Patent Application
20110290686
The invention generally pertains to cases for electronic devices, and more particularly to an electronic device case for storing, protecting and powering a portable device such as a laptop PC, a tablet PC or an e-book.
Portable electronic devices (PEDs) such as laptop computers, tablet computers and e-books have become increasingly popular. The functionality of these devices coupled with the ability to easily transport and use them has contributed to their popularity. Most PEDs share a typical design philosophy, which results in a lightweight device with an attractive appearance.
PEDs are usually made of a strong, lightweight metal and most have a relatively large, when compared to their overall size, screen. Although PEDs are designed to be transportable, it is a well-known fact that they can be easily damaged both internally and externally. It is therefore recommended that users of PEDs take appropriate measures to insure the devices are not misused or put in potentially damaging positions.
In order to assist in protecting the appearance/outer case of a PED there are a large number of cases available. Some of the cases are designed to have a generic fit to accommodate a variety of PEDs, while others are designed to cover one particular model and/or brand of PED. The ability of a specific case to adequately provide the required protection depends on how well the case is made and the strength of the materials used to make the case.
Some case manufacturers attempt to add to the functionality of the cases by adding additional features to the cases. The features range from simply adding pockets for storing accessories, providing extended battery power and other device specific improvements.
Even though there are a large number and variety of cases with additional features or benefits, there is still a need for improvement. A case that would provide the necessary protection against external damage as well as include the benefit of a built-in keyboard and power supply storage would be beneficial. Many current PEDs especially table computers and e-books do not have physical keyboards. Many people prefer a physical keyboard to the touch-screen keyboards that are typically utilized. By providing a physical keyboard that is integrated with a case, along with the ability to capture, store and provide additional power such as solar power, the functionality of a PED case would be significantly improved.
For background purposes and as indicative of the art to which the invention relates, reference may be made to the following patents found in the search:
There are two design configurations of the electronic device case, with both configurations functioning to store and protect a portable electronic device such as a tablet PC or e-book. Both configurations comprise a device cover: the first configuration's cover has a first section and a second section, which are attached together at a living hinge that allows the first section, with the electronic device located therein, to be folded onto the second section. The second configuration has a single, unitary cover into which the electronic device is placed.
Both configurations have a keyboard that is located within a keyboard cavity, a first pocket that holds a USB cable for interfacing the keyboard to the electronic device, and a second pocket that holds a power cable for supplying power to the electronic device. Since each of the two cables are removable from their respective pocket, either pocket can be used to hold either cable. Also, the pockets can be used to hold other items such as writing utensils, telephones, or other items.
Additionally, both configurations have at least one photovoltaic cell that absorbs solar power which is converted into a DC voltage for powering the electronic device. The auxiliary power provided by the photovoltaic cell is especially beneficial when using portable electronic devices, which utilize a rechargeable internal battery with a limited power life per charge.
Both configurations also include a stand that allows the device case to be maintained in an upright position during use.
In view of the above disclosure, the primary object of the invention is to provide an electronic device case that can effectively store, protect and power a portable electronic device.
In addition to the primary object of the invention it is also an object of the invention to provide an electronic device case that:
These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description of the preferred embodiment and the appended claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms that disclose a preferred embodiment of an electronic device case 10, hereinafter “EDC 10”. As shown in
The first design configuration, as shown in
In the first design configuration, a portable electronic device 108 is inserted into the device cover 12 via an opening 48 on the upper edge 20, the right edge 24 or the left edge 26 of the first section 14. A closing means 50 such as a zipper or hook and loop fastener can be utilized to maintain the electronic device 108 securely within the cover 12.
As shown in
As shown in
The first design configuration further comprises a stand 66 having a downward-angled hinged leg 68. As best shown in
The second design configuration of the EDC 10 provides the same functionality as the first design configuration, while utilizing many of the same elements. As shown in
As with the first design configuration, a keyboard 110 is placed within a keyboard cavity 88 that is located on the lower surface 74, as shown in
As shown in
As shown in
Both design configurations of the EDC 10 are made of a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, fabric or leather, with silicone preferred. Additionally, the material can be coated with a waterproof substance 104. Further, either design configuration can include at least one handle and/or strap that allow the EDC 10 to be easily carried or worn.
While the invention has been described in detail and pictorially shown in the accompanying drawings it is not to be limited to such details, since many changes and modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and the scope thereof. Hence, it is described to cover any and all modifications and forms which may come within the language and scope of the claims.
