CN112584724B

CN112584724B - Accessory cover for portable electronic device

Info

Publication number: CN112584724B
Application number: CN201980051485.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: J·A·斯特赖克; C·M·麦克莱因; T·C·佩德莱; N·A·特莱德维尔; 朱浩; 周阳
Original assignee: Apple Inc
Current assignee: Apple Inc
Priority date: 2018-09-07
Filing date: 2019-03-25
Publication date: 2023-06-09
Anticipated expiration: 2039-03-25
Also published as: KR20210018516A; WO2020050880A1; KR102498169B1; CN112584724A

Abstract

An accessory device for a portable electronic device is described herein. The accessory device includes a front cover coupled to a rear cover. The front cover includes a plurality of sections that are rotatable relative to one another. The segments include magnets that allow the segments to be coupled with another segment or with a portable electronic device by magnetic coupling. When the front cover engages the rear cover, the user may remove or pull one section away from the rear cover, causing the remaining sections to sequentially fall off the rear cover. In some cases, when the front cover at least partially engages the rear cover, one of the sections includes a magnet designed to couple with a magnet in the rear cover, but not with a magnet in the other section. The accessory device may further include an opening that receives a camera assembly of the portable electronic device and forms a mechanical interlock.

Description

Accessory cover for portable electronic device

Technical Field

The following description relates to accessory devices. In particular, the following description relates to accessory housings and covers that may be used with portable electronic devices. The accessory housing, accessory cover, or accessory device described herein can include a cover, fold over, protective cover, protective device, and the like.

Background

The accessory device is designed to provide a protective cover for the electronic device. The accessory device may protect the housing, display, and/or transparent cover of the electronic device.

Disclosure of Invention

In one aspect, an accessory device for a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a first section defining a receiving surface for the portable electronic device. The first section may include a back surface opposite the receiving surface. The accessory device may further include a second section coupled to the first section and capable of covering the portable electronic device. The second section may include a first section and a second section. In some cases, removing the first section from the back surface causes the second section to be automatically removed from the back surface.

In another aspect, an accessory device for a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a first section defining a receiving surface for the portable electronic device. The accessory device may further include a second section coupled to the first section and capable of covering the portable electronic device. In some cases, the first and second sections extend laterally beyond an edge of the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is positioned on the receiving surface and the second section covers the portable electronic device.

In another aspect, an accessory device for a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a first section defining a receiving surface for the portable electronic device. The first section may further comprise a back surface opposite the receiving surface. The accessory device may further include a first magnetic element embedded in the first section. The accessory device may further include a second section coupled to the first section and capable of covering the portable electronic device. The accessory device may further include a second magnetic element embedded in the second section. In some cases, the magnetic coupling between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element aligns the second region with the back surface.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this disclosure, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims.

Drawings

The present disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device according to some of the described embodiments;

FIG. 2 illustrates a plan view of the accessory device shown in FIG. 1, showing the layout of magnets in the accessory device;

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the accessory device shown in FIG. 2, taken along line 3-3, illustrating various features of the accessory device;

FIG. 4 shows a side view of the accessory device showing the second section positioned partially over the back surface of the first section;

FIG. 5 illustrates a plan view of the accessory device shown in FIG. 4, showing a second section partially aligned with the first section;

FIG. 6 shows a side view of the accessory device showing a second section positioned over and engaged with the back surface of the first section;

FIG. 7 illustrates a plan view of the accessory device shown in FIG. 6, showing a second section aligned with the first section;

FIG. 8 shows a side view of the accessory device showing the first section of the second section pulled away from the back surface of the first section;

FIG. 9 shows a side view of the accessory device showing the first section engaged with the second section;

FIG. 10 shows a side view of the accessory device showing the first section partially engaged with the second section, and the first section rotated to engage the second section;

FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of an accessory device supporting an electronic device;

FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of an accessory device supporting an electronic device in an alternative configuration;

FIG. 13 shows a plan view of an accessory device showing a camera assembly and a flash module of an electronic device positioned in an opening of the accessory device;

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the accessory device and electronic device shown in FIG. 13, showing a camera assembly protruding through an opening of the accessory device;

FIG. 15 illustrates a side view of an electronic device positioned between a first section and a second section of an accessory device, showing the first section and the second section extending beyond the electronic device;

FIG. 16 illustrates a plan view of the electronic device and accessory device shown in FIG. 15, showing the first section extending beyond the electronic device in multiple dimensions;

FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of the accessory device and the electronic device showing the electronic device engaged with the first section;

FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of the accessory device and the electronic device showing the electronic device engaged with the second section;

FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment of an accessory device holding an electronic device, further illustrating an object coupled with an edge of the electronic device; and is also provided with

Fig. 20 shows a side view of the accessory device and electronic device shown in fig. 19 with the object removed.

Those skilled in the art will recognize and appreciate that, in accordance with common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale and that the dimensions of the various features and elements of the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present disclosure described herein.

Detailed Description

Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in accordance with the embodiments. While these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, it is to be understood that these examples are not limiting and that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments.

The following disclosure relates to accessory devices for use with portable electronic devices, such as mobile wireless communication devices and tablet computer devices. As non-limiting examples, the accessory device described herein may be referred to as a cover, a shell, a protective cover, a protective shell, or a fold-over. The accessory device is designed to receive and protect the portable electronic device. In this regard, the accessory device herein may cover both a transparent cover (or cover glass) positioned over the display assembly of the portable electronic device as well as the housing of the electronic device. Accordingly, the accessory device described herein may provide protection from damage to the portable electronic device.

The accessory device may include a rear cover (also referred to as a first section or rear panel) attached to a front cover (also referred to as a second section or front panel) by a hinge. The front cover may cover a transparent cover of the portable electronic device and the rear cover may at least partially cover a housing of the electronic device. The front cover may comprise a plurality of sections that are rotatable relative to each other. At least some of these sections may include magnets that allow the sections to be coupled or fixed to each other (by magnetic coupling) and to the portable electronic device (by magnetic coupling with magnets in the portable electronic device). Furthermore, when the sections are coupled to each other, the front cover may fold and form a support or stand for the portable electronic device.

The rear cover may provide a receiving surface for the electronic device. Moreover, the back cover may include several magnets designed to magnetically couple with magnets in the portable electronic device. In addition, at least some of the magnets in the front cover may be magnetically coupled with the magnets in the rear cover. This allows for a configuration of the accessory device in which the front cover is stored behind the rear cover. Thus, the accessory device provides a compact design with reduced footprint. Moreover, some of the magnets in the front cover may magnetically couple with the magnets in the rear cover before the front cover lies flat against the rear cover (and when the air pocket separates the front cover from the rear cover). In this way, the magnetic coupling may provide a force that displaces or moves the front cover and aligns the front cover with the rear cover. This allows the hinge coupling the front cover to the rear cover to provide additional flexibility, as the magnetic coupling can align the front cover and the rear cover to each other.

These and other embodiments will be discussed below with reference to fig. 1-20. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

Fig. 1 illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device 100 according to some of the described embodiments. The accessory device 100 is designed for use with an electronic device 180, including portable electronic devices such as mobile wireless communication devices and tablet computer devices. In this regard, the accessory device 100 may be referred to as a shell, cover, protective shell, fold-over, or the like.

As shown, the accessory device 100 may include a first section 102a coupled to a second section 102 b. The first section 102a may define a back cover or back panel for the electronic device 180. In addition, the first section 102a may define a receiving surface 104 that receives the electronic device 180, and in particular, the housing 182 of the electronic device 180. In this regard, the first section 102a may hold the electronic device 180 with one or more magnets embedded in the first section 102a. This will be shown and discussed below. The first section 102a may further include an opening 106 or through-hole designed to receive a camera assembly 184 and a flash module 185 (both illustrated as dashed lines) of the electronic device 180.

The second section 102b is designed to encase and cover the electronic device 180, including the display 186 of the electronic device 180. In this way, the second section 102b may be referred to as a front panel or a front cover. The second section 102b may include a plurality of sections. For example, the second section 102b may include a first section 108a, a second section 108b, and a third section 108c. Each section can rotate or move relative to the remaining sections. In addition, while a discrete number of segments are illustrated, the number of segments may vary in other embodiments.

The second section 102b is coupled to the first section 102a by a hinge 112 such that the first section 102a can rotate relative to the second section 102b and vice versa. The hinge 112 may be formed in part from one or more continuous pieces of material extending along the first and

second sections

102a, 102 b. The material forming the one or more layers may include a polymer, such as polyurethane, that encapsulates a fiberglass material. Other materials such as leather are also possible. However, to facilitate the flexibility and relative movement of the aforementioned sections and segments, the fiberglass material (and/or other relatively rigid or stiff material) may not be located at the hinge 112 and may not be located between the segments. This will be shown and described hereinafter. In addition, a soft non-abrasive such as microfibers may cover the first section 108a, the second section 108b, and the third section 108c. In this way, when the second section 102b wraps around and covers the display 186 (which may include a transparent cover overlying the display 186), the soft, non-abrasive material does not cause damage when in contact with the transparent cover.

Fig. 2 shows a plan view of the accessory device 100 shown in fig. 1, illustrating the layout of magnets in the accessory device 100. The magnets (or magnetic elements) described herein may include permanent magnets, ferromagnetic materials, rare earth magnets, or other magnetically attractable materials. As shown, accessory device 100 may include a magnetic element 114a, a magnetic element 114b, a magnetic element 114c, and a magnetic element 114d located in first section 102 a. The

magnetic elements

114a, 114b, 114c, and 114d are designed to magnetically couple with magnets in the electronic device 180 (shown in fig. 1) to hold the electronic device 180 with the receiving surface 104. Thus, the accessory device 100 does not require mechanical features (such as retaining walls, side walls, or mechanical interlocks) to retain the electronic device 180. Further, the magnetic element in the accessory device 100 magnetically coupled with the magnet in the electronic device 180 provides a magnetic attraction force that is capable of holding the electronic device 180 even when a force, such as gravity, that would otherwise cause the electronic device 180 to separate from the accessory device 100, acts on the electronic device 180.

Some of the magnetic elements shown and described in fig. 2 (illustrated as dashed lines) may include several discrete magnetic elements. For example, as shown in the enlarged view, the magnetic element 114a includes six discrete magnetic elements. In other embodiments, the number of magnetic elements may vary. By using several smaller discrete magnetic elements instead of fewer larger magnetic elements, the ease of aligning the electronic device 180 (shown in fig. 1) with the first section 102a is improved. For example, each magnetic element provides a relatively small external magnetic field (not shown in fig. 2), thereby reducing the magnetic attraction force of each magnetic element during alignment. However, these magnetic elements as groups (such as clusters of magnetic elements 114 a) may provide a common external magnetic field similar to a single larger magnetic element. Thus, the magnetic attraction force of the set of magnetic elements is similar to that of a single larger magnetic element, while the ease of alignment is improved compared to using a single larger magnetic element.

Accessory device 100 may further include magnetic element 114e, magnetic element 114f, and magnetic element 114g in first section 102a, which are designed to magnetically couple with magnetic element 114h, magnetic element 114i, and magnetic element 114j, respectively, in second section 102 b. These magnetic couplings may occur when, for example, the back surface (not shown in fig. 2) of the second section 102b is rotated past and onto the back surface (not shown in fig. 2) of the first section 102a via the hinge 112, wherein the back surface of the first section 102a is opposite the receiving surface 104. In addition, these magnetic couplings may occur as the second section 102b is rotated past and onto the receiving surface 104.

The accessory device 100 may further comprise a magnetic element 114k and a magnetic element 114l in the first section 102a, which are designed to magnetically couple with a magnetic element 114m and a magnetic element 114n in the second section 102b, in particular in the second section 108b, respectively. The magnetic element 114m and the magnetic element 114n are parallel (or aligned) with each other, while the magnetic element 114k is offset (or misaligned) with respect to the magnetic element 114 l. In addition, when the aforementioned back surfaces of the first and

second sections

102a and 102b are engaged with each other, the magnetic elements 114k and 114l are offset with respect to the magnetic elements 114m and 114 η, respectively. However, the degree of offset between magnetic element 114k and magnetic element 114m may be different than the degree of offset of magnetic element 114l and magnetic element 114n. In this way, when the back surface of the second section 102b is positioned against the back surface of the first section 102a, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic element 114k and the magnetic element 114m may be different from the magnetic attraction between the magnetic element 114k and the magnetic element 114 m. For example, the magnetic attraction between magnetic element 114k and magnetic element 114m may be greater than the magnetic attraction between magnetic element 114k and magnetic element 114 m. Thus, when magnetic element 114k is no longer coupled to magnetic element 114m, magnetic element 114l is no longer coupled to magnetic element 114n. This may be part of an integrated process in which removing the first section 108a from the back surface of the first section 102a causes the subsequent removal of the second and

third sections

108b, 108c from the back surface of the first section 102a without requiring any additional force other than the force required to pull the first section 108a away from the back surface of the first section 102 a. In other words, the second section 108b and the third section 108c may automatically disengage from the back surface of the first section 102a when the first section 108a is removed from the back surface. This will be shown and described hereinafter.

The accessory device 100 may further comprise magnetic elements 114o in the first section 102a, which are designed to magnetically couple with magnetic elements 114p in the second section 102b, in particular in the third section 108 c. When the second section 102b is positioned against the back surface of the first section 102a, the magnetic element 114o is magnetically coupled with the magnetic element 114 p. In addition, when the second section 102b is rotated past and onto the back surface of the first section 102a, the magnetic element 114p magnetically couples with the magnetic element 114o before the second section 102b is fully pressed against the back surface of the first section 102 a. The magnetic coupling may provide a magnetic attraction force that pulls the second section 102b in a manner that aligns the second section 102b with the back surface to prevent misalignment between the second section 102b and the first section 102 a. In other words, the second section 102b will not bend relative to the first section 102a due to the magnetic coupling between the magnetic element 114o and the magnetic element 114 p. This will be described in further detail below.

In addition, the accessory device 100 may include a reinforcement layer 115 positioned in the first section 102a around the opening 106. The reinforcement layer 115 may provide additional rigidity to the void or space defining the opening 106. This can prevent the first section 102a from breaking along the corner where the reinforcing layer 115 is located. In some embodiments, the reinforcement layer 115 comprises a fiberglass material having a relatively high density. However, other materials (such as metal, rigid plastic, as non-limiting examples) are possible. Furthermore, the first section 102a, in particular the receiving surface 104, is substantially planar. However, in some cases, the first section 102a may include a localized thickness in a location corresponding to the opening 106, in part due to a thicker reinforcement layer as compared to the reinforcement layer 115 shown in fig. 2.

Accessory device 100 may include certain dimensional features. For example, the hinge 112 may include a dimension 116a that is the same as, or at least substantially similar to, a major dimension of the electronic device 180. The "major dimension" may refer to the dimension of the maximum length of the electronic device 180. In addition, the size of some of these sections may be different. For example, the first section 108a may include a dimension 118a that is smaller than a dimension 118b of the second section 108b and smaller than a dimension 118c of the third section 108 c. Additionally, the dimension 118b of the second section 108b may be the same as or at least substantially similar to the dimension 118c of the third section 108 c. However, other dimensional relationships of the first section 108a, the second section 108b, and/or the third section 108c are also possible.

In addition, accessory device 100 may include magnetic element 114q, magnetic element 114r, and magnetic element 114s embedded in first section 102a. In some cases, magnetic element 114h, magnetic element 114i, and magnetic element 114j may be magnetically coupled with magnetic element 114q, magnetic element 114r, and magnetic element 114s, respectively, when first section 108a is engaged with second section 108 b. This will be shown below.

Fig. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the accessory device 100 shown in fig. 2, taken along line 3-3, illustrating various features of the accessory device 100. Accessory device 100 may include a first layer 122a and a second layer 122b. The first layer 122a and the second layer 122b may include polymer layers extending over both the first region 102a and the second region 102b (shown in fig. 1 and 2). Alternatively, each of the first layer 122a and the second layer 122b may include other materials, such as leather. In this regard, the first layer 122a and the second layer 122b may define (shown in fig. 1 and 2) the hinge 112. The accessory device 100 may further include a third layer 122c surrounded by the first layer 122a and the second layer 122b. The third layer 122c may comprise a relatively rigid material, such as fiberglass (as a non-limiting example). The third layer 122c may fill each of these sections. For example, as shown, the third layer 122c fills the first section 108a. However, a third layer 122c may be defined to the first section 108a to facilitate flexibility of the second region 102b (shown in fig. 1 and 2) and relative movement between the sections. In addition, although not shown, the first layer 122a and the second layer 122b may terminate along the second region 102b, and additional layers (similar to the first layer 122a and the second layer 122 b) may form the first region 102a. In this regard, the hinge 112 (shown in fig. 1 and 2) may be formed of materials other than the first layer 122a and the second layer 122b.

Accessory device 100 may also include a layer on each section. For example, the first section 108a includes a layer 124a. Layer 124a may comprise a fabric layer including microfibers. In general, the layer 124a may include a material that prevents glass (or other transparent cover or transparent layer) of the electronic device 180 (shown in fig. 1) from scratching. To facilitate flexibility, the layer 124a may terminate at (or may be defined to) the first section 108a. Further, layer 124a may be applied to the uppermost (planar) surface of first section 108a, as well as a portion of the curvature (along first layer 122 a) around the uppermost surface. In some cases, layer 124a extends along a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the uppermost surface. However, layer 124a may terminate before reaching an additional surface parallel or at least substantially parallel to the uppermost surface. Generally, the layer 124a may extend between a first line 126a and a second line 126b shown at each end of the first section 108a. It should be noted that the second section 108b and the third section 108c (both shown in fig. 1 and 2) may include the same layers as shown for the first section 108a, including the same features and configurations of these layers. For example, layer 124b (separate from layer 124 a) is positioned on second section 108 b.

The accessory device 100 may further include a stiffening element 128 positioned between the first layer 122a and the second layer 122 b. As non-limiting examples, the stiffening element 128 may comprise fiberglass, hard plastic, or metal. Accessory device 100 may further include an adhesive 132a and an adhesive 132b that secure first layer 122a with second layer 122 b.

Fig. 4 shows a side view of the accessory device 100, showing the second section 102b positioned partially over the back surface 134 of the first section 102 a. It may be desirable to configure the accessory device 100 such that the back surface 136 of the second section 102b lies flat against the back surface 134 of the first section 102a (as opposed to the receiving surface 104), as this configuration provides a more compact device.

The hinge 112 is relatively flexible, in part, because the hinge 112 has minimal (if any) stiffening elements and/or adhesive, but may allow misalignment of the second section 102b relative to the first section 102 a. For example, fig. 5 shows a plan view of the accessory device 100 shown in fig. 4, showing the second section 102b partially aligned with the first section 102 a. As shown, the edge of the second section 102b is not aligned with the edge of the first section 102 a. Without any other force acting on the second section 102b, the second section 102b may bend when the second section 102b is pressed against the back surface. However, the magnetic element 114o in the first section 102a may be magnetically coupled with the magnetic element 114p in the second section 102b. The magnetic coupling provides a magnetic attraction force capable of pulling the magnetic element 114p in the second section 102b toward the magnetic element 114o in the first section 102 a.

The tension created by the magnetic attraction between the aforementioned magnetic elements aligns the second section 102b with the first section 102a in a more desirable manner. For example, fig. 6 shows a side view of the accessory device 100 showing the second section 102b positioned over the back surface 134 of the first section 102a and engaged with the back surface 134 of the first section 102a. The back surface of the second section 102b may press against the back surface 134 of the first section 102a such that the back surface 134 (including the edges) of the first section 102a is covered by the second section 102b. It should be noted that once the second section 102b and the first section 102a are aligned, the accessory device 100 may be rotated 180 degrees such that the second section 102b is positioned on a surface (not shown) such as a desk or table. As such, the electronic device 180 (shown in fig. 1) may be positioned on the receiving surface 104 of the first section 102a.

Fig. 7 shows a plan view of the accessory device 100 shown in fig. 6, showing the second section 102b aligned with the first section 102a. As shown, the second section 102b is positioned over the back surface 134 of the first section 102a (both labeled in fig. 6). Fig. 7 illustrates an alignment configuration between the first section 102a and the second section 102b. In the aligned configuration, each corner of the first section 102a overlies a corresponding corner of the second section 102b, such that in plan view (shown in fig. 7) the first section 102a overlies the second section 102b. Alternatively, the alignment configuration may also include each corner (not shown in fig. 7) of the second section 102b covering a corresponding corner of the first section 102a, such that in an alternative plan view, the second section 102b covers the first section 102a.

Referring again to fig. 4 and 5, when the second section 102b is folded over the back surface 134 of the first section 102a, the second section 102b may temporarily press against ambient air (such as an air layer). This allows the magnetic element 114o in the first section 102a to magnetically couple with the magnetic element 114p in the second section 102b before the second section 102b engages the first section 102a. However, in some cases, the second section 102b may partially engage the first section 102a prior to magnetic coupling between the magnetic element 114o and the magnetic element 114 p. However, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic element 114o and the magnetic element 114 ρ can align the second section 102b with the first section 102a, as shown in fig. 6 and 7.

Fig. 8 shows a side view of the accessory device 100 showing the first section 108a of the second section 102b pulled away from the back surface 134 of the first section 102a. As shown, a pulling force may be applied to the second section 102b that overcomes the magnetic attraction force formed by the magnetic coupling between the magnetic element 114g in the first section 102a and the magnetic element 114j in the second section 102 b. The pulling force may also overcome the magnetic attraction force of magnetic element 114e and magnetic element 114j (both shown in fig. 2) with magnetic element 114h and magnetic element 114i (both shown in fig. 2), respectively, and cease magnetic coupling.

Once the first section 108a is pulled away from the back surface 134, the second section 108b and the third section 108c may disengage the back surface 134, as shown in phantom. Further, the second section 108b and the third section 108c may disengage the back surface 134 without any additional pulling force being applied to the second section 102 b. In other words, the force resulting in disengagement between the first section 108a and the back surface 134 is sufficient to cause disengagement of the second section 108b and the third section 108c from the back surface 134. Thus, once the magnetic elements in the first section 108a are no longer magnetically coupled with the magnetic elements in the second section 102a and the first section 108a is pulled away from the back surface 134 of the first section 102a, the second section 108b and the third section 108c are sequentially caused to disengage from the back surface 134. That is, the second section 108b is disengaged from the back surface 134, and then the third section 108c is disengaged from the back surface 134. This is due in part to the magnetic coupling and offset alignment between the magnetic elements 114k and 114l in the first section 102a and the

magnetic elements

114m and 114n, respectively, in the second section 102 b.

Fig. 9 shows a side view of the accessory device 100 showing the first section 108a engaged with the second section 108 b. Without any external force, the first section 108a would disengage and disengage from the second section 108b due to gravity, as shown in phantom. In addition, as shown, the first section 102a is folded away from the second section 102b such that the second section 102b is not engaged with the first section 102 a.

Fig. 10 shows a side view of the accessory device 100 showing the first section 102a partially engaged with the second section 102b, and the first section 108a rotated to engage the second section 108 b. As shown, the magnetic element 114h in the first section 108a is magnetically coupled with the magnetic element 114q in the first section 102 a. The

magnetic elements

114h and 114i (both shown in fig. 2) in the first section 108a may also be magnetically coupled with the

magnetic elements

114r and 114s (both shown in fig. 2) in the first section 102a, respectively. Thus, the first section 108a remains engaged with the second section 108b due in part to the magnetic coupling between the magnetic elements in the first section 108a and the magnetic elements in the first section 102 a. Further, the first section 108a no longer covers a portion of the back surface 134 such that the camera assembly 184 of the electronic device 180 may protrude through the opening 106 and capture images. Fig. 9 and 10 illustrate that the first section 108a may not remain engaged with the second section 108b unless the first section 102a engages the second section 102b such that the magnetic elements in the first section 108a may magnetically couple with the magnetic elements in the first section 102 a.

Fig. 11 shows a side view of the accessory device 100 supporting the electronic device 180. In this configuration, a user of the electronic device 180 may interact with the display 186 (illustrated as a dashed line) of the electronic device 180 when the display 186 includes touch screen functionality. As shown, the electronic device 180 is engaged with the first section 102a, and the magnetic elements in the electronic device 180 are magnetically coupled to the magnetic elements in the first section 102 a. Further, the second section 102b may be folded such that the first section 108a, the second section 108b, and the third section 108c form a triangular support for the electronic device 180. As shown in the enlarged view, a portion of the second layer 122b located on the first section 102a engages a portion of the second layer 122b located on the second section 102b, in part because the layer 124b (also shown in fig. 3) is separate from the layer 124c on the third section 108 c. In part because the second layer 122b is formed of a polyurethane material, the second layer 122b provides a frictional force between the portion of the second layer 122b located on the first section 102a and the portion of the second layer 122b located on the second section 102 b. The friction between these portions of the second layer 122b is greater than the friction between soft, non-abrasive layers such as microfibers. Thus, the accessory device 100 can resist undesired movement when, for example, a user interacts with the display 186. In addition, the third section 108c provides direct support through engagement with the first section 102 a. However, in this configuration, the third section 108c may not magnetically couple with the first section 102a, and the weight of the electronic device 180 applies a force to the third section 108c that maintains the triangular support.

Fig. 12 shows a side view of an accessory device supporting an electronic device in an alternative configuration. The user of the electronic device 180 may also interact with the display 186 of the electronic device 180 in this configuration. As shown, the first section 108a, the second section 108b, and the third section 108c may be folded to form an alternative triangular support for the electronic device 180. The first section 102a is sufficiently rigid and strong to support the electronic device 180 without warping or twisting, and thus, the first section 102a is not affected by the weight of the electronic device 180.

Fig. 13 shows a plan view of the accessory device 100, illustrating the camera assembly 184 and the flash module 185 of the electronic device 180 positioned in the opening 106 of the accessory device 100. As shown, the camera assembly 184 is allowed to capture images for the electronic device 180, and the flash module 185 may emit light to enhance image capture. In addition, when the camera assembly 184 is in the opening 106, the stiffening layer 115 surrounds the camera assembly 184.

Fig. 14 shows a side view of the accessory device 100 and the electronic device 180 shown in fig. 13, showing the camera assembly 184 protruding through the opening 106 of the accessory device 100. A partial cross-sectional view of the first section 102a is shown to reveal the reinforcement layer 115. When a force (represented by double-headed arrow 187) is applied to electronic device 180 resulting in lateral movement in either direction of double-headed arrow 187, a corresponding lateral movement of camera assembly 184 also occurs. However, due in part to the camera assembly 184 being positioned in the opening 106, the camera assembly 184 may engage one or more surfaces defining the opening 106 and limit movement of the camera assembly 184, thereby limiting movement of the electronic device 180. This allows the magnetic element (not shown in fig. 14) in the first section 102a to remain magnetically coupled with the magnetic element (not shown in fig. 14) in the electronic device 180. Thus, the opening 106 provides a mechanical stop or interface when relative lateral movement of the electronic device 180 occurs.

Fig. 15 shows a side view of the electronic device 180 positioned between the first and

second sections

102a, 102b of the accessory device 100, showing the first and

second sections

102a, 102b extending beyond the electronic device 180. As shown, both the first and

second sections

102a, 102b are engaged with the electronic device 180. Further, the magnetic elements in the first section 102a and the magnetic elements in the second section 102b may be magnetically coupled with the magnetic elements in the electronic device 180. In addition, the electronic device 180 may include an audio module 188, such as a speaker module, designed to generate acoustic energy in the form of audible sound. Audio modules of this type are known in the art to include permanent magnets. In some cases, the material of the accessory device 100 may bend or warp when the accessory device 100 is exposed to heat. For example, the excess heat may cause the first section 108a and the second section 108b to extend away and at least partially disengage the electronic device 180, as shown in phantom. However, the accessory device 100 may include a magnetic element 114t in a location corresponding to the location of the audio module 188 such that the magnetic element 114t is magnetically coupled with the audio module 188, and in particular with a permanent magnet of the audio module 188. The magnetic attraction between the magnetic element 114t and the permanent magnet of the audio module 188 may cause the first section 108a and the second section 108b to remain engaged with the electronic device 180 and overcome problems associated with excessive heat. As shown, the magnetic element 114t is located in the first section 108 a. However, the magnetic element 114t may be located in the second section 108b to accommodate different locations of the audio module 188 in the electronic device 180.

Fig. 16 shows a plan view of the electronic device 180 and accessory device shown in fig. 15, showing the first section 102a extending beyond the electronic device 180 in multiple dimensions. The electronic device 180 is covered by the first section 102a and is indicated by a dashed line. The accessory device 100 may include a size 142a that allows the first section 102a to extend beyond the first edge 192a and the second edge 192b of the electronic device 180. The accessory device 100 may include a size 142b that allows the first section 102a to extend beyond the third and

fourth edges

192c, 192d of the electronic device 180. Thus, the first section 102a may extend beyond the electronic device 180 along both the X-axis and the Y-axis. The second section 102b (not shown in fig. 16) may include any of the dimensional features described for the first section 102 a.

Fig. 17 and 18 illustrate that accessory device 100 includes a sufficient number of magnetic elements to cradle and hold electronic device 180 even when electronic device 180 and accessory device 100 are placed vertically such that gravity, which would otherwise push electronic device 180 along the vertical Y-axis and away from accessory device 100, acts on electronic device 180. Fig. 17 shows a side view of the accessory device 100 and the electronic device 180, showing the electronic device 180 engaged with the first section 102 a. The magnetic elements (not labeled) in the first section 102a couple with the magnetic elements (not shown in fig. 17) of the electronic device 180 and provide sufficient magnetic attraction such that the weight and weight of the electronic device 180 are countered and the electronic device 180 remains engaged with the accessory device 100 along the first section 102 a.

Fig. 18 shows a side view of the accessory device 100 and the electronic device 180, showing the electronic device 180 engaged with the second section 102 b. The magnetic elements (not labeled) in the second section 102b couple with the magnetic elements (not shown in fig. 18) of the electronic device 180 and provide sufficient magnetic attraction such that the weight and weight of the electronic device 180 are countered and the electronic device 180 remains engaged with the accessory device 100 along the second section 102 b.

Fig. 19 and 20 illustrate alternative embodiments of accessory device 200. It should be noted that accessory device 200 can include any of the features described herein for accessory device 100.

Fig. 19 shows a side view of an alternative embodiment of an accessory device 200 holding an electronic device 180, further illustrating an object 240 coupled with an edge of the electronic device 180. The object 240 may include a digital stylus designed to interact with the display 186 (not shown in fig. 19) when the display 186 includes a touch screen function or other input function initiated by the object 240. The accessory device 200 may include a retaining element 234 coupled to the first and

second sections

202a, 234 of the accessory device 200. The retaining element 234 may include a bag or other type of strap that engages and retains the object 240 such that the object 240 remains engaged with the electronic device 180 and/or the accessory device 200. The retaining element 234 may include a resilient capability to provide additional retention. The retaining element 234 may be permanently coupled with at least one of the first section 202a or the second section 202 b. The permanent coupling may be achieved by adhesives, stitching, welding, and/or other bonding techniques. Alternatively, the retaining element 234 may be removably coupled with at least one of the first section 202a or the second section 202 b. The removable coupling may include a reusable adhesive material, hook and loop features (such as Velcro), or magnetic elements. As shown, the retaining element 234 protrudes beyond the surfaces of the first and

second sections

202a, 202 b. However, in some embodiments (not shown in fig. 19), each of the first and

second sections

202a, 202b includes a recess that receives the retaining element 234 such that the retaining element is flush or coplanar with the surface of the first section 202a and with the surface of the second section 202 b.

Fig. 20 shows a side view of the accessory device 200 and the electronic device 180 shown in fig. 19 with the object 240 removed. As shown, the retaining element 234 may be contracted to not extend in an undesirable manner and to prevent a user from recognizing that the retaining element 234 includes elastic properties in order to retain the object 240 (shown in fig. 19). In this regard, the retaining element 234 may provide additional support to retain the first and

second sections

202a, 202b in engagement with the electronic device 180, as well as facilitate a slim design of the accessory device 200.

The various aspects, embodiments, implementations, or features of the embodiments may be used singly or in any combination. The various aspects of the implementations may be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. The embodiments may also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a production operation or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a production line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of a computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROM, HDD, DVD, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.

For purposes of explanation, the foregoing descriptions use specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the above teachings.

Claims

1. An accessory device for a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising:

a first section, the first section comprising:

the first magnetic element is arranged to be in contact with the first magnetic element,

the second magnetic element is arranged to be in contact with the first magnetic element,

a first surface, the first surface receiving the portable electronic device,

a second surface opposite to the first surface, an

A second section pivotably coupled with the first section, the second section comprising:

a third magnetic element, and

a fourth magnetic element, wherein when the second region is brought into engagement with the second surface, wherein:

The first magnetic element is magnetically attached to and aligned with the third magnetic element to form a first magnetic attachment,

the second magnetic element is magnetically attached to and offset from the fourth magnetic element to form a second magnetic attachment, an

When the first magnetic attachment is removed, the second magnetic attachment alone is insufficient to maintain the engagement.

2. The accessory device of claim 1, wherein the first section is not magnetically coupled with the second section.

3. The accessory device of claim 1, wherein:

the opening is configured to receive a camera assembly of the portable electronic device, and

the opening is uncovered by the first section when the first magnetic element magnetically couples with the second magnetic element.

4. The accessory device of claim 1, wherein the accessory device further comprises:

a hinge coupling the first and second sections; and is also provided with

Wherein the second section is coupled to the first section, wherein the second section is closer to the hinge than the first section;

Wherein the first section further comprises:

a filler material embedded in the first region, an

A reinforcing layer embedded in the first section and separate from the filler material, the reinforcing layer surrounding the opening.

5. The accessory device of claim 4, wherein the second section further comprises a third section, and wherein disengagement of the first section and subsequent disengagement of the second section causes disengagement of the third section.

6. The accessory device of claim 1, wherein the accessory device further comprises:

a third magnetic element (114 e,114f,114 g) located in the first section (102 a); and

a fourth magnetic element (114 h,114i,114 j) located in the first region (108 a), the fourth magnetic element being magnetically couplable with the third magnetic element.

7. An accessory device for a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising:

a first section defining a first surface for receiving the portable electronic device, the first section further comprising a second surface opposite the first surface;

A first magnetic element and a second magnetic element embedded in the first region;

a second section coupled to the first section by a hinge that allows the second section to pivot relative to the first section and cover the portable electronic device, the second section comprising a first section and a second section rotationally coupled to the first section;

a third magnetic element embedded in the first section, wherein a first magnetic coupling between the first magnetic element and the third magnetic element aligns the second region with the second surface; and

wherein a second magnetic coupling between the second magnetic element and the third magnetic element causes the first section to remain engaged with the second section,

wherein the second section is closer to the hinge than the first section.

8. The accessory device of claim 7, wherein the second section further comprises a third section coupled to the second section, wherein the first section and the second section are defined by a first size, and wherein the third section is defined by a second size that is smaller than the first size.

9. The accessory device of claim 8, wherein a disengagement of the first section from the first section and a subsequent disengagement of the second section from the first section causes a disengagement of the third section from the first section.

10. The accessory device of claim 7, wherein the first section is not magnetically coupled with the second section.

11. The accessory device of claim 7, wherein the magnetic coupling between the first magnetic element and the third magnetic element is such that the second section is aligned with the second surface before the second section lies flat on the second surface.

12. An accessory device for a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising:

a first section defining a receiving surface for the portable electronic device, the first section comprising a first magnetic element and a second magnetic element; and

a second section coupled with the first section and capable of covering the portable electronic device, the second section comprising:

a first section comprising a third magnetic element magnetically couplable with the first magnetic element, the first section further comprising a fourth magnetic element magnetically couplable with the second magnetic element,

A second section rotatably coupled with the first section; and

a third section rotatably coupled with the second section, wherein the first and second sections extend laterally beyond an edge of the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is positioned on the receiving surface and the second section covers the portable electronic device.

13. The accessory device of claim 12, wherein the first and second sections extend laterally beyond an edge of the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is positioned on the receiving surface and the second section covers the portable electronic device.

14. The accessory device of claim 13, wherein the first section has a first size such that the first section extends beyond a first edge of the portable electronic device and a second edge of the portable electronic device.

15. The accessory device of claim 14, wherein the first section has a second dimension such that the first section extends beyond a third edge of the portable electronic device.

16. The accessory device of claim 15, wherein the second section extends beyond the first edge, the second edge, and the third edge.

17. The accessory device of claim 12, further comprising a magnetic element carried by the second section, the magnetic element magnetically coupled with a magnetic element of an audio module located in the portable electronic device, wherein the magnetic coupling holds the second section in engagement with the portable electronic device.

18. The accessory device of claim 12, wherein the first section is not magnetically coupled with the second section.