METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR THE RETENTION OF A PERSONAL ELECTRONICS DEVICE WITHIN A PHYSICAL INTERACTION DEVICE

Abstract

A retention apparatus configured to retain a personal electronic device within a physical interaction device may include one or more retention clips flexibly secured within an interior receptacle of the physical interaction device such that the one or more clips deflect as the personal electronic device is inserted into the interior receptacle and a lip of each of the one or more clips engages a surface of the personal electronic device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle, thereby securely retaining the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle until manipulation of the one or more retention clips by a user to release the personal electronic device from the interior receptacle.

Description

BACKGROUND

Examples of personal electronic devices include smart phones, multi-media players, portable music players, digital cameras, handheld gaming systems, and other devices for communication and entertainment. Some personal electronic devices are capable of wirelessly connecting to a network, for example via Wi-Fi™ or a cellular carrier. Personal electronic devices may include one or more features such as voice recognition, voice based control, motion sensing, location sensing, one or more microphones, one or more speakers, one or more video and/or audio outputs, and input mechanisms such as QWERTY keyboard controls, buttons, track balls, and touch screen control elements.

Various case technology has been developed to protect personal electronic devices from damage, for example due to being dropped, scratched, or exposed to conditions that could harm the internal circuitry. Docking stations and other apparatus for releasably retaining personal electronics have also been developed, for example to enable power charging of the personal electronic device or to connect the personal electronic device to peripheral technology, such as audio speakers.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present disclosure describes a physical interaction device that includes retention apparatus for releasably connecting a personal electronic device to the exterior shell of the physical interaction device. The physical interaction device may include at least one of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam, a foamed resin, and an inflatable bladder. The retention apparatus may involve one or more methods of attachment, the one or more methods of attachment performing in a primary, secondary or other capacity in retaining or securing the personal electronic device in place while the physical interaction device is in use. The retention apparatus may include one or more clips that secure an electronic device to the physical interaction device.

The retention apparatus of the physical interaction device may further be configured to protect one or more of a user interacting with the physical interaction device and the surroundings in which the physical interaction device is being used (e.g., furniture, personal belongings, bystanders, etc.) during physical activity by reducing the probability that the personal electronic device will be ejected from the physical interaction device. The physical interaction device may include at least one of a disk, weight training exercise equipment, combat-training exercise equipment, balance and coordination training exercise equipment, or sports game equipment.

The disclosed technology, in certain embodiments, includes a physical interaction device with a body that has an interior receptacle sized and shaped to removably receive a personal electronic device therewithin such that the personal electronic device is fully encased within the body. The physical interaction device may include a retention apparatus to releasably retain the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle. The retention apparatus may include one or more retention clips flexibly secured within the interior receptacle such that the one or more clips deflect as the personal electronic device is inserted into the interior receptacle. Each of the one or more retention clips may include a lip to engage a surface of the personal electronic device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle, thereby securely retaining the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle until manipulation of the one or more retention clips by a user to release the personal electronic device from the interior receptacle.

The physical interaction device, in certain embodiments, is sized and shaped to (i) substantially enclose and protect the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle during physical activity comprising at least one of rolling the device, throwing the device, kicking the device, and striking the device against another object, and (ii) enable interaction with the personal electronic device while the personal electronic device is substantially enclosed within the device. The body of the physical interaction device may include a window/opening for viewing of the personal electronic device when retained within the interior receptacle.

The one or more retention clips comprise two retention clips configured to releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction device. Each of the one or more retention clips may include a cantilever extension configured to bias the clip to securely retain the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle. Each of the one or more retention clips may be configured to at least one of flex or rotate as the personal electronic device is inserted into the receptacle. The retention apparatus may be configured to be releasably secured in a cavity in the physical interaction device.

In certain embodiments, the physical interaction device includes one or more protrusions inside the receptacle. The one or more retention clips may be sized and shaped to press the personal electronic device against the one or more protrusions to releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle.

In certain embodiments, the physical interaction device is configured to be used as a at least one of weight training exercise equipment, combat-training exercise equipment, balance and coordination training exercise equipment, game equipment, or sports game equipment. In certain embodiments, the personal electronic device is a cellular phone.

The retention apparatus may be configured in one or more pieces and may be releasably attached to the personal electronic device in one or more places. The physical interaction device may include an interior receptacle for receiving the personal electronic device (plus, optionally, at least a portion of the retention apparatus). The exterior shell of the physical interaction device may include a first portion and a second portion, the first portion closing against the second portion to substantially enclose the personal electronic device, the exterior shell being configured to receive the personal electronic device within the personal electronic device receptacle when the first portion is at least partly separated from the second portion. The exterior shell may include a number of perforations. The exterior shell may include a window area configured to provide visual access to a portion of a screen area of the personal electronic device when the personal electronic device is substantially enclosed within the physical interaction device. The exterior shell may define a volume at least three times as large as a volume of the personal electronic device.

The disclosed technology, in certain embodiments, includes a retention apparatus to releasably retain a personal electronic device within a physical interaction device. The retention apparatus may include one or more retention clips configured to be flexibly secured within an interior receptacle of a physical interaction device sized and shaped to removably receive a personal electronic device therewithin such that the personal electronic device is fully encased within the physical interaction device. In certain embodiments, the one or more clips deflect as a personal electronic device is inserted into the interior receptacle. Each of the one or more retention clips may include a lip to engage a surface of the personal electronic device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle, thereby securely retaining the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle until manipulation of the one or more retention clips by a user to release the personal electronic device from the interior receptacle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The foregoing and other objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a diagram of an example physical interaction device for retaining a personal electronic device physical interaction device therein;

FIG. 1B is a diagram of an example physical interaction device with a retention apparatus for retaining a personal electronic device within the physical interaction device;

FIGS. 2A through 2J are diagrams of an example retention apparatus for retaining a personal electronic device within a physical interaction device;

FIG. 3 are diagrams illustrating an example physical interaction device equipped with a retention apparatus;

FIGS. 4A through 4C illustrate example activities involving a personal electronic device releasably retained within a physical interaction device;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of an example method for assembling and using a retention assembly;

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of an exemplary cloud computing environment and

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a computing device and a mobile computing device.

The features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In some implementations, the present disclosure may be directed towards methods and apparatus for retaining a personal electronic device in a physical interaction device. Related application Ser. No. 13/348,433, filed on Jan. 11, 2012, and titled “Physical Interaction Device for Personal Electronics and Method for Use”, Ser. No. 13/348,434, filed on Jan. 11, 2012, and titled “Physical Interaction Device for Personal Electronics and Method for Use”, and Ser. No. 14/103,996, filed on Dec. 12, 2013, and titled “Methods and Apparatus for the Retention of a Personal Electronic Device within a Physical Interaction Device” are each hereby incorporated by reference. Although the related applications include various methods and apparatus for physically retaining a personal electronics device, the apparatus and methods described herein may be used in lieu of or in addition to these methods and apparatus, for example in order to provide an additional safety mechanism in certain usage scenarios, such as when very aggressive movement of the physical interaction device may be anticipated, especially when utilized by users with significant physical strength. As such, the present disclosure provides robust primary, secondary and/or other methods and apparatus for retaining a personal electronic device within a physical interaction device, thereby reducing the probability of damage to the personal electronic device, users or surroundings.

In some implementations, a physical interaction device provides a physically protective, light weight and cost-effective covering or encasement for a personal electronic device that may enable use of an off-the-shelf personal electronic device as a game play and learning system. In some implementations, a physical interaction device includes a retention apparatus for retaining a personal electronic device in a stowed position within the physical interaction device. For example, in the event that a user propels a physical interaction device containing a personal electronic device, causing the physical interaction device to strike another object, the retention apparatus prevents the personal electronic device from separating from the physical interaction device. In some implementations, the retention apparatus is one or more clips that hold the personal electronic device securely within the physical interaction device. For example, the retention apparatus may include two clips, each of which engage a phone when it is inserted into an opening in the physical interaction device for receiving a personal electronic device. The clip(s) may be removable by a user or may be integrated into the physical interaction device.

In some implementations, a physical interaction device includes a primary retention apparatus and a second retention apparatus. For example, in the event that a user propels a physical interaction device containing a personal electronic device, causing the physical interaction device to strike another object, a primary retaining method or apparatus may fail to retain the personal electronic device in stowed position within the physical interaction device. The secondary or additional retaining method or apparatus, in this circumstance, would prevent the personal electronic device from separating from the physical interaction device.

In some implementations, the retention apparatus and retention assemblies described herein are configured for toolless installation and removal. For example, a user may install the retention apparatus by hand without damage or modification to the physical interaction device and/or the personal electronic device. The user may then remove and replace the personal electronic device with ease, for example to accept phone calls, install additional software applications, or launch additional features of the personal electronics device. The retention apparatus and assemblies, for example, may be configured to allow a typical adult user to release the personal electronic device from the retention apparatus within a matter of one to three minutes, or in one minute or less. In other implementations, a tooled or toolless (e.g., combination lock) retention lock may be added, for example to ensure that a small child will not be capable of easily removing the personal electronic device from the physical interaction device upon installation.

The personal electronic device may be retained within the physical interaction device, in some implementations, using retention apparatus for releasably connecting the personal electronic device to the physical interaction device or to a protective enclosure thereof. The physical interaction device and/or protective encasement, in some implementations, may be constructed of any material capable of absorbing physical shock, thereby protecting the personal electronic device. In some implementations, the physical interaction device may additionally absorb physical shock in a manner that protects users interacting with the physical interaction device as well as the surroundings. In some examples, construction materials of the physical interaction device may include closed cell foams, open cell coated foams, foamed resin, and/or inflatable chambers. A protective chamber region of the physical interaction device, in some implementations, may protect the device from environment damage (e.g., sand, dust, water, snow, etc.), for example by providing a waterproof seal.

In some implementations, retaining the personal electronic device within the physical interaction device involves one or more methods of attachment, the one or more methods of attachment providing a primary, secondary or other level of functionality in retaining or securing the personal electronic device in place while a user is interacting with the physical interaction device. The retention apparatus of the physical interaction device may further be configured to protect one or more of a user interacting with the physical interaction device and a surroundings of the physical interaction device during physical activity by reducing the probability that the personal electronic device will be ejected from the physical interaction device. The retention apparatus, in some implementations, is configured in one or more pieces. The retention apparatus, in some implementations, is configured to be releasably attached to the personal electronic device in one or more places. The retention apparatus, in some examples, may include at least one of one or more clips, rubber, hook and loop material (such as Velcro®), synthetic elastomers and non-elastomers, natural materials such as leathers, fibers as commonly used in ropes, metals, magnetic materials and advanced synthetic fibers such as carbon fibers.

In some implementations, a personal electronic device may be encased in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device to provide protection to the personal electronic device during physical gaming (e.g., where the personal electronic device may be moved about at high velocity, thrown, or shaken). For example, a personal electronic device may be encased in a ball-shaped protective enclosure during a game of media rich “hot potato” where the ball-shaped physical interaction device is tossed from person to person until an indication of game end is presented (e.g., alarm goes off, music stops playing, etc.).

In some implementations, a personal electronic device may be encased in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device to enable a user with physical and/or mental limitations to more easily or more safely interact with the personal electronic device. In some implementations, the protective enclosure may be designed for interaction with small children, elderly persons, those with forms of physical ailments such as recoveries from bone or muscle injuries, those with long term physical ailments such as multiple sclerosis etc, and those with forms of dementia.

In some implementations, a patient may utilize a personal electronic device enclosed in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device to perform rehabilitating work while data regarding progress and/or results of rehabilitative tasks accomplished via the personal electronic device may be recorded and utilized by the user and/or those assisting the user in their rehabilitative activities. In a particular example, a rehabilitative professional may access the data (e.g., via a user interface such as a web page) to review activities that a patient performed. Data collected during interaction with a personal electronic device encased in a physical interaction device, in some implementations, may include detailed statistics recorded by one or more software applications executed in part upon the personal electronic device.

In some implementations, a personal electronic device may be enclosed in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device to facilitate interaction with the personal electronic device during physical exercise. In some implementations, the physical interaction device may be designed as a piece of exercise equipment, similar to a heavy exercise ball (e.g., medicine ball, kettle), barbell, dumbbell, liquid or gel-weighted shape, or other weight training exercise equipment; a boxing glove, heavy bag, speed bag, standing heavy bag, virtual sparring partner, or other combat-training exercise equipment; a stability disc, wobble board, yoga ball, or other balance and coordination training exercise equipment; or a playground ball, football, basketball, soccer ball, flying disc, baseball bat, or other sports game equipment or recreational equipment. In some implementations, software functioning in part on the personal electronic device may be used to coach a player during physical exercise or track performance during an exercise workout. In some examples, sensors such as an accelerometer, positioning sensor, orientation sensor, global positioning sensor, gyroscope, light sensor, imaging sensor, acoustic sensor, microphone, camera, or other external sensing device may provide data to software functioning in part on the personal electronic device to determine behaviors (e.g., velocity, trajectory, rotational speed) of the physical interaction device or of the user during physical exercise.

In some implementations, a personal electronic device may be enclosed in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device to facilitate multi-media rich imaginative play. For example, a personal electronic device may be installed within a physical interaction device designed as a child's toy. One or more sensors within or communicating with the personal electronic device, for example, may provide input to a software application regarding a child's interactions with the toy. In response to sensed interactions, in some examples, the software application may output lights, colors, images, audio, video, vibrations, or other feedback responsive to the child playing with the toy.

While a personal electronic device is encased in a physical interaction device, in some implementations, a user may control the personal electronic device via voice commands. For example, a voice recognition component of the personal electronic device may recognize one or more commands to control the personal electronic device and/or one or more software applications providing a media-rich interactive experience with the physical interaction device via the personal electronic device. Commands, in some examples, may include launching of one or more software applications, configuring one or more software application options, and configuring device options (e.g., volume control, power off, etc.).

Turning now to FIG. 1A, some implementations, an exterior shell 106 of the physical interaction device 100, in some implementations, includes a personal electronic device receptacle 150 configured to receive a variety of sizes of personal electronic devices (plus, optionally, at least a portion of the retention apparatus). In some implementations, a personal electronic device may be positioned in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device to encourage physical interaction with the personal electronic device, without the fear of injury or harm to the personal electronic device itself, to players or surroundings. A personal electronic device, in some examples, may include a handheld consumer electronic device, cellular phone, smart phone, multimedia device, personal entertainment device, handheld gaming device, personal digital assistant, or other small computing device.

The receptacle 150 may include a slot, deformable slit, cavity, or other opening for receiving the personal electronic device. The receptacle 150, in some implementations, includes a deformable material configured to receive a variety of sizes of personal electronic devices. The receptacle, in some implementations, is a hollow region within the physical interaction device.

In some implementations, the receptacle includes one or more protrusions 104. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, the physical interaction device includes six protrusions 104a-f. When a personal electronic device is inserted into the receptacle, in some implementations, the personal electronic device rests against the one or more protrusions 104. In some implementations, if the physical interaction device includes more than one protrusion, the personal electronic device may only engage a portion of the protrusions in the case based on the size of the personal electronic device.

Turning now to FIG. 1B, in some implementations, the retention apparatus 102 is configured to releasably retain the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle 150. The personal electronic device retention apparatus 102 may be configured to accept a variety of sizes and shapes of personal electronic devices. For example due to being manufactured at least in part from a flexible material such as an elastomer (e.g., neoprene, rubber, foamed urethane, foamed rubber, bungee cord, etc.), coiled plastic, plastic, or metal. In some implementations, the retention apparatus 100 is fabricated from a single material. As shown in FIG. 1B, the retention apparatus 102, in some implementations, is one or more retention clips. The retention clip(s) may engage the personal electronic device to hold it in place when the physical interaction device is moved. In some implementations, the one or more retention clips are flexibly secured within the interior receptacle such that the one or more clips deflect as the personal electronic device is inserted into the interior receptacle. Each of the one or more retention clips may include a lip to engage a surface of the personal electronic device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle, thereby securely retaining the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle until manipulation of the one or more retention clips by a user to release the personal electronic device from the interior receptacle. In some implementations, each of the one or more clips includes a tab that may be pressed by the user to release a personal electronic device held by the one or more clips.

The physical interaction device, in some implementations, is sized and shaped to substantially enclose and protect the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle during physical activity such as rolling the device, throwing the device, kicking the device, or striking the device against another object. In some implementations, the physical interaction device is sized and shaped to enable interaction with the personal electronic device while the personal electronic device is substantially enclosed within the device. In some implementations, the retention apparatus ensures that the personal electronic device remains within the interior receptacle when the physical interaction device is used.

In some implementations, the physical interaction device includes a window/opening for viewing of the personal electronic device when retained within the interior receptacle. For example, in some implementations, the personal electronic device may be viewed through opening 150.

FIGS. 2A through 2J illustrate various views (including cross sectional views such as FIG. 2A in which the cross section is identified by shading) of an example personal interaction device 200 equipped with a retention device 202. In some implementations, a retention apparatus 202 takes the form of one or more clips such as clip 202a and 202b. The clip may be integrated with a physical interaction device or may be removably inserted into the physical interaction device. In some implementations, the retention apparatus 200 is installed during or after manufacturing the physical interaction device. The retention apparatus 200 may be configured such that it is not removable by a user of the physical interaction device.

The retention apparatus 202 may include a body. The body may be made of a flexible material such as an elastomer (e.g., neoprene, rubber, foamed urethane, foamed rubber, bungee cord, etc.), coiled plastic, plastic, or metal. The body may include a base 204 that engages a pocket or slot 216 in the physical interaction device as shown in FIG. 2G. The retention apparatus 200 may pivot around the base 204 as a personal electronic device is inserted into the physical interaction device. In some implementations, each of the one or more retention clips is configured to at least one of flex or rotate as the personal electronic device is inserted into the receptacle. In some implementations, the slot 216 biases the clip 202 toward the area where the personal electronic device is placed such that the clip holds the personal electronic device in place when the personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior receptacle 250.

In some implementations, each of the one or more retention clips include a cantilever extension 206 configured to bias the clip to securely retain the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle 250 upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle 250. The cantilever extension 206 may bias the retention apparatus 200 as the end of the cantilever extension 206 contacts a surface of the physical interaction device. The biasing may cause the lip 208 of the retention apparatus 200 to contact a surface of the personal electronic device and substantially restrain the personal electronic device in the physical interaction device when the personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior receptacle 250.

In some implementations, the retention apparatus includes two or more clips that are biased towards each other (and towards the area where the personal electronic device is placed) using an elastic material such as an elastic band. In some implementations, the elastic material is wrapped around the back of two or more clips to pull the clips towards each other.

In some implementations, two retention devices 200 are used, a first retention device on one side of the personal electronic device and a second retention device on a second side of the personal electronic device. In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 2, two retention devices 200 are used and they are located on opposite sides of the personal electronic device when the personal electronic device is placed in the physical interaction device. In some implementations, two different types of retention devices may be used. For example, one or more clips may be used along with a strap wrapped around the phone and a surface of the physical interaction device.

As described in relation to FIG. 1, the physical interaction device may include one or more protrusions 210 against which the personal electronic device rests when it is clipped into the physical interaction device using clips 208. In some implementations, the personal electronic device will be held in place based on the combination of the protrusions 210 and the clips 208.

In some implementations, the one or more retention clips are sized and shaped to press the personal electronic device against the one or more protrusions to releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle. For example, the physical interaction device may be made of a pliable material, such as foam. When the personal electronic device is inserted and pressed under the clips 208, the clips will apply pressure to the personal electronic device and hold it against the protrusions 210. The protrusions may deflect or compress a small amount based on the pressure applied to the personal electronic device by the clips 208. Thus, the personal electronic device will be held securely within the physical interaction device.

FIGS. 2I and 2J illustrate a cross-sectional view of a physical interaction device is illustrated with the backside of a retention clip 202 exposed. The personal electronic device retention clip 202 is releasably installed in the physical interaction device as discussed above. In other implementations, the retention clip may be manufactured as part of the physical interaction device.

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross sectional view of a physical interaction device 300 with two retention clips (302 and 304) installed. In some implementations, a portion of the physical interaction device biases a clip toward the area where the personal electronic device is placed such that the clip holds the personal electronic device in place when the personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior receptacle. For example, protrusion 308a biases clip 304 toward the area where the personal electronic device is placed such that the clip holds the personal electronic device in place when the personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior receptacle. In another example, protrusion 308b biases clip 302 toward the area where the personal electronic device is placed such that the clip holds the personal electronic device in place when the personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior receptacle.

In some implementations, the combination of a slot (e.g., slot 216 as shown in FIG. 2G) in which the clip resides and a protrusion (e.g., protrusion 308a or 308b) together bias a clip toward the area where the personal electronic device is placed such that the clip holds the personal electronic device in place when the personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior receptacle.

FIG. 3 illustrates the position of a clip as a personal electronic device is inserted into the physical interaction device. Prior to inserting a personal electronic device into an interior receptacle of the physical interaction device 300, clip 304 will be in the position of clip 304a. As a personal electronic device is inserted, clips 304 and 302 will be pushed away from eachother. For example, clip 304 will move from the position shown by clip 304a to position shown by clip 304b. Once the personal electronic device is fully inserted into the receptacle of physical interaction device 300, clip 304 will move from the position shown by clip 304b to position shown by clip 304a. This movement will occur based on one of the biasing mechanisms as described above. The personal electronic device will be secured in the physical interaction device by, for example, clips 302 and 304. A lip of each of the clips will, for example, contact a surface of the personal electronic device and substantially restrain the personal electronic device in the physical interaction device when the personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior receptacle as described in relation to FIGS. 2A through 2J.

In some implementations, an elastic material pulls, for example, clips 302 and 304 towards eachother (e.g., to bias the clips 302 and 304 toward the area where a personal electronic device will reside when fully inserted into the interior receptacle). In some implementations, the clips 302 and 304 each include a cantilever extension that biases the clips toward the area where a personal electronic device will reside when fully inserted into the interior receptacle as discussed in relation to FIG. 2G. In some implementations, more than one biasing mechanism may be used to ensure that a personal electronic device is secured when fully inserted into the interior receptacle of the physical interaction device.

FIGS. 4A through 4C illustrate various physical interaction devices and activities enabled thereby. The physical activities demonstrated within FIGS. 4A through 4C, for example, may involve jarring movements and/or striking of the physical interaction device, during which secure retention of the physical electronic device may be aided via the various retention apparatus and/or assemblies described above. The activities illustrated within FIGS. 4A through 4C are for illustrative purpose only and are not meant to limit in any way the form of the physical interaction device or the activities enabled by the physical interaction device. Additional embodiments of physical interaction devices and activities enabled thereby are provided within related application Ser. No. 13/348,433, filed on Jan. 11, 2012, and titled “Physical Interaction Device for Personal Electronics and Method for Use” and Ser. No. 13/348,434, filed on Jan. 11, 2012, and titled “Physical Interaction Device for Personal Electronics and Method for Use.”

Turning to FIG. 4A, in some implementations, a ball-shaped physical interaction device 402 may be used in conjunction with a bowling alley software application. The ball-shaped physical interaction device 402 encloses a personal electronic device 404 executing a bowling application to enable bowling interactive play, as illustrated in an activity diagram 400. The bowling application may include software modules designed to interpret data received by one or more sensors resident within the personal electronic device 404 and/or in communication with the personal electronic device 404 to recognize movement from the ball-shaped physical interaction device 402. In some implementations, when a software module executing upon the personal electronic device 404 interprets sensor input indicative of movement related to rolling the ball-shaped physical interaction device 402, the personal electronic device 404 may display movement in a scene on a screen area of the personal electronic device 404. The personal electronic device 404, in some implementations, may communicate display information to a remote display 406, causing the display of movement in a scene 408 upon the remote display 406 (e.g., personal computer monitor, LCD display, television, or smart television (STV), etc.). For example, as illustrated, a trajectory of the ball-shaped physical interaction device 402 may be interpreted in relation to striking virtual bowling pins (e.g., as illustrated on the remote display 406). For example, the scene 408 on the remote display 406 may graphically illustrate the play action in real time (e.g., in a video mode). In some implementations, coordination between multiple personal electronic devices in multiple ball-shaped physical interaction devices enables multiple players 410 to compete in bowling. Coordination between the multiple ball-shaped physical interaction devices, in some examples, may be achieved by local or remote wireless communication such as, in some examples, radio frequency (RF) transmissions, Bluetooth® transmissions, cellular transmissions, or Wi-Fi™ transmissions.

In some implementations, when a physical interaction device, such as the ball-shaped physical interaction device 402, is designed to be rolled by a user, the game involves direct review of information upon the screen of the personal electronic device (e.g., personal electronic device 404) rather than on a remote display (e.g., remote display 408). In these circumstances, it may be beneficial to design the physical interaction device to stop in a default upright position such that the screen is visible to the user. For example, when a small child is playing a rolling, kicking, or tossing game with a physical interaction device, to encourage ease of review of information displayed in a screen area of a personal electronic device installed within the physical interaction device, it may be beneficial to include one or more off-setting weights within the physical interaction device positioned away from the center of mass of the physical interaction device, thereby modifying the physical and motion characteristics of the physical interaction device.

Turning to FIG. 4B, an example media-rich sporting activity 420, in some implementations, may include a ball-shaped physical interaction device 422 encasing a personal electronic device 424 in wireless communication with remote audio equipment 426. The ball-shaped physical interaction device 422, in some examples, may be similar to an inflatable beach ball or a volleyball. Although illustrated as being visible, in some implementations the ball-shaped physical interaction device 422 may completely surround and obscure the personal electronic device 424. In some implementations, a software application installed upon the personal electronic device 424 may interact in real-time with the remote audio equipment 426 to engage the players (e.g., during a game of volleyball), for example, with commentary or to relay scoring information. In some implementations, the ball-shaped physical interaction device 422 may include a water tight enclosure configured to protect the personal electronic device 424 from physical impact and environmental impacts such as sand, water, and snow.

Turning to FIG. 4C, an athletic device 442 may be embedded with a personal electronic device 444 to enable, for example, an interactive exercise or rehabilitative activity such as is displayed in an exercise scene 440. As illustrated in the exercise scene 440, for example, the athletic device 442 (e.g., a kettlebell style weight), may hold the personal electronic device 444 (e.g., within a protective enclosure) which, in turn, may execute an exercise regimen application. In some implementations, the exercise regimen application determines behaviors of the user through one or more sensor inputs, thereby tracking progress of the user. In some examples, an exercise regimen application may collect information regarding velocity, height, repetitions, and/or timing while a user performs various exercise activities.

In some implementations, an exercise regimen application provides instructions (e.g., “higher”, “slow down”, etc.) and/or messages of encouragement (e.g., “just two more lifts”, “you can do it”, etc.) to the user. Audio prompts, in some implementations, may be provided through one or more separate or external speakers, for example using a wireless headphone device, a speaker built into the athletic device 442, or communication with an external device such as a personal computer, television, or display monitor. In this manner, for example, the personal electronic device 444 may be encased safely within the athletic device 442 without the need to provide sound-transmission capabilities from a built-in speaker. In some implementations, an exercise regimen application may provide instructions to a user to perform particular strength building and/or rehabilitation activities.

In some implementations, the athletic device 442 includes a retention assembly containing a weighted accessory block to adjust the weight of the athletic device 442. For example, the athletic device 442 may be sold with two or more accessory blocks, each accessory block adding a particular weight to the athletic device 442 (e.g., one pound, two pounds, five pounds, etc.). The user, to increase the impact of an exercise routine incorporating the athletic device 442, may swap an accessory block of increased weight into a retention assembly installed within the athletic device 442. In some implementations, the application installed upon the personal electronic device may derive the present weight installed within the retention assembly. For example, an RFID chip or other wireless signature may be included within the accessory block such that the accessory block may be read by the personal electronic device to identify the current weight. In other implementations, the user may manually enter the weight of the accessory block into the application (e.g., through a user interface or by scanning machine-readable indicia marked upon the accessory block, using the personal electronic device, prior to installing the accessory block within the athletic device 442).

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 500 for installing and using a retention assembly within a physical interaction device. The method 500, for example, may be performed to install any of the retention assemblies described above.

The method 500 generally begins with assembling a retention assembly. In some implementations, one or more of the assembly steps may be performed by a manufacturer of the retention assembly. The assembly, in some implementations, may be performed in part or in full by a user of the physical interaction device prior to interaction with the personal electronic device via the physical interaction device.

In some implementations, assembling the retention assembly begins with installing one or more retention clips (502). For example, turning to FIG. 2G, the retention apparatus 202 may include a body. The body may be made of a flexible material such as an elastomer (e.g., neoprene, rubber, foamed urethane, foamed rubber, bungee cord, etc.), coiled plastic, plastic, or metal. The body may include a base 204 that engages a pocket or slot 216 in the physical interaction device. The retention apparatus 200 may pivot around the base 204 as a personal electronic device is inserted into the physical interaction device. In some implementations, each of the one or more retention clips is configured to at least one of flex or rotate as the personal electronic device is inserted into the receptacle.

In some implementations, a personal electronic device is inserted into the interior receptacle of the physical interaction device (504). The personal electronic device, in some implementations, is pressed into the interior receptacle of the physical interaction device util secured by the one or more retention clips (506). In some implementations, the one or more retention clips are sized and shaped to press the personal electronic device against the one or more protrusions to releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle. For example, the physical interaction device may be made of a pliable material, such as foam. When the personal electronic device is inserted and pressed under the clips, the clips will apply pressure to the personal electronic device and hold it against the protrusions. The protrusions may deflect or compress a small amount based on the pressure applied to the personal electronic device by the clips. Thus, the personal electronic device will be held securely within the physical interaction device.

In some implementations, a software application is executed upon the personal electronic device for enabling a particular physical activity game involving the physical interaction device (508). For example, a video-enhanced bowling game as described in relation to FIG. 4A, a commentary-enhanced volleyball game as described in relation to FIG. 4B, or an electronic personal trainer-enhanced medicine ball workout as described in relation to FIG. 4C may be accomplished using a physical interaction device installed with the retention assembly and personal electronic device, without concern for damage to the personal electronic device via ejection from the physical interaction device.

Although discussed in relation to a particular series of steps, in some implementations, one or more of the steps provided within the method 500 may be performed in a different order and/or one or more steps of the method 500 may be removed. For example, in some implementations, the software application is executed upon the personal electronic device for enabling a particular physical activity game involving the physical interaction device (508) prior to inserting the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle of the physical interaction device (504).

In some implementations, the physical interaction device may include a volume substantially larger than the protective enclosure. For example, the physical interaction device may have a volume at least three times as large as a volume of the personal electronic device. The volume of the physical interaction device, in some implementations, may be substantially hollow, for example allowing the physical interaction device to be light weight or to encourage air flow around a portion of the personal electronic device to aid in cooling of the personal electronic device while encased in the protective enclosure of the physical interaction device.

To engage in interactive play via the personal electronic device encased in the physical interaction device, in some implementations, a user may execute a software application installed in part upon the personal electronic device. In some examples, the software application may come pre-installed upon the personal electronic device, or the user may download the software application from directly connected (e.g., removable memory drive) or networked media storage. In some implementations, the physical interaction device may be sold with one or more software applications or with instructions for accessing one or more software applications designed to enhance the use of the physical interaction device.

In some implementations, a user may visit a web site to shop for and purchase one or more software applications designed for interactive play with a personal electronic device installed within a physical interaction device. For example, via a browsing mechanism available on the personal electronic device or other personal computing device, a user may select one or more software applications to install upon the personal electronic device.

In some implementations, a user may access a software application interface to configure or personalize a software application for use with the physical interaction device. For example, a user may be provided the opportunity to customize an application (e.g., audio settings or custom audio files, video settings or custom video files, voice recognition settings, data collection settings, etc.) through the personal electronic device, or through a web site or online application accessible via another personal computing device. In a particular example, a teacher may select or input a set of trivia questions or spelling words to be used in a physical learning game in a classroom environment. For example, a ball-shaped physical interaction device may be tossed between students, where the student is asked one of a series of questions when the ball is caught. In some implementations, the particular question asked may be based in part upon an orientation of the personal electronic device within the ball-shaped physical interaction device. The questions, in some implementations, may be provided in a randomized order. In some implementations, the questions may be displayed upon a screen area of the personal electronic device which is visible to the student. The question, in some implementations, may be asked audibly, for example through one or more speakers built into the personal electronic device or in communication with the personal electronic device.

In some implementations, a user may be provided the opportunity to build an application configured for interaction with the physical interaction device and to install the application upon the personal electronic device. For example, a user may select and customize existing modules to create a unique software application for interaction with the physical interaction device.

A same software application may be installed upon two or more personal electronic devices, in some implementations, such that the two or more personal electronic devices may each be used in interactive play, each of the two or more personal electronic devices being inserted into a respective physical interaction device. For example, the two or more personal electronic devices may share data via a wireless network connection during interactive play to provide near real-time interaction between the two personal electronic devices. In some implementations, the two or more personal electronic devices may be located in remote locations. For example, a first player in a first geographic location may engage in an interactive game with a second player in a second geographic location.

In some implementations, one or more electronically coupled devices, such as external speakers, microphones, display devices, and remote control devices (e.g., installed interior and/or exterior to the protective enclosure) may be included as part of the media-rich experience provided by the physical interaction device. One or more electronically coupled devices, in some implementations, may be positioned external to the physical interaction device and connected to the personal electronic device and/or the physical interaction device via a wired or wireless connection. In some implementations, one or more peripheral devices may be installed within the physical interaction device and directly or wirelessly connect to the personal electronic device.

In some implementations, the physical interaction device may include no additional electronics beyond the personal electronic device. For example, an existing personal electronic device may be placed within a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device and a user may access the capabilities of the personal electronic device to engage in a game or learning experience via, for example, a software application executing in part upon the personal electronic device.

In some implementations, a software application running on the personal electronic device may wirelessly communicate with one or more networked devices (e.g., a tablet, laptop, television, digital display, audio speaker, etc.) to enhance and expand the user experience. Further to the example, in some implementations, user data may be stored on the personal electronic device, a networked user device, or in remote network storage (e.g., within an application cloud) for access and use by the user of the personal electronic device or by others (e.g., a coach, doctor, parent, etc.) interested in monitoring data collected via the personal electronic device. Stored data, in some examples, may be accessed in real time or collected and reviewed as historical data.

In some implementations, a software application executing upon the personal electronic device may determine the identity of a particular player interacting with the personal electronic device. Player identification, in some implementations, may be accomplished via a touch input, such as via one or more button inputs or virtual control inputs such as a virtual keyboard rendered on a screen area of the personal electronic device. In other implementations, the software may utilize one or more biometric identification techniques, such as voice, facial feature, or fingerprint recognition, for example utilizing one or more sensors and/or sensor input applications. For example, biometric identification techniques may be available on the personal electronic device or through software modules accessible via one or more computer networks accessible to the personal electronic device. In some implementations, player identification may be accomplished while the personal electronic device is encased in a physical interaction device. In some implementations, one or more unique identifiers may be mapped to a particular game player such as, in some examples, barcodes or radio-frequency identification (RFID) chips provided in or on a wrist band, card, or other separate identification mechanism. In some implementations, a user may download a unique game player code to the personal electronic device, and the software may access the unique game player code within a memory location of the personal electronic device to identify the game player.

Similarly, in some implementations, the individual physical interaction device may be identified by one or more software applications executing on the personal electronic device. For example, one or more printed bar codes, radio frequency identification chips, or other unique identifiers may be included within or upon the physical interaction device, enabling either a general identification (e.g., round ball versus football) or a unique identification (e.g., individually-purchased item) of the physical interaction device. In some implementations, the personal electronic device may be used to read an identifying marker, for example by using one or more sensors such as a bar code reader, camera, imaging system, or RFID sensor resident to the personal electronic device. The personal electronic device, in some implementations, may utilize the identifying information to customize user experience, for example during game play or other interaction.

In some implementations, recognition of a type of physical interaction device, a uniquely identified physical interaction device, and/or a uniquely identified game player may be used to customize and enhance presentation of one or more games for use with the physical interaction device. In some implementations, unique audio, graphic, or video input may be provided based in part upon identification of the physical interaction device. For example, upon recognition that the physical interaction device was sold with an exterior design of a licensed character, catch phrases of the licensed character, a voice of the licensed character, and/or one or more images or videos of the licensed character may be provided to the game player during interactive play. In some implementations, unique identification of a user may allow the software application to store information (e.g., high score, preferences, historical performance data, etc.) associated with the unique user on the personal electronic device and/or at a remote storage location on a computer network accessible to the personal electronic device.

As shown in FIG. 6, an implementation of a network environment 600 for use with a physical interactive device is shown and described. In brief overview, referring now to FIG. 6, a block diagram of an exemplary cloud computing environment 600 is shown and described. The cloud computing environment 600 may include one or more resource providers 602a, 602b, 602c (collectively, 602). Each resource provider 602 may include computing resources. In some implementations, computing resources may include any hardware and/or software used to process data. For example, computing resources may include hardware and/or software capable of executing algorithms, computer programs, and/or computer applications. In some implementations, exemplary computing resources may include application servers and/or databases with storage and retrieval capabilities. Each resource provider 602 may be connected to any other resource provider 602 in the cloud computing environment 600. In some implementations, the resource providers 602 may be connected over a computer network 608. Each resource provider 602 may be connected to one or more computing device 604a, 604b, 604c (collectively, 604), over the computer network 608.

The cloud computing environment 600 may include a resource manager 606. The resource manager 606 may be connected to the resource providers 602 and the computing devices 604 over the computer network 608. In some implementations, the resource manager 606 may facilitate the provision of computing resources by one or more resource providers 602 to one or more computing devices 604. The resource manager 606 may receive a request for a computing resource from a particular computing device 604. The resource manager 606 may identify one or more resource providers 602 capable of providing the computing resource requested by the computing device 604. The resource manager 606 may select a resource provider 602 to provide the computing resource. The resource manager 606 may facilitate a connection between the resource provider 602 and a particular computing device 604. In some implementations, the resource manager 606 may establish a connection between a particular resource provider 602 and a particular computing device 604. In some implementations, the resource manager 606 may redirect a particular computing device 604 to a particular resource provider 602 with the requested computing resource.

FIG. 7 shows an example of a computing device 700 and a mobile computing device 750 that can be used to implement the techniques described in this disclosure. The computing device 700 is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, such as laptops, desktops, workstations, personal digital assistants, servers, blade servers, mainframes, and other appropriate computers. The mobile computing device 750 is intended to represent various forms of mobile devices, such as personal digital assistants, cellular telephones, smart-phones, and other similar computing devices. The components shown here, their connections and relationships, and their functions, are meant to be examples only, and are not meant to be limiting.

The computing device 700 includes a processor 702, a memory 704, a storage device 706, a high-speed interface 708 connecting to the memory 704 and multiple high-speed expansion ports 710, and a low-speed interface 712 connecting to a low-speed expansion port 714 and the storage device 706. Each of the processor 702, the memory 704, the storage device 706, the high-speed interface 708, the high-speed expansion ports 710, and the low-speed interface 712, are interconnected using various busses, and may be mounted on a common motherboard or in other manners as appropriate. The processor 702 can process instructions for execution within the computing device 700, including instructions stored in the memory 704 or on the storage device 706 to display graphical information for a GUI on an external input/output device, such as a display 716 coupled to the high-speed interface 708. In other implementations, multiple processors and/or multiple buses may be used, as appropriate, along with multiple memories and types of memory. Also, multiple computing devices may be connected, with each device providing portions of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server bank, a group of blade servers, or a multi-processor system).

The memory 704 stores information within the computing device 700. In some implementations, the memory 704 is a volatile memory unit or units. In some implementations, the memory 704 is a non-volatile memory unit or units. The memory 704 may also be another form of computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic or optical disk.

The storage device 706 is capable of providing mass storage for the computing device 700. In some implementations, the storage device 706 may be or contain a computer-readable medium, such as a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or a tape device, a flash memory or other similar solid state memory device, or an array of devices, including devices in a storage area network or other configurations. Instructions can be stored in an information carrier. The instructions, when executed by one or more processing devices (for example, processor 702), perform one or more methods, such as those described above. The instructions can also be stored by one or more storage devices such as computer- or machine-readable mediums (for example, the memory 704, the storage device 706, or memory on the processor 702).

The high-speed interface 708 manages bandwidth-intensive operations for the computing device 700, while the low-speed interface 712 manages lower bandwidth-intensive operations. Such allocation of functions is an example only. In some implementations, the high-speed interface 708 is coupled to the memory 704, the display 716 (e.g., through a graphics processor or accelerator), and to the high-speed expansion ports 710, which may accept various expansion cards (not shown). In the implementation, the low-speed interface 712 is coupled to the storage device 706 and the low-speed expansion port 714. The low-speed expansion port 714, which may include various communication ports (e.g., USB, Bluetooth®, Ethernet, wireless Ethernet) may be coupled to one or more input/output devices, such as a keyboard, a pointing device, a scanner, or a networking device such as a switch or router, e.g., through a network adapter.

The computing device 700 may be implemented in a number of different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be implemented as a standard server 720, or multiple times in a group of such servers. In addition, it may be implemented in a personal computer such as a laptop computer 722. It may also be implemented as part of a rack server system 724. Alternatively, components from the computing device 700 may be combined with other components in a mobile device (not shown), such as a mobile computing device 750. Each of such devices may contain one or more of the computing device 700 and the mobile computing device 750, and an entire system may be made up of multiple computing devices communicating with each other.

The mobile computing device 750 includes a processor 752, a memory 764, an input/output device such as a display 754, a communication interface 766, and a transceiver 768, among other components. The mobile computing device 750 may also be provided with a storage device, such as a micro-drive or other device, to provide additional storage. Each of the processor 752, the memory 764, the display 754, the communication interface 766, and the transceiver 768, are interconnected using various buses, and several of the components may be mounted on a common motherboard or in other manners as appropriate.

The processor 752 can execute instructions within the mobile computing device 750, including instructions stored in the memory 764. The processor 752 may be implemented as a chipset of chips that include separate and multiple analog and digital processors. The processor 752 may provide, for example, for coordination of the other components of the mobile computing device 750, such as control of user interfaces, applications run by the mobile computing device 750, and wireless communication by the mobile computing device 750.

The processor 752 may communicate with a user through a control interface 758 and a display interface 756 coupled to the display 754. The display 754 may be, for example, a TFT (Thin-Film-Transistor Liquid Crystal Display) display or an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, or other appropriate display technology. The display interface 756 may comprise appropriate circuitry for driving the display 754 to present graphical and other information to a user. The control interface 758 may receive commands from a user and convert them for submission to the processor 752. In addition, an external interface 762 may provide communication with the processor 752, so as to enable near area communication of the mobile computing device 750 with other devices. The external interface 762 may provide, for example, for wired communication in some implementations, or for wireless communication in other implementations, and multiple interfaces may also be used.

The memory 764 stores information within the mobile computing device 750. The memory 764 can be implemented as one or more of a computer-readable medium or media, a volatile memory unit or units, or a non-volatile memory unit or units. An expansion memory 774 may also be provided and connected to the mobile computing device 750 through an expansion interface 772, which may include, for example, a SIMM (Single In Line Memory Module) card interface. The expansion memory 774 may provide extra storage space for the mobile computing device 750, or may also store applications or other information for the mobile computing device 750. Specifically, the expansion memory 774 may include instructions to carry out or supplement the processes described above, and may include secure information also. Thus, for example, the expansion memory 774 may be provide as a security module for the mobile computing device 750, and may be programmed with instructions that permit secure use of the mobile computing device 750. In addition, secure applications may be provided via the SIMM cards, along with additional information, such as placing identifying information on the SIMM card in a non-hackable manner.

The memory may include, for example, flash memory and/or NVRAM memory (non-volatile random access memory), as discussed below. In some implementations, instructions are stored in an information carrier. that the instructions, when executed by one or more processing devices (for example, processor 752), perform one or more methods, such as those described above. The instructions can also be stored by one or more storage devices, such as one or more computer- or machine-readable mediums (for example, the memory 764, the expansion memory 774, or memory on the processor 752). In some implementations, the instructions can be received in a propagated signal, for example, over the transceiver 768 or the external interface 762.

The mobile computing device 750 may communicate wirelessly through the communication interface 766, which may include digital signal processing circuitry where necessary. The communication interface 766 may provide for communications under various modes or protocols, such as GSM voice calls (Global System for Mobile communications), SMS (Short Message Service), EMS (Enhanced Messaging Service), or MMS messaging (Multimedia Messaging Service), CDMA (code division multiple access), TDMA (time division multiple access), PDC (Personal Digital Cellular), WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access), CDMA2000, or GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), among others. Such communication may occur, for example, through the transceiver 768 using a radio-frequency. In addition, short-range communication may occur, such as using a Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi™, or other such transceiver (not shown). In addition, a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver module 770 may provide additional navigation- and location-related wireless data to the mobile computing device 750, which may be used as appropriate by applications running on the mobile computing device 750.

The mobile computing device 750 may also communicate audibly using an audio codec 760, which may receive spoken information from a user and convert it to usable digital information. The audio codec 760 may likewise generate audible sound for a user, such as through a speaker, e.g., in a handset of the mobile computing device 750. Such sound may include sound from voice telephone calls, may include recorded sound (e.g., voice messages, music files, etc.) and may also include sound generated by applications operating on the mobile computing device 750.

The mobile computing device 750 may be implemented in a number of different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be implemented as a cellular telephone 780. It may also be implemented as part of a smart-phone 782, personal digital assistant, or other similar mobile device.

Various implementations of the systems and techniques described here can be realized in digital electronic circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and/or combinations thereof. These various implementations can include implementation in one or more computer programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.

These computer programs (also known as programs, software, software applications or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level procedural and/or object-oriented programming language, and/or in assembly/machine language. As used herein, the terms machine-readable medium and computer-readable medium refer to any computer program product, apparatus and/or device (e.g., magnetic discs, optical disks, memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)) used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term machine-readable signal refers to any signal used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor.

To provide for interaction with a user, the systems and techniques described here can be implemented on a computer having a display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor) for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse or a trackball) by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

The systems and techniques described here can be implemented in a computing system that includes a back end component (e.g., as a data server), or that includes a middleware component (e.g., an application server), or that includes a front end component (e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of the systems and techniques described here), or any combination of such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication (e.g., a communication network). Examples of communication networks include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and the Internet.

The computing system can include clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other.

In view of the structure, functions and apparatus of the systems and methods described here, in some implementations, apparatus and methods for retaining a personal electronic device within a physical interaction device are provided. Having described certain implementations of methods and apparatus for supporting interactions with a personal electronic device using a physical interaction-enabling device with a protective enclosure for the personal electronic device, it will now become apparent to one of skill in the art that other implementations incorporating the concepts of the disclosure may be used. Therefore, the disclosure should not be limited to certain implementations, but rather should be limited only by the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A physical interaction device comprising:

a body with an interior receptacle sized and shaped to removably receive a personal electronic device therewithin such that the personal electronic device is fully encased within the body; and

a retention apparatus to releasably retain the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle, wherein the retention apparatus comprises one or more retention clips flexibly secured within the interior receptacle such that the one or more clips deflect as the personal electronic device is inserted into the interior receptacle, wherein each of the one or more retention clips comprises a lip to engage a surface of the personal electronic device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle, thereby securely retaining the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle until manipulation of the one or more retention clips by a user to release the personal electronic device from the interior receptacle.

2. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the physical interaction device is sized and shaped to (i) substantially enclose and protect the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle during physical activity comprising at least one of rolling the device, throwing the device, kicking the device, and striking the device against another object, and (ii) enable interaction with the personal electronic device while the personal electronic device is substantially enclosed within the device.

3. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a window/opening for viewing of the personal electronic device when retained within the interior receptacle.

4. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the one or more retention clips comprise two retention clips configured to releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction device.

5. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more retention clips comprise a cantilever extension configured to bias the clip to securely retain the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle.

6. The physical interaction device of claim 5, wherein each of the one or more retention clips is configured to at least one of flex or rotate as the personal electronic device is inserted into the receptacle.

7. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the retention apparatus is configured to be releasably secured in a cavity in the physical interaction device.

8. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein:

the physical interaction device includes one or more protrusions inside the receptacle, and

the one or more retention clips are sized and shaped to press the personal electronic device against the one or more protrusions to releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle.

9. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the physical interaction device is configured to be used as a at least one of weight training exercise equipment, combat-training exercise equipment, balance and coordination training exercise equipment, game equipment, or sports game equipment.

10. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the personal electronic device is a cellular phone.

11. A retention apparatus to releasably retain a personal electronic device within a physical interaction device, the retention apparatus comprising:

one or more retention clips configured to be flexibly secured within an interior receptacle of a physical interaction device sized and shaped to removably receive a personal electronic device therewithin such that the personal electronic device is fully encased within the physical interaction device, wherein the one or more clips deflect as a personal electronic device is inserted into the interior receptacle, wherein each of the one or more retention clips comprises a lip to engage a surface of the personal electronic device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle, thereby securely retaining the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle until manipulation of the one or more retention clips by a user to release the personal electronic device from the interior receptacle.

12. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the physical interaction device is sized and shaped to (i) substantially enclose and protect the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle during physical activity comprising at least one of rolling the device, throwing the device, kicking the device, and striking the device against another object, and (ii) enable interaction with the personal electronic device while the personal electronic device is substantially enclosed within the device.

13. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the physical interaction device comprises a housing with a window/opening for viewing of the personal electronic device when retained within the interior receptacle.

14. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the one or more retention clips comprise two retention clips configured to releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction device.

15. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein each of the one or more retention clips comprise a cantilever extension configured to bias the clip to securely retain the personal electronic device within the interior receptacle upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle.

16. The retention apparatus of claim 15, wherein each of the one or more retention clips is configured to at least one of flex or rotate as the personal electronic device is inserted into the receptacle.

17. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the retention apparatus is configured to be releasably secured in a cavity in the physical interaction device.

18. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein:

the physical interaction device includes one or more protrusions inside the receptacle, and

the one or more retention clips are sized and shaped to press the personal electronic device against the one or more protrusions to releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle.

19. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the physical interaction device is configured to be used as a at least one of weight training exercise equipment, combat-training exercise equipment, balance and coordination training exercise equipment, game equipment, or sports game equipment.

20. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the personal electronic device is a cellular phone.