U.S. patent application number 13/762053 was filed with the patent office on 2014-08-07 for covers and mounts for electronic devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is Patrick R. Conarro. Invention is credited to Patrick R. Conarro.
Application Number | 20140216976 13/762053 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51258399 |
Filed Date | 2014-08-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140216976 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Conarro; Patrick R. |
August 7, 2014 |
COVERS AND MOUNTS FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Abstract
A cover is provided for installing at least partly around an
electronic device. And, a module is provided for releasably
coupling to the cover. The module includes a compartment for
storing desired items within the module when the module is coupled
to the cover. An insert is associated with the cover for use in
releasably coupling the module to the cover. In particular, the
insert includes arms that extend through a back portion of the
cover for use in releasably coupling the module to the cover. In
some aspects, a mounting unit is also provided for supporting the
cover and the electronic device in a desired position (e.g., on a
bike, in a vehicle, on a boats, on a belt strap, on a backpack
strap, etc.).
Inventors: |
Conarro; Patrick R.;
(Cascade, CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Conarro; Patrick R. |
Cascade |
CO |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51258399 |
Appl. No.: |
13/762053 |
Filed: |
February 7, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/525 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62J 50/225 20200201;
B62J 11/00 20130101; A45D 33/006 20130101; A45C 11/00 20130101;
A45F 2200/0516 20130101; A45C 2011/002 20130101; A45D 33/26
20130101; A45F 5/021 20130101; A45C 15/00 20130101; H04B 1/3888
20130101; B62J 45/10 20200201 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/525 |
International
Class: |
B65D 1/00 20060101
B65D001/00 |
Claims
1. A cover assembly for an electronic device, the cover assembly
comprising: a cover having a frame configured to install at least
partly around the electronic device, and a base located toward a
generally rearward portion of the frame; and a module configured to
releasably couple to the base of the cover, such that the module
can be selectively coupled to and removed from the cover.
2. The cover assembly of claim 1, further comprising at least one
arm extending away from the base of the cover, the at least one arm
configured to engage the module and releasably couple the module to
the base of the cover.
3. The cover assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least one arm
includes four arms.
4. The cover assembly of claim 2, further comprising an insert
defining the at least one arm, the insert positionable generally
within the frame of the cover; and wherein the base of the cover
includes at least one opening configured to receive the at least
one arm of the insert therethrough.
5. The cover assembly of claim 2, wherein the module includes a
body having at least one opening configured to receive the at least
one arm of the cover to thereby releasably couple the module to the
base of the cover.
6. The cover assembly of claim 2, wherein the module includes a lip
positioned adjacent the at least one opening of the body, and
wherein the at least one arm is configured to extend over the lip
of the body of the module when the module is coupled to the base of
the cover to thereby inhibit movement of the module off the cover
in a direction generally perpendicular to the cover and/or in
directions generally left and right of the cover.
7. The cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the cover further
includes an abutment configured to help hold the module on the base
of the cover and inhibit sliding movement of the module relative to
the cover.
8. The cover assembly of claim 7, wherein the abutment is
configured to help inhibit sliding movement of the module relative
to the cover in a first direction; and wherein the cover further
includes a tab configured to help hold the module on the base of
the cover and inhibit sliding movement of the module relative to
the cover in a second direction different from the first
direction.
9. The cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the module includes a
body and a generally clear plate configured to couple to the body;
and wherein the module is configured to hold a card in the body
such that the card is visible through the generally clear plate
when the module is coupled to the cover.
10. The cover assembly of claim 1, wherein the module defines a
compartment configured for storing desired items within the module
when the module is coupled to the base of the cover.
11. The cover assembly of claim 10, wherein the module includes
tools and/or an insert for storing medication and/or a makeup
kit.
12. An assembly for use in supporting an electronic device, the
assembly comprising: a cover configured to install at least partly
around the electronic device; a mounting frame configured to couple
to the cover; and a receiver configured to couple to the mounting
frame for supporting the electronic device in a desired
position.
13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the mounting frame includes
multiple tabs configured to engage the cover to thereby couple the
cover to the mounting frame.
14. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the receiver includes at
least one arm with an opening defined therein for use in coupling
the mounting frame to the receiver; the assembly further comprising
at least one fastener configured to extend through the opening of
the at least one arm to thereby couple the mounting frame to the
receiver.
15. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the receiver includes at
least one bracket configured to couple the receiver to handlebars
of a bike to thereby support the cover and the electronic device
installed therein on the bike.
16. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the receiver includes
openings configured to receive a strap to thereby couple the
receiver to the strap and support the cover and the electronic
device installed therein on the strap.
17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the strap includes a
belt.
18. The assembly of claim 12, further comprising a module
configured to releasably couple to the cover, such that the module
can be selectively coupled to and removed from the cover.
19. A cover for an electronic device, the cover comprising: a frame
having side walls and a back wall configured to install at least
partly around the electronic device, the back wall of the frame
having openings defined therein; and an insert positionable within
the frame generally between the electronic device and the back wall
of the frame when the frame is installed at least partly around the
electronic device, the insert having arms configured to extend
through the openings of the back wall of the frame for use in
releasably coupling a module to the cover, such that the module can
be selectively coupled to and removed from the body.
20. An assembly comprising the cover of claim 19 in combination
with the module.
21. An assembly comprising the cover of claim 19 in combination
with a mounting frame configured to couple to the cover; and a
receiver configured to couple to the mounting frame for supporting
the cover and electronic device in a desired position.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to covers and to
mounts for electrical devices for use, for example, in protecting
the electrical devices, for storing desired items with the
electronic devices, for coupling the electrical devices to desired
structures (e.g., bikes, belts, backpacks, etc.), etc.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This section provides background information related to the
present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.
[0003] Covers are often used with electrical devices (e.g., phones,
tablets, etc.) to protect the devices. For example, covers can
protect the devices from exposure to undesired materials such as
water, dirt, food, etc., and from damage if dropped, etc.
SUMMARY
[0004] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure,
and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of
its features.
[0005] The present disclosure generally relates to covers for
electronic devices. In one example embodiment, a cover assembly for
an electronic device generally includes a cover having a frame
configured to install at least partly around the electronic device
and a base located toward a generally rearward portion of the
frame, and a module configured to releasably couple to the base of
the cover such that the module can be selectively coupled to and
removed from the cover.
[0006] In some aspects of the present disclosure, cover assemblies
include modules that define compartments configured for storing
desired items within the modules when the modules are coupled to
covers. For example, in various aspects the modules may be
configured for storing tools, medication, makeup kits,
identification, credit cards, money, keys, combinations thereof,
etc.
[0007] In another example embodiment, a cover for an electronic
device generally includes a frame having side walls and a back wall
configured to install at least partly around the electronic device,
and an insert positionable within the frame generally between the
electronic device and the back wall of the frame when the frame is
installed at least partly around the electronic device. The back
wall of the frame has openings defined therein, and the insert has
arms configured to extend through the openings of the back wall of
the frame for use in releasably coupling a module to the cover such
that the module can be selectively coupled to and removed from the
body.
[0008] The present disclosure also generally relates to assemblies
for supporting electronic devices. In one example embodiment, an
assembly for use in supporting an electronic device generally
includes a cover configured to install at least partly around the
electronic device, a mounting frame configured to couple to the
cover, and a receiver configured to couple to the mounting frame
for supporting the electronic device in a desired position.
[0009] In some aspects of the present disclosures, the assemblies
are configured for supporting the electronic devices on mobile
units such as bikes, vehicles, boats, etc. And in other aspects of
the present disclosure, the assemblies are configured for
supporting the electronic devices on straps such as, for example,
belt straps, backpack straps, etc.
[0010] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the
description provided herein. The description and specific examples
in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and
are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
DRAWINGS
[0011] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes
only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations,
and are not intended to limit the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cover according to an
example embodiment of the present disclosure shown installed to an
electronic device;
[0013] FIG. 2 the perspective view of FIG. 1 with the electronic
device removed from the cover;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the cover of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the cove of FIG.
1;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cover of FIG. 1 showing
an insert removed from the cover;
[0017] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a module according
to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, where the
module is capable of being coupled to the cover of FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the module of FIG. 6;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating an operation of
coupling the module of FIG. 6 to the cover of FIG. 1;
[0020] FIG. 9 is another perspective view illustrating the
operation of coupling the module of FIG. 6 to the cover of FIG.
1;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating the module of
FIG. 6 coupled to the cover of FIG. 1;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a rear elevation view of the module and cover of
FIG. 10;
[0023] FIG. 12 is a bottom plan view of the module and cover of
FIG. 10;
[0024] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the module and cover of FIG.
10;
[0025] FIG. 14 is a left side view of the module and cover of FIG.
10;
[0026] FIG. 15 is a right side view of the module and cover of FIG.
10;
[0027] FIG. 16 is a section view of the module of FIG. 6 and the
cover of FIG. 1 taken in a plane including line 16-16 in FIG.
11;
[0028] FIG. 17 is a section view of the module of FIG. 6 and the
cover of FIG. 1 taken in a plane including line 17-17 in FIG.
11;
[0029] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a mounting assembly
according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure for
use in mounting an electronic device to a bike, where the
electronic device is installed to the cover of FIG. 1 and the
assembly is configured to couple to the cover;
[0030] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the mounting assembly of
FIG. 18;
[0031] FIG. 20 is another perspective view of the mounting assembly
of FIG. 18;
[0032] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the mounting
assembly of FIG. 18, and further illustrating the cover of FIG. 1
and a storage module for use with the cover and mounting
assembly;
[0033] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of the storage
module of FIG. 21;
[0034] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the storage module of FIG.
21, showing the storage module assembled;
[0035] FIG. 24 is a section view of the mounting assembly taken in
a plane including line 24-24 in FIG. 19;
[0036] FIG. 25 is a perspective view illustrating installation of a
receiver of the mounting assembly to the bike;
[0037] FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating installation of
the cover and electronic device to the receiver of the mounting
assembly;
[0038] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a module according to
another example embodiment of the present disclosure, where the
module is shown coupled to the cover of FIG. 1;
[0039] FIG. 28 is a left side view of the module and cover of FIG.
27;
[0040] FIG. 29 is a right side view of the module and cover of FIG.
27;
[0041] FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the module and cover of FIG.
27;
[0042] FIG. 31 is a bottom plan view of the module and cover of
FIG. 27;
[0043] FIG. 32 is a front elevation view of the module and cover of
FIG. 27;
[0044] FIG. 33 is a rear elevation view of the module and cover of
FIG. 27;
[0045] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a module according to
another example embodiment of the present disclosure, where the
module is shown coupled to the cover of FIG. 1;
[0046] FIG. 35 is a left side view of the module and cover of FIG.
34;
[0047] FIG. 36 is a right side view of the module and cover of FIG.
34;
[0048] FIG. 37 is a top plan view of the module and cover of FIG.
34;
[0049] FIG. 38 is a bottom plan view of the module and cover of
FIG. 34;
[0050] FIG. 39 is a front elevation view of the module and cover of
FIG. 34;
[0051] FIG. 40 is a rear elevation view of the module and cover of
FIG. 34;
[0052] FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view of the module of
FIG. 34; and
[0053] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a mounting assembly
according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure
for use in mounting an electronic device to a strap, where the
electronic device is installed to the cover of FIG. 1 and the
assembly is configured to couple to the cover.
[0054] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding
parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0055] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with
reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0056] FIGS. 1-5 illustrate an example embodiment of a cover 2 for
an electronic device 3. As will be described, the cover 2 is
configured to fit at least party over the electronic device 3. In
doing so, the cover 2 can then provide protection to the electronic
device 3 against exposure to undesired materials (e.g., water,
dirt, food, etc.) and/or against damage from inadvertent shocks
(e.g., shocks associated with inadvertently dropping the electronic
device 3, etc.). Further, the cover 2 provides a platform that can
be used to releasably couple different modules to the cover 2 as
desired, where the different modules then associate different
features with the cover 2 (e.g., storage features, mounting
features, etc.). The different modules can be selectively
interchanged on the cover 2 as desired. This will be described in
more detail hereinafter.
[0057] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cover 2 generally includes a
frame 4 configured to receive the electronic device 3 and a raised
base 6 disposed generally rearward of the frame 4. The frame 4
includes side walls 8 and a back wall 10. The frame 4 is generally
flexible (e.g., formed from flexible material such as rubber,
formed as a soft overmold, etc.) so that the electronic device 3
can be pressed into (or removed from) the cover 2 through a forward
opening 12 of the cover 2 (e.g., with the cover 2 stretching around
at least part of the electronic device 3, conforming to at least
part of the electronic device 3, etc.) (see arrows A and B in FIG.
2). As such, the frame 4 fits securely around side and back
portions of the electronic device 3, while leaving a front portion
of the electronic device 3 (e.g., a touch screen, etc.) accessible
to a user. The frame 4 also includes openings (each generally
indicated at reference number 14) and protrusions (each generally
indicated at reference number 16) configured to align with various
features of the electronic device 3 (e.g., buttons, cameras, power
connections, etc.) so that the features are accessible and operable
by the user when the electronic device 3 is installed in the cover
2.
[0058] With additional reference now to FIGS. 3-5, the cover 2 also
includes a slider plate 18 (broadly, an insert) configured to help
couple a module (not shown) to the cover 2 (this will be described
in more detail hereinafter). The slider plate 18 is positioned
within the raised base 6 (e.g., inserted through the opening 12 of
the frame 4, etc.). Arms 20 of the slider plate 18 generally align
with, and extend through, openings 22 in the base 6 of the cover 2.
The arms 20 are then configured to interact with the module for
coupling the module to the cover 2. As can be seen, the slider
plate 18 is positioned in the cover 2 so that it does not interfere
with inserting the electronic device 3 in the cover 2 (FIG. 2). In
addition, the slider plate 18 is located generally behind the
electronic device 3 when the electronic device 3 is installed in
the cover 2 such that it also does not interfere with use of the
electronic device 3 in the cover 2. In the illustrated embodiment,
finger openings 24 are provided along lateral side portions of the
slider plate 18, for example, to accommodate grasping the slider
plate 18 and help facilitate placement and/or removal of the slider
plate 18 in the cover 2. With that said, the slider plate 18 can be
formed from any suitable material within the scope of the present
disclosure including, for example, hard molded plastic, etc.
Further, other configurations of slider plates (e.g., slider plates
without finger openings, slider plates with more than or less than
four arms, etc.) could be used with the cover 2 within the scope of
the present disclosure. Still further, structures other than slider
plates and arms may be used to couple modules to covers within the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0059] The cover 2 further includes an abutment 26 provided toward
an upper portion of the base 6, and a clip 28 provided toward a
lower portion of the base 6. The abutment 26 and the clip 28
operate together with the slider plate 18 to help couple a module
to the cover 2 (again, this will be described in more detail
hereinafter). The abutment 26 and/or the clip 28 can be formed
integrally with the cover 2, or they can be formed separately and
then coupled to the cover 2 within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device 3
installed to the cover 2 is shown as a phone (e.g., a cellular
phone, etc.). In other example embodiments, however, covers of the
present disclosure may be used with electronic devices other than
phones such as, for example, tablets, etc. What's more, it should
be appreciated that covers of the present disclosure (including one
or more features described herein) can be accommodated for use with
any type of electronic devices as desired.
[0061] FIGS. 6-17 illustrate an example embodiment of a module 130
configured for use with the cover 2 previously described and
illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. The module 130 is configured to
selectively couple to (and be removed from, as desired) the cover
2. In the illustrated embodiment, the module 130 is configured for
use to store desired items (e.g., is configured as a wallet, etc.).
As such, the module 130 can be coupled to the cover 2 and used, for
example, for holding items such as identification, credit cards,
money, keys, etc. The cover 2 and the module 130, together, may
generally be referred to as a cover assembly.
[0062] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the module 130 generally includes
a body 132, a plate 134 configured to fit within an opening 136 of
the body 132, and a back 138 configured to couple to the body 132
behind the plate 134. The plate 134 includes a lip 140 extending
around a perimeter of the plate 134. This allows the plate 134 to
fit into the opening 136 of the body 132, with a forward portion of
the plate 134 extending at least partly into the opening 136
(generally flush with an exterior portion of the body 132). The
back 138 of the module 130 includes a tab 142 configured to fit
into an opening 144 in a bottom portion of the body 132 to help
secure the back 138 to the body 132 and hold the plate 134 in the
body opening 136. An opening 146 is also provided in the back 138
to help facilitate insertion and removal of the back 138 into and
from the body 132, as desired (e.g., using a finger, using a tool,
etc.).
[0063] When assembled (FIG. 7), the module 130 defines a
compartment 148, generally behind the back 138 that can be used to
hold desired items. For example, keys, money, credit cards, etc.
can be stored in the compartment 148 (generally between the module
130 and the cover 2 when the module 130 is coupled to the cover 2,
as described next). The module 130 can be configured to provide any
desired size to the compartment 148. In addition in the illustrated
embodiment, the plate 134 is formed from a clear material (e.g.,
injection molded from plastic, etc.). As such, an identification
card 149 (or any other desired card or material) can also be
positioned generally behind the plate 134 (between the plate 134
and the back 138) for holding in the module 130. The identification
card 149 is securely retained in the module 130 and is also visible
through the plate 134 without having to remove it from the module
130.
[0064] As shown in FIGS. 8-15, the body 132 of the module 130 is
configured to releasably couple the module 130 to the cover 2. For
example, openings 150 formed in sidewall portions 152 of the body
132 are configured to generally align with the arms 20 of the
slider plate 18. This allows the module 130 to slide onto the cover
2 (as indicated by arrow A in FIG. 8), with the arms 20 of the
slider plate 18 received within the openings 150 of the module 130.
In addition, the module 130 can then similarly slide off the cover
2 when desired (as indicated by arrow B in FIG. 8) (e.g., to access
the compartment 148 defined between the module 130 and the cover 2,
to interchange the module 130 with another module, etc.). In other
example embodiments, modules may include bases with other
structures configured to couple the modules to covers (e.g., bases
with more than or less than four openings, bases with structures
other than openings, etc.).
[0065] As further shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the slider plate 18,
the abutment 26, and the clip 28 of the cover 2 operate to secure
the module 130 on the cover 2 (e.g., against forces tending to move
the module 130 off the cover 2, etc.). In particular, end portions
of the arms 20 of the slider plate 18 are shaped (e.g., bent,
curved, etc.) to position generally over lip portions 154 of the
body 132 of the module 130. This operates to hold the module 130 on
the cover 2 against forces tending to pull the module 130 off the
cover 2, for example, in a direction generally perpendicular to the
cover 2 and/or in a generally left or right direction of the cover
2. In addition, the abutment 26 helps inhibit the module 130 from
sliding off the cover 2 in a generally upward direction of the
cover 2. And, the clip 28 fits generally over a lower portion of
the module 130 to generally secure, lock, trap, etc. the module 130
on the base of the cover 2 (generally between the clip 28 and the
abutment 26) and help inhibit the module 130 from sliding off the
cover 2 in a generally downward direction of the cover 2.
[0066] As previously described, the illustrated module 130 is
configured for use to store items such as identification, credit
cards, money, keys, etc. In other example embodiments, however,
modules may be configured for use to perform other functions (e.g.,
holding makeup, holding medication, holding tools (e.g., a compass,
a screwdriver, a knife, etc.), etc. What's more, multiple different
modules can be configured to couple to the cover 2, such that the
different modules can be interchanged on the cover 2 as desired.
With that said, various example modules of the present disclosure
will be described in more detail hereinafter.
[0067] FIGS. 18-26 illustrate an example embodiment of a mounting
assembly 260 (broadly, an assembly) for use with the cover 2
previously described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. As shown in FIG.
18, the illustrated mounting assembly 260 is configured to couple
the cover 2 (as well as the electronic device 3 installed in the
cover 2) to a bike 261. And in particular in the illustrated
embodiment, the mounting assembly 260 is configured to couple the
cover 2 (and the electronic device 3) to handlebars 263 of the bike
261 (FIG. 15). With that said, it should be appreciated that the
mounting assembly 260 could alternatively be used to couple the
cover 2 (and the electronic device 3) to other portions of the bike
261 (e.g., a frame of the bike 261, etc.) within the scope of the
present disclosure. Further, it should also be appreciated that the
mounting assembly 260 could be used to couple the cover 2 (and the
electronic device 3) to other structures within the scope of the
present disclosure, for example, dashes (or other structures) of
vehicles, boats, etc.; carts; strollers; desks; etc.
[0068] With reference now to FIGS. 19-21, the illustrated mounting
assembly 260 generally includes a receiver 262 and a frame 264
(e.g., a mounting frame, etc.). The receiver 262 is configured to
couple to the handlebars 263 of the bike 261, and the frame 264 is
configured to couple to the receiver 262. Fasteners 266 (which each
include a screw 268 and a nut 270 in the illustrated embodiment)
are provided for coupling the frame 264 and the receiver 262
together. In so doing, the frame 264 is configured to fit generally
between opposing arms 272 of the receiver 262 so that openings 274
in the frame 264 generally align with corresponding openings 276 in
the receiver 262. The screws 268 of the fasteners 266 can then be
inserted through the respective aligned openings 274, 276, and the
nuts 270 can be coupled to the screws 268 to thereby secure the
frame 264 on the receiver 262. In other example embodiments,
assemblies may include receivers with more than or less than two
arms.
[0069] The frame 264 is also configured to couple to the cover 2
for holding the cover 2 (and the electronic device 3 installed in
the cover 2) in the mounting assembly 260 (FIGS. 19 and 20). As
such, the mounting assembly 260 can hold the cover 2 (and the
electronic device 3) in a desired position on the handlebars 263 of
the bike 261 (FIG. 18). In the illustrated embodiment, resilient
clips 278 (or tabs) are provided around the frame 264 for engaging
the cover 2 and releasably coupling the frame 264 to the cover 2.
However, in other example embodiments, mounting assemblies may
include frames with other structures for coupling the frames to
covers.
[0070] With reference to FIGS. 22-24, the illustrated embodiment
also provides a storage module 230 for coupling to the cover 2. The
storage module 230 generally includes a body 232 and a tool case
280. The tool case 280 fits generally within a lip 240 extending
around an upper opening 236 of the body 232. This helps to hold the
tool case 280 in the body 232 and to inhibit unwanted sliding
movement of the tool case off the body 232. In addition, tabs 282
provided around the body 232 are configured to fit over the tool
case 280 to thereby further help releasably couple the tool case
280 to the body 232 (as indicated by arrows C in FIG. 22). In so
doing, a cavity 248 is defined generally under the tool case 280
(and within the body 232) for storing additional items (e.g.,
identification cards, credit cards, money, keys, etc.) within the
module 230, and specifically between the module 230 and the body
232 of the cover 2 when the module 230 is coupled to the cover 2
(as described next). The tool case 280 can include any desired
tools within the scope of the present disclosure including, for
example, wrenches, knives, a compass, screwdrivers, spare bike
parts, etc.
[0071] The storage module 230 couples to the cover 2 in generally
the same fashion as previously described for the module 230
illustrated in FIGS. 6-17. For example, the body 232 of the storage
module 230 includes openings 250 that align with the arms 20 of the
cover 2. This allows the module 230 to be slid onto (or off of) the
cover 2, with the arms 20 received in the openings 250 (to help
secure the module 230 on the cover 2). An upper portion of the body
232 engages the abutment 26 of the cover 2 (to help inhibit the
module 230 from sliding off the cover 2 in a generally upward
direction of the cover 2), and the clip (not visible) of the cover
2 generally fits over a lower portion of the body 232 (to help
inhibit the module 230 from sliding off the cover 2 in a generally
downward direction of the cover 2).
[0072] Further, the frame 264 of the mounting assembly 260 is
configured to receive and accommodate the module 230 when the cover
2 and module 230 are received in the frame 264. For example, wall
portions of the frame 264 and the tabs 282 of the frame 264 are
sized to provide sufficient depth to receive the cover 2 and module
230 generally into the frame 264 when the frame 264 is coupled to
the cover 2. In addition, it should be appreciated that the
mounting assembly 260 may also accommodate the cover 2 with other
modules coupled thereto within the scope of the present disclosure.
For example, the frame 264 of the mounting assembly 260 may be
configured as needed to receive and accommodate the cover 2 with
any desired module coupled thereto.
[0073] With reference now to FIGS. 25 and 26, the receiver 262 of
the mounting assembly 260 includes two brackets 284, 286 configured
to couple the receiver 262 to the handlebars 263 of the bike 261.
The brackets 284, 286 are shaped to fit generally around the
handlebars 263, and fasteners 288 are provided to then secure the
brackets 284, 286 together around the handlebars 263 (with the
handlebars 263 generally captured between the brackets 284, 286).
In addition, a positioning fastener 290 is provided to frictionally
couple the brackets 284, 286 to the handlebars 263 to securely
locate the receiver 262 in a desired rotational location on the
handlebars 263 (e.g., for viewing of the electronic device 3 by a
user riding the bike 261, for positioning a camera of the
electronic device 3 in a generally forward facing orientation,
etc.). The positioning fastener 290 then also helps inhibit
unwanted rotation of the brackets 284, 286 about the handlebars 263
(e.g., away from the desired rotational location, etc.). Once the
receiver 262 is coupled to the handlebars 263, the frame 264 (and
the cover 2 and electronic device 3 positioned therein) can be
coupled to the receiver 262 as desired.
[0074] FIGS. 27-33 illustrate another example embodiment of a
module 330 configured for use with the cover 2 previously described
and illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. The module 330 is configured to
selectively couple to (and be removed from, as desired) the cover
2. In the illustrated embodiment, the module 330 is configured for
use to store, for example, medication, etc.
[0075] The module 330 generally includes a body 332, a tray 356
configured to fit within an opening 336 of the body 332, and a
cover 358 configured to couple to the body 332. The tray 356
includes a tab (not visible) configured to fit into a corresponding
opening (not visible) in a bottom portion of the body 332 to help
secure the tray 356 to the body 332 and hold the tray 356 generally
in the body opening 336. And, the cover 358 (which may be clear)
includes a lip 392 configured to fit within a hook portion 394 in
an upper portion of the body 332 to thereby pivotally couple the
cover 2 to the body 332. As such, the cover 358 can pivot relative
to the body 332 and the tray 356 to selectively cover and uncover
the opening 336, and thus selectively allow and close access to the
tray 356. A latch 396 is provided on the cover 358 for engaging an
opening 344 of the body 332 to help hold the cover 358 in a closed
position when desired to inhibit access to the tray 356. In the
illustrated embodiment, the tray 356 is configured with multiple
compartments, for example, for holding medication for particular
days of the week. In other example embodiments, modules may include
trays configured with different arrangements of compartments than
disclosed herein.
[0076] With that said, the module 330 couples to the cover 2 in
generally the same fashion as previously described for the module
130 illustrated in FIGS. 6-17. For example, the body 332 of the
module 330 includes openings 350 that align with the arms (not
visible) extending from the cover 2. This allows the module 330 to
be slid onto (or off of) the cover 2, with the arms received in the
openings 350 (to help secure the module 330 on the cover 2). An
upper portion of the body 332 engages the abutment 26 of the cover
2 (to help inhibit the module 330 from sliding off the cover 2 in a
generally upward direction of the cover 2), and the clip 28 of the
cover 2 generally fits over a lower portion of the body 332 (to
help inhibit the module 330 from sliding off the cover 2 in a
generally downward direction of the cover 2).
[0077] FIGS. 34-41 illustrate another example embodiment of a
module 430 configured for use with the cover 2 previously described
and illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. The module 430 is configured to
selectively couple to (and be removed from, as desired) the cover
2. In the illustrated embodiment, the module 430 is configured for
use to store, for example, makeup, etc.
[0078] The module 430 generally includes a body 432, a tray 456
configured to fit within an opening 436 of the body 432, and a
cover 458 configured to couple to the body 432. In addition, a
makeup insert 498 is provided for positioning in the tray 456 (with
the tray 456 also including a compartment 448 for general storage),
and a mirror 499 is provided for coupling to an underside of the
cover 458. The tray 456 includes tabs 442 configured to fit into
corresponding openings (not visible) formed in the body 432 to help
secure the tray 456 to the body 432 and hold the tray 456 generally
in the body opening 436 (FIG. 41). And, the cover 458 (which may be
clear) includes a lip 492 configured to fit within a hook portion
494 in an upper portion of the body 432 to thereby pivotally couple
the cover 458 to the body 432. As such, the cover 458 can pivot
relative to the body 432 and the tray 456 to selectively cover and
uncover the opening 436, and thus selectively allow and close
access to the tray 456. A latch 496 is provided on the cover 458
for engaging an opening 444 of the body 432 to help hold the cover
458 in a closed position when desired to inhibit access to the tray
456.
[0079] With that said, the module 430 couples to the cover 2 in
generally the same fashion as previously described for the module
130 illustrated in FIGS. 6-17. For example, the body 432 of the
module 430 includes openings 450 that align with the arms (not
visible) of the cover 2. This allows the module 430 to be slid onto
(or off of) the cover 2, with the arms received in the openings 450
(to help to secure the module 430 on the cover 2). An upper portion
of the body 432 engages the abutment 26 of the cover 2 (to help
inhibit the module 430 from sliding off the cover 2 in a generally
upward direction of the cover 2), and a clip 28 of the cover 2
generally fits over a lower portion of the body 432 (to help
inhibit the module 430 from sliding off the cover 2 in a generally
downward direction of the cover 2).
[0080] FIG. 42 illustrates an example embodiment of a mounting
assembly 560 for use with the cover 2 previously described and
illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, and the frame 264 previously described
and illustrated in FIGS. 18-26. The illustrated mounting assembly
560 generally includes a receiver 562 which is configured to couple
to the frame 264 in substantially the same fashion that the frame
264 couples to the receiver 262 in the mounting assembly 260 of
FIGS. 18-26. For example, the frame 264 is configured to fit
generally between opposing arms 572 of the illustrated receiver 562
so that openings in the frame 264 generally align with
corresponding openings in the arms 572 the receiver 562. Fasteners
266 can then be inserted through the respective aligned openings to
secure the frame 264 on the receiver 562. In this embodiment, the
receiver 562 further includes openings 591 configured to receive a
belt, strap (e.g., a backpack strap, etc.), etc. for coupling the
receiver 562 thereto (e.g., via threading the belt, strap, etc.
through the openings, etc.). In other example embodiments,
assemblies may include receivers with more than or less than two
arms.
[0081] In some example embodiments, covers and modules are molded
in similar colors, for example, to match product aesthetics, etc.
In addition, in some example embodiments guards (e.g., brush
guards, grated guards configured like catcher's masks, etc.) may be
provided for positioning over at least part of screens of
electronic devices when the electronic devices are positioned in
covers. The guards can help protect the screens from damage,
etc.
[0082] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure
will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are
skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as
examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a
thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It
will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details
need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in
many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit
the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments,
well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known
technologies are not described in detail.
[0083] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be
limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the"
may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises,"
"comprising," "including," and "having," are inclusive and
therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps,
operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the
presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The
method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to
be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the
particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically
identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood
that additional or alternative steps may be employed.
[0084] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on,"
"engaged to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or
layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the
other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be
present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being
"directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or
"directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no
intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to
describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in
a like fashion (e.g., "between" versus "directly between,"
"adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the
term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of
the associated listed items.
[0085] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used
herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers
and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or
sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be
only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or
section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as
"first," "second," and other numerical terms when used herein do
not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the
context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section
discussed below could be termed a second element, component,
region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of
the example embodiments.
[0086] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," "outer,"
"beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like, may be
used herein for ease of description to describe one element or
feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as
illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be
intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use
or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the
figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over,
elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or
features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or
features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an
orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise
oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the
spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted
accordingly.
[0087] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been
provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not
intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual
elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not
limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are
interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if
not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in
many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure
from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be
included within the scope of the disclosure.
* * * * *