Belt clip and locking fastener for selectively securing an electronic device

Abstract

A selectively lockable fastener is provided that includes a beveled button for removable interconnection to a locking portion based on a rotational movement. The button of one embodiment of the present invention also includes a locking relief, generally a second bevel, for engagement with a cavity of the locking portion. This secondary locking feature reduces the occurrences of unintentional disengagement of the fastener that often occurs as a result of normal wear and tear.

Description

The application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/745,907, filed Dec. 23, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/441,928, filed May 19, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/163,110, filed Jun. 26, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. D478,418, each application being incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to multi-piece fasteners, clips and buckles, and more specifically a device adapted to selectively retain an electric device or other apparatus, and which can be released by a rotational movement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cellular telephones, pagers, radios, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other similar electronic devices (hereinafter “electronic device”) have become increasingly popular, with many people securing these devices on their belts or pockets. The inevitable advances in technology will surely bring about new items that users will desire to carry in this fashion SO that they are easily accessible.

Various means of clipping small items to a user's belt have been in use for many years. More specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 5,779,115, assigned to NOKIA®, teaches a carrying device that employs a hand-operated slide that includes an element to deflect a spring to release a lock. The device employs a button, and a cylindrical stem interconnected to a circular plate that is sewn on a case adapted to receive a cellular phone. The body portion of the holding device is attached to a user's belt and employs a locking feature. The user inserts the button into the lock which thus secures the electronic device on the belt. To disengage the electronic device from the carrying device, the user must release the locking mechanism by deflecting a release mechanism. This type of lock has the disadvantage of being assembled from many parts thus time consuming and expensive to manufacture. Further, the release mechanics of traditional locks maybe inadvertently activated causing the item to become dislodged and possibly damaged in a fall. Failure, due to normal wear and tear, of the locking spring and the clip housing are also common, which will cause the electronic device to become dislodged from the locking mechanism and possibly damaged. Finally, it is cumbersome and awkward in certain situations to disengage the lock with a thumb or finger, and it is often difficult for the elderly or physically challenged to perform the unlocking operation.

Separable fasteners with a single piece locking feature are known in the art. For example, the MOD-U-LOCK® attachment system, built by the National Molding Corporation and sold commercially by DURAFLEX®, is a separable fastener that utilizes the elastic properties of plastic to lock the button into place. The locking portion includes a flexible tab with a locking lip and a pocket to receive the button, which may be released by applying finger pressure against an upper portion of the tab. However, the locking portion of this type of separable fasteners is usually rigidly interconnected onto existing materials, and thus provides no means for removable interconnection to a belt, pocket, or other object.

Another drawback of the separable fasteners is that they have limited applications outside use with soft compliant items. More specifically, user-applied deflects the tab to provide a sufficient gap so that the button, which is interconnected to the device, may be easily slipped into and out of the locking mechanism without interference with a locking lip on the tab. In current low-profile lock designs, a deflected tab will come in contact with the item the lock is attached to. If the lock is attached to a compliant item, a nylon bag for example, pressure from the tab will deflect the compliant item and a sufficient gap will be provided for button disengagement. If the item that the locking portion of the separable fastener is interconnected to is not compliant, the deflected tab may not provide a sufficient gap for the insertion or removal of the button. Fasteners in use today are low profile, and as such lack a sufficient gap when deflected to be used on non-compliant materials.

There is thus a significant need for a one-piece integrally molded interconnection system that may be selectively attached to a belt or pocket, and which comprises a locking mechanism that selectively secures an electronic device, and wherein selective rotation of the electronic device facilitates disengagement thereof. There is a further need for a simplistic interconnection system which requires no assembly, is durable, and can be used in a multitude of applications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a detachable fastener that selectively interconnects to a user's belt and selectively secures an electronic device, while eliminating post-manufacturing steps of assembly and the costs associated therewith. Thus, the detachable fastener of one embodiment of the present invention does not employ springs or other means to disengage the lock.

It is another aspect of the present invention that the single piece design be light, strong, and less susceptible to breakage and jamming due to the reduction of movable parts. Also, the single piece design will have no metal parts that are generally prone to corrosion and tend to activate metal detectors. Due to the single piece design and the elimination of post manufacturing steps, significant time and expense is saved.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a fastener that has a robust design, and which can readably changed with a revision of a mold. Thus, the shape and design of the fastener may be changed easily, as well as the color. In addition, the fastener may be molded with substantially planar areas for the attachment of company logos or other advertisements, or the desired indicia may be etched or molded directly onto the clip.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a separable fastener that includes a button that selectively interconnects with a locking portion of the separable fastener by sliding into a locking pocket thereof. The button may be interconnected to any number of electronic devices, tools, or carrying pouches, sleeves, or holsters, such as a cell phone, a pager, a PDA, an MP3 player, a CD player, a diagnostic device, a radio, tape cassette player, a health monitor, a hammer, a tape measure, an inventory device, a water bottle, a flashlight, a sleeve or holster adapted to secure a cell phone, a gun holster, a pouch, a hand cuff holder, a knife case, and a time piece (hereafter “electronic device”). Alternatively, the button may be interconnected to a belt, strap, leash, or any other object that is designed to selectively interconnect to a mating fastener. Generally, the attachment of the button to the electronic device or other item depends on the application, but the button may be sewn, glued, integrally molded, screwed, riveted, clipped, taped, or tied to the item, as appreciated by one skilled in the art. Finally, items of the same general size may fit into the same lock depending on the shape of the interface portion of the lock and the button.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a belt clip that is integrally interconnected to the locking portion of the separable fastener by a thinner, resiliently deflectable, section of material. By squeezing together finger and thumb tabs on the clip and lock, the thinner section will resiliently deflect, thereby allowing selective interconnection to a user's belt. The lock portion will generally use the same materials, such that the tab attached to the locking portion may be easily deflected to allow insertion and removal of the button that is interconnected to the electronic device.

It is a related aspect of the present invention to provide a locking portion of the integrai assembly that is attached to the belt clip via a spring and pin combination, and thus does not utilize the one-piece integral design discussed above, but is still simplistic to manufacture, and thus cost effective.

It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a holder used to carry larger items that, due to their shape and/or size, a user would find difficult to disengage the lock of the fastener. In this embodiment, the locking portion employs the locking pocket, but no movable tab. In contrast, the locking portion is equipped with a small protrusion that in turn interfaces with a tab on the button. Disengagement is achieved by flexing the tab, thereby releasing the interface. In addition, the interconnection between the clip and the locking portion may not include a reduced thickness, but rather employ the same dimensions as the joined components to increase the strength of the holder to accommodate heavier items.

In each of the above mentioned aspects of the invention, a button that is selectively interconnected to the electronic device or other items is employed. The interface portion of the button will dictate the mobility of the item when it is installed in the locking pocket. For example, a round interface will allow the device to rotate, whereas a square interface will constrain the device to prevent rotation, and an interface that is notched will allow the user to maintain a desired rotation angle in a preferred position of use.

It is another aspect of the present invention that there be a sufficient gap incorporated into the locking portion of the integral assembly such that sufficient space is provided for the tab to be deflected.

It is still yet another aspect of the invention to provide a button that is selectively removable from the locking portion when it is rotated to a predetermined angle, thus removable without manually deflecting the tab. In one embodiment of the present invention the button employs an angled bevel on the interface portion that provides sufficient clearance from the locking portion of the clip or facilitates hands-free deflection of the tab when the button is rotated a predetermined angle. During insertion, the beveled area of the button travels in an unobstructed path, or in a path that facilitates deflection of the tab, into the locking portion of the clip. Further, once the button is seated securely in the pocket, a non-beveled area of the button will be in contact with the locking portion, thereby preventing removal. Removal of the electronic device is achieved by rotation, in one embodiment about 180 degrees, such that the beveled area is again proximate to the locking portion, thereby providing an unobstructed or tab deflecting path for button removal. One skilled in the art will appreciate that any rotation angle, or plurality thereof, may be used to facilitate button removal.

The locking portions of the present invention that are resiliently deflectable, may be used. Alternatively, a locking portion with no moving parts may be employed. More specifically, a beveled button may be employed that alleviates the need for a resiliently deflectable tab by providing an unobstructed path for selective interconnection. Further, the removal of the resiliently deflectable tab will allow the locking portion to be constructed with a lower profile, because the travel distance of the tab will no longer be required.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a fastening mechanism that is not used exclusively with electronic devices. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention may be used with other items, such as belts, straps, leashes, or any other similar type of device. For example, the button may interconnect to an intermediate appendage that includes at least one aperture for the interconnection to the strap or belt. It is envisioned that this embodiment be used for straps or belts for elderly or disabled individuals such that the interconnection and disconnection of the separable fastener is facilitated.

It is related aspect of the present invention to provide a button that includes a second bevel or relief to ensure that the button does not disengage from the lock. More specifically, as previously described above, the non-beveled portion is designed to selectively engage the locking lip on the resiliently deflectable tab of the locking portion of the clip. However, over time this engagement may become worn such that the button may become disengaged from the locking portion upon sufficient pressure thereto. Accordingly, one embodiment of the present invention includes a locking tab that includes a locking cavity integrated therein. A button with a locking relief is also provided such that the locking relief and the locking cavity engage when the button is in a locked position such that disengagement from the locking portion of the severable fastener is subsequently prevented. Additional advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following discussion, particularly when incorporated with the accompanying drawings.

Thus, in one aspect of the present invention a fastening system adapted for selectively securing an electronic device is provided comprising:

a locking portion comprising an upper end, a lower end and lateral edges extending therebetween;

a receiving pocket positioned within said locking portion and comprising at least one outwardly extending lip on a first end with a restricted diameter upper surface;

a button having a lower surface and an upper surface to define a first thickness, said button further including:

a beveled edge extending generally between said lower surface and said upper surface of said button, wherein said first thickness is reduced and

a locking relief extending generally between said lower surface and said upper surface of said button, generally opposite said beveled edge, wherein said first thickness is reduced; and

wherein said receiving pocket is sized to receive and secure said button in a first position, but said button cannot be withdrawn from said receiving pocket until said beveled edge is positioned substantially adjacent to said outwardly extending lip.

The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The present invention is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these embodiments.

FIG. 1 is perspective view of a first embodiment of an integral belt clip and locking fastener;

FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 are front elevation and plan views of a square engagement button used with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 are front elevation and plan views of a round engagement button used with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 are front elevation and plan views of a notched engagement button used with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a left elevation view of the button attached to an electronic device and a method of insertion into the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 interconnected to a belt and the electronic device selectively secured thereto;

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a rear elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a left elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of the invention shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 15 is a left elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a rear elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a front elevation view of a button with an extended tab;

FIG. 20 is a right elevation view of the button with extended tab shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a left elevation view of the button with an extended tab attached to an item and the method of insertion into the embodiment shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 22 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 16 interconnected to a user's belt and an electronic device selectively secured thereto;

FIG. 23 is a rear elevation view of an alternative embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a left elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 is a front elevation view of a resilient engagement button;

FIG. 27 is a right section view of a resilient engagement button;

FIG. 28 is a top plan view of a resilient engagement button;

FIG. 29 is a rear elevation view that shows an example of a hard stop; and

FIG. 30 are front elevation and plan views of a beveled button used with an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 31 is a partial right cross section of the locking portion of the belt clip shown in FIG. 25 selectively interconnected to the beveled button shown in FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a partial right cross section of the locking portion of the belt clip shown in FIG. 25 selectively interconnected to the beveled button shown in FIG. 30, rotated to facilitate removal thereof;

FIG. 33 is a front elevation view of a locking portion of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a left elevation view of the locking portion shown in FIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is a front elevation view of a button of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 36 is a left elevation view of the button shown in FIG. 35; and

FIG. 37 is a partial sectional view of the embodiments of the locking portion shown in FIG. 33 and the button shown in FIG. 35 illustrating the locking mechanism.

To provide clarity to the various components found in the drawings, and the numbering of the various components provided herein: # Component

1 Hard Stop

2 Extended Tab

3 Locking Protrusion

4 Extended tab/Protrusion interface location

5 User

7 Pin

10 Belt clip portion

11 Hook

12 Belt Clip Finger Grip

12A Belt Clip Finger Grip

12B Belt Clip Finger Grip

13 Locking Portion Finger Grip

14 Open molding area

15 Tab

16 Locking Lip

17 Front wall of locking pocket

17A Front wall of locking pocket (Looking from the belt clip)

18 Back wail of locking pocket

18A Back wall of locking pocket (Looking from the belt clip)

19 Locking Pocket

21 Open molding space

22 Side pocket walls

30 Lock portion

31 Web

32 Belt clip/Lock portion interface

36 Sleeve

41 Button attachment surface

42 Button

43 Button notches

44 Stitch holes

45 Rivet hole

46 Stem

50 Electronic Device or other item

60 Integral Belt Clip and Holder

70 Gap

71 Back surface of locking portion

73 Button bevel area

80 Locking relief

82 Locking cavity

86 Aperture

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details which are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or which render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1-37, a separable fastener that includes at least a locking portion and a button is shown. One embodiment of the present invention includes a locking portion with a resiliently deflectable tab that employs a locking protrusion that is adapted to selectively engage the button. Engagement and disengagement of the button is achieved by selectively deflecting the tab to provide a obstruction-free path for the button to travel. Alternatively, in another embodiment of the invention, a button is provided that employs a beveled area that is adapted to provide an obstruction free path, or alternatively a button that provides the tab deflection force, for removal when the beveled area is rotated to a predetermined angle.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, one embodiment of the present invention is shown herein. In general, a one-piece integral belt clip holder 60 is a union of a belt clip 10 and a locking portion 30 of a separable fastener which are attached by a web 31 of plastic or other material with resilient properties, made from a material such as rubber, deflectable plastic, etc. The web 31 is resilient to allow for attachment to a belt when pressure is applied to the finger grip on the clip portion 12 and the finger grip on the lock portion 13. Alternatively, the lower portions of the belt clip 10 and the locking portion 30 may be pulled apart to allow for selective interconnection to a belt or other object. The lock portion 30 employs a flexible plastic tab 15 with a lip 16 that secures a button and prevents upward movement and disengagement from the lock portion 30. Alternatively, other types of residual materials commonly known in the art may be used, including rubber, polyethylene, etc. A locking pocket 19 constrains the button portion of the separable fastener, and consists of a front wall 17, a back wall 18, and side pocket walls 22. When the tab 15 is flexed, the non-locking portion remains supported in the pocket and is easily disengaged. The belt clip portion 10 may be equipped with a hook 11 which will help maintain the unit on the user's belt. Both portions of the belt clip 10 and the locking portion 30 of the separable fastener are integrally molded preferably with open molded spaces 14 and 21 which eliminates assembly, inherent labor costs, and the expenses related thereto.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-7 and FIGS. 26-27, a secondary engaged portion of the separable fastener is shown, and which is designed for interconnecting to an electric device such as a cellular phone, radio, etc. This item is referred to herein as a button 42, and is generally comprised of a plastic material such as polypropylene, polyethylene, etc. The button's attachment surface 41 is connected to the button 42 by a stem 46 such that the button 42 is easily slipped into the pocket of the lock. In one embodiment, the interconnecting stem 46 and/or the attachment area 41 may be made of rubber or other resilient material capable of deflection which will decrease stresses on the button and electronic device interface when a force is applied to a portion of the electronic device. The stem 46 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, a rectangularly shaped stem 46 may be used which would provide resiliency in one direction and greater stiffness in the others. Also, at the button-to-electronic device interface, a resilient material will provide a better bond between the button attachment surface 41 and the electronic device because the resilient material will be capable of deflection and conformance to the electronic device that may have a non-planar shape. The button 42 dictates the mobility of the item when it is locked in the pocket. More specifically, a square shape will give a user substantially no rotation, while a round button shape will allow for substantially free rotation. Alternatively in one embodiment, notches 43 may be employed to provide a variety of fixed positions depending on the preferred application.

The button attachment surface 41 is selectively interconnected to the electronic device, electronic device carrying case, or other item by sewing, gluing, integrally molding, clipping, screwing, riveting, taping, or tying. The button attachment surface 41 may further employ a rivet hole 45 or stitching holes 44 to facilitate interconnection with the electronic device, electronic device carrying case, or other item. One embodiment of the present invention is adapted for interconnection to a sleeve or holster that secures a cellular phone, wherein the sleeve encompasses all or a portion of the cellular phone body.

Referring now to FIG. 8, the locking function of one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated herein. More specifically, the button 42 is shown interconnected to the electronic device 50, while the integral belt clip and holder 60 is shown with a tab 15 in the locked position. To lock the electronic device 50 into place, the user applies pressure to the tab 15 in the direction of the clip portion 10 of the integral assembly 60. Alternatively embodiments may employ release mechanisms that are pushed in different directions of release. After pressure is applied to the tab 15, there is an unobstructed path for the button 42 to engage the pocket 19. That is, the button interface 42 is easily guided downward into the locking pocket 19. When the user releases the pressure on the tab 15 the locking portion of the tab 16 will prevent the button interface 42 from traveling upward. Thus, the electronic device 50 is released by the application of pressure to the tab 15 towards the clip portion 10 of the integral assembly 60, thereby deflecting the tab, separating the lock 16 and button interface 42, and providing an unobstructed path in which the electronic device can travel.

The requisite pressure that deflects the tab 15 prior to the introduction of the button interface 42 into the pocket 19 can be supplied by the interface 42 itself. More specifically, the user can initiate the downward motion of the electronic device 50 into the pocket 19 without touching the tab 15. Thus, the contact of the interface 42 with the tab 15, along with the downward force supplied by the user, may sufficiently deflect the tab 15 so that the interface 42 will engage the locking pocket 19.

Referring now to FIG. 9, the button 42 is shown interconnected to the electronic device 50, while the belt clip 10 is attached to the user's 5 belt. The tab 15 of the lock 30 has been deflected towards the user 5, while the button interface has been seated in the locking pocket 19, and the tab 15 has been released. Thus, the button is prevented from upward motion by the lock 16, and the electronic device 50 is operably interconnected to belt clip and holder 60.

Referring now to FIGS. 10-14, another embodiment of the present invention is shown. This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 1-9, but the single piece molding is modified to simplify manufacturing because “side pulls” on the mold are not required. In some molding processes side pulls are required to form holes or cavities into the final product. By deleting the need for side pulls, an integral design is moldable using a two-piece mold construction, and more clips can be made using a single mold. The requirement of side pulls adds complexity and cost to the molding operation. More specifically, the belt clip portion 10 is constructed slightly longer than the locking portion 30. In addition, the belt clip finger grip is split into two pieces 12A and 12B.

Referring now to FIG. 15, yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown that employs a pin 7 and spring mechanism to connect the locking 30 and clip 10 portions of the unit. More specifically, the pressure on the finger grips 12 and 13 is reduced by the use of a pin and spring such that selective interconnection to a user's belt or other object is more easily performed.

Referring now to FIGS. 16-20, an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown that is more durable and which may be used for larger items such as radios, CD players, PDAs, inventory devices, water bottles, etc. In this embodiment of the present invention, the locking feature 3 on the integral assembly 60 is not attached to a flexible tab. Instead, the locking portion 30 employs a small protrusion 3, which interfaces with a flexible tab 2 on the button 42 when the button is seated in the locking pocket 19 and the tab 2 is released. Further, the halves are connected by a thicker interface 32 that increases the strength of the unit.

Referring now to FIG. 21, the locking function of one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated herein. More specifically, the button 42 is shown interconnected to a sleeve 36 on a larger device 50, while the integral belt clip and holder 60 is shown with a stationary locking protrusion 3. The sleeve 36 may be used to selectively secure the larger device 50 to the button 42 if attachment locations on the item 50 are not feasible. To lock the device into place the user applies pressure to the tab 2 on the button 42. After pressure is applied to the tab 15 there is an unobstructed path for the button 42 to engage the pocket 19, that is, the button 42 may be easily guided downward into the lock pocket 19. When the user releases the pressure on the tab 2, the locking portion of the integral assembly 3 will prevent the button 42 from traveling upward because a portion of the tab 2 will selectively interconnect with the lock 3. The item is released by the application of pressure to the tab 2 thereby deflecting the tab, separating the lock 3 and the tab interface 4, and providing an unobstructed path in which the device can be moved upward.

The requisite pressure that deflects the tab 2 prior to the introduction of the button interface 42 into the pocket 19 can be supplied by the interface 4 itself. More specifically, the user can initiate the downward motion of the device into the pocket without touching the tab 2. The contact of the interface 4 with the lock 3, along with the downward force supplied by the user, will sufficiently deflect the tab 2 so that the button interface 42 will be able to be seated into the pocket 19.

Referring now to FIG. 22, the button 42 is shown interconnected to the larger device 50, while the belt clip 10 is attached to the user's 5 belt. The tab 2 of the button 42 has been flexed towards the device 50, the button interface has been seated in the pocket 19, the tab 2 has been released, and the button has been prevented from upward motion by the contact of the interface 4 with the lock 3.

Referring now to FIGS. 23-25, another embodiment of the present invention is shown that employs a thick connection interface 32, but is substantially similar to the first two embodiment described with respect to the aspects of the locking feature. In order for any locking mechanism to work properly in some embodiments of the present invention, a gap 70 must be integrated into the locking portion 30 of the integral design to allow unrestricted travel of the locking tab 15. This gap 70 will extend from the back surface of the locking portion 71 to the back wall of the locking pocket 18A. When the user deflects the tab 15, the gap 70 will provide sufficient deflection of the tab 15 so that the button 42 will not come in contact with the locking lip 16 when a user inserts and removes a device from the integral assembly 60. The greater the gap 70, the easier and quicker the button can be inserted and released from the pocket and lock.

Referring now to FIG. 29, a “hard stop” is shown. As used herein, a hard stop 1 is any type of backing material, detent, or other mechanism which prevents the tab 15 from extending or deflecting past a predetermined position. The predetermined position may be dictated by the maximum deflection the tab 15 can move without incurring damage. To engage and disengage a button from the integral assembly 60, a user must depress the tab 15 toward the belt clip 10 of the integral assembly. Extreme deflections of the tab 15 may fatigue the material such that it will be permanently deformed or break. In order to prevent this detrimental effect, the hard stop 1 may be added to the belt clip portion 10 of the integral assembly 60. When a user applies pressure on the tab 15 towards the belt clip portion 10, the tab 15 will deflect enough for engagement or disengagement of a button, but the tab 15 will be stopped from further deflection when it comes in contact with the hard stop 1. Preferably, the hard stop 1 is molded integrally with the belt clip 10.

Further, the hard stop 1 may be added to or molded onto the tab 15 of the locking portion 30 of the integral assembly 60 as opposed to the belt clip 10, as discussed above. When a user applies pressure on the tab 15 towards the belt clip portion 10, the tab 15 will deflect enough for engagement or disengagement of a button, but the tab 15 will be stopped from further deflection when the hard stop 1 on the tab 15 comes in contact with the belt clip portion 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 30-32, an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown herein. More specifically, a button 42 that employs a beveled area 73 is shown that is adapted to selectively interconnect with the lock portion 30 of the clip 60. When interconnecting, the beveled area 73 allows the button 42 to pass unobstructed into the locking pocket 19. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that deflection of the tab may be facilitated by the angled bevel area 73, wherein hands-free interconnection and disconnection is realized. Once seated in the locking pocket 19, the button's 42 non-beveled area selectively interconnects with the locking protrusion 3 of the locking portion 30, thereby preventing removal. To separate the button 42 from the locking portion 30, the user rotates the button 42, such that the beveled area 73 is proximate to the locking protrusion 3, thereby providing an unobstructed path for the button 42 to travel. In contrast to the previously-described embodiments, this embodiment requires no manual deflection of the tab employed on the clip. More specifically, the shape of the bevel 73 allows the button 42 to be inserted into the lock 30 without manually resiliently deflecting the locking tab, and wherein a predetermined rotation allows the button 42 to be removed from the lock 32 easily because the button 42 facilitates deflection of the tab. This feature is highly desirable for individuals who have difficulty using their hands, wherein use of the resiliently deflectable tab may be difficult. Further, individuals, such as the elderly or the disabled, will be able to easily utilize this embodiment of the present invention since the unlocking mechanism simply entails selective rotation of the electronic device.

Generally, the button 42 is constructed with a predetermined thickness. In order to create the bevel 73, the thickness of the button 42 is selectively trimmed at a predetermined angle relative to the top of the button 42. This cut defines a bevel portion 73 on the button 42 which allows for substantially unobstructed travel of the button 42 in and out of the lock. More specifically, the button 42 is defined after the bevel 73 of angle θ is created by an unaffected portion of length d. The angle θ and the length d may be of any dimension depending on the thickness of the button 42 and the locking requirements required. Preferably, in one embodiment of the invention, d is about ⅜ inches. In addition, the beveled portion 73 may span any distance around a perimeter of the circular button 42 as long as sufficient non-beveled area remains to ensure that locking is possible, wherein more than small rotations of the electronic device will facilitate unlocking. For example, in one embodiment of the invention the bevel spans at least about 50%, or about 180°, around the perimeter of the button 42. Further, the bevel 73 may be made of one smooth swept cut around the perimeter, or may be made of a series of faceted cuts to allow for various locking and unlocking options. In one embodiment of the present invention, the angle θ is about 30°.

Referring now to FIGS. 33-37, an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown that provides greater locking capabilities. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention, similar to that described above, includes a locking relief 80 integrated into the button 42 and a locking cavity 82 integrated into the tab 15 of the lock portion 30. As described above, the bevel 73 is designed to either pass completely over the locking lip 16 of the tab 15 or alternatively to facilitate deflection of the tab 15 by a sliding engagement between the beveled area 72 and the locking lip 16, thereby allowing the button 42 to be seated into the locking pocket 19. In addition, this embodiment of the present invention includes the locking cavity 82 that is generally an annulus removed from the locking lip 16 of the tab. As shown herein, a triangular annulus angle φ is shown that spans the length of the locking lip 16. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that any shape and length of the locking cavity 16 maybe employed without departing from the scope of the invention. In combination with the locking cavity 82, a locking relief 80 is provided on the underside of the button 42 that is opposite from the beveled side, as shown most distinctly in FIG. 37. This locking relief, as shown herein, is generally a triangular bevel of angle γ is designed to selectively engage the locking cavity 82 of the tab 15.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that the length of the locking relief 86 may be any practical value as long as it selectively locks into the locking cavity 82 of the tab 15. More specifically, the length of the locking relief 80 of the button 42 maybe such that only one locking position may be provided, wherein a small locking cavity, or groove, receives a small locking relief 80, for example. This embodiment of the present invention provides the user with a more enhanced locking feature such that normal wear and tear of the surfaces on the locking lip 16 and the interface surface of the button 42 will not substantially affect the locking of the button in the locking portion 30 of the clip. More specifically, the engagement of the button in the cavity substantially prevents the electronic device from being slipped out of the locking cavity and/or pulled therefrom.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 33 and 35, a locking mechanism that utilizes a locking relief 80 and locking cavity 82 is shown. A protuberance of any shape may be employed with a aperture 86 integrated therethrough to provide locations for the interconnection of belts, straps, strings, ropes, etc. In addition, the locking portion of the clip 30 maybe provided with a section for the placement of an aperture 86 for the interconnection of similar devices, such that the separable locking mechanism may be used in a number of applications. For example, the present invention may be employed as a belt buckle, clasp, or any other similar type mechanism that is easy to use, which would aid elderly or disabled individuals.

Referring now to FIG. 3-7, a method of engagement of one embodiment of the present invention that includes a locking cavity 82 and locking relief 80 is described. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is slid into the locking portion 30 of the clip wherein the beveled area 73 either passes by the locking lip 16 or facilitates deflection of the locking tab 15 by engagement therewith. Once the button 42 is seated in the locking pocket 19, the device is substantially constrained from disengagement. If upward motion, as shown in the figure motion to the left, is attempted, the locking relief 80 and the locking cavity 82 will become engaged such that upward motion is substantially prevented.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and adaptations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and adaptations are within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as set forth in the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A two-piece fastening apparatus adapted for removable interconnection, comprising:

a locking portion comprising an upper end, a lower end and lateral edges extending therebetween;

a receiving pocket positioned within said locking portion and comprising at least one outwardly extending lip on a first end and an upper surface having a restricted diameter in at least one location;

a button for selective interconnection into said receiving pocket having: a) a first surface defined by an edge; b) a second surface defined by an edge separated by a predetermined distance from said first surface; c) a bevel extending around a portion of said edge of said first surface, wherein the thickness of said button is reduced; and d) a locking relief extending around a portion of said edge of said second surface generally opposite said bevel, wherein the thickness of said button is reduced; and

wherein said receiving pocket is sized to receive and secure said button in a first secured position wherein said button cannot be withdrawn from said receiving pocket until said bevel is positioned substantially adjacent to said outwardly extending lip as a result of a rotation of said button.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said outwardly extending lip further includes a locking cavity for engagement with said locking relief.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said button further comprises an attachment means for interconnection to an electronic device.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said at least one outwardly extending lip is interconnected to a tab portion operably interconnected to said locking portion, wherein displacement of said tab provides sufficient spacing to allow said button to seat in said receiving pocket.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein when said button is selectively interconnected to said locking portion it is capable of substantially free rotation.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein alignment of said bevel of said button with said outwardly extending lip requires rotation of said button in said receiving pocket.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein said rotation of said button to facilitate disengagement of said button from said outwardly extending lip is between about 150 and 210 degrees.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said locking portion is interconnected to a clip for selective interconnection to a belt, a pocket, or other article of clothing.

9. A fastening apparatus, comprising:

a locking means;

a receiving pocket integrally positioned within said locking means and comprising a deflectable tab with an engagement means positioned thereon adjacent to an upper surface of said receiving pocket; and

a locking button operably sized to fit in said receiving pocket upon insertion in a first direction, wherein said locking button becomes secured by said engagement means, said locking button further comprising: a) a beveled edge on an outer surface of said locking button; and b) a locking relief on an inner surface of said locking button; and

wherein said locking button is selectively released from said receiving pocket by rotating said locking button to an angle distinct from said first direction to facilitate release from said receiving pocket.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein said engagement means further includes a locking cavity for engagement with said locking relief.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein said engagement means comprises an upwardly extending lip.

12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein said receiving pocket is shrouded with a restricted diameter portion to substantially prevent said locking button from inadvertent disengagement from said pocket.

13. A method for one-handed interconnection and removal of a multi-piece fastening apparatus, comprising:

providing a button with a first bevel and a locking relief;

providing a locking pocket;

providing an engagement means positioned within said locking pocket that retains said button in said locking pocket when said button is oriented in a first position, and allows said button to be released from said engagement means when said button is rotated at least about 30 degrees from said first position; and

wherein said button is selectively secured and removed from said locking pocket with one hand based on a rotational movement of said button.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said engagement means further includes a locking cavity for engagement with said locking relief.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein said engagement means comprises a receiving pocket with an upwardly extending lip and a reduced diameter cap portion sized to retain said button.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein said first bevel allows movement over said upwardly extending lip when said first bevel and said upwardly extending lip are rotationally aligned.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein said engagement means further comprises a tab that allows said button to be slidingly positioned in said receiving pocket when said tab is deflected.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein said button and said locking pocket are interconnected to a protuberance for interconnection to a strap, a belt, a rope, or a leash.

19. The method of claim 13, wherein said button is interconnected to an electronic device.

20. The method of claim 13, wherein said locking relief of said button has at least a second bevel that is oriented at least about 30 degrees from said first bevel.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein in said first position said second bevel is retained within said locking relief.

22. A two-piece fastening apparatus adapted for selective interconnection, comprising:

a first locking portion having: a) an upper end, a lower end and lateral edges extending therebetween; b) a receiving pocket positioned within said locking portion and comprising a lip extending along said lower end and along at least a portion of said lateral edges, said receiving pocket also including an opened surface interconnected to said lip to provide a slot; and c) a locking tab capable of resilient defection about an axis substantially parallel to said lower end, said locking tab having a protrusion with a cavity;

a second locking portion for selective interconnection into said first locking portion having: a) a cylindrical button with a first surface and a second surface that is separated a predetermined distance from said first surface; b) a bevel extending around a portion of an edge of said first surface, wherein the thickness of said cylindrical button is reduced; c) a locking relief extending around a portion of an edge of said second surface, generally opposite said bevel, wherein the thickness of said cylindrical button is reduced; and d) a stem interconnected to said second surface of said cylindrical button; and

wherein said receiving pocket is sized to receive and secure said cylindrical button such that said locking relief is positioned within said cavity of said protrusion when said first locking portion and said second locking portion are in a first locked position, and wherein said button is withdrawn from said receiving pocket when said first locking portion and said second portion are rotated relative to each other such that said bevel is positioned substantially adjacent to said protrusion of said locking tab.