SMARTPHONE ARMLET

Abstract

An armlet is described herein comprising a material cut in the shape of an isosceles trapezoid having a first edge that is not parallel to an opposing second edge. The armlet is configured to be wrapped around and secured to a forearm of a user, wherein the parallel edges of the material are perpendicular to the user's forearm when secured. The armlet uses a first row of fasteners positioned substantially adjacent the aforementioned first edge, a second row of fasteners, positioned substantially adjacent the aforementioned first row of fasteners and a third row of fasteners positioned substantially adjacent the aforementioned second edge. The third row of fasteners is configured to be secured to the aforementioned first or second row of fasteners, wherein securing of the third row of fasteners to the first row of fasteners enables a relatively looser fit of the armlet to a user's forearm than when the third row of fasteners is secured to the second row of fasteners. The armlet also incorporates a first pouch configured for holding a smart phone fastened to the material and a second pouch, which can serve a variety of purposes, fastened to the material.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to cell phone holders and, more specifically, to smart phone holders designed to be worn on an extremity.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Over half of US adults own a smartphone. These smartphones are becoming increasingly capable with each generation, allowing us to browse the internet, check email, stream movies, perform diagnostic testing and keep track of appointments, among numerous other capabilities. Because of their diverse capabilities, smartphones have already virtually replaced many previously standalone devices, such as MP3 players, DVD players, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA's) and even laptops for some users. Many users have even elected to replace their traditional wristwatch with the digital display of a smartphone.

[0003] Despite users becoming ever more reliant on their smartphones to perform a variety of tasks, the vast majority of smartphone users carry their devices in pockets or bags designed for storage of other goods, such as purses. Placing any phone, but especially today's flagship smartphones, some with screens of over 5'', in pockets can cause discomfort and even damage, such as bending or scratching, especially of high gloss surfaces, such as the screen. Pocket storage can also lead to difficulty removing such a phone, especially when tight clothing is worn or when seated, such as in an automobile.

[0004] Storage of a smartphone in a purse or other bag means risking missing of a call, message or other notification if the bag is not kept nearby at all time, which may be a significant inconvenience in many situations, while also leading to possible damage of the device, such as bending or scratching, especially of the screen or other high-gloss parts common on modern smartphones.

[0005] Additional problems related to the storage of smartphones in pockets or bags include the risk of theft and inadvertent, or "pocket," dialing, both of which can cause major issues for users of such devices.

[0006] Alternative smartphone storage solutions are available, but these solutions have additional issues making them unsuitable as substitutes to pocket and bag storage for everyday use. One such solution is armbands, which are worn predominantly on the upper arm or bicep area. These armbands are typically aimed at athletes or those otherwise interested in personal fitness to allow them to listen to music through their device during exercise. Such holders do not generally offer protection for the device and, due to their position on the upper arm, make use of the device difficult while worn. These holders also may not allow for secure attachment and use without removal when different types of clothing are worn by a user.

[0007] Another problem with today's smartphones is that some features consume so much battery power that they are disabled unless the device is hooked up to a power source. Apple's Siri® feature for iOS devices and Cyanogenmod's® DayDream feature for Android Devices are notable examples of features disabled while the smartphones are disconnected from a power source.

[0008] Lastly, current armbands for smartphones predominantly stay on the user's arm through the use of elastic fabric or hook and loop fasteners, which form a circular aperture for the arm to be inserted. Both of these solutions fail to secure the smartphone adequately during manipulation of the device's screen while worn.

[0009] What is needed, therefore, are techniques for allowing the secure carry and convenient use of a smartphone carried on one's person, regardless of what they are wearing, while providing physical protection to the device, enabling usage of all device features and extending the battery life of the device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] One embodiment of the present invention provides an armlet comprising a material cut in the shape of an isosceles trapezoid having a first edge that is not parallel to an opposing second edge, configured to be wrapped around and secured to a forearm of a user, wherein the parallel edges of the material are perpendicular to the forearm when secured, a first row of fasteners positioned substantially adjacent the first edge, a second row of fasteners, positioned substantially adjacent the first row of fasteners, a third row of fasteners positioned substantially adjacent the second edge, configured to be secured to the first or second row of fasteners, wherein securing of the third row of fasteners to the first row of fasteners enables a relatively looser fit of the armlet to the forearm than when the third row of fasteners is secured to the second row of fasteners, a first pouch configured for holding a smart phone fastened to the material, and a second pouch fastened to the material.

[0011] Another embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet comprising an aperture in a top portion of the first pouch, allowing use of a smart phone contained therein while the armlet is worn.

[0012] A further embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet further comprising a protective plastic barrier disposed within the aperture.

[0013] Yet another embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein the second pouch contains a battery.

[0014] A yet further embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein the battery is configured to be in operative communication with a charging port of a smartphone held in the first pouch.

[0015] Still another embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet further comprising an aperture in the first pouch positioned proximate a smartphone connector and a second aperture in the second pouch positioned proximate a battery connector.

[0016] A still further embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet further comprising a battery contained in the second pouch configured to be placed in operative communication with the smartphone connector via an external cable fed through the apertures in the first and second pouches.

[0017] Even another embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet further comprising a third pouch.

[0018] An even further embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein the third pouch is configured to hold an identification card.

[0019] A still even another embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein the third pouch is configured to hold an electronic toll collection device.

[0020] A still even further embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein the fasteners are metal snaps.

[0021] Still yet another embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein each row of snaps consists of three snaps.

[0022] A still yet further embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein each row of snaps consists of six snaps.

[0023] Even yet another embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein the material is leather.

[0024] An even yet further embodiment of the present invention provides such a n armlet wherein the material is full grain leather.

[0025] Still even yet another embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein the material is nylon.

[0026] A still even yet further embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein the first and second pouches are made of leather.

[0027] Yet still even another embodiment of the present invention provides such an armlet wherein the first and second pouches are made of full grain leather.

[0028] One embodiment of the present invention provides a vambrace comprising a first pouch configured to securely hold a smartphone while enabling usage thereof, a second pouch configured to contain an auxiliary power supply, wherein the auxiliary power supply and the smartphone are configured to be in operative communication.

[0029] One embodiment of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a leather armlet comprising the steps of: cutting material into the shape of an isosceles trapezoid of dimensions suitable for wrapping around a forearm, the trapezoidal shape having a first edge that is not parallel to an opposing second edge, disposing a plurality of metal snap fittings adjacent the first edge, disposing a plurality of metal snap fittings adjacent the snap fittings previously disposed adjacent the first edge, disposing a plurality of metal snap fittings configured to be secured to previously disposed snap fittings adjacent the second edge, fastening a first pouch configured to hold a smartphone to the material, the pouch further comprising an aperture configured to allow access to a screen of the smartphone and fastening a second pouch configured to contain an auxiliary battery pack to the material.

[0030] The features and advantages described herein are not all-inclusive and, in particular, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specification, and claims. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and not to limit the scope of the inventive subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] FIG. 1 is a front, top, left-side perspective view illustrating an armlet configured in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 2 is a front elevation view illustrating one embodiment of an armlet configured in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view illustrating an armlet in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 4 is a top elevation view illustrating an armlet in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 5 is a bottom elevation view illustrating an armlet in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 6 is a right side elevation view illustrating an armlet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0037] FIG. 7 is a left side elevation view configured in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The embodiments of armlets for smartphones herein described are useful for providing users the ability to comfortably and securely wear their smartphones in a convenient and ergonomic location for use while providing protection, extended battery life and enablement of all features regardless of the availability of an external power source, while remaining aesthetically pleasing.

[0039] In reference to FIGS. 1-7, an armlet 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The armlet is made of a material cut in the shape of an isosceles trapezoid, when laid flat, having a first edge 102 that is not parallel to an opposing second edge 104. The armlet 100 is configured to be wrapped around and secured to a forearm of a user. The parallel edges of the material are configured such that they are oriented perpendicularly to the user's forearm when secured.

[0040] The armlet 100, in embodiments, is secured to the forearm of a user using either a first row of fasteners 106 positioned substantially adjacent the first edge 102 or a second row of fasteners 108, which are positioned substantially adjacent the first row of fasteners 106. These fasteners interface with a corresponding a third row of fasteners 110, which are positioned substantially adjacent the second edge 104 of the material.

[0041] By securing the third row of fasteners 110 to the first row of fasteners 106, a user may obtain a relatively loose fit of the armlet 100 to the forearm, suitable for when the user is wearing bulky clothing covering their arm, enabling the armlet 100 containing a smartphone to remain uncovered and the smartphone contained therein immediately available for use by the user or enabling the armlet 100 to be used by users having larger diameter forearms. By securing the third row of fasteners 110 to the second row of fasteners 108, a user may obtain a relatively tighter fit of the armlet 100 to the forearm, suitable for when the user is not wearing clothing covering their arm or enabling usage of the same armlet 100 by users having smaller diameter forearms.

[0042] In embodiments, the fasteners may be metal snaps. These snaps may be used in row of three or six, although other arrangements are possible and within the scope of the present disclosure. Other suitable fasteners may include grommets in combination with cord or lace, hook and loop fasteners, hook and eye fasteners and snaps and toggle fastenings, however, this list is not comprehensive; other fasteners would also be within the scope of this disclosure.

[0043] The armlet 100 further provides a first pouch 120, configured for holding a smart phone, which is fastened to the material, and, in embodiments, is configured such that the smartphone will be positioned on the top portion of a user's forearm when the armlet 100 is secured. This first pouch 120, in embodiments, has an aperture in a top portion thereof, allowing use of a smart phone contained therein. This aperture may also be sealed with a protective covering, typically of a flexible plastic material, while still allowing usage of the smartphone contained therein. This first pouch 120 may further make use of a first pouch flap 122 having first pouch flap fasteners 124 secured thereto and configured to engage with corresponding fasteners on the first pouch 120 itself.

[0044] The armlet 100, in embodiments, also includes a second pouch 112 fastened to the material, which may be configured such that the pouch will be positioned on the bottom portion of a user's forearm when the armlet 100 is secured. This allows the second pouch 112 to remain out of the way of the user, while providing storage and other functions. In embodiments, a battery may be contained in this second pouch 112. In further embodiments, this pouch may comprise an aperture allowing a user to view a display contained therein, such as a battery health monitor.

[0045] This second pouch 112 may further make use of a second pouch flap 114 having second pouch flap fasteners 116 secured thereto and configured to engage with corresponding fasteners on the second pouch 114 itself.

[0046] Where a battery or other device that may be connected to a smartphone is contained within the second pouch 112, a first pouch aperture 130 may extend through the first pouch 120 and a second pouch aperture 128 may extend the second pouch 112, enabling a cable 126 to operatively connect the smartphone to the battery or other device contained in the second pouch 112. By connecting a power source, such as a battery, to the smartphone while it is carried in the first pouch 120, full functionality of the device will be enabled without tying a user to a fixed power source.

[0047] In addition to the first pouch 120 and second pouch 112 previously described, a third pouch 118 may also be provided. This third pouch, while able to provide for storage of a variety of items, is particularly suitable for holding cash, business, identification, credit or other cards as well as electronic toll collection devices.

[0048] Although the armlet 100 may be made of a variety of materials while remaining within the scope of the disclosure, as a person having ordinary skill in the art would be aware, leather, especially full grain leather, and nylon are, in embodiments, preferred materials, providing enhanced comfort, strength, protection and durability as compared to other materials, although vinyl, stretched polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), various other polymers, particularly those which are waterproof and breathable, and other materials would also be suitable for use.

[0049] In other embodiments, the armlet 100 may be considered a vambrace with enhanced functionality.

[0050] The embodiments discussed above may be manufactured by cutting material into the shape of an isosceles trapezoid of dimensions suitable for wrapping around a forearm, the trapezoidal shape having a first edge 102 that is not parallel to an opposing second edge 104, disposing a plurality of metal snap fittings adjacent the first edge 102, disposing a plurality of metal snap fittings adjacent the snap fittings previously disposed adjacent the first edge 102, disposing a plurality of metal snap fittings configured to be secured to previously disposed snap fittings adjacent the second edge 104, fastening a first pouch 120 configured to hold a smartphone to the material, the first pouch 120 further comprising an aperture configured to allow access to a screen of the smartphone and fastening a second pouch 112 configured to contain an auxiliary battery pack to the material.

[0051] The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of this disclosure. It is intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. An armlet comprising: a material cut in the shape of an isosceles trapezoid having a first edge that is not parallel to an opposing second edge, configured to be wrapped around and secured to a forearm of a user, wherein the parallel edges of said material are perpendicular to said forearm when secured; a first row of fasteners positioned substantially adjacent said first edge; a second row of fasteners, positioned substantially adjacent said first row of fasteners; a third row of fasteners positioned substantially adjacent said second edge, configured to be secured to said first or second row of fasteners, wherein securing of said third row of fasteners to said first row of fasteners enables a relatively looser fit of said armlet to said forearm than when said third row of fasteners is secured to said second row of fasteners; a first pouch configured for holding a smart phone fastened to said material; and a second pouch fastened to said material.

2. The armlet of claim 1 comprising an aperture in a top portion of said first pouch, allowing use of a smart phone contained therein.

3. The armlet of claim 2 further comprising a protective plastic barrier disposed within said aperture.

4. The armlet of claim 1 wherein said second pouch contains a battery.

5. The armlet of claim 4 wherein said battery is configured to be in operative communication with a charging port of a smartphone held in said first pouch.

6. The armlet of claim 1 further comprising an aperture in said first pouch positioned proximate a smartphone connector and a second aperture in said second pouch positioned proximate a battery connector.

7. The armlet of claim 6 further comprising a battery contained in said second pouch configured to be placed in operative communication with said smartphone connector via an external cable fed through said apertures in said first and second pouches.

8. The armlet of claim 1 further comprising a third pouch.

9. The armlet of claim 8 wherein said third pouch is configured to hold an identification card.

10. The armlet of claim 8 wherein said third pouch is configured to hold an electronic toll collection device.

11. The armlet of claim 1 wherein said fasteners are metal snaps.

12. The armlet of claim 11 wherein each row of snaps consists of three snaps.

13. The armlet of claim 11 wherein each row of snaps consists of six snaps.

14. The armlet of claim 1 wherein said material is leather.

15. The armlet of claim 14 wherein said material is full grain leather.

16. The armlet of claim 1 wherein said material is nylon.

17. The armlet of claim 1 wherein said first and second pouches are made of leather.

18. The armlet of claim 17 wherein said first and second pouches are made of full grain leather.

19. A vambrace comprising: a first pouch configured to securely hold a smartphone while enabling usage thereof; a second pouch configured to contain an auxiliary power supply, wherein said auxiliary power supply and said smartphone are configured to be in operative communication.

20. A method for manufacturing a leather armlet comprising the steps of: cutting material into the shape of an isosceles trapezoid of dimensions suitable for wrapping around a forearm, said trapezoidal shape having a first edge that is not parallel to an opposing second edge; disposing a plurality of metal snap fittings adjacent said first edge; disposing a plurality of metal snap fittings adjacent said snap fittings previously disposed adjacent said first edge; disposing a plurality of metal snap fittings configured to be secured fastening a first pouch configured to hold a smartphone to said material, said pouch further comprising an aperture configured to allow access to a screen of said smartphone; and fastening a second pouch configured to contain an auxiliary battery pack to said material.

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