HK1236357B - Protective case for a computing device with adjustable stand - Google Patents

Description

Protective case with adjustable stand for computing device

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/205,532, filed on August 14, 2015, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if fully set forth below.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to protective cases for computing devices, and more particularly to protective cases for mobile computing devices such as smartphones, tablet computers, PDAs, and laptop computers.

Background Art

As the need for increased management grows, protective cases are being constructed for a variety of computing devices, such as smartphones, tablets, PDAs, and/or other portable computing devices, with their respective designs varying in degree of protection and the need to accommodate the use of the computing device in a more protected environment.

Known covers are constructed from molded silicone rubber or thermoplastic polyurethane rubber that provides some basic protection against drops and scratches. Other cover designs are constructed from relatively hard injected plastics such as polycarbonate.

Thus, the design and construction of known cases vary depending on the degree of protection required, cost, and considerations for certain materials and mounting solutions balanced against features that promote the performance of the computing device itself. For example, certain materials may provide basic structural protection and be relatively inexpensive, but such materials may result in excessive friction (e.g., grip) for the user, which may interfere with easy attachment of the case to the device or gripping of other items, such as parts of the user's body or other foreign objects to the case.

Besides material selection, covers can be unwieldy and difficult to install. The materials used in some covers are also known to deteriorate over time, weakening the cover's protective capabilities and loosening its attachment to the computing device. Aesthetically, a worn cover also diminishes the overall impression of the cover and attached computing device. Such covers can also have reduced bulk relative to their rubber counterparts. Plastic injection-molded covers can suffer from the disadvantage of transferring relatively high material stresses to the computing device itself due to varying elasticity and cushioning. Therefore, such protectors may be undesirable for computing devices with sensitive displays or input devices.

Some sleeves also reduce the ability to remove heat from a device positioned within the sleeve due to the material selected or due to coverings over vents or other heated areas of the device.

Therefore some hybrid combinations are designed that combine each solution with a softer cushioning portion that is placed in association with the computing device and an outer portion constructed of a less bulky injected plastic.

However, even with these hybrid solutions, stress testing of the computing device through drops or bumps during normal use can result in damage to the device and detachment of the case. Consequently, the user may have to fix the device, purchase a new case, and/or reassemble the case with the computing device. Furthermore, many cases fail to fully protect or encapsulate the associated computing device, which unnecessarily exposes the computing device to the risk of structural damage.

Known sleeves also suffer from the drawback of limited access or storage for certain features of the computing device received by the sleeve. Many sleeves, such as bi-fold sleeves used with computing devices, are designed to allow a portion of the sleeve to be folded and used as a stand to adjust the angle and height of the device in certain positions. However, such sleeves are known to be cumbersome and difficult to use, making it difficult to adjust the height or position of the sleeve itself. Therefore, there is a need to address these and other issues in the prior art.

Summary of the Invention

The following brief summary is provided to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview and is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

In a preferred embodiment, a case for a computing device includes a rear support surface operatively coupled to a peripheral edge that securely engages the peripheral edge of the computing device. A support bracket can be associated with the rear support surface, wherein the bracket is operatively movable between one or more heights. The rear support surface can have a greater material strength (e.g., hardness, rigidity, etc.) than the peripheral edge of the case. It is contemplated that the rear support surface and the peripheral edge can be integrally formed with each other or detachably connected to each other.

The bracket may be generally recessed into or generally parallel to the rear support surface.The rear support surface and the peripheral edge may partially, mostly, or preferably completely shield the rear surface of the computing device.

The outer shielding portion can be integrally formed with the rear support surface or removably connected to the rear support surface. In this aspect, the outer shielding portion can be sized to correspond to the rear support surface and at least partially cover the rear portion of the computing device. Optionally, the outer shielding portion can include one or more impact-resistant or resilient portions. The impact-resistant or resilient portions can be constructed from foam, polymers, or elastomers.

In other embodiments, the rear support surface can be constructed with an enhanced honeycomb design selectively in all positions or in one or more predetermined positions. Optionally, the sleeve can be constructed of a single material, or wherein the peripheral edge can be relatively flexible or resilient, and the rear support surface can be impact resistant. In certain embodiments, one or more cutouts or window portions can be included to provide access to actuators of the computing device or to provide visibility to one or more optical systems of the computing device. The cutouts or window portions can be removable, integrally formed with the sleeve, or trimmable as needed or desired. Optionally, the peripheral edge and/or the rear support surface can include one or more actuator surfaces to correspond with actuators of the computing device.

In other embodiments, the case can include a receiver for externally positioning the control mechanism of the computing device. The receiver can be removable via one or more corresponding fastening mechanisms or can be integrally formed with the case. The case can also include one or more impact-resistant corners formed by the peripheral edge and/or the rear support surface.

Preferably, the peripheral edge of the sleeve can be defined by extending away from the rear support surface and terminating in an inwardly extending lip. The inwardly extending lip can be wider than the portion of the peripheral edge extending away from the rear support surface. Once the computing device is assembled with the inwardly extending lip, the peripheral edge can be operable to flex outward while also securely holding the computing device.

In certain embodiments, the support bracket is pivotable about a first axis of rotation of the rear support surface and may include a bracket mechanism having a support and a pivot portion. The support portion is operable to associate with a corresponding mounting surface, and the pivot portion is operable to pivot the support bracket between a closed state and one or more heights. Optionally, the support portion may be wider than the pivot portion, but the set is not limited to this, and the support portion and pivot portion may include any reasonable shape or width ratio as needed or preferred. The support portion may include one or more fastening mechanisms, one or more fastening mechanisms being operable to securely engage with the rear support surface in the closed state, such as one or more bolts, clips, connectors, hooks, pins, latches, or magnets.

The pivot portion may also include first and second pivot links, the first pivot link being pivotally engaged with the first axis of rotation of the rear support surface, and the second pivot link being pivotally engaged with the pivot arm. Preferably, the pivot arm is pivotally engaged with the second axis of rotation of the rear support surface. In this aspect, the second axis of rotation may be aligned with or otherwise associated with the support portion in the closed state. The pivot arm may further include a guide associated with the second pivot link, the guide optionally including a plurality of predetermined positions. The pivot arm may in turn slide around or along the guide between predetermined positions, each predetermined position corresponding to a certain height of the sleeve. Preferably, the second axis of rotation may be adjacent to, aligned with, or in contact with a lower portion of the peripheral edge of the sleeve.

In other embodiments, the peripheral edge or rear support surface is operably coupled to the removable base along a lower portion thereof. The removable base can be attached to a retaining slot or pivot axis of the rear support surface. The removable base can also be constructed of at least an impact-resistant material and can be operated to securely engage the peripheral edge when the case is in the closed state. The removable base can also be operated to fully or partially enclose and/or shield the computing device in the closed state. The removable base can also be operably coupled to the rear support surface via one or more fasteners, such as a snap-fit connector, a cable, a clip, a coupler, a dowel, a hook, a key, a latch, or a magnet.

Various methods and systems for using and assembling the disclosed sleeves are contemplated in a variety of situations and environments. To accomplish the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects are described herein in connection with the following description and accompanying drawings. These aspects are, however, indicative of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the claimed subject matter may be employed, and the claimed subject matter is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

1 is a rear perspective view of an exemplary view of a protective case as described herein for a computing device having an adjustable support stand, with the stand in an expanded state.

2 is a rear perspective view of an exemplary sleeve with the stent in a retracted state.

3 is a front perspective view of an exemplary sleeve showing interior portions thereof.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an exemplary sleeve, wherein the sleeve has now received the computing device.

5 is a front perspective view of an exemplary sleeve operably attached to a base device.

6A is a rear plan view of an exemplary case in a closed state with controls of a computing device assembled to the case.

FIG. 6B is a similar view to FIG. 6A , with the control mechanism no longer assembled to the housing.

7 is a rear plan view of the receiving portion with the computing device removed.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 .

9 is a rear perspective view of an exemplary sleeve assembled with a computing device and a base device.

10 is a rear perspective view similar to FIG. 9 , wherein the sleeve has been rotated to view the interaction between the adjustable bracket and the sleeve.

FIG. 11 is a close-up view of section 11 - 11 shown in FIG. 10 .

12 is a close-up view illustrating an exemplary adjustable support bracket.

FIG. 13 is a similar view to FIG. 12 , but rotated to allow for closer viewing of certain features of FIG. 12 .

14 is a perspective view of an exemplary sleeve with an exemplary adjustable support bracket in an exploded state.

15A is a front perspective view of exemplary features of an adjustable support bracket.

FIG. 15B is a rear perspective view of the features shown in FIG. 15A .

16A is a front perspective view of a bracket mechanism of an adjustable support bracket.

16B is a rear perspective view of the stand mechanism shown in FIG. 16A.

17 is a front perspective view of an exemplary sleeve assembled with computing and base devices in an expanded state.

18A is a side plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 in a closed carrying position.

18B is a similar view to FIG. 18A , but further illustrating the detachable base assembly when assembled with the case shown in FIG. 18A in the closed carrying position.

19A is a side plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 18B but in a deployed state.

19B is a side plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 19A taken along a central cross-section.

20A is a similar view to FIG. 19A but without the base assembly, with the adjustable support bracket in a first height in the deployed state.

20B is similar to FIG. 20A , with the adjustable support bracket in the deployed state at a second height.

20C is similar to FIG. 20A , with the adjustable support bracket at a third height in the deployed state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The features of the solution disclosed herein can be economically molded or assembled using one or more different parts and associated components that can be assembled together to be removably or integrally applied to known or future computing devices in an economical manner, wherein the features of the present disclosure can form the service device disclosed herein, regardless of the specific form. Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms, symbols, and other scientific terms or words used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.

Terms with commonly understood meanings may be defined herein for clarity and/or alternate reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein is not necessarily to be construed as representing a substantial difference from the commonly understood meanings in the art. All patents, applications, disclosed applications, and other publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. If a definition set forth in this section is contrary to or otherwise inconsistent with a definition set forth in a patent, application, disclosed application, or other publication incorporated herein by reference, the definition set forth in this section takes precedence over the definition incorporated herein by reference.

As used herein, "a" or "an" means "at least one" or "one or more." As used herein, the terms "user," "subject," "end-user," and the like are not limited to specific entities or individuals. For example, the term "user" may refer to a person who uses the systems and methods described herein, and typically would be a skilled person. However, the term is not limited to end-users or skilled persons and therefore encompasses all types of persons who use the disclosed systems and methods.

Turning now to the following detailed description, the disclosed solution can now be better understood. It should be clearly understood that the illustrated embodiments are presented as examples and not by way of limitation to the embodiments as ultimately defined by the claims. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover having an adjustable stand is provided for a computing device such as a smartphone, a tablet, or any other portable computing device. The cover can be constructed of multiple components, integrally formed, or removable.

It should be understood that a "computing device" may refer to any mobile device, such as a cellular phone, mobile phone, smartphone, tablet computing device, PDA, etc.

"Sheltering," as used herein in connection with the disclosed cases, may mean protecting, surrounding, or enclosing the respective computing device in a manner that prevents the computing device from being damaged during drops or accidents, such as from shocks or impacts.

"Impact resistance" or "shock resistance" as it relates to the cover features disclosed herein may refer to any feature designed to withstand relatively high applied forces or associated shocks throughout the design life of the disclosed cover. Thus, the features or materials described herein, when providing impact resistance or shock resistance, utilize the material properties and/or structural design of the cover that are intended to mitigate the effects of expected events resulting in shock (such as drops, bumps, accidents, etc.) over the life of the cover and corresponding computing device.

As used herein, a "honeycomb design" is intended to refer to any natural or man-made structure, such as a plastic injection molded structure or a composite sandwich structure, that includes a honeycomb geometry. It should be understood that such a honeycomb design includes structures having a geometry that achieves minimum weight and maximum strength, and can provide a material with minimum density and relatively high compressibility and shear properties. Such a structure can enhance the structural integrity of the features included therein and/or can also allow the amount of material used to be minimized in order to optimize feature weight and material cost.

The solutions disclosed herein describe a case that can offer the benefits of the impact resistance of a case having an elastic edge or outer portion, but also has the benefits of consumer usability such as an elastic outer shell of a relatively strong plastic. The solutions described herein may also be composite cases having some combination of one or more elastic materials with one or more harder elastic materials (such as injection molded plastic and/or rubber) in such a manner that a permanent bond is formed between the one or more elastic materials and the one or more harder elastic materials, resulting in a protective system that is sufficiently secure to hold and protect the computing device under most operating conditions, including but not limited to the standards specified by MIL-STD 810G, 506.6VI. The solutions disclosed herein also contemplate composite cases in which the geometry of the constituent components maximizes overall structural strength and impact resistance while minimizing material weight and size.

For simplicity and illustration purposes only, the sleeve 10 of the present disclosure is described as being for use with a tablet computer, but the solution is not so limited and may be used with other reference computing devices and numerous other consumer electronic devices as understood in the context of the present disclosure, wherein the sleeve 10 will employ similar details, features, and benefits. Turning to the drawings, FIG1 illustrates the sleeve 10 with its adjustable support bracket 40 in an extended state. FIG2 illustrates a similar embodiment, but instead with the bracket 40 now in a closed state, as discussed in more detail below. The sleeve 10 is operable to securely hold and shield a computing device 50 and may preferably be comprised of a front receiving portion 20 and a rear, exterior shielding portion 30.

Portion 20 can be constructed of a relatively resilient material having a peripheral edge portion 22. Edge portion 22 can be mostly or partially flexible within one or more predetermined regions. For example, certain regions of portion 22 immediately adjacent to or near corners 24 can be relatively resilient or rigid, while regions within the central portion further from corners 24 can be more flexible, allowing portion 22 to conform to computing device 50 as needed. Corners 24 can, in turn, be reinforced with one or more impact-resistant materials and/or structural designs to support and shield device 50 during a collision, drop, or other unexpected behavior.

Turning to FIG3 , the cover 10 is shown without the corresponding device 50 so that the rear support surface 23 can be easily viewed. The surface 23 can be defined by a structural backing and structurally enhanced, for example, by utilizing a honeycomb pattern. The shapes associated with the honeycomb design can be convex or, instead, the boundaries between the shapes can be convex. As a result, the honeycomb pattern of the surface 23 can be a convex or concave relief configuration. Advantageously, the honeycomb embodiment of the surface 23 can provide additional rigidity, strength, or stiffness to the portion 20 of the cover 10 in such a manner that the weight and material cost of the entire cover 10 are optimized.

Preferably, the rim 22 can be defined by extending away from the rear support surface 23 and terminating in an inwardly extending lip 28. The lip 28 can be wider or thicker than the lower portion of the rim 22 extending away from the rear support surface 23. In this regard, the peripheral rim 28 can be operable to flex outwardly while also being able to securely hold the device 50 once assembled with the lip 28.

Portion 20 may also include an optional optical system cutout 21 and/or an actuator surface or cutout 29 positioned through edge 22. Cutout 21 and/or surface 29 may be formed by trimming or cutting from edge 22 by the end user depending on the specific device 50. Edge 22 may, in turn, be formed by a pre-etched portion that is operable to be trimmed or modified as desired by the end user. Cutout 21 and/or surface 29 may also include a corresponding hinged cover surface or removable cover that can be easily moved as needed or desired to further shield the corresponding optical system 56 of device 50 and/or associated actuators positioned along the corresponding perimeter of device 50.

The rim 22 may also include a base receiving portion 25 that is thinner than other portions of the rim 22. In this aspect, when a removable base 53 (also referred to herein as a base assembly) is introduced through the portions 20, 25, the reduced material creates a gap, space, or retention groove that is operable to securely retain the base 53, as described in greater detail below.

FIG4 shows the sleeve 10 in a similar manner to FIG3 , but with the sleeve 10 already securely receiving the device 50 within the portion 20. Similarly, FIG5 shows a front perspective view of the device 50 assembled with the sleeve 20, with the base 53 now operably coupled thereto via the portion 25. The portion 25 may in turn include the aforementioned retaining slots and corresponding fasteners, such as one or more snap-fit connectors, cables, clips, couplings, dowels, hooks, keys, latches, or magnets. Preferably, the fastening scheme of the portion 25 will align with the base 53 as desired to facilitate easy and effective fastening and quick release of the base 23 when desired.

Turning to FIG. 6A , case 10 is shown assembled with control mechanism 55 of device 50, optionally received by mechanism receiver 27. In this particular embodiment, mechanism 55 is a digital stylus in the form of an elongated member, such as a pencil or pen. In this regard, receiver 27 is shown as having a cylindrical receiver operable to slidably receive and retain mechanism 55. However, receiver 27 may be of any shape or configuration, including a two-part, bendable, flexible receiver operable to securely secure an additional optional control mechanism 55 of device 50, such as a mouse, remote control, or the like. Receiver 27 may also be integrally formed with edge 22 or detachable from edge 22, as desired or required. Optionally, device 10 may include a strap 26 positioned anywhere along edge 22, preferably associated with corner 24. Strap 26 may also include a tension adjustment mechanism, enabling an end user, for example, to adjust the respective tension and engagement between device 50 and edge 22. Preferably, the strap 26 is connectable to the corner 24 and is operable to wrap around the base 53 and the device 50 when assembled with the portion 20 .

Figures 7 and 8 show related views of Figures 6A and 6B, in which the device 50 is removed again so that the portion 20 and its features can be more easily seen. Specifically, Figure 7 shows a front plan view of the portion 20, so that the surface 23 and the edge 22 and the bracket 40 can be seen. Figure 8 is a perspective view of Figure 7, in which the bracket 40 in Figure 8 can be more clearly seen in the expanded state, as described in more detail below. The exemplary portion 25 can also be more clearly seen in Figure 8, and the portion 25 is preferably recessed to receive the device 53. However, the portion 20 is not limited to this, and the portion 25 can be trimmed to adapt or be pivotable or adjustable so as to run continuously between the corresponding corners 24, while also being able to receive the device 53 without being permanently recessed.

Turning to Figures 9-16, a preferred embodiment of support 40 is more clearly illustrated. Specifically, Figure 9 shows case 10 assembled with base 53, with support 40 shown deployed to support base 53 and case at a certain height. Figure 9 also shows portion 30 coupled to portion 20. Portion 30 can be constructed from an impact-resistant or resilient material such as foam, polymer, or elastomer. Portion 30 can be sized to correspond to surface 23 and partially or substantially cover a rear portion of device 50 opposite its graphical user interface or display.

It can be seen that portion 30 may include one or more raised portions 33 for additional protection of device 50 and portion 20. Furthermore, portion 30 may form device 20 or may be removable via one or more fasteners 36. It should be noted that each elevation associated with bracket 40 may include a predetermined height and/or angle of the graphical user interface of device 50 relative to the corresponding surface on which base 53 and/or device 10 is located. FIG. 10 schematically illustrates the same embodiment of FIG. 9 , with sleeve 10 rotated to more clearly view certain features of bracket 40. Fasteners 51a and 51b are also visible on the underside of bracket 40. Fasteners 51a and 51b are operable to facilitate and/or securely fasten sleeve 10 to bracket 40 in the closed position. Fasteners 51a and 51b may be magnetic fasteners recessed into the respective bracket 40 and sleeve 10 so that the bracket 40 and sleeve 10 are generally planar in the closed position. However, the disclosed solution is not so limited, and thus it is contemplated to incorporate any type of fastener or fastening joint to secure the bracket 40 and sleeve 10, including one or more bolts, clips, couplers, hooks, hook and loop fasteners, pins, and/or latches.

FIG11 sequentially illustrates a close-up view of section 11-11 of FIG10 . More specifically, bracket 40 can include a bracket mechanism 41 pivotally connected to a rotatable axis 47 of portion 20 . Axis 47 can be defined by a void or cavity having a fastening mechanism and/or a rotation pin operable to rotatably engage mechanism 41 . Mechanism 41 can, in turn, be rotatable about axis 47 between closed positions, wherein in the closed position, mechanism 41 can be substantially parallel to surface 23 and/or can be positioned within a mounting recess or cavity operable to correspond to mechanism 41 . However, the mechanism 41 disclosed herein is not limited thereto, and any number of bracket mechanisms that can adjust the position and/or height of a corresponding sleeve 10 are contemplated within the disclosed solutions.

As can also be seen, position slide 43 is pivotally engaged with a second rotational axis 48 of bracket 40. Specifically, slide 43 can include a rotational pin, rod, or shaft operable to securely and pivotally engage axis 48, which is located away from axis 47 along the lateral edge of mechanism 41. As seen in more detail in FIG12 , slide 43 can further include a pivot coupling 49 positioned relative to axis 48 and associated with edge portion 22. In this regard, as mechanism 41 pivots away from housing portion 20 about axis 47, slide 43 can be operable to also rotate about respective axes 48 and 49 while also providing additional support to bracket portion 20.

Turning back to FIG. 11 , it can be seen that the slider 43 may include a position guide 42A that corresponds to the guide 42B of the pivot arm 45 . The arm 45 may also form the lower portion of the slider 43 and may include a coupling or shaft 49 . The arm 45 may also include one or more positioning mechanisms 46 that are operable to cooperate with the guides 42A and 42B. Specifically, the arm 45 is operable to slide along the guide 42A in a closed position and at one or more elevations. To secure the bracket 40 in place at one or more elevations, the slider 43 may also include a latch receiver 46A. The receiver 46 serves as a position locking mechanism, receiving a latch 46B disposed on the underside of the arm 45 (opposing surface 11, not shown). The latch 46B may be designed to securely engage the receiver 46A, for example, by extending into a gap in the receiver 46A until the outwardly extending portion of the latch 46B secures the arm 45 in place. If it is desired that the slider 43 be longer in order to affect the height or angle imparted to the sleeve 10 by the bracket 40, the slider 43 can be slid further along the guides 42A and 42B until the desired arrangement is defined between the latch 46B and the corresponding receiver 46A. At this point, the latch 46B can be mechanically secured to the receiver 46A. Optionally, the bracket 40 may make a click when the latch 46B has been securely fastened to the receiver 46A.

To release the secure engagement between latch 46B and receiver 46A, a predetermined force or movement can be applied to mechanism 41, allowing bracket 40 to be moved again between the closed position or one or more heights. Optionally, a release actuator can be included with bracket 40 and/or any other features of bracket 40 that can secure bracket 40 at a specific height position, which releases the secure engagement between latch 46B and receiver 46A.

Turning to Figures 12 and 13 , close-up views of mechanism 41, slider 43, and arm 45 can be seen when assembled with portion 20. Figure 14 shows case 10 with exemplary bracket 40 in a disassembled state to more clearly illustrate how mechanism 41, slider 43, and arm 45 can be assembled with each other and with the corresponding portion 20. Furthermore, it can be more clearly seen how latch 46B can be operated to securely engage a corresponding receiver 46A. Preferably, latch 46B can include an outwardly extending portion that slides into position until secured to receiver 46A. Latch 46B can be substantially rigid, resilient, or constructed from a resilient material that can be operated to flex into secure engagement with a corresponding receiver 46A. The connection between receiver 46A and latch 46B need not be limited to the tapered, substantially parallel, and forward edges of Figure 14 and can include any bolt, clip, dowel, hook, joint, key, or other latch and receiver configurations as needed or desired.

Turning to Figures 15A and 15B, an exemplary slider 43 is shown. As previously described, the slider 43 may include an upper rotation axis 48 that is operable to pivotally engage with the mechanism 41. Figure 15B is similar to Figure 15A, wherein the slider 43 can be seen rotated so that the features on the opposite side are now clearly visible. With the exemplary arm 43 in the exploded state shown in Figures 15A and 15B, the guides 42A and 42B, as well as the latch 46B and the corresponding receiver 46A, can be more clearly seen relative to how they work together. It should be noted that the latch 46B, guide 42B, or shaft 48 can be integrally formed or removable as needed or desired. The latch 46B, receiver 48A, guides 41A and 42B, and/or shafts 49A and 48 can be constructed from a relatively resilient material, such as injection-molded plastic. Alternatively, latch 46B, guide 42B, or shaft 48 may be formed from a rubber or elastomeric material that prevents wear during continued use and masks or reduces any sound produced when slider 43 translates between one or more predetermined positions in its deployed state.

It should also be noted that the slider 43 may include more or fewer than three receivers 46A. Optionally, the receivers 46A may be positioned closer together or further apart and/or may not completely penetrate the slider 43. In other embodiments, neither the latch 46B nor the receivers 46A are included, but instead, the guides 42A and/or 42B may include a fastening mechanism operable to securely hold the slider 43 in a particular position or height. The optional fastening mechanism of the guides 42A and/or 42B may include any clip, bolt, coupler, dowel, latch, lock, pin, rivet, etc. formed therewith.

FIG16A and FIG16B illustrate an exemplary stand mechanism 41, with FIG16A showing a front perspective view of the mechanism 41 and FIG16B showing the opposite side of the mechanism 41. FIG16B specifically illustrates the respective axes of rotation of the pivot portion 41A, which correspond to axes 47 and 48 as previously described. Support portion 41B, in turn, may be the lower portion of the mechanism 41 and is designed to securely support the sleeve 10 when in the deployed state and positioned on a mounting surface such as a table. As can be seen, portion 41B may be wider than portion 41A, but the mechanism 41 is not limited thereto. Optionally, the mechanism 41 may be provided with structural support and stability by optional support legs (not shown), gripping surfaces on the mounting lip of the mechanism 41, or in any other manner within the disclosed nature of the sleeve 10.

Turning to FIG. 17 , the case 10 is shown with the aforementioned stand 40 coupled to the removable base 53 and the case 50. It can be seen that the stand 40 and base 53 are each in an expanded state. FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B illustrate a similar embodiment of FIG. 17 , but with the aforementioned features in a closed, portable state. More specifically, FIG. 18A illustrates a side planar cross-sectional view of the case 10 when assembled with the device 50. It can be seen that the latch 46B and receiver 46A are positioned adjacent to the axis 48, and that the mechanism 41, slider 43, and arm 45 are generally parallel to the plane 23 of the portion 20.

FIG18A also shows an outer shield portion 30 operably coupled to the rear side of portion 20. In this regard, portion 30 is substantially parallel to support 40 when in the closed, portable configuration and may also be substantially planar with mechanism 41. FIG18B illustrates a similar embodiment to FIG18A , but with base 53 attached thereto. It should be understood that portion 20 may include additional fastening mechanisms operable to securely engage base 53 with portion 20 in addition to portion 25 and the corresponding grooves. For example, base 53 may be removably hinged to portion 25 so that, in the closed, portable configuration of FIG18B , base 53 is substantially parallel to surface 23 while also being secured along its perimeter at one or more fastening areas or couplings. Optionally, base 53 may comprise an impact-resistant material to further protect device 50 when assembled with the case and in the closed, portable configuration.

Figures 19A and 19B illustrate side plan views of the embodiment of Figures 18A and 18B, respectively, in an expanded state. Specifically, Figure 19A illustrates a side plan view of the sleeve 10 assembled with the base 53 and the device 50 in an expanded state, while Figure 19B illustrates the same embodiment of Figure 19A, but taken along a central cross-section. As can be seen, the bracket 40 is at a first height, with the mechanism 41 rotated outwardly about the axis 47, and the slider 43 similarly rotated about the axis 48.

Turning to Figures 20A-20C , it can be seen that the sleeve 10 moves between three heights in the deployed state. Specifically, Figure 20 shows the bracket 40 at its first, uppermost height, with the latch 46B mechanically attached to the corresponding receiver 46A. With the latch 46B positioned in its uppermost position, the height of the sleeve 10 is highest, and the corresponding angle formed between the bracket 40 is most acute in Figures 20A-20C . In contrast, as the latch 46B moves to lower the receiver 46A as the slider translates along the guide 42 (see Figures 20B and 20C ), the angle formed between the bracket 40 and the sleeve 10 can become increasingly obtuse, while the height imparted by the bracket 40 decreases. While Figures 20A-20C illustrate three different heights and angles, it will be appreciated that any number of sliding positions can be defined by the slider 43 and arm 45 as needed or desired.

It should be appreciated that when the sleeve 50 is securely engaged with the portion 20 of the sleeve 10, even when the adjustable stand 40 is moved between the closed and expanded states, the portion 20 of the sleeve 10 preferably completely or substantially encapsulates the sleeve 50. This is particularly advantageous in the art because no auxiliary features or stands are required to customize the computing experience with a particular device 50, to safely transport the device 50 between operating environments, and ultimately to protect against expected and unexpected mishaps that tend to occur with computing devices.

Portions 20 and 30 may be integrally formed with one another or removable as desired or preferred. Preferably, portion 20 and its features may be constructed of injection molded TPU rubber, but portion 20 is not limited thereto and may be made of a variety of materials. As will be seen throughout this disclosure, when a device 50 is received and securely held by portion 20 of sleeve 10, sleeve 10 and the corresponding device 50 are substantially coextensive, such that sleeve 10 adequately protects device 50 and prevents damaging actions from being inflicted upon the device 50, including impacts, sharp objects, shocks, and scratches to the graphical user interface or display screen of the device 50.

As can be seen, the case 10 can easily and securely hold the device 50 while also providing the ability to secure the device 50 in the case 10 in a variety of operating environments, including but not limited to accidental or intentional drops. Advantageously, the case 10, while adequately protecting the device 50, also does not interfere with access to buttons, ports, or the graphical user interface 55 of the device 55. Therefore, the case 10 is also advantageous because if the stand 40 or base 53 malfunctions or breaks, the case 10 will also protect the device 50 from damage requiring repair.

Since the bracket 40 and its components may take various forms and shapes without departing from the scope of the solutions discussed herein, for example, an alternative slider may be provided. Similar to the slider 43, this slider may include an upper axis of rotation that is operable to pivotally engage the mechanism 41. In the exploded state of this slider, the guides and the latch and corresponding receiver may be more clearly understood relative to how they function together.

15. Similar to latch 46B, latch can be extended outwards from arm so as to be associated with receiver and securely engage. In this embodiment, receiver can extend outwards towards latch from guide. In this respect, receiver can not comprise window or cutout, but can be recessed, so as to both securely engage with latch, and also guarantee that guide keeps aligning and is substantially planar. Similar to the embodiment of Figure 15, latch, guide or shaft can be integrally formed or detachable as needed or required. Latch, receiver, guide and/or shaft also can be by relatively elastic material such as injection molded plastic construction. Latch, guide or shaft can be formed by rubber or elastomeric material, and rubber or elastomeric material can prevent wearing out during continuous use, and/or reduce any sound that produces when slide translates between its one or more predetermined expansion positions.

It should also be noted that the slider may include more receivers than shown. Optionally, the receivers may be positioned closer together or further apart and/or their respective positions may be adjusted in these embodiments, for example by being removably attached to the slider in a desired position by means of adhesives, magnets, hook and loop fasteners, sonic welding, click-fit engagement, etc.

Therefore, the definitions of words or elements of the following claims are defined in this specification to include not only the combinations of elements literally set forth. It is also contemplated that equivalent substitutions of two or more elements may be used for any of the elements in the following claims, or that a single element may be substituted for two or more elements in a claim. Although elements may be described above as functioning in a particular combination, and even initially claimed to do so, it should be clearly understood that one or more elements from a claimed combination may in some cases be removed from that combination, and that a claimed combination may involve subcombinations or variations of subcombinations.

Insubstantial variations from the claimed subject matter, now known or later devised, as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, are expressly intended to be equivalent within the scope of the claims. Therefore, obvious substitutions now or later known to one of ordinary skill in the art are defined as falling within the scope of the defined elements. The claims are therefore to be understood to include the content specifically illustrated and described above, which are conceptually equivalent, which may be obviously substituted, and which may also incorporate the basic concepts of the embodiments.

What has been described above includes examples of one or more embodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methods for purposes of describing the aforementioned embodiments, but one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the various embodiments are possible. Therefore, the described embodiments are intended to encompass all such modifications, variations, and variations that come within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent the term "includes" is used in the detailed description or claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as interpreted when used as a transitional term in a claim.

Claims (16)

1. A set for a computing device, comprising: A rear support surface operatively coupled to the peripheral edge of the sleeve, the peripheral edge of the sleeve being configured to securely engage with the peripheral edge of the computing device; and A support bracket associated with a rear support surface, wherein the bracket is operably pivotable between one or more heights in a closed state and an extended state; The support bracket is pivotable about a first rotation axis of the rear support surface, and the support bracket includes: A support mechanism having a support portion and a pivot portion, the support portion being operable to engage with a corresponding mounting surface of a rear support surface, and the pivot portion being operable to cause the support bracket to pivot between the closed state and one or more heights. The pivoting portion of the support bracket further includes a first pivoting connector and a second pivoting connector. The first pivoting connector is pivotally engaged with a first rotation axis of the rear support surface, and the second pivoting connector is pivotally engaged with a pivoting arm. The pivoting arm is pivotally engaged with a second rotation axis of the rear support surface, the second rotation axis being aligned with or connected to the support portion in a closed state, and wherein the second rotation axis is adjacent to the lower portion of the peripheral edge of the sleeve. The pivoting arm further includes a guide connected to the second pivoting connector, the guide including a plurality of predetermined positions. 2. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the rear support surface has a material hardness greater than that of the peripheral edge of the sleeve. 3. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the closed state, the bracket is substantially recessed into or substantially parallel to the rear support surface. 4. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the rear support surface and the peripheral edge of the sleeve substantially or completely cover the rear surface of the computing device. 5. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, further comprising: an external shielding portion integrally formed with or detachably connected to the rear support surface, wherein the external shielding portion is sized to correspond to the rear support surface and at least partially cover the rear portion of the computing device. 6. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 5, characterized in that the external shielding portion includes at least one impact-resistant portion or an elastic portion. 7. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the rear support surface includes a reinforced honeycomb structure. 8. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the sleeve comprises a single material, or wherein the peripheral edges of the sleeve are relatively flexible or elastic, and the rear support surface is impact-resistant. 9. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral edge or rear support surface of the sleeve includes one or more impact-resistant corner portions. 10. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral edge of the sleeve includes a portion extending away from a rear support surface and terminating inwardly extending lip, the inwardly extending lip being wider than the portion of the peripheral edge of the sleeve extending away from the rear support surface. 11. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the peripheral edge of the sleeve extends away from the rear support surface and terminates at an inwardly extending lip, and wherein the peripheral edge of the sleeve is operable to bend outward, and the inwardly extending lip is operable to securely hold the computing device. 12. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the support portion is wider than the pivot portion, and wherein the support portion further includes one or more fastening mechanisms operable to securely engage with the rear support surface in a closed state. 13. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the pivot arm is slidable between predetermined positions around or along the guide, wherein each predetermined position corresponds to a certain height of the sleeve. 14. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the peripheral edge or rear support surface of the sleeve is operably coupled along its lower portion to a removable base, and wherein the removable base is attached to a retaining groove or pivot axis of the rear support surface, the removable base including a keyboard. 15. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the peripheral edge or rear support surface of the sleeve is operably connected along its lower portion to a removable base, and wherein the removable base comprises an impact-resistant material and is operable to engage with the peripheral edge of the sleeve when the sleeve is in a closed state, and wherein the removable base is operable to at least partially enclose and/or shield the computing device in the closed state. 16. The sleeve for a computing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the peripheral edge or rear support surface of the sleeve is operably engaged to a removable base, and wherein the removable base is operably engaged to the rear support surface by one or more fasteners.