Carrying pouches for electronic audio systems having headsets

Abstract

A carrying case apparatus having a case body and one or more elastic straps coupled to the case body forming a sleeve for receiving an audio headset. A tab is secured to the strap via a closed loop looped around the strap. By grasping the tab and pulling the elastic strap away from the base surface to create a gap between the strap and the base surface, then inserting the headset into the gap and releasing the tab, the headset is secured between said one or more elastic bands and the base surface.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application is a Non-Provisional Application of Provisional (35 USC 119(e)) Application 60/755,994 filed on Jan. 3, 2006.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to carrying pouches for hand-held electronic apparatus and more specifically for such carrying cases for electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Hand-held electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus, such as cellular phones, have become a ubiquitous device in modern society. The quantity and variety of hand-held electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus have increased exponentially due to practicality, cost effectiveness, and convenience of use.

However, hand-held electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus are not without inherent drawbacks. To operate hand-held electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus, a user must necessarily devote at least one hand to operation and holding of the hand-held electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus. For example, many users make cellular phone calls while driving or performing other activities. The restriction of at least one hand substantially increases the risk of an inadvertent accident causing possible injury to the user and others.

Accordingly, a need has arisen for a means by which hand-held electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus can be utilized in a hands-free manner. The development of hand-held electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus that operate in conjunction with headset devices has addressed this need. Currently, hand-held electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus are more frequently utilizing headsets that allow hands-free operation. However, the difficulty with the use of headsets is that the headset itself must be stored when not in use. The headset normally is not an integral part of the hand-held electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus. Often the headset is simply placed in a pocket, purse, or bag where it may be damaged or lost.

Needs exist for improved apparatus and methods for storage of headsets when the headsets are not in use to prevent loss and damage.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention solve many of the problems and/or overcome many of the drawbacks and disadvantages of the prior art by providing secure and safe storage for headsets when the headsets are not in use.

In particular, embodiments of the invention accomplish this by providing apparatus and methods for storing headsets using one or more elastic straps or one or more elastic sleeves to secure the headsets to a carrying pouch.

Preferred embodiments preferably include a tab for manipulating the one or more elastic straps or one or more elastic sleeves during receiving the ear piece of the audio headset. Alternative preferred embodiments preferably include a closure flap for securing a portable electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus within the sheath. Other alternate embodiments preferably include additional sleeves coupled to the case body and/or a clip for attaching the case to an article of clothing or other support.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention preferably includes a carrying case apparatus including a base with at least one relatively flat surface, one or more straps coupled to the base at edges of the relatively flat surface, a closed loop surrounding the one or more straps, wherein the one or more straps are adapted to accept a body of an audio headset between the one or more straps and the relatively flat surface. In one or more preferred embodiments, the closed loop is preferably adapted to accept an earpiece of the audio headset.

The invention provides a carrying case apparatus comprising: a case body; one or more elastic straps with each said strap having a first end and a second end, the first end attached to the case body at a first attachment location, and the second end attached to the case body at a second attachment location, the case body and the strap forming a headset sleeve; the first and second attachment locations of the strap ends being spaced apart on the case body a distance such that the headset sleeve is capable of receiving a headset when the elastic is stretched, and the elastic holds the headset to the case body when the elastic is released; and a headset sleeve manipulation member adapted to be grasped by the fingers of a human hand, the member secured to the one or more straps. Preferably, the manipulation member is secured to the one or more straps so that when it is pulled away from the case body, force can be applied to the strap at a location substantially equidistant between the first and second ends and in a direction away from the case body. Preferably, the headset sleeve manipulation member comprises a closed loop encircling the one or more straps and a tab attached to the closed loop. Preferably, the closed loop is movable along the one or more straps. In one alternative, there is one of the one or more straps, and in another alternative, there are two of the one or more straps. Preferably, the two straps are at an angle to one another. Preferably, the angle is ninety degrees. Preferably, the case body includes a sheath for receiving an electronic audio producing or receiving system, and the one or more straps are attached to the sheath. Preferably, the case body includes an accessory sleeve coupled to the case body, and the one or more straps are attached to the sleeve. In another embodiment, the case body comprises a base plate, and the one or more straps are attached to the plate. Preferably, the first and second attachment locations are on or near the periphery of the plate. Preferably, there are two of the straps crossing one another at an angle, and the manipulation member comprises: a closed loop encircling the straps near the point where the straps cross; and a graspable tab attached to the closed loop. Preferably, there are one or more grooves formed in the plate. Preferably, the carrying case further includes a clip for attaching the case to a support.

The invention also provides a method of carrying an audio headset, the method comprising: providing a carrying case comprising: a base surface and an elastic strap forming a sleeve, and a graspable tab secured to the elastic strap; grasping the tab and pulling the elastic strap away from the base surface to create a gap between the strap and the base surface; inserting a headset into the gap; and releasing the tab to secure the headset between the one or more elastic bands and the base surface. Preferably, the inserting comprises locating at least a portion of the headset in a groove in the base surface. Preferably, the method further comprises locating the tab substantially equidistant between the ends of the elastic strap. Preferably, the method further comprises clipping the carrying case to an article of clothing. Preferably, the providing comprises providing the carrying case with two of the straps oriented at an angle to each other above the surface so that they cross, with the tab secured to both of the straps, and the grasping and pulling comprises pulling both of the straps away from the surface.

Embodiments of the present invention preferably can include a caring case apparatus, including a case body with a sheath for receiving and carrying a portable electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus, a sleeve coupled to the case body for receiving a body portion of an audio headset, a closed loop secured around the sleeve for receiving an earpiece of the audio headset, and wherein the sleeve and the closed loop are adapted for securing the body portion of the audio headset and the earpiece of the audio headset, respectively, to the case body.

Embodiments of the present invention preferably also include a method of carrying an audio headset, including providing a carrying case comprising an expandable gap between one or more primarily elastic bands and a base surface and a closed loop surrounding the one or more primarily elastic bands for expanding the gap, exerting a force on the closed loop away from the base surface, inserting the headset into the gap, and releasing the force on the closed loop for securing the headset between the one or more primarily elastic bands and the base surface.

Additional features, advantages, and embodiments of the invention are set forth or are apparent from consideration of the following detailed description, drawings, and claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing summary of the invention and the following detailed description are exemplary and intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the invention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a carrying case according to the present invention showing an open elastic sleeve secured to the side of the carrying case and a closed elastic loop movably secured to the elastic sleeve;

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

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 with a headset shown in exploded relationship to the carrying case, the headset having a movable earpiece;

FIG. 4 is also a front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3 with the ear piece of the headset being inserted into the closed elastic loop and the body of the headset inverted and positioned to be rotated towards and into the elastic sleeve;

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4 with the body of the headset fully inserted into and held by the elastic sleeve, and the ear piece of the headset inserted into and secured by the closed elastic loop;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a carrying case according to the present invention showing cross straps;

FIG. 7 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 with a headset inserted under the cross straps in a vertical configuration;

FIG. 8 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 with the headset inserted under the cross straps in a horizontal configuration; and

FIG. 9 is a detail view of a clip for securing a carrying case according to the invention to a belt, strap, or other item.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-9 show preferred embodiments of carrying pouches of the present invention. Alternative configurations are anticipated. The present invention preferably provides a portable carrying case for an electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus. The portable carrying case preferably has a built-in external receiver for holding and securing a headset.

The carrying cases of the present invention preferably provide an interconnected external receiver for supporting and securing a headset against loss when located on the exterior of such carrying cases, while at the same time, such an interconnected external receiver places such headsets in a position for ease of storage and retrieval from the exterior of such carrier cases. Embodiments of the present invention preferably provide one or more sleeves interconnected to the case for storing other auxiliary devices. The sleeves preferably are created by an elastic band attached to the carrying case body for holding various types of accessory items to be conveniently stored on or in the carrying cases.

Preferred embodiments preferably hold a mobile telephone with an operatively connected headset, and especially a headset with an over-the-ear support piece in a manner that provides support and security to a headset on the exterior of the carrying case. Embodiments of the present invention preferably are used with wireless headsets and Bluetooth™ enabled wireless electronic mobile phones. In one aspect of the present invention, wireless audio producing or receiving apparatus having wireless headsets and audio producing or receiving apparatus, and enabled throughout the electronic industry by Bluetooth SIG under the trademark of “Bluetooth” are especially disposed for use with the carrying cases of the present invention. Currently, Bluetooth enabled wireless electronic mobile phones are being produced and distributed by Motorola, Nokia, Samsung, Sony-Erikson, and others, although any audio producing or receiving apparatus preferably, if suitably sized and configured, and whether wireless or not, may be carried by the carrying cases of the present invention.

FIGS. 1-5 show one preferred embodiment of a case 10 that preferably includes a case body 11 having an expandable sheath 12 for carrying audio producing or receiving apparatus, not shown. In this embodiment, case body 11 includes a back support 21 to which is attached two sides 17 and 19 (FIG. 3) and a front panel 15, and an accessory storage sheath, such as 28, attached to each of the sides 17 and 19. However, other case body configurations may be used also. The dashed lines 13 on the drawings are generally representative of stitching. The electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus preferably include, but are not limited to, cellular telephones, radios, mp3 players, IPODs, personal digital assistants, and other similar devices. The carrying pouch 10 preferably is used with universal electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus, such as electronic mobile phones having wireless headsets. The sheath 12 preferably has a lower end 22 and an upper end 24. The upper end 24 preferably is open for insertion and storage of electronic audio producing or receiving apparatuses. The upper end 24 preferably carries a closure flap 26 for retaining an audio producing or receiving apparatus within the sheath 12. The closure flap 26 preferably secures to front 15 of the case 10 with a closure device 37 (FIG. 2), which is a hook and loop type fastener in the preferred embodiment, but also may involve snaps, magnets, buttons, and other suitable fasteners. The case 10 preferably is configured to hold a specific electronic audio producing or receiving apparatus or may be configured to hold a variety of similarly sized and shaped electronic audio producing or receiving apparatuses.

As shown in FIGS. 1-5, the sheath 12 preferably is coupled to one or more elongated elastic sleeves 28 for carrying a variety of accessory items. An elongated elastic sleeve 28 preferably is located on a side 17 of the case 10. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a relatively narrow headset sleeve 32 is formed by a strap 33 (FIG. 5) and the base surface 23 of case body 11. In this embodiment, the base surface 23 is the surface of sleeve 28, though it can be any other surface of case body 11. Strap 33 is preferably made of an elastic material and is coupled to elongated elastic sleeve 28. A first end 25 of strap 33 is attached to case body 11 at a first location 29, and a second end 27 is attached to case body 11 at a second location 31. Preferably, the first location and second location are spaced apart on said case body a distance such that said sleeve 32 is capable of receiving a headset when said elastic is stretched, and the elastic holds the headset to the case body when the elastic is released. The relatively narrow elastic strap portion 33 of headset sleeve 32 preferably is disposed horizontally across a mid-section of the elongated elastic sleeve 28. Other configurations are possible. The invention also includes a headset sleeve manipulation member 39, which in the preferred embodiment includes a loop 34 and a tab 36. Loop 34 is preferably a closed loop secured around the strap 33. The closed loop 34 preferably freely rotates around and can be moved along the strap 33, though the invention contemplates that it maybe attached to strap 33, for example, by stitching. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the closed loop 34 preferably carries a tab 36 for use in manipulating the sleeve 32 to open and close it and to manipulate closed loop 34 on to or off of an earpiece 18 as detailed below. Tab 36 preferably is also a closure mechanism for the closed loop 34 or preferably can be otherwise coupled to the closed loop 34. Loop 34 preferably is made of a woven or mesh fabric, plastic, or other suitable material and preferably is not elastic, though in some embodiments it could be elastic. The invention contemplates that loop 34 may be eliminated and tab 36 attached directly to strap 33; or the headset sleeve manipulation member 39 may be formed by other structures. The essential structure is a graspable tab of some sort which facilitates manipulation of the strap 33 and thus the headset sleeve 32.

FIG. 3 shows a headset 14 in exploded relationship to the carrying pouch body 10. The headset 14 preferably has a body portion 16 with a pivotally connected ear piece 18. Other headset 14 configurations preferably can be accommodated. In fact, the invention has been created with the flexibility to accommodate every presently known headset. The relatively narrow elastic sleeve 32 on the sheath 12 preferably is configured and sized to receive the body portion 16 of a headset 14. Headsets 14 preferably are normally located outside of portable carrying cases and preferably are intended for use in association with, but separated from, the audio producing or receiving apparatus. The headphones 14 preferably operate on a wireless basis, preferably without mechanical connection to the electronic device carried in sheath 12.

Sleeve manipulating member 39, and in particular tab 36, preferably is configured to be grasped by the thumb and forefinger of a user. As shown best in FIGS. 3 and 4, tab 36 preferably can be grasped and then pulled away from the case body 10 to create a gap between strap 33 and surface 23 of case body 11. The force on the tab 36 preferably extends both the relatively narrow elastic sleeve 32 and loop 34 into open positions. The open positions create gaps between the strap portion 33 and the surface 23 of sleeve 32 and the elongated elastic sleeve 28 and within the closed elastic, respectively. In some embodiments, it can also create a gap between the surface of side 17 and sleeve 28.

The earpiece 18 of the headset 14 preferably is inserted into the gap within loop 34. The earpiece 18 preferably can be inserted further into the gap within loop 34 until the earpiece 18 becomes wider than the gap within loop 34 or until an end of the earpiece 18 contacts loop 34. However, it is also contemplated by the invention that the headset body portion 16 can be inserted into sleeve 32 without inserting the earpiece 18 through loop 34.

With the relatively narrow sleeve 32 in an open position, the headset 14 preferably is inverted from its position in FIG. 3 so that the ear piece 18 is in a downward oriented position. The body 16 of the headset 14 preferably is simultaneously rotated, as shown by arrow 38, for insertion into sleeve 32. As shown in FIG. 5, the body 16 of headset 14 preferably is fully inserted into sleeve 32, and the earpiece 18 of headset 14 preferably is fully inserted into and secured by the loop 34.

The tab 36 preferably is then released. With the tab 36 released, the relatively narrow elastic sleeve 32 preferably asserts its full elastic tension on the body 16 of the headset 14 to hold the body 16 of the headset 14 securely against the elongated elastic sleeve 28 of the case body 10. At the same time, loop 34 preferably is wrapped around and asserts its full tension on the earpiece 18 of the headset 14. In FIG. 5, the headset 14, even though it is external to the carrying case 10, preferably is supported and secured against loss on the exterior of the carrying case 10. The headset system 14, and/or other headset systems, preferably can be connected to the carrying case 10 in other orientations than that shown, with either both the body 16 of the headset 14 and the earpiece 18 of the headset 14 fully inserted into the relatively narrow elastic sleeve 32 and the closed loop 34, respectively, and secured against loss, or only the body 16 inserted into sleeve 32.

Referring again to FIG. 5, a clip 42 is visible in profile on the back of carrying case 10. The clip 42 serves to secure the carrying case 10, including an audio producing or receiving apparatus and a headset 14, if any, to the belt, another article of clothing of a user, or to some other support when not in use.

The carrying case of FIGS. 1-5 and components thereof preferably are made of elastic material and capable of being expanded to receive relatively large objects.

FIGS. 6-8 show an alternative embodiment of a carrying case 100 according to the present invention. FIG. 6 shows case body 43, including a base plate 44 that preferably is relatively flat and preferably may have pockets or other openings for holding a variety of items. One or more straps 46 preferably cross surface 48 of the base 44 to form headset sleeves 49 and 51. The one or more straps 46 preferably are secured at opposite sides of the relatively flat surface 48 of the base 44 along the periphery 54 of the base plate 44. Case 100 also includes headset sleeve manipulation member 59. In the preferred embodiment, manipulation member 59 comprises loop 52 and tab 56. Stitching 50 is generally shown by dotted lines.

Preferably, two straps 46A and 46B cross the surface 48 of the base 44 at angles 45 and 47 to each other. If angles 45 and 47 are equal, i.e., ninety degrees, then the crossed straps 46A and 46B form two equally sized sleeves, 49 and 51, and the user will have the option of placing the headset in the case in either a vertically oriented sleeve or a horizontally oriented sleeve of substantially the same size. If angles 45 and 47 are unequal, then the user will have the option of two differently sized sleeves. Other configurations and angles are possible. A first end 71 of strap 46A is attached at first attachment location 72, a second end 73 of strap 46A is attached at a second location 74, a first end 75 of strap 46B is attached at a first location 76, and a second end 77 of strap 46B is attached at a second location 78. Preferably, the first locations 72, 76 and second locations 74, 78 are spaced apart on case body 43 a distance such that that the sleeves 49 and 51 are capable of receiving a headset when the elastic strap is stretched, and the elastic holds said headset to the case body when the elastic is released. Grooves 53 and 55 preferably are formed in surface 48. Grooves 53 and 55 preferably are formed at right angles to one another, but they may have other configurations also. The one or more straps 46 preferably can be manipulated by manipulation member 59 as discussed above with respect to manipulation member 39. Both straps 46A and 46B pass through closed loop 52. Closed loop 52 preferably is located at the intersection of the one or more straps 46. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the closed loop 52 preferably has a graspable tab 56 coupled to the closed loop 52. Tab 56 preferably closes the closed loop 52.

FIG. 7 shows a headset 58 inserted under the crossed straps 46 with the headset 58 in a vertical configuration. The headset 58 preferably has a body 60 and an earpiece 62. During insertion of the headset 58, tab 56 is grasped by the user, typically with a thumb and forefinger, and closed loop 52 and/or the tab 56 preferably are pulled away from the surface 48 of the base 44 by the user. The pulling of the closed loop 52 and/or the tab 56 creates a gap between the crossed straps 46 and surface 48 of the base 44 and a gap within the closed loop 52 thus opening the sleeves 49 and 51.

With the cross straps 46 in an open position, the body 60 of the headset 58 preferably is inserted into the gap between the cross straps 46 and the surface 48 of the base 44 in a vertically oriented position as shown in FIG. 7 or a horizontally oriented position as shown in FIG. 8. Arrows 63 and 65 show the direction of movement of the headset 58 in the insertion and removal process for the orientation of FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, respectively.

The tab 56 and/or the closed loop 52 preferably is then released. With the tab 56 and/or the closed loop 52 released, the cross straps 46 preferably assert full elastic tension on the body 60 of the headset 58 to hold the body 60 of the headset 58 securely against the relatively flat surface 48 of the base 44. If desired, the closed loop may be manipulated so that it slides over the end of earpiece 62, and, when released, the closed loop 52 preferably remains wrapped around and asserts its full tension on the earpiece 62 of the headset 58. The headset 58 preferably may be connected to the base 44 in other orientations than that shown.

Carrying case 100 preferably is a universal storage pouch for a variety of headsets with different sizes and configurations. The design of the carrying case is such that any currently known headset can be accommodated.

Grooves 53 and 55 serve several purposes. They act as a locator to assist in centering the headset in the case as it is being inserted. It can also provide pressure relief for certain buttons, such as 67, which are located on a broad side 69 of the headset 58. That is, some headsets have buttons, such as 67, which are used to operate some function of the headset. If the headset is inserted into the case 100 so that the button fits into groove 55, the pressure exerted by straps 46 will be absorbed by the broad side of the headset, rather than the button 67. This prevents the button from being pressed in by the surface 48 and the function activated.

FIG. 9 is a detail view of a clip 64 for securing a carrying case to a belt, strap, or other item 66. Clip 64 may be used with any of the embodiments of the case discussed herein. Clip 64 preferably secures the carrying case, including an audio producing or receiving apparatus in embodiments which include a sheath to contain audio producing or receiving apparatus, and/or the headset 58, to the belt, strap, or other item 66 when not in use. In the embodiment of FIGS. 6-8, clip 64 preferably is secured to a back side 68 of the base 44, but may be secured in other positions. The clip 64 preferably is strong enough to securely hold the carrying case in position during wearing and insertion/removal of the headset 58. Embodiments of the present invention preferably also include one or more interconnected external receivers for hanging other objects to the carrying case. The interconnected external receivers preferably have various configurations to accommodate various sizes and shapes of objects.

Side panels 17 and 19 of case body 11 are preferably made of an elastic fabric. Front panel 15, closure flap 26, and back support 21 preferably are made of a sturdy fabric, with a stiffening material inserted into back support 21. Such materials are well-known in the art, and thus will not be discussed in detail herein. Base 44 of carrying case 100 preferably is made of leather, vinyl, plastic, or other suitably stiff material. Straps 46 preferably are made of elastic material and capable of being expanded to receive the headsets. Loop 52 and tab 56 preferably are made of a fabric, such as a mesh fabric.

Although the foregoing description is directed to the preferred embodiments of the invention, it is noted that other variations and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and preferably may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Moreover, features described in connection with one embodiment of the invention preferably may be used in conjunction with other embodiments, even if not explicitly stated above. Additional features may be added also without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A carrying case apparatus comprising:

a case body,

one or more elastic straps with each said strap having a first end and a second end, said first end attached to said case body at a first attachment location, and said second end attached to said case body at a second attachment location, said case body and said strap forming a headset sleeve;

said first and second attachment locations of said strap ends being spaced apart on said case body a distance such that said headset sleeve is capable of receiving a headset when said elastic is stretched, and said elastic holds said headset to said case body when said elastic is released; and

a headset sleeve manipulation member adapted to be grasped by the fingers of a human hand, said member secured to said one or more straps.

2. A carrying case as in claim 1 wherein said manipulation member is secured to said one or more straps so that when it is pulled away from said case body, force can be applied to said strap at a location substantially equidistant between said first and second ends and in a direction away from said case body.

3. A carrying case as in claim 2, wherein said headset sleeve manipulation member comprises a closed loop encircling said one or more straps and a tab attached to said closed loop.

4. A carrying case as in claim 3 wherein said closed loop is movable along said one or more straps.

5. A carrying case as in claim 1 wherein there is one of said one or more straps.

6. A carrying case as in claim 1 wherein there are two of said one or more straps.

7. A carrying case as in claim 6 wherein said two straps are at an angle to one another.

8. A carrying case as in claim 7 wherein said angle is ninety degrees.

9. A carrying case as in claim 1 wherein said case body includes a sheath for receiving an electronic audio producing or receiving system, and said one or more straps are attached to said sheath.

10. A carrying case as in claim 1 wherein said case body includes an accessory sleeve coupled to said case body, and said one or more straps are attached to said sleeve.

11. A carrying case as in claim 1 wherein said case body comprises a base plate, and said one or more straps are attached to said plate.

12. A carrying case as in claim 11 wherein said first and second attachment locations are on or near the periphery of said plate.

13. A carrying case as in claim 12 wherein there are two of said straps crossing one another at an angle and said manipulation member comprises: a closed loop encircling said straps near the point where the straps cross; and a tab attached to said closed loop.

14. A carrying case as in claim 11 wherein there are one or more grooves formed in said plate.

15. A carrying case as in claim 1, and further comprising a clip for attaching said case to a support.

16. A method of carrying an audio headset comprising:

providing a carrying case comprising: a base surface and an elastic strap forming a sleeve, and a graspable tab secured to said elastic strap;

grasping said tab and pulling said elastic strap away from the base surface to create a gap between said strap and said base surface;

inserting a headset into said gap; and

releasing said tab to secure said headset between said one or more elastic bands and said base surface.

17. A method as in claim 16 wherein said inserting comprises locating at least a portion of said headset in a groove in said base surface.

18. A method as in claim 16, and further comprising locating said tab substantially equidistant between the ends of said elastic strap.

19. A method as in claim 16, and further comprising clipping said carrying case to an article of clothing.

20. A method as in claim 16 wherein said providing comprises providing said carrying case with two of said straps oriented at an angle to each other above said surface so that they cross, with said tab secured to both of said straps, and said grasping and pulling comprises pulling both of said straps away from said surface.