Abstract: The invention relates to a retaining device for the purpose of mechanically and electrically connecting a mobile user device, in particular a mobile radio telephone or a PDA, to a vehicle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connection device (1) which is used to connect mobile radio terminals (51, 52, 53) to an electronic system (2) arranged in a vehicle, and a base part (3) and an adapter part for said type of connection system. The connection system (1) comprises a base part (3) which is permanently fixed in the vehicle and one or several retaining parts (41, 42) for respectively receiving a mobile radio terminal (52, 52). The base part (3) comprises a first electric interface (11) which is connected to a signal processing device (2) arranged in the vehicle, said device performing at least partial functions of a handsfree device. The base part (3) also comprises a second mechanical and electrical interface (12) which is used to connect retaining parts (41, 42) in order to receive mobile radio terminals (51, 52), in addition to a communication device (5) for wireless communication with a mobile radio terminal (53) via a third interface (13).

Abstract: A support stand for a camera or other optical device comprises a head portion supported by support legs comprising first and second telescopically related tube portions, the inner tube portion forming the upper part of the respective leg and the outer tube portion forming the lower part. A fixing device for locking the tube portions of each leg relative to each other comprises an actuating member, a connecting rod and a clamping arrangement connected to the actuating member by the connecting rod and comprising at least one clamping cone member and at least one pressure element. The actuating member is carried on the inner tube portion in the vicinity of the support head portion of the stand. Actuation of the actuating member causes the pressure element to be expanded by displacement of the cone member until the pressure element bears against the inside surface of the outer tube portion, thereby to secure it in position relative to the inner tube portion.