secure the cap portion to the base in the captured position; 15. The grip of claim 14, having:

16. The female structure further includes a tapered sidewall having a first height above a peripheral surface of the base, wherein the living hinge: a first pair of living hinges coupled to the base and the cap portion at first locations on a first side of the base and on the cap portion, respectively; and a second pair of living hinges coupled to the base and the cap portion at second locations on a second side of the base and opposite the first side on the cap portion, respectively, wherein the female structure is located between the first and second pairs of living hinges. and wherein the grip further comprises: Here, the cap portion rotates from the relaxed position about the first and second pair of living hinges to engage the top surface of the cap portion with the tapered sidewalls, thereby placing the cap portion in an upright position.

16. The grip of claim 15, comprising:

17. 20. The grip of claim 19, wherein the thickness of the grip is in the range of between about 2 mm and about 4 mm when the cap portion is in the retracted position.

18. 1. A grip for coupling to a portable electronic device, the grip comprising: base; a cap portion; and a continuous material connecting the base and cap portions, the continuous material having a first segment and a second segment separated by a living hinge, the first segment being connected to the base portion and the second segment being connected to the cap portion; Equipped with wherein the grip thickness allows power to be transferred from a charging device to a portable electronic device through at least a portion of the grip. grip.

19. 20. The grip of claim 18, wherein the thickness of the grip is less than 2.5 mm.

20. 1. A grip for coupling to a portable electronic device, the grip comprising: a base having a first engagement member; a cap portion having a second engagement member; and a plurality of continuous pieces of material connecting the base and cap portions, each continuous piece of material having a first segment and a second segment separated by a living hinge, the first segment being connected to the base and the second segment being connected to the cap portion; Equipped with wherein the grip is movable through a plurality of configurations, wherein in a first configuration, the second engagement member is engaged with the first engagement member and a major plane of the base is parallel to a major plane of the cap portion, and wherein in a second configuration, a first end of the cap portion is located rearward of a protrusion of the first engagement member. grip.

Images