WO2016057340A1

WO2016057340A1 - Protective case for an electronic device

Info

Publication number: WO2016057340A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/053814
Authority: WO
Inventors: Eric Sheldon Hassett
Original assignee: Thule Organization Solutions, Inc.
Priority date: 2014-10-06
Filing date: 2015-10-02
Publication date: 2016-04-14
Also published as: DE212015000238U1

Abstract

The present invention provides cases for portable electronic devices. Cases of the present invention comprise a plurality of rotatable panels adapted to secure an electronic device in a closed position in a first position and display the device in a second position. Rotatable features are provided to selectively alter viewing arrangements of the electronic device at least when provided in the second position.

Description

PROTECTIVE CASE FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates generally to protective cases and covers for

electronic devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to cases for accommodating a variety of portable electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablet computers. BACKGROUND [0002] Electronic devices such as smart phones, tablet computers and e-readers have become increasingly popular. An inherent convenience of these devices is that they are highly portable. With increased portability, however, comes the need to protect the device from the surrounding environment, impact from drops, abrasion, and other negative influences. Accordingly, as the popularity of the devices continues to increase, so does the need and desire to protect or surround the device with a cost effective protective case. There is a need not only for protecting and transporting electronic devices, but also to accommodate devices of varying sizes, shapes, and having various different features and controls in a manner that allows the device to be provided in at least one position of use and a position of stowage.

[0003] Finally, there is a need not only for protecting and transporting electronic devices, but also to use the case for the dual purpose of retaining the electronic device in a preferred orientation for viewing purposes.

[0004] Accordingly, the present invention contemplates a novel system and device for a protective case for an electronic device wherein the case is provided with features for selectively accommodating and retaining a variety of electronic devices of various shapes and/or sizes, as well as allowing the selective positioning of the device for viewing

[0005] Prior art devices are known to provide cases for electronic devices that are

adapted to display the device in a position of use. Known devices, however, fail to provide cases that provide an electronic device in multiple positions and wherein the device is rotatable in a plurality of said positions. Prior art devices are also generally limited to cases that provide electronic cases in a position of use wherein the device and/or device-receiving features must be positioned or supported on a panel or cover member of the case.

[0006] U.S. Patent 7,281,698 to Patterson, Jr., which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, discloses a carrying case for an electronic device with rotatable features. Patterson, however, fails to teach or disclose various novel features of the present invention including, but not limited to, various features for providing an electronic device in particular viewing arrangements or positions.

[0007] U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2012/0012483 to Fan, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, discloses a protective apparatus for tablet electronic devices. Fan fails to teach or disclose various features of the present invention including, but not limited to, device securing means, rotatable features, hinged features, and positions of use.

[0008] U.S. Patents 8,783,458 and 8,746,449 to Gallagher et al., which is hereby

incorporated by reference in its entirety, discloses a case for an electronic device wherein the electronic device is rotatable with respect to certain features of the case. U.S. Patents 8,783,458 and 8,746,449, however, fail to disclose various novel features of the present invention including but not limited to device securing means and folding and/or rotatable features that provide for various positions of use or viewing of the electronic device. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0009] Accordingly, the present invention contemplates a novel system and device for a case for a portable electronic device that receives and retains the device in a desired position. Embodiments of the present invention comprise cases that provide protective features for electronic devices, including protection from various impacts including abrasion, impact, and various other impacts. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention comprise features for protecting an electronic device from water and other elements. However, although protective aspects are contemplated by various

embodiments of the present invention, no limitation with respect to protective features and/or capabilities are provided herewith. Various embodiments of the present invention contemplate cases adapted to secure an electronic device in one or more positions of use, regardless of protective features. Accordingly, and as used herein, the terms“protective” or“protective case” do not imply or import any specific protective features, but generally refer to cases that at least partially surround and/or enclose an electronic device.

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is to provide a protective case with at least one hinge or fold for enveloping a portable electronic device and retaining means for the portable electronic device. Retaining means include, for example, one or more elastic members for securing at least one portable electronic device. Retaining means also include one or more biasing members for securing an electronic device.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide one or more substantially rigid guide or support members. Guide or support members may comprise one or more rigid hooks or a shelf for supporting a device along at least one edge of the case. In combination with support member(s), it is contemplated that elastic securing means are further provided in order to bias an electronic device toward or into the support member(s). Further, elastic securing means comprise at least one biasing member secured to the case at one end and securable to an electronic device at a second end. Securing means may be disposed substantially opposite from contemplated support members so as to bias an electronic device toward or into support members.

[0012] In another aspect, the present invention comprises a protective case for a variety of portable electronic devices such that a single case is suitable for use with a plurality of different sized electronic devices.

[0013] In a further aspect, the present invention comprises a plurality of hinges or folds, such that the case may be converted between two or more of: 1- a“closed book” configuration; 2- an“open book” configuration; 3- a“folded open” configuration; and 4- a“propped open” or self-supported configuration. A case of the present invention may comprise at least two hinge features and at least one channel, slot, indention, indentation, or trough, such that the case may be positioned in an open position and with a contained device residing at a predetermined angle, such as may be desirable for using the device.

[0014] In an additional aspect, the present invention comprises a protective case for

retaining, displaying, and storing a plurality of differently sized electronic devices, comprising a cover portion hingedly interconnected to a base portion by a hinge, the base portion comprising a substantially rigid planar member, the substantially rigid support member interconnected to the base portion for supporting the electronic device and resisting movement of the electronic device in one direction, and an elastic member in force-transmitting communication with the base portion, the elastic member comprising a biasing force and a component of the biasing force is directed toward at least one substantially rigid support member.

[0015] An alternate aspect of the present invention is to comprise a protective case for retaining, displaying, and storing a plurality of differently sized electronic devices. The protective case comprises a first cover portion hingedly interconnected to a second cover portion, the second cover portion comprising a substantially rigid planar member, a substantially rigid support member interconnected to the second cover portion for supporting the electronic device and resisting movement of the electronic device with respect to the protective case in at least one direction, an elastic member in force- transmitting communication with the second cover portion, the at least one elastic member comprising a biasing force and at least one component of the biasing force being directed toward the substantially rigid support member, the second cover portion comprising a hinge member, such that a portion of the second cover portion is rotatable with respect to the first cover portion about two parallel axes of rotation, and the first cover portion comprising a plurality of indentations for selectively receiving a lateral edge of the second cover portion at an obtuse angle relative to the first cover portion.

[0016] In one aspect, the present invention comprises a protective case for retaining, displaying, and storing differently sized electronic devices, comprising a first cover portion, a second cover portion hingedly interconnected to the first cover portion by a first hinge, the second cover portion comprising a substantially rigid planar member and a second hinge, such that a portion of the second cover portion is rotatable with respect to the first cover portion about at least two parallel axes of rotation, a first support member interconnected to the second cover portion for supporting an electronic device and resisting movement of the electronic device with respect to the protective case in at least one direction; and a second support member interconnected to the second cover portion for supporting the electronic device and resisting movement of the electronic device with respect to the protective case in a second direction, and the second direction is different from the at least one direction.

[0017] In another aspect, the present invention comprises a method for securing a device within a case, the method comprising providing the case with a first cover portion hingedly interconnected to a second cover portion by at least one hinge, the second cover portion comprising a substantially rigid planar member, a substantially rigid support member interconnected to the second cover portion for supporting the device and resisting movement of the device in a direction, and an elastic member in force- transmitting communication with the second cover portion, the elastic member comprising a biasing force and a component of the biasing force is directed toward the substantially rigid support member; inserting a first edge of the device within the substantially rigid support member; inserting an opposing second edge of the device within the case by outwardly deforming the elastic member, placing a back surface of the device substantially flush with the second cover portion, and allowing the elastic member to engage and secure a corner of the device under the elastic member’s own elasticity or restoring force.

[0018] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide at least one slot or channel on the inside surface of the cover for engaging and retaining the substantially rigid planar member in a predetermined orientation. The predetermined orientation may position the electronic device such that it is tipped up or tilted in a reading position or other position of use

[0019] In various aspects, protective cases of the present invention comprise various protective features including, but not limited to, rigid or hard-shell outer covers, cushioned materials, soft or non-abrasive interior portions to reduce risk of abrasion, etc. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosures.

[0021] Fig.1 is a front perspective view of a case according to one embodiments of the present invention with an electronic device provided therein;

[0022] Fig.2 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of Fig.1 wherein the

electronic device has been rotated to a second viewing position;

[0023] Fig.3 side elevation view of the embodiment of Fig.1;

[0024] Fig.4 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Fig.1 and wherein the case is provided in a second position of use;

[0025] Fig.5 is a top plan view of the embodiment of Fig.1 and wherein the case is provided in an open position; [0026] Fig.6 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of Fig.1 and wherein the case is provided in a closed position;

[0027] Fig.7 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Fig.1 and wherein the case is provided in a supported position of use;

[0028] Fig.8 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of Fig.1 and wherein the case is provided in a supported position of use with a device receiving portion being rotated;

[0029] Fig.9 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of Fig.1 and wherein the case is provided in a supported position of use with an electronic device provided in a portrait viewing orientation;

[0030] Fig.10 is a top plan view of a case according to an alternative embodiment in an open position

[0031] Fig.11 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Fig.10 and wherein the case is provided in a supported position of use

[0032] Fig.12 is a top plan view of a case according to an alternative embodiment in a open position; and

[0033] Fig.13 is a perspective view of a case according the embodiment of Fig.12 and wherein the case is provided in a supported position of use. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0034] Fig.1 is a front perspective view of a case 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention wherein an electronic device 6 is provided therein. As shown, the case 2 and device 6 are provided in a first position of use wherein a screen or other user- interface of the device 6 is viewable and accessible to a user. The device 6 is selectively secured to a device receiving panel 4. In the depicted embodiments, the device receiving panel 4 comprises elastic securing means 8 for securing at least two corners of the electronic device 6. The receiving panel 4 further comprises substantially rigid members 10. Substantially rigid members 10 cradle and support the electronic device 6 and the device 6 is preferably biased against the rigid member(s) 10 by the elastic securing means 8.

[0035] As shown, the case 2 comprises a device receiving panel 4 that is rotatable with respect to additional elements of the case 2. Specifically, the device receiving panel 4 is rotatably secured to a hinged panel 12. The hinged panel 12 is hingedly connected to a support member 14. The support member 14 is provided as a panel in the embodiment depicted in Fig.1. The support member 14 is interconnected to a secondary support member 16 by a primary hinge member 18. The primary hinge member 18 serves as the “spine” of the case 2 when the case is provided in a closed position. In a folded state, and as shown and described in more detail herein, the case 2 comprises a cover portion formed from the secondary support member 16 and the tertiary support member 20, the secondary support member 16 and the tertiary support member 20 being hinged with respect to one another, and connected to support member 14 via primary hinge member 18.

[0036] In the embodiment of Fig.1, the tertiary support member 20 provides a support member for the device receiving panel 4 and any device 6 provided therein. The tertiary support member is adapted to contact a working surface and to provide the device 6 in an elevated position with respect to the working surface such that the device 6 may be rotated between landscape and portrait positions without the need to adjust the arrangement or positioning of the case 2. In certain embodiments, the tertiary support member 20 comprises a cut-out or recess 22 and corresponding feet 24a, 24b for contacting a working surface. As shown, the tertiary support member 20 comprises one or more feet 24a, 24b that extend away from the hinge 34 between the secondary support member 16 and the tertiary support member 20. The feet 24a, 24b remain in the same plane as a front portion of the tertiary support member 20 and elevate an electronic device 6 in at least one viewing mode. The elevated position of the electronic device 6 depicted in Fig.1 enables a rear portion of the electronic device 6 to remain flush against the hinged panel 12 and/or tertiary support member 20. The back of the tablet or tablet mounting panel does not contact the (table) supporting surface when in the portrait position. In a preferred embodiment, the feet members 24a, 24b extend beyond a hinge 34 by approximately 25 mm. It will be recognized, however, that this dimension may be dependent on the dimensions of related case components and/or the type and size of electronic device to be housed therein. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to feet 24a, 24b or extension members of any particular dimension.

[0037] In various embodiments, cases 2 of the present invention comprise a width of between approximately 5 inches and 10 inches, and preferably of approximately 8 inches. In various embodiments, cases 2 of the present invention comprise a height of between approximately 9 inches and 12 inches, and preferably of approximately 10.5 inches. [0038] Fig.2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention comprising a case 2 with a device receiving panel 4 for an electronic device 6. As shown, the device receiving panel 4 is rotatable about an axis. The device receiving panel 4 is preferably connected to hinged panel 12 by a rotational grommet or similar feature. The rotational grommet allows for rotation of the receiving panel 4 and any associated device 6 at least between a portrait and a landscape position.

[0039] Fig.3 is a side elevation view of a case 2 according to the embodiment of Figs.1- 2, and wherein the case 2 is provided in a closed or folded position. As shown, the case 2 comprises a cover portion 26, the cover portion comprising the tertiary support member 20 and the secondary support member 16. The tertiary support member 20 and the secondary support member 16 are hingedly interconnected in a manner that allows rotation and/or folding of the case 2 between the closed position of Fig.3 and the display position of Fig.1 (for example). A primary hinge member 18, which may be referred to and/or considered the“spine” of the case 2 at least when the case is provided in a closed position, connects the cover portion 26 with the base portion 28.

[0040] Fig.4 is a perspective view of a case 2 according to the embodiment of Fig.1 wherein the case has been provided in an alternative viewing position. As shown, the case 2 comprises the same or similar structure as described with respect to Fig.1 and wherein the case has been positioned such that the support member 14 is provided on the working surface. As such, the case 2 and associated electronic device 6 have been provided at a lower viewing angle with respect to the working surface and the

arrangement shown in Fig 1. The viewing angle provided in Fig.4 is generally equivalent to the angle of the device receiving panel 4 and/or hinged panel 12.

[0041] Fig.5 is a top plan view of one embodiment of a case 2 wherein the case 2 is provided in an open position and wherein the case 2 lacks an electronic device. As shown, the cover portion 26 is generally provided on the left and the base portion 28 is generally provided on the right. The cover portion 26 and the base portion 28 are separated and/or connected by the primary hinge member 18 which enables the cover portion 26 to be folded over the base portion 28 and cover or secure an electronic device provided therein.

[0042] As shown in Fig.5, the base portion 28 comprises the device receiving panel 4.

The device receiving panel 4 comprises a retaining member 30. In the depicted embodiment, the retaining member comprises a substantially planar member provided on the panel 4. At least certain portions of the retaining member 30 of the depicted embodiment comprise elastic features, such as elastic securing means 8 which extend outwardly from the member 30 and are capable of receiving and/or securing corners of an electronic device. In certain embodiments, the entirety of the retaining member 30 comprises an elastic material. Although Fig.5 depicts a device a retaining member 30 of one embodiment, it will be recognized that the present invention is not limited to a case comprising any particular retaining member. In alternative embodiments, it is

contemplated that cases of the present invention comprise device retaining members of alternative construction including, for example, tray members, various elastic members, resilient members, and other devices suitable for receiving and retaining an electronic device. For example, various securing devices and means as shown and described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2013/0175200 to Poon et al., which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, may be provided in combination with cases and case features of the present invention.

[0043] The device receiving panel 4 and the retaining member 30 are secured to a

reminder of the case 2 by a rivet 32. The rivet 32 of the depicted embodiment comprises a rotational feature for rotatably securing the receiving panel 4 and retaining member 30 to the case. In alternative embodiments, other rotational features (e.g. a rotational grommet) are provided in lieu of the rivet 32. It will be expressly recognized that the present invention is not limited to any particular type of rotational feature. The rivet 32 allows the panel 4 and associated features to rotate about an axis passing through the rivet 32.

[0044] As shown in Fig.5, the case 2 comprises a cover portion 26 including the

secondary support member 16 and the tertiary support member 20. In addition to the primary hinge 18, the case 2 of the depicted embodiment further comprises a secondary hinge 34 that enables hinged movement of the tertiary support member 20 at least with respect to the secondary support member 16. The secondary hinge 34 at least partially enables the rotation and conversion of the case 2 from the laid-open arrangement of Fig.5 to the position provided in Fig.1, for example. Specifically, the secondary hinge 34 enables the tertiary support member 20 to rotate and be folded or provided under the hinged panel 12 and/or in contact with the support member 14. The tertiary support member 20 thus provides a stand or support panel, and elevates the device receiving portion 4 above a working surface. The primary hinge member 18 provides a further contact or support point, with the secondary support member 16 extending between the hinge member 18 and the tertiary support member 20.

[0045] An elastic band 36 is provided to secure the device in a closed position, for

example. It is further contemplated that the device 2 as shown in Fig.5 may be provided in alternative positions of use (i.e. with respect to the arrangements shown in Figs.1 and 5). For example, an edge of the device receiving portion 4 may be provided on an inner surface of the cover portion 26 or primary hinge member 18.

[0046] Fig.6 is a perspective view of a case 2 according to the embodiment of Fig.1 wherein the case 2 is provided in a closed position. As shown, a cover portion of the case 2 comprises a tertiary support member 20 and a secondary support member 16. The secondary support member 16 and the tertiary support member 20 are hingedly connected, but provided in substantially parallel relationship in the closed position shown in Fig.6. The tertiary support member 20 comprises feet portions 24a, 24b which may be provided in contact with a working surface to support the device (see, e.g., Fig.1).

[0047] Fig.7 is a side elevation view of a case 2 according to the embodiment of Fig.1 and wherein the case 2 is provided in an open and upright or supported position. As shown, the case 2 has been positioned such that the tertiary support member 20 has been hingedly rotated at hinge 34 and with respect to secondary support member 16 such that an end of the tertiary support member 20 is provided generally beneath the hinged panel 12. Preferably, the tertiary support member 20 has been positioned such that a free end of the tertiary support member 20 is provided between the hinged panel 12 and the support member 14, providing a secure and supported upright position of use wherein a device provided on the device receiving panel 4 is accessible to a user. The secondary support member 16 is also hingedly rotated or angled with respect to the primary hinge 18 such that the secondary support member 16 is provided at an angle to the working surface 50, and wherein the device 2 contacts the working surface and is supported by the primary hinge 18 and the feet members 24a, 24b. The depicted arrangement and associated features allow for freedom of rotation and movement of the device receiving panel 4 at least between landscape and portrait positions. In various embodiments, a case is provided as shown and described wherein an electronic device is supported and positioned above a working surface by a predetermined height and wherein the predetermined height allows for an entirety of the device to be positioned above a working surface regardless of the orientation of the device. In alternative embodiments, cases are provided wherein the electronic device is positioned such that a portion of the device rests on a working surface in at least certain positions of use or display.

[0048] Fig.8 is a rear perspective view of the case 2 according to the embodiment of Fig.

1. As shown, the case 2 is provided in an open and/or upright position wherein the case is supported on the primary hinge member 18 and the feet members 24a, 24b. The support panel 14 extends upwardly from the primary hinge member 18. The hinged panel 12, which is hingedly coupled to the support panel 14, extends from the support panel 14. A device receiving panel 4 is rotatably mounted or connected to the hinged panel 12. A secondary support member 16 extends away from the primary hinge 18. A tertiary support member 20 is hinged with respect to the secondary support member 16 (and thus the primary hinge 18). In the arrangement and embodiment provided in Fig.8, a free end of the tertiary support member 20 is provided proximal to hinge connecting the support panel 14 and the hinged panel 12. Preferably, the free end of the tertiary support member 20 is provided beneath or under the hinged panel 12 and the tertiary support member 20 is capable of accommodating at least a portion of a vertical load required to support the device receiving panel 4 and any associated device in the position provided in Fig.8.

[0049] Fig.9 is a front perspective view of the case 2 according to the embodiment of Fig.1 and wherein an electronic device 6 is provided within the case 2 and displayed in the“portrait” position. The case 2 comprises various components as shown and described herein, and wherein the device receiving panel 4 and associated device 6 have been rotated (at least with respect to the hinged panel 12) to a second viewing position.

[0050] Fig.10 is a top plan view of a case 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention and wherein the case 2 is provided in an open position. As shown, the case 2 comprises a cover portion 26 and a base portion 28. The cover portion 26 and the base portion 28 are connected at a primary hinge 18. The base portion 28 comprises a device receiving panel 4 wherein the device receiving panel 4 comprises a retaining member 30 and substantially rigid members 10 for selectively securing an electronic device (not shown in Fig.10). The device receiving panel 4 is rotatable about an axis with respect to a remainder of the base portion 28 by a rivet 32, or other rotating means as will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0051] The cover portion 26 comprises a secondary support member 16 and a tertiary support member 20, which can be provided in positions of support for a remainder of the case 2 when desired and as shown and described herein. The secondary support member 16 and the tertiary support member 20 are hingedly connected at cover member hinges 40a, 40b, which are preferably provided proximal the lateral edges of the cover member 26 as shown in Fig.10. A separation 42 is provided, the separation 42 extending between the two cover member hinges 40a, 40b. The separation 42 allows for hinged movement of the secondary support member 16 with the tertiary support member 20 about the cover member hinges 40a, 40b, and defines support feet 24a, 24b, which extend outwardly and/or downwardly from the case 2 to contact a working surface when the case 2 is provided in at least one position of use. The embodiment of Fig.10 provides for a cover portion 26 comprising a secondary support member 16 and a tertiary support member 20 wherein the secondary support member 16 and the tertiary support member 20 (including base feet 40a, 40b) are provided in the same plane. Upon rotation of the tertiary support member 20 at least with respect to the secondary support member 16, and about cover member hinges 40a, 40b, the support feet 24a, 24b will extend outwardly to form support means for the case 2 as shown and described herein.

[0052] Fig.11 is a perspective view of the case 2 according to the embodiment of Fig.10, wherein the case 2 is provided in a supported position of use. As shown, the secondary support member 16 has been rotated with respect to the support member 14 of the base portion, and the tertiary support member 20 has been rotated with respect to the secondary support member 16. An edge of the tertiary support member 20 is provided proximal to and/or underneath the hinged panel 12 to support the case and any associated device in the position shown. An opposing edge of the tertiary support member 20 comprises support feet 24a, 24b extending to and contacting a working surface. The support feet 24a, 24b support the device in the position shown in Fig.11 and elevate the device receiving panel 4 and any associated device to the position shown. The depicted position provides various advantages, including enhanced structural support and provision of a device in a position wherein the substantially rectangular device receiving panel 4 may provided in either landscape and/or a portrait position without an edge portion of the device receiving panel 4 and/or associated device contacting the working surface 50.

[0053] Fig.12 is a top plan view of a case 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The case 2 of the embodiment provided in Fig.12 comprises a cover portion 26, the cover portion 26 comprising a secondary support member 16 and a tertiary support member 20, which can be provided in positions of support for a remainder of the case 2 when desired and as shown and described herein. The secondary support member 16 and the tertiary support member 20 are hingedly connected at cover member hinges 40a, 40b, which are preferably provided proximal the lateral edges of the cover member 26 as shown in Fig.10. A separation 42 is provided, the separation 42 extending between the two cover member hinges 40a, 40b. The separation 42 allows for hinged movement of the secondary support member 16 with the tertiary support member 20 about the cover member hinges 40a, 40b, and defines support feet 24a, 24b, which extend outwardly and/or downwardly from the case 2 to contact a working surface when the case 2 is provided in at least one position of use. The support feet 24a, 24b comprise generally the same construction as shown and described with respect to Fig.10. The support feet 24a, 24b of Fig.12, however, comprise different dimensions and/or proportions as compared with the embodiment of Fig.10. Embodiments of the present invention contemplate support members and feet 24a, 24b of varying dimensions as may be desirable to accommodate different sized electronic devices and/or position an electronic device at different positions at least relative to a working surface.

[0054] Fig.13 is a front perspective view of the case of Fig.12 wherein the case 2 is provided in a supported viewing position. The case 2 is provided with an electronic device 6 (e.g. tablet computer) and the case 2 and device 6 are provided in a position of use wherein a screen or user-interface of the device 6 is displayed at an angle at least with respect to a working surface 50. In the embodiment provided in Fig.13, a hinged panel 12 is provided at an angle extending from the support panel 14 such that the tertiary support member 20 and the hinged panel 12 are provided at substantially the same angle with respect to the device 6 and/or the primary hinge 18. The hinged panel 12, the tertiary support member 20 and the feet 24a, 24b thus collectively provide a support surface or backrest upon which a device 6 may be rotatably supported. An edge 52 of the tertiary support panel 20 is preferably received by and/or provided in force-transmitting communication with an extension or lip (not shown in Fig.13) such that the weight of the device 6 and case features are supported and the case 2 is stabilized in the position shown in Fig.13. The extension or lip may be provided on either or both of the device receiving portion 4 or the hinged panel 12.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A case (2) for a portable electronic device (6), the case comprising:

a base portion (28) and a cover portion (26), said base portion and said cover portion hingedly connected by a primary hinge (18);

said base portion comprising a device receiving panel (4), a hinged panel (12) and a support member (14);

said device receiving panel rotatably coupled to said hinged panel, said hinged panel hingedly connected to said support member;

said cover portion comprising a secondary support member (16) and a tertiary support member (20), said secondary support member and said tertiary support member hingedly interconnected;

wherein said tertiary support member is hinged with respect to said secondary support member and said base portion such that an end of said tertiary support member is provided in force transmitting communication with at least a portion of said base portion to support said case in a position of use wherein the electronic device is exposed; and

wherein said device receiving panel comprises a device retaining member (30) configured to receive a portable electronic device and secure the portable electronic device and allow said device retaining member to rotate to a first position and to a second position.

2. The case of claim 1, wherein device retaining member comprises a molded tray adapted to receive an electronic device of predetermined dimensions.

3. The case of claim 1, wherein said device receiving panel is rotatably coupled to said hinged panel by a rivet (32).

4. The case of claim 1, wherein said device retaining member comprises at least an elastic member (8) for an electronic device.

5. The case of claim 1, wherein said hinged panel is generally disposed between said support member and said device receiving panel at least when said case is provided in a closed position.

6. The case of claim 1, wherein said device retaining member comprises an elastic member for an electronic device and at least one substantially rigid support against which a device is biased by said elastic member.

7. The case of claim 1, wherein said end of said tertiary support member is provided in contact with an intersection of said hinged panel and said support member.

8. The case of claim 1, wherein said hinged panel is provided substantially coplanar with and parallel to said tertiary support member at least when said case is provided in a supported position of use.

9. The case of claim 1, wherein the tertiary support member comprises one or more feet (24a, 24b) that extend away from a secondary hinge (34) between the secondary support member and the tertiary support member.

10. The case of claim 9, wherein the feet remain in the same plane as a front portion of the tertiary support member and elevate the electronic device in at least one viewing mode.

11. The case of claim 1, wherein the secondary support member and the tertiary support member are hingedly interconnected at cover member hinges (40a, 40b), and wherein a separation (42) in the cover portion extends between the cover member hinges.

12. The case of claim 11, wherein the separation allows for hinged movement of the secondary support member with the tertiary support member about the cover member hinges, and defines the support feet ( 24a, 24b)

13. The case of claim 11, wherein the cover member hinges are provided proximal to lateral edges of the cover member.

14. The case of claim 1, wherein the base portion and the cover portion are hingedly connected by a primary hinge (18), and wherein the primary hinge serves as the spine of the case at least when the case is provided in a closed position.

15. The case of claim 1, wherein the tertiary support member in a position of use is positioned such that a free end of the tertiary support member is provided between the hinged panel and the support member.