METHODS AND DEVICES FOR A CORD HOLDER

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to bundling devices and, more particularly to a bundling device for bundling elongate members such as electric cords, wires, cables, tubes, etc. and methods of making and using the same.

BACKGROUND

Many electronic devices people use to carry out their daily activities have cords that attach to them for purposes of powering the devices by plugging the cords into a wall socket or other source of power. Other cords that are often used with electronic devices include cords such as headphone cords, which may be used to conduct hands-free calls on a mobile device, or listen to music and videos privately. Other kinds of cords may also be used with electronic devices such as USB, Ethernet or any other such cords used to carry an electric or fiber optic signal, etc.

Some electronic devices have cords longer than the length needed by the user. Excess cord length can cause safety hazards in the form of tripping hazards etc. When multiple cords of excess length are in close proximity to each other (such as under a desk), the cords can become tangled and messy which can be unsightly, confusing (a user may become unsure which cable belongs to which device), and dangerous (tripping, fire hazards).

Some electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, audio equipment, photo equipment, video equipment, etc) have cords that can get tangled when in use, during transportation, and during storage. Tangling can damage the cord and reduce the useful life of the cord. A tangled cord can also cause frustration, and waste the time of the user, who may desire to untangle the cord before using it. This can cause dangerous situations to occur. For example, a user may opt to not use a headset or ear buds during a call in the car due to the frustration of untangling the cord, or a user may not untangle a cord at a film shoot, and someone may trip on the tangled cord.

Another issue with conventional cords (e.g., mobile phone charging cords, headphones, audio cords, etc.), is that many cords look similar to one another so it can be hard for a user to tell the cords that they own apart from the cords that belong to another. As a result, cords may be misplaced or left behind (e.g., during travel, at the office, when visiting friends or relatives, etc.). Further, when such cords are indistinguishable from each other, a user may mistake another's cord for their own, and take a cord that does not belong to them even if by mistake. The above issues can result in a user not having possession of the cord when the user may need it and may prompt the user to wastefully replace the cord by purchasing a new one.

It is with these observations in mind, among others, that various aspects of the present disclosure were conceived and developed.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a system for holding a cord. In one embodiment, the present disclosure may take the form of a cord holder comprising a strap with a strap middle portion extending between a first strap end and a second strap end opposing the first strap end. At least one slit is disposed between the first strap end and the second strap end. A cord is coupled to the strap with a first cord end of the cord extending through the at least one slit and a second cord end of the cord disposed over a side of the strap away from the first strap end. The first strap end and the second strap end assume a wrapped position over the cord when the first strap end bends upon the side of the strap and wraps over a first portion of the cord and the second strap end bends upon the side of the strap and wraps over a second portion of the cord.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure may take the form of a method of making a cord holder comprising the steps of providing a first strap comprising a first strap end, a second strap end opposing the first strap end; and forming at least one slit between the first strap end and the second strap end, wherein the cord holder is configured to bundle the first strap over a cord with a first cord end of the cord extending through the at least one slit and a second cord end of the cord disposed over a side of the strap away from the first strap end, the first strap end and the second strap end assuming a wrapped position over the cord when the first strap end bends upon the side of the strap and wraps over a first portion of the cord and the second strap end bends upon the side of the strap and wraps over a second portion of the cord.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure may take the form of a cord holder assembly, comprising a strap extending between a first strap end and a second strap end opposing the first strap end. At least one slit is disposed between the first strap end and the second strap end. A cord is coupled to the strap with a first cord end of the cord extending through the at least one slit and a second cord end of the cord disposed over a side of the strap away from the first strap end, with the first strap end bent over the side of the strap and wrapped over a first portion of the cord and the second strap end bent over the side of the strap and wrapped over a second portion of the cord.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure set forth herein should be apparent from the following description of particular embodiments of those inventive concepts, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Also, in the drawings the like reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present disclosure and, therefore, are not to be considered limiting in scope.

FIG. 1 shows an exploded side view of a two-ended strap with two male snaps and two female snaps, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a side view of the two-ended strap in its assembled form and open state, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows a back view of the two-ended strap, in its assembled and open state, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 4 shows a front view of the two-ended strap, in its assembled and open state, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows a side view of the two-ended strap, in its assembled and closed state, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the two-ended strap, in its assembled and closed state, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 7 shows a front view of the two-ended strap in open state as seen during one mode of use, with a cord to be threaded through slits, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 8 shows a front view of the two-ended strap in open state, with the cord threaded through slits, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 9 shows a front view of the two-ended strap in open state, the cord is coiled around a human hand, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 10 shows a front view of the two-ended strap in open state, the cord is removed from the hand, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 11 shows a front view of the two-ended strap in an open state in open state, the strap is parallel to the coiled cord, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 12 shows a front view of the two-ended strap in open state, the strap is moved up the cord such that the coiled cord is centered over the male snaps, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 13 shows a front view of the two-ended strap in half-closed state. The female snap is mated with the male snap to form a closed snap, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 14 shows a front view of the two-ended strap in closed state, fastened around the coiled cord, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the two-ended strap in closed state, fastened around the coiled cord, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 16 shows a front view of a three-ended strap in open state, in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 17 shows a front view of the three-ended strap in closed state, fastened around the coiled cord, in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 18 shows a front view of a four-ended strap in open state, in accordance with a third embodiment.

FIG. 19 shows a front view of the four-ended strap in closed state, in accordance with a third embodiment.

FIG. 20 shows a front view of the four-ended strap in closed state, fastened around the coiled cord, in accordance with a third embodiment.

FIG. 21 shows a front view of the four-ended strap, with a circular component, in open state, in accordance with a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 22 shows a front view of the four-ended strap, with the circular component, in closed state, in accordance with a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 23 shows a back view of the four-ended strap, with the circular component, in closed state, in accordance with a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 24 shows a front view of the four-ended strap, with the circular component, in closed state, fastened around the cord, in accordance with a fourth embodiment

FIG. 25 shows a front view of an annular strap with a set of magnetic closures, and a pair of slits, in accordance with a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 26 shows a side view of the annular strap with the magnetic closures, in open state, in accordance with a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 27 shows a side view of the annular strap with the magnetic closures, in closed state, in accordance with a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 28 shows a front view of the annular strap, with closures, and pair of slits, in closed state, fastened around the coiled cord, in accordance with a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 29A shows a front view of a strap with a set of slits, in accordance with an alternate embodiment

FIG. 29B shows a front view of a strap with a single slit, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 29C shows a front view of a strap with a hole with slit, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 29D shows a front view of a strap with a hole, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 29E shows a front view of a strap with an additional strap and rivets, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 29F shows a front view of a strap with a partially cut out strap with single rivet, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 29G shows a front view of a strap with adhesive, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 30A shows a back view of a strap in an abstract shape, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 30B shows a back view of a strap in the shape of leaves, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 30C shows a back view of a strap with a depiction of a face, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 30D shows a back view of a strap depicting art, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 30E shows a back view of a strap with a geometric pattern, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 30F shows a back view of a strap in an alternate polygonal shape, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 30G shows a back view of a strap with a cartoon character's face on the ends of the strap, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 30H shows a back view of strap first seen in FIG. 30G, with a cartoon character's face on the ends of the strap, in closed state, character's faces are overlapping, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 301 shows a back view of a strap with an inscription on the strap, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 31 shows a front view of a strap with an alternate spacing of closures, with NFC enabled integrated circuit, in open state, in accordance with a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 32 shows a front view of a two-ended strap with an alternate spacing of closures, with NFC enabled integrated circuit, in closed state, in accordance with a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 33 shows a side view of a two-ended strap with an alternate spacing of closures, with NFC enabled integrated circuit, in closed state, in accordance with a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 34 shows a front view of a two-ended strap with an alternate spacing of closures, with NFC enabled integrated circuit, in closed state, fastened around cord, in accordance with a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 35 shows a front view of a cord holder with three straps, each strap having two ends, in open state, in accordance with a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 36 shows a front view of a cord holder with three straps, each strap having two ends. The short, narrow strap is in the closed state, the larger two straps are in open state, in accordance with a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 37 shows a front view of a cord holder with three straps, each strap having two ends. The short narrow strap and the long narrow strap are shown in closed states. The long wide strap is shown in open state, in accordance with a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 38 shows a front view of a cord holder with three straps, each strap having two ends. All straps are shown in closed state, in accordance with a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 39 shows a front view of a cord holder with three straps, fastened around a power brick style power supply for use with a laptop computer. The long narrow strap is fastened around the power brick. The short narrow strap is fastened around the smaller of the two cords of the power supply. The long wide strap is fastened around the larger cord of the power supply, in accordance with a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 40 shows a top view of the cord holder with three straps, in closed state, in accordance with a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 41 shows a side view of cord holder with three straps, fastened around a power brick style power supply for use with a laptop computer. The long narrow strap is fastened around the power brick. The short narrow strap is fastened around the smaller of the two cords of the power supply. The long wide strap is fastened around the larger cord of the power supply, in accordance with a seventh embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the present disclosure comprise at least one strap with a strap middle portion defined between a first strap end and a second strap end opposing the first strap end. At least one slit is formed in the strap and disposed between the first strap end and second strap end. The strap may further comprise any number of fastening components to facilitate the first strap end second strap end to temporarily fasten to predetermined connection points on the strap.

The strap is specially manufactured to assume a wrapped position. More specifically, the strap, particularly the first strap end and second strap end, comprise a flexible and/or bendable material to facilitate the first strap end and second strap end to bend over the strap middle portion. In other words, the first strap end and second strap end can be urged vertically away from a plane defined by the strap middle portion, bent over backwards, and folded towards one another over the strap middle portion to assume a wrapped position. Any number of fastening components, such as snaps, may be disposed on the strap to temporarily fix the first strap end and/or the second strap end to the strap middle portion at any number of predetermined connection points along the strap. A cord, such as a cellular phone charging cord, may be disposed over the strap prior to manipulating the strap into the wrapped position so that that the strap can wrap about and bundle the cord for more manageable use of the cord. The cord may be coiled prior to wrapping the strap about the cord.

In the wrapped position, the strap comprises the first strap end and the second strap end defining two enclosed loops wrapped over the strap middle portion. When the strap is wrapped over a coiled cord and the strap assumes the wrapped position, the first strap end wraps around a first side of the coiled cord and the second strap end wraps around a second side of the coiled cord.

The cord holder of the present disclosure provides numerous advantages. For example, holding a coiled cord in at least two fully enclosed loops of a strap reduces the likelihood that the cord will tangle on itself or other objects. Holding a cord in a circular or near-circular ellipse coil helps preserve the useful life of the cord, by not subjecting cord to being bent repeatedly with a small radius of curvature. A cord holder that attaches to the cord, and may remain temporarily attached to the cord even when the cord is unwrapped and/or not coiled, is less likely to become lost or misplaced. A cord holder comprising one or more straps made of a narrow strap of flexible material is more likely to fit in a pocket or bag and be easily transported by a user.

The cord holder may comprise at least one strap comprised of leather, rubber, silicone, cloth, or any flexible and/or bendable material, with one or more holes or slits formed in the strap that the end of a cord or cable may be threaded through, in order to keep the strap attached to the cord when cord holder is in an open position. The fastening components of the strap may include one or more snaps, buttons, hook and loop (VELCRO) fasteners, magnetic closures, or other suitable closure devices.

Prior to wrapping the strap around a cord, a first end of the cord may be threaded through the holes in the strap. The cord may then be coiled around a user's hand, or other suitable object, into an ellipse formation. A first strap end may be wrapped about a first side of the cord. A second strap end may be wrapped about a second side of the cord, creating an organized way to use, transport and store cords. This may extend the useful life of the cord by reducing the number of times a cord is subjected to a small radius of curvature. Certain aspects of the disclosed embodiments may keep cords organized and untangled, which may be safer and more enjoyable for the users.

In some embodiments the strap may provide visual information regarding identification of the cord, by means of color or pattern coding, labeling via engraving, sticky back labels, whiteboard, or paper labels, or other suitable means of labeling.

In some embodiments the strap may provide information regarding identification and/or whereabouts of the cord by providing a Near Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, cellular or Wi-Fi, integrated circuit, or other similar technology, on the strap.

Qualities of a strap, including low cost of manufacture, capability of easy repetitive use, and a construction that enables the strap to be advantageously moved from one cord to another but helps to avoid misplacing the strap between uses, are achievable by the formation of one or more slits or holes in a fastener strap that is suitably sized to receive, and remain attached to, a section or end of an unbundled cord or other structure during use.

The strap may be flexible and constructed and arranged such that in the wrapped position fastening components on the strap ends and strap middle portion form disengageable fastenings about the cord to secure the strap about the cord bundle.

A first exemplary embodiment provides a unitary strap having a first end and a second end, useful for securing an arranged bundle of loops of a cord and the like. The strap comprises a female closure near each of the two ends, and two corresponding male closures closer to the center of the strap. The closures form two disengageable fastenings. Such closures may be snaps, buttons, hook and loop (VELCRO) fasteners, magnetic closures, or other suitable closure devices. A pair of slits are provided on the strap. The slits are sized in length and positioned to pass the cord through both slits, with the strap material between the slits securing the strap to the cord. The slits may be sufficiently long to permit passage of a cord plug through the slots, but sufficiently short to prevent ready withdrawal of the cord plug. The strap is flexible and constructed and arranged such that in the wrapped state/position the fastener elements on the strap form disengageable fastenings to secure the strap about a coiled cord. The strap and fasteners form two full loops around the coiled cord. The strap and/or closures may be in any number of colors, patterns, or shapes, or may have words or logos on it, to enable a user to identify a cord as belonging to them. The strap may be equipped with a Near Field Communication (NFC), or Bluetooth enabled integrated circuit, to enable a user to “check-in”, or locate an item, for instance in the case of a videographer collecting their cords at the end of a shoot.

Another embodiment includes a strap having a first end, a second end, and a third end, comprising a female closure near each of the three ends, and three corresponding male closures near the center of the strap. The three arms of the strap may be at 120 degrees from one another, or other suitable angle. A pair of slits is provided on the strap, the slits being sufficiently long to permit passage of the end of a cord through the slits, but sufficiently short to prevent ready withdrawal of the end of the cord. The slits are sized in length and positioned to pass a cord through both slits, with the strap material between the slits securing the strap to the cord. The strap is flexible and constructed and arranged such that in the wrapped state the fastener elements on the strap form disengageable fastenings to secure the strap about the bundle. The strap and fasteners form three full loops around the coiled cord. The strap and/or closures may be in any number of colors, patterns, or shapes, or may have words or logos on it, to enable a user to identify a cord as belonging to them. The strap may be equipped with a Near Field Communication (NFC), or Bluetooth chip, to enable a user to “check-in”, or locate an item, for instance in the case of a videographer collecting their cords at the end of a shoot.

A third embodiment includes a strap having a first end, a second end, a third end and a fourth end, comprising a female closure near each of the four ends, and four corresponding male closures near the center of the strap. The ends of the strap may be at 90 degrees from one another or other suitable angle formation. A set of slits is provided on the strap, the slits being sufficiently long to permit passage of the end of a cord through the slits, but sufficiently short to prevent ready withdrawal of the end of the cord. The slits are sized in length and positioned to pass a cord through both slits, with the strap material between the slits securing the strap to the cord. The strap is flexible and constructed and arranged such that in the wrapped state the fastener elements on the strap form disengageable fastenings to secure the strap about the coiled cord. The strap and fasteners form four full loops around a coiled cord. The strap and/or closures may be in any number of colors, patterns, or shapes, or may have words or logos on it, to enable a user to identify a cord as belonging to them. The strap may be equipped with a Near Field Communication (NFC), or Bluetooth chip, to enable a user to “check-in”, or locate an item, for instance in the case of a videographer collecting their cords at the end of a shoot.

A fourth embodiment includes a strap having a first end, a second end, a third end and a fourth end, comprising a female closure near each of the four ends, four corresponding male closures near the center of the strap, and a circular disk component, affixed to the strap. The ends of the strap may be at 90 degrees from one another or other suitable angle formation. A set of slits is provided on the strap, the slits being sufficiently long to permit passage of the end of a cord through the slits, but sufficiently short to prevent ready withdrawal of the end of the cord. The slits are sized in length and positioned to pass a cord through both slits, with the strap material between the slits securing the strap to the cord. The strap is flexible and constructed and arranged such that in the wrapped state the fastener elements on the strap form disengageable fastenings to secure the strap about the coiled cord. The strap and fasteners form four full loops around a coiled cord. The circular disk component makes it less likely that the coiled cord, along with the strap, when in its closed form around the cord, will become tangled in other objects it may be transported or stored with. The strap and/or closures may be in any number of colors, patterns, or shapes, or may have words or logos on it, to enable a user to identify a cord as belonging to them. The strap may be equipped with a Near Field Communication (NFC), or Bluetooth chip, to enable a user to “check-in”, or locate an item, for instance in the case of a videographer collecting their cords at the end of a shoot.

A fifth embodiment provides an annular strap, comprising a set of magnetic closures, though any suitable closure mechanisms may be used and a set of slits, the slits being sufficiently long to permit passage of the end of a cord through the slits, but sufficiently short to prevent ready withdrawal of the end of the cord. The slits are sized in length and positioned to pass a cord through both slits, with the strap material between the slits securing the strap to the cord, though other methods of retaining strap to cord may be used.

The strap is flexible. When the strap is slipped over the coiled cord, and the closures are fastened, the strap forms two full loops around the coiled cord. The strap and/or closures may be in any number of colors, patterns, or shapes, or may have words or logos on it, to enable a user to identify a cord as belonging to them. The strap may be equipped with a Near Field Communication (NFC), or Bluetooth chip, to enable a user to “check-in”, or locate an item, for instance in the case of a videographer collecting their cords at the end of a shoot.

A sixth embodiment provides a unitary strap having a first end and a second end, useful for securing an arranged bundle of loops of a cord and the like. The strap comprises a female closure near each of the two ends, and two corresponding male closures. The first male closure is placed about ¼ of the way between the first end of the strap and the second end of the strap. The second male closure is placed about ¾ of the way between the first end of the strap and the second end of the strap. The closures form two disengageable fastenings. Such closures may be snaps, buttons, hook and loop (VELCRO) fasteners, magnetic closures, or other suitable closure devices. A pair of slits is provided on the strap. The slits are sized in length and positioned to pass the cord through both slits, with the strap material between the slits securing the strap to the cord. The slits being sufficiently long to permit passage of a plug through the slots, but sufficiently short to prevent ready withdrawal of the plug. The strap is flexible and constructed and arranged such that in the wrapped state the fastener elements on the strap form disengageable fastenings to secure the strap about a coiled cord. The strap and fasteners form two full loops around the coiled cord. A Near Field Communication (NFC), or Bluetooth enabled integrated circuit, is provided on the strap, to enable a user to “check-in”, or locate an item, for instance in the case of a videographer collecting their cords at the end of a shoot. The strap and/or closures may be in any number of colors, patterns, or shapes, or may have words or logos on it, to enable a user to identify a cord as belonging to them.

A seventh embodiment provides a first strap having a male snap at one end, and a female snap at the other end. The strap is sized so that when snapped it will fasten snugly around the power brick of a laptop computer charger. Affixed to the first strap is a second strap, having a first end and a second end, sized to accommodate the larger of the two cords included in a typical power brick style laptop computer charger, when coiled. The strap comprises a female closure near each of the two ends, and two corresponding male closures. The first male closure is placed about ¼ of the way between the first end of the strap and the second end of the strap. The second male closure is placed about ¾ of the way between the first end of the strap and the second end of the strap. The closures form two disengageable fastenings. Such closures may be snaps, buttons, hook and loop (VELCRO) fasteners, magnetic closures, or other suitable closure devices. The strap is flexible and constructed and arranged such that in the wrapped state the fastener elements on the strap form disengageable fastenings to secure the strap about the coiled cord. The strap and fasteners form two full loops around the coiled cord.

Affixed to the second strap is a third strap, having a first end and a second end, sized to accommodate the smaller of the two cords included in a typical power brick style laptop computer charger, when coiled. The second strap and the third strap are aligned so that the centers of both straps are in alignment. The third strap, being the smaller of the two straps, is affixed on top of the second strap. The strap comprises a female closure near each of the two ends, and two corresponding male closures near the center of the strap. The closures form two disengageable fastenings. Such closures may be snaps, buttons, hook and loop (VELCRO) fasteners, magnetic closures, or other suitable closure devices. The strap is flexible and constructed and arranged such that in the wrapped state the fastener elements on the strap form disengageable fastenings to secure the strap about the coiled cord. The strap and fasteners form two full loops around the coiled cord. When both cords of the power supply are fastened in their respective straps, the power supply is more readily transportable and storable, without becoming tangled on itself of other objects.

A Near Field Communication (NFC), or Bluetooth enabled integrated circuit, may be provided on the strap, to enable a user to “check-in”, or locate an item, for instance in the case of a videographer collecting their cords at the end of a shoot.

Using any of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments, a coiled cord may be bundled by one or more strap in at least two fully enclosed loops making it so that the cord is less likely to tangle on it or other objects. Holding a cord in a circular or near-circular ellipse coil helps preserve the useful life of the cord, by not subjecting cord to being bent repeatedly with a small radius of curvature. A cord holder as disclosed doubles as a cord identifier and serves the dual purpose of loss prevention and better organization of the cord. The cord holder may comprise electronic identifying components including NFC/Bluetooth, GPS, etc., to make it easier to keep track of cords and or find misplaced or lost cords. A cord holder that attaches to the cord, and may stay on even when cord is in open, unwrapped state, is less likely to become lost or misplaced. A cord holder made of a flexible material is more likely to fit in a pocket or bag and be easily transported by a user. The straps and/or fastening components may be in any number of colors, patterns, or shapes, or may have words or logos on it, to enable a user to identify a cord as belonging to them.

Turning to FIG. 1, an exploded view is shown of one embodiment of a strap 110 with one or more disengageable fastening components 114 such as snaps being disposed in predetermined locations of the strap 110. As shown, strap 110 may comprise two ends, a first strap end 111a and a second strap end 111b, with a strap middle portion 111c defined between the strap ends. Disengageable fastening components 114 facilitate the ends of the strap 110 to temporarily engage to predetermined connection points of the strap such as the middle portion 111c and side 113 of the strap 110.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5-6, the strap 110 is specially manufactured to assume a wrapped position in order to bundle and organize a cord. More specifically, the strap 110, particularly the first strap end 111a and second strap end 111b, comprise a flexible and/or bendable material which enable the first strap end 111a and second strap end 111b to bend over the strap middle portion 111c. As the ends of the strap 110 are bent backwards over a side 113 of the strap 110, the ends of the strap may be temporarily fixed to predetermined connection points on the side 113 of the strap to form enclosed loops for receiving and holding the cord. More particularly, as shown, the first strap end 111a and second strap end 111b are bendable away from a plane defined by the strap middle portion 111c and may be bent over backwards and folded towards one another over the strap middle portion 111c to assume a wrapped position. In the wrapped position, the tips of the ends of the strap 110 may make contact with the side 113 of the strap 110 along the plane defined by the strap middle portion 111c. Any number of fastening components 114, such as snaps, may be disposed on the strap to temporarily fix the first strap end 111a and/or the second strap end 111b to the side 113 of the strap 110 at any number of predetermined connection points along the strap 110.

The strap 110 can be made of any suitably strong and flexible material. In other words, materials such as leather, flexible metal mesh, thermoplastic elastomer, rubber, silicone, canvas, denim or other strong woven or knit fabric, laminated paper, flexible non--elastomeric plastic, or other suitably strong and flexible material may be used to manufacture strap 110. The strap 110 may be specially sized and/or configured so that it may be capable of forming two full loops around a coiled cord 702 when the strap ends are bent over upon a common side of the strap and fixed to connection points on the common side of the strap using snaps or other fastening components. The strap may be specially sized and/or configured so that it may further be capable of holding cord 702 in a near circular shape, so as not to place strain on the cord by creating a small radius of curvature. The strap 110 may be made at different sizes to accommodate different sizes of cord, and cords with different bend radii.

The embodiment of FIG. 1 illustrates fastening components 114 in the form of snaps. Snaps may comprise cap 102 and socket 104 components brought into contact through strap 110 and snaps may further comprise post 106 and stud 108 components brought into contact through strap 110. In the embodiment shown, strap 110 includes a female snap 202, near each end of the strap 110, and two male snaps 204 near the center of the strap 110. While snaps are described in FIG. 1, it should be understood that the snaps may be replaced or used in combination with elements such as buttons, hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®), magnetic closures, or other suitable closure devices.

At least one slit may be formed within strap 110. As shown in FIGS. 7-8, an end of a cord may be threaded through slits 302 to temporarily attach the cord to strap 110. As shown in FIGS. 3-4, a set of slits 302 is provided on the strap 110 between the first strap end 111a and the second strap end 111b. Slits 302 facilitate coupling of one end of a cord to the strap 110 because the end of the cord may be passed or threaded through slits 302. Slits 302 may be specifically sized to a predetermined length L that is great enough to permit passage of an end of a corresponding cord 702 through the slits, but sufficiently short in length so as to reduce withdrawal of the cord 702. More specifically, where a cord comprises a diameter D, the length L of slits 302 may be tailored corresponding to the diameter D such that the length L permits a snug engagement of the cord within slits 302. Where the slits 302 are sized in length and positioned to pass a cord 702 through slits 302, strap material 303 of the strap 110 between the slits 302 secures the strap 110 to the cord 702. Strap material 303 may overlap a portion of the cord being passed through slits 302. It should be noted that any suitable mechanism for retaining strap 110 to cord 702 may be used. For example, a single slit may be formed within strap 110 with the single slit being configured to receive an end of a cord similar to the instant embodiment.

FIGS. 9-15 illustrate that the specific manufacturing configuration of strap 110 provides the strap with a number of characteristics conducive to bundling and organizing a cord. The strap 110 may be flexible and constructed and arranged such that in a wrapped state or position (FIGS. 5-6) the snaps 202 and 204 on the strap 110 form disengageable fastenings to secure the strap 110 about the coiled cord 702. An end of a cord may be threated through slits 302 to attach the end of the cord to the strap 110. In this embodiment strap 110 and snaps 202 & 204 form two full loops around the coiled cord 702. FIGS. 9-15, as compared to FIGS. 7-8, show that the location of slits 302 may vary. Slits 302 of FIGS. 9-15 are disposed closer to first strap end 111a whereas slits 302 of FIGS. 7-8 are disposed closer to second strap end 111b.

As shown, a cord 702 may be passed through slits 302 by bending the strap material 303 out of the plane of the strap 110. To this end, as described above, the length of the slits 302 should be at least larger than half of the periphery/diameter of the end of the cord 702, half of the periphery being the sum of the width W and thickness T of the end of the cord 702. When released, portions of the strap 110, including strap material 303, bear against both sides of the cord 702 as shown in FIG. 8, and the end of the cord 702 serves as a stop to keep the strap 110 on the cord 702. In this state, strap 110 is substantially permanently attached to cord 702, may be positioned along the length of cord 702 by sliding the cord 702 through slits 302, but if desired is easily removed by a reversal of the steps above.

The cord 702 may, in some embodiments, be prepared for bundling before the ends of the strap are urged to a wrapped position. As shown in FIG. 9, in order to coil the cord/form a cord coil, the cord 702 may then be wrapped around a human hand 902, or other suitable object, with the strap 110 still attached by means of the cord 702 being passed through the slits 302 of the strap 110. After the cord 110 is coiled, it may then be removed from human hand 902 as shown in FIG. 10. The coiled cord 702 may then oriented parallel to the strap 110 as shown in FIG. 11. Male snaps 204 near the strap middle portion 111c may be positioned in the space formed in the middle of the coiled cord 702, as shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13 illustrates engaging the strap 110 into a wrapped position about the cord 702. Second end 111 b strap 110 with a female snap 202 on it, may be wrapped over the top of a first side of the bundle of the coiled cord 702. The female snap 202 may be positioned over the male snap 204 and then fastened to the male snap 204, forming a secure, yet disengageable, fastening connection.

This process may be repeated with the first strap end 111a of strap 110. The first strap end 111a, with a female snap 202, may be wrapped over the top of a second side of the bundle of coiled cord 702. The female snap 202 may be positioned over the male snap 204 and then fastened to the male snap 204, forming a secure, yet disengageable, fastening as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15.

When the strap 110 is in the wrapped position about the cord 702, the cord 702 may be stored or transported without becoming tangled or damaged. When use of the full length of the cord 702 is desired, the female snaps 202 may be unfastened from the male snaps 204. The cord 702 may then be uncoiled and used as needed. The strap 110 will remain attached to the cord 702, by means of slits 302 and strap material 303. The slits 302 are positioned to leave sufficient durable margins of strap material 303 to ensure that the strap remains coupled to the cord 702. The margins of the strap 110 on each side of the slits 302 are sufficiently wide so as not to rip during the course of assembly and use.

As shown in FIGS. 16-17, a second embodiment comprises a strap 1602 comprising three ends, three female snaps 202 near the ends of the strap 1602, three male snaps 204 near the center of the strap 1602, and at least one slit such as a set of slits 302.

The strap 1602 comprising three ends may be manufactured and configured to function in much the same way as the strap 110 having two ends. The addition of the third end of the strap 1602 gives increased stability and protection against catching and tangling, if a user should desire more protection.

Turning to FIGS. 18-20, a third embodiment comprises a strap 1802 having four ends, four female snaps 202 near the ends of the strap 1802, four male snaps 204 near the center of the strap 1802, and a set of slits 302.

A fourth embodiment is shown in FIGS. 21-24, comprising a strap 1802 having four ends, four female snaps 202 near the ends of the strap 1802, four male snaps 204 near the center of the strap 1802, a set of slits 302, and a circular disk 2102.

The strap 1802 having four ends is manufactured and configured to function in much the same way as the strap 110 having two ends. The addition of the third and fourth end of the strap 1802 gives increased stability and protection against the cord 702 catching and tangling, if a user should desire more protection. The addition of the circular disk 2102 adds a further level of protection. The addition of circular disk 2102 makes cord 702 plus the embodiment of this organizer shown in FIGS. 21-24 a contiguous object and thus negates the possibility of other objects passing through the wraps of the coiled cord from one side to the other. This addition makes it less likely that pens, pencils or other objects will become tangled in the cord 702 while it is in storage or transport.

Referring to FIGS. 25-28, a fifth embodiment comprises an annular strap 2502, a set of magnetic closures 2504, and a set of slits 302.

A cord 702 is passed through the set of slits 302, in the same manner as in FIG. 8. The cord may then be wrapped around human hand 902 or otherwise coiled in the same manner as seen in FIG. 9. Then the annular strap 2502 may be placed over the coiled cord 702, with the magnetic closures 2504 lined up in the opening in the center of the coiled cord, as seen in FIG. 28. The magnetic closures 2504 hold the annular strap in place around coiled cord 702.

FIGS. 29A-29G show alternate ways that cord 702 can be attached to strap 110, including variations of slits 302, as well as other cords, and other strap embodiments. FIG. 29A shows the set of slits 302 seen in FIGS. 3, 4, 6-25, 28, wherein the end of the cord 702 is threaded through both of the slits 302 in the manner described above, and serves to keep the strap 110 attached to the cord 702.

FIG. 29B shows a single slit 302A in strap 110. The single slit 302A may be used in a similar way to the set of slits 302. The end of cord 702 may be passed through the single slit 302A, the single slit 302A being sufficiently long to permit passage of the end of the cord 702 through the slit, but sufficiently short to prevent ready withdrawal of the cord 702.

FIG. 29C shows a slit with a hole 302B in strap 110. The slit with hole 302B may be used in a similar way to the set of slits 302. The end of cord 702 may be passed through the slit with hole 302B, the slit with hole 302B being sufficiently large to permit passage of the end of the cord 702 through the slit with hole 302B, but sufficiently small to prevent ready withdrawal of the cord 702.

FIG. 29D shows a hole 302C in strap 110. The hole 302C may be used in a similar way to the set of slits 302. The end of cord 702 may be passed through the hole 302C, the hole 302C being sufficiently large to permit passage of the end of the cord 702 through the hole 302C, but sufficiently small to prevent ready withdrawal of the cord 702. In this embodiment, strap 110 is made out of a stretchy elastomeric material, such that hole 302C may be stretched over the end of cord 702, but when it is not being stretched open, hole 302C is sufficiently small to prevent ready withdrawal of cord 702.

FIG. 29E shows strap 110 with an additional smaller strap 302D with rivets 302G. The smaller strap 302D with rivets 302G may be used and configured/manufactured to function in a similar way to the set of slits 302. The end of cord 702 may be passed through the smaller strap 302D, the rivets 302G securing the smaller strap 302D to strap 110, the smaller strap 302D being sufficiently long to permit passage of the end of the cord 702 through the space between strap 110 and smaller strap 302G, but sufficiently short to prevent ready withdrawal of the cord 702.

Alternately, the space between strap 302D and strap 110 could be smaller than the end of cord 702, and the strap 110 could be attached permanently to the cord 702. This could be accomplished during manufacturing by placing the cord 702 between strap 110 and strap 302D, and once placed, fastening rivets 302G through both strap 302D and strap 110 such that the rivets 302G are too close together to allow the end of the cord 702 to pass through, thereby preventing removal of the strap 110 without damage.

FIG. 29F shows an embodiment comprising strap 110 with a strap 302E which is cut out of the body of strap 110 on three sides of strap 302E. In other words, strap 302E comprises a portion of strap 110 with a substantially rectangular shape which may be partially cut away out of strap 110, with at least one side of strap 302E still attached to strap 110. As shown, forming strap 302E by cutting away a portion of strap 110 may form an opening in strap 110 abutting the strap 302E. Strap 302E may be bent upon itself at the at least one side of the strap 302E away from the opening and wrapped around cord 702, and rivets 302G may be placed through strap 302E to fix the cord 702 to the strap 110, thus preventing removal of strap 110 without damage. This may be used for applications where a permanent attachment of strap 110 to cord 702 is desired.

FIG. 29G shows strap 110 with strong permanent adhesive 302F. Cord 702 may be attached to strap 110 using an adhesive 302F. Adhesive or the like may be used for applications where a permanent attachment of strap 110 to cord 702 is desired.

FIG. 30A shows a strap 110B with an abstract shape. The abstract shape of strap 110B may help users to identify their cord more easily, when strap 110B is attached to a cord.

FIG. 30B shows a strap 110C in the shape of leaves. The leaf-shaped strap 110C may help users to identify their cord more easily, when strap 110C is attached to a cord.

FIG. 30C shows a strap 110D with a depiction of a face. The depiction of the face may be that of the owner of the strap, as a portrait and may help users to identify their cord more easily, when strap 110D is attached to a cord.

FIG. 30D shows a strap 110E with art. Any art may be used, such as images of paintings, drawings, sculpture etc. The art on strap 110E may help users to identify their cord more easily, when strap 110E is attached to a cord.

FIG. 30E shows a strap 110F with a geometric pattern. The geometric pattern on strap 110F may help users to identify their cord more easily, when strap 110F is attached to a cord.

FIG. 30F shows a strap 110G with an alternate shape. Many different shapes may be used, such as circular, ellipse, triangle, hexagon, etc. The alternate shape of strap 110G may help users to identify their cord more easily, when strap 110G is attached to a cord.

FIGS. 30G and 30H show a strap 110H with cartoon character shapes on the ends of the strap 110H. The cartoon character shapes on the ends of strap 110H may help users to identify their cord more easily, when strap 110H is attached to a cord.

FIG. 301 shows a strap 1101 with an inscription. The inscription on strap 1101 may help users to identify their cord more easily, when strap 1101 is attached to a cord.

Yet another embodiment shown in FIGS. 31-34 comprises a strap 110 having opposing ends, female snaps 202 disposed near the opposing ends of the strap 110, a male snap 204A placed about ¼ of the distance between the two ends of strap 110, a male snap 204B placed about ¾ of the distance between the two ends of strap 110, a set of slits 302, and a near field communication (NFC) chip 3102.

The strap 110 is flexible and constructed and arranged such that in the wrapped state the snaps 202 and 204 on the strap 110 form disengageable fastenings to secure the strap 110 about the coiled cord 702. In this embodiment strap 110 and snaps 202 & 204 may form two full loops around coiled cord 702. In the case of larger cords, and cords that need to be held more securely, the male snaps 204A, 204B may be placed closer to female snaps 202, on strap 110, in order to create two disengageable loops with which to hold cord 702 snugly to prevent shifting of coiled cord 702 during transport and storage.

This embodiment includes an NFC chip 3102 on or built within strap 110. The NFC chip 3012 may be programmed with a certain identifying name or number. The NFC chip may be attached to the strap by means of adhesive, by being embedded into the strap itself, or by the strap having a small pocket that the chip may slide into.

The user may use an NFC reader to “check in” the strap 110, attached to cord 702. This may be of use to audio engineers or videographers. At the end of an off-site work day they can “check-in” their cords, so they are certain that they leave with all the cords that they brought to the shoot.

Turning to FIGS. 35-41, another embodiment comprises three straps 110,110A and 3502, which are attached together via a variety of snaps 114. Specifically, a male snap 204D may be permanently fastened through all of the three straps. Strap 3502 comprises female snap 202C and male snap 204C, and is suitably sized to fasten around the power brick of a power supply for use with a laptop computer, wireless router, or other such electrical device. Strap 3502 is positioned perpendicularly to straps 110 and 110A, on the same plane. Strap 110A comprises female snap 202A near a first end of strap 110A, female snap 202B near the second end of strap 110A, male snap 204A placed about ¼ of the distance between the two ends of strap 110A, and male snap 204B placed about ¾ of the distance between the two ends of strap 110. Strap 110 has two ends and comprises two female snaps 202 near the ends of strap 110, and two male snaps 204 near the center of strap 110. This embodiment may be used with a power supply for laptop computers, comprising power brick 3902, cord 702, and a larger cord 702A as explained below.

FIGS. 37-39 illustrate that the present embodiment is specially manufactured to wrap about a cord and power supply. For example, strap 3502 may be fastened around power brick 3902, by fastening snap 202C to 204C. Cord 702 may then be then coiled. After cord 702 is coiled, strap 110 is fastened about cord 702 by aligning male snaps 204 in the space created in the center of the coiled cord 702. Then female snaps 202 may then be fastened to male snaps 204 to form two loops around coiled cord 702. As disclosed, the snaps 114 form disengageable fastenings.

Cord 702A may be coiled. After cord 702A is coiled, strap 110A may be fastened about cord 702A. Female snap 202A may be fastened to male snap 204A, and female snap 202B may be fastened to male snap 204B to form two loops around coiled cord 702. The snaps form disengageable fastenings. The straps 110 and 110A hold cords 702 & 702A in place, in an organized manner, while strap 3502 securely fastens the arrangement to power brick 3902. This prevents tangling during storage and transport.

As described, at least one embodiment of the cord holder provides a strap; with the strap being specially manufactured to remain attached to the cord at all times during ordinary use and states of operation, yet is easily removable from cord if needed. When the strap is closed or in a wrapped position, strap ends of the strap form a plurality of loops about a coiled cord, or cords, for use in organizing, identifying, managing, transporting, and such storing cords. The described cord holder may prevent the cords from becoming tangled on themselves and other objects, creating a neat, safe, aesthetically pleasing, and organized environment for the user, and a longer useful life of the cord.

Other embodiments are contemplated. For example, the straps may be in any number of textures, so a user who is visually impaired, or identifying cords in the dark, could identify the cord with ease. The straps may be embossed with braille, so that a visually impaired user may identify the cord.

The strap may include a Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS, or cellular integrated circuit to assist with identification, or location of straps, that may be on cords. In this case the strap may have a small pocket to enclose the circuits and small batteries by which to power the circuits.

The strap may have a plurality of ends, such as a five-armed strap, a six-armed strap, a seven-armed strap, etc. The straps may have fastening devices that allow them to be fasted to other straps, either in open or closed states, in order to use, store or transport cords together, and numerous other variations of color, shape, texture, material, size, and configurations.

In another embodiment, a cord holder may comprise a strap similar in shape to the strap 110 of FIG. 1. However, at least a portion of the strap 110 may comprise a bendable memory retaining material. More specifically, at least the ends of the strap may be manufactured with memory retaining bendable material to enable the ends to be manipulated into closed loops about a cord and maintain the closed loops without the need for fastening components such as snaps.

The strap with memory retaining material may provide various advantages. The strap with memory retaining material may require fewer parts for manufacture and maintenance because fewer or no fastening components may be required—the ends of such a strap may simply be bent over the strap middle portion and can retain a wrapped position by nature of the memory retaining material. The strap with memory retaining material may optionally be enclosed within a cover. In some embodiments, the cord holders disclosed above may comprise in part (e.g., the straps) some memory retaining material in combination with the disclosed fasteners and slits.

It is believed that the present disclosure and many of its attendant advantages should be understood by the foregoing description, and it should be apparent that various changes may be made in the form, construction, and arrangement of the components without departing from the disclosed subject matter or without sacrificing all of its material advantages. The form described is merely explanatory, and it is the intention of the following claims to encompass and include such changes.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to various embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are illustrative and that the scope of the disclosure is not limited to them. Many variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are possible. More generally, embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure have been described in the context of particular implementations. Functionality may be separated or combined in blocks differently in various embodiments of the disclosure or described with different terminology. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of the disclosure as defined in the claims that follow.

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR A CORD HOLDER

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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Provisional Applications (1)