U.S. patent application number 15/344505 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-22 for protective cases for mobile devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is Hendra Bong. Invention is credited to Hendra Bong.
Application Number | 20170172267 15/344505 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59064728 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170172267 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bong; Hendra |
June 22, 2017 |
PROTECTIVE CASES FOR MOBILE DEVICES
Abstract
A protective case for a mobile device may comprise a frame
having a number of spokes connected to four protective corners
adapted for holding a portable electronic device. A central portion
of the body may include a mounting member, which may comprise,
enclose or hold a metallic, magnetic, or magnetically attractive
material that may be used to removably secure the case to a mount,
e.g., by magnetic attraction. The mount may include a magnetic or
magnetically attractive core for holding and mounting the case by
magnetic attraction. In some embodiments, a case and one or more
mounts may be provided as an assembly or kit.
Inventors: |
Bong; Hendra; (Hayward,
CA) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bong; Hendra |
Hayward |
CA |
US |
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|
Family ID: |
59064728 |
Appl. No.: |
15/344505 |
Filed: |
November 4, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14043849 |
Oct 2, 2013 |
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15344505 |
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29544632 |
Nov 4, 2015 |
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14043849 |
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62251079 |
Nov 4, 2015 |
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61708654 |
Oct 2, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 2011/002 20130101;
A45C 11/00 20130101; A45F 2200/0516 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45C 11/00 20060101
A45C011/00; A45F 5/00 20060101 A45F005/00; A45C 13/00 20060101
A45C013/00 |
Claims
1. A protective case for a mobile device, comprising: a frame
having a plurality of spokes attached to and extending from a
central mounting member; and a plurality of protective corner
members, each corner member attached to a distal end of one of the
plurality of spokes, wherein each corner is configured and
dimensioned to secure to and protect a corner of a mobile device,
wherein the central mounting member is configured and dimensioned
to mate with and removably secure to a mount for holding the case
in a desired position.
2. The protective case of claim 1, wherein the central mounting
member comprises a magnetic or magnetically-attractive material
adapted to secure to the mount by magnetic attraction.
3. A protective case assembly for a mobile device, comprising: a
case comprising a frame having a plurality of spokes attached to
and extending from a central mounting member, each spoke
terminating in a protective corner member, wherein the central
mounting member comprises a magnetic or magnetically-attractive
material and each corner is configured and dimensioned to secure to
and protect a corner of a mobile device; and a mount having a front
portion configured and dimensioned to mate with and removably
secure the central mounting member by magnetic attraction and a
rear portion configured to secure to a structure for holding the
assembly.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/251,079, filed Nov. 4, 2015; claims priority to
U.S. application Ser. No. 29/544,632, filed Nov. 4, 2015, and U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 29/246,649, filed Oct. 2, 2013; and is
a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/043,849,
filed Oct. 2, 2013, which claims benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/708,654, filed Oct. 2, 2012. Each of the
foregoing applications is incorporated by reference herein in their
entireties.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This invention relates to mobile device accessories, and
more particularly to protective cases for mobile devices such as
cell phones, e-readers, music players, and tablets.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Unless otherwise indicated herein, the elements described in
this section are not prior art to the claims and are not admitted
to be prior art by inclusion in this section.
[0004] As mobile devices have evolved to offer advanced features,
the replacement cost for damaged devices has grown. Unfortunately,
if a mobile device hits a hard surface, it may damage it. It may be
a dent or scratch, but sometimes the damage may require purchasing
a new mobile device. If we are talking about a cell phone, the user
may pay dearly, because the warranty may have expired or simply not
cover the damage and carrier contracts for reduced prices may not
be available. Thus, many users have bought protective cases for
cell phones. Some cases may wrap protective material around the
entire cell phone except for the display. Such an approach may
protect the cell phone from shocks, dents and scratches but
something is lost--the beauty of the cell phone design. The
inventors recognized these problems and sought to identify what
surfaces of the mobile device are susceptible to damage and protect
those surfaces in a less bulky fashion that reveals much of the
cell phone design.
[0005] Thus, there remains a need for slim, lightweight,
affordable, aesthetically pleasing, and protective cases for mobile
devices.
SUMMARY
[0006] Apparatus and methods for protecting electronic or mobile
devices are described herein. In some example embodiments, a
protective case may include a main body covering only part of a
major surface of the mobile device that is integral and/or secured
to sidewall enclosures that protect the mobile device.
[0007] In some embodiments, a protective case may include one or
more spokes that are integral and/or secured to sidewall enclosures
for protecting a mobile device. In some embodiments, sidewall
enclosures are corner sidewall enclosures that protect the mobile
device on the surfaces susceptible to dropping damage.
[0008] In some embodiments, corner enclosures enclose certain parts
of the mobile device such as the device corners, where it is more
susceptible to damage. The corner and non-corner sidewall
enclosures may be minimal with molded interior shapes conforming to
the mobile device to preferably form a snug fit or relatively large
and robust to have more coverage and an extra level of
protection.
[0009] In some embodiments, a protective case may include a variety
of spoke assemblies, and/or sidewall (including corner) enclosures
that are separable parts that can be assembled for customization by
users. In some embodiments, sidewall enclosures may be molded,
machined, and/or shaped to enclose at least part of the perimeter
of the mobile device and are integral with and/or secured to the
main body. When the sidewall enclosures are assembled to the main
body, they may form a case that encloses at least part of the
perimeter of the mobile device, and part of the back of the mobile
device.
[0010] In some embodiments, a cover or case for electronic and
mobile devices covers the typical impact zones such as the corners
or edges with minimal design. Such example cases may multiple
prongs/arms (also referred to herein as "spokes") that extend to
hold or attach to the mobile or electronic device. In some
embodiments, the spokes or prongs may be configured in one or more
pieces to form an approximate "X" shape, with each end of the "X"
having a protective member that secures to and at least partially
covers and protects edges and/or corners of the mobile device.
[0011] In some embodiments, spokes of a case may be configured and
dimensioned in the form of two "V" shapes that connect together,
e.g., at the vertex point of each V such that connected/opposing
"V" shapes approximate the shape of an "X" along the rear surface
of an attached mobile device. In other embodiments, any number, for
example four, individual prongs/arms may connect together. In such
embodiments, distal ends of each prong or arm may include a
protective member (e.g. a corner enclosure) that is adapted to fit
over and secure to a corner or edge of the mobile device.
[0012] In some embodiments, a connecting point between spokes may
be oversized to allow for tolerance or spring or room for the
spokes to expand and or contract. Such mechanisms may allow the
case to help absorb impact or force.
[0013] In some embodiments, individual spokes or arms may be moved
independently if necessary, for example to allow an easier method
of inserting or removal of the protective device from mobile or
electronic device. In other embodiments, the spokes and/or corner
enclosures are integrated into a unibody structure, wherein at
least a portion of the material of the spokes and/or enclosures is
partially elastic or flexible to allow attachment of the case to
mobile device.
[0014] In some embodiments, spokes, or other case components may be
connected via screws. In other embodiments, spokes or other
components may be connected via a mechanical method such as tongue
and groove, hook or other type of fastening method such as using
glue/chemical compounds.
[0015] Embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to four
corners, or spokes in a particular V or X configuration, and
exemplary cases may have as many or as little arms or prongs as
desired or necessary.
[0016] In some embodiments, spokes and/or other components
(including corner enclosures) may comprise or be constructed of any
combination of rigid and elastic materials such as rubber, plastic,
silicone, aluminum, resin, or high-tensile composite materials. In
such embodiments, the spokes or arms may stretch to fit and
self-adjust to fit the device it is holding. In some embodiments,
substantially rigid edges or other shell portions of the case
corners may help prevent damage to the phone, and in some
embodiments inner cushion material may help dampen the effects of
an impact (e.g. by dropping or banging the phone).
[0017] In some embodiments the spokes/prongs/arms may be extendable
via spring-loaded mechanism to achieve a stretch effect to fit or
self-adjust to fit the device it is holding. Such embodiments may
allow the device to be fit in/installed, and may allow the case to
fit devices of different sizes or dimensions.
[0018] In some embodiments, enclosure members (e.g., corner
modules), may be integrated with or attached to a distal end of
each spoke, and configured and dimensioned to fit a corner or other
edge of a mobile device. In some embodiments, a corner member is
made of moldable and/or flexible material, such that it may flex,
mold and/or conform the edges/corners/surfaces of the device it is
holding. In some embodiments, one or more corner members may
comprise rigid or semi-rigid portions to enhance protection of the
corners of the mobile device.
[0019] In some embodiments, a protective case for a mobile device
may comprise an X-shaped frame, having four protective corners
adapted for holding a portable electronic device, and includes an
area that may comprise, enclose or hold a metallic, magnetic, or
magnetically attractive material. In such embodiments, the
metallic, magnetic, or magnetically attractive material may be used
to secure the case (with attached device) to a metallic surface or
to a corresponding magnetic or magnetically attractive mount device
(sometimes referred to herein as a "mount"). In some embodiments, a
case and one or more mounts may be provided as a kit.
[0020] In some embodiments, an area approximating the center of the
an X-shaped frame of a case may have a substantially circular
shape, or other desired shape, and such area may include metallic
or magnetic components adapted to secure to a mount, e.g., by
magnetic attraction. In some embodiments, such mount areas may be
disposed on another position on the back of the case (e.g., at a
desired position along or between one or more arms or spokes, or
near a desired corner or edge of the case), and the shape maybe a
circle, a square, a hexagon, or any other shape, even a free form
shape. In some embodiments, the mount area (also sometimes referred
to as "mount attachment" or "mount attachment point") may include
or contain an electronic chip, such as a RFID or NFC chip, that can
be blank or be programmed to contain information.
[0021] In some embodiments, the case and the portable device it is
holding may be attached to any metal or magnetically attractive
surfaces. Such as file cabinet, refrigerator, or any materials that
is magnetic or that a magnet may be attach to.
[0022] In some embodiments, the case components are integrated to
form a substantially unibody construction of a desired material,
e.g., a high-strength polymer, rubber, plastic, metal, or other
desired material. In such embodiments, a mount area may include or
comprise a different material to facilitate mounting of the device,
such as a metal or magnet, and/or may include a chip as described
above.
[0023] In some embodiments, a case is configured and dimensioned to
"snap-on" to the portable device. For example, the spokes/frame
and/or corner members of the case may be constructed of materials
that are at least slightly flexible to allow enough flex to grip
the periphery of the portable device as to attach itself securely
to the device.
[0024] In some embodiments, a case apparatus may include and/or
work in conjunction with a mount, such as a wall mount, a car
mount, or a desktop mount. In some embodiments, a rear surface of
the mount is adapted to secure to a desired surface. For example,
the rear surface of a wall mount may include or engage with an
adhesive material to permanently or selectively secure to a wall or
surface of a structure. In other embodiments, a rear surface of the
mount may be magnetic, e.g., of a strength that may be stronger
than a magnet on a front, or opposite side of the mount. In other
embodiments, the mount may include features or members adapted to
secure to vanes of an automobile vent (e.g., an air conditioner or
heater vent), or to another desired structure.
[0025] In some embodiments, a front surface of a mount may include
a magnet or magnetically attractive material, for example, adapted
to couple with (e.g., to attract or be attracted to) a
corresponding mount area on a case. In such embodiments, the case
(and a device to which the case is attached) may be removably
secured to the mount by magnetic attraction. In some embodiments, a
mount may include magnetic material such that it may be used to
hold or organize any desired metallic or magnetically-attractive
items, such as power/charging cable, keys, or other desired
items.
[0026] These as well as other aspects and advantages will become
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reading the
following detailed description, with reference where appropriate to
the accompanying drawings. Further, it should be understood that
the embodiments described in this overview and elsewhere are
intended to be examples only and do not necessarily limit the scope
of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] Example embodiments are described herein with reference to
the drawings.
[0028] FIG. 1 is a partially exploded view of a protective case for
a mobile device.
[0029] FIG. 2A illustrates a planar shaped main body of a
protective case.
[0030] FIG. 2B is an exploded view of an open frame shaped main
body and the rest of a protective case.
[0031] FIG. 2C illustrates an X-shaped main body.
[0032] FIG. 3A illustrates a protective case that includes an
X-shaped main body integral with and/or secured to the corner
sidewall enclosures.
[0033] FIG. 3B illustrates a protective case that includes corner
sidewall enclosures without the main body.
[0034] FIG. 3C illustrates a protective case that includes an
X-shaped main body integral with and/or secured to the corner
sidewall enclosures.
[0035] FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate the modular nature of the protective
case that allows for customization.
[0036] FIG. 5A illustrates a protective case that includes an open
frame shaped main body and sidewall enclosures.
[0037] FIG. 5B illustrates a protective case that includes an open
frame shaped main body with corner sidewall enclosures.
[0038] FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate various corner and non-corner
sidewall enclosures.
[0039] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a protective case that
includes an open frame shaped main body, corner sidewall enclosures
and non-corner sidewall enclosures.
[0040] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a protective case that
includes an X-shaped main body, corner sidewall enclosures, and
sidewall enclosures.
[0041] FIG. 9A illustrates a corner sidewall enclosure of a
protective case integral with and/or secured to an open frame
shaped main body.
[0042] FIG. 9B illustrates a spoke of the main body secured by a
screw to the corner sidewall enclosure.
[0043] FIG. 9C illustrates a spoke of the main body secured in a
slot of the corner sidewall enclosure.
[0044] FIG. 9D illustrates an open frame shaped main body that
includes an extension that wraps around a corner sidewall
enclosure.
[0045] FIG. 10A illustrates a protective case for a cell phone
using an X-shaped main body integral with and/or secured to four
corner sidewall enclosures.
[0046] FIG. 10B illustrates a protective case for a tablet using an
X-shaped main body integral with and/or secured to four corner
sidewall enclosures.
[0047] FIG. 11A illustrates an embodiment of a main body that
includes a spoke integral with and/or secured to two corner
sidewalls enclosures to protect four corners of a mobile
device.
[0048] FIG. 11B illustrates another embodiment of a main body that
includes spokes integral with and/or secured to four corner
sidewalls enclosures to protect four corners of a mobile
device.
[0049] FIG. 11C illustrates another embodiment of a main body that
includes spokes integral with and/or secured to four corner
sidewall enclosures to protect four corners of a mobile device.
[0050] FIG. 11D illustrates another embodiment of a main body that
includes spokes integral with and/or secured to four corner
sidewalls enclosures to protect four corners of a mobile
device.
[0051] FIG. 11E illustrates another embodiment of a main body that
includes spokes integral with and/or secured to four corner
sidewalls enclosures to protect four corners of a mobile
device.
[0052] FIG. 11F illustrates another embodiment of a main body that
includes spokes integral with and/or secured to four corner
sidewalls enclosures to protect four corners of a mobile
device.
[0053] FIG. 11G illustrates another embodiment of a main body that
includes spokes integral with and/or secured to four corner
sidewalls enclosures to protect four corners of a mobile
device.
[0054] FIG. 11H illustrates another embodiment of a main body that
includes spokes integral with and/or secured to four corner
sidewalls enclosures to protect four corners of a mobile
device.
[0055] FIG. 12A is a perspective view illustration of an example
case 100 including two V-shaped case members 130 and 140, in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0056] FIG. 12B is a front perspective view of a device 102 secured
to the example case of FIG. 12A, including corner members 110, 112,
114, 116 protecting the corners and corner edges of the device.
[0057] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view illustration of the
case of FIG. 12A, with upper 130 and lower 140 case members
detached from each other, showing attachment member 160 adapted to
secure by tongue and groove fashion through opening 150 .
[0058] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view illustration of
another embodiment of a case 400 having two apposing V-shaped case
members 330 and 140, which attach via a screw 460 through points
150 and 462.
[0059] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of another
embodiment of a case 500, showing detachable case members 510, 520,
530, and 540, each including a spoke and a corner member, and
attachable using an attachment member 526 on one case member that
fits through openings 516, 536, and 546 of the other case
members.
[0060] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view illustration of a
case 600 similar to case 500 of FIG. 15, but including a screw 460
for securing the case members, and which may include a threaded
opening 602 for receiving the screw.
[0061] FIGS. 17A and 17B are rear view illustrations of a 2-part
case 100 being attached to a mobile device, in accordance with an
example embodiment.
[0062] FIG. 17C is a review view illustration of a case 500 being
attached to a mobile device, wherein case member 510 is movable to
facilitate attachment and detachment of the case.
[0063] FIG. 18A is a perspective view illustration of a protective
case 800 for mobile and electronic devices, in accordance with
another example embodiment.
[0064] FIGS. 18B, 18C, 18D and 18E are back, side, front, and end
views, respectively, of the example case 800 of FIG. 18.
[0065] FIG. 18F is a perspective view rendering of an example case
800 attached to a mobile device.
[0066] FIG. 18G is a close-up perspective view of the example case
and mobile device of FIG. 18F.
[0067] FIG. 19A is a perspective view illustration of a wall mount
900 in accordance with an example embodiment.
[0068] FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C, and 19D are side, bottom, and front
views, respectively, of the example wall mount of FIG. 19A.
[0069] FIG. 20A is a perspective view illustration of a wall mount
1000 in accordance with an example embodiment.
[0070] FIGS. 20A, 20B, 20C, and 20D are side, bottom, and front
views, respectively, of the example wall mount of FIG. 20A.
[0071] FIG. 21A is an example illustration of a kit 1100 comprising
a case 800 and a wall mount 900, in accordance with an example
embodiment.
[0072] FIG. 21B is a side view illustration of case 800 in use
attached to mount 900 of FIG. 21A.
[0073] FIG. 21C is a side view illustration of the case and mount
of FIG. 21B, with the case rotated with respect to the mount to a
desired position.
[0074] FIG. 22A is an example illustration of a kit 1200 comprising
a case 800 and a car mount 1000, in accordance with an example
embodiment.
[0075] FIG. 22B is a side view illustration of case 800 in use
attached to mount 1000 of FIG. 22A.
[0076] FIG. 22C is a side view illustration of the case and mount
of FIG. 22B, with the case rotated with respect to the mount to a
desired position.
[0077] Like reference numerals refer to the same or similar
components throughout the several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
I. Overview
[0078] Described herein are apparatus and methods for holding and
protecting mobile devices. In the following description, for
purposes of explanation, numerous examples and specific details are
set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the
aspects of the apparatus and methods. It will be evident, however,
to one skilled in the art that the present invention as defined by
the claims may include some or all of the features in these
examples alone or in combination with other features described
below, and may further include modifications and equivalents of the
features and concepts described herein. Each component or step is
assigned its own reference numeral in the specification and
drawings. Like reference numerals refer to the same or similar
components throughout the several views of the drawings. In some
embodiments, the drawings are not to scale and may not reflect the
relative size of the parts.
[0079] In some embodiments, a slim, ultra-light mobile device case
described herein may comprise a frame configured substantially in
the shape of an "X" with a corner piece at each end of the "X"
configured and dimensioned to fit around and retain a corner of a
mobile phone, tablet, or other portable electronic device. In use,
the X frame is disposed on a back surface of the mobile device and
provides structural support to retain the four protective corners
in position over each corner of the mobile device. In some
embodiments, a central portion of the frame, e.g., approximately at
the intersection of the spokes or legs comprising the X frame, may
include a member configured to secure to a mount for retaining the
case and mobile device in a desired location. For example, the
member may include a magnet or magnetically-attractive member
configured to secure to a corresponding magnetic or
magnetically-attractive mount.
II. Example Embodiments
[0080] FIG. 1 is a partially exploded and perspective view of a
case that can protect a mobile device (e.g., cell phone, tablet,
and e-reader). The mobile device can be a cell phone such as
Apple's iPhone, an iPad, iPod, and other firms' tablets, a
computer, an e-reader such as Amazon's Kindle, and other mobile
devices such as the Android OS mobile devices.
[0081] The protective case includes a main body 24 that is integral
with and/or secured to secondary portions that fully or partly
enclose the perimeter or edges of the mobile device 42 to eliminate
or reduce damage to the mobile device when it collides with a hard
surface.
[0082] For brevity, the application uses the phrase "integral with"
to refer to adjacent "parts" that are structurally a single part.
The application uses "secured" to refer to adjacent parts held
together mechanically by, for example, a screw, a rivet, a fastener
and/or adhesive.
[0083] The secondary portions include corner sidewall enclosures
12, 14, 18, and 20 and non-corner sidewall enclosures 10, 15, 16,
and 22. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the non-corner sidewall
enclosures 10, 22 enclose the top sidewall and the bottom sidewall
of the mobile device 42. The non-corner sidewall enclosures 15, 16
enclose the right sidewall and the left sidewall of the mobile
device 42. Corner sidewall enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 protect
the corners of the mobile device 42. In another embodiment, instead
of corner sidewall enclosure 20, the protective case includes a
corner sidewall enclosure 26 with an opening 27 for a lanyard, a
strap or another purpose. In another embodiment, instead of the
corner sidewall enclosure 20, the protective case includes a corner
sidewall enclosure 29 that includes a button 28 for activating a
function (e.g., camera shutter) of the mobile device 42.
[0084] In another embodiment, a corner sidewall enclosure 30
includes an opening 30 at the top and a closed bottom enclosure 34
to hold an input tool, such as a stylus or pen 36. The sidewall
enclosures are integral with and/or secured to the open frame
shaped main body 24.
[0085] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the main body 24 is an open
frame shaped, which is on the periphery of the mobile device 42
with an opening in the center. The main body 24 can be rigid or
elastic and a singular object or include multiple pieces assembled
together.
[0086] The open frame shaped main body 24 that holds the corner
sidewall enclosures and the non-corner sidewall enclosures together
has center opening in the main body 24 so it can be disposed on the
back or even the front (i.e., display side) of the mobile device
42.
[0087] The corner sidewall and non-corner sidewall enclosures are
made of rigid or non-rigid materials such as aluminum, other
metals, plastic, rubber, polyurethane, carbon fiber, or other
composite materials.
[0088] FIG. 2A illustrates a planar shaped main body 44, including
an opening 43, that covers and protects the back of the mobile
device.
[0089] FIG. 2B is an exploded view of an open frame shaped main
body and the rest of a protective case. As shown, the protective
case includes an open frame shaped main body 24, non-corner
sidewall enclosures 10, 15, 16, and 22, and corner sidewall
enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20. The non-corner sidewall enclosure 10
includes a rectangular shaped opening 38 and a circular opening 40
to access the mobile device's functions (e.g., camera, flash,
microphone and other controls or for exposing the mobile device's
graphics, name, on/off/sleep button, mute button, and volume
buttons).
[0090] FIG. 2C illustrates a main body that includes spokes that is
integral with and/or secured to the corner sidewall enclosures. As
shown in FIG. 2c, the X-shaped main body 46 is a four-spoke body in
the shape of an "X" or two "V's" that are integral with and/or
secured to each other where one "V" is inverted with respect to the
other "V".
[0091] FIG. 3A illustrates a protective case that includes an
X-shaped main body integral with and/or secured to the corner
sidewall enclosures. The corner sidewall enclosures portion 12, 14,
18, and 20 enclose the corners of the mobile device 42, and are
held together by the X-shaped main body 46 on the back of the
mobile device 42. Together when assembled with the mobile device 42
within, the corner sidewall enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 and the
X-shaped main body 46 form a snug fit case to contain the mobile
device 42. This embodiment allows a minimal amount of material to
cover the mobile device 42 while protecting the corners of the
mobile device 42, which are most susceptible to damage due to a
fall or drop, as well as the back of the mobile device 42.
[0092] FIG. 3B illustrates a protective case that includes corner
sidewall enclosures 12, 14, 18,20 secured to the mobile device 42
without the main body 46. FIG. 3C illustrates a protective case
that includes an X-shaped main body integral with and/or secured to
the corner sidewall enclosures without the mobile device 42.
[0093] FIG. 4A illustrates another embodiment of a protective case
for a mobile device 42 that includes an open frame shaped main body
24 that is integral with and/or secured to top sidewall enclosure
10 with openings 38 and 40, the non-corner sidewall enclosures 15,
16, and the bottom sidewall enclosure 22. Non-corner sidewall
enclosure 16 includes a set of openings 48,50, and 52 to access
functions of the mobile device 42.
[0094] FIG. 4B illustrates another embodiment of a protective case
for a mobile device 42 that includes an open frame shaped main body
24 that is integral with and/or secured to corner sidewall
enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 and non-corner sidewall enclosures
15, 16. Non-corner sidewall enclosure 16 includes openings 48, 50,
and 52 to access functions of the mobile device 42.
[0095] FIG. 4C illustrates another embodiment of a protective case
for a mobile device 42 that includes an open frame shaped main body
24 that is integral and/or secured to corner sidewall enclosures 12
and 20 along with top non-corner sidewall 10 with openings 38 and
40, corner sidewall enclosures 14 and 18 along with bottom
non-corner sidewall 22.
[0096] FIG. 4D illustrates another embodiment of a protective case
for a mobile device 42 that includes an X-shaped main body 46 that
is integral and/or secured to corner sidewall enclosures 12, 14,
18, and 20.
[0097] FIG. 5A illustrates the assembled protective case shown as
an exploded view in FIG. 1. FIG. 5A illustrates the corner sidewall
enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20, and non-corner sidewall enclosures
10, 15, 16, and 22 enclose the edges around the perimeter of the
mobile device. The non-corner sidewall enclosures 15, 16 are
integral with and/or secured to the open frame shaped main body 24.
FIG. 5B illustrates a case that includes an open frame shaped main
body 24 with corner sidewall enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 to
protect corners of mobile device 42.
[0098] FIG. 6A illustrates a corner sidewall enclosure 12 that
protects the corner of mobile device 42. FIG. 6B illustrates a
sidewall enclosure 54 that protects two corners and the top of the
mobile device 42. FIG. 6C illustrates a sidewall enclosure 56 that
encloses the corner and the non-corner of the mobile device 42.
FIG. 6D illustrates non-corner sidewall enclosures 10, 15 that
protect the non-corner perimeter of the mobile device 42.
[0099] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the protective case shown
assembled in FIG. 5A. The only new part added to the case of FIG.
5A is a corner sidewall 200 with an opening 100.
[0100] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of protective case shown
assembled in FIG. 4D. The only part added to the case of FIG. 5A is
a corner sidewall 200 with an opening 100.
[0101] FIG. 9A illustrates a corner sidewall enclosure 20 of a
protective case integral with and/or secured to an open frame
shaped main body 24.
[0102] FIG. 9B illustrates a spoke of the main body 46 secured by a
screw 62 to the corner sidewall enclosure 13 of the mobile device
42.
[0103] FIG. 9C illustrates a spoke of the main body 46 secured in a
slot of the corner sidewall enclosure 66 of the mobile device
42.
[0104] FIG. 9D illustrates an open frame shaped main body 24 that
includes an extension 68 that wraps around a corner sidewall
enclosure 20 of the mobile device 42.
[0105] FIG. 10A illustrates a protective case for a cell phone
using an X-shaped main body 46 secured to four corner sidewall
enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20.
[0106] FIG. 10B illustrates a protective case for a tablet 70 using
an X-shaped main body 80 secured to four corner sidewall enclosures
72, 74, 76, and 78.
[0107] FIG. 11A illustrates an embodiment of a main body 82 that
includes spokes that are integral with and/or secured to two corner
sidewalls enclosures 54, 300 to protect four corners of a mobile
device.
[0108] FIG. 11B illustrates another embodiment of a main body 84
that includes spokes that are integral with and/or secured to four
corner sidewalls enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 to protect four
corners of a mobile device.
[0109] FIG. 11C illustrates another embodiment of a main body 86
that includes spokes that are integral with and/or secured to four
corner sidewall enclosures 12,14, 18, and 20 to protect four
corners of a mobile device.
[0110] FIG. 11D illustrates another embodiment of a main body 88
that includes spokes that are integral with and/or secured to four
corner sidewalls enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 to protect four
corners of a mobile device.
[0111] FIG. 11E illustrates another embodiment of a main body 90
that includes spokes that are integral with and/or secured to four
corner sidewalls enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 to protect four
corners of a mobile device.
[0112] FIG. 11F illustrates another embodiment of a main body 92
that includes spokes that are integral with and/or secured to four
corner sidewalls enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 to protect four
corners of a mobile device.
[0113] FIG. 11G illustrates another embodiment of a main body 94
that includes spokes that are integral with and/or secured to four
corner sidewalls enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 to protect four
corners of a mobile device.
[0114] FIG. 11H illustrates another embodiment of a main body 96
that includes spokes that are integral with and/or secured to four
corner sidewalls enclosures 12, 14, 18, and 20 to protect four
corners of a mobile device.
III. Example Embodiments With Modular Frame Pieces (FIGS.
12A-17C)
[0115] Turning now to FIG. 12A, an example case 100 for a mobile
device may include one or more case members 130, 140. In this
example, two V-shaped case members 130 and 140, are adapted to
engage and secure together to form an X-shape structure for
providing support to the case 100. Each member 130, 140 includes
arms 132, 134, 142, 144 that extend to protective corner members
110, 112, 114, 116, each of which are integrated with or secured to
the corresponding arm and adapted to fit around and protect a
corner of a mobile device 102. As shown in FIG. 12B, each corner
110, 112, 114, 116 is configured and dimensioned to fit around a
front edge of the corners of the device 102, e.g., to protect the
corners and front surfaces from damage to the device during a fall
or impact.
[0116] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the case of FIGS.
12A and 12B. In this example, upper 130 and lower 140 case members
are detached from each other, and may be attached by positioning
attachment member 160 on one case member through a corresponding
opening 150 on the other case member, and securing the two members,
e.g. by sliding the cases with respect to each other to engage a
tongue of 160 with a groove feature of 150.
[0117] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view illustration of
another embodiment of a case 400 having two apposing V-shaped case
members 330 and 140, which attach via a screw 460 through points
150 and 462. In this embodiment, feature 462 may be threaded to
receive and engage screw 460.
[0118] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of another
embodiment of a case 500 similar to cases 300 and 400, except that
it includes four detachable case members 510, 520, 530, and 540.
Each case member may include an arm, or spoke, 512, 522, 532, 542,
and each arm may have a secured or integrated distal corner member
510, 512, 514, 516, respectively. A proximal end of each arm may
include an attachment area 514, 524, 534, 544, and each such
attachment area may include a coupling feature 516, 526, 536, 546.
In this example, feature 526 may be configured to include a tongue
that fits through and secures each 516, 536, and 546 of the other
case members.
[0119] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view illustration of a
case 600 similar to case 500 of FIG. 15, but including a screw 460
for securing the case members, and which may include a threaded
opening 602 for receiving the screw.
[0120] FIGS. 17A and 17B are rear view illustrations of a 2-part
case 100 being attached to a mobile device, in accordance with an
example embodiment. The case 100 may have case members 130, 140 and
other features described above with respect to FIGS. 12A and
12B.
[0121] FIG. 17C is a review view illustration of a case 500 being
attached to a mobile device, wherein case member 510 is movable to
facilitate attachment and detachment of the case. In other
embodiments, one or more of the arms may be movable. In other
embodiments, one or more of corner members may be moveable,
hingable, and/or flexible to facilitate attachment to a mobile
device.
IV. Example Protective Cases Including Mount Features (FIGS.
18A-22C)
[0122] Turning now to FIG. 18A to FIG. 22C, other embodiments,
aspects and features of example protective cases are shown,
including semi-flexible unibody embodiments having integrated
and/or cooperative mounting features.
[0123] For example, FIG. 18A shows a protective case 800 for mobile
and electronic devices, having a frame 802 comprised of spokes 810,
820, 830, 840 or arms configured in an approximate "X"
configuration, with each distal end of an arm terminating in a
protective corner member 812, 822, 832, 842, respectively (also
referred to as a "corner enclosure" or "corner sidewall enclosure")
configured to secure to and protect a corner or edge of a mobile
device (e.g., such as device 860 of FIGS. 18F and 18G). In some
embodiments, the frame may be constructed at least in part of a
polymer, plastic, rubber or other semi-elastic or flexible material
to facilitate fitting the case onto a mobile device. In some
embodiments, case 800 may be configured in substantially a unibody
construction.
[0124] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 18A through 18G, case
800 may include a central mounting member 850. In some embodiments,
member 850 may be substantially circular, or may be another desired
shape, and may be positioned such that a proximal end of each of
the spokes 820, 830, 840, 850 secures to (or is integral with) the
mounting member such that the spokes radiate or extend outward from
the central mounting member as shown in FIG. 18A. In some
embodiments, mounting member 850 may be configured and dimensioned
to mate with a mount (e.g. mount 900 of FIG. 19A and/or mount 1000
of FIG. 20A), for example by magnetic attraction, coupling, or
other securing means. For example, the mounting member 850 may
include a core of metal, a magnet, or other metallic or
magnetically-attractive material such that the case may attach to
another metal or magnetic surface.
[0125] In some embodiments, each of the corners 812, 822, 832, 842
of a case 800 may include a corresponding lip 814, 824, 834, 844
which may also allow the device to be placed face down without
worry about scratching or impacting the touchscreen. Such as corner
design elevates the touchscreen from any flat surfaces such as
tables/desks. In some embodiments, the corners and/or arms of the
case 800 may include an inner protective layer or soft or pliable
cushion material (e.g., 816, 826, 836, 846) which may help dampen
the effect of an impact caused by dropping or banging the phone or
case.
[0126] FIGS. 19A through 19D show different views of a wall mount
900 in accordance with an example embodiment. The wall mount may
include a body 910 having a magnetic or magnetically attractive
portion 912 (e.g., the front portion), that is configured and
dimensioned to couple with the mounting member 850 or other surface
of a case such as case 800 discussed above with respect to FIG.
18A. In some embodiments, the mount 900 may have features, such as
adhesive, fastener, tab, slot (e.g., slot 922) or other feature,
for securing a back side 920 of the mount to a wall or other
structure. In some embodiments, slot 922 or other feature may be
used to facilitate removal of the mount 900 from a surface, e.g.,
by providing access to the back side 920 of the mount to lift or
pry the mount 900 from a surface to which it is attached.
[0127] FIGS. 20A through 20D show different views of a car mount
1000 in accordance with an example embodiment. The car mount may
include a body 1010 or head with a mounting portion 1012, which may
be a front portion of the head and may be magnetic or magnetically
attractive. In some embodiments, mounting portion may be configured
and dimensioned to couple with the mounting member 850 or other
surface of a case such as the case 800 discussed above with respect
to FIG. 18A. In some embodiments, the car mount may have attachment
features 1020, such as wings, tabs or other features extending from
a rear or side of the mount body 1010, e.g., for securing the mount
to vanes of an air vent in a vehicle.
[0128] As shown in FIGS. 21A, a case 800 and one or more mounts (in
this example a wall mount 900) may be provided as an assembly 1100
or kit. FIG. 21B shows case 800 secured, e.g., by magnetic
attraction of the case (e.g., mounting member 850) with the mount
(e.g., magnetic portion 912 in the body 910 of mount 900 as shown
in FIG. 19A). As shown in FIG. 21C, case 800 may be rotated in any
desired direction with respect to the mount 900.
[0129] Similarly, FIGS. 22A through 22C are example illustrations
showing features of a kit or case assembly 1200 comprising a case
800 and a car mount 1000, in accordance with an example embodiment.
FIG. 22B shows case 800 secured, e.g., by magnetic attraction of
the case (e.g., mounting member 850) with the mount (e.g., magnetic
portion 1012 in the body or head 1010 of mount 1000 as shown in
FIG. 20A). As shown in FIG. 22C, case 800 may be rotated in any
desired direction with respect to the mount 1000.
[0130] In some embodiments, an exemplary case assembly such as
assembly 1100 or 1200 may be configured a minimalist style,
including a case 800 and mount 900 or 1000 to provide a reusable,
hands-free solution to selectively secure a user's mobile device
and/or other accessories in the user's home, workspace and/or
vehicle. Such cases may provide phone protection, hands-free
operation, desk & cable organizer features in one ultra-light,
aesthetically pleasing kit or package.
[0131] In some embodiments, an example case (also referred to
herein as "Alt"), is more than just a case, it is also a mounting
system. An included wall mount lets a user work and play handsfree,
including viewing notifications right away without constantly
picking the phone up from the table. A car mount may hold a user's
phone securely without cluttering your view of the road.
[0132] In some embodiments, Alt is designed to protect. Case 800,
including x-shaped frame 802 having arms 810, 820, 830, 840, each
terminating in a corresponding protective corner 812, 814, 816,
818, may be constructed of high-strength Polymer shell and may
include a soft, impact resistance inner layer (e.g., within each
corner 812, 814, 816, 818 and/or on the inner surface of the
X-shaped frame 802), such that any impact cause by dropping and/or
banging the phone may be dampened and/or distributed by the case to
prevent or minimize damage to the phone. The case 800 may include a
polymer having a soft-touch, non-slip finish that improves grip on
a device (e.g., an iPhone, iPad or Android device) smooth exterior,
making drops less likely. Case 800 frame 802 and corners may be
constructed on any desired comprise a tough, rigid and durable
case.
[0133] In some embodiments, each Alt case assembly 1100, 1200 may
be the reliable attachment system (e.g., mounting member 850 and
corresponding mount 900, 1000) using magnets such as a Neodymium
magnet, a type of small but very strong magnet. No more clips or
grips that require a user to push a release button or pry open arms
to release or seat the phone. In an example of use, a user may
simply place the phone with case 800 close to the magnetic mount
900, 1000 and it will gently pull it towards the center 850,
securely holding the phone in place. To release, just pull the
phone away. The magnetic system also allows you to easily rotate
the iPhone to whatever viewing angle you prefer with one simple
twist (e.g., as shown in FIG. 21B and FIG. 21C for assembly 1100
and in FIG. 22B and FIG. 22C for assembly 1200). The magnetic
system does not affect the iPhone's operation, camera, lens/flash,
ApplePay, charging, or battery life.
[0134] Both the wall mount and the car vent mount may be configured
and dimensioned to support any size mobile device, e.g., iPhone,
Samsung devices, tablets, or other handheld devices, with no need
to swap out or have different size mounts for the different size
phones. In some embodiments, the wall mount is small enough to
place almost anywhere, and such uni-mount design can also hold more
than just a user's device. For example, charging cables, keys, or
other metallic objects may be secured to the mount. In some
embodiments, the mount's magnetic core is also strong enough to
hold larger Mac Book charging cables, USB cables, and other larger
objects.
[0135] In some embodiments, a wall mount 900 can be attached to any
surface: wood, metal, painted walls, or even textured walls. The
rear or back surface of the wall mount may include an adhesive or
attachment member, such as for example a padded peel-off sticky
pad. Such an attachment member may be easy adhere to any surface,
and to remove later if desired. In some embodiments, car mount 1000
may be configured to clip directly to vent blades of any car's air
conditioning vents. In some embodiments, each Alt case may come in
a kit with one or more matching mounts, e.g., color wall mount
and/or vehicle mount, and each wall mount may come with extra
adhesive members.
V. Conclusion
[0136] The foregoing description illustrates various embodiments of
the present invention along with examples of how aspects of the
present invention may be implemented. The above examples and
embodiments should not be deemed to be the only embodiments, and
are presented to illustrate the flexibility and advantages of the
present invention. Based on the above disclosure and the following
claims, other arrangements, embodiments, implementations and
equivalents will be evident to those skilled in the art and may be
employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
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