WO2013109788A1

WO2013109788A1 - Protective coverings, systems for installing protective coverings and methods of making the same

Info

Publication number: WO2013109788A1
Application number: PCT/US2013/021992
Authority: WO
Inventors: Steven Shayne SKINNER; Matthew Ryan SKINNER
Original assignee: Perfect Fit Technologies, Inc.
Priority date: 2012-01-17
Filing date: 2013-01-17
Publication date: 2013-07-25

Abstract

Protective coverings, systems for installing protective coverings and methods of making the same are disclosed. Some implementations can include a system for applying a protective covering to a device. The system can include an applicator having a frame and one or more alignment members configured to align the device in the applicator, each of the alignment members being disposed on a periphery of the frame and extending perpendicular to a plane of the frame. The system can also include a protective covering portion having a plurality of layers including a first backing member, a covering member and a second backing member, wherein the first backing member is disposed on a first side of the covering member and the second backing member is disposed on a second side of the covering member opposite the first side of the covering member.

Description

PROTECTIVE COVERINGS, SYSTEMS FOR INSTALLING PROTECTIVE COVERINGS

AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/587,290, entitled "Apparatus for Applying Screen Protectors to Hand Held Electronic Devices" and filed on January 17, 2012; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/704,514, entitled "Device and Method for Applying Screen Protection to an Electronic Device" and filed on or about

September 23, 2012, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD

[0002] Implementations relate generally to protective coverings for electronic device screens and for device covers, and, more particularly, to protective coverings, systems for installing protective coverings and methods of making the same.

BACKGROUND

[0003] A screen protector can be used to protect the LCD screens of digital, electronic devices. The personal digital assistant (PDA), smart phones and tablets are, perhaps, the most commonly used devices for which screen protectors are used because these devices may be operated via a stylus or via fingers. If not used carefully, the tip of the stylus can potentially mar or scratch the screen surface, and so screen protectors were brought to market.

[0004] The "first generation" of screen protectors were commonly made from very thin films based on the concept that an extra layer between the two surfaces (screen and stylus) would provide the needed protection to prolong the life of the device. These screen protectors came (and still come) in packs of 10 to 20 protectors and are hand-cut by the end consumer to fit the specific device. Such screen protectors, while offering extra protection, may not have completely filled the need in the marketplace. They often peeled up easily and they scratched almost as easily as the screens, causing the protector to be replaced often.

[0005] The newer generation of screen protectors is often made from a much more durable film and are designed to be a more permanent part of the gadget which they protect. The material is a urethane -based film which is a little thicker than traditional screen protectors (.008 inches compared to .005 or .003), but the film is hardly noticeable once installed. The film originated when the U.S. military was looking for a way to protect the leading edges of their military helicopter blades from abrasive airborne particles (sand) while traveling at hundreds of miles per hour. The negative is that it is hard to remove and leaves a sticky residue. It is also made in small sizes, not recommended for bigger than four inch diagonal screens. Since the film is clear, there are problems with UV rays emanating from the display to the eyes and bounce back from the sun. It also may not provide protection from glare and may make the devices hard to read outdoors.

[0006] For less permanent solutions there are screen protectors that are non-adhesive and work by sitting in the gap between the LCD screen and the case of the device. The film can be removed, cleaned and reinstalled without any problem. This new generation of film is available with anti-glare coating to help users see the screen in daylight. The non-adhesive screen protector can cover LCD screens from one inch to 50 inch diagonal and is used on digital cameras to large HDTVs.

[0007] The anti-reflective screen protector film has been introduced in 2008 and works by canceling out glare and blocking the reflection of UV rays. This allows users to see the display clearer, even outdoors and while wearing polarized sunglasses. The film has a tacky rubberized backing which adheres to the display, but can easily be removed and reinstalled when necessary. The film comes in sizes up to 50 inch diagonal and can be installed without need for water or soapy solutions. The film has been approved for use by the military, boaters, laptop

manufacturers, law enforcement agencies and is recommended for everyone who likes to use their device outdoors. The film can stay in place for over 1 year and retains its glare canceling benefit.

[0008] Despite these advances, the earlier technology retains a cost advantage. First-generation screen protectors are generally less expensive and can be purchased in packs, enabling the consumer to fit them to different devices themselves. Second- generation screen protectors on the other hand, although more expensive, offer better long-term protection and are generally made specifically for each individual device, providing the user with a better fitting protector.

[0009] For cell phone screens, there are mainly 7 kinds of screen protectors: privacy screen protector, mirror screen protector, matte screen protector, ultra-clear screen protector, grid screen protector, diamond screen protector and 3d screen protector. However, with screen protectors that are made specifically for certain devices, aligning the screen protector during installation may still be difficult and present a problem.

[0010] Embodiments were conceived in light of the above-mentioned problems and limitations, among other things.

SUMMARY

[0011] Some implementations can include a system for applying a protective covering to a device. The system can include an applicator having a frame and one or more alignment members configured to align the device in the applicator, each of the alignment members being disposed on a periphery of the frame and extending perpendicular to a plane of the frame. The system can also include a protective covering portion having a plurality of layers including a first backing member, a covering member and a second backing member, wherein the first backing member is disposed on a first side of the covering member and the second backing member is disposed on a second side of the covering member opposite the first side of the covering member.

[0012] Some implementations can include a method of making a protective covering applicator system. The method can include providing an applicator frame and providing a protective covering portion including a first backing member, a covering member and a second backing member. The method can also include placing one or more removable pegs into corresponding openings in the applicator frame and loading the protective covering portion into the frame and aligning holes in the protective covering portion with corresponding pegs extending through the applicator frame. The method can further include removably attaching the protective covering portion to the frame and removing the pegs.

[0013] Some implementations can include an apparatus for applying a protective covering to a device. The apparatus can include an applicator having a frame and one or more alignment members configured to align the device in the applicator, each of the alignment members being disposed on a periphery of the frame and extending perpendicular to a plane of the frame. The applicator can be configured to releasably hold a protective covering portion having a plurality of layers including a first backing member, a covering member and a second backing member, wherein the first backing member is disposed on a first side of the covering member and the second backing member is disposed on a second side of the covering member opposite the first side of the covering member.

[0014] Some implementations can include a method for installing a protective covering on a device. The method can include providing an applicator frame having a multi-layer protective covering member loaded into the applicator frame, the applicator frame having one or more alignment members extending from a plane of the frame. The method can also include removing a first backing layer of the multi-layer protective covering member and aligning the device with the alignment members. The method can further include inserting the device into the frame so as to contact a surface of the device with a first surface of a covering layer of the protective covering member, the first surface of the covering layer having an adhesive applied thereto. The method can also include removing the device from the frame and removing a second backing material from a second side of the covering layer.

[0015] Any of the above-mentioned implementations can include one or more of the following features. The covering member can include an adhesive material on the first side. The first backing member can include a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process. The second backing member includes a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process.

[0016] The protective covering portion can be releasably attached to the frame. The alignment members include a cradle alignment member disposed so as to be at a bottom of the device when the device is inserted into the frame. The device can be an electronic device or a non-electronic device. The covering member can include an antimicrobial substance impregnated into the covering member. The covering member can include an antimicrobial coating on a surface of the second side of the covering member.

[0017] The frame can be generally rectangular in a top plan view and include an alignment member disposed on each side in a generally rectangular shape corresponding to an outer periphery of the frame. The alignment members can be arranged so as to provide at least one open corner where no alignment member extends.

[0018] Some implementations can include a method of applying a film, coating or screen protection. The method can include preloading or affixing the film, coating or screen protection to the applicator/apparatus. The preloading or affixing can be accomplished by various methods, including, but not limited to adhesives, glues, liquids, gels, tapes or electrostatic elements. [0019] Alternatively, the method can include loading the film, coating or protective film by free form or hand. This would entail using the applicator to apply the film by placing the film, coating or protective film on or into the applicator/apparatus by free form, hand or any other method that would place the applicator/apparatus together with the film, coating or screen protection. The applicator/apparatus can be various shapes, sizes and dimensions. The design of the applicator/apparatus is based on the device that is being fitted for a protective film or coating.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] FIGS. 1 - 28 show diagrams of example applicator frames in accordance with at least one implementation.

[0021] FIG. 29 shows a diagram of the multi-layer protective coating portion in accordance with at least one implementation.

[0022] FIG. 30 shows a diagram of the multi-layer protective coating portion with a device inserted in the frame in accordance with at least one implementation.

[0023] FIG. 31 is a flowchart of an example method of making an applicator in accordance with at least one implementation.

[0024] FIG. 32 is a flowchart of applying a protective coating using an applicator as described herein in accordance with at least one implementation.

[0025] It will be appreciated that any shapes and/or dimensions shown in the drawings are provided as examples for illustration and explanation purposes. Any dimensions shown or described have been determined based on a specific implementation for a corresponding electronic device or case. It will also be appreciated that devices may vary in dimensions, which may require a different implementation configured for the specific dimensions of a device (or other object having a coating applied to it).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Implementations can be used for a variety of electronic device screens or cases, including, but not limited to smart phones, tablets, ebook readers, desktop computers, notebook computers, laptop computers, media players, electronic glasses, watches, monitors, televisions, and other electronic touch screen devices. In addition to electronic devices, implementations can be configured for non-electronic devices such as case, covering or container that encases an electronic device or other object. In general, an implementation can be configured for a nonelectronic device or object that may need a film, coating or screen protection applied.

[0027] Implementations can include one or more applicator bases designed to put a screen protector (or screen covering) on the front and/or back of a hand held electronic device.

Electronic or non-electronic devices may vary in shape, screen size and other dimensions. The applicator/apparatus can be configured to work with the various shapes, sizes and dimensions of electronic or non-electronic devices. A specific implementation of the applicator/apparatus can be based on the device which is being fitted for a protective film or coating. In the drawings of there are example implementations for some devices. However, it will be appreciated that implementations are not limited to the devices shown or referenced. Also, the protective coatings may be films, coatings, stickers or the like and can be used for protection or other purposes (antiglare, UV blocking or the like).

[0028] FIGS. 1 - 28 show various views of applicators. For example, FIG. 4 shows an applicator 400 having a frame portion 402 and alignment members 404 and 406. Alignment members 404 may serve as a cradle for the bottom of a device when inserted into the applicator. FIGS. 1-3 and 5-14 have features similar to those described in FIG. 4.

[0029] FIGS 15 - 28 show applicators with frames and removable pegs used to align the protective coating portion with the frame. For example, FIG. 15 shows an applicator 1500 having a frame 1502 and alignment members 1504 and 1506. Alignment member 1504 can serve as a cradle for a seating and aligning the bottom end of a device. Removable pegs A2 and B2 are configured to be inserted into frame holes Al and Bl, respectively. FIGS. 16-26 have features similar to those described in FIG. 15.

[0030] FIGS. 27 and 28 show an applicator configured for glasses (e.g., Google Glasses).

[0031] FIG. 29 is an exploded view of a cross-section of an example protective covering portion and frame. The system 2900 includes a protective covering portion 2902 having a first backing layer member 2904, a covering layer member 2906 and a second backing layer member 2908. It will be appreciated that in actual use, the layers of the protective covering portion are initially adhered together. The first backing layer member 2904 has a first tab portion 2910 for gripping with a hand of a user. The second backing layer member 2908 has a second tab portion 2912 for gripping by a hand of a user. The protective covering portion 2902 can be releasably attached to a frame 2914.

[0032] FIG. 30 is an exploded view 3000 of a cross-section of an example protective covering portion and frame with a device 3002 inserted. The device 3002 is contacting the covering member 2906, which has the second backing member 2908 still applied. The device 3002 is being held in alignment with the protective coating member by the frame 2914.

[0033] FIG. 31 shows a flowchart of an example method 3100 for making a protective coating applicator system. The method begins at 3102, where an applicator frame is provided.

[0034] At 3104, a protective covering portion is provided.

[0035] At 3106, removable pegs are optionally placed into corresponding holes in the applicator frame.

[0036] At 3108, the protective coating portion is aligned with the pegs and placed into the frame.

[0037] At 3110, the protective coating portion is releasably attached to the frame.

[0038] At 3112, the pegs (if installed) are removed.

[0039] FIG. 32 shows a flowchart of an example method 3200 for applying a protective coating using a protective coating applicator system. The method begins at 3202, where an applicator frame having a multi-layer protective covering member loaded into the applicator frame is provided. The applicator frame can have one or more alignment members extending from a plane of the frame.

[0040] At 3204, a first backing layer of the multi-layer protective covering member is removed.

[0041] At 3206, the device is aligned with the alignment members.

[0042] At 3208, the device is inserted into the frame so as to contact a surface of the device with a first surface of a covering layer of the protective covering member. The first surface of the covering layer having an adhesive applied thereto.

[0043] At 3210, the device is removed from the frame.

[0044] At 3212, a second backing material is removed from a second side of the covering layer.

[0045] It is, therefore, apparent that there is provided, in accordance with the various example implementations disclosed herein, protective coverings, systems for installing protective coverings and methods of making the same.

[0046] While the disclosed subject matter has been described in conjunction with a number of implementations, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations would be or are apparent to those of ordinary skill in the applicable arts. Accordingly, Applicants intend to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, equivalents and variations that are within the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A system for applying a protective covering to a device, the system comprising: an applicator having a frame and one or more alignment members configured to align the device in the applicator, each of the alignment members being disposed on a periphery of the frame and extending perpendicular to a plane of the frame; and a protective covering portion having a plurality of layers including a first backing member, a covering member and a second backing member, wherein the first backing member is disposed on a first side of the covering member and the second backing member is disposed on a second side of the covering member opposite the first side of the covering member.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the covering member includes an adhesive material on the first side.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the first backing member includes a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the second backing member includes a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the protective covering portion is releasably attached to the frame.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the alignment members include a cradle alignment member disposed so as to be at a bottom of the device when the device is inserted into the frame.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the device is an electronic device.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the device is a non-electronic device.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein covering member includes an antimicrobial substance impregnated into the covering member.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the covering member includes an antimicrobial coating on a surface of the second side of the covering member.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the frame is generally rectangular in a top plan view and includes an alignment member disposed on each side in a generally rectangular shape

corresponding to an outer periphery of the frame.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the alignment members are arranged so as to provide at least one open corner where no alignment member extends.

13. A method of making a protective covering applicator system, the method comprising: providing an applicator frame; providing a protective covering portion including a first backing member, a covering member and a second backing member; placing one or more removable pegs into corresponding openings in the applicator frame; loading the protective covering portion into the frame and aligning holes in the protective covering portion with corresponding pegs extending through the applicator frame; removably attaching the protective covering portion to the frame; and removing the pegs.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the covering member includes an adhesive material on the first side.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the first backing member includes a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the second backing member includes a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the protective covering portion is releasably attached to the frame.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein the alignment members include a cradle alignment member disposed so as to be at a bottom of the device when the device is inserted into the frame.

19. The method of claim 13, wherein the device is an electronic device.

20. The method of claim 13, wherein the device is a non-electronic device.

21. The method of claim 13, wherein covering member includes an antimicrobial substance impregnated into the covering member.

22. The method of claim 13, wherein the covering member includes an antimicrobial coating on a surface of the second side of the covering member.

23. The method of claim 13, wherein the frame is generally rectangular in a top plan view and includes an alignment member disposed on each side in a generally rectangular shape corresponding to an outer periphery of the frame.

24. The method of claim 13, wherein the alignment members are arranged so as to provide at least one open corner where no alignment member extends.

25. An apparatus for applying a protective covering to a device, the apparatus comprising: an applicator having a frame and one or more alignment members configured to align the device in the applicator, each of the alignment members being disposed on a periphery of the frame and extending perpendicular to a plane of the frame, wherein the applicator is configured to releasably hold a protective covering portion having a plurality of layers including a first backing member, a covering member and a second backing member, wherein the first backing member is disposed on a first side of the covering member and the second backing member is disposed on a second side of the covering member opposite the first side of the covering member.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the covering member includes an adhesive material on the first side.

27. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the first backing member includes a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process.

28. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the second backing member includes a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process.

29. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the protective covering portion is releasably attached to the frame.

30. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the alignment members include a cradle alignment member disposed so as to be at a bottom of the device when the device is inserted into the frame.

31. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the device is an electronic device.

32. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the device is a non-electronic device.

33. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein covering member includes an antimicrobial substance impregnated into the covering member.

34. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the covering member includes an antimicrobial coating on a surface of the second side of the covering member.

35. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the frame is generally rectangular in a top plan view and includes an alignment member disposed on each side in a generally rectangular shape

corresponding to an outer periphery of the frame.

36. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the alignment members are arranged so as to provide at least one open corner where no alignment member extends.

37. A method for installing a protective covering on a device, the method comprising: providing an applicator frame having a multi-layer protective covering member loaded into the applicator frame, the applicator frame having one or more alignment members extending from a plane of the frame; removing a first backing layer of the multi-layer protective covering member; aligning the device with the alignment members; inserting the device into the frame so as to contact a surface of the device with a first surface of a covering layer of the protective covering member, the first surface of the covering layer having an adhesive applied thereto; removing the device from the frame; and removing a second backing material from a second side of the covering layer.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the first backing member includes a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process.

39. The method of claim 37, wherein the second backing member includes a tab portion configured to be gripped by a user during an application process.

40. The method of claim 37, wherein the protective covering portion is releasably attached to the frame.

41. The method of claim 37, wherein the alignment members include a cradle alignment member disposed so as to be at a bottom of the device when the device is inserted into the frame.

42. The method of claim 37, wherein the device is an electronic device.

43. The method of claim 37, wherein the device is a non-electronic device.

44. The method of claim 37, wherein covering member includes an antimicrobial substance impregnated into the covering member.

45. The method of claim 37, wherein the covering member includes an antimicrobial coating on a surface of the second side of the covering member.

46. The method of claim 37, wherein the frame is generally rectangular in a top plan view and includes an alignment member disposed on each side in a generally rectangular shape corresponding to an outer periphery of the frame.

47. The method of claim 37, wherein the alignment members are arranged so as to provide at least one open corner where no alignment member extends.