ELECTRONIC DEVICE CASE

Abstract

A protective storage device includes a front protective component that is configured to receive an electronic device. A back protective component is employed to interface with the front protective component and to form an enclosure that encloses the electronic device when the back protective component interfaces with a front of the front protective component. The case may also include a multi-directional hinge that couples the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the front protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the back protective component.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/719,751, which was filed Oct. 29, 2012, the complete disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Smartphones and tablets have become ubiquitous. The need for protective cases for smart phones and tablets has grown with this popularity. Embodiments of the invention are directed toward protective cases for smartphones and tablets.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The terms “invention,” “the invention,” “this invention” and “the present invention” used in this patent are intended to refer broadly to all of the subject matter of this patent and the patent claims below. Statements containing these terms should not be understood to limit the subject matter described herein or to limit the meaning or scope of the patent claims below. Embodiments of the invention covered by this patent are defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various aspects of the invention and introduces some of the concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to the entire specification of this patent, all drawings and each claim.

One particular embodiment provides a protective storage device that includes a front protective component that is configured to receive an electronic device. A back protective component is employed to interface with the front protective component and to form an enclosure that encloses the electronic device when the back protective component interfaces with a front of the front protective component. Such a configuration may be referred to as a closed position where the electronic device is enclosed by the front and back protective components. Conveniently, the case may also include a multi-directional hinge that couples the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the front protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the back protective component. In this way, the protective device may be moved to an open position where the electronic device is exposed. By using the multi-directional hinge, the back protective component may be moved behind and interfaced with the front protective component, among other possible positions.

In one particular aspect, the multi-directional hinge comprises an arm and a ball, and a socket into which the arm and ball are received. In some arrangements, the arm may be coupled to either the back protective component or the front protective component. Also, the socket may be coupled to either the back protective component or the front protective component such that it may interface with ball that is coupled to the other component.

In another aspect, the front protective component comprises a generally rectangular back, a top end, and two sides. In an optional arrangement, the two sides may each include a resilient jaw that is configured to flex to permit the electronic device to be inserted into the front protective component, then released to bias against the electronic device to secure the electronic device within the front protective component. In other arrangements, the electronic component may simply be press fit into the front protective component.

In some aspects, the back protective component may further comprise a biased latch that serves to latch the back protective component to the front protective component when moved to the closed position. The latch may be located on the back end, one of the sides, or the top end, so long as it does not interfere with the hinge. Also, the back protective component may optionally be configured so that it defines a storage compartment. This may be accomplished, for example, by sizing the sides, top and bottom ends so that the back of the back protective component is spaced apart from the electronic device when placed in the closed position, thereby defining a storage space for holding small items. Examples of items that may be stored include, credit cards, debit cards, hotel cards, money clips, cash in the form of bills, coins, business cards, papers, and the like. One or more features may be used to interface with such items to help secure them within the storage compartment.

In one particular arrangement, the multi-directional hinge is located near the top end of the front protective component. In other cases, the multi-directional hinge may be located near one of the sides of the front protective component.

The invention also provides an exemplary method that utilizes a protective device that comprises a back protective component, a front protective component that is configured to interface with the back protective component and to form an enclosure, and a multi-directional hinge that couples the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the back protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the front protective component. In one step of the method, an electronic device is inserted into the front protective component. Also, the back protective component is manipulated about the multi-directional hinge to place the back protective component against the front protective component, thereby enclosing the electronic device within the protective device.

In one aspect, the back protective component comprises a back, a top end, a bottom end and two sides. With this arrangement, a latch at the bottom end or on one of the sides of the back protective component is operated to latch the back protective component to the front protective component.

In some cases, a pair of jaws at the sides may be flexed prior to inserting the electronic device to permit the electronic device to be slid into the back protective component. In another step, the case may be placed in a closed position where the electronic device is enclosed by the front protective component and the back protective component. At least a portion of the front protective component may be separated from the back protective component, and the front protective component rotated relative to the back protective component to provide access to the electronic device. In one arrangement, the front protective component may be placed on a support surface, with the back protective component propping the electronic case at an elevated angle relative to the support surface.

In one aspect, the back protective component defines a storage compartment between the electronic device and the back. A variety of items, such as a plastic card, money, papers, or the like, may be inserted into the storage compartment.

In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a system that comprises a protective storage device that may be constructed of a front protective component defining a cavity and a back protective component that is configured to interface with the front protective component and to form an enclosure that encloses the cavity when the back protective component interfaces with a front of the front protective component. A multi-directional hinge may be used to couple the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the front protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the back protective component. The system further includes an electronic device that is held within the cavity of the front protective component.

Examples of electronic devices that may be stored in the front protective component include mobile phones, electronic tablets, electronic readers, electronic media players, and the like. In one particular arrangement, the multi-directional hinge comprises an arm and a ball, and a socket into which the arm and ball are received.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following drawing figures:

FIG. 1 shows an isometric view of a closed case according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the case of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2A shows a cross-section along line A of FIG. 2.

FIG. 2B shows the multi-directional hinge of the cross-section in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C shows the latching interface of the cross-section in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 shows a rear view of the case of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of the case of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 shows a side view of the case of FIG. 1

FIG. 5A shows a cross-section along line A in FIG. 5

FIG. 6 shows an isometric view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 shows a front view of the case of FIG. 6.

FIG. 7A shows a cross-section along line A in FIG. 7.

FIG. 7B shows the multi-directional hinge of the cross-section in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C shows the latching interface of the cross-section of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8 shows a rear view of the case of FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 shows a side view of the case of FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 shows a side view of the case of FIG. 6.

FIG. 11 shows a front view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11A shows a cross-section along line A in FIG. 11.

FIG. 11B shows a beveled arm of the cross-section in FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12 shows an exploded view of a case according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of a case.

FIG. 14 shows a side view of the case of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 shows an isometric view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 shows the case of FIG. 15 pivoted at a right angle.

FIG. 17 shows the case of FIG. 15 pivoted at a right angle and front protective component rotated 45 degrees relative to back protective component.

FIG. 18 shows a back protective component according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18A shows a latch attached to a straight appendage.

FIG. 19 shows a back protective component according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19A shows a latch attached to a pre-flexed appendage.

FIG. 20 shows a front view of a case according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20A shows a cross-section along line A in FIG. 20.

FIG. 20B shows an O-ring as in the cross-section of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 21 shows an isometric view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21A shows the multi-directional hinge of FIG. 21.

FIG. 22 shows a front view of a front protective component.

FIG. 22A shows a socket of FIG. 22 housing a compression device.

FIG. 23 depicts an isometric view of a compression device.

FIG. 24 depicts a front view of a compression device.

FIG. 25 shows an isometric view of a back protective component according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25A shows the arms of FIG. 25.

FIG. 26 shows the beveled shape of arms.

FIG. 27 shows a front view of the back protective component of FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 shows an electronic device being inserted into a front protective component.

FIG. 29 shows an isometric view of a back protective cover.

FIG. 30 shows a front view of the back protective cover of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 shows a side view of the back protective cover of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31A shows the ball and arm of back protective cover of FIG. 30A.

FIG. 32 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of a closed case.

FIG. 33 depicts a front view of the case of FIG. 32.

FIG. 33A shows a cross-section along line A in FIG. 33.

FIG. 33B shows the multi-directional hinge of FIG. 33A.

FIG. 34 shows a back view of the case of FIG. 32.

FIG. 35 shows a side view of the case of FIG. 32.

FIG. 36 shows a side view of the case of FIG. 32.

FIG. 37 shows an isometric view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 38 shows a front view of the case of FIG. 37.

FIG. 38A shows a cross-section along line A in FIG. 38.

FIG. 38B shows the multi-directional hinge of FIG. 38A.

FIG. 39 shows a rear view of the case of FIG. 37.

FIG. 40 shows a side view of the case of FIG. 37.

FIG. 41 shows a side view of the case of FIG. 37.

FIG. 42 shows one example of an open case holding an electronic device.

FIG. 43 shows the case of FIG. 42 in an unlatched, slightly pivoted position.

FIG. 44 shows the case of FIG. 42 in a right angle pivot position.

FIG. 45 shows the case of FIG. 42 in a fully-rotated position.

FIG. 46 shows a top view of the case of FIG. 42 in a fully-rotated position.

FIG. 47 shows the case of FIG. 42 in a closed position.

FIG. 48 shows a case holding an electronic device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 48A shows the multi-directional hinge of FIG. 48.

FIG. 49 shows a case holding an electronic device according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 49A shows the multi-directional hinge of FIG. 49.

FIG. 50 shows a side view of a front protective component according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 50A shows a cross-section along line A of FIG. 50.

FIG. 51 depicts one embodiment of a front protective component having a latch mating surface.

FIG. 52 shows one example of a back protective component.

FIG. 53 is an exploded view of an electronic device and case according to one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the invention are directed toward a two-piece protective case for mobile digital devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, e-reader devices, or any other electronic device. For example, the case can be configured to hold electronic devices such as the Apple iPhone, iPad, iPad mini, Samsung Galaxy S, Motorola Droid, Samsung Galaxy Note, Amazon Kindle Fire, and the like.

The cases described herein may generally be described in terms of two major pieces or components that interact with each other, although it will be appreciated that each piece or component may include sub-components, and the case may include other pieces or elements that interact with the two main pieces or components.

The function of one of the main pieces or components of the case may be to hold the electronic device, providing some degree of protection to the electronic device. For example, the back and sides of the electronic device may be encompassed by the piece of the case to help provide some degree of protection against impact, scratches, moisture and the like. At the same time, the front of the electronic device is easily accessible. One or more openings may be employed to provide access to various buttons or features of the electronic device, such as an on/off switch, volume buttons, and the like.

The other main piece or component of the case provides a variety of functions and features, including fully enclosing the electronic device, storing items and propping the case at a desired orientation when resting on a support surface or being held by a user. This main piece is configured to cooperate or interact with other component in order to accomplish such features.

For example, the case may be described in terms of being placed in an open position or a closed position. In the closed position, the electronic device is fully enclosed by the case. This is the most protective position for the electronic device. In some cases, appropriate seals may be provided so that the case is waterproof as well. When access is needed to the electronic device, the case may be manipulated and placed in the open position, where one of the main surfaces of the electronic device is viewable and fully accessible, while the rest of the electronic device remains protected by one of the main components of the case.

One exemplary way to couple to two main pieces of the case together is by using a multi-directional hinge. This allows the pieces to be moved relative to each other in a wide variety of orientations. For example, one of the pieces (when in the closed position) may be rotated and flipped about so that it may be placed against the back of the piece that holds the electronic device (in one of the open positions). The hinge may be placed at the top, bottom, or one of the sides of the components to allow for such movement and manipulation. It will be appreciated that other types of hinges could also be used. Optionally, a latch may be employed to hold the two pieces in the closed (or open) position. This latch may be placed on one of the sides, the top or the bottom of the main component.

A variety of techniques may be used to insert the electronic device into one of the main pieces. For example, one of the main pieces could define a cavity that the electronic device is inserted into. The tolerances could be such that the electronic device is snap fit within the cavity or held in place by friction. As another option, one of the sides, the top or the bottom could be bendable, be resilient, have jaws, have a hinge, or the like. This allows the sides, top and/or bottom to be moved in order to allow the electronic device to be inserted.

Also, one of the components may be configured to store a variety of items (other than the electronic device). These items could be stored in the same main piece that holds the electronic device or the other main piece that does not hold the electronic device. This may be accomplished, for example, by configuring one of the pieces to have a storage compartment to hold the items. Also, detents, arms, latches, or the like could be used to help hold the items within the storage compartment. Examples of items that could be stored include, but are not limited to, credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, bills, currency, business cards, papers, and the like.

In some situations, no extra storage space may be needed. In these situations, the main component that does not hold the electronic device may be configured as a flat, thin piece of material that rests on a front of the piece that holds the electronic device. This permits the case to be constructed with thinner dimension. As such, this main piece could be a simple cover, with optional joints or flexibility to allow it to roll up or collapse.

In some cases, the main pieces or components of the case may include one or more openings to provide access to features on electronic device. The openings may be useful when in both the open and closed positions. For example, openings may be used to provide access to features such as volume controls, on/off switches, cameras, microphones, heat vents, and the like. Also, one or more features may be included on the main components to facilitate holding and manipulation of the case. For example, part of one of the latches may be used to help hold the case in one orientation, then spin the case around to another orientation using the thumb and one of the fingers.

Mobile Phone Case

Referring now to FIGS. 1-12, one embodiment of a protective case 100 will be described. Case 100 may be formed by coupling a front protective component 102 to a back protective component 114. In this way, case 100 can protect an electronic device 152 from accidental damage while also allowing access to and functioning of all features of electronic device 152.

Front protective component 102 may be defined in terms of sides 104 and 106, a top 108, a bottom 110, and a back 112. Front protective component 102 may be appropriately sized and shaped to tightly conform to the outer shape of electronic device 152. Electronic device 152 may be secured in front protective component 102 using a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, a snap fit or construction by using flexible materials that constrict about electronic device 152. Front protective component 102 can be configured to be approximately as thick as electronic device 152. For example, front protective component 102 may have a thickness in the range from about 11 mm to about 16 mm, although other sizes can be used depending on the thickness of electronic device 152. Front protective component 102 can further include holes 136 on sides 104 and/or 106, top 108, and/or bottom 110, and can include a transparent window 138 on back 112 to provide functional access to features of electronic device 152, such as power and volume buttons, cameras, flash devices, speakers, and lights. Both front protective component 102 and back protective component 114 can be made of plastic, rubber, a rubberized material, leather, carbon fiber, or the like.

Back protective component 114 can be configured to have sides 116 and 118, a top 120, a bottom 122, and a back 124. Transparent window 138 may be positioned and sized such that features on electronic device 152, such as a camera, light, or flash, can continue to function when a user is operating electronic device 152 while it is housed in case 100.

Front protective component 102 and back protective component 114 are movably coupled via a multi-directional hinge 126. In some embodiments, multi-directional hinge 126 can be formed from the interconnection of a socket 130 with a ball 128 and an arm 127. One of either socket 130 and ball 128 and arm 127 can be positioned on one of side 104 (as shown in this embodiment), side 106, top 108, or bottom 110 of front protective component 102 with the other being positioned on the corresponding side 116, side 118, top 120, or bottom 222 of back protective component 114. Socket 130 can be specially shaped to provide positional stability and precise, repeatable orientation in the multi-directional hinge 126. In some embodiments, ball 128 and/or socket 130 can include detents, teeth, gears, or have a three-dimensional polygon shape to allow for rotation and positioning that will hold when released, and to keep the plastic, or other socket material, from permanent deformation. In some embodiments, ball 128 and arm 127 can be friction fit, resistively fit, and or press fit within socket 130.

Multi-directional hinge 126 can be configured to allow back protective component 114 to be pivoted and rotated relative to a front protective component 102. In this manner, case 100 can be positioned in an open state or a closed state. Case 100 is open, or in an open state, when electronic device 152 is readily visible and operable by a user (see FIGS. 6-10). Case 100 is closed, or in a closed state, when back protective component 114 is positioned to cover and protect electronic device 152 (see FIGS. 1-5). Opening and closing case 100 can be achieved through steps described in the electronic device case embodiment section.

Multi-directional hinge 126 can be actuated to provide access to electronic device 152 and any other contents stored within case 100. Multi-directional hinge 126 can allow back protective component 114 to be positioned against back 110 of front protective component 102 or opposite back 110 of front protective component 102 so that the user may open, close, and adjust back protective component 114 against front protective component 102 to cover, protect, and/or seal electronic device 152 and any stored contents fully. Multi-directional hinge 126 may be configured to allow back protective component 114 to be positioned open and/or rotated at any angle to create a stand or handle by which to display or view electronic device 152 or to film or record using a camera included in electronic device 152.

Multi-directional hinge 126 may optionally be configured to have a symmetrical relationship. This symmetry enables case 100 to fully flip and rotate, allowing case 100 to be positioned in completely open and closed states. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the symmetric chamfer feature of front protective component 102 enables front protective component 102 to have a minimal thickness, thereby reducing the overall thickness of electronic device 152 when held in case 100.

In some embodiments multi-directional hinge 126 can be used as a thumb catch feature, serving as a handhold for the user. When case 100 is open, the user can place a thumb on the front of multi-directional hinge 126 and place one or more fingers on back 124 of back protective component 114. In this manner, a user can avoid touching a screen or button of electronic device 152 while manipulating the orientation of electronic device 152.

Some embodiments may include a latch 132 on back protective component 114 that interfaces with a latch mating surface 134 on front protective component 102. The interface between latch 132 and latch mating surface 134 allows back protective component 114 and front protective component 102 to be fastened together in either the open or closed state. Case 100 may optionally include a symmetrical interface 154 between latch mating surface 134 and a latch 132. This allows latch 132 to fasten case 100 in both an open and closed state. The symmetric chamfer feature of front protective component 102 allows for front protective component 102 to be thicker at the edges, providing strength, while allowing the middle of front protective component 102 to be thin so that a case adds minimum thickness to an electronic device. Embodiments of latch 132 and latch mating surface 134 can allow greater and/or easier access and/or greater security to electronic device 152 secured in front protective component 102 and to any contents stored in back protective component 114. Although shown on side 118, it will be appreciated that latch 132 could also be located on side 116. Also, other types of latches could also be used to fasten case 100. Also, latches similar to latch 132 and latch mating surface 134 may be optionally included in any other cases described herein.

Back protective component 114 may optionally include a storage space 142 that is defined by sides 116 and 118, top 120, and bottom 122. More specifically, storage space 142 is defined by the volume created by the distance from back 112 of front protective component 102 to back 124 of back protective component 114, and the area between sides 116 and 118 and between top 120 and bottom 122. Storage space 142 can be configured to store various items, including but not limited to credit cards, IDs, debit cards, paper bills, etc. In some embodiments, sides 116 and 118, top 120, and bottom 122 may have a height in the range from about 1-4 mm, and in some cases about 2 mm, creating a frame that provides stiffness/strength/rigidity while allowing back 124 to remain thin to minimally increase overall thickness of case 100. In this manner, storage space 142 can provide 3 mm of storage depth while only adding 4 mm of thickness to the case.

Storage space 142 can optionally include one or more arms 146 (as seen in FIG. 12) to grasp and secure contents against back 124 of back protective component 114. Arms 146 can be integral to back protective component 114, inserted into storage space 142, affixed via heat stakes 140, and/or attached using any other method, to back protective component 114, and can be made of any sufficiently rigid material. Arms 146 can be shaped to allow stored contents to be slid in and out of storage space 142, but prevent contents from falling out accidentally.

One or more ramped or sloped ribs 144 may optionally be included in storage space 142 to facilitate the extraction of stored contents. Ribs 144 can further allow storage space 142 to be sealed against front protective component 102 and allow sides 116 and 118, top 120, and bottom 122 of back protective component 114 to surround and protect the full perimeter. Without ribs 144, stored contents of storage space 142 would be trapped inside storage space 142 by bottom 122 of back protective component 114. Stored contents of storage space 142 can be released from securing arms 146 by sliding on ribs 144, which direct contents up and over bottom 122. Storage space 142 can further include a lens protecting sliding door 148 and a lens protecting sliding door trap 150, which can also be affixed using heat stakes 140. Other means of fixing these elements can be utilized as well. Other structures not described herein can be included to secure contents within storage space 142.

Referring now to FIGS. 13-28, one embodiment of a protective case 200 will be described. Case 200 may be formed by coupling a front protective component 202 to a back protective component 214. Front protective component 202 may be defined in terms of sides 204 and 206, a top 208, a bottom 210, and a back 212. Front protective component 202 may be appropriately sized and shaped to hold an electronic device 262. Electronic device 262 may be secured in front protective component 202 using one or more flexible jaws 258 (as best shown in FIG. 28) included at the bottom, top, or sides of front protective component 202. Jaws 258 protect electronic device 262 and flex to accommodate installation and extraction of electronic device 262. Jaws 258 can be shaped specifically to securely hold and protect electronic device 258, and allow electronic device 258 to be installed or removed from front protective component 202. Other means of inserting and extracting an electronic device into and from front protective component 202 include, but are not limited to, a snap fit, flexible materials that constrict about electronic device 262, and the like. Jaws 258 may optionally be included in any other embodiments described herein.

Front protective component 202 may have approximately the same thickness as electronic device 262. For example, front protective component 202 may have a thickness in the range from about 11 mm to about 16 mm, although other sizes can be used depending on the thickness of electronic device 262. Front protective component 202 can further include holes 236 and/or buttons 234 on sides 204 and/or 206, top 208, and/or bottom 210, and can include a transparent window 238 on back 212. Holes 236, buttons 234, and transparent window 238 can be sized and positioned to provide functional access to features of electronic device 262, such as power and volume buttons, cameras, flash devices, speakers, and lights. Both front protective component 202 and back protective component 214 can be made of plastic, rubber, a rubberized material, leather, carbon fiber, or the like.

Back protective component 214 includes sides 216 and 218, a top 220, a bottom 222, and a back 224. Transparent window 238 may be positioned and sized on back 224 of back protective component 214 such that features on electronic device 152, such as a camera, light, or flash, can continue to function when a user is operating electronic device 262 while it is housed in case 200.

Front protective component 202 and back protective component 214 are movably coupled via a multi-directional hinge 226. In some embodiments, multi-directional hinge 226 can be formed from the interconnection of a socket 230 with a ball 228 and an arm 227. One of either socket 230 and ball 228 and arm 227 can be positioned on one of side 204, side 206, top 208 (as shown in this embodiment), or bottom 210 of front protective component 202 with the other being positioned on the corresponding side 216, side 218, top 220, or bottom 222 of back protective component 214. Socket 230 can be specially shaped to provide positional stability and precise, repeatable orientation in the multi-directional hinge 226. In some embodiments, ball 228 and/or socket 230 can include detents, teeth, gears, or have a three-dimensional polygon shape to allow for rotation and positioning that will hold when released, and to keep the plastic, or other socket material, from permanent deformation. In some embodiments, ball 228 and arm 227 can be friction fit, resistively fit, and or press fit within socket 230.

Case 200 may optionally include a compression device 260 (as best shown in FIG. 22A) housed within a socket 230. Compression device 260 can be made of spring steel, or other suitable material, to squeeze ball 228 and create a frictional fit with multi-directional hinge 226. This provides positional stability, and keeps the plastic, or other socket material, from permanent deformation. Compression device 260 may be optionally included in any other embodiments described herein.

Multi-directional hinge 226 can be configured to allow back protective component 214 to be pivoted and rotated relative to a front protective component 202. In this manner, case 200 can be positioned in an open state (see FIG. 21) or a closed state (see FIGS. 13) as previously described in connection with other embodiments. Opening and closing case 200 can be achieved through steps previously described.

Multi-directional hinge 226 can be operated to provide access to electronic device 262 and any other contents stored within case 200. Multi-directional hinge 226 can allow back protective component 214 to be positioned against back 210 of front protective component 202 or opposite back 210 of front protective component 202 so that the user may open, close, and adjust back protective component 214 against front protective component 202 to cover, protect, and/or seal electronic device 262 and any stored contents 254 (as shown in FIG. 26). Multi-directional hinge 226 may be configured to allow back protective component 214 to be positioned open and/or rotated at any angle to create a stand or handle by which to display or view electronic device 262 or to film or record using a camera included in electronic device 262.

In some embodiments multi-directional hinge 226 can be used as a thumb catch feature, serving as a handhold for the user. When case 200 is open, the user can place a thumb on the front of multi-directional hinge 226 and place one or more fingers on back 224 of back protective component 214. In this manner, a user can avoid touching a screen or button of electronic device 262 while manipulating the orientation of electronic device 262.

Some embodiments include a latch 232 on back protective component 214 that can interface with front protective component 202 to close, seal, and/or protect electronic device 262 and/or stored contents 254. Latch 232 can be created by extending one or more of sides 216 and 218, top 220, and bottom 222 of back protective component 214. Latch 232 can clasp bottom 212 of front protective case 202 to fasten case 200 either the open or closed state. In some embodiments, latch 232 can be attached to a straight appendage 252 (as shown best in FIG. 18A). Where latch 232 is attached to straight appendage 252, latch 232 is biased towards front protective component 202 and latch 232 can be flexible to allow user to manipulate latch 232 over a portion of front protective component 202 to fasten case 200 in an open or closed state.

In some embodiments, latch 232 can be attached to a pre-flexed appendage 250 (as shown best in FIG. 19A). Where latch 232 is attached to pre-flexed appendage 250, latch 232 remains open until actively closed, which can indicate to the user that stored contents 254 have not been safely replaced. In some embodiments, pre-flexed appendage 250 can be biased to require physical latching by a user. In this way, the user can be reminded that stored contents 254 have not been safely replaced. In some embodiments, a latch can be attached to an angled appendage.

Although shown on bottom 222, it will be appreciated that latch 232 could also be located on top 220. Also, other types of latches could also be used to fasten the two components of case 100. Also, latches similar to latch 132 may optionally be included in any other cases described herein.

Back protective component 214 may optionally include a storage space 242 that is defined by sides 216 and 218, top 220, and bottom 222. More specifically, storage space 242 is defined by the volume created by the distance from back 212 of front protective component 202 to back 224 of back protective component 214, and the area between sides 216 and 218 and between top 220 and bottom 222. Storage space 242 can be configured to hold stored contents 254, including but not limited to credit cards, IDs, debit cards, paper bills, etc. In some embodiments, sides 216 and 218, top 220, and bottom 222 may have a height in the range from about 1-4 mm, and in some cases 2 mm, creating a frame that provides stiffness/strength/rigidity while allowing back 224 to remain thin to minimally increase overall thickness of case 200. In this manner, storage space 242 can provide 3 mm of storage depth while only adding 4 mm of thickness to the case.

Storage space 242 can optionally include one or more arms 246 (as best seen in FIG. 25A) to grasp and secure stored contents 254 against back 224 of back protective component 214. Arms 246 can be integral to back protective component 214, inserted into storage space 242, affixed via heat stakes 240, and/or attached using any other method, to back protective component 214, and can be made of any sufficiently rigid material. Arms 246 can be shaped to allow stored contents 254 to be slid in and out of storage space 242, but prevent stored contents 254 from falling out accidentally. Two or more arms 246 can be included, with one on top of another, and with a slit or slits in between them as shown in FIG. 25A. The top of arms 246 can have a small edge. Arms 246 can have a beveled interior edge (as shown in FIG. 26) to hold stored contents 254 such as ID cards or credit cards. Arms 246 can optionally be configured to be flexible and have an inward bias as best shown in FIG. 27.

One or more ramped or sloped ribs 244 (as best shown in FIG. 25) may optionally be included in storage space 242 to facilitate the extraction of stored contents 254. Ribs 244 can further allow storage space 242 to be sealed against front protective component 202 and allow sides 216 and 218, top 220, and bottom 222 of back protective component 214 to surround and protect the full perimeter. Without ribs 244, stored contents 254 of storage space 242 would be trapped inside storage space 242 by bottom 222 of back protective component 214. Stored contents 254 of storage space 242 can be released from securing arms 246 by sliding on ribs 244, which direct stored contents 254 up and over bottom 222. One or more bars 248 can optionally be included to prevent stored contents 254 in storage space 242 from interfering with any features of electronic device 262. For example, bar 248 can keep stored contents 254 from blocking a camera or flash device. Other structures not described herein can be included to retain stored contents 254 within a storage space 242.

Back protective component 214 can optionally include an O-ring 256. O-ring 256 can be positioned to create a seal to achieve dust and waterproofing when front protective component 202 and back protective component 214 interface to form a flush joint. Other methods of sealing case 200 for dust and waterproofing, such as inserting gaskets, can also be utilized. Rubberized or flexible buttons could be used to transfer physical button clicks through a waterproof case. Waterproofing elements such as O-rings, gaskets, seals, and rubberized and flexible buttons may be optionally included in any other embodiments described herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 29-31, one embodiment of a back protective component 314 configured as a protective cover flap will be described. Back protective component 314 can be defined by sides 316 and 318, a top 320, a bottom 322, and a back 324. When serving as a protective cover flap, back protective component 314 can add as little as 2 mm to the overall thickness of a case while providing rigid protection to an electronic device. By raising an edge of back protective component 314 by 2 mm, rigidity is provided to the back protective component 314, while only increasing the overall case thickness by 0.5 mm. Some embodiments of back protective component 314 can optionally include a transparent window sized and positioned on back 324 as described in the sections above. Back protective component 314 can include a ball 327 and an arm 328 that is configured to interface with a socket on a front protective component as described in the sections above. As such, back protective component 314 may be used with any of the case embodiments described herein. Ball 327 and arm 328 can be positioned on one of sides 316 and 318, top 320, or bottom 322. Back protective component 314 can further include a latch 332 configured to clasp a front protective component as described in other embodiments. In this manner, back protective component 314 can be attached and fastened either front protective component as described in the preceding sections.

Electronic Device Case

Referring now to FIGS. 32-53, one embodiment of a protective case 400 will be described. Case 400 is particularly useful in holding larger electronic devices, such as electronic tablets and e-readers. Case 400 may be formed by coupling a front protective component 402 to a back protective component 414. In this way, case 400 can protect an electronic device 442 from accidental damage while also allowing access to and functioning of all features of electronic device 442.

Front protective component 402 may defined in terms of sides 404 and 406, a top 408, a bottom 410, and a back 412. Front protective component 402 may be appropriately sized and shaped to tightly conform to the outer shape of electronic device 442. Electronic device 442 may be secured in front protective component 402 using a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, a snap fit or construction by using flexible materials that constrict about electronic device 442. Front protective component 402 can be configured to be approximately as thick as electronic device 442. For example, front protective component 402 may have a thickness in the range from about 11 mm to about 16 mm, although other sizes can be used depending on the thickness of electronic device 442. Front protective component 402 can further include holes 436 on sides 404 and/or 406, top 408, and/or bottom 410, buttons 440, and a transparent window 438. Holes 436, buttons 440, and transparent window 438 can be sized and positioned to provide functional access to features of electronic device 442, such as power and volume buttons, cameras, flash devices, speakers, and lights. Both front protective component 402 and back protective component 414 can be made of plastic, rubber, a rubberized material, leather, carbon fiber, or the like.

Back protective component 414 can be configured to have sides 416 and 418, a top 420, a bottom 422, and a back 424. Transparent window 438 may be positioned and sized such that features on electronic device 452, such as a camera, light, or flash, can continue to function when a user is operating electronic device 442 while it is housed in case 400.

Front protective component 402 and back protective component 414 are movably coupled via a multi-directional hinge 426. In some embodiments, multi-directional hinge 426 can be formed from the interconnection of a socket 430 with a ball 428 and an arm 427. One of either socket 430 and ball 428 and arm 427 can be positioned on one of side 404 (as shown in this embodiment), side 406, top 408, or bottom 410 of front protective component 402 with the other being positioned on the corresponding side 416, side 418, top 420, or bottom 422 of back protective component 414. Arm 427 can be mated to, and extend from, a surface of one of side 416, side 418, top 420, or bottom 422 of back protective component 414. Arm 427 may have an extended member 446 that can be mated to back 424 of back protective component 414, adding strength and rigidity to arm 247. Socket 430 can be specially shaped to provide positional stability and precise, repeatable orientation in the multi-directional hinge 426. In some embodiments, ball 428 and/or socket 430 can include detents, teeth, gears, or have a three-dimensional polygon shape to allow for rotation and positioning that will hold when released, and to keep the plastic, or other socket material, from permanent deformation. In some embodiments, ball 428 and arm 427 can be friction fit, resistively fit, and or press fit within socket 430.

Multi-directional hinge 426 can be configured to allow back protective component 414 to be pivoted and rotated relative to a front protective component 402. In this manner, case 400 can be positioned in an open state or a closed state. Case 400 is open, or in an open state, when electronic device 442 is readily visible and operable by a user (see FIGS. 37-41). Case 400 is closed, or in a closed state, when back protective component 414 is positioned to cover and protect electronic device 442 (see FIGS. 32-36).

Referring to FIGS. 42-47, one embodiment of various steps that may be performed when closing case 400 will be described, it will be appreciated that these steps may be used with any of the embodiments described herein. The steps are reversible, so opening case 400 can be achieved in the same manner. In FIG. 42, case 400 is shown in a closed state. Case 400 is fastened by the interface between latch 432 and a latch mating surface 434 on front protective component 402. Latch 432 is disengaged from a latch mating surface 434 and back protective component 414 is pivoted away from front protective component 402 via multi-directional hinge 426 as shown in FIG. 43. Case 400 is then pivoted into a fully-rotatable position as shown in FIG. 44. A fully-rotatable position is one where back protective component 414 can be rotated relative to front protective component 402. This includes any position where the smaller angle formed between the two components is greater than or equal to 90 degrees. Here, back protective component 414 is pivoted at a right angle relative to front protective component 402. Next back protective component 2404 is rotated 180 degrees to flip the component as shown in FIGS. 45-46. After the rotation, back protective component 414 can be pivoted towards front protective cover. Latch 432 engages a latch mating surface 434 to fasten case 400 as shown in FIG. 47.

Multi-directional hinge 426 can be operated to provide access to electronic device 442 and any other contents stored within case 400. Multi-directional hinge 426 can allow back protective component 414 to be positioned against back 410 of front protective component 402 or opposite back 410 of front protective component 402 so that the user may open, close, and adjust back protective component 414 against front protective component 402 to cover, protect, and/or seal electronic device 442 and any stored contents fully. Multi-directional hinge 426 may be configured to allow back protective component 414 to be positioned open and/or rotated at any angle to create a stand or handle by which to display or view electronic device 442 or to film or record using a camera included in electronic device 442.

Multi-directional hinge 426 may optionally be configured to have a symmetrical relationship. This symmetry enables case 400 to fully flip and rotate, allowing case 400 to be positioned in completely open and closed states. As shown in FIGS. 33B and 38B the symmetric chamfer feature of front protective component 402 enables front protective component 402 to have a minimal thickness, thereby reducing the overall thickness of electronic device 442 when held in case 400.

In some embodiments multi-directional hinge 426 can be used as a thumb catch feature, serving as a handhold for the user. When case 400 is open, the user can place a thumb on the front of multi-directional hinge 426 and place one or more fingers on back 424 of back protective component 414. In this manner, a user can avoid touching a screen or button of electronic device 442 while manipulating the orientation of electronic device 442.

Some embodiments may include a latch 432 on back protective component 414 that interfaces with a latch mating surface 434 on front protective component 402. The interface between latch 432 and latch mating surface 434 allows back protective component 414 and front protective component 402 to be fastened together in either the open or closed state. Case 400 may optionally include a symmetrical interface 444 between latch mating surface 434 and a latch 432. This allows latch 432 to fasten case 400 in both an open and closed state. The symmetric chamfer feature of front protective component 402 allows for front protective component 402 to be thicker at the edges, providing strength, while allowing the middle of front protective component 402 to be thin so that a case adds minimum thickness to an electronic device. Embodiments of latch 432 and latch mating surface 434 can allow greater and/or easier access and/or greater security to electronic device 442 secured in front protective component 402 and to any contents stored in back protective component 414. Although shown on side 418, it will be appreciated that latch 432 could also be located on side 416. Also, other types of latches could also be used to fasten case 400.

Other Embodiments

Other embodiments include a front protective component configured with a chamber behind the stored electronic device for securing contents. A front protective component can have a flexible or latching top, bottom, or side to allow access to contents without extracting the electronic device. A bar or bars which prevent stored contents in the chamber from interfering with any features of the electronic device. For example, bars can keep stored contents from blocking a camera or flash device.

Some embodiments of the invention include coupling a socket to an existing electronic device case so that a back protective component with an arm and ball can be coupled thereto. In effect, the coupling of the socket turns the existing case into a front protective component. Moreover, some embodiments of the invention include coupling an arm and ball to an existing case so that a back protective component with a socket can be coupled thereto. In effect, the coupling of the arm and ball turns the existing case into a front protective component. In this manner, any size, shape, or style of electronic device case can be converted into a case. Any size, bilaterally symmetrical shape, or style of electronic device that is capable of being protected by an electronic device case can be encased in a case.

The subject matter of embodiments of the present invention is described here with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described.

Different arrangements of the components depicted in the drawings or described above, as well as components and steps not shown or described are possible. Similarly, some features and subcombinations are useful and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. Embodiments of the invention have been described for illustrative and not restrictive purposes, and alternative embodiments will become apparent to readers of this patent. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above or depicted in the drawings, and various embodiments and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the claims below.

Claims

1. A protective storage device, comprising:

a front protective component that is configured to receive an electronic device;

a back protective component that is configured to interface with the front protective component and to form an enclosure that encloses the electronic device when the back protective component interfaces with a front of the front protective component; and

a multi-directional hinge that couples the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the front protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the back protective component.

2. A device as in claim 1, wherein the multi-directional hinge comprises an arm and a ball, and a socket into which the arm and ball are received.

3. A device as in claim 2, wherein the arm is coupled to one of the back protective component or the front protective component, and wherein the socket is coupled to the other of the back protective component or the front protective component.

4. A device as in claim 1, wherein the front protective component comprises a generally rectangular back, a top end, a bottom end and two sides.

5. A device as in claim 4, wherein the two sides each include a resilient jaw that is configured to flex to permit the electronic device to be inserted into the front protective component through the bottom end, then released to bias against the electronic device to secure the electronic device within the front protective component.

6. A device as in claim 1, wherein the back protective component further comprises a biased latch that interfaces with the front protective cover when the case is placed in a closed position.

7. A device as in claim 1, wherein the back protective component further defines a storage compartment between a back of the back protective cover and the electronic device when the case is placed in a closed position.

8. A device as in claim 7, further comprising at least one feature on the back protective component that is configured to interface with a generally flat item that is stored within the storage compartment.

9. A device as in claim 1, wherein the multi-directional hinge is located near the top end of the front protective component.

10. A device as in claim 1, wherein the multi-directional hinge is located near one of the sides of the front protective component.

11. A method, comprising:

providing a protective device that comprises a back protective component, a front protective component that is configured to interface with the back protective component and to form an enclosure, and a multi-directional hinge that couples the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the back protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the front protective component;

inserting an electronic device into the front protective component;

manipulating the back protective component about the multi-directional hinge to place the back protective component against the front protective component, thereby enclosing the electronic device within the protective device.

12. A method as in claim 11, wherein the back protective component comprises a back, a top end, a bottom end and two sides, and further comprising operating a latch at a bottom end of the back protective component to latch the back protective component to the front protective component.

13. A method as in claim 11, wherein the back protective component comprises a back, a top end, a bottom end, and two sides, and further comprising operating a latch on one of the sides of the back protective component to latch the back protective component to the front protective component.

14. A method as in claim 12, further comprising flexing a pair of jaws at the sides prior to inserting the electronic device.

15. A method as in claim 11, further comprising separating at least a portion of the front protective component from the back protective component, and rotating the front protective component relative to the back protective component.

16. A method as in claim 11, wherein the back protective component defines a storage compartment between the electronic device and a back of the back protective device, and further comprising inserting a plastic card into the storage compartment.

17. A method as in claim 11, further comprising placing the front protective component on a support surface, with the back protective component propping the electronic case at an elevated angle relative to the support surface.

18. A system, comprising:

a protective storage device, comprising:

a front protective component defining a cavity;

a back protective component that is configured to interface with the front protective component and to form an enclosure that encloses the cavity when the back protective component interfaces with a front of the front protective component; and

a multi-directional hinge that couples the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the front protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the back protective component; and

an electronic device held within the cavity of the front protective component.

19. A system as in claim 18, wherein the electronic device is selected from a group consisting of a mobile phone, an electronic tablet, and an electronic reader.

20. A system as in claim 18, wherein the multi-directional hinge comprises an arm and a ball, and a socket into which the arm and ball are received.

21. A system as in claim 18, wherein the back protective component further defines a storage compartment between a back of the back protective cover and the electronic device when the case is placed in a closed position.