US20070023559A1 - Electronic device case - Google Patents
Electronic device case Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070023559A1 US20070023559A1 US11/273,233 US27323305A US2007023559A1 US 20070023559 A1 US20070023559 A1 US 20070023559A1 US 27323305 A US27323305 A US 27323305A US 2007023559 A1 US2007023559 A1 US 2007023559A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cord
- electronic device
- portable electronic
- winding
- accessory
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
- B65H75/00—Storing webs, tapes, or filamentary material, e.g. on reels
- B65H75/02—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks
- B65H75/34—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks specially adapted or mounted for storing and repeatedly paying-out and re-storing lengths of material provided for particular purposes, e.g. anchored hoses, power cables
- B65H75/36—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks specially adapted or mounted for storing and repeatedly paying-out and re-storing lengths of material provided for particular purposes, e.g. anchored hoses, power cables without essentially involving the use of a core or former internal to a stored package of material, e.g. with stored material housed within casing or container, or intermittently engaging a plurality of supports as in sinuous or serpentine fashion
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
- B65H75/00—Storing webs, tapes, or filamentary material, e.g. on reels
- B65H75/02—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks
- B65H75/18—Constructional details
- B65H75/28—Arrangements for positively securing ends of material
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
- H02G11/00—Arrangements of electric cables or lines between relatively-movable parts
- H02G11/02—Arrangements of electric cables or lines between relatively-movable parts using take-up reel or drum
Definitions
- Embodiments of the present application relate generally to an electronic device case. Particularly, certain embodiments relate to a portable electronic device case capable of accommodating an electronic cord.
- portable electronic devices have proliferated in terms of both quantity and variety.
- portable electronic devices available to consumers, a few of which include cellular phones, handheld computers, personal digital assistants (“PDA”), digital audio players, digital MP3 players, digital cameras, digital video recorders, digital video players, global positioning satellite (“GPS”) devices, navigation devices, portable video players (“PVP”), handheld video game consoles, and the like.
- PDA personal digital assistants
- portable electronic devices may include aspects of various traditional electronic devices.
- a cellular phone may include aspects of digital audio players, digital video players, and digital cameras, as well as aspects of a cellular phone.
- Portable electronic devices may interface with accessories having cords.
- Accessories having cords for portable electronic devices are numerous, and include electronic-type accessories and non-electronic-type accessories.
- electronic-type accessories include headphones, headsets, microphones, data transfer cables (e.g. universal serial bus, RS-232, or fire-wire), speakers, speaker cables, communication cables, power cables, synchronization cables, and/or the like.
- non-electronic-type accessories may include neck straps, wrist straps, necklaces, arm straps, and/or the like.
- Accessories having cords may either be required for normal operations, or may be optional. For example, many portable electronic devices may interface with headphones.
- the headphones may be required for a user to listen to an audio signal generated by the portable electronic device.
- the headphones may be an optional accessory.
- a user When a user is not in immediate need of an accessory with a cord, it may be useful for the user to store the accessory in an organized, and readily available fashion. Similarly, when a user needs only a portion of an accessory with a cord, it may be useful for the user to have the rest of the accessory disposed in an organized, readily-available fashion.
- a user of a digital audio player may wish to store headphones when the player is not in use, yet the user may wish for the headphones to be readily available. Further, when using the digital audio player, the user may wish to have only a portion of the headphones freely available for use, and to have the remaining portions of the headphones disposed in an organized and readily available fashion. By limiting slack in a cord portion, the cord may be less likely to be snagged, which may lead to injury to the device, the user, or otherwise.
- Cases for portable electronic devices may be desirable for a variety of reasons.
- One advantage of a case may be that once the device is sheathed in the case, the device and the case may become integrated.
- Some cases for portable electronic devices may provide one or more pouches for storing cords.
- a pouch may tend to store cords in a relatively unstable manner, because the cord may be able to substantially move within the pouch. Such movement may lead to entanglement.
- pouches may be difficult to clean.
- pouches may not promote a user to store the cord in an organized manner. For example, a pouch may encourage a user to stuff an accessory having a cord in an unorganized manner into the pouch, thereby increasing the risk of entanglement and premature failure of the accessory.
- winding devices which retract cords into a casing, such as Targus® retractable cables/cords, Zip-LinqTM retractable cables/cords, and ZipKORDTM retractable cables/cords. These devices, however, are not integrated into either the case or the device. Thus these devices require the user to manage an additional accessory—a problem which the current invention seeks to remedy. These devices create additional problems in that they may be bulky, clumsy, and encourage entanglement. Furthermore, such devices may not be easily stored, because they must be detached from the electronic device and stowed in an additional location that has not been provided. In the end, use of such devices may complicate, rather than simplify use of an electronic device.
- cord storage that is capable of being integrated with a portable electronic device.
- cord storage that is directly integrated with a portable electronic device.
- cord storage that is integrated with a case, which in turn is integrated with a portable electronic device.
- cord storage that is relatively stable, and promotes tangle-free storage and removal of the cord.
- cord storage that is readily accessible to a user, and simplifies, rather than complicates, portable electronic device operation.
- Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for a portable electronic device case including: a sheath portion capable of sheathing a portable electronic device, wherein the sheath portion includes at least one window that allows a user to interact with the portable electronic device; and a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with the sheath portion, the cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for the portable electronic device, wherein the cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining the cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and wherein the user may continue interaction with the portable electronic device while the cord portion is stored in the cord-winding portion.
- the user may readily retrieve the cord portion stored in the cord-winding portion.
- the apparatus further includes at least one fastening portion capable of facilitating substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition of the cord portion by receiving a portion of the accessory.
- the fastening portion is integrated into the cord-winding portion.
- the cord-winding portion includes an axial portion.
- the cord-winding portion further includes a guide portion.
- the window includes an aperture.
- the apparatus further includes an opening portion for accommodating insertion and removal of the portable electronic device into the electronic device case.
- the portable electronic device includes at least one of: a digital audio player; a digital video player; a cellular phone; and a personal digital assistant.
- the accessory includes headphones.
- one of the at least one window allows a user to interact with controls of the portable electronic device. In an embodiment, one of the at least one window allows a user to access at least one of: a data port of the portable electronic device; an input port of the portable electronic device; and an output port of the portable electronic device.
- the cord-winding portion includes a winding mechanism. In an embodiment, the winding mechanism is lockable. In an embodiment, the winding mechanism includes an automatic retraction mechanism. In an embodiment, the automatic retraction mechanism is lockable.
- Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for a portable electronic device including: a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with a shell portion of the portable electronic device, the cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for the portable electronic device, wherein the cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining the cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and wherein the user may continue interaction with the portable electronic device while the cord portion is stored in the cord-winding portion.
- the user may readily retrieve the cord portion stored in the cord-winding portion.
- the apparatus further includes at least one fastening portion capable of facilitating substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition of the cord portion by restricting a portion of the accessory.
- the fastening portion is integrated into the cord-winding portion.
- the cord-winding portion includes an axial portion.
- the cord-winding portion includes a guide portion.
- the portable electronic device includes at least one of: a digital audio player; a digital video player; a cellular phone; and a personal digital assistant.
- the accessory includes headphones.
- the cord-winding portion includes a winding mechanism.
- the winding mechanism is lockable.
- the winding mechanism includes an automatic retraction mechanism.
- the automatic retraction mechanism is lockable.
- Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for a portable electronic device case including: a sheath portion capable of sheathing a portable electronic device, an opening portion for accommodating insertion and removal of the portable electronic device into the electronic device case, a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with the sheath portion, the cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for the portable electronic device, wherein the cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining the cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and at least one fastening portion capable of facilitating substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition of the cord portion by receiving a portion of the accessory.
- the user may readily retrieve the cord portion stored in the cord-winding portion.
- the at least one fastening portion is included of at least one notched portion.
- the cord-winding portion further includes a guide portion.
- the fastening portion is integrated into the guide portion.
- the cord-winding portion includes an axial portion.
- the sheath portion further includes at least one window.
- the portable electronic device includes at least one of: a digital audio player; a digital video player; a cellular phone; and a personal digital assistant.
- the accessory includes headphones.
- one of the at least one window allows a user to access at least one of: a data port of the portable electronic device; an input port of the portable electronic device; and an output port of the portable electronic device.
- the cord-winding portion includes a winding mechanism.
- the winding mechanism is lockable.
- the winding mechanism includes an automatic retraction mechanism.
- the automatic retraction mechanism is lockable.
- FIG. 1 shows a front right perspective view of an electronic device case according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 shows a front right perspective view of an electronic device case according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 shows back left perspective view of an electronic device case according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 shows a left side elevation view of an electronic device case according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 shows an arrangement of axial portions for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 shows an arrangement of axial portions for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 shows an arrangement of axial portions for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 shows an arrangement of axial portions for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 11 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 14 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 15 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 16 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 17 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 18 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 19 shows a cord-winding portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 20 shows a cord-winding portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIGS. 1, 2 , 3 , and 4 show an electronic device case 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 shows a front right perspective view of an electronic device case 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 shows a front right perspective view of an electronic device case 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 shows back left perspective view of an electronic device case 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 shows a left side elevation view of an electronic device case 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- An electronic device case 100 may include a sheath portion 102 , at least one window 120 , an opening portion 108 , a cord-winding portion, 104 , and a fastening portion 106 , or a mounting clip (not shown). Some of these portions, such as the opening portion 108 and the fastening portion 106 may be optional.
- a sheath portion 102 may be formed from various materials including fabrics, plastics, metals, and/or the like.
- the material(s) used may either be flexible or rigid, or some combination thereof.
- the sheath portion 102 may also be comprised of a combination of a variety of materials.
- the material(s) used may either be synthetic, natural, or some combination thereof.
- a sheath portion 102 may be formed from leather.
- the sheath need not substantially envelope or enclose the entire device; there can be openings in the sheath portion.
- a sheath portion 102 may also include portions that promote other aspects of the electronic device case 100 .
- a sheath portion may include a mating fastener capable of receiving an opposite sex fastener on the opening portion 108 . In this manner, the opening portion 108 may be fastenable to the sheath portion 102 .
- a window 120 may be provided to enable a user to interact with a portable electronic device, for example. Through one or more windows 120 , a user may be able to receive information from and/or communicate information to a portable electronic device, and may be able to manipulate controls on the device. A window 120 may also be provided to allow data port access, or cable access to a portable electronic device, for example. A window 120 may be provided to allow access to an input port, such as a data port, a power cable, or a microphone port of the device. A window 120 may be provided to allow access to an output port, such as a headphone jack, for example.
- a window 120 may be provided to allow a user to access a power source of a portable electronic device, such as battery(s) or fuel cell(s), for example.
- a portable electronic device such as battery(s) or fuel cell(s)
- various portable electronic devices have various configurations and features, so too may a designer prefer a variety of corresponding arrangements of one or more windows 120 .
- a window 120 may include an aperture or opening, for example.
- a window 120 may also include a material capable of passing at least some light.
- a window 120 may include a transparent, translucent, or partially opaque material.
- a window 120 may include a combination of materials and/or apertures.
- a window 120 may have a transparent material for covering a display of a portable electronic device, and the window 120 may also have apertures for providing direct contact access to controls of the device.
- a window 120 may be openable and closeable, for example.
- a window 120 may have a flap that is moveable or fastenable to the sheath 102 , for example.
- An opening portion 108 may enable a user to insert and/or remove an electronic device into the electronic device case 100 , for example. While numerous configurations are conceivable for an opening portion 108 , one possible arrangement may be for the opening portion 108 to include at least one flap.
- the flap may be connectable on one end to the sheath 102 .
- the flap is the same material as the sheath 102 , and is an extension of the sheath 102 .
- the other end of the flap may have a fastener, such as a snap, hook and loop (e.g. VELCRO®), and/or the like.
- the fastenable end of the flap may be fastenable to the sheath 102 .
- both ends of the flap may be fastenable to the sheath 102 .
- the flap may be insertable into a receiving portion on the sheath 102 , such as a slot or loop.
- a fastening portion 106 may include any of a variety of means capable of receiving a portion of an accessory for storage. Examples of fastening portions 106 may include fasteners, such as clips, hook and loop fasteners (e.g. VELCRO®), magnets, adhesive, latches, snaps, and/or the like. For example, a fastening portion 106 may be capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory. A fastening portion 106 may, as another example, be capable of receiving an earpiece portion of a headphone. A fastening portion may be located on the sheath 102 , or on the cord-winding portion 104 , for example.
- fasteners such as clips, hook and loop fasteners (e.g. VELCRO®), magnets, adhesive, latches, snaps, and/or the like.
- a fastening portion 106 may be capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory.
- a fastening portion 106 may, as another example, be capable of receiving an ear
- a fastening portion 106 may be formed by plastic or metal, for example, in such a manner that the fastening portion 106 has a spring-like quality that facilitates clipping.
- a fastening portion 106 may also include a notched portion capable of receiving and substantially stably storing an accessory, such as an accessory having a cord, for example.
- a cord-winding portion 104 may include a guide portion 110 and an axial portion 112 , as can be seen in FIG. 4 .
- the axial portion 112 may be integratable with the sheath portion 102 , for example.
- the axial portion 112 may be formed from the same material (e.g. plastic) as the sheath portion 102 , or may be otherwise connected to the sheath portion 102 .
- the axial portion 112 may also be removably attachable with the sheath portion 102 , through fasteners, gums, glues, epoxies, and/or the like.
- the cord-winding portion 104 may be on the interior or exterior of a case 100 or shell or housing of the portable electronic device itself, for example.
- the cord-winding portion may be embedded within the case, or within the shell or housing of the portable electronic device itself, for example.
- a cord-winding portion 104 may be substantially housed by the shell or housing of the portable electronic device.
- a cord-winding portion 104 may be substantially sheathed by case 100 .
- the axial portion 112 may be solid or hollowed.
- the axial portion 112 may be arranged for allowing a user to store an accessory.
- the axial portion 112 may be arranged to receive an accessory having a cord, such as headphones, or a windable strap.
- the cord portion of an accessory may be rotatably windable around the axial portion 112 .
- the axial portion 112 may include one or more grooves that may assist in receiving an accessory, such as an accessory having a cord, for example.
- an axial portion 112 may include a portable electronic device itself.
- the device may have a groove on its perimeter for receiving a cord portion of an accessory.
- an accessory such as an accessory having a cord
- an accessory may remain in a substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition.
- Substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition may be facilitated by other portions of the case 100 , such as a fastening portion 106 and a guide portion 110 .
- a user may, with relative ease, retrieve either the entire accessory or only a portion thereof by removing it from the axial portion 112 .
- a user may desire to have a particular amount of headphone cord available, and the user may correspondingly unwind the needed portion of headphone cord from the axial portion 112 .
- the user may wish to attach a portion of the cord to a fastening portion 106 .
- the axial portion 112 may have a consistent dimension along a radial direction, or may be tapered, for example.
- An axial portion 112 that is tapered may assist in receipt of an accessory, such as an accessory having a cord, for example.
- An axial portion 112 may be generally rounded, and/or may have one or more edges, such as a rectangular shape or any other type of polygon (e.g. octagonal shape), for example. Additionally, an axial portion 112 may be substantially straight in an axial direction, or an axial portion 112 in an axial direction may be curved, bent, zigzagged, looped, and/or the like.
- axial portions 112 there may be a variety of arrangements for one or more axial portions 112 .
- axial portions 112 may be arrangeable with respect to the sheath 102 , and other axial portions 112 .
- axial portions 112 may be arranged on a lateral portion of the sheath 102 .
- a cord portion of an accessory may be rotatably, or otherwise windable around one or more of the axial portions 112 .
- a cord portion of an accessory may be wound into a figure eight pattern around two axial portions 112 .
- an axial portion 112 may be rotatable.
- the entire axial portion 112 may be rotatable with respect to the case 100 .
- the axial portion 112 may be rotatable with respect to itself—i.e. a portion may be rotatable, and a portion may be static.
- the axial portion may be rotatable to facilitate removal of an accessory, as discussed in greater detail below.
- the rotation motion of the axial portion 112 may operate in conjunction with a spring. In this manner, an axial portion 112 may have an automatic winding and/or unwinding aspect, as facilitated by a spring.
- At least one guide portion 110 may optionally be attachable, connectable, and/or fastenable to the axial portion(s) 112 .
- a guide portion 110 may facilitate substantially stable and substantially tangle-free storage of an accessory, such as an accessory having a cord, for example.
- the guide portion 110 may promote a user to wind a cord portion of an accessory around an axial portion 112 in a consistent manner.
- the space between the guide portion 110 and the sheath 102 may be sufficiently narrow such that only one cord width may fit between the guide portion 110 and the sheath 102 at a time. This provides a desired sleek design and may promote substantially tangle-free storage.
- the guide portion 110 may also prevent a stored accessory from unintentionally slipping off the axial portion 112 along an axial direction.
- FIGS. 7-18 a variety of guide portion 110 shapes and configurations are possible. Examples of cases with a singular shield-type guide portion 110 are shown in FIGS. 3 , and 9 - 18 .
- the guide portion 110 may be rounded ( FIG. 3 ), triangular ( FIGS. 9-10 ), rectangular ( FIGS. 11-12 ), octagonal ( FIGS. 13-14 ), hexagonal ( FIGS. 15-16 ), and/or the like.
- FIGS. 17-18 show a guide portion 110 incorporating fastening portion(s) 106 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. While all of these shield-type examples achieve a similar overall visual impression, there are numerous other possible designs.
- one or more fastening portions 106 may be integrally formed or otherwise connected or fastened with the guide portion 110 .
- the fastening portions 106 may have a narrow notch that allows a portion of an accessory, such as a cord portion, to pass through upon specific application of force.
- a cord portion of an accessory may be relatively compressible along a radial dimension, and when pushed, may fit through the notched portion. Once past the narrowest part of the notched portion, the cord may expand such that it may not readily pass again through the notched portion without the specific application of force, for example.
- a notched portion may also be designed such that it receives other parts of the accessory, such as earpieces.
- a guide portion 110 may also be rotatable with respect to the sheath 102 .
- a guide portion 110 may be rotatable with respect to a static axial portion 112 .
- a portion of the axial portion 112 may be rotatable (either with respect to the sheath 102 or with respect to itself), causing the attached guide portion 110 to be rotatable.
- a portion of the guide portion 110 may be rotatable with respect to the other portion of the guide portion 110 .
- an accessory having a cord may be storable in a substantially stable and tangle-free disposition.
- the guide portions 110 may be rotatable in either a clockwise or counterclockwise fashion to facilitate rapid retrieval and storage of an accessory having a cord.
- a cord-winding portion 104 may include a winding mechanism.
- a winding mechanism may be a manually driven mechanism, or may be an automatic mechanism.
- a winding mechanism may be a spring-loaded device, similar to a tape measure.
- a winding mechanism may also be a manually driven mechanism, such as, for example, a spool having a means for driving the rotation of the spool—e.g. a lever or indentation wheel.
- the winding mechanism may also have a separate casing for receiving a cord portion.
- the winding mechanism may be lockable so as not to permit unwinding of the cord.
- a cord-winding portion 104 may also be integratable directly with a shell or housing of a portable electronic device in a similar manner as shown in FIGS. 1-20 , and as discussed above.
- the cord-winding portion 104 may be provided as a portion of and/or integrated into the portable electronic device, thereby reducing the need for a case.
- the case is the shell or housing that encases the interior component of the electronic device.
- a cord-winding portion 104 may be attachable directly to the shell of a portable electronic device.
- a cord-winding portion 104 may be rotatable with respect to the attached shell of the portable electronic device.
- cord-winding portion 104 Aside from integrating a cord-winding portion 104 with the shell of a portable electronic device (rather than with sheath 102 ), all other aspects of cord-winding portion 104 may be similar as discussed in this application.
- the cord-winding portion 104 is part of the shell or housing of the portable electronic device itself, said device can me designed such that input and output ports are positioned within, at, or near the cord-winding portion.
- Case 100 may also include a mounting clip, such as a belt clip, a pants clip, stand clip, and/or the like.
- a mounting clip may be used for mounting the case 100 and/or a portable electronic device integrated with the case 100 to external structure, such as clothing of a human, for example.
- the mounting clip may also be integratable into the shell or housing of a portable electronic device.
- a mounting clip may be a one-piece device, or may include one or more moving parts connectable together.
- a mounting clip may include a spring (either an external part, or due a material chosen, such as plastic having a memory and sufficient elasticity).
- the case 100 may be adaptable for nesting, docking, and/or the like.
- an opening portion 108 may be configured to allow docking through a lower portion of the case to a docking station.
- case 100 may be adapted by allowing mounting structure and/ communications structure of a portable electronic device to mate with complementary structure of a docking station.
- case 100 may be adaptable for nesting within external structure, such as mounting hardware for use, for example, in an automobile. Nesting, docking, and/or the like may enable external powering and electronic communications with the portable electronic device, as well as restriction of movement and/or stability of the portable electronic device.
- the case 100 may also include a material with increased coefficient of friction so as to prevent slipping.
- a rubber-like material may be included in various locations on a case 100 to encourage stability of the case 100 and integrated portable electronic device when the case 100 is placed on an external surface, such as the dashboard of an automobile, for example.
- the case 100 may also include a pouch for storage.
- Accessories of a portable electronic device may be stored and/or retrieved from a pouch, for example.
- a radio transmitter accessory may be stored and/or retrieved from a pouch.
- case 100 may operate.
- a user listens to a portable digital audio player (e.g. IPOD®) that is sheathed by case 100 .
- the user increases the volume on the portable digital audio player through a window 120 .
- the user listens to the music through headphones having a cord. After a song is finished, the user decides to stop listening, and to store the headphones.
- the user accesses the rear panel of the sheath 102 , and finds the cord-winding portion 104 .
- the user winds the cord around the axial portion 112 of the cord-winding portion 104 .
- the guide portion assists in retaining the cord in a stable and tangle-free disposition, and from coming off of the axial portion 112 .
- the user then inserts the earpieces of the headphones into fastening portions 106 .
- the cord of the headphones is stored in a substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition.
- the user may still interact with the digital audio player through the front of the device.
- the user removes the earpieces from the fastening portions 106 , and uncoils the cord from the axial portion 112 .
- embodiments of the present application provide cord storage that is capable of being integrated with a portable electronic device. Additionally, embodiments of the present application provide cord storage that is relatively stable, and promotes tangle-free storage and removal of the cord. Moreover, embodiments of the present application provide cord storage that is readily accessible to a user, and simplifies, rather than complicates, portable electronic device operation.
Landscapes
- Headphones And Earphones (AREA)
Abstract
Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for a portable electronic device case including: a sheath portion capable of sheathing a portable electronic device, wherein the sheath portion includes at least one window that allows a user to interact with the portable electronic device; and a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with the sheath portion, the cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for the portable electronic device, wherein the cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining the cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and wherein the user may continue interaction with the portable electronic device while the cord portion is stored in the cord-winding portion. Thus, cord storage encasement of the electronic device, and interaction with electronic devices are achieved in a convenient manner, which simplifies rather than complicates portable electronic device operation.
Description
- Embodiments of the present application relate generally to an electronic device case. Particularly, certain embodiments relate to a portable electronic device case capable of accommodating an electronic cord.
- In recent years, portable electronic devices have proliferated in terms of both quantity and variety. There are numerous portable electronic devices available to consumers, a few of which include cellular phones, handheld computers, personal digital assistants (“PDA”), digital audio players, digital MP3 players, digital cameras, digital video recorders, digital video players, global positioning satellite (“GPS”) devices, navigation devices, portable video players (“PVP”), handheld video game consoles, and the like. Of course, as data types (such as audio, video, and text) become integrated, portable electronic devices may include aspects of various traditional electronic devices. For example, a cellular phone may include aspects of digital audio players, digital video players, and digital cameras, as well as aspects of a cellular phone.
- Portable electronic devices may interface with accessories having cords. Accessories having cords for portable electronic devices are numerous, and include electronic-type accessories and non-electronic-type accessories. A few examples of electronic-type accessories include headphones, headsets, microphones, data transfer cables (e.g. universal serial bus, RS-232, or fire-wire), speakers, speaker cables, communication cables, power cables, synchronization cables, and/or the like. Examples of non-electronic-type accessories may include neck straps, wrist straps, necklaces, arm straps, and/or the like. Accessories having cords may either be required for normal operations, or may be optional. For example, many portable electronic devices may interface with headphones. On one hand, if the portable electronic device, such as a digital audio player, does not have a built-in speaker, the headphones may be required for a user to listen to an audio signal generated by the portable electronic device. On the other hand, if the portable electronic device, such as a cell phone, has built-in speaker, the headphones may be an optional accessory.
- When a user is not in immediate need of an accessory with a cord, it may be useful for the user to store the accessory in an organized, and readily available fashion. Similarly, when a user needs only a portion of an accessory with a cord, it may be useful for the user to have the rest of the accessory disposed in an organized, readily-available fashion. As an example, a user of a digital audio player may wish to store headphones when the player is not in use, yet the user may wish for the headphones to be readily available. Further, when using the digital audio player, the user may wish to have only a portion of the headphones freely available for use, and to have the remaining portions of the headphones disposed in an organized and readily available fashion. By limiting slack in a cord portion, the cord may be less likely to be snagged, which may lead to injury to the device, the user, or otherwise.
- Cases for portable electronic devices may be desirable for a variety of reasons. One advantage of a case may be that once the device is sheathed in the case, the device and the case may become integrated. Some cases for portable electronic devices may provide one or more pouches for storing cords. However, a pouch may tend to store cords in a relatively unstable manner, because the cord may be able to substantially move within the pouch. Such movement may lead to entanglement. Additionally, pouches may be difficult to clean. Furthermore, pouches may not promote a user to store the cord in an organized manner. For example, a pouch may encourage a user to stuff an accessory having a cord in an unorganized manner into the pouch, thereby increasing the risk of entanglement and premature failure of the accessory.
- There are winding devices which retract cords into a casing, such as Targus® retractable cables/cords, Zip-Linq™ retractable cables/cords, and ZipKORD™ retractable cables/cords. These devices, however, are not integrated into either the case or the device. Thus these devices require the user to manage an additional accessory—a problem which the current invention seeks to remedy. These devices create additional problems in that they may be bulky, clumsy, and encourage entanglement. Furthermore, such devices may not be easily stored, because they must be detached from the electronic device and stowed in an additional location that has not been provided. In the end, use of such devices may complicate, rather than simplify use of an electronic device.
- Thus, there is a need for cord storage that is capable of being integrated with a portable electronic device. For example, there is a need for cord storage that is directly integrated with a portable electronic device. Further there is a need for cord storage that is integrated with a case, which in turn is integrated with a portable electronic device. Additionally, there is a need for cord storage that is relatively stable, and promotes tangle-free storage and removal of the cord. Furthermore, there is a need for cord storage that is readily accessible to a user, and simplifies, rather than complicates, portable electronic device operation.
- Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for a portable electronic device case including: a sheath portion capable of sheathing a portable electronic device, wherein the sheath portion includes at least one window that allows a user to interact with the portable electronic device; and a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with the sheath portion, the cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for the portable electronic device, wherein the cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining the cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and wherein the user may continue interaction with the portable electronic device while the cord portion is stored in the cord-winding portion. In an embodiment, the user may readily retrieve the cord portion stored in the cord-winding portion. In an embodiment, the apparatus further includes at least one fastening portion capable of facilitating substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition of the cord portion by receiving a portion of the accessory. In an embodiment, the fastening portion is integrated into the cord-winding portion. In an embodiment, the cord-winding portion includes an axial portion. In an embodiment, the cord-winding portion further includes a guide portion. In an embodiment, the window includes an aperture. In an embodiment, the apparatus further includes an opening portion for accommodating insertion and removal of the portable electronic device into the electronic device case. In an embodiment, the portable electronic device includes at least one of: a digital audio player; a digital video player; a cellular phone; and a personal digital assistant. In an embodiment, the accessory includes headphones. In an embodiment, one of the at least one window allows a user to interact with controls of the portable electronic device. In an embodiment, one of the at least one window allows a user to access at least one of: a data port of the portable electronic device; an input port of the portable electronic device; and an output port of the portable electronic device. In an embodiment, the cord-winding portion includes a winding mechanism. In an embodiment, the winding mechanism is lockable. In an embodiment, the winding mechanism includes an automatic retraction mechanism. In an embodiment, the automatic retraction mechanism is lockable.
- Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for a portable electronic device including: a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with a shell portion of the portable electronic device, the cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for the portable electronic device, wherein the cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining the cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and wherein the user may continue interaction with the portable electronic device while the cord portion is stored in the cord-winding portion. In an embodiment, the user may readily retrieve the cord portion stored in the cord-winding portion. In an embodiment, the apparatus further includes at least one fastening portion capable of facilitating substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition of the cord portion by restricting a portion of the accessory. In an embodiment, the fastening portion is integrated into the cord-winding portion. In an embodiment, the cord-winding portion includes an axial portion. In an embodiment, the cord-winding portion includes a guide portion. In an embodiment, the portable electronic device includes at least one of: a digital audio player; a digital video player; a cellular phone; and a personal digital assistant. In an embodiment, the accessory includes headphones. In an embodiment, the cord-winding portion includes a winding mechanism. In an embodiment, the winding mechanism is lockable. In an embodiment, the winding mechanism includes an automatic retraction mechanism. In an embodiment, the automatic retraction mechanism is lockable.
- Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for a portable electronic device case including: a sheath portion capable of sheathing a portable electronic device, an opening portion for accommodating insertion and removal of the portable electronic device into the electronic device case, a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with the sheath portion, the cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for the portable electronic device, wherein the cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining the cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and at least one fastening portion capable of facilitating substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition of the cord portion by receiving a portion of the accessory. In an embodiment, the user may readily retrieve the cord portion stored in the cord-winding portion. In an embodiment, the at least one fastening portion is included of at least one notched portion. In an embodiment, the cord-winding portion further includes a guide portion. In an embodiment, the fastening portion is integrated into the guide portion. In an embodiment, the cord-winding portion includes an axial portion. In an embodiment, the sheath portion further includes at least one window. In an embodiment, the portable electronic device includes at least one of: a digital audio player; a digital video player; a cellular phone; and a personal digital assistant. In an embodiment, the accessory includes headphones. In an embodiment, one of the at least one window allows a user to access at least one of: a data port of the portable electronic device; an input port of the portable electronic device; and an output port of the portable electronic device. In an embodiment, the cord-winding portion includes a winding mechanism. In an embodiment, the winding mechanism is lockable. In an embodiment, the winding mechanism includes an automatic retraction mechanism. In an embodiment, the automatic retraction mechanism is lockable.
-
FIG. 1 shows a front right perspective view of an electronic device case according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 shows a front right perspective view of an electronic device case according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3 shows back left perspective view of an electronic device case according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 shows a left side elevation view of an electronic device case according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 shows an arrangement of axial portions for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 shows an arrangement of axial portions for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 shows an arrangement of axial portions for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 shows an arrangement of axial portions for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 9 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 10 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 11 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 12 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 13 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 14 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 15 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 16 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 17 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 18 shows a guide portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 19 shows a cord-winding portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 20 shows a cord-winding portion configuration for an electronic device case in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. - The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments of the present application, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, certain embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should be understood, however, that the present invention is not limited to the arrangements and instrumentality shown in the attached drawings. There are a variety of ornamental designs which can achieve the function of the present invention.
-
FIGS. 1, 2 , 3, and 4 show anelectronic device case 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 1 shows a front right perspective view of anelectronic device case 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 2 shows a front right perspective view of anelectronic device case 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 3 shows back left perspective view of anelectronic device case 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 4 shows a left side elevation view of anelectronic device case 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. - An
electronic device case 100 may include asheath portion 102, at least onewindow 120, anopening portion 108, a cord-winding portion, 104, and afastening portion 106, or a mounting clip (not shown). Some of these portions, such as theopening portion 108 and thefastening portion 106 may be optional. - A
sheath portion 102 may be formed from various materials including fabrics, plastics, metals, and/or the like. The material(s) used may either be flexible or rigid, or some combination thereof. Thesheath portion 102 may also be comprised of a combination of a variety of materials. The material(s) used may either be synthetic, natural, or some combination thereof. For example, asheath portion 102 may be formed from leather. The sheath need not substantially envelope or enclose the entire device; there can be openings in the sheath portion. Furthermore, asheath portion 102 may also include portions that promote other aspects of theelectronic device case 100. For example, a sheath portion may include a mating fastener capable of receiving an opposite sex fastener on theopening portion 108. In this manner, theopening portion 108 may be fastenable to thesheath portion 102. - A
window 120 may be provided to enable a user to interact with a portable electronic device, for example. Through one ormore windows 120, a user may be able to receive information from and/or communicate information to a portable electronic device, and may be able to manipulate controls on the device. Awindow 120 may also be provided to allow data port access, or cable access to a portable electronic device, for example. Awindow 120 may be provided to allow access to an input port, such as a data port, a power cable, or a microphone port of the device. Awindow 120 may be provided to allow access to an output port, such as a headphone jack, for example. As a further example, awindow 120 may be provided to allow a user to access a power source of a portable electronic device, such as battery(s) or fuel cell(s), for example. As various portable electronic devices have various configurations and features, so too may a designer prefer a variety of corresponding arrangements of one ormore windows 120. - A
window 120 may include an aperture or opening, for example. Awindow 120 may also include a material capable of passing at least some light. For example, awindow 120 may include a transparent, translucent, or partially opaque material. Awindow 120 may include a combination of materials and/or apertures. For example, awindow 120 may have a transparent material for covering a display of a portable electronic device, and thewindow 120 may also have apertures for providing direct contact access to controls of the device. Awindow 120 may be openable and closeable, for example. Awindow 120 may have a flap that is moveable or fastenable to thesheath 102, for example. - An
opening portion 108 may enable a user to insert and/or remove an electronic device into theelectronic device case 100, for example. While numerous configurations are conceivable for anopening portion 108, one possible arrangement may be for theopening portion 108 to include at least one flap. The flap may be connectable on one end to thesheath 102. In an embodiment, the flap is the same material as thesheath 102, and is an extension of thesheath 102. The other end of the flap may have a fastener, such as a snap, hook and loop (e.g. VELCRO®), and/or the like. The fastenable end of the flap may be fastenable to thesheath 102. As an alternative arrangements, both ends of the flap may be fastenable to thesheath 102. As another arrangement, the flap may be insertable into a receiving portion on thesheath 102, such as a slot or loop. - A
fastening portion 106 may include any of a variety of means capable of receiving a portion of an accessory for storage. Examples offastening portions 106 may include fasteners, such as clips, hook and loop fasteners (e.g. VELCRO®), magnets, adhesive, latches, snaps, and/or the like. For example, afastening portion 106 may be capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory. Afastening portion 106 may, as another example, be capable of receiving an earpiece portion of a headphone. A fastening portion may be located on thesheath 102, or on the cord-windingportion 104, for example. Afastening portion 106 may be formed by plastic or metal, for example, in such a manner that thefastening portion 106 has a spring-like quality that facilitates clipping. Afastening portion 106 may also include a notched portion capable of receiving and substantially stably storing an accessory, such as an accessory having a cord, for example. - A cord-winding
portion 104 may include aguide portion 110 and anaxial portion 112, as can be seen inFIG. 4 . Theaxial portion 112 may be integratable with thesheath portion 102, for example. Theaxial portion 112 may be formed from the same material (e.g. plastic) as thesheath portion 102, or may be otherwise connected to thesheath portion 102. Theaxial portion 112 may also be removably attachable with thesheath portion 102, through fasteners, gums, glues, epoxies, and/or the like. The cord-windingportion 104 may be on the interior or exterior of acase 100 or shell or housing of the portable electronic device itself, for example. The cord-winding portion may be embedded within the case, or within the shell or housing of the portable electronic device itself, for example. As an illustrative example, a cord-windingportion 104 may be substantially housed by the shell or housing of the portable electronic device. As another illustrative example, a cord-windingportion 104 may be substantially sheathed bycase 100. - The
axial portion 112 may be solid or hollowed. Theaxial portion 112 may be arranged for allowing a user to store an accessory. For example, theaxial portion 112 may be arranged to receive an accessory having a cord, such as headphones, or a windable strap. The cord portion of an accessory may be rotatably windable around theaxial portion 112. Theaxial portion 112 may include one or more grooves that may assist in receiving an accessory, such as an accessory having a cord, for example. In an embodiment, anaxial portion 112 may include a portable electronic device itself. For example, the device may have a groove on its perimeter for receiving a cord portion of an accessory. - Once received for storage by the
axial portion 112, an accessory, such as an accessory having a cord, may remain in a substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition. Substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition may be facilitated by other portions of thecase 100, such as afastening portion 106 and aguide portion 110. A user may, with relative ease, retrieve either the entire accessory or only a portion thereof by removing it from theaxial portion 112. For example, a user may desire to have a particular amount of headphone cord available, and the user may correspondingly unwind the needed portion of headphone cord from theaxial portion 112. To regulate slack, the user may wish to attach a portion of the cord to afastening portion 106. - The
axial portion 112 may have a consistent dimension along a radial direction, or may be tapered, for example. Anaxial portion 112 that is tapered may assist in receipt of an accessory, such as an accessory having a cord, for example. Anaxial portion 112 may be generally rounded, and/or may have one or more edges, such as a rectangular shape or any other type of polygon (e.g. octagonal shape), for example. Additionally, anaxial portion 112 may be substantially straight in an axial direction, or anaxial portion 112 in an axial direction may be curved, bent, zigzagged, looped, and/or the like. - As shown in
FIGS. 5-8 , there may be a variety of arrangements for one or moreaxial portions 112. For example, there may be two, three, or fouraxial portions 112, as shown inFIGS. 5-7 . Furthermore,axial portions 112 may be arrangeable with respect to thesheath 102, and otheraxial portions 112. For example, as shown inFIG. 8 ,axial portions 112 may be arranged on a lateral portion of thesheath 102. As described above, a cord portion of an accessory may be rotatably, or otherwise windable around one or more of theaxial portions 112. For example, a cord portion of an accessory may be wound into a figure eight pattern around twoaxial portions 112. - As shown in
FIGS. 19-20 , anaxial portion 112 may be rotatable. For example, the entireaxial portion 112 may be rotatable with respect to thecase 100. Also, theaxial portion 112 may be rotatable with respect to itself—i.e. a portion may be rotatable, and a portion may be static. The axial portion may be rotatable to facilitate removal of an accessory, as discussed in greater detail below. The rotation motion of theaxial portion 112 may operate in conjunction with a spring. In this manner, anaxial portion 112 may have an automatic winding and/or unwinding aspect, as facilitated by a spring. - Turning back to
FIGS. 1-4 , at least oneguide portion 110 may optionally be attachable, connectable, and/or fastenable to the axial portion(s) 112. Aguide portion 110 may facilitate substantially stable and substantially tangle-free storage of an accessory, such as an accessory having a cord, for example. Theguide portion 110 may promote a user to wind a cord portion of an accessory around anaxial portion 112 in a consistent manner. For example, the space between theguide portion 110 and thesheath 102 may be sufficiently narrow such that only one cord width may fit between theguide portion 110 and thesheath 102 at a time. This provides a desired sleek design and may promote substantially tangle-free storage. Theguide portion 110 may also prevent a stored accessory from unintentionally slipping off theaxial portion 112 along an axial direction. - As shown in
FIGS. 7-18 , a variety ofguide portion 110 shapes and configurations are possible. Examples of cases with a singular shield-type guide portion 110 are shown inFIGS. 3 , and 9-18. For example, theguide portion 110 may be rounded (FIG. 3 ), triangular (FIGS. 9-10 ), rectangular (FIGS. 11-12 ), octagonal (FIGS. 13-14 ), hexagonal (FIGS. 15-16 ), and/or the like.FIGS. 17-18 show aguide portion 110 incorporating fastening portion(s) 106 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. While all of these shield-type examples achieve a similar overall visual impression, there are numerous other possible designs. - As shown in
FIG. 17 , one ormore fastening portions 106 may be integrally formed or otherwise connected or fastened with theguide portion 110. As shown inFIG. 17 , thefastening portions 106 may have a narrow notch that allows a portion of an accessory, such as a cord portion, to pass through upon specific application of force. For example, a cord portion of an accessory may be relatively compressible along a radial dimension, and when pushed, may fit through the notched portion. Once past the narrowest part of the notched portion, the cord may expand such that it may not readily pass again through the notched portion without the specific application of force, for example. A notched portion may also be designed such that it receives other parts of the accessory, such as earpieces. - Turning to
FIGS. 19-20 , aguide portion 110 may also be rotatable with respect to thesheath 102. For example, aguide portion 110 may be rotatable with respect to a staticaxial portion 112. As another example, a portion of theaxial portion 112 may be rotatable (either with respect to thesheath 102 or with respect to itself), causing the attachedguide portion 110 to be rotatable. As another example, a portion of theguide portion 110 may be rotatable with respect to the other portion of theguide portion 110. As seen inFIG. 19 , when theguide portions 110 are in a particular position, an accessory having a cord may be storable in a substantially stable and tangle-free disposition. Turning toFIG. 20 , theguide portions 110 may be rotatable in either a clockwise or counterclockwise fashion to facilitate rapid retrieval and storage of an accessory having a cord. - A cord-winding
portion 104 may include a winding mechanism. A winding mechanism may be a manually driven mechanism, or may be an automatic mechanism. For example, a winding mechanism may be a spring-loaded device, similar to a tape measure. A winding mechanism may also be a manually driven mechanism, such as, for example, a spool having a means for driving the rotation of the spool—e.g. a lever or indentation wheel. The winding mechanism may also have a separate casing for receiving a cord portion. Furthermore, the winding mechanism may be lockable so as not to permit unwinding of the cord. - A cord-winding
portion 104 may also be integratable directly with a shell or housing of a portable electronic device in a similar manner as shown inFIGS. 1-20 , and as discussed above. In other words, the cord-windingportion 104 may be provided as a portion of and/or integrated into the portable electronic device, thereby reducing the need for a case. Here the case is the shell or housing that encases the interior component of the electronic device. For example, a cord-windingportion 104 may be attachable directly to the shell of a portable electronic device. Furthermore, a cord-windingportion 104 may be rotatable with respect to the attached shell of the portable electronic device. Aside from integrating a cord-windingportion 104 with the shell of a portable electronic device (rather than with sheath 102), all other aspects of cord-windingportion 104 may be similar as discussed in this application. When the cord-windingportion 104 is part of the shell or housing of the portable electronic device itself, said device can me designed such that input and output ports are positioned within, at, or near the cord-winding portion. -
Case 100 may also include a mounting clip, such as a belt clip, a pants clip, stand clip, and/or the like. A mounting clip may be used for mounting thecase 100 and/or a portable electronic device integrated with thecase 100 to external structure, such as clothing of a human, for example. The mounting clip may also be integratable into the shell or housing of a portable electronic device. A mounting clip may be a one-piece device, or may include one or more moving parts connectable together. A mounting clip may include a spring (either an external part, or due a material chosen, such as plastic having a memory and sufficient elasticity). - The
case 100 may be adaptable for nesting, docking, and/or the like. For example, anopening portion 108 may be configured to allow docking through a lower portion of the case to a docking station. For example,case 100 may be adapted by allowing mounting structure and/ communications structure of a portable electronic device to mate with complementary structure of a docking station. As anotherexample case 100 may be adaptable for nesting within external structure, such as mounting hardware for use, for example, in an automobile. Nesting, docking, and/or the like may enable external powering and electronic communications with the portable electronic device, as well as restriction of movement and/or stability of the portable electronic device. - The
case 100 may also include a material with increased coefficient of friction so as to prevent slipping. For example, a rubber-like material may be included in various locations on acase 100 to encourage stability of thecase 100 and integrated portable electronic device when thecase 100 is placed on an external surface, such as the dashboard of an automobile, for example. - The
case 100 may also include a pouch for storage. Accessories of a portable electronic device may be stored and/or retrieved from a pouch, for example. As an illustrative example, a radio transmitter accessory may be stored and/or retrieved from a pouch. - The following is an illustrative example of how
case 100 may operate. A user listens to a portable digital audio player (e.g. IPOD®) that is sheathed bycase 100. The user increases the volume on the portable digital audio player through awindow 120. The user listens to the music through headphones having a cord. After a song is finished, the user decides to stop listening, and to store the headphones. The user accesses the rear panel of thesheath 102, and finds the cord-windingportion 104. The user winds the cord around theaxial portion 112 of the cord-windingportion 104. The guide portion assists in retaining the cord in a stable and tangle-free disposition, and from coming off of theaxial portion 112. The user then inserts the earpieces of the headphones intofastening portions 106. In this manner, the cord of the headphones is stored in a substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition. At the same time, the user may still interact with the digital audio player through the front of the device. When the user is ready to listen to music through the headphones again, the user removes the earpieces from thefastening portions 106, and uncoils the cord from theaxial portion 112. - Thus, embodiments of the present application provide cord storage that is capable of being integrated with a portable electronic device. Additionally, embodiments of the present application provide cord storage that is relatively stable, and promotes tangle-free storage and removal of the cord. Moreover, embodiments of the present application provide cord storage that is readily accessible to a user, and simplifies, rather than complicates, portable electronic device operation.
- While the invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (43)
1. An apparatus for a portable electronic device case comprising:
a sheath portion capable of sheathing a portable electronic device, wherein said sheath portion comprises at least one window that allows a user to interact with said portable electronic device; and
a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with said sheath portion, said cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for said portable electronic device,
wherein said cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining said cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and wherein said user may continue interaction with said portable electronic device while said cord portion is stored in said cord-winding portion.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said user may readily retrieve said cord portion stored in said cord-winding portion.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 further including at least one fastening portion capable of facilitating substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition of said cord portion by receiving a portion of said accessory.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein said fastening portion is integrated into said cord-winding portion.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said cord-winding portion comprises an axial portion.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein said cord-winding portion further comprises a guide portion.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said window comprises an aperture.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an opening portion for accommodating insertion and removal of said portable electronic device into said electronic device case.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said portable electronic device comprises at least one of: a digital audio player; a digital video player; a cellular phone; and a personal digital assistant.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said accessory comprises headphones.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein one of said at least one window allows a user to interact with controls of said portable electronic device.
12. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein one of said at least one window allows a user to access at least one of: a data port of said portable electronic device; an input port of said portable electronic device; and an output port of said portable electronic device.
13. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said cord-winding portion comprises a winding mechanism.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein said winding mechanism is lockable.
15. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein said winding mechanism comprises an automatic retraction mechanism.
16. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein said automatic retraction mechanism is lockable.
17. An apparatus for a portable electronic device comprising:
a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with a shell portion of said portable electronic device, said cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for said portable electronic device,
wherein said cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining said cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and wherein said user may continue interaction with said portable electronic device while said cord portion is stored in said cord-winding portion.
18. The apparatus of claim 17 , wherein said user may readily retrieve said cord portion stored in said cord-winding portion.
19. The apparatus of claim 17 further including at least one fastening portion capable of facilitating substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition of said cord portion by restricting a portion of said accessory.
20. The apparatus of claim 19 , wherein said fastening portion is integrated into said cord-winding portion.
21. The apparatus of claim 17 , wherein said cord-winding portion comprises an axial portion.
22. The apparatus of claim 21 , wherein said cord-winding portion comprises a guide portion.
23. The apparatus of claim 17 , wherein said portable electronic device comprises at least one of: a digital audio player; a digital video player; a cellular phone; and a personal digital assistant.
24. The apparatus of claim 17 , wherein said accessory comprises headphones.
25. The apparatus of claim 17 , wherein said cord-winding portion comprises a winding mechanism.
26. The apparatus of claim 25 , wherein said winding mechanism is lockable.
27. The apparatus of claim 25 , wherein said winding mechanism comprises an automatic retraction mechanism.
28. The apparatus of claim 27 , wherein said automatic retraction mechanism is lockable.
29. An apparatus for a portable electronic device case comprising:
a sheath portion capable of sheathing a portable electronic device, an opening portion for accommodating insertion and removal of said portable electronic device into said electronic device case,
a cord-winding portion capable of being integrated with said sheath portion, said cord-winding portion capable of receiving a cord portion of an accessory for said portable electronic device,
wherein said cord-winding portion is capable of maintaining said cord portion in a substantially stable and a substantially tangle-free disposition, and
at least one fastening portion capable of facilitating substantially stable and substantially tangle-free disposition of said cord portion by receiving a portion of said accessory.
30. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein said user may readily retrieve said cord portion stored in said cord-winding portion.
31. The apparatus of claim 29 where said at least one fastening portion is comprised of at least one notched portion.
32. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein said cord-winding portion further comprises a guide portion.
33. The apparatus of claim 31 , wherein said fastening portion is integrated into said guide portion.
34. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein said cord-winding portion comprises an axial portion.
35. The apparatus of claim 34 , wherein said cord-winding portion further comprises a guide portion.
36. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein said sheath portion further comprises at least one window.
37. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein said portable electronic device comprises at least one of: a digital audio player; a digital video player; a cellular phone; and a personal digital assistant.
38. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein said accessory comprises headphones.
39. The apparatus of claim 36 , wherein one of said at least one window allows a user to access at least one of: a data port of said portable electronic device; an input port of said portable electronic device; and an output port of said portable electronic device.
40. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein said cord-winding portion comprises a winding mechanism.
41. The apparatus of claim 40 , wherein said winding mechanism is lockable.
42. The apparatus of claim 40 wherein said winding mechanism comprises an automatic retraction mechanism.
43. The apparatus of claim 42 , wherein said automatic retraction mechanism is lockable.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/273,233 US20070023559A1 (en) | 2005-07-26 | 2005-11-14 | Electronic device case |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US29/234,952 USD560350S1 (en) | 2005-07-26 | 2005-07-26 | Electronic device case |
US72815005P | 2005-10-19 | 2005-10-19 | |
US11/273,233 US20070023559A1 (en) | 2005-07-26 | 2005-11-14 | Electronic device case |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US29/234,952 Continuation-In-Part USD560350S1 (en) | 2005-07-26 | 2005-07-26 | Electronic device case |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20070023559A1 true US20070023559A1 (en) | 2007-02-01 |
Family
ID=37693245
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/273,233 Abandoned US20070023559A1 (en) | 2005-07-26 | 2005-11-14 | Electronic device case |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20070023559A1 (en) |
Cited By (54)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070099680A1 (en) * | 2005-11-02 | 2007-05-03 | Peter Kielland | Wearable caddy for a Personal Audio Device having integrated cord storage |
US20070099681A1 (en) * | 2005-11-02 | 2007-05-03 | Peter Kielland | Wearable caddy for a personal audio device having integrated cord storage |
US20090257259A1 (en) * | 2008-04-15 | 2009-10-15 | Powermat Ltd. | Bridge synchronous rectifier |
US20100070219A1 (en) * | 2007-03-22 | 2010-03-18 | Powermat Ltd | Efficiency monitor for inductive power transmission |
US20100066176A1 (en) * | 2008-07-02 | 2010-03-18 | Powermat Ltd., | Non resonant inductive power transmission system and method |
US20100072334A1 (en) * | 2008-09-09 | 2010-03-25 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for Electronic Device with Support |
US20100159741A1 (en) * | 2008-12-18 | 2010-06-24 | Wayne Philip Rothbaum | Magnetic Cord Management System |
US20100181841A1 (en) * | 2007-01-29 | 2010-07-22 | Powermat Ltd. | Pinless power coupling |
US20100194336A1 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2010-08-05 | Powermat Ltd. | Inductively chargeable audio devices |
US20100219698A1 (en) * | 2007-09-25 | 2010-09-02 | Powermat Ltd. | Centrally controlled inductive power transmission platform |
US20100219693A1 (en) * | 2007-11-19 | 2010-09-02 | Powermat Ltd. | System for inductive power provision in wet environments |
US20100219183A1 (en) * | 2007-11-19 | 2010-09-02 | Powermat Ltd. | System for inductive power provision within a bounding surface |
US20100224714A1 (en) * | 2007-10-12 | 2010-09-09 | Preggioni Ehf | Cord adjustment device |
US20110031287A1 (en) * | 2008-09-09 | 2011-02-10 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for Electronic Device with Support |
US20110062793A1 (en) * | 2008-03-17 | 2011-03-17 | Powermat Ltd. | Transmission-guard system and method for an inductive power supply |
US20110121660A1 (en) * | 2008-06-02 | 2011-05-26 | Powermat Ltd. | Appliance mounted power outlets |
US20110157137A1 (en) * | 2008-07-08 | 2011-06-30 | Powermat Ltd. | Encapsulated pixels for display device |
US20110192857A1 (en) * | 2008-12-18 | 2011-08-11 | Wayne Philip Rothbaum | Magnetically Attached Accessories (For A Case) for a Portable Electronics Device |
US20110217927A1 (en) * | 2008-09-23 | 2011-09-08 | Powermat Ltd. | Combined antenna and inductive power receiver |
US20110253571A1 (en) * | 2010-04-14 | 2011-10-20 | Wayne Philip Rothbaum | Cord Management System |
US20120050968A1 (en) * | 2010-08-25 | 2012-03-01 | Eric Child | Apparatus, system, and method for attaching peripheral items to devices |
US20120118770A1 (en) * | 2010-11-15 | 2012-05-17 | Valls William H | Tablet accessory |
US8261416B2 (en) | 2010-04-14 | 2012-09-11 | Cjd Llc | Cord management system |
USD669063S1 (en) | 2010-09-24 | 2012-10-16 | Cjd Llc | Case with metal back for a cord management system |
USD669062S1 (en) | 2010-09-24 | 2012-10-16 | Cjd Llc | Case with metal back for a cord management system |
US20130134252A1 (en) * | 2011-11-29 | 2013-05-30 | Chin-Hung Cheng | Earphone Cord Winder |
US20130140394A1 (en) * | 2011-12-02 | 2013-06-06 | Sky Tech Worldwide, Inc. | Cable organizer and electronic appliance with same |
US8615849B2 (en) | 2010-04-14 | 2013-12-31 | Cjd Llc | Cord management system |
CN103703428A (en) * | 2011-03-16 | 2014-04-02 | 珀普插座有限责任公司 | Extending socket for portable media player |
US8913775B2 (en) | 2012-04-10 | 2014-12-16 | Thomas Nathan Millikan | Reducing the tangling of cables |
US8960634B2 (en) | 2008-09-09 | 2015-02-24 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for electronic device with support |
US8981598B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2015-03-17 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Energy efficient inductive power transmission system and method |
US8996075B2 (en) | 2012-11-08 | 2015-03-31 | Jaleel Bunton | Retrievable headset storage case for a portable electronic device |
EP2853218A1 (en) * | 2013-09-29 | 2015-04-01 | Covidien LP | Cable management system for medical treatment device |
CN104510530A (en) * | 2013-09-29 | 2015-04-15 | 柯惠有限合伙公司 | Cable management system for medical treatment device |
US9161115B2 (en) | 2012-05-03 | 2015-10-13 | Turtlecell Llc | Case with headset retraction device |
TWI507842B (en) * | 2011-02-28 | 2015-11-11 | Hon Hai Prec Ind Co Ltd | A base and an electronic apparatus using the same |
US9218024B2 (en) | 2011-06-23 | 2015-12-22 | Zagg Intellectual Property Holding Co., Inc. | Accessory and support for electronic devices, systems including the same and methods |
US9235230B1 (en) | 2012-01-09 | 2016-01-12 | Logitech Europe S.A. | Magnetic stand, mount and cord wrap for mobile devices and accessories |
US9331750B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2016-05-03 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Wireless power receiver and host control interface thereof |
US9337902B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2016-05-10 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | System and method for providing wireless power transfer functionality to an electrical device |
US20160220000A1 (en) * | 2013-09-16 | 2016-08-04 | Bradley McGuckin | Case for an electronic device |
US20170235079A1 (en) * | 2007-05-07 | 2017-08-17 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic enclosure with external cable spool |
US9960642B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2018-05-01 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Embedded interface for wireless power transfer to electrical devices |
US9960640B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2018-05-01 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | System and method for regulating inductive power transmission |
US10068701B2 (en) | 2007-09-25 | 2018-09-04 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Adjustable inductive power transmission platform |
US10247897B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2019-04-02 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic enclosure with internal cable spool |
US10371914B2 (en) | 2011-06-24 | 2019-08-06 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber termination enclosure with modular plate assemblies |
US10470539B2 (en) | 2013-05-10 | 2019-11-12 | Glenn J. Tebo | Case for portable electronic device |
US10545305B2 (en) | 2012-12-19 | 2020-01-28 | CommScope Connectivity Belgium BVBA | Distribution device with incrementally added splitters |
US11134580B2 (en) | 2010-07-08 | 2021-09-28 | Zagg Inc | Protective cover for portable electronic device and associated systems and methods |
US20220228709A1 (en) * | 2021-01-16 | 2022-07-21 | Vitec Imaging Solutions Spa | Magnetic Support Structures For Electronic Devices |
US11525576B2 (en) | 2019-01-25 | 2022-12-13 | Surface Fabrication and Designs, Corp. | Lighter device having accessory storage |
US11979201B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2024-05-07 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | System and method for coded communication signals regulating inductive power transmissions |
Citations (31)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4101089A (en) * | 1977-05-23 | 1978-07-18 | General Electric Company | Integral storage assembly for detachable power cords |
US4357044A (en) * | 1981-05-07 | 1982-11-02 | Woodworth Clinton A | Keeper device for portable electric hand-drills |
US4658465A (en) * | 1985-06-07 | 1987-04-21 | Whirlpool Corporation | Quick release power cord wrap for canister vacuum cleaner |
US5029704A (en) * | 1990-04-06 | 1991-07-09 | Stillinger Scott H | Cord keeper |
US5071367A (en) * | 1989-10-06 | 1991-12-10 | Pacomex Industries, Inc. | Power strip with adjustable cord |
US5388155A (en) * | 1992-08-07 | 1995-02-07 | Smith; William G. | Cordless phone holder enabling hands free use |
US5513816A (en) * | 1993-12-28 | 1996-05-07 | Grubb; Peter J. | Line flaking system |
US5772152A (en) * | 1996-08-29 | 1998-06-30 | Maldonado; Sandra Birdsall | Interacting spools for a cord holder |
USD408719S (en) * | 1998-03-20 | 1999-04-27 | Alert Stamping & Mfg. Co., Inc. | Electric cord storage unit |
US5924642A (en) * | 1998-02-09 | 1999-07-20 | Rexair, Inc. | Cleat having retractable retaining arms |
US5984224A (en) * | 1998-07-21 | 1999-11-16 | Cotron Corporation | Cable-spooling casing for earphones |
USD422197S (en) * | 1999-08-04 | 2000-04-04 | Alert Stamping & Manufacturing, Co., Inc. | Electrical cord storage reel |
US6142005A (en) * | 1999-06-11 | 2000-11-07 | Tseng; Shao-Chien | Die-protecting device used in bending an embossed metallic straight pipe with a small diameter and a thin wall |
US6250578B1 (en) * | 1999-05-20 | 2001-06-26 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Cable winding housing |
US6450436B1 (en) * | 2001-01-22 | 2002-09-17 | Hunter Fan Company | Portable electric appliance with cord holder |
US6484349B1 (en) * | 1999-12-30 | 2002-11-26 | Oreck Holdings, Llc | Handle assemblies for floor care devices and methods of using same |
US6510583B2 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2003-01-28 | Shop Vac Corporation | Cord retainer for vacuum cleaner |
US6542757B2 (en) * | 2001-01-11 | 2003-04-01 | Youngbo Engineering, Inc. | Headset docking device |
US6567651B2 (en) * | 1999-08-05 | 2003-05-20 | Amtel Technology Pty Ltd | Retractable microphone/speaker lead for a belt clip attachment device for a mobile phone or the like |
US6633770B1 (en) * | 2000-02-11 | 2003-10-14 | Tom Gitzinger | Telecommunication device holster having a retractable earpiece assembly integrated with the holster |
US6659274B2 (en) * | 2001-12-14 | 2003-12-09 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Waterproof casing for Hewlett-Packard Jornada portable personal computer |
US6698560B2 (en) * | 2002-04-29 | 2004-03-02 | Gavin Reardon | Cord holder device |
US6701159B1 (en) * | 2000-03-03 | 2004-03-02 | Andew P. Powell | Jacket for cellular phone |
US6785566B1 (en) * | 2002-02-04 | 2004-08-31 | Louis Irizarry | Cellular telephone case |
US20050023243A1 (en) * | 2003-07-31 | 2005-02-03 | Hitachi Global Storage Technologies | Method for creating inductive write head with steep shoulder at notch |
US20050026495A1 (en) * | 2003-07-31 | 2005-02-03 | Drew Zoller | Cord retainer |
US6942173B1 (en) * | 2002-01-22 | 2005-09-13 | Igor Abramov | Cord storage device |
US7050841B1 (en) * | 2004-08-30 | 2006-05-23 | Hideki Francis Onda | Protective enclosure for a hand-held electronic device that both stores and plays digital audio recordings |
US7108544B2 (en) * | 2003-07-31 | 2006-09-19 | Drew Zoller | Cord retainer |
US20070165371A1 (en) * | 2006-01-13 | 2007-07-19 | Marware, Inc. | Portable digital media player case |
US20070235492A1 (en) * | 2006-03-28 | 2007-10-11 | Belkin Corporation | Case for portable electronic device |
-
2005
- 2005-11-14 US US11/273,233 patent/US20070023559A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (32)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4101089A (en) * | 1977-05-23 | 1978-07-18 | General Electric Company | Integral storage assembly for detachable power cords |
US4357044A (en) * | 1981-05-07 | 1982-11-02 | Woodworth Clinton A | Keeper device for portable electric hand-drills |
US4658465A (en) * | 1985-06-07 | 1987-04-21 | Whirlpool Corporation | Quick release power cord wrap for canister vacuum cleaner |
US5071367A (en) * | 1989-10-06 | 1991-12-10 | Pacomex Industries, Inc. | Power strip with adjustable cord |
US5029704A (en) * | 1990-04-06 | 1991-07-09 | Stillinger Scott H | Cord keeper |
US5388155A (en) * | 1992-08-07 | 1995-02-07 | Smith; William G. | Cordless phone holder enabling hands free use |
US5513816A (en) * | 1993-12-28 | 1996-05-07 | Grubb; Peter J. | Line flaking system |
US5772152A (en) * | 1996-08-29 | 1998-06-30 | Maldonado; Sandra Birdsall | Interacting spools for a cord holder |
US5924642A (en) * | 1998-02-09 | 1999-07-20 | Rexair, Inc. | Cleat having retractable retaining arms |
USD408719S (en) * | 1998-03-20 | 1999-04-27 | Alert Stamping & Mfg. Co., Inc. | Electric cord storage unit |
US5984224A (en) * | 1998-07-21 | 1999-11-16 | Cotron Corporation | Cable-spooling casing for earphones |
US6250578B1 (en) * | 1999-05-20 | 2001-06-26 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Cable winding housing |
US6142005A (en) * | 1999-06-11 | 2000-11-07 | Tseng; Shao-Chien | Die-protecting device used in bending an embossed metallic straight pipe with a small diameter and a thin wall |
USD422197S (en) * | 1999-08-04 | 2000-04-04 | Alert Stamping & Manufacturing, Co., Inc. | Electrical cord storage reel |
US6567651B2 (en) * | 1999-08-05 | 2003-05-20 | Amtel Technology Pty Ltd | Retractable microphone/speaker lead for a belt clip attachment device for a mobile phone or the like |
US6484349B1 (en) * | 1999-12-30 | 2002-11-26 | Oreck Holdings, Llc | Handle assemblies for floor care devices and methods of using same |
US6633770B1 (en) * | 2000-02-11 | 2003-10-14 | Tom Gitzinger | Telecommunication device holster having a retractable earpiece assembly integrated with the holster |
US6701159B1 (en) * | 2000-03-03 | 2004-03-02 | Andew P. Powell | Jacket for cellular phone |
US6542757B2 (en) * | 2001-01-11 | 2003-04-01 | Youngbo Engineering, Inc. | Headset docking device |
US6450436B1 (en) * | 2001-01-22 | 2002-09-17 | Hunter Fan Company | Portable electric appliance with cord holder |
US6510583B2 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2003-01-28 | Shop Vac Corporation | Cord retainer for vacuum cleaner |
US6659274B2 (en) * | 2001-12-14 | 2003-12-09 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Waterproof casing for Hewlett-Packard Jornada portable personal computer |
US6942173B1 (en) * | 2002-01-22 | 2005-09-13 | Igor Abramov | Cord storage device |
US6785566B1 (en) * | 2002-02-04 | 2004-08-31 | Louis Irizarry | Cellular telephone case |
US6698560B2 (en) * | 2002-04-29 | 2004-03-02 | Gavin Reardon | Cord holder device |
US20050023243A1 (en) * | 2003-07-31 | 2005-02-03 | Hitachi Global Storage Technologies | Method for creating inductive write head with steep shoulder at notch |
US20050026495A1 (en) * | 2003-07-31 | 2005-02-03 | Drew Zoller | Cord retainer |
US6957978B2 (en) * | 2003-07-31 | 2005-10-25 | Drew Zoller | Cord retainer |
US7108544B2 (en) * | 2003-07-31 | 2006-09-19 | Drew Zoller | Cord retainer |
US7050841B1 (en) * | 2004-08-30 | 2006-05-23 | Hideki Francis Onda | Protective enclosure for a hand-held electronic device that both stores and plays digital audio recordings |
US20070165371A1 (en) * | 2006-01-13 | 2007-07-19 | Marware, Inc. | Portable digital media player case |
US20070235492A1 (en) * | 2006-03-28 | 2007-10-11 | Belkin Corporation | Case for portable electronic device |
Cited By (136)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070099681A1 (en) * | 2005-11-02 | 2007-05-03 | Peter Kielland | Wearable caddy for a personal audio device having integrated cord storage |
US20070099680A1 (en) * | 2005-11-02 | 2007-05-03 | Peter Kielland | Wearable caddy for a Personal Audio Device having integrated cord storage |
US20100181841A1 (en) * | 2007-01-29 | 2010-07-22 | Powermat Ltd. | Pinless power coupling |
US11114895B2 (en) | 2007-01-29 | 2021-09-07 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Pinless power coupling |
US11437852B2 (en) | 2007-01-29 | 2022-09-06 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Pinless power coupling |
US9666360B2 (en) | 2007-01-29 | 2017-05-30 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Pinless power coupling |
US11611240B2 (en) | 2007-01-29 | 2023-03-21 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Pinless power coupling |
US11881717B2 (en) | 2007-01-29 | 2024-01-23 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Pinless power coupling |
US8629577B2 (en) | 2007-01-29 | 2014-01-14 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd | Pinless power coupling |
US8626461B2 (en) | 2007-03-22 | 2014-01-07 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd | Efficiency monitor for inductive power transmission |
US9362049B2 (en) | 2007-03-22 | 2016-06-07 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Efficiency monitor for inductive power transmission |
US10742076B2 (en) | 2007-03-22 | 2020-08-11 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Inductive power outlet locator |
US8090550B2 (en) | 2007-03-22 | 2012-01-03 | Powermat, Ltd. | Efficiency monitor for inductive power transmission |
US8965720B2 (en) | 2007-03-22 | 2015-02-24 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Efficiency monitor for inductive power transmission |
US20100070219A1 (en) * | 2007-03-22 | 2010-03-18 | Powermat Ltd | Efficiency monitor for inductive power transmission |
US8749097B2 (en) | 2007-03-22 | 2014-06-10 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd | System and method for controlling power transfer across an inductive power coupling |
US8441364B2 (en) | 2007-03-22 | 2013-05-14 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd | Inductive power outlet locator |
US20100072825A1 (en) * | 2007-03-22 | 2010-03-25 | Powermat Ltd | System and method for controlling power transfer across an inductive power coupling |
US20100073177A1 (en) * | 2007-03-22 | 2010-03-25 | Powermat Ltd | Inductive power outlet locator |
US10627592B2 (en) | 2007-05-07 | 2020-04-21 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic assembly with cable spool |
US10788642B2 (en) | 2007-05-07 | 2020-09-29 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic assembly with cable storage arrangement |
US11009671B2 (en) * | 2007-05-07 | 2021-05-18 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic assembly with cable storage arrangement |
US20170235079A1 (en) * | 2007-05-07 | 2017-08-17 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic enclosure with external cable spool |
US10606015B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2020-03-31 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic payout assembly including cable spool |
US10495836B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2019-12-03 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic payout assembly including cable spool |
US10712518B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2020-07-14 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic enclosure with lockable internal cable spool |
US12019301B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2024-06-25 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic enclosure with internal cable spool |
US11573390B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2023-02-07 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic enclosure with internal cable spool |
US10895705B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2021-01-19 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic enclosure with internal cable spool |
US10996417B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2021-05-04 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic enclosure with internal cable spool and movable cover |
US10996418B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2021-05-04 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Connecting subscribers to a fiber optic network using a cable spool |
US10247897B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2019-04-02 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic enclosure with internal cable spool |
US10606017B2 (en) | 2007-08-06 | 2020-03-31 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber optic payout assembly including cable spool |
US8766488B2 (en) | 2007-09-25 | 2014-07-01 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Adjustable inductive power transmission platform |
US8049370B2 (en) | 2007-09-25 | 2011-11-01 | Powermat Ltd. | Centrally controlled inductive power transmission platform |
US8456038B2 (en) | 2007-09-25 | 2013-06-04 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd | Adjustable inductive power transmission platform |
US20100219697A1 (en) * | 2007-09-25 | 2010-09-02 | Powermat Ltd. | Adjustable inductive power transmission platform |
US10068701B2 (en) | 2007-09-25 | 2018-09-04 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Adjustable inductive power transmission platform |
US20100219698A1 (en) * | 2007-09-25 | 2010-09-02 | Powermat Ltd. | Centrally controlled inductive power transmission platform |
US20100259401A1 (en) * | 2007-10-09 | 2010-10-14 | Powermat Ltd. | System and method for inductive power provision over an extended surface |
US20100253282A1 (en) * | 2007-10-09 | 2010-10-07 | Powermat Ltd. | Chargeable inductive power outlet |
US7906936B2 (en) | 2007-10-09 | 2011-03-15 | Powermat Ltd. | Rechargeable inductive charger |
US8624750B2 (en) | 2007-10-09 | 2014-01-07 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | System and method for inductive power provision over an extended surface |
US8283812B2 (en) | 2007-10-09 | 2012-10-09 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Inductive power providing system having moving outlets |
US20100257382A1 (en) * | 2007-10-09 | 2010-10-07 | Powermat Ltd. | Inductive receivers for electrical devices |
US8380998B2 (en) | 2007-10-09 | 2013-02-19 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Inductive receivers for electrical devices |
US8762749B2 (en) | 2007-10-09 | 2014-06-24 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Inductive receivers for electrical devices |
US20100244584A1 (en) * | 2007-10-09 | 2010-09-30 | Powermat Ltd. | Inductive power providing system having moving outlets |
US20100224714A1 (en) * | 2007-10-12 | 2010-09-09 | Preggioni Ehf | Cord adjustment device |
US20100194336A1 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2010-08-05 | Powermat Ltd. | Inductively chargeable audio devices |
US8193769B2 (en) | 2007-10-18 | 2012-06-05 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd | Inductively chargeable audio devices |
US20100219183A1 (en) * | 2007-11-19 | 2010-09-02 | Powermat Ltd. | System for inductive power provision within a bounding surface |
US20100219693A1 (en) * | 2007-11-19 | 2010-09-02 | Powermat Ltd. | System for inductive power provision in wet environments |
US8536737B2 (en) | 2007-11-19 | 2013-09-17 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | System for inductive power provision in wet environments |
US11837399B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2023-12-05 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Transmission-guard system and method for an inductive power supply |
US9685795B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2017-06-20 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Transmission-guard system and method for an inductive power supply |
US9136734B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2015-09-15 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Transmission-guard system and method for an inductive power supply |
US20110062793A1 (en) * | 2008-03-17 | 2011-03-17 | Powermat Ltd. | Transmission-guard system and method for an inductive power supply |
US9331750B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2016-05-03 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Wireless power receiver and host control interface thereof |
US10205346B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2019-02-12 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Wireless power receiver and host control interface thereof |
US9083204B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2015-07-14 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Transmission-guard system and method for an inductive power supply |
US10033231B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2018-07-24 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | System and method for providing wireless power transfer functionality to an electrical device |
US9048696B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2015-06-02 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Transmission-guard system and method for an inductive power supply |
US9337902B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2016-05-10 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | System and method for providing wireless power transfer functionality to an electrical device |
US9035501B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2015-05-19 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | System and method for providing simple feedback signals indicating if more or less power is required during inductive power transmission |
US9960640B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2018-05-01 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | System and method for regulating inductive power transmission |
US9960642B2 (en) | 2008-03-17 | 2018-05-01 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Embedded interface for wireless power transfer to electrical devices |
US8320143B2 (en) | 2008-04-15 | 2012-11-27 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Bridge synchronous rectifier |
US20090257259A1 (en) * | 2008-04-15 | 2009-10-15 | Powermat Ltd. | Bridge synchronous rectifier |
US8618695B2 (en) | 2008-06-02 | 2013-12-31 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd | Appliance mounted power outlets |
US20110121660A1 (en) * | 2008-06-02 | 2011-05-26 | Powermat Ltd. | Appliance mounted power outlets |
US8981598B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2015-03-17 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | Energy efficient inductive power transmission system and method |
US8188619B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2012-05-29 | Powermat Technologies Ltd | Non resonant inductive power transmission system and method |
US20100066176A1 (en) * | 2008-07-02 | 2010-03-18 | Powermat Ltd., | Non resonant inductive power transmission system and method |
US9006937B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2015-04-14 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | System and method for enabling ongoing inductive power transmission |
US11979201B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2024-05-07 | Powermat Technologies Ltd. | System and method for coded communication signals regulating inductive power transmissions |
US11387688B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2022-07-12 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | System and method for coded communication signals regulating inductive power transmissions |
US8427012B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2013-04-23 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Non resonant inductive power transmission system and method |
US9099894B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2015-08-04 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | System and method for coded communication signals regulating inductive power transmission |
US8319925B2 (en) | 2008-07-08 | 2012-11-27 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Encapsulated pixels for display device |
US20110157137A1 (en) * | 2008-07-08 | 2011-06-30 | Powermat Ltd. | Encapsulated pixels for display device |
US8960634B2 (en) | 2008-09-09 | 2015-02-24 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for electronic device with support |
US20110031287A1 (en) * | 2008-09-09 | 2011-02-10 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for Electronic Device with Support |
US9538675B2 (en) | 2008-09-09 | 2017-01-03 | Zero Chroma, Llc. | Holder for electronic device with support |
US8382059B2 (en) | 2008-09-09 | 2013-02-26 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for electronic device with support |
US20100072334A1 (en) * | 2008-09-09 | 2010-03-25 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for Electronic Device with Support |
US9267638B2 (en) | 2008-09-09 | 2016-02-23 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for electronic device with support |
US20110217927A1 (en) * | 2008-09-23 | 2011-09-08 | Powermat Ltd. | Combined antenna and inductive power receiver |
US9124121B2 (en) | 2008-09-23 | 2015-09-01 | Powermat Technologies, Ltd. | Combined antenna and inductive power receiver |
US20100159741A1 (en) * | 2008-12-18 | 2010-06-24 | Wayne Philip Rothbaum | Magnetic Cord Management System |
US20110192857A1 (en) * | 2008-12-18 | 2011-08-11 | Wayne Philip Rothbaum | Magnetically Attached Accessories (For A Case) for a Portable Electronics Device |
US20110108304A1 (en) * | 2008-12-18 | 2011-05-12 | Wayne Philip Rothbaum | Magnetic Cord Management System |
US8841556B2 (en) | 2008-12-18 | 2014-09-23 | Cjd Llc | Magnetic cord management system |
WO2011130157A2 (en) * | 2010-04-12 | 2011-10-20 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for electronic device with support |
WO2011130157A3 (en) * | 2010-04-12 | 2011-12-22 | Zero Chroma, LLC | Holder for electronic device with support |
US8615849B2 (en) | 2010-04-14 | 2013-12-31 | Cjd Llc | Cord management system |
US9445178B2 (en) | 2010-04-14 | 2016-09-13 | Cjd Llc | Cord management system |
US8261416B2 (en) | 2010-04-14 | 2012-09-11 | Cjd Llc | Cord management system |
US8590823B2 (en) | 2010-04-14 | 2013-11-26 | Cjd Llc | Cord management system |
US20110253571A1 (en) * | 2010-04-14 | 2011-10-20 | Wayne Philip Rothbaum | Cord Management System |
US11134580B2 (en) | 2010-07-08 | 2021-09-28 | Zagg Inc | Protective cover for portable electronic device and associated systems and methods |
US20120050968A1 (en) * | 2010-08-25 | 2012-03-01 | Eric Child | Apparatus, system, and method for attaching peripheral items to devices |
WO2012027604A2 (en) * | 2010-08-25 | 2012-03-01 | Liger Group, Llc | Apparatus, system, and method for attaching peripheral items to devices |
WO2012027604A3 (en) * | 2010-08-25 | 2012-04-19 | Liger Group, Llc | Apparatus, system, and method for attaching peripheral items to devices |
US8830663B2 (en) * | 2010-08-25 | 2014-09-09 | Ligar Group, LLC | Apparatus, system, and method for attaching peripheral items to devices |
USD669062S1 (en) | 2010-09-24 | 2012-10-16 | Cjd Llc | Case with metal back for a cord management system |
USD669063S1 (en) | 2010-09-24 | 2012-10-16 | Cjd Llc | Case with metal back for a cord management system |
US20120118770A1 (en) * | 2010-11-15 | 2012-05-17 | Valls William H | Tablet accessory |
TWI507842B (en) * | 2011-02-28 | 2015-11-11 | Hon Hai Prec Ind Co Ltd | A base and an electronic apparatus using the same |
CN103703428A (en) * | 2011-03-16 | 2014-04-02 | 珀普插座有限责任公司 | Extending socket for portable media player |
US10599229B2 (en) | 2011-06-23 | 2020-03-24 | Zagg Intellectual Property Holding Co., Inc. | Accessory and support for electronic devices, systems including the same and methods |
US9218024B2 (en) | 2011-06-23 | 2015-12-22 | Zagg Intellectual Property Holding Co., Inc. | Accessory and support for electronic devices, systems including the same and methods |
US11353963B2 (en) | 2011-06-23 | 2022-06-07 | Zagg Inc | Accessory and support for electronic devices, systems including the same and methods |
US10013074B2 (en) | 2011-06-23 | 2018-07-03 | Zagg Intellectual Property Holding Co., Inc. | Accessory and support for electronic devices, systems including the same and methods |
US11624884B2 (en) | 2011-06-24 | 2023-04-11 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber termination enclosure with modular plate assemblies |
US11988883B2 (en) | 2011-06-24 | 2024-05-21 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber termination enclosure with modular plate assemblies |
US10935744B2 (en) | 2011-06-24 | 2021-03-02 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber termination enclosure with modular plate assemblies |
US10502916B2 (en) | 2011-06-24 | 2019-12-10 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber termination enclosure with modular plate assemblies |
US10371914B2 (en) | 2011-06-24 | 2019-08-06 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber termination enclosure with modular plate assemblies |
US11327262B2 (en) | 2011-06-24 | 2022-05-10 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Fiber termination enclosure with modular plate assemblies |
US20130134252A1 (en) * | 2011-11-29 | 2013-05-30 | Chin-Hung Cheng | Earphone Cord Winder |
US8695913B2 (en) * | 2011-11-29 | 2014-04-15 | Sky Tech Worldwide, Inc. | Earphone cord winder |
US20130140394A1 (en) * | 2011-12-02 | 2013-06-06 | Sky Tech Worldwide, Inc. | Cable organizer and electronic appliance with same |
US8668160B2 (en) * | 2011-12-02 | 2014-03-11 | Sky Tech Worldwide, Inc. | Cable organizer and electronic appliance with same |
US9235230B1 (en) | 2012-01-09 | 2016-01-12 | Logitech Europe S.A. | Magnetic stand, mount and cord wrap for mobile devices and accessories |
US9042591B2 (en) | 2012-04-10 | 2015-05-26 | Thomas Nathan Millikan | Reducing the tangling of cables |
US8913775B2 (en) | 2012-04-10 | 2014-12-16 | Thomas Nathan Millikan | Reducing the tangling of cables |
US9161115B2 (en) | 2012-05-03 | 2015-10-13 | Turtlecell Llc | Case with headset retraction device |
US8996075B2 (en) | 2012-11-08 | 2015-03-31 | Jaleel Bunton | Retrievable headset storage case for a portable electronic device |
US10545305B2 (en) | 2012-12-19 | 2020-01-28 | CommScope Connectivity Belgium BVBA | Distribution device with incrementally added splitters |
US10470539B2 (en) | 2013-05-10 | 2019-11-12 | Glenn J. Tebo | Case for portable electronic device |
US20160220000A1 (en) * | 2013-09-16 | 2016-08-04 | Bradley McGuckin | Case for an electronic device |
EP2853218A1 (en) * | 2013-09-29 | 2015-04-01 | Covidien LP | Cable management system for medical treatment device |
CN104510530A (en) * | 2013-09-29 | 2015-04-15 | 柯惠有限合伙公司 | Cable management system for medical treatment device |
US11525576B2 (en) | 2019-01-25 | 2022-12-13 | Surface Fabrication and Designs, Corp. | Lighter device having accessory storage |
US20220228709A1 (en) * | 2021-01-16 | 2022-07-21 | Vitec Imaging Solutions Spa | Magnetic Support Structures For Electronic Devices |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20070023559A1 (en) | Electronic device case | |
US9788640B2 (en) | Attachable extendable and retractable earpiece and protective casing assembly for mobile communication and sound devices | |
US6698560B2 (en) | Cord holder device | |
US7822448B2 (en) | Protective apparatus for a portable device | |
US7108544B2 (en) | Cord retainer | |
US7086512B2 (en) | Headset cable retraction system | |
KR101970190B1 (en) | Mobile device case with retractor reel assembly for user-provided headphones | |
US8857691B2 (en) | Cases and covers for handheld electronic devices | |
US7077693B1 (en) | Cable management device | |
US8600461B2 (en) | Attachable extendable and retractable earpiece assembly for mobile communication and sound devices | |
US20040204165A1 (en) | Cellular phone with built-in hands-free headset and cellular phone-carrying device with built-in or attached hands-free headset | |
US9496911B2 (en) | Protective cover and retractable lanyard | |
US7699198B2 (en) | Attachment mechanism for use with a portable electronic device, and method of manufacturing same | |
US20130237290A1 (en) | Protective Communications Device Housing for Retractable Audio Devices Having Optional Gripping Mechanism | |
US20110192857A1 (en) | Magnetically Attached Accessories (For A Case) for a Portable Electronics Device | |
US6942173B1 (en) | Cord storage device | |
US9167330B1 (en) | Cricket systems | |
US6424551B1 (en) | Power supply converter including a retractable conducting wire | |
US6847724B1 (en) | Electronic device with storable earphone | |
US20050148313A1 (en) | Headset cord retainer | |
JP2006345310A (en) | Headphone device, and the same with storage case | |
GB2474048A (en) | Personal media player support device | |
KR20150110061A (en) | This prevents the loss of the coupling portion installed in the mobile phone diary case USB Memory | |
KR200430647Y1 (en) | Case of Sound instrument | |
KR20220072388A (en) | Reusable functional mask |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |