Holder, electrical supply and RF transmitter unit for electronic devices

(54) Title: HOLDER, ELECTRIC SUPPLY, AND RF TRANSMISSION UNIT FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES (30) Unionist Priority: 10/07/2007 US60 / 959.057 (73) Holder (s): Belkin International INC.

(72) Inventor (s): Scott Jackson, Thorben Neu, Vince Razo (57) Summary: keeper, electrical supply, and RF TRANSMISSION UNIT FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES. In one version, an electronic accessory for attaching electronic devices to an external power source includes: (a) a keeper having: (1) a cradle section configured to couple at least two of the electronic devices, the cradle section comprising a power coupling; and (2) two or more side supports, each of the two or more side supports configured to couple, being able to remove, to the cradle section; and (b) a power unit electrically coupled to the power coupling and configured to couple, so as to remove, to the external power source. At least one of the two or more side supports is configured to provide support for a first of the electronic devices when the first of the electronic devices is attached to the cradle section. At least one second of the two or more side supports is configured to support one second of the electronic devices when the second of the electronic devices is attached to the cradle section. Other versions are revealed in this application.

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Ρ10804744-Ο

HOLDER, ELECTRICAL SUPPLY, AND RF TRANSMISSION UNIT FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of the Order

United States Provisional Patent number 60 / 959,057, filed on July 10, 2007.

HISTORY OF THE INVENTION

Field of invention

This invention relates to accessories for 'i electronic devices, particularly _f media (for example, portable MP3 players). More specifically, the invention relates to an electronic device with supports for containing media players and a method of using them.

History description

Numerous types of electronic devices are known, many of which are portable, for example, mobile phones (or cell phones), laptop computers, and audio playback devices, for example, AM '4 radios:

(modulated amplitude) and portable FM (modulated frequency), portable CD (compact disc) players, and portable MP3 (MPEG-3 Audio Layer) players. The terms electronic device and media player must be understood widely and include electronic devices of all types and designs (for example, MP3 players and audio-visual media players).

The MP3 format is a compressed format for digital music. The use of the MP3 format reduces the size of the digitized music files without degrading or distorting the quality of the acoustic sound. Music is sometimes converted

2/94 for MP3 format and made available on the Internet. These MP3 files can be downloaded from the Internet using a

<td>computer</td><td>and software</td><td>Special.</td><td>a</td><td>computer with</td>

<td>capacity</td><td>and the software</td><td>appropriate</td><td>can</td><td>convert music</td>

<td>5 digital</td><td>a CD for</td><td>the format</td><td>MP3.</td><td>MP3 files are</td>

<td>commonly</td><td>reproduces i dos</td><td>of three</td><td colspan="2">different ways: (i)</td>

MP3 files can be played directly on a computer that contains the necessary software, (ii) MP3 files can be uncompressed and burned to a CD, which can then be played, and (iii) MP3 files can be played on an MP3 player.

Portable MP3 players are lightweight and relatively small devices that can interface with a computer. Typically, the user downloads MP3 files from

Internet to the computer and then upload the MP3 files to the MP3 player. The MP3 player is attached to the computer's parallel or USB port, which allows the MP3 player to interface with the computer and receive files

MP3.

There are many portable MP3 players available, including those manufactured by Sony Corp., Philips Corp., Audiovox Corp., Microsoft Corp. (for example, the Zune ™ MP3 player), and Apple Computer, Inc. (for example, the iPod® MP3 player and the mini iPod® MP3 player). MP3 players rely on batteries for portability and typically use headsets or headphones for user listening. The battery life is sometimes a problem. After a few hours of use, most MP3 players need an alternative power source, they need to be charged,

3/94 or need to have their batteries replaced. Another limitation is that these MP3 players typically play sound for only one listener at a time (for example, through the headset or headphones). Even if the MP3 player is equipped with a speaker, the small size of the player and the lightweight design limit the size of the speaker, which tends to make the speaker unsuitable for transmitting music to a group of people, for example, in a vehicle.

MP3 player accessories that try to overcome these limitations are available, for example, units to supply power to the MP3 player for operation and / or charging (for example, Auto Kit for iPod With Dock Connector, part number F8V7058-APL, from Belkin Corp .) and FM transmission systems (for example, TuneCast II Mobile FM Transmitter, part number F8V3080-APL, from Belkin Corp.). An FM transmission system when used in conjunction with an MP3 player allows the user to listen to MP3 music files stored on the MP3 player through an FM audio system so that one can listen and allow others to listen to the stored music. However, current FM transmission systems are often unstable and provide weak FM signals, which can result in signal loss or constant static noise in the background. In these known FM transmission systems, the power of the FM signal is occasionally weakened or lost because of the inefficient antenna design (for example, in relation to its size, shape, and / or location).

Some well-known accessory units combine

4/94 power source and charging circuit with an FM transmission system. Some of these devices are capable of use in vehicles through a cigarette lighter adapter (for example, United States patent number 6,591,085, United States patent application publication number 2004/0058649, International Application Publication No WO 2004/010594, and International Application Publication No. WO 2004/008649). However, the devices currently available are often thick, mechanically unstable, lack versatility, produce weak FM signals, produce audio output with noise from the FM receiver (for example, audio output with audible noise), and sacrifice conform and user convenience. (All documents, including patent documents and product specification sheets, are hereby incorporated in their entirety for all purposes.)

Another common problem with MP3 accessories is that the accessories are designed to be compatible with only one or a very limited number of MP3 players. That is, an MP3 accessory designed to work with the Apple iPod® MP3 player is not compatible with the Apple iPod® MP3 mini player, Apple iTouch® player or Apple iPhone®. Usually, the incompatibility is caused by the inability of MP3 accessories to physically attach to the second MP3 player. For example, the second MP3 player may be wider and thicker than the first MP3 player and the accessory is not designed to fit MP3 players that are wider and thicker than the first MP3 player. Furthermore, even if a holder is designed to work with an accessory

5/94 specific, the holder cannot normally physically attach to the accessory when the accessory is inside a protective box.

Broadly speaking, accessories for electronic devices have already included several features that attempt to improve reliability, stability, portability, and / or functionality. Some of these features include: multiple prefixed buttons for the user's convenience; buttons hidden under a single thin, elastic and smooth outer surface, which reduces the danger of dirt getting caught between the buttons (such as some cell phones and microwave ovens); goose necks, which give the devices greater maneuverability; and swivel joint joints, which also allow greater maneuverability to the devices.

However, despite all this, the need for a versatile holder and power supply unit, with RF transmission capability (for example, FM), for electronic devices (for example, MP3 players) still remains so that you can easily use the full range of electronic device capabilities. There is a need for these units that are stable, light, have rigidity but and / or are portable so that they can be coupled with multiple MP3 players, for example, in vehicles. There is also a need for such units that are aesthetically pleasing to look at, for example, that are thin and modern. Finally, there is also a need for such units that are superior in comfort, convenience, and / or electrical capabilities when assembling, energizing, and / or otherwise

6/94 use of the units, but without sacrificing portability, stability, versatility and aesthetics. Finally, there is also a need for accessories that are designed to be compatible with multiple electronic devices and / or electrical devices inside protective cases.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF VERSIONS

Versions of an invention that satisfy one or more of these needs and overcome one or more of these problems have now been developed. Broadly, in one respect, some versions relate to an electronic accessory for coupling electronic devices to an external power source. In some versions, the electronic accessory may include a holder that includes: (a) a cradle section configured to couple at least two of the electronic devices, the cradle section having a power coupling; (b) two or more lateral supports, each of the two or more lateral supports, which can be configured to couple in order to remove, to the cradle section; and (c) a power unit electrically coupled to the power coupling and configured to couple in order to remove it from the external power source. In these versions, at least one first of the two or more side supports can be configured to provide support for a first of the electronic devices when the first of the electronic devices is attached to the cradle section. Additionally, at least one second of the two or more side supports can be configured to provide support for one second of the electronic devices when the second of the electronic devices is attached to the cradle section.

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Other versions relate to an electronic device to contain media players. In these versions, the electronic device includes: (a) a detention structure configured to contain a first of the media players and having: (1) at least two locks; (2) a base; and (3) a transmitter electrically coupled to the first of the media players through a detention structure. At least two latches can be attached to remove the base. A first lock of at least two locks can be configured to attach to a first side of the first of the media players. The second lock of at least two locks can be configured to couple to a second side of the first of the media players.

Still other versions relate to a method of using an electronic accessory. In these versions, the method may include: (a) providing the electronic accessory, which includes: a cradle having a base section with a power coupling; and (2) a power unit electrically coupled to the power coupling; (b) choose one or more first side supports based on the characteristics of a first electronic device, · (c) couple the one or more first side supports to the cradle; and (d) coupling the cradle and the one or more first side supports to the first electronic device.

As used herein, vehicle and the like should be widely understood and refer to vehicles of all types and designs, including water vehicles, aerial vehicles (both lighter than air and heavier than air), automobiles, trucks , carriages, carts for

8/94 golf, motorcycles, etc.

The terms coupling, coupling, coupling, coupling, coupling and the like must be widely understood and refer to the connection of two or more elements or signals, electrically or mechanically, either directly or indirectly through circuits and / or intervening elements. Two or more electrical elements may be electrically coupled, either directly or indirectly, but not mechanically coupled; two or more mechanical elements may be mechanically coupled, either directly or indirectly, but not electrically coupled; two or more electrical elements may be mechanically coupled, directly or indirectly, but not electrically coupled; etc. The coupling (whether just mechanical, just electric, or both) can be for any length of time, for example, permanent or semi-permanent or just for an instant.

Electrical and similar coupling must be widely understood and include coupling that involves any electrical signal, whether an energy signal, a data signal, or a mixture of the two.

Mechanical coupling and the like should be widely understood and include mechanical coupling of all types. For example, side supports can be mechanically attached to the cradle in some examples. In another version, the side support can be attached or detached by mechanical coupling or mechanical uncoupling connection mechanisms to the side supports and the cradle.

Semi-permanently and similar should be widely understood and refer to a position,

Deformable 9/94 may, coupling, etc., being able to be maintained until changed. For example, the connector may comprise an elongated and semi-rigid metal antenna portion which allows the position of the holder to be semi-permanently adjusted in relation to the position of the energy acquisition sub-unit. Thus, while keeping the energy acquisition sub-unit in position, the elongated semi-rigid metal antenna portion can be placed in one position, which it holds until it is placed in another position, which it then holds until it is modified from the second position , thus semi-permanently adjusting the position of the holder in relation to the position of the energy acquisition sub-unit. Significant advantages of using the gooseneck as the connector include its readily repositioning from one semi-permanent position to another, which helps to make versions usable in virtually any vehicle, although vehicles differ widely in which obstructions (bumps, levers, etc.) are located close to your cigarette lighters, as the goose neck and the holder can be adjusted very easily to avoid these obstructions.

As another example, the deformable elastic member (for example, stabilizer 154 in Figure 9) may be, but need not be, semi-permanently mounted on the cigarette lighter adapter (for example, the 102 energy acquisition sub-unit) of figure 9 comprises a cigarette lighter adapter) the elastic member will instead be permanently mounted. Thus, the deformable elastic member is preferably fixed in position on the lighter adapter

10/94 of cigarette but can be removed (for example, by first unscrewing and removing nut 146 and retaining washer 158), for example, to replace the deformable elastic member.

As another example, each of the presets in the RF transmission system may desirably be fixed semi-permanently to select a carrier frequency on which the RF transmitter can operate. So, for example, a preset can be set to a carrier frequency and it will keep it (that is, correspond to) that frequency until the preset is reprogrammed to a different frequency. In the same or in a different version, the pre-fixed RF transmission system can be pre-set or reprogrammed for other uses such as selecting an audio mode. The pre-fixed term must be widely understood to include any type of mechanism (whether or not it has moving parts) that allows information, such as a frequency or audio mode, to be fixed and maintained in the mechanism for later use. 0 one or more pre-sets are desirably programmable by the user but need not be (for example, they may be permanently fixed by the manufacturer and not be re-programmable by the user).

Semi-rigid and similar should be widely understood and refer to a member being sufficiently flexible, mobile, etc., so that it holds a position and shape when not forced but can be folded, rolled, etc., preferably without damaging it. the member. Thus, a semi-rigid member is preferably not so rigid that attempts to charge, roll, etc. cause it to break,

11/94 crack, etc., instead of folding, curling, etc. However, the wire itself would not be an elongated and semi-rigid portion that allows the position of the holder to be adjusted semipermanently in relation to the position of the energy acquisition sub-unit, since, among other reasons, the wire itself does not it is rigid or strong enough to support and hold semi-permanently in the desired position whether the holder is empty or the holder when holding the electronic device.

The term external and similar energy source must be widely understood and refer to a source of electrical energy outside the item in question. For example, an electrical power source with respect to (ie, outside) versions includes a battery pack that is not part of the version, a plug or power outlet for a vehicle (for example, a car's cigarette lighter) ), or even the electrical system of the electronic device for which the version is being used.

The term circumference and the like must be widely understood and refer to a part or all of the periphery of a member, regardless of the shape of the member (for example, whether or not the shape of that member is completely or partially circular, elliptical, or otherwise curved, polygon (eg triangular, square, pentagonal) or otherwise angular, etc.). Thus, the expression the external circumference of the deformable elastic member being greater than the internal circumference of the cigarette lighter must be widely understood as meaning that at least part (but not necessarily all) of the periphery of the member

12/94 Deformable elastic extends radially beyond at least part of the periphery of the cigarette lighter. The outer circumference of the deformable elastic member does not have to be the same shape as the inner circumference of a car's cigarette lighter (or other energy source). However, the deformable elastic member and the energy source should preferably both have circular peripheries and the entire outer circumference (edge) of the deformable elastic member extends beyond the internal circumference of the energy source.

Some versions may provide a combined keeper, electrical supply, and RF transmitting unit and / or an optional electronic accessory for an electronic device to be used, for example, in a vehicle, having one or more of the following features and benefits: the unit may be mechanically mounted (desirably semi-permanently but otherwise, for example, permanently, it is also possible), for example, to the vehicle, in only one point (for example, by the cigarette lighter adapter); the unit is readily (that is, quickly and easily) coupled, for example, to the vehicle (the mechanical and electrical connection is made by simply plugging in the energy acquisition sub-unit (which comprises a cigarette lighter adapter) inside the vehicle cigarette lighter; the unit remains attached to the vehicle even on bumpy roads and when taking turns and resists rotation and other movement in relation to the vehicle, thus keeping the electronic device in the desired position (in other words, the unit is stable); the unit is light; the unit allows

13/94 the position of the electronic device in the vehicle is easily and semi-permanently adjusted (for example, by means of a preferred goose neck between the holder and the cigarette lighter adapter and / or by means of a preferred swivel joint between goose neck and keeper); the unit accommodates electronic devices of different sizes and holds them firmly (for example, when using locks of different sizes for different electronic devices), even on bumpy roads and sharp curves; the unit can supply power from the vehicle's electrical system to the electronic device; the unit's cigarette lighter adapter accommodates cigarette lighters of different sizes and shapes; the unit converts the data output signal received from the electronic device (as is or how it can be modified) to an RF signal, which is then transmitted to the vehicle's audio system using the gooseneck, when made of metal, as the irradiation antenna, the goose neck thus functioning as a repositionable and adjustable mechanical support and connection element and as an electronic signal transmission element, thus providing a better signal to the vehicle's audio system; the unit allows the user to select the audio mode of the signal; the unit produces a stronger and cleaner signal (for example, more accurate), for example, to provide or facilitate a higher signal-to-noise ratio at the audio output; the unit allows the carrier frequency of the RF transmitter to be changed easily and quickly and has a number of presets to store different carrier frequency information so that the unit can

14/94 easily and quickly be switched from one pre-determined available carrier frequency (irradiation) to another (for example, by pressing the button that has been preprogrammed by the user to the pre5 carrier frequency determined by the desired user); the unit allows the user to view the carrier frequency and audio mode information on a video screen; a one-piece elastic protective membrane covers all buttons in some versions, thus keeping dirt out of the mechanism; the RF transmitter can be maintained so as to release, in the holder; both the electronic device and the RF transmitter can be removed from the holder and coupled directly to each other and removed (if desired) from the vicinity of the rest of the unit (thus allowing the transmitter to radiate the RF signal (eg FM signal) to another RF receiver (for example, in the user's home or office or in another vehicle equipped with a holder and power acquisition unit of this invention), and the unit is smooth and modern in appearance.

Some electronic devices have their own internal batteries and internal charging circuits (for example, Apple Computer MP3 mini iPod player). The unit of some versions can supply power to these electronic devices and allow them to charge although the unit of these versions preferably does not itself have any charging circuit.

Various versions may also provide a power acquisition unit to supply power to the electronic device, and / or a power supply and support device for an electronic device, and / or a holder

15/94 for an electronic device, and / or an RF transmission system for use in a vehicle, each having one or more features and advantages described above.

An optional holder, electrical supply, and RF 5 transmitter combined in some versions can be mounted on the cigarette lighter (or other electrical connection) of virtually any vehicle (this adaptability is made possible by several features, including the stabilizer of the sub-unit of acquisition), and the holder can be positioned with respect to the energy acquisition sub-unit so that the holder, the electronic device, and the connector, do not interfere with protrusions, levers, etc., on the vehicle (this adaptability is made possible by several features, including the ability to adjust the connector, for example, the gooseneck, which also works desirably like the RF antenna) . In summary, some versions may provide a combined one-size-cabevirtually-all holder, power supply, and optional RF transmitter unit for electronic devices.

Other features and benefits are described below and still others will be apparent to those skilled in the technology.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To facilitate further description of the invention, the following drawings are provided, in which:

Figure 1 shows a preferred version located in a car, with an electronic device, more specifically an MP3 player (MP3 mini iPod player) affixed, whose version contains an FM transmitter (a

16/94 FM transmitter) to convert the data (audio) signal from the MP3 player and radiate it through the antenna (in this case a metallic gooseneck that is part of the unit) to the car's FM receiver.

Figure 2 is a representative front view of the Figure 1 unit, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of the unit, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 4 is an elevated view from the front of the unit, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 5 is a right elevated view of the unit, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 6 is a left elevated view of the unit, 15 with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 7 is a top view of the unit, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 8 is a bottom view of the unit, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

0 Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the power acquisition sub-unit (which comprises a cigarette lighter adapter) of the unit with part of its outer housing (end cap) removed.

Figure 10 shows the cigarette lighter adapter just before inserting its distal end into an automobile's cigarette lighter (ie, an external power source).

Figure 11 represents the cigarette lighter adapter of the unit after its distal end has been pushed fully into the cigarette lighter.

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Figure 12 is an enlarged partial view of the top, bottom and side wall of the unit holder (support set), which receives the MP3 mini iPod player when the invention is in use (that is, when the device is in the holder).

Figure 13 is a perspective view of the rear inner surrounding member of the support assembly (holder).

Figure 14 is an exploded view of the support assembly (holder).

Figure 15 is an exploded view of the cigarette lighter adapter.

Figure 16 is an elevated front view of a second preferred version, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached, whose version supplies power to the MP3 mini iPod player but does not contain an FM transmitter, the audio output being available, for example, through a jack on the cigarette lighter adapter.

Figure 17 is an elevated view on the right side of the Figure 16 unit, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 18 is an elevated view on the left side of the Figure 16 unit, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 19 is an overall view of the Figure 16 unit, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 20 is a bottom view of the device in Figure 16, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 21 is a block diagram of the version of Figure 1, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

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Figure 22 is a block diagram of the keeper (support assembly) and gooseneck antenna of the version of Figure 1.

Figure 23 is an elevated front view of a third version, with an MP3 mini iPod player attached.

Figure 24 is a representative front view of a fourth version of the electronic device.

Figure 25 is a representative front perspective view of Figure 24 affixed to a media player, according to the fourth version of the electronic device.

Figure 26 is a representative front view of the electronic device of Figure 24, in which the side supports are decoupled from the electronic device, according to the fourth version.

Figure 27 is a front perspective view of two pairs of side supports for the electronic device, according to the fourth version.

Figure 28 is a block diagram of an audio system of the electronic device of Figure 24, according to the fourth version.

Figure 29 is a representative front perspective view of a fifth version of the electronic device.

Figure 30 is a view on the right side of the electronic device in Figure 29, according to the fifth version.

Figure 31 is a front perspective view of four side supports for the electronic device, according to the fifth version.

Figure 32 is a representative front perspective view of a sixth version of the electronic device.

Figure 33 is a representative perspective view

19/94 front of the electronic device of Figure 32, coupled to a media player, according to the sixth version of the electronic device.

Figure 34 is a representative front perspective view of an electronic device in Figure 32 with the side support attached to the media players in Figure 32, according to a sixth version.

Figure 35 is a representative front perspective view of an electronic device in Figure 32 with side support attached to the media player in Figure 33, according to a sixth version.

Figure 36 is a representative rear perspective view of an electronic device in Figure 32 with side support attached to the media players in Figure 33, according to a sixth version.

Figure 37 is a front perspective view of the side support for the electronic device in Figure 32, according to the sixth version.

Figure 38 is a rear perspective view of the side support in Figure 37 for the electronic device

<td colspan="2" rowspan="2">of Figure 32, The figure</td><td colspan="5">according to the sixth version.</td><td rowspan="2">Support</td><td rowspan="2">side</td>

<td> 39</td><td>is</td><td>an</td><td>eyesight</td><td>exploded from</td>

<td>gives</td><td>Figure 37,</td><td>in</td><td colspan="2">wake up</td><td>with the</td><td>sixth version.</td><td></td><td></td>

<td></td><td>The figure</td><td> 40</td><td>is</td><td>an</td><td>eyesight</td><td>exploded from</td><td>Support</td><td>side</td>

<td>gives</td><td>Figure 37,</td><td>in</td><td colspan="2">wake up</td><td>with the</td><td>sixth version.</td><td></td><td></td>

<td></td><td>The figure</td><td> 41</td><td>is</td><td>an</td><td>eyesight</td><td colspan="3">in front perspective of a</td>

cradle for an electronic device, according to a seventh version.

Figure 42 is a front perspective view of the Figure 41 cradle attached to a media player, from

20/94 according to the seventh version. AND

Figure 43 illustrates a flow chart for a version of a method of using an electronic accessory.

These drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be used to unduly limit the scope of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The formats, dimensions, building materials, part layouts, etc., of the various versions are not critical except as otherwise noted, and any shapes, dimensions, building materials, part layouts, etc., may , be used as long as they allow these versions to operate and one or more of the benefits of those versions is achieved.

Figure 1 shows a preferred version of this invention located in a preferred environment (a vehicle, namely, an automobile). Thus, Figure 1 shows the cigarette lighter goose-neck transmitter 100 (ie, a holder, electrical supply, and RF transmission unit) holding (supporting) the iPod 500 mini player (ie, an electronic device) right in front of car console 103. The cigarette lighter goose-neck transmitter 100 comprises holder (support set) 101, goose neck 104 (connector), and energy acquisition sub-unit 102 (which comprises a cigarette lighter adapter), which is plugged into the cigarette lighter 105 (ie, an external power source).

The term cigarette lighter must be widely understood and includes any source of energy, whether

21/94 or not a vehicle, and whether or not it is normally used or designed to light cigarettes. Similarly, the term cigarette lighter adapter should be widely understood and include any member, device, etc., at least part of which mechanically fits or fits within a cigarette lighter (as this term is to be widely understood) and can draw energy from it.

Although the energy acquisition sub-unit is preferably coupled in order to remove it to the energy source (for example, cigarette lighter), the energy acquisition sub-unit may, in some cases, be permanently attached to a source of energy. energy. For example, the driver of a vehicle that does not smoke can obtain a unit of this invention and put wiring inside the vehicle's cigarette lighter.

term coupled in order to remove and the like should be widely understood and refer to an item (for example, the energy acquisition sub-unit, which may comprise a cigarette lighter adapter) being readily coupled to (for example, when pushing) and promptly uncoupled (for example, when pulling) another item (for example, a power source, such as a vehicle's cigarette lighter). The absence of the removed word capable of being removed and resembled next to the word coupled, connected and similar does not mean that the coupling, connection, etc., in question is or is not removable. For example, the recitation of a cigarette lighter adapter being coupled to a power source does not mean that the cigarette lighter adapter is not

22/94 can be removed (promptly or otherwise) from, or that it is permanently connected to, the power source. In another example, reciting side supports attached to a cradle does not mean that the side supports cannot be removed, or that they are permanently attached, to the cradle.

Broadly speaking, and as explained below, the energy from the cigarette lighter flows through the cigarette lighter adapter, through one or more conductors (not shown) inside the goose neck 104, and to the holder 101. Some energy entering the holder flows to the FM transmitter (discussed below), which is inside the holder, and some energy flows to the MP3 mini iPod player, which is maintained by the holder 101. A data signal flows from the MP3 mini iPod player to the FM transmitter, which processes the data to produce an FM signal (an RF signal). The goose neck is made of metal, and the FM signal is sent (electrically coupled) to the goose neck, which functions as an antenna in addition to functioning as a repositioned mechanical connection and support between keeper 101 and the sub-unit of energy acquisition 102.

The goose neck 104 has been positioned (for example, when folding) and the holder 101 has been rotated with respect to the energy acquisition sub-unit 104 so that the front of the MP3 player mini iPod 500 is readily viewable by the vehicle driver . This allows the driver to read the information provided by the liquid crystal display 120, such as the carrier (irradiation) frequency to which the FM transmitter is tuned, and also to read the

23/94 information about the button 122 membrane cover, which covers six push buttons, and other mechanisms inside the internal cavity of the holder.

Although push buttons are used in this version, any type of button can be used and the term button must be widely understood as referring to any type of mechanism (with or without moving parts) in which the user can enter the unit of this invention. data (for example, selecting a frequency), for example, a mechanical push button, an electrostatic push button, an electrostatic mesh, or any other input device of any kind.

Two of the six push buttons under the membrane are frequency selection buttons up / down, which allow the carrier frequency (at which the FM signal will be radiated) to be adjusted up or down within the unit's range ( for example, 88.1 to 107.9 MHz), and four of which control pre-set. Thus, a carrier frequency within the range can be selected by the vehicle driver using the up and down buttons and then, if desired, one of the pre-fixed ones can be semi-permanently fixed (programmed) for that carrier frequency (for example, when compressing the desired button of the four pre-set buttons dedicated for a sufficient length of time, for example, a few seconds). 0 FM transmitter will operate on the selected frequency, whether or not a preset is programmed to match that frequency. The FM (RF) receiver of the car audio system is fixed in the usual way to the same frequency as the transmitter is operating

24/94 that it receives the signal being radiated by the unit of this invention.

The RF (radio frequency) spectrum is often considered to process from about 10 kHz or below to about 100 GHz or above, and the RF transmitter can use any appropriate frequency and / or any type of RF transmitter, including a transmitter AM (amplitude modulation), an FM transmitter (frequency modulation), a Bluetooth transmitter, or any other suitable RF transmitter. For a civilian vehicle (for example, the family car), either the FM or AM frequencies and transmitters will desirably be used, with FM being preferred because of its superior sound quality when compared to the AM.

The unit of one version of this invention holds the MP3 player mini iPod 500 tightly in position although the mini iPod is only secure in its lower portion. The unit is easily adjustable (both electronically and mechanically), provides power and FM (RF) transmission capacity, provides a strong FM (RF) signal (thus improving the quality of the audio output), and smooth has an aesthetic appeal, and allows for easy repositioning of the detector with respect to the cigarette lighter adapter to accommodate a wide range of vehicles (which vary widely on where their cigarette lighters are located and which other potentially spatially interfering members, for example, travel levers, are next).

With reference now to Figures 2 to 8, 13 and 14, the cigarette lighter goose-neck adapter-transmitter unit 100 is again observed to comprise the

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I)

I

I holder 101 (where the MP3 mini iPod 500 player is firmly held in its lower portion), the energy acquisition sub-unit 102, and the goose neck (connector) 104. The MP3 mini iPod player, which is not part of this invention, has a bottom 502, a top 504, a liquid crystal display 506, and the control wheel 508. 0 holder 101 comprises an outer closure 112, which has bottom 114 and top 116 and an inner closure (clamshell), comprising the front inner closure member 106 and the rear inner closure member 138. The outer closure 112 is a member in a single piece (unitary), which slides over the front inner closing member 106 and the rear inner closing member 138 and holds them in a tight limit. The front internal closing member

106 and the rear inner closing member 138 are not mirror images of each other. Thus, each of the hippodrome-shaped bottom 108 and hippodrome-shaped top 110 is part of the front inner closure member 106. The alignment of the inner closure and retaining projections

198 (along the top and bottom edges of the rear inner closure member 138), lugs 206 (along the top rear edge 110 of the frontall06 inner closure member), and alignment grooves 196 help keep members 106 and 138 in appropriate record with each other.

As is best appreciated from Figures 13 and 14, the two internal closure members 106 and 138 together define at least one internal cavity between them in which a printed circuit board (PCB) 170 is held. Alignment pins

210 on the inner surface of the inner closing member

26/94 rear 138 fit within the grooves of the printed circuit board 208 to secure the printed circuit board in position in the internal cavity. Also referring briefly to Figure 22, printed circuit board 170 bears a liquid crystal display 120, six momentary pushbutton switches 190, a microprocessor 223, RF transmitter circuit and stereo modulator 225, attenuation circuit 227, and 171 30-pin cradle connector (see also Figure

12). As will be understood by someone skilled in the technology, the microprocessor 223, the FM transmitter circuit and stereo modulator 225 and the attenuation circuit 227 (the operation of which is further described below) can be placed in any convenient location on the printed circuit board 170 .

Returning to Figure 14, six push buttons 168 (the six buttons described above for selecting the irradiation frequency) are maintained in an appropriate register above the six momentary push button switches 190 by button frame 166. Button frame 166 is held in position with respect to the six momentary pushbutton switches while being held in the opening 182 of the front internal closing member 106. 0 member 106 is itself held in position with respect to the rear inner closing member 138, which carries the printed circuit board 170 with momentary pushbutton switches 190, in the manner described above. The button frame alignment pins 200 on the rear face of the button frame 166 snap into place and are held firmly in the spaces between the alignment of the

27/94 ί

j button frame and retaining lugs 204.

The perforated button cover membrane 122, which is held in opening 182 in the front inner closing member 106, is located above the six push buttons, thus protecting them and their momentary push button switches from dirt. The membrane 122 bears signs 150 to indicate the function of the buttons that control the pre-fixed ones (Figure 4). The membrane 122 may be held in place by being affixed to the button frame 166, for example, by adhesive. The face of the liquid crystal display 120 is visible through the opening 180 in the front inner closing member 106. The membrane 122 is flexible so that pushing the indicia for a button also pushes the button inward under that indication.

After the printed circuit board 170 and its accompanying elements have been put in place and the front and rear inner closing members 106 and 138 and the two members 106 and 138 have been aligned and brought together, the outer lock 112 is slid down over the inner lock assembly to the outer lock alignment and locking the grooves 202 (at the bottom of the rear of the outer lock 112) latch with two raised matching portions (not shown) at the bottom of the surface rear internal closing member

138, thus closing the two inner members together and closing itself on the two inner members. In this closed assembly of the three closing members (the outer closure 112 and the inner closing members 106 and 138), the face 113 is on the liquid crystal screen

120 and opening 178 coincides with the cover membrane

28/94 of button 122 (in opening 182), thus protecting the face of the liquid crystal display 120 and allowing the control pressure buttons to be pressed by the user to adjust the irradiation frequency.

As is best seen in Figure 4, in this version, only the bottom of the MP3 mini iPod 500 player button is kept in cavity 109. By the lower portion of an electronic device that can be maintained by a version of this invention we mean the portion of the device that goes (and includes) from the bottom of the electronic device towards the top of the electronic device and typically ends no higher than the bottom of the electronic device controls so that the ability to use the electronic device is not impaired. Typically the bottom portion means the bottom 40% or less of the device, typically the bottom 33% or less of the device, desirably the bottom 25% or less of the device, and preferably the bottom 20% or less of the device. For small electronic devices (for example, Apple Computer MP3 mini iPod player), the bottom portion will typically be in the lower 30 mm or less of the device, desirably in the lower 25 mm or less of the device (for example, in the 5 to 25 millimeters), and preferably in the lower 20 millimeters or less of the device (for example, in the range of 6 to 20 millimeters). For the mini iPod MP3 player, the interior portion is approximately 9 millimeters lower.

The cavity 109 of the holder 101 is desirably high enough to hold only the portion

29/94 bottom of the electronic device. The bottom of the cavity 109 is defined by the top 110 of the front inner closing member 106. Referring also to Figure 12, the side wall 111 of the cavity 109 is formed by that portion of the outer closure 112 that extends above the top 110, the side wall extending from the bottom of the cavity 109 to the top 116 of the external closure 112 (the depth of the cavity 109 being indicated by the reference number 118). Thus, when the MP3 mini iPod 500 player is pushed into the cavity 109 so that its bottom 502 contacts the top 110, the side wall 111 of the cavity 109 surrounds and holds the lower portion of the MP3 mini iPod 500 player.

Still referring to Figure 12, the outer closure 112 has an edge 117, which runs around the inner surface of the outer closure 112 near its top 116. Edge 117 fits within a die (groove) that runs around the periphery of the top 110 of the front internal closing member 106 and which is essentially the same size (height and width) as the edge 117. Edge 117 thus acts as a vertical stop member and helps keep the assembly of the two internal closure members 106 and 138 from moving within the outer closure 112. Furthermore, in the locked assembly of the outer closure 112 and the two closing members inner 106 and 138, top 110 and edge 117 together constitute a smooth bottom (constant height) for cavity 109.

It will be understood by someone skilled in the technology that cavity 109 may be deeper (ie, side wall 111 may extend higher above the bottom of the

30/94 (cavity 109) in order to provide greater area to hold the

I electronic device that is placed inside the cavity, j For example, with reference to Figure 2, the top 116 could be higher, for example, up to or above the control wheel 088, in which case a cut in front of the cavity 109 would be desirably provided so that the control wheel 508 was sufficiently (preferably completely) accessible. It will also be understood by someone skilled in the technology that cavity 109 may completely contain the electronic device, that is, the cavity may be formed by members that run along the sides of the device and are connected by a top member to completely surround the device electronic. Cavity 109 may be of any desired size and shape, consistent with the size and shape of the electronic device and the environment in which the version unit of this invention will be used to hold and supply power to the electronic device.

Although the cavity is desirably manufactured to provide as little distance as possible between the inner surface of the side wall and the outer surface of the electronic device (so that the device is kept firmly in the cavity), as a practical matter, the cavity will not can be manufactured to provide a perfect fit under all conditions (for example, with changes in ambient temperature) for several reasons, including variations in the dimensions of both the cavity and the electronic device arising from manufacturing tolerances. Polarizing the limbs helps to avoid this problem.

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The cavity 109 is desirably defined at least in part by the hidden members (not shown) which help to hold the electronic device in position. Any type of one or more hidden members can be used, for example, deformable plastic and / or elastic materials (for example, elastomers and plastomers), hidden members for spring (for example, leaf springs, ball-in-socket holders) , and the like. The hidden members may be located at any one or more convenient locations in the cavity, for example, along the side wall. The hidden members help to hold the device in position in the cavity by pushing against the device (even minimally), thereby forcing the device towards another member that defines the cavity. Thus, placing a hidden member at the bottom of the cavity (which would push the electronic device upwards) would generally be counter-productive unless the cavity was defined at least in part by a top element against which the top of the device would be pushed by that member hides.

A preferred hidden member is a deformable crushing bar made, for example, of plastic, inside the side wall (so that it faces the electronic device when it is in cavity 109) and arranged with its longitudinal axis located vertically. Without crushing bars or the like, dimension variations arising from manufacturing tolerances (in the manufacture of the holder as well as that of the electronic device) can result in an excess of distance between the side wall of the cavity and the external surface of the electronic device and,

32/94 therefore, insufficient friction engagement between the internal surface of the cavity 109 and the external surface of the electronic device.

In some possible versions to hold and supply 5 power to the MP3 mini iPod 500 player, two crush bars are used in the cavity 109 of the holder 101, arranged with the two crush bars located symmetrically in the straight rear portion of the interior of the side wall, approximately 15 to 30 millimeters apart (the straight portion of each side wall is approximately 40 millimeters long in the holder for the MP3 mini iPod 500 player and with each crush bar measuring approximately 9 millimeters long (that is, as long as cavity is high), approximately 0.5 mm deep (the distance from the side wall towards the electronic device), and approximately 1 to 2 millimeters wide (the side-to-side distance). The crush bars are preferably angled or chamfered

0 so that they extend away from the rear inner wall by their maximum depth (ie, approximately 0.5 millimeters) at the bottom of the cavity and less than that (for example, 0.1 millimeter or less) at the top of the cavity. In these versions, the two crush bars are desirably made integral with the outer closure 112 by being molded as part of the outer closure (instead of being attached to it after it has been made). However, and preferably, crush bars are not used.

Referring again to Figures 12 and 14, two

33/94 alignment pins 192 (only one of which is shown) arise from the top 110 of the front inner closing member 106, that is, alignment pins are attached and extend upward and away from the bottom of the cavity 109. The pins line 192 fit inside (ie match) with matching hollows (not shown) at the bottom of the MP3 mini iPod 500 player. 0 dock connector 171, which is attached to the printed circuit board 170 and has a front wall 173, a rear wall 175, and receiver grooves / receptacles 177 (for the multi-pin connector pins of the MP3 mini iPod player), passes through opening 119 at the top 110 of the front inner closing member 106. 0 dock connector 171 is mechanically coupled to the rear inner closing member 138 and is aligned by means of alignment lugs 181 (Figure 13) as well as being attached to the printed circuit board 170, which is coupled to the rear inner closing member 138 by alignment pins 210.

The dock connector matches a corresponding hollow in the MP3 mini iPod player where a multi-pin connector (ie, a 30-pin connector, which is not shown) is located, and the grooves / receptacles on the dock connector receive and match the pins on the pin connector. Electrical signals, such as power and / or data, flow to and from the electronic device in cavity 109 through the multi-pin connector and the dock connector when the electronic device is being held in the cavity. The receptacles on dock connector 171 are electrically coupled to pins 179 on their bottom side, whose pins extend into the internal cavity

34/94 (Figure 13). At least some of these pins are directly or indirectly electrically coupled to the printed circuit board 170 inside the holder 101 to carry electrical signals, such as energy and / or data, between the electronic device and the unit of the invention.

As the multi-pin connector is recessed at the bottom of the MP3 player mini iPod 500 and the opening for that hollow is not much larger in cross section than the portion of dock connector 171 that extends above the top 110 and has the same shape in cross section (Figure 12), the dock connector 171 when in that recess also helps to hold the MP3 player mini iPod 500 firmly in the cavity 109 of the holder 101. Thus, the MP3 player mini iPod 500 is held in the holder by mechanical engagement and by friction of the external surface of the MP3 player with the internal surface of the cavity 109 (including the preferred crushing bars), by the engagement of the alignment pins 192 with the concavities matched at the bottom of the MP3 player, by engaging the dock connector 171 with the concavity matched to the multi-pin connector of the MP3 player with the matched receptacles of the dock connector.

As will be understood by someone skilled in the technology, any suitable number of alignment pins or other protrusions (or recesses matching the protrusions of the electronic device) may be used to hold the electronic device in the holder, and they may be of any size, shape and suitable location. There will normally be at least one bulge in the cavity, namely an electrical connector

35/94 for the flow of energy and / or data signals between the unit of this invention and the electronic device held by it. Other protrusions (for example, alignment pins) may also be used, depending on the availability, location, size, and shape of the recesses in the electronic device. Although protrusions that help to hold the electronic device in the holder will typically be in the holder's cavity at the bottom, one or more of these protrusions may be in the electronic device and / or may be in the holder's cavity in a location other than the bottom. Thus, if the holder is designed to completely surround the electronic device when it is being held, the holder may have a partial or complete rear wall and one or more of the protrusions (or recesses) may be located on the rear wall.

In the preferred version of Figures 1 et seq. , the holder has the following approximate dimensions. The outer closure is 6.3 centimeters high, 5.6 centimeters wide (the tangent-to-tangent distance from the outer surface of one curved end of the cross-sectional area of ​​the keeper's racecourse to the outer surface of the other curved end ), and 1.8 centimeters in depth (the distance between the outer surfaces of the front and rear of the keeper). 0 external closure is made of transparent plastic approximately 1.5 mm thick. The assembly of the internal front and rear closures 106 and 138 is approximately 5.4 centimeters high, 5.3 centimeters wide (the tangent-to-tangent distance from the outer surface of a

36/94 curved end of the cross-sectional area of ​​the racecourse of the set up to the outer surface of the other curved end), and 1.5 centimeters in depth (the distance between the outer surfaces of the front and rear of the set). The internal closing members are made of colored plastic approximately 1.5 centimeters thick, although several ridges, walls that define alignment holes, etc., may be of different thickness. Edge 117 (see Figure 12) is located on the inner surface of outer closure 112, about 9 millimeters below its upper edge 116. Edge 117 is approximately 1 millimeter wide and approximately 1 millimeter thick, and there are a corresponding wedding groove that runs around the periphery of the assembly of the two internal closing members. Alignment pins 192 are generally rectangular solids, approximately 4 millimeters long, 2 millimeters wide, and 3 millimeters high, rising from the top 110 of the internal closing member 106 and spaced about 1 millimeter from its periphery. Aperture 180 for liquid crystal display 120 is approximately 3.1 cm long and 1.4 cm high, and openings 178 and 182 for button cover membrane 122 are each approximately 4 , 1 cm long and 2.1 cm high.

The holder may be made of any formidable material sufficiently hard (desirably scratch resistant and sufficiently rigid), although plastic, particularly engineering plastic, will normally be employed (except for those parts that need to be made

37/94 of another material, for example, conductive portions, such as electrodes). A preferred material is polycarbonate, which is available from GE Plastics, Pittsfield, Massachusetts, US, under the name Lexan.

As shown in Figures 2 to 8, unit 101 also comprises connector 104, which mechanically and electrically connects holder 101 to energy acquisition sub-unit 102 (further described below). The connector 104 desirably comprises a goose neck and in preferred versions is made of metal so that it can be used as an irradiation antenna by the transmitter

RF.

Also with reference to Figures 13 and 14, the connector 104 is coupled to the holder 101 through the swivel connector 142, which comprises the swivel connector flange 186 and the hollow protrusion 188. Both flange 186 and protrusion 188 are circular, but the flange 186 is larger in diameter than the protrusion 188. The protrusion 188 has a peripheral circular groove beside its end face, with the flange 186 located against the rear outer surface of the rear inner closing member 138 when assembled. In the assembled unit, the protrusion 188 passes through the central circular opening of the friction washer 176 (which is located between the flange 186 and the rear outer surface of the rear inner closing member 138), through the circular opening 184 of the member 138, and then through the central circular opening of washer 174 (which is located against the inner surface of the rear inner closing member 138). The retaining ring 172, which presses against, engages with friction, and moves with the washer 174,

38/94 is fitted (fits by friction) within the peripheral circular groove, thus closing the protrusion 188 within the internal cavity formed when the front and rear inner closure members 106 and 138 are brought together. Retaining ring 172 is free to revolve around protrusion 188 as the retaining ring is free to move along the circumference of the groove. Thus, the rear inner frame member 138, which presses tightly against washer 174, which in turn presses tightly against retaining ring 172, is free to rotate 360 ​​degrees around protrusion 188.

Swivel connector 142 and connector 104 are hollow, thus allowing electrical wires to run through them, for example, from the energy acquisition sub-unit 102 15 up to holder 101. Swivel connector 142 is attached to the top 140 of the connector 104 by any suitable means, for example, press fitting, screws, adhesive, stamping, or any combination thereof. As best seen in Figure 5, the swivel connector 142 20 is desirably at an angle 141 (preferably fixed) of approximately 20 degrees to the rear of the holder 101, although smaller or larger angles used in some cases positioning the holder (and, therefore, from the electronic device 25) away from the buttons, levers, etc., which are typically on or near the vehicle console.

The connector 104 is preferably a goose neck, which is a flexible pipe in compliance (or obedient) and is preferably metallic or metal covered with, for example, plastic or elastic material on the outside. 0 can be

This angle facilitates the

39/94 goose neck may be considered to be a spiral layered construction in which adjacent spirals overlap but can be displaced relative to each other (in a sense, they slide over one another). The goose neck tends to hold the position within which it is folded (i.e., it is semi-permanently adjustable or repositionable), unless it is folded beyond its limit. The two layers of the goose neck may be considered to be of different thickness. Thus, the goose neck has two outer diameters, the outer diameter of the thickest layer, and the outer diameter of the thinnest layer, which alternate in the goose neck. In the preferred version of Figures 1 et seq., The metallic goose neck is approximately 19.5 centimeters long, its largest external diameter is approximately 9 millimeters, its smallest external diameter is approximately 8.2 millimeters, its internal diameter is approximately 4.5 millimeters, the center-center spacing between the larger diameter plots is approximately 3.5 millimeters, the longitudinal gap between the larger diameter plots is approximately 1 millimeter, and the construction material is steel.

goose neck cannot be so hard that it cannot be readily repositioned by the user; however, it needs to be hard enough to keep the keeper (containing the electronic device) in position with respect to the energy acquisition sub-unit after the keeper and goose neck have been placed in their desired position. The goose neck is hard enough that a 19.5 cm long section (the

40/94 length of the goose neck in the preferred unit for holding a mini iPod MP3 player) when oriented horizontally and attached at one end can hold a mass of just under 436 to 486 grams at the other end before deflecting down, that is, before gravity pulls that heavy end down, away from the horizontal. For comparison, the preferred holder with an FM transmitter inside and holding the MP3 player mini iPod has a total mass of about 200 grams. Thus, the preferred unit has a design safety factor of about 100% goose neck deflection (200 grams compared to a minimum deflection-causing mass of about 436 grams).

Goose necks that can be used in some preferred versions of this invention are available in varying dimensions (for example, outside diameters of 2 millimeters or less to more than 16 millimeters). Someone skilled in the technology will know the design, dimensions, and construction materials of the goose neck to select for any particular use based on the desired length of connector 104, the weight of the holder 101 and the electronic device to be kept in it, whether the neck of goose act as an irradiation antenna and, if it does, to reach radio frequencies.

Referring also to Figure 15, the bottom of the connector 104 is press-fitted or stamped into the stamping 222 (connector 104 within the stamping 222, which is then compressed radially to tighten it around the connector 104). Two screw holes arranged

41/94 opposite sides 224 (only one of which is visible in Figure 15) in stamping 222 houses two pins 217 (only one of which is visible in Figure 15), one on each side of the energy acquisition sub-unit, that is, right side 124 and left side 144. This keeps the connector fixed to the energy acquisition sub-unit 102, both longitudinally and rotationally (connector 104 is also fixed both longitudinally and rotationally to the swivel connector 142). In the preferred version being discussed, stamping 222 is about 1.8 centimeters long and has an internal diameter of about 9 millimeters, and an external diameter of about 1.1 centimeters in its lower half (the upper half, which was compressed radially to tighten it around the bottom of connector 104, has a slightly smaller outside diameter).

Given the rotational play (allowed movement; in this case, inherently allowed movement) on the goose-neck spiral 104, in the preferred unit, holder 101 is able to rotate around the goose-neck axis at least about 90 degrees in each direction (ie clockwise and counterclockwise when viewed from above) from the straight-to-front position shown in Figures 2 to 8. This is more than enough to allow the front of the keeper with the electronic device contained therein (as in these Figures) to be rotated for ease of viewing and use by the driver of the vehicle or by a passenger in the front seat of the vehicle.

The energy acquisition sub-unit 102 comprises two frame pieces (right side 124 and left side 144 of the cigarette lighter adapter closure) and

42/94 end cap 128. In this version, the internal cavity formed by the two sides being joined together contains the circuit to obtain energy from an external energy source such as the cigarette lighter and then process it (described below) before being sent to the RF transmitter and / or the electronic device. As can be readily seen in Figure 5, the frame has a smaller diameter portion and a larger diameter portion, with flange 126 in the middle and defining the end of the larger frame portion adjacent to the smaller diameter portion. As will be described below, the flange limits the longitudinal amount of the energy acquisition subunit that can be inserted into a power source such as the cigarette lighter if any part of the flange is larger than the corresponding part of the power source.

When the right side 124 and the left side 144 are joined (as, for example, in Figure 1), the stamping 222 is maintained in the internal cavity formed by the assembly on both sides and the connector 104 passes upwards through the circular alignment opening 229. One half (semi-circle) of opening 229 is at the top, near the proximal end, on either side 124 and 144. Two sets of two elevated members project from the inner surface of each on the right side 124 and the left side 144 into the inner cavity, a set of members on each side. There are two sets of two corresponding concave semi-circular cuts, one cut at the end of each of the four members. When the two sides 124 and 144 are joined, they form two circular holes that receive and hold the outer cylindrical surface of the stamping

43/94

222. The members (and therefore the cuts) are positioned such that the stamping 222 is maintained at an elevation angle of approximately 70 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the energy acquisition sub-unit, which causes the visible bottom 136 of the connector 104 exit through alignment opening 2298 at a complementary angle 137 (Figure 5) of declination approximately 20 degrees from normal (i.e., perpendicular line) to the longitudinal axis of the energy acquisition sub-unit. Angles less than or greater than 20 degrees may be used in some cases. Having connector 104 at this angle (for example, 20 degrees) makes it easier to position the holder 101 (and therefore the electronic device) away from the controls, levers, etc. that are typically on or near the vehicle console.

The internal cavity of the energy acquisition sub-unit contains the circuit to obtain energy from an external energy source such as that found in a vehicle. An electrode comprises the tip 148 (see also Figure 9), which passes through the opening 238 at the distal end of the energy acquisition sub-unit and has an enlarged collar or flange 244. 0 flange defines a cavity within which the distal end of the fuse 212 resides after assembly (so as to be electrically coupled to the tip 148), and the proximal end of the fuse is in contact with the distal end of the tension spring 214, the other end of whose spring resides between the parallel legs of the fuse contact 216 and comes into electrical contact with the short-spaced member between the two legs. The 216 fuse contact may be made of copper or any other

44/94 other conductive material. The contact of the fuse 216 ends at the connection arm 246, which is electrically coupled to the printed circuit board 218. The tension spring 214 can move longitudinally (that is, along the main axis of the energy acquisition sub-unit) and hide the tip 148 outward (that is, against contact 149 when the energy acquisition sub-unit has been entirely inserted into the energy source, for example, the cigarette lighter (Figure 11), to help ensure the proper electrical coupling of the energy acquisition sub-unit with the energy source.

The other electrode comprises two contact springs 132, which are joined and terminate at the connection arm 24 8, which is also electrically coupled to the printed circuit board 218. The contact springs are desirably made of any suitably malleable conductive material, for example , coated brass, steel or copper. The two contact springs extend beyond the outer diameter of the distal end of the energy acquisition sub-unit (see also

0 Figures 2 and 3) through rectangular openings 240 (see also Figures 7 and 8), which are formed by corresponding rectangular cuts on each side 124 and

144 .

The processing of electrical energy by the printed circuit board 218 in this version is described below. After processing the energy, it is sent by wiring (not shown) connected to the printed circuit board that passes through stamping 222 and connector 104 to the electronic device (the MP3 player mini iPod 500) and / or the circuit on the board. printed circuit 170 in the

45/94 holder 101 (Figure 22), for example, the RF transmitter.

The smaller diameter section of the energy acquisition sub-unit can be inserted into a power source such as a vehicle's cigarette lighter, which is usually cylindrical cavities. To help position and stabilize the energy acquisition subunit in such a cavity, non-conductive stabilizer springs 156 are provided on the opposite side of the smaller diameter portion of the energy acquisition subunit (see Figures 5, 7, and 15). The springs 156 can be cantilevered formed by making three cuts along the frame wall and making the projections thicker than the other parts of the wall so that they extend farther from the longitudinal axis of the sub acquisition unit. energy. Any other suitable means of polarization may be used.

As the springs 156 may be insufficient to stabilize the energy acquisition sub-unit in all the various sizes of cigarette lighters that are found in vehicles, and particularly because the overhang weight of the electronic device, the holder, and the connector ( eg goose neck), stabilizer 154 is used. As will be described below, the stabilizer 154 preferably comprises a deformable elastic member which is larger than the inner circumference of essentially all known vehicle cigarette lighters causes the outer circumference of the deformable elastic member to bend away from the distal end of the cigarette lighter adapter and towards the proximal end of the cigarette lighter

46/94 cigarette lighter while at least a part of the deformable elastic member even after that deformation continues to push against the inner circumference of the cigarette lighter. The stabilizer 154 is maintained close to the distal end of the energy acquisition sub-unit between collar 130 and retaining washer 158. All of them are locked in place longitudinally by nut 146, which has a central hole to allow the tip of electrode 148 to pass through and the outer wires of the rear portion of smaller diameter match the inner wires in opening 238 at the distal end of the subunit of energy acquisition. The light-emitting diode 134, the wires from which are connected to the printed circuit board 218 and the light from which it is visible through the opening 13 5 (see Figure 2), indicates when power is being obtained by the sub-unit of energy acquisition. The light emitting diode 134 is held at opening 234 at the proximal end of the energy acquisition sub-unit (Figure 15), opening 234 aligning with opening 135 at the proximal end of end cap 128 (Figure 2) so that the LED light will be visible.

The two sides 124 and 144 of the cigarette lighter adapter of the energy acquisition sub-unit 102 have ridges and raised portions to help align them (for example, ridges 242) when brought together for assembly. Two screws 162 pass through the holes 230 on the left side 144, into the internal cavity of the energy acquisition sub-unit, and into two corresponding threaded receiving cavities 232 on the right side 124 so that the two screws are tightened securely

47/94 sides 124 and 144 together. The proximal end cap 128 slides over the proximal end of the energy acquisition sub-unit and four shoulders 228 (only one of which is shown) near the circular edge of end cap 128 fits within the retaining grooves 164 (only one of shown) in the recessed (lowered) portion of the proximal end of the energy acquisition sub-unit. This secures the end cap on the mounting on both sides 124 and 144 (thereby helping to hold the two sides together and present a clear appearance). Various openings in the end cap 128 are provided, for example, the stamping of the goose neck receiving groove 226, the audio outlet access opening 160 (which, when the end cap is in place, aligns with the opening 236 in the frame formed by the right side 124 and the left side 144) through which the audio output jack 220 is accessible (see Figure 8), and the opening 135 at the rounded end of the end cap through which the proximal end of the LED 134 is visible (see Figure 2).

Figure 9 shows the assembly on both sides of the energy acquisition subunit 102, with the connector (goose neck) 194 affixed but before the end cap 128 is in place. Thread 146 has been tightened so that tip 148 (which comprises the first electrode) extends beyond the front face of the thread and so that stabilizer 154 is kept tightly between retaining washer 158 and collar 130 and along the longitudinal axis of the energy acquisition subunit. The three cuts to supply one of the non-conductive springs 156 are visible,

48/94 as are the two conductive springs 132, which comprise the second electrode. The screws 162 in the holes 130 help to hold the two sides 124 and 144 together (see also Figure 15).

The preferred energy acquisition sub-unit has the following approximate dimensions (see Figures 9, 10, and

15). The overall length (from the distal end of the tip 148 to the proximal rounded end of the end cap 128) is about 9.5 centimeters. Each cap 128 is about 3.8 centimeters long and 3 centimeters in outer diameter, and its groove 226 is about 3 centimeters long and 1 centimeter wide. 0 flange 126 is about 1 centimeter long (axial length), 3 centimeters in outer diameter at its widest point (its proximal end, where it adjoins the smaller distal portion of the energy acquisition subunit). The recessed point of the proximal end of the energy acquisition sub-unit is recessed about 2 millimeters, to account for the thickness of the end cap 128 so that the outer surface of the end cap 128 will be flat with the unrecessed portion of the proximal end sub-unit when the end cap is in place. The distal portion (smaller diameter part) of the sub-unit is about 3.2 centimeters long and about 2 centimeters in the outer diameter. The collar 130 is about 3 millimeters long or thick (axial length) and about 1.5 centimeters in the outer diameter. Stabilizer 154 is about 2.35 centimeters in outer diameter and about 2 millimeters in length or thickness (length

Axial 49/94); its central hole has a diameter of about 9 millimeters, which allows the stabilizer to fit over the portion with a smaller diameter proximal thread of thread 146. The retaining washer is about 1.3 centimeters in outside diameter, with two straight sides arranged on opposite sides to provide a grip for a tightening tool, for example, pliers (see Figure 15), and about 4 millimeters of length or thickness (axial length)., Without the longitudinal compression of spring 214, the tip

148 extends beyond the distal surface of the thread 146 by about 5 millimeters.

With reference also to Figure 11, one of the features of this invention is the stabilizer, which allows the energy acquisition sub-unit to fit in the cigarette lighter of virtually any vehicle to mechanically and electrically coupling it, semi-permanently (firmly but to remove) the unit of this invention to maintain the unit in the desired position and maintain good electrical contact with the power source. 0 stabilizer slows you down prevents unwanted rotation, oscillation, and longitudinal movement of the energy acquisition sub-unit in the cigarette lighter. Thus, the stabilizer tends to prevent normal vibration, centrifugal forces (from curves made by the vehicle) and bumps on the road to move the unit (and therefore the electronic device) from its desired position.

Figure 10 shows the energy acquisition sub-unit 102 ready to be pushed into the energy receptacle 105 (like the cigarette lighter of a vehicle), which comprises a conductive earth sleeve

Cylindrical 50/94 133 and contact 149, which is coupled to the | 151. The stabilizer is substantially flat, ie

That is, a plane contains its main face, including its outer circular circumference and its central region. The stabilizer 154 is fixed in its central region along the longitudinal axis of the energy acquisition subunit so that it (for example, its outer circumference) is generally perpendicular to the length of the frame. Thus, when the energy acquisition sub-unit is pushed into the energy receptacle (as in Figure 11), the central portion of stabilizer 154 does not move because collar 130 etc. keeps the central portion to be forced back towards the proximal end, which, in Figure 11, is to the right.

As the stabilizer 154 is flexible, as the stabilizer is pushed into the energy receptacle, it deforms, that is, its central portion remains fixed in position, but its outer periphery is folded back away from the distal end and towards gives

0 proximal end (Figure 11). Furthermore, since the stabilizer 154 is also elastic, as it and the earth sleeve 13 3 are round, and since the stabilizer is larger in diameter than the earth sleeve, a circular portion of the stabilizer (away from its central portion) pushes against the earth sleeve 133 around all 360 degrees of the inner surface of the earth sleeve. This helps to keep the longitudinal axis of the energy acquisition sub-unit aligned with the longitudinal axis of the earth sleeve, thus helping to keep the tip 148 axially aligned with the internal contact of receptacle 149. Given the friction between the

51/94 stabilizer and the inner surface of the earth sleeve (in addition to the friction between the stabilization springs 156 and the earth sleeve), the stabilizer helps to keep the energy acquisition subunit (and therefore the unit) from slipping out of the receptacle. Furthermore, the longitudinal spacing between the contact points of the sleeve and the stabilizer, on the one hand, and the contact points between the sleeve and the non-conductive springs 156 and the earth contact springs 132, on the other hand, helps to maintain the energy acquisition sub-unit without shaking. That is why the stabilizer is desirably located farther instead of closer to springs 156 and 132. Both of these features (no slippage and no shaking) help to keep the tip 148 in contact with the internal contact of receptacle 149. The stabilizer cannot easily rotate in the energy acquisition sub-unit because it is desirably held tightly between the collar 130 and the retaining washer 158. This, in combination with the friction between the sleeve and the stabilizer, helps prevent the rotation of the energy acquisition sub-unit (and therefore the electronic device).

When the energy acquisition sub-unit is pulled from the energy receptacle, the stabilizer 154 will not be moved distally (that is, towards the distal end) or pulled and left behind as the retaining washer 158 helps to maintain it in place. In other words, the energy acquisition sub-unit carries a brake (washer 158) between the deformable elastic member (stabilizer 154) and the distal end of the energy acquisition sub-unit to fix the elastic member

52/94 deformable in the position in the energy acquisition sub-unit along with its length.

As the outer diameter of the stabilizer is greater in at least one place than the inner diameter of the sleeve, the stabilizer allows the energy acquisition sub-unit (and therefore the unit of this invention) to be used in the cigarette lighter (source of virtually any vehicle. Thus, as noted above, the expression the external circumference of the deformable elastic member being greater than the internal circumference of the cigarette lighter should be understood broadly as meaning that at least part (but not necessarily all) the periphery of the deformable elastic member extends. radially beyond at least part of the periphery of the cigarette lighter.

It will be apparent to someone skilled in the technology that the stabilizer can have any cross-sectional shape (although substantially circular is preferred), any three-dimensional shape, for example, a conical section, such as a cone stem (although flat cylindrical is preferred), and any size (although larger on the outer periphery than the cavity of the power source, that is, the cylindrical cavity of the cigarette lighter, preferred) that allows the benefits of this invention to be achieved. For example, the stabilizer could have radial arms (for example, like a starfish). The stabilizer must be deformable but elastic (and of sufficient hardness to push firmly against the wall of the energy source's concavity and with sufficient roughness to provide friction

53/94 against the concavity wall). The stabilizer is desirably non-conductive, at least in units where it would otherwise be electrically coupled to the tip of the

<td>sub-unit</td><td>in</td><td>acquisition</td><td>in</td><td>energy because</td><td>The</td><td>tip</td>

<td>normally</td><td>it is</td><td>in touch</td><td>with</td><td>an electrode from</td><td colspan="2">source of</td>

<td>energy, and</td><td colspan="2">the stabilizer</td><td>goes into</td><td>in contact with</td><td>The</td><td>mango</td>

<td colspan="2">when inserted</td><td>inside the</td><td>source</td><td>of energy, and</td><td>The</td><td>mango</td>

<td>normally</td><td>it's the</td><td colspan="2">another electrode;</td><td>the stabilizer</td><td>not</td><td>must</td>

electrically coupled to both electrodes. Thus, the stabilizer construction material will normally be polymeric, for example, elastomeric, such as rubber (e.g., silicone rubber, ethylene-propylene monomer polymers, ethylene-propylene-diene monomer polymers, styrene-butadiene polymers). A preferred stabilizer for use in the preferred energy acquisition subunit described above is made of silicone rubber having a Shore Durometer value of 80 (Shore A scale) and has the dimensions noted above (i.e., about 2.35 centimeters in outer diameter, about 2 millimeters long or thick (axial length), and a central hole diameter of about 9 millimeters).

Figures 16 to 20 cover a second preferred version of the present invention for holding the MP3 mini iPod 500 player. The cigarette lighter goose neck adapter 300 differs from the cigarette lighter goose neck adapter 100 described above, since unit 300 does not have a transmitter. The cigarette lighter goose-neck 300 comprises the holder (support set)

54/94

301, goose-neck 104 (connector), and power acquisition sub-unit 102 (comprising a cigarette lighter adapter), which can be plugged into (ie, coupled to) cigarette lighter 105 (i.e., a external power source) in the same way as the energy acquisition sub-unit 102 (and unit 100) was plugged in. (For convenience and ease of understanding, parts of unit 300 that are essentially the same as the corresponding parts of unit 100 may have the same reference numbers in Figures 16 to 20 as used in Figures 1 to 15.) The connector (gooseneck) 104 and the sub-unit energy acquisition 102 of this unit 300 are essentially the same as in unit 100, except for changes derived from not having an RF transmitter.

The holder 301 has the closing front 302 and the closing rear 314, top 304, and bottom 306. The cavity 308, which holds the bottom portion of the MP3 player mini iPod 500, has the cavity button 310, which is located below the top 3 04 the amount indicated as depth 312. The bottom 502 of the MP3 player rests at the bottom of the cavity 310. The detent 301 is connected to the goose neck 104 through the rotating connector 142, which is preferably connected to the detainer at a 20 degree angle 316, and the connector 104 is preferably connected to the goose neck at a 20 degree angle 13 ( a smaller or larger angle can be used for one or both).

This version (without the RF transmitter) can be used for versions where an RF transmission system is not necessary, for example, if the electronic device

55/94 has its own RF transmission system (for example, a Bluetooth system) and / or whether the output data signal should be made available on the output jack, for example, the output jack 220 (see Figure 20 ). Power is still supplied to the electronic device of the external power source (for example, a vehicle's cigarette lighter) and processed to the required degree by the circuit in the unit and sent through the goose neck to keeper 301, where it is transported to the electronic device through, for example, a dock connector that matches a multi-pin connector on the electronic device. 0 goose neck allows the holder position to be adjusted semipermanently with respect to the energy acquisition sub-unit, and the energy acquisition sub-unit works in this version as in the previous version to hold the unit firmly and semi-permanently in just a point of attachment to the vehicle (ie the cigarette lighter) and at the same time supply power to the electronic device.

Moving now to the electrical system (for power and data flow and processing) of the cigarette lighter goose-neck adapter-transmitter 100, Figure 21 is a basic block diagram of that unit coupled with an MP3 player mini iPod 500 . The unit 100 of this invention includes the energy acquisition sub-unit 102, goose neck 104 (which functions as an adjustable mechanical support, a connector of the energy acquisition sub-unit for the keeper, a conductor for the electrical wiring, and an antenna for RF transmission), and holder 101. The energy acquisition sub-unit 102 comprises

56/94 a power conditioning circuit 219, a voltage regulator 221, and stereo audio output 220 (e.g., a jack). Holder 101 comprises six momentary pushbutton switches 190, liquid crystal display 120 (which is displaying 88.8 the carrier frequency of the RF transmitter) and dock connector 171.

The mini iPod 500 MP3 player is attached to holder 101 via a dock connector 171. As noted earlier, as used here, the term dock, dock, dock, dock and the like must be understood widely and refer to when connecting two or more elements or signals, electrically and / or mechanically, either directly or indirectly through circuit and / or intervening elements. A mini iPod MP3 player can be attached to holder 101 by any suitable means, including the use of a serial port, a parallel port, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, or an IEEE 1384 connection (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE 1394 is a standard for a fast external bus that supports high data transfer rates), such as the Apple Computer FireWire connection.

Holder 101 receives data signal 241 from the MP3 player mini iPod 500, which becomes data signal 24 7 within the holder, and data signal 247 is subdivided, with a branch being sent as signal 23 7 to the stereo audio output from the 22 0 power acquisition sub-unit (see also Figure 22). This provides an optional interface to any accessory that uses a stereo jack, such as headphones or a ribbon adapter

57/94 cassette, or for a line input on a stereo audio system.

The other branch of data signal 247 is modulated in an FM frequency or carrier wave, which is transmitted after attenuation (described below) as signal 239 to the receiver (for example, the vehicle's FM receiver) using the antenna goose-neck 104. The particular frequency over which the data signal 241 is modulated is controlled by the end user (for example, driver or passenger in a vehicle) through the use of momentary pushbutton switches 190. The frequency chosen by the end user is shown on the screen

<td>crystal</td><td>net 120. For</td><td>example,</td><td>if</td><td>the end user</td>

<td>opt for</td><td>transmit the signal</td><td>of data</td><td>of</td><td>MP3 player a</td>

<td>88.8 MHz,</td><td>then 88.8 will be</td><td>displayed</td><td>at</td><td>crystal screen</td>

liquid (as in Figure 21).

The holder 101 receives operating energy from the energy acquisition subunit 102, which in the preferred versions described above, comprises a cigarette lighter adapter. However, someone of ordinary skill in the technology will appreciate that keeper 101 can receive operating power (for example, for his microprocessor and / or the RF transmitter) from any suitable power source, including the electronic device held in the keeper or any another external power source. In that case, power could flow down the electronic device through, for example, the dock connector, and the power acquisition sub-unit could power the electronic device all the time, part of the time, or possibly not nothing, that is,

58/94 all the power of the unit of this invention could come from the electronic device. Allowing the electronic device to supply power part of the time, for example, when there was an interruption in the energy flow of the energy acquisition subunit, would allow the unit to continue to radiate the RF signal even if there was that momentary interruption in the power supply of the energy acquisition subunit.

Someone skilled in the technology will appreciate that if the characteristics of the external energy (that is, the available energy from the external energy source) do not match the characteristics of the energy required for the unit of this invention, the characteristics of the external energy will need to be modified before they are used. For example, an upward or downward voltage regulator may be required to increase or decrease the voltage of the external energy before the energy is used in the unit of this invention. This voltage regulator may be of any suitable design and may be located within the unit of this invention.

The energy conditioning circuit 219 in the energy acquisition subunit 102 receives external energy 231 and filters that energy to remove any external noise. The energy conditioning circuit comprises an LC (inductance-capacitance) filter, which receives an input voltage signal between 11 and 16 volts (for example, from the automobile's electrical system). The inductor is approximately 2.0 mH (millihenrys) and the capacitor is approximately 330 pF (microfarads). Given the limited size of the printed circuit board of the

59/94 energy acquisition, it is desirable to use an inductor that is physically as small as possible. The preferred version uses such an inductor, which was purchased from Formosa Inductor Corporation, part number T9X5X3 (the specifications for this and for all other elements are incorporated by reference in their entirety).

Output 233 of power conditioning circuit 219 is coupled to voltage regulator 221. Output 235 of voltage regulator 221 is coupled and used to energize keeper electronics 101 (described in more detail below). Voltage regulation circuits are well known in the art. In the preferred version, voltage regulator 221 is a low-voltage voltage regulator from Rates Instruments Inc., Part No. TL750L, of the TL751L series. The specific voltage regulator used is a matter of design option based on the needs of the particular application. For example, the use of the Texas Instruments voltage regulator described above was dictated in part by the need to energize the detent's printed circuit board 170 (Figure 22) with 5 volts.

Output 233 of power conditioning circuit 219 is also coupled to dock connector 121 and is used to supply power to an MP3 mini iPod player (power source 243). The MP3 player uses this energy to operate and charge the battery of the MP3 player with its own internal charging circuit. The cigarette lighter goose-neck transmitter and the cigarette lighter goose-neck adapter of the present invention preferably does not include charging circuit

60/94 the battery of the MP3 player or the battery of any other electronic device.

Figure 22 is a block diagram of the electronics of the holder of the goose-neck transmitter-cigarette lighter adapter 100. The main printed circuit board 170 is located inside the holder 101 and comprises a stereo modulator and FM transmitter (transmitter circuit FM) 225, liquid crystal display 120, six momentary pushbutton switches 190, microprocessor 223, and attenuation circuit 227. The input power (output 235 of voltage regulator 221 - see Figure 21) is fed to microprocessor 223 and the stereo modulating unit and FM transmitter 225.

The stereo modulating unit and FM transmitter 225 receives data signal 247 (which is the data output signal 241 from the MP3 mini iPod player that has already passed through dock connector 171) and modulates data signal 247 to an FM frequency or carrier wave. Suitable designs for the stereo modulator and the FM transmitter are well known in the technology. See, for example, Rohm's Wireless Audio Linx IC, part number BH1415F. Thus, the design or option of a particular stereo modulator and FM transmitter is within ordinary skill in technology and need not be detailed here. Furthermore, as indicated above, and as someone skilled in the technology will understand, the present invention is not limited to the use of an FM transmitter, but can be used with any type of RF transmitter, including an AM transmitter, Bluetooth transmitter (see, for example, WWW.bluetooth.org and WWW.bluetooth.com) or any other

61/94 type of RF transmitter suitable.

To comply with the requirements of the FCC (Federal Communications Commission), the output 245 of the stereo modulator and FM transmitter 225 (an FM signal) is coupled to the attenuation circuit 227. As will be understood by someone skilled in the technology, the amount of attenuation that is required to comply with FCC requirements is dictated by the output of the particular FM transmitter, the quality and type of antenna being used, and the environment in which the FM transmitter is being used. Consequently, the specific design of the 245 attenuation circuit is a matter of design option depending on the needs of the particular application. For some types of RM signals to be irradiated by a version of this invention, the attenuation circuit will not be necessary.

The attenuation circuit output 227 (attenuated FM data signal 239) is coupled to the gooseneck antenna 104, which radiates the FM data signal to a stereo receiver. There are numerous benefits to using a metallic gooseneck antenna. For example, using the metallic gooseneck antenna creates a consistent radiation pattern, which improves the strength of the FM data signal. Broadly speaking, the stronger the FM data signal, the better the sound quality. Other antenna designs, such as having the antenna encircled in the metallic goose neck or having the antenna inside the holder 101 frame, would not generate such a consistent radiation pattern. This is because the goose neck and MP3 mini iPod player (or other electronic device) would act as metallic shields, thus weakening the power of the FM data signal. Other

62/94 benefit of using the gooseneck as an antenna is that it simplifies the design and is cost effective (as it also acts as a flexible but semi-permanent positionable connector and is relatively inexpensive and aesthetically pleasing).

microprocessor 223 is coupled to the stereo modulator and FM transmitter 225 (digital interface 249), as well as the liquid crystal display 120 and momentary pushbutton switches 190 (bidirectional interface 250). Suitable designs for the 223 microprocessor are well known in the technology. See, for example, ST, 8-bit MCU with Flash or ROM, ADC, Two 16-Bit Stopwatches, I²C, SPI, SCI Interfaces, part numbers ST7272606, ST722626, and ST722646 (ST indicates Singapore Technologies, also known as Singapore Technologies Electronics and ST Electronics), for example, ST Microcontroller ST72F264G2H1. The specific microprocessor used will be a matter of design option depending on the needs of the particular application and is well within the ordinary skill in the technology.

As discussed above, the end user can choose, using push buttons 168 (which activate momentary push button switches 190) the particular frequency at which data signal 241 is modulated (for example, the end user you can choose to beam or transmit the audio signal at 88.8 MHz). The choice of the end user is sent to the microprocessor 223, which uses this information to control the transmission frequency of the stereo modulator and FM transmitter 225. The microprocessor 223 also uses

63/94 this information to display on the LCD 12 0 the frequency that the end user has chosen (for example, 88.8). Thus, the need for a bidirectional interface 250 but only a unidirectional interface between the stereo modulator and FM transmitter 225 and the microprocessor 223.

Figure 23 shows a third version in which both the MP3 mini iPod 500 player (electronic device) and the FM transmitter (RF transmitter) are maintained semipermanently by this invention (both are removable from the holder). Holder 401 has the top edge (surface) 401, bottom 403, left side 404, right side 405 and is connected to a goose neck (not shown) by connector 406, which is similar to the swivel connector of the versions described previously (for example, example, indicated by reference number 142 in Figure 5). The cavity 4 07, whose opening is at the top of the holder, receives and holds the bottom portion of the MP3 player mini iPod 500 semi-permanently, which has a bottom 502, top 504, liquid crystal display 506, and control wheel 508. The cavity 411, whose opening is at the bottom of the holder, semi-permanently receives and holds the upper portion of the FM transmitter 408, which has top 409, bottom 410, left side 414, right side 415, liquid crystal display 412, and push buttons 413. (In this and other drawings, the space between the walls of a cavity and the object held there may be shown to be larger than it actually would be. For example, the bottom 502 of the MP3 mini iPod 500 player touches the bottom of the cavity 407 but is shown in Figure 23 as spaced from it for clarity.)

Holder 401 works in much the same way as

64/94 the holders described above, except that both the electronic device and the RF transmitter are removable. Thus, in a version of holder 401, energy is brought in via an energy acquisition subunit (not shown), which is like those described previously (for example, energy acquisition subunit 102 in Figure 1 ). The acquired energy can be filtered by LC and then part of it is sent directly to the electronic device and part is sent to a voltage regulator (if necessary) and from there to the RF transmitter. Alternatively, the acquired energy can be filtered by LC and then all of it sent to the electronic device, which could then supply energy to the RF transmitter. Other schemes may be used.

Both cavities of the holder are shown holding firmly only a terminal portion of their respective devices (that is, the bottom portion of the MP3 player and the whole portion of the RF transmitter); however, the entire and / or background portions of the holder may be modified to contact and hold larger portions of the electronic device and / or the RF transmitter. For example, the cavity 411 of the holder 401 may be modified so that it surrounds most or all of the periphery of the RF transmitter.

In this version, the 3-pin connector at the bottom of the MP3 mini iPod player attaches to a dock connector at the bottom (innermost wall) of cavity 407 (none of the connectors are shown). This dock connector may be the same or similar to dock connector 171 (best seen in Figures 12 and 13). The dock connector at the top of the

65/94 FM transmitter 4 08 attaches to a 30-pin connector at the bottom (innermost wall) of cavity 411 (no connector is shown). This dock connector may be the same or similar to dock connector 171, and that the 30-pin connector may be the same as the 30-pin connector used as the bottom of the MP3 player. Thus, the energy that enters holder 401 through connector 406, whose energy may have already been filtered by LC and whose voltage may have already been adjusted, may flow through the matched connectors into the MP3 mini iPod 500 player and through the connectors matched to the FM 408 transmitter.

The FM transmission system can operate as in the version of Figures 1 to 15. A data (audio) signal coming out of the MP3 mini iPod 500 player flows through the two sets of coupled connectors (the first set comprising the 30-pin connector on the bottom of the MP3 player and the married dock connector at the bottom of the cavity 4 07 , and the second set comprising the 30-pin connector at the bottom of cavity 411 and the dock dock connector at the top of the FM transmitter 408) into the FM transmitter 408, is modulated into a carrier signal, attenuated (if necessary), and irradiated by a gooseneck antenna (not shown), which is coupled to the FM transmitter via connector 406. The six push buttons 413 allow the carrier frequency to be selected and programmed within pre-set (the two central push buttons adjust the frequency up and down, and the other four push buttons control the pre-set ones); the liquid crystal display 412 shows the carrier frequency at which the

66/94 FM transmitter is fixed.

A feature of this version is that both the MP3 player and the FM transmitter can be removed from the holder and attached to each other via the 30-pin connector on the bottom of the MP3 mini iPod 500 player and the dock connector on the top of the FM 408 transmitter. The coupled mount can then be removed from the vehicle or other environment in which the keeper (with the power acquisition sub-unit and goose neck attached) was being used and placed next to another FM receiver, for example, in the office , residence, or in another vehicle, so that the FM 408 transmitter can radiate its signal to that second FM receiver.

In this version, power needs to be supplied to the FM transmitter after it has been removed from its holder 401. For example, it can be plugged into a married holder in another location (for example, in another vehicle) and pull energy through the sub - energy acquisition unit associated with the second holder.

Alternatively, if plugged directly into the electronic device (for example, the MP3 player mini iPod 500) after the electronic device has also been removed from holder 041, the FM transmitter can draw power from the electronic device. Furthermore, as the goose neck between the keeper and the energy acquisition sub-unit works desirably like the irradiation antenna for the FM (RF) signal, decoupling the FM transmitter from the keeper also decouples the FM transmitter from its antenna goose neck. So another antenna

0 would have to be used, for example, a wire inside the

67/94 FM transmitter frame that is used (activated) at the same time that the goose neck is used as the antenna or only when the goose neck is not being used as the antenna (because the FM transmitter has been removed from the holder ).

Moving on to another version, Figure 24 is a representative front perspective view of an electronic device2400, according to a fourth version. Figure 25 is a representative front view of the 2400 electronic device affixed to at least one 2550 media player, according to the fourth version. Figure 26 is a representative front view of the electronic device 2400, in which side supports 2460 are decoupled from side supports 2460 (Figures 24 and 27), according to the fourth version, Figure 27 is a front perspective view of two pairs of side supports 2460 and 2760, according to the fourth version.

In some examples, a 2400 accessory or electronic device is configured to hold at least two 2550 media players (Figure 25). That is, the electronic device 2400 is configured to couple at least one first media player and a second media player. In the same or different examples, the electronic device 2400 is configured to couple media players 2550 to the external power source 105 (Figure 10).

In many versions, the electronic device 2400 may include: (a) a holding structure or a holding holder 2401 configured to hold 2550 media players; (b) a power unit 102; (c) a 2880 transmitter (Figure

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28) mechanically coupled to holder 2401; (d) a 2870 compressor (Figure 28) to modify the electrical signals of the 2550 media players; (e) a 2875 amplifier (Figure 28); (f) user controls

2889 (Figure 28); and (g) a connector 104. The holder 2401 can be configured to retain, at a given time, only one of the media players 2550.

As illustrated in Figure 25, each of the 2550 media players can include: (a) one side of the bottom; (b) a front side having a screen and adjacent to the bottom side; (c) a rear side adjacent to the bottom side and opposite the front side; (d) a first side adjacent to the front side, the rear side, and the bottom side; and (e) a second side opposite the first side. In one example, the first media player may be an MP3 mini iPod 500 player (Figure 1). In the same example, the second media player can be one of an iPod nano, an iPod with video, an iPod with a color screen, a classic iPod, a touch iPod, and an iPhone, all manufactured by Apple Computers. In other examples, the first media device and / or the second media device can be other media players such as the Microsoft Zune® media player. In alternative examples, the first media device and / or the second media device can be radio call devices, cell phones, personal digital assistants, eBook readers, or the like.

The power unit 102 is electrically coupled to the dock connector 171 power coupling and configured to couple so as to remove the power source.

69/94 external energy as the external energy source 105 (Figure 10). In some versions, power unit 102 is electrically coupled to media players 2550 through holder 2401.

Dock connector 171 signal coupling can be electrically coupled to the 2880 transmitter and be configured to transmit data from the 2550 media players to the 2880 transmitter.

As shown in Figure 24, holder 2401 can include: (a) a base or cradle 2430 configured to couple at least two of the 2550 media players; (b) dock connector 171 (Figures 24 and 26); and (c) two or more fasteners or side supports 2460. Each of these two or more side supports 2460 are configured to couple in order to remove, to the cradle 2430. The cradle 2430 can be configured to couple, at a given time, only one of the 2550 media players. Similarly, the side supports 2460 can be configured to attach to only one of the 2550 media players at a time. In another version, a portion of the cradle 2430 and one or more of the side supports 2460 are a single or single piece.

In some examples, dock connector 171 (Figures 24 and 26) may include a power coupling and a signal coupling. In one example, the power coupling and the signal coupling can each be one or more pins on the dock connector 171.

In numerous versions, the cradle 2430 may include: (a) a base portion 2431 coupled to the power unit 102 and include dock connector 171; and (b) a portion of extension 2432 that extends outside the base portion

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31 and configured to couple so as to remove, to side supports 2460.

The base portion 2431 is configured to mate with the bottom side of one of the media players 2550. In the example shown in Figures 24 to 26, the base portion 2431 includes a substantially level top surface 2433 with dock connector 171 detaching from an opening in the base portion 2431. In this example, media players 2550 can be placed on the top surface 2433 and coupled to dock connector 171. In other examples, dock connector 171 may detach from extension portion 2432 and / or one of side supports 2460. In another example, base portion 2431 may be identical or substantially similar to the holder

101, as shown in Figures 1 to 8 and 12.

Referring again to Figures 24 to 26, the extension portion 2432 includes: (a) a side 2444 coupled to the base portion 2431; (b) a side 2445 adjacent to side 2444 and configured to couple, so as to remove, to a first support of side supports 2460; (c) a side 2446 adjacent to side 2444 and opposite side 2445; and (d) a side 2447 adjacent to sides 2444, 2445, and 2446. The side 2446 is configured to engage, so as to remove, a second support of the side supports 2460.

In some versions, sides 2445 and 2446 may each include a vertical groove (not shown) in which a portion of a side support can be placed or slid to attach the side support to the extension portion 2432. In the same or in different version, the parcel

0 extension 2432 includes a groove that extends from the side

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2446 through side 2447 into side 2445. That is, in this version, extension portion 2432 includes a single groove that extends through sides 2445, 2446, and 2447. In other versions, sides 2445 and 2446 may include other connection mechanisms, and side supports 2460 may include complementary connection mechanisms. For example, the attachment mechanisms can be screws, Velcro®, string fasteners, pressure buttons, other holding mechanisms, or the like.

As shown in Figure 27, in some versions, side supports 2460 can include side supports 2461 and 2462. Side supports 2760 can include side supports 2761 and 2762. In several examples, each of side supports 2461, 2462, 2761 , and 2762 may include:

(a) a connection mechanism 2781 configured to couple, so as to remove, a portion of extension 2432; and (b) an arm 2782. The arm 2782 may include: (a) a proximal end 2783 coupled to the connection mechanism 2781; (b) a distal end 2785; and (c) a body 2784 extending between the distal end 2785 and the proximal end 2783. The body 2784 can be curved, bent, or arched in one or more places to better hold the 2550 media players. For example, the body 2784 can be folded to conform to the format of the media players 2550. In a different version, one or more of the side supports 2460 and 2760 can be unitary or a single piece. Regardless of these physical configurations, the side supports 2460 and 2760 can be comprised of the same or different materials used for the holder 101 of Figures 1 to 8 and 12.

72/94

In the illustrated version, cradle 2430 is configured to attach, at any particular time, to only side supports 2460 or side supports 2760. In some examples, side supports 2761 and 2762 can be configured to couple and / or hold the first media player to the electronic device

2400.

Side supports 2761 and 2762 can also be attached to cradle 2430 in the same way that side supports 2461 and 2462 are attached to cradle 2430. Assuming that the media players 2550 in Figure 25 is the first media player, the cradle 2430 can be attached to the bottom side of the first media player, distal end 2785 of the arm 2782 of the side support 2761 is adjacent to the front side of the first media player, a portion of the body 2784 of the side support 2761 is adjacent to the first side of the first media player, and the proximal end 2783 of the arm 2782 of the side support 2761 is adjacent to the rear side of the first media player.

Likewise, the distal end 2785 of the arm 2782 of the side support 2762 can be adjacent to the front side of the first media player, a portion of the body 2784 of the side support 2762 is adjacent to the second side of the first media player, and the end proximal 2783 of the arm 2782 of the side support 2762 is adjacent to the rear side of the first media player.

In the same or a different version, the side supports 2461 and 2462 can be configured to attach and / or securely hold the second media player to the

73/94 electronic device 2400. That is, as shown in Figures 24 and 25, side support 2461 is configured to couple to a first side of the second media player and side 2445 of the extension portion 2432. Side support 2462 it is configured to couple to a second side of the second media player and the side 2446 of the extension portion 2432.

The size and shape of the side supports 2461, 2462, 2761, and 2762 may correspond to the size and shape of the media player 2550. This is, in some versions, a distance 2459 (Figure 24) between the distal ends 2785 and / or the bodies 2784 of the side supports 2461 and 2462 when coupled to the cradle 2430 is different from the distance between the distal ends 2785 and / or the bodies 2784 of the side supports 2761 and 2762 when coupled to the cradle 2430. In some versions, if the width of the first media player is greater than the width of the second media player, the distance 2459 between the distal ends 2785 and / or the bodies 2784 of the side supports 2461 and 2462 when coupled to the cradle 2430 can be greater than the distance between the distal ends 2785 and / or the bodies 2784 of the side supports 2761 and 2762 when coupled to the cradle 2430. For example, the distance 2459 can be approximately 5.5 cm and the distance between the distal ends 2785 of the side supports 2462 and 2461 can be 4.3 cm.

In various versions, the electronic device 2400 can be designed and configured such that keeper 24 01 and transmitter 2880 can be rotated with respect to power unit 102. In many examples, keeper 24 01 can be

74/94 rotated at least approximately ninety degrees with respect to power unit 102.

In one version, holder 2401 can be coupled to connector 104 in the same or similar manner as coupling from connector 104 to holder 101, as shown in Figures 13 and 14. That is, holder 2401 is coupled to connector 104 via a swivel connector 142 (Figure 14), which includes the flange of the swivel connector 186 (Figures 13 and 14) and the hollow shoulder 188 (Figures 13 and 14). In alternative versions, other mechanisms can be used to couple in order to rotate the connector 104 to the holder 2401.

In the version illustrated in Figures 24 to 27, side supports 2460 can hold media players 2550 in holder 2401 while holder 2401 and transmitter 2880 are rotated relative to power unit 102. For example, side supports 2761 and 2762 can inhibit the first media device from falling out of cradle 2430 when holder 2401 is rotated.

In many versions, keeper 2401 may also include one or more 2468 buttons and a 2469 video screen. In some versions, 2889 user controls include 2468 buttons and 2469 video screen. In some of the examples, some of the 2468 buttons may be fixed semi-permanently to select a carrier frequency for the 2880 transmitter to transmit the audio signal. In the same examples, the rest of the 2468 buttons can be semi-permanently attached to select an audio mode for the audio signals. In some versions, buttons 2468 can be covered with a protective membrane similar to buttons 150 in Figure 4. In other versions, buttons 2468 are devoid of a

75/94 protective membrane and protrude from holder 2401.

The 2469 video screen can be used to display information about the carrier frequency or audio mode. For example, the 2469 video screen can display the carrier frequency in XXX.X format. In the same example or in a different example, the video screen can either display a predetermined name for the audio mode (for example, SPOKEN WORD MODE) or a list of parameters (for example, Dynamic Compressor ON and / or Output Mode: Stereo). In some versions, the video screen 24 6 9 can show the carrier frequency and the audio mode information simultaneously. In other versions, the information shown on the 2469 video screen is related to the last button pressed from the 2468 buttons or predetermined predefined information. In many instances, the 2469 video screen is an LCD (liquid crystal display) screen similar to the 12 0. liquid crystal display. In other examples, the 2469 video display can be a touch screen.

Figure 28 is a block diagram of a 2800 audio system of the 2400 electronic device, according to the fourth version. That is, Figure 28 illustrates a block diagram of the system used to handle the audio signals received from the 2550 media players. In the illustrated example, after the audio signal is received by the electronic device 2400 through dock connector 171 of the first or second media device, the audio signals are transferred to the 2875 amplifier.

Different audio signals are output from the media player with different signal strengths.

Thus, the 2875 amplifier can adjust the output level of

76/94 audio of the audio signals such that the audio signals have at least minimum and / or maximum power. In other versions, the 2875 amplifier can adjust the audio signals such that the audio signals have a predetermined power.

The 2870 compressor is configured to receive an audio signal from the 2550 media players and, when instructed by the user, output a modified audio signal to the 2880 transmitter. In some examples, the 2870 compressor receives the audio signals from the media players 2550 through amplifier 2875. In other examples, compressor 2870 receives audio signals from dock connector 171 without passing through amplifier 2875. In some examples, the user can configure the 2870 compressor and / or the 2875 amplifier through the 2889 user controls.

compressor 2870 can set a compression level for the audio signal and the type and amount of gain. In one example, when instructed by the user, the 2870 compressor is configured to apply to the audio signals at least one of dynamic compression and pre-gain compression. In the same example in a different example, the 2870 compressor can also apply hard knee compression, soft knee compression, and / or composition gain. For example, the 2870 compressor and 2889 user controls can allow the user to select a compression level (for example, high, medium, or low). In some versions, the 2889 user controls allow the user to select one of a plurality of audio modes. For example, the user could select a first audio mode with compression

77/94 dynamic off or a second audio mode with dynamic compression on, pre-gain compression set low, a compression ratio set to medium, and the output signal in stereo. The 2870 compressor can then select the specific combination and gain and compression types based on the user's choice of audio mode. In alternative versions, 2889 user controls allow the user to select the specific amount and type of gain and compression.

After applying compression and gain to the audio signal, the modified audio signal is communicated to the 2880 transmitter. As discussed above in relation to the transmitter in the version shown in Figures 1 to 23, the 2880 transmitter can transmit the audio signal by the RF frequency to the receiver.

Moving on to other versions, Figure 29 is a representative front view of the 2900 electronic device with the side support 2960, according to a fifth version. Figure 30 is a representative front view of a 2900 electronic device, according to a fifth version. Figure 31 is a view from the right side of the 2900 electronic device, according to the fifth version. Figure 32 is a front perspective view of the three side supports for the 2900 electronic device, according to the fifth version.

In some examples, an electronic accessory or 2900 device is configured to hold at least two 2550 media players (Figure 25). That is, the 2900 electronic device is configured to couple at least one first media player and a second

78/94 media player. In the same example or in different examples, the electronic device 2900 is configured to couple the media players 2550 to the external power source 105 (Figure 10).

In many versions, the 2900 electronic device may include: (a) a detention structure or a 2901 holder configured to hold 2550 media players; (b) a power unit 102; (c) a 2880 transmitter (Figure

28) mechanically coupled to holder 2401; (d) a 2870 compressor (Figure 28) to modify the electrical signals of the 2550 media players; (e) a 2875 amplifier (Figure 28); (f) 2468 buttons; and (g) a connector 104. The holder 2401 can be configured to hold, at a given time, only one of the 2550 media players.

The 2900 electronic device is identical or similar to the 2400 electronic device (Figure 24) except that the 2900 electronic device is configured to couple on the side supports 2960, 3270, and 3280 (Figure 32), instead of the side supports 2460 and 2760 (Figure 27). As described in detail below, side supports 2960, 3270, and 3280 (Figure 32) have a unitary structure. That is, instead of the side support including two separate side supports, the side supports 2960, 3270, and 3280 (Figure

32) can each include a unique support that supports 2550 media players.

As shown in Figures 29 to 31, holder 2901 may include: (a) a base or cradle 2930 configured to attach to at least two of the 2550 media players;

(b) dock connector 171; and (c) 2960 side supports

79/94 coupled so as to remove, to the 2930 cradle. The 2930 cradle can be configured to dock, at a given time, only one of the 2550 media players. Similarly, the 2960 side supports can be configured to dock just one of the 2550 media players at a given time.

In numerous versions, berth 2930 may include: (a) a base portion 2431 coupled to a power unit 102 and include dock connector 171; (b) an extension portion 2932 that extends away from the base portion 2431 and configured to engage, so as to remove, the side support 2960; and (c) a spacing pad 2 933 coupled so as to remove the extension portion

2932 .

The extension portion 2932 includes: (a) a side 2944 coupled to the base portion 2431; (b) a side 2945 adjacent to side 2944 and configured to couple, so as to remove, side support 2960; (c) a side 2946 adjacent to the side

2944 and opposite side 2945 and configured to couple, in order to remove, side support 2960; and (d) a side 2947 adjacent to sides 2944, 2945, and 2946 and configured to couple, in order to remove, side support 2960.

In some versions, the extension portion 2932 includes a groove 3129 that extends from side 2 946 through the side

2947 into side 2945, as shown partially in Figure 31. That is, in this version, extension portion 2932 includes a single groove 3129 that extends through sides 2945, 2846, and 2947. In other versions, sides 2945 , 2946, and 2947 may include other connection mechanisms, and side supports 2960 may include

80/94 complementary connection.

The 2933 spacing pad can help provide support to the rear side of the 2550 media players when the 2550 media players are attached to the cradle

2930. The thickness of the 2550 media players can vary and the 2933 spacing pad, along with other spacing pads (not shown), allows the 2900 electronic device to hold tightly or attach to media devices of various thicknesses.

The 2933 spacing pad can be used when a first media player of the 2550 media players with a first thickness is attached to the 2930 cradle. The 2933 spacing pad can be replaced by another spacing pad with a second thickness when the 2900 electronic device is coupled to a second media device of the 2550 media players with a thickness different from the thickness of the first media player of the media players 2550. In some instances, the 2933 spacing pad includes a connection mechanism (for example, a fastener or plug) that allows for easy coupling and decoupling of the 2933 spacing pad from the 2900 electronic device.

In some examples, the 2933 spacing pad or other spacing pads are only used with some media players. For example, the thickness of some media players can be large enough that these media players do not need a spacing pad to firmly attach to the cradle

2930. In other examples, the spacing pad is

81/94 unnecessary if the side support is designed to be used without a spacing pad. In many instances, spacing pads are not used with small media players. Instead, the side support may contain a rear support for the media player. As shown in Figure 28, in one version, the side support 3280 (Figure 32) includes a rear support 3278 for the rear side of the media player because the side support 3280 is designed to attach small media players to the 2930 cradle ( Figure 29).

As shown in Figure 32, in some versions, the side support 2960 may include: (a) a connection mechanism 3281 configured to couple, in order to remove, the extension portion 2932; and (b) arms 3282 and 3283 and (c) a connection region 3274 that couples arms 3282 and 3283. The arm 3282 may include: · (a) a proximal end 3284 coupled to the connection mechanism 3281; (b) a distal end 328 6; and (c) a body 32 85 extending between the distal end 3286 and the proximal end 3284. The body 3285 can be curved, folded, or arched in one or more places to better hold the 2550 media players. For example, the 3285 body can be folded to conform to the format of the 2550 media players. The 3283 arm can be identical or similar to the 3282 arm.

The side supports 3279 and 3280 can be similar to the side support 2960 except that the side supports 3270 and 3280 can be designed to work with media players with different shapes and dimensions. In some examples, the side support 3280 may also include a

82/94 rear support 3278 as discussed earlier. In the illustrated version, the cradle 2430 is configured to attach, at any particular time, only side supports 2960, side support 3270, or side supports

3280 .

Side supports 3270 and 3280 can also be attached to cradle 2930 in the same way that side support 2960 is attached to cradle 2430. Assuming that the 2550 media players shown in Figure 25 are the first media player, the 2960 side support can be attached and / or securely hold the first media player to the 2900 electronic device.

In the same version or in a different version, the side support 3270 can be configured to attach and / or securely hold a second media player to the 2900 electronic device. In the same version or in a different version, the side support 3280 can be configured to attach and / or securely attach a third media player to the 2900 electronic device.

size and shape of the side supports 2960, 3270, and 3280 can match the size and shape of the 2550 media players. For example, the second media player can be larger than the first media player and the third media player can be smaller than the first media player. Regardless of these physical configurations, the side supports 2960, 3270, and 3280 can be comprised of the same or different materials used for the holder 101 of Figures 1 to 8 and 12.

Moving on to additional versions, Figure 33 is a

83/94 Representative view in front perspective of a 3300 electronic device with side support 3360, according to a sixth version. Figure 34 is a representative front perspective view of an electronic 2900 device with lateral support 3360 coupled to media players 2550, according to a sixth version. Figure 35 is a representative front perspective view of a 2900 electronic device with a 3360 side support attached to the 2550 media players, according to a sixth version. Figure 36 is a representative rear perspective view of a 2900 electronic device with 3360 side support attached to the 2550 media players, according to a sixth version.

In the examples illustrated in Figures 35 and 36, the 2550 media players are enclosed in a 3551 box. The 2550 media players shown in Figures 34 to 36 can be a second media player for the 2550 media players. The media player shown in Figures 1 to 6, 16 to 18, 21, 23, and 25 can be the first media player of the 2550 media players.

In some examples, an electronic accessory or 3300 device is configured to hold at least two 2550 media players (Figure 25). That is, the 3300 electronic device is configured to couple at least one first media player and a second media player. In the same or different examples, the electronic device 3300 is configured to couple the media players 2550 to the external power source 105 (Figure 10).

The 3300 electronic device can be coupled to

84/94 multiple 2550 media players while the 2550 media player is inside the 3551 box. This feature provides a significant improvement over prior art electronic devices as media players had to be removed from their boxes before the user docked the player media to the prior technology fixture. The need to remove the media player from its box irritates and frustrates users and exposed the media player to environmental risks.

In many versions, the 3300 electronic device may include: (a) a holding structure or a 3301 holder configured to hold 2550 media players; (b) a power unit 102; (c) a 2880 transmitter (Figure 28) mechanically coupled to holder 2401; (d) a 2870 compressor (Figure 28) to modify the electrical signals of the 2550 media players; (e) a 2875 amplifier (Figure 28); (f) 2468 buttons; and (g) connector 104. The 3301 holder can be configured to hold, at a given time, only one of the 2550 media players.

As shown in Figures 33 and 34, holder 3301 may include: (a) a base or cradle 3330 configured to attach to at least two of the 2550 media players; (b) dock connector 171; (c) a 3318 neck; and (d) 3360 side supports coupled to the 3330 cradle. The 3330 cradle and 3360 side supports can be configured to couple, at a given time, only one of the 2550 media players.

In many versions, the 2930 cradle can include: (a) a base portion 2431 coupled to the power unit 102

85/94 and neck 3318; (b) an extension portion 3332 that extends away from the base portion 2431 and engages the side support 3360; and (c) a spacing pad 2933 coupled so as to remove the extension portion 3332. In some examples, the side support 3360 is coupled in order to remove the extension portion 3332. In other examples, since the 3360 side supports are configured to work with all sizes of media players within a predetermined range, there is no need for the 3360 side support to be removable.

neck 3318 provides space between the base portion 2431 and the 2550 media players when the 2550 media players are attached to the 3300 fixture. That is, the neck 3318 allows the fixture 3300 to attach to media players 2550 when media players 2550 is inside a 3551 box while providing space for box 3551 between the base portion 2431 and media players 2550 while maintains a good coupling between the 2550 media players and the dock connector 171.

In one version, the width and length of the neck 3318 is the width and length of dock connector 171 plus a minimum wall thickness necessary to ensure stability. In the same version or in different versions, the dimensions of the neck 3318 can be related to the dimensions of the box 1050. For example, the height of the neck 3318 can be greater than the thickness of most protective cases, or the thickness of protective cases made by specific manufacturer. In one version, the length and width of the neck 3318 can be

86/94 fixed to be smaller than the width and length of the opening in most protective cases or a specific brand of protective case. Fixing the dimensions of the neck 3318 to the dimensions of the protective box ensures that a good fit can be obtained between media players 2550 and dock connector 171 when most brands of protective boxes are used.

Figure 37 is a front perspective view of the side support 3360 for the electronic device 2900, according to the sixth version. Figure 3 8 is a rear perspective view of the side support 3360 for the electronic device 2900, according to the sixth version. Figure 39 is an exploded view of the side support 3360, according to the sixth version. Figure 40 is an exploded view of the side support 3360, according to the sixth version.

The side support 3360 can include: (a) connection region 3791; (b) a 3281 connection mechanism configured to couple, being able to remove, to the extension portion 3332; and (c) arms 3792 and 3793; (d) springs 3893 and 3894; and (e) pins 3995 and 3996.

In this example, fixture 3300 uses arms 3 792 and 3 793 to apply pressure to the sides of media players 2550. Arms 3792 and 3793 are attached and fitted in connection region 3791 by hinges using springs 3893, 3893 and pins 3995 , 3996. In some examples, end 3921 of spring 3893 is coupled to arm 3793 and end 3922 of spring 3893 is coupled to connection region 3791. Similarly, end 3923 of spring 3894 is coupled to arm 3792 and the

87/94 end 3 924 of spring 3 894 is coupled to connection region 3791. In some instances, springs 3893 and 3894 can be torsion springs with metal coils. The tension created by the springs 3893 and 3894 can be used to attach and affix the media players 2550 to the fixture 3300. That is, the springs 3893 and 3894 in combination with the arm 3793 and 3792, respectively, are two elastically hidden holding mechanisms that can be used to help affix the 3300 fixture to the 2550 media players.

Pins 3995 and 3996 can be used to connect connection region 3791 to arms 3792 and 3793, respectively. Pin 3995 can be inserted into the coupling mechanism (Figure 39) of arm 3703 and coupling mechanism 4034 (Figure 40) of connection region 3791 to affix arm 3793 to connection region 3791. Similarly, pin 3996 can be inserted into coupling mechanism 4032 (Figure 40) on arm 3793 and coupling mechanism 4033 (Figure 40) from connection region 3791 to attach arm 3792 to the connection region

3791.

To attach 2550 media players to the 3300 fixture, the user can pinch or pinch the 3838 ends (Figure 38) of the 3792 arm and the 3839 end (Figure 38) of the 3793 arm to increase the distance between the 3736 end (Figure 37) of the arm 3793 and the end 3737 (Figure 37) of the arm 3792. While pressing the ends 3838 and 3839 together, the user can couple the media players 2550 to the fixture 3300. After the media player 2550

88/94 can be inserted, the user can release the ends 3838, and 3839 and the springs 3893 and 3894 can create tension between the arms 3792 and 3793 and the media players 2550. This tension secures and attaches the media players 2550 to the device electric 3300.

In other versions, other mechanisms, instead of using springs 3893 and 3894 and pins 3995 and 3996, can be used to couple the arms 3793 and 3792, respectively, to the connection region 3791, other mechanisms can be used. For example, arms 37 93 and 3 792 can be coupled to connection region 3791 using a flexible plastic or resin material that can be flexed. 0 plastic the flexible resin can be hidden in an elastic way and provided the same boarding feature created by the use of springs 3893 and 3894 and pins 3995 and 3996. In some versions, the flexibility in the plastic or resin material that engages the arms 3793 and 3793 and the connection region 3791 can be provided by a flexible metal bar (for example, a flat lead spring) embedded in the plastic or resin material.

Figure 41 is a front perspective view of a 4130 cradle, according to a seventh version. Figure 42 is a perspective view of the 4160 cradle attached to the 2550 media players, according to the seventh version.

In the version illustrated in Figures 41 and 42, the cradle 4160 includes: (a) arms 4183 and 4182; (b) an adjustable body 4179, - and (c) dock connector 171 that protrudes from the arm 4183. In these versions, the arms 4183 and 4182 are firmly attached to the upper and lower parts of the players

89/94 of media 2550. The length of the 4179 body can be adjusted depending on the length of the media player attached to the 4160 cradle. That is, if a first media player has a first length and a second media player has a second length, body length 4179 can be adjusted to be in proportion to the first length when coupled to the first media player and proportional to the second when attached to the second media player.

In some examples, body 4179 includes: (a) a first part 4191; (b) a second part 4192; and (c) a third part 4193 that couples the first part 4191 and the second part 4192. The third part is located at least partially within the first part 4191 and the second part 4192. The length of the body 4179 is adjusted by changing the quantity the third part 4193 located within either the first part 4191 or the second part 4192. That is, the length of the body 4179 can be lengthened by sliding a larger portion of the third part 4193 out of the first part 4191 or the second part 4192. In other examples, other methods or mechanisms can be used to change the length of the body 4179.

Figure 43 illustrates a 4300 flow chart for a version of a method of using an electronic accessory. Flow chart 43 00 in Figure 43 includes step 4310 of providing an electronic accessory that includes: (a) a cradle having a base section with a power coupling; and (b) a power unit electrically coupled to the power coupling. As an example, the electronic accessory can be identical or similar to the device

Electronic 90/94 24 00, 2900 or 3300 as shown in Figures 24, 29, and 33, respectively. The cradle can be identical or similar to cradle 2430, 3330, or 4160, as shown in Figures 24, 33, and 41, respectively. The base section and the power unit can be identical or similar to the base portion 2431, and the power unit 102, respectively, as shown in Figure 24.

Flowchart 4300 in Figure 43 continues with step 4315 of choosing one or more first side supports based on the characteristics of a first electronic device. For example, the m or more side supports may be identical or similar to any of the side supports 2461, 2462, 2761, and 2762 as shown in Figure 27 or the side supports 2960, 3270, and 3280 in Figure 32. In some versions, the one or more side supports from step 4315 are formed and sized to match the first electronic device. In these versions, the lateral supports chosen would be the lateral supports dimensioned and formed to correspond to the first electronic device. For example, if the first fixture is an iPod Mini, side supports 2461 and 2462 can be chosen because these side supports are designed based on the characteristics of the iPod Mini in an example.

In other versions, a single side support can be designed to work with media players of various sizes and formats. For example, the side support can be identical or similar to the side support 3360 in Figure 33. In these versions, step 4315 can be omitted or skipped.

91/94

Next, ο flow chart 4300 in Figure 43 includes step 4320 of coupling the one or more side supports to the cradle. As an example, coupling the one or more first side supports to the cradle can be identical or similar to the coupling of side support 2461 and 2462 to cradle 2430 as shown in Figure 24 or the coupling of side supports 2761 and 2762 to cradle 2430. The coupling of one or more side supports can also be identical or similar to the coupling of the side supports 2930, 3270, or 3280 to the fixture 2900.

In other versions, the side support can be permanently attached to the fixture and step 4320 can be skipped.

Flowchart 4300 continues with step 4325 of coupling the cradle and the one or more first side supports to the first electronic device. For example, coupling the cradle and the one or more first side supports to the first electronic device can be identical or similar to the coupling of cradle 2430 and side supports 2461 and 2462 to the first media player, as shown in Figure 25 or the coupling from cradle 3330 and side support 3360 to the second media player, as shown in Figures 34 to 36.

Subsequently, flowchart 4300 in Figure 43 includes step 4330 of coupling the power unit to an external power source. As an example, the coupling of the power unit to an external power source may be similar to the coupling of the power unit 102 to the external power supply 105, as shown in Figures 10 and 11.

92/94

Next, ο flow chart 4300 in Figure 43 includes step 4335 of supplying power from the external power supply to the first electronic device through a power coupling. As an example, the power coupling of step 4335 may be similar to the power coupling of dock connector 171 in Figures 24 and 26.

Flowchart 4300 in Figure 43 continues with step 4340 of rotating the cradle and the first electronic device in relation to the power unit. In some versions, step 4340 may also include using the one or more first side supports to provide support for the first electronic device during rotation of the cradle and the first electronic device.

Flowchart 4300 in Figure 43 can additionally include step 4345 of uncoupling the one or more first side supports from the cradle. For example, the cradle decoupled from one or more side supports may be identical or substantially similar to the cradle 2430 as shown in Figure 26.

In addition, flowchart 4300 in Figure 43 includes step 4350 of choosing one or more second side supports based on the characteristics of a second electronic device. For example, the one or more second side supports may be similar to the side supports 2760 as shown in Figure 27. In some versions, one or more of the side supports 2760 are designed and / or configured to hold the second electronic device in the cradle. For example, if the second fixture is an iPod, side supports 2761 and 2762 can be chosen because these side supports are designed with

93/94 based on the characteristics of the iPod. In other versions, one of the side supports 2960, 3270, and 3280 can be the second side support.

Subsequently, flowchart 4300 in Figure 43 includes step 4355 of coupling the one or more second side supports to the cradle. In one example, the second side supports can be coupled to the cradle in an identical or similar manner to the coupling of side support 2461 and 2462 to cradle 2430 as shown in Figure 24 or the coupling of side supports 2761 and 2762 to cradle 2430. The coupling of the one or more second side supports may also be identical or similar to the coupling of the side supports 2960, 3270, or 3280 to the fixture 2900.

Next, flowchart 4300 in Figure 43 includes step 4 3 60 of coupling the cradle and the one or more second side supports to the second electronic device. For example, attaching the cradle and the one or more second side supports to the second electronic device can be similar or identical to coupling the cradle 2430 and the side supports 2761 and 2762 to the second media player.

Although the flow chart 43 00 is illustrated to have a particular sequence of steps, other sequences are contemplated. For example, steps 4315, 4320, and / or 4325 can occur after step 4330. Additionally, steps 4345, 4350, 4355, and / or 4310 can occur before steps 4330, 4335, and / or 4340.

Variations and modifications of what has been described will be apparent to someone skilled in the technology. For example, although engineering plastic (for example,

94/94 acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polyacrylate, phenolformaldehyde resin, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide, polycarbonate, polyamide (for example, nylon), polyacetal, polyurethane, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, reinforced plastics, urea-formaldehyde resin etc.) can be used for the various parts of different versions (for example, most of the non-metallic parts of the energy acquisition sub-unit and the holder), some or all of these parts may also be made of metal or polymers that are not normally considered to be engineering plastics. As another example, the dimensions could be anything suitable for the electronic device of interest. One or more parts of the unit or accessory may be detachable from the other parts. In addition, one or more of the side supports can be used to support two or more media players of different sizes.

The claims are intended to cover all variations and modifications that fit true spirit and within the invention.

scope of

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