Adjustable tripod and recharging module

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an adjustable tripod and recharging module for use with an adjustable clamping device that works in conjunction with commonly available accessory rails for photographic equipment and / or firearms.

Description

ADJUSTABLE TRIPOD AND RECHARGING MODULE CROSS-REFERNECE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.63 / 600,254 entitled “Adjustable Tripod and Recharging Module,” filed on November 17, 2023, the contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an adjustable tripod and recharging module, particularly for use in connection with a quick release mounting device for photographic equipment and / or firearms. BACKGROUND

[0003] Unless otherwise indicated herein, the materials described in this section are not admitted to be prior art to the claims in this application.

[0004] Typically, tripods include an elevated mounting surface, upon which equipment may be secured, such as photographic equipment and / or firearms. The elevated mounting surface is supported by a plurality of legs, which in the case of a tripod is typically three. For convenience, the term “tripod” as used herein is used as a generic identifier for a more broad class of equipment supports, which may have any number of legs, e.g. a support with two, three, or four or more legs.

[0005] Tripods are designed to provide some optimal balance between a set of features. For example, one feature of a tripod is stability, as it is often desirable to insure that shaking or other movement of equipment supported by the tripod is minimized. Tripods are often used portably, hence, it is often desired to minimize the weight and / or dimensions of the tripod so that it may be carried over great distances. Unfortunately, these stability and weight considerations are often in conflict, i.e. a heavier tripod will provide a high degree of stability but will be more burdensome to carry.

[0006] Many existing tripods are vertically collapsible with radially extendible legs. For example, a tripod may have three leg assemblies, with each leg assembly pivotally connected to an elevated equipment support so that each leg may be pivoted outwards when in use, and inwards when not in use. However, in current designs the legs of the tripod may crosswhen pivoted inwards when not in use. Therefore, an improved adjustable tripod design may be desirable.

[0007] Further, users of such an adjustable tripod may be outside and away from electrical outlets for long periods of time. As such, a recharging module that can be removably coupled to the adjustable tripod may be desirable for a user to charge their mobile device or other electronics. SUMMARY

[0008] In view of the foregoing, the present disclosure relates to an adjustable tripod and recharging module for use with an adjustable clamping device that works in conjunction with commonly available accessory rails for photographic equipment and / or firearms.

[0009] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a device including a support surface. The device further includes a first elongate leg having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end of the first elongate leg is rotatably coupled to the support surface. The device further includes a second elongate leg having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end of the second elongate leg is rotatably coupled to the support surface. The device further includes a third elongate leg having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end of the third elongate leg is rotatably coupled to the support surface. The second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are configured to rotate outward from a first position to a second position. A distance between the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg is greater in the second position than in the first position. The device further includes a stopping mechanism that provides a hard stop for an inward rotation of the of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg such that the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg do not contact one another in the first position.

[0010] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a recharging module including a body having a top portion and a bottom portion, where a maximum diameter of the top portion is greater than a maximum diameter of the bottom portion. The recharging module also includes a coupling mechanism coupled to the top portion of the body. The recharging module also includes an input port positioned on the top portion of the body, and an output port positioned on the top portion of the body. The recharging module also includes a housingcoupled to the bottom portion of the body. The recharging module also includes one or more rechargeable batteries positioned in the housing.

[0011] These as well as other aspects, advantages, and alternatives, will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reading the following detailed description, with reference where appropriate to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] FIGURE 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example device in a first position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIGURE 2 illustrates another perspective view of the device of FIGURE 1 in a second position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] FIGURE 3 illustrates a top view of the device of FIGURE 1 in the second position, according to an exemplary embodiment

[0015] FIGURE 4 illustrates a side view of a first elongate leg of the device of FIGURE 1 in a second position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIGURE 5 illustrates another side view of the first elongate leg of the device of FIGURE 1 in the second position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIGURE 6 illustrates another side view of the first elongate leg of the device of FIGURE 1 in the second position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIGURE 7 illustrates a perspective view of a bottom surface of the support surface of the device of FIGURE 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIGURE 8 illustrates a top view the support surface of FIGURE 7, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] FIGURE 9 illustrates a bottom view the support surface of FIGURE 7, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] FIGURE 10 illustrates a side view the support surface of FIGURE 7, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIGURE 11 illustrates a first perspective view of a recharging module, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] FIGURE 12 is a second perspective view of the recharging module of FIGURE 11, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] FIGURE 13 is a third perspective of the recharging module of FIGURE 11, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIGURE 14 is a fourth perspective view of the recharging module of FIGURE 11, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] FIGURE 15 is a front view of the recharging module of FIGURE 11, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIGURE 16 is a rear view of the recharging module of FIGURE 11, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIGURE 17 is a left side view of the recharging module of FIGURE 11, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIGURE 18 is a right side view of the recharging module of FIGURE 11, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIGURE 19 is bottom view of the recharging module of FIGURE 11, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIGURE 20 is top view of the recharging module of FIGURE 11, according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Example methods and systems are described herein. It should be understood that the words “example,” “exemplary,” and “illustrative” are used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or feature described herein as being an “example,” being “exemplary,” or being “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or features. The exemplary embodiments described herein are not meant to be limiting. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

[0033] Furthermore, the particular arrangements shown in the Figures should not be viewed as limiting. It should be understood that other embodiments may include more or less of each element shown in a given Figure. Further, some of the illustrated elements may be combined or omitted. Yet further, an exemplary embodiment may include elements that are not illustrated in the Figures.

[0034] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first,” “second,” etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second”item does not require or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbered item, and / or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

[0035] Reference herein to “one embodiment” or “one example” means that one or more feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one implementation. The phrases “one embodiment” or “one example” in various places in the specification may or may not be referring to the same example.

[0036] As used herein, apparatus, element and method “configured to” perform a specified function is indeed capable of performing the specified function without any alteration, rather than merely having potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, the apparatus, element, and method “configured to” perform a specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, “configured to” refers to existing characteristics of an apparatus, element, and method which enable the apparatus, element, and method to perform the specified function without further modification. For purposes of this disclosure, an apparatus, element, and method described as being “configured to” perform a particular function can additionally or alternatively be described as being “adapted to” and / or as being “operative to” perform that function.

[0037] As used herein, with respect to measurements, “about” means + / - 5%.

[0038] With respect to Figures 1-6, the present disclosure provides a device 100 including a support surface 102. The device 100 further includes a first elongate leg 104A having a first end 106A and a second end 108A opposite the first end 106A. The first end 106A of the first elongate leg 104A is rotatably coupled to the support surface 102. The device 100 further includes a second elongate leg 104B having a first end 106B and a second end 108B opposite the first end 106B. The first end 106B of the second elongate leg 104B is rotatably coupled to the support surface 102. The device 100 further includes a third elongate leg 104C having a first end 106C and a second end 108C opposite the first end 106C. The first end 106C of the third elongate leg 104C is rotatably coupled to the support surface 102. The second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C are each configured to rotate outward from a first position to a second position.

[0039] A distance between the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C is greater in the second position than in the first position. This can be seen by comparingthe arrangement of Figure 1 (the first position) to the arrangement of Figure 2 (the second position). The device 100 further includes a stopping mechanism 110 that provides a hard stop for an inward rotation of the of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C such that the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C do not contact one another in the first position. The first position is the closest that the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C get to one another.

[0040] In one example, as shown in Figure 1, a longitudinal axis of each of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C are substantially parallel to one another in the first position. In another example, a length of each of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C is adjustable. For example, each of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C may include one or more telescoping tubes that nest inside one another.

[0041] In one example, the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C are each configured to rotate outward from the second position to a third position. In such an example, the distance between the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C is greater in the third position than in the second position. In another example, the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C are configured to rotate outward from the third position to a fourth position. In such an example, the distance between the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C is greater in the fourth position than in the third position.

[0042] In one example, the support surface 102 includes a first ridge 112 corresponding to the second position for each of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C. The first end 106A of each of the first elongate leg 104A, the first end 106B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the first end 106C of the third elongate leg 104C contact a corresponding first ridge 112 when the device 100 is in the second position. In another example, the support surface 102 includes a second ridge 114 corresponding to thethird position. The first end 106A of each of the first elongate leg 104A, the first end 106B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the first end 106C of the third elongate leg 104C contact a corresponding second ridge 114 when the device 100 is in the third position. In yet another example, the support surface 102 includes a third ridge 116 corresponding to the fourth position. The first end 106A of each of the first elongate leg 104A, the first end 106B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the first end 106C of the third elongate leg 104C contact a corresponding third ridge 116 when the device 100 is in the fourth position.

[0043] The stopping mechanism 110 described above may take a variety of forms. In one example, the stopping mechanism 110 comprises a first cam surface 118 adjacent the first end 106A of each of the first elongate leg 104A, the first end 106B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the first end 106C of the third elongate leg 104C that contacts a second cam surface 120 on the support surface 102 when each of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C are in the first position. In one such example, the first cam surface 118 does not contact the second cam surface 120 when the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C rotate outward from the first position to the second position, and the first cam surface 118 only contacts the second cam surface 120 when the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C are in the first position to thereby prevent an inward rotation of each of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C when the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C are in the first position. In one particular example, the first cam surface 118 is substantially flat, and the second cam surface 120 is rounded.

[0044] In one example, the first cam surface 118 is positioned at the first end 106A of each of the first elongate leg 104A, the first end 106B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the first end 106C of the third elongate leg 104C, and the second cam surface 120 is positioned on a bottom surface of the support surface 102. In another example, the first cam surface 118 is positioned offset from the first end 106A of each of the first elongate leg 104A, the first end 106B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the first end 106C of the third elongate leg 104C, and the second cam surface 120 is positioned on a protrusion of the support surface 102 spaced away from a bottom surface of the support surface 102. In yet another example, the first cam surface 118 comprises a pair of surfaces, and the second cam surface 120 comprises a pair of surfaces.

[0045] In another example, the stopping mechanism 110 comprises a spacer 122 coupled to one or more of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C. In such an example, the spacer 122 is configured to contact each of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C when the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C are in the first position to thereby ensure that the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C do not contact one another in the first position. In one such example, a spacer 122 is coupled to at least one of the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C. Such a spacer 122 may have a diameter greater than the other portions of the first elongate leg 104A, the second elongate leg 104B, and the third elongate leg 104C.

[0046] In yet another example, the stopping mechanism 110 comprises a first spacer 124A coupled to the support surface 102, a second spacer 124B coupled to the support surface 102, and a third spacer 124C coupled to the support surface 102. The first spacer 124A is configured to contact the first elongate leg 104A when the first elongate leg 104A is in the first position, the second spacer 124B is configured to contact the second elongate leg 104B when the second elongate leg 104B is in the first position, and the third spacer 124C is configured to contact the third elongate leg 104C when the third elongate leg 104C is in the first position to thereby ensure that the second end 108A the first elongate leg 104A, the second end 108B of the second elongate leg 104B, and the second end 108C of the third elongate leg 104C do not contact one another in the first position.

[0047] Figures 7-10 illustrates a variety of views of the support surface 102 of the device with the elongate legs 104A-104C removed to show additional components. In particular, Figures 7-10 show a portion of the first elongate leg 104A in the first position, while the second elongate leg 104B and third elongate leg 104C are removed.

[0048] In one example, the support surface 102 of the device 100 includes a through hole 126 extending from the top surface through the bottom surface of the support surface 102. In one example, the support surface 102 includes a lever 128 moveable from a first position to a second position. A diameter of the through hole 126 is configured to change when the lever 128 moves from the first position to the second position. In one example, the through hole 126 of the support surface 102 includes a protrusion 130 between the top surface and the bottom surface of the support surface 102. The protrusion 130 may interact with a correspondingrecess of an accessory positioned in the through hole 126 to thereby secure the accessory to the support surface 102. Moving the lever 128 from the first position to the second position may further prevent a rotation of the accessory with respect to the support surface 102. The support surface 102 may further include a release button 132. When pressed, the release button 132 causes the protrusion 130 to disengage from the corresponding recess of the accessory, to thereby enable removal of the accessory from the support surface 102.

[0049] In one example, the accessory comprises an adjustable clamping device that works in conjunction with commonly available accessory rails for photographic equipment and / or firearms. Further details on such an adjustable clamping device can be found in U.S. Patent No. 12,013,079, entitled “Adjustable Clamping Device and Leveling Base with Multidirectional Adjustment”, assigned to the assignee of the present disclosure, the content of which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0050] In another example, the present disclosure provides a recharging module 200 as shown in Figures 11-20 configured to interact with the tripod device 100 described above with respect to Figure 1-10. In particular, the recharging module 200 includes a body 202 having a top portion 204 and a bottom portion 206, where a maximum diameter of the top portion 204 is greater than a maximum diameter of the bottom portion 206. The recharging module 200 also includes a coupling mechanism 208 coupled to the top portion 204 of the body 202. The recharging module 200 also includes an input port 210 positioned on the top portion 204 of the body 202, and an output port 212 positioned on the top portion 204 of the body 202. The recharging module 200 also includes a housing 214 coupled to the bottom portion 206 of the body 202. In one example, a maximum diameter of the housing 214 is less the maximum diameter of the bottom portion 206. The recharging module 200 also includes one or more rechargeable batteries 216 positioned in the housing 214.

[0051] In one example, the one or more rechargeable batteries 216 may take various forms, examples of which include nickel metal hydride (NiMH), nickel cadmium (NiCd), Lithium Ion (Li-Ion), and lithium polymer (Li-Poly), or any other form now known or later developed. The recharging module 200 may further include a battery-level sensor that functions to regularly monitor the remaining power of the one or more rechargeable batteries and to provide an output signal indicating the current remaining battery power. Battery-level sensor may be integrated in the battery itself or could be provided in some other form. As outlined below, the battery-level sensor may provide a visual indication of a remaining battery power of the recharging module 200. The one or more rechargeable batteries 216 provide a charging sourcefor a user to charge one or more electronic devices (e.g., a mobile phone as a non-limiting example).

[0052] In one example, the coupling mechanism 208 comprises a threaded rod 218 extending from a top surface of the top portion 204 of the body 202. In such an example, an accessory (such as an adjustable clamping device) may include a corresponding threaded recess to receive the threaded rod 218 of the recharging module 200 to thereby removably couple the accessory to the recharging module 200. In another example, the coupling mechanism 208 comprises a threaded recess extending into a top surface of the top portion 204 of the body 202. In such an example, an accessory (such as an adjustable clamping device) may include a corresponding threaded rod that is configured to be positioned into the threaded recess of the recharging module 200 to thereby removably couple the accessory to the recharging module 200. Other coupling mechanisms 208 are possible as well.

[0053] In one example, the top portion 204 of the body 202 includes a first curved side surface 222A, a second curved side surface 222B positioned opposite the first curved side surface 222A, a first flat side surface 224A positioned between the first curved side surface 222A and the second curved side surface 222B, and a second flat side surface 224B opposite the first flat side surface 224A and positioned between the first curved side surface 222A and the second curved side surface 222B. In one such example, a distance between the first flat side surface 224A and the second flat side surface 224B is substantially equal to the maximum diameter of the bottom portion 206.

[0054] In one example, the recharging module 200 further includes a second output port 228 positioned on the top portion 204 of the body 202. As non-limiting examples, each of the input port 210, the output port 212, and the second output port 228 may comprise a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, a USB-C port, a mini USB port, a micro USB port, or an 8- pin lightning port. In one example, the input port 210, the output port 212, and the second output port 228 are positioned on the first flat side surface 224A, and a power button 226 is positioned on the second flat side surface 224B. In another example, each of the power button 226, the input port 210, the output port 212, and the second output port 228 may be positioned on the same side of the top portion 204 of the body 202.

[0055] The recharging module 200 may include one or more light emitting diodes 230 positioned on the top portion 204 of the body 202. In one example, the one or more light emitting diodes 230 provide a visual indication of a charging level of the one or more rechargeable batteries 216. In one particular example, the recharging module 200 includes fourvisual indicators corresponding to the one or more light emitting diodes 230. In such an example, when all four visual indicators are lit up, this provides an indication that the recharging module 200 is between 75-100% charged. When three out of the four visual indicators are lit up, this provides an indication that the recharging module 200 is between 50- 75% charged. When two out of the four visual indicators are lit up, this provides an indication that the recharging module 200 is between 25-50% charged. And when one out of the four visual indicators are lit up, this provides an indication that the recharging module 200 is between 0-25% charged. The recharging module 200 may further comprise a cover removably positioned over the input port 210 and / or the output port(s) 212, 228. The recharging module 200 may further comprise a second cover removably positioned over the power button 226 and / or the one or more light emitting diodes 230.

[0056] In one example, the bottom portion 206 of the body 202 is cylindrical in shape. The bottom portion 206 of the body 202 may include a recess 234 along its circumference. As discussed above, the support surface 102 of the tripod device 100 includes a through hole 126 extending from the top surface through the bottom surface of the support surface 102. The through hole 126 of the support surface 102 includes a protrusion 130 between the top surface and the bottom surface of the support surface 102. The protrusion 130 may interact with the recess 234 of bottom portion 206 of the body 202 when the recharging module 200 is positioned in the through hole 126 to thereby secure the recharging module 200 to the support surface 102 of the tripod device 100.

[0057] In one example, a top surface of the top portion 204 of the body 202 includes a first circular recess 236, and the top surface of the top portion 204 of the body 202 includes a second circular recess 238. A diameter of the second circular recess 238 is greater than a diameter of the first circular recess 236. In one example, a width of the second circular recess 238 is less than a width of the first circular recess 236.

[0058] In one example, the recharging module 200 further includes a locking mechanism 240 extending from a top surface of the top portion 204 of the body 202. The locking mechanism 240 is configured to transition from a first position to a second position, where the locking mechanism 240 is further from the top surface of the top portion 204 of the body 202 in the second position than in the first position. In one example, the locking mechanism 240 comprises a set screw that is accessed from a bottom surface of the top portion 204 of the body 202. In such an example, rotating the set screw in a first direction moves the locking mechanism 240 further away from the top surface of the top portion 204 of the body202, and rotating the set screw in a second direction opposite the first direction moves the locking mechanism 240 closer to the top surface of the top portion 204 of the body 202.

[0059] The recharging module 200 may also include a hook 242 removably coupled to a bottom surface of the housing 214. The hook 242 may be used to removably couple a plumb bob or other accessory to the tripod device 100 when in use.

[0060] In use, a user may set up the tripod device 100 to a desired position. Next, the user may position the housing 214 and the bottom portion 206 of the body 202 of the recharging module 200 through the through hole 126 of the support surface 102 of the tripod device 100. The bottom surface of the top portion 204 of the body 202 contacts the top surface of the support surface 102 since the maximum diameter of the top portion 204 of the body 202 is greater than the maximum diameter of the through hole 126. As discussed above, the through hole 126 of the support surface 102 includes a protrusion 130 between the top surface and the bottom surface of the support surface 102. The protrusion 130 may interact with the recess 234 of bottom portion 206 of the body 202 when the recharging module 200 is positioned in the through hole 126 to thereby secure the recharging module 200 to the support surface 102 of the tripod device 100. The user may then move the lever 128 on the support surface 102 of the tripod device 100 from the first position to the second position may further prevent a rotation of the recharging module 200 with respect to the support surface 102. Next, a user can removably couple an accessory (such as an adjustable clamping device) to the coupling mechanism 208 of the recharging module 200. Next, a user can lock the accessory to the recharging module 200 via the locking mechanism 240 to prevent a rotation of the accessory with respect to the recharging module 200.

[0061] Without limiting the present disclosure, a number of embodiments of the present disclosure are described below for purpose of illustration.

[0062] Embodiment 1: A device comprising: a support surface; a first elongate leg having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first end of the first elongate leg is rotatably coupled to the support surface; a second elongate leg having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first end of the second elongate leg is rotatably coupled to the support surface; and a third elongate leg having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first end of the third elongate leg is rotatably coupled to the support surface,wherein the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are configured to rotate outward from a first position to a second position, wherein a distance between the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg is greater in the second position than in the first position, and wherein the device includes a stopping mechanism that provides a hard stop for an inward rotation of each the of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg such that the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg do not contact one another in the first position.

[0063] Embodiment 2: The device of embodiment 1, wherein a longitudinal axis of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are parallel to one another in the first position.

[0064] Embodiment 3: The device of any one of embodiments 1-2, wherein a length of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg is adjustable.

[0065] Embodiment 4: The device of any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are configured to rotate outward from the second position to a third position, and wherein the distance between the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg is greater in the third position than in the second position.

[0066] Embodiment 5: The device of embodiment 4, wherein the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are configured to rotate outward from the third position to a fourth position, and wherein the distance between the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg is greater in the fourth position than in the third position.

[0067] Embodiment 6: The device of any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein the stopping mechanism comprises a first cam surface adjacent the first end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg that contacts a second cam surface on the support surface when each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are in the first position.

[0068] Embodiment 7: The device of embodiment 6, wherein the first cam surface does not contact the second cam surface when the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg rotate outward from the first position to the second position, and wherein the first cam surface only contacts the second cam surface whenthe first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are in the first position to thereby prevent an inward rotation of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg when the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are in the first position.

[0069] Embodiment 8: The device of any one of embodiments 6-7, wherein the first cam surface is substantially flat, and wherein the second cam surface is rounded.

[0070] Embodiment 9: The device of any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein the stopping mechanism comprises a spacer coupled to one of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg, wherein the spacer is configured to contact each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg when the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are in the first position to thereby ensure that the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg do not contact one another in the first position.

[0071] Embodiment 10: The device of any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein the stopping mechanism comprises: a first spacer coupled to the support surface, wherein the first spacer is configured to contact the first elongate leg when the first elongate leg is in the first position; a second spacer coupled to the support surface, wherein the second spacer is configured to contact the second elongate leg when the second elongate leg is in the first position; and a third spacer coupled to the support surface, wherein the third spacer is configured to contact the third elongate leg when the third elongate leg is in the first position to thereby ensure that the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg do not contact one another in the first position.

[0072] Embodiment 11: A recharging module comprising: a body having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein a maximum diameter of the top portion is greater than a maximum diameter of the bottom portion; a coupling mechanism coupled to the top portion of the body; an input port positioned on the top portion of the body; an output port positioned on the top portion of the body; a housing coupled to the bottom portion of the body; and one or more rechargeable batteries positioned in the housing.

[0073] Embodiment 12: The recharging module of embodiment 11, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a threaded rod extending from a top surface of the top portion of the body.

[0074] Embodiment 13: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-12, wherein the top portion includes a first curved side surface, a second curved side surface positioned opposite the first curved side surface, a first flat side surface positioned between the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface, and a second flat side surface opposite the first flat side surface and positioned between the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface.

[0075] Embodiment 14: The recharging module of embodiment 13, wherein a distance between the first flat side surface and the second flat side surface is substantially equal to the maximum diameter of the bottom portion.

[0076] Embodiment 15: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 13-14, wherein the input port and the output port are positioned on the first flat side surface.

[0077] Embodiment 16: The recharging module of embodiment 15, wherein a power button is positioned on the second flat side surface.

[0078] Embodiment 17: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-16, wherein a maximum diameter of the housing is less the maximum diameter of the bottom portion.

[0079] Embodiment 18: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-17, further comprising a second output port positioned on the top portion of the body.

[0080] Embodiment 19: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-18, further comprising a power button positioned on the top portion of the body.

[0081] Embodiment 20: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-19, further comprising one or more light emitting diodes positioned on the top portion of the body, wherein the one or more light emitting diodes provide a visual indication of a charging level of the one or more rechargeable batteries.

[0082] Embodiment 21: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-20, further comprising a cover removably positioned over the input port and / or the output port.

[0083] Embodiment 22: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-21, wherein the bottom portion of the body is cylindrical in shape.

[0084] Embodiment 23: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-22, wherein the bottom portion of the body includes a recess along its circumference.

[0085] Embodiment 24: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-23, wherein a top surface of the top portion of the body includes a first circular recess, wherein the top surface of the top portion of the body includes a second circular recess, and wherein a diameter of the second circular recess is greater than a diameter of the first circular recess.

[0086] Embodiment 25: The recharging module of embodiment 24, wherein a width of the second circular recess is less than a width of the first circular recess.

[0087] Embodiment 26: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-25, further comprising a locking mechanism extending from a top surface of the top portion of the body, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to transition from a first position to a second position, and wherein the locking mechanism is further from the top surface of the top portion of the body in the second position than in the first position.

[0088] Embodiment 27: The recharging module of any one of embodiments 11-26, further comprising a hook removably coupled to a bottom surface of the housing.

[0089] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0090] Because many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described example, it is intended that all matters in the preceding description and shown in the accompanying figures be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Further, it is intended to be understood that the following clauses (and any combination of the clauses) further describe aspects of the present description.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A device comprising: a support surface; a first elongate leg having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first end of the first elongate leg is rotatably coupled to the support surface; a second elongate leg having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first end of the second elongate leg is rotatably coupled to the support surface; and a third elongate leg having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first end of the third elongate leg is rotatably coupled to the support surface, wherein the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are configured to rotate outward from a first position to a second position, wherein a distance between the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg is greater in the second position than in the first position, and wherein the device includes a stopping mechanism that provides a hard stop for an inward rotation of each the of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg such that the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg do not contact one another in the first position.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein a longitudinal axis of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are parallel to one another in the first position.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein a length of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg is adjustable.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are configured to rotate outward from the second position to a third position, and wherein the distance between the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg is greater in the third position than in the second position.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are configured to rotate outward from the third position to a fourth position, and wherein the distance between the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg is greater in the fourth position than in the third position.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the stopping mechanism comprises a first cam surface adjacent the first end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg that contacts a second cam surface on the support surface when each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are in the first position.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the first cam surface does not contact the second cam surface when the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg rotate outward from the first position to the second position, and wherein the first cam surface only contacts the second cam surface when the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are in the first position to thereby prevent an inward rotation of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg when the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are in the first position.

8. The device of claim 6, wherein the first cam surface is substantially flat, and wherein the second cam surface is rounded.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the stopping mechanism comprises a spacer coupled to one or more of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg, wherein the spacer is configured to contact each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg when the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg are in the first position to thereby ensure that the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg do not contact one another in the first position.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the stopping mechanism comprises:a first spacer coupled to the support surface, wherein the first spacer is configured to contact the first elongate leg when the first elongate leg is in the first position; a second spacer coupled to the support surface, wherein the second spacer is configured to contact the second elongate leg when the second elongate leg is in the first position; and a third spacer coupled to the support surface, wherein the third spacer is configured to contact the third elongate leg when the third elongate leg is in the first position to thereby ensure that the second end of each of the first elongate leg, the second elongate leg, and the third elongate leg do not contact one another in the first position.

11. A recharging module comprising: a body having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein a maximum diameter of the top portion is greater than a maximum diameter of the bottom portion; a coupling mechanism coupled to the top portion of the body; an input port positioned on the top portion of the body; an output port positioned on the top portion of the body; a housing coupled to the bottom portion of the body; and one or more rechargeable batteries positioned in the housing.

12. The recharging module of claim 11, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a threaded rod extending from a top surface of the top portion of the body.

13. The recharging module of claim 11, wherein the top portion includes a first curved side surface, a second curved side surface positioned opposite the first curved side surface, a first flat side surface positioned between the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface, and a second flat side surface opposite the first flat side surface and positioned between the first curved side surface and the second curved side surface.

14. The recharging module of claim 13, wherein a distance between the first flat side surface and the second flat side surface is substantially equal to the maximum diameter of the bottom portion.

15. The recharging module of claim 13, wherein the input port and the output port are positioned on the first flat side surface.

16. The recharging module of claim 15, wherein a power button is positioned on the second flat side surface.

17. The recharging module of claim 11, wherein a maximum diameter of the housing is less the maximum diameter of the bottom portion.

18. The recharging module of claim 11, further comprising a second output port positioned on the top portion of the body.

19. The recharging module of claim 11, further comprising a power button positioned on the top portion of the body.

20. The recharging module of claim 11, further comprising one or more light emitting diodes positioned on the top portion of the body, wherein the one or more light emitting diodes provide a visual indication of a charging level of the one or more rechargeable batteries.

21. The recharging module of claim 11, further comprising a cover removably positioned over the input port and / or the output port.

22. The recharging module of claim 11, wherein the bottom portion of the body is cylindrical in shape.

23. The recharging module of claim 11, wherein the bottom portion of the body includes a recess along its circumference.

24. The recharging module of claim 11, wherein a top surface of the top portion of the body includes a first circular recess, wherein the top surface of the top portion of the body includes a second circular recess, and wherein a diameter of the second circular recess is greater than a diameter of the first circular recess.

25. The recharging module of claim 24, wherein a width of the second circular recess is less than a width of the first circular recess.

26. The recharging module of claim 11, further comprising a locking mechanism extending from a top surface of the top portion of the body, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to transition from a first position to a second position, and wherein the locking mechanism is further from the top surface of the top portion of the body in the second position than in the first position.

27. The recharging module of claim 11, further comprising a hook removably coupled to a bottom surface of the housing.

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