Adjustable clip holder for electronic device

Abstract

This invention includes a clip holder for use with a portable electronic device. The clip holder employs a flexible cable as a retention device. The flexible cable passes through an aperture 210 formed by a central member and a support member, thereby forming two closed loops. The size of each loop may be adjusted. In its smallest configuration, the clip holder is suitable for attachment to a button on a garment. In an alternate configuration, a loop may be folded over itself and attached to a hook member through a second loop, thereby forming a secure, closed loop around any solid object, including belts, purse straps, bicycle parts, lanyards and backpacks. The clip holder includes a latching assembly for coupling to the appropriate portable electronic device.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A clip holder comprising: 
 a. a central member;    b. a support member coupled to the central member, wherein the coupling of the support member to the central member forms at least one aperture  210 ; and    c. a cord, wherein the cord passes through the at least one aperture  210 ;    wherein when the cord has passed through the at least one aperture  210 , at least a first loop and a second loop are formed, the first loop being on the opposite side of the support member from the second loop.    
     
     
         2 . The holder of  claim 1 , wherein the cord is elastic.  
     
     
         3 . The holder of  claim 1 , further comprising a hook member coupled to the central member.  
     
     
         4 . The holder of  claim 3 , further comprising a latching assembly coupled to the central member, the latching assembly for coupling the holder to a portable electronic device.  
     
     
         5 . The holder of  claim 4 , further comprising a brake, the brake being actuated by a brake button, wherein the brake, when unactuated, exerts force on the elastic cord.  
     
     
         6 . The holder of  claim 5 , wherein the latching assembly comprises 
 a. a retention latch;    b. a spring; and    c. a push-button release coupled to the retention latch;    wherein the retention latch is actuated by the push-button release;    further wherein when the push-button release is actuated by an actuating force, the spring exerts a force in the opposite direction of the actuating force.    
     
     
         7 . A method of using a clip holder, the method comprising the steps of: 
 a. providing the clip holder of  claim 1;     b. passing an object through the first loop; and    c. pulling the second loop away from the support member to remove any slack from the first loop.    
     
     
         8 . A method of using a clip holder, the method comprising the steps of: 
 a. providing the clip holder of  claim 2;     b. passing the elastic cord forming the first loop about an object;    c. passing the elastic cord forming the first loop through the second loop; and    d. passing the elastic cord forming the first loop about the hook member.