WATER RESISTANT BUOYANT CASE FOR A MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICE

Abstract

A water resistant and buoyant case is provided for a mobile electronic device. The case includes an enclosure sleeve defining an interior cavity and an opening at one end for form fittingly receiving the device, a watertight seal of the opening, a portion of the front side of the enclosures defined by a transparent, transmissive film, ports defined through the enclosure for transmission of sound and passage of electrical connectors and preventing water penetration into the interior cavity, and a buoyant cradle releasably secured to a backside and opposite ends of the enclosure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/075,663, filed Mar. 30, 2011, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/319,509, filed Mar. 31, 2010. These applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a protective case for a mobile electronic device, also commonly known as portable electronic devices and handheld devices, for example, smart cell phones and the like. More specifically, the present invention relates to a case that is form fitting to a mobile electronic device, wherein the case is water proof or resistant, and wherein the case when holding the mobile electronic device is buoyant in water.

Mobile electronic devices, such as cellular telephones, internet devices, and music players, are becoming more and more popular. Because mobile electronic devices provide the ability to communicate with others, provide access to information, or provide video and audio entertainment, people are taking mobile electronic devices to almost any place they go. Unfortunately, the outer casings of mobile electronic devices are often not water resistant or otherwise sealed to prevent damage to the sensitive electronics that make up the devices. Hence, accidents such as submersion of a mobile electronic device in water at a pool or at a beach are common place, and these accidents may end up rendering a device unusable. Moreover, the outer surfaces of mobile electronic devices are often made from materials that can be easily scratched.

Cases are often provided for mobile electronic devices in order to reduce the possibility of damaging the device from inadvertent contact with liquids, inadvertent drops, corrosion in high humidity environments, dropping, crushing, etc. Some of these cases are made to be water resistant, and some are further made to be buoyant in water. Some cases also provide air gaps, stiffeners and raised rims to cushion and absorb the impact shock of dropping and to resist crushing of the device. Such cases, however, are cumbersome, bulky, unattractive, and limit functionality. Thus, while there have been efforts to design aesthetically pleasing mobile electronic devices, the devices are often obscured in unattractive cases in order to ensure against accidental damage. Moreover, such bulky cases often cannot be held in convenient places such as shirt or pants pockets.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention may comprise one or more of the features recited in the attached claims, and/or one or more of the following features and combinations thereof.

The present invention provides a case for a mobile electronic device that can be relatively form fitting to the mobile electronic device, water resistant, and buoyant when encasing the mobile electronic device.

In one embodiment, a water resistant case is provided for a mobile electronic device. The case includes an enclosure that comprises (i) a first surface, (ii) a second surface opposite the first surface, (iii) a first chamber between the first and second surfaces, with the first chamber configured to receive the mobile electronic device, (iv) a second chamber containing a buoyant material, (v) an opening to the first chamber, and (vi) a first attachment structure provided on the first surface or the second surface at a position opposite to the first chamber. The case also includes a closure flap connected to the enclosure, with the closure flap including (i) an open end, (ii) a passage connecting the open end and the opening to the first chamber in the enclosure, (iii) a sealable structure that can provide a watertight seal to the passage, and (iv) a second attachment structure. The closure flap is movable between a position extended from the enclosure for receiving the mobile electronic device through the open end of the closure flap, to a folded position where the closure flap is positioned adjacent to the enclosure and where the second attachment structure on the closure flap is positioned to the first attachment structure on the enclosure.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, a buoyant waterproof case is provided adapted to receive a mobile electronic device, the case comprising (i) an enclosure having a front side and a backside and defining a cavity therebetween, the enclosure having a first and second end, the second end open for slidingly and form-fittedly receiving into the cavity the device therethrough, a portion of the front side of the enclosure defined by a transparent film that enables finger stroke communication with the device's display panel through the film, and a backside of the enclosure; (ii) a closure cap enclosing the second end of the enclosure; (iii) a sleeve coupled to the opening of the enclosure, the sleeve releasably and watertight sealingly coupling the closure cap to the enclosure; (iv) a detachable buoyancy cradle having a buoyant panel, a first cap extending upward from a first side and first end of the panel, and a second cap extending upward from a second side and a second end of the panel, at least one of the first and second cap outwardly flexible to receive and retain the first end and the second end of the enclosure, releasably securing the panel against a backside of the enclosure.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, a buoyant waterproof case is provided adapted to receive a mobile electronic device, the case comprising (i) a enclosure having a front side and a backside and defining a cavity therebetween, the enclosure having a first and second end, the second end open for slidingly and form-fittedly receiving into the cavity the device therethrough, a portion of the front side of the enclosure defined by a transparent film that enables finger stroke communication with the device's display panel through the film, and a backside of the enclosure; (ii) a closure sized for enclosing the second end of the enclosure; (iii) a sleeve coupled to the opening of the enclosure, the sleeve releasably and watertight sealingly coupling the closure cap to the enclosure; (iv) a detachable buoyancy cradle having a panel, a first cap extending upward from a first side and first end of the panel, and a second cap extending upward from a second side and a second end of the panel, at least one of the first and second cap outwardly flexible to receive and retain the first end and the second end of the enclosure, releasably securing the panel against a backside of the enclosure.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, a buoyant waterproof case adapted to receive a mobile electronic device, includes (i) a sleeve having a front side and a backside and defining a cavity therebetween, the enclosure having a first and second end, the first end closed and the second end defining an opening for slidingly receiving into the cavity the device therethrough, a portion of the front side of the enclosure defined by a transparent film; (ii) at least one port defined through the sleeve; (iii) a sealing structure providing a watertight seal of the opening at the second end; and (iv) a buoyant structure having a panel releasably secured to a backside of the sleeve.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view of a back side of a case according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a view of the front side of the case shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a view of an end of the case shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is view of the case shown in FIG. 1 in an open position to receive the mobile electronic device.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the case shown in FIG. 1 holding a mobile electronic device.

FIG. 6 is a view of the back side of a case according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the case shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the mobile electronic device being inserted in the case shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is a top cross-sectional view of the mobile electronic device being inserted in the case shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a case according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the case shown in FIG. 10 with its three detachable components disassembled from each other.

FIG. 12 is an exploded front perspective view of the enclosure portion of the case shown in FIG. 10 with its main components disassembled from each other.

FIG. 13 is an exploded rear perspective view of the enclosure portion of the case shown in FIG. 10 with its main components disassembled from each other.

FIG. 14 is an exploded left side perspective view of the enclosure portion of the case shown in FIG. 10 with its main components disassembled from each other.

FIG. 15 is a partial view of the bottom half of the enclosure portion of the case shown in FIG. 10 with the bezel coupled into the main shell and the closure cap disassembled into its components.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the enclosure portion of the case shown in FIG. 10.

FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 17E, and 17F are front view, back view, left side view, right side view, top view, and bottom view, respectively, of the enclosure portion of the case shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of the buoyancy unit of the case shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of a mobile electronic device being inserted in the enclosure portion of the case shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of the enclosure portion of the case shown in FIG. 10 being inserted into the buoyancy unit.

FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of a case according to another embodiment of the invention, showing the main components disassembled from each other.

FIG. 22 is a side perspective view of the case shown in FIG. 21 with its main components disassembled from each other.

FIG. 23 is a rear perspective view of the case shown in FIG. 21 with its main components disassembled from each other.

FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of the enclosure portion of the case shown in FIG. 21 snapped onto the buoyancy unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention relates to a case for a mobile electronic device. Mobile electronic devices include, for example, cellular telephones, portable music players, GPS devices, and small computing devices. The enclosure portion is configured to be relatively form fitting to the device, configured to be water resistant, and when coupled with the buoyancy cradle, the case holding the mobile electronic device is buoyant in water.

A case according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 1-5. In general, the case 10 includes a enclosure 12 and a closure flap 14. As will be explained below, a mobile electronic device is inserted through the closure flap 14 to the inside of the enclosure 12 when the closure flap 14 is extended away from the enclosure 12. Then, the closure flap 12 is folded adjacent to the enclosure 12 to enclose the mobile electronic device.

The enclosure 12 includes a front surface 16, a back surface 18, and side surfaces 20, 22, and 24 between the front surface 16 and the back surface 18. A first chamber 30 for receiving the mobile electronic device is formed between the surfaces 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24. The enclosure 12 also includes an opening 26 to the first chamber 30. As shown in FIG. 1, the first chamber 30 is bounded inside the enclosure 12 by a first side wall 32, a second side wall 34, and an end wall 36.

The first chamber 30 may be sized and shaped to receive multiple types of mobile electronic devices, or specifically sized and shaped to receive a particular type of mobile electronic device. For example, the first chamber 30 is specifically configured to receive a mobile device sold under the trademark IPHONE, by Apple, Inc., of Cupertino, Calif., in one embodiment, while in another embodiment the first chamber 30 is specifically configured to receive a mobile device sold under the trademark DROID by Motorola, Inc., of Schaumburg, Ill. Of course, configurations for other specific types of mobile electronic devices will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

A second chamber 38 is provided in the enclosure 12. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the second chamber 38 is formed between the sides 20, 22, and 24 of the enclosure 12 and the walls 32, 24, and 36 that bound the first chamber 30. The second chamber 38 is provided with a buoyant material such that the case 10 will float in water when a mobile electronic device is inserted into the first chamber 30. In some embodiments, the buoyant material is air. In alternative embodiments, the buoyant material is a solid material such as foam or cork. Of course, the buoyant material could also be a combination of air and the solid material. Those skilled in the art will recognize that a variety of other materials and combinations of materials could be used at the buoyant material in the second chamber 38.

It should be noted that while in the depicted case 10 the second chamber 38 is partially formed by the walls of the enclosure 20 and partially formed by the walls that bound first chamber 30, in other embodiments the second chamber 38 is configured as its own structure, separate from the other parts of the case 10. The second chamber 38 containing the buoyant material can be, for example, an inflated article inserted in the enclosure 12. In such embodiments, the case 10 may still include the walls 32, 34, and 36 bounding the first chamber 30, or the walls 32, 34, and 36 could be eliminated and the inflated article containing the buoyant material could form the bounds of the first chamber 30.

The case 10, and in particular, the second chamber 38 with the buoyant material, is sized and configured such that the case 10, when containing the mobile electronic device, will be buoyant in water. More precisely, and as will be recognized by those skilled in the art, in order to be buoyant Archimedes principle and the principles of naval architecture will inform the selection of the buoyant material and the configuration of the case 10.

In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-5, the second chamber 38 is configured as a singular chamber that extends adjacent to the sides 20, 22, and 24 of the enclosure 12. In alternative embodiments, the second chamber 38 is divided into multiple chambers. For example, three separate chambers can make up the second chamber, with each of the separate chambers being provided along one of the sides of the enclosure 12. In still other embodiments, the second chamber is only provided in part of the area of the depicted second chamber 38. For example, in one embodiment a second chamber is provided as one chamber adjacent to the side 20 of the enclosure 12 and as another chamber adjacent to the side 24 of the enclosure 12, but no part of the second chamber is included at the side 22 of the enclosure 12.

As noted above, the case 10 includes a closure flap 14 adjacent to the opening 26 to the first chamber 30. The closure flap 14 is movable between a position where the closure flap 14 is extended away from the enclosure 12 (FIGS. 3 and 4), to a folded position where the closure flap 14 is adjacent to the surface 18 of the enclosure 12 (FIGS. 1, 2, and 5). As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in the extended position the closure flap 14 is formed so as to provide an opening 40 and a passage 42 leading to the opening 26 to the first chamber 30. The mobile electronic device can be inserted through the opening 40 and passage 42 to the first chamber 30 when the closure flap 14 is in the extended position. Also, as will be further discussed below, the enclosure 12 may be constructed from a plastic material. With such a construction, the elasticity of the plastic allows for easy insertion of the mobile electronic device through the closure flap 14.

The closure flap 14 includes a sealing structure 46 capable of blocking water from passing through the passage 42 to the opening 30 to the first chamber 30, i.e., a watertight seal. The sealing structure 46 can be further configured to provide an airtight seal. In the depicted case 10, the sealing structure 46 includes interlocking fastening strips 48 and 50. While this arrangement can provide a watertight seal when the first fastening strip 48 is engaged with the second fastening strip 50, the fastening strips 48 and 50 can also be separated when the closure flap 12 is opened to insert or to remove the mobile electronic device from the case 10. In other embodiments, multiple pairs of interlocking strips may be provided to further ensure a watertight and/or airtight seal. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that there are suitable alternatives to the depicted fastening strips 48 and 50 that could be used to provide the seal, such as a zipper similar to structures that are used in resealable food storage bags.

The closure flap 14 also includes an attachment structure 52. When the closure flap 14 is folded over to a position adjacent to surface 18 of the enclosure 12, the attachment structure 52 on the closure flap 14 is positioned to a corresponding attachment structure 54 provided on the surface 18 of the enclosure 12. The attachment structures 52 and 54 hold the closure flap 42 in the folded position. In one embodiment, the attachment structures 52 and 54 are a hook and loop combination, such as VELCRO® by Velcro USA, Inc. of Manchester, N.H. In other embodiments, the attachment structures can take a variety of other forms, such as buttons, zippers, or adhesive structures.

As can be seen in FIG. 5, when the closure flap 14 is positioned adjacent to the enclosure 12, the case 10 as a whole is compact and relatively form fitting to the contained mobile electronic device. The configuration of the case 10 with the attachment structure 52 on the foldable closure flap 14 and the corresponding positioning of the attachment structure 54 on the surface 18 of the enclosure 12 results in a configuration that does not have a bulky closure structure separated from the rest of the case. In other words, the positioning of the closure flap 14 such that it overlaps with the first chamber 16 when the mobile electronic device is contained in the case 10 allows the case 10 to more closely match the size of the mobile electronic device.

As can be seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, the enclosure 12 and closure flap 14 are formed from a continuous piece of material, i.e., the enclosure 12 and the closure flap 14 are integral to each other. In other embodiments, the enclosure 20 and closure flap 14 are formed from separate materials, and subsequently joined together in manufacturing the case. For example, when the enclosure 12 and the closure flap 14 are formed from separate plastic materials, the enclosure 12 and the closure flap 14 can be heat sealed together. The plastic materials for forming the case will be further discussed below.

The case 10 includes a port 56 for providing an operative connection between a structure outside the enclosure 12 and the mobile electrical device contained in the enclosure 12. The port 56 can be configured, for example, to connect electrical cords such as audio cables or power cords to the contained mobile electronic device. A plug 58 provides a watertight seal to the port 56 when the port 56 is not in use. Moreover, the port 56 is configured to be watertight when receiving an electrical cord. In some embodiments, a watertight seal is achieved by providing a gasket structure in the port 56 that seals against electrical cabling provided through the port 56. In still other embodiments, the port 56 is configured to receive the operative end of the cabling, but there is not a passage extending all the way through the port 56, thereby preventing water from entering the case. In such a configuration, a separate cabling is provided from a portion of port 56 inside the enclosure 12 for connection to the device inside the case 10. As a specific example, the outside of the port 56 can be configured to receive the jack at the end of a headphone cable, and a second cable is provided from a portion of the port 56 inside the case. The other end of the second cable inside the case includes a jack for insertion in an audio port in the mobile electronic device contained in the case 10, thereby establishing an operative connection between the headphones and the contained mobile electronic device.

It should be noted that while the depicted port 56 is provided at a position on a side surface 20 of the enclosure 12 adjacent to the closure flap 14, the port 56 can also be provided at other positions on the enclosure 12 or on the closure flap 14. In specific embodiments, the port 56 is positioned to be close to the position of operative structures on the particular mobile electronic device that the case 10 is designed to contain. For example, the port 56 can be provided at a position on the enclosure 12 that is proximate to the position of an audio jack in the type of mobile electronic device to be inserted in the case. It should also be noted that other embodiments of the case do not include any port. Without a port, an operative connection could still be provided to the contained mobile device, for example using Bluetooth® technology made by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group of Kirkland, Wash.

In still further examples, the case 10 includes a compressible material, such as felt, which lines one or more of the walls of the first chamber 30. The compressible material allows for easy insertion of the device, while still preventing a loose fit that would allow the device to rattle between the walls of the first chamber 30. Also, additional shock resistant inserts can also be provided inside the case 10.

An alternative embodiment of a case according to the invention is shown in FIGS. 6-9. In this embodiment, the enclosure 100 includes a front surface 102, a back surface 104, and side surfaces 106 and 108, with the surfaces forming an enclosed chamber 105 in which the electronic device 200 is received. The enclosure 100 also includes a closed end 110 and a closure flap 112, as will be described below.

The enclosure 100 is constructed from a flexible plastic material. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the flexible plastic material is configured and sized such that the front surface 102, back surface 104, and side sides 106 and 108, stretch from a reduced size to an extended size upon insertion of the electronic device 200 into the enclosure 100. As such, the enclosure 100 fits tightly around the mobile electronic device 200 along the front and back surfaces 102 and 104, and along the sides 106 and 108. In effect, the enclosure 100 forms a tight-fitting sleeve around the device 200.

A buoyant structure 114 is provided adjacent to the closed end 110 of the enclosure 100. In some embodiments, the buoyant structure 114 is a piece of buoyant material, such as foam or cork. In other embodiments, the buoyant structure 114 is a container filled with a buoyant material, such as an air-filled bag. The buoyant structure 114 may either be attached to the inside of the enclosure 100, or provided as a separate piece inserted into the enclosure 100. Like the other depicted embodiment described above, the enclosure 100 and buoyant structure 114 are sized and configured such that the enclosure 100 is buoyant in water when containing the mobile electronic device 200.

As shown in FIG. 6, the buoyant structure 114 is configured to extend to no greater than the distance A between the sides 106 and 108 when the enclosure 100 is stretched to receive the mobile electronic device 200. In this manner, the enclosure 100 is sized to closely match the width W of the mobile electronic device 200, with the buoyant structure not adding any additional width to the enclosure 100. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the buoyant structure 114 is configured to extend no greater than the distance B between sides 102 and 104 when the enclosure is stretched to receive the mobile electronic device 200. As such, the enclosure 100 is sized to closely match the height H of the mobile electronic device 200, with the buoyant structure 114 not adding any additional height to the enclosure 100. It should be noted, however, that while the depicted embodiment shows the buoyant structure 114 matching both the width W and the height H of the contained mobile electronic device 100, in alternative embodiments the buoyant structure 114 could be made larger than one of these two dimensions of the mobile electronic device 100.

The enclosure 100 includes a closure flap 112 at the end opposite to the closed end 110. The closure flap 112 is similar to the closure flap in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-5 and described above. The closure flap 112 is movable between an extended position for receiving the mobile electronic device through an opening 113 (FIGS. 8 and 9), to a folded position when the device is contained in the enclosure 100 (FIGS. 6 and 7). The closure flap 112 includes a sealing structure 115 for providing a watertight and/or airtight seal to the opening 113. As shown in FIG. 7, the closure flap 112 also includes an attachment structure 116 that is positioned to an attachment structure 118 on the back surface 104 of the enclosure 100 when the closure flap 112 is folded adjacent to the rest of the enclosure 100. The sealing structure 115 and the attachment structures 116 and 118 may be configured similar to the sealing structure and attachment structures in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-5 and described above.

The enclosure 100 also includes a port 120 and a corresponding plug 122. The port 120 is configured to receive electrical cords as with the port in the embodiment described above. Notably, in this embodiment, the port 120 is provided on the closure flap 112. Again, however, the port 120 can be provided at other positions on the enclosure 100.

Another alternative embodiment of a water resistant, buoyant case for a mobile electronic device according to the invention herein is shown in FIGS. 10-20. As shown in FIG. 10, the case 300 of this embodiment comprises an enclosure 302 and a buoyancy portion or cradle 304. FIG. 10 depicts the enclosure 302 and the buoyancy cradle 304 assembled together to jointly form the case 300. For the sake of illustration, the enclosure 302 of this embodiment as shown in FIGS. 10-20 is specifically slimly configured to receive form-fittedly, a specific mobile electronic device 200 (FIG. 19), for example, a mobile electronic device sold under the trademark IPHONE by Apple, Inc., of Cupertino, Calif. The buoyancy cradle 304 is also specifically configured to slimly and form-fittingly sized to receive the enclosure 302. It is to be understood that the case 300 can alternatively be specifically slimily and form-fittedly configured (i.e., in regard to shape and size, and in regard to the location of the various below described features) to receive a variety of other mobile electronic devices, as would be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

FIG. 11 is a front-left side perspective view of the illustrative case 300, showing the enclosure 302 and the buoyancy cradle 304 disassembled from each other. FIG. 11 also shows the enclosure 302 disassembled into its constituent parts, comprising an enclosure sleeve 306 for receiving the mobile electronic device 200, and an end closure cap 307, for enclosing the mobile electronic device inside the enclosure sleeve 306 and providing a water-tight seal. Additionally, enclosure sleeve 306 is itself comprised of two main components: a main shell 308, and an attachment 309. These components are coupled with each other, e.g., by pressing, molding, gluing, or otherwise coupling them together, as discussed below.

Main shell 308 can be made of a variety of materials known in the art, suitable for enclosing mobile electronic devices 200. However, as contemplated herein, main shell 308 is can made of either a flexible or a rigid body material. Illustrative of the flexible body material that can be used are moldable plastics such as thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), and the like. Alternatively, the flexible body material may be made of a silicone-type material. Illustrative of the rigid body material that can be used are moldable materials such as rigid thermoplastic polyurethanes (RTPU), polycarbonates, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) copolymers, polycarbonate/ABS blends, and the like and the like. However, it is understood that any other suitable flexible or rigid molded or extruded materials known in the art may be used as well. Flexible is defined as capable of at least one of bending, stretching, and/or compressing, and returning to its original shape, without breaking Rigid is defined as unable to bend, stretch, or compress out of shape without breaking.

Main shell 308 includes a front side 310 and a backside 312 defining a cavity 311 therebetween. A portion of the front side 310 of main shell 308 defines an opening 313 that is spanned by a transparent, flexible film 315, as shown in FIGS. 12-16. Transparent film 315 has the general shape of the mobile electronic device's touchscreen 202, and its size can be at least about equal to that of the device's touchscreen, which enables finger stroke communication with the device's touchscreen through the film. Referring to FIG. 19, communication with the device's home button 204 or other mechanically actuated switch on the face 206 of the device 200 is also enabled through transparent film 315, optionally including, e.g., a marking, protrusion or depression 316 at the location of the home button, as shown in FIG. 16. Transparent film 315 may be made of any suitable material known in the art that is transmissive of pressure, thermal, capacitive, or other finger or stylus interaction sensed by the technology utilized by the touchscreen 202 of the device 200. Illustrative of this material are materials well-known in the art such as those sold under the trademark MYLAR and MELINEX by Dupont Teijin Films, of Chester, Va.), or other similar BoPET or other polyester films, and the like. In one aspect of this embodiment, transparent film 315 is co-molded, overmolded, or glued to main shell 308, providing a water-tight seal for opening 313.

Referring to FIG. 12, main shell 308 also includes a closed first end 318 and an open second end 320, and also a left side wall 322 and a right side wall 324. Side walls 322 and 324 may optionally include a series of ridges or ribs 326 for easy, non-slippery gripping of the case 300. Additionally, the main shell 308 and closure cap 307 can include one or more ports therethrough. The ports can provide for a an electrical cable connection therethrough, for example, selectively unpluggable to allow connection therethrough of an audio connector and cable to plug into an underlying audio jack of the device 200, closed with a micro-screen that allows transmission of sound therethough with an underlying speaker or microphone of the device and that prevents the penetration (passage) of water therethrough, and closed with a watertight flexible membrane allowing for the actuating therethrough of an underlying switch of the device.

For example, in the illustrative embodiment of case 300, left side wall 322 includes membrane actuators 328 overlying the location of the device's volume or other mechanical switches (not shown). The actuators 328 include either a depression, protrusion, or other tactile or visual locator defined in main shell 308. Referring to FIG. 14, membrane actuators 328 may include a central member 329a and a web 329b that encircles the central member. Advantageously, the web 329b can be highly flexible, connecting the central member 329a to the wall 322, while allowing axially inward translation of central member 329a relative to the case 300 and the device 200. Central member 329a can be a stiffer, inwardly and/or outwardly protruding member. Thus, pushing on the membrane actuators 328 allows translation of mechanical pressure to the underlying volume or other device switches. Left side wall 322 may also optionally include a protrusion or depression with a flexible membrane actuator 330 at the location of the device's mute (i.e., ring/silent) or other switch, which may allow for actuating the device switch on and off through the flexible membrane. Closed first end 318 can also include a membrane actuator 332 (see FIG. 17E) at the location of the on/off (i.e., sleep/wake) or other function switch of the device. Such membrane actuators can also be located at other portions of case 300 depending on the location of the switches or other interface features of the device 200. The membrane actuators 328 and 332 can be pressed, molded, glued, or otherwise coupled with the enclosure sleeve 306 or closure cap 307.

Additionally, the closure cap 307, specifically 360, can includes a port 364 (FIG. 12) for providing an operative access to the mobile electronic device's headset jack. In the illustrative example, the port 364 can be located to coincide with the device's headset jack. In one embodiment, port 364 includes a female thread configured for coupling with a screw plug 344 and an O-ring gasket 345 made of rubber or silicone material, and the like. Mounting gasket 345 onto screw plug 344 and driving screw plug 344 all the way into the female threaded well 343 provides a watertight seal for port 364 when the port is not in use. Threaded recess 369, for example, formed in the 360 of closure cap 307, can provide a location to screw in plug 344 for storage while the port 364 is in use. In an alternative embodiment (not shown) plug 344 is pressed or snapped into port 364 to provide a watertight seal for port 364 when the port is not in use. It is understood herein that port 364 may alternatively be configured to provide a watertight connection to a headphone cable in a manner similar to that described earlier in regard to port 56 of case 10 above. It is also understood that the location and configuration of port 364 may be specifically designed to be compatible with other devices than the illustrative device herein. For example, such ports 364 can also be located at other portions of case 300 and for other uses, depending on the location and type of the electrical connector, jack, or other interface features of the device 200.

Backside 312 (FIGS. 12-13) includes a properly sized opening 333 at the location of the rear camera lens of the device. Opening 333 is sealed with a transparent, clear lens 334. Lens 334 may be manufactured from suitable materials such as a polycarbonate polymeric material, and is affixed into opening 333 in a watertight manner by methods well known in the art, such as by overmolding or gluing the lens to the backside 312.

Attachment 309 (herein referred to interchangeably as bezel 309) is an attachment device open at both ends, and includes two opposite pointing flanges 350 and 352 defining an inner cavity 354 therebetween. Flange 350 is configured for coupling with main shell 308 by insertion into the open second end 320, as discussed below. Flange 352 is also configured for coupling with closure cap 307, as discussed below.

Bezel 309 can be constructed of a rigid plastic material, creating a hard body into which the closure cap 307 snaps, as discussed below. Illustrative of this rigid plastic material are materials well-known in the art such as rigid thermoplastic polyurethanes (RTPU), various polycarbonates, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) copolymers, polycarbonate/ABS blends, and the like. Flanges 350 and 352 may optionally have identical shapes and dimensions relative to each other, or have different shapes and dimensions relative to each other. Additionally, the inner cavity 354 is configured such as to allow the mobile electronic device to slide through cavity 354 easily. Each of flanges 350 and 352 may optionally also include one or more gaskets or ridges 355, which help to provide a watertight fit when the flanges are coupled with their respective counterparts, as discussed below. Flange 350 is shaped and dimensioned so that, when inserted into the open second end 320 of main shell 308, it fits precisely and tightly around the interior diameter of main shell 308. In one preferred aspect of the invention, flange 350 of bezel 309 is co-molded or glued into the open second end 320 of main shell 308, providing a permanent, water-tight union between main shell 308 and bezel 309 (see FIGS. 11 and 15). In an alternative aspect of the invention, flange 350 of bezel 309 is fitted with a gasket, illustratively, a silicone or rubber gasket, and the like, and pressed into the open second end 320 of main shell 308, providing a water-tight union between main shell 308 and bezel 309.

Closure cap 307 can include two components: a lid 360, and a seal 362. Lid 360 may be constructed from a rigid or flexible material that is the same or similar to the material used in making bezel 309 or enclosure sleeve 306. Lid 360 includes a flange 365 configured to fit tightly into the interior cavity of seal 362, as discussed below. Lid 360 also includes an all-around groove 367 (not shown) formed between the crown 366 of the lid and flange 365 and into which a portion of the seal 362 and flange 352 are received.

Seal 362 is a sleeve gasket made out of materials suitable for providing a water-tight environment. Illustrative of such materials are various silicone or thermoplastic urethane (TPU) materials, and the like. Seal 362 is configured in size and shape to fit tightly and sealingly onto the exterior of flange 365 of lid 360. Also, seal 362 and flange 365 of lid 360, when they are coupled together to form closure cap 307, they are sized so as to fit tightly and sealingly into the inside cavity 354 of flange 352 of bezel 309, creating a water-tight seal. Likewise, groove 367 is sized to fit tightly and sealingly onto the exterior of flange 352 of bezel 309, creating a water-tight seal.

Closure cap 307 can also include two ports 368, formed in the end of crown 366, on the opposite side relative to flange 365. These ports can be located to coincide with the mobile electronic device's bottom microphone and/or speaker, respectively. These ports are covered with ultrafine or micro mesh screens that allow sound to pass through but prevent water from penetrating through at low pressure. For example, a preferred screen apertures allow transmission of sound but prevent water from penetrating at the low, near atmospheric pressure typical at or near the top surface of a body of water into which the case 300 enclosing the device Illustratively, the ultrafine mesh screen may be made of various polyethylene and/or similar polymeric materials well known in the art, or treated fabrics, such as 100% polyester oxford fabrics with a waterproof polyurethane coating, including part numbers 210D, 110G/M2 and 300D, 195G/M2, available from Shaoxing Xiezhong Import and Export Company Ltd, Zhejiang, China. Additionally, an added coating can be used on the exterior or interior of the case 300, including overall, or selective components or areas, for example, the area of or on the mesh, including for example a flexible rubber spray coating, for example, sold under the trademark LEAKSEAL by Rust-Oleum Corp. of Vernon Hills, Ill.

FIGS. 16 and 17 show various views of the enclosure 302 of the foregoing embodiment, with the enclosure sleeve 306 and closure cap 307 snapped (or coupled) together. FIG. 16 is a front-left side perspective view of the enclosure 302, and FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 17E, and 17F are front view, back view, left side view, right side view, top view, and bottom view, respectively, of the enclosure 302. A mobile electronic device enclosed within the enclosure 302 would be protected from potential damage due to water exposure, because of the water-tight coupling of enclosure sleeve 306 and closure cap 307.

In the illustrative embodiment, the relative dimensions and form of the enclosure sleeve 306, cavity 311, and enclosure cap 307 of the enclosure 302 preferably minimize and/or lack air and other cushion gaps, stiffeners, and raised rims in order to provide the slimmest, form-fitting watertight enclosure practical for a particular mobile electronic device 200.

In regard to the buoyancy cradle 304, herein referred to interchangeably as buoyancy unit 304, FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of this unit disassembled from the enclosure 302. This unit may be made of any suitable, foam materials known in the art that have low density relative to water. Illustrative of such materials is the foamy material commonly known as softbone, and the like, for example, lightweight, water resistant closed cell foam or coated open cell foam commonly used in buoyancy devices. In one aspect, this foam material may be a two-material type of foam that is soft, with a more durable, shiny coating on the outside.

The buoyancy unit or cradle 304 is manufactured to have the form of a boat or cradle (FIG. 18), shaped and sized to fit tightly around the enclosure 302. Illustrative buoyancy cradle 304 comprises an integrally formed back panel 370, first cap 372 extending upward from a first side and first end of the panel, and second cap 374 extending upward from a second side and a second end of the panel. In one aspect, at least one of the first cap 372 and second cap 374 is outwardly flexible relative to the other in order to receive and retain the first end and the second end of the enclosure 302, releasably securing the panel 370 against backside 312 of the enclosure 302. The volume of material with which the buoyancy cradle 304 is formed so that when coupled with the enclosure 302 containing the particular mobile electronic device 200, the buoyant material displaces sufficient water to float the case 300 near the surface of a body of water, rather than allowing the case to sink.

Advantageously, the cradle-like design of buoyancy cradle 304 having a relatively flat panel 370 located adjacent a backside 312 of the enclosure 302 and coupling the caps 372 and 374, provides for open space along one or both the sides 322 and 324 for gripping and for actuation of the device 200 switches. Additionally, the second cap 374 of buoyancy unit 304 may have two through-ports 375. These two ports are of similar shape and size to the shape and size of ports 368 of closure cap 307, and are located so as to coincide with the location of ports 368 of closure cap 307, when the enclosure 302 is placed into the buoyancy unit 304. Likewise, the first cap 372 of buoyancy unit 304 has a through-port 376 of similar shape, size and location to the shape, size and location of the depression or protrusion 332 in enclosure 302, thus allowing the user to access the on/off switch of the device 200 without having to disassemble the buoyancy unit 304 from the enclosure 302. Also, the first cap 372 of buoyancy unit 304 has a through-port 377 of appropriate shape, size and location to allow access to the earphone jack port 364 of enclosure 302. Furthermore, the back panel 370 of buoyancy unit 304 may optionally have a through-port 378 of appropriate shape, size and location to allow use of the rear camera of the device without having to disassemble the buoyancy unit 304 from the enclosure 302.

FIG. 19 shows a representation of a mobile electronic device slid partway into the enclosure sleeve 306 of the enclosure 302. Thus, a person using the water resistant, buoyant case 300 of the invention herein would simply slide the mobile electronic device through the bezel 309 all the way into the enclosure sleeve 306, then snap or press the closure cap 307 on, to enclose and seal the device inside, protecting it from exposure to water.

FIG. 20 is a schematic that shows a method of installing the buoyancy unit 304 onto the enclosure 302, by angling the top end of the enclosure 302 into the top end of buoyancy unit 304, then flexing and distorting the foam and lifting it up onto the bottom of the enclosure 302.

Another alternative embodiment of a case 400 according to the invention herein is shown in FIGS. 21-24. In this embodiment, the enclosure 302 portion of the case 400 is essentially the same as case 302 described in the previous embodiment, except that it is depicted in FIGS. 21-24 to be fitted with the alternative port represented in FIG. 12A. The main difference between this embodiment of the case 400 and the preceding embodiment of the case 300 is in the buoyancy unit 401. Thus, instead of the cradle- or boat-shaped foamy buoyancy unit 304, a snap-on buoyancy unit is employed, as discussed in the following.

Referring now to FIGS. 21-23, a rigid panel 402 is provided comprising a main flat surface having the shape and dimensions of the backside 312 of the enclosure 302. Panel 402 also comprises two semi-rigid elongate clips 404 that project in the same direction from the opposite narrow ends of the panel 402, that are parallel to one another, and that are perpendicularly disposed relative to the panel 402. Additionally, each of the two clips 404 includes a small, inwardly pointing tooth 406 (FIG. 22) close to its tip. Rigid panel 402 is configured in such a manner that, when it is pressed flush against the backside of the enclosure 302, the ends of the enclosure spring the clips 404 outwardly until the teeth 406 of the clips 404 snap into grooves 408 (not shown) on opposite ends of the enclosure 302. It is understood herein that the two clips 404 and the corresponding grooves 408 may be located at alternate locations than the foregoing, as would be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

In accordance with this embodiment, a foam pad 410 (FIGS. 21-23) is also provided possessing a surface shape and dimensions identical with those of the backside of panel 402. Foam pad 410 is permanently attached to the rear surface of panel 402 by any suitable means known in the art, such as by use of a suitable glue or adhesive, and the like. Once coupled together, panel 402 and foam pad 410 together form the buoyancy unit 401 of the present embodiment. Thus, as shown in FIG. 24, the buoyancy unit 401, consisting of the coupled panel 402 and foamy pad 410, snaps onto the enclosure 302. It is understood herein that the buoyancy unit 401 may optionally include a through-port of appropriate shape, size and location to allow use of the rear camera of the device without having to disassemble the buoyancy unit from the enclosure 302.

Panel 402 may be manufactured of any suitable rigid plastic material known in the art, which may be the same as or similar to the material used to manufacture closure cap 307 and/or bezel 309, i.e., including various polycarbonates, ABS copolymers, polycarbonate/ABS blends, and the like. Foamy pad 410 may be manufactured of any suitable low density material known in the art, which may be the same as or similar to the material used to manufacture cradle 304 of the preceding embodiment. It is understood that foamy pad 310 must possess sufficient thickness to provide buoyancy in water for the entire case of this embodiment including a mobile electronic device enclosed therein.

As indicated above, an enclosure according to embodiments of the invention can be made from flexible and/or rigid plastic materials. The plastic can be formed from polymers such as polyurethane or polyethylene, and the like. Such plastics are water resistant, and also resistant to tears and punctures. It should be noted that the term water resistant, as used herein, encompasses the term “water proof,” and accordingly a water proof material qualifies as water resistant material. Additionally, the thickness of the plastic material for the case can readily be optimized to achieve desirable properties.

The plastic material used to form an enclosure and other portions of a case according to the invention can be a substantially transparent material so that the mobile electronic device is visible inside the case. Alternatively, the enclosure and other portions of the case can be selectively or entirely opaque. Further, the plastic material can be constructed such that at least a front surface of the enclosure adjacent to a touch screen interface of the mobile electronic device is conductive of finger strokes so that the device can be operated through the front surface of the enclosure. In alternative embodiments, while the area of the enclosure adjacent to the operative interface of the device is substantially transparent and conductive of finger strokes, the other areas of the enclosure and other portions of the case can be made colored and possibly include artistic designs.

Although this invention has been described in certain specific exemplary embodiments, many additional modifications and variations would be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. It is, therefore, to be understood that this invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. Thus, the exemplary embodiments of the invention should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive, and the scope of the invention to be determined by any claims supportable by this application and the equivalents thereof, rather than by the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A buoyant waterproof case adapted to receive a mobile electronic device having a touchscreen, the case comprising:

an enclosure having a front side and a backside and defining a cavity therebetween, the enclosure having a first and second end, the second end defining an opening for slidingly and form-fittedly receiving into the cavity the device therethrough, a portion of the front side of the enclosure defined by a transparent film that enables finger stroke communication with the device's touchscreen through the film;

a closure sized for enclosing the second end of the enclosure;

a sleeve coupled to the opening defined by the second end of the enclosure, the sleeve releasably and watertight sealingly coupling the closure to the enclosure; and

a detachable buoyancy cradle having a buoyant panel, a first cap extending upward from a first side and first end of the panel, and a second cap extending upward from the first side and a second end of the panel, at least one of the first and second cap outwardly flexible to receive and retain the first end and the second end of the enclosure, releasably securing the first side of the panel against the backside of the enclosure, the cradle having sufficient buoyancy to float the mobile electronic device in water.

2. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is rigid.

3. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 1, wherein the cradle is formed from closed cell foam.

4. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 1, further comprising at least one port defined through the enclosure.

5. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 4, further comprising a releasable plug for watertight sealing of at least one of the at least one port, and wherein the port is positioned to receive therethrough an electrical plug connected into an electrical connector of the mobile electronic device.

6. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 5, wherein the closure defines an opening for releasably receiving and retaining the plug when the plug is removed from the at least one port.

7. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 4, further comprising a micro-screen closing at least one of the at least one port, the micro-screen providing sound transmission through the at least one port and preventing penetration of water at atmospheric pressure through the at least one port.

8. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 7, wherein the buoyancy cradle defines openings adjacent the at least one of the least one port to allow transmission of sound to the micro-screen.

9. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 4, further comprising a flexible membrane watertight sealing at least one of the at least one port, the membrane allowing mechanical actuation therethrough of a switch of the mobile electronic device.

10. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 9, wherein the buoyancy cradle is open along at least one side and between the first and second end, the open side exposing the flexible membrane for finger access when the cradle is attached to the enclosure.

11. A buoyant waterproof case adapted to receive a mobile electronic device having a touchscreen, the case comprising:

an enclosure having a front side and a backside and defining a cavity therebetween, the enclosure having a first and second end, the second end defining an opening for slidingly receiving into the cavity the device therethrough, a portion of the front side of the enclosure defined by a transparent film that enables finger stroke communication with the device's touchscreen through the film;

a closure sized for enclosing the second end of the enclosure;

a sleeve coupled to the opening of the enclosure, the sleeve releasably and watertight sealingly coupling the closure to the enclosure; and

a detachable buoyancy cradle having a panel, a first cap extending upward from a first side and first end of the panel, and a second cap extending upward from the first side and a second end of the panel, at least one of the first and second cap outwardly flexible to receive and retain the first end and the second end of the enclosure, releasably securing the first side of the panel against the backside of the enclosure, the cradle having sufficient buoyancy to float the mobile electronic device in water.

12. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 11, further comprising at least one port defined through the sleeve.

13. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 12, further comprising a plug for watertight sealing of at least one of the at least one port, and wherein the port is positioned to receive therethrough an electrical plug connected into an electrical connector of the mobile electronic device.

14. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 12, further comprising a micro-screen closing at least one of the at least one port, the micro-screen providing sound transmission through the at least one port and preventing penetration of water at atmospheric pressure through the at least one port.

15. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 12, further comprising a flexible membrane watertight sealing at least one of the at least one port, the membrane allowing mechanical actuation therethrough of a switch of the mobile electronic device.

14. A buoyant waterproof case adapted to receive a mobile electronic device, the case comprising:

a sleeve having a front side and a backside and defining a cavity therebetween, the sleeve having a first and second end, the first end closed and the second end defining an opening for slidingly receiving into the cavity the device therethrough, a portion of the front side of the sleeve defined by a transparent film;

at least one port defined through the sleeve;

a sealing structure providing a watertight seal of the opening at the second end; and

a buoyant structure having a panel releasably secured to a backside of the sleeve.

15. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 14, wherein the sleeve is rigid.

16. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 14, wherein the buoyancy cradle is formed from closed cell foam.

17. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 14, further comprising a plug for watertight sealing of at least one of the at least one port, and wherein the port is positioned to receive therethrough an electrical plug connected into an electrical connector of the mobile electronic device.

18. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 14, further comprising a micro-screen closing at least one of the at least one port, the micro-screen providing sound transmission through the at least one port and preventing penetration of water at atmospheric pressure through the at least one port.

19. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 14, further comprising a flexible membrane watertight sealing at least one of the at least one port, the membrane allowing mechanical actuation therethrough of a switch of the mobile electronic device.

20. The buoyant waterproof case of claim 14, wherein the buoyancy cradle is open along at least one side and between the first and second end, the open side exposing the flexible membrane for finger access when the cradle is attached to the sleeve.