U.S. patent application number 13/602003 was filed with the patent office on 2013-02-28 for universal case for portable electronic devices.
This patent application is currently assigned to Targus Group International, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Mike Corcoran, Oli Frankish. Invention is credited to Mike Corcoran, Oli Frankish.
Application Number | 20130048514 13/602003 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45349416 |
Filed Date | 2013-02-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130048514 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Corcoran; Mike ; et
al. |
February 28, 2013 |
UNIVERSAL CASE FOR PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Abstract
According to various embodiments, a universal case for a
portable electronic device (PED) includes a rear panel, a front
panel, and a securing mechanism configured to secure a PED to the
rear panel. According to various embodiments, a securing mechanism
may comprise an adjustable flexible band configured to secure each
corner of a PED to the rear panel. The adjustable flexible band may
be routed through a support structure having one or more routing
slots. Alternatively, a securing mechanism may comprise adjustable
corner mounts configured to selectively secure each corner of a PED
to the rear panel. In each embodiment, a single universal case may
be used to secure PEDs having various lengths, widths, and
thicknesses. A plurality of support grooves formed in a front panel
may be configured to catch a bottom edge of a PED and support it at
various angles of inclination.
Inventors: |
Corcoran; Mike;
(Northumberland, GB) ; Frankish; Oli; (Surrey,
GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Corcoran; Mike
Frankish; Oli |
Northumberland
Surrey |
|
GB
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
Targus Group International,
Inc.
Anaheim
CA
|
Family ID: |
45349416 |
Appl. No.: |
13/602003 |
Filed: |
August 31, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61529768 |
Aug 31, 2011 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/45.23 ;
206/472 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 2013/026 20130101;
A45C 3/02 20130101; A45C 11/00 20130101; A45C 2011/003
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/45.23 ;
206/472 |
International
Class: |
B65D 85/00 20060101
B65D085/00; B65D 5/52 20060101 B65D005/52 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 16, 2011 |
EP |
11194168.8 |
Claims
1. A universal case for a portable electronic device comprising: a
rear panel configured to selectively secure a portable electronic
device having four corners, the rear panel comprising a plurality
of slots; and a flexible band routed through the plurality of slots
in the rear panel configured to selectively secure each of the four
corners of the portable electronic device, the flexible band
adjustable between an inner position with respect to a center of
the rear panel and an outer position with respect to the center of
the rear panel, wherein in an inner position, the flexible band is
configured to secure the four corners of a portable electronic
device having a first size, and wherein in an outer position, the
flexible band is configured to secure the four corners of a
portable electronic device having a second, larger size.
2. The universal case of claim 1, wherein the rear panel comprises
eight slots configured to route the flexible band such that the
flexible band selectively secures each of the four corners of the
portable electronic device, and wherein the flexible band is
adjustable within each of the eight slots between an inner position
and an outer position.
3. The universal case of claim 1, wherein the rear panel comprises
an upper section and a lower section connected at a pivot point,
wherein the lower section of the rear panel comprises a first
portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion is
configured to pivot about the pivot point away from the upper
section of the rear panel, such that the first portion of the lower
section supports the rear panel in an inclined position.
4. The universal case of claim 1, further comprising a front panel
pivotally connected to the rear panel via one or more hinge
members, wherein in a closed position, the portable electronic
device is configured to be housed between the front panel and the
rear panel, and wherein in an open position, the front panel is
configured to expose a display screen of the portable electronic
device.
5. The universal case of claim 4, wherein the front panel further
comprises an engagement feature, and wherein the flexible band is
configured to be secured to the engagement feature in order to
maintain the front panel in the closed position.
6. The universal case of claim 4, wherein the front panel comprises
a fold point, and wherein the front panel is configured to be
pivoted about the one or more hinge members and folded about the
fold point in order to provide support for the rear panel in an
inclined position.
7. The universal case of claim 4, wherein the rear panel comprises
an upper section and a lower section connected at a pivot point,
wherein the lower section of the rear panel comprises a first
portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is
configured to pivot about the pivot point away from the upper
section of the rear panel, such that the first portion of the lower
section supports the rear panel in an inclined position, and
wherein a bottom edge of the second portion of the lower section of
the rear panel is configured to rest on an inner surface of the
front panel.
8. The universal case of claim 7, wherein the inner surface of the
front panel comprises a plurality of support grooves configured to
receive the bottom edge of the second portion of the lower section
of the rear panel, and wherein each of the plurality of support
grooves is configured to maintain the rear panel at a different
angle of inclination.
9. The universal case of claim 1, wherein the rear panel further
comprises a support structure, wherein each of the plurality of
slots is formed in a corresponding arm extending from the support
structure, such that the flexible band is configured to secure each
of the four corners of the portable electronic device to the
support structure, and wherein the flexible band is adjustable
between an inner position and an outer position within each of the
plurality of slots formed in each of the corresponding arms
extending from the support structure.
10. The universal case of claim 9, wherein the rear panel comprises
an upper section and a lower section connected at a pivot point,
and wherein the lower section is configured to pivot about the
pivot point away from the support structure, such that the lower
section supports the support structure in an inclined position.
11. The universal case of claim 10, further comprising a front
panel pivotally connected to the rear panel via one or more hinge
members, wherein in a closed position, the portable electronic
device is housed between the front panel and the rear panel,
wherein in an open position, the front panel is configured to
expose a display screen of the portable electronic device, and
wherein in the inclined position, a bottom edge of the support
structure is configured to rest on an inner surface of the front
panel.
12. The universal case of claim 11, wherein the inner surface of
the front panel comprises a plurality of support grooves configured
to receive the bottom edge of the support structure, and wherein
each of the plurality of support grooves is configured to maintain
the support structure at a different angle of inclination.
13. The universal case of claim 1, wherein the rear panel is
configured with one or more openings.
14. The universal case of claim 1, wherein the rear panel is
configured with one or more transparent sections.
15. The universal case of claim 1, wherein the flexible band
comprises a band having two ends joined together in order to form a
continuous flexible band.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/529,768
filed Aug. 31, 2011 and titled "UNIVERSAL CASE FOR PORTABLE
ELECTRONIC DEVICES," which application is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure generally relates to cases for portable
electronic devices. More particularly, this disclosure relates to
cases adaptable to secure portable electronic devices of varying
sizes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the
disclosure are described, including various embodiments of the
disclosure with reference to the figures, in which:
[0004] FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment of the inside of a rear
panel of a universal case for portable electronic devices (PEDs),
including an adjustable flexible band configured to secure each
corner of a PED.
[0005] FIG. 1B illustrates the outside of the rear panel of the
universal case for PEDs, including the adjustable flexible
band.
[0006] FIG. 1C illustrates the outside of a front panel of the
universal case for PEDs, including the adjustable flexible band
securing a PED.
[0007] FIG. 1D illustrates a universal case for PEDs with the front
panel lifted to expose the PED secured at each corner with the
adjustable flexible band.
[0008] FIG. 1E illustrates the outside of the rear panel of the
universal case securing the PED with the adjustable flexible
band.
[0009] FIG. 1F illustrates a front view of the universal case in an
upright position securing the PED with the adjustable flexible
band.
[0010] FIG. 1G illustrates a rear view of the universal case
securing the PED in an upright position with the adjustable
flexible band, including the rear panel configured with integrated
camera holes.
[0011] FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment of a universal case
configured with an adjustable flexible band securing a relatively
large PED.
[0012] FIG. 2B illustrates an embodiment of the universal case of
FIG. 2A with the adjustable flexible band securing a relatively
small PED.
[0013] FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment of a universal case for
PEDs configured with support grooves adapted to secure a PED in an
upright position and an adjustable flexible band configured to
secure the four corners of the PED.
[0014] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the universal case for
PEDs, including the support grooves adapted to secure the PED in an
upright position and the adjustable flexible band configured to
secure the corners of the PED.
[0015] FIG. 3C illustrates a top view of the inside of the front
and rear panels of the universal case for PEDs, including support
grooves on the front panel and integrated camera holes on the rear
panel.
[0016] FIG. 3D, illustrates an elevational view of the front and
rear panels of the universal case for PEDs, including the support
grooves on the front panel adapted to secure a PED in an upright
position.
[0017] FIG. 4A illustrates an embodiment of a universal case for
PEDs configured with a support structure for an adjustable flexible
band.
[0018] FIG. 4B illustrates a close-up view of a corner portion of
the universal case for PEDs including the support structure and the
adjustable flexible band.
[0019] FIG. 4C illustrates the universal case with the support
structure securing a PED at each corner with the adjustable
flexible band.
[0020] FIG. 4D illustrates a rear panel being partially separated
from the internal support structure of the universal case for
PEDs.
[0021] FIG. 4E illustrates a side view of the universal case
supporting the PED in an upright position with a portion of the
rear panel separated from the support structure.
[0022] FIG. 4F illustrates a rear view of the universal case for
PEDs in an upright position, including integrated camera holes on
the rear panel.
[0023] FIG. 4G illustrates an elevational view of one embodiment of
the support structure.
[0024] FIG. 5A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the
inside of front and rear panels of a universal case for PEDs,
including support grooves on the front panel, and a support
structure and adjustable flexible band on the rear panel.
[0025] FIG. 5B illustrates a top view of the inside of the front
and rear panels of the universal case for PEDs, including a PED
secured by the support structure and adjustable flexible band on
the rear panel.
[0026] FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of the universal case
for PEDs, including the internal support structure on the rear
panel and the support grooves on the front panel.
[0027] FIG. 5D illustrates a side view of the universal case for
PEDs, including the support grooves, the support structure, and the
adjustable flexible band configured to secure the corners of the
PED.
[0028] FIG. 6A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a
universal case configured with adjustable corner mounts for
securing a PED.
[0029] FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of the adjustable
corner mounts for securing the PED within a universal case.
[0030] FIG. 6C illustrates a perspective view of the universal case
configured with adjustable corner mounts for securing the PED.
[0031] FIG. 6D illustrates a cutaway view of the adjustable corner
mount on a universal case for a PED showing a threaded height
adjustment mechanism.
[0032] FIG. 6E illustrates a side view of the adjustable corner
mount securing a PED of a first thickness.
[0033] FIG. 6F illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the
adjustable corner mount securing a PED of a second thickness.
[0034] FIG. 6G illustrates a perspective view of the universal case
securing the PED via adjustable corner mounts, including a concave
front panel.
[0035] FIG. 6H illustrates a perspective view of the universal case
securing the PED with a front panel partially opened.
[0036] FIG. 6I illustrates a rear perspective view of the universal
case for a PED in an upright position, including a transparent rear
panel.
[0037] FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment of a universal case
securing a relatively large PED via adjustable corner mounts.
[0038] FIG. 7B illustrates the universal case of FIG. 7A securing a
relatively small PED via adjustable corner mounts.
[0039] In the following description, numerous specific details are
provided for a thorough understanding of the various embodiments
disclosed herein. The systems and methods disclosed herein can be
practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with
other methods, components, materials, etc. In addition, in some
cases, well-known structures, materials, or operations may not be
shown or described in detail in order to avoid obscuring aspects of
the disclosure. Furthermore, the described features, structures, or
characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or
more alternative embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] The present disclosure provides various embodiments of
universal cases for securing, protecting, and/or supporting
portable electronic devices (PEDs). According to various
embodiments, a universal case may be configured to secure PEDs
having various dimensions. For example, a single universal case may
be configured to secure a tablet device with a 10-inch diagonal
display or a tablet device with an 8-inch diagonal display.
Similarly, a single case may be configured to secure tablet devices
and/or other PEDs with varying thicknesses and/or aspect ratios. A
universal case may include a flexible band for securing a PED
within a universal case. The flexible band may be a continuous
flexible band configured to wrap around each corner of a PED in
order to secure it within a universal case. The flexible band may
be manufactured using silicon, nylon, and/or other elastic
material. According to various embodiments, the flexible band may
be adjustable within slots at each corner of the universal case in
order to accommodate PEDs of varying sizes. For example, at each
corner of a universal case an adjustable flexible band may be
configured to transition from an inner position to an outer
position. In the inner position the adjustable flexible band may be
configured to secure the corners of a relatively small PED. In the
outer position the adjustable flexible band may be configured to
secure the corners of a relatively large PED.
[0041] According to various embodiments, an adjustable flexible
band may pass through a plurality of openings in a rear panel of a
universal case such that a continuous adjustable flexible band is
exposed on the front at the four corners and hidden across the top,
bottom and two sides. The adjustable flexible band may be adjusted
within slots at each of the four corners to accommodate PEDs of
various sizes. In some embodiments, an internal support may be
utilized to provide structural support and/or to route an
adjustable flexible band. The flexible band may also be used to
selectively secure a front panel of a universal case in a closed
position. The rear panel and the front panel may be pivotally
connected via one or more hinges. For example, a living hinge or an
elongated rod hinge may be employed to allow the front panel to
selectively expose a PED secured within a universal case. A
universal case may utilize a rear panel and/or a front panel to
secure a PED in an upright or angled position. A rear panel or
front panel may include one or more support grooves configured to
secure the bottom edge of the PED in an upright position.
Alternatively, a variety of friction contacts and/or catches may be
utilized to secure the bottom edge of the PED in the upright
position.
[0042] According to various embodiments, a rear panel of a
universal case may include one or more holes to accommodate ports,
flashes, and/or cameras on a PED. Alternatively or additionally,
the rear panel of a universal case may include one or more
transparent sections to accommodate flashes and/or cameras. For
example, a rear panel may include a transparent polycarbonate
panel.
[0043] According to another embodiment, a universal case for PEDs
of varying sizes may include adjustable corner mounts configured to
rotate and/or pivot in order to accommodate PEDs having various
lengths and widths. Additionally, the adjustable corner mounts may
be lowered and raised, and/or pivoted, in order to adequately
secure PEDs having various thicknesses to a rear panel of a PED.
For example, screw-type fasteners may be employed to lower and
raise the adjustable corner mounts to a desired height. Such screw
type mounts may include quick release mechanisms to allow for
quicker adjustments.
[0044] Each of the variously described mechanisms for securing a
PED, such as adjustable corner mounts, flexible bands, adjustable
flexible bands, and/or continuous adjustable flexible bands, as
describe herein, may be utilized in conjunction with alternative
cases for PEDs. For example, any of the variously described
securing mechanisms may be utilized in conjunction with a case
configured to rotate a PED from a portrait orientation to a
landscape orientation, mount a PED to a wall, secure a PED in an
upright position, enable various peripheral devices (such as a
keyboard), and/or in conjunction with other alternative cases for
PEDs.
[0045] A "portable electronic device" (PED) as used throughout the
specification may include any of a wide variety of electronic
devices. Specifically contemplated and illustrated are tablet-style
electronic devices, including, but not limited to, electronic
readers, tablet computers, tablet PCs, cellular phones, interactive
displays, video displays, touch screens, touch computers, and the
like. Examples of PEDs include the Apple iPad, iPod, and iPhone,
the Hewlett Packard Slate, the Blackberry Playbook, the Acer Iconia
Tab, the Samsung Galaxy, the LG Optimus G-Slate, the Acer Ivonia
Tab, the Motorola Xoom, the HP touchpad Topaz, and the Dell
Streak.
[0046] A "continuous flexible band" as used herein may be
manufactured using silicon, nylon, and/or other elastic or
semi-elastic material. Moreover, the term "continuous" as it
relates to flexible bands may refer to a flexible band manufactured
as a continuous band having no ends, a band having two ends which
are mechanically, chemically, or otherwise joined together, or as
numerous sections of flexible bands joined end to end mechanically,
chemically, or otherwise.
[0047] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment"
or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or
characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is
included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the
phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places
throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to
the same embodiment.
[0048] FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment of the inside 102 of a
rear panel 100 of a universal case configured to secure a PED at
each of the PED's four corners. As illustrated, an adjustable
flexible band 105 may extend from slots 110 at each of the four
corners of rear panel 100. According to various embodiments, one or
more openings 108 may be present in rear panel 100 in order to
reduce weight, material used, and/or to accommodate a camera,
flash, or port of a PED. According to various embodiments, the
portion of adjustable flexible band 105 in each corner of rear
panel 100 may be adjusted within slots 110 between an inner
position and an outer position. In the inner position, adjustable
flexible band 105 may be configured to secure the corners of a
relatively small PED. In the outer position, the adjustable
flexible band 105 may be configured to secure the corners of a
relatively large PED. Additionally, by positioning adjustable
flexible band 105 at various locations within slots 110, the
corners of PEDs having various aspect ratios may be adequately
secured.
[0049] FIG. 1B illustrates the outside 103 of rear panel 100 of a
universal case configured to secure a PED at each of the PED's four
corners. According to various embodiments, adjustable flexible band
105 may be a continuous flexible band configured to extend along
outside 103 of rear panel 100, except for at each of the four
corners where it passes through slots 110 to inside 102 of rear
panel 100. According to alternative embodiments, each of the four
corner sections of adjustable flexible band 105 may be independent
sections of flexible band material. In such an embodiment, each
corner section of adjustable flexible band 105 may be secured to
rear panel 100 at each end. Additionally, rather than extending
along outside 103 of rear panel 100, sections of adjustable
flexible band 105 may extend within rear panel 100 or within
designated tube sections.
[0050] FIG. 1C illustrates the outside 111 of a front panel 120 of
a universal case for PEDs. As illustrated, adjustable flexible band
105 may be used to secure front panel 120 in a closed position with
respect to rear panel 100. Adjustable flexible band 105 may be
extended up and around a clasp 112 or other engagement feature,
such as a button or loop, located on front panel 120.
[0051] FIG. 1D illustrates the universal case for PEDs with a front
panel 120 lifted to expose PED 115 secured at each corner with
adjustable flexible band 105. Front panel 120 may be pivotally
secured to rear panel 100 via a hinge 135. Hinge 135 may be any
type of hinge, such as a rod hinge or a living hinge. Inside 113 of
front panel 120 may include one or more features to protect a
display screen of PED 115. For example, inside 113 of front panel
120 may be lined with a microfiber material to prevent scratches.
Inside 113 of front panel 120 may include a fold point 132
configured to allow front panel 120 to fold in order to allow the
universal case to support PED 115 in an upright position, as
described in greater detail below.
[0052] FIG. 1E illustrates the outside 103 of rear panel 100 of the
universal case securing PED 115 with adjustable flexible band 105.
As illustrated, a camera 117 of PED 115 is visible through one of
openings 108. According to various embodiments, the universal case
may include additional or fewer openings 108, each of which may be
smaller or larger, or specifically sized to fit camera 117 and/or
other feature of PED 115.
[0053] FIG. 1F illustrates a front view of the universal case
securing PED 115 in an upright position via adjustable flexible
band 105. As illustrated, front panel 120 may be folded at fold
point 132 behind rear panel 100 in order to provide support for
rear panel 100 in an upright or inclined position. Rear panel 100
may be pivoted with respect to front panel 120 about hinge 135 in
order to adjust the angle of inclination of PED 115.
[0054] FIG. 1G illustrates a rear view of the universal case
securing PED 115 in an upright position via adjustable flexible
band 105. As illustrated, front panel 120 may be folded at fold
point 132 in order to provide support for rear panel 100 in an
upright or inclined position. Rear panel 100 may be pivoted with
respect to front panel 120 about hinge 135 in order to adjust the
angle of inclination of rear panel 100. According to various
embodiments, edge 114 of front panel 120 may interact with one or
more features disposed on the outside 103 of rear panel 100 in
order to further secure PED 115 in an upright position. For
example, edge 114 may interact with one or more support grooves in
the outside 103 of rear panel 100. Alternatively, clasp 112, a
flap, or a similar feature, may interact with edge 114, or other
feature on outside 103 of rear panel 100, in order to further
secure PED 115 in an upright position. For example, clasp 112 may
comprise a mechanical or magnetic fastener configured to interact
with a corresponding feature, or set of features, disposed on or
near edge 114 of front panel 100.
[0055] As illustrated, openings 108 may allow for the use of camera
117 located on the back of PED 115. Additional or fewer openings
may be utilized and/or the size of the openings may be modified to
accommodate a particular PED, achieve a desired design, and/or to
reduce the amount of material used. In some embodiments, rear panel
100 of the universal case may include one or more transparent
sections to accommodate flashes and/or cameras. For example, rear
panel 100 may include one or more transparent polycarbonate panels
instead of holes 108.
[0056] FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment of a universal case 200
configured with an adjustable flexible band 205 securing a large
PED 215. As illustrated, front panel 220 may be folded at fold
point 232 in order to provide support for rear panel 201 in an
upright or inclined position. Rear panel 201 may be pivoted with
respect to front panel 220 about hinge 235 in order to adjust the
angle of inclination of PED 215. According to various embodiments,
adjustable flexible band 205 may be a continuous adjustable band
exposed on the inside of front panel 200 at each of the four
corners in order to secure PED 215 in place.
[0057] As illustrated, since PED 215 is relatively large,
adjustable flexible band 205 may be in an outer position within top
slots 210 and side slots 209. In an outer position, adjustable
flexible band 205 may adequately secure the corners of a relatively
large PED, such as PED 215, without obstructing the functionality
and/or display of PED 215. Again, adjustable flexible band 205 may
be manufactured using silicon, nylon, and/or other elastic
material. Additionally, adjustable flexible band 205 may be a
continuous adjustable flexible band 205 or may comprise four
sections of adjustable flexible band secured to rear panel 201.
[0058] FIG. 2B illustrates universal case 200 configured with
adjustable flexible band 205 securing a relatively small PED 216.
Again, front panel 220 may be folded at fold point 232 in order to
provide support for rear panel 201 in an upright or inclined
position. Rear panel 201 may be pivoted with respect to front panel
220 about hinge 235 in order to adjust the angle of inclination of
PED 216. Additionally, adjustable flexible band 205 may be a
continuous adjustable band exposed on the inside of front panel 200
at each of the four corners in order to secure PED 216 in place, or
adjustable flexible band 205 may comprise multiple independent
sections of flexible material.
[0059] As illustrated, the aspect ratio of PED 216 is such that the
display of the device is wider than it is tall. In fact, as
compared to PED 215 in FIG. 2A, PED 216 is the same total width,
but is significantly shorter. In order to accommodate PED 216,
adjustable flexible band 205 may be adjusted to an inner position
within top slots 210 and in an outer position within side slots
209. As can be appreciated, adjustable flexible band 205 may be
adjusted within top slots 210 and side slots 209 in order to
accommodate PEDs of varying sizes and aspect ratios. Additionally,
the length of top slots 210 and side slots 209 may be increased in
order to accommodate a wider range of PED sizes. For example, if
side slots 209 are about 1 inch, then adjustable flexible band 205
may be adjusted within side slots 209 to accommodate PEDs having
widths varying by approximately 2 inches. Similarly, if top slots
210 are about 1/2 an inch, then adjustable flexible band 205 may be
adjusted within top slots 210 to accommodate PEDs having widths
varying by approximately 1 inch.
[0060] FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment of a universal case 300
for PEDs configured with support grooves 335, 336, and 337 adapted
to secure a PED 315 in an upright position and an adjustable
flexible band 305 configured to secure the four corners of PED 315.
Front panel 303 may be pivotally secured to rear panel 320 via a
hinge 332. Hinge 332 may be any type of hinge, such as a rod hinge
or a living hinge. Inside 313 of front panel 303 may include one or
more features to protect a display screen of PED 315. For example,
inside 313 of front panel 303 may be lined with a microfiber
material to prevent scratches.
[0061] As illustrated, rear panel 320 may include a fold point 333
configured to allow a section of rear panel 320 to fold in order to
support PED 315 in an inclined position. Real panel 320 may include
an upper section and a lower section pivotally connected about fold
point 333. The lower section may include a first portion of rear
panel 320 that pivots about fold point 333 away from a second
portion 321. Second portion 321 may remain planar with the upper
portion of rear panel 320 and maintain PED 315 adequately secured
to rear panel 320. Support grooves 335-337 may be adapted to catch
a bottom edge 318 of a second portion 321 of rear panel 320.
According to various embodiments, bottom edge 318 of second portion
321 of rear panel 320 may be selectively placed within any one of
support grooves 335, 336 and 337 in order to adjust the angle of
inclination of PED 315.
[0062] Similar to previously described embodiments, adjustable
flexible band 305 may extend from slots 309 and 310 at each of the
four corners of second portion 321 of rear panel 320. According to
various embodiments, the portion of adjustable flexible band 305 in
each corner of second portion 321 may be adjusted within slots 309
and 310 between an inner position and an outer position. In the
inner position, adjustable flexible band 305 may be configured to
secure the corners of a relatively small PED. In the outer
position, adjustable flexible band 305 may be configured to secure
the corners of a relatively large PED. Additionally, by positioning
adjustable flexible band 305 at various locations within slots 309
and 310, the corners of PEDs having various aspect ratios may be
adequately secured to second portion 321 of rear panel 320.
[0063] Adjustable flexible band 305 may be a continuous flexible
band configured to extend along the outside of rear panel 320,
except for at each of the four corners where it passes through
slots 310 to inside 301 of rear panel 320. According to alternative
embodiments, each of the four corner sections of adjustable
flexible band 305 may be independent sections of flexible band
material. In such an embodiment, each corner section of adjustable
flexible band may be secured to rear panel 320 or second portion
321 at each end. Additionally, rather than extending along the
outside of rear panel 320, sections of adjustable flexible band 305
may extend within rear panel 320, within second portion 321 of rear
panel 320, and/or or within designated tube sections between second
portion 321 and rear panel 320. Though not illustrated, adjustable
flexible band 305 may be used to secure front panel 303 in a closed
position with respect to rear panel 320. Adjustable flexible band
305 may be extended up and around a clasp or other feature, such as
a button or loop, located on the outside of front panel 303.
[0064] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the universal case 300
for PEDs, including support grooves 335, 336, and 337 adapted to
secure PED 315 in an upright position. Also illustrated is
adjustable flexible band 305, configured to secure the corners of
PED 315. Living hinge 332, or an alternative hinge mechanism, may
pivotally connect front panel 303 to rear panel 320. Rear panel 320
may further include a fold point 333 configured to allow rear panel
320 to fold in order to support PED 315 in an upright position.
Support grooves 335-337 may be adapted to catch a bottom edge 318
of a second portion 321 of rear panel 320. According to various
embodiments, bottom edge 318 of second portion 321 of rear panel
320 may be selectively placed within any one of support grooves
335, 336 and 337 in order to adjust the angle of inclination of PED
315.
[0065] Front panel 303 may include pads 340-343, extending across
the length of front panel 303. Pads 340-343 may provide protection
to a display of PED 315 when in a closed position. According to
various embodiments, support grooves 335-337 may be formed as
grooves within pads 340-343. Pads 340-343 may be embedded within
and beneath an outer shell material of front panel 303, or may
alternatively be exposed so as to directly contact PED 315 when in
the closed position. According to some embodiments, pads 340-343
may be removable and/or selectively replaceable with pads of
varying thicknesses. In such an embodiment, thicker pads may be
used to provide increased protection and/or to accommodate PEDs
having varying thicknesses. In some embodiments rear panel 320
and/or second portion 321 of rear panel 320 may also be adapted to
receive and/or include pads similar to pads 340-343.
[0066] FIG. 3C illustrates a top view of the inside of front 303
and rear 320 panels of universal case 300 for PEDs, including
support grooves 335-337 on front panel 303 and integrated camera
holes 308 on rear panel 320. Again, a hinge 332 may allow rear
panel 320 to be pivoted with respect to front panel 303. A fold
point 333 may be configured to allow rear panel 320 to fold in
order to support PED 315 in an upright position.
[0067] FIG. 3D, illustrates an elevational view of the front 303
and rear 320 panels of universal case 300 for PEDs, including
support grooves 335-337 adapted to secure a PED in an upright
position. Also illustrated in FIG. 3D is hinge 332 and fold point
333 on rear panel 320.
[0068] FIG. 4A illustrates an embodiment of a universal case 400
for PEDs configured with a support structure 450 configured to
route an adjustable flexible band 405. A front panel 420 may be
pivotally secured to a rear panel 401 via a hinge 435. Hinge 435
may be any type of hinge, such as a rod hinge or a living hinge.
According to various embodiments, rear panel 401 may include an
integrated support structure 450 configured to receive adjustable
flexible band 405. Rear panel 401 may also include one or more
openings 408 in order to reduce weight, material used, and/or to
accommodate a camera, flash, or port of a PED. Additionally or
alternatively, rear panel 401 of the universal case may include one
or more transparent sections to accommodate flashes and/or cameras.
For example, rear panel 401 may include one or more transparent
polycarbonate panels instead of holes 408.
[0069] As illustrated, support structure 450 may include a pair of
arms 455 at each corner configured with slots 410 to receive
adjustable flexible band 405. According to various embodiments, the
portion of adjustable flexible band 405 in each corner of support
structure 450 may be adjusted within slots 410 between an inner
position and an outer position. In an inner position adjustable
flexible band 405 may be configured to secure the corners of a
relatively small PED. In the outer position the adjustable flexible
band 405 may be configured to secure the corners of a relatively
large PED. The corners of PEDs having various aspect ratios may be
adequately secured by positioning adjustable flexible band 405 at
various locations within slots 410.
[0070] FIG. 4B illustrates a close-up view of a corner portion of a
pair of arms 455 of support structure 450 and adjustable flexible
band 405. As illustrated, adjustable flexible band 405 may be held
in place at each corner by arms 455. Adjustable flexible band 405
may be moved between an outer position and an inner position within
slots 410 on arms 455. According to the illustrated embodiments,
adjustable flexible band 405 is a continuous band extending between
each pair of arms 455 on support structure 450. According to an
alternative embodiment, each corner of support structure 450 may
include an independent section of flexible band material extending
between, and adjustable within, each pair of arms 455.
[0071] FIG. 4C illustrates universal case 400 with support
structure 450 securing a PED 415 at each corner with adjustable
flexible band 405. The height of each pair of arms 455 relative to
the remaining body of support structure 450 may correspond to the
thickness of one or more PEDs. The height of each arm 455 of a pair
of arms in each corner of support structure 450 relative to the
remaining body of support structure 450 may or may not be
equivalent. According to various embodiments, front panel 420 may
be pivotally secured to a rear panel 401 via hinge 435 allowing
front panel 420 to pivot between 180 degrees and 460 degrees from a
closed position. As previously described, rear panel 401 may
include one or more openings in order to reduce weight, material
used, and/or to accommodate a camera, flash, or port of PED
415.
[0072] FIG. 4D illustrates rear panel 401 being partially separated
from support structure 450. As illustrated, rear panel 401 may be
folded at a fold point 432 in order to support PED 415 in an
inclined position. According to various embodiments, a portion of
rear panel 401 may be selectively secured to support structure 450
via one or more fasteners, such as hook and loop fasteners 460.
Front panel 420 may be pivotally secured to rear panel 401 via one
or more hinges 435. A PED 415 may be secured within support
structure 450 via adjustable flexible band 405 routed through slots
410 at the end of each of arms 455.
[0073] FIG. 4E illustrates a side view of universal case 400
supporting PED 415 in an upright position with a lower portion of
rear panel 401 separated from support structure 450. As
illustrated, rear panel 401 may fold at fold point 432 in order to
allow a lower edge 418 of PED 415 (or lower arms 455) to rest
against front panel 420 in an inclined position. According to
various embodiments, hinges 435 and fold point 432 allow lower edge
418 of PED 415 to contact front panel 420 at various angles. Again,
universal case 400 may utilize a support structure 450 in
conjunction with adjustable flexible band 405 routed through slots
410 in order to secure each corner of a PEDs, regardless of the
dimensions of the PED.
[0074] FIG. 4F illustrates a rear view of an embodiment of
universal case 400 securing a PED (not shown) in an inclined
position. Rear panel 401 may include one or more openings 408 in
order to reduce weight, material used, and/or to accommodate a
camera, flash, or port of a PED. Rear panel 401 may be attached
permanently, semi-permanently, or selectively to support structure
450 (shown in dashed lines). At fold point 432, a lower portion of
rear panel 401 may be selectively detached from support structure
401 in order to support the PED in an inclined position (as
illustrated in FIG. 4E). Support structure 450 ay include a pair of
arms 455 at each corner, each arm 455 configured to route an
adjustable flexible bad through a slot 410.
[0075] In some embodiments, support structure 450 may be
selectively secured to rear panel 401 via one or more fasteners,
such as a hook and loop fastener or other fastener. Accordingly,
support structure 450 may be completely detached from rear panel
401. In such embodiments, a PED may remain secured to support
structure 450 at each corner by an adjustable flexible band.
Support structure 450 may be selectively reattached to rear panel
401. Alternatively, support structure 450, while still securing the
PED, may be attached or secured to any of a wide variety of stands
or cases. For example, a PED secured to support structure 450 may
be removed from a universal case, such as universal case 400, and
attached to any of a wide variety of alternative cases, stands,
frames, wall-mounts, car mounts, headrest mounts, and/or the
like.
[0076] FIG. 4G illustrates an elevational view of one embodiment of
support structure 450. As illustrated, each corner of support
structure 450 may include a pair of arms 455 configured to route an
adjustable flexible band through slots 410. Support structure 450
may be configured to attach to a rear panel of a universal case, or
other case, display, and/or stand via grommets 457. In various
embodiments, grommets 457 may be replaced with any of a wide
variety of alternative fasteners and/or mounting hardware.
Additionally, support structure 450 may include one or more
dampeners 458, such as a rubber washer or other shock-absorbing
feature.
[0077] FIG. 5A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the
inside of front 503 and rear 520 panels of a universal case 500 for
PEDs. As illustrated, front panel 503 may include support grooves
535, 536, and 537. Rear panel 520 may include a support structure
550. Support structure 550 may include a pair of arms 555 at each
corner configured to route an adjustable flexible band 505.
Adjustable flexible band 505 may extend between each pair of arms
555 through slots 510. Front panel 503 may be pivotally secured to
rear panel 520 via a hinge 532, such as a rod hinge or a living
hinge. Rear panel 520 may include one or more openings 508 in order
to reduce weight, material used, and/or to accommodate a camera,
flash, or port of a PED. Additionally or alternatively, rear panel
520 may include one or more transparent panels, such as a
polycarbonate panel.
[0078] According to various embodiments, the portion of adjustable
flexible band 505 in each corner of support structure 550 may be
adjusted within slots 510 between an inner position and an outer
position. In an inner position adjustable flexible band 505 may be
configured to secure the corners of a relatively small PED. In the
outer position the adjustable flexible band 505 may be configured
to secure the corners of a relatively large PED. The corners of
PEDs having various aspect ratios may be adequately secured by
positioning adjustable flexible band 505 at various locations
within slots 510. Adjustable flexible band 505 may be a continuous
band extending between each pair of arms 555 on support structure
550. In an alternative embodiment, each corner of support structure
550 may include an independent section of flexible band material
extending between, and adjustable within, each pair of arms
555.
[0079] As described in greater detail below, rear panel 520 may
include a fold point 533 configured to allow rear panel 520 to fold
in order to support a PED in an upright position. As described
below, support grooves 535-537 may be adapted to catch a bottom
edge of either the PED or two of the arms 555 of the support
structure. According to various embodiments, any of support grooves
535, 536 and 537 may be selected in order to adjust the angle of
inclination of the PED.
[0080] FIG. 5B illustrates a top view of the inside of front 503
and rear 520 panels of universal case 500 for PEDs, including a PED
515 secured by the support structure (550 in FIG. 5A) and
adjustable flexible band 505 to rear panel 520. As illustrated,
adjustable flexible band 505 may secure each of the four corners of
PED 515. Adjustable flexible band 505 may be routed through slots
510 of the support structure. In the illustrated embodiments,
adjustable flexible band 505 is in an inner position within each of
slots 510 in order to secure relatively small PED 515. Adjustable
flexible band 505 may be moved to an outer position in order to
secure a larger PED.
[0081] FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of universal case 500
for PEDs, including internal support structure 550 (only slots 510
are visible). Front panel 503 may include support grooves 535, 536,
and 537 adapted to secure PED 515 in an upright position.
Adjustable flexible band 505 may be routed through slots 510 and
configured to secure the four corners of PED 515. Front panel 503
may be pivotally secured to rear panel 520 via hinge 532. Hinge 532
may be any type of hinge, such as a rod hinge or a living hinge.
Inside 513 of front panel 503 may include one or more features to
protect a display screen of PED 515. For example, inside 513 of
front panel 503 may be lined with a microfiber material to prevent
scratches.
[0082] Rear panel 520 may include a fold point 533 configured to
allow a lower section of rear panel 520 to fold in order to support
PED 515 in an upright position. Support grooves 535-537 may be
adapted to catch a bottom edge 518 of PED 515 and/or a bottom edge
of the support structure. The bottom edge of support structure may
comprise the two lowest slots 510. According to various
embodiments, bottom edge 518 of PED 515 may be selectively placed
within any one of support grooves 535, 536 and 537 in order to
adjust the angle of inclination of PED 515.
[0083] Adjustable flexible band 505 may be a continuous flexible
band configured to extend between support structure (550,
illustrated in FIG. 5A) and rear panel 520, except for at each of
the four corners where it passes through slots 510 of support
structure 550 to inside 501 of rear panel 520. According to
alternative embodiments, each of the four corner sections of
adjustable flexible band 505 may be independent sections of
flexible band material secured on the backside of each of slots 510
in support structure 550. Adjustable flexible band 505 may be used
to secure front panel 503 in a closed position with respect to rear
panel 520. Adjustable flexible band 505 may be extended up and
around a clasp or other feature, such as a button or loop, located
on front panel 503.
[0084] FIG. 5D illustrates a side view of universal case 500 for
PEDs, including the support grooves 535, 536, and 537, support
structure 550, and adjustable flexible band 505 configured to
secure the corners of PED 515. Living hinge 532, or an alternative
hinge mechanism, may pivotally connect front panel 503 to rear
panel 520. Rear panel 520 may further include a fold point 533
configured to allow rear panel 520 to fold in order to support PED
515 in an upright position. Support grooves 535-537 may be adapted
to catch a bottom edge 518 of PED 515 and/or a lower portion of
support structure 550. According to various embodiments, bottom
edge 518 of PED 515 may be selectively placed within any one of
support grooves 535, 536 and 537 in order to adjust the angle of
inclination of PED 515.
[0085] Front panel 503 may include pads 540-543, extending across
the length of front panel 503. Pads 540-543 may provide protection
to a display of PED 515 when in a closed position. According to
various embodiments support grooves 535-537 may be formed as
grooves within pads 540-543. Pads 540-543 may be embedded within
and beneath an outer shell material of front panel 503, or may
alternatively be exposed so as to directly contact PED 515 when in
the closed position. According to some embodiments, pads 540-543
may be removable and/or selectively replaceable with pads of
varying thicknesses. In such an embodiment, thicker pads may be
used to provide increased protection and/or to accommodate PEDs
having varying thicknesses. In some embodiments rear panel 520 may
also be adapted to receive and/or include pads similar to pads
540-543.
[0086] FIG. 6A illustrates top view of an embodiment of a universal
case 600 configured with adjustable corner mounts 655 for securing
a PED 615. As illustrated, a front panel 620 may be pivotally
attached to a rear panel 601 via one or more hinges 635. Hinge 635
may be any type of hinge, such as a rod hinge or a living hinge.
According to various embodiments, each adjustable corner mount 655
may be configured to rotate about a pivot point and to raise,
lower, and/or pivot with respect to rear panel 601. Accordingly,
universal case 600 may be configured to secure PEDs of varying
sizes and thicknesses using adjustable corner mounts 655.
[0087] FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of adjustable corner
mounts 655 for securing a PED within universal case 600. As
illustrated, each adjustable corner mount 655 may be attached to a
pivot 670 and include a securing plate 673 configured to contact an
upper surface of a PED. Securing plate 673 may be manufactured
using and/or coated with materials suitable to provide adequate
grip on a top surface of a PED without damaging the top surface of
the PED. For example, securing plate 673 may be coated with or
manufactured from a rubber, plastic, cloth, microfiber, and/or
other non-abrasive material.
[0088] PEDs of various sizes may be secured within universal case
600 by rotating adjustable corner mount 655 between an inner
position and an outer position. Additionally, PEDs having various
thicknesses may be accommodated by adjusting the height of securing
plate 673 relative to rear panel 601 along pivot 670. Additionally,
rear panel 601 may include one or more alignment guides 675
configured to align a PED on rear panel 601 prior to securing the
PED with corner mounts 655. Additionally, front panel 620 may
include a first attachment feature 681 configured to mate with a
second attachment feature 682 on rear panel 601. First attachment
feature 681 and second attachment feature 682 may be utilized to
selectively maintain front panel 620 secured to rear panel 601 in
an open position.
[0089] FIG. 6C illustrates a perspective view of universal case 600
configured with adjustable corner mounts 655 for securing PED 615.
As illustrated, rear panel 601 may include one or more alignment
guides 675 configured to align PED 615 on rear panel 601 prior to
securing PED 615 with securing plates 673 of corner mounts 655.
Additionally, FIG. 6C illustrates that front panel 620 may be
pivotally connected to rear panel 601 via hinge 635. Again, hinge
635 may comprise any number and/or types of hinges, including rod
hinges and living hinges. According to various embodiments, front
panel 620 may be configured to pivot with respect to rear panel 601
up to 180 degrees, up to 270 degrees, up to 360 degrees, and/or to
a maximum angle between 180 degrees and 360 degrees. In some
embodiments, front panel 620 may be selectively detached from rear
panel 601.
[0090] FIG. 6D illustrates a cutaway view of adjustable corner
mount 655 configured to secure a corner of PED 615. As illustrated,
a threaded pivot 671 may comprise a threaded height adjustment
mechanism. Threaded pivot 671 may allow securing plate 673 to pivot
between an inner position and an outer position. Additionally,
threaded pivot 671 may allow securing plate 673 to be adjusted
vertically such that the distance between rear panel 601 and
securing plate 673 may be adapted for PEDs having various
thicknesses. In the illustrated embodiment, securing plate 673 may
be rotated about threaded pivot 671 in order to adjust the height
of securing plate 673. According to alternative embodiments, any of
a wide variety of pivots allowing for both height adjustment and
rotational adjustment may be employed in place of threaded pivot
671. For example, a quick release mechanism may provide for
rotation and/or height adjustment in addition to or in place of
threaded pivot 671.
[0091] FIG. 6E illustrates a side view of adjustable corner mount
655 securing a PED 618 of a first thickness. As illustrated,
securing plate 673 may be vertically adjusted along threaded pivot
671 to correspond to the thickness of PED 618. Additionally
securing plate 673 may be rotatably adjusted to accommodate the
dimensions of PED 618. Securing plate 673 of adjustable corner
mount 655 may include an extendable portion. According to such
embodiments, one end of the securing plate 673 may be selectively
extended to accommodate PEDs having smaller dimensions. In an
extended position, adjustable corner mount 655 may be better suited
to secure a relatively small PED. In a contracted position,
adjustable corner mount 655 may be suited to secure a relatively
large PED.
[0092] FIG. 6F illustrates a side view of adjustable corner mount
655 securing a PED 619 of a second thickness. As illustrated, PED
619 is significantly thicker than PED 618 of FIG. 6E. Accordingly,
securing plate 673 may be vertically adjusted along threaded pivot
671 to correspond to the thickness of PED 619. According to various
embodiments, the minimum and maximum heights that securing plate
673 may reach may depend on the length of threaded pivot 671. As
previously described, any of a wide variety of adjustable members,
such as a quick release mechanism, may be used in place of threaded
pivot 671.
[0093] FIG. 6G illustrates a perspective view of universal case 600
securing PED 615 via adjustable corner mounts 655, including a
concave front panel 621. In some embodiments, the inside of front
panel 621 may be concave while the outside of front panel 621
remains flat (as opposed to being correspondingly convex).
According to various embodiments, concave front panel 621 may be
formed as thin as possible. In some embodiments reinforced sections
and/or a supporting framework may also allow front panel 621 to be
made thinner, stronger, and/or reduce its overall weight.
[0094] Concave front panel 621 may include corners 622 configured
to mate with corresponding adjustable corner mounts 656 in a closed
position. In a closed position, the concave shape of concave front
panel 621 may prevent concave front panel 621 from impacting a
display of PED 615. Corners 622 may be used to selectively secure
concave front panel 621 in a closed position when corners 622 are
mated with adjustable corner mounts 656. Adjustable corner mounts
656 may include additional latching features not present on
adjustable corner mounts 655. In some embodiments, corner mounts
656 may be magnetically secured to corners 622.
[0095] FIG. 6H illustrates a perspective view of universal case 600
securing PED 615, including concave front panel 621 in a partially
opened state. Again, concave front panel 621 may include corners
622 configured to mate with adjustable corner mounts 656. Corners
622 may selectively maintain concave front panel 621 in a closed
position via one or more protrusions, inclusions, mechanical
fasteners, and/or via magnetic components. For example, corners 622
may include magnets, hook and loop fasteners, and/or protrusions
configured to engage corresponding features on corners 622.
[0096] FIG. 6I illustrates a rear perspective view of universal
case 600 securing PED 615 in an upright position. PED 615 may be
secured within universal case 600 via adjustable corner mounts 655.
As illustrated, an outside 603 of the rear panel may be transparent
and/or include a transparent section. Transparent outside 603 may
be configured to allow a camera 617 to be used without removing PED
615 from universal case 600. For example, outside 603 of the rear
panel may comprise a transparent polycarbonate panel configured to
protect a rear portion of PED 615 while allowing for unhindered use
of camera 617. As illustrated, front panel 620 may be used to
support universal case 600 in an upright position with camera 617
exposed for use through transparent outside 603 of the rear
panel.
[0097] FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment of a universal case 700
securing a large PED 715 via adjustable corner mounts 755. As
illustrated, a front panel 720 may be concave and include corners
722 configured to mate with corresponding corner mounts 755. Each
adjustable corner mount 755 may be rotatably and vertically
adjustable to accommodate various sized PEDs. As illustrated in
FIG. 7A, a relatively large PED 715 may be secured with adjustable
corner mounts 755 in an outer position.
[0098] FIG. 7B illustrates universal case 700 securing a relatively
small PED 716 via adjustable corner mounts 755. As illustrated,
adjustable corner mounts 755 may be rotated to an inner position in
order to adequately secure relatively small PED 716. In addition,
adjustable corner mounts 755 may be adjusted vertically in order to
accommodate PEDs having various thicknesses.
[0099] The above description provides numerous specific details for
a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein.
However, those of skill in the art will recognize that one or more
of the specific details may be omitted, or other methods,
components, or materials may be used. In some cases, operations are
not shown or described in detail. Additionally, features or
elements described in conjunction with any one embodiment may be
adapted for use with and/or combined with the features of any other
embodiment.
* * * * *