Neck strap with integrated wire

Abstract

A strap for carrying a portable electronic apparatus, such as a telephone, around the neck of a user is disclosed. The strap has an elongate element ( 100 ) for positioning around the neck of the user. The elongate element ( 100 ) has a longitudinal channel ( 110 ) shaped to releasably retain a wire connecting an accessory to the apparatus.

1 . A strap for carrying a portable electronic apparatus around the neck of a user, comprising: an elongate element for positioning around the neck of the user, the elongate element comprising a longitudinal channel shaped to releasably retain a wire connecting an accessory to the apparatus.  
     
     
         2 . A strap as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the longitudinal channel runs from a mid point of the elongate element towards an end point.  
     
     
         3 . A strap as claimed in  claim 2  comprising a pair of longitudinal channels.  
     
     
         4 . A strap as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the longitudinal channel is generally c-shaped in cross section.  
     
     
         5 . A strap as claimed in ceding  claim 1  wherein the accessory is a headset and the elongate element comprises a recess for releasably retaining an earpiece.  
     
     
         6 . A strap as claimed in  claim 5  wherein the elongate element comprises a recess for releasably retaining an in-line microphone.  
     
     
         7 . A strap as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the elongate element comprises means for securely attaching the accessory.  
     
     
         8 . A strap as claimed in  claim 7  wherein the means for securely attaching the accessory comprises a stud positioned substantially midway along the length of the elongate element.  
     
     
         9 . A strap as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the elongate element is a unitary part.  
     
     
         10 . A strap as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the elongate element is a moulded part.  
     
     
         11 . A strap as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the elongate element comprises a thermo-plastic elastomer.  
     
     
         12 . A strap as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the elongate element comprises a recess at an endpoint for coupling with a mating part and for attaching the portable electronic apparatus.  
     
     
         13 . (CANCELED)